IMEMC- Dozens of fundamentalist Israeli settlers, living in the occupied West Bank city of Hebron, hurled on Tuesday at night, stones at five Palestinian homes in the city while chanting racist slogans and slurs at the Palestinian natives of the city.
Mofeed Sharabaty, a local resident, stated that approximately 100 settlers attacked his home, the homes of his brother Zeidan, and the homes of Abdul-Rahman Al Salayma, Idrees Zahda, and Ali Al Nather. The army was present in the area but did not attempt to stop the settlers.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Israeli army attacks political prisoners in Qidar Prison, 4 injured
IMEMC- Israel soldiers attacked on Tuesday the Qidar Prison, and violently attacked Palestinian political prisoners before transferring more than half of them to the Ramon detention facility; at least four detainees were injured.
A letter the detainees managed to smuggle out of the detention center revealed that four detainees were wounded when the army attacked their rooms, and transferred sixty of them to the Ramon facility.
Troops attacked the detainees after they refused to be strip-searched searched by the special forces and the prison administration.
A letter the detainees managed to smuggle out of the detention center revealed that four detainees were wounded when the army attacked their rooms, and transferred sixty of them to the Ramon facility.
Troops attacked the detainees after they refused to be strip-searched searched by the special forces and the prison administration.
Israeli troops invade Nablus area, abduct 8 Palestinians
IMEMC- According to local sources, several squadrons of Israeli soldiers invaded the Nablus region at around 2:30 am Wednesday morning, abducting 8 Palestinians from their homes.
The soldiers invaded the villages of Ein Yabous and Beit Dajan, in the Nablus region, in the northern West Bank, breaking into homes and abducting Palestinians from their beds.
The two men abducted from Beit Dajan were identified as Zidan Khaled Abu Za’lan, 40, and Wa’el Tawfiq Hanini, 39. Abu Za'lan is a well-known lawyer in the West Bank.
The soldiers invaded the villages of Ein Yabous and Beit Dajan, in the Nablus region, in the northern West Bank, breaking into homes and abducting Palestinians from their beds.
The two men abducted from Beit Dajan were identified as Zidan Khaled Abu Za’lan, 40, and Wa’el Tawfiq Hanini, 39. Abu Za'lan is a well-known lawyer in the West Bank.
Israel readies to attack Freedom Flotilla 2
IMEMC- Israeli media sources reported Wednesday that the Israeli army and the navy are intensifying their training and preparing plans to intercept and attack the Freedom Flotilla 2 should it try to reach the Gaza Coast to deliver humanitarian supplies.
The Israeli Radio stated that the army in determined to stop the Flotilla and will not allow the activists to break the siege on the coastal region.
Units will be holding extensive training Wednesday to prepare for all possible scenarios. The Israeli Navy also concluded its training to intercept the Freedom Flotilla aimed at avoiding last year's deadly Israeli attack against the Freedom Flotilla that led to the death of nine Turkish activists and dozens of injuries.
Also, the Radio said that the Prison Administration is also preparing for the possibility of extensive arrests amongst the activists aboard the ships.
On Tuesday, the Israeli Prison Administration transferred dozens of Palestinian detainees from Qidar detention facility to Ramon in order to make space for the possibility of massive arrests among the activists.
The Israeli Radio stated that the army in determined to stop the Flotilla and will not allow the activists to break the siege on the coastal region.
Units will be holding extensive training Wednesday to prepare for all possible scenarios. The Israeli Navy also concluded its training to intercept the Freedom Flotilla aimed at avoiding last year's deadly Israeli attack against the Freedom Flotilla that led to the death of nine Turkish activists and dozens of injuries.
Also, the Radio said that the Prison Administration is also preparing for the possibility of extensive arrests amongst the activists aboard the ships.
On Tuesday, the Israeli Prison Administration transferred dozens of Palestinian detainees from Qidar detention facility to Ramon in order to make space for the possibility of massive arrests among the activists.
Report: Palestinians spend high percentage of income on basic necessities
IMEMC- A new report by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics has revealed that Palestinians spend more than one third of their income on foodstuffs and only 1.5% on recreation and 3% on personal care.
Jerusalem's Israeli municipality discusses plans to build 7600 units
Wafa– The Israeli human rights organization, Ir Amim, said Wednesday that the Israeli Sub-Committee to Advance Settlement Construction, has discussed plans to build 7900 new housing units in East Jerusalem settlements.
In the statement, Ir Amim said that the plans will add 4400 units to existing settlement units in the occupied eastern section of Jerusalem.
The sub-committee was formed at the request of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in an attempt to lower the prices of real estates in the Israeli market, in addition to speed up the building of the units, especially in East Jerusalem.
The human rights group also pointed out that these plans come with existing projects, like the one to add 940 units to the settlement of Har Homa and 942 units to Gilo, which are located south of Jerusalem, in addition to a plan to build 1500 new units in Ramat Rahel and on 290 dunums of land near the settlement, south of Bethlehem.
The committee also discussed adding 625 units to Pisgat Zaav settlement, which exists on Palestinian land in Beit Hanina and Shoufat neighborhoods, north of Jerusalem.
Ir Amim said the number one topic discussed was adding about 1600 units to a settlement in Shoufat, which was the reason for the tension between Israel and the US when it was revealed last year.
In the statement, Ir Amim said that the plans will add 4400 units to existing settlement units in the occupied eastern section of Jerusalem.
The sub-committee was formed at the request of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in an attempt to lower the prices of real estates in the Israeli market, in addition to speed up the building of the units, especially in East Jerusalem.
The human rights group also pointed out that these plans come with existing projects, like the one to add 940 units to the settlement of Har Homa and 942 units to Gilo, which are located south of Jerusalem, in addition to a plan to build 1500 new units in Ramat Rahel and on 290 dunums of land near the settlement, south of Bethlehem.
The committee also discussed adding 625 units to Pisgat Zaav settlement, which exists on Palestinian land in Beit Hanina and Shoufat neighborhoods, north of Jerusalem.
Ir Amim said the number one topic discussed was adding about 1600 units to a settlement in Shoufat, which was the reason for the tension between Israel and the US when it was revealed last year.
Demolition orders handed to Palestinian farmers
Ma’an- Israel's Civil Administration handed out demolition orders to three farmers in the northern West Bank on Tuesday, warning them that bulldozers would shortly arrive to demolish their greenhouses and farm buildings.
Officials from the agricultural village of Majdal in the Nablus region said water collecting buckets and plastic tenting were targeted in the orders, affecting the farms of Hani Bani Fadel, Ayed Bani Fadel and Imad Bani Fadel.
A tractor from the farm of Fadel was confiscated, a local official told Ma'an, and the farmer was told that he would have to appeal to the court to have it returned.
Officials from the agricultural village of Majdal in the Nablus region said water collecting buckets and plastic tenting were targeted in the orders, affecting the farms of Hani Bani Fadel, Ayed Bani Fadel and Imad Bani Fadel.
A tractor from the farm of Fadel was confiscated, a local official told Ma'an, and the farmer was told that he would have to appeal to the court to have it returned.
Red Cross: Gaza medicine crisis needs attention
Ma'an- The Gaza medication crisis is "enormous and needs concentrated efforts" to see its resolution, Red Cross official Omer Ferry said Wednesday.
Ferry said the organization would continue supporting the health sector in any way it could, but called on the Palestinian Ministry of Health to look seriously at the problem.
The Red Cross announced Tuesday that it had donated its stockpiled medications to public hospitals in Gaza.
Hospitals are to be given medications identified as being in shortage, and they will be distributed on a first-come first-serve basis until the stockpiles run dry.
Ferry said the organization would continue supporting the health sector in any way it could, but called on the Palestinian Ministry of Health to look seriously at the problem.
The Red Cross announced Tuesday that it had donated its stockpiled medications to public hospitals in Gaza.
Hospitals are to be given medications identified as being in shortage, and they will be distributed on a first-come first-serve basis until the stockpiles run dry.
Gaza suffers gas shortage after pump breaks at crossing
Ma’an– The Gaza Strip has been suffering from shortages of domestic-use gas for three days due to a technical fault in the gas pump at the Kerem Shalom crossing.
Mahmoud Ash-Shawwa, head of the association of gas station owners, said Wednesday that “the infrastructure at Kerem Shalom crossing is inappropriate. There is only one gas pump and it has been broken for three days. Gas has been pumped from the Israeli tankers immediately.”
He explained that six to seven trucks bring 120-140 tons of domestic-use gas into Gaza every day, less than half the amount needed for the enclave's 1.6 million residents.
Mahmoud Ash-Shawwa, head of the association of gas station owners, said Wednesday that “the infrastructure at Kerem Shalom crossing is inappropriate. There is only one gas pump and it has been broken for three days. Gas has been pumped from the Israeli tankers immediately.”
He explained that six to seven trucks bring 120-140 tons of domestic-use gas into Gaza every day, less than half the amount needed for the enclave's 1.6 million residents.
89,000 Palestinian students to take Tawjihi exam
Ma’an- Approximately 89,000 Palestinian students sat for the first session of the General Secondary Certificate, or Tawjihi, in the West Bank and Gaza on Wednesday.
Education Minister Lamis Al-Alami said that of the 88,768 registered test takers, 52 percent were women. Of the total number of students, 52,367 were from the West Bank and 36,401 were from Gaza.
The Tawjihi, administered every year for Palestinian students seeking the high school qualification, is required for those who wish to enter Palestinian universities. The score on the test determines which programs a would-be student can enter.
Education Minister Lamis Al-Alami said that of the 88,768 registered test takers, 52 percent were women. Of the total number of students, 52,367 were from the West Bank and 36,401 were from Gaza.
The Tawjihi, administered every year for Palestinian students seeking the high school qualification, is required for those who wish to enter Palestinian universities. The score on the test determines which programs a would-be student can enter.
Report: Israel tells EU of plan to stop UN bid
Ma'an- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the EU president Tuesday that Israeli diplomats would try to convince 30 UN member states to vote against a Palestinian bid for recognition of statehood.
During a meeting with European Parliament President Jerzy Buzek in Jerusalem, Netanyahu revealed that he hoped to "balance out the bid's potential support," Israel's Ynet news reported.
The Israeli leader was also quoted as telling Buzek that if Palestinians "get a taste of having their way, they'll fall in love with it and will never agree to any compromise again."
Netanyahu said peace "will not mean Israel is forfeiting land, but rather that the Palestinians are forfeiting the desire to destroy Israel."
He blamed earlier failures to reach a peace deal on the recent Palestinian refusal to recognize Israel as a "Jewish state," saying the refusal went back "six Israeli prime ministers."
Ehud Olmert was the first Israeli prime minister to introduce the notion of a "Jewish state", and Netanyahu was the first to put recognition of Israel as a "Jewish state" as a precondition.
Palestinians have refused to use the term, saying it would prejudice the Palestinian right of return and jeopardize the rights of Palestinian Muslims, Christians and other minority groups living in Israel.
In response to Netanyahu's briefing, Ynet said Buzek stressed the importance of a return to peace talks. Read more
During a meeting with European Parliament President Jerzy Buzek in Jerusalem, Netanyahu revealed that he hoped to "balance out the bid's potential support," Israel's Ynet news reported.
The Israeli leader was also quoted as telling Buzek that if Palestinians "get a taste of having their way, they'll fall in love with it and will never agree to any compromise again."
Netanyahu said peace "will not mean Israel is forfeiting land, but rather that the Palestinians are forfeiting the desire to destroy Israel."
He blamed earlier failures to reach a peace deal on the recent Palestinian refusal to recognize Israel as a "Jewish state," saying the refusal went back "six Israeli prime ministers."
Ehud Olmert was the first Israeli prime minister to introduce the notion of a "Jewish state", and Netanyahu was the first to put recognition of Israel as a "Jewish state" as a precondition.
Palestinians have refused to use the term, saying it would prejudice the Palestinian right of return and jeopardize the rights of Palestinian Muslims, Christians and other minority groups living in Israel.
In response to Netanyahu's briefing, Ynet said Buzek stressed the importance of a return to peace talks. Read more
Doctors and nurses in Gaza protest medicine shortages
Ma’an– Doctors and nurses organized a rally Wednesday in front of Red Cross offices in Gaza City to protest the lack of medical supplies in the coastal enclave.
Representatives from different Palestinian factions joined the demonstrations as protesters held posters appealing to the international community and the Palestinian Authority to help end the crisis.
They said that a serious crisis could occur if vital medicines were not provided to hospitals.
Yousif Al-Mudallal, director of the bureau of employees at the Ministry of Health in Gaza, told a news conference that several patients may die if the crisis is not resolved as soon as possible.
Representatives from different Palestinian factions joined the demonstrations as protesters held posters appealing to the international community and the Palestinian Authority to help end the crisis.
They said that a serious crisis could occur if vital medicines were not provided to hospitals.
Yousif Al-Mudallal, director of the bureau of employees at the Ministry of Health in Gaza, told a news conference that several patients may die if the crisis is not resolved as soon as possible.
7 Palestinians hurt at protest against land confiscation near Ramallah
Ma’an– Seven Palestinians were injured, including two critically, Wednesday after an anti-wall protest turned into clashes between Israeli soldiers and young Palestinians in Deir Qaddis, west of Ramallah.
A rally headed from the village to obstruct Israeli bulldozers digging up private lands for the separation wall, a Ma'an correspondent reported. Israeli forces were heavily deployed in the area and tried to disperse the demonstrators, beating them with clubs and rifle butts.
A rally headed from the village to obstruct Israeli bulldozers digging up private lands for the separation wall, a Ma'an correspondent reported. Israeli forces were heavily deployed in the area and tried to disperse the demonstrators, beating them with clubs and rifle butts.
AIPAC pushes hard for war with Iran; but doesn't want the blame
Grant Smith - Antiwar.com- Former AIPAC staffer Keith Weissman, indicted in 2005 under the Espionage Act alongside colleague Steven J. Rosen and Defense Department employee Col. Lawrence Franklin, is desperately worried. In a lengthy, rambling monologue delivered to independent reporter Robert Dreyfuss, Weissman breaks a long silence to declare he’s “concerned that if a confrontation between the United States, Israel, and Iran leads to war, it will be a disaster—one that Weissman fears will be blamed on the American Jews.” It is telling, but unsurprising, that Weissman—through misrepresentations and false dichotomy—exhibits little concern for the broader potential consequence of war. Fortunately, his tired arguments are in a final lap toward oblivion.
AIPAC, in the business of advancing Israeli government policies in the United States ever since its founder left the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1951, has long portrayed itself as the sole distillery of Jewish policy needs to politicians eager to tap the Israel lobby’s seemingly limitless barrels of campaign donations. But AIPAC’s brand has recently sprung a leak as growing numbers of youthful, creative, and noisy organizations challenge its tired claims of representation and even legitimacy. Weissman’s actual concern is that AIPAC and its creaky constellation of affiliates will be blamed if the United States is successfully goaded or tripwired into an unnecessary war with Iran. Accountability has always been anathema for an organization operating more like a foreign intelligence agency than a tax-exempt social-welfare organization.
AIPAC, in the business of advancing Israeli government policies in the United States ever since its founder left the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1951, has long portrayed itself as the sole distillery of Jewish policy needs to politicians eager to tap the Israel lobby’s seemingly limitless barrels of campaign donations. But AIPAC’s brand has recently sprung a leak as growing numbers of youthful, creative, and noisy organizations challenge its tired claims of representation and even legitimacy. Weissman’s actual concern is that AIPAC and its creaky constellation of affiliates will be blamed if the United States is successfully goaded or tripwired into an unnecessary war with Iran. Accountability has always been anathema for an organization operating more like a foreign intelligence agency than a tax-exempt social-welfare organization.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Israeli forces demolish 5 wells in Hebron
Ma’an- Israeli forces demolished five water wells in the southern West Bank city of Hebron on Tuesday morning, targeting a neighborhood in the city's south.
The wells belonged to the Al-Jamal family, brother of the owner Samir Abdul-Hamid Ma’an.
Soldiers and crews from Israel's Civil Administration arrived on the property early, Samir said, assaulting family members who attempted to prevent the demolitions and then deploying tear-gas to drive them out of the area.
Five wells were destroyed and filled-in, "under the guise that they were built without a license," Samir said.
The wells belonged to the Al-Jamal family, brother of the owner Samir Abdul-Hamid Ma’an.
Soldiers and crews from Israel's Civil Administration arrived on the property early, Samir said, assaulting family members who attempted to prevent the demolitions and then deploying tear-gas to drive them out of the area.
Five wells were destroyed and filled-in, "under the guise that they were built without a license," Samir said.
Israeli bulldozers demolish Palestinian village homes in Jordan Valley
IMEMC- According to residents, ten Bedouin homes were demolished on Tuesday morning in the Jordan valley area, leaving dozens homeless.
The small village of Fasayil, north of Jericho was invaded by 2 bulldozers, escorted by 14 military Jeeps at approximately 6am on Tuesday morning. The ten village homes were crushed, burying any possessions inside and electricity meters were confiscated by the army. This will leave the village totally disconnected if they rebuild their homes.
Head of the local village council, Ibrahim Ubayyat, said that the Israeli authorities had prohibited residents from building in the area, but the villagers say that they have no choice since they have nowhere else to go. Read more
The small village of Fasayil, north of Jericho was invaded by 2 bulldozers, escorted by 14 military Jeeps at approximately 6am on Tuesday morning. The ten village homes were crushed, burying any possessions inside and electricity meters were confiscated by the army. This will leave the village totally disconnected if they rebuild their homes.
Head of the local village council, Ibrahim Ubayyat, said that the Israeli authorities had prohibited residents from building in the area, but the villagers say that they have no choice since they have nowhere else to go. Read more
European Parliament calls to end siege on Gaza
Wafa- President of the European Parliament, Jerzy Buzek, Monday called for ending the Israeli siege on Gaza, during a visit to the Strip.
“After what I witnessed, ending the siege on Gaza is very important. It is difficult to implement real development or offer education, and it is impossible for people to feel free under the siege,” said Buzek.
He said the European Union (EU) will sign an agreement with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) within the next few weeks to enhance the humanitarian situation in Gaza and prevent cutbacks in UNRWA services in the Strip. Read more
“After what I witnessed, ending the siege on Gaza is very important. It is difficult to implement real development or offer education, and it is impossible for people to feel free under the siege,” said Buzek.
He said the European Union (EU) will sign an agreement with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) within the next few weeks to enhance the humanitarian situation in Gaza and prevent cutbacks in UNRWA services in the Strip. Read more
Israeli police continues arrests in Golan Heights
Wafa- Israeli police arrested three Syrian youths early Tuesday morning from Majdal Shams, a town in the occupied Golan Heights, on charges of throwing stones at the Israeli army on the day of the Naksa commemorations.
Dozens of youths threw stones at the army as soldiers opened fire on Palestinians who tried to cross the borders on that day.
Israeli police continue the wave of arrests and have detained more than 15 young men to date and presented charges against some of them. Read more
Dozens of youths threw stones at the army as soldiers opened fire on Palestinians who tried to cross the borders on that day.
Israeli police continue the wave of arrests and have detained more than 15 young men to date and presented charges against some of them. Read more
Gaza community organizations demand medical supplies
Wafa– Palestinian health sector community organizations called for urgently supplying the Gaza Strip with medicines and medical supplies, in a statement published Tuesday.
The statement said the continuing shortage is causing a crisis in hospitals and medical centers in Gaza and threatening the lives of a large number of patients.
The community organizations considered Israeli measures of preventing the entry of medicines to Gaza a violation of one of the Palestinians’ inalienable rights.
Israeli authorities refuse to allow medical supplies into Gaza within the framework of Israel’s ongoing military siege of the Strip. The Palestinian Ministry of Health has prepared $10 million worth of medical supplies and medicines for Gaza, which are awaiting Israeli approval to enter, said head of Public Relations Office of the Health Ministry, Omar Nasr. Read more
The statement said the continuing shortage is causing a crisis in hospitals and medical centers in Gaza and threatening the lives of a large number of patients.
The community organizations considered Israeli measures of preventing the entry of medicines to Gaza a violation of one of the Palestinians’ inalienable rights.
Israeli authorities refuse to allow medical supplies into Gaza within the framework of Israel’s ongoing military siege of the Strip. The Palestinian Ministry of Health has prepared $10 million worth of medical supplies and medicines for Gaza, which are awaiting Israeli approval to enter, said head of Public Relations Office of the Health Ministry, Omar Nasr. Read more
Monday, June 13, 2011
Mosque, school handed demolition orders
Ma’an- Israel handed out demolition orders for a mosque and public school in the village of Bruqin on Sunday, prompting immediate condemnation from Palestinian leaders.
Palestinian political leader Mustafa Barghouthi described the Israeli actions as "criminal" on a visit to the village.
"Mosques that survive the arson attempts of settlers only stand to be demolished by the bulldozers of Israel's military," the leader of the Palestinian National Initiative party said.
"The demolition of mosques and houses is not only meant to take control of land, but also to displace our people and uproot them from their land," he added. Read more
Palestinian political leader Mustafa Barghouthi described the Israeli actions as "criminal" on a visit to the village.
"Mosques that survive the arson attempts of settlers only stand to be demolished by the bulldozers of Israel's military," the leader of the Palestinian National Initiative party said.
"The demolition of mosques and houses is not only meant to take control of land, but also to displace our people and uproot them from their land," he added. Read more
Gaza lawyers strike over arrests
Ma'an- Lawyers in the Gaza Strip went on strike Monday in protest over the practices of the attorney-general of the Hamas-led government, the lawyers' union said.
In a statement, the union said the attorney-general Muhammad Abed repeatedly summoned lawyers and in many cases detained them for no offense.
"Lawyers also have been questioned about matters that do not relate to their professions, and are not identified as criminal acts by law,” the statement added.
The union denounced the unjustified arrests of a number of lawyers and urged the attorney-general to abide by Palestinian law when taking any legal action against any lawyer.
The statement called for the release of all lawyers who had been unjustifiably detained. Read more
In a statement, the union said the attorney-general Muhammad Abed repeatedly summoned lawyers and in many cases detained them for no offense.
"Lawyers also have been questioned about matters that do not relate to their professions, and are not identified as criminal acts by law,” the statement added.
The union denounced the unjustified arrests of a number of lawyers and urged the attorney-general to abide by Palestinian law when taking any legal action against any lawyer.
The statement called for the release of all lawyers who had been unjustifiably detained. Read more
Egypt questions suspected Israeli spy
Ma'an-AFP- Egypt's state security prosecution on Monday began questioning an Israeli man suspected of spying for the Mossad intelligence agency, state television reported.
Ilan Grapel was detained on Sunday from a Cairo hotel and ordered to be held for 15 days pending investigation.
The US embassy in Cairo confirmed that Grapel is a "US-Israel dual national" and said US consular staff had visited him.
"We have confirmed that Ilan Chaim Grapel, age 27, is a US citizen and was detained on June 12, 2011 by Egyptian authorities," embassy spokeswoman Elizabeth Colton told AFP. Read more
Ilan Grapel was detained on Sunday from a Cairo hotel and ordered to be held for 15 days pending investigation.
The US embassy in Cairo confirmed that Grapel is a "US-Israel dual national" and said US consular staff had visited him.
"We have confirmed that Ilan Chaim Grapel, age 27, is a US citizen and was detained on June 12, 2011 by Egyptian authorities," embassy spokeswoman Elizabeth Colton told AFP. Read more
Israeli troops kidnap a woman at roadblock near Jenin
IMEMC- Israeli soldiers kidnapped on Sunday morning a Palestinian woman at the Um Al Reehan roadblock, near the northern West Bank city of Jenin, and claimed that she was carrying an ID card and a permit that do not belong to her.
The Maan News Agency reported that Kifah Imad Sami was with her father when the soldiers stopped them at the roadblock.
The soldiers checked her ID card and her entry permit to Israel, and claimed that the documents she carried are not hers. Read more
The Maan News Agency reported that Kifah Imad Sami was with her father when the soldiers stopped them at the roadblock.
The soldiers checked her ID card and her entry permit to Israel, and claimed that the documents she carried are not hers. Read more
Palestinian dies of wounds suffered during the Israeli assault on Gaza
IMEMC- Palestinian medical sources reported that a Palestinian man died on Saturday of wounds suffered during the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip between December 28 and January 2009. Six members of his family, including two of his children, were killed when the army bombarded their home.
The sources said that Mohammad Shaban Islayyim, in his forties, was injured in January 2009 when the Israeli forces bombarded a home where the Minister of Interior, Sa'id Siyam, was located in Gaza city.
Siyam, one of the brothers of his wife, and six neighbors, including a child, were killed in the attack.
Islayyim was critical injured and received medical treatment in Israel, Gaza and Egypt but remained in a serious condition until he died on Saturday. Read more
The sources said that Mohammad Shaban Islayyim, in his forties, was injured in January 2009 when the Israeli forces bombarded a home where the Minister of Interior, Sa'id Siyam, was located in Gaza city.
Siyam, one of the brothers of his wife, and six neighbors, including a child, were killed in the attack.
Islayyim was critical injured and received medical treatment in Israel, Gaza and Egypt but remained in a serious condition until he died on Saturday. Read more
Majority of Israeli's unaware of realities of Jordan Valley
IMEMC- A report by the Association for Civil Rights in Israel has released a report showing that the majority of Israelis are not aware of the legal or demographic background of the Jordan Valley.
In a new report compiled by Dahlia Scheindlin of ACRI has shown that Israelis mistakenly believe that the Jordan Valley is sovereign Israeli territory. The report also showed that a majority of Israelis believed that the area had a majority population.
80% of Jewish Israelis, and 69% of secular Israeli’s, believe that the Jordan valley is sovereign Israeli territory according to the survey. Only 18% of respondents were aware that the region is an area that Israel occupies according to international law.
Similarly more than 80% of Jewish Israeli’s were incorrect or unaware as to the composition of the Jordan Valley, believing that a majority of inhabitants in the area are Jewish. In actual fact, the population of the area comprises some 65,000 Palestinians and 10,000 Jews. Read more
In a new report compiled by Dahlia Scheindlin of ACRI has shown that Israelis mistakenly believe that the Jordan Valley is sovereign Israeli territory. The report also showed that a majority of Israelis believed that the area had a majority population.
80% of Jewish Israelis, and 69% of secular Israeli’s, believe that the Jordan valley is sovereign Israeli territory according to the survey. Only 18% of respondents were aware that the region is an area that Israel occupies according to international law.
Similarly more than 80% of Jewish Israeli’s were incorrect or unaware as to the composition of the Jordan Valley, believing that a majority of inhabitants in the area are Jewish. In actual fact, the population of the area comprises some 65,000 Palestinians and 10,000 Jews. Read more
Israeli army seals off Nablus area village
Wafa– The Israeli army Saturday sealed off Iraq Burin, a village south of Nablus, and banned vehicles from entering or leaving the village.
A Witness told WAFA that Israeli soldiers erected a checkpoint at the village’s main entrance, ordered Palestinians to step out of their vehicles and battered them. Five Palestinians were detained near the checkpoint. Read more
A Witness told WAFA that Israeli soldiers erected a checkpoint at the village’s main entrance, ordered Palestinians to step out of their vehicles and battered them. Five Palestinians were detained near the checkpoint. Read more
Dozen Palestinians hurt in Israeli chase of their vehicles
Wafa– Twelve Palestinians were hurt, five seriously, after their cars crashed into a valley following an Israeli army chase east of Yatta, a village south of Hebron, according to medical sources.
They told WAFA that two vehicles carrying 12 workers fell into a valley following a chase by Israeli army vehicles.
Palestinian and Israeli ambulances helped evacuate the wounded to hospitals while an Israeli army helicopter moved the five seriously injured to hospitals in Israel, said the sources.
No reason was given for the chase. Read more
They told WAFA that two vehicles carrying 12 workers fell into a valley following a chase by Israeli army vehicles.
Palestinian and Israeli ambulances helped evacuate the wounded to hospitals while an Israeli army helicopter moved the five seriously injured to hospitals in Israel, said the sources.
No reason was given for the chase. Read more
Palestinian prisoner goes on hunger strike in Asqalan
Wafa– Palestinian prisoner Atef Wreidat, 45, from Al-Dahiriyeh town south of Hebron, Sunday began a hunger strike in Asqalan Israeli prison in protest of the prison administration's arbitrary measures against him, according to the Palestinian Prisoners Club (PPC).
Head of PPC in Hebron, Amjad Najjar, told WAFA that Israeli authorities have continually neglected Wreidat’s deteriorating health condition due to heart problems, diabetes and high blood pressure. Wreidat, father of two young girls, needs an open-heart surgery.
Wreidat, who was arrested in 1982 at 16 years of age and served 11 years in Israeli prisons, was released in 1993 in very bad health condition due to heart disease. In 2002, he was arrested again and sentenced to serve another 11 years in prison. Read more
Head of PPC in Hebron, Amjad Najjar, told WAFA that Israeli authorities have continually neglected Wreidat’s deteriorating health condition due to heart problems, diabetes and high blood pressure. Wreidat, father of two young girls, needs an open-heart surgery.
Wreidat, who was arrested in 1982 at 16 years of age and served 11 years in Israeli prisons, was released in 1993 in very bad health condition due to heart disease. In 2002, he was arrested again and sentenced to serve another 11 years in prison. Read more
Guinea-Bissau supports Palestinian state
Wafa– President of Guinea-Bissau Malam Sanhá Sunday stressed his country’s support of the Palestinians’ pursuit to establish their state within 1967 borders next September.
Sanhá received Palestinian Ambassador to Senegal, Abdel Rahim Al-Farra, Sunday night and said his country will work with neighboring states and the international community to support the plan for the Palestinian state.
Al-Farra informed the Guinea-Bissauan president and foreign minister of the latest updates in the Palestinian Territory under the Israeli systematic policy of land confiscation, settlement expansion and restrictions on movement of Palestinians, especially in Jerusalem. Read more
Sanhá received Palestinian Ambassador to Senegal, Abdel Rahim Al-Farra, Sunday night and said his country will work with neighboring states and the international community to support the plan for the Palestinian state.
Al-Farra informed the Guinea-Bissauan president and foreign minister of the latest updates in the Palestinian Territory under the Israeli systematic policy of land confiscation, settlement expansion and restrictions on movement of Palestinians, especially in Jerusalem. Read more
American group seeks to assure survival of Palestinian village
Wafa- San Mateo, California-based nonprofit Rebuilding Alliance is seeking to keep a Palestinian village in the West Bank Jordan Valley from disappearing, according to a press release published Monday.
The organization is working with the village of Al-Aqaba, one of the 149 Palestinian villages in the West Bank Jordan Valley now facing demolition orders, to organize a design collaborative over three weeks in July so that villagers can return home. The organization plans to take architects and planners to the village during these three weeks.
“With President Obama and Prime Minister Netanyahu now in a turf war over the Jordan Valley, this is an especially critical time, a watershed moment,” said Donna Baranski-Walker, founder of the Rebuilding Alliance.
“More than 150,000 Palestinians live in that 60% of the West Bank controlled solely by Israel. Israel's army has blanketed the 149 Palestinian villages with demolition orders. Al Aqaba's families need good design, mortgage financing, and solid advocacy worldwide to build a future.” Read more
The organization is working with the village of Al-Aqaba, one of the 149 Palestinian villages in the West Bank Jordan Valley now facing demolition orders, to organize a design collaborative over three weeks in July so that villagers can return home. The organization plans to take architects and planners to the village during these three weeks.
“With President Obama and Prime Minister Netanyahu now in a turf war over the Jordan Valley, this is an especially critical time, a watershed moment,” said Donna Baranski-Walker, founder of the Rebuilding Alliance.
“More than 150,000 Palestinians live in that 60% of the West Bank controlled solely by Israel. Israel's army has blanketed the 149 Palestinian villages with demolition orders. Al Aqaba's families need good design, mortgage financing, and solid advocacy worldwide to build a future.” Read more
Israeli police arrests 5 Palestinian youth in Majdal Shams
Wafa- Israeli police Monday arrested five youth including a 17 year old from the town of Majdal Shams in the occupied Golan Heights, on charges of resisting the occupation forces on the Naksa memorial day last week, according to local sources.
Israeli court had presented lists of charges against four residents of the town who were arrested in the protests last week. Read more
Israeli court had presented lists of charges against four residents of the town who were arrested in the protests last week. Read more
$5 million lawsuit targets Jimmy Carter for ‘attacking Israel’
Sahil Kapur - The Raw Story- Former President Jimmy Carter has become the target of a class action lawsuit over ostensibly mean things he said about Israel in his best-selling 2006 book, Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid.
The lawsuit, filed in New York by an Israeli firm, alleges that the book "contained numerous false and knowingly misleading statements intended to promote the author's agenda of anti-Israel propaganda and to deceive the reading public instead of presenting accurate information as advertised."
The five American plaintiffs, two of whom are dual citizens of the US and Israel, seek $5 million in damages over the book (which is being sold for less than $10 on Amazon) on the basis that its criticisms of Israel violated consumer protection safeguards.
The plaintiffs alleged in a press release that the 39th US president and Nobel Peace Prize winner "violated the law and, thus, harmed those who purchased the book" by unfairly "attacking Israel." Read more
The lawsuit, filed in New York by an Israeli firm, alleges that the book "contained numerous false and knowingly misleading statements intended to promote the author's agenda of anti-Israel propaganda and to deceive the reading public instead of presenting accurate information as advertised."
The five American plaintiffs, two of whom are dual citizens of the US and Israel, seek $5 million in damages over the book (which is being sold for less than $10 on Amazon) on the basis that its criticisms of Israel violated consumer protection safeguards.
The plaintiffs alleged in a press release that the 39th US president and Nobel Peace Prize winner "violated the law and, thus, harmed those who purchased the book" by unfairly "attacking Israel." Read more
Media Center condemns incitement by settlement mayor
Wafa- The Palestinian Government Media Center (PGMC) Monday strongly condemned a statement by Shaul Goldstein, mayor of the Israeli settlement of Gush Etzion, that he believes Palestine does not exist and never has.
During a meeting with a group of visiting South African journalists at Goldstein’s regional council, Etzion said: ‘There are no Palestinian people; it is an invention of the world. The land of Palestine was for the Jews and the world invented Palestinian people to fight Israel.’
PGMC called on the international community to note and condemn this Israeli incitement against the Palestinian people, and their right to exist, which is protected by international law. Read more
During a meeting with a group of visiting South African journalists at Goldstein’s regional council, Etzion said: ‘There are no Palestinian people; it is an invention of the world. The land of Palestine was for the Jews and the world invented Palestinian people to fight Israel.’
PGMC called on the international community to note and condemn this Israeli incitement against the Palestinian people, and their right to exist, which is protected by international law. Read more
Gaza health conditions in crisis
Sameh A. Habeeb- The Israeli siege continues to disturb different facets of the living conditions for the entire population of 1.7 million living in the Gaza Strip. With news that Egypt opened the Rafah border permanently, pressure on Gazans increased. The crossing didn't open properly and Israel still control all commercial crossings. In addition, there are severe security measures that still hinder the process of travelling for thousands of Palestinians. Limited access of food, commodities and medications are still in effect. Further confounding the problems is the fact that Palestinian national unity has not achieved the factual results expected by the besieged people. Official Israeli sources, spokespersons and media outlets are seizing on all what they can to say that there is no siege in Gaza. Whilst, only the population of Gaza suffer the repercussions of the external
and internal political problems.
Health sector paralyzed!
According to Gaza's health bodies and utilities, severe shortages are hitting the sector due to the continued closure. The shortages have led to a reduction in services, including surgeries. A number of patients are on the waiting list for urgent medical operations. According to Gaza's health ministry, the medical storage will soon be depleted, which further endangers the lives of the innocent
population.
Around 187 sort of medications are missed, as well as 190 types of medical requirement. In total, 50% of Gaza's health and medical storage have evaporated. This shortage is endangering many patients especially those of cancer, Kidney diseases, heart, eyes, nerves and psychological diseases.
This problem has been taking place for years now, since the start of the Siege some 4 years ago. Medical convoys and shipments of medications brought by International NGOs have temporarily solved the problem in the past. .
International Investigation
According to the Lancet Magazine, the Norwegian Government sent two doctors on a health mission to Gaza in April 2011 to examine Gaza's chronic shortage of medicines. The same magazine reported of a similar mission sent in 2009, after the war, and concluded similar results to the recent one.
The report says, " The Gaza Strip still has a persistent drug shortage, despite some recent Israeli and Egyptian talks about easing the strict blockade that has left this crowded enclave isolated since July, 2007. A political rift between the Hamas-run Government of Gaza and Fatah officials in the West Bank hinders communication and coordination between the Palestinian health ministries—adding to the hardships already faced by patients in Gaza."
It also added that Norwegian physicians Tone Hegna and Åse Vikanes followed the delivery of 200 pallets of medical supplies from Ramallah to Gaza in early February 2011. They confirmed that many drugs and basic disposables remain in short supply, and that a bad situation is made worse by inadequate storage, transport and incineration facilities.
People close to death
The health crisis in the Strip has increased the suffering of people, with some nearing death.
Anwar Nahid, 18, suffers from early diabetes. Her illness is rare at her age. The prescribed medications are missed such as insulin injections. The absence of the medications is affecting her severely, and blurred her vision.
"I'm sick with this disease for 5 years now. My father is jobless and I have 8 siblings. In many occasions, I find it hard to find the medicines I need. If I do, it is expensive and hard to obtain. My doctors are asking me to go for a specific food for diet purposes. But, I can't afford to bring fruits and some vegetables as the prices are really high. I hope my father works again and I get my medications." Said young Anwar.
Her mother added that Anwar has fainted many times and the doctors said she has entered a dangerous level. Anwar was injured in a car accident and her illness make her treatment harder, as diabetes slow the healing process. Doctors warn her of a potential stroke because of the effect of the diabetes on her blood.
and internal political problems.
Health sector paralyzed!
According to Gaza's health bodies and utilities, severe shortages are hitting the sector due to the continued closure. The shortages have led to a reduction in services, including surgeries. A number of patients are on the waiting list for urgent medical operations. According to Gaza's health ministry, the medical storage will soon be depleted, which further endangers the lives of the innocent
population.
Around 187 sort of medications are missed, as well as 190 types of medical requirement. In total, 50% of Gaza's health and medical storage have evaporated. This shortage is endangering many patients especially those of cancer, Kidney diseases, heart, eyes, nerves and psychological diseases.
This problem has been taking place for years now, since the start of the Siege some 4 years ago. Medical convoys and shipments of medications brought by International NGOs have temporarily solved the problem in the past. .
International Investigation
According to the Lancet Magazine, the Norwegian Government sent two doctors on a health mission to Gaza in April 2011 to examine Gaza's chronic shortage of medicines. The same magazine reported of a similar mission sent in 2009, after the war, and concluded similar results to the recent one.
The report says, " The Gaza Strip still has a persistent drug shortage, despite some recent Israeli and Egyptian talks about easing the strict blockade that has left this crowded enclave isolated since July, 2007. A political rift between the Hamas-run Government of Gaza and Fatah officials in the West Bank hinders communication and coordination between the Palestinian health ministries—adding to the hardships already faced by patients in Gaza."
It also added that Norwegian physicians Tone Hegna and Åse Vikanes followed the delivery of 200 pallets of medical supplies from Ramallah to Gaza in early February 2011. They confirmed that many drugs and basic disposables remain in short supply, and that a bad situation is made worse by inadequate storage, transport and incineration facilities.
People close to death
The health crisis in the Strip has increased the suffering of people, with some nearing death.
Anwar Nahid, 18, suffers from early diabetes. Her illness is rare at her age. The prescribed medications are missed such as insulin injections. The absence of the medications is affecting her severely, and blurred her vision.
"I'm sick with this disease for 5 years now. My father is jobless and I have 8 siblings. In many occasions, I find it hard to find the medicines I need. If I do, it is expensive and hard to obtain. My doctors are asking me to go for a specific food for diet purposes. But, I can't afford to bring fruits and some vegetables as the prices are really high. I hope my father works again and I get my medications." Said young Anwar.
Her mother added that Anwar has fainted many times and the doctors said she has entered a dangerous level. Anwar was injured in a car accident and her illness make her treatment harder, as diabetes slow the healing process. Doctors warn her of a potential stroke because of the effect of the diabetes on her blood.
Labor Minister calls on non-aligned countries to recognize Palestine
Wafa- Minister of Labor Ahmad Majdalani Monday called on Non-Aligned member states and other friendly countries that did not yet recognize the State of Palestine within the 1967 borders to do so as soon as possible.
Majdalani, speaking at a meeting for ministers of labor of the Non-Aligned countries held in association with the International Labor Organization at the Swiss capital, Geneva, said that recognition of the State of Palestine as a full member of the United Nations is in line with last month’s decision of the movement’s foreign ministers. Read more
Majdalani, speaking at a meeting for ministers of labor of the Non-Aligned countries held in association with the International Labor Organization at the Swiss capital, Geneva, said that recognition of the State of Palestine as a full member of the United Nations is in line with last month’s decision of the movement’s foreign ministers. Read more
UNRWA says Israeli blockade on Gaza worsened unemployment
Wafa– The United Nations Relief And Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, UNRWA, said in a report published Monday that overall unemployment rate in the Gaza Strip in the second half of 2010 reached 45.2%, the highest unemployment rate in the world.
The report, issued to mark the fifth year of the Israeli blockade on Gaza, said that real wages of employees continued to drop due to the continuous increase of unemployment. Wages dropped by 34.5% since the first half of 2006.
UNRWA spokesman Sami Mushasha said these indicators are disturbing. Refugees who constitute about two-thirds of Gaza’s1.5 million people are the most affected in the period covered by this report, he said.
He added that it was difficult to understand the logic behind the Israeli policy that deliberately works for the impoverishment of hundreds of thousands of refugees who are capable to be productive, sentencing them to a life of destitution. Read more
The report, issued to mark the fifth year of the Israeli blockade on Gaza, said that real wages of employees continued to drop due to the continuous increase of unemployment. Wages dropped by 34.5% since the first half of 2006.
UNRWA spokesman Sami Mushasha said these indicators are disturbing. Refugees who constitute about two-thirds of Gaza’s1.5 million people are the most affected in the period covered by this report, he said.
He added that it was difficult to understand the logic behind the Israeli policy that deliberately works for the impoverishment of hundreds of thousands of refugees who are capable to be productive, sentencing them to a life of destitution. Read more
VIDEO: Israeli settlers and the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians in Hebron
Salem-News, Tim King – Israeli settlers have been stealing land in Tel Rumeida, a Palestinian neighborhood, since 1986. Their prejudice and their behaviors should not be allowed to continue.
The name of writer Alison Weir's Website, If Americans Only Knew, increasingly makes sense, particularly after watching this video showing the behavior that Israel allows to exist.
On a comparative standard, their politicians are living like Americans in about 1877. That was a time in the U.S. when rampant bigotry allowed the virtual extermination of entire Native American cultures. African-Americans lived with complete and total discrimination, pieces of Mexico were stolen, and laws were passed to eradicate the population of Chinese immigrants who came to North America to build railroads.
However, for the most part, Americans have been able to stomp out destructive racial bigotry. It is far from perfect, but prejudice in this nation lives in a closet for a great deal of the time. In that context, most Americans can not fathom the treatment the Israeli Zionists dole out to Palestinians; it is something between a childlike playground conflict and sadistic old world intolerance. Many people here are busy and don't want to know about it, but they damned well should.
The group B'Tselem, the Israeli Information Center for Human Rights in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, produced this special documentary that shows in gut wrenching detail how terribly the Zionist Jewish settlers have been treating Palestinians, who until recent years, occupied all of the area themselves. Today Zionists have encroached to the point that only a small number of Palestinian families remain.
Try to imagine living in the worst, gang-infested parts of LA, New York or London. Think of what it would be like to board the subway, or ride the RTD, and always wonder if you would be attacked because you are the only one in the crowd who does not belong to a gang; the gang.
Welcome to the world of Hebron's Abu Eisha family, the lone Arab holdouts of the "Tel Rumeida" neighborhood in occupied Palestine.
B'Tselem shows the horror imposed by Israel and its colonizing thieving settlers; religious extremists who are not required to work because they study the Torah all day. (Good thing American taxpayers send seven million dollars a day to Israel, or these guys might have to actually work. First they would have to put their Torah's and their rifles down. It is so sad that religion is the tool of division.)
Salem-News.com has carried a number of items from this special group in Israel and we also conducted a series of live interviews with B'Tselem's Gila Svirsky. They are heavily challenged as a peace group based in a nation with apartheid laws.
Tel Rumeida, in the center of the city of Hebron, was peaceful until 1986, when the Zionist settlement was established at the heart of the neighborhood and problems for Palestinians have gone from bad to far worse in the ensuing years.
At B'Tselem states, "The settlers of Tel Rumieda, who known as particularly extreme, live on one side of a dead-end street... The Abu Eisha family lives on the other side".
This video shows the reality taking place that America is funding.
The name of writer Alison Weir's Website, If Americans Only Knew, increasingly makes sense, particularly after watching this video showing the behavior that Israel allows to exist.
On a comparative standard, their politicians are living like Americans in about 1877. That was a time in the U.S. when rampant bigotry allowed the virtual extermination of entire Native American cultures. African-Americans lived with complete and total discrimination, pieces of Mexico were stolen, and laws were passed to eradicate the population of Chinese immigrants who came to North America to build railroads.
However, for the most part, Americans have been able to stomp out destructive racial bigotry. It is far from perfect, but prejudice in this nation lives in a closet for a great deal of the time. In that context, most Americans can not fathom the treatment the Israeli Zionists dole out to Palestinians; it is something between a childlike playground conflict and sadistic old world intolerance. Many people here are busy and don't want to know about it, but they damned well should.
The group B'Tselem, the Israeli Information Center for Human Rights in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, produced this special documentary that shows in gut wrenching detail how terribly the Zionist Jewish settlers have been treating Palestinians, who until recent years, occupied all of the area themselves. Today Zionists have encroached to the point that only a small number of Palestinian families remain.
Try to imagine living in the worst, gang-infested parts of LA, New York or London. Think of what it would be like to board the subway, or ride the RTD, and always wonder if you would be attacked because you are the only one in the crowd who does not belong to a gang; the gang.
Welcome to the world of Hebron's Abu Eisha family, the lone Arab holdouts of the "Tel Rumeida" neighborhood in occupied Palestine.
B'Tselem shows the horror imposed by Israel and its colonizing thieving settlers; religious extremists who are not required to work because they study the Torah all day. (Good thing American taxpayers send seven million dollars a day to Israel, or these guys might have to actually work. First they would have to put their Torah's and their rifles down. It is so sad that religion is the tool of division.)
Salem-News.com has carried a number of items from this special group in Israel and we also conducted a series of live interviews with B'Tselem's Gila Svirsky. They are heavily challenged as a peace group based in a nation with apartheid laws.
Tel Rumeida, in the center of the city of Hebron, was peaceful until 1986, when the Zionist settlement was established at the heart of the neighborhood and problems for Palestinians have gone from bad to far worse in the ensuing years.
At B'Tselem states, "The settlers of Tel Rumieda, who known as particularly extreme, live on one side of a dead-end street... The Abu Eisha family lives on the other side".
This video shows the reality taking place that America is funding.
Lannan bans Pilger & Barsamian film and discussion of free speech and censorship in the media
Znet – I am writing to you and a number of other friends mostly in the US to alert you to the extraordinary banning of my film on war and media, 'The War You Don't See', and the abrupt cancellation of a major event at the Lannan Foundation in Santa Fe in which David Barsamian and I were to discuss free speech, US foreign policy and censorship in the media.
Lannan invited me and David over a year ago and welcomed my proposal that they also host the US premiere of 'The War You Don't See', in which US and British broadcasters describe the often hidden part played by the media in the promotion of war, in Iraq and Afghanistan. The film has been widely acclaimed in the UK and Australia; the trailer and reviews are on my website www.johnpilger.com.
The banning and cancellation, which have shocked David and me, are on the personal orders of Patrick Lannan, whose wealth funds the Lannan Foundation as a liberal centre of discussion of politics and the arts. Some of you will have been there and will know the Lannan Foundation as a valuable supporter of liberal causes. Indeed, I was invited in 2002 to present a Lannan award to the broadcaster Amy Goodman.
What is deeply disturbing about the ban is that it happened so suddenly and inexplicably: 48 hours before David Barsamian and I were both due to depart for Santa Fe I received a brief email with a 'sorry for the inconvenience' from a Lannan official who had been telling me just a few days earlier what a 'great honour' it was to have the US premiere of my film at Lannan, with myself in attendance.
I urge you to visit the Lannan website www.lannan.org. Good people like Michael Ratner, Jeremy Scahill and Glenn Greenwald are shown as participants in discussion about freedom of speech. I am there, too, but my name is the only one with a line through it and the word, 'Cancelled'.
Neither David Barsamian nor I have been given a word of explanation. All my messages to Lannan have gone unanswered; my calls are not returned; my flights were cancelled summarily. At the urging of the New Mexican newspaper, Patrick Lannan has issued a one-sentence statement offering his regrets to the Lannan-supporting 'community' in Santa Fe. Again, he gives no reason for the ban. I have spoken to the manager of the Santa Fe cinema where 'The War You Don't See' was to be screened. He received a late-night call. Again, no reason for the ban was given, giving him barely time to cancel advertising in The New Mexican.
There is a compelling symbol of our extraordinary times in all of this. A rich and powerful individual and organisation, espousing freedom of speech, has moved ruthlessly and unaccountably to crush it.
With warm regards
John Pilger
Lannan invited me and David over a year ago and welcomed my proposal that they also host the US premiere of 'The War You Don't See', in which US and British broadcasters describe the often hidden part played by the media in the promotion of war, in Iraq and Afghanistan. The film has been widely acclaimed in the UK and Australia; the trailer and reviews are on my website www.johnpilger.com.
The banning and cancellation, which have shocked David and me, are on the personal orders of Patrick Lannan, whose wealth funds the Lannan Foundation as a liberal centre of discussion of politics and the arts. Some of you will have been there and will know the Lannan Foundation as a valuable supporter of liberal causes. Indeed, I was invited in 2002 to present a Lannan award to the broadcaster Amy Goodman.
What is deeply disturbing about the ban is that it happened so suddenly and inexplicably: 48 hours before David Barsamian and I were both due to depart for Santa Fe I received a brief email with a 'sorry for the inconvenience' from a Lannan official who had been telling me just a few days earlier what a 'great honour' it was to have the US premiere of my film at Lannan, with myself in attendance.
I urge you to visit the Lannan website www.lannan.org. Good people like Michael Ratner, Jeremy Scahill and Glenn Greenwald are shown as participants in discussion about freedom of speech. I am there, too, but my name is the only one with a line through it and the word, 'Cancelled'.
Neither David Barsamian nor I have been given a word of explanation. All my messages to Lannan have gone unanswered; my calls are not returned; my flights were cancelled summarily. At the urging of the New Mexican newspaper, Patrick Lannan has issued a one-sentence statement offering his regrets to the Lannan-supporting 'community' in Santa Fe. Again, he gives no reason for the ban. I have spoken to the manager of the Santa Fe cinema where 'The War You Don't See' was to be screened. He received a late-night call. Again, no reason for the ban was given, giving him barely time to cancel advertising in The New Mexican.
There is a compelling symbol of our extraordinary times in all of this. A rich and powerful individual and organisation, espousing freedom of speech, has moved ruthlessly and unaccountably to crush it.
With warm regards
John Pilger
Friday, June 10, 2011
Ministry: Surgeries canceled in Gaza due to shortages
Ma'an- Doctors in Gaza have been forced to cancel surgeries due to critical shortages of medicine and supplies, a health ministry official said Friday.
Ministry undersecretary Hasen Khalef said eye surgeries, and operations on blood vessels and nerves were among those canceled due to the lack of medication. Read more
Ministry undersecretary Hasen Khalef said eye surgeries, and operations on blood vessels and nerves were among those canceled due to the lack of medication. Read more
One missile, one playground: The will of Gaza
Ramzy Baroud - Ma'an- A "Hamas commander" drove a beat-up gray van in northern Gaza and theatrically spoke on his walkie-talkie as I sat in the passenger seat.
The van was almost barren, save for the most basic equipment propelling it to move forward over the bumpy roads of an overcrowded refugee camp.
Iyad was not here to show me any militant training camp, or even to assess the damage that had befallen the impoverished Gaza Strip during Israel's devastating war, Operation Cast Lead, which killed and wounded thousands in 2008-09.
Scars of the damage sustained during the three-week onslaught are still visible throughout the Strip. But Iyad was here to show me his latest personal project: a playground for refugee children. Read more
The van was almost barren, save for the most basic equipment propelling it to move forward over the bumpy roads of an overcrowded refugee camp.
Iyad was not here to show me any militant training camp, or even to assess the damage that had befallen the impoverished Gaza Strip during Israel's devastating war, Operation Cast Lead, which killed and wounded thousands in 2008-09.
Scars of the damage sustained during the three-week onslaught are still visible throughout the Strip. But Iyad was here to show me his latest personal project: a playground for refugee children. Read more
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
