Courtesy of ABC News: WASHINGTON, Nov. 30, 2006 — U.S. officials say they have found smoking-gun evidence of Iranian support for terrorists in Iraq: brand-new weapons fresh from Iranian factories. According to a senior defense official, coalition forces have recently seized Iranian-made weapons and munitions that bear manufacturing dates in 2006. For the rest of the story: Iran and Hezbollah in the fight
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In his open letter to America on November 29th Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad urges the American people to demand the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq and reject what he called the U.S. government's "blind support" for Israel and its "illegal and immoral" actions in fighting terrorism. Jihad Watch so eloquently put it:
The Thug-in-Chief devotes most of his letter to trying to convince us that, hey, we're not all that different, a theme also present in his letter to Germany's Angela Merkel.
But note the ending, which contains the familiar call for conversion (required prior to waging war in Islamic law, per Sahih Muslim 019.4294), plus a slap at Christianity in "any partners they ascribe to him": "But those who repent, have faith and do good may receive Salvation. Your Lord, alone, creates and chooses as He will, and others have no part in His choice; Glorified is God and Exalted above any partners they ascribe to Him" (28:67-68).
You can read Ahmadinejad's letter here: Courtesy of CNN: Ahmadinejad's letter to Americans
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OIF Today 529
11/29/2006 7:07 AM
This edition features headlines on an increase in Marine rotations in Iraq and Iraqi Soldiers search a terrorists house. Hosted by Spc. John Sheldon.
Total Running Time 1:03
Freedom Watch Afghanistan Nov. 24
11/29/2006 7:05 AM
This edition features stories on troops playing a football tournament called the Turkey Bowl over the Thanksgiving Holiday and the Terry Fox 8.5K run for charity and cancer research. Hosted by Senior Airman. Jeremy Hostetter.
Commentary: Fallujah Revisited
29 November 2006
By Maj. Gen. William B. Caldwell IV
Multi-National Force-Iraq Spokesman
If you follow the news coming out of Iraq, you have seen too many headlines about the bloodshed in Baghdad in recent days. As American servicemen and women prepare to spend a fourth holiday season trying to help build a new Iraq, these headlines have led some people to conclude that our mission may be hopeless.
However, my recent visit to Fallujah has reaffirmed my strong conviction that as bad as the situation may sometimes appear, there is still reason to be optimistic for Iraq’s future.
Soldiers from the Iraqi Special Forces, Shawanis Brigade, raise the Iraqi National Flag in front of the office of the Mayor of Fallujah, Nov. 10.
Although it has been out of the headlines for some time, take a minute to recall why the name Fallujah resonates so strongly in our collective memory. Perhaps the most disturbing images of Operation Iraqi Freedom emanated from Fallujah on March 31, 2004, as the bodies of four murdered American contractors were desecrated and the charred corpses hung off the Euphrates River Bridge for the world to see. The “Fallujah Brigade,” a unit comprised of former Iraqi army officers, failed to prevent warlords allied with Al Qaeda in Iraq from effectively taking over the city. Foreign fighters and terrorist insurgents imposed a Taliban-like regime over the city, torturing and beheading innocent people who just wanted to enjoy the freedoms that resulted from the fall of Saddam Hussein. (One torture chamber later uncovered included cages in the basement and a wall covered with bloody hand prints). With more than 100,000 explosive rounds stockpiled in weapons caches throughout the city, these invaders of Fallujah exported scores of suicide bombers bent on mass murder. The population of Fallujah fled in droves, reducing the number of residents to only 50-60,000. By October 2004, Fallujah was a city without security, without stability, and seemingly without hope.
In order to rescue the people of Fallujah and eliminate it as a base of operations for Al Qaeda, Coalition forces launched Operation Al Fajr, or “The Dawn.” Led by American Marines, Coalition Forces battled 2-3,000 terrorists in fierce and sustained urban combat. Although Fallujah was liberated, half the city was decimated by the intense combat.
What has happened to Fallujah since that ferocious battle?
Last week, I saw a city of 350,000 people who have made incredible progress over the past two years. In the aftermath of Operation Al Fajr, in March of 2005, there were 3,000 United States Marines and only 300 Iraqi Security Forces in Fallujah. Today, the people of the city are protected by 1,500 members of their own Iraqi Security Force and only 300 Marines. The police are comprised of native Fallujans, and enjoy strong support from the local population. They are able to patrol their own neighborhoods, enforce their own laws, and handle the transition to responsibility for their own security and growth. Despite the sectarian violence which plagues other parts of the country, I saw the commander of the local Iraqi Army unit, a Shi’a, sit and work productively with the local police chief, a Sunni – a relationship few would have believed possible in Fallujah just a year ago.
I attended a city council meeting, where a democratically elected mayor and city council led the deliberations about the peoples’ business. To be honest, the Council’s discussion of traffic control was not exciting. But the mundane business of a functioning democracy can be uneventful when its institutions are working properly. At the same time, it was exciting to witness democracy in action on soil that once seemed entirely inhospitable. Membership of the Fallujah Business Association has grown from only 20 members last February to over 350 today, demonstrating optimism for economic growth. I even saw a processing center where Fallujah welcomes persons displaced by instability elsewhere.
Fallujah’s transition has not been easy. Terrorists and insurgents are waging a brutal campaign of murder and intimidation against the city’s government and police force. Unemployment remains high, and there is still much rebuilding to be done. But Colonel Larry Nicholson and the young Marines of Regimental Combat Team-5 firmly believe they have turned Fallujah into a model of what Iraq can become. Iraqis themselves support this hope, as families have been arriving in Fallujah en masse to seek shelter from instability in other parts of Iraq.
In October 2004, the world saw the incredible courage of the Coalition Force, as Marines did their part to create hope for Iraqis. Today, visitors to Fallujah can see the courage of Iraqis for themselves.
Difficult times remain ahead for the U.S. and Coalition Forces in Iraq. Many sacrifices remain to be made by both U.S.servicemen and women and their Iraqi partners in Fallujah. But the city is an example of what can be achieved when courageous leaders, brave security forces, and hard-working citizens unite for a common goal – a secure and unified future. The progress in Fallujah demonstrates that with time and effort, recovery is possible in Iraq in the wake of brutal violence.
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Courtesy of the Houston FBI Office
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CRM
NOVEMBER 28, 2006 (202) 514-2008
WWW.USDOJ.GOV TDD (202) 514-1888
HOUSTON, Texas - An indictment has been brought against a U.S. citizen and a Pakistani in the country on an expired student visa for planning to aid the Taliban, U.S. Attorney Don DeGabrielle announced today.
Kobie Diallo Williams, also known as Abdul Kabeer and Abdul Kabir, 33, a U.S. citizen and Houston resident, and Adnan Babar Mirza, 29, a Pakistani national who overstayed a student visa, are charged with conspiring to train with firearms with a goal to fight with the Taliban against coalition forces in the Middle East and providing approximately $350 in cash to support terrorist groups. Mirza is also charged with three violations of federal firearms law. The four count indictment was returned under seal by a Houston grand jury on Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2006, and unsealed today after the appearance of both men before a U.S. magistrate judge.
"In this post 9/11 era, threats against our international security efforts are taken most seriously," said U.S. Attorney DeGabrielle.
"While these subjects did not operate at a high level of sophistication in comparison with the 9/11 hijackers, the expressed goal was to aid the Taliban by training to carry out jihad against coalition troops in the Middle East," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Roderick Beverly.
Kobie Diallo Williams surrendered himself to members of the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) today, Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2006. Adnan Babar Mirza, who has been in the custody of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement on related immigration violations, was transferred into the custody of JTTF agents this morning. Both Williams and Mirza have been ordered to remain in federal custody without bond pending further criminal proceedings.
According to allegations in the indictment, Williams and Mirza, a citizen of Pakistan who entered the United States on a student visa on Aug. 15, 2001, allegedly viewed the United States and coalition military forces on the ground in Afghanistan and Iraq as invaders and in April 2005 agreed that they should travel to the Middle East to fight with the Taliban to engage in battlefield jihad.
To hone their skills in anticipation for battlefield jihad, the indictment alleges Williams and Mirza agreed to train with firearms at various locations located in Harris and surrounding counties. On at least eight occasions between May 20, 2005, and June 17, 2006, the men engaged in firearms training, and at times in reconnaissance training.
As part of and during the alleged conspiracy, Williams and Mirza are accused of agreeing to offer financial support to Taliban fighters and their families. Federal law prohibits contributions of goods or services to the Taliban, one of several specially designated global terrorist organizations. Williams allegedly provided support - $200 on or about June 28, 2005, and another $150 on May 25, 2006 - intended for Taliban members or their families.
As a student visa holder, Mirza is prohibited from possessing firearms. Furthermore, once his student visa expired on Dec.12, 2005, Mirza's status changed to that of being illegally in the United States. Illegal aliens are also prohibited from possessing firearms. The indictment charges Mirza in three counts of unlawfully possessing firearms during three firearms training sessions occurring in May 2005, March 2006 and May 2006 (Counts Two through Four).
If convicted of the conspiracy charge set forth in Count One, Williams and Mirza face a maximum punishment of five years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000 and three years supervised release. Each of the three firearms alleged against Mirza in Counts Two through Four carry a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000 and three years supervised release, upon conviction.
The investigation resulting in the charges was led by the Houston Division of the FBI and the agency's JTTF with participation by: The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Houston Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Sheriff's Offices of San Jacinto and Montgomery Counties. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shelley J. Hicks and Glenn Cook are prosecuting the case.
An indictment or an information is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until convicted through due process of law.
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N'DJAMENA, Chad - A Chadian military reconnaissance plane was shot down in eastern Chad on Tuesday, a government spokesman said, and a rebel group claimed responsibility. A government spokesman blamed neighboring Sudan for backing the rebels and said it was "a state of war."If there is a war in this region, it will be the displaced Darfurians who will endure the most suffering. Have they not suffered enough? Has anyone on this God forsaken earth even noticed? This must not be allowed to escalate.
Read more.
Both Hamata's office and his nearby official residence were struck, stripped of doors, windows and plumbing. He spoke Monday amid piles of paper strewn around his office. The night before, he had declared a dusk-to-dawn curfew and, in a radio address, pleaded with people to return stolen property.Courtesy of Armed Forces Press Service and US Central Command
Afghan Defense Minister Thanks U.S., Praises Troops, Rumsfeld
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON – Afghanistan’s defense minister thanked the United States today for its steadfast support for his country, specifically recognizing the U.S. troops who have served and sacrificed there and outgoing Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld.
Gen. Abdul Rahim Wardak told Pentagon reporters Afghanistan is indebted to the United States for the progress it’s made during the past five years. “These achievements would not have been possible without the advice, guidance and generous support we have received from the United States,” he said.
Wardak gave special thanks to Army Lt. Gen. Karl Eikenberry, commander of Combined Forces Command Afghanistan, who joined him at the podium, as well as Rumsfeld, whom he met with before today’s news conference.
“Secretary Rumsfeld has been a great support of the Afghan cause as a whole,” he said. “He played a fundamental role in delivering Afghanistan from years of destruction, occupation and civil war.”
|Link to Full Story at Central Command |
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This Week's Headline Summary courtesy of National Terror Alert Response Center
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November 26th, 2006
The FBI was helping in the search Sunday for a person who left a suspected explosive device in the trunk of a rental car at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.
The Bloomington Police Department’s bomb squad detonated the device, finding it contained no explosive material. But airport spokesman Pat Hogan said it appeared to be an attempt at either crafting a bomb or something that looked like one.
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November 26th, 2006
UPDATE: Two teenage boys have been charged with setting off two homemade bombs inside a Wal-Mart filled with holiday shoppers, authorities said.
The boys, both 15, were taken into custody after photos from the store’s security cameras where shown on television newscasts.
The explosion of two homemade bombs inside Wal-Mart Saturday afternoon sent a store full of holiday shoppers scurrying for the exits.
Two acid bombs detonated in two separate aisles as the store was crowded with shoppers around 3:15 p.m. on Saturday, said Sgt. Joel Davis, fire investigation supervisor for the State Fire Marshal’s Office. One of the bombs detonated in the pet area. The second was in the store’s toy section, Davis said.
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November 25th, 2006
Britain’s intelligence agencies last night claimed that the poisoning of the Russian dissident Alexander Litvinenko bore the hallmarks of a “state-sponsored” assassination.
A senior Whitehall official told The Times that confirmation that the former Russian spy, who had become a British citizen, had been poisoned with radioactive polonium-210 and other evidence so far not released pointed to the murder being carried out by foreign agents.
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November 25th, 2006
Suspected allies of international terrorist leader Osama bin Laden were able to enter the Philippines using fake visas and other forged travel documents, Philippine Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez said on Friday.
The information was contained in a confidential report received by the Department of Justice recently, a report by GMA news network quoted Gonzalez as saying.
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November 23rd, 2006
Mortar shells and car bombs devastated several streets in the Shia neighborhood of Sadr City in Baghdad today, killing nearly 150 people in what Iraqi officials said was an al-Qaeda attack.
The bombs detonated 15 minutes apart, hitting Jamila market, al-Hay market and al-Shahidein Square in Sadr City. Whole streets were destroyed, leaving bloodied remains and fierce fires burning amid the ruined shells of cars.
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November 22nd, 2006
Ruben Shumpert, who federal agents allege made his Rainier Valley barber shop a kind of “anti-American training ground for Muslims” where children were taught “how to shoot and fight the Americans,” has telephoned the FBI to say he won’t be going to prison anytime soon.
Shumpert, who faces sentencing on federal counterfeiting and weapons charges, has fled to Somalia.
A warrant has been issued for the arrest of Shumpert, who is also known as Amir Abdul Muhaimin, Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Redkey said. He was to be sentenced Tuesday.
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November 22nd, 2006
Nearly all air travelers entering the U.S. will be required to show passports beginning Jan. 23, including returning Americans and people from Canada and other nations in the Western Hemisphere.The date was disclosed Tuesday by Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff in an interview with The Associated Press. The Homeland Security Department plans to announce the change on Wednesday.
The department had been expected to institute the passport requirement for air travelers around the beginning of the year. Setting the date on Jan. 23 pushes the start past the holiday season.
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November 21st, 2006
Brian Camden, president of Harden Structures/Harden Shelters in Virginia Beach, Va., said he has witnessed a significant uptick in business particularly following North Koreas first nuclear weapons test last month.
I can tell you it’s picked up since the test, Camden told the Richmond Times-Dispatch. It’s not just across the country but around the region. Their nerves are rattled.
Sharon Packer of Utah Shelter Systems reports getting as many telephone calls as just after Sept. 11. Brian Duvaul of American Safe Homes of Oregon, who sells $10,000 prefabricated do-it-yourself concrete shelter kits, expects sales to reach $1 million this year.
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November 21st, 2006
Jerusalem district police were on alert on Tuesday morning after receiving warnings that a suspicious car was on its way to the city, local media reported.
A spokesman of Jerusalem police confirmed that the car could be carrying terror suspects.
Checkpoints were set up along the Tel Aviv-Jerusalem highway, causing traffic jams near the entrance to Jerusalem. The policemen working to direct the traffic called on drivers to come to Jerusalem through the Jerusalem-Modiin Roa.
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Courtesy of Stop the ACLU originally posted by Jay and filed at Stop the ACLU under War On Terror, NewsHugo Chavez continues with his insults toward America.
The former soldier and self-styled revolutionary is favored in the polls to beat rival Manuel Rosales after building a solid political base through a social development campaign financed by oil revenues.
Chavez supporters flooded Caracas thoroughfares waving flags and banners, congregating in different parts of the downtown a day after Rosales sympathizers held a similar march to close his campaign in the capital city.
“We are confronting the devil, and we will hit a home run off the devil next Sunday,” said Chavez, who ruffled feathers in October by calling President Bush the devil in remarks at the United Nations.
“On December 3 we’re going to defeat the most powerful empire on earth by knockout,” Chavez said.
Donning red like most of his supporters, Chavez delivered a two-hour speech marked by his signature combination of fiery leftist rhetoric and crowd antics typical of pop music concerts.
Wow! Reuters paints this guy up like a rock star! Many Venezuelans disagree. ... A picture worth a thousand words.
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Courtesy of one of the Hannity Forum members who brought the late breaking information to my attention.
Seems like the police in Skowhegan, Maine, had a break in the case. CBS Channel 4 News, Boston, reported that two teenage boys were arrested late Saturday night and charged with setting off 2 acid bombs at the local Wal-Mart. (2 Acid Bombs Detonated at Wal-Mart)
Because this story is an Associated Press (AP) news feed, you should go to CBS Channel 4 News Boston to read the AP copyrighted story.
The media reported that apparently the teens parents recognized their kids form a news story and contacted the Skowhegan Police Department.
This may bring a whole new topic of conversation to the table. Should the parents have gone to the police? Do we have any control over our children? What on earth would possess to teens to do such a thing? Is it a problem created by a liberal society? Should this be handled as a Juvenile Detention Issue? Should this be called Domestic Terrorism? It this, "Boys will be Boys?"
Apparently the teens had placed other bombs around town. The details are still sketchy and more will be forth coming. It will be interesting when more information becomes available.
I wonder if taking parental authority away from parents, as activists and left leaning courts have done for the past 10 - 15 years could be helping to cause this phenomena that is striking down our children?
For the latest on the teens who were arrested: ME Teens Charged With Setting Off Bombs In Wal-Mart
Also at The Bosun Locker ... Bosun at wordpress ... Stop the ACLU
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The explosion of two homemade bombs inside Wal-Mart Saturday afternoon sent a store full of holiday shoppers scurrying for the exits.
Two acid bombs detonated in two separate aisles as the store was crowded with shoppers around 3:15 p.m. on Saturday, said Sgt. Joel Davis, fire investigation supervisor for the State Fire Marshal’s Office. One of the bombs detonated in the pet area. The second was in the store’s toy section, Davis said.
Early reports indicate that three or four people suffered minor injuries, mostly limited to ringing ears caused by the blasts, but last night investigators could still not rule out that someone may have suffered more serious injuries that had not yet been reported.
The store was evacuated following the explosions and by 6:30 p.m. employees who had been waiting in the parking lot were told to go home for the evening.
The store is expected to reopen today, said Dale Brann, store manager.
Two individual have been identified from the stores security cameras, one of whom is seen talking to the store’s greeter, as persons of interest. Davis stopped short of describing the young men in the video as subjects, but the video suggests they might at least have seen something relevant to the investigation.
“We’d at least like to talk to them,” he said.
An acid bomb is most frequently made with household products that are poured into a plastic container, Davis said. The chemicals react to form an acidic substance while simultaneously expanding, causing the plastic to expand to the point of explosion. The formula can be downloaded from the Internet, Davis said, but the ease with which the bombs are built belie their danger. A similar bomb in another part of the state seriously injured a police officer, Davis said. Saturday’s explosion was less destructive.
“It could have been a lot worse,” Davis said. “They’re simple but very dangerous.”
The devices did not appear to be attached to timing devices, Davis said, and there were no notes or messages associated with the bombs.
Fire, police and ambulance crews from Skowhegan were the first to arrive on scene, Davis said. Davis was joined by five other investigators from the fire marshal’s office, in addition to a team from the State Police Bomb Squad. Teams checked the air quality to ensure no dangerous substances had been released into the atmosphere, Davis said. Investigators then conducted an aisle-by-aisle search for other devices and collected evidence.
Investigators and other emergency workers remained at the scene until after 9:30 p.m.
Brann described a chaotic scene with people screaming when the bombs first exploded.
“I was extremely pleased nobody was injured,” he said. “I think everyone in the community did an amazing job.” Source -Kennebec Journal
Bosun's comments: We may have to eventually prepare ourselves for what happens in Israel on almost a daily basis. Although this has not been tied to international terror groups and may have only been directed against Wal-mart, problems may be on the horizon. I am concerned because according to the news article, a similar bomb was detonated in another part of the state and injured a police officer. Folks we have to stand by for the inevitable.
I can only hope that the police solve this domestic terrorism act quickly. This could be a sick teenage prank, union retaliation, or maniac hatred against a store that has done so much for the America consumer. God Bless Wal-marts and the injured customers, and those who were affected by this maniac hatred that persons unknown have inflicted upon our society.
Also posted at The Bosun Locker ... Bosun at wordpressCourtesy of Israel Today Y Headline News (Emailed to me from a friend.)
A raid conducted by Israel Defense Forces and the General Security Services in the West Bank city of Nablus Saturday morning revealed a laboratory used by terror groups to produce an array of explosives and bombs in various forms, including stuffed animals and bomb belts. Among the materials found inside the lab, the forces found stuffed dolls with wires attached to them, apparently ready to be used to hide a bomb, 40 liters of hydrogen peroxide used for explosives, a hollow jacket used to hide explosives, three empty belts intended to carry explosives as potential bomb belts similar to belts used in the past during suicide bombings.
The forces also found an empty gas tank, twenty light bulbs used to activate explosives, a gas mask, syringes, test tubes, pipes, and a box of talcum powder intended for the use of explosive devices and several other items used for the manufacturing of explosives. Other unidentified materials found in the lab were taken for examination by IDF and police examiners.
After the raid was completed, IDF sappers detonated the lab in a controlled manner without causing any injuries in the surrounding area.
An IDF Spokesman statement said that the IDF will continue to operate against terrorist infrastructure in the northern West Bank, and employ all means at its disposal in order to uphold the security of the citizens.
Story Source: Israel Today Story: Explosive toys discovered in Nablus
Bosun's Comment: This is another example that the left and liberals in the United States are misguided and the apologists and appeasers of the world community are also misguided.
They give the PA and Hamas a free pass for the homicide bomber maniacs of Gaza.
This is another despicable act by those who want to destroy Israel.
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According the Seattle Post Intelligencer, a Seattle area Rainier Beach man, who federal agents allege made his barber shop a kind of "anti-American training ground for Muslims" where children were taught "how to shoot and fight the Americans", fled the United States for Somalia.
This man was released from federal custody on plea agreement pre-sentencing release. The man called federal authorities from Somalia to inform them he was not coming in for sentencing. I wish I could have heard how that conversation really went.
Perhaps it went like this
him - "hi, so i decided that i'm just not going to come in to face those terrorism charges"
officer - "...i'm sorry, what?"
him - "yeh. i'm in
somolia"
officer - "...are you serious?"
him - "yeh. but its ok, because i called." (from a Hannity Forum Member)
him : "by the way, tell the judge, 'thanks for my freedom'."
The judge who released the man ordered that he surrender his United States passport after his release. But, of course the man did not comply with the judge's order and fled. "Alleged" Islamos don't give a damn about American laws.
Folks, we are loosing our grip on freedom from terrorism because of liberal politically correct blunders like this. Michael Savage is correct when he says that we are going to be destroyed from within by liberal wackoism.
After the fact, the U.S. Attorney's Office is apparently going to review the practice of allowing people out of custody before they surrender their passport.
The Dumbass Award goes to the US Attorneys, federal courts, and everyone else involved in this travesty of justice.
Write your congressmen and senators about this folks. Don't let this story get buried on page 26 or the mainstream media. This traitor to our country will join other American-Born Al Qaeda Members, such as, another federal fugitive, Adam Gadahn, who aspires to terrorize America and install an Islamic Caliphate from sea to shining sea.
To read the disturbing newspaper account of this backward justice system, please follow this link to Seattle Post Intelligencer :
Inquiry and Analysis Series - No. 302
November 23, 2006
No.302
To view this Special Dispatch in HTML, visit: Inquiry and Analysis Series No. 302 - HTML version .
Lebanon on the Brink of Civil War (3)
By: H. Varulkar*
Against the backdrop of the worsening crisis in Lebanon, Lebanese Minister of Industry Pierre Gemayel was assassinated yesterday (November 21, 2006). Pierre Gemayel was the son of former Lebanese President Amin Gemayel, and he served as the representative of the Phalange party in the Al-Siniora government and was a senior figure in the "March 14 Forces" political alliance.
A group calling themselves "Fighters for the Unity of Al-Sham [Greater Syria] and its Liberty" took responsibility for the assassination in a communiqué that read: "Allah granted us success today as well, in the assassination of the agent Pierre Gemayel, one of those who unceasingly spouted their venom against Syria and against the Resistance [i.e. Hizbullah], shamelessly and without any trepidation. This is the fate of the traitors, agents, and hired hands who do no hesitate to belittle Lebanon's unity, liberty, integrity, and future for the sake of the enemy's interests. All of those who harm those people who have paid the steep price for the Arabs and for Lebanon - may their voices be silent and may their mouths be mute. We crossed out this agent [Pierre Gemayel] from the list of our targets, and sooner or later we will pay the rest of the agents their due..." [1]
Sa'd Al-Hariri, head of the majority "Al-Mustaqbal" faction in parliament and son of assassinated former Lebanese PM Rafiq Al-Hariri, responded to Pierre Gemayel's assassination, saying: "[The Syrians] want to murder every free man and to renew the series of murders they promised." In an interview with CNN, he added: "We think that Syria's hands were in this crime, since in a few days there is supposed to be a second round [in the Security Council to ratify the establishment of] an international tribunal [to judge the assassination of Rafiq Al-Hariri], and Syria is trying to evade this." [2] Other senior figures in the "March 14 Forces" also blamed the murder on the Syrian regime.
Hizbullah and its partners in the opposition condemned the assassination and warned that the goal of the assassination was "to throw Lebanon into a state of anarchy, destruction, and civil war..." [3] On the other hand, Ibrahim Al-Amin, the editor of the daily Al-Akhbar, which is close to Hizbullah, wrote the day after the assassination that "despite the cruelty of the crime, it will not bring about any change in the practical agenda of the two sides in the struggle." He said that "the political struggle will continue... the battle will remain open... for, unfortunately, the agenda of the battle in Lebanon is greater than the crime that took place." [4]
In the days preceding the assassination, there had been a sharp escalation in tensions in Lebanon, and especially in statements by Hizbullah spokesmen. Following Hizbullah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah's speech before the popular action committees on November 19, 2006, in which he called on his followers to take to the streets and to topple the government, Hizbullah's website declared that within a few days a government would be established in Lebanon that would represent the true majority in the country. In addition, a daily close to Hizbullah promised that if the government did not fall within 40 days, it would receive a "decisive blow" that would topple it. For their part, senior figures in the "March 14 Forces" warned that Lebanon was on the verge of a political putsch, and said that it was Syria and Iran that had ordered Hizbullah to create the crisis.
The following are statements on the crisis that appeared in the Iranian and Lebanese media:
Conservative Iranian Daily: Al-Siniora is Taking a Road With a Bad End
An editorial published in the conservative Iranian daily Resalat on November 21, 2006, titled "Al-Siniora's Closed Eyes" read: "...Al-Siniora is taking a road whose end will be very bad for him...
"Now, following Hizbullah's heroic victory... conditions have completely changed in Lebanon and in the Middle East. In light of this, the role... of Hizbullah in the political balance in Beirut has become more important...
"...The Al-Siniora government, which is dependent on the Republicans in Washington, is trying, [through] the U.S. Ambassador in Beirut, to weaken Hizbullah's growing strength, by repeating mantras like the stigmatization of Hizbullah [as terrorists] and the escalation of the psychological war against Hizbullah.
"But in the rest of the Muslim nations and in the Lebanese nation, there is an awareness [of the new conditions] that does not allow Al-Siniora and his supporters in the White House and in Tel Aviv any room for maneuver. This is the reality that the Lebanese PM ignored prior to Hizbullah's victory and that he is ignoring after the war as well. This is a reality that perhaps Al-Siniora will come to know directly when he tastes the bitter taste of his removal from power. If the current conditions continue, this moment is not far; when the people stream into the streets, this historic moment will arrive." [5]
Iranian Foreign Ministry Daily: Opposing the Lebanese People's Demands is Liable to Lead to Clashes
Hassan Hanizadeh, Editorial Editor for the Iranian Foreign Ministry daily TheTehran Times, which is close to Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, published an article in which he said that Al-Siniora's opposition to forming a national unity government is liable to lead to clashes in Lebanon and to place Lebanon before severe domestic and foreign challenges: "The Lebanese government's opposition to the legitimate demands of the people [i.e. the demand to establish a national unity government] has brought the country to the edge of the precipice, and is liable to lead to clashes between different religious, ethnic, and political groups in Lebanon... It is clear that the Al-Siniora government cannot continue much longer with its political maneuvering. If Al-Siniora does not establish a national unity government soon, Lebanon will have to deal with severe domestic and foreign challenges in the near future. [6]
Hizbullah Website: It is a Matter of Days Until the Establishment of the Government of the True Majority in Lebanon
"What [can be done] after an illegal government [i.e. the Al-Siniora government] has taken over the executive power in the country?... [The Shi'ite ministers] deprived [Al-Siniora's] rule of its constitutional legitimacy when they resigned from a government that no longer represents the aspirations of the vast majority of Lebanese, and the question of it being replaced has become an inescapable demand...
"The political protection of the American Ambassador in Beirut, Jeffrey Feldman, will not help his government... The mood of this faction is at a low, and fear has overtaken them, despite their claim that they are the majority. This faction's security forces' fabrications are proof of this fear [that has overtaken them]. It is likely that [through these fabrications] they are [trying to] push off the danger of their coming downfall..."
The website wrote that the Lebanese must count "the few days left until the establishment of the government of the true majority in this country," and quoted Hizbullah's Secretary-General, who proclaimed on November 13, 2006, that "this government will soon disappear, and very soon we will bring a pure government..." [7]
"If the Government Does Not Fall Within 40 Days, a Major Activity Will Be Undertaken That Will Deal a Decisive Blow to the Government"
The Lebanese daily Al-Akhbar, which is close to Hizbullah, reported on the preparations being undertaken by Hizbullah and its allies in anticipation of taking to the streets, and said that the next step will be a boycott by MPs against the government: "The opposition has completed its preparations in anticipation of popular action [with the goal of] toppling the government. Al-Akhbar has learned that Hassan Nasrallah has reached an agreement with all of the senior opposition figures that the decision on the timing, scope, and kind of popular action is at his discretion. It is expected that this action will take place in cities, major intersections, and public squares, and it will begin immediately after Nasrallah gives the sign. The popular action will continue until the government falls, and it is likely to continue [for a period] between one month and 40 days in order to achieve its goal - toppling the government before the Feast of Sacrifice. In the event that the government does not fall in this period, a major activity will be undertaken that will deliver a decisive blow to the government. Then [the opposition forces] will establish a national unity government whose first task will be to draw up a new elections law and to hold parliamentary elections.
"Al-Akhbar has learned that the next step the opposition will decide on... will be a boycott by the MPs against the government. There are preparations for a meeting to be held by opposition MPs, during which they will announce some of their stands, among them: declaring lack of confidence in the government, [defining] the government as unconstitutional and illegal, and calling on MPs to boycott all of this government's legislative activity, as well as non-participation in any meeting of the parliamentary committees and refraining from making contact with any minister..." [8]
Hizbullah Deputy Secretary-General Naim Qassem: The Al-Siniora Government Should Be Put on Trial if It Continues to Function as a Government
"The present government headed by Al-Siniora is an unconstitutional government and its decisions are illegal. If it does not find a solution to its crisis and continues to function [as a government] when it lacks any authority, then it should be put on trial, and it should give a reckoning [for its behavior]... They are standing as an obstacle, preventing the management of the country and obstructing it through a government lacking authority of decision, authority [of being] representative, and constitutional legitimacy. Therefore, we say to this government - resign now, and look for an appropriate [solution to the crisis], so that you will not get in trouble [and bear] responsibility for even greater collapse in this country..."
Concerning the next steps that would be taken by the opposition to topple the government, Qassem said: "The opposition's bin of activities is full, varied, and influential. However, we will only say what the nature of each activity will be at the appropriate time. Our 'saving steps' will not cease until we arrive at a solution and save Lebanon... We will carry out our activity to save Lebanon. Ours will be a 'rolling' plan - one step after another, in an effective fashion, and we will announce each activity with the agreement of our allies. We place the blame for the waste of time and the economic and political deterioration of the country on the ruling government. We place the blame on them for any security problem that might arise... This government, which is illegal, needs to know that it is to blame for everything that occurs to this country. You must not waste time..." [9]
Sa'd Al-Hariri: Hizbullah, Amal, Syria, and Iran Want to Topple the Government
In an interview with the Al-Jazeera English-language satellite station, the head of the Al-Mustaqbal faction Sa'd Al-Hariri said that the current crisis was caused because Hizbullah received orders from elements outside of Lebanon not to allow, under any circumstances, the establishment of an international tribunal. According to him, the alliance of Hizbullah, Amal, Syria, and Iran wants to topple the government and rule Lebanon: "It is obvious that when there is a political party that is funded entirely by [elements] outside of the country [i.e. Hizbullah], then it is run entirely by [elements] outside of the country."
Concerning the current crisis in the government and the resignation of the Shi'ite ministers, he said: "The orders and the decisions came from [elements] outside [of Lebanon], and these orders and decisions lay down that it is forbidden [to allow] the establishment of an international tribunal and that the murderers of Rafiq Al-Hariri, Jubran Tweini, Samir Qasir, and George Hawi must be defended at all costs... The truth is that if there are any civil disturbances whatsoever, this will not be because of the Lebanese [but rather because of foreign intervention]... Today it has become clear that the alliance between Hizbullah, Amal, Syria, and Iran wants to topple the Al-Siniora government, to foil the [establishment] of an international tribunal [for the assassination of Rafiq Al-Hariri], [to prevent the implementation of] Resolution 1701... They want to rule the country." [10]
Jumblatt: Lebanon is on the Verge of a Putsch
The Druze leader Walid Jumblatt said at a meeting of his party: "I heard from one [of the senior figures in Hizbullah]... that the principle [of establishing] an international tribunal [for the assassination of Rafiq Al-Hariri] is unacceptable. What can we do, when we are before [the decision on the tribunal] and they are on the verge of a putsch in the country... a phased taking to the streets, collective resignations from directorates, civil revolt, resignations from parliament, etc. What can we do? I am not capable of answering this question right now, since [I have to] consult first with the members of the "March 14 [Forces], and first and foremost Sa'd Al-Hariri...
"We have before us a number of options. However, we will not be those who will start with domestic civil disturbances, and it is forbidden that we be the ones to start with this. Let them bear the blame for civil disturbances and for the putsch... Of course I must consult [with the others in "March 14"]... Nothing will deter them [Hizbullah], not even civil war, from preventing the punishment [that an international tribunal would impose on Syria]." [11]
Amin Gemayel: We Will Oppose any Putsch Attempt With Every Legitimate Means
In a speech before members of the political bureau and the central committee of his party, former Lebanese President Amin Gemayel addressed Nasrallah's speech, saying: "We see everything that is going on [now] as an attempt to throw the country back to [the era] before April 26, 2005 [the day the Syrian forces left Lebanon]... We are obliged to oppose any putsch attempt with every existing political and democratic means..." [12]
Sunni Sheikh Attacks Hizbullah
The Lebanese daily Al-Mustaqbal published an article by the Sunni Sheikh Sa'id Harmush, who expressed criticism of Hizbullah members' behavior, which in his opinion is contrary to Islam: "...Hizbullah [members] claim [that they are acting in the name of] Islam, but they are doing the exact opposite of Islam! In the past they left in Beirut black fingerprints, in every home and neighborhood. Roving bands of [Hizbullah members] took over property belonging to 'the Sunni brothers', as they call them - houses, land, and shops. Then they started with acts of robbery, slaughter, humiliation, and expulsion, much more than the Jews have done anywhere [in the world]...
"To this day many areas in Lebanon (like Sidon, Tyre, and other areas) are trying to deal with this arbitrariness and arrogance. If this is so, then what Islam are they talking about[?] We are not talking about [unknown things that occurred] in the course of the [last] war - the attacks and assaults that were carried out during the war, from the south up to Beirut. At the time that Zionist planes destroyed some of the areas in Beirut, some of the roving bands [of Hizbullah members] took over private and public lands, and built houses there, as though these lands were spoils of war! So what Islam are they talking about?!
"Today Sheikh Naim Qassem comes to us with the demand that the [Shi'ite] community, or Hizbullah, be partners in government decisions and in building Lebanon... This at a time that Shi'ite ministers left the government in order to exert influence [not to establish] a tribunal that is supposed to punish the criminals who assassinated many Lebanese brothers. So how can they ask to be partners?!...
"You want the government to grant legitimacy to your lies, and if not, then [you accuse it] of collaboration [with Israel]..." [13]
Al-Mustaqbal Reports on Hizbullah Operatives' Gunfire in Southern Beirut
The Lebanese daily Al-Mustaqbal reported on November 20, 2006, that immediately following Nasrallah's speech, Hizbullah operatives opened fire in the Al-Dahiya neighborhood, and kept firing for four hours: "The intense gunfire in the Al-Dahiya area [of southern Beirut], which continued for four hours, and began immediately following the speech by the 'new leader of the opposition' [Hassan Nasrallah], is not exactly an expression of the sugary words with which the Hizbullah Secretary-General spoke of popular action that would be 'civilized and peaceful, when the time comes.'"
Al-Mustaqbal characterized the event as "a paradox that points to the gulf between the leader's instructions and his followers' behavior." [14]
Sunni Jihadi Websites: Prepare for Battle in Lebanon
In the past 24 hours since the assassination of Pierre Gemayel, participants in Sunni Islamist forums (for instance, that of www.mohajroon.com) have written that battle between Sunnis and Shi'ites in Lebanon is imminent and inevitable, and have even proposed operative steps in preparation for this war. Among the ideas raised have been gathering intelligence on Shi'ite weapons arsenals in order to seize them, purchasing houses and warehouses throughout the country to serve as bases for the Sunni mujahideen, and the "liquidation" of Shi'ite imams and leaders. [15]
*H. Varulkar is a Research Fellow at MEMRI.
[1] Al-Nahar (Lebanon), November 22, 2006.
[2] Al-Mustaqbal (Lebanon), November 22, 2006.
[3] Website of the Islamic Resistance in Lebanon, November 19, 2006; Islamic Resistance - Lebanon into a state of anarchy.
[4] Al-Akhbar (Lebanon), November 22, 2006.
[5] Resalat (Iran), November 21, 2006.
[6] Tehran Times (Iran), November 21, 2006.
The head of the Middle East desk in the Iranian Foreign Ministry, Ali Asghar Mohammedi, addressed the situation in Lebanon in the course of a talk, saying: "Hizbullah's existence... strengthens Iran's status in regional geopolitics, thanks to Iran's support for Hizbullah." Hayat-e No (Iran), November 20, 2006.
[7] Website of the Islamic Resistance in Lebanon, November 19, 2006.
[8] Al-Akhbar (Lebanon), November 20, 2006.
[9] Website of the Islamic Resistance in Lebanon, November 19, 2006; Islmanic Resistance This government, which is illegal, needs to know that it is to blame.
[10] Al-Mustaqbal (Lebanon), November 20, 2006.
[11] Al-Mustaqbal (Lebanon), November 20, 2006. Jumblatt already said in the past that Bashar Al-Assad is trying to escape punishment that he will receive from an international tribunal that will judge on the assassination of Rafiq Al-Hariri: International tribunal that will judge on the assassination of Rafiq Al-Hariri.
[12] Al-Nahar (Lebanon), November 21, 2006.
[13] Al-Mustaqbal (Lebanon), November 20, 2006.
[14] Al-Mustaqbal (Lebanon), November 20, 2006.
[15] Further details in part four of "Lebanon on the Brink of Civil War" (forthcoming).
*********************
The Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI) is an independent, non-profit organization that translates and analyzes the media of the Middle East. Copies of articles and documents cited, as well as background information, are available on request.
MEMRI holds copyrights on all translations. Materials may only be used with proper attribution.
The Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI)
P.O. Box 27837, Washington, DC 20038-7837
Phone: (202) 955-9070
Fax: (202) 955-9077
E-Mail: memri@memri.org
Search previous MEMRI publications at www.memri.org
.
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2006 - A man believed to have first-hand knowledge of a missing U.S. soldier’s whereabouts was the target of a raid conducted today in Baghdad’s Sadr City neighborhood by special Iraqi army forces, working with coalition advisors. Story
JOINT PATROL — U.S. Army soldiers provide security during a patrol in the Adhamiyah neighborhood of Baghdad, Iraq, Nov. 13, 2006. U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Bronco Suzuk More photos | More Photo Essays
Courtesy of Central Command
Violence in Iraq Drops in Weeks After Ramadan
Nov. 20, 2006
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON – As expected, violence in Iraq has dropped following the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, a coalition spokesman said in Baghdad today.
Army Maj. Gen. William Caldwell said civilian and Iraqi security force casualties were at the lowest levels since the government was formed in May.
So far this month, the civilian casualty count is well below the casualty count in October and below the six-month average. The security force casualties reduced 21 percent over the past four weeks, and are at the lowest level in 25 weeks, he said.
“In Baghdad, there was a 22 percentage drop in casualties related to sectarian violence and executions,” Caldwell said during a televised news conference. “Coalition forces will continue to work closely with the Iraqi government and Iraqi security forces to control the sectarian violence and terrorist attacks.”
But attacks do continue. The more the Iraqi government led by Nouri al-Maliki asserts its authority, the greater the threat from foreign and extremist elements seeking to undermine both stability and reconciliation in Iraq, Caldwell said. “Last week we did see a spike in coalition and civilian casualties,” he said. “Murders remain the gravest threat to civilians.”
A new wrinkle is mortar attacks on markets and mosques, and coalition and Iraqi security forces are watching the situation and taking steps to prevent those, the general said.
He said Operation Together Forward – planned to provide security for the neighborhoods in Baghdad – will continue. Patrolling continues in some neighborhoods, he said, with roughly 95,000 buildings searched, 282 persons detained and 1,900 weapons seized.
In other neighborhoods, the Iraqis have moved into a protect-and-build strategy. “Stability means more than just freedom from fear; it means being able to count on essential services,” Caldwell said. “Consequently, more than $7.5 million have been committed to these projects and essential services.”
Iraqi public servants brave attacks to continue working on power generation, water treatment, trash collection to sewage disposal. He said over the past 11 months local civic leaders and soldiers of the 4th Infantry Division, which just transferred back to Fort Hood, Texas, worked hard in Baghdad to make progress in local improvement projects. “During that time, 146 water and sewage projects came on line, (along with) 140 educational projects, 57 medical and public health projects and 37 agricultural projects,” Caldwell said.
The water and sewage projects undertaken through this partnership include the completion of 19 water treatment plants, six compact water delivery systems, 13 sewage pumping stations and the replacement of more than 25 kilometers of pipe. The 140 education projects included upgrading 111 school facilities that serve more than 310,000 elementary students. The 57 Baghdad medical projects include the renovation of 21 hospitals and clinics and building and opening six new clinics for the citizens of Baghdad.
“There is a committed effort to hire local Iraqi firms and workers,” the general said. “These projects alone have provided over 23,000 jobs at the peak employment period.”
Caldwell said there will be more transfers of authority to the Iraqis as the security forces become more capable. He used an operation in Diyala province as an example of the progress the Iraqi army is making. On Nov. 13, the Iraqis launched a joint operation to seize five major weapons caches. The Iraqi forces faced improvised explosive devices and numerous small-arms exchanges with enemy forces. The soldiers killed somewhere between 25 and 40 enemy fighters and detained another 23.
The raid resulted in taking hundreds of explosive rounds capable of being used in car and roadside bombs, and 300,000 rounds of small-arms ammunition. “This is potentially hundreds of car bombs that will never be built or detonated in Iraqi markets,” Caldwell said. “This is 12,000 sniper rounds that will not be aimed at security forces.”
Caldwell said it is impossible to estimate the number of attacks these raids prevented, “but it was significant.”
“Iraq must have a security force that is competent, but also enjoys the confidence of its people,” he said. The forces will continue to enforce the rule of law and free the country from the threat of militias. He said Iraqi confidence in the police is slowly rising, but will require continued reform.
The forces continue to combat sectarian violence, most of which, occurs within a 30-mile radius around Baghdad. Forces launched 58 missions against death squads that netted 184 cell members and eight cell leaders.
The coalition and Iraqis continue to attack al Qaeda in Iraq. The forces launched 92 focused operations that killed 48 terrorists and detained 286, Caldwell said.
The general also told reporters that U.S. forces remain committed to finding Army Spc. Ahmed Kusay Altaie, a soldier kidnapped Oct. 23. More than 3,000 coalition and Iraqi security forces are looking for him. “We will never stop looking for our servicemembers,” Caldwell said. “Everyone must know that we will continue our intensive efforts to locate Specialist Altaie.”
Caldwell said that all people want to see a unified, secure and prosperous Iraq, “but it will take time.”
“The people in Iraq are showing tremendous perseverance in fighting these foreign influences that seek to destroy their goal of a unified Iraq,” he said.
TO VIEW TODAY'S ISLAMIST WEBSITE MONITOR No. 23 PLEASE CLICK THIS LINK: .
Inquiry & Analysis-Lebanon
November 21, 2006
No. 301
Lebanon on the Brink of Civil War (2)
To view this Special Dispatch in HTML, visit: HTML Version .
By H. Varulkar*
Background
On November 3, 2006, MEMRI reported on political tension in Lebanon, which has increased to the point where civil war appears imminent - due to Hizbullah's violent struggle to seize a significant portion of the government by instigating street clashes.(1) Hizbullah Secretary-General Hassan Nassrallah even issued an ultimatum, threatening that his people would take to the streets on November 13, but the ultimatum was later extended, pending consultations between Hizbullah and the "March 14 Forces." The failure of these talks led to the resignation of the five Shi'ite ministers, representatives of the Hizbullah and Amal parties, from the Lebanese government. At this point, Lebanese President Emile Lahoud declared that the government of Lebanese Prime Minister Fuad Al-Siniora government was "illegal," a statement later reiterated by Hizbullah and its political allies.
Following these developments, Hizbullah leaders and their political allies stepped up their statements, threatening that "surprise" tactics would be used and that the street protests would begin without warning. It should be noted that these statements and threats are supported by Syria and Iran.
In a special speech on November 19, 2006, Nasrallah declared that attempts to reach an understanding with "the governing faction" [i.e. with the March 14 Forces] had failed, and that the goal was now to topple what he called "[U.S. Ambassador to Beirut] Feldman's government" by taking to the streets. (Previously, Nasrallah had outlined two possible ways out of the crisis: the establishment of a National Unity Government or early parliamentary elections).
Nasrallah did not specify when his people would take to the streets, but called on Hizbullah to be in a state of full readiness, since the protests "might start in less than 24, 12, or even six hours." Al-Jazeera TV, which is close to Nasrallah, stated in reference to this speech that "the zero hour is very near, and may come after Lebanese Independence Day [November 22, 2006]."
As in the case of the recent war in Lebanon, the timing of the current crisis serves the interests of Iran, which is facing a U.N. Security Council discussion on proposed sanctions against it. The timing also serves the interests of Syria, which is currently trying, with Russia's help, to stop an international court from being appointed to tackle the case of the assassination of former Lebanese prime minister Rafiq Al-Hariri (a decision that could also harm the pro-Syrian Lebanese prime minister, Emile Lahoud).
However, in the current crisis, unlike in the previous one, Hizbullah will probably avoid involving Israel, in order to prevent any Israeli interference in his attempt to seize a significant portion of the Lebanese government.
The following are statements recently made by Hizbullah and its political allies:
Iranian Daily Affiliated with Khamenei Calls to Change the Political Balance of Power in Lebanon in Favor of the Shi'ites
On November 8, 2006, the conservative Iranian daily Kayhan, which is identified with Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, wrote that in light of the new strategic order that has emerged in the Middle East, the Shi'ites in Lebanon must receive the largest representation in the Lebanese government institutions: "We must see how things actually develop in Lebanon. [This country] is currently facing changes that the existing [government] institutions cannot [handle], so [these institutions] must necessarily change. One of the frameworks that must change is the Taif Agreement signed... by America and France, by heads of Arab states, and by heads of [various Lebanese] groups. Today, these Arab governments - and to a large extent also America, France and those [Lebanese] groups - have lost their role, and have been replaced by new forces. The Shi'ites now constitute 40% of the [Lebanese] population, and occupy 40% of the Lebanese territory. They are the most united [group in Lebanon], and their security-military forces have become the most significant forces in that part of the Arab region [i.e. in Lebanon]. Therefore, they must have the greatest presence in the [Lebanese] government and parliament and in other Lebanese institutions..."(2)
Lebanese Parliament Speaker: "Iran Will Be the Leading Force in the New Phase [That Has Begun]"
On a brief visit to Iran, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Beri met with President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. In his meeting with Khamenei, the latter stressed "the readiness of the [Lebanese] people and of the Islamic Resistance in Lebanon [i.e. Hizbullah] to deal with every contingency." He added that Lebanon would be where America and the Zionist entity will meet with defeat, and said that "political developments in the region and the world confirm that a new phase has begun." He stated further that "America's policy in the region and the world is on the brink of defeat," and that "this opportunity must be exploited to the full through determined action and trust in Allah the Almighty."
During the meeting, Nabih Beri said: "Allah has rewarded those who wanted to implement the plan of the Greater Middle East [i.e. the Americans] for their plotting and deception. The latest developments [in the Middle East] are the beginning of the fall of the American empire... The victory of the Lebanese [people] and of the Islamic resistance [i.e. Hizbullah] played a significant part in the defeat of the Republican party in the recent congressional elections [in the U.S.]." Beri added that "America and the Zionist entity are trying to keep the Islamic Republic [of Iran] from exerting its spiritual influence in the region, [but] the Islamic Republic of Iran will be the leading force in the new phase [that has begun]."(3)
In his meeting with Iranian President Ahmadinejad, Beri spoke of "the plots of the enemies, and especially [the plots] of the West, headed by the U.S., which are meant to create anarchy and generate dispute among the various Lebanese factions." He stated that "the Arab states must take special steps to thwart the enemies' plot of [instigating] strife," and said that "the Islamic Republic of Iran has a leading and essential role in this regard."(4)
Nasrallah: We will Soon Have a New Government
In the Al-Dhahiya neighborhood in Beirut, Nasrallah told an audience of over 7,000 that "the current government will soon go, [and will be replaced by] a pure government that will [help] you [i.e. the people of South Lebanon] to repair the damage caused by the [Israeli] aggression... The current government is disloyal, since it knew about the [Israeli] aggression [in advance], and asked [the Israelis] to prolong their aggression... This government will not stay [in power]. We will form a new government."(5)
Hizbullah: Civil Disobedience Is a Legitimate Option
Ghaleb Abu Zaynab of Hizbullah's political bureau said that "civil disobedience is a legitimate option... The interior minister's refusal to issue licenses for demonstrations will not impede our activities. If the government tries to play games of this sort, it will be making a big mistake. But I do not think that it will [try to] prevent the demonstrations, since this would bring the country to a state of maximal tension."(6)
Muhammad Ra'd, chairman of the Hizbullah party in the Lebanese parliament, said on Hizbullah's radio station Al-Nur: "There are [all sorts of] surprise tactics that the opposition may employ, like the resignation of the Shi'ite [ministers], which took the governing faction by surprise. All options are open. The popular action will come at the appropriate time and place, and in a manner that will achieve [the desired] results."(7)
General Michel Aoun: As of Today, the Government's Orders Must Not Be Obeyed
General Michel Aoun, a Christian, said at a convention held by his party, the Free Patriotic Movement, that "the [current] government is illegitimate, and therefore, as of today, its orders must not be obeyed." At the end of his speech Aoun called on the "[opposition's] units" to "get ready to take to the streets as soon as tomorrow," and declared: "We will use the streets to make history - we will either fail or succeed."(8)
In a meeting with students at the American University of Beirut, Aoun accused the ruling faction - that is, the March 14 Forces - of "being afflicted with every kind of mental illness that exists." When asked if Hizbullah meant to take to the streets, he replied: "[Taking to the] streets is one option, but [now] there is a possibility of other arrangements... The [current] situation will come to an end very soon, Allah willing, so we can celebrate the new year [2007] in satisfaction and tranquility."
Aoun added: "I think that the government is responsible for the [current] deadlock, because it has lost its national consensus and is responsible for delaying the resolution of this crisis"... I've called upon [Al-Siniora to resign] and I am now doing so again... His resignation is the only solution that will allow everyone to deal with the situation. But if [Al-Siniora] continues to regard himself as prime minister, we will prove to him that this is unacceptable, and take the necessary steps - and it will be he who is responsible for any negative outcomes [that may emerge]. There is no solution except for [Al-Siniora] to resign."(9)
Hizbullah-Affiliated Daily: The Opposition Does Not Plan to Announce When and Where It Will Take to the Streets
In an article in the Lebanese daily Al-Akhbar, known to be affiliated with Hizbullah, editor Ibrahim Al-Amin wrote: "There is no longer any chance of [of reaching] a partial agreement [between Hizbullah and the March 14 Forces]. Neither side has any way of protecting the state against the evil confrontation that has begun, and not only behind closed doors... The big problem is that the division has reached the point where it is difficult to find a quick solution without significant external intervention... However, according to an Arab diplomatic source, the problem has to do with America's refusal to initiate dialogue with Syria before there are developments in other issues, [unrelated to] Lebanon...
"As far as the opposition [i.e., Hizbullah, Amal, and Aoun's party] is concerned, the die has been cast. The [Lebanese] government and its resolutions must not be recognized; it must be treated as an illegal government. Therefore, the opposition's plan of action does not depend on the current government's agenda, or on receiving its permission [to demonstrate]. Lebanese Interior Minister Ahmad Fatfat hasn't yet comprehended this fact, [and therefore does not understand] why [the opposition] has not yet requested a license to demonstrate... "When the operational [phase] begins, the opposition will not inform the Interior Ministry of the timing and route [of the demonstrations], or about anything else...
"The opposition has decided to take [the following] intra-organizational steps in order to avoid numerous [unfortunate] contingencies:
"The demonstrators of Hizbullah and the Free Patriotic Movement will not enter the inner neighborhoods of Beirut, since this may lead to conflict with the majority group [i.e. the March 14 Forces], which may develop into a conflict between sects or factions.
"[The opposition] will recruit hundreds or even thousands of activists who will be in charge... of the popular activities. Among their other [responsibilities, they will] prevent [the demonstrators] from approaching any [government] facilities with the purpose of doing damage. In addition, they will perform activities that serve the purpose of the demonstration, and prevent majority [supporters] from attacking [the Hizbullah demonstrators], unless someone in the majority group [deliberately] leads us into a bad situation. Those in charge of the demonstrations have also been instructed to tolerate any level of oppression [on the part of the Lebanese security apparatuses] including the possibility of gunfire...
"The tasks have been divided among the various opposition forces... The various regions in Lebanon have been divided into zones, which will enable us to flood Lebanon with two million demonstrators in a single day, if such a decision is taken.
"No region will be excluded [as a location for demonstrations] under the pretext that it is under the authority of this or that official institution. [For example], Shuhada Square [in Beirut] will not be considered as [the territory] of one faction only [i.e. as March 14 territory], but will be used [by the opposition] whenever the need arises.
"The decision to take to the streets has already been made, and its implementation depends on matters that appear simple but will [in fact] determine the outcome [of events]. The opposition is determined to keep [these details] a surprise."(10)
*H. Varulkar is a Research Fellow at MEMRI.
Endnotes:
(1) See MEMRI Inquiry & Analysis No. 299, "Lebanon Faces Political Crisis in Aftermath of War: Tensions Escalate Between 'March 14 Forces' and Hizbullah, Pro-Syrian Camp," November 3, 2006, MEMRI Archives Inquiry and Analysis No. 299.
(2) Kayhan (Iran), November 8, 2006.
(3) Al-Mustaqbal (Lebanon), November 15, 2006.
(4) Mehr News Agency (Iran), November 13, 2006.
(5) Al-Akhbar (Lebanon), November 14, 2006.
(6) Al-Nahar (Lebanon) November 16, 2006.
(7) Al-Mustaqbal (Lebanon), November 15, 2006.
(8) Al-Akhbar (Lebanon) November 17, 2006.
(9) Al-Nahar (Lebanon) November 19, 2006.
(10) Al-Akhbar (Lebanon) November 17, 2006.
*********************
The Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI) is an independent, non-profit organization that translates and analyzes the media of the Middle East. Copies of articles and documents cited, as well as background information, are available on request.
MEMRI holds copyrights on all translations. Materials may only be used with proper attribution.
The Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI)
P.O. Box 27837, Washington, DC 20038-7837
Phone: (202) 955-9070
Fax: (202) 955-9077
E-Mail: memri@memri.org
Search previous MEMRI publications at MEMRI . Org
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