Month: September 2011

Sad and Happy About Palestinian Statehood Bid

“Will this be the happiest day of your life?” a local interviewer asked me, referring to the approaching recognition of the State of Palestine by the U.N. I was taken by surprise. “Why would that be?” I asked. “Well, for 62 years you have advocated the establishment of a Palestinian state next to Israel, and … Continue reading “Sad and Happy About Palestinian Statehood Bid”

Europe Divided Over Palestinian State

BERLIN — Divisions that have surfaced within the European Union over recognition of the Palestinian Authority as an independent and sovereign state are unlikely to be resolved ahead of a crucial vote in the United Nations next week. A two-state settlement is part of the long-term official EU line on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. But while … Continue reading “Europe Divided Over Palestinian State”

How Washington Creates Global Instability

It was built for… well, not to put too fine a point on it, victory. I’m talking, of course, about the ill-named Camp Victory, the massive military complex, a set of bases really, constructed around an old hunting lodge and nine of former dictator Saddam Hussein’s opulent palaces near Baghdad International Airport. Within months of … Continue reading “How Washington Creates Global Instability”

US Soldier Dies In Iraq, First American Death In Two Months

At least two Iraqis were killed and 12 more were wounded in the latest attacks. A U.S. soldier also died, but it was in a non-hostile event. Meanwhile, U.S. troops helped locals in Halabja disarm a chemical rocket, and the controversial arrests of several Sunnis following a Shi’ite massacre took odd, new twists.

Light Violence Leaves 5 Iraqis Dead and 10 More Wounded

Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki ordered the release of several detainees, who were arrested earlier this week in connection with the deaths of 22 Shi’ite pilgrims. The arrests had created a growing rift between Shi’ite Karbala, where the pilgrims came from, and Sunni Anbar, where the pilgrims were killed. Meanwhile, at least five Iraqis were killed and ten more were wounded in the latest violence. Also, Turkey conducted new air strikes targeting Kurdish rebel positions inside northern Iraq.

Congress Sees Middle East Through AIPAC-Colored Glasses

During August recess this year, 81 members of Congress went on a junket to Israel funded by the Israel lobby group AIPAC (well, funded by the American Israel Education Fund, but they are really one and the same) to " learn first-hand about one of our closest friends and allies." While the representatives insist they got a … Continue reading “Congress Sees Middle East Through AIPAC-Colored Glasses”