23 October 2012 — VTJP
News
International Middle East Media Center
Prince Of Qatar Arrives In Gaza
IMEMC – The Prince of Qatar, Hamad Bin Khalifa, and his wife, Mouza Bint Nasser, arrived in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday morning through the Rafah border terminal, between the Gaza Strip and Egypt, marking the first visit of a senior Arab official since Israel imposed the siege on Gaza in 2006. …
Israel Deports Nine Solidity Activists
IMEMC – Israel officials reported that the Israeli Immigration Authority deported nine solidarity who were on the Estelle solidarity ship, that was boarded by the Israeli Navy in International waters on Sunday, 21 October 2012. …
The Elders Meet Abbas In Ramallah
IMEMC – A delegation of “The Elders” visited Ramallah Monday and met Palestinian President, Mahmoud Abbas, and several senior officials, and discussed latest developments and obstacles obstructing peace in the region. …
Palestinian killed, 3 hurt in Israeli attack on northern Gaza
10/23/2012 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — Israeli fire killed a Palestinian man and injured three others late Tuesday after Israel’s army said six rockets fired from the Gaza Strip landed across the border, a medical official said. Ashraf al-Qidra said three Palestinians were transferred to Kamal Adwan hospital in Jabaliya for treatment of injuries….
Bomb wounds Israeli officer on Gaza border
10/23/2012 – JERUSALEM (Reuters) — An Israeli officer was severely wounded on Tuesday when a bomb went off beside an army patrol along the border with the Gaza Strip, a military spokeswoman said. The attack came on the same day that the Emir of Qatar was due to arrive in Gaza in the first visit by a head…. Related: PFLP fighters claim attack on Israeli soldiers
Settlers assault Palestinian at gas station
10/23/2012 – BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) — A group of settlers assaulted a Palestinian man in a gas station in Etzion settlement on Tuesday, witnesses said. Adel Khader Atallah, 35, was attacked by four settlers while working at the gas station, and was taken to Beit Jala hospital, locals told Ma’an. Atallah said he notified Israeli police and they arrested the attackers. [END]
PFLP fighters claim attack on Israeli soldiers
10/24/2012 – BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) –Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine fighters on Tuesday claimed responsibility for an attack that wounded an Israeli soldier on the Gaza border. The Abu Ali Mustafa Brigades said in a statement that it was responsible for a bomb that went off beside an army patrol east of Khan Younis…. Related: Bomb wounds Israeli officer on Gaza border
Israel: Gaza rocket strikes Eshkol, no injuries
10/23/2012 – BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) — At least one rocket fired from the Gaza Strip landed in southern Israel on Tuesday, the Israeli military said. No injuries were reported, an army representative said. The attack came hours after Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine fighters claimed responsibility for an attack that wounded an Israeli soldier on….
Strikes paralyze West Bank
10/24/2012 – RAMALLAH (Ma’an) — The Palestinian Authority cabinet on Tuesday called on civil servants to go back to work as strikes in ministries, universities, schools and refugee camps paralyzed the West Bank. The cabinet in its weekly meeting said employees who continued to strike would be “held liable.” Palestinian Authority employees, including public university staff….
Prisoner from Bethlehem undergoes heart surgery
10/23/2012 – BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) — A prisoner being held in an Israeli jail underwent heart surgery last week, a lawyer from the Palestinian Authority ministry of detainees said. Riyad al-Amour, 42, underwent the surgery on Wednesday and is in a stable condition, lawyer Fadi Adedat said. Al-Amour is from Tuqu village near Bethlehem and was arrested….
Palestinians absent in final US presidential debate
10/24/2012 – BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) — US President Barack Obama and his Republican challenger Mitt Romney mentioned the Palestinians only once and in passing in their final presidential debate Monday. Israel came up repeatedly in the debate on foreign policy, the final face-to-face encounter between the candidates before voting in early November. Romney accused Obama of failing….
Netanyahu tours settlement after EU condemnation
10/24/2012 – JERUSALEM (Reuters) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paid a visit to the illegal settlement of Gilo on Tuesday in a defiant prelude to talks with the European Union’s top diplomat, who has condemned Gilo’s expansion. Israel issued a detailed plan last week for 797 additional homes in Gilo, an urban complex….
Qatari emir calls for national reconciliation
10/24/2012 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — The emir of Qatar on Tuesday called on rival Palestinian groups to reconcile during his historic visit to the Gaza Strip.”˜”˜Why are you staying divided? “Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani said during a speech at Gaza’s Islamic University, where he and his wife Sheikha Mozah were presented…. Related: Haniyeh: Qatar visit breaks Gaza siege and Emir of Qatar arrives in Gaza Strip
Emir of Qatar arrives in Gaza Strip
10/23/2012 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — The emir of Qatar entered the Gaza Strip on Tuesday in an historic visit to the besieged coastal enclave. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani crossed into Gaza from Egypt at the head of a large delegation on what is billed as a humanitarian visit to inaugurate $250 million worth of…. Related: Haniyeh: Qatar visit breaks Gaza siege and Qatari emir calls for national reconciliation
Egypt transfers Qatari fuel for Gaza
10/23/2012 – EL-ARISH, Egypt (Ma’an) — Egyptian authorities on Tuesday delivered eight tankers of Qatari fuel to Israel to be transferred to the Gaza Strip, a PA official said. Omar Hadhoud, PA representative at the al-Auja crossing, told Ma’an that Israel will transfer the fuel to Gaza via the Kerem Shalom crossing. The 450,000…. Related: Haniyeh: Qatar visit breaks Gaza siege
Haniyeh: Qatar visit breaks Gaza siege
10/23/2012 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — Hamas Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh on Tuesday said the visit of Qatar‘s emir to the Gaza Strip had helped lift Israel’s blockade of the enclave. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani on Tuesday was the first head of state to enter Gaza since 1999 in a visit…. Related: Emir of Qatar arrives in Gaza Strip and Egypt transfers Qatari fuel for Gaza
Obama on attack in foreign policy debate, but Romney steady
10/23/2012 – BOCA RATON, Fla. (Reuters) — President Barack Obama scolded challenger Mitt Romney for being “all over the map” on foreign policy in their final presidential debate on Monday, but the Republican appeared to have passed the “commander-in-chief” test of looking authoritative on national security issues. With two weeks left until Election Day, the high-stakes debate strayed….
UAE rights group calls to speed up Islamist trials
10/23/2012 – DUBAI (Reuters) — A local human rights group on Tuesday called on the United Arab Emirates authorities to speed up trials of Islamists detained over alleged threats to state security but dismissed concerns of possible torture and abuse raised by some families and activistsThe UAE, a major oil exporter and regional business hub, has arrested some….
Jordan monarch urges Islamists to end poll boycott
10/23/2012 – AMMAN, Jordan (Reuters) — Jordan’s King Abdullah on Tuesday called on the country’s Islamist opposition to end a boycott of forthcoming parliamentary elections he said would usher in a new era of political reforms. In an address to a large gathering of opposition and tribal figures at the royal palace, the monarch….
Qatari emir in historic Gaza visit
AlJazeera 23 Oct 2012 – Sheikh Hamad is the first head of state to visit embattled Palestinian enclave since international blockade imposed.
Palestinian killed as Israel shells Gaza
AlJazeera 23 Oct 2012 – Artillery attack targets fighters trying to launch rockets into Israel, hours after bomb attack wounded Israeli soldier.
Survey: Majority of Israelis Support Apartheid Regime in Israel
Palestine News Network
IOF Officer Wounded near Security Fence with Gaza
Palestine News Network
Italian Activist and Two Palestinians Arrested at Hebron Olive Grove
Palestine News Network
Obama and Romney Need to Confront, Solve Israeli-Palestinian Divisions
Palestine News Network
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Palestine News Network
PCBS Statistics about the Cost Index in Construction, Road, Water and Sewage Networks in the West Bank
Palestine News Network
Israeli Activists Detained on Gaza-Bound Boat Released, Excessive Force Used Against Them
Palestine News Network
Dr. Hanan Ashrawi Meets with The Elders
Palestine News Network
In Israel, Carter Says Two-State Solution in ‘Death Throes’
Palestine News Network
Alternative Information Center
Boycott the Open House Jerusalem, its Urban Party
Alternative Information Center – The Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel (PACBI) urges organisations and individuals to boycott the Urban Party Jerusalem and the rest of the Open House Jerusalem (Houses from Within) series of events…
World: Aid policy: Fifty shades of aid – love in the field
Relief Web 23 Oct 2012 – Source: Integrated Regional Information Networks Country: World DUBAI, 23 October 2012 (IRIN) – If there is one topic that gets humanitarians and other aid workers talking – apart from the obvious discussions about capacity-building and food aid – it is…
Qatari emir increases Gaza grant to $400m in historic visit
The National 23 Oct 2012 – Qatari emir announces increase in grant to Gaza from $254m to $400m during landmark visit which breaks the isolation of Hamas but disappoints rival Palestinian leaders in the West Bank.
UAE detained group ‘are well treated’, reports rights group
The National 23 Oct 2012 – A group of detainees being held on charges of compromising the security of the state appear to be in good health and well taken care of, human-rights observers who visited them said yesterday.
Mubarak’s friend and tycoon Hussein Salem tests Egypt’s investigators
The National 23 Oct 2012 – Egypt corruption: As the search continues for Egypt‘s missing billions, one man, Hussein Salem, personifies the scale of the challenge facing investigators. Part two of our special report from Bradley Hope in Cairo
New system to track injuries and deaths in Abu Dhabi hospitals
The National 23 Oct 2012 – The data, doctors say, will help to develop preventive measures by identifying where and when accidents happen, and who is most at risk.
Pregnant teenager is a virgin, police doctor says
The National 23 Oct 2012 – The medical report submitted to the court said she was 29-weeks pregnant but still a virgin.
Kuwait bans large public gatherings after clashes
The National 23 Oct 2012 – Ruling follows mass rally in which at least 29 protesters and 11 policemen were injured as security forces tried to disperse tens of thousands of protesters using tear gas and stun grenades.
Egyptian tycoon Hussein Salem hid his wealth offshore
The National 23 Oct 2012 – The Egyptian tycoon, Hussein Salem, converted his friendships with Hosni Mubarak and other leading officials into fabulous wealth, almost all of which, investigators say, he hid in offshore companies and bank accounts stretching from France to Hong Kong.
Saudi’s case for women lawyers is paying off
The National 23 Oct 2012 – Enormous amount of opportunities loom for Saudi Arabian women after decision to allow females to apply for licences to practise law.
Exchange boss vows to repay missing millions
The National 23 Oct 2012 – Thousands of individuals, as well as companies, were left out of pocket after salaries and remittance payments were not made by the exchange bureau.
Salafists in bid to break Hamas’s grip on Gaza
The National 23 Oct 2012 – Success in Egypt encourages activists to form party to open Gaza Strip up to competitive politics, but Hamas is arresting its members
Israel cut deal with Ulpana settlers to ensure peaceful evacuation
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
IDF judge: Troops must halt unlicensed settlement construction
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
High Court bans work on separation fence near West Bank farming village
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
Courts’ ‘negligence’ kept man in jail for two months too long
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
IDF colonel who raped female soldier to be released 9 months early
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
Israeli politicians balk at televised debate
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
Labor Party’s women, Russians, Arabs rebel against Yacimovich’s ‘stars’
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
Diplomatic cables: Labor chief has adopted Netanyahu’s views on peace process
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
High Court petition: Shin Bet shelved complaints about violence used on detainees
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
EU Parliament ratifies commercial pharmaceuticals agreement with Israel
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
IDF strikes militants in Gaza Strip following rocket barrage
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
Israeli Knesset candidates raising funds on the Internet
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
Netanyahu pledges Israel will continue building in Jerusalem
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
Survey: Most Israeli Jews would support apartheid regime in Israel
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
Weather service: Next Israeli winter won’t see as much rainfall
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
IDF officer seriously wounded near security fence with Gaza
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
Olmert keeps mum on possible comeback to Israeli politics
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
Anat Kamm wins bid to remove ‘treason’ charge from prison computers
Ha’aretz – 23 Oct 2012
Meretz’s message to voters: ‘Yacimovich will join the ultra-Orthodox and settlers’
Ha’aretz – 22 Oct 2012
Israeli activist wins one of world’s top awards in environmental conservation
Ha’aretz – 22 Oct 2012
Study: One in four Israeli men suffers from sleep apnea
Ha’aretz – 22 Oct 2012
Sderot goes on strike after Israel treasury withholds millions in promised aid
Ha’aretz – 22 Oct 2012
Petition: Strike Israeli anti-abortion group from register of nonprofits
Ha’aretz – 22 Oct 2012
Not one but two Fashion Weeks to hit Tel Aviv next month
Ha’aretz – 22 Oct 2012
Apartheid without shame or guilt
Ha’aretz – 22 Oct 2012
LIVE BLOG: Obama and Romney face off in final U.S. presidential debate
Ha’aretz – 22 Oct 2012
Lev Ha’ir residents win right to vote in local poll
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Committee sets to decide on cancellation of controversial clause that excludes majority of voters from taking part in elections.
FSU immigration group withdraws from Labor Party
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – “Yacimovich ignores us and our issues,” says Labor Immigrants’ Organization, which is composed of Russian olim.
France publishes final report on Merah affair
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Report confirms Merah, who had been a well-known Islamist terrorist in Toulouse, had been under DCRI surveillance since 2006.
Taiba inaugurates space center in Ilan Ramon’s name
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Herschkowitz hints at criticism from MK Ahmed Tibi and others over the center in Taiba being named for a Jewish hero.
Bnei Akiva director to speak at Rabin memorial
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – This is the first time a national- religious youth movement is taking part in the annual event.
Analysis: Holyland witness’ sickness upsets trial
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Holyland trial against Olmert “turned upside down” as prosecutor announces new list of witnesses.
Analysis: Echoes of George Bush in final US debate
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – US President Obama began his closing statement by resurrecting his predecessor, George W. Bush.
Israeli NGO gets UN consultant status
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Israeli NGO the Issie Shapiro House was given a status of consultant to the UN’s Economic and Social Council.
BGU holds emergency training for the deaf
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – A thesis on the struggles of deaf people during Operation Cast Led focuses on assisting deaf people with emergency situations.
Palmahim base, J’lem among winners of SPNI award
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Environmental award recognizes activities by Palmahim soldiers and four municipalities preserving biodiversity.
Rivlin: Knesset must debate ethics of Olmert return
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Knesset speaker says law allows return of politicians who committed crimes, but it is up to the public to vote for them.
Jerusalem Armenian patriarch vote set for next month
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – The Armenian Apostolic Church prepares to choose new patriarch to succeed archbishop who passed away.
Christian leaders: arrest ‘price-tag’ vandals
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Police have yet to arrest anyone in connection to wave of vandalism against Christian sites this year.
TAU: schizophrenia family history may lead to autism
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Research finds autism disorders share a root cause with psychiatric illnesses like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Improving Arab education
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – While 44% of Jews leave high school meeting the minimum academic requirements needed to go on to higher education, only 22% of Arab students do.
Nuclear physics and Israeli politics
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – I learned from my late father Dr. Israel Eldad that in politics, anytime someone raises the banner of unity, you should look for the division behind it.
Timidity causes Syrian barbarity
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – There are five likely futures for Syria, and none of them involve Assad, the West has no choice but to involve itself in Syria’s future.
Hebrew University loses Einstein copyright case
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – US District Court rules against university in favor of GM in a case involving ad for its Terrain vehicle.
Terra Incognita: The media and war crimes
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – The pilot does not immediately strike us as a sympathetic character, but his treatment by Al Jazeera is indicative of the moral and ethical blinders that the media has, for too long, tolerated.
View From the Hills: UN, ‘Unwanted Nobodies’
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Sure there is a bloody conflict here in the Middle East – but it’s not between Jerusalem and Ramallah, but to the north in Syria.
Freedom of speech: Law and ‘Innocence of Muslims’
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Whether we are talking about a crude anti- Islam film or satirical cartoons of the Prophet, we are delving into the realm of “defamation of religion.”
IAF strikes Gaza Strip following volley of rockets
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Three Hamas members killed, three injured in IAF operations; seven rockets hit open field in Eshkol region; IDF officer critically injured in a roadside bomb earlier in the day, PM vows “very hard” response.
‘Most US college campuses report no anti-Semitism’
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – According to new study, 97% of college campuses report no anti-Israel events, shows failure of anti-Israel divestment effort.
‘Palestinian with explosives was heading for J’lem’
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – IDF catch 19-year-old Palestinian man with eight pipe bombs at Kalandiya check point, confirm he was trying arrive in Jerusalem.
Apple unwraps mini-iPad to take on Amazon, Google
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Apple unveils new 8-inch tablet to rival Kindle and Nexus and announces a fourth generation full-sized iPad.
Asmaa al-Ghoul aims to keep thorn in Hamas’ side
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Secular, feminist Palestinian journalist al-Ghoul has been harassed, beaten, arrested by Hamas for protesting its Islamist policies.
‘Work accident’ takes life of Ashkelon criminal
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Police say explosion on Monday night was not an assassination attempt, local sources identify the man as Tzion Yana.
Trajtenberg considers a run for the Knesset
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Committee for Social Change chairman meets with Tzipi Livni; Likud is looking for new socially-minded candidates.
Haniyeh: Qatari visit marks end of Gaza isolation
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Hamas leader declares end of “unjust siege” as first visit by head of state to Gaza Strip since 2007 draws fire from PA, Israel.
Court approves NIS 140m ‘Ma’ariv’ sale to 2 buyers
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Following workers protest, deal ensures new owners will continue to employ up to 1,400 of the paper’s employees.
Obama: Ties with Israel have never been stronger
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – In foreign policy debate, US president says current military, intelligence cooperation with Israel is unprecedented.
PM goes to Gilo, pledges unabated building in J’lem
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – “This is our country, I’ll continue to support building in J’lem,” Netanyahu says on visit to neighborhood.
Police uncover major Holon bomb-making ring
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – Father-and-son-run operation supplied dozens of lethal explosives to criminals in central Israel, say police.
Qatar emir arrives in Gaza to red-carpet welcome
Jerusalem Post 23 Oct 2012 – First visit by head of state to Gaza since 2007 draws fire from Israel and PA in West Bank over concerns Hamas being legitimized.
Jordanian security concerned over rising terrorism
Jerusalem Post 22 Oct 2012 – Amman’s fears of spillover violence from Syria grow following death of Jordanian soldier killed in clashes with militants.
Israeli Arabs fighting battle to attend university
Jerusalem Post 22 Oct 2012 – Through its 5-year, NIS 300 million plan, Council of Higher Education working to help Israeli-Arab students.
Health Ministry to regulate weight-loss surgeries
Jerusalem Post 22 Oct 2012 – Following deaths after bariatric surgery, ministry issues new directives to better regulate the procedures.
Mother indicted for allegedly killing her 3 children
Jerusalem Post 22 Oct 2012 – Ahlas Alarga’an tried to kill fourth child, then attempts suicide twice; reasons for murder unclear.
2,000 Lithuanian Jews to receive compensation
Jerusalem Post 22 Oct 2012 – About 1,000-2,000 Jews who had suffered from the occupation regime in Lithuania will receive symbolic payments.
Visiting Amazon CTO: Flexibility is key to success
Jerusalem Post 22 Oct 2012 – Flexibility in customer relations is key to success of Amazon Web Services, Amazon chief technology officer says.
Man found dead in Sharon; police suspect murder
Jerusalem Post 22 Oct 2012 – Police suspect burglars broke into home on Moshav Avichail, repeatedly stabbed landlord when he found them.
Three religions but one God
Jerusalem Post 22 Oct 2012 – The policy makers in the Judeo-Christian and Muslim societies have yet to fully grasp the truth that the religious extremists in the two camps pose a threat not so much to each other as to their own societies.
Israeli poll finds majority in favour of ‘apartheid’ policies
The Guardian 23 Oct 2012 – Two-thirds say Palestinians should not be allowed to vote if West Bank was annexed, while three in four favour segregated roads More than two-thirds of Israeli Jews say that 2.5 million Palestinians living in the West…
Gaza visit of Qatari Emir draws criticism from Israel – video
The Guardian 23 Oct 2012 – The Emir of Qatar is the first head of state to visit Gaza since the Islamist movement Hamas took control
The death of the Israel-Palestine two-state solution brings fresh hope | Rachel Shabi
The Guardian 23 Oct 2012 – With many Palestinians and Israelis coming round to the idea of a bi-national state, it’s possible to glimpse a peaceful future We could argue over who killed it, but what’s the point? It’s increasingly obvious that…
Romney and Obama clash over Iran – video
The Guardian 23 Oct 2012 – Barack Obama and Mitt Romney clash over Iran’s nuclear programme in the third and final debate
Emir of Qatar begins historic Gaza visit
The Guardian 23 Oct 2012 – Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al Thani is first head of state to visit Gaza since Hamas took control more than five years ago The Emir of Qatar has become the first head of state to visit…
U.S.: 50th Anniversary of Cuban Missile Crisis Offers Lessons for Iran
IPS It was exactly 50 years ago when then-President John F. Kennedy took to the airwaves to inform the world that the Soviet Union was introducing nuclear-armed missiles into Cuba and that he had ordered a blockade of the island – and would consider stronger action – to force their removal….
For some Israelis, Gazans receive 2,279 calories too many
Uruknet
A new season of resistance in Greece
Uruknet
Israeli Occupation Demolishes Agricultural Infrastructures in Hebron
Uruknet
Rage Against Austerity
Uruknet
Breaking: UK ‘stands up’ new drone squadron this week
Uruknet
Blow to Fatah in West Bank local elections
Uruknet
The Iran Talks Bombshell
Uruknet
CIA chiefs face arrest over horrific evidence of bloody ‘video-game’ sorties by drone pilots
Uruknet
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Uruknet
Four fishermen arrested in the Gaza Sea, fishing boat confiscated
Uruknet
Israel kills 2 Hamas militants after Qatari emir leaves Gaza
Daily Star 23 Oct 2012 Israel killed two Hamas gunmen in a Gaza Strip air strike on Tuesday which the military said targeted a squad preparing to launch rockets into the Jewish state.
US wants new Lebanon gov’t responsive to needs of Lebanese
Daily Star 23 Oct 2012 The Obama administration threw its support behind efforts by Lebanon’s president to form a new government in the aftermath of last week’s deadly car bombing in Beirut that many blame on Syria or its ally, Hezbollah.
Iran says may stop oil sales if sanctions tighten
Daily Star 23 Oct 2012 Iran said on Tuesday it would stop oil exports if pressure from Western sanctions got any tighter and that it had a “Plan B” contingency strategy to survive without oil revenues.
UN investigator says Morocco using torture
Daily Star 23 Oct 2012 Morocco uses torture in its own country and on opponents in the disputed territory of Western Sahara, a UN investigator said Tuesday.
Brahimi pushes for truce despite raging Syria violence
Daily Star 23 Oct 2012 Brahimi is pushing “extremely hard” for a ceasefire in Syria, a UN spokesman said on Tuesday as violence raged across the country and a warplane struck a queue for bread.
Syrian opposition council says will avoid de-Baathification
Daily Star 23 Oct 2012 The opposition Syrian National Council (SNC) does not want to ban members of the ruling Baath party from political life in a post-Assad Syria, and has learnt from Iraq’s mistakes.
UAE rights group calls to speed up Islamist trials
Daily Star 23 Oct 2012 A local human rights group called on the UAE authorities to speed up trials of Islamists detained over alleged threats to state security but dismissed concerns of possible torture and abuse raised by some families and…
Egypt’s top court to rule on constitutional panel
Daily Star 23 Oct 2012 An Egyptian court on Tuesday asked the country’s highest tribunal to rule on whether to disband the body tasked with writing a new constitution.
Kuwait frees on bail opposition ex-MPs, activists
Daily Star 23 Oct 2012 A Kuwaiti court on Tuesday released on bail three former opposition MPs, on trial for criticising the emir, and four activists arrested last week following clashes with police, lawyers said.
Israeli officer severely hurt on Gaza border: military
Daily Star 23 Oct 2012 An Israeli officer was severely wounded by Palestinian fire along the Gaza border on Tuesday, just hours before a high-profile visit to the enclave by the Qatari emir, the military said.
Qatari emir urges Palestinians to reconcile
Daily Star 23 Oct 2012 The emir of Qatar received a hero’s welcome during a landmark visit to Gaza, becoming the first head of state to visit the Palestinian territory since the Islamist militant Hamas seized control of the coastal strip…
Libya marks “liberation” anniversary amid continued fighting
Daily Star 23 Oct 2012 Libya marked the first anniversary of its “liberation” of Muammar Gaddafi’s rule on Tuesday, but ongoing fighting in one of the dictator’s former stronghold overshadowed celebrations.
IAF strikes Gaza again, reportedly killing 2
YNet News, 23 Oct 2012 – ….
Tayibe space center not named after Ilan Ramon
YNet News, 23 Oct 2012 – New facility inaugurated in Arab-Israeli city; name of Israel’s first astronaut downplayed in center’s title after MK Tibi’s appeal ….
No charges for woman who removed Obama-Hitler sign
YNet News, 23 Oct 2012 – ….
US-Iran talks waste of time
YNet News, 23 Oct 2012 – Op-ed: Washington giving Tehran time it needs to complete development of nuclear bomb ….
Annual drill envisions tsunami
YNet News, 23 Oct 2012 – Exercise prepares hundreds of emergency response volunteers for possibility of powerful wave washing over Israel’s shores ….
Gaza flotilla activists to be deported Wendesday
YNet News, 23 Oct 2012 – ….
IDF confirms Gaza strike
YNet News, 23 Oct 2012 – ….
7 mortar shells explode in Negev
YNet News, 23 Oct 2012 – No injuries, damage immediately reported in attacks on Eshkol; IDF strikes Gaza terror cell ….
Report: IDF strike on Gaza terror cell kills 1
YNet News, 23 Oct 2012 – ….
Residents: Obama uses Sderot as campaign tool
YNet News, 23 Oct 2012 – Residents, leaders of Gaza vicinity town accuse US president of using them as a ‘winning card’ ….
Saving lives locally
YNet News, 23 Oct 2012 – Op-ed: Israel must utilize to the fullest local potential of organ donations from deceased, living people ….
IDF officer hurt in Gaza ‘fighting for his life’
YNet News, 23 Oct 2012 – Givati company commander injured by bomb on Gaza border has lost palm of his hand, remains in mortal danger, doctors say ….
Will Israel get its own election debate?
YNet News, 23 Oct 2012 – Citizens’ Empowerment Center invites leaders of major parties to participate in debate; Yachimovich, Mofaz, Lapid accept invitation, Netanyahu yet to respond ….
Israel slams Qatari ruler’s Gaza visit
YNet News, 23 Oct 2012 – Foreign Ministry accuses Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani of aligning himself with violent extremists and of ‘throwing peace under the bus’ ….
Romney’s small victory
YNet News, 23 Oct 2012 – Op-ed: Republican candidate succeeded in getting through final debate without making any major mistakes ….
Palestinian Information Center
General strike for two days in all W. Bank schools
PIC – Tens of thousands of students and teachers on Tuesday morning refrained from going to their schools in the West Bank causing a state of inaction on the streets.
Sheikh Hamad in Gaza on landmark visit
PIC – Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani has arrived in the Gaza Strip along with his wife Sheikha Mozah Al Missned on a landmark visit for one day.
Haniyeh: The visit of Qatar’s Emir to Gaza is national day to break the siege
PIC – Ismail Haniyeh, the Palestinian Prime Minister, said they had finalized all preparations for the historic visit of the Emir of Qatar, Hamad Bin Khalifa, and his wife..
IOA postpones al-Issawi’s trial
PIC – An Israeli military court on Monday postponed a hearing for the Jerusalemite prisoner Samer al-Issawi who has been on hunger strike for 83 days.
IOA to build 600 new housing units in Jerusalem
PIC – Hebrew sources revealed on Monday an Israeli plan to build more than 660 new housing units in East Jerusalem.
Gaza death toll rises to 3
PIC – A Palestinian young man died on Monday after he was seriously wounded in an Israeli airstrike on Beit Hanoun in north Gaza.
PIF refuses the reconstruction of the American School in the Gaza Strip
PIC – A prominent Palestinian human rights activist revealed that officials in Ramallah authority refused to grant for the reconstruction of the American School in the Gaza Strip.
PA security forces arrest Hamas member, extend detention of another
PIC – The Palestinian authority security forces kidnapped one Palestinian citizen from Hamas Movement in Nablus city, summoned two others for interrogation and extended the detention of another.
Netanyahu threatens war against Gaza as Sheikh Hamad arrives in Gaza
PIC – Israeli premier Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his war threats against Gaza in conjunction with the visit of emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani to the besieged enclave.
Sheikh Hamad: ahlan wasahlan (welcome to Palestine)
PIC – we must salute Qatar and its brave emir for their unselfishness and self-abnegation. We salute Qatar for its heroic solidarity with the people of Gaza.
Netanyahu Vows Boost in Settlements Construction in Jerusalem
WAFA – 23 Oct 2012
Israeli Forces Seize Tractor in Jordan Valley
WAFA – 23 Oct 2012
Canada’s Representative Joins Farmers in Picking Olives
WAFA – 23 Oct 2012
Public Sector, Teachers Observe Two-Day General Strike
WAFA – 23 Oct 2012
Gaza Patients, including Child, Denied Exit Permit
WAFA – 23 Oct 2012
Emir of Qatar Starts 4-Hour Visit to Gaza
WAFA – 23 Oct 2012
20 killed in shelling of bakery in Aleppo, Syria
LA Times 23 Oct 2012 – More than 50 are injured in the attack in Aleppo by government forces, on a day that saw more than 100 killed across Syria, activists say. BEIRUT — At least 20 people were killed in the Syrian city of Aleppo on Tuesday when a bakery…
Americans in Israel Seem to Back Romney
New York Times 23 Oct 2012 – Perhaps as a response to lobbying efforts, over twice as many Americans living in Israel voted by absentee ballot this week as in 2008, and according to surveys, two-thirds of them chose Romney.
Watching U.S. Race, World Also Looks Inward
New York Times 23 Oct 2012 – Coverage by reporters in other countries indicates much about how they see themselves and the American political process.
News Analysis: Debate’s Omissions Highlight Skewed Worldview
New York Times 23 Oct 2012 – The presidential debate on foreign policy presented a skewed vision of the world, even the world defined by American national interests.
Aleppo Bakery Massacre Further Dims Prospects for Holiday Truce in Syria
New York Times 23 Oct 2012 – At least 20 people were killed, some of them children, as shoppers in Aleppo ventured out to buy bread for the coming Id al-Adha holiday.
Iran Threatens to Cut Oil Supply, but Market Shrugs
New York Times 23 Oct 2012 – A threat to halt all exports was issued in response to possible further sanctions, but in a possible reflection of how steeply Iran’s influence on the market has eroded, oil prices fell.
Qatari Emir Visits Gaza, Pledging $400 Million
New York Times 23 Oct 2012 – The visit by the emir, Sheik Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, threatened to widen the rift between Hamas, which controls Gaza, and Fatah, which leads the West Bank.
Cyberattack on Saudi Oil Firm Disquiets U.S.
New York Times 23 Oct 2012 – American officials believe a virus unleashed on an oil giant was a return volley in a conflict begun by the United States and Israel with software that targeted Iran’s centrifuges.
Egyptian Court Declines to Halt Constitution Work
New York Times 23 Oct 2012 – A ruling on dissolving the predominately Islamist constitutional committee was deferred to a higher authority, a decision that could allow time for the work to be completed.
Border discrepancy delays Gal development
Globes Energy & Water – The promising Gal offshore prospect extends into Egypt‘s exclusive economic zone and future development depends on cooperation.
Tamar pipeline granted 25% boost
Globes Energy & Water – The Ministry of Energy and Water Resources will allow compressors to increase gas deliveries by 25% to 50 million BTU a year.
“Streamlining needed to close gap with Hapoalim”
Globes Main News – Bank Leumi CEO Rakefet Russak-Aminoach: The plan is being implemented together with the bank‘s workers committee.
Tue: Mellanox still falling hard
Globes Main News – Mellanox fell sharply on the day’s largest turnover, but the Leviathan partners bucked the market.
Berkshire Hathaway receives regulator’s nod for Guard acquisition
Globes Main News – All the necessary permits have been obtained for the acquisition of Clal Insurance unit Guard Insurance.
Court approves Ma’ariv sale
Globes Main News – Judge Varda Alshech approved the sale of Hebrew daily “Ma’ariv” to Shlomo Ben-Tzvi and the sale of the printing house to real estate developer Amos Maimon.
Teva USA spent $620,000 on lobbying in Q3
Globes Main News – Teva USA spent $2.3 million on lobbying in January-September, targeting both houses of Congress and federal agencies.
Tower expands bond series
Globes Main News – The foundry has received binding orders from Israeli institutional investors for $25 million of its Series F bond.
012 growth forecast
Globes Macro Economics – Although Merrill Lynch reiterates its 2.9% growth forecast for 2013, it warns of risks.
Ministerial c’ttee approves sovereign wealth fund
Globes Macro Economics – Finance Minister Yuval Steinitz: The sovereign wealth fund we established to day will be an insurance policy for the country.
Demand for workers rises
Globes Macro Economics – The number of private sector job vacancies rose by 18% to 67,400 in September from 57,000 in August.
Fischer: Sanctions won’t collapse Iran’s economy
Globes Macro Economics – The Governor of the Bank of Israel told CNBC that the bank had contingency plans in case of conflict with Iran.
Rafael and DRS team to market active protection systems
Globes Aerospace & Defense – The partnership leverages Rafael’s experience in vehicle survivability technology along with DRS’s targeting systems integration capabilities and US market experience.
IMI reports breakthrough in privatization talks
Globes Aerospace & Defense – A NIS 830 million safety net will guarantee Israel Military Industry’s ability to meet future severance payments to employees.
IDF to Double Unit 8200 Cyber-War Manpower
Tikun Olam – The Israeli news portal Nana reports (Hebrew) that the IDF intends to double the manpower of its Unit 8200, which is charged with waging cyber-war on Israel’s enemies. It plays a role akin to the NSA here in the U.S. and was responsible for creating Stuxnet,…
Israeli Poll: Israelis Support Ethnic Cleansing, Annexation and Apartheid State
Tikun Olam – Yediot graphic juxtaposes Israeli ID with Kach party emblem, a closed fist, for an article on the threat of Jewish fascism A new poll (if anyone can find the full poll results please let me know) of Israeli Jews by Camil Fuchs and commissioned by the…
Huffington Post: Rabbis Support Protestant Leaders’ Call to End Unconditional Military Aid to Israel
Jewish Voice for Peace – Rabbi Alissa Wise and Rabbi Brant Rosen write on interfaith perspectives regarding United States military aid to Israel. Rabbis Support Protestant Leaders’ Call to End Unconditional Military Aid to Israel , Rabbi Alissa Wise and Rabbi Brant Rosen, The Huffington Post , October 22, 2012. Last week, a…
JTA: Christians’ letter was reasonable, worded sensitively
Jewish Voice for Peace – Rabbi Brant Rosen writes an op-ed on the recent letter to Congress from prominent American Christian leaders regarding United States military aid to Israel. Op-Ed: Christians’ letter was reasonable, worded sensitively , Rabbi Brant Rosen, JTA , October 23, 2012. CHICAGO (JTA) — There has long been an…
These Christian leaders need your support
Jewish Voice for Peace – This month, 15 prominent American Christian leaders called on Congress to treat Israel like any other country by making sure U.S. military aid to Israel is consistent with US law. (1) Amazingly, a number of Jewish organizations suggested the call was rooted in anti-Jewish bigotry. They…
Op-Ed: Christians’ letter was reasonable, worded sensitively
Jewish Voice for Peace – By Brant Rosen · October 23, 2012 OPINION CHICAGO (JTA) — There has long been an unwritten covenant between the Jewish establishment and Christian leaders when it comes to interfaith dialogue: “We can talk about any religious issues we like, but criticism of Israel’s human rights…
Police informant who ‘crawled mosques’ looking for inflammatory rhetoric speaks out, denounces NYPD
Mondoweiss – (Photo via ArabianBusiness.com) An undercover informant who is a 19-year-old Bengali-American has denounced his former work and says the New York Police Department (NYPD) instructed him to “bait” Muslims in New York into talking about terrorism. Shamiur Rahman was recruited by the NYPD in January after…
A conversation between two Joes brings the debate over drones out in the open
Mondoweiss – Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news , world news , and news about the economy Have you noticed there have been several Mondoweiss articles on drones lately? This isn’t just because we’re trying to get your attention. Drones are finally starting to garner the attention they deserve and it’s…
‘Hatred and racism are permeating Israel at a rapid pace’ –victim of racist attack writes in ‘The Hill’
Mondoweiss – Ibrahim Abu-Ta’a Through his own personal account of being brutally attacked, Ibrahim Abu-Ta’a writes about the threat emanating from “the power of hatred, incitement, and the intolerance” which, he claims, have permeated Israeli society at a “rapid pace.” The chilling report out today , that Israelis are “…
Israel plans military college on the Mount of Olives in occupied East Jerusalem
Mondoweiss – link to www.maannews.net link to english.wafa.ps link to 972mag.com link to www.maannews.net link topalsolidarity.org link to english.wafa.ps link to www.palestine-info.co.uk link to www.palestine-info.co.uk link to www.maannews.netlink to www.ynetnews.com link to www.jordanvalleysolidarity.org link to english.pnn.ps link to www.palestine-info.co.uk link towww.maannews.net link to www.maannews.net link…
Romney must break with neocons, who want to outsource war decisions to Netanyahu — Simes
Mondoweiss – I have to believe that there is going to be popular backlash against the panderfest we saw last night. At the National Interest, Dimitri Simes, a Cold War realist who later broke with the neocons, issued an appeal to Romney yesterday to ditch his neocon advisers;…
Snubbing Europe, Netanyahu Tours Settlement
The Foward Breaking News 23 Oct 2012 – Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paid a visit to the Israeli settlement of Gilo on Tuesday in a defiant prelude to talks with the European Union’s top diplomat, who has condemned Gilo’s expansion. Click here for the rest of the article…
Israelis Support Anti-Arab Discrimination: Poll
The Foward Breaking News 23 Oct 2012 – Most of the Jewish public in Israel supports the establishment of an apartheid regime in Israel if it formally annexes the West Bank. Click here for the rest of the article…
Obama and Romney Vow Strong Support of Israel
The Foward Breaking News 23 Oct 2012 – President Barack Obama and Republican challenger Mitt Romney vied on Monday over who was Israel’s strongest defender but both agreed that a military strike over Iran’s nuclear program must be a “last resort.” Click here for the rest of the article…
Qatari Emir Is First Leader To Visit Gaza
The Foward Breaking News 23 Oct 2012 – The Emir of Qatar entered the Gaza Strip on Tuesday for a visit that broke the isolation of it Islamist rulers, Hamas, but disappointed Israel and mainstream Palestinian leaders in the West Bank. Click here for the rest of the article…
Gambia: Syria’s Assad Writes to President Jammeh
allAfrica.com 23 Oct 2012 – [Daily Observer]The president of the Syrian Arab Republic, Bashar Al-Assad, has written to the Gambian leader, His Excellency Sheikh Professor Alhaji Dr Yahya Jammeh, acknowledging receipt of his greetings on the occasion of the Holy Eid-al-Fitr.
Tunisia: Qatari Emir in Historic Gaza Visit
allAfrica.com 23 Oct 2012 – [Tunis Afrique Presse]Gaza –Qatar‘s emir is scheduled to arrive in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, the first visit by a foreign leader to the Palestinian enclave since Hamas assumed power in 2007 and a symbolic blow to the political and economic isolation the West and Israel…
Egypt: Oil Minister Confirms Jordan’s Understanding of Suspending Nation’s Gas Exports
allAfrica.com 23 Oct 2012 – [Egypt Online]Eng. Osama Kamal, the Minister of Petroleum confirmed Jordan’s understanding of the present circumstances in Egypt in the field of energy and that the suspension of Egypt‘s gas exports to Jordan came due to the explosions of the line carrying gas and the growing of…
Kenya: Vice President in Israel for High-Level Talks
allAfrica.com 23 Oct 2012 – [Capital FM]Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka has arrived in Israel for a three-day official visit during which he will hold talks with President Shimon Perez and the President of the Palestinian Authority Mahmoud Abbas.
Qatari emir’s unity call in Gaza
BBC 23 Oct 2012 – Qatar‘s emir calls for rival Palestinian factions to unite as as he becomes the first head of state to visit the Gaza Strip since Hamas took power in 2007.
Lebanon army deploys on streets
BBC 23 Oct 2012 – Troops are deployed in the Lebanese capital, Beirut, and the northern city of Tripoli in a bid to calm tensions after clashes left seven dead.
Candidates spar on foreign policy
BBC 23 Oct 2012 – US President Barack Obama and Republican challenger Mitt Romney clash on Israel, Iran, the Arab Spring in the third and final presidential debate.
No ruling on Egypt charter panel
BBC 23 Oct 2012 – A court in Egypt that was due to rule on the fate of the constitution-writing panel has decided to refer the case to the country’s highest court.
Come back President Carter!
Sabbah report 23 Oct 2012 – While Obama and Romney were making their final debate, Jimmy Carter was in Israel, working for peace. Why only ex-American presidents can speak the truth? Come back President Carter! was published by Sabbah Report . Get Daily Newsletter , follow on Twitter . Support through Sabbah Store or Donate…
The Futility of Waiting for Change from Israeli Society without Outside Pressure
US Campaign to End the Occupation 23 Oct 2012 – Many anti-occupation skeptics of boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) and the three rights associated with the BDS call — (1) end to occupation, (2) equality for Palestinians inside Israel, and (3) right of return — claim that BDS alienates rather than appealing to Israeli society. But…
It’s Going Mainstream! Military Aid to Israel Challenged
US Campaign to End the Occupation 23 Oct 2012 – Take Action: Support Church Leaders’ Call to Investigate Israel’s Violations of U.S. Law Earlier this month, 15 prominent church leaders sent Members of Congress an historic letter in which they decried “widespread Israeli human rights violations committed against Palestinians.” The church leaders wrote that “unconditional U.S….
The Lost Battle of Egypt’s Constitution
Al-Akhbar Blogs 23 Oct 2012 – Cairo – Rejection of Egypt’s draft constitution is getting stronger. A protest initially planned against the fledgling constitution, among other objectives, turned into clashes with members of the Muslim Brotherhood, which controls the presidency and the Constituent Assembly writing the charter. Political rejections of the circulating…
Looking Behind and Into the Assassination
Al-Akhbar Opinion 23 Oct 2012 – Hassan had previously received warnings from Arab intelligence agencies that Israel was upset with him for cooperating with Hezbollah (Photo: Haytham alMoussawi) Hassan had previously received warnings from Arab intelligence agencies that Israel was upset with him for cooperating with Hezbollah (Photo: Haytham alMoussawi) Let us…
Palestinian Olive Harvest Begins
Al-Akhbar News 23 Oct 2012 – Photoblog by Dylan Collins Sprinkling the rolling, and at this time of year rather arid, hills of the West Bank are olive trees, everywhere. They and their succulent little fruit are the lifeblood of the Palestinian people. At the beginning of each October – in Ramallah,…
Mikati Sidesteps Another Toppling Attempt
Al-Akhbar News 23 Oct 2012 – Mikati did not inform Suleiman that he might be considering resignation, nor did he seem to be ready for such an option. (Photo: AFP – Joseph Eid) Mikati did not inform Suleiman that he might be considering resignation, nor did he seem to be ready for…
A Child’s Death Along a Tripoli Sectarian Fault Line
Al-Akhbar News 23 Oct 2012 – Lebanese Sunni Muslim gunmen hold their weapons while being driven through the streets of the northern city of Tripoli, as a form of protest against the assassination of senior intelligence official Wissam al-Hassan in an explosion in Beirut 20 October 2012. (Photo: Reuters – Omar Ibrahim)…
Hassan Ismail: Communism is no Longer a Stigma
Al-Akhbar News 23 Oct 2012 – I participated in the federation’s conference in Caracas after joining the teachers’ branch of the National Union of Workers’ Trade Unions. (Photo: Marwan Bou Haidar) I participated in the federation’s conference in Caracas after joining the teachers’ branch of the National Union of Workers’ Trade Unions. (…
A Lebanese Forest Menagerie
Al-Akhbar News 23 Oct 2012 – Maiki has dedicated his life to collecting animals, especially birds. (Photo: Marwan Tahtah) Maiki has dedicated his life to collecting animals, especially birds. (Photo: Marwan Tahtah) Rizkallah Maiki’s Bird and Poultry Farm is somewhere between a sanctuary and a petting zoo, a place where local schoolchildren,…
Fighting continues to rage across Syria
Al-Akhbar News 23 Oct 2012 – Syrian warplanes on Tuesday struck a strategic rebel-held town in the country’s north in an attempt to reopen a key supply route, an opposition group said, as a UN-proposed ceasefire meant to start this week appeared increasingly unlikely to take hold. The UN-Arab League envoy to…
Kuwait Seaside Protest Kept at Bay
Al-Akhbar Politics 23 Oct 2012 – A Kuwaiti opposition supporter holds up the flag during a protest in Kuwait City, on 21 October 2012. (Photo: AFP – Yasser alZayyat) A Kuwaiti opposition supporter holds up the flag during a protest in Kuwait City, on 21 October 2012. (Photo: AFP – Yasser alZayyat)…
Tripoli Sheikh Shot Down Inciting Peace
Al-Akhbar Politics 23 Oct 2012 – A man walks with crutches as Lebanese Army soldiers patrol a street in the Sunni Muslim Bab al-Tebbaneh neighbourhood, in Tripoli, northern Lebanon 23 October 2012. (Photo Reuters – Omar Ibrahim) A man walks with crutches as Lebanese Army soldiers patrol a street in the Sunni…
Berri Is Ready for a National Unity Government
Al-Akhbar Politics 22 Oct 2012 – Berri also called on all sides to be mindful of stability (Photo: Bilal Jawich) Berri also called on all sides to be mindful of stability (Photo: Bilal Jawich) In an interview with Al-Akhbar , Parliamentary Speaker and head of the Amal Movement Nabih Berri maintained support for…
Is There a Link Between the al-Hassan and Hariri Assassinations?
Al-Akhbar Politics 22 Oct 2012 – A link between this attack and the 2005 assassination of Hariri must be proven. (Photo: Marwan Tahtah) A link between this attack and the 2005 assassination of Hariri must be proven. (Photo: Marwan Tahtah) With foreign intelligence agencies offering to assist in investigating Friday’s assassination of…
March 14 Military Wing Seizes Tripoli
Al-Akhbar Politics 22 Oct 2012 – Smoke billows in Tripoli’s Bab al Tabanneh neighbourhood during clashes with Alawites, an offshoot of Shiite Islam, in Jabal Mohsen area in northern Lebanon, on 22 October 2012. (Photo: AFP – Joseph Eid) Smoke billows in Tripoli’s Bab al Tabanneh neighbourhood during clashes with Alawites, an…
Articles
Israeli-Palestinian relations after Oslo
Daoud Kuttab, Japan Times 10/22/2012
RAMALLAH, West Bank — On Sept. 13, 1993, Shimon Peres and Mahmoud Abbas met on the South Lawn of the White House to sign the Israel-PLO Declaration of Principles, or the Oslo Accords. PLO leader Yasir Arafat and Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin then sealed the agreement with a historic handshake.
The Oslo Accords — the result of secret talks that had been encouraged by the Norwegian government and conducted in the country’s capital — called for a five-year transitional period during which Israeli forces would withdraw from the Gaza Strip and unspecified areas of the West Bank, and a Palestinian Authority would be established. Letters of recognition between the PLO and Israel accompanied the agreement. The ultimate aim, though never explicitly stated, was to create a Palestinian state roughly within the 1967 borders.
But the goals laid out in the Oslo Accords remain unfulfilled. In fact, the agreement is unlikely to survive 89-year-old Peres and 77-year-old Abbas, who are now presidents of Israel and the Palestinian Authority, respectively. Several factors contributed to the deterioration of prospects for peace.
Perhaps the most important factor has been the continuation — and, at times, acceleration — of Israeli settlement activities in occupied Palestinian territories. Some Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza objected to the accords’ failure to call explicitly for the end of illegal Israeli settlement building. But, given the PLO’s weakness and lack of support in the Arab world after its refusal to oppose Iraq’s occupation of Kuwait, its leaders accepted the flawed agreement, arguing that Palestinian borders would be agreed upon during the transition period.
But, 19 years later, the Washington-based Foundation for Middle East Peace reports that more Jewish settlements have been built in the occupied Palestinian territories since the Oslo Accords than before they were signed…. more.. e-mail
The full story behind the war against free speech in Israel’s universities
Jonathan Cook, Nazareth, Electronic Intifada 10/22/2012
A sustained battle by the Israeli right to stifle academic freedom at the country’s universities is close to claiming its first major scalp.
In an unprecedented move last month, officials from Israel’s Council for Higher Education (CHE) — a government-appointed body overseeing universities and colleges — recommended the effective closure of the politics department of Ben Gurion University, based in the Negev/Naqab city of Beersheva.
Unless a rearguard action is successful by the university to mobilize protests from overseas academics, a meeting of the full CHE later this month is expected to rubber-stamp the decision to cancel the department’s enrollment of students for next year.
The threatened closure comes in the wake of a series of repressive measures sanctioned by the hardline right-wing government of Benjamin Netanyahu to intimidate or silence domestic criticism, from human rights groups to the media and judiciary.
Over the past few years, Israeli academia has been under growing attack too. Right-wing groups have produced lists of faculty members suspected of “left-wing bias” or “anti-Zionism.”
But the universities have become the particular focus of the right’s ire since a lecturer at Ben Gurion’s politics department, Neve Gordon, expressed support three years ago for the international campaign for an academic boycott of Israel.
At the time, Ben Gurion’s president, Rivka Carmi, publicly urged Gordon to quit his post, but the tenured lecturer could not be removed and has stayed on. more.. e-mail
Lacking legitimacy, West Bank elections proceed
Thayer Hastings, Alternative Information Center 10/21/2012
Saturday’s municipal elections in the West Bank are a step in the process before holding national elections. However, the Palestinian Authority is not likely, or politically able, to unilaterally decree presidential elections as it did with local polls. Analyst Majed Nassar explains the local elections as an attempt to reaffirm the Palestinian Authority’s legitimacy and postpone Presidential elections that might unseat the traditional power-holder. Furthermore, Saturday’s vote furthered the geo-political divide between the West Bank and the Gaza Strip while discouraging reconciliation between Fatah and Hamas.
Hamas has boycotted local elections that concluded Saturday evening in the West Bank and prevented voting within the Gaza Strip where it governs.
Elections were held in 93 West Bank towns and villages as candidates in another 179 localities were appointed unopposed. The Associated Press reported that Fatah won local council majorities in six towns, but lost in five others to independents and leftist parties such as the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) and the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP). Preliminary results indicate that Fatah won Hebron while losing Nablus, Jenin and Ramallah, the seat of Mahmoud Abbas’ government. Hebron’s voter turnout was 33.7%, reflecting the tangibility of Hamas’ call for a boycott in the pro-Hamas city, reported Ma’an. The Central Elections Commission will release official results later on Sunday.
Rationalizing its boycott, Hamas objected that Fatah has skewed the playing field in their favor and silenced political voices favoring Hamas. Hamas won many municipal councils in the West Bank in the last local elections in 2005 and went on to win the legislative elections in Gaza in25 January 2006. Palestinians from a range of political dispositions, but generally critical of Fatah, refused to participate in Saturday’s elections that they considered illegitimate. Nearly 55% of 505,000 eligible voters cast their ballots, or 277,000, a relatively low turnout. more.. e-mail
“Six Flowers” help keep Palestinian handicraft tradition alive, adding modern twist
Electronic Intifada: 23 Oct 2012 – Rami Almeghari Gaza City 23 October 2012 A group of six sisters in Gaza have started their own business selling embroidery that combines traditional Palestinian patterns with modern trends.more
Manipulating History: The Different Faces of ‘Popular Resistance’ in Palestine
Palestine Chronicle: 23 Oct 2012 – By Ramzy Baroud Apparently, ‘popular resistance’ has suddenly elevated to become a clash of visions or strategies between the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah and its rivals in Gaza, underscoring an existing and deepening rift between various factions and leaderships. Addressing a Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) meeting in Ramallah on July 2011, PA President Mahmoud Abbas sounded as if he had finally reached an earth shattering conclusion, supposedly inspired by the ‘Arab Spring.’ “In this coming period, we want mass action, organized and coordinated in every place .. This is a chance to raise our voices in front of the world and say that we want our rights.” He called on Palestinians to wage “popular resistance”, insisting that it must be “unarmed popular resistance so that nobody misunderstands us,” (Reuters). He made a similar call at the UN General Assembly in September. It was Abbas’ way of escaping forward. He needed to…more
On the Experience of the Palestinian Liberation Organization
Palestine Chronicle: 23 Oct 2012 – By Dr. Mohsen Moh’d Saleh The existence of the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) is an achievement to be proud of. It expressed the Palestinians’ spirit to liberate the land and not see their cause subsumed in the wider Arab political and social milieu. Nevertheless, an objective analysis shows that the PLO that was established in 1964 is not the same organization now. It is suffering from five main problems, which reduce the PLO’s ability to represent the Palestinian people, and impede its ability to work efficiently and achieve its aims and objectives. The Problem of Representation On the official level, the PLO is “the only legitimate representative for the Palestinian people” and that’s the way it is dealt with on the world stage. In practice, though, that definition has been diminished amongst the Palestinians and their factions. With the rise of Islamism (particularly Hamas and Islamic Jihad) a quarter of…more
The Spirit of ANZAC Hijacked by Israel
Palestine Chronicle: 23 Oct 2012 – By Vacy Vlazna ANZAC, a single word so powerful in the Australian vocabulary that it can bring a tear to the eye, a lump in the throat and a feeling of pride, just to be an Australian…The ANZAC tradition began on the 25th of April 1915 on the shores of Gallipoli in Turkey. The ANZACs, [was] a name given to the united Australian and New Zealand Army Corps” (The Returned Services League of Australia.) In Israel, on 31 October, members of the Australian Light Horse Association will re-enact the 3 kilometer charge of the Battle of Beersheba to commemorate the 95th anniversary of the victorious WW1 battle in 1917. A wreath will also be laid at the Pratt Foundation-funded Park of the Australian Soldier in the Negev. The courage and battle victories of the young Australian men of the ANZAC Mounted Division who served in the Palestine- Sinai campaigns in…more
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The New Dark Age 