Studies show that US coverage is Israeli-centric. The main bureaus for CNN, Associated Press, Time, etc. are located in Israel and often staffed by Israelis. The son of the NY Times bureau chief is in the Israeli army;"pundit" Jeffrey Goldberg served in the IDF; Wolf Blitzer worked for AIPAC. Because the U.S. gives Israel over $8 million/day - more than to any other nation - we feel it is essential that we be fully informed on this region. Below are news reports to augment mainstream coverage.

Monday, July 18, 2011

Activists say Israel navy tried to sink Gaza boat

Ma’an -- A boat crewed by solidarity activists came under fire Saturday as it attempted to sail further than three miles off Gaza's coast, breaking a sea blockade.

The Olivia boat's purpose is to try and defend Palestinian fishermen in Gazan waters.

A European woman onboard the boat told Ma'an that when she informed sailors that she was helping fishermen, one of them said, “Even if the whole EU comes here, they will not pass, neither can they defy Israeli decisions. The decisions say each boat that tries to break the sea blockade will be sunk."

On Saturday, the Olivia sailed to bring back remnants of a fishing boat which the Israelis damaged earlier. Three internationals were onboard, and they managed to anchor near Shati refugee camp west of Gaza City.

Head of the Gazan association of fishing and sports Mahfouth Kabariti said the solidarity activists managed to bring back some fishing equipment belonging to the Al-Habil family, whose boat was sunk.

He said two Americans and one Swedish citizen were on board the Olivia.

An Israeli military spokeswoman did not return a call seeking comment.
at 7/18/2011 06:40:00 AM