AQAP is still causing problems in Yemen. Two suicide bombers blew themselves up in Abyan province, and a military camp was attacked too. You may remember that AQAP and possibly another group took over part of Abyan and are calling it an Islamic emirate now. The Yemeni military is fighting back, near Zinjubar.
The Yemeni PM just returned from Saudi Arabia, where he had medical treatment. He was injured during an assassination attempt on President Saleh, when the presidential palace was bombed in June. Also, the head of the Shura Council just died from injuries from that June bombing. The government is now blaming the attack on two of the opposition leaders.
The Yemen Observer reports that the FBI may be re-opening 9/11 investigations to see what part Anwar Al-Awlaki played in them. They cite a Fox News article which says that the US House of Representatives Homeland Security Committee is interested in Al-Awlaki. In May of this year, Fox News reported that Al-Awlaki was a key player in 9/11. This is interesting. I haven't really heard anything about this, except on Fox News, which is a right-wing, conservative news source. If I was a conspiracy nut, I'd say that someone is laying the ground work for a US invasion of Yemen. Since I'm not a conspiracy nut, I'll just say that it makes me suspicious. It wouldn't surprise me in the least to find out that Al-Awlaki was involved in 9/11. But the timing, as Yemen is disintegrating, and AQAP is going strong, and we approach the 10th anniversary of 9/11, is suspicious to me.
Tribesmen stopped a military shipment of Russian tanks from reaching Sana'a over the weekend.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Ramadan in America
You may have seen this already, but I thought it worth mentioning. A Muslim teenager in Florida is observing Ramadan while he practices football. And it is very hot and humid in Florida. It would be really easy to either give up football or simply not observe Ramadan, but he's choosing to do both.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Top Stories August 22, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): Libya rebels in Tripoli, Qaddafi defenses collapse - Looks like the rebels have finally gotten into Tripoli. Here's hoping for a Free Libya!
Lebanon Daily Star: Libyan rebels enter Tripoli, arrest Gadhafi's son - Hopefully Qaddafi is next, inshallah.
Haaretz (Israel): Libya rebels: Two of Gadhafi's sons captured, presidential guard surrenders - Everyone is watching Libya tonight!
Turkish Daily News: Libya rebels launch final push to oust Gadhafi - More news on Libya.
Good luck to the people of Libya, and to their future.
Lebanon Daily Star: Libyan rebels enter Tripoli, arrest Gadhafi's son - Hopefully Qaddafi is next, inshallah.
Haaretz (Israel): Libya rebels: Two of Gadhafi's sons captured, presidential guard surrenders - Everyone is watching Libya tonight!
Turkish Daily News: Libya rebels launch final push to oust Gadhafi - More news on Libya.
Good luck to the people of Libya, and to their future.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Busy
Hello everyone. I'm still here, just incredibly busy. I've barely been keeping up with Monday Top Stories (and obviously missed this week). I'm taking a break now, before school starts at the end of August, but I should be back then.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Top Stories July 25, 2011
ArabNew (Saudi Arabia): King orders best service for pilgrims in Ramadan - Government will be operating at its best for the pilgrimage. Also other news about food aid to Somalia, etc.
Lebanon Daily Star: Sleiman endorses civil personal status laws - Sleiman wants to legalize civil marriages, as well as issues on adoption and inheritance.
Haaretz (Israel): Some 200 housing protestors block road opposite Netanyahu's residence in Jerusalem - Looks like everybody is upset in Israel over housing prices, etc.
Turkish Daily News: Turkish court sentences Dink murderer to over 22 years in prison - Hrant Dink was a journalist assassinated in 2007.
Lebanon Daily Star: Sleiman endorses civil personal status laws - Sleiman wants to legalize civil marriages, as well as issues on adoption and inheritance.
Haaretz (Israel): Some 200 housing protestors block road opposite Netanyahu's residence in Jerusalem - Looks like everybody is upset in Israel over housing prices, etc.
Turkish Daily News: Turkish court sentences Dink murderer to over 22 years in prison - Hrant Dink was a journalist assassinated in 2007.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Top Stories July 18, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): Government forces try to retake Yemeni city - They're trying to retake Zinjibar, which is the capital of Abyan province. The government lost the city in May. Over 50,000 people have fled the region because of fighting.
Lebanon Daily Star: Sleiman seeks Lebanese reconciliation - The president of Lebanon wants a national dialogue.
Haaretz (Israel): Erekat: PA planning 'massive' diplomatic push for recognition - The push has started, with officials visiting nations all over the world.
Turkish Daily News: US supports Turkey while urging reforms - US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton visited, and discussed freedom of speech and freedom of the press.
Lebanon Daily Star: Sleiman seeks Lebanese reconciliation - The president of Lebanon wants a national dialogue.
Haaretz (Israel): Erekat: PA planning 'massive' diplomatic push for recognition - The push has started, with officials visiting nations all over the world.
Turkish Daily News: US supports Turkey while urging reforms - US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton visited, and discussed freedom of speech and freedom of the press.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
More Islamophobia in America
Most of you probably haven't heard of Herman Cain. He's a republican, and a black man, who is running for President of the USA. And the more I find out about him, the less I like him. Now he's saying that communities in the US should be able to ban mosques if they want to. He claims it's because Islam is not just a religion, but a set of laws as well. Although, so is Christianity and Judaism. He claims it's different in Christianity. However, since there are Orthodox Jews in this country, would he be alright with communities banning synagogues? Or is that different too? Is it only Islam that qualifies? What about Pentecostal Christians? They have different rules they follow too, like women wearing skirts and not cutting their hair. Does that qualify for banning? Who gets to decide what gets banned?
This kind of bullshit really ticks me off. Yes, there are terrorists out there. Yes, some of them are Muslim. Banning mosques gives the terrorists even more fodder - "Look at the Americans - they hate Islam, they ban mosques, yadda yadda yadda."
If we're going to ban mosques because some Muslims are terrorists, then why don't we allow communities to ban churches, because some Christians are terrorists? There are extreme Christians who bomb abortion clinics and kill doctors who perform abortions. Or is that not true Christianity? The same way terrorism is not true Islam.
There's a reason we have Freedom of Religion in America. That way no one gets to choose who to ban.
This kind of bullshit really ticks me off. Yes, there are terrorists out there. Yes, some of them are Muslim. Banning mosques gives the terrorists even more fodder - "Look at the Americans - they hate Islam, they ban mosques, yadda yadda yadda."
If we're going to ban mosques because some Muslims are terrorists, then why don't we allow communities to ban churches, because some Christians are terrorists? There are extreme Christians who bomb abortion clinics and kill doctors who perform abortions. Or is that not true Christianity? The same way terrorism is not true Islam.
There's a reason we have Freedom of Religion in America. That way no one gets to choose who to ban.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Turkey Helps Kids Stay Healthy
I'm in the United States, and sometimes I watch a show called Food Revolution (by Jamie Oliver). He's a British chef who is trying to improve children's lunch menus at schools. He's already done that in the UK, and now he's trying it in the US. People from outside of the US probably won't believe what often passes for food in school cafeterias here!
Anyway, the Turkish government wants to stop childhood obesity, so they are making it illegal to sell sodas, fast food, and potato chips at schools. They'll sell yogurt instead. They also have new menus. I think that's great!
Anyway, the Turkish government wants to stop childhood obesity, so they are making it illegal to sell sodas, fast food, and potato chips at schools. They'll sell yogurt instead. They also have new menus. I think that's great!
Top Stories July 11, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): Unholy price rise before holy month hits consumers hard - Consumers in Jeddah are complaining that prices have risen 20 to 30% and that it happens every year around this time (before Ramadan).
Lebanon Daily Star: Lebanon to fight Israel at U.N. - This has to do with offshore oil rights for both countries. They have both submitted plans to the UN.
Haaretz (Israel): Katsav's private investigators suspected of harassing witnesses in his rape trial - This former president was convicted of rape and sexual assault in December.
Turkish Daily News: Former head of Turkey's TV watchdog arrested - He and several TV executives are accused of embezzling money from a German charity and using it to buy a TV station.
Lebanon Daily Star: Lebanon to fight Israel at U.N. - This has to do with offshore oil rights for both countries. They have both submitted plans to the UN.
Haaretz (Israel): Katsav's private investigators suspected of harassing witnesses in his rape trial - This former president was convicted of rape and sexual assault in December.
Turkish Daily News: Former head of Turkey's TV watchdog arrested - He and several TV executives are accused of embezzling money from a German charity and using it to buy a TV station.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Anti-Muslim Law in Australia
Anti-Muslim prejudice is on the move again, this time to Australia. The state of New South Wales wants to pass a law requiring a Muslim woman to show her face to police, when requested. If she doesn't, there's a $5,500 fine (AUD) and a year in jail.
Great. So much for religious freedom in Australia. This is the same old tune that other countries have used: "it's for security" or "it's because women are forced to wear a veil." There are very few woman in Australia who wear a niqab or other face covering, and while some of those may be forced, it wouldn't surprise me if most of them were not. And if you are wearing a niqab for religious reasons, then showing your face to some random policeman is going to be very distressing. To use an analogy, how would you feel if a policeman pulled your wife over for speeding, then asked her to take off her blouse. I know some of you think that's a bad analogy (it has some faults) but for some Muslim women I've met, the idea of letting a man see their face is about on par with that. And who are we to force them to act differently?
Great. So much for religious freedom in Australia. This is the same old tune that other countries have used: "it's for security" or "it's because women are forced to wear a veil." There are very few woman in Australia who wear a niqab or other face covering, and while some of those may be forced, it wouldn't surprise me if most of them were not. And if you are wearing a niqab for religious reasons, then showing your face to some random policeman is going to be very distressing. To use an analogy, how would you feel if a policeman pulled your wife over for speeding, then asked her to take off her blouse. I know some of you think that's a bad analogy (it has some faults) but for some Muslim women I've met, the idea of letting a man see their face is about on par with that. And who are we to force them to act differently?
Monday, July 4, 2011
Top Stories July 4, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): Turkey recognizes Libya rebels, promises more aid - Turkey has recognized the rebels and wants to help them.
Lebanon Daily Star: March 14 to Mikati: Commit to STL or go - The STL is the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, a UN council investigating Rafik Hariri's assassination. March 14 is the opposition members of parliament now, since Mikati became PM with Hizbollah's majority.
Haaretz (Israel): Saboteurs blow up Egypt gas pipeline to Israel - Israel gets most of its natural gas from this pipeline, which runs through the Sinai Peninsula.
Turkish Daily News: US Senators deliver message to PM Erdogan: 'Turkey can convince Hamas to reconcile' - The senators hope that Turkey can get Hamas to join peace talks with the Israelis.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain) - Probe Vow - An "independent fact-finding mission" is supposed to investigate the protests and unrest that occurred earlier this year. The commission was appointed by the king, and the PM wants everyone to cooperate. The National Dialogue started on Saturday.
Lebanon Daily Star: March 14 to Mikati: Commit to STL or go - The STL is the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, a UN council investigating Rafik Hariri's assassination. March 14 is the opposition members of parliament now, since Mikati became PM with Hizbollah's majority.
Haaretz (Israel): Saboteurs blow up Egypt gas pipeline to Israel - Israel gets most of its natural gas from this pipeline, which runs through the Sinai Peninsula.
Turkish Daily News: US Senators deliver message to PM Erdogan: 'Turkey can convince Hamas to reconcile' - The senators hope that Turkey can get Hamas to join peace talks with the Israelis.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain) - Probe Vow - An "independent fact-finding mission" is supposed to investigate the protests and unrest that occurred earlier this year. The commission was appointed by the king, and the PM wants everyone to cooperate. The National Dialogue started on Saturday.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Women's News June 24, 2011 - UPDATE
The American Muslim woman weightlifter who wanted to compete in hijab has won her appeal. The International Weighlifting Federation decided than she can compete in hijab and full unitard.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
New Gaza Flotilla!
A flotilla has been preparing in Greece for a trip to Gaza. Israel, of course, is trying to stop it. The latest news is that some of the ships have been sabotaged.
Check out this quote:
Apparently the UK disagrees with that, although they don't recommend a flotilla.
Check out this quote:
Chief of Staff Benny Gantz said yesterday the flotilla was reinforcing the fiction that there was hunger in the Strip, while in fact this was not the case. "The flotilla we're supposed to meet is creating a story that doesn't exist to maintain an actual story," Gantz said. "Anyone reading the papers will see that, at the end of the day, the situation reflected in Gaza is that of water parks and the beach, and the distance between that and a humanitarian problem is so great there isn't any connection."
Apparently the UK disagrees with that, although they don't recommend a flotilla.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Top Stories June 27, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): Intl court orders arrest of Qaddafi, son, key aide - The ICC is finally after Qaddafi.
Lebanon Daily Star: Dissidents openly call for democracy at Damascus meeting - Syrian dissidents held a public meeting for democracy.
Haaretz (Israel): Israel detains Palestinian terror cell suspected of planning attacks in Jerusalem - A group belonging to the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine was arrested. They were planning some attacks in Jerusalem and were going to kidnap a soldier.
Turkish Daily News: International Criminal Court issues arrest warrant for Gadhafi - More info on the ICC's decision.
Lebanon Daily Star: Dissidents openly call for democracy at Damascus meeting - Syrian dissidents held a public meeting for democracy.
Haaretz (Israel): Israel detains Palestinian terror cell suspected of planning attacks in Jerusalem - A group belonging to the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine was arrested. They were planning some attacks in Jerusalem and were going to kidnap a soldier.
Turkish Daily News: International Criminal Court issues arrest warrant for Gadhafi - More info on the ICC's decision.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Women's News June 24, 2011
I've posted before about the plight of Asian workers in the Middle East (and elsewhere) who are mistreated. You may remember that Saudi Arabia has really had some problems with mistreating house maids. Well, now they've executed a house maid from Indonesia, who killed her abusive employer. Indonesia is livid and recalled their ambassador, because they were not informed, and have decided not to allow any more workers to go to Saudi Arabia. The suspension starts August 1st. There are currently 28 Indonesians on death row in Saudi Arabia.
The Women2Drive campaign is under way in Saudi Arabia. Women are driving and posting photos of it online. You can support them at their Facebook page.
The first woman priest in the Middle East was ordained in Bahrain this month. She's an Anglican who used to work in Yemen, but is currently posted in Dubai. Apparently Bahrain is the "cathedral of the Gulf," which is why the ceremony was there.
The Women2Drive campaign is under way in Saudi Arabia. Women are driving and posting photos of it online. You can support them at their Facebook page.
The first woman priest in the Middle East was ordained in Bahrain this month. She's an Anglican who used to work in Yemen, but is currently posted in Dubai. Apparently Bahrain is the "cathedral of the Gulf," which is why the ceremony was there.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Top Stories June 20, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): Syrian president blames crisis on 'saboteurs' - President Assad gave a speech warning about "no reform through vandalism."
Lebanon Daily Star: Assad outlines roadmap to Syria reform - There may be elections in August.
Haaretz (Israel): Assad promises elections, complete reform package in Syria within months - Yes, more on the Assad speech.
Turkish Daily News: Assad announces 'national dialogue' in Syria - And it's officially an all-Assad news day! Protesters are using "illegal means" for their demands. Assad offered condolences for the deaths that have occurred. I guess these deaths were spontaneous and not caused by his army.
Lebanon Daily Star: Assad outlines roadmap to Syria reform - There may be elections in August.
Haaretz (Israel): Assad promises elections, complete reform package in Syria within months - Yes, more on the Assad speech.
Turkish Daily News: Assad announces 'national dialogue' in Syria - And it's officially an all-Assad news day! Protesters are using "illegal means" for their demands. Assad offered condolences for the deaths that have occurred. I guess these deaths were spontaneous and not caused by his army.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Women's News June 14, 2011
Quite a bit has been happening lately.
Bahraini woman Ayat al-Qurmezi has been sentenced to jail time for writing and reading poetry that "incited hatred against the regime."
A Kuwaiti woman who burned down her husband's wedding tent when he tried to marry a second wife, which killed 57 women and children, has been sentenced to death.
A Pakistani-American who became a weight-lifter is trying to get permission to compete in the hijab. Weight-lifters usually wear form-fitting clothing, but she can't, for religious reasons.
In a previous post I discussed how Muslim women are trying to compete in beauty pageants and I mentioned Miss Turkey and a woman who hopes to be Miss UK. I just wanted to point out that the current Miss USA is a Muslim woman originally from Lebanon.
Bahraini woman Ayat al-Qurmezi has been sentenced to jail time for writing and reading poetry that "incited hatred against the regime."
A Kuwaiti woman who burned down her husband's wedding tent when he tried to marry a second wife, which killed 57 women and children, has been sentenced to death.
A Pakistani-American who became a weight-lifter is trying to get permission to compete in the hijab. Weight-lifters usually wear form-fitting clothing, but she can't, for religious reasons.
In a previous post I discussed how Muslim women are trying to compete in beauty pageants and I mentioned Miss Turkey and a woman who hopes to be Miss UK. I just wanted to point out that the current Miss USA is a Muslim woman originally from Lebanon.
Women's News May 23, 2011 - UPDATE
One of the articles I linked to was about a lesbian woman from Syria and her blog, called A Gay Girl in Damascus. As is often the way of the Internet, it's a fake. The real blogger is 40, American, male, and lives in Scotland. Personally, I'm really let down by this. The man claims he was trying to raise awareness for the Middle East, but in the process he's hurt the LGBT community. Now the next homosexual Middle East blogger will be treated with much more suspicion and people will wonder if it's really that bad over there.
Top Stories June 13, 2011
Arab News (Saudi Arabia): As Libya burns, Qaddafi plays chess - with the head of the World Chess Federation, who is Russian.
Lebanon Daily Star: Mikati forms 30-member Lebanon Cabinet - The majority is held by the March 8 coalition, fronted by Hizbollah.
Haaretz (Israel): Father of alleged Israeli spy in Egypt says son entered country legally - The 28-year-old man is a student at Emory University in the US, studying law.
Turkish Daily News: Turkish PM Erdogan rolls up sleeves for new term - In elections yesterday, the AKP (Justice and Development Party) won a majority of votes.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Dialogue Roadmap - A "multi-party national dialogue" is supposed to start on July 1st. Very little news on the protest that took place over the weekend.
Lebanon Daily Star: Mikati forms 30-member Lebanon Cabinet - The majority is held by the March 8 coalition, fronted by Hizbollah.
Haaretz (Israel): Father of alleged Israeli spy in Egypt says son entered country legally - The 28-year-old man is a student at Emory University in the US, studying law.
Turkish Daily News: Turkish PM Erdogan rolls up sleeves for new term - In elections yesterday, the AKP (Justice and Development Party) won a majority of votes.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Dialogue Roadmap - A "multi-party national dialogue" is supposed to start on July 1st. Very little news on the protest that took place over the weekend.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Top Stories June 6, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): We are laboratory of knowledge, not gas station of world: Alireza - The Commerce and Industry Minister doesn't want the Kingdom to simply be a gas station. He was at a meeting of the Saudi-British Joint Business Council.
Lebanon Daily Star: Israeli Carnage in Golan Heights - Pro-Palestinian protesters from Syria tried to cross the border and were stopped by Israel. Israel blames Syria, while Syria says it was not responsible.
Haaretz (Israel): IDF: Only a few live bullets fired during Naksa Day protest on Syria border - Syria says 23 protesters were killed. The IDF says Molotov cocktails from the protesters set off a mine.
Turkish Daily News: Bootlegged alcohol claims fourth victim - A fourth Russian tourist has died after drinking bootlegged alcohol.
Lebanon Daily Star: Israeli Carnage in Golan Heights - Pro-Palestinian protesters from Syria tried to cross the border and were stopped by Israel. Israel blames Syria, while Syria says it was not responsible.
Haaretz (Israel): IDF: Only a few live bullets fired during Naksa Day protest on Syria border - Syria says 23 protesters were killed. The IDF says Molotov cocktails from the protesters set off a mine.
Turkish Daily News: Bootlegged alcohol claims fourth victim - A fourth Russian tourist has died after drinking bootlegged alcohol.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Saleh in Saudi
President Saleh of Yemen was injured yesterday, and is now in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) for treatment. Some of his relatives went with him, which is causing rumors that maybe he won't be going back.
The Yemen Post website appears to be suspended, and many of the other news sites haven't updated in a few days.
The Yemen Post website appears to be suspended, and many of the other news sites haven't updated in a few days.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Yemen Fighting Still
Yemen is really disintegrating. Things were a bit on edge before the "Arab Spring" started, and now it seems to be civil war between Saleh's tribe/clan and the Al-Ahmer clan (Hashid confederation). There's fighting in Sana'a (which briefly shut down the airport) and in Ta'iz. Apparently the military is using tanks and cannon in Sana'a, trying to take back government offices taken by the Al-Ahmer group.
And, of course, all the "infighting" helps AQAP. They just took the seaport of Maqateen, in Shoqra city, Abyan province. Parts of Abyan have been taken over by Islamists, and a city in Shabwa province was declared an "Islamic emirate."
And, of course, all the "infighting" helps AQAP. They just took the seaport of Maqateen, in Shoqra city, Abyan province. Parts of Abyan have been taken over by Islamists, and a city in Shabwa province was declared an "Islamic emirate."
Monday, May 30, 2011
Top Stories May 30, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): Yemeni troops fire on protesters, kill at least 20 - Government forces attacked a protest camp with tanks and bulldozers.
Lebanon Daily Star: Sleiman orders Justice Ministry to take legal action against Rifi - Sleiman is the president, Rifi is chief of the Internal Security Forces. The issue at hand involves the Telecom Minister, who was barred from one of his own buildings. I'm not sure of the political background to this.
Haaretz (Israel): Turkey FM: We can't stop upcoming aid flotilla to Gaza - According to the foreign minister "Democratic governments cannot stop their citizens launching another aid flotilla to Gaza." It will be interesting to see how this one turns out.
Turkish Daily News: Turkey's 1980 coup leaders called to testify - Turkey passed a constitutional amendment last year so that they can prosecute the coup leaders. Huge numbers of people were arrested during the coup and many more fled Turkey as well.
Lebanon Daily Star: Sleiman orders Justice Ministry to take legal action against Rifi - Sleiman is the president, Rifi is chief of the Internal Security Forces. The issue at hand involves the Telecom Minister, who was barred from one of his own buildings. I'm not sure of the political background to this.
Haaretz (Israel): Turkey FM: We can't stop upcoming aid flotilla to Gaza - According to the foreign minister "Democratic governments cannot stop their citizens launching another aid flotilla to Gaza." It will be interesting to see how this one turns out.
Turkish Daily News: Turkey's 1980 coup leaders called to testify - Turkey passed a constitutional amendment last year so that they can prosecute the coup leaders. Huge numbers of people were arrested during the coup and many more fled Turkey as well.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
YemenWatch: Thursday May 26, 2011 (in brief)
BBC News has a good overview about the problems Yemen is facing. And the US is pulling most of its diplomats from Yemen.
And of course, more fighting means more deaths, many of them in Sana'a, leading many to wonder if this is basically turning into a civil war now.
President Saleh is trying to arrest Sheikh Sadiq al-Ahmer of the Hashid tribe, who are opposing him.
The Yemeni government attacked and shut down the Suhail TV channel, owned by al-Ahmer's brother, last night. They also attacked al-Sahwa newspaper, owned by the Islah party.
And of course, more fighting means more deaths, many of them in Sana'a, leading many to wonder if this is basically turning into a civil war now.
President Saleh is trying to arrest Sheikh Sadiq al-Ahmer of the Hashid tribe, who are opposing him.
The Yemeni government attacked and shut down the Suhail TV channel, owned by al-Ahmer's brother, last night. They also attacked al-Sahwa newspaper, owned by the Islah party.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Yemen Fighting
Yemen is still in limbo. President Saleh is refusing to step down, and his supporters trapped some foreign ambassadors at an embassy in Sana'a. That set off fighting with anti-Saleh forces, and it's a real mess right now. I'll try to have a real YemenWatch update soon.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Women's News May 23, 2011
Just a short one for today.
A Saudi woman who posted video of herself driving has been arrested. Actually, re-arrested. And the Facebook page for women driving in the Kingdom and a Twitter account, are both gone. A few other women who dared to drive were also arrested. I guess if women are allowed to drive then you simply won't be able to keep an eye on them all the time. And who knows what those crazy women might get up to without a man to control their every move! (sarcasm)
A Syrian-American women in Damascus, who is also a lesbian, has started a blog about her experiences. She was in hiding from the police for a while, and may still be in hiding. You can read her blog here: A Gay Girl in Damascus.
Good Luck to all of these women!
A Saudi woman who posted video of herself driving has been arrested. Actually, re-arrested. And the Facebook page for women driving in the Kingdom and a Twitter account, are both gone. A few other women who dared to drive were also arrested. I guess if women are allowed to drive then you simply won't be able to keep an eye on them all the time. And who knows what those crazy women might get up to without a man to control their every move! (sarcasm)
A Syrian-American women in Damascus, who is also a lesbian, has started a blog about her experiences. She was in hiding from the police for a while, and may still be in hiding. You can read her blog here: A Gay Girl in Damascus.
Good Luck to all of these women!
Top Stories May 23, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): Spain's Socialists trounced amid economic woes - The Socialists have been in charge for 8 years, and now conservatives are making a comeback.
Lebanon Daily Star: Lebanese business makes up 35 percent of Ivory Coast economy - The problems in Ivory Coast mean that some Lebanese have left the country, which hurts the economy even more.
Haaretz (Israel): Barak: Israel and U.S. must put differences aside and move forward - Israel is worried about a political "tsunami" if Palestine declares itself a state in September. Barak wants the US to support Israel.
Turkish Daily News: Top Turkish parties trade places on Kurdish question - Politics is a strange beast. And it's only three weeks till the elections in Turkey.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Priority for vital services - The Prime Minister is focusing on "infrastructure and service schemes crucial to citizens."
Lebanon Daily Star: Lebanese business makes up 35 percent of Ivory Coast economy - The problems in Ivory Coast mean that some Lebanese have left the country, which hurts the economy even more.
Haaretz (Israel): Barak: Israel and U.S. must put differences aside and move forward - Israel is worried about a political "tsunami" if Palestine declares itself a state in September. Barak wants the US to support Israel.
Turkish Daily News: Top Turkish parties trade places on Kurdish question - Politics is a strange beast. And it's only three weeks till the elections in Turkey.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Priority for vital services - The Prime Minister is focusing on "infrastructure and service schemes crucial to citizens."
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Monday, May 2, 2011
Top Stories May 2, 2011
Osama bin Laden is dead.
I think that's enough of a story for today. Below are direct links to coverage of this story:
ArabNews (Saudi)
Lebanon Daily Star
Haaretz (Israel)
Turkish Daily News
Times of Oman
I think that's enough of a story for today. Below are direct links to coverage of this story:
ArabNews (Saudi)
Lebanon Daily Star
Haaretz (Israel)
Turkish Daily News
Times of Oman
Monday, April 25, 2011
Bad Advertising
I realize that some of the ads on this site are strange or even offensive. I am trying to change that. Unfortunately, if you use Google AdSense and have topics like Middle East or Israel or Palestine, you often get advertisements like "Save Israel from the evil Palestinians," etc. My apologies.
Women's News April 25, 2011
A Muslim woman may be representing the UK in the Miss Universe contest. And she's getting some flack for doing it too. Here are some comments condemning and supporting her.
What I find ironic, is compare those Muslim reactions in the UK to this American commercial featuring Miss Turkey. It wouldn't surprise me if many Americans were confused by this, because they think of Turkey as a Muslim country, whereas it's really more of a secular country.
Neat article about Emirati women at a university in Sharjah (UAE) who attended a conference discussing all sorts of topics that you don't think would normally be discussed: mental health, suicide, divorce, substance abuse, etc.
What I find ironic, is compare those Muslim reactions in the UK to this American commercial featuring Miss Turkey. It wouldn't surprise me if many Americans were confused by this, because they think of Turkey as a Muslim country, whereas it's really more of a secular country.
Neat article about Emirati women at a university in Sharjah (UAE) who attended a conference discussing all sorts of topics that you don't think would normally be discussed: mental health, suicide, divorce, substance abuse, etc.
Top Stories April 25, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): Strike on Qaddafi compound badly damages buildings - NATO air strikes hit the compound. No word on Qaddafi's whereabouts.
Lebanon Daily Star: Bodies on streets as Syrian army storms Daraa - Security forces are shooting first in Daraa and other towns. They even laid siege to a mosque.
Haaretz (Israel): At least 18 said killed as Syrian forces in tanks, APCs fire on protesters - Syria has also closed border crossings with Jordan. There appears to be some kind of "major security operation" taking place. The US may start sanctions against Syria.
Turkish Daily News: Bodies in streets as Syrian troops sweep into Daraa - The situation is very bad there.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Powering Ahead! - More infrastructure projects are being built. Let's not talk about any protests or unrest. Instead we'll have a patriotic celebration.
Lebanon Daily Star: Bodies on streets as Syrian army storms Daraa - Security forces are shooting first in Daraa and other towns. They even laid siege to a mosque.
Haaretz (Israel): At least 18 said killed as Syrian forces in tanks, APCs fire on protesters - Syria has also closed border crossings with Jordan. There appears to be some kind of "major security operation" taking place. The US may start sanctions against Syria.
Turkish Daily News: Bodies in streets as Syrian troops sweep into Daraa - The situation is very bad there.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Powering Ahead! - More infrastructure projects are being built. Let's not talk about any protests or unrest. Instead we'll have a patriotic celebration.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
YemenWatch: Saturday April 23, 2011
Wow. I may not have been posting, but I have been paying attention to what's happening in Yemen. The latest is President Saleh saying that he'll step down in 30 days. This is a deal by GCC mediators so that Saleh won't be prosecuted.
First of all, I'll believe it when I see it. Saleh has been in power a long time. But he is getting older so maybe he'd like to retire somewhere with a lot of money. Second, I'm really worried about what's going to happen to Yemen post-Saleh. The Houthis in the north would love to break off from Yemen. The Separatists in the south are still fighting over the Yemeni union. And AQAP is in the middle, glorying in all the chaos. Keep the Yemeni people in your prayers.
First of all, I'll believe it when I see it. Saleh has been in power a long time. But he is getting older so maybe he'd like to retire somewhere with a lot of money. Second, I'm really worried about what's going to happen to Yemen post-Saleh. The Houthis in the north would love to break off from Yemen. The Separatists in the south are still fighting over the Yemeni union. And AQAP is in the middle, glorying in all the chaos. Keep the Yemeni people in your prayers.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Greg Mortenson a Fraud?
Greg Mortenson is the author of Three Cups of Tea, a great book about how he started building schools in Afghanistan and Pakistan. I read the book in 2008 and was really inspired by someone who was actually on the ground in Pakistan, making a difference for children and upholding a tradition of soft power - cultural diplomacy.
Well, the American show 60 Minutes did an expose on him on TV last night, and it looks like some of his stories are outright lies and a lot of the money his organization received has been mismanaged if not just ripped off. I can't tell you how disappointed I am. It's so hard to find real heroes in this world when more and more of them turn out to be liars and frauds.
Well, the American show 60 Minutes did an expose on him on TV last night, and it looks like some of his stories are outright lies and a lot of the money his organization received has been mismanaged if not just ripped off. I can't tell you how disappointed I am. It's so hard to find real heroes in this world when more and more of them turn out to be liars and frauds.
Top Stories April 18, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): Iran figures in Ashton talks - Catherine Ashton is the foreign policy chief for the European Union. She is visiting the GCC in Riyadh.
Lebanon Daily Star: Citigroup outlook on Lebanon mixed - Citigroup's take on the finance sector in Lebanon.
Haaretz (Israel): IDF chief: Every effort being made to bring Gilad Shalit home - Shalit is a soldier who was kidnapped or captured (depending upon your point of view) by Palestinians about 5 years ago.
Turkish Daily News: Turkey's BDP threatens election boycott - The BDP is the pro-Kurdish Peace and Democracy Party. Some of their candidates have been banned from the election, so they may boycott.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): The day of reckoning - The government is upset that the trade sector didn't come out against the protests.
Lebanon Daily Star: Citigroup outlook on Lebanon mixed - Citigroup's take on the finance sector in Lebanon.
Haaretz (Israel): IDF chief: Every effort being made to bring Gilad Shalit home - Shalit is a soldier who was kidnapped or captured (depending upon your point of view) by Palestinians about 5 years ago.
Turkish Daily News: Turkey's BDP threatens election boycott - The BDP is the pro-Kurdish Peace and Democracy Party. Some of their candidates have been banned from the election, so they may boycott.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): The day of reckoning - The government is upset that the trade sector didn't come out against the protests.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Top Stories April 11, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): Time to go, GCC tells Yemen ruler - Wow. That's pretty bad when your fellow potentates decide the situation is so bad that you had better leave!
Lebanon Daily Star: Parties agree on draft Cabinet lineup - Mikati may actually have a government soon.
Haaretz (Israel): IDF refrains from response to Gaza rocket fire as border violence cools - A sort of ceasefire may be starting.
Turkish Daily News: Envoy asks Turkey to convince Hamas - Fatah wants Turkey to convince Hamas to create a unity government for Palestine.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Buildings to be razed - Apparently there are unlicensed buildings on government land.
Lebanon Daily Star: Parties agree on draft Cabinet lineup - Mikati may actually have a government soon.
Haaretz (Israel): IDF refrains from response to Gaza rocket fire as border violence cools - A sort of ceasefire may be starting.
Turkish Daily News: Envoy asks Turkey to convince Hamas - Fatah wants Turkey to convince Hamas to create a unity government for Palestine.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Buildings to be razed - Apparently there are unlicensed buildings on government land.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Top Stories April 4, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): GCC urges Yemen parties to hold dialogue - Yemen is heating up and the GCC is concerned about the outcome.
Lebanon Daily Star: Worried relatives demand help for those stuck in Ivory Coast - This is the first time in months the headline hasn't been about the new parliament. There are Lebanese stranded in Ivory Coast, which is having its own problems right now.
Haaretz (Israel): Israel pressing UN to halt new Gaza aid flotilla - Another flotilla is expected over the summer and it may have 20 ships.
Turkish Daily News: Test for Turkey's ruling 'testocracy' - Turkey has a university entrance exam and there are rumors that it was rigged.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Go-Ahead for New Cities - The housing ministry has permission to build new cities in Bahrain. (I didn't think Bahrain was big enough for that!)
Times of Oman - Israel demands retraction of UN Gaza war criticism - Gee, how dare someone criticize Israel. They never do anything wrong. It must be everybody else who is at fault!
Lebanon Daily Star: Worried relatives demand help for those stuck in Ivory Coast - This is the first time in months the headline hasn't been about the new parliament. There are Lebanese stranded in Ivory Coast, which is having its own problems right now.
Haaretz (Israel): Israel pressing UN to halt new Gaza aid flotilla - Another flotilla is expected over the summer and it may have 20 ships.
Turkish Daily News: Test for Turkey's ruling 'testocracy' - Turkey has a university entrance exam and there are rumors that it was rigged.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Go-Ahead for New Cities - The housing ministry has permission to build new cities in Bahrain. (I didn't think Bahrain was big enough for that!)
Times of Oman - Israel demands retraction of UN Gaza war criticism - Gee, how dare someone criticize Israel. They never do anything wrong. It must be everybody else who is at fault!
Saturday, April 2, 2011
The Next Abu Ghraib?
I generally don't cover much about Afghanistan, but I felt this merited an exception. By now you've probably heard about the attacks in Afghanistan that are in response to alleged Qur'an burnings in the US. There was a Qur'an burned, but apparently the story grew in Afghanistan and people began rioting and killing. The whole incident is deplorable, but a new scandal has been brewing and things could get even worse.
This is the first I had heard about it, but FireDogLake has an article describing the situation. Der Spiegel has been researching the incidents and has produced a documentary [this documentary is supposed to be very graphic] about it. Members of the 5th Stryker Brigade in Afghanistan formed a "kill team" and went around killing innocent Afghanis. For no reason. Just because they could and it was "fun." I want to state right here that most American soldiers are not like that. This "kill team" is an aberration. But these 12 men killed innocent civilians for fun and then took photos of the bodies. They are now being tried for war crimes in a US military court.
This is the first I had heard about it, but FireDogLake has an article describing the situation. Der Spiegel has been researching the incidents and has produced a documentary [this documentary is supposed to be very graphic] about it. Members of the 5th Stryker Brigade in Afghanistan formed a "kill team" and went around killing innocent Afghanis. For no reason. Just because they could and it was "fun." I want to state right here that most American soldiers are not like that. This "kill team" is an aberration. But these 12 men killed innocent civilians for fun and then took photos of the bodies. They are now being tried for war crimes in a US military court.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
YemenWatch: Thursday March 31, 2011
Human rights organizations are growing increasingly concerned over the situation in Yemen.
President Saleh is calling for a "Friday of Solidarity" in support of his rule.
Several hundred protesters were injured by non-uniformed government forces. Live bullets were fired at the crowd and nerve gas may have been used as well.
Yemen Post reports that marebpress.com was blocked (I got redirected to marebpress.net), and the Islah Party site islah.net was hacked. Other sites that have been previously blocked are almasdaronline.com, nashwannews.com and yemennation.com. I went to YemenOnline.info earlier to see what they had to say, but I got a "bandwidth exceeded" message.
Apparently AQAP has decided that Abyan province is now an Islamic State. I mention Abyan because a landmine was set to kill "experts" for the Canadian Nexen Petroleum company there. And jihadists may or may not have taken over a radio station in Abyan, and declared the Islamic State. There are reports of Jihadi groups running all over Abyan, and I'm not completely sure what's happening there.
The JMP (a coalition of opposition political parties) is accusing President Saleh of working with groups like AQAP and for being responsible for the explosion at the weapon's plant in Abyan.
The JMP, opposition leader Hameed Al-Ahmar, and former Yemeni president Ali Nasser Mohammed are all calling for Saleh's ouster.
The first GPC MP to resign had his house burned down.
Saleh has removed Republican Guard forces from some provinces in order to prevent a coup from taking place in Sana'a.
Anwar Al-Awlaki is all for new regimes in the Arab countries, even secular regimes, because they won't be as strong as the previous rulers so it should be easier for Al-Qa'eda to make inroads.
The chairman of Islah Party met with the US Ambassador yesterday.
This seems almost like a side note given the deteriorating situation in Yemen, but the men who kidnapped 4 Czechs were sentenced to jail terms.
President Saleh is calling for a "Friday of Solidarity" in support of his rule.
Several hundred protesters were injured by non-uniformed government forces. Live bullets were fired at the crowd and nerve gas may have been used as well.
Yemen Post reports that marebpress.com was blocked (I got redirected to marebpress.net), and the Islah Party site islah.net was hacked. Other sites that have been previously blocked are almasdaronline.com, nashwannews.com and yemennation.com. I went to YemenOnline.info earlier to see what they had to say, but I got a "bandwidth exceeded" message.
Apparently AQAP has decided that Abyan province is now an Islamic State. I mention Abyan because a landmine was set to kill "experts" for the Canadian Nexen Petroleum company there. And jihadists may or may not have taken over a radio station in Abyan, and declared the Islamic State. There are reports of Jihadi groups running all over Abyan, and I'm not completely sure what's happening there.
The JMP (a coalition of opposition political parties) is accusing President Saleh of working with groups like AQAP and for being responsible for the explosion at the weapon's plant in Abyan.
The JMP, opposition leader Hameed Al-Ahmar, and former Yemeni president Ali Nasser Mohammed are all calling for Saleh's ouster.
The first GPC MP to resign had his house burned down.
Saleh has removed Republican Guard forces from some provinces in order to prevent a coup from taking place in Sana'a.
Anwar Al-Awlaki is all for new regimes in the Arab countries, even secular regimes, because they won't be as strong as the previous rulers so it should be easier for Al-Qa'eda to make inroads.
The chairman of Islah Party met with the US Ambassador yesterday.
This seems almost like a side note given the deteriorating situation in Yemen, but the men who kidnapped 4 Czechs were sentenced to jail terms.
New Blogger Stuff
Blogger has added some new views to its system. You can check out how this blog looks with them here. It's set for "sidebar" view, but there 4 other ways to see the blog. Some of them are quite interesting!
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
YemenWatch: Tuesday March 29, 2011
Yemen has been under emergency law since Wednesday. The vote itself is under question, as many MPs were not there for it. Human Rights Watch has more.
HOOD (Yemeni rights organization) says that a teenager was beaten to death by policemen using their rifle butts.
The Sheikh of the Hashed tribe claims that an assassination plot is the works, targeting high-ranking figures. This comes after the UAE police stopped smugglers from sending pistols to Sa'ada province in Yemen (that's the Houthi area).
Over 100 people, including several children, were killed when a weapons plant exploded in Abyan province. The cause is not known.
Seven soldiers were killed by AQAP in an attack in Mareb province.
You may remember President Saleh saying he would leave by January 2012, but his political party, the GPC, is now saying he will remain until his term expires in 2013. Saleh is calling for the youth of Yemen to form their own political party.
The US government and USAID is providing money to Yemeni hospitals, who are treating wounded protesters. Unfortunately, the US has also given the Yemeni government a lot of anti-terrorism money, which can now be used as anti-protester money. Human Rights Watch has called for the suspension of military aid from the US.
The Yemen Observer is reporting that Al-Jazeera is lying about Yemeni officials resigning. Don't forget, in 2009 the Observer was owned by Saleh's secretary. It probably still is.
Some GPC politicians are resigning, following a "massacre" on Friday. The government is blaming an Islah party leader for the event.
Some MPs and military and academic sources claim Saleh is using AQAP as a bogeyman to stay in power. Which is usually how it's done. You must keep me in power - I will protect you!
Six foreign reporters were deported last week and one freelance reporter died during the protests. The Yemeni Journalists' Syndicate has also been attacked. Full report from the International Federation of Journalists. More from Reporters Without Borders.
HOOD (Yemeni rights organization) says that a teenager was beaten to death by policemen using their rifle butts.
The Sheikh of the Hashed tribe claims that an assassination plot is the works, targeting high-ranking figures. This comes after the UAE police stopped smugglers from sending pistols to Sa'ada province in Yemen (that's the Houthi area).
Over 100 people, including several children, were killed when a weapons plant exploded in Abyan province. The cause is not known.
Seven soldiers were killed by AQAP in an attack in Mareb province.
You may remember President Saleh saying he would leave by January 2012, but his political party, the GPC, is now saying he will remain until his term expires in 2013. Saleh is calling for the youth of Yemen to form their own political party.
The US government and USAID is providing money to Yemeni hospitals, who are treating wounded protesters. Unfortunately, the US has also given the Yemeni government a lot of anti-terrorism money, which can now be used as anti-protester money. Human Rights Watch has called for the suspension of military aid from the US.
The Yemen Observer is reporting that Al-Jazeera is lying about Yemeni officials resigning. Don't forget, in 2009 the Observer was owned by Saleh's secretary. It probably still is.
Some GPC politicians are resigning, following a "massacre" on Friday. The government is blaming an Islah party leader for the event.
Some MPs and military and academic sources claim Saleh is using AQAP as a bogeyman to stay in power. Which is usually how it's done. You must keep me in power - I will protect you!
Six foreign reporters were deported last week and one freelance reporter died during the protests. The Yemeni Journalists' Syndicate has also been attacked. Full report from the International Federation of Journalists. More from Reporters Without Borders.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Top Stories March 28, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): Shoura Council approves mortgage law - The council is trying to help the housing shortage.
Lebanon Daily Star: Government to be formed by end of this week, source says - Mikati's government is almost ready. It's tough to balance out all the different factions.
Haaretz (Israel): Report: Netanyahu failed to report all campaign contributions to State Comptroller - The PM scandals continue. Some donors reportedly gave the maximum campaign contribution several times. Netanyahu says they were returned.
Turkish Daily News: Lebanon faces perfect storm of crises - Things in Lebanon have been crazy, what with the recall of former PM Hariri and incoming PM Mikati getting his cabinet together. The current situation could deteriorate into Sunni-Shi'ite fighting, instead of Muslim-Christian fighting. And the ongoing rebellions across the Middle East may give it more impetus.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): New mall timings as curfew relaxed - Looks like the malls are going to be open more now.
Lebanon Daily Star: Government to be formed by end of this week, source says - Mikati's government is almost ready. It's tough to balance out all the different factions.
Haaretz (Israel): Report: Netanyahu failed to report all campaign contributions to State Comptroller - The PM scandals continue. Some donors reportedly gave the maximum campaign contribution several times. Netanyahu says they were returned.
Turkish Daily News: Lebanon faces perfect storm of crises - Things in Lebanon have been crazy, what with the recall of former PM Hariri and incoming PM Mikati getting his cabinet together. The current situation could deteriorate into Sunni-Shi'ite fighting, instead of Muslim-Christian fighting. And the ongoing rebellions across the Middle East may give it more impetus.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): New mall timings as curfew relaxed - Looks like the malls are going to be open more now.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Welcome New Readers
Welcome to my new readers! I usually post every day, but I've had a few health problems recently and I'm still working back up to my daily postings. I try to cover the entire Middle East, which is especially chaotic right now. I also look more in depth at Yemen. I hope you find my blog useful and informative.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
YemenWatch: Tuesday March 22, 2011
Yemen is undergoing a lot of chaos now. This morning President Saleh even offered to leave office by the end of 2011, but the protesters aren't buying it and more of the military is defecting to their side. On Monday several army commanders left the government and joined the protesters; one of them is from Saleh's clan. This follows the shooting of dozens of protesters on Friday.
Saleh is now saying that Yemen could descend into civil war. And he's probably right. There are already problems with AQAP, the Houthis in the north, and separatists in the south. The Houthis would face problems from Saudi Arabia if they split off. The Separatists might be able to make a go of it. And AQAP would be busy terrorizing everyone.
Saleh is now saying that Yemen could descend into civil war. And he's probably right. There are already problems with AQAP, the Houthis in the north, and separatists in the south. The Houthis would face problems from Saudi Arabia if they split off. The Separatists might be able to make a go of it. And AQAP would be busy terrorizing everyone.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Top Stories March 21, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): Rival tanks deploy in streets of Yemen's capital - Several army commanders have joined the protesters against the Yemeni president.
Lebanon Daily Star: Thousands in Beirut rally against sectarianism - It looks like the Lebanese people are getting tired of all the sectarianism.
Haaretz (Israel): New round of coalition strikes in Tripoli, Libya state TV says - The rebels are trying to capitalize on the airstrikes against Gadhafi.
Turkish Daily News: Alliance of the unaligned split on Libya intervention - France and Turkey are having disagreements over how to act in regards to Libya.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Terror Plot Foiled - The Bahraini government claims to have "foiled a major terror plot aimed to jeopardise national security of GCC states."
Lebanon Daily Star: Thousands in Beirut rally against sectarianism - It looks like the Lebanese people are getting tired of all the sectarianism.
Haaretz (Israel): New round of coalition strikes in Tripoli, Libya state TV says - The rebels are trying to capitalize on the airstrikes against Gadhafi.
Turkish Daily News: Alliance of the unaligned split on Libya intervention - France and Turkey are having disagreements over how to act in regards to Libya.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Terror Plot Foiled - The Bahraini government claims to have "foiled a major terror plot aimed to jeopardise national security of GCC states."
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Crisis in the Middle East: Bahrain
Well, I'm feeling better. Or at least I was until I started looking at the news. The Middle East is going up in flames. Things are really getting bad in Bahrain. The Saudis sent troops there (GCC Peninsula Shield troops), and now the king has declared a "three-month state of emergency." This after 200 people were shot. One of the big reasons for the unrest in Bahrain isn't just having a king with little democracy. It's the fact that the king and most of the rulers are Sunni, while most of the population is Shi'ite. Does that sound familiar to anyone? It should. That's how Iraq was under Saddam Hussein. And look how well that turned out!
The GCC is supporting Bahrain, which makes sense. Even the UAE is sending some troops. The GCC is paranoid that if Shi'ites take over, they'll be under the control of Iran. So this battleground is a lot more complicated than some crazy dictator oppressing his people (like Libya). The US is also supporting the rulers of Bahrain. Things are probably going to get worse before they get better.
The GCC is supporting Bahrain, which makes sense. Even the UAE is sending some troops. The GCC is paranoid that if Shi'ites take over, they'll be under the control of Iran. So this battleground is a lot more complicated than some crazy dictator oppressing his people (like Libya). The US is also supporting the rulers of Bahrain. Things are probably going to get worse before they get better.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Top Stories March 14, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): Bahrain lawmakers push for martial law; GCC forces arrive - Things are still heating up in Bahrain.
Lebanon Daily Star: The second Cedar Revolution - Saad Hariri is part of the March 14 coalition, which held anti-Hizbollah rallies yesterday.
Haaretz (Israel): Ehud Olmert to be indicted for Holyland corruption affair - Olmert is a former prime minister and was involved with a housing project in Jerusalem called "Holyland."
Turkish Daily News: Former Turkish President Demirel warns of 'empire of fear' - Demirel is worried about the free press and even the judiciary being "stifled." Apparently the Economist recently did an article about journalism in Turkey after 2 investigative reporters were jailed.
Lebanon Daily Star: The second Cedar Revolution - Saad Hariri is part of the March 14 coalition, which held anti-Hizbollah rallies yesterday.
Haaretz (Israel): Ehud Olmert to be indicted for Holyland corruption affair - Olmert is a former prime minister and was involved with a housing project in Jerusalem called "Holyland."
Turkish Daily News: Former Turkish President Demirel warns of 'empire of fear' - Demirel is worried about the free press and even the judiciary being "stifled." Apparently the Economist recently did an article about journalism in Turkey after 2 investigative reporters were jailed.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
America Hates Islam
What the hell is going on with the USA these days?
1) There are legislators in Tennessee who want to ban parts of the Sharia; following it would be a felony. But the bill is worded so weirdly. Sharia is referred to as (quoted directly from the House and Senate bills):
2) Representative Peter King of New York is holding hearings on Islam. The White House has already given their statement out, about how Muslims are NOT the problem. So has the attorney general.
3) Only "one member of local law enforcement" will be at the meeting, and he has some interesting information. As quoted in the article:
4) In keeping with the non-Muslim extremist attacks: A white man tried to put a bomb along the parade route for a Martin Luther King, Jr. parade in Spokane, Washington. That was almost 2 months ago, and yet this is the first I've heard of it. I guess since this seemed an obvious case of white supremacy, it just wasn't newsworthy. But you can bet that if there was any indication at all that a Muslim was involved, it would have been on the news as soon as the bomb was discovered.
1) There are legislators in Tennessee who want to ban parts of the Sharia; following it would be a felony. But the bill is worded so weirdly. Sharia is referred to as (quoted directly from the House and Senate bills):
the set of rules, precepts, instructions, or edicts which are said to emanate directly or indirectly from the god of Allah or the prophet Mohammed and which include directly or indirectly the encouragement of any person to support the abrogation, destruction, or violation of the United States or Tennessee Constitutions, or the destruction of the national existence of the United States or the sovereignty of this state, and which includes among other methods to achieve these ends, the likely use of imminent violence.So if this bill passes, Sharia would officially become terrorism in Tennessee. In fact:
“Sharia organization” means any two (2) or more persons conspiring to support, or acting in concert in support of, sharia or in furtherance of the imposition of sharia within any state or territory of the United Statesand
The attorney general and reporter is authorized to designate an organization as a sharia organization in accordance with this subsection (a) if the attorney general and reporter finds that:Apparently Muslims follow this Sharia thing, which wants to destroy America, and all people who follow Sharia are terrorists. Of course, they already think all Muslims are terrorists.
(A) The organization knowingly adheres to sharia;
(B) The organization engages in, or retains the capability and intent to engage in, an act of terrorism as defined in § 39-13-803; and
(C) The act of terrorism of the organization threatens the security or public safety of this state's residents.
2) Representative Peter King of New York is holding hearings on Islam. The White House has already given their statement out, about how Muslims are NOT the problem. So has the attorney general.
3) Only "one member of local law enforcement" will be at the meeting, and he has some interesting information. As quoted in the article:
Since 9/11, 77 extremist efforts or attacks have been carried out by non-Muslim extremists in the United States,” said Baca. In addition, of the last 10 terror plots attempted by Muslims, seven of them have been thwarted by Muslims coming forward. (emphasis mine)
4) In keeping with the non-Muslim extremist attacks: A white man tried to put a bomb along the parade route for a Martin Luther King, Jr. parade in Spokane, Washington. That was almost 2 months ago, and yet this is the first I've heard of it. I guess since this seemed an obvious case of white supremacy, it just wasn't newsworthy. But you can bet that if there was any indication at all that a Muslim was involved, it would have been on the news as soon as the bomb was discovered.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Top Stories March 7, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): Rebels repel Misrata attack; Saudis evacuated from Libya - Misrata is 200 km east of Tripoli and now appears to be under rebel control.
Lebanon Daily Star: Hariri holds first talks in Saudi Arabia since fall of his Cabinet - Saad Hariri is in Riyadh to discuss the situation in Lebanon and the ongoing Arab protests in the Middle East.
Haaretz (Israel): Clashes reported in Cairo for first time since Mubarak ousted - People protesting outside the state security offices were violently attacked.
Turkish Daily News: Questions for Turkish journalists raise more questions - Two journalists were arrested for belonging to an illegal organization, but then were questioned about their articles and a book that hasn't been released yet.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Dialogue only solution says Crown Prince - We should find common ground, etc. etc. ArabNews reports 20,000 new jobs in the Interior Ministry.
Lebanon Daily Star: Hariri holds first talks in Saudi Arabia since fall of his Cabinet - Saad Hariri is in Riyadh to discuss the situation in Lebanon and the ongoing Arab protests in the Middle East.
Haaretz (Israel): Clashes reported in Cairo for first time since Mubarak ousted - People protesting outside the state security offices were violently attacked.
Turkish Daily News: Questions for Turkish journalists raise more questions - Two journalists were arrested for belonging to an illegal organization, but then were questioned about their articles and a book that hasn't been released yet.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Dialogue only solution says Crown Prince - We should find common ground, etc. etc. ArabNews reports 20,000 new jobs in the Interior Ministry.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
We Love Bahrain!
The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mullen, met with King Hamad of Bahrain last week. Apparently the US supports Bahrain, or at least the king. Too bad the US doesn't support democracy.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
UK-Yemen Plot
A man who worked for British Airways was arrested last year for terrorism and recently convicted. The government just finished decrypting his e-mails, which contained correspondence with Anwar Al-Awlaki. Apparently Al-Awlaki wanted to get a person or package on board a plane heading for the United States. This is from e-mails in February of 2010, months before the AQAP bombs found in late October of 2010. Unfortunately, it took nine months to decrypt all of these e-mails.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Protests in Oman
Several people may be dead following protests in Oman. Protesters blocked an industrial area in Sohar and some stores were looted. Two government buildings were set on fire. The Oman Daily Observer referred to it as "sabotage and vandalism." Protests also took place in Muscat.
Top Stories February 28, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): King's order to benefit 180,000 temporary employees - These are temporary government employees who are now permanent government employees. (Should I be cynical and wonder if this is a bribe - don't protest and I'll give you a job!)
Lebanon Daily Star: March 14 shuns Mikati Cabinet, vows to confront 'coup' - Saad Hariri's party is not happy with Hizbollah.
Haaretz (Israel): Documentary on Tel Aviv school, 'Strangers No More,' wins Oscar - Children from 48 countries go to the Bialik-Rogozin School in Tel Aviv.
Turkish Daily News: Death of 'Erbakan Hoca' closes out an era of Turkish politics - The founder of Turkey's Islamic political movement has died. He was also a former prime minister for Turkey.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Reforms on track - Bahrain's Cabinet has changed and supposedly that means reforms are in process. Again, call me cynical, I'll believe it when it happens.
Lebanon Daily Star: March 14 shuns Mikati Cabinet, vows to confront 'coup' - Saad Hariri's party is not happy with Hizbollah.
Haaretz (Israel): Documentary on Tel Aviv school, 'Strangers No More,' wins Oscar - Children from 48 countries go to the Bialik-Rogozin School in Tel Aviv.
Turkish Daily News: Death of 'Erbakan Hoca' closes out an era of Turkish politics - The founder of Turkey's Islamic political movement has died. He was also a former prime minister for Turkey.
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Reforms on track - Bahrain's Cabinet has changed and supposedly that means reforms are in process. Again, call me cynical, I'll believe it when it happens.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Kurds Protest Corruption
Yes, the Kurds in Iraq are protesting too. Not in the way of Libya or anything like that, but some people are making comparisons to 1991 (protests against Saddam). They're protesting corruption in Sulaimaniyah. Apparently, as often happens, some government officials or political parties are getting too much control over business matters and making a fortune off of it, and the people are sick of it.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Free Ali Abdulemam: Update I
Ali is free! The king of Bahrain freed a number of prisoners and Ali was one of them.
US Honor Killing Convicted
I posted last month about an Iraqi man in the US who killed his daughter who had left home and moved in with her boyfriend. He was convicted this week. So much for all of those right-wing conservatives complaining about Shari'a law taking over America.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Update
My health issues have been popping up some, and I'm distracted by trying to keep track of all the protests. So don't be surprised if I'm not blogging every single day for a bit.
If you're tired of reading about dead protesters, how about some Happy News: read about Abu Dhabi's new art district.
If you're tired of reading about dead protesters, how about some Happy News: read about Abu Dhabi's new art district.
Top Stories February 21, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): Troops 'liberate' Libya's 2nd city - It looks like some part of the army is now fighting against Qaddafi. And there have been attacks on the funerals held for protesters.
Lebanon Daily Star: Source: No progress on Mikati Cabinet formation - It's still a mess in Lebanon.
Haaretz (Israel): Libya clashes reach Tripoli; central government building ablaze - Gadhafi is not backing down, and Al-Jazeera has reports of the air force bombing protesters.
Turkish Daily News: Murder a fact of life for women in Turkey - In 2002, 66 women were murdered. In 2009, almost 1,000 were murdered. Gender inequality and increasing conservatism are blamed. Turkey's population is just under 78 million. That's not quite as big as the 3 most populous US states combined (California, Texas, New York). By US standards, that's a low murder rate (as of 2009 there were over 15,000 murders total in the US).
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Support for Premier - People thank the prime minister for his "wise leadership." I wonder who owns this paper?
Lebanon Daily Star: Source: No progress on Mikati Cabinet formation - It's still a mess in Lebanon.
Haaretz (Israel): Libya clashes reach Tripoli; central government building ablaze - Gadhafi is not backing down, and Al-Jazeera has reports of the air force bombing protesters.
Turkish Daily News: Murder a fact of life for women in Turkey - In 2002, 66 women were murdered. In 2009, almost 1,000 were murdered. Gender inequality and increasing conservatism are blamed. Turkey's population is just under 78 million. That's not quite as big as the 3 most populous US states combined (California, Texas, New York). By US standards, that's a low murder rate (as of 2009 there were over 15,000 murders total in the US).
Gulf Daily News (Bahrain): Support for Premier - People thank the prime minister for his "wise leadership." I wonder who owns this paper?
Friday, February 18, 2011
Protests Protests Protests! Update I
Yahoo!'s Mideast protests at a glance.
Bahrain is in a world of hurt. More protesters were attacked and injured, overwhelming the hospital. So far, over 200 people have been injured and President Obama has been speaking to the Bahraini king. The king has appointed the Crown Prince as a kind of mediator with the protesters, and he has issued his own statement. There was also a pro-government rally.
Protests in Libya are getting very bloody with over 40 protesters dead, and there are reports that 2 policemen were hung.
Protests in Yemen are on their 9th straight day, and 4 more people are dead. Journalists are also being attacked. Protesters in Ta'iz were attacked with a grenade.
Jordanians have been protesting for 7 days straight. The 2,000 protesters were followed by some pro-government supporters.
Egyptians held a celebration protest. It's been a week since Mubarak left.
Oman is generally considered the safest country in the Middle East. When I visited, I found the Omanis very polite and nice. So it makes sense that when they held a protest today, it was a polite one. Really. Read the article.
Bahrain is in a world of hurt. More protesters were attacked and injured, overwhelming the hospital. So far, over 200 people have been injured and President Obama has been speaking to the Bahraini king. The king has appointed the Crown Prince as a kind of mediator with the protesters, and he has issued his own statement. There was also a pro-government rally.
Protests in Libya are getting very bloody with over 40 protesters dead, and there are reports that 2 policemen were hung.
Protests in Yemen are on their 9th straight day, and 4 more people are dead. Journalists are also being attacked. Protesters in Ta'iz were attacked with a grenade.
Jordanians have been protesting for 7 days straight. The 2,000 protesters were followed by some pro-government supporters.
Egyptians held a celebration protest. It's been a week since Mubarak left.
Oman is generally considered the safest country in the Middle East. When I visited, I found the Omanis very polite and nice. So it makes sense that when they held a protest today, it was a polite one. Really. Read the article.
Women's News February 18, 2011
A Syrian blogger named Tal Mallohi has been sentenced to 5 years in jail, accused of spying for the US. She has several blogs and is only 19 years old.
Saudi women are worried that harassment of them is increasing. But the protests in Egypt may be helping to decrease harassment of women there.
Helen Clark, who heads up the UN Development Program (and used to be PM of New Zealand), visited Yemen. She discussed a number of issues, including advances that need to be made for women.
During the protests, Tahreer Square in Sana'a, Yemen was supposed to be the site of a traditional crafts fair for women. I don't know how things went, but hopefully the fair was still able to go on.
Saudi women are worried that harassment of them is increasing. But the protests in Egypt may be helping to decrease harassment of women there.
Helen Clark, who heads up the UN Development Program (and used to be PM of New Zealand), visited Yemen. She discussed a number of issues, including advances that need to be made for women.
During the protests, Tahreer Square in Sana'a, Yemen was supposed to be the site of a traditional crafts fair for women. I don't know how things went, but hopefully the fair was still able to go on.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Bloggers Update
Kareem Amer, Egyptian blogger, was arrested in Tahrir Square on February 7th, then released a few days later.
Tal Mallohi, teen-aged Syrian blogger, has been sentenced to 5 years in prison. She was convicted of giving information to the United States. Free Tal website.
Bahraini blogger Ali Abdulemam is still in jail. Free Ali website.
Tal Mallohi, teen-aged Syrian blogger, has been sentenced to 5 years in prison. She was convicted of giving information to the United States. Free Tal website.
Bahraini blogger Ali Abdulemam is still in jail. Free Ali website.
YemenWatch: Thursday February 17, 2011
More protests!
Two protesters died in Aden and more laid siege to the police headquarters. The government is deploying thousands of soldiers, all over Yemen. Protests continued at Sana'a University. And President Saleh is going for an open door policy now.
Journalists covering the protests are being attacked.
Are more regimes ready to fall?
The journalist with alleged AQAP connections, Abdul Elah Haidar Shay, is still in jail. Saleh was going to release him, until President Obama stepped in . Saleh is meeting with a tribal mediator to discuss the situation.
Two protesters died in Aden and more laid siege to the police headquarters. The government is deploying thousands of soldiers, all over Yemen. Protests continued at Sana'a University. And President Saleh is going for an open door policy now.
Journalists covering the protests are being attacked.
Are more regimes ready to fall?
The journalist with alleged AQAP connections, Abdul Elah Haidar Shay, is still in jail. Saleh was going to release him, until President Obama stepped in . Saleh is meeting with a tribal mediator to discuss the situation.
Gitmo Book Banned?
An Australian man who was kept at Guantanamo Bay for years has written a book about his experiences. But don't plan on reading it if you live in America. Truthout has an interview with the author, and FireDogLake has some commentary about it. I'll admit to not keeping on top of the Gitmo events here at The Ali Gator blog, so I don't remember much about the situation with this prisoner. But, whether you believe him or not, I find it disturbing that his freaking book is NOT sold in America. If you search on Amazon.com there is a Kindle edition, which is not available for download if you live in the United States. I can't even get the book to pop up on my little Amazon widget that lets me add books to my blog posts. So much for Free Speech in the United States.
The book is called Guantanamo: My Journey by David Hicks. It is available from Random House Australia.
The book is called Guantanamo: My Journey by David Hicks. It is available from Random House Australia.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Protests Protests Protests!
Things are heating up across the Middle East, and the latest is in Bahrain. Protesters are trying to take over the main square, just like the Egyptians did. Two people have already died in these protests. Funerals were held Tuesday and sparked even more protests. Several policemen have been arrested for the deaths. These protests are continuing today.
Protests in Jordan have included Bedouin, who want their land back. And the government recently decided to allow protests or rallies without government permission.
In Saudi Arabia some activists are trying to form a political party.
Protests have started in Libya as well, and several activists have been arrested. Protesters are calling for their own Day of Anger and numerous people have been injured. More on the protests.
Activists have called for protests in Syria. One of them was arrested and just released. And a female teen-aged blogger in Syria, held for over a year, has been convicted of spying for the US.
What's also interesting is what isn't mentioned online. For instance, the Gulf Times in Qatar has articles on Egypt, Tunisia, and even Yemen, but nothing about Bahrain. Whereas the Gulf Daily News in Bahrain does cover some of the protests. So does the Kuwait Times.
Protests in Jordan have included Bedouin, who want their land back. And the government recently decided to allow protests or rallies without government permission.
In Saudi Arabia some activists are trying to form a political party.
Protests have started in Libya as well, and several activists have been arrested. Protesters are calling for their own Day of Anger and numerous people have been injured. More on the protests.
Activists have called for protests in Syria. One of them was arrested and just released. And a female teen-aged blogger in Syria, held for over a year, has been convicted of spying for the US.
What's also interesting is what isn't mentioned online. For instance, the Gulf Times in Qatar has articles on Egypt, Tunisia, and even Yemen, but nothing about Bahrain. Whereas the Gulf Daily News in Bahrain does cover some of the protests. So does the Kuwait Times.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
YemenWatch: Tuesday February 15, 2011
Yemen has its own Tahrir Square, in Sana'a and in Ta'iz province. Protests took place in both cities. Protesters have been attacked (more) and arrested in Ta'iz, Sana'a, Aden and Hudaidah. In Ta'iz, protests are in their 5th day. Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International are both concerned with the attacks on protesters.
The JMP is officially back in dialogue with the government and has condemned the government's actions against the protesters. And an MP from the ruling GPC party resigned, partly citing attacks on protesters.
Four Yemenis are on trial for supporting the Houthis and spying for Iran.
The US is pretty concerned over Yemen, especially in regards to AQAP, so it will spend $75 million to help Yemen in counter terror efforts including increasing the size of the counter terror unit.
See the Yemen Times expose on AQAP.
The government is denying reports on the death of an AQAP leader, Al-Shihri, in Abyan last week,
The Yemeni Journalists Syndicate is upset with President Obama because he wants journalist Abdul Elah Haidar kept in jail.
Al-Awlaki released another audio message, condemning the Yemeni government for working with the US.
It looks like the Houthis may have officially declared a rebellion now.
In 2010, 119 people were kidnapped in Yemen. The government is still hunting down some of the kidnappers.
The JMP is officially back in dialogue with the government and has condemned the government's actions against the protesters. And an MP from the ruling GPC party resigned, partly citing attacks on protesters.
Four Yemenis are on trial for supporting the Houthis and spying for Iran.
The US is pretty concerned over Yemen, especially in regards to AQAP, so it will spend $75 million to help Yemen in counter terror efforts including increasing the size of the counter terror unit.
See the Yemen Times expose on AQAP.
The government is denying reports on the death of an AQAP leader, Al-Shihri, in Abyan last week,
The Yemeni Journalists Syndicate is upset with President Obama because he wants journalist Abdul Elah Haidar kept in jail.
Al-Awlaki released another audio message, condemning the Yemeni government for working with the US.
It looks like the Houthis may have officially declared a rebellion now.
In 2010, 119 people were kidnapped in Yemen. The government is still hunting down some of the kidnappers.
Monday, February 14, 2011
US Hypocrisy
If Egypt, our buddy, wants democracy, we're not so sure about it, until it happens. But if Iran wants democracy, then we are all for it. Democracy now! Kick out Ahmedinejad. I really get fed up with politics sometimes.
Update YemenWatch
I'm running a little behind on YemenWatch, which is bad, because there's a lot going on. I'm a bit busy at the moment but should have the update posted tomorrow.
Top Stories February 14, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia): Egypt's Parliament dissolved - The military is currently in charge, but it's not exactly clear what will happen next.
Lebanon Daily Star: March 14 prepares to unleash 'fierce opposition' - Today is the 6th anniversary of the Hariri assassination. Saad Hariri and the March 14 party will use it launch their opposition to Hizbollah.
Haaretz (Israel): Benny Gantz takes over as IDF chief: I am ready to face the challenges - Gantz was the 2nd choice, after Yoav Galant was disqualified.
Turkish Daily News: Sweep of arrests erases any doubt over who's the boss in Turkey - In 2003 an alleged military coup came to light, and almost 200 officers are suspects and under arrest.
Egyptian Gazette: Egypt's military council set to ban strikes - The military is trying to restore order to the country, which is good, but I'm still a bit concerned about what will happen when all the protesters go home.
Lebanon Daily Star: March 14 prepares to unleash 'fierce opposition' - Today is the 6th anniversary of the Hariri assassination. Saad Hariri and the March 14 party will use it launch their opposition to Hizbollah.
Haaretz (Israel): Benny Gantz takes over as IDF chief: I am ready to face the challenges - Gantz was the 2nd choice, after Yoav Galant was disqualified.
Turkish Daily News: Sweep of arrests erases any doubt over who's the boss in Turkey - In 2003 an alleged military coup came to light, and almost 200 officers are suspects and under arrest.
Egyptian Gazette: Egypt's military council set to ban strikes - The military is trying to restore order to the country, which is good, but I'm still a bit concerned about what will happen when all the protesters go home.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Quick News Roundup February 12, 2011
ArabNews (Saudi Arabia) reports that the subcontractors to the US Embassy are abusing their employees. They cite a report by the US Office of Inspector General, and provide a link to it. Abuse of South Asian employees is fairly common in the Gulf. I don't mean that as an excuse, just as a piece of information.
A senior rabbi in Israel is under arrest for supporting a book (Torat Hamelech) that says when it is okay to kill Gentiles. He refused to be questioned by police, because it is a religious issue. This whole thing originally came to a head in January of last year (see this article). I'm not sure what to think of it. It sounds as though some people want it to be thought of as a scholarly work, while others see it as inciting violence. The article I linked to makes some good points about the authors of the study (also rabbis) and that they may be inciting violence. I will say one thing though: if a Catholic priest wrote a book saying that the Bible says sometimes it's okay to kill Jews, there would be a huge uproar and calls of anti-Semitism. But almost no one would say it's a religious issue and the police should stay out of it.
There's more about that senior rabbi in this article, which compares the Muslim Brotherhood to the ultra-Orthodox religious right in Israel. They believe that Judaism trumps democracy, and want to take Israel even further down that road.
This was written before Mubarak left, but it's a quick look at how events in Egypt are affecting the Gulf. And this more recent article covers the current situation. Even Palestine is affected and should have elections in September.
A senior rabbi in Israel is under arrest for supporting a book (Torat Hamelech) that says when it is okay to kill Gentiles. He refused to be questioned by police, because it is a religious issue. This whole thing originally came to a head in January of last year (see this article). I'm not sure what to think of it. It sounds as though some people want it to be thought of as a scholarly work, while others see it as inciting violence. The article I linked to makes some good points about the authors of the study (also rabbis) and that they may be inciting violence. I will say one thing though: if a Catholic priest wrote a book saying that the Bible says sometimes it's okay to kill Jews, there would be a huge uproar and calls of anti-Semitism. But almost no one would say it's a religious issue and the police should stay out of it.
There's more about that senior rabbi in this article, which compares the Muslim Brotherhood to the ultra-Orthodox religious right in Israel. They believe that Judaism trumps democracy, and want to take Israel even further down that road.
This was written before Mubarak left, but it's a quick look at how events in Egypt are affecting the Gulf. And this more recent article covers the current situation. Even Palestine is affected and should have elections in September.
Egypt Rocks!
Congratulations to the people of Egypt! It's so inspiring to see the peoples of Tunisia and Egypt make a change for themselves. Let's hope that both countries will be able to create a new democratic government of the people.
I have been a little concerned with some of the media coverage of Egypt in the US. They keep talking about "what does this mean for us?" And harping on how good a friend Mubarak was in the fight against terrorism. Of course, they don't mention that one reason he was such a good friend is because the US could send suspected terrorists to Egypt to be tortured.
I am also really sick of hearing how "stable" the Mubarak regime was and how we need stability in the Middle East. I am all for stability, but not under a dictatorship. Some of the media outlets have been pointing to other Middle Eastern countries that are stable and what might happen if they have protests. This reminds me of US foreign policy during the Cold War, when we were propping up these brutal right-wing dictators in Central and South America. But hey - it was stable! It drives me crazy that so many Americans had no idea what was going on then, and have no idea what is going on now. How can a country that wields this much power have people who are so clueless?
I have been a little concerned with some of the media coverage of Egypt in the US. They keep talking about "what does this mean for us?" And harping on how good a friend Mubarak was in the fight against terrorism. Of course, they don't mention that one reason he was such a good friend is because the US could send suspected terrorists to Egypt to be tortured.
I am also really sick of hearing how "stable" the Mubarak regime was and how we need stability in the Middle East. I am all for stability, but not under a dictatorship. Some of the media outlets have been pointing to other Middle Eastern countries that are stable and what might happen if they have protests. This reminds me of US foreign policy during the Cold War, when we were propping up these brutal right-wing dictators in Central and South America. But hey - it was stable! It drives me crazy that so many Americans had no idea what was going on then, and have no idea what is going on now. How can a country that wields this much power have people who are so clueless?
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Women's News February 10, 2011
A Dutch-Iranian woman was hanged at the end of January. She was arrested in 2009 for protesting, but was hanged on drug charges.
Over 600 girls were given vocational training in Yemen in 2010.
Saudi women met yesterday to discuss the role of women in the Kingdom and successful businesswomen spoke of their experiences.
Over 600 girls were given vocational training in Yemen in 2010.
Saudi women met yesterday to discuss the role of women in the Kingdom and successful businesswomen spoke of their experiences.
YemenWatch: Tuesday February 9, 2011
What appears to have been a US spy drone crashed in Abyan province, where the wreckage was picked up by AQAP. Or it wasn't. Don't believe rumors. This is one of the problems in Yemen. Of course, if someone from the government is denying it, that makes me think it's probably true.
Several people were killed during a Houthi-tribesmen fight in Sa'ada province.
The southern separatist movement is calling for their own Day of Rage on Friday, prompting the military to send more troops to Aden.
Yemen is now trying southern leader Shalal Ali Shia in absentia in Aden.
Another Somali pirate was given a 5 year prison sentence.
Some protesters were arrested at Sana'a University, but were later released (long article about some of the men protesting). There were also protests in Ta'iz province.
According to the prime minister, "Yemen is a democratic country" and "is not Tunisia or Egypt."
Yemen LNG is building a new LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) storage facility in Mareb province.
Several people were killed during a Houthi-tribesmen fight in Sa'ada province.
The southern separatist movement is calling for their own Day of Rage on Friday, prompting the military to send more troops to Aden.
Yemen is now trying southern leader Shalal Ali Shia in absentia in Aden.
Another Somali pirate was given a 5 year prison sentence.
Some protesters were arrested at Sana'a University, but were later released (long article about some of the men protesting). There were also protests in Ta'iz province.
According to the prime minister, "Yemen is a democratic country" and "is not Tunisia or Egypt."
Yemen LNG is building a new LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) storage facility in Mareb province.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Top Stories February 7, 2011
Arab News (Saudi Arabia): Egyptian regime offers new concessions - Yep, Egypt is dominating the news.
Lebanon Daily Star: Berri: Cabinet will be formed within one week - It looks like Mikati will be the new PM and he's working on his cabinet.
Haaretz (Israel): Egypt protests poised to enter day 14, despite signs of compromise - Israel is keeping a close eye on the protests in Egypt, since they share a common border.
Turkish Daily News: Turks march in Istanbul for Egyptian freedom - Turks show solidarity for the Egyptian people and criticize the prime minister.
Islamic Republic News Agency (Iran): Tehran, Ankara to boost trade to $30 billion - This should happen over the next 5 years and was discussed at the Tehran-Ankara Economic Commission meeting.
Lebanon Daily Star: Berri: Cabinet will be formed within one week - It looks like Mikati will be the new PM and he's working on his cabinet.
Haaretz (Israel): Egypt protests poised to enter day 14, despite signs of compromise - Israel is keeping a close eye on the protests in Egypt, since they share a common border.
Turkish Daily News: Turks march in Istanbul for Egyptian freedom - Turks show solidarity for the Egyptian people and criticize the prime minister.
Islamic Republic News Agency (Iran): Tehran, Ankara to boost trade to $30 billion - This should happen over the next 5 years and was discussed at the Tehran-Ankara Economic Commission meeting.
Sunday, February 6, 2011
YemenWatch: Sunday February 6, 2011
Ten AQAP suspects are on trial for various activities, including blowing up a Canadian company's office.
A security officer in Hadramout province missed an assassination attempt, possibly by AQAP. He may be part of Yemeni intelligence.
Earlier this week a Yemeni journalist, allegedly with ties to AQAP, was given a release order. He's been called a "terrorism expert" and Reporters Without Borders has been following his case. NewsYemen is reporting that President Obama is concerned over the release. I'm concerned too. I'll admit that I don't know a lot about this journalist, but apparently one of the main problems is that he met with Al-Awlaki in 2009, and is called a "sympathizer." There have been a few other journalists who have met with terrorists, like Osama Bin Laden. But they aren't arrested and called sympathizers. Of course, they are also white.
About 20% of the Yemenis in Egypt (mostly students) have been evacuated by Yemenia airlines.
Eight students were arrested, prompting a sit-in for their release, which came on Saturday.
Saleh saw some of the protests from a helicopter.
The JMP plans to hold more protests and may even suspend their memberships in parliament. On Saturday they officially received an initiative from Saleh, which may help in ending the ongoing election mess, but the JMP says protests will continue. Some analysts are saying that the concessions Saleh has proposed may backfire because he may not be able to follow through, which is really going to upset people. Obama is calling for both sides to play nice.
Yemen is trying to reach several Millennium Development Goals by 2015. Although, if the chaos keeps up, that's not likely.
The historic parts of Sana'a city are being threatened by new development, negligence, and etc. Yemen-UNESCO is very concerned.
More information on the worker fired from the Spanish Embassy, who claims it was without cause.
Edit: More information on the current unrest in Yemen and other countries.
Edit: Added info and commentary on the arrested journalist.
A security officer in Hadramout province missed an assassination attempt, possibly by AQAP. He may be part of Yemeni intelligence.
Earlier this week a Yemeni journalist, allegedly with ties to AQAP, was given a release order. He's been called a "terrorism expert" and Reporters Without Borders has been following his case. NewsYemen is reporting that President Obama is concerned over the release. I'm concerned too. I'll admit that I don't know a lot about this journalist, but apparently one of the main problems is that he met with Al-Awlaki in 2009, and is called a "sympathizer." There have been a few other journalists who have met with terrorists, like Osama Bin Laden. But they aren't arrested and called sympathizers. Of course, they are also white.
About 20% of the Yemenis in Egypt (mostly students) have been evacuated by Yemenia airlines.
Eight students were arrested, prompting a sit-in for their release, which came on Saturday.
Saleh saw some of the protests from a helicopter.
The JMP plans to hold more protests and may even suspend their memberships in parliament. On Saturday they officially received an initiative from Saleh, which may help in ending the ongoing election mess, but the JMP says protests will continue. Some analysts are saying that the concessions Saleh has proposed may backfire because he may not be able to follow through, which is really going to upset people. Obama is calling for both sides to play nice.
Yemen is trying to reach several Millennium Development Goals by 2015. Although, if the chaos keeps up, that's not likely.
The historic parts of Sana'a city are being threatened by new development, negligence, and etc. Yemen-UNESCO is very concerned.
More information on the worker fired from the Spanish Embassy, who claims it was without cause.
Edit: More information on the current unrest in Yemen and other countries.
Edit: Added info and commentary on the arrested journalist.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Quick News Roundup
There's so much happening in Egypt, and also in Yemen, that I've been remiss in my postings. Here's a quick recap of some recent events.
Public protests have been banned in Algeria since sometime in the 1990s. The president just announced that protests will now be allowed, except in the capital of Algiers. The opposition party has planned a protest for next week, and that would be in Algiers.
A supposed UAE spy-ring has been uncovered in Oman, and some Omanis have been arrested. The UAE says it is not spying on Oman. The spy-ring may be interested in the Omani succession or in Oman-Iran relations.
There are protests going on in Palestine both for and against Mubarak. In general, Fatah supports Mubarak (and vice versa) and Hamas is against him.
Syria's Day of Rage fizzled out. The government has more control over things there.
On Sunday, trial starts in Iran for the 3 American hikers accused of being spies.
Public protests have been banned in Algeria since sometime in the 1990s. The president just announced that protests will now be allowed, except in the capital of Algiers. The opposition party has planned a protest for next week, and that would be in Algiers.
A supposed UAE spy-ring has been uncovered in Oman, and some Omanis have been arrested. The UAE says it is not spying on Oman. The spy-ring may be interested in the Omani succession or in Oman-Iran relations.
There are protests going on in Palestine both for and against Mubarak. In general, Fatah supports Mubarak (and vice versa) and Hamas is against him.
Syria's Day of Rage fizzled out. The government has more control over things there.
On Sunday, trial starts in Iran for the 3 American hikers accused of being spies.
Friday, February 4, 2011
YemenWatch: Friday Februrary 4, 2011
Last year the deputy director of the Yemeni political security service in Sada'a province was kidnapped. AQAP now says they have executed him.
The army shelled the town of Radfan, in Lahj province, on Wednesday, injuring 3 people. This is in relation to the southern separatist movement.
A Sudanese man in California sent chemical suits and body armor to Yemen. He was tried and found not guilty, while another man was found guilty. It's a felony to do that without government permission.
Protests in the south to free detainees. Another protest in Hadramowt with injuries. And another protest by the JMP ended with almost 2 dozen arrested. The GPC held their own pro-Saleh rally in Sana'a, with about 10,000 people, while the JMP held a rival protest. Even kids are out there holding signs. More on those protests. Saleh is now saying he won't run for re-election in 2013 and he thanked the Yemen people who aren't protesting. President Obama is urging Saleh to follow through on what he has said he'll do. Here's an analysis of the situation.
Saleh called the Emir of Qatar, trying to get him to stop Al-Jazeera in Yemen.
The missing little Jewish boy is home. Not entirely sure what the real situation was.
The Central Bank of Yemen will soon issue a sukuk - a state bond that still respects Islamic laws. Apparently this will help Islamic banks in Yemen to invest their money in Yemen.
Over the weekend, a business owner was fined for having a sale without telling the Ministry of Industry and Trade. He also had to pay a bribe to the soldiers who notified him of the transgression.
Edit:
The group Anonymous has been attacking Saleh's website.
The army shelled the town of Radfan, in Lahj province, on Wednesday, injuring 3 people. This is in relation to the southern separatist movement.
A Sudanese man in California sent chemical suits and body armor to Yemen. He was tried and found not guilty, while another man was found guilty. It's a felony to do that without government permission.
Protests in the south to free detainees. Another protest in Hadramowt with injuries. And another protest by the JMP ended with almost 2 dozen arrested. The GPC held their own pro-Saleh rally in Sana'a, with about 10,000 people, while the JMP held a rival protest. Even kids are out there holding signs. More on those protests. Saleh is now saying he won't run for re-election in 2013 and he thanked the Yemen people who aren't protesting. President Obama is urging Saleh to follow through on what he has said he'll do. Here's an analysis of the situation.
Saleh called the Emir of Qatar, trying to get him to stop Al-Jazeera in Yemen.
The missing little Jewish boy is home. Not entirely sure what the real situation was.
The Central Bank of Yemen will soon issue a sukuk - a state bond that still respects Islamic laws. Apparently this will help Islamic banks in Yemen to invest their money in Yemen.
Over the weekend, a business owner was fined for having a sale without telling the Ministry of Industry and Trade. He also had to pay a bribe to the soldiers who notified him of the transgression.
Edit:
The group Anonymous has been attacking Saleh's website.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Update
Will update on Yemen soon. I've been snowbound and addicted to Al-Jazeera and Twitter, watching Egypt.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
YemenWatch: Tuesday February 1, 2011
Abdul Elah Haidar, journalist and AQAP expert, received a presidential release order, after being detained since August. Hopefully he will actually be released this week.
Another suspected AQAP member was sentenced to jail time.
Tribal fighting in Abyan province.
President Saleh has called a meeting of Parliament and the Shura councils for Wednesday. The JMP plans to boycott the meeting and is planning rallies for Thursday. The government is preparing for them by reinforcing security forces.
Students in Sana'a are still protesting against Saleh, who is making concessions hoping to stop the protests.
A Yemeni man, possibly a US citizen, was killed by policemen over the weekend.
Journalists are still being harassed and detained in Yemen.
Another suspected AQAP member was sentenced to jail time.
Tribal fighting in Abyan province.
President Saleh has called a meeting of Parliament and the Shura councils for Wednesday. The JMP plans to boycott the meeting and is planning rallies for Thursday. The government is preparing for them by reinforcing security forces.
Students in Sana'a are still protesting against Saleh, who is making concessions hoping to stop the protests.
A Yemeni man, possibly a US citizen, was killed by policemen over the weekend.
Journalists are still being harassed and detained in Yemen.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)