9 January 2014 — VTJP
News
International Middle East Media Center
6 Arrested In Jerusalem, West Bank
IMEMC – 12-year-old boy indicted [Thursday January 9, 2014] Six people from Jerusalem, Salfit, Jenin, Ramallah and Hebron were arrested by Israeli forces today, according to local and security sources. A Palestinian boy from Himza, aged 12, is facing Israeli indictment. …
17 Injured By Israeli Forces In Bethlehem
IMEMC – [Thursday Morning, January 9, 2014] 17 Palestinian youth were injured, this morning, after occupation soldiers fired rubber-coated steel bullets and live ammunition at them in Adhaisha camp, in the Bethlehem area. …
Israeli Airstrike On Southern Gaza Injures 3
IMEMC – [Thursday January 9, 2014] Three Palestinians have been injured after an Israeli airstrike targeted the southern Gaza Strip, on Thursday, according to medical officials. …
UNRWA Refuses To Increase Striking Workers’ Salaries
IMEMC – Management of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) has refused to increase the salaries of Palestinian employees in the Gaza Strip. …
World Bank Funded Landfill Off Limits To Palestinians
IMEMC – Israel is refusing to allow Palestinians the usage of a World Bank funded landfill to the south of Jerusalem, according to Israeli daily Haaretz. …
Israeli forces, rightists tour Aqsa compound
1/9/2014 – JERUSALEM (Ma’an) — A group of newly recruited Israeli soldiers and a group of rightist Israelis entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque through the Moroccan Gate Thursday, escorted by Israeli police officers, witnesses said. More than 50 army recruits toured the mosque’s squares in military uniform, escorted by police and tour guides, the witnesses told Ma’an. Separately, they said 17 Israeli rightists….
In video: Israeli military accompanies settler attack
1/9/2014 – BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) — Israeli human rights group B’Tselem on Wednesday released video footage which shows Israeli soldiers standing among settlers while they attack a Palestinian school with stones in the Nablus village of Urif. The incident took place on Monday when a group of settlers raided the village and started throwing stones at the Safadi family home, adjacent to the site of….
Hundreds protest against Negev house demolitions
1/9/2014 – BEERSHEBA (Ma’an) — Hundreds of Palestinians with Israeli citizenship demonstrated in Beersheba outside of the office for The Authority for the Regulation of Bedouin Settlement in the Negev on Thursday to protest ongoing house demolitions. The demonstrators chanted the Palestinian national anthem and waved Palestinian flags as Israeli police closed all roads leading to the office and deployed hundreds of officers in the area….
Palestinian prisoner suffers from ‘hysteria’ after hunger strike
1/9/2014 – RAMALLAH (Ma’an) — A Palestinian inmate in Israel’s Ofer prison suffered from “hysteria” after carrying out an extended hunger strike, a prisoners’ ministry lawyer said Thursday. Ehab al-Ghaleet, a lawyer for the Palestinian Ministry of Prisoners’ Affairs, said that Thaer Abdullah was on hunger strike for 50 days, as a result of which he was treated in Assaf Harofeh medical….
Report: Boy splashes chlorine on Palestinian women in Jerusalem
1/9/2014 – BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) — A 12-year-old ultra-orthodox Jewish boy on Thursday splashed a Palestinian woman with chlorine at a light rail station in Jerusalem, Israeli media reported. Channel 2 reported that the woman did not require medical attention, but filed a complaint with the police. She claimed the attacker acted out of racist motives. Police are looking for the boy, the report said. [END]
PFLP, DFLP claim mortar strike on Israeli military targets
1/9/2014 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — Palestinian factions on Thursday took responsibility for launching mortar shells at Israeli military targets earlier in the day. The military wing of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, Abu Ali Mustafa Brigades, said in a statement that it fired two 80-millimeter mortar shells at a group of Israeli tanks that had invaded an area east of Khan….
Egypt not taking Gaza humanitarian crisis ‘seriously’
1/9/2014 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — Egyptian authorities are not taking the humanitarian crisis in Gaza seriously, a Gaza official said Thursday, as ongoing closures of the Rafah crossing prevent people from leaving the coastal territory.” Egypt should stick to its nationalistic and humanitarian responsibility toward the population of the Gaza Strip. We hereby send a message to all the free people of the world and….
Activists protest ‘normalization’ conference in Ramallah
1/9/2014 – RAMALLAH (Ma’an) — Palestinian activists on Thursday tried to prevent a joint Palestinian-Israeli organization from holding a conference at Ramallah’s City Inn Hotel, witnesses said. They said the activists attempted to break into the conference hall, but that Palestinian police stationed at the entrance intervened. The protesters accused the conveners of normalization with the Israeli occupation.”Normalization is treason,” protesters’ signs….
Watchdog: Israel must dismantle settler outpost
1/9/2014 – JERUSALEM (AFP) — Israeli settlements watchdog Peace Now has urged the government to dismantle an illegal outpost in the West Bank, after violent clashes in the area between settlers and Palestinians. Israel must “enforce the law and remove Esh Kodesh, an illegal West Bank settlement established in violation of Israeli law”, Peace Now said in a letter to the government, a copy of which was sent….
New talks on Iran nuclear deal open in Geneva
1/9/2014 – GENEVA (AFP) — Iran and world powers met Thursday to discuss how to implement a landmark deal aimed at containing Tehran’s nuclear drive, less than two weeks before the agreement is due to take effect. Iranian, EU and US negotiators gathered in Geneva for their highest-level talks since hammering out the groundbreaking Nov. 24 deal. Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Iranian counterpart Hassan….
Islamic Jihad: Israeli escation aims to sabotage reconciliation
1/9/2014 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — Islamic Jihad leader Ahmad Mudallal said Israel’s recent escalation in the Gaza Strip aims to sabotage plans for national reconciliation. Mudallal told Ma’an that Israel is waging a war of attrition against Palestinian resistance groups, especially Islamic Jihad, which Israel views as one of the most dangerous Palestinian factions. He said Israel wants to break the….
Gaza security forces arrest man accused of killing woman, child
1/9/2014 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — Security forces arrested a man who was suspected of killing a young woman and a child in a family brawl, Gaza’s public prosecutor said Thursday. Hussam Dakka told Ma’an that the man, identified only as A. Q. , is charged with the murder of Suheir Abu al-Kheir, 20, and 9-year-old Musab Azzam. Dakka said the suspect….
PA security forces discover drug laboratory in Tulkarem
1/9/2014 – TULKAREM (Ma’an) — Palestinian Preventive Security Forces uncovered a heroin and cocaine laboratory in Tulkarem on Thursday and arrested several suspects at the scene. The laboratory was operating with high-tech and expensive equipment and was led by an organized crime group linked with the Israeli mafia, security forces said. The laboratory produced and distributed large amounts of cocaine and heroin, they added. [END]
Tunisia Islamist PM to step down as unrest mounts
1/9/2014 – TUNIS (AFP) — Tunisia’s outgoing Islamist Prime Minister Ali Larayedh, who was tortured under the ousted Ben Ali regime, announced he would resign later on Thursday as part of a plan to end months of political deadlock. His resignation will see the departure of Tunisia’s first democratically elected government, which came to power after veteran strongman Zine El Abidine Ben Ali was….
Egypt courts jail 87 pro-Morsi protesters
1/9/2014 – CAIRO (AFP) — Courts on Thursday jailed 87 supporters of Egypt’s deposed president Mohamed Morsi to three years for taking part in unauthorized and violent protests, judicial sources said. One Cairo misdemeanor court condemned 63 supporters of the Islamist to three years in prison and fined them 50,000 Egyptian pounds ($7,200) over protests in November, the officials said. They can post bail of 5,000….
International Solidarity Movement
Two international activists to be deported after their arrest is declared illegal
1/9/2014 – International Solidarity Movement – International Solidarity Movement, Occupied Palestine – Yesterday, Wednesday 8th January, at approximately 11am in Khalil (Hebron), Vincent Mainville and Fabio Theodule (Swiss and Italian citizens respectively), were arrested by Israeli border police officers. The two international activists were first detained while trying to stop Israeli forces firing live ammunition and tear gas canisters towards a group of Palestinian youth and children throwing stones towards the soldiers. Israeli….
Jordan: Human Appeal International Supports UNRWA
Relief Web 9 Jan 2014 – Source: UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East Country: Jordan, occupied Palestinian territory, Syrian Arab Republic Human Appeal International (HAI) provided the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) with 254 vouchers to buy winter…
occupied Palestinian territory: Qatar Charity Donates US$1 Million to Palestine Refugees in Gaza
Relief Web 9 Jan 2014 – Source: UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East Country: occupied Palestinian territory Qatar Charity and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) have signed an agreement to…
Pakistan: Polio this week – as of 8 January 2014
Relief Web 9 Jan 2014 – Source: Global Polio Eradication Initiative Country: Afghanistan, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Ethiopia, Israel, Kenya, Niger, Nigeria, occupied Palestinian territory, Pakistan, Somalia, Syrian Arab Republic The data table below is as of 08 January 2014 India will reach a great…
Syrian Arab Republic: UK Aid Syria Response – 7th January 2014
Relief Web 9 Jan 2014 – Source: Department for International Development Country: Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, occupied Palestinian territory, Syrian Arab Republic, Turkey, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland As conflict continues to in Syria, millions of people are in desperate need of assistance….
World: Middle East & North Africa Zone: Development Operational Plan 2014
Relief Web 9 Jan 2014 – Source: International Federation of Red Cross And Red Crescent Societies Country: Egypt, Lebanon, Libya, occupied Palestinian territory, Syrian Arab Republic, World, Yemen Executive Summary The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is undergoing a state of political and social…
Lebanon: UNDP and UN-Habitat are helping Palestinian refugees from Syria stay warm and survive the cold winter months
Relief Web 9 Jan 2014 – Source: UN Development Programme, UN Human Settlements Program Country: Lebanon, occupied Palestinian territory, Syrian Arab Republic Highlights Palestinian gathering: neighborhood or community of Palestinian refugees Project implemented by UNDP and UN-Habitat Donors: Government of Germany, the Swiss Agency for Development…
Taliban assassinate Pakistani super cop
The National 9 Jan 2014 – The Taliban described Superintendent Chaudhry Aslam’s death as a “huge victory” while the prime minister, Nawaz Sharif, condemned the bombing.
‘Radio For All’ reminds Syrians there is more to the world than war
The National 9 Jan 2014 – The station’s shows on how to fix a broken car and cooking meals when supplies are low are most popular with its half-million listeners but the broadcasters insist they will never shy away from heated political debates.
Suicide bombing kills 23 Iraqi recruits ready to fight Al Qaeda
The National 9 Jan 2014 – The troops were to be deployed in Anbar province where the Iraqi branch of Al Qaeda has claimed control of areas in Ramadi and Fallujah.
Pakistanis praise teenage hero who sacrificed himself to stop a suicide bomber
The National 9 Jan 2014 – About 2,000 students attend the school in Hangu where Aitzaz Hasan, 15, laid down his life by tackling the bomber.
‘Man-eating’ tiger kills four people in 12 days in India
The National 9 Jan 2014 – The cat attacked and killed a 40-year-old woman in a village in the state of Uttar Pradesh, its fourth victim since it is thought to have strayed from a tiger reserve.
Accountability key to India’s rail safety
The National 9 Jan 2014 – Indian Railways needs more investment and less political interference to fix the problems that are ailing it for years
Video: Turkey’s deputy police chief sacked
The National 9 Jan 2014 – Turkey’s deputy police chief loses his job making him the most senior officer to be removed in a purge of the country’s police force.
Video: Thousand of African migrants protest outside Israeli parliament
The National 9 Jan 2014 – Thousands of African migrants demonstrate outside Israel’s parliament, demanding the government recognize them as asylum seekers.
Video: Security tight in Baghdad as air stikes pound Anbar
The National 9 Jan 2014 – Security is tightened in Baghdad as the government continues air campaign in Anbar province.
Video: New York’s outdoor workers find ways to stay warm
The National 9 Jan 2014 – As New York’s temperatures dropped due to a blast of arctic air, outdoor workers try to stay warm.
Video: Former US Defense Secretary Gates criticizes Obama in new Memoir
The National 9 Jan 2014 – In a memoir to be published next week, former US Defense Secretary Robert Gates slams President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden for their handling of the war in Afghanistan.
Video: World’s perception of Iran improves under Rouhani, says UK’s Straw
The National 9 Jan 2014 – A UK delegation led by former Foreign Secretary Jack Straw visits Tehran at the invitation of the Iranian government to boost ties between the two countries.
Meryl Streep labels Walt Disney a ‘gender bigot’ and ‘hideous anti-Semite’
Ha’aretz – 9 Jan 2014
Syrian opposition group on brink of collapse, raising doubts about Geneva talks
Ha’aretz – 9 Jan 2014
A third of Israeli Arabs in favor of towns being annexed to Palestinian state
Ha’aretz – 9 Jan 2014
Ariel Sharon in grave condition as health further deteriorates
Ha’aretz – 9 Jan 2014
French court upholds ban on French comic known for Nazi-like salute
Ha’aretz – 9 Jan 2014
U.S. senators back new Iran sanctions, aides say, but no debate on bill yet
Ha’aretz – 9 Jan 2014
Israel Museum rejects claims it neglected to return Nazi looted art to owners
Ha’aretz – 9 Jan 2014
Israeli military fills up intel units with Iranian immigrants, report reveals
Ha’aretz – 9 Jan 2014
Rabbis to court: Uncircumcised boy will suffer ‘serious psychological damage’
Ha’aretz – 9 Jan 2014
Rabbis to court: Uncircumcised boy will suffer ‘serious psychological damage’
Ha’aretz – 9 Jan 2014
Cross-border mergers and acquisitions deals soared in 2013
Ha’aretz – 9 Jan 2014
There’s only one way to counter the boycott movement
Ha’aretz – 9 Jan 2014
Jeff Jacoby thanks public for prayers, concern for missing son
Ha’aretz – 9 Jan 2014
Who does Israel sell arms to? The Defense Ministry won’t tell
Ha’aretz – 9 Jan 2014
Israel strikes Gaza after three mortar shells fired at troops near security fence
Ha’aretz – 9 Jan 2014
How to get around building regulations in a West Bank outpost
Ha’aretz – 9 Jan 2014
Israeli government funding dig in Palestinian Hebron, near Jewish enclave
Ha’aretz – 9 Jan 2014
Zionist right needs Kerry to save it from itself
Ha’aretz – 8 Jan 2014
Netanyahu’s secret peace plan: Do nothing
Ha’aretz – 8 Jan 2014
Israel is disgracing Jewish ethics
Ha’aretz – 8 Jan 2014
‘Price tag’ attacks can and must be thwarted
Ha’aretz – 8 Jan 2014
Israel reveals more than $7 billion in arms sales, but few names
Ha’aretz – 8 Jan 2014
Israel defies World Bank, refuses to let Palestinians use landfill
Ha’aretz – 8 Jan 2014
Lieberman’s land, population swap proposal is roundly condemned
Ha’aretz – 8 Jan 2014
In first, Israeli museums to help locate Jewish owners of Nazi-looted art
Ha’aretz – 8 Jan 2014
Hatred of African migrants is Israel’s Stockholm Syndrome
Ha’aretz – 8 Jan 2014
Being Erdogan means never having to say sorry
Ha’aretz – 8 Jan 2014
Landau to ‘Post’: Israel has blurred all of its red lines
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – Tourism minister doubts current round of negotiations with Palestinians will produce results closer to reaching peace.
US denies Kerry pressing Arab League to recognize Israel as Jewish state
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – Ahead of meeting with top League officials set for next week, US State Department says efforts are not under way to alter Arab Peace Initiative of 2002; doesn’t address whether Washington is pressing Palestinian recognition.
Sharon clinging to life after condition deteriorates again
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – Former prime minister’s condition is very critical and he is in immediate danger of death, Sheba Medical Center says.
One gag order reform vote passes, ‘revolutionary’ bill fails
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – New regulations explains how and when initial order is issued, suspect can request extension of order.
Political talks and terror
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – Israel is demanding that the Palestinians recognize Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state, but the Palestinians refuse to do so.
We are here forever
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – I felt so helpless when Elyssa could not be roused. We knew few people.
Canada’s important support for Israel
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – Prime Minister Harper and his team should be warmly welcomed in Jerusalem this month as super-valuable allies and trusted friends.
Rabbi Weiss and the Chief Rabbinate
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – This incident is yet another reminder of the dire need to relieve the Chief Rabbinate of its monopolistic powers.
The rabbis of today
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – Are the rabbis, the contemporary leaders of Jewry, truly the leaders of this generation?
At the last minute: French top court stops show of anti-Semitic comedian
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – A court initially scrapped municipal ban on Dieudonne M’bala M’bala’s show, but higher court decides to uphold ban.
Parshat Beshalah – Bread from Heaven
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – On the periphery of this amazing event, we read about an interesting directive that Moshe Rabbeinu receives from G-d.
Islamic Jihad: Israel’s ‘recent escalation’ in Gaza is attempt to sabotage Palestinian reconciliation
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – Head of terror group responsible for recent rocket fire at South says Israel is “waging a war of attrition against Palestinian resistance groups”.
Likud MK pushes measures to legally differentiate Christian and Muslim Arabs
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – According to Yariv Levin, idea came from Christians who asked him to act following similar policies pertaining to Druse.
Meretz leader blasts Lapid for not advancing civil marriage
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – Zehava Galon says Lapid’s decision to promote civil unions instead of marriage is a surrender to the religious right.
Scores of Palestinians disrupt Israeli-Palestinian activists peace meeting in Ramallah
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – Attackers smash windows, attempt to storm hotel’s conference hall but are stopped by PA police.
Czech envoy is first ambassador from EU to visit Ariel University
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – Tomas Pojar says he visited campus West Bank because it is in the news, wanted to see it for himself.
Chief Rabbinate, Rabbi Eliyahu reiterate opposition to religious women serving in army
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – Rabbinate reiterates position that enlistment of women contravenes Jewish law due to growing number of religious girls enlisting.
Hundreds of haredim riot over limited visitation hours to Yosef’s Jerusalem grave
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – Six arrested and one reporter injured during Wednesday night’s violent protest.
Israeli wineries innovate as they reach beyond kosher market
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – Wine exports rose over 80% since 2009; five big wineries account for 82% of the market.
After week of protests, migrant community vows to push on next week
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – African migrants plan to keep striking indefinitely; plan to march migrant women, children to Interior Ministry.
Tu Bishvat goodies: nutritious are also fattening, pose choking risk to children
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – Consumers have already begun shopping for a multitude of varieties of fruits and nuts.
Dimona woman delivers triplets after undergoing angioplasty for heart attack
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – Drama took place recently at Rehovot’s Kaplan Medical Center; woman suffered heart attack at 30th week of pregnancy.
Study: Birthright contributed $825 million to Israeli economy
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – Program that brings Jewish youth to visit Israel for the first time brings income in airfare, hotels, food.
Knesset to open doors to public on 65th birthday
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – “We’re opening the Knesset to remind the public that the Knesset is the ‘house of the people,'” Edelstein says.
Germany to protect Berlin Holocaust memorial after New Year’s eve vandalism
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – Video published on internet shows man urinating and people launching fireworks from its concrete structure.
A security plan for the Jordan Valley
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – I propose a phased agreement for the Jordan Valley – subject to the Palestinian side.
Palestinian mortar fire on IDF troops near Gaza prompts Israeli response
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – IAF aircraft attacked a small group of Palestinian militants in the southern Gaza Strip, the army said.
Academics against Israel
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – The boycott supporters represent only a small minority of American academics.
WATCH: Former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal speaks Hebrew
Jerusalem Post 9 Jan 2014 – When Rabbi Miller ran into former NBA star Shaq at the CES trade show in Las Vegas, he didn’t expect him to say ‘baruch hashem.’
Israel, Palestine and two-state settlements | @guardianletters
The Guardian 9 Jan 2014 – Harry Goldstein’s assertion ( Letters , 7 January) that the Palestinians were “offered [a state] in 1947 and refused, preferring to make war on Israel”, must be challenged. The Palestinians were told that 56% of their existing state…
Hamas and Iran rebuild ties three years after falling out over Syria
The Guardian 9 Jan 2014 – News that high-level contacts between Palestinian party and Tehran have resumed is likely to dismay Israel and US A rapprochement between Hamas and Tehran is under way almost three years after a breach over the Palestinian…
Military Prepares a General’s Constitution
IPS A new constitution is poised to cement the Egyptian military’s powers. Credit: Cam McGrath/IPS. By Cam McGrath CAIRO, Jan 9 2014 (IPS) A draft constitution set to go before a public referendum next week gives the military more privileges, enshrining its place as Egypt’s most powerful institution and placing it…
Statement of Support for the American Studies Association By Palestinian and other Arab-American Scholars and Writers
Uruknet 9 Jan 2014 – Janaury 8, 2014 – We, the undersigned Palestinian and other Arab-American scholars and writers as well as Arab scholars in the United States affirm our strong solidarity with the American Studies Association s position in favor of the boycott of…
Iraq snapshot -January 8, 2014
Uruknet 9 Jan 2014 – January 8, 2014. Chaos and violence continue, Barack wants to send Nouri more weapons, supposedly the House Foreign Affairs Committee has caved on the issue, the assault on Anbar continues, as does the assault on Iraqi journalists, and more….People are…
Government Secrecy Frustrates Legal Challenge to Forced Feeding of Guantanamo Prisoners
Uruknet 9 Jan 2014 – January 8, 2014 – A case challenging the forced feeding of Guantanamo Bay prisoners is on appeal in the DC Circuit, but prisoners attorneys have been frustrated by the United States government s refusal to disclose new protocols for forced…
Knesset votes down the two-state solution
Uruknet 9 Jan 2014 – January 8, 2014 – When, oh when, will the Palestinians find a partner for peace? From the Jerusalem Post article “Knesset rejects Two-State Solution Bill “: The Knesset voted down the so-called “Two-State Solution Bill” prohibiting the government from unilaterally annexing…
Palestinian villagers capture settlers carrying out price tag attack in West Bank
Uruknet 9 Jan 2014 – January 8, 2014- Palestinians from the village of Qusra captured a band of invading setters yesterday who had come to raid their village and uproot their olive trees. Ma an reports 18 settlers were captured, Haaretz reports ten. The invading…
Lebanon charges punitive registration fees to Palestinians fleeing Syria war
Uruknet 9 Jan 2014 – January 8, 2014 – Over the past year, more than 50,000 Palestinian refugees have fled violence, chaos and destitution in Syria to seek sanctuary in Lebanon. The vast majority have found themselves living in dire poverty and trapped in chronic…
Stop arming the Iraqi government s assault on Fallujah!
Uruknet 9 Jan 2014 – January 8, 2014 – Once again the claim that al Qaeda has taken over Fallujah is being used to justify a heavy-handed military assault on the city. And again, these claims are false. Over 100 civilians have been killed in…
“Tone” Is the Tool of the Oppressor
Uruknet 9 Jan 2014 – January 8, 2014 – …Let us briefly consider two examples from politics which follow the identical pattern. The U.S. government sends its military across the world, thousands of miles away, to bomb, subjugate and/or invade nations and peoples that have…
Was the Islamic Front Key to Toppling ISIS in Raqqa?
Uruknet 9 Jan 2014 – January 8, 2014 -This week, the al-Qaida linked Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIS) was largely kicked out of Raqqa, the first city to fall under its control, by fighters from the Islamic Front, Jabhat al-Nusra and the…
Lebanon charges punitive registration fees to Palestinians fleeing Syria war
Uruknet 9 Jan 2014 – January 8, 2014 – Over the past year, more than 50,000 Palestinian refugees have fled violence, chaos and destitution in Syria to seek sanctuary in Lebanon. The vast majority have found themselves living in dire poverty and trapped in chronic…
Senior Israeli MP claims that Palestinian Christians are not Arabs
Uruknet 9 Jan 2014 – January 8, 2014 – A senior member of the Knesset, Israel s parliament, has claimed that Palestinian Christians “are not Arabs”. The Chairman of the governing coalition, Yariv Levin MK, made his comment in the context of a proposed bill…
WATCH: IDF soldiers escort masked settlers attacking Palestinian village
Uruknet 9 Jan 2014 – January 8, 2014 -The West Bank Palestinian village of Urif is no stranger to incursions and attacks by Israelis – both military and civilian. Most of the time, however, the two come separately. A series of videos released by Israeli…
Illegal settlers burn two cars in the village of Madama
Uruknet 9 Jan 2014 – January 8, 2014 – Today, the 8th January 2014, at approximately 3am settlers entered the Palestinian village of Madama, south of Nablus and set fire to two cars. The cars were parked in the village center beside the home of…
Military Resistance 12A6 Trash
Uruknet 9 Jan 2014 – January 7, 2014 – The U.S. paid $5.4 million for two never-used trash incinerators at Forward Operating Base Sharana in eastern Afghanistan, potentially exposing troops to hazardous fumes from open-air burn pits used to dispose of waste instead.In a report…
Exonerate Edward Snowden Unconditionally!
Uruknet 9 Jan 2014 – January 7, 2014- It s long past time to stop Obama s war on whistleblowers. It s time to hold him accountable for waging it. Whistleblowing is a national imperative. Exposing government wrongdoing is essential. Responsible parties must be punished….
Syria News – January 7, 2014 (Warning: Graphic Videos)
Uruknet 8 Jan 2014 – January 7, 2014 – By the end of Teusday the Coordination Committees were able to document 94 martyrs including 14 women, 7 children and 3 martyrs under torture: 56 martyrs were reported in Aleppo; 21 in Damascus and its Suburbs;…
Egypt arrests American on charges of attacking police stations
Daily Star 9 Jan 2014 Egyptian airport authorities have arrested an Egyptian-born American who belongs to the outlawed Muslim Brotherhood on charges of taking part in violence against the state, security sources said on Thursday.
Lawmakers: Obama weighing changes in NSA policy
Daily Star 9 Jan 2014 President Barack Obama is still grappling with key decisions on the future of the National Security Agency’s phone collection program and the makeup of the secret court that approved the surveillance, congressional lawmakers said Thursday following…
At least 45 Syrian rebels killed in Homs fighting: NGO
Daily Star 9 Jan 2014 Loyalist forces have killed at least 45 Syrian rebels as they sought to break a regime siege on part of Homs, in central Syria, an NGO said on Thursday.
Rouhani says Syria talks will fail without Iran
Daily Star 9 Jan 2014 Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said Thursday a Syrian peace conference planned for later this month will fail if Tehran, Damascus’s main regional ally, does not participated, media reported.
Four-year-old Syrian sexually assaulted in s. Lebanon
Daily Star 9 Jan 2014 A Syrian worker was arrested in the southern town of Marjayoun for sexually assaulting a four-year-old Syrian refugee.
Egypt: Al-Jazeera reporters detained 15 more days
Daily Star 9 Jan 2014 An Egyptian judiciary official says a team of journalists working for satellite news broadcaster Al-Jazeera English will be held for 15 more days pending investigation into allegations they are part of a terrorist group.
Lebanon: Majid died of natural causes
Daily Star 9 Jan 2014 Acting State Prosecutor Samir Hammoud said Thursday a forensic report revealed that Majid al-Majid, the leader of an Al-Qaeda-affiliated group, died of natural causes, paving the way for his repatriation to Saudi Arabia.
Pakistanis praise boy for foiling suicide attack
Daily Star 9 Jan 2014 People in Pakistan are praising a teenage boy who residents and police say died this week while trying to stop a suicide bomber who was targeting his school.
Palestinian govt hails villagers who beat up settlers
Daily Star 9 Jan 2014 West Bank villagers who beat up a group of Jewish settlers then locked them inside a building were on Thursday hailed by the Palestinian government as acting in “self defence”.
Israel: Ex-PM Sharon’s condition worsens
Daily Star 9 Jan 2014 Former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s health deteriorated sharply Thursday and he was in “grave condition” with his family by his bedside, the hospital treating him announced.
Egypt courts jail 113 pro-Morsi protesters
Daily Star 9 Jan 2014 Courts on Thursday jailed 113 supporters of Egypt’s deposed Islamist president Mohamed Morsi to up to three years for taking part in unauthorised and violent protests, judicial sources said.
Tunisian premier resigns for caretaker gov’t, protests hit south
Daily Star 9 Jan 2014 Tunisia’s Islamist Prime Minister Ali Larayedh resigned on Thursday to make way for a caretaker government in an agreement with secular opponents to complete the country’s transition to democracy.
Rohani says Syria talks will fail without Iran
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – ….
Mubarak’s last PM expresses interest in running for president
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – ….
What is hiding in Kerry’s briefcase?
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – Analysis: Recent statements imply framework deal includes all core issues, negotiations will be based on 1967 borders with equivalent land swaps, communities outside settlement blocs will be evacuated, Palestinian capital will not necessarily be within Jerusalem’s municipal borders ….
Egypt arrests American on charges of attacking police stations
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – ….
Kerry willing to recognize Israel as Jewish state, but Palestinians won’t go along
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – Despite sketchy reports about peace talks currently underway between Israel and Palestinians, one thing is clear: The Palestinians are not willing to recognize Israel as a Jewish state. But why? ….
Cuba, US hold migration talks in Havana
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – ….
Watch: Israel’s elite SWAT team in action
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – In special show of force for Prime Minister Netanyahu, Israel’s elite ‘terror monkeys’ unit shows the most impressive and daring of its missions, all shot from special helmet-cams ….
Senate majority support Iran sanctions bill opposed by Obama
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – ….
Ruling blocks show by controversial French comic
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – In last minute ruling, France has upheld a ban on anti-Semitic comedian Dieudonne who has become infamous for his inverted Nazi-salute the ‘quenelle’ ….
Kosher restaurants giving up certification
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – Owner of Italian trattoria in Jerusalem cites costs, inconvenience as reasons for parting with Rabbinate certificate. ‘There are a lot of people who trust me and my word more than the Rabbinate’s word that we’re kosher,’ he says ….
Palestinian government hails villagers who beat up settlers
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – Palestinian government says Palestinian villagers acted in ‘self-defense’ after beating group of masked settlers who entered their village. Palestinian media says incident was ‘a unique precedent, example of passive resistance’ ….
Beware, boycott ahead
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – Op-ed: Israeli policy beyond Green Line is exacting a real, heavy price from us as consumer, academic boycotts gain momentum ….
Israelis rushed from West Bank hotel after protest
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – Palestinians throw stones towards hotel where Israeli, Palestinian peace activists have meeting; no injuries reported. Three dozen Israeli particpants rushed out back door of hotel, driven to safety. ….
Dramatic deterioration in Ariel Sharon’s condition
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – Serious threat to former PM-Sharon’s life as his condition deteriorates dramatically. Source close to family says Sharon is surrounded by his sons Omri and Gilad, ‘they understand that this is the end, these are Arik’s last hours’ ….
Iran’s Khamenei says nuclear talks show US enmity
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – As technical negotiations resume in Geneva, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei slams ‘Satanic’ US, says ‘nuclear talks showed enmity of America against Iran, Iranians, Islam, Muslims’ ….
Jerusalem cannot be sacrificed for peace
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – Op-ed: Bill banning talks on capital does not reduce chances of peace – it simply reduces illusions ….
Former SS soldier charged over 1944 village massacre in France
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – German man allegedly shot 25 people, helped burn down church during worst civilian mass murder in Nazi-occupied France. Lawyer says 88-year-old client ‘saw village burning, but wasn’t involved’ ….
Video prompts plan to protect Holocaust memorial
YNet News, 9 Jan 2014 – Berlin police considering additional security for Germany’s main Shoah memorial after online clip appears to show New Year’s revelers urinating on site ….
Report: Iran, powers nuclear talks hit snag on centrifuge research
YNet News, 8 Jan 2014 – Talks between Iran, six world powers on implementation of Geneva nuclear deal lag due to issue of centrifuge research, diplomats say. ‘It was clear from the outset that the Iranians would play games,’ Israeli official says ….
Palestinian Information Center
Abu Marzouk calls on the PA to refuse Kerry’s initiative
PIC – Member of Hamas’s political bureau Dr. Mousa Abu Marzouk emphasized the Palestinians’ rejection of talks resumption and the Framework Agreement proposed by the U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry.
17 citizens wounded in IOF shooting in Doheisha
PIC – 17 Palestinians suffered gunshot wounds at dawn Thursday in Doheisha refugee camp including one in his eye after Israeli occupation forces (IOF) raided the camp, south of Bethlehem.
IOF threaten to raze homes anew in Jordan Valley
PIC – The Israeli occupation forces (IOF) on Thursday morning handed two Palestinian citizens in Khirbet Al-Hamma in the Jordan Valley demolition orders against their homes.
Bennet: We will not accept any agreement based on the 1967 borders
PIC – Israeli right-wing economy minister Naftali Bennett declared his refusal of any peace agreement based on the 1967 borders and giving up any part of occupied Jerusalem to the Palestinians.
SIC condemns installation of cameras in al-Aqsa Mosque
PIC – The Supreme Islamic Council and the Council of Endowments, Islamic Affairs and Ifta House in Jerusalem condemned the installation of spy cameras in al-Aqsa Mosque by the Israeli occupation police.
Price tag gangs spray racist slogans on walls of house north of Ramallah
PIC – Palestinian local sources reported that Jewish price tag gangs on Thursday stormed the village of Sanjal, north of Ramallah, and sprayed racist slogans on the walls of a house in the village.
Dozens of settlers, soldiers break into the Aqsa Mosque
PIC – Israeli soldiers, intelligence agents, and settlers broke into the holy Aqsa Mosque in occupied Jerusalem on Thursday morning.
Israeli warplanes raid resistance position near Rafah
PIC – Israeli warplanes blasted a Palestinian resistance position to the east of Rafah, south of the Gaza Strip, on Thursday.
Miles of Smiles aid convoy enters Gaza
PIC – Miles of Smiles aid convoy arrived in Gaza Strip on Wednesday through Rafah crossing after being stranded on the Egyptian side for several weeks.
IOF raids villages in the West Bank and arrests citizens
PIC – The Israeli occupation forces (IOF) at dawn Thursday raided the village of Beit Furik and several neighborhoods in Nablus and arrested citizens.
Protesters break up Palestinian-Israeli peace gathering in Ramallah
LA Times 9 Jan 2014 – JERUSALEM — Palestinian protesters disrupted a citizens peace conference in Ramallah on Thursday, throwing stones at the meeting site until Palestinian Authority police were forced to intervene and usher the activists to safety.
Tunisian government steps down ahead of elections and amid protests
LA Times 9 Jan 2014 – CAIRO — Tunisia’s Islamist prime minister stepped down Thursday, upholding a pledge aimed at breaking a political stalemate and paving the way for new elections in the country where the Arab Spring began.
Al Jazeera says Egypt has extended detention of 3 of its journalists
LA Times 9 Jan 2014 – CAIRO — Qatar-based broadcaster Al Jazeera said Thursday that three of its journalists, detained by Egyptian authorities on Dec. 29, had been remanded to an additional 15 days in custody.
Mubarak’s Last PM Interested in Running for Egyptian Presidency
New York Times 9 Jan 2014 – Ousted Egyptian leader Hosni Mubarak’s last prime minister, Ahmed Shafik, said in a television interview broadcast on Thursday that he would run for president if the army chief does not contest elections.
Egypt Arrests American on Charges of Attacking Police Stations
New York Times 9 Jan 2014 – Egyptian airport authorities have arrested an Egyptian-born American who belongs to the outlawed Muslim Brotherhood on charges of taking part in violence against the state, security sources said on Thursday.
Panel Recommends Transferring Yemeni From Guantánamo
New York Times 9 Jan 2014 – A military panel has recommended transferring a Yemeni detainee in the first results of a long-delayed initiative to hold parole-like hearings at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba.
Tunisia’s Islamist Leader Resigns, Formally Ending His Party’s Rule
New York Times 9 Jan 2014 – Ali Larayedh’s resignation was part of a carefully calibrated plan to end months of gridlock and prepare for new elections in the birthplace of the Arab Spring.
Bomber in Iraq Kills 22 Recruits Seeking to Fight Al Qaeda
New York Times 9 Jan 2014 – The attacker infiltrated a line of men signing up to fight with government forces in Anbar Province.
Egypt: Al-Jazeera Reporters Detained 15 More Days
New York Times 9 Jan 2014 – An Egyptian judiciary official says a team of journalists working for satellite news broadcaster Al-Jazeera English will be held for 15 more days pending investigation into allegations they are part of a terrorist group.
Morocco Considers Amending Controversial Rape Law
New York Times 9 Jan 2014 – The Justice and Human Rights Commission of Morocco’s parliament has proposed removing a paragraph from the penal code that allows a rapist to escape prosecution by marrying his underage victim.
As Nuclear Talks Resume in Geneva, Iran’s Top Leader Castigates U.S.
New York Times 9 Jan 2014 – The remarks by Ayatollah Khamenei may have been designed to strengthen Iran’s position at the negotiations.
Senate Majority Support Iran Sanctions Bill Opposed by Obama
New York Times 9 Jan 2014 – More than half of U.S. senators support a bill to impose new sanctions on Iran should the Islamic Republic break an agreement to curb its nuclear program, aides said on Thursday, but there was no plan yet to debate the measure.
Dubai Arrests 3 in Missing Businessman Case
New York Times 9 Jan 2014 – Dubai authorities say they have arrested three Iranians in connection with the disappearance of a British businessman of Iranian origin but are still trying to determine the man’s whereabouts.
Israel: Ex-PM Sharon’s Condition Worsens
New York Times 9 Jan 2014 – Former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s health deteriorated sharply Thursday and he was in “grave condition” with his family by his bedside, the hospital treating him announced.
Condition of Former Israeli Leader Sharon Worsens
New York Times 9 Jan 2014 – The condition of former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, in a coma since 2006, has deteriorated sharply in recent hours and he is close to death, the hospital treating him said on Thursday.
Berlin to Protect Holocaust Memorial After Vandalism
New York Times 9 Jan 2014 – Germany has promised to strengthen security at the Holocaust Memorial in the heart of Berlin after a video published on the Internet showed a man urinating and people launching fireworks from its grey concrete structure on New Year’s Eve.
Tunisia’s Islamist Prime Minister Resigns
New York Times 9 Jan 2014 – Tunisia’s Islamist prime minister announced his resignation Thursday in favor of a caretaker government that will supervise new elections later this year and complete the North African country’s long delayed transition to democracy.
Infinity acquisition vehicle merges with oil technology co Glori
Globes Energy & Water – The transaction is valued at approximately $185 million.
Delek Israel signs NIS 50m CNG contract with Strauss
Globes Energy & Water – Delek will supply compressed natural gas to Strauss dairy and confectionary plant in the Galilee.
Alstom to construct Israel’s first pumped storage power station
Globes Energy & Water – Alstom has signed two contracts totaling €120 million with PSP Investment Ltd for two 150 MW pump-turbines for the Gilboa pumped storage power plant.
Hadassah Hospital to restrict private practice
Globes Main News – The hospital and the Finance Ministry agree to limit doctors’ private surgeries as part of the financial recovery plan.
Gov’t to allow gas storage test at Yam Tethys
Globes Energy & Water – If successful, the test will open the way for a granting a gas storage license at the depleted gas field, thereby removing the danger of a natural gas shortage.
Dan Propper: Delay large currency deals
Globes Main News – Bank of Israel Management Committee chairman Dan Propper wants transactions over $20 million delayed to thwart speculators.
Thu: Vigodman appointment further boosts Teva
Globes Main News – On a generally weak day, Teva rose on the naming of its new CEO. Bezeq was the biggest blue chip decliner, while the slide in IDB continues.
Kerry (and NYT) carry water for Netanyahu on ‘Jewish state’ demand
Mondoweiss – We’re late on this, but it’s very important: the rising chorus calling on the Palestinians to recognize Israel as a Jewish state in order for two-state talks to go forward. An old rightwing Israeli obstacle to any genuine talks, this demand was passed along as gospel…
Who are the Arab-Americans and Muslims on State’s Israel/Palestine team?
Mondoweiss – In Tel Aviv last November, Kerry consults with Ambassador Dan Shapiro (l), Martin Indyk, and Frank Lowenstein This weekend in the mail, I got the latest issue of The Washington Report on Middle East Affairs . It includes a piece first published in the Gulf News last…
How Hillel shifted from pluralist Jewish space to arm of Israel lobby
Mondoweiss – Hillel logo In mid-November, Eric Fingerhut, the head of Hillel, and Jonathan Kessler, an American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) official, declared their intention to work “together to strategically and proactively empower, train and prepare American Jewish students to be effective pro-Israel activists on and beyond…
Benny Landa: Vigodman needs serious board
Globes Main News – “He is a man of stature who needs a serious board of directors to succeed in his job.”
Erez Vigodman appointed Teva CEO
Globes Main News – “Globes” was the first to report that the Makhteshim Agan CEO would replace Jeremy Levin who was fired last October.
Strike at Migdal Insurance
Globes Main News – Employees are protesting that Migdal’s management and owner, Shlomo Eliahu, refuse to open talks on a labor contract.
Haaretz op-ed cuts to the chase: ‘Israel does have a solution: do nothing’
Mondoweiss – The peace process continues. Roy Isacowitz is a journalist and writer living in Tel Aviv, according to the tag line under his op-ed published on the Haaretz website today. I don’t remember reading anything else from him before, but among the hundreds of columns about the…
Huck and Jim vs. Herzl and Morris: Mark Twain on Zionism and the first aliyah
Mondoweiss – Mark Twain’s visitors pass to Palestine issued by the Ottomans in 1867. (Photo by Shapell Manuscript Foundation via Haaretz) Anyone reading Joan Peters’s From Time Immemorial or its fetid progeny, Alan Dershowitz’s The Case for Israel , will find Mark Twain’s Innocents Abroad invoked as evidence for…
Israel Chemicals workers threaten to intensify sanctions
Globes Main News – The Rotem Amfert workers committee alleges that management has taken “a step backwards”, and is insisting on firing four more employees.
Is the time right for a palace revolution?
Mondoweiss – This is part of Marc H. Ellis’s “Exile and the Prophetic” feature for Mondoweiss. To read the entire series visit the archive page . First it’s the infiltrators. They need to be thrown in the sea. Instead, they’re marching in Tel Aviv. Now it’s the inciters. The…
Video: Israeli military provides security for settler attack on Palestinian village
Mondoweiss – Video: Military accompanies settler attack B’Tselem press release ‘Urif Monday 8 Jan — Military appears to have served as security entourage for Hilltop Youth — On the morning of Monday 6 January 2014, a group of masked settlers, coming from the direction of the settlement of …
Veolia, a local BDS target, loses Massachusetts commuter rail contract
Mondoweiss – JVP Boston activists protest outside Harvard Kennedy School where Veolia CEO, Mark Joseph, gave a lecture about “Issues in Transportation”. In Cambridge, MA on November 14, 2012. (Photo: Tess Scheflan/ Activestills.org) Over the last two and a half years, supporters of Palestinian rights in Boston have…
Incitement against Palestine: Israel not ready to give up ‘villa in the jungle’
Mondoweiss – Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman. Photo: AP US Secretary of State John Kerry spent last week testing the waters with Israelis and Palestinians over his so-called framework agreement – designed to close the gaps between the two sides. But the issues he is trying to resolve…
Antitrust Authority disappoints on gas competition
Globes Energy & Water – The only new company that will compete against Tamar and Leviathan will own less than 8% of Israel’s proven gas reserves.
Nochi Dankner resigns from all IDB cos boards
Globes Main News – Directors representing Dankner have also resigned, to be replaced by Eduardo Elsztain and Moti Ben-Moshe’s representatives.
Lapid drawing up export support package
Globes Macro Economics – A business organization official said they “seemed just more of the same such as increasing government guarantees.”
“Inside Llewyn Davis” is NOT the Best Movie of the Year!
Tikun Olam – If you either love folk music (as I do), are a Coen Brothers devote (as I am), or just love great movies (as I do), I’m afraid I have some disappointing news: Inside Llewelyn Davis , which many of the trendy film critics are touting as either…
Israel Tourism Reaches All-Time High in 2013 With 3.54 Million Visitors
The Foward Breaking News 9 Jan 2014 – Israel reported an all-time high in annual visitors in 2013. Click here for the rest of the article…
Israeli Museums May Own Nazi-Looted Art and Judaica, Organization Claims
The Foward Breaking News 9 Jan 2014 – An Israeli organization that recovers Jewish assets stolen by the Nazis said hundreds of items in Israeli museums may have been looted. Click here for the rest of the article…
IDF To Allow Female Kosher Supervisors To Work on Military Bases
The Foward Breaking News 9 Jan 2014 – Following a decision by the Israeli Chief Rabbinate last month to agree to recognize women as kosher supervisors, the Israeli Defense Forces has also agreed to open its doors to allow women supervisors in its own kitchens. Click here for the rest of the article…
Rolling Stones in Talks To Add Tel Aviv to Upcoming Tour
The Foward Breaking News 9 Jan 2014 – A new round of very serious negotiations are going down in Israel — this time between Israeli producers and the Rolling Stones. Click here for the rest of the article…
Germany to destroy Syrian weapons
BBC 9 Jan 2014 – Germany announces it will join the international effort to help destroy Syria’s stockpile of chemical weapons.
Egypt: FM – Iran Has No Right to Interfere in Egypt’s Affairs
allAfrica.com 9 Jan 2014 – [Egypt Online]Foreign Ministry Spokesman Ambassador Badr Abdel Atei said statements by the Spokesperson of the Iranian Foreign Ministry that her country used its right to comment on domestic affairs in Egypt reflected Iran’s insufficient knowledge of the principles of the International law, the United Nations Charter…
Ariel Sharon condition ‘worsens’
BBC 9 Jan 2014 – The health of former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, who has been in a coma since 2006, has deteriorated further, hospital officials say.
Sireen Khudiri is Released and Returning Home to Her Family.
Palestine Solidarity Project 9 Jan 2014 – Sireen Khudiri, 24, Palestinian schoolteacher and organizer, has been arrested once again by Israeli military forces at 4:00 am on January 7, 2014. UPDATED January 8: Palestinian prisoner activist Myassar Atyani has reported that Sireen Khudiri was released and is returning home to her family. According…
Israel Battle Roils Modern Language Association as Academic Meeting Kicks Off
The Forward New 9 Jan 2014 – The debate over Israel in academia has turned to the Modern Language Association at its annual convention starting today. Click here for the rest of the article…
VIDEO: The black flag of Syria’s new force
BBC 9 Jan 2014 – Recent days have seen fierce fighting between the al-Qaeda-affiliated Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIS) and other rebel groups in Syria. James Reynolds reports.
Where the Money Leads
The Forward Editorial 9 Jan 2014 – EDITORIAL : Women are making huge strides in the Jewish world. But let’s not forget they still lag in the federations and other big groups, where power, money and impact actually reside. Click here for the rest of the article…
Africa: Migrants Protest Again in Israel
allAfrica.com 9 Jan 2014 – [VOA]Several thousand African migrants in Israel demonstrated Wednesday for a fourth day against a new law that allows authorities to detain indefinitely those without valid visas. The migrants say they are political refugees, but the government says they are economic migrants. VOA’s Scott Bobb reports from…
East Africa: African Migrants Protest in Jerusalem
allAfrica.com 9 Jan 2014 – [Deutsche Welle]Thousands of African migrants in Israel who demand recognition as refugees have converged on parliament in Jerusalem. Israel’s conservative government says a recently built fence will stop “illegal infiltrations.”
American jailed in UAE back in US
BBC 9 Jan 2014 – An American man sentenced to jail in the United Arab Emirates for making a spoof video about Dubai youth culture returns to the US.
Germany to destroy Syrian weapons
BBC 9 Jan 2014 – Germany announces it will join the international effort to help destroy Syria’s stockpile of chemical weapons.
Morocco trial over 14-year-old maid’s death postponed
Al-Akhbar News 9 Jan 2014 – The trial of a Moroccan woman whose 14-year-old housemaid died after suffering severe burns in the resort city of Agadir was postponed on Thursday until January 23 because a key witness was absent. The girl, identified only as Fatima, died in March after being hospitalized with…
Syrian minister dies of heart attack: state news
Al-Akhbar News 9 Jan 2014 – Syrian Minister of State Mohammed Turki al-Sayyed, who had publicly disowned his son for joining anti-government rebels, died on Thursday after suffering a heart attack, official news agency SANA reported. “The Council of Ministers and the Arab Socialist Union Party mourned on Thursday the Minister of…
Dirt Under Nails: A Conversation With Investigative Journalist Jeremy Scahill
Al-Akhbar News 9 Jan 2014 – Scahill has broken numerous stories unveiling the shadowy undercurrent of America’s war on terrorism.(Photo: Marwan Tahtah). Scahill has broken numerous stories unveiling the shadowy undercurrent of America’s war on terrorism.(Photo: Marwan Tahtah). Jeremy Scahill has made his mark as one of US media’s best investigative journalists….
Ariel Sharon condition ‘worsens’
BBC 9 Jan 2014 – The health of former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, who has been in a coma since 2006, has deteriorated further, hospital officials say.
Bahrain national dialogue collapses
BBC 9 Jan 2014 – Bahrain’s government officially suspends national reconciliation talks, which had already been boycotted by the main Shia opposition group.
Tunisia PM resigns to make way for caretaker government
Al-Akhbar News 9 Jan 2014 – Tunisia’s Islamist premier Ali Larayedh, left, submits his resignation to Tunisian President Moncef Marzouki on January 9, 2014 at Carthage palace in Tunis.(Photo: AFP – Fethi Belaid) Tunisia’s Prime Minister Ali Larayedh resigned on Thursday to make way for a non-partisan caretaker government as part of…
Hospital: Ariel Sharon’s condition “extremely critical”
Al-Akhbar News 9 Jan 2014 – The health of former Israeli premier Ariel Sharon has worsened over the past hours, hospital officials said on Thursday, describing him as being in “extremely critical” condition. “Over the past hours, there has been a worsening of the condition of former prime minister Ariel Sharon. His…
American Muslims Stumble Through Stereotypes and Double Consciousness
Al-Akhbar Blogs 9 Jan 2014 – During an especially chilly Montreal evening in early 2008, my then-roommate Hawaa and I stumbled into a conversation many Muslim women easily – without much thought or intent – fall into: our headscarves. Before you groan at what I, too, am sick of – the constant…
Tunisia prime minister steps down
BBC 9 Jan 2014 – Tunisia’s Islamist Prime Minister Ali Larayedh resigns as part of an agreement to help end the country’s political deadlock.
Chilean football club sparks Israeli outrage with pro-Palestinian uniform
Al-Akhbar News 9 Jan 2014 – A Chilean football club has sparked debate over its new jerseys, in which the number “1” is replaced by an outline of pre-1948 Palestine, angering Israel which demanded the uniform’s removal, local media reported. Club Deportivo Palestino, a first division football club created in 1920 by…
Lebanon’s Lazy Parliament
Al-Akhbar News 9 Jan 2014 – Lebanese politicians did not bother with the 50 laws on their agendas, all related to people’s affairs, as much as they were concerned with political files. (Photo: Marwan Tahtah). Lebanese politicians did not bother with the 50 laws on their agendas, all related to people’s affairs,…
Syria: Kidnappers of Maaloula Nuns Expand Operations
Al-Akhbar News 9 Jan 2014 – A picture shows a church in the Syrian Christian town of Maalula on Septamber 7, 2013. (Photo: AFP – STR). A picture shows a church in the Syrian Christian town of Maalula on Septamber 7, 2013. (Photo: AFP – STR). “They all die as martyrs. Blessed…
Bahrain suspends “national dialogue” with opposition
Al-Akhbar News 9 Jan 2014 – The Bahraini government has suspended a national dialogue with opposition groups aimed at ending nearly three years of political deadlock in the US-allied country, raising the prospect of further instability. The opposition has boycotted the talks for months over the arrest of some of their leaders…
ISIS foreign fighters spur backlash in Iraq and Syria
Al-Monitor 9 Jan 2014 – Many Sunni Iraqis and Syrians are fighting back against the foreign fighters and extreme practices of the Islamic State of Iraq and Al-Sham (ISIS).
Israeli companies enter Polish renewable energy market
Al-Monitor 9 Jan 2014 – A new Israeli fund joins other Israeli companies active in the domain of renewable energy in Europe, by investing some $14 million in Poland’s wind-farm electricity sector.
Israeli settler campaign mocks Kerry
Al-Monitor 9 Jan 2014 – In an interview with Al-Monitor, OneVoice CEO Laura Talinovsky condemns the defamation campaign led by the My Israel group against Secretary of State John Kerry.
‘Abuse by all sides’ in Iraq’s Anbar
BBC 9 Jan 2014 – Human rights activists condemn abuses being carried out by both government troops and insurgents in the ongoing stand-off in Iraq’s biggest province.
Lebanon’s Saudi Jihadis in a League of Their Own
Al-Akhbar Politics 9 Jan 2014 – Nevertheless, not all jihadis are created equal. Indeed, Saudis are seen to enjoy a position of seniority among jihadi groups due to two factors: their wealth and the status of Saudi Arabia as a bastion of Salafi-jihadism – the ideological wellspring of al-Qaeda and its ilk. (…
German foreign minister: Geneva II ‘useless’ without Iran
Al-Monitor 9 Jan 2014 – Contrary to his predecessor, current German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier has taken an assertive and independent stance on the upcoming Geneva II conference.
Burned Lebanese library was symbol of coexistence
Al-Monitor 9 Jan 2014 – The Saeh library, which is located in Tripoli, Lebanon, and was subject to an arson attack, was a symbol of peaceful coexistence in a city plagued by violence.
VIDEO: The black flag of Syria’s new force
BBC 9 Jan 2014 – Recent days have seen fierce fighting between the al-Qaeda-affiliated Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIS) and other rebel groups in Syria. James Reynolds reports.
Arms ship seizure heightens Bahrain fears
BBC 9 Jan 2014 – Huge arms seizure raises fears of attempts to destabilise Bahrain
Egyptian tourism minister looks to future
Al-Monitor 9 Jan 2014 – After Egypt saw a record low in numbers of tourists in 2013, the country’s interim tourism minister appears optimistic for the sector’s comeback.
Liberman looks to expands Israel-Africa ties
Al-Monitor 9 Jan 2014 – Israel has a pending request to join the African Union as a non-African observer member.
Israel awaits Netanyahu verdict on Kerry framework
Al-Monitor 9 Jan 2014 – Israel waits to see Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s position on a document of principles.
Ankara anxious and cautious concerning Iraq, Syria developments
Al-Monitor 9 Jan 2014 – Although Ankara is concerned with the recent developments and chaos in neighboring Iraq and Syria, it’s maintaining caution and prefers not to get involved.
Women absent from Turkey’s local polls, except in BDP
Al-Monitor 9 Jan 2014 – Based on preliminary electoral lists released by Turkey’s major parties, the upcoming municipal elections will be mostly devoid of female candidates, except for the list of the Kurdish Peace and Democracy Party (BDP).
Egypt conducts global search for stolen antiquities
Al-Monitor 8 Jan 2014 – Following successful diplomatic efforts to recover 90 smuggled artifacts from Israel last November, Egyptian authorities continue their efforts to crack down on the antiquities trade and repatriate stolen items.
Anbar Council calls for end to military siege by Iraqi government forces
Al-Monitor 8 Jan 2014 – Local leaders in Anbar seek a local solution to the current crisis.
Russia blocks UN statement on Aleppo
BBC 8 Jan 2014 – Russia blocks a UN Security Council statement condemning the Syrian government’s use of air strikes against civilians in the city of Aleppo.
Lebanon’s Government: A Ray of Hope With No Guarantees
Al-Akhbar Politics 8 Jan 2014 – Al-Akhbar sources revealed that Salam informed Jumblatt he doesn’t mind forming an all-embracing government, and asked him to discuss the issue with Hariri and Saudi Arabia.(Photo: Haytham El-Mousawi). Al-Akhbar sources revealed that Salam informed Jumblatt he doesn’t mind forming an all-embracing government, and asked him to…
Post-June 30 Egypt Puts Palestinian Solidarity on Hold
Al-Akhbar Politics 8 Jan 2014 – A Palestinian girl sleeps on bags as her family waits at the the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and the southern Gaza Strip on January 8, 2014.(Photo: AFP – Said Khatib). A Palestinian girl sleeps on bags as her family waits at the the Rafah border…
Articles
A year of solidarity
Richard Falk, Al-Ahram Weekly 1/8/2014
This year is the UN International Year of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, an opportunity to do more to right the wrongs committed against the Palestinians.
In a little noted initiative, the UN General Assembly on 26 November 2013, voted to proclaim 2014 the International Year of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. The UN Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People was also requested to organise relevant activities in cooperation with governments, the UN system, intergovernmental organisations, and significantly, civil society.
The vote was 110-7, with 56 abstentions, which is more or less reflective of the sentiments now present in international society. Among the seven opponents of the initiative, in addition to Israel, were unsurprisingly its three staunchest supporters, each once a British colony: the United States, Canada, and Australia, with the addition of such international heavyweight states as Micronesia, Palau, and the Marshall Islands. Europe and assorted states around the world were among the 56 abstentions, with virtually the entire non-West solidly behind the idea of highlighting solidarity with the Palestinian people in their struggle for peace with justice based on rights under international law.Three initial observations: those governments that are willing to stand unabashedly with Israel in opposition to the tide of world public opinion are increasingly isolated, and these governments are under mounting public pressure from their own civil societies that seek a balanced approach that is rights-based rather than power-dominated; the West, in general, is dominated by the abstaining governments that seek the lowest possible profile of being seen as neither for or against, and in those countries where civil society should now be capable of mobilising more support for the Palestinian struggle; and the non-West that is, as has long been the case, rhetorically in solidarity with the Palestinian people, but has yet to match its words with deeds, and seems ready to be pushed. more.. e-mail
How We Disowned Palestinians in Syria
Ramzy Baroud, CounterPunch 1/9/2014
Starving Refugees
A worst case scenario is unfolding in Syria, and Palestinian refugees, particularly in the Yarmouk refugee camp, are paying a heavy price for Syria’s cruelest war. They are starving, although there can be no justification, nor logistical explanation for why they are dying from hunger.
Spokesman for the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), Chris Gunness, told AFP that “at least five Palestinian refugees in the besieged refugee camp of Yarmouk have died because of malnutrition, bringing the total number of reported cases to 15,” since Sep. 2013. Other estimates, especially those reported by local residents, say the number is significantly higher.
The camp, which is located south of Damascus, had once housed nearly 250,000 Palestinians that included 150,000 officially registered refugees. Three years of a brutal war later, Yarmouk is now nothing but ruins, and houses only around 18,000 residents who couldn’t escape to Lebanon, Jordan or elsewhere.
Reporting for the BBC from Damascus, Lyse Doucet quoted aid officials: “Aid officials in Damascus recently told me ‘the gates of Yarmouk were slammed shut in July’ and almost no aid has been allowed to enter since then.”
A minor Palestinian group, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine – the General Command, has tried to control Yarmouk on behalf of the Syrian government, an act that the refugees rejected. There has been a semi-consensus among Palestinians that they should not be embroiled in Syria’s war. However, the warring parties – the Syrian government, the rebel Free Syrian Army (FSA) and other Islamic groups – desperately tried to use every card in their disposal to weaken the other parties. The result has been devastating and is taking place at the expense of innocent refugees. more.. e-mail
Palestine’s Quislings
Philip Giraldi, Antiwar.com 1/9/2014
A Hand in the Till Not on the Tiller
A picture is indeed sometimes worth a thousand words. A photo of Secretary of State John Kerry disembarking from his plane in Tel Aviv showed chief US negotiator Martin Indyk walking along at his side with a grin on his face as if he had just heard a new Palestinian joke in the plane on the way over. It looked like Israel’s American legal team had arrived and just couldn’t wait for the first photo op with a glowering Benjamin Netanyahu. They may even have been chuckling over what might be the funniest line ever uttered by an Israeli prime minister, Netanyahu greeting thei
r arrival by claiming that “There’s growing doubt in Israel that the Palestinians are committed to peace. In the six months since the start of peace negotiations, the Palestinian authority continues its unabated incitement against the State of Israel.”
Netanyahu, who insists that the Palestinians declare Israel to be a Jewish State as a precondition for further talks and that Israel be able to maintain a permanent military occupation of the Jordan River valley, certainly knows all about “unabated incitement.” And he has plenty of friends hanging on his every pronouncement. US Senators John McCain and Lindsey Graham were already in Israel when Kerry arrived, consulting with the Israeli government and coming to the conclusion that there are serious concerns about any possible peace agreement with the Palestinians, nearly all relating to “Israel’s security.” More fool I to think that Graham and McCain were elected to represent the people of South Carolina and Arizona, but as some have observed politics is the art of the impossible.
As usual official Washington is lining up on the side of the Israelis while pretending to be an “honest broker,” a deception that fools no one but the editorial staffs on the Washington Post and New York Times. There are, of course, a number of different ways to look at the current round of the Middle East Peace talks, possibly the longest continuous entertainment spectacular on the planet since Johnny Carson retired after 30 seasons on The Tonight Show…. more.. e-mail
Avoid false choices in the Middle East
Marwan Bishara, Al Jazeera 1/9/2014
Western apathy towards the suffering in the Middle East is immoral and politically short-sighted.
The West is increasingly uninterested in the Middle East as the region becomes polarised and paralysed by old and new forces. Contrasted binary labels such as rulers and Islamists, war and terrorism, secularism and sectarianism, while seem self-evident, they,nonetheless, conceal a far more complicated and dangerous reality, one that requires an alternative approach to Western interventionism or negligent pragmatism.
If it all looks chaotic and senseless from Washington, New York and Brussels and you think it’s dizzying to watch the region unravel, try living in Egypt or dying in Syria. Apathy towards this suffering is immoral and politically short-sighted.
The record shows that rulers can be terribly violent, Islamist groups largely peaceful, seculars deeply religious, liberals undemocratic and wildly sectarian, and generals unabashedly dictatorial. It has also demonstrated that the opposites are no less true. Labels are meaningless in the modern Middle East.
This is why the West’s approach cannot be based on knee-jerk reactions to labels. It must ask some fundamental questions like: Is Assad fighting or fermenting terrorism? Is General Sisi a reformer or a deformer of the democratic process? Is Iran an “oasis of stability” or an exporter of instability?
Logic of oppression
Behind the terrible violence lies a cynical calculus: punish the people yearning for freedom and dignity and force them to reconsider whether revolting against tyranny is indeed the wise thing to do…. more.. e-mail
Palestinians mark subdued Christmas at Gaza’s Orthodox church
Electronic Intifada: 9 Jan 2014 – Siege has a major effect on 7 January celebrations. more..
“I did all that I could do for Palestine,” says freed prisoner Said Tamimi
Electronic Intifada: 9 Jan 2014 – Said Tamimi has no regrets over his role in resisting the occupation. more..
More material available from Vermonters for a Just Peace in Palestine/Israel – www.vtjp.org
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The New Dark Age 