6 February 2013 — VTJP
News
International Middle East Media Center
Palestinian Shepherd Injured After Being Attacked By Settlers Near Nablus
IMEMC – Palestinian medical sources reported that a Palestinian shepherd was attacked, on Wednesday afternoon, by a group of extremist Israeli settlers west of the northern West Bank city of Nablus. …
Israel To Release Detainee Reekhawy
IMEMC – Wednesday February 5 2013; The International Solidarity Foundation for Human Rights reported that an Israeli court decided Wednesday to release hunger striking detainee Akram Reekhawi, likely on Thursday. …
Army Invades Yatta Near Hebron
IMEMC – Israeli soldiers invaded, on Tuesday at night, Yatta town, south of the southern West Bank city of Hebron, broke into several homes and searched them. …
Obama To Visit Tel Aviv, Ramallah In March
IMEMC – Israeli TV, Channel 10, reported that U.S. President, Barack Obama, intends to visit Tel Aviv and Ramallah in mid March after Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, forms his new government. …
Official: Settlers assault shepherd in Nablus village
2/6/2013 – NABLUS (Ma’an) — A group of settlers assaulted a shepherd near Nablus in the northern West Bank on Wednesday, a Palestinian Authority official said. Ghassan Daghlas, who monitors settlement activity, told Ma’an that 42-year-old Khalid Mahmoud Barry was physically attacked after trying to stop settlers stealing his sheep in Immatin village….
Lawyer: Israel to release prisoner after long-term hunger strike
2/6/2013 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — Israel will release a prisoner on Thursday who spent 100 days on hunger strike last year, his lawyer said Tuesday. Akram Rekhawi will be released Thursday, four months before completing a 9-year sentence, his daughter Yasmin said, citing an attorney representing the detainee. Rekhawi, from the southern Gaza Strip….
Oops! Old habits die hard for Abbas
2/6/2013 – CAIRO (Reuters) — Old habits die hard for Mahmoud Abbas. The president almost hailed deposed Egyptian leader Hosni Mubarak during an Islamic summit in Cairo on Wednesday, and thanked a deceased Arab king for remarks delivered later in the meeting. Abbas pulled himself up in mid-sentence as he began to utter Mubarak’s name during….
Rights group: Israel arrests two brothers at Gaza crossing
2/6/2013 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — Israeli forces detained two brothers at a border crossing in north Gaza on Tuesday, a rights group said. The al-Mezan Center for Human Rights said in a statement that Rami Riyad al-Tayeb, 32, and his brother Mohammad, 23, were detained at the Beit Hanoun, or Erez, crossing while en-route to….
In photos: Israel demolishes East Jerusalem home
2/6/2013 – Reuters / Ammar Awad – Israeli forces demolished a two-story Palestinian home in East Jerusalem on Tuesday, making 30 people homeless.” We are refugees now, we don’t have any shelter. Where should we, our children and elderly people go after our house was demolished? ” a resident said. Rights groups say that Israel implements a series…. Related: Israel demolishes East Jerusalem home
EU to consider listing Hezbollah as terrorist group
2/6/2013 – BRUSSELS (Reuters) — The European Union will consider adding Lebanon’s Hezbollah movement to its list of terrorist organizations after it was implicated in a bombing in Bulgaria last year, an EU foreign affairs spokeswoman said on Wednesday. However, she said listing the group was just one of several options and said no decision had…. Related: Hezbollah says bombing allegations are Israeli smear campaign
Islamic summit to address settlements, Jerusalem
2/6/2013 – CAIRO (Ma’an) — Israeli settlement expansion and threats to holy sites in Jerusalem are on the agenda for the 12th summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, which opened Wednesday in Cairo. President Mahmoud Abbas is joining leaders of Islamic nations for the two-day summit, which will include a special session to draft a…. Related: Islamic summit to tackle Syria amid Sunni-Shiite tension
Ashrawi welcomes Obama visit, urges impartiality
2/6/2013 – BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) — PLO leader Hanan Ashrawi welcomed Tuesday’s announcement that US President Barack Obama will visit the region in the spring, but urged the US leader to be evenhanded toward Israel and Palestine.”We welcome President Obama’s visit, if it signals an American promise to become an honest and…. Related: Palestinian leaders welcome Obama’s visit
Abbas calls for end to Gaza blockade
2/6/2013 – CAIRO (Ma’an) — President Mahmoud Abbas on Wednesday urged Islamic leaders to end Israel’s blockade of Gaza, but criticized official visits to the enclave. The ongoing siege of Gaza will prolong the conflict with Israel and lead the region to another round of violence, preventing a just and comprehensive peace agreement, Abbas….
Hezbollah says bombing allegations are Israeli smear campaign
2/6/2013 – BEIRUT (Reuters) — Hezbollah dismissed on Wednesday Bulgaria’s accusation that it carried out a bomb attack that killed five Israeli tourists last year, saying Israel was waging a smear campaign against it. Deputy Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem said Israel was directing “allegations and incitements and accusations against Hezbollah” because it had failed to defeat…. Related: EU to consider listing Hezbollah as terrorist group
US sanctions Iran broadcasters for alleged censorship
2/6/2013 – WASHINGTON (Reuters) — The United States said on Wednesday it has sanctioned state sponsored broadcasters in Iran for alleged censorship. The US Treasury Department said it named the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting and its director Ezzatollah Zarghami as subject to sanctions. US law permits the agency to sanction anybody in Iran it believes restricts the….
Palestinian leaders welcome Obama’s visit
2/6/2013 – BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) – The Palestinian leadership on Wednesday welcomed US President Barack Obama’s announced plans to visit the region in March. President Mahmoud Abbas‘ spokesman Nabil Abu Rdeina told Ma’an that “the visit reflects that the US is willing to achieve peace in the region.”The Palestinian leadership, added…. Related: Ashrawi welcomes Obama visit, urges impartiality
Islamic summit opens with calls for Syria dialogue
2/6/2013 – Shaimaa Fayed and Paul TaylorCAIRO (Reuters) — Leaders of Islamic nations called for a negotiated end to Syria‘s civil war at a summit in Cairo that began on Wednesday, thrusting Egypt’s new Islamist president to center stage amid political and economic turbulence at home. The summit of the 57-member Organization of…. Related: Islamic summit to tackle Syria amid Sunni-Shiite tension and Islamic summit to address settlements, Jerusalem
Hebron police arrest suspects in armed robbery
2/6/2013 – HEBRON (Ma’an) — Police forces have arrested several suspects in an armed robbery in Hebron last month, the director of police said. Hebron police chief Ramadan Awad told Ma’an that the case is being jointly worked on by police and security forces, with several suspects in custody. The investigation is ongoing and….
Islamic summit to tackle Syria amid Sunni-Shiite tension
2/6/2013 – CAIRO (Reuters) — Leaders of Islamic nations will press for a negotiated end to Syria‘s civil war at a summit in Cairo starting on Wednesday that thrusts Egypt’s new Islamist president to center stage amid political and economic turbulence. With Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad making an ice-breaking visit to Egypt after 34…. Related: Islamic summit to address settlements, Jerusalem
Group: Middle East states must tackle military corruption
2/6/2013 – KUWAIT (Reuters) – Governments in North Africa and the Middle East rocked by Arab Spring revolts must listen to citizen demands for accountability by cracking down on corruption in the armed forces, an anti-graft watchdog said on Wednesday. Defence and security bodies had a significant role in the regional upheaval and should use the momentum of….
Tunisian opposition politician shot dead
2/6/2013 – TUNIS (Reuters) — A prominent Tunisian opposition politician was shot dead outside his home on Wednesday, in a killing the prime minister condemned as a political assassination and a strike against the “Arab Spring” revolution. Prime Minister Hamadi Jebali said the identity of the killer of Shokri Belaid, a staunch secular opponent of the moderate Islamist-led….
Ahmadinejad says Iran offered Egypt loan
2/6/2013 – CAIRO (Reuters) — Iran has offered to lend money to cash-strapped Egypt despite being under international economic sanctions itself over its nuclear program, visiting President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was quoted on Wednesday as saying. The two countries do not have diplomatic relations but Egypt’s first Islamist president, Mohamed Mursi, gave Ahmadinejad a red-carpet welcome on….
Security: New weapons stash seized in Sinai
2/6/2013 – EL-ARISH, Egypt (Ma’an) — Egyptian forces on Wednesday seized a stash of anti-aircraft shells in central Sinai for the second day in a row, a security source said. The Egyptian security official told Ma’an that police were notified smugglers were stockpiling explosives in Sinai. He said a large security force raided Sadr….
Tunisian opposition quits assembly, calls for general strike
2/6/2013 – TUNIS (Reuters) — Tunisia’s secular opposition Popular Front said it was pulling out of the constituent assembly charged with writing a constitution after an opposition politician was killed on Wednesday. Popular Front spokesman Hamma Hammami said the opposition was also calling for a general strike to protest against the murder of Chokri Belaid, who….
Hezbollah criticises Israel over bomb probe
AlJazeera 6 Feb 2013 – Deputy leader of Lebanese group alleges “campaign of intimidation” after Bulgaria blames it for deadly July blast.
Obama visit to Israel unlikely to spur talks
AlJazeera 6 Feb 2013 – US president to make his first official visit to Israel, possibly next month, but focus will be on Syria and Iran.
Palestinian Leaders Urge Obama to Work for Peace in the Region
Palestine News Network
11 Prisoners Transferred to Nafha, Rimon Israeli Jails, Deprived Visits for Two Months
Palestine News Network
Secretary of State Kerry to Visit Palestine, Israel
Palestine News Network
PA Security Man Found Dead in Ramallah
Palestine News Network
Ismail Radwan: Lebanese PM to Visit Gaza, Meet with Haniyeh
Palestine News Network
Settlements are Illegal, Settlers Must Leave
Palestine News Network
Enforce the UNHRC Settlements Report to Push Israel Out of Its State of Denial
Palestine News Network
Israeli Occupation Assaults, Arrests a Palestinian Girl near Al-Ibrahimi Mosque
Palestine News Network
Occupation Bulldozers Demolish Ancient Islamic Facades in Jerusalem
Palestine News Network
Israeli Forces Demolish Water Well Near Hebron
Palestine News Network
IOF Troops Arrest 8 Palestinians, Summon Others for Interrogation in the West Bank
Palestine News Network
Israel to Demolish 10 Homes in the Jordan Valley
Palestine News Network
Qaraqe: Hunger Striking Prisoner Al-Issawi Transferred to Hospital
Palestine News Network
Abbas Meets with Ahmadinejad in Cairo
Palestine News Network
Obama Plans First Visit to Palestine, Israel, Jordan as President
Palestine News Network
Despite Controversy, Brooklyn College Discussion on BDS Movement Will Occur
Palestine News Network
Palestinian Center for Human Rights
“They deny me the chance to say the word ‘Daddy’”
Palestinian Center for Human Rights
International Solidarity Movement
International Day of Action for the Boycott of Israeli Agricultural Products in Gaza
2/6/2013 – International Solidarity Movement – Wednesday, 6th of February, 2013, Gaza Strip, Occupied Palestine – Today´s press conference in support of Palestinian farmers and fishermen held in the port of Gaza City launched several days of activities leading up to the International Day of Action for the Boycott of Israeli Agricultural Products on Saturday 9th February. Speakers were from the….
Presenting ‘International Action for Palestine’
2/6/2013 – International Solidarity Movement – International Action for Palestine is a group of international volunteers from all over the world based in the Gaza Strip who work together with local organisations to support Palestinians in their endeavor to overcome Israeli apartheid, colonization and occupation. The main objective of International Action for Palestine is to support Palestinian civilians such as farmers…. Related: International Action for Palestine
Trial delayed for the Al-Manatir three
2/6/2013 – International Solidarity Movement – 006 February 2013, International Solidarity Movement, Occupied Palestine – Three Palestinians are still being held in detention following last Saturday´s Al-Manatir protest camp in Burin. The three of them are suspected of participating in a march without permission as well as throwing stones. The two adults, Wahid Qadoos and Ashraf Abu Rahma, are also facing….
Syrian Arab Republic: Syria, Mali crises tops Islamic summit agenda in Cairo
Relief Web 6 Feb 2013 – Source: Agence France-Presse Country: Mali, occupied Palestinian territory, Syrian Arab Republic, World 02/06/2013 10:27 GMT by Taieb Mahjoub CAIRO, Feb 6, 2013 (AFP) – Heads of state from across the Islamic world meet in Cairo Wednesday to tackle crises ranging…
occupied Palestinian territory: UNRWA chief opens rehousing project for refugees in Rafah, Gaza
Relief Web 5 Feb 2013 – Source: UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East Country: occupied Palestinian territory 04 February Rafah, Gaza UNRWA Commissioner-General Filippo Grandi yesterday welcomed a visiting delegation from the Saudi Fund to Rafah, Gaza, to celebrate the…
occupied Palestinian territory: Status Quo ‘Unsustainable and Unacceptable’, Secretary-General Tells Palestinian Rights Committee, Urging Parties to Advance Middle East Peace Process
Relief Web 5 Feb 2013 – Source: UN General Assembly Country: occupied Palestinian territory GA/PAL/1253 Committee on the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People 348th Meeting (AM) Chair Hails ‘Historic’ Decision to Enhance Palestine’s United Nations Status While the General Assembly’s recent decision to enhance the…
Dubai’s JLT residents want traffic problems addressed
The National 8 Feb 2013 – While residents of JLT love the idea of a park, they want to highlight the need to ease traffic around the area as well.
School closures leave Indian pupils in limbo
The National 6 Feb 2013 – Legal bid to improve India’s education could have the opposite effect, reports Suryatapa Bhattacharya from New Delhi
‘Unprecedented’ grilling today on legality of covert US drone programme
The National 6 Feb 2013 – Barack Obama’s nominee for CIA director expected to face unprecedented public grilling today over legal justifications of the administration’s covert drone programme. Taimur Khan reports from Washington
Morsi: Syrian rebels must join forces
The National 6 Feb 2013 – Egyptian president tells leaders of 26 Islamic states that fragmented rebel groups must unify, as Iran remains the lone advocate of the Assad regime at Islamic summit. Bradley Hope reports from Cairo
Kuwait’s opposition to escalate protests after former MPs jailed for insulting emir
The National 6 Feb 2013 – Three former politicians were convicted this week of undermining the status of the emir, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, at a political rally in October. Elizabeth Dickinson reports
Russian roulette on UAE’s road of death
The National 6 Feb 2013 – How frightening is it to drive on the road where 24 men died in a horrific lorry and bus crash? Caline Malek reports
South African teenager dies of injuries after horrific gang-rape
The National 6 Feb 2013 – The victim was reportedly sliced open from her stomach to her genitals and dumped on a building site in the town of Bredasdorp, 130km east of Cape Town.
Endless quest to be Dubai’s top dog
The National 6 Feb 2013 – It’s a long way to the top if you want a best in show. The day begins at 4am, with more than 20 pooches to train and pamper before the day ends. But for two brothers who work as international pet show competitors, it’s all worthwhile.
Netanyahu’s top security adviser: Settlements impede Western support of Israel
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2013
Family consent for organ donations in Israel declines after surprise spike in 2011
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2013
Number of unwed Israeli live-in couples more than doubles in last decade
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2013
Member of Bat Ayin underground approved for early release
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2013
Turkel panel calls for IDF commanders to take greater responsibility
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2013
Likud source: Obama’s arrival paves the way for Yair Lapid into Israel’s coalition
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2013
Bulgaria: Burgas bombers are living in Lebanon
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2013
White House: Obama will not bring a new peace plan with him to Israel
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2013
Hezbollah: Burgas bombing charges are part of Israeli smear campaign
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2013
Eilat airport closes due to flooding in resort city
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2013
Israel High Court rejects petition to include terror victims in Mount Herzl memorial
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2013
Turkel committee: In future probes, political echelon could be held criminally responsible for alleged IDF war crimes
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2013
The Turkel report: A no-confidence vote in the IDF’s internal investigations
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2013
U.S. envoy: Obama’s trip to Israel will bring ‘urgent’ peacemaking agenda
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2013
Likud official: Livni will be appointed as minister in charge of peace process
Ha’aretz – 5 Feb 2013
Documentary filmmaker Nir Toib dies of cancer at 48
Ha’aretz – 5 Feb 2013
Argentine foreign minister accuses Israel of giving ‘ammunition to anti-Semites,’ sources say
Ha’aretz – 5 Feb 2013
PA gives man 1 year prison for criticizing leaders
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – The PA sometimes uses a 50- year-old Jordanian law that bans “extending one’s tongue” against the monarch to suppress critics.
Turkel II could bring change
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Official: report is a road map for addressing questions that until now were not truly defined by either Israeli or international law.
Rights groups praise Turkel report
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Yesh Din to PM: commission accepted claims of fundamental defects in IDF Investigations; recommendations should be implemented.
Leader strives to get first Beduin solar field
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – “I believe that there is nothing that will stand before desire, and I believe that there will be a project in the end,” leader says.
Oren: Obama visit will send powerful message
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Shapiro: Renewal of talks a goal, but may not happen in one visit, adds Obama hopes to consult with Netanyahu, Abbas.
‘Zoabi Bill’ seeks to keep Balad MK out of Knesset
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Legislation would strengthen Election C’tee; Zoabi: Bill undermines democracy, increases tyranny of the majority.
Saudi cleric shocks in call for baby burkas
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Sheikh Abdullah Daoud says sexual molestation of female babies common in Saudi Arabia; other clerics criticize ruling.
Immigration: Getting it right
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – There is an obvious solution: enforcement first.
Sharing the burden, a fresh perspective
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – In Jerusalem and Bnei Brak, which are heavily populated by haredim, the poverty statistic is 70 percent.
Is Abbas the last Palestinian Authority president?
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – It is about time those concerned with peace and regional stability start considering contingency plans for a West Bank without Abbas, and possibly even without the Palestinian Authority.
Budgetary problems
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Plainly put, political tugs-of-war hurt the national economy. The less frequent the tussles, the better off we are.
Washington Watch: Chaos awaits Kerry in Cairo
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Kerry needs to speak out forcefully in demanding Morsi keep his promises of democratic rule, honor commitments, guarantee religious tolerance, and carry out political and economic reform.
Media Comment: Biased, but free
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Reporters without Borders, in its ranking of freedom of the press, dropped Israel this year to the 112th place, down from 92.
Satellite images show alleged IAF strike in Syria
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Channel 2 airs new satellite images showing wreckage caused by reported Israeli attack on weapons convoy; damage includes a burnt road, crater where a bomb missed its target; images show no damage done to research facility.
PA hopes Obama visit will bring new US policy
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Rudaineh to ‘Post:’ PA expects Obama to pressure Israel to stop building settlements, pave way for restarting peace talks.
WATCH: Abbas mixes Morsi with Mubarak
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Pa president almost hails deposed Egyptian leader Hosni Mubarak and thanks a deceased Arab king for remarks delivered.
Abbas thanks Ahmadinejad for Iran’s support
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – PA president chides leaders over visits to Gaza Strip, calls on Islamic countries to end financial crisis, “Judaization” of J’lem.
Hezbollah denies involvement in Burgas bombing
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Deputy leader says allegations accusing Hezbollah of involvement in Bulgaria attack part of the Israeli smear campaign.
Eilat airport closes after being hit with downpours
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Deluge of stormy weather causes airport to close for three hours, tennis matches to be delayed; agricultural fields destroyed.
Police: Man raped teenage girls at Dizengoff Center
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Suspect lured teenage girls using drugs and cigarettes to deserted parking garage at the mall where he raped them.
Heavy fighting erupts in Syria after suicide bomb
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Clashes follow a suicide car bomb attack on a military intelligence compound; rebels launch offensive, breaking temporary lull.
French court to hear Galliano lawsuit against Dior
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – The decision to hear the case comes in response to Galliano’s filing of an $18.7 million lawsuit against Dior.
Stand-up performance from Israeli comics
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Save a Child’s Heart’s comedy evening proved that laughter really is the best medicine.
Ahmadinejad: Iran is already a nuclear power
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Iranian president says Tehran has achieved nuke capability, but adds he is uninterested in attacking the “Zionist entity.”
Panel: IDF largely fit to probe war crimes claims
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Turkel Commission set up to investigate May 2010 Gaza flotilla says IDF has room for improvement in investigations.
Haifa’s Grand Canyon mall to prohibit smoking rooms
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Mall set to become the first business to voluntarily shut down its smoking areas.
Israel to release part 2 of Gaza flotilla probe
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2013 – Part I of Turkel Commission inquiry focused on 2010 Gaza flotilla raid, finding Israel acted in accordance with international law.
Analysis: Investigating the investigators
Jerusalem Post 5 Feb 2013 – Turkel two passes judgment on whether Israel’s legal system, especially in checking itself, is kosher both in specific cases and in general.
Letters: David Ward, Israel and antisemitism
The Guardian 6 Feb 2013 – Aida Edemariam writes that Lib Dem MP David Ward “still seems unable to comprehend why he has caused offence” ( ‘The solid ground I stand on is that I am not a racist’ , G2, 6 February). David…
David Ward: ‘The solid ground I stand on is that I am not a racist’
The Guardian 6 Feb 2013 – The Liberal Democrat MP has apologised for accusing ‘the Jews’ of ‘inflicting atrocities on Palestinians … on a daily basis’. But he still seems unable to comprehend why he has caused offence On a blustery winter…
Female Palestinian driver targets international future – video
The Guardian 5 Feb 2013 – Betty Saadeh is a Palestinian race driver with a drive to succeed. The 31-year-old mother of two was born into racing royalty, her father Julio was a champion race driver in Mexico in the 1980s, and…
Tunisia PM to Dissolve Government Amid Crisis
IPS Tunisia’s prime minister has said that he will dissolve the Islamist-led government and form a national unity administration, following the killing of prominent secular opposition figure Shokri Belaid in front of his home. Hamadi Jebali announced during a speech to the nation on Wednesday he will form a technocrat government….
Collective Punishment at Qalandiya
Uruknet
Egypt and Iran relations thaw as Ahmadinejad visits Cairo
Uruknet
Lawyer: Long-term hunger striker refusing water
Uruknet
For the Glory of What? Drones, Israel, and the Eclipse of Democracy
Uruknet
Israel bulldozes West Bank homes: video
Uruknet
20 Facts About Extraordinary Rendition, Torture, and Secret Detention
Uruknet
Settler terror in the West Bank escalates out of control
Uruknet
Chilling legal memo from Obama DOJ justifies assassination of US citizens
Uruknet
Security sources: Egyptian activist tortured to death
Uruknet
Settlers Torch Two Palestinian Cars Near Ramallah
Uruknet
U.S. judge throws out Iraq lawsuit over UN aid program
Daily Star 6 Feb 2013 A U.S. judge on Wednesday dismissed Iraq’s lawsuit accusing dozens of companies of conspiring with Saddam Hussein’s regime to frustrate the United Nations’ oil-for-food program.
US expands sanctions on Iran to press nuclear case
Daily Star 6 Feb 2013 The United States on Wednesday tightened sanctions on Iran to further choke off its oil income, saying it was necessary to increase pressure on Tehran over its suspected nuclear weapons program.
Yemen: Seized Iranian ship carried varied weapons
Daily Star 6 Feb 2013 A ship seized by Yemeni authorities last month carried a wide variety of Iranian-made weapons, Yemen’s Defense Ministry said Wednesday.
Bus bombing suspect left Canada at age 12: minister
Daily Star 6 Feb 2013 A Canadian suspect in last year’s fatal bus bombing in Bulgaria was born in Lebanon and only lived in Canada for a few years as a child, Immigration Minister Jason Kenney said Wednesday.
Tunisia to form government of technocrats: PM
Daily Star 6 Feb 2013 Tunisian Prime Minister Hamadi Jebali said Wednesday he would form a government of technocrats without political affiliations, after the murder of opposition leader Chokri Belaid sparked violent protests.
Palestinian inmates sneak sperm out of Israeli jails
Daily Star 6 Feb 2013 A Palestinian medical centre said on Wednesday it had successfully carried out artificial insemination procedures by sneaking out the sperm of four Palestinians jailed by Israel.
Impunity feeds Egypt’s sexual assaults: group
Daily Star 6 Feb 2013 Mob-led sexual assaults targeting Egypt’s female protesters could increase if perpetrators are not punished, an international rights group warned on Wednesday.
Germany warns of ‘consequences’ for Hezbollah
Daily Star 6 Feb 2013 Germany warned Wednesday of “consequences” for Hezbollah if allegations are confirmed that the group was behind an attack which killed five Israeli tourists in Bulgaria last year.
Army blasts Damascus as hopes for peace dim
Daily Star 6 Feb 2013 Syria‘s army Wednesday launched a fierce assault in the Damascus region, shelling rebel neighbourhoods and sealing main entrances to the capital, witnesses said, as prospects for peace talks dimmed.
Syria opposition head demands women prisoners freed
Daily Star 6 Feb 2013 Opposition chief Ahmed Moaz al-Khatib demanded all women held in Syrian prisons be freed by Sunday, or the regime will lose its chance for dialogue, in an interview with BBC Arabic.
Egypt liberal sounds alarm over call for his death
Daily Star 6 Feb 2013 Egyptian liberal politician Mohamed ElBaradei condemned Egypt’s Islamist-led authorities on Wednesday for not arresting a Muslim cleric who said he should be sentenced to death.
Tunisia turmoil after opposition chief shot dead
Daily Star 6 Feb 2013 Prominent Tunisian opposition leader Chokri Belaid was gunned down outside his home in Tunis on Wednesday, sparking angry protests by his supporters and attacks on offices of the ruling Islamist Ennahda party.
Kerry: US cannot retreat from world stage
YNet News, 6 Feb 2013 – ….
Sudan’s Bashir meets Ahmadinejad
YNet News, 6 Feb 2013 – ….
Talks as response to UN hypocrisy
YNet News, 6 Feb 2013 – Op-ed: New Israeli government must seek international support for resolving Palestinian issue ….
Bloomberg reluctantly backs college’s right to BDS conference
YNet News, 6 Feb 2013 – ….
US Senate committee may delay vote on Hagel confirmation
YNet News, 6 Feb 2013 – ….
Netanyahu to Bulgarian PM: Iran running terror campaign
YNet News, 6 Feb 2013 – ….
Netanyahu stronger after elections
YNet News, 6 Feb 2013 – Op-ed: Most Israelis believe Palestinian issue should stay on the back burner until peace partner emerges ….
There’s no such thing as a free lunch
YNet News, 6 Feb 2013 – Op-ed: It is no coincidence that White House announced Obama visit as Netanyahu tries to form new coalition ….
Palestinian Information Center
Syndicates hold IOA responsible for life of 92-year-old lady
PIC – The general union of Palestinian workers syndicates held the Israeli occupation authorities (IOA) fully responsible for the life of 92-year-old woman Amna al-Hithnawi.
IOA serves 120 demolition notices in Al-Khalil in two weeks
PIC – The Israeli occupation authorities (IOA) served 120 demolition notices in Al-Khalil over the past two weeks, a Palestinian human rights activist said on Wednesday.
Barhoum: Razing Jerusalemite homes racist
PIC – A Hamas spokesman described on Wednesday the Israeli occupation authorities’ demolition of Jerusalemite homes as a serious, racist aggression that should be resisted.
IOF soldiers exercise in Tobas, storm Jenin village
PIC – Israeli occupation forces (IOF) stormed at dawn Wednesday Tobas city and nearby Fara’a valley and performed military exercises and combed both areas.
Human Rights Center: IOA aims to assassinate Sharawna by isolating him
PIC – The Palestinian Center for Prisoners’ Studies held occupation authorities and prison service fully responsible for the life of the hunger striker Ayman Sharawna after threatening to isolate him.
Israeli forces arrest 11 Jerusalemites
PIC – Israeli occupation forces (IOF) raided the town of Silwan, south of Al-Aqsa Mosque, and arrested a number of Jerusalemite youths, within a military campaign carried out by IOF against the town.
IOF arrests 110 Palestinians from al-Khalil since the beginning of the year
PIC – Palestinian report documented the arrest of 110 Palestinians from the city of al-Khalil in the southern West Bank territories by Israeli forces during the month of January.
Sick Palestinian prisoner’s family appeals to save his life
PIC – Family of a Palestinian prisoner from the city of Nablus in the northern West Bank appealed to all human rights organizations to save the life of her son detained in Israeli jails.
Hamas urges the Islamic Summit to protect al-Aqsa
PIC – Hamas Movement asked the Islamic Summit, held today in Cairo, to immediately provide the urgent protection to Al-Aqsa Mosque and the city of Jerusalem.
IOA starts demolishing buildings north of Buraq Square
PIC – Occupation authorities started implementing a new scheme in Buraq Square in order to change the status quo in the area.
PLO Urges Obama to Play Positive Role in Mideast
WAFA – 6 Feb 2013
Abbas Meets Iranian Counterpart in Cairo
WAFA – 6 Feb 2013
Israel Demolishes Ancient Islamic Structures in Jerusalem
WAFA – 6 Feb 2013
Israel Forces Demolish Water Well near Hebron
WAFA – 6 Feb 2013
Weather Forecast: Rainy Weather Accompanied by Thunder Storms
WAFA – 6 Feb 2013
Fighting intensifies in Syrian capital
LA Times 6 Feb 2013 – Both rebels and the government of Bashar Assad report significant gains in Damascus. BEIRUT — Shelling and explosions were heard in Damascus, the Syrian capital, Wednesday amid some of the fiercest clashes reported in months, and government and opposition forces both said they had made…
Memo gives U.S. broad powers to kill Al Qaeda targets
LA Times 5 Feb 2013 – The policy paper on drone strikes goes beyond previous statements by President Obama and his aides. WASHINGTON — In a newly revealed memo, the Obama administration claims authority to target and kill overseas Al Qaeda members, even American citizens, in broad terms that go beyond…
Iran agrees to nuclear talks with six world powers
LA Times 5 Feb 2013 – Tehran wants relief from crushing economic sanctions, but analysts doubt it’s willing to give up much. WASHINGTON — Six world powers and Iran agreed to hold talks on Tehran’s disputed nuclear program this month in Kazakhstan in the latest attempt to avoid a military confrontation…
Bulgaria accuses Hezbollah of 2012 attack on Israeli tourists
LA Times 5 Feb 2013 – Investigators say the bombing of a tour bus in the Black Sea resort of Burgas can be traced to the Lebanon group. EU is likely to come under more pressure to label Hezbollah a terrorist organization. JERUSALEM — Bulgarian investigators said Tuesday that the Lebanese…
The Lede: Egyptian Prime Minister Criticized for Soliloquy on ‘Ignorant’ Mothers
New York Times 6 Feb 2013 – In the middle of political turmoil, Egypt’s prime minister, Hisham Qandil, took a moment to blame infant diarrhea on the unclean breasts of “ignorant” nursing mothers.
The Lede: Video of Protests Across Tunisia After an Opposition Leader Is Gunned Down
New York Times 6 Feb 2013 – Video and photographs shot by Tunisian activists and bloggers on Wednesday gave close-up views of protests across the country.
Tunisia Moves to Contain Fallout After Opposition Figure Is Assassinated
New York Times 6 Feb 2013 – The prime minister said he would dissolve the Islamist-led government after a politician, Chokri Belaid, was killed and thousands took to the streets in protest.
The Lede: Online Campaign Draws Attention to Case of Saudi Father Accused of Rape and Torture
New York Times 6 Feb 2013 – Reports that a man in Saudi Arabia, who had frequently appeared on television as a preacher, had raped and tortured to death his 5-year-old daughter have fueled outrage online.
I.H.T. Special: Syria’s Kurds Try to Balance Security and Alliances
New York Times 6 Feb 2013 – Syria’s Kurds have mostly escaped direct conflict in the country’s civil war, but with rebel units pushing east toward the Kurdish heartland, this may not remain the case.
I.H.T. Special: Social Media Firms Move to Capitalize on Popularity in Middle East
New York Times 6 Feb 2013 – The rise of social media in the Arab world is changing the game for regional advertisers, pushing growth in digital advertising.
I.H.T. Special: Haunted by War, Syrian Artists Put Raw Emotions on View
New York Times 6 Feb 2013 – A Middle East-based gallery provides the region’s artists aid and a venue for expression.
United States Announces New Iran Sanctions
New York Times 6 Feb 2013 – The United States blacklisted several organizations in Iran, widening the American effort to pressure the government over its nuclear program and human rights abuses.
Gilad Sharon denied permission for solar farm
Globes Energy & Water – The Israel Land Administration has rejected a request by former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s son to build a solar energy at the family’s Hashikmim Farm.
Better Place closes US, Australian operations
Globes Main News – The electric car venture will focus on Israel and Denmark, and company headquarters has been moved from Palo Alto to Israel.
Treasury seeks to raise car taxes
Globes Main News – The preferred choice is to raise the purchase tax on new cars from a maximum rate of 82% to 88% or higher.
Bezeq begins laying fiber optic network
Globes Main News – Bezeq has begun work on its fiber optic network in Ness Ziona, Ramat Hasharon, and Modi’in.
Wed: Mellanox resumes fall
Globes Main News – The market had a mixed day as Mellanox recorded the biggest loss on the Tel Aviv 25 Index, and Israel Chemicals rose on the biggest turnover.
OrbiMed invests $8m in BioLineRX
Globes Main News – BioLineRX CEO: “The capital raised will help us to continue with the accelerated development of our clinical and pre-clinical stage therapeutic assets.”
“Globes” demands details on cos receiving tax breaks
Globes Macro Economics – “Globes” will petition the High Court of Justice if the Ministry of Finance continues to refuse to disclose the information.
IAI teams with Lockheed, KMW to develop artillery – report
Globes Aerospace & Defense – “Israel Defense”: The companies signed the agreement last week, with the goal of participating in the IDF tender for its next-generation self-propelled artillery.
Elbit Systems adds partner to Brazilian UAV venture
Globes Aerospace & Defense – Elbit Systems and Embraer bring Avibras Divisao Aerea e Naval into their joint venture Harpia Sistemas.
Bulgaria Blames Hezbollah, Bibi Blames Iran
Tikun Olam – Bulgaria finally released its much-anticipated report on the terror bombing at its airport last year which killed five Israelis. It said that several of the bombers and accomplices had clear connections to Hezbollah’s military wing. As I’ve said many times here, I don’t support terror attacks,…
Supporting free speech at Brooklyn College
Muzzlewatch – A lot has been written in the past few days about the attempts to shut down an event this coming February 7th, at which leading Palestinian rights activist Omar Barghouti and world-renowned scholar Judith Butler (who is also a member of JVP’s Advisory Board) are scheduled…
Bloomberg backs Brooklyn College over BDS event as another official withdraws funding threat
Mondoweiss – Supporters of Brooklyn College’s Students for Justice in Palestine held a press conference yesterday to speak out against the attacks on the group’s panel ( Photo via @ReclaimLanguage ) The tide has suddenly turned hard against opponents of the Students for Justice in Palestine-organized event that is set…
CalPERS requests UN roundtable on ‘responsible investing in the Middle East’ as it begins to engage Veolia and Elbit over ties to occupation
Mondoweiss – More big news on the BDS front as the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS), the country’s public largest pension fund, has responded to activist pressure to divest from companies benefiting from the occupation. Industry newspaper Pensions and Investments reports the fund has begun to engage…
Israel holds Palestinian activist in solitary confinement to interrogate him about Facebook activity following ‘Real Democracy’ election campaign
Mondoweiss – Watch more Palestine videos on Frequency From the Times of Israel : Galib Ishtewi, a 21-year-old student from the Palestinian village of Kafr Qaddum east of Nablus, told the Times of Israel that some 15 Israeli soldiers stormed his home on January 25, accusing him of stone…
Life under the F16s in Gaza
Mondoweiss – The AbuKhadra governmental buildings after they were targeted in operation Pillar of Cloud Nov 21, 2012 (Photo:Rawan Yaghi) With F16s, it’s a scary roar like someone is mocking sounds in a water well. It also depends on the altitude of the plane, sometimes a high…
Israeli police give Jerusalem family 10 minutes to evacuate before demolishing their home
Mondoweiss – link to english.wafa.ps link to english.al-akhbar.com link to english.wafa.ps link to www.haaretz.com link towww.palestine-info.co.uk link to www.imemc.org link to www.palestinemonitor.org link to english.wafa.ps link to www.haaretz.com link to www.palestine-info.co.uk link to www.palestine-info.co.uk link to electronicintifada.net link to english.wafa.ps link to www.palestine-info.co.uk link to www.haaretz.com link…
Mayor Bloomberg Backs Brooklyn College in Flap Over Boycott Israel Panel
The Foward Breaking News 6 Feb 2013 – New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg harshly criticized city officials who had called on Brooklyn College’s political science department to drop their sponsorship of a pro-BDS panel. Click here for the rest of the article…
Menachem Elon, Israeli Judge, Dies at 89
The Foward Breaking News 6 Feb 2013 – Rabbi Menachem Elon, a former Israeli Supreme Court justice and an Israel Prize winner, has died. Click here for the rest of the article…
Reporter Apologizes for Suggesting Israel Bribed Bulgaria on Bomb Probe
The Foward Breaking News 6 Feb 2013 – A correspondent for the Financial Times apologized for suggesting that Israel may have bribed Bulgaria to frame Hezbollah. Click here for the rest of the article…
Israel Sleepwalking Into Crisis Over Jewish Settlements on Occupied Palestinian Land
The Foward Breaking News 6 Feb 2013 – Israel risks sleepwalking into a crisis with its allies over relentless settlement-building in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem unless it realises that the international anger is genuine and adjusts its course. Click here for the rest of the article…
Dazzling Torah Bells Spark Legal Battle for Touro Synagogue and Shearith Israel
The Forward New 6 Feb 2013 – A court fight between two of America’s oldest shuls started over a $7 million set of Torah bells. It may end with the eviction of the congregation from historic Touro Synagogue. Click here for the rest of the article…
Egypt: Salafist Call Rejects Iranian President’s Visit to Mosques, Tahrir Square
allAfrica.com 6 Feb 2013 – [Aswat Masriya]Egypt’s Salafist Call on Tuesday expressed its fear that the visit of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to Egypt may go beyond its declared purposes.
Sudan: ’60 Fighters of the Syrian Regime’ in Port Sudan Hospital
allAfrica.com 5 Feb 2013 – [Radio Dabanga]Port Sudan -Sources from the city of Port Sudan, capital of the Red Sea state, assert that 60 Syrian fighters supporting the Assad regime were admitted at a local military hospital on Tuesday.
US expands sanctions against Iran
BBC 6 Feb 2013 – The US tightens existing sanctions on Iran – targeting oil revenue and media – over its alleged nuclear weapons programme.
Hezbollah fury at Bulgaria bomb link
BBC 6 Feb 2013 – Hezbollah dismisses a Bulgarian report blaming it for a deadly 2012 bus bombing, saying it is facing an “international campaign” waged by Israel.
Egyptians protest at sexual violence
BBC 6 Feb 2013 – Hundreds of Egyptians have taken part in a protest in Cairo to demand an end to sexual violence against women, as activists warn of mob-led attacks.
Iran ex-prosecutor Mortazavi freed
BBC 6 Feb 2013 – Saeed Mortazavi, the former prosecutor general of Tehran, is released after two days in prison.
Hamada Saber: The Melodrama that Overshadowed Deadly Torture
Al-Akhbar Blogs 6 Feb 2013 – Hamada Saber’s beating by the police captured on live TV, his subsequent denial of the police’s wrongdoing, and consequent confirmation of the incident provided rich material for the ongoing news melodrama. The unfolding story has embodied many of the social and governmental ailments plaguing Egypt, chief…
US has secret drone base in Saudi Arabia
Al-Akhbar News 6 Feb 2013 – The high-profile US drone strike that killed American-born radical preacher Anwar al-Awlaki in Yemen was partly conducted from a secret air base in Saudi Arabia, the Washington Post reported Wednesday. The base was established two years ago as part of US efforts to intensify the pursuit…
Bulgarian Opposition Blasts Burgas Bombing Charge
Al-Akhbar News 6 Feb 2013 – A truck carries a bus, that was damaged in a bomb blast in July 2012, outside Burgas Airport, about 400km east of Sofia in this 19 July2012 file photo. (Photo: Reuters – Stoyan Nenov) A truck carries a bus, that was damaged in a bomb blast…
Selling Roses and Desperation on Lebanon’s Streets
Al-Akhbar News 6 Feb 2013 – The house has makeshift doors made of wooden planks and windows covered in plastic sheets. (Photo: Marwan Tahtah) The house has makeshift doors made of wooden planks and windows covered in plastic sheets. (Photo: Marwan Tahtah) The story of Hassan, a 12-year-old street vendor who peddles…
Lebanon: The Return of the Pollsters
Al-Akhbar News 6 Feb 2013 – How do Statistics Lebanon’s results compare to other pollsters? (Photo: Haytham Al-Moussawi) How do Statistics Lebanon’s results compare to other pollsters? (Photo: Haytham Al-Moussawi) As the debate over what election law to adopt grinds on in parliament, Lebanon’s election pollsters are back in the media spotlight….
Lebanese Émigré Enclaves in Africa Await Presidential Visit
Al-Akhbar News 6 Feb 2013 – Many are asking whether the president’s visit will finally put an end to years of neglect and address the mounting problems Lebanese citizens face in these countries. (Photo: Marwan Tahtah) Many are asking whether the president’s visit will finally put an end to years of neglect…
Israel waging “campaign of intimidation” over Bulgaria attack: Hezbollah
Al-Akhbar News 6 Feb 2013 – A woman holds a picture of Lebanon’s Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah during a rally to commemorate the birth of Prophet Mohammad in Beirut’s suburbs, January 25, 2013. (Photo: Reuters – Sharif Karim) A woman holds a picture of Lebanon’s Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah during…
013 Election Rivalries
Al-Akhbar Politics 5 Feb 2013 – A general view show Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad delivering a speech to the parliament in Tehran on 3 February 2013. (Photo: AFP – Atta Kenare) A general view show Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad delivering a speech to the parliament in Tehran on 3 February 2013. (Photo:…
Zaatari Syrian Refugee Camp Becoming Refugee City
Al-Akhbar Politics 5 Feb 2013 – Syrian refugees search for their belongings at a burnt tent at the Al Zaatari Syrian refugee camp in the Jordanian city of Mafraq, near the border with Syria 28 January 2013. (Photo: Reuters – Ali Jarekji) Syrian refugees search for their belongings at a burnt tent…
Heavy fighting hits Syrian capital
BBC 6 Feb 2013 – Fierce fighting breaks out between rebels and pro-government troops in the Syrian capital, as bombings hit a central town and peace talk hopes fade.
US expands sanctions against Iran
BBC 6 Feb 2013 – The US tightens existing sanctions on Iran – targeting oil revenue and media – over its alleged nuclear weapons programme.
CIA drone base in Saudi revealed
BBC 6 Feb 2013 – The US Central Intelligence Agency has been operating a secret airbase in Saudi Arabia for unmanned drones for the past two years, US media reveal.
Tunisia PM forms new government
BBC 6 Feb 2013 – Tunisia is to form a non-partisan government to run the country until elections, the PM says, hours after a leading opposition figure is assassinated.
Hezbollah fury at Bulgaria bomb link
BBC 6 Feb 2013 – Hezbollah dismisses a Bulgarian report blaming it for a deadly 2012 bus bombing, saying it is facing an “international campaign” waged by Israel.
Egyptians protest at sexual violence
BBC 6 Feb 2013 – Hundreds of Egyptians have taken part in a protest in Cairo to demand an end to sexual violence against women, as activists warn of mob-led attacks.
Articles
Criminal accountability for IDF soldiers: A baseless system
Yesh Din, written by Yossi Gurvitz, +972 Magazine 2/5/2013
Of the 240 complaints received by the army in 2012, not one resulted in an indictment. In certain respects, the IDF has outsourced to human rights NGOs its system for receiving complaints against soldiers. When it comes to investigating those complaints, however, it does a totally unacceptable job.
The most significant fact in our new fact sheet about law enforcement on IDF soldiers in the Occupied Territories is that although 240 complaints were registered in 2012, they resulted in not a single indictment. It is possible indictments will be filed in the coming years based on the complaints of 2012, but so far the percentage of complaints maturing into indictments is a fat, round zero. 2012 is somewhat problematic in this regard, but the average rate is not much better: around five percent.
Another less obvious point is also of importance. Out of 240 complaints, all of which deal with allegedly unlawful conduct – from violence to looting to unlawful killing – only six, about 2.5 percent, were made directly to the Military Police Criminal Investigative Division (MPCID), which then made only a desultory effort to investigate them. This rate was somewhat higher in 2008-2009, though still minor – nine percent (see pg. 35-46 here). The rest of the complaints made it to MPCID by Palestinians registering complaints with Israeli policemen in the DCOs [District Coordination Offices], but the majority came through human rights organizations, either directly (in 42 cases), or indirectly (when the NGOs went to the Military Judge Advocate, in 90 cases).
Only four complaints were made directly to MPCID by military officers, even though IDF orders make it clear that when a suspicion of certain offenses arises, MPCID must be informed. One single complaint came from the Shin Bet’s ombudsman responsible for examining detainee complaints, which given the notoriety of this department in closing complaints about torture, means that some soldier must have been spectacularly out of line…. more.. e-mail
Obama’s trip to Israel: Just showing up isn’t enough
Noam Sheizaf, +972 Magazine 2/6/2013
The U.S. president’s decision to visit Israel and the Palestinian territories in the spring is an unexpected political gift to the Israeli prime minister. Yet without confronting Netanyahu on the issues of the settlements and the ’67 borders, we could end up with another diplomatic failure and even a renewal of violence in the region.
The White House’s confirmation regarding the planned visit by President Barack Obama to Israel and the Palestinian Authority came just at the right time for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been facing some difficulties in putting together his next coalition. As was the case four years ago, Netanyahu wants the widest possible government, but the centrist parties are demanding a renewal of “meaningful negotiations” with the PA and military draft reform. Things will be made considerably easier now, as Obama’s visit alone will generate the feeling that peace talks are indeed on their way, thus making Tzipi Livni and Yair Lapid’s entry into the coalition much easier.
Naturally, the mere presence of Lapid and/or Livni in the government doesn’t guarantee anything regarding the diplomatic process itself, and I still think that even if there was a real desire to end the occupation on the Israeli side, the current Knesset doesn’t present a workable political base for it, especially due to the changes within Netanyahu’s Likud party. It is worth noting that Naftali Bennett and the settlers don’t have any problem joining a government that would renew negotiations with the Palestinians. They believe that nothing will come out of the talks, certainly not evacuation of settlements, under the present political circumstances. As I have written in the past, the political behavior of the settlers is a good litmus test for the level of seriousness on the Israeli side.
The planned visit also confirms, at least in the Israeli public’s image, the Right’s claim that Netanyahu’s confrontational approach didn’t hurt Israeli interests, and perhaps even aided them….. more.. e-mail
Dershowitz fights academic freedom at Brooklyn College
Belen Fernandez, Al Jazeera.com 2/5/2013
Alan Dershowitz’s call to boycott a Political Science department should be dismissed by anyone concerned with justice.
It comes as little surprise that Harvard Law School professor Alan Dershowitz, Brooklyn College alumnus and raving apologist for Israeli crimes, has appointed himself commanding general in the assault on the college’s Political Science department for co-sponsoring a February 7 panel discussion on the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement.
As the BDS website notes, the non-violent movement was launched by sectors of Palestinian civil society as a means of pressuring Israel “until it complies with international law and Palestinian rights”. BDS co-founder Omar Barghouti and philosopher Judith Butler are scheduled presenters.
Among the opening salvoes of Dershowitz’s war was a January 30 Huffington Post article entitled “Brooklyn College Political Science Department’s Israel Problem”, in which his familiarity with the subject matter was underscored by his use of an incorrect acronym for the BDS movement – DBS – no less than 12 times. The error has since been rectified; the article’s more profound defects have not.
Arsenal of illogic
In the introductory paragraph, Dershowitz rails against “[t]he international campaign to delegitimate Israel by subjecting the Jewish state – and the Jewish State alone – to divestment, boycotts and sanctions”. No attention is paid to the possibility that Israel’s singling out in this case is perhaps a result of the fact that most other states in this world are not presently engaged in anachronistic colonial exploits, ethnic cleansing and apartheid. more.. e-mail
How Israel is Fueling the Syrian Fire
Nicola Nasser, CounterPunch 2/6/2013
Stoking a Region-wide Outburst
The timing of the Israeli air raid early on January 30 on a Syrian target, that has yet to be identified, coincided with a hard to refute indications that the “regime change” in Syria by force, both by foreign military intervention and by internal armed rebellion, has failed, driving the Syrian opposition in exile to opt unwillingly for “negotiations” with the ruling regime, with the blessing of the U.S., EU and Arab League, concluding, in the words of a Deutsche Welle report on this February 2, that “nearly two years since the revolt began, (Syrian President Bashar Al-) Assad is still sitting comfortably in presidential chair.”
Nonetheless, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu keeps saying that Israel is preparing for “dramatic changes” in Syria, but senior Israeli foreign ministry officials accused him of “fear-mongering on Syria” to justify his ordering what the Russians described as the “unprovoked” raid, according to The Times of Israel on January 29. Another official told the Israeli Maariv that no Israeli “red lines” were crossed with regard to the reported chemical weapons in Syria to justify the raid. On January 16 Israel’s National Security Council spokesman Tommy Vietor said there was “no evidence” to any Syrian steps to use such weapons. On last December 8 UN Chief Ban Ki-moon said there were “no confirmed reports” Damascus was preparing to use them. Three days later U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said: “We have not seen anything new” on chemical weapons “indicating any aggressive steps” by Syria. On January 31 NATO Chief Fogh Rasmussen said: “I have no new information about chemical weapons (in Syria).” Syria’s Russian ally has repeatedly confirmed what Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on February 2 that “we have reliable information” the Syrian government maintains control of chemical weapons and “won’t use” them. That’s what Syria itself keeps repeating, and “there is no particular reason why Israel is to be believed and Syria not,” according to a Saudi Gazette editorial on February 3. more.. e-mail
Settlements Are Illegal, Settlers Must Leave
Palestine Chronicle: 6 Feb 2013 – By Rashid Shahin Palestinians have waited for more than six decades following their Nakba, or catastrophe, in 1948, and more than four decades of occupation until the world has finally admitted that colonies or “settlements” in the Occupied Palestinian Territories are not only illegal, but are also in violation of international law and constitute war crimes. Israel is responsible for the millions of Palestinian refugees scattered throughout the world, the hundreds of thousands of prisoners and victims since Israel was founded, and is still responsible despite the fact that the world community believes that Israel is an occupying power and settlements in the Palestinian occupied land are illegal. More than half a million Jewish settlers in more than 250 colonies must leave the settlements they have built illegally on stolen Palestinian lands since the occupation of the West Bank in 1967; this was the content of the decision or the…more
No ‘Winning’ In Yemen with Brennan
Palestine Chronicle: 6 Feb 2013 – By James Gundun – Washington, D.C. On Thursday, February 7th, a relatively quiet affair will unfold at the Hart Senate Office Building in Washington DC. His path to the top finally cleared by marital scandal, John Brennan is set to assume the CIA’s Directorship after what should be a smooth confirmation before the Senate Select Committee On Intelligence. President Barack Obama’s counterterrorism coordinator has been lauded as a tireless model of integrity, portrayed by the U.S. media as one of the President’s closest advisers, and delivers the cost-efficient counterterrorism favored by the majority of Congress. Some Senators promise hard questioning – particularly in regards to torture policies, foiled terror plots and the constitutional legality of killing U.S. citizens in foreign countries – but Brennan and the Obama administration expect minimal objections to his promotion. “There’s no indication of any trouble,” National Security Council spokesman Tommy Vietor said Monday. Accordingly, few…more
Cameron in Blunderland
Palestine Chronicle: 6 Feb 2013 – By Felicity Arbuthnot – London “The refuge of the morally, intellectually, artistically and economically bankrupt is war.”– ( Martin H.Fischer , 1879-1962.) It has not been an auspicious couple of weeks for UK Prime Minister David Cameron. His Cabinet colleagues, largely a bunch of millionaires, have accused the unemployed of being work-shy and a burden on the taxpayers – never mind that businesses are closing in near industrial numbers and that often hundreds, if not thousands, apply for one job. Additionally, according to the Literacy Trust: “One in six people in the UK struggle with literacy. This means their literacy is below the level expected of an eleven year old … Men and women with poor literacy are least likely to be in full-time employment at the age of thirty.” A junior Health Minister has accused the poor of being fat because, she has decided, they eat the wrong things. The latter…more
More material available from Vermonters for a Just Peace in Palestine/Israel – www.vtjp.org
To subscribe, please write to OccupationNews-subscribe@yahoogroups.com or visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/OccupationNews/join
The New Dark Age 