The Dangerous Implications of the Hariri Assassination and the U.S. Response:
“As long as the vast majority of Democrats are afraid to appear “soft” toward the Syrian dictatorship and as long as so few progressive voices are willing to challenge the Democrats, the President Bush appears to have few obstacles in his way should he once again choose to lead the country to war.”
http://www.commondreams.org/views05/0219-23.htm
Full Version: What's Up in the Middle East
Common Ground Common Sense > Issues that Affect Our Lives > Foreign Policy and National Defense > Foreign Policy & National Defense Issues Archive
--------------------
Anti-Syria Protesters Fill Streets of Beirut
--------------------
From Times Wire Services
February 22 2005
BEIRUT; Tens of thousands of Lebanese marched Monday in a large anti-Syrian protest amid signals that Damascus might soon withdraw some troops from the country.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...0,2900022.story
Anti-Syria Protesters Fill Streets of Beirut
--------------------
From Times Wire Services
February 22 2005
BEIRUT; Tens of thousands of Lebanese marched Monday in a large anti-Syrian protest amid signals that Damascus might soon withdraw some troops from the country.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...0,2900022.story
--------------------
Israel Frees 500 Palestinians, Triggering Range of Emotions
--------------------
Some Israelis decry the release of prisoners, who enjoy tearful reunions with relatives.
By Laura King
Times Staff Writer
February 22 2005
JERUSALEM; Israel freed 500 Palestinian prisoners Monday, the first such mass release since Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas took office last month.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...0,5415683.story
Israel Frees 500 Palestinians, Triggering Range of Emotions
--------------------
Some Israelis decry the release of prisoners, who enjoy tearful reunions with relatives.
By Laura King
Times Staff Writer
February 22 2005
JERUSALEM; Israel freed 500 Palestinian prisoners Monday, the first such mass release since Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas took office last month.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...0,5415683.story
--------------------
Hundreds Join Anti-Mubarak Protest
--------------------
From Times Wire Reports
February 22 2005
Several hundred Egyptians protested in central Cairo against continued rule by President Hosni Mubarak's family.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world
Hundreds Join Anti-Mubarak Protest
--------------------
From Times Wire Reports
February 22 2005
Several hundred Egyptians protested in central Cairo against continued rule by President Hosni Mubarak's family.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world
Palestinian Prime Minister Promises Revised Cabinet
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=BC67F7:2F72C9D
Move defuses political crisis sparked Monday when lawmakers refused to
endorse Ahmed Qureia original government line-up
Prime Minister Ahmed Qureia Palestinian Prime Minister Ahmed Qureia
has promised to present a revised list of cabinet appointments for
approval to parliament by Wednesday. The move defuses a political
crisis that was sparked Monday when lawmakers refused to endorse his
original government line-up.
Prime Minister Qureia had little choice in the matter since his first
list of cabinet appointments caused a furor in parliament, with
lawmakers threatening a vote of no-confidence.
Mr. Qureia has now told lawmakers that he will present them with a
revised list of cabinet appointments by Wednesday.
He promised the new government would consist of technocrats and
experts.
It is a concession likely to be welcomed by many legislative council
members since many of them roundly criticized his initial cabinet list
for containing the same old names and faces - some of which have been
tainted by accusations of corruption.
Palestinian political analyst, Mahdi Abdelhadi of the PASIA research
center told VOA the cabinet dispute signals a search for democracy in
a post-Arafat era.
"Democracy is deep rooted in the culture of the Palestinian national
movement, but it has been contained by the philosophy and the vision
and the presence of a historical leader, Yasser Arafat," he said.
"With his absence, there is no more icon. There is [the] law and there
is [the] constitution and there is equality and people are fighting
for democracy through that system."
In the old days appointments were made as a way to reward those close
and loyal to Yasser Arafat and to cement political alliances. But,
says Mr. Abdelhadi, those days are over and now politicians, including
lawmakers, are having to answer a growing public demand for change and
better governance.
The stormy legislative dispute over the cabinet is also seen as an
effort by lawmakers to better position themselves for legislative
elections in July by demonstrating they are listening to public
sentiment.
A cabinet made up of new faces and competent technocrats is also vital
to the political reforms the international community is demanding of
the Palestinians and as such strengthens the position of President
Mahmoud Abbas as he talks peace with Israel.
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=BC67F7:2F72C9D
Move defuses political crisis sparked Monday when lawmakers refused to
endorse Ahmed Qureia original government line-up
Prime Minister Ahmed Qureia Palestinian Prime Minister Ahmed Qureia
has promised to present a revised list of cabinet appointments for
approval to parliament by Wednesday. The move defuses a political
crisis that was sparked Monday when lawmakers refused to endorse his
original government line-up.
Prime Minister Qureia had little choice in the matter since his first
list of cabinet appointments caused a furor in parliament, with
lawmakers threatening a vote of no-confidence.
Mr. Qureia has now told lawmakers that he will present them with a
revised list of cabinet appointments by Wednesday.
He promised the new government would consist of technocrats and
experts.
It is a concession likely to be welcomed by many legislative council
members since many of them roundly criticized his initial cabinet list
for containing the same old names and faces - some of which have been
tainted by accusations of corruption.
Palestinian political analyst, Mahdi Abdelhadi of the PASIA research
center told VOA the cabinet dispute signals a search for democracy in
a post-Arafat era.
"Democracy is deep rooted in the culture of the Palestinian national
movement, but it has been contained by the philosophy and the vision
and the presence of a historical leader, Yasser Arafat," he said.
"With his absence, there is no more icon. There is [the] law and there
is [the] constitution and there is equality and people are fighting
for democracy through that system."
In the old days appointments were made as a way to reward those close
and loyal to Yasser Arafat and to cement political alliances. But,
says Mr. Abdelhadi, those days are over and now politicians, including
lawmakers, are having to answer a growing public demand for change and
better governance.
The stormy legislative dispute over the cabinet is also seen as an
effort by lawmakers to better position themselves for legislative
elections in July by demonstrating they are listening to public
sentiment.
A cabinet made up of new faces and competent technocrats is also vital
to the political reforms the international community is demanding of
the Palestinians and as such strengthens the position of President
Mahmoud Abbas as he talks peace with Israel.
Did Israel Kill al-Hariri to Set the Stage for a Confrontation with Hezbollah?
Kurt Nimmo
Last week, newspapers “from around the world … raised accusation fingers to Israel regarding the assassination of Lebanese Prime Minister Rafic Hariri,” reports Arabic News. In Turkey, Prague, Paris, and elsewhere newspaper columnists and reporters put two and two together and came up with Israel.
http://207.44.245.159/article8141.htm
Kurt Nimmo
Last week, newspapers “from around the world … raised accusation fingers to Israel regarding the assassination of Lebanese Prime Minister Rafic Hariri,” reports Arabic News. In Turkey, Prague, Paris, and elsewhere newspaper columnists and reporters put two and two together and came up with Israel.
http://207.44.245.159/article8141.htm
Straw places suspicion on Syria :
The foreign secretary, Jack Straw, went further than any other senior international statesman yesterday when he pointed the finger of blame at Syria for the assassination of the former Lebanese prime minister, Rafik Hariri.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/syria/story/0,13....html?gusrc=rss
http://snipurl.com/cz1c
The foreign secretary, Jack Straw, went further than any other senior international statesman yesterday when he pointed the finger of blame at Syria for the assassination of the former Lebanese prime minister, Rafik Hariri.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/syria/story/0,13....html?gusrc=rss
http://snipurl.com/cz1c
Egypt: Mass Arrests, Torture Follow Taba Bombing:
The Egyptian state security forces arbitrarily arrested thousands of people and tortured detainees in the wake of the Taba Hilton bombing in October, Human Rights Watch said in a report released today.
http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/H...97f34e03c29.htm
http://snipurl.com/cz0g
The Egyptian state security forces arbitrarily arrested thousands of people and tortured detainees in the wake of the Taba Hilton bombing in October, Human Rights Watch said in a report released today.
http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/H...97f34e03c29.htm
http://snipurl.com/cz0g
Mohamed ElBaradei : "Al-Qaida also Wants the Bomb":
United Nations chief weapons inspector Mohamed ElBaradei discusses the risks posed by potential new nuclear powers like North Korea and Iran, the chances of reining in a nuclear black market for terrorist organizations and the controversy surrounding his re-election.
http://service.spiegel.de/cache/internatio...,343030,00.html
http://snipurl.com/cz0h
United Nations chief weapons inspector Mohamed ElBaradei discusses the risks posed by potential new nuclear powers like North Korea and Iran, the chances of reining in a nuclear black market for terrorist organizations and the controversy surrounding his re-election.
http://service.spiegel.de/cache/internatio...,343030,00.html
http://snipurl.com/cz0h
Palestinian Agrees to Reshape Cabinet With New Faces
By ALAN COWELL
The Palestinian prime minister pledged Tuesday to bring
some nonpolitical figures into his cabinet after lawmakers
challenged his team of loyalists from the Yasir Arafat era.
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/23/internat...mideast.html?th
By ALAN COWELL
The Palestinian prime minister pledged Tuesday to bring
some nonpolitical figures into his cabinet after lawmakers
challenged his team of loyalists from the Yasir Arafat era.
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/23/internat...mideast.html?th
--------------------
Palestinians Demand New Cabinet Roster
--------------------
Prime minister, bowing to lawmakers' calls to bar Arafat cronies, agrees to revamp the lineup. The debate spotlights a growing rift.
By Laura King
Times Staff Writer
February 23 2005
RAMALLAH, West Bank; Back in the era of Yasser Arafat, Palestinian lawmakers were inclined to rubber-stamp just about anything their longtime leader asked of them. Even if they didn't, the autocratic Arafat would simply ignore their wishes.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world
Palestinians Demand New Cabinet Roster
--------------------
Prime minister, bowing to lawmakers' calls to bar Arafat cronies, agrees to revamp the lineup. The debate spotlights a growing rift.
By Laura King
Times Staff Writer
February 23 2005
RAMALLAH, West Bank; Back in the era of Yasser Arafat, Palestinian lawmakers were inclined to rubber-stamp just about anything their longtime leader asked of them. Even if they didn't, the autocratic Arafat would simply ignore their wishes.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world
--------------------
Egypt Said to Hold 2,400 in Bombings
--------------------
From Reuters
February 23 2005
CAIRO; An estimated 2,400 men from north Sinai remain in Egyptian prisons without charge, four months after security police began rounding them up for questioning in the bombings of tourist resorts frequented by Israelis, a human rights group said Tuesday.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world
Egypt Said to Hold 2,400 in Bombings
--------------------
From Reuters
February 23 2005
CAIRO; An estimated 2,400 men from north Sinai remain in Egyptian prisons without charge, four months after security police began rounding them up for questioning in the bombings of tourist resorts frequented by Israelis, a human rights group said Tuesday.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world
Lebanon's Prime Minister Offers to Step Down
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=BC9A86:2F72C9D
Omar Karameh says he would be willing to give way if there was
consensus over a new government, rather than chaos;
Omar Karameh (File photo)Lebanon's pro-Syrian prime minister signaling
he is ready to resign to help restore order in the country. Many
Lebanese blame Syria for a huge bomb attack that killed former Prime
Minister Rafik Hariri and 17 others last week. Syria has denied a role
in the Hariri assassination, but tensions are running high.
Lebanon's pro-Syrian Prime Minister Omar Karameh says he is ready to
quit and other top Syrian allies in the government are sounding
worried. Mr. Karameh told Beirut's An Nahar newspaper that he would be
willing to give way if there was "consensus over a new government,
rather than chaos."
Opposition politician Marwan Hamadeh, who survived an alleged Syrian
attack on his life last November, also insists the government must go,
because "things can not continue as they are."
Mr. Karameh says he will seek a vote of confidence for his government
in parliament on Monday, if the opposition does not ask for it.
Pro-government politicians control most of the seats in Lebanon's
parliament.
In neighboring Syria, a group of writers, artists, and rights
activists issued an open letter to President Bashar al-Assad calling
for his government to withdraw from Lebanon. Syria's official
Baâth daily is deploring what it calls the "climate of war
in Lebanon".
Saudi Ambassador to Lebanon, Abdelaziz Khoja, is saying, after meeting
Lebanon's foreign minister, that Syria is prepared to "apply the 1989
Taef Accord, and redeploy its troops in Lebanon."
The Arab daily Asharqalawsat says that Western governments are
considering freezing Syrian assets abroad to pressure Damascus. After
meeting the past two days with European allies, President Bush said
that he would wait to see Syria's response to his call for a complete
withdrawal from Lebanon before they seek new U.N. sanctions against
Damascus.
Meanwhile, Syrian workers fleeing the country in the wake of recent
unrest are reportedly causing disruptions to the Lebanese economy. In
Beirut, where anti-Syrian sentiment is running high, several incidents
of Lebanese demonstrators beating up Syrian immigrant workers have
been reported.
The Arab daily Al Hayat estimates that 800,000 Syrian workers in
Lebanon send home nearly $1 billion each year.
One Syrian worker complained to the VOA he was "afraid to venture too
far from home" for fear of being attacked.
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=BC9A86:2F72C9D
Omar Karameh says he would be willing to give way if there was
consensus over a new government, rather than chaos;
Omar Karameh (File photo)Lebanon's pro-Syrian prime minister signaling
he is ready to resign to help restore order in the country. Many
Lebanese blame Syria for a huge bomb attack that killed former Prime
Minister Rafik Hariri and 17 others last week. Syria has denied a role
in the Hariri assassination, but tensions are running high.
Lebanon's pro-Syrian Prime Minister Omar Karameh says he is ready to
quit and other top Syrian allies in the government are sounding
worried. Mr. Karameh told Beirut's An Nahar newspaper that he would be
willing to give way if there was "consensus over a new government,
rather than chaos."
Opposition politician Marwan Hamadeh, who survived an alleged Syrian
attack on his life last November, also insists the government must go,
because "things can not continue as they are."
Mr. Karameh says he will seek a vote of confidence for his government
in parliament on Monday, if the opposition does not ask for it.
Pro-government politicians control most of the seats in Lebanon's
parliament.
In neighboring Syria, a group of writers, artists, and rights
activists issued an open letter to President Bashar al-Assad calling
for his government to withdraw from Lebanon. Syria's official
Baâth daily is deploring what it calls the "climate of war
in Lebanon".
Saudi Ambassador to Lebanon, Abdelaziz Khoja, is saying, after meeting
Lebanon's foreign minister, that Syria is prepared to "apply the 1989
Taef Accord, and redeploy its troops in Lebanon."
The Arab daily Asharqalawsat says that Western governments are
considering freezing Syrian assets abroad to pressure Damascus. After
meeting the past two days with European allies, President Bush said
that he would wait to see Syria's response to his call for a complete
withdrawal from Lebanon before they seek new U.N. sanctions against
Damascus.
Meanwhile, Syrian workers fleeing the country in the wake of recent
unrest are reportedly causing disruptions to the Lebanese economy. In
Beirut, where anti-Syrian sentiment is running high, several incidents
of Lebanese demonstrators beating up Syrian immigrant workers have
been reported.
The Arab daily Al Hayat estimates that 800,000 Syrian workers in
Lebanon send home nearly $1 billion each year.
One Syrian worker complained to the VOA he was "afraid to venture too
far from home" for fear of being attacked.
Syria minister warns of Bush 'plot':
"What has happened in Lebanon is an inseparable part of the plan to restructure the Middle East. This causes real worries to the people of this region," Shaban told Aljazeera.
http://english.aljazeera.net/NR/exeres/4EE...E8A7FE51CD2.htm
http://snipurl.com/d05y
"What has happened in Lebanon is an inseparable part of the plan to restructure the Middle East. This causes real worries to the people of this region," Shaban told Aljazeera.
http://english.aljazeera.net/NR/exeres/4EE...E8A7FE51CD2.htm
http://snipurl.com/d05y
After Iraq will the US attack Syria next?:
The history and consequence of imperial interventions in Syria and Lebanon
http://207.44.245.159/article8145.htm
The history and consequence of imperial interventions in Syria and Lebanon
http://207.44.245.159/article8145.htm
Justin Raimondo : They've Only Just Begun... :
The War Party's agenda: Syria, Iran, and beyond
http://antiwar.com/justin/?articleid=4933
The War Party's agenda: Syria, Iran, and beyond
http://antiwar.com/justin/?articleid=4933
Palestinian Parliament Approves New Cabinet
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=BD1790:2F72C9D
Cabinet dominated by technocrats and reform-minded professionals
Prime Minister Ahmed Qureia
The Palestinian parliament has approved a new cabinet dominated
by technocrats and professional appointees.
The approval Thursday comes after Prime Minister Ahmed Qureia bowed to
lawmakers' demands to replace several officials closely associated
with the late Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat.
The new lineup includes Arafat-allies Nabil Shaath, who becomes deputy
prime minister, and Nasser al-Qidwa, Mr. Arafat's nephew, who replaces
Mr. Shaath as foreign minister. Saeb Erekat, who was an Arafat ally
and former minister of negotiations, was left out.
The cabinet was approved after President Mahmoud Abbas pressured the
dominant Fatah faction to accept a revised lineup.
Mr. Abbas made reform of the Palestinian Authority a key platform of
his recent presidential campaign. The Authority was plagued with
corruption under Mr. Arafat, who died in November.
Parliament approved the new cabinet in a vote of 54 to 12 with four
abstentions.
Some information for this report provided by AP and AFP.
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=BD1790:2F72C9D
Cabinet dominated by technocrats and reform-minded professionals
Prime Minister Ahmed Qureia
The Palestinian parliament has approved a new cabinet dominated
by technocrats and professional appointees.
The approval Thursday comes after Prime Minister Ahmed Qureia bowed to
lawmakers' demands to replace several officials closely associated
with the late Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat.
The new lineup includes Arafat-allies Nabil Shaath, who becomes deputy
prime minister, and Nasser al-Qidwa, Mr. Arafat's nephew, who replaces
Mr. Shaath as foreign minister. Saeb Erekat, who was an Arafat ally
and former minister of negotiations, was left out.
The cabinet was approved after President Mahmoud Abbas pressured the
dominant Fatah faction to accept a revised lineup.
Mr. Abbas made reform of the Palestinian Authority a key platform of
his recent presidential campaign. The Authority was plagued with
corruption under Mr. Arafat, who died in November.
Parliament approved the new cabinet in a vote of 54 to 12 with four
abstentions.
Some information for this report provided by AP and AFP.
Syria Vows to Quit Lebanon but Declines to Say When
By JOEL BRINKLEY and HASSAN M. FATTAH
Syria said it would move its forces in Lebanon to an area
near the Syrian border and, eventually, out of Lebanon
altogether.
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/25/politics/25syria.html?th
By JOEL BRINKLEY and HASSAN M. FATTAH
Syria said it would move its forces in Lebanon to an area
near the Syrian border and, eventually, out of Lebanon
altogether.
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/25/politics/25syria.html?th
Palestinian Cabinet Approved, With Few Arafat Allies
By ALAN COWELL
The cabinet is composed mainly of professionals rather than
politicians, marking a break with the Yasir Arafat era.
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/25/internat...mideast.html?th
By ALAN COWELL
The cabinet is composed mainly of professionals rather than
politicians, marking a break with the Yasir Arafat era.
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/25/internat...mideast.html?th
--------------------
Palestinian Lawmakers OK New Cabinet; Most Arafat Loyalists Out
--------------------
Much of the slate is made up of reform- minded technocrats and first-timers.
By Henry Chu
Times Staff Writer
February 25 2005
JERUSALEM; Palestinian lawmakers ended days of rancorous debate Thursday and broke with the legacy of Yasser Arafat, giving their approval to a reformist Cabinet filled with technocrats and newcomers and nearly devoid of the late president's loyalists.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...0,3625516.story
Palestinian Lawmakers OK New Cabinet; Most Arafat Loyalists Out
--------------------
Much of the slate is made up of reform- minded technocrats and first-timers.
By Henry Chu
Times Staff Writer
February 25 2005
JERUSALEM; Palestinian lawmakers ended days of rancorous debate Thursday and broke with the legacy of Yasser Arafat, giving their approval to a reformist Cabinet filled with technocrats and newcomers and nearly devoid of the late president's loyalists.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...0,3625516.story
--------------------
'Confessions' Disputed by Syria
--------------------
From Times Wire Services
February 25 2005
DAMASCUS, Syria; Syria dismissed televised statements by men who said they had been trained by the Syrian intelligence service to become insurgents in Iraq.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world
'Confessions' Disputed by Syria
--------------------
From Times Wire Services
February 25 2005
DAMASCUS, Syria; Syria dismissed televised statements by men who said they had been trained by the Syrian intelligence service to become insurgents in Iraq.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world
--------------------
Syria Will Reconfigure Its Forces in Lebanon
--------------------
Under heavy pressure to pull out, Damascus says it will send troops closer to the Syrian border.
By Megan K. Stack
Times Staff Writer
February 25 2005
DAMASCUS, Syria; Under fierce pressure to loosen its hold on its neighbor, Syria will pull more soldiers from Lebanon's coastal and mountain regions and station them closer to the Syrian border, Lebanese and Syrian officials said Thursday.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world
Syria Will Reconfigure Its Forces in Lebanon
--------------------
Under heavy pressure to pull out, Damascus says it will send troops closer to the Syrian border.
By Megan K. Stack
Times Staff Writer
February 25 2005
DAMASCUS, Syria; Under fierce pressure to loosen its hold on its neighbor, Syria will pull more soldiers from Lebanon's coastal and mountain regions and station them closer to the Syrian border, Lebanese and Syrian officials said Thursday.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world
Bombing Reported in Tel Aviv
By Lee Marzel
A suicide bomber attacked a night club in downtown Tel Aviv late Friday killing at least three people, according to media and police reports.
To view the entire article, go to http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/artic...er=emailarticle
By Lee Marzel
A suicide bomber attacked a night club in downtown Tel Aviv late Friday killing at least three people, according to media and police reports.
To view the entire article, go to http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/artic...er=emailarticle
Tel Aviv Suicide Bombing Kills Up to Five
Updated 6:23 PM ET February 25, 2005
http://dailynews.att.net/cgi-bin/news?e=pr...88fr7000&src=ap
By GAVIN RABINOWITZ
TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) - A Palestinian suicide bomber blew himself up in a crowd of young Israelis waiting outside a nightclub near Tel Aviv's beachfront promenade just before midnight Friday, killing up to five people, wounding dozens and shattering an informal Mideast truce.
About 20 to 30 people were waiting to get into the Stage club on Herbert Samuel street, close to the promenade. "I was near the club. There were about 20 people outside. Suddenly, there was an enormous explosion," said a witness, identified only as Tsahi.
There were conflicting reports of who was behind the attack. Israeli media said the militant group Islamic Jihad claimed responsibility. But one of the group's leaders in the Gaza Strip, Nafez Azzam, said it was continuing to honor the cease-fire.
Palestinian security officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah orchestrated the blast. They said they had tracked recent communications between Hezbollah militant Kais Obeid and an unidentified Palestinian who they believed was the attacker.
But a Hezbollah official in Beirut denied involvement. "As far as we are concerned, there is no need to respond to such lies that we have become used to it," the official said.
Updated 6:23 PM ET February 25, 2005
http://dailynews.att.net/cgi-bin/news?e=pr...88fr7000&src=ap
By GAVIN RABINOWITZ
TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) - A Palestinian suicide bomber blew himself up in a crowd of young Israelis waiting outside a nightclub near Tel Aviv's beachfront promenade just before midnight Friday, killing up to five people, wounding dozens and shattering an informal Mideast truce.
About 20 to 30 people were waiting to get into the Stage club on Herbert Samuel street, close to the promenade. "I was near the club. There were about 20 people outside. Suddenly, there was an enormous explosion," said a witness, identified only as Tsahi.
There were conflicting reports of who was behind the attack. Israeli media said the militant group Islamic Jihad claimed responsibility. But one of the group's leaders in the Gaza Strip, Nafez Azzam, said it was continuing to honor the cease-fire.
Palestinian security officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah orchestrated the blast. They said they had tracked recent communications between Hezbollah militant Kais Obeid and an unidentified Palestinian who they believed was the attacker.
But a Hezbollah official in Beirut denied involvement. "As far as we are concerned, there is no need to respond to such lies that we have become used to it," the official said.
Suicide Bombing Kills at Least 4 at Tel Aviv Club
By ALAN COWELL and GREG MYRE
The bombing endangered efforts to end more than four years
of violence in the Mideast and renew peace negotiations.
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/26/internat...mideast.html?th
By ALAN COWELL and GREG MYRE
The bombing endangered efforts to end more than four years
of violence in the Mideast and renew peace negotiations.
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/26/internat...mideast.html?th
--------------------
Attack Shatters Calm in Mideast
--------------------
A Tel Aviv suicide bombing kills four and injures 50. Reactions are muted on both sides as Israel urges Palestinians to take stronger action.
By Henry Chu and Tami Zer
Special to The Times
February 26 2005
TEL AVIV; A Palestinian suicide bomber blew himself up outside a crowded beachfront bar late Friday in an attack against Israel that shattered a months-long period of relative calm and instantly threw a shadow over tentative but promising steps toward peace talks.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world
Attack Shatters Calm in Mideast
--------------------
A Tel Aviv suicide bombing kills four and injures 50. Reactions are muted on both sides as Israel urges Palestinians to take stronger action.
By Henry Chu and Tami Zer
Special to The Times
February 26 2005
TEL AVIV; A Palestinian suicide bomber blew himself up outside a crowded beachfront bar late Friday in an attack against Israel that shattered a months-long period of relative calm and instantly threw a shadow over tentative but promising steps toward peace talks.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world
--------------------
Israel Lays Blame on Syria for Bombing
--------------------
The Palestinian group Islamic Jihad claims responsibility, but security officials say Damascus was behind the Tel Aviv attack.
By Laura King
Times Staff Writer
February 27 2005
JERUSALEM; Israel on Saturday declared that Syria was responsible for a Palestinian suicide attack on a Tel Aviv nightclub that killed four Israelis, wounded dozens and threatened to taint the conciliatory atmosphere that has taken hold since the death of Yasser Arafat.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...0,2960975.story
Israel Lays Blame on Syria for Bombing
--------------------
The Palestinian group Islamic Jihad claims responsibility, but security officials say Damascus was behind the Tel Aviv attack.
By Laura King
Times Staff Writer
February 27 2005
JERUSALEM; Israel on Saturday declared that Syria was responsible for a Palestinian suicide attack on a Tel Aviv nightclub that killed four Israelis, wounded dozens and threatened to taint the conciliatory atmosphere that has taken hold since the death of Yasser Arafat.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...0,2960975.story
http://www.atimes.com/atimes/Middle_East/GC01Ak02.html
The House of Saud's eternal dilemma
John Bradley
The House of Saud's eternal dilemma
John Bradley
--------------------
Sharon Threatens to Halt Talks in Wake of Attack
--------------------
Palestinian leaders must quash violence, premier says, or 'there will be no diplomatic progress.'
By Laura King
Times Staff Writer
February 28 2005
JERUSALEM; Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, speaking out for the first time since a suicide bombing killed five Israelis and wounded scores of others, demanded Sunday that the new Palestinian leadership either act forcefully to prevent further attacks or face a freeze in nascent peace efforts.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...0,3419729.story
Sharon Threatens to Halt Talks in Wake of Attack
--------------------
Palestinian leaders must quash violence, premier says, or 'there will be no diplomatic progress.'
By Laura King
Times Staff Writer
February 28 2005
JERUSALEM; Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, speaking out for the first time since a suicide bombing killed five Israelis and wounded scores of others, demanded Sunday that the new Palestinian leadership either act forcefully to prevent further attacks or face a freeze in nascent peace efforts.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...0,3419729.story
--------------------
Egyptians Doubtful of a Free Election
--------------------
By Megan K. Stack
Times Staff Writer
February 28 2005
CAIRO; In the smoggy, jostling streets of the Egyptian capital, people of all political stripes greeted President Hosni Mubarak's surprise call for an open presidential election with deep skepticism Sunday.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world
Egyptians Doubtful of a Free Election
--------------------
By Megan K. Stack
Times Staff Writer
February 28 2005
CAIRO; In the smoggy, jostling streets of the Egyptian capital, people of all political stripes greeted President Hosni Mubarak's surprise call for an open presidential election with deep skepticism Sunday.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world
http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=stor.../wl_nm/syria_dc
Lebanon Govt. Quits, Pressure Mounts on Syria
Lebanon Govt. Quits, Pressure Mounts on Syria
http://www.tehrantimes.com/Description.asp...5&Cat=4&Num=002
Damascus 'essential to peace' in Mideast, Iraq: Syrian President
Damascus 'essential to peace' in Mideast, Iraq: Syrian President
Lebanon's government quits as anti-Syria protests swell
This victory for Lebanese opposition groups does not, however, spell
the end of Syrian dominance. By Nicholas Blanford
http://www.csmonitor.com/2005/0301/p07s01-wome.html?s=hns
This victory for Lebanese opposition groups does not, however, spell
the end of Syrian dominance. By Nicholas Blanford
http://www.csmonitor.com/2005/0301/p07s01-wome.html?s=hns
Assad predicts US onslaught on Syria:
"The language of the White House leads one to predict a campaign like that that preceded the conflict against Saddam," he said.
http://www.middle-east-online.com/english/?id=12835
"The language of the White House leads one to predict a campaign like that that preceded the conflict against Saddam," he said.
http://www.middle-east-online.com/english/?id=12835
Syrian President Says Attack By U.S. Possible:
Syrian President Bashar Assad says in a newspaper interview that he suspects the United States might eventually take military action against Syria.
http://www.rferl.org/featuresarticle/2005/...07C9B54255.html
http://tinyurl.com/4vsjy
Syrian President Bashar Assad says in a newspaper interview that he suspects the United States might eventually take military action against Syria.
http://www.rferl.org/featuresarticle/2005/...07C9B54255.html
http://tinyurl.com/4vsjy
Lebanon's Pro-Syria Government Is Dissolved After Protests
By HASSAN M. FATTAH
The dissolution of Lebanon's government sets the stage for
an intense struggle over the relationship between Syria and
Lebanon.
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/03/01/internat...lebanon.html?th
By HASSAN M. FATTAH
The dissolution of Lebanon's government sets the stage for
an intense struggle over the relationship between Syria and
Lebanon.
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/03/01/internat...lebanon.html?th
--------------------
Western Donors Weigh Billions for Palestinians
--------------------
Benefactors want to aid peace process without pouring money into a possibly corrupt system.
By Josh Meyer
Times Staff Writer
March 1 2005
WASHINGTON; Top U.S. and European officials will meet with the new Palestinian leadership in London today to consider $4.5 billion or more in new aid that they hope will bolster the Palestinian government, boost the economy and strengthen the drive toward peace in the Middle East.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world
Western Donors Weigh Billions for Palestinians
--------------------
Benefactors want to aid peace process without pouring money into a possibly corrupt system.
By Josh Meyer
Times Staff Writer
March 1 2005
WASHINGTON; Top U.S. and European officials will meet with the new Palestinian leadership in London today to consider $4.5 billion or more in new aid that they hope will bolster the Palestinian government, boost the economy and strengthen the drive toward peace in the Middle East.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...headlines-world
--------------------
Winds of Change Stir in Mideast, but Their Direction Is Unclear
--------------------
U.S. officials hope recent developments in Lebanon, Egypt and Syria vindicate policy. Democracy, however, may boost Islamists.
By Tyler Marshall
Times Staff Writer
March 1 2005
WASHINGTON; Over 60 dramatic hours ending Monday, events in the Middle East highlighted both the hopes and risks of change in the region as the Bush administration pursues its agenda of reform.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...1,1829664.story
Winds of Change Stir in Mideast, but Their Direction Is Unclear
--------------------
U.S. officials hope recent developments in Lebanon, Egypt and Syria vindicate policy. Democracy, however, may boost Islamists.
By Tyler Marshall
Times Staff Writer
March 1 2005
WASHINGTON; Over 60 dramatic hours ending Monday, events in the Middle East highlighted both the hopes and risks of change in the region as the Bush administration pursues its agenda of reform.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...1,1829664.story
--------------------
Lebanon's Government Falls Amid Surging Street Protests
--------------------
The pro-Syria prime minister abruptly quits, stunning his supporters and thrilling the opposition. U.S. calls it a victory for the people.
By Megan K. Stack and Rania Abouzeid
Special to The Times
March 1 2005
BEIRUT; The Syrian-backed government of Lebanon collapsed Monday under a groundswell of street protests, candlelight vigils and international pressure to end Damascus' domination of its neighbor.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...0,7596809.story
Lebanon's Government Falls Amid Surging Street Protests
--------------------
The pro-Syria prime minister abruptly quits, stunning his supporters and thrilling the opposition. U.S. calls it a victory for the people.
By Megan K. Stack and Rania Abouzeid
Special to The Times
March 1 2005
BEIRUT; The Syrian-backed government of Lebanon collapsed Monday under a groundswell of street protests, candlelight vigils and international pressure to end Damascus' domination of its neighbor.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...0,7596809.story
QUOTE(Snuffysmith @ Mar 1 2005, 08:22 AM)
--------------------
Lebanon's Government Falls Amid Surging Street Protests
--------------------
The pro-Syria prime minister abruptly quits, stunning his supporters and thrilling the opposition. U.S. calls it a victory for the people.
By Megan K. Stack and Rania Abouzeid
Special to The Times
March 1 2005
BEIRUT; The Syrian-backed government of Lebanon collapsed Monday under a groundswell of street protests, candlelight vigils and international pressure to end Damascus' domination of its neighbor.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...0,7596809.story
Lebanon's Government Falls Amid Surging Street Protests
--------------------
The pro-Syria prime minister abruptly quits, stunning his supporters and thrilling the opposition. U.S. calls it a victory for the people.
By Megan K. Stack and Rania Abouzeid
Special to The Times
March 1 2005
BEIRUT; The Syrian-backed government of Lebanon collapsed Monday under a groundswell of street protests, candlelight vigils and international pressure to end Damascus' domination of its neighbor.
The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/wo...0,7596809.story
An editorial in the Beirut Daily Star ---
March 01, 2005
Lebanon's youth electrifies hope for a new beginning
Editorial
Electricity is in the air. Beirut is a sea of excitement, and activity and turmoil. The word "revolution" is on many lips. It began on Sunday night with thousands of people, mainly young people, heading to downtown Beirut to begin a vigil leading up to Monday's mass demonstration that was due to begin at 10 a.m. but yet was officially banned by the government. As the light of dawn illuminated Martyrs' Square and the surrounding precinct, an ocean of red and green flags could be seen ebbing and flowing and swelling. It was a momentous event, and it led to the resignation of the pro-Syrian government of Prime Minister Omar Karami.
What contributed to the historical nature of yesterday's events was the fact the protesters demonstrated exemplary behavior. Thankfully reciprocating, the army also demonstrated exemplary behavior - a wise policy that undoubtedly preserved national stability and gave the Lebanese youth who were risking so much a taste of political responsibility.
It was a commitment and enthusiasm that should be recognized and respected by the opposition, by Hizbullah, by President Emile Lahoud, and by Damascus. There is no evil in these young people - only gross, criminal mismanagement of the "security" situation could blacken what has otherwise been a day of hope for a new beginning.
For the promise of this new beginning to be fulfilled, Hizbullah must join the opposition - the presence of this major Lebanese sociopolitical force in a transitional government is vital for the continuing development of the democratic process that should come to fruition with the elections scheduled for May.
And Syria should consider what is happening in a sober manner and not thwart the ideals demonstrated by Lebanon's youth: It is, indeed, the time for change.
Copyright © 2005 The Daily Star
U.S., France Urge Syria to Withdraw From Lebanon
By Robin Wright
The United States and France ratcheted up pressure on Syria Tuesday, calling for an immediate and total withdrawal of all Syrian military and intelligence personnel from Lebanon and deployment of international monitors to observe Lebanon's crucial spring election.
To view the entire article, go to http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/artic...er=emailarticle
By Robin Wright
The United States and France ratcheted up pressure on Syria Tuesday, calling for an immediate and total withdrawal of all Syrian military and intelligence personnel from Lebanon and deployment of international monitors to observe Lebanon's crucial spring election.
To view the entire article, go to http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/artic...er=emailarticle
Rice Urges Syrian Pullout from Lebanon
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=BE8C3A:2F72C9D
Rice discusses Lebanon with French FM Michel Barnier on sidelines of
London conference on Palestinian reforms
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice arrives at the "Supporting the
Palestinian Authority" meeting in London (AP photo)The United States
says Syria needs to get out of Lebanon and let the people there decide
their political future through free and fair elections.
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice has discussed Lebanon with French
Foreign Minister Michel Barnier on the sidelines of a London
conference on Palestinian reforms.
Afterward, Secretary Rice said Syria needs to leave Lebanon and let
elections proceed.
"The Syrians are out of step with the way the region is going and out
of step with the aspirations of the people of the Middle East," said
Ms. Rice.
She says Syria also must end its political meddling in Lebanon, where
the pro-Syrian government has just resigned, and she pledges U.S.
material support for free and fair elections in Lebanon.
Mr. Barnier said France agrees that the Lebanese should be, as he put
it, "the masters of their own fate".
http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=BE8C3A:2F72C9D
Rice discusses Lebanon with French FM Michel Barnier on sidelines of
London conference on Palestinian reforms
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice arrives at the "Supporting the
Palestinian Authority" meeting in London (AP photo)The United States
says Syria needs to get out of Lebanon and let the people there decide
their political future through free and fair elections.
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice has discussed Lebanon with French
Foreign Minister Michel Barnier on the sidelines of a London
conference on Palestinian reforms.
Afterward, Secretary Rice said Syria needs to leave Lebanon and let
elections proceed.
"The Syrians are out of step with the way the region is going and out
of step with the aspirations of the people of the Middle East," said
Ms. Rice.
She says Syria also must end its political meddling in Lebanon, where
the pro-Syrian government has just resigned, and she pledges U.S.
material support for free and fair elections in Lebanon.
Mr. Barnier said France agrees that the Lebanese should be, as he put
it, "the masters of their own fate".
Lebanon: Syrian troops pulling back:
Lebanese Defence Minister Abd al-Rahim Murad has told Aljazeera that Syria has started pulling back its troops in Lebanon into the eastern Bakaa Valley
http://english.aljazeera.net/NR/exeres/979...A1AF21649F6.htm
http://tinyurl.com/5hpvl
Lebanese Defence Minister Abd al-Rahim Murad has told Aljazeera that Syria has started pulling back its troops in Lebanon into the eastern Bakaa Valley
http://english.aljazeera.net/NR/exeres/979...A1AF21649F6.htm
http://tinyurl.com/5hpvl
Syria out of Lebanon and Israel out of Syria :
The quickest solution to these 'complex problems' is to shed all complexity and keep it simple. Get Syrian forces - including intelligence operatives - out of Lebanon. And compel the Israelis to remove all settlements and end the occupation of the Golan Heights.
http://207.44.245.159/article8178.htm
The quickest solution to these 'complex problems' is to shed all complexity and keep it simple. Get Syrian forces - including intelligence operatives - out of Lebanon. And compel the Israelis to remove all settlements and end the occupation of the Golan Heights.
http://207.44.245.159/article8178.htm
Israel launches diplomatic, PR offensive against Syria, PA :
The cabinet yesterday launched a major diplomatic and public relations offensive against both Syria and the Palestinian Authority in response to Friday's suicide bombing in Tel Aviv, which killed four people
http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/545694.html
The cabinet yesterday launched a major diplomatic and public relations offensive against both Syria and the Palestinian Authority in response to Friday's suicide bombing in Tel Aviv, which killed four people
http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/545694.html
War Pimp Alert:
Sen. Clinton urges punishment for Syria:
Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton called Tuesday for tougher punishment against Syria, saying the country was aggressively supporting terrorism in the "dangerous neighborhood" of the Middle East.
http://tinyurl.com/6n7kr
Sen. Clinton urges punishment for Syria:
Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton called Tuesday for tougher punishment against Syria, saying the country was aggressively supporting terrorism in the "dangerous neighborhood" of the Middle East.
http://tinyurl.com/6n7kr
Peace Process Industry opens talking shop in London :
Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas has told senior envoys from around the world that he is fully committed to reforms and fighting militants.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/4306773.stm
Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas has told senior envoys from around the world that he is fully committed to reforms and fighting militants.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/4306773.stm
3 Israeli Bomb Victims Were Reserve Troops:
Members of a reserve unit who lost three comrades and the bride-to-be of another in the Tel Aviv nightclub terror attack on Friday night went from one funeral to another on Sunday.
http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?pag...d=1109387974746
http://tinyurl.com/54gwq
Members of a reserve unit who lost three comrades and the bride-to-be of another in the Tel Aviv nightclub terror attack on Friday night went from one funeral to another on Sunday.
http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?pag...d=1109387974746
http://tinyurl.com/54gwq
Lebanon faces a critical week
The opposition is gearing up for a showdown with key allies of Syria,
including the president and the heads of the intelligence services. By
Nicholas Blanford
http://www.csmonitor.com/2005/0302/p01s04-wome.html?s=hns
The opposition is gearing up for a showdown with key allies of Syria,
including the president and the heads of the intelligence services. By
Nicholas Blanford
http://www.csmonitor.com/2005/0302/p01s04-wome.html?s=hns
The Cedar Rebellion
As the Lebanese have shown, the people of the Middle East do want
freedom - now. The Monitor's View
http://www.csmonitor.com/2005/0302/p08s02-comv.html?s=hns
As the Lebanese have shown, the people of the Middle East do want
freedom - now. The Monitor's View
http://www.csmonitor.com/2005/0302/p08s02-comv.html?s=hns
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