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Middle East Update

June 27, 2011

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Welcome to Middle East Update. Enjoy a cup of tea, proper Turkish coffee, or shisha pipe while you’re here. Think of this as a café to discuss the latest goings on in the Arab Uprisings and beyond. We don’t have backgammon here, but there is occasional trivia.

The only rule is that I generally limit the topics to the Middle East and North Africa.

Basic reference material, such as maps and such can be added later here upon request, to assist familiarizing and helping you follow events.

Additional information may also be found in past articles by me:

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Author

Khirad

CCCLIX

Wow have I been busy! But, I tried my best to sneak in a quasi-update, though I don’t have much on all the North African mess.

General

Islamophobia Is Bad for Business
http://www.bostonreview.net/BR38.1/massoud_hayoun_islamophobia_business_china_middle_east.php

Syria

Syrian troops and militia push to take Sunni Homs areas
http://news.yahoo.com/syria-sends-ground-forces-try-seize-sunni-areas-105159473.html

Women join ranks of Assad forces in Syria’s Homs
http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2013/Jan-23/203464-women-join-ranks-of-assad-forces-in-syrias-homs.ashx#axzz2IUj2ywhZ

Maghreb

Interactive: Mali Speaks
http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/interactive/2013/01/201312113451635182.html

Levant

Op-ed: Moderate parties’ refusal to form political alliance with Arab factions a worrying trend bordering on racism
http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4332903,00.html

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu challenged for right-wing vote
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-21088844

Dramatic surprise in Israeli elections
http://amanpour.blogs.cnn.com/2013/01/22/dramatic-surprise-in-israeli-elections/

Palestinian youth call for own university in Lebanon
http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Local-News/2013/Jan-23/203460-palestinian-youth-call-for-own-university-in-leban.ashx#axzz2IUj2ywhZ

Putting governmental puzzle pieces together
http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4336033,00.html

Barak: US plans ‘surgical strike’ if Iran sanctions fail
http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4337098,00.html

Khaleej

UAE Council applauds first female Speaker
http://www.thenational.ae/news/uae-news/uae-council-applauds-first-female-speaker?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=hmp&utm_campaign=sm

UAE most connected country in Arab world
http://www.thenational.ae/thenationalconversation/industry-insights/economics/uae-most-connected-country-in-arab-world

Egypt

16 die in Egypt riot after soccer violence verdict
http://news.yahoo.com/16-die-egypt-riot-soccer-violence-verdict-123337826.html

The state of Egypt’s revolution
http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/insidestory/2013/01/201312672536410414.html

Iran

Potential Presidential Candidate Says Iran Needs Moderates
http://www.payvand.com/news/12/dec/1153.html?

Growing up gay in Iranhttp://www.guardian.co.uk/world/iran-blog/2013/jan/13/growing-gay-iran-tehranbureau

Iranian MPs line up behind Supreme Leader on election issue
http://www.payvand.com/news/13/jan/1122.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=facebook

Iran-Turkey relations irreversible. Trade may reach $100B: Envoy
http://www.payvand.com/news/13/jan/1128.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=facebook

Khomeini’s Granddaughter On Iran’s ‘Critical Situation,’ Sanctions, Facebook
http://www.rferl.org/content/khomeini-granddaughter-iran-critical-situation-/24824197.html

Former Iranian MPs call for direct U.S.-Iran talks
http://www.payvand.com/news/13/jan/1150.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=facebook

Ahmadinejad: Iran must reduce oil dependence
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2013/01/20131170271867822.html

Admin

AdLib

Hey Khirad, thanks for the update!

BTW, glenn joined us on Vox Populi last night, was discussing living in the ME and some of us mentioned how interesting it would be for the two of you to discuss insights and observations.

As to the surprising elections in Israel, it is astounding that Netanyahu isn’t far enough right for some but promising that so many moderates made their voices heard. Still, there doesn’t seem to be any agreement on the horizon and so the terrible status quo continues…or worsens.

Hope your schedule lightens up a little, great seeing you around!

Author

Khirad

CCCLVIII

Syria

UN envoy calls for interim Syria government
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/12/2012122711238644206.html

Russia invites the head of opposition Syria National Coalition for talks, Deputy Foreign Minister says
http://blogs.aljazeera.com/topic/syria/russia-invites-head-opposition-syria-national-coalition-talks-deputy-foreign-minister

Syrian Rebels Step Up Siege of Northern Airbase
http://bigstory.ap.org/article/turkish-officials-2-syrian-generals-defect

Battle for Syrian City Lays Both Sides’ Weaknesses Bare
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/28/world/middleeast/battle-for-aleppo-shows-weaknesses-of-both-sides.html?smid=tw-share

Supporting non-violence in Syria
http://mideast.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/12/20/supporting_non_violence_in_syria?wp_login_redirect=0

Egypt

Egypt probes alleged incitement to oust Morsi
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/12/2012122842320389703.html

Levant

Unprecedented East Jerusalem Building in Pipeline
http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/M/ML_ISRAEL_SETTLEMENT_SURGE?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT

Khaleej

Man shot dead as police clash with Shi’ites in Saudi Arabia
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/12/28/saudi-shiite-shooting-idUSL5E8NS3LP20121228

A respite in Kuwait?
http://mideast.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/12/21/a_respite_in_kuwait

Arab media dinosaurs meet in Bahrain
http://www.al-bab.com/blog/2012/blog1212b.htm#arab_media_dinosaurs_meet_in_bahrain

Iraq

Anti-Maliki protests continue in Iraq
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/europe/2012/12/2012122875346526845.html

Iran

Iran Navy launches drill to display capabilities, send friendship message
http://www.presstv.ir/detail/2012/12/28/280501/iran-launches-specialized-naval-drill/

Japan’s November Iran Oil Imports Surge to Most Since March
http://origin-www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-12-27/japan-s-november-iran-oil-imports-surge-to-most-since-march-1-.html

Turkey

Turkish Journalist Accused of Terrorist Plot Is Freed Pending Trial
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/28/world/europe/soner-yalcin-owner-and-editor-of-odatv-freed-from-prison.html?_r=1&

Author

Khirad

CCCLVII

General

Turkey beats out Iran.

Number of jailed journalists sets global record
http://www.cpj.org/reports/2012/12/imprisoned-journalists-world-record.php

Al Qaeda 3.0: Terrorism’s Emergent New Power Bases
http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2012/12/03/al-qaeda-3-0-terrorism-s-emergent-new-power-bases.html

Syria

Panetta Says Syria Chemical Threat Has Slowed
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=166938321

Stalemate stokes anger at rebels in Aleppo
http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/2012/12/20121211125010153551.html

Bashar Is bombing us.
http://7ee6an.wordpress.com/2012/12/11/bashar-is-bombing-us/

Kurdish National Council joins the opposition coalition, foreign reserves shrink
http://us2.campaign-archive2.com/?u=556aeef60722f6e5811ea2519&id=cb1a81716d&e=dcaf978bc3

Supreme Leader Denies Iran’s Culpability for Syrian Bloodshed
http://iranpulse.al-monitor.com/index.php/2012/12/984/supreme-leader-denies-irans-culpability-for-syrian-bloodshed/

Exclusive: UK military in talks to help Syria rebels
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/exclusive-uk-military-in-talks-to-help-syria-rebels-8399658.html

Syrian Rebels Capture Parts Of Army Base In North
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=166856720

Obama recognizes Syrian opposition coalition
http://www.cnn.com/2012/12/11/world/us-syria-opposition/index.html

U.S. blacklists al-Nusra Front fighters in Syria
http://www.cnn.com/2012/12/11/world/meast/syria-civil-war/index.html

‘Friends of Syria’ face familiar divisions
http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2012/Dec-12/198171-friends-of-syria-face-familiar-divisions.ashx#axzz2EogT9Jq1

The Land of Topless Minarets and Headless Little Girls
http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2012/12/11/the_land_of_topless_minarets_and_headless_little_girls

South Damascus a Battlefield, as Bodies Pile up, and Bread Crisis in Capital Worsens
http://www.juancole.com/2012/12/south-damascus-a-battlefield-as-bodies-pile-up-and-bread-crisis-in-capital-worsens.html

Damascus issues warrants for Hariri, Saqr, FSA official
http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Politics/2012/Dec-12/198170-damascus-issues-warrants-for-hariri-saqr-fsa-official.ashx#axzz2EogT9Jq1

Maghreb

Libya ex-PM al-Baghdadi al-Mahmoudi on trial in Tripoli
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-20668492

Libyans Say Sharia Will Be Law of the Land
http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2012/12/11/libyans-say-sharia-will-be-law-of-the-land.html

Levant

UN tells Israel to let in nuclear inspectors
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/dec/04/un-tells-israel-nuclear-inspectors?fb=native&CMP=FBCNETTXT9038

The War on Gaza and Iran-US Talks
http://www.payvand.com/news/12/dec/1090.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=facebook

Bahrain

Lawyer: Sentence reduced for Bahrain activist
http://news.yahoo.com/lawyer-sentence-reduced-bahrain-activist-102707844.html;_ylt=A2KJjanvMchQwhUA3vbQtDMD

Um, wait, what?

Bahrain lauded for human rights support
http://www.upi.com/Top_News/Special/2012/12/10/Bahrain-lauded-for-human-rights-support/UPI-91181355161228/

Egypt

Egypt divided: The people mobilise for and against referendum
http://english.ahram.org.eg/News/60321.aspx

Egypt: The president’s six hands
http://transitions.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/12/10/egypt_the_presidents_six_hands

Iran

US confused about Iran’s defense power: Cmdr.
http://www.presstv.ir/detail/2012/12/10/277312/iran-defense-power-confuses-us/

Iranian Reformists Call For Open Political Atmosphere
http://www.payvand.com/news/12/dec/1017.html

Keyhan article indicates discontent with Supreme Leader’s course across the political spectrum
http://iranpulse.al-monitor.com/index.php/2012/12/973/keyhan-article-indicates-discontent-with-supreme-leaders-course-across-the-political-spectrum/
http://www.payvand.com/news/12/dec/1029.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=facebook

Dr. Mohammad Maleki summoned and his house was searched
http://www.en-hrana.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=733:1&catid=20:cultural&Itemid=2

Iran arrests 28 over links to religious networks
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iU2k0lRhAnei8gmXpEUeV67sVYQQ?docId=9270a35e89354f5b9596e6971f8799ae

—

H/T EA WorldView

Author

Khirad

CCCLVI

General

A Muslim with a sense of humor discovers ignorance at a supermarket
http://www.tucsonweekly.com/tucson/guest-commentary/Content?oid=3577365

The Truth About Attacks on Our Diplomats
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2012/10/libya-consulate-embassy-attacks-obama-romney

Syria

Syrian Internet cutoff may be precursor to Assad offensive
http://killerapps.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/11/29/syrian_internet_cutoff_may_be_precursor_to_assad_offensive

U.S. Weighs Bolder Effort to Intervene in Syria’s Conflict
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/29/world/us-is-weighing-stronger-action-in-syrian-conflict.html?hp&_r=0

Official Syrian Web Sites Hosted in U.S.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/30/world/middleeast/official-syrian-web-sites-hosted-in-us.html?_r=0

Damascus airport not accepting flights: regional airline
http://news.yahoo.com/damascus-airport-not-accepting-flights-regional-airline-080847763.html

Maghreb

GOP Sen. Lindsey Graham running campaign ads on Benghazi tragedy
http://americablog.com/2012/11/lindsey-graham-campaign-ads-benghazi-liby.html

Thousands march in violence-hit Tunisian town
http://www.nowlebanon.com/NewsArticleDetails.aspx?ID=462138

Levant

Hamas officials welcome UN recognition of Palestine
http://www.maannews.net/eng/ViewDetails.aspx?ID=543588&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

Palestinian UN vote will hurt peace, says Israel’s Regev
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-20552170

Ashrawi: UN vote rescued chances for peace
http://www.maannews.net/eng/ViewDetails.aspx?ID=543584&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

Palestinian Legal strategy against Israel: The Real Prize is Europe
http://www.juancole.com/2012/11/palestinian-legal-strategy-against-israel-the-real-prize-is-europe.html

Anonymous leaks personal information of 5,000 Israeli officials
http://rt.com/news/anonymous-israel-officials-leaked-002/

When It Comes to Israel, I Stand for People, Not Policies
http://www.tikkun.org/tikkundaily/2012/11/28/when-it-comes-to-israel-i-stand-for-people-not-policies/

Yemen

Family, neighbors of Yemeni killed by U.S. drone wonder why he wasn’t taken alive
http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2012/11/28/175794/family-neighbors-of-yemeni-killed.html#storylink=cpy#storylink=cpy

Khaleej

Kuwait opposition urges vote boycott on eve of election
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/11/30/us-kuwait-politics-idUSBRE8AT0GH20121130

Kuwait- Human rights defenders Yousif Al- Zhairy and Khaled Al- Battah arrested and detained as harassment of Bedoon community continues
http://gc4hr.org/news/view/289

Egypt

Egyptians protest after draft constitution raced through
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/11/30/us-egypt-president-idUSBRE8AM0DO20121130

Donilon on U.S.-Egyptian relations: “It is a challenge”
http://blog.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/11/29/donilon_on_us_egyptian_relations_it_is_a_challenge

Egyptian labor between Morsi and Mubarak
http://mideast.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/11/28/power_grab_on_egypts_unions

Iran

Government in a Fog as Recession Looms … or Has It Arrived?
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/tehranbureau/2012/11/dispatch-government-fumbles-as-recession-looms-or-has-it-arrived.html

Iran president raps Israel expansionism, warmongering
http://www.presstv.ir/detail/2012/11/30/275329/iran-raps-israel-warmongering-policies/

Mashaei Amping Up for Election Season?
http://iranpulse.al-monitor.com/index.php/2012/11/888/mashaei-amping-up-for-election-season/

Haddad Adel Opposes Amendment to the Elections Law
http://www.roozonline.com/english/news3/newsitem/archive/2012/november/29/article/haddad-adel-opposes-amendment-to-the-elections-law.html

—

H/T EA WorldView

Admin

kesmarn

Khirad, you called it accurately when you linked to the story about the Syrian cut-off of internet access recently. It was viewed as a precursor to bad things…and it was.

http://news.yahoo.com/syrian-jets-bomb-rebels-internet-down-third-day-113622908.html

Great story about the Muslim woman who encountered the hater in the grocery store. Pretty funny that the object of her ire and paranoia was an Irish convert! 😆

Author

Khirad

CCCLV

Sorry folks, been real hectic, hard to find the time I once had.

Syria

Who are the Syrian opposition?
http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/regions/middle-east/syria/121105/who-the-syrian-opposition

Syrian opposition groups reach unity deal
http://news.yahoo.com/syrian-opposition-groups-reach-unity-deal-163006686.html

A model leader for Syria?
http://www.csmonitor.com/Commentary/the-monitors-view/2012/1114/A-model-leader-for-Syria

Islamist-In-Chief
http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2012/11/14/islamist_in_chief

Is Bashar al-Assad Syria’s Abraham Lincoln?
http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2012/11/14/is_bashar-al-assad_syria’s_abraham_lincoln

New Type Of Shoulder Mounted Surface To Air Missile Captured By The Opposition
http://brown-moses.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/new-type-of-shoulder-mounted-surface-to.html

Levant

To keep up on the goings on of Israel’s offensive in Gaza, I refer you to:

Israel-Palestine Live Coverage: Day 2 of Operation Pillar of Cloud
http://www.enduringamerica.com/home/2012/11/15/israel-palestine-live-coverage-day-2-of-operation-pillar-of.html

Mending fences with Obama: Israel says it follows U.S. lead on Iran
http://amanpour.blogs.cnn.com/2012/11/08/mending-fences-with-obama-israel-says-it-follows-u-s-lead-on-iran/

Israel drawn into Syria fighting for first time
http://news.yahoo.com/israel-drawn-syria-fighting-first-time-122327499.html

Female soldier rebuked for ‘offending’ religious comrades
http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4304443,00.html

Iran

Iran To Probe Jailed Blogger’s Death
http://www.rferl.org/content/parliamentary-commitee-to-probe-jailed-bloggers-alleged-death/24767557.html

Report: UK says won’t aid US strike on Iran
http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4297299,00.html

Iran To Israel And Back To Iran: Rita’s Music Goes Home
http://kuow.org/post/iran-israel-and-back-iran-ritas-music-goes-home

Israel launches Gaza offensive, kills Hamas commander
http://news.yahoo.com/top-hamas-commander-killed-israeli-airstrike-143218204.html

Serat News on Petraeus Scandal: ‘The Terrible Organization kneels before a woman!’
http://iranpulse.al-monitor.com/index.php/2012/11/738/serat-news-on-petraeus-scandal-the-terrible-organization-kneels-before-a-woman/

Turkey

It’s not just in America.

AKP redraws Turkey despite opposition ire
http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/akp-redraws-turkey-despite-opposition-ire.aspx?pageID=238&nID=34521&NewsCatID=338

Admin

kesmarn

We’re just glad you’re still with us, Khirad!

I really don’t envy Barack and Hillary their jobs when it comes to Syria. Just had a look at the article on who comprises the Syrian opposition and it’s mind-boggling.

This is unknown territory they’re treading and the situation seems to change by the week. I’m amazed Assad has been able to hang on so long. But as you and others have mentioned before — every country in the ME is different. People on the right seem to have a hard time with that.

Author

Khirad

And then there’s this, would I completely missed. Holy. Crap.

Jordan vows ‘iron fist’ response to unrest
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/11/2012111521951917713.html

Admin

kesmarn

Wow, Khirad. Sounds as though sharp increases in fuel and public transport prices were the trigger.

This one will bear watching.

Member

SueInCa

Missed you Khirad. I don’t always post comments here but I know it is the place to find the news about the ME. Hope you are well.

Member

SueInCa

And then there is this:

Ayalon admitted “there was a special kinship between Mr. Romney and Mr. Netanyahu,” but said Israel cannot afford to be meddling in U.S. politics.

Still, many Israelis are worried about payback against their leader for backing the wrong horse in the U.S. presidential sweepstakes. On Thursday, the leading Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth even carried the headline “Bibi gambled. We’ll pay.”

But Ayalon expressed no doubts that the relationship would get back on track. “I have full confidence knowing not only the president’s commitment, but also his team” he said. “In a way I see an advantage by the continuity of the administration being very seasoned, knowing very well the Iran file and portfolio, to continue and make sure Iran won’t become nuclear.”

Kind of late for Ayalon to say Israel should not be meddling in US politics. Bibi apparently does not know nor does he understand President Obama. Now if it were me, I would let them hang in the wind, but Obama does not seem to take these things personally. Probably why he is in politics and I am not. I would have a very hard time even being civil to Bibi.

Author

Khirad

That YNet said that is indeed striking.

Meanwhile, this Egyptian post-revolution is fascinating and hopeful. More to come.

Member

SueInCa

Indeed it is Khirad. I don’t pretend to even know a smidged of what you know but I do find the interactions there fascinating, yet sometimes frustrating. I saw where the Egyptian president is demanding more power and I for sure do not know what to make of that one.

Member

bito

“War? What war? We’re in a war?”

We went just went through four debates and not one mention of the war in Afghanistan, actually very little discussion of it or the military through the whole election even though it does have a lot to do with our fiscal health.

What changed that a sex scandal and the R’s getting Benghazi all screwed up and now some of the R’s are somehow trying to implicate The President in some conspiracy, meanwhile Afghanistan goes on being ignored.

Meanwhile, actual Afghans face a difficult and perhaps bleak future because the way over-ambitious American project in their country is failing. And US veterans of the war struggle with PTSD and, often, addiction.

The European Union is suspending aid to the corrupt government Hamid Karzai. And, Taliban are raiding into the Bamyan area of the Shiite Hazaras with impunity because the Afghan government has not sent any of its 200,000 troops there to protect them.

http://www.juancole.com/2012/11/afghanistan-commander-gen-john-allen-investigated-meanwhile-afghanistan-sinking.html

The big story concerning Afghanistan is General John Allen and his sexy emails, that’s the news not this:

Reporter: A long march to progress in Afghanistan

From the You-Tube description:

Published on Nov 12, 2012 by EuroparltvEnglish

The future of Afghanistan shifts up the agenda. As European and international troops prepare to scale back in under two years, the question now is, can Afghans manage security, clean government and basic services for the people by themselves, even as the Taliban try to bomb their way back to power? What we don’t want, with withdrawal and disengagement of military intervention by the international community in Afghanistan, is a disengagement from long-term problems of development.

[…..}

more…. http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=jl-MFhmdR0s

I know, I know, Afghanistan isn’t part of MENA, I just wanted people to remember we are at war, it’s costing a lot of money and people are dying and getting injured. By the time we get to complete withdrawal the country will be going “War? What war? We’re in a war?”

Author

Khirad

Thanks, Bito. Remember, as I’ve gotten busier and it’s harder to do my once exhaustive up-to-date updates does not mean this isn’t the proper place for anyone else to drop such things.

Even if it isn’t properly MENA. 😉

Member

AlphaBitch

Bito: The war is never far from some of us. As it becomes more and more likely we will leave and the situation will deteriorate, it becomes more imperative to me that my kids are safe.

Going to MO to meet the MO Girl’s family and to watch this brilliant young woman graduate from college in December – she’s my FIRST graduate. Then coming back with my Syrian daughter and her fiancee. After they leave, will host the Baby Girl and the Babiest Girl (Baby Girl’s younger sister). Plus assorted others, and Inshallah, the boy who is due back for school this spring.

So for some of us, it is not forgotten. Thank you so much for posting this video. Khirad is TOTALLY forgiven, as he has spent so much time and effort to educate us on ME issues.

See you all soon. – AB

Author

Khirad

CCCLIV

هالووين, hāllowīn – Halloween

General

The New Politics of Human Rights in the Middle East
http://mideast.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/10/30/the_new_politics_of_human_rights_in_the_middle_east

Syria

“State of the Internal Opposition,” by Ammar Abdulhamid
http://www.joshualandis.com/blog/?p=16142&cp=all

Qatar accuses Syrian government of genocide after failed truce
http://edition.cnn.com/2012/10/30/world/meast/syria-civil-war/index.html?eref=edition&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=cnni

Kurds talk of intervention in Syria, raising danger of escalation
http://www.thenational.ae/news/world/kurds-talk-of-intervention-in-syria-raising-danger-of-escalation

Fighting erupts between Western-backed “rebels” and Syrian Kurds
http://www.wsws.org/articles/2012/oct2012/syri-o30.shtml

Syria’s Kurds dare to dream of freedom
http://www.thenational.ae/news/world/middle-east/syrias-kurds-dare-to-dream-of-freedom

Turkey says ‘no point’ in dialogue with Syria
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iKUiHIrbxsWoMh3i192qFq7ciU5w?docId=CNG.493b5bfef777e0c4e6e2103828c1614e.6d1

Maghreb

Libya assembly stormed in new blow to forming govt
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iytzyP0c1bcybXNwcaTH39rpL72A?docId=CNG.83e9c50ca6905aaf7aae4a1dfe93edd1.3e1

Bahrain

Interior Minister: Unauthorized Rally Organizers Will Face Legal Action
http://www.policemc.gov.bh/en/news_details.aspx?type=1&articleId=15194

RT discusses banning of all protests (RT of course only pays attention to Western-backed dictatorships)
http://youtu.be/acAw70yI4SI

Manama: march in solidarity w/ Mr. Hassan Mushaima
http://youtu.be/HZH8fxabe_Y

Khaleej

Kuwait arrests opposition leader ahead of mass protest
http://rt.com/news/kuwait-opposition-leader-arrested-561/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

Qatar: Detained ‘Jasmine uprising’ poet being tried in secret
http://www.amnesty.org/en/news/qatar-detained-jasmine-uprising-poet-being-tried-secret-2012-10-29

Yemen

Building a Yemeni state while losing a nation
http://mideast.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/10/28/building_a_yemeni_state_at_the_loss_of_a_nation

Levant

Trading Away Peace: How Europe helps sustain illegal Israeli settlements
http://www.fidh.org/Trading-Away-Peace-How-Europe-12343

Bibi’s Mistake
http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2012/10/30/bibis_mistake

Iran

EU foreign policy chief to meet with Iran negotiator soon
http://www.presstv.ir/detail/2012/10/30/269588/eus-ashton-to-meet-with-jalili-soon/

US, EU Hopeful of New Iran Nuke Talks
http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/clinton-eu-diplomats-joint-tour-balkans-17596378#.UJC8o7TB939

US Loosens Sanctions On Medicine Sales to Iran
http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2012/al-monitor/iran-sanctions-medicine.html

Iran bans export of 50 goods as sanctions bite: report
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/10/30/us-iran-economy-idUSBRE89T0IG20121030

Iran sends mixed messages on effect of sanctions
http://www.jpost.com/IranianThreat/News/Article.aspx?id=289748

Iran Civil Society: From International Awards to Economic Suffering
http://www.arsehsevom.net/2012/10/iran-civil-society-from-international-awards-to-economic-suffering/

Iran’s nuclear resistance
http://mideast.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/10/25/irans_nuclear_resistance

Turkey

Investigation launched over unsanctioned Republic Day rally
http://www.todayszaman.com/newsDetail_getNewsById.action?newsId=296588

—

H/T EA WorldView

Author

Khirad

CCCLIII

Syria

The US Must Supply anti-Aircraft Missiles to the Syrian Opposition
http://www.joshualandis.com/blog/?p=15984

Syria: Despite Denials, More Cluster Bomb Attacks
http://www.hrw.org/news/2012/10/23/syria-despite-denials-more-cluster-bomb-attacks

Iraqi vice president: Iran supplying Assad through ground convoys
http://thecable.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/10/23/iraqi_vice_president_iran_supplying_assad_through_ground_convoys

Maghreb

Libya government says former Gadhafi spokesman captured
http://news.yahoo.com/libya-government-says-former-gaddafi-spokesman-captured-144312721.html

Amnesty report on Tunisia’s progress and concerns thereof
http://www.amnesty.org/en/library/asset/MDE30/010/2012/en/e44dcc01-ef8d-4255-935b-4d2931b9ce08/mde300102012en.pdf

Libyan Town Under Siege Is a Center of Resistance to the New Government http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/22/world/africa/libyan-town-under-siege-is-a-center-of-resistance.html?partner=rss&emc=rss&smid=tw-nytimes&_r=1&

Civilians flee besieged former Gaddafi stronghold in Libya
http://www.shabablibya.org/news/civilians-flee-besieged-former-gaddafi-stronghold-in-libya

Levant

Most Israeli Jews would support Apartheid Regime in Israel
http://www.haaretz.com/news/national/survey-most-israeli-jews-would-support-apartheid-regime-in-israel.premium-1.471644

FM attacks EU for Gilo construction condemnation
http://www.jpost.com/DiplomacyAndPolitics/Article.aspx?id=288607

Bomb wounds Israeli officer on Gaza border
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/10/23/us-palestinians-israel-violence-idUSBRE89M0AX20121023

Fierce clashes across several Lebanese areas, LAF conducts various raids
http://www.lbcgroup.tv/news/56609/fierce-clashes-across-several-lebanese-areas-resid

Bahrain

FRANCE 24 CORRESPONDENT TORTURED FOR COVERING PRO-DEMOCRACY DEMONSTRATIONS
http://en.rsf.org/bahrain-france-24-correspondent-tortured-30-05-2011,40374.html

Parents could pay for damages caused by children
http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/bahrain/parents-could-pay-for-damages-caused-by-children-1.1092452#.UIU1oOeI2Bs.twitter

US must Pressure Bahrain on Human Rights (Strindberg)
http://www.juancole.com/2012/10/us-must-pressure-bahrain-on-human-rights-strindberg.html

Khaleej

Kuwait bans gatherings of more than 20 people amid protests
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/10/23/kuwait-politics-protests-idUSL5E8LN0ZK20121023

Egypt

Egypt freezes assets of ex-presidential candidate and Mubarak ally
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/world_now/2012/10/egypt-freezes-assets-of-former-presidential-candidate-and-mubarak-ally.html

Iran

Ahmadinejad Responds after Revealing Judiciary Chief’s ‘confidential’ Letter
http://iranpulse.al-monitor.com/index.php/2012/10/526/ahmadinejad-responds-after-revealing-judiciary-chiefs-confidential-letter/

Top Ten Republican Myths about Obama and Iran
http://www.juancole.com/2012/10/top-ten-republican-myths-about-obama-and-iran.html

Could Ahmadinejad be indicted for genocide?
http://bosco.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/10/23/could_ahmadinejad_by_indicted_for_genocide

Author

Khirad

CCCLII

General

Report: CIA Arranged Bride for Terrorist in Plot to Kill Him
http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/report-cia-arranged-br
ide-terrorist-plot-kill/story?id=17437763#.UHzZ-bTB938

Syria

FM Lavrov Denies Use of Russian-made Cluster Bombs in Syria
http://en.rian.ru/russia/20121015/176631693.html

Syrian army corpses mark rebel attack on missile base
http://www.nowlebanon.com/NewsArticleDetails.aspx?ID=446415

Syria despatch: rebel fighters fear the growing influence of their ‘Bin Laden’ faction
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/9606691/Syria-despatch-rebel-fighters-fear-the-growing-influence-of-their-Bin-Laden-faction.html

Could Turkey Go To War With Syria?
http://www.rferl.org/content/could-turkey-go-to-war-with-syria/24732603.html

Syrian plane carried military communication devices: Report
http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/syrian-plane-carried-military-communication-devices-report.aspx?pageID=238&nID=32169&NewsCatID=359

Rebel Arms Flow Is Said to Benefit Jihadists in Syria
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/15/world/middleeast/jihadists-receiving-most-arms-sent-to-syrian-rebels.html

Civil war leaves Syrian economy, cities in ruins
http://news.yahoo.com/civil-war-leaves-syrian-economy-cities-ruins-190226553–finance.html;_ylt=A2KJjb0lBHVQxiIAdQ3QtDMD

Former Assad aide: Syrian president plans secret flight to Russia
http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2012/10/07/former-assad-aide-syrian-president-plans-secret-flight-to-russia/

US sends troops to Jordan to help deal with Syria crisis
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/oct/10/us-troops-jordan-syria-crisis

How the Weapons Trade is Fracturing the Opposition
http://www.foreignaffairs.com/features/letters-from/rocket-propelled-syria?cid=soc-facebook-in-letters_from-rocket-propelled_syria-101112

Armenian plane en route to Aleppo searched in Turkey
http://www.todayszaman.com/newsDetail_getNewsById.action?newsId=295349

Historic mosque burned in ancient Syrian city
http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/world/ci_21775184/un-envoy-urges-syria-cease-fire-muslim-holiday

Maghreb

US officials: We didn’t link Libya attack to video
http://news.yahoo.com/us-officials-didnt-libya-attack-video-005809097.html

Levant

Netanyahu Calls for Early Elections in Israel
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/10/world/middleeast/netanyahu-calls-for-early-elections-in-israel.html?partner=rss&emc=rss

Palestinians propose peace talks after UN vote
http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4290289,00.html

Iran

Iran Health Ministry to study effects of interference waves
http://www.payvand.com/news/12/oct/1088.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=facebook

US: Hackers in Iran responsible for cyberattacks
http://news.yahoo.com/us-hackers-iran-responsible-cyberattacks-072429280–finance.html

Iran: seven Christians detained following raid on prayer meeting
http://au.christiantoday.com/article/iran-seven-christians-detained-following-raid-on-prayer-meeting/14238.htm

Jailed Iranian scholar gravely ill
http://www.payvand.com/news/12/oct/1132.html

Author

Khirad

CCCLI

General

Right-Wingers Would Be Shocked to Learn That Islam Has Been Part of American History Since Its Founding
http://www.alternet.org/belief/right-wingers-would-be-shocked-learn-islam-has-been-part-american-history-its-founding

Syria

Turkey sends fighter jets to Syrian border
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2012/10/2012109113457809700.html

Rebels Say West’s Inaction Is Pushing Syrians to Extremism
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/06/world/middleeast/rebels-say-wests-inaction-is-radicalizing-syria.html?_r=1

‘Saudi weapons’ seen at Syria rebel base
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-19874256#FBM130605

“Camouflaged” Hezbollah members fighting in Syria, activist says
http://www.nowlebanon.com/NewsArticleDetails.aspx?ID=444509

Maghreb

US officer got no reply to cables asking more security for Benghazi
http://news.yahoo.com/us-officer-got-no-reply-cables-asking-more-174539222.html

Foreign Affairs Focus: Tunisia’s Transition with Moncef Marzouki
http://www.foreignaffairs.com/discussions/audio-video/foreign-affairs-focus-tunisias-transition-with-moncef-marzouki?cid=soc-facebook-in-audio_video-foreign_affairs_focus_tunisias_transition-100612

Iraq

Al-Maliki eyes $5 billion defense deal with Russia
http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/al-maliki-eyes-5-billion-defense-deal-with-russia.aspx?pageID=238&nID=31963&NewsCatID=359

Khaleej

Kuwait’s ruler dissolves parliament, elections loom
http://news.yahoo.com/kuwaits-ruler-dissolves-parliament-media-101220103–business.html

Gulf states must tackle Muslim Brotherhood threat: UAE
http://news.yahoo.com/gulf-states-must-tackle-muslim-brotherhood-threat-uae-164546200.html

Iran

IMF forecasts for Iran show limited sanction hit
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/10/09/us-iran-economy-imf-idUSBRE8980GX20121009

Iran budget under pressure, Ahmadinejad says
http://news.yahoo.com/iran-budget-under-pressure-ahmadinejad-says-152057253.html

Upset with Iran, Baku moves closer to Israel
http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/upset-with-iran-baku-moves-closer-to-israel.aspx?pageID=238&nID=31876&NewsCatID=359

Iranian activist demands justice from head of judiciary
http://www.payvand.com/news/12/oct/1079.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

Elements in Iran and US that Want War
http://www.payvand.com/news/12/oct/1077.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=facebook

Photos: Iranian Children Getting Face Paintings
http://www.payvand.com/news/12/oct/1066.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=facebook

—

H/T EAWorldView

Author

Khirad

CCCL

Syria

Rebels With a Cause, But Not Much Consensus
http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2012/10/01/rebels_with_a_cause_but_not_much_consensus?page=full

Turkey strikes targets in Syria after mortar attack kills 5
http://worldnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/10/03/14200329-turkey-strikes-targets-in-syria-after-mortar-attack-kills-5?lite

Turkey authorizes military operations in Syria
http://news.yahoo.com/turkey-authorizes-military-operations-syria-115920854.html

Maghreb

Politicizing Benghazi
http://lynch.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/09/29/politicizing_benghazi

U.S. Is Tracking Killers in Attack on Libya Mission
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/03/world/africa/us-said-to-be-preparing-potential-targets-tied-to-libya-attack.html?src=ISMR_AP_LI_LST_FB

Libya request for increased security was denied by Washington, Republican leaders say
http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/regions/americas/united-states/121002/libya-request-increased-security-was-denied-wash

Sensitive documents left behind at U.S. diplomatic post in Libya
http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/sensitive-documents-left-behind-at-american-mission-in-libya/2012/10/03/11911498-0d7e-11e2-bd1a-b868e65d57eb_story.html?tid=ts_carousel

Who are Tunisia’s Salafis?
http://mideast.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/09/28/who_are_tunisia_s_salafis

Bahrain

Bahraini court rejects 9 medics’ final appeal
http://mideast.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/10/01/bahrain_court_rejects_9_medics_final_appeal

Beating of protester at funeral for prisoner Muhammad Musaima
http://youtu.be/wjE3ZF23Dz8

Khaleej

Ikea airbrushes women out of Saudi catalog
http://blog.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/10/01/ikea_airbrushes_women_out_of_saudi_catalog

Egypt

Egypt’s constitutional racers stagger toward the final lap
http://mideast.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/10/01/egypt_s_constitutional_racers_stagger_toward_the_final_lap

New constitution paves the way for Islamic ‘church’ versus state
http://www.egyptindependent.com/opinion/new-constitution-paves-way-islamic-‘church-versus-state

Levant

Arab Israeli charged with spying for Hezbollah
http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Politics/2012/Oct-04/190142-arab-israeli-charged-with-spying-for-hezbollah.ashx#axzz28Lah8Swz

Iran

Ahmadinejad’s Cameraman Defected During His U.N. Visit
http://news.yahoo.com/ahmadinejads-camerman-defected-during-u-n-visit-104011136.html

Ahmadinejad’s Men Go Shopping In NYC
http://www.rferl.org/content/iran-presidents-men-in-new-york-shop-cheap/24725187.html

Odds of War With Iran Remain at 40%
http://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2012/09/odds-of-war-with-iran-remain-at-40/263004/

Study Claims Thousands Would Die In Attack On Iran Nuclear Sites
http://www.rferl.org/content/study-claims-thousands-would-die-in-attack-on-iran-nuclear-sites/24727096.html

Iran’s President Ties Recent Drop in Currency to U.S.-Led Sanctions
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/03/world/middleeast/iran-president-mahmoud-ahmadinejad-ties-currency-drop-to-sanctions.html?smid=tw-share

Iran currency crisis: Sanctions detonate unstable rial
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-19800532

Protest, scuffles with police in Iran over currency crisis
http://sg.finance.yahoo.com/news/protest-scuffles-police-iran-over-102511804.html

Fox News Psychiatrist: It’s ‘Way Normal’ to Hoard ‘Enormous Cache’ of Weapons Because of Iran
http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/david/fox-news-psychiatrist-its-way-normal-hoard-e

Iran’s new toy: Drone proliferation continues
http://www.globalpost.com/dispatches/globalpost-blogs/rights/iran-has-new-toy-drone-proliferation-continues

Tehran Clashes Reported As Iran Rounds Up Moneychangers
http://www.rferl.org/content/iran-arrests-illegal-moneychangers

Iran: Is Ahmadinejad Facing a Final Showdown with Rafsanjani?
http://www.payvand.com/news/12/oct1017.htmlfacebook

Author

Khirad

CCCXLIX

General

The Arab Spring Still Blooms
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/28/opinion/the-arab-spring-still-blooms.html

Syria

Eyes wide shut, world watches Syria bleed
http://uk.reuters.com/article/2012/09/23/us-syria-crisis-apathy-idUKBRE88M06120120923

Syrians make brisk business in black market petrol
http://www.nowlebanon.com/NewsArticleDetails.aspx?ID=441595

Syria’s Moallem ‘Ready’ to Work With New UN Envoy
http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2012/al-monitor/syria-foreign-minister-interview.html

Fearful Alawites pay sectarian militias in battered Homs
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/09/25/us-syria-shabbiha-extortion-idUSBRE88O0QD20120925

Turkish pilots killed by Assad, not in crash: leaked documents
http://english.alarabiya.net/articles/2012/09/29/240805.html

Kurds Prepare to Pursue More Autonomy in a Fallen Syria
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/29/world/middleeast/kurds-to-pursue-more-autonomy-in-a-fallen-syria.html

Hundreds of thousands of civilians have fled the violence in Syria to neighboring countries. In each case, their lives are changed forever by the ongoing conflict.
http://hosted.ap.org/interactives/2012/syria/

Syria’s Irish fighters: ‘I saw what was happening and had to do something’
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/weekend/2012/0922/1224324260134.html

Gays and the Syrian Revolution
http://gaycitynews.com/gays-and-the-syrian-revolution/

Maghreb

Hundreds hand over weapons in Libya campaign
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/africa/2012/09/201292916631790143.html

Outrage over Tunisia ‘indecency’ case
http://www.aljazeera.com/video/africa/2012/09/201293031349122843.html

Planting the seeds of Tunisia’s Ansar al Sharia
http://mideast.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/09/27/planting_the_seeds_of_tunisias_ansar_al_sharia

Yemen

Protesters in Yemen demand return of stolen assets
http://news.yahoo.com/protesters-yemen-demand-return-stolen-assets-191835961.html

Bahrain

Bahrain deteriorating
http://mideast.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/09/27/bahrain_deteriorating

Khaleej

Saudi Arabia deports more female pilgrims on their way to Mecca
http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/regions/middle-east/saudi-arabia/120928/saudi-arabia-deports-more-female-pilgrims-thei

NEVER TALK BACK TO A SAUDI JUDGE
http://www.theglobalmail.org/feature/never-talk-back-to-a-saudi-judge/396/

Kuwait’s uncertain path
http://mideast.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2012/09/26/kuwait_s_uncertain_path

Levant

Netanyahu’s bomb steals the show in his UN speech
http://news.yahoo.com/netanyahus-bomb-steals-show-un-speech-183257661.html

Iraq

Iran ayatollah is poster boy for influence in Iraq
http://news.yahoo.com/iran-ayatollah-poster-boy-influence-iraq-062142717.html

Egypt

Egyptian cleric faces blasphemy charge
http://en-maktoob.news.yahoo.com/egyptian-cleric-faces-blasphemy-charge-071240370.html

After the Arab Spring, what’s next for the new Egypt?
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/after-the-arab-spring-whats-next-for-the-new-egypt/article4576417/?page=all

Iran

Fars News and The Onion Agree — “Rural American Whites Prefer Ahmadinejad to Obama”
http://www.enduringamerica.com/home/2012/9/28/iran-feature-fars-news-and-the-onion-agree-rural-american-wh.html

Gallup Poll: Rural Whites Prefer Ahmadinejad To Obama
http://www.theonion.com/articles/gallup-poll-rural-whites-prefer-ahmadinejad-to-oba,29677/

No change in Iran policy towards US: Velayati
http://www.presstv.ir/detail/2012/09/29/264160/irans-us-policy-remains-unchanged/

The Great Persian Firewall
http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2012/09/28/Iran_firewall_google

—

H/T EAWorldView

Member

KQµårk 死神

Oh you mean it’s not Arab Winter like Romney said.

It amazes me how the right is so hypocritical about Arab Spring. The neocons said they wanted the Mideast to democratize but since they are not as pro-west as the dictators they want the dictators back. It just shows they never cared about the people in the Mideast it was always about control. The worse part is it shows how little neocons knew about democracy in the first place. Democracy small ‘d’ is always messy, especially in the beginning and i it does work they represent the people of that country so neocons should have expected this. But of course they are not enlightened people and they did not want organic growth of democracy. Instead they wanted American imposing it’s form of democracy which obviously did not work in Iraq and isn’t working in Afghanistan.

Author

Khirad

Top Romney Foreign Policy Advisor, Dan Senor, in 2005:

It’s politics, Brit. It’s democracy. We often said when we were there that democracy is messy. If you want clean and tidy, there’s dictatorship. But right now, these leaders are immersed in their first sort of democratic experiments, negotiating, horse-trading.

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,151797,00.html

Member

KQµårk 死神

Yup and these same hypocrites are trying to blame the election of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt on Obama. When it’s not ignorance it’s hypocrisy.

Member

bito

Sad but true, the slogan of the decades

When it’s not ignorance it’s hypocrisy.

Member

KQµårk 死神

It’s truer today than ever before. On social issues ignorance abounds. But the hypocrisy of the GOP is may be even greater. Think of all the policies that are OK when the GOP is in office like running deficits, expanding Medicare and even tax cuts for the working and middle class. That’s why Ryan is so caustic to the GOP’s chances. He claims to be deficit reduction guru but voted for everything Bush did to blow a hole in the deficit including Medicare Part D and TARP.

Author

Khirad

To be fair, many on the left mocked Bush’s Freedom Agenda for electing Hamas.

Or rather, I think, at least blamed him for being surprised by the results. At least that was my criticism. If people want to vote for idiots, I guess that’s their choice, not ours, right?

Member

KQµårk 死神

Rural Whites = American Taliban

Admin

AdLib

Khirad, this disclosure about Assad executing the Turkish pilots seems explosive. As bad as things are now between Turkey and Syria, one would think that the prospect of military conflict has just been ratcheted up in a severe way.

I’m not a fan of wars but I wonder if such a conflict could hasten the end of Assad’s regime?

Author

Khirad

Keep in mind Al Arabiya has not substantiated this, and is Saudi owned. They can be a bit sensational at times. They may be stirring the pot here. Especially saying Russia was behind it.

That being said, Turkey’s military has been unofficially offering cover for some time now.

Member

choicelady

Morning Khirad – I absolutely agree with your first post on increased engagement with people in and from the Mid East. I and my organization have been trying to do that for several years now, and there is no way that is not absolutely essential. I’m horrified by how many people are afraid of Muslims and will learn nothing of them, the culture, the variants of faith. Thanks for reminding us that familiarity breeds understanding, NOT contempt.

Author

Khirad

CCCXLVIII

General

Americans must engage more – not less – with Muslims in the Middle East
http://www.csmonitor.com/layout/set/print/Commentary/Opinion/2012/0920/Americans-must-engage-more-not-less-with-Muslims-in-the-Middle-East

Syria

The Dictator of Damascus
http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2012/09/20/the_dictator_of_damascus?page=full

Syria: the foreign fighters joining the war against Bashar al-Assad
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/sep/23/syria-foreign-fighters-joining-war

Among the Alawites
http://www.lrb.co.uk/v34/n18/nir-rosen/among-the-alawites

The Iranian consultants
http://www.nowlebanon.com/NewsArticleDetails.aspx?ID=439096

EGYPT PRESIDENT STRESSES SYRIA RESOLVE
http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/M/ML_EGYPT?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2012-09-22-15-59-28

48 Syrian Civilians Massacred During Claire Danes’ Emmy Award Acceptance Speech
http://www.theonion.com/articles/48-syrian-civilians-massacred-during-claire-danes,29666/