Brendan McQuade: The Return of Domestic CounterInsurgency?: "As Ahmad was writing, the FBI's COunterINTELligence PROgrams, COINTELPRO, domestic programs that used methods similar to counterinsurgency, targeted the Communist Party USA, Socialist Workers Party, the Black Power Movements, the Puerto Rican Independence Movement, and the American Indian Movement for 'neutralization.' While 'domestic counterinsurgency' has not yet returned to that scale, the militarization of US society has continued in the last forty years: surveillance and data-mining (NSA, DHS and private); the emerging nationwide intelligence network (DHS 'Fusion Centers'); the increasing 'paramilitarization' of police (intelligence-led policing); and the creation of the first domestic combatant command, US Northern Command or US NORTHCOM.
With all these measures put in place, domestic counterinsurgency along the lines of COINTELPRO could easily be resumed at a level hitherto unimaginable within the United States. While much would have to change politically for this to become possible, the appointment of Petraeus to head the CIA and the wider rise of the new counterinsurgents is not an encouraging development."
Sept 21, 2015 International Day of Peace Celebration at Lyceum University Cavite, Philippines
Ambassador Zara Bayla Juan, Sailing for Peace #PeaceDay
Friday, April 29, 2011
Counter Insurgency (reading reference) part 4
Brendan McQuade: The Return of Domestic CounterInsurgency?: "ounterinsurgency threatens democratic politics at home because it necessarily entails a politicization of the military and the blurring of civilian and military roles:
'Training and participation in counterinsurgency necessarily involves emphasis on the unity and interrelatedness of civilian and military talks and authority. It is not realistic to expect military men who are trained to be 'soldiers-political workers' to remain apolitical at home…The determination to equip the natives with the 'will to fight' transfers eventually to the metropolitan country when the 'will' of the people 'at home' appears to be sagging. The crusade abroad may find expressions at home when the society is viewed as needing moral or political regeneration.'"
'Training and participation in counterinsurgency necessarily involves emphasis on the unity and interrelatedness of civilian and military talks and authority. It is not realistic to expect military men who are trained to be 'soldiers-political workers' to remain apolitical at home…The determination to equip the natives with the 'will to fight' transfers eventually to the metropolitan country when the 'will' of the people 'at home' appears to be sagging. The crusade abroad may find expressions at home when the society is viewed as needing moral or political regeneration.'"
Counter Insurgency (reading reference) part 3
Brendan McQuade: The Return of Domestic CounterInsurgency?: "When counterinsurgency returned as dominant policy during the War on Terror, the military was its most visible advocate. Today after the seeming success of the Iraq troop surge, the counterinsurgents are dominant in the military. Andrew Bacevich, perhaps the most prominent critic of counterinsurgency today, went so far as to argue that we are witnessing the emergence of the 'Petraeus doctrine,' where 'armed conflict will be protracted, ambiguous, and continuous… War [now] implies not only coercion but also social engineering.' The Petraeus doctrine displaces the more cautious Powell Doctrine 'with its emphasis on overwhelming force, assumed that future American wars would be brief, decisive, and infrequent.'
In 2009, Giraldi told me that the CIA's Special Operations Group was again growing: 'Now they are much bigger they have a lot of contractors. They have a lot of ex-Special Forces people working for them but they are still kind of an adjunct. I'd be hard pressed to come up with a senior officer in SOG.' With David Petraeus, the man who made counterinsurgency dominant in the US military, at the helm of the CIA, we can expect SOG to continue to grow and become more central."
In 2009, Giraldi told me that the CIA's Special Operations Group was again growing: 'Now they are much bigger they have a lot of contractors. They have a lot of ex-Special Forces people working for them but they are still kind of an adjunct. I'd be hard pressed to come up with a senior officer in SOG.' With David Petraeus, the man who made counterinsurgency dominant in the US military, at the helm of the CIA, we can expect SOG to continue to grow and become more central."
CounterInsurgency (reading reference) part 2
Brendan McQuade: The Return of Domestic CounterInsurgency?: "A more humanitarian, 'civic action,' mission co-exists alongside this more coercive intelligence mission. A functioning government cannot be built with violence alone. Services need to be provided: schools, hospitals, roads, and all the rest of modern infrastructure. The new counterinsurgents, of which Petraeus is the most visible, are acutely aware of this need. Lauded by the press as 'scholar-warriors,' counterinsurgents argue for a necessity of unity between civil-military roles, cultural sensitivity and a restrained use of force. Despite all these complexities, it's still warfare: 'Counterinsurgency is not just thinking man's warfare; it's the graduate level of war.'
The Ever-Expanding War on Terror"
The Ever-Expanding War on Terror"
CounterInsurgency (reading reference) part 1
Brendan McQuade: The Return of Domestic CounterInsurgency?: "What is Counterinsurgency?
In the terms of Petraeus' celebrated manual, counterinsurgency is the 'military, paramilitary, political, economic, psychological and civic actions taken by a government to defeat insurgency.' Petraeus describes 'insurgency' as 'an organized protracted politico-military struggle to weaken the control of and legitimacy of an established government, occupying power or other political authority while increasing insurgent control.'
More critically and historically, counterinsurgency involves a powerful state intervening into a militarily weak (and formerly colonized) society. In contrast to the traditional military war aim, defeating the rival army, counterinsurgency has political goals: building a regime supportive to that more powerful state's political project and, usually, destroying the revolutionary movement that challenges it. On lower level, counterinsurgency begins with an intelligence effort, gathering information on the politics and culture of the society begin targeted. The goal is to penetrate into the intimate corners of a society—to get agents inside civil society organizations, families, and social networks—and figure out who is 'the wrong side.'
With this intelligence on hand, the task becomes neutralizing political rivals by turning, capturing, or killing them."
In the terms of Petraeus' celebrated manual, counterinsurgency is the 'military, paramilitary, political, economic, psychological and civic actions taken by a government to defeat insurgency.' Petraeus describes 'insurgency' as 'an organized protracted politico-military struggle to weaken the control of and legitimacy of an established government, occupying power or other political authority while increasing insurgent control.'
More critically and historically, counterinsurgency involves a powerful state intervening into a militarily weak (and formerly colonized) society. In contrast to the traditional military war aim, defeating the rival army, counterinsurgency has political goals: building a regime supportive to that more powerful state's political project and, usually, destroying the revolutionary movement that challenges it. On lower level, counterinsurgency begins with an intelligence effort, gathering information on the politics and culture of the society begin targeted. The goal is to penetrate into the intimate corners of a society—to get agents inside civil society organizations, families, and social networks—and figure out who is 'the wrong side.'
With this intelligence on hand, the task becomes neutralizing political rivals by turning, capturing, or killing them."
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Curtailing the Bloody Business in Congo
Firms Seek Supply Route Around Conflict in Congo - WSJ.com: "A new U.S. law requires publicly traded companies to ensure key minerals in their products aren't coming from the Congo's rebel-controlled mines. A civil war in the Congo, the world's third-largest producer of tantalum, ended in 2003, but violence in the eastern part of the country continues.
The Dodd-Frank financial-regulation law, enacted last year, identifies four minerals—tantalum, tin, tungsten and gold—that are mined in the Congo and are blamed for helping to fund violent conflict there. Under the law, companies that use the four minerals must inform the Securities and Exchange Commission annually whether any of them in their supply chains originated in the Congo or nine neighboring countries. If they did, the companies must tell the SEC what efforts have been made to determine the source and custody chain of the minerals.
Rules implementing the law haven't been finalized. As it stands, the law doesn't punish companies that buy any of the four listed minerals from the Congo, though punitive measures may be added."
The Dodd-Frank financial-regulation law, enacted last year, identifies four minerals—tantalum, tin, tungsten and gold—that are mined in the Congo and are blamed for helping to fund violent conflict there. Under the law, companies that use the four minerals must inform the Securities and Exchange Commission annually whether any of them in their supply chains originated in the Congo or nine neighboring countries. If they did, the companies must tell the SEC what efforts have been made to determine the source and custody chain of the minerals.
Rules implementing the law haven't been finalized. As it stands, the law doesn't punish companies that buy any of the four listed minerals from the Congo, though punitive measures may be added."
Bloody Business in Congo
Ryan Gosling Makes Charity Trip To Eastern Congo: "“Marie is a rape survivor twice over. She has overcome her suffering to found a women’s organization that helps others who have survived sexual crimes. We asked her what message she would have for electronics companies. “Please stop this bloody business,” she pleaded. “You are fueling conflict. Families are being torn apart. Women are being raped. Communities are being destroyed so armed groups can profit from mines. Companies should stop supporting this and do ethical business.”
“The conflict in Congo has left millions homeless, fleeing from their villages after they have been burnt to the ground or looted by armed groups. In a camp for internally displaced people, we met Mapendo, a young woman who survived an attack on her village in which members of an armed militia went door to door raping women and killing men. In reply to our questions, she said starkly, “There is no difference between the phone companies and the people doing the killing here in Congo.”"
“The conflict in Congo has left millions homeless, fleeing from their villages after they have been burnt to the ground or looted by armed groups. In a camp for internally displaced people, we met Mapendo, a young woman who survived an attack on her village in which members of an armed militia went door to door raping women and killing men. In reply to our questions, she said starkly, “There is no difference between the phone companies and the people doing the killing here in Congo.”"
Tibetan Women’s Group Fights for Justice
Tibetan Women’s Group Fights for Justice: "This appeal followed Monday’s launch of the Global Petitioning and Lobbying Week, an initiative aimed at using the organization’s 57 international chapters to elicit the intervention of international arbitrators. It implores organizations, governmental and public, to help with the following: immediate legal intervention and prevention of the brutal treatment of Tibetans in Ngaba Region; pressure the Chinese Government to loosen press restrictions inside Tibet and allow foreign media to enter the region; allow religious freedom; halt oppression and other travesties currently occurring in Tibet.
The organization’s actions come in the wake of two more violent deaths. Sixty-year-old Dongko and 65-year-old Sherkyi were reportedly beaten to death last week during their attempts to dissuade the Chinese Police from detaining another three hundred monks. Claims from eyewitnesses at the scene provided the following account: 'People had their arms and legs broken, one old woman had her leg broken in three places, and cloth was stuffed in their mouths to stifle their screams.'"
The organization’s actions come in the wake of two more violent deaths. Sixty-year-old Dongko and 65-year-old Sherkyi were reportedly beaten to death last week during their attempts to dissuade the Chinese Police from detaining another three hundred monks. Claims from eyewitnesses at the scene provided the following account: 'People had their arms and legs broken, one old woman had her leg broken in three places, and cloth was stuffed in their mouths to stifle their screams.'"
Africa optimism rising | Africa News blog
Africa optimism rising | Africa News blog: "When some of the most influential figures in emerging markets finance spoke to a group of Reuters editors, they were asked about top picks for growth beyond the so-called BRIC countries of Brazil, Russia, India and China.
One continent came up again and again – Africa – and one country in particular – Nigeria. Goldman Sachs global head of economic research, Jim O’Neill, highlighted the improvement in the growth-environment index of Africa’s giant over the past decade.
“If it were to show the same increase in its growth-environment score over the next decade, many investors will look back and say why the hell didn’t I invest in Nigeria,” said O’Neill, who coined the term BRICs."
One continent came up again and again – Africa – and one country in particular – Nigeria. Goldman Sachs global head of economic research, Jim O’Neill, highlighted the improvement in the growth-environment index of Africa’s giant over the past decade.
“If it were to show the same increase in its growth-environment score over the next decade, many investors will look back and say why the hell didn’t I invest in Nigeria,” said O’Neill, who coined the term BRICs."
Philippine Muslim rebels try to woo back rogue commander | News by Country | Reuters
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Philippines as filling the vacuum in helping to maintain Asia’s security and stability as Japan copes with the March 11 earthquake
Malaya | National: "WASHINGTON – The United States views the Philippines as filling the vacuum in helping to maintain Asia’s security and stability as Japan copes with the March 11 earthquake, tsunami and nuclear crisis, a source said recently.
'The US views the Philippines as a long-time trusted and treaty ally, and in Japan’s weakened state, so to speak, following the March 11 disaster and its preoccupation with relief and rebuilding – sure to be long-term – the resulting vacuum will be filled by the Philippines,' the source said as noted his concern over China’s increasing power in the region.
The source said the US 'policy on re-engagement in the Philippines' involves stepped-up efforts with the on-going modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
'Coastal watch of the Philippines is the top priority,' the source said, adding helicopters and watercraft purchased by the Philippines from the US need to be delivered 'before the rainy season begins.'
In related news, Victor Manhit, director of StratBase in Manila, wrote on April 17: 'Regionally, the AFP confronts the realities of possible military conflict in the South China Sea over territorial claims around the Spratly Islands.'"
'The US views the Philippines as a long-time trusted and treaty ally, and in Japan’s weakened state, so to speak, following the March 11 disaster and its preoccupation with relief and rebuilding – sure to be long-term – the resulting vacuum will be filled by the Philippines,' the source said as noted his concern over China’s increasing power in the region.
The source said the US 'policy on re-engagement in the Philippines' involves stepped-up efforts with the on-going modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
'Coastal watch of the Philippines is the top priority,' the source said, adding helicopters and watercraft purchased by the Philippines from the US need to be delivered 'before the rainy season begins.'
In related news, Victor Manhit, director of StratBase in Manila, wrote on April 17: 'Regionally, the AFP confronts the realities of possible military conflict in the South China Sea over territorial claims around the Spratly Islands.'"
249 Terrorist attacks in Europe during 2010 -Europol Terrorism Report « Infologue.com – Manned Security e-Zine
249 Terrorist attacks in Europe during 2010 -Europol Terrorism Report « Infologue.com – Manned Security e-Zine: "Terrorist groups are becoming more diverse and flexible in their methods of operating, with signs of increased collaboration between groups, increased use of the Internet, and a growing connection between organised crime and terrorism, especially in regard to financing activities. Separatist terrorist groups such as the PKK/KONGRA-GEL and LTTE are involved in the trafficking of drugs and human beings to raise funds for their terrorism activities. Meanwhile reported contacts between international drug trafficking groups and Islamist terrorist groups in West Africa raise the possibility that proceeds from organised crime are a source of funding for Islamist terrorist groups operating in the Sahel region. The rapidly developing situation of instability in North Africa is also a source of concern to the internal security of the EU, with new opportunities emerging for terrorist groups to move materiel and members to Europe.
“The economic recession has led to political and social tensions in a number of Member States and fuelled the conditions for terrorism and extremism. Although the number of attacks executed by separatist terrorist groups has decreased the threat from these and other groups remains substantial."
“The economic recession has led to political and social tensions in a number of Member States and fuelled the conditions for terrorism and extremism. Although the number of attacks executed by separatist terrorist groups has decreased the threat from these and other groups remains substantial."
How likely is a third world war? part 7
WWIII scenarios | Features & Opinion | RIA Novosti: "The second division is caused by the disproportionate distribution of production capacity and raw materials. 'Some countries have high tech production, whereas others are rich in raw materials. The inadequate exchange between them is enriching some and impoverishing others,' Sivkov explained. 'There are two ways of resolving it - either leave some countries in a subordinate position or establish a fair distribution of revenue, which will impoverish other countries without changing their social system.'
The third global division that is playing an increasing role is between 'the immorality of the free market and the spiritual values of traditional civilizations - Muslim, Orthodox Christianity and others,' Sivkov said.
'This division gives rise to that volatile mass of future militants and suicide bombers. The current market is incompatible with the spiritual values of traditional civilizations. And the new globalized world is trying to decide whom to join - the free market or the traditional civilizations,' Sivkov said.
Finally, there is the division between the 'financial bubble' and the real economy. 'This division played a significant role in Hitler's rise to power in 1933."
The third global division that is playing an increasing role is between 'the immorality of the free market and the spiritual values of traditional civilizations - Muslim, Orthodox Christianity and others,' Sivkov said.
'This division gives rise to that volatile mass of future militants and suicide bombers. The current market is incompatible with the spiritual values of traditional civilizations. And the new globalized world is trying to decide whom to join - the free market or the traditional civilizations,' Sivkov said.
Finally, there is the division between the 'financial bubble' and the real economy. 'This division played a significant role in Hitler's rise to power in 1933."
How likely is a third world war? part 6
WWIII scenarios | Features & Opinion | RIA Novosti: "Now experts identify three types of disputes or divisions that can provoke armed conflicts at different levels.
First there are internal divisions within a state, which are primarily caused by two factors. The first is socio-economic in nature (divisions between the upper and lower classes over the distribution of material wealth). This division becomes acute when the incomes of the wealthiest 10% exceed those of the poorest 10% by more than 15 times over,' Sivkov said, adding that in Russia this threshold has long been passed.
The other factor is ethnic, cultural and religious tensions, which can be found in Russia and other countries, particularly in the United States.
Then there are regional disputes, for instance the territorial disputes between Russia and China, China and India, Russia and Japan, India and Pakistan. There are internal divisions in the Arab world, between Iran and the Arabs and between North and South America. Such disputes could easily boil over into regional conflicts.
Finally, there are global divisions, first among them being the division between the scale of production and consumption and the Earth's resources that are left at the disposal of humanity, which puts at stake the entire direction of civilization's development,' Sivkov said."
First there are internal divisions within a state, which are primarily caused by two factors. The first is socio-economic in nature (divisions between the upper and lower classes over the distribution of material wealth). This division becomes acute when the incomes of the wealthiest 10% exceed those of the poorest 10% by more than 15 times over,' Sivkov said, adding that in Russia this threshold has long been passed.
The other factor is ethnic, cultural and religious tensions, which can be found in Russia and other countries, particularly in the United States.
Then there are regional disputes, for instance the territorial disputes between Russia and China, China and India, Russia and Japan, India and Pakistan. There are internal divisions in the Arab world, between Iran and the Arabs and between North and South America. Such disputes could easily boil over into regional conflicts.
Finally, there are global divisions, first among them being the division between the scale of production and consumption and the Earth's resources that are left at the disposal of humanity, which puts at stake the entire direction of civilization's development,' Sivkov said."
How likely is a third world war? part 5
WWIII scenarios | Features & Opinion | RIA Novosti: "Speaking about Russia's neighbors, Tishchenko noted that the situation in Transdnestria could escalate. 'It is difficult to predict the consequences of the current Romanization of Moldova. For instance, the EU is already willing to introduce its peacekeepers in Transdnestria but its troops have not yet proven themselves anywhere. It is very hard to say whether they will cope with a possible escalation in Transdnestria,' he explained.
Armed conflict is also likely in the Caucasus. 'No doubt, Nagorno-Karabakh may become a bone of contention,' Tishchenko said. 'Azerbaijan is actively developing its foreign policy concepts and building up troops. Armenia, where we have a military base, is acting in the same manner.' Tsyganok added: 'The most interesting aspect to this is that Russia has no dispute with either Azerbaijan or Armenia, and we don't have a clue as to what we will do if tensions in Nagorno-Karabakh spill over.'
Sivkov believes that an armed conflict or local war is also likely in Asia-Pacific, in particular between Cambodia and Thailand.
In his opinion, similar local conflicts in different parts of the world are the result of a changing world and the formation of a new world order."
Armed conflict is also likely in the Caucasus. 'No doubt, Nagorno-Karabakh may become a bone of contention,' Tishchenko said. 'Azerbaijan is actively developing its foreign policy concepts and building up troops. Armenia, where we have a military base, is acting in the same manner.' Tsyganok added: 'The most interesting aspect to this is that Russia has no dispute with either Azerbaijan or Armenia, and we don't have a clue as to what we will do if tensions in Nagorno-Karabakh spill over.'
Sivkov believes that an armed conflict or local war is also likely in Asia-Pacific, in particular between Cambodia and Thailand.
In his opinion, similar local conflicts in different parts of the world are the result of a changing world and the formation of a new world order."
How likely is a third world war? part 4
WWIII scenarios | Features & Opinion | RIA Novosti: "Armed conflicts could break out in Central Asia, drawing in Russia, who will act in support of its allies in the region.
Head of the Military Forecast Center Anatoly Tsyganok believes that 'a conflict over water is possible in the region in the next three to five years.' Tishchenko noted that 'a change in the region's leaders' is just around the corner. 'It is quite possible that this process will not be peaceful, all the more so since Central Asian countries already find themselves in a conflict over the Fergana Valley, which is the region's only bread basket,' he explained, adding that 'the Afghan conflict could also spread to Central Asia.'"
Head of the Military Forecast Center Anatoly Tsyganok believes that 'a conflict over water is possible in the region in the next three to five years.' Tishchenko noted that 'a change in the region's leaders' is just around the corner. 'It is quite possible that this process will not be peaceful, all the more so since Central Asian countries already find themselves in a conflict over the Fergana Valley, which is the region's only bread basket,' he explained, adding that 'the Afghan conflict could also spread to Central Asia.'"
How likely is a third world war? part 3
WWIII scenarios | Features & Opinion | RIA Novosti: "'Existing disputes show that there is potential for war,' Sivkov said. In his opinion, there is a fifty-fifty chance of a local war in the Middle East (the military operation in Libya being a vivid example). Experts cannot rule out that the United States will opt for a military strike against Iran, although most likely it would not initiate the war but rather would be part of a NATO peacekeeping force operating in highly probable conflicts between Iran and Israel or Iran and Saudi Arabia. 'In any event there will be a showdown between Iran and the United States sooner or later,' said Grigory Tishchenko, head of the defense policy department at the Russian Institute of Strategic Studies."
How likely is a third world war? part 2
WWIII scenarios | Features & Opinion | RIA Novosti: "At the round table, First Vice President of the Academy of Geopolitical Problems Konstantin Sivkov said that armed conflicts are classified by Russia's Institute of Military-Strategic Studies according to causes, geography, duration and the number of troops involved.
At the low end of the classification system are border conflicts that last from a week to a month, requiring about 10,000-50,000 troops.
Next come armed conflicts involving about 100,000 and lasting from a month to several years.
This is followed by local wars, which involve at least one million troops (incidentally, this is the projected size of the Russian armed forces after the reform process) and last from several months to several years.
A regional war involves 5-6 million people. The Great Patriotic War (i.e. the Eastern Front of WWII) falls into this category.
Finally, at the other extreme of the classification system is the world war. 'In terms of its structure, a world war can involve a number of regional and local wars and armed conflicts, or simply local wars and armed conflicts in a considerable portion of the world's territory,' Sivkov explained."
At the low end of the classification system are border conflicts that last from a week to a month, requiring about 10,000-50,000 troops.
Next come armed conflicts involving about 100,000 and lasting from a month to several years.
This is followed by local wars, which involve at least one million troops (incidentally, this is the projected size of the Russian armed forces after the reform process) and last from several months to several years.
A regional war involves 5-6 million people. The Great Patriotic War (i.e. the Eastern Front of WWII) falls into this category.
Finally, at the other extreme of the classification system is the world war. 'In terms of its structure, a world war can involve a number of regional and local wars and armed conflicts, or simply local wars and armed conflicts in a considerable portion of the world's territory,' Sivkov explained."
How likely is a third world war? part 1
WWIII scenarios | Features & Opinion | RIA Novosti: "The Caucasus, the Middle East, Central Asia, Asia-Pacific - these regions command the attention of military experts and diplomats. Where are the geopolitical fault lines in today's world, and where can we expect military conflict tomorrow? How likely is a third world war, and will it be a nuclear war? How can we prevent the destruction of civilization? These were among the questions addressed by experts at the round table discussion 'Military Concepts and Challenges of the 21st Century,' organized by the magazine Mezhdunarodnaya Zhizn (International Affairs), and held at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations on April 26."
Cambodia-Thailand border conflict festers
Cambodia-Thailand border conflict festers: "THAILAND - Efforts to bring peace to the borders of Thailand and Cambodia have got nowhere as leaders of the two countries have yet to offer ways to settle the armed conflict, despite saying they are ready to talk.
Both nations claim they did not trigger the border skirmishes and have called on each other to stop shooting.
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva told the House of Representatives yesterday that he would seek an opportunity to talk with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen on the sidelines of the Asean Summit in early May in Jakarta.
Hun Sen's move
However, Hun Sen said he would raise the border conflict at the Asean meeting, rather than talking bilaterally with his Thai counterpart.
'Cambodia will raise the issue at the Asean summit next month, so Abhisit and I can negotiate during the Asean Summit,' Hun Sen was quoted as saying by Xinhua News Agency.
'Even though there are no Cambodia-Thailand border issues on the agenda for the Asean Summit, I will raise them with Asean leaders,' he said.
Thailand and Cambodia have been in military conflict over the boundary in two major areas - Preah Vihear in Si Sa Ket, and Ta Muen Thom in Surin.
Hun Sen said Cambodia would talk to Thailand over the conflict at Ta Muen and Ta Kwai bilaterally, but needed a third party for the Preah Vihear dispute."
Both nations claim they did not trigger the border skirmishes and have called on each other to stop shooting.
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva told the House of Representatives yesterday that he would seek an opportunity to talk with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen on the sidelines of the Asean Summit in early May in Jakarta.
Hun Sen's move
However, Hun Sen said he would raise the border conflict at the Asean meeting, rather than talking bilaterally with his Thai counterpart.
'Cambodia will raise the issue at the Asean summit next month, so Abhisit and I can negotiate during the Asean Summit,' Hun Sen was quoted as saying by Xinhua News Agency.
'Even though there are no Cambodia-Thailand border issues on the agenda for the Asean Summit, I will raise them with Asean leaders,' he said.
Thailand and Cambodia have been in military conflict over the boundary in two major areas - Preah Vihear in Si Sa Ket, and Ta Muen Thom in Surin.
Hun Sen said Cambodia would talk to Thailand over the conflict at Ta Muen and Ta Kwai bilaterally, but needed a third party for the Preah Vihear dispute."
Armed conflict main global obstacle to establish education for all
Armed conflict main global obstacle: "Armed conflict across the world is the major obstacle to establishing education for all, said Education For All, a global monitoring report of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco), launched yesterday.
Bangladesh holds the tenth position in the report's list of 21 developing countries, which spend more on military budgets than on primary education.
The report also reasoned Chittagong Hill Tracts region lagging behind in education indicators due to armed conflict and being a heavily militarised area.
Primary and Mass Education Minister Afsarul Ameen launched the report at a function organised by Unesco at Islamic Development Bank in the city.
The report, published since 2002, assesses the achievement of different countries regarding ensuring education for all. This year's topic was “The Hidden Crisis: Armed conflict and education”.
Presenting a keynote paper based on the report, Habibur Rahman, director (Education) of Save the Children, USA, said half of the number of Bangladeshi children enrolled in class one reach class five"
Bangladesh holds the tenth position in the report's list of 21 developing countries, which spend more on military budgets than on primary education.
The report also reasoned Chittagong Hill Tracts region lagging behind in education indicators due to armed conflict and being a heavily militarised area.
Primary and Mass Education Minister Afsarul Ameen launched the report at a function organised by Unesco at Islamic Development Bank in the city.
The report, published since 2002, assesses the achievement of different countries regarding ensuring education for all. This year's topic was “The Hidden Crisis: Armed conflict and education”.
Presenting a keynote paper based on the report, Habibur Rahman, director (Education) of Save the Children, USA, said half of the number of Bangladeshi children enrolled in class one reach class five"
YEMEN: Arab Spring: Update On The Middle East | DrJays.com Live | Fashion. Music. Lifestyle
Arab Spring: Update On The Middle East | DrJays.com Live | Fashion. Music. Lifestyle: "YEMEN
Southern Yemen appears to be the hot spot in battles between protesters and the Yemeni military. Demonstrations against a defiant President Ali Abdullah Saleh continue, with soldiers and civilians being killed and wounded daily. An agreement drafted by several Gulf nations for Saleh to step down is now in place; it’s only a matter of time until a new government is assembled in the Gulf nation."
Southern Yemen appears to be the hot spot in battles between protesters and the Yemeni military. Demonstrations against a defiant President Ali Abdullah Saleh continue, with soldiers and civilians being killed and wounded daily. An agreement drafted by several Gulf nations for Saleh to step down is now in place; it’s only a matter of time until a new government is assembled in the Gulf nation."
SYRIA: Arab Spring: Update On The Middle East | DrJays.com Live | Fashion. Music. Lifestyle
Arab Spring: Update On The Middle East | DrJays.com Live | Fashion. Music. Lifestyle: "SYRIA
All eyes are currently on Syria, as President Bashar al-Assad fights to stay in power. As CNN reports, “Assad’s tumultuous, 11-year rule—and the political experiment of modernization that it entailed—has proved to be a total failure. With the cycle of ever-increasing protests met by regime violence and then more funerals intensifying in all areas of the country, it is time for Assad to consider his future.” When Assad was voted in as President back in 2000, there were hopes he’d be the catalyst for modernization and democracy in Syria; fast forward over 10 years later and the country has upheld human rights and the rights of minorities, experienced constant political unrest and is now seeing its youth population (counted at 60 percent) dying for their freedom, with hundreds of protesters killed thus far."
All eyes are currently on Syria, as President Bashar al-Assad fights to stay in power. As CNN reports, “Assad’s tumultuous, 11-year rule—and the political experiment of modernization that it entailed—has proved to be a total failure. With the cycle of ever-increasing protests met by regime violence and then more funerals intensifying in all areas of the country, it is time for Assad to consider his future.” When Assad was voted in as President back in 2000, there were hopes he’d be the catalyst for modernization and democracy in Syria; fast forward over 10 years later and the country has upheld human rights and the rights of minorities, experienced constant political unrest and is now seeing its youth population (counted at 60 percent) dying for their freedom, with hundreds of protesters killed thus far."
BAHRAIN: Arab Spring: Update On The Middle East | DrJays.com Live | Fashion. Music. Lifestyle
Arab Spring: Update On The Middle East | DrJays.com Live | Fashion. Music. Lifestyle: "BAHRAIN
Protests for democracy erupted in Bahrain on February 14. The movement, like many of the others, began online. Almost 30 people have been killed since the beginning of the protests and according to Reuters, “Bahrain has stepped up arrests of cyber activists and Shi’ites, with more than 300 detained and dozens missing since it launched a crackdown on pro-democracy protests.” The protesters are calling for more political freedom amongst other causes. On April 5, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad butted in and joined the fray, calling for Saudi troops on the ground to leave protesters alone and leave Bahrain altogether, “where they are helping a Sunni monarchy put down a Shi’ite-led protest movement demanding equal rights and a political voice.”"
Protests for democracy erupted in Bahrain on February 14. The movement, like many of the others, began online. Almost 30 people have been killed since the beginning of the protests and according to Reuters, “Bahrain has stepped up arrests of cyber activists and Shi’ites, with more than 300 detained and dozens missing since it launched a crackdown on pro-democracy protests.” The protesters are calling for more political freedom amongst other causes. On April 5, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad butted in and joined the fray, calling for Saudi troops on the ground to leave protesters alone and leave Bahrain altogether, “where they are helping a Sunni monarchy put down a Shi’ite-led protest movement demanding equal rights and a political voice.”"
LIBYA: Arab Spring: Update On The Middle East | DrJays.com Live | Fashion. Music. Lifestyle
Arab Spring: Update On The Middle East | DrJays.com Live | Fashion. Music. Lifestyle: "LIBYA
The uprising in Libya became violent instantly when the Libyan government reacted harshly towards peaceful protests. On February 18, three days after the protests began, the country erupted into armed conflict when protesters executed policemen and men loyal to Colonel Muammar Gaddafi for their savage killing of protesters. Gaddafi has been in power since 1969, making him the longest-serving ruler in Africa and the Middle East. Throughout the recent protests, Gaddafi continues to hold onto power. According to Al Jazeera, “critics dismissed his leadership as a military dictatorship, accusing him of repressing civil society and ruthlessly crushing dissident.” The move to attack civilians has cost Gaddafi many of his close advisors and military, including public rebuking from the U.S. and other countries, and Reuters reports soldiers are defecting to support protesters because they refuse to shoot their own people."
The uprising in Libya became violent instantly when the Libyan government reacted harshly towards peaceful protests. On February 18, three days after the protests began, the country erupted into armed conflict when protesters executed policemen and men loyal to Colonel Muammar Gaddafi for their savage killing of protesters. Gaddafi has been in power since 1969, making him the longest-serving ruler in Africa and the Middle East. Throughout the recent protests, Gaddafi continues to hold onto power. According to Al Jazeera, “critics dismissed his leadership as a military dictatorship, accusing him of repressing civil society and ruthlessly crushing dissident.” The move to attack civilians has cost Gaddafi many of his close advisors and military, including public rebuking from the U.S. and other countries, and Reuters reports soldiers are defecting to support protesters because they refuse to shoot their own people."
EGYPT: Arab Spring: Update On The Middle East | DrJays.com Live | Fashion. Music. Lifestyle
Arab Spring: Update On The Middle East | DrJays.com Live | Fashion. Music. Lifestyle: "EGYPT
Egypt’s citizens wasted no time in following their fellow North Africans’ footsteps to freedom. Young men and women answered the call to action with a huge demonstration on January 25, when thousands converged on Cairo’s Tahrir Square and demanded President Hosni Mubarak be removed from office after almost 30 years. Unintentional leaders like Google executive Wael Ghonim emerged from the madness, urging a peaceful movement broadcast by social media channels like Facebook. As the world watched closely, Egypt’s population of 12 million people (with Muslims and Christians often united in protest) ousted their longtime leader who’s now been indicted (the trial, however, is being constantly delayed for health or political or other reasons)."
Egypt’s citizens wasted no time in following their fellow North Africans’ footsteps to freedom. Young men and women answered the call to action with a huge demonstration on January 25, when thousands converged on Cairo’s Tahrir Square and demanded President Hosni Mubarak be removed from office after almost 30 years. Unintentional leaders like Google executive Wael Ghonim emerged from the madness, urging a peaceful movement broadcast by social media channels like Facebook. As the world watched closely, Egypt’s population of 12 million people (with Muslims and Christians often united in protest) ousted their longtime leader who’s now been indicted (the trial, however, is being constantly delayed for health or political or other reasons)."
"TUNISIA": Arab Spring: Update On The Middle East | DrJays.com Live | Fashion. Music. Lifestyle
Arab Spring: Update On The Middle East | DrJays.com Live | Fashion. Music. Lifestyle: "TUNISIA
The Tunisian Revolution (or Jasmine Revolution) began on December 17 last year after Mohammed Bouazizi, a 26-year-old Tunisian man, set himself on fire in front of a local municipal office after being beat by police for not having a permit for his street cart. The incident triggered protests across the country from citizens fed up with not only their living standards, but police violence, rampant unemployment and a basic lack of human rights. Tunisia’s President Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali has been in power since 1987 but was ousted as leader earlier this month and replaced with interim Prime Minister Beji Caid Essebsi, who just announced officials who served in Ben Ali’s party are barred from running or voting in the country’s upcoming July elections; elections that will decide a council responsible for rewriting the constitution and chart the country’s post-revolution transition. According to TV network Al Jazeera, at least 219 people were killed in the uprising against Ben Ali, with another 500 injured."
The Tunisian Revolution (or Jasmine Revolution) began on December 17 last year after Mohammed Bouazizi, a 26-year-old Tunisian man, set himself on fire in front of a local municipal office after being beat by police for not having a permit for his street cart. The incident triggered protests across the country from citizens fed up with not only their living standards, but police violence, rampant unemployment and a basic lack of human rights. Tunisia’s President Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali has been in power since 1987 but was ousted as leader earlier this month and replaced with interim Prime Minister Beji Caid Essebsi, who just announced officials who served in Ben Ali’s party are barred from running or voting in the country’s upcoming July elections; elections that will decide a council responsible for rewriting the constitution and chart the country’s post-revolution transition. According to TV network Al Jazeera, at least 219 people were killed in the uprising against Ben Ali, with another 500 injured."
Monday, April 25, 2011
US weighs sanctions against Syrian leaders - Middle East - Salon.com
US weighs sanctions against Syrian leaders - Middle East - Salon.com: "The Obama administration has begun drawing up targeted sanctions against Syrian President Bashar Assad and his inner circle, officials said Monday, as the White House escalated U.S. condemnation of the increasingly violent crackdown against anti-government protesters in which more than 300 people have been killed.
An official familiar with the process said inter-agency discussions about the severity and scope of possible sanctions are under way but that they would likely involve asset freezes and travel bans on Assad, members of his family and senior regime officials. Syria already is subject to numerous penalties as it is deemed a 'state sponsor of terrorism' by the State Department. But the new sanctions now being considered would target specific individuals accused of ordering or committing human rights abuses, the official said.
Similar sanctions were crafted for Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi, his family and top aides"
An official familiar with the process said inter-agency discussions about the severity and scope of possible sanctions are under way but that they would likely involve asset freezes and travel bans on Assad, members of his family and senior regime officials. Syria already is subject to numerous penalties as it is deemed a 'state sponsor of terrorism' by the State Department. But the new sanctions now being considered would target specific individuals accused of ordering or committing human rights abuses, the official said.
Similar sanctions were crafted for Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi, his family and top aides"
Armed groups in Central African Republic continue to recruit children – UN report
Armed groups in Central African Republic continue to recruit children – UN report: "“In spite of the Government’s commitment to end the use and recruitment of children, their mobilization into the ranks of rebel groups and self-defence militias throughout the country continued during the reporting period,” Mr. Ban says in the report, which covers the period from December 2008 to December 2010.
The report notes continued grave violations, such as the killing of children, sexual violence, attacks on health centres and the denial of humanitarian access. In addition, in the south-east of the country, the Ugandan rebel Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) continues to abduct and forcibly recruit children and use them as combatants, spies, sex slaves and porters.
The lack of systematic birth registration exacerbated challenges related to addressing grave violations, according to the report, since it is often not possible to prove the age of an individual. Official statistics show that only 49 per cent of births were registered nationally in 2010."
The report notes continued grave violations, such as the killing of children, sexual violence, attacks on health centres and the denial of humanitarian access. In addition, in the south-east of the country, the Ugandan rebel Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) continues to abduct and forcibly recruit children and use them as combatants, spies, sex slaves and porters.
The lack of systematic birth registration exacerbated challenges related to addressing grave violations, according to the report, since it is often not possible to prove the age of an individual. Official statistics show that only 49 per cent of births were registered nationally in 2010."
Oil dips in choppy trade after silver pull back-UPDATE 7 04:08 Hours ago
Oil dips in choppy trade after silver pull back-UPDATE 7 04:08 Hours ago: "MARKETS-OIL (UPDATE 7)
* US crude hits falls from highest level since Sept. 2008
* Silver's turn lower bolsters dollar, pressures oil
* Middle East, Nigeria unrest remain supportive to oil
* Coming up: API oil data at 4:30 p.m. EDT Tuesday (Recasts, updates with market activity to settlement)
By Robert Gibbons
NEW YORK, April 25 (Reuters) - Oil prices slipped on Monday in thin, choppy trade as a sell-off in silver from near record highs lifted the dollar off its lows, prompting a bout of profit taking in crude.
Silver surged as much as 8 percent in record volumes for U.S. futures before pulling back sharply when a failure to pierce the all time high from 1980 unleashed a wave of technical selling."
* US crude hits falls from highest level since Sept. 2008
* Silver's turn lower bolsters dollar, pressures oil
* Middle East, Nigeria unrest remain supportive to oil
* Coming up: API oil data at 4:30 p.m. EDT Tuesday (Recasts, updates with market activity to settlement)
By Robert Gibbons
NEW YORK, April 25 (Reuters) - Oil prices slipped on Monday in thin, choppy trade as a sell-off in silver from near record highs lifted the dollar off its lows, prompting a bout of profit taking in crude.
Silver surged as much as 8 percent in record volumes for U.S. futures before pulling back sharply when a failure to pierce the all time high from 1980 unleashed a wave of technical selling."
The Hindu : News / International : America regards ISI as “terrorist” organisation
The Hindu : News / International : America regards ISI as “terrorist” organisation: "Besides the ISI and the Al-Qaeda, the (terrorist) “associations” include the Egyptian Islamic Jihad led by Al-Qaeda's deputy chief Ayman al-Zawahiri; the Sabotage Battalion of Chechen Martyrs ; the Iranian intelligence services; the Hezbollah; the Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood.
Observers said the disclosure that the ISI was seen in Washington as posing the same level of threat as the Al-Qaeda and the Taliban would infuriate Pakistan and was likely to further “damage” the already strained relationship between the two countries.
The document is among more than 700 leaked secret files containing details about the “inner workings” of the Guantanamo Bay detention camp including guidance for American interrogators on how to decide whether to continue to detain or release prisoners, according to The Guardian. The newspaper said though the document dated from 2007 it was “unlikely” the ISI had been removed from the current Threat Indicator Matrix."
Observers said the disclosure that the ISI was seen in Washington as posing the same level of threat as the Al-Qaeda and the Taliban would infuriate Pakistan and was likely to further “damage” the already strained relationship between the two countries.
The document is among more than 700 leaked secret files containing details about the “inner workings” of the Guantanamo Bay detention camp including guidance for American interrogators on how to decide whether to continue to detain or release prisoners, according to The Guardian. The newspaper said though the document dated from 2007 it was “unlikely” the ISI had been removed from the current Threat Indicator Matrix."
9&10 News - Pope calls for end to Libyan armed conflict...Christians mark Easter in Jerusalem
9&10 News - Pope calls for end to Libyan armed conflict...Christians mark Easter in Jerusalem: "VATICAN CITY (AP) — An overflow crowd at St. Peter's Square has heard Pope Benedict call for peace in the Middle East, an end to fighting in Libya and for diplomacy there. Benedict says politics in North Africa and the Middle East should be based on respect for all. Tens of thousands of people attended the open-air, Easter Sunday Mass."
UN rep urged to probe Matuguinao incident | Sun.Star
UN rep urged to probe Matuguinao incident | Sun.Star: "'The CPP called on UN Special Representative Coomaraswamy to look into the particular incident where four siblings were terrorized by soldiers inside their home. The children whose ages range from four to 12 years old were left alone in their house after their father was compelled by the military to attend the anti-NPA meeting,' Valbuena added."
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Jesus Christ - 7 Last Words- Lenten Recollection for Christians
Jesus Christ - 7 Last Words- Lenten Recollection for Christians
pls click slideshare above; presentation last for 30minutes. It is useful for reflective prayer and meditation. If it is helpful to you, pls share. Thanks! God bless!
Friday, April 15, 2011
Filipino Rebels Agree to Stop Using Child Soldiers - NYTimes.com
Filipino Rebels Agree to Stop Using Child Soldiers - NYTimes.com: "MANILA — In what they called a breakthrough in the campaign to remove children from combat in the Philippines, U.N. officials said Friday that Communist rebels had agreed to ensure that there are no minors in their ranks.
At a news briefing, Radhika Coomaraswamy, the U.N. Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict, announced that the National Democratic Front of the Philippines had agreed in principle to cooperate with the United Nations to identify and remove any child combatants from the New People’s Army, the Communist movement’s armed wing, which has waged a guerrilla campaign for the past four decades. The Philippine government has accused the Communists of using child soldiers, but the rebels insist it is their policy not to recruit combatants younger than 18."
At a news briefing, Radhika Coomaraswamy, the U.N. Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict, announced that the National Democratic Front of the Philippines had agreed in principle to cooperate with the United Nations to identify and remove any child combatants from the New People’s Army, the Communist movement’s armed wing, which has waged a guerrilla campaign for the past four decades. The Philippine government has accused the Communists of using child soldiers, but the rebels insist it is their policy not to recruit combatants younger than 18."
Socio-economic reforms pact crucial to peace talk in Philippines: official | Home >> Other Sections >> Breaking News
Socio-economic reforms pact crucial to peace talk in Philippines: official | Home >> Other Sections >> Breaking News: "MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - The Agreement on the Socio-Economic Reforms is crucial to the 24-year-old peace process between the Philippine government and National Democratic Front (NDF) - political wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), as this will strategically address the roots of armed conflict, officials said today.
A statement issued by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) said government panel member Jurgette Honculada and NDF panel vice chair Fidel Agcaoili both agreed that agreement is the 'meat of the peace agreement.'
It is one of three key agreements remaining on the agenda that both parties seek to complete within a period of 18 months to three years. The other two include the Agreement on Political and Constitutional Reform, and draft treaty on end of hostilities and disposition of forces.
'It (Agreement on the Socio-Economic Reforms) is intended to address strategic and critical issues that are conflict drivers,' Honculada said, 'We're talking peace but if there's no development, no justice, we are like a noisy gong and a clanging cymbal.'"
A statement issued by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) said government panel member Jurgette Honculada and NDF panel vice chair Fidel Agcaoili both agreed that agreement is the 'meat of the peace agreement.'
It is one of three key agreements remaining on the agenda that both parties seek to complete within a period of 18 months to three years. The other two include the Agreement on Political and Constitutional Reform, and draft treaty on end of hostilities and disposition of forces.
'It (Agreement on the Socio-Economic Reforms) is intended to address strategic and critical issues that are conflict drivers,' Honculada said, 'We're talking peace but if there's no development, no justice, we are like a noisy gong and a clanging cymbal.'"
CLICK WEBSITE FOR THE FULL STORY
Iran: Could the MEK Be Evicted from Camp Ashraf by Iraqi Military? - TIME
Iran: Could the MEK Be Evicted from Camp Ashraf by Iraqi Military? - TIME: "For years, Iraq's increasingly pro-Iranian government has threatened to evict the 3,400 Iranian members of the Mujahedin-e Khalq (MEK), a fiercely anti-Tehran group, from its sprawling former military base at Camp Ashraf, some 40 miles (65 km) from Baghdad, the Iraqi capital, and 50 miles (80 km) from the Iranian border. Despite the heated rhetoric, however, Baghdad has never fully articulated how it will uproot the exiles — who refuse to leave their decades-old enclave — beyond saying it will not forcibly do so. That has now been given the lie, after an Iraqi military raid on the base last week left some 34 people dead and dozens wounded, according to the U.N.
The dead include at least seven women, according to Rupert Colville, spokesman for the U.N. Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. 'Most of those killed appear to have been shot. However, several suffered other types of injuries that would suggest they were hit by vehicles,' he told TIME from Geneva. 'It has been extremely difficult to gain access to the camp, and many details about the exact circumstances surrounding this tragedy remain unknown at this point. The Iraqi authorities and the [MEK] are giving wildly differing accounts.'"
The dead include at least seven women, according to Rupert Colville, spokesman for the U.N. Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. 'Most of those killed appear to have been shot. However, several suffered other types of injuries that would suggest they were hit by vehicles,' he told TIME from Geneva. 'It has been extremely difficult to gain access to the camp, and many details about the exact circumstances surrounding this tragedy remain unknown at this point. The Iraqi authorities and the [MEK] are giving wildly differing accounts.'"
click website for the full story
The goal of terrorism? Sharia law (OneNewsNow.com)
The goal of terrorism? Sharia law (OneNewsNow.com): "'The goal of international terrorism is the imposition of sharia law.'
The former White House advisor explains that most major financial institutions in the world -- such as AIG, Morgan Stanley, and Citibank -- have a sharia-compliance fund where individuals can have their investments go directly to sharia-vetted activities. Under a sharia-compliance fund, he explains, a Muslim must give 2.5 percent of their total net worth annually -- and the funds are directed by sharia-compliance boards that choose where the money goes.
'And those funds are run by sharia-compliance boards, which consist of the most horrible Islamic imam extremists you can imagine,' he added. 'Five or six of them have been bounced off the boards because they went on terror watch lists.'
Morris suggests that the funds are a 'huge financing arm of Hamas and Hezbollah and other terrorist groups.'"
The former White House advisor explains that most major financial institutions in the world -- such as AIG, Morgan Stanley, and Citibank -- have a sharia-compliance fund where individuals can have their investments go directly to sharia-vetted activities. Under a sharia-compliance fund, he explains, a Muslim must give 2.5 percent of their total net worth annually -- and the funds are directed by sharia-compliance boards that choose where the money goes.
'And those funds are run by sharia-compliance boards, which consist of the most horrible Islamic imam extremists you can imagine,' he added. 'Five or six of them have been bounced off the boards because they went on terror watch lists.'
Morris suggests that the funds are a 'huge financing arm of Hamas and Hezbollah and other terrorist groups.'"
Latest escalation in terrorist activities from the Gaza Strip
Latest escalation in terrorist activities from the Gaza Strip: "Latest escalation in terrorist activities from the Gaza Strip
The situation on the ground as of 12:00 hours, April 10, 2011 1
note: click website for more info and updates
Israeli school bus attacked by Hamas with an anti-tank missile
(Photo by Adi Israel, courtesy of NRG)
Overview
1. On the afternoon of April 7, 2011, Hamas fired a guided anti-tank missile at an Israeli school bus in the western Negev. Following that event, over the weekend there was an escalation of approximately 120 rockets and mortar shells fired at Israeli population centers in southern Israel, including Beersheba, Ashdod and Ashqelon, the three largest cities in the south. Eight rockets were intercepted by the Israeli Iron Dome aerial defense system, preventing direct hits on cities in the south (the system is not used to intercept rockets falling in open areas). After a relatively quiet night, intermittent rocket and mortar shell fire attacks continued on April 10."
The situation on the ground as of 12:00 hours, April 10, 2011 1
note: click website for more info and updates
Israeli school bus attacked by Hamas with an anti-tank missile
(Photo by Adi Israel, courtesy of NRG)
Overview
1. On the afternoon of April 7, 2011, Hamas fired a guided anti-tank missile at an Israeli school bus in the western Negev. Following that event, over the weekend there was an escalation of approximately 120 rockets and mortar shells fired at Israeli population centers in southern Israel, including Beersheba, Ashdod and Ashqelon, the three largest cities in the south. Eight rockets were intercepted by the Israeli Iron Dome aerial defense system, preventing direct hits on cities in the south (the system is not used to intercept rockets falling in open areas). After a relatively quiet night, intermittent rocket and mortar shell fire attacks continued on April 10."
Judges Set Schedule and Requirements For Trial Completion « Thomas Lubanga Trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC)
Judges Set Schedule and Requirements For Trial Completion « Thomas Lubanga Trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC): "Thomas Lubanga Dyilo is charged with committing war crimes by enlisting and conscripting children under the age of 15 years and using them in hostilities in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) between September 2002 and August 2003.
The trial, which began on January 26, 2009, has been plagued by delays and very nearly ended before it began when prosecutors refused to turn over potentially exculpatory evidence to the defense. After the trial got back on track, defense counsel charged prosecutors with abuse of process by allegedly presenting false witnesses who claimed they were coached by prosecution intermediaries. The judges interrupted the trial to hear testimony on the abuse of process charge.
After months of testimony, the judges ruled on March 2, 2011 that the case would not be thrown out due to alleged prosecutorial misconduct. They decided the evidence was not sufficient to render a fair trial impossible. A final decision on the abuse of process charge will be made after the close of the case when the judges consider all issues and deliver their final judgment.
The trial chamber scheduled oral arguments for August 25 and 26, 2011"
The trial, which began on January 26, 2009, has been plagued by delays and very nearly ended before it began when prosecutors refused to turn over potentially exculpatory evidence to the defense. After the trial got back on track, defense counsel charged prosecutors with abuse of process by allegedly presenting false witnesses who claimed they were coached by prosecution intermediaries. The judges interrupted the trial to hear testimony on the abuse of process charge.
After months of testimony, the judges ruled on March 2, 2011 that the case would not be thrown out due to alleged prosecutorial misconduct. They decided the evidence was not sufficient to render a fair trial impossible. A final decision on the abuse of process charge will be made after the close of the case when the judges consider all issues and deliver their final judgment.
The trial chamber scheduled oral arguments for August 25 and 26, 2011"
Middle East Update: Protests in Egypt, Syria, Yemen
Middle East Update: Protests in Egypt, Syria, Yemen: "A 'protest phenomenon' has spread throughout Egypt says the New York Times, with insurance employees, factory workers, and students at Cairo University staging protests to call on the authorities to meet their demands.
Protests have even occurred in some of the most repressive Arab countries, including Syria. On Thursday, some two thousand people in small towns near Damascus joined antigovernment protests on Thursday. These are thought to be a prelude to even bigger protests on Friday in Douma, the working-class suburb of Damascus where 15 were killed last week.
According to the New York Times, uniformed security forces were largely absent and those plainclothes officers who were present seemed nervous:
Ammar Abdulhamid, a Syrian novelist and opposition figure who now lives in Maryland and has helped young activists in Syria to organize, said that security forces had largely withdrawn from the towns where the largest protests had taken place."
Protests have even occurred in some of the most repressive Arab countries, including Syria. On Thursday, some two thousand people in small towns near Damascus joined antigovernment protests on Thursday. These are thought to be a prelude to even bigger protests on Friday in Douma, the working-class suburb of Damascus where 15 were killed last week.
According to the New York Times, uniformed security forces were largely absent and those plainclothes officers who were present seemed nervous:
Ammar Abdulhamid, a Syrian novelist and opposition figure who now lives in Maryland and has helped young activists in Syria to organize, said that security forces had largely withdrawn from the towns where the largest protests had taken place."
Libya and Middle East uprising - live updates | World news | guardian.co.uk
Libya and Middle East uprising - live updates | World news | guardian.co.uk: "7.52am: Good morning and welcome to the Guardian's live coverage of events in the Middle East.
With the help of our correspondents in Libya we'll be keeping you up to date with all the latest developments on a day when Barack Obama has signalled the return of America to the forefront of the international effort in Libya. In a joint article written with David Cameron and Nicolas Sarkozy, the three leaders commit their countries to pursue military action until Muammar Gaddafi has been removed. They write:
Our duty and our mandate under UN security council resolution 1973 is to protect civilians, and we are doing that. It is not to remove Gaddafi by force. But it is impossible to imagine a future for Libya with Gaddafi in power. The international criminal court is rightly investigating the crimes committed against civilians and the grievous violations of international law. It is unthinkable that someone who has tried to massacre his own people can play a part in their future government.
In their article the three leaders call the attack on M"
With the help of our correspondents in Libya we'll be keeping you up to date with all the latest developments on a day when Barack Obama has signalled the return of America to the forefront of the international effort in Libya. In a joint article written with David Cameron and Nicolas Sarkozy, the three leaders commit their countries to pursue military action until Muammar Gaddafi has been removed. They write:
Our duty and our mandate under UN security council resolution 1973 is to protect civilians, and we are doing that. It is not to remove Gaddafi by force. But it is impossible to imagine a future for Libya with Gaddafi in power. The international criminal court is rightly investigating the crimes committed against civilians and the grievous violations of international law. It is unthinkable that someone who has tried to massacre his own people can play a part in their future government.
In their article the three leaders call the attack on M"
750 Women Go Nude in Protest
750 Women Go Nude in Protest: "750 Women Go Nude in Protest
HUNDREDS of women bared all today in a visual anti-war demonstration on a hillside near the northern NSW beach town of Byron Bay.
750 nude women form a heart around the words 'No War' on a hillside near the town of Byron bay, 700 kilometers (435 miles) north of Sydney, Australia, Saturday, Feb. 8, 2003. The women said they wanted to send Prime Minister John Howard a message to recall Australian troops from the middle east. (AP Photo/Icon Images)
More than 750 female protesters shed their clothing during the protest, lying naked end to end on a grassy knoll on a private property, to form a heart shape around the words 'No War' for an aerial photograph.
Australia has sent troops and approved an RAAF fighter squadron deployment to join US and British forces in the Gulf preparing for a possible war in Iraq.
But it has yet to publicly commit itself to joining any UN-approved or US-led military action in Iraq.
Today's larger-than-expected turnout for the 'Disrobe to Disarm', prompted by a similar protest in the US, even surprised organisers."
HUNDREDS of women bared all today in a visual anti-war demonstration on a hillside near the northern NSW beach town of Byron Bay.
750 nude women form a heart around the words 'No War' on a hillside near the town of Byron bay, 700 kilometers (435 miles) north of Sydney, Australia, Saturday, Feb. 8, 2003. The women said they wanted to send Prime Minister John Howard a message to recall Australian troops from the middle east. (AP Photo/Icon Images)
More than 750 female protesters shed their clothing during the protest, lying naked end to end on a grassy knoll on a private property, to form a heart shape around the words 'No War' for an aerial photograph.
Australia has sent troops and approved an RAAF fighter squadron deployment to join US and British forces in the Gulf preparing for a possible war in Iraq.
But it has yet to publicly commit itself to joining any UN-approved or US-led military action in Iraq.
Today's larger-than-expected turnout for the 'Disrobe to Disarm', prompted by a similar protest in the US, even surprised organisers."
Anti-War Couple Conceive New Way to Generate Peace
Anti-War Couple Conceive New Way to Generate Peace: "Anti-War Couple Conceive New Way to Generate Peace
by Joe Garofoli
Living on their houseboat off the Marin County coast, anti-war activists Donna Sheehan and her partner, Paul Reffel, concocted a way for the world to communally create a lot of peaceful vibes.
They want everyone to have an orgasm on the same day.
Donna Sheehan and Paul Reffel flash the secret Global Orgasm for Peace (GOP) sign as they stand on the deck of their home in Marshall. They say participants shouldn't worry if they don't have partners. Chronicle photo by Chris Stewart
On Dec. 22, they're asking the world to contribute to the Global Orgasm for Peace. Sheehan said not to worry if you don't have a partner.
Busy multitaskers shouldn't despair about trying to cram this global activism into their busy schedules, either, she said. Take any time during the 24-hour period at the beginning of the winter solstice to join the demonstration. Just make sure to think of peace before or after participating."
by Joe Garofoli
Living on their houseboat off the Marin County coast, anti-war activists Donna Sheehan and her partner, Paul Reffel, concocted a way for the world to communally create a lot of peaceful vibes.
They want everyone to have an orgasm on the same day.
Donna Sheehan and Paul Reffel flash the secret Global Orgasm for Peace (GOP) sign as they stand on the deck of their home in Marshall. They say participants shouldn't worry if they don't have partners. Chronicle photo by Chris Stewart
On Dec. 22, they're asking the world to contribute to the Global Orgasm for Peace. Sheehan said not to worry if you don't have a partner.
Busy multitaskers shouldn't despair about trying to cram this global activism into their busy schedules, either, she said. Take any time during the 24-hour period at the beginning of the winter solstice to join the demonstration. Just make sure to think of peace before or after participating."
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