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EMIRATES' A380 COMES FULL CIRCLE AND HEADS TO FRANCE
DUBAI, U.A.E., 29th December 2009 - An Emirates' A380 left Dubai this morning, bound for France and the home of its manufacturer, Airbus, as double-decker flights got underway to Paris.
Germany's A380 city again demonstrates size matters
DUBAI, U.A.E., 11th November 2009 – Hamburg, the German city responsible for finishing Emirates' A380 super-jumbos, has again reiterated that size matters by playing host to the largest airline lounge in Germany, and one of the largest facilities of its kind in Europe.
Muslim groups fear backlash after Fort Hood shooting
Fearing that a gunman who killed 12 people at a military facility in Texas may have been Muslim, US Islamic groups were bracing themselves for a public backlash against the faith.
Troubling portrait emerges of Fort Hood suspect
By BRETT J. BLACKLEDGE, Associated Press Writer Brett J. Blackledge, Associated Press Writer
WASHINGTON – His name appears on radical Internet postings. A fellow officer says he fought his deployment to Iraq and argued with soldiers who supported U.S. wars. He required counseling as a medical student because of problems with patients.
Army: 12 dead, 31 hurt in attack at Fort Hood
By APRIL CASTRO and DEVLIN BARRETT, Associated Press Writers April Castro And Devlin Barrett, Associated Press Writers
FORT HOOD, Texas – An Army psychiatrist set to be shipped overseas opened fire at the Fort Hood Army post Thursday, authorities said, a rampage that killed 12 people and left 31 wounded in the worst mass shooting ever at a military base in the United States.
A Case of Palestinian Arab Justice between Minority and Majority
Haseeb Shehadeh
Haseeb.Shehadeh@Helsinki.Fi
A Case of Palestinian Arab Justice between Minority and Majority
The Samaritan High Priest Salama b. Sadaqa and the Arab Tailors of Nablus in the Nineteenth Century.
An Israeli View: Who was behind Lebanon’s 1975 war
By Elias Aoun
The followings are excerpts from a book by Israeli patriot Barry Chamish who lives in exile. He outlines the behind the scene Israeli leadership
ALSAC/St. Jude mourns the loss of former CEO Richard C. Shadyac Sr.
Memphis, Tenn. – September 17, 2009 – Richard C. Shadyac Sr., who served 13 years as CEO of ALSAC, the fundraising organization of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, passed away Wednesday evening after battling a lengthy illness.
ARAB AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS TO HOLD ITS FIRST ANNUAL AWARD SHOW JANUARY 30TH 2010
Still accepting nominations for Musical Artists
Hollywood, CA - The first annual Arab-American Music Awards will be held Saturday January 30th 2010 at 7:30pm at the Harmony Golden Theater in Hollywood, CA. This award ceremony is to celebrate years of musical talent by Arab-Americans and also to recognize the new up and coming stars of
Haseeb Shehadeh *
For most of the Arab national minority in Israel, who number approximately one and a quarter million, the answer to the question ‘Are you Israeli?’ is
Blasts Kill 21 at a Cafe in North Iraq Sign in to Recommend
BAGHDAD — Two bombers wearing suicide vests blew themselves up in a popular cafe crowded with young people in northwestern Iraq on Thursday evening, killing 21 and wounding 30 others, according to local hospital officials.
Iraq war
Lebanon in seventh week without cabinet
By Natacha Yazbeck (AFP)
BEIRUT — Lebanon's rival political blocs have been negotiating for nearly seven weeks on the make-up of a new unity government but the situation remains calmer than in previous years, analysts say.
BRIAN STOKES MITCHELL, JESSICA BIEL, SCOTT BAKULA, ELLEN GREENE AND BEAU BRIDGES --
FOR GUYS AND DOLLS IN CONCERT AT THE HOLLYWOOD BOWL
FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, JULY 31 AND AUGUST 1, 2009, AT 8:30 PM
SUNDAY, AUGUST 2, 2009, AT 7:30 PM
Brian Stokes Mitchell, Jessica Biel, Scott Bakula, Ellen Greene, and Beau Bridges star in Guys and Dolls in concert at the Hollywood Bowl. There will be three performances only, Friday and Saturday July 31 and August 1 at 8:30 pm and Sunday, August 2 at 7:30 pm.
Portrait printed oil painting of ‘The Savior, Jesus of Nazareth’ Gifted to His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI in Jerusalem
The Vatican local spokesman for the Pope, & local spokesman for the Latin Patriarchate, Executive director of the Assembly of Catholic Bishops in the Holy Land, Mr. Wadie Abunassar, presented & Gifted "The Savior"printed oil painting Jesus of Nazareth # 2 of 500 limited edition signed & numbered by
Talfazat Expands Online Service to Stream Top-Rated Arabic Content Direct to Television in North America
Leading Provider of Arabic Entertainment Welcomes New Viewing Platform
Talfazat announces the launch of its set-top-box service providing the Arabic community with content delivered in high digital quality direct to the television set via the Internet. This debut expands the online presence of
Lebanon must reform economy, on "short leash"
 Lebanon's new government must send the right signals on economic reform regardless of who wins a June general election
United Nations Court Asks Lebanon to Hand Over Hariri Case
 A UN tribunal on Wednesday called on Lebanon to hand over the case involving the 2005 murder of prime minister Rafiq Hariri
Lebanon's MTV returns after seven years off air
 A private Lebanese television shut down in 2002 by a then Syrian-backed government is to return to the airwaves on Tuesday
Obama speech draws Arab cheer
Syria's foreign minister praised President Barack Obama's address to the Arab and Islamic world in Turkey
Italy reaffirms support to Lebanon stability
 Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini expressed Tuesday during an official visit to Lebanon, his country's strong support to Lebanon's reconciliation and stability, local Elnashra website reported.
It will replace it with the Boeing 777- 300ER Emirates to stop flying A380s to New York
The Dubai-based Emirates Airline will stop flying its Airbus A380 superjumbo jets currently operating its daily flight route to New York’s JFK airport, and
Gunman kills 13 at NY state immigration center
By WILLIAM KATES, Associated Press Writer
BINGHAMTON, N.Y. – A gunman opened fire on a center where immigrants were taking a citizenship exam Friday in downtown Binghamton, killing 13 people before apparently committing suicide.
Fall in Gulf's outward remittances to hit Asian, Middle East recipients
By Saifur Rahman, Business Editor
Dubai: A three per cent decline in outward remittances from the Gulf might not dent the region's economies, but could have a slight impact on recipient countries in the Middle East and Asia, according to a latest report.
Census Bureau News: Address Canvassers are Ready to Take to the Streets
The 2010 Census is about to launch its next operation, Address Canvassing. A preliminary wave will begin on March 29th, and the mass effort
Dubai Property Prices Plunge Up to 70pc; may Recover by 2011
DUBAI - Freehold property prices in Dubai have plunged by as much as 70 per cent since March of last year but are poised to bottom out in another six
UN court asks Lebanon to hand over Hariri case
THE HAGUE (AFP) – A UN tribunal on Wednesday called on Lebanon to hand over the case involving the 2005 murder of prime minister Rafiq Hariri and transfer documents linked to the probe within two weeks.
EXOTIC MUSIC AND INSTRUMENTS OF THE MIDDLE EAST TAKE CENTER STAGE AS PACIFIC SYMPHONY WEAVES THE TALE OF “SCHEHERAZADE” AND HER STORIES OF 1001 “ARABIAN NIGHTS”
Concert offers a rare opportunity to hear music played by members of the Syrian National Symphonic Orchestra
Orange County—March 2—Pacific Symphony and Music Director Carl St.Clair visit the exotic sounds of the Middle East for “Arabian Nights,” a concert
CHRISTIANS HAVE A ROLE TO PLAY IN REBUILDING IRAQ, CHURCH LEADERS SAY
Representatives of churches in Iraq confirmed their commitment to work together with all Iraqi citizens for reconciliation and rebuilding peace in the country.
UAE signs $3bn deal with Boeing, Lockheed
By TAREK EL-TABLAWY, AP Business Writer Tarek El-tablawy
CAIRO – The United Arab Emirates on Tuesday struck nearly $3 billion in deals with U.S. giants Boeing Co. and Lockheed Martin Corp. to supply
US official: Gaza reconstruction aid to top $900M
By MATTI FRIEDMAN, Associated Press Writer Matti Friedman
JERUSALEM – United States aid for the Gaza Strip's reconstruction will likely
Palestinian Hamas, Fatah to continue talking
By MAGGIE MICHAEL, Associated Press Writer Maggie Michael
CAIRO – Palestinian talks on finding a way for the rival Hamas and Fatah movements to form an interim unity government wrapped up after two days Thursday with a pledge to continue negotiations and to work toward elections for a new government.
Iraq appeals for foreign oil expertise
By SINAN SALAHEDDIN, Associated Press Writer Sinan Salaheddin
BAGHDAD – Iraq's prime minister appealed Friday for foreign expertise to develop his country's oil industry, which has suffered from decades of war, negligence and insurgent attacks.
Jumblatt meets Lavrov, senior Russian officials in Moscow
Progressive Socialist party leader MP Walid Jumblatt and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met in Moscow Friday, and discussed Lebanon’s situation as well as Russia’s role in the region and the Special Tribunal.
Obama announces major withdrawal from Iraq by August 2010
Six years after the US invasion of Iraq, President Barack Obama announced on Friday that he will pull out most troops and end combat operations by the end of August 2010.
The Beirut Times Supports Wendy Greuel For Los Angeles City Controller
Los Angeles, CA. - The Beirut Times is proud to officially endorse Wendy Greuel for Los Angeles City Controller. We are confident that she is the most competent candidate to lead Angeleno's through these times of impending challenges that are unparalleled within the last eight decades. It is imperative that everyone who is registered to vote in the City of Los Angeles cast their vote for Wendy Greuel at the March 3rd election.
Christian Unity & Peace Conference featuring Vassula Ryden, January 18th, 2009, Santa Monica, California.
By Sharon Jimenez, Special to the Beirut Times
Her visit to the United States on the beginning of the week of Christian Unity, January 18th, 2009 was anticipated with great joy. Vassula Ryden, whose inspired writings draw hundreds of thousands of people to
Vassula Blessing one of the attendees at the ceremony
Hollywood’s El Capitan Theatre Celebrates the 70th Anniversary of Walt Disney’s Beloved Classic “Pinocchio”
All-New Digitally Restored with Enhanced Picture and Sound
See it on the Big Screen
Only at the El Capitan Theatre
1/23 thru 2/12/09
Plus a Special Live Appearance by Pinocchio at each show
Joseph Jabbra in a special interview with the Beirut Times
Joseph G. Jabbra, Ph.D., was officially inaugurated as eighth president of the Lebanese American University on January 14, 2005. And now he is visiting the United States for meeting with member of theAmerican Lebanese community and for that purpose the Beirut Times had a meeting with Dr Jabbra as ask him about his visit.
Thousands protest Gaza assault in Lebanon
By ZEINA KARAM
BEIRUT, Lebanon (AP) — Tens of thousands of Lebanese Hezbollah
Gaza aid boat damaged by Israelis reaches Lebanon
A small boat carrying international activists with aid for Gaza docked in the southern Lebanese port city of Tyre on Tuesday after a clash with an Israeli
Councilwoman Greuel Leads Anti-Piracy Task Force In Second Largest Raid On Pirated Goods In L.A. History
Operation Clean Sweep's Task Force Launches Massive Raids Making Arrests and Seizing Hundreds of Thousands of Pirated Goods
Gaza relief boat damaged in encounter with Israeli vessel
Story Highlights
Israeli naval vessel, boat with medical volunteers collide in Mediterranean
Boat's crew contends naval vessel rammed it intentionally
Israel denies intentionally hitting boat carrying journalists, medical supplies
Damaged boat arrives safely at Lebanese port after incident
Israel continues Gaza blasts in 'all-out war'
GAZA CITY - Warplanes pounded Gaza for a fourth day on Tuesday as tanks stood by to join the "all-out" war Israel vowed, and the Palestinian death toll rose to at least 360.
Written by Warren Mass
With the dismantling of Saddam’s regime, anarchy has reigned in Iraq, and members of religious minorities — especially Christians — have been threatened and persecuted.
National University to Offer Bachelors of Science in Nursing with RN Licensure in Los Angeles
Program accredited by Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Los Angeles, Calif.
National University, the second-largest, private, nonprofit institution of higher education in California, announced today that it will be offering a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing with RN Licensure at its Los Angeles
The Global Economic Recession
By Mohamed Rabie *
* Professor of International Political Economy
After concluding their economic summit in Washington, the leaders of the
Artist Stephen Bennett's Ethnic Portraits Build Bridges of Peace
By Jana Sultan
Beirut Times Special Correspondent
For 15 years, Stephen Bennett a passion driven American portrait painter 
Lebanon's Aoun visits old foe Syria, meets Assad
By Marwan Makdessi
DAMASCUS (Reuters) - Lebanese Christian politician Michel Aoun turned the page on a turbulent past with Syria on Wednesday in a visit to Damascus
Islam and philosophy : This is the way we would make it*
By Mohamed Hammar
America had Ralph W. Emerson and his transcendentalism. She had Whitman, the posthumously celebrated poet, F. Scott Fitzgerald, who
Trading halted at Kuwait bourse after court order
Kuwaiti court orders suspension of bourse trading to halt market's slide, massive losses of small investors.
Syria, Iraq discuss security ahead of group talks
Iraq FM repeats Baghdad's denunciation of US raid on Syria, says strike harmed neighbours relations.
Jordan king 'pessimistic' on Mideast peace deal
King Abdullah II says ‘Israel must decide if it wants to be a fortress’ or be involved in region.
World leaders plead for religious tolerance
UNITED NATIONS - World leaders pleaded Wednesday for religious tolerance at a UN conference sponsored by Saudi Arabia.
The meeting at UN headquarters in New York of representatives from 80 countries targeted religious and cultural divisions dubbed the "clash of civilizations."
The power of compound interest
By Jason Alderman
Among the most valuable financial wisdom you can teach your kids is how to harness the power of compounding. This life lesson is best learned early
The Saudi King's vision for interfaith dialogue
By Abdul Rahman H. Al-Saeed
New York – History tells us that extremist ideologies surface, thrive, and proliferate in times of crisis. What ails us is much more than financial failure
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Could Obama victory lead to Iran talks?
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By ALI AKBAR DAREINI and SALLY BUZBEE, Associated Press Writers Ali Akbar Dareini And Sally Buzbee, Associated Press Writers
TEHRAN, Iran – Barack Obama's election and the chance of a leadership change in Iran offer the best hope in decades for direct talks between bitter enemies Iran and America.
Ancient Phoenician pottery found in Lebanon
BEIRUT, Lebanon – Archaeologists say they have unearthed pottery up to 3,000 years old in southern Lebanon that ancient Phoenicians used to bury the remains of the dead after cremation.
Gaza City blacked out after rocket attacks
By DIAA HADID, Associated Press Writer Diaa Hadid, Associated Press Writer
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip – Gaza City was dark Thursday night after officials shut down its only power plant as Israel cut off fuel and food shipments to the Palestinian territory because of renewed rocket attacks.
UN conference rejects religious terrorism
By EDITH M. LEDERER, Associated Press Writer Edith M. Lederer, Associated Press Writer
UNITED NATIONS – Countries attending a U.N. interfaith conference Thursday rejected the use of religion to justify acts of terrorism and other violence that kills and injures innocent civilians.
CASH: THE PERFECT GIFT FOR EID AL-ADHA - Western Union Makes it Easy to Send Cash
 ENGLEWOOD, Colo., (November 13, 2008) – Family entertainment, a great feast and shopping trips are all hallmarks of the joyous three days of Eid al-
Lebanon: Act Now on Steps to Prevent Torture
Country’s Report on Torture Is Seven Years Overdue *
Beirut – Lebanon should take concrete and public measures to stop the use
Obama elected 44th president
 ‘Change has come to America,’ first African-American leader tells country
By Alex Johnson
Reporter msnbc.com
Barack Obama, a 47-year-old first-term senator from Illinois, shattered more than 200 years of history Tuesday night by winning election as the first African-American president of the United States.
Emirates, the international award-winning airline
Left: Anne Osman and Academy Award winning actress and master of ceremonies Hilary Swank with Emirates Divisional Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations Worldwide Keith Longstaff. Center: Hollywood’s Kodak Theatre welcomes guests with flashing bulbs, red carpet, and velvet rope under the 22x28’ Emirates banner.
Celebrated its inaugural flight from Los Angeles to Dubai with a gala celebration
DUBAI, U.A.E. – GRAMMY award-winning musician Ricky Martin performed for an audience of 500 last night to celebrate the launch of Emirates’ new non-stop service from Dubai to Los Angeles.
EMIRATES CELEBRATES FIRST L.A. SERVICE IN HOLLYWOOD STYLE
 DUBAI, U.A.E. - Emirates, one of the world’s fastest-growing international airlines today commenced its Los Angeles service as flight 216 took off from the brand new Emirates Terminal 3 (T3) at Dubai International Airport at approximately 8:20am local time.
COUNCILWOMAN WENDY GREUEL LEADS CITY IN REDUCING TAXES
 On Los Angeles businesses by an additional 4% Gross Receipts Tax Has Been Cut 15% Under Greuel’s Leadership
H.H. Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum opens Gitex Technology Week 2008
UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has opened this year's Gitex Technology Week amidst great expectations of a week of announcements and
Lebanon demining program running out of money
Lebanon AITA AL-JABAL, Lebanon – Demining chief Hussein Alayan watched from a distance this week as his men in orange overalls slowly moved their mine detectors
Opera Pacific's first main stage offering of The Barber of Seville since 1996.
The Barber of Seville
Music by Gioacchino Rossini
Libretto by Cesare Sterbini
Four Performances Only
October 22, 26(m), 30 & November 1, 2008
Segerstrom Hall, Orange County Performing Arts Center
Jeremy Kelly as Figaro
Jennifer Rivera as Rosina
Brian Stucki as Almaviva
Michael Gallup as Doctor Bartolo
Dean Peterson as Don Basilio
Conducted by John DeMain
Directed by A. Scott Parry
The Capsule Theory : A strategy for a new Ijtihad*
By Mohamed Hammar
Islam is nowadays more than ever urged to plead innocent with regard to all sorts of extremisms striking people ‘s existence in its name. Luckily,
US: 2 American journalists missing in Lebanon
BEIRUT, Lebanon - Two American journalists vacationing in Lebanon have not been heard from since Oct. 1 and are believed missing, the U.S. Embassy said Wednesday, appealing for information on their possible whereabouts.
NEW YORK - The House on Friday neared a vote on a sweeping and historic proposal to bail out the nation's financial system.
U.S.-Syria talks may be step toward thaw
WASHINGTON - The United States and Syria held a series of meetings this week, signaling a possible thaw between the two countries as the former seeks to peel the latter from its close ties with Iran.
Bombs targeting worshippers kill 20 in Iraq
BAGHDAD, Iraq - Suicide attacks outside two Shiite mosques killed at least 20 people in Baghdad on Thursday as worshippers left early morning prayers marking the end of Ramadan, the Interior Ministry said.
Israel-Syria peace talks to resume under Turkish mediation
Israel and Syria will begin on Tuesday a fourth round of indirect peace talks under Turkish mediation, an Israeli official said.
King Abdullah: Interfaith dialogue will foster peace
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz expressed the hope that interfaith dialogue would foster peace, understanding and unity.
Agreement signed for new Jeddah airport terminal
An agreement was signed for the construction of a new state-of-the-art terminal at Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport, the Arab News reported today.
Kingdom to spend $20 billion on ICT
Saudi Arabia plans to spend $20 billion on Information and Communications
US scholarships to Lebanese Universities exceeds $10 million
Beirut - The United States embassy in Beirut issued the following press
Mika has enjoyed a historical homecoming in Beirut after playing to 15,000 fans in the Lebanese capital.
Officials: 3 people killed on 2nd day of sectarian clashes in northern Lebanon
By Hussein Dakroub
ASSOCIATED PRESS
BEIRUT, Lebanon – Sectarian clashes in northern Lebanon continued for a
Non-Lebanese children get raw deal in nationality law
Lebanese women cannot pass on nationality to own children as some politicians fear demography change.
Israeli planes violate Lebanese airspace, Beirut says
Beirut - The Lebanese army said Thursday that Israel Air Force warplanes
Lebanon: United Nations mission helps quench forest fires
Beirut, (AKI) - The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) is helping the country’s authorities fight forest fires that have broken out southeast of the capital this week.
Female suicide bomber kills 8 in Iraq By SAAD ABDUL-KADIR, Associated Press Writer
By SAAD ABDUL-KADIR, Associated Press Writer
Iraqi police say at least eight people have been killed in a suicide bombing at a checkpoint manned by U.S.-allied Sunni guards northeast of Baghdad.
Israelis, Palestinians: Mixed feelings about Obama
By MARK LAVIE, Associated Press Writer
Both Israelis and Palestinians came away from Barack Obama's visit to the Holy Land with the feeling he would do more for Mideast peace than
By Elias Aoun
There is no doubt that the formation of the Lebanese Cabinet should have taken much less time than it did. It is long overdue to include political representations that were previously excluded from the decision-making process.
Emirates to launch A380 with bi-coastal inauguration
Emirates Airline has announced plans to showcase the new, double-decker Airbus A380 during exclusive familiarization flights in San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Top digital advertising awards in the Cannes for Emirates
Emirates' digital advertising ability has been declared a roaring success after the airline marched off with three Cannes Lions at the 55th International Advertising Festival.
Kayala Airline launches Beirut route from Jeddah
Kayala Airline, the Middle East's only business travel carrier operated by Saudi-based National Air Services (NAS), announced that it landed today at Rafic Hariri International Airport.
Iraqis divided by U.S. troop timetable call
By Dean Yates and Khalid al-Ansary
BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Iraqis want the U.S. military presence to end. But
U.S. to establish presence in Tehran
LONDON (Reuters) - The United States will announce in the next month that
Saudi offers Russia arms deal to curb Iran ties
By Guy Faulconbridge
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia has offered to award Russia lucrative arms contracts if the Kremlin curtails cooperation with Iran, a Russian
Shun extremist violence, Saudi king urges believers
Reuters
MADRID: King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia opened a meeting of Muslims,
Death toll rises to 42 in Egypt train crash
CAIRO (Reuters) - The death toll from a train crash in northern Egypt rose
New owner bans booze at Cairo's Hyatt hotel
Sheik's decision revives debate over tolerance in Egypt
By ELLEN KNICKMEYER
Washington Post
CAIRO, EGYPT — Diners in the revolving restaurant on the 41st floor of
Kuwait names 1st ambassador to Iraq since Gulf War
By QASSIM ABDUL-ZAHRA
ASSOCIATED PRESS WRITER
The announcement came as the Sunni leader of Lebanon's parliamentary majority met Iraq's Shiite Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki - also reflecting
Olmert Says `Heavy Price' Paid in Hezbollah Exchange
By Paul Tighe and Jonathan Ferziger
- Israel paid a ``heavy price'' in its agreement with Hezbollah to release
Freed Lebanese say they will keep fighting Israel
By ZEINA KARAM
ASSOCIATED PRESS WRITER
Wearing military fatigues, the five men walked a red carpet laid out for them
U.S. Aid to Lebanon Army continues
* By: William Wheeler
Beirut- When Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Eric S. Edelman visited with top officials in Lebanon May 31, he brought more than just words of
Don't dismiss Aoun's 'big tent' strategy
By Michael Young
Daily Star staff
It is easy to dismiss the National Christian Gathering established last week
Lebanese Army deployed to Shebaa Farms
The Lebanese army moved today into Bastara Farm, the only one of the
Ehud Olmert hit by new corruption allegations
By Carolynne Wheeler in Jerusalem
Ehud Olmert, the Israeli prime minister, has been accused by police of
Assad makes remarkable comeback
By Roula Khalaf in Beirut
After years of isolation Bashar al-Assad stages a diplomatic comeback on
Oil Prices Back from New Record to Close Near $145
By Reuters Reuters
Oil slid from a new record of more than $147 a barrel to close at $145.08. It
Lebanon unity deal gives Hezbollah veto power
U.S.-backed PM announces coalition government after months of deadlock
Lebanon announces unity cabinet to end political crisis
Lebanon announced a 30-member national unity government on Friday
“National Christian Forum” kicks off
The first National Christian Forum kicked off on Friday July 5, 2008, at the
Syria ready for diplomatic relations with formal Lebanese government
Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Mouallem answers journalists' questions after
US embassy in Lebanon celebrates independence day
Beirut- The US embassy in Lebanon celebrated the US Independence day
Aoun criticizes US and defends alliance with Hezbollah
Beirut - General Michel Aoun said he is opposed to the US foreign policy and
Oil trading volatile despite Saudi output pledge
By GEORGE JAHN, Associated Press Writer
VIENNA, Austria - Oil prices fluctuated Monday as traders shrugged off a
Saudi Arabia detains 520 terror suspects
By Andrew England in Riyadh and agencies
Saudi Arabia has detained 520 people suspected of “involvement in
Popularity stakes ... tourism to Beirut is returning to pre-conflict levels.
Government of Canada Enhances Services at Visa Office in Beirut, Lebanon
OTTAWA, ONTARIO - The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Citizenship
Blast kills two in north Lebanon city of Tripoli
An explosion ripped through an apartment block in Lebanon's northern city
US official visits Lebanon to assess needs of Iraqi refugees
US official visits Lebanon to assess needs of Iraqi refugees
By Colin Chazen
BEIRUT: James Foley, the US Department of State's senior coordinator for
You Don’t Mess With the Racism
By Remi Kanazi
I love Adam Sandler. From Billy Madison to Happy Gilmore to the Chanukah Song, the predecessor of the Superbad generation has effortlessly
ISRAELI AIR FORCE EYEING IRAN? Recent Exercise could Indicate Attack coming
The Israeli Air Force (IAF) conducted exercises that seem to indicate it may be preparing for an attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities.
Vatican delegation beatifies Lebanese priest - Line of dignitaries on hand as thousands attend Beirut ceremony
BEIRUT- Miraculous, perhaps. Tens of thousands of Lebanese gathered in
General Aoun meets President Suleiman: “The problem is not who takes part in the cabinet, but who gets which portfolio.”
Following his anticipated meeting with President Michel Suleiman, Free
Aoun, Frangieh, Skaff, Tashnaq announced a preparatory intra-Christian meeting on July 4,to launch National Christian Forum.
FPM and Change and Reform bloc leader General Michel Aoun, El Marada
Abouna Yaacoub’s beatification ceremony in Beirut central
The Maronite Catholic Church is preparing for the beatification of a Capuchin priest, born in Ghazir in the Lebanese hillside. Fr Jacques Haddad (1875-1954), was the founder of the Franciscan Sisters of the Cross (1933) and of
Rice backs Lebanese leaders in Cabinet
U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice met with Lebanon's president in an unannounced trip to Beirut.
Going Their Own Way in The Mideast
By David Ignatius *
What happens when a superpower becomes preoccupied by a costly war and loses some of its ability to coerce friends and enemies toward the
Israel's embattled Olmert heads to United States
Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert heads to Washington on Monday weakened by a major crisis at home that cast a shadow over both his political future and the tenuous US-sponsored Middle East peace talks.
U.S. Cites Big Gains Against Al-Qaeda
Group Is Facing Setbacks Globally, CIA Chief Says
By Joby Warrick
Washington Post Staff Writer
Less than a year after his agency warned of new threats from a resurgent al-Qaeda, CIA Director Michael V. Hayden now portrays the terrorist
THE AMERICAN TASK FORCE FOR LEBANON APPLAUDS THE INTERNATIONAL TREATY BANNING CLUSTER BOMBS
by Dr. George Cody
(Washington DC). The American Task Force for Lebanon (ATFL) applauds
COMMENTARY: Will Israel and Syria get serious?
By Claude Salhani *
Israeli troops fired tear gas in the West Bank, where Prime Minister Ehud Olmert conceded yesterday Israel had breached its peace plan promises by
Yemen northern rebels move near capital
By AHMED AL-HAJ | Associated Press Writer
SAN'A, Yemen - Yemeni government forces have beaten back an advance by northern rebels who brought their fight to within 12 miles of the capital,
Lebanese troops shoot suspected suicide bomber
By HUSSEIN DAKROUB | Associated Press Writer
BEIRUT, Lebanon - A senior military official says troops shot and killed a suspected suicide bomber near Lebanon's largest Palestinian camp.
The shooting over, it's time to dance
By Liz Sly Tribune *
BEIRUT — One day they were shooting at each other. And almost as quickly as the fighting had erupted, they were back out partying together.
Lebanese soldier killed in explosion in north
By Associated Press
BEIRUT, Lebanon -- A Lebanese soldier was killed by an explosion at dawn Saturday in the north of the country, the military said.
By: Paul McNamara
Lebanon has always been the most enduring of places and the current crisis, like many before, will not faze all those who have made it into the Paris of the Orient.
When Middle East falls apart, Lebanon falls with it
The Lebanese tell a story about themselves that is ironically revealing of the virtually constant troubles that have plagued their country since the 1948 Arab-Israeli war.
Lebanese parliament elects army chief as president
By ZEINA KARAM
BEIRUT, Lebanon (AP) — Michel Suleiman was sworn in as Lebanon's president Sunday after parliament elected him in long-delayed vote
No Agreement on Gaza Truce, Official Says
Agencies
GAZA CITY, 22 May 2008 — Israel and Palestinian Islamist group Hamas still differ on terms for a Gaza cease-fire that Egypt is mediating, a Palestinian
Israel, Syria Begin Indirect Peace Talks
Agencies
JERUSALEM, 22 May 2008 — Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said talks announced yesterday with Syria were “exciting” but he warned Israelis they
Lebanese Leaders Sign Historic Agreement
Agence France Presse
BEIRUT, 22 May 2008 — Lebanese lawmakers will gather on Sunday to elect army chief Michel Suleiman president following a deal struck to end the country’s long-running political crisis, a senior adviser to Prime Minister Fouad Siniora told AFP yesterday.
Lebanese Leaders Reach Agreement Ending Crisis
Lebanese leaders reached an agreement in Doha early Wednesday to end a long-running political crisis that nearly drove the country to a new civil war.
When Free Speech Doesn’t Come Free
By Remi Kanazi
Free speech is not without consequence. In the United States, for example, criticism of Israel is tantamount to heresy. Former US President Jimmy Carter felt a societal backlash last year after the release of his book,
By Walid Phares
Beirut - While the West is busy living its daily life, a beast is busy killing the freedom of a small community on the East Mediterranean: Lebanon.
Lebanese leaders tackle core issues at Qatar talks
By Nadim Ladki
DOHA (Reuters) - Lebanon's rival leaders tackled divisive issues at the heart of their political crisis on Saturday at Qatari-mediated talks aimed at pulling
A tale of two paths in the Middle East
Rocky Mountain News
Sixty years after the founding of Israel, Americans of good will are focusing on that democracy's remarkable achievements and challenges - which is
Point of Contact: Gen. John Abizaid
By Tod Robberson
I had an interesting interview with retired Gen. John Abizaid last week, which we excerpted in today's Points section. Gen. Abizaid, an Arabic
Lebanon Politicians Prepare for Talks to End Conflict
By Daniel Williams
May 16 (Bloomberg) -- Flights resumed at Beirut's airport and schools and stores opened as Lebanese politicians left for talks designed to ease the
Bush Administration Middle East Policy: What Went Wrong?
Jon B. Alterman
World Politics Review Exclusive
It has become impossible to credibly argue that the Bush Administration's Middle East policies have advanced the national interests of the United
Bush seeks more oil as Saudis say output is enough
RIYADH (AFP) — US President George W. Bush pressed Saudi Arabia to raise oil output on Friday, but the world's biggest crude exporter said global
Lebanese leaders aim to end political crisis
By HUSSEIN DAKROUB,
Associated Press Writer
Leaders of Lebanon's U.S.-backed government and the Hezbollah-led
US House Resolution H. RES. 1194
Written by US House of Congress
U.S House Resolution against Hezbollah
Reaffirming the support of the House of Representatives for the legitimate, democratically-elected Government of Lebanon under Prime Minister Fouad Siniora.
Analysis: Lebanese army will not step in before Hizballah fights pro-government forces to the finish
DEBKA file’s - military sources report: After six days of fighting between government loyalists and Hizballah leave close to a 100 dead and 200
Syria Helping Hezbollah in Lebanon Central Mountains
Syria Helping Hezbollah in Lebanon Central Mountains - Damascus Threatens Arab League Mission to Beirut
Bush: It's in Israel's Interest that Lebanon's Democracy Survives
U.S. President George Bush has called Iran the "single biggest threat" to
Kuwait Reduces Diplomats in Lebanon
Kuwait decided on Tuesday to reduce the number of diplomats in its mission
40 Army Officers Submitted their Resignation, Suleiman Rejected
The Lebanese army's deputy chief intelligence Brig. Gen. Ghassan Balaa and
International Friends of Lebanon Call for Immediate End to Violence
The international "Friends of Lebanon" group called for an immediate end to
Calm in Lebanon as Arab Delegation Due in Beirut to Try to Broker Solution
Calm prevailed over Lebanon as an Arab delegation was due in Beirut on Wednesday to try to broker a settlement to the ongoing political crisis that
U.S. Senators Threaten to Block Saudi Arms Deal Over Oil
A group of Democratic Senators Tuesday threatened to block a multi-million dollar U.S. arms deal with Saudi Arabia, unless the kingdom ups oil
Bush Arrives in Israel, Hails Alliance to Confront Terrorism
U.S. President George Bush on Wednesday opened a celebratory visit to
Escape from Beirut: by Yacht, Taxi or Charter Plane
For the wealthy who can afford to fork out hundreds of dollars, escape from Lebanon's week-long violence has been possible by luxury yacht, charter
Arab League holds Lebanon crisis talks without Syrian FM
Arab foreign ministers were holding talks on the Lebanon crisis on Sunday in
Hezbollah fighters pile pressure on Lebanon rivals
By Laila Bassam
Lebanon's factional violence raged on in the mountains around Beirut on Sunday, as gunmen from the Iranian-backed Hezbollah movement battled
Clashes in northern and eastern Lebanon, outside Beirut
By BASSEM MROUE, Associated Press Writer
Supporters of Lebanon's U.S.-backed government and opponents battled with rockets and machine guns in the mountains overlooking Beirut Sunday as clashes shifted to outside the capital.
Arab FMs divided over Lebanon
by Mona Salem
Arab foreign ministers holding crisis talks in Cairo were divided on Sunday over a draft resolution implicitly condemning Hezbollah for deadly clashes in Lebanon, delegates said.
Arab FMs call on Shi'ite gunmen to pull out of west Beirut
Associated Press
Top Arab diplomats called on Shi'ite gunmen to pull out of west Beirut and
David Kenner, NOW Staff
Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah, in his press conference
Christians confused by strikes
Taylor Long, NOW Staff
It all seems such a long time ago, but its significance in the current crisis cannot be overestimated. General Federation of Labor Unions (GFLU) head
Eighteen killed in Lebanon clashes
The number of people killed in the fierce sectarian fighting rocking Lebanon rose to 18 overnight, a security official told AFP on Saturday, as an uneasy
Hezbollah takes control of west Beirut and heads for Chouf
Hezbollah fighters clashed with pro-government gunmen, their guns blazing,
Hezbollah sweeps over Beirut's Muslim sector
Iranian-backed fighters flex muscle in seizing Sunnis loyal to the U.S.
By SAM F. GHATTAS
Associated Press
BEIRUT, LEBANON — Unchallenged by Lebanon's army, the Iranian-backed
Lebanon in turmoil as Hezbollah takes west Beirut
BEIRUT (AFP) — Hezbollah fighters, their guns blazing, seized control of west Beirut on Friday after three days of deadly street battles with pro-
Mideast eager for Hollywood business
Money currently flowing from U.S. to Emirates
By ALI JAAFAR
DUBAI The enticements are irresistible: Abu Dhabi has its Film Financing
Fighting in Beirut Threatens a Top Bush Administration Priority
By Robin Wright
Washington Post Staff Writer
On the eve of his trip to the Middle East next week, President Bush faces the
UN intervention to protect Beirut International Airport and the Lebanese Capital
Written by ILC 1559
Urgent Memo to the Members of the Security Council of the Organization of the United Nations
Hezbollah's Beirut's Blitz
Dr. Walid Phares
As I have warned several times over the past year, and many articles later, Hezbollah has indeed waged its expected blitzkrieg against the
Lebanon government denounces Hezbollah "coup" in Beirut
By Tom Perry
BEIRUT (Reuters) - Lebanon's Iranian-backed Hezbollah group took control of the Muslim half of Beirut on Friday in what the U.S.-backed governing coalition described as "an armed and bloody coup".
Gunbattles break out in Beirut
BEIRUT, Lebanon (CNN) -- Gunfire broke out in downtown Beirut on Thursday after Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah said recent government actions amount to "a declaration of open war."
Iraqi officials say leader of al-Qaida in Iraq arrested
By PATRICK QUINN, Associated Press Writer
Iraqi police commandos captured the leader of al-Qaida in Iraq in a raid in
Fighting rocks Beirut, five die, Hezbollah defiant
By Nadim Ladki
Fierce clashes raged in Beirut on Thursday after the Iranian-backed group Hezbollah said the U.S.-supported Lebanese government had declared war by targeting its communications network.
Rocket hits Baghdad park, killing 2 civilians
By SELCAN HACAOGLU, Associated Press Writer
A rocket hit a downtown Baghdad park Thursday, killing two people as American and Iraqi forces battled Shiite militants believed responsible for many such attacks.
By Nadim Ladki
Fierce clashes raged in Beirut on Thursday after the Iranian-backed group Hezbollah said the U.S.-supported Lebanese government had declared war
Clashes erupt for second day in Lebanon
By ZEINA KARAM, Associated Press Writer
Sectarian fighting spread through the streets of Beirut on Thursday as Shiite Hezbollah supporters and the Lebanese government's Sunni backers battled with machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades shortly after Hezbollah's leader vowed to fight any attempt to disarm his men.
Who is Iraq’s Muqtada al-Sadr?
Patrick Cockburn’s book sheds light on Mehdi Army leader amid confusing reports from Iraq.
Dubai to build 200 schools in storm-ravaged Myanmar
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum orders providing emergency education for Myanmar children.
Jordan queen urges Arab oil states to fund social causes
Queen Rania: Arabs need to move from mentality of charitable giving toward long-term social investment.
By Arthur Max - AMSTERDAM
Car bomb, rockets kill four in Baghdad
Former senior Al-Qaeda leader in central Iraq survives suicide bombing north of Iraqi capital.
Arab Israelis call for refugee right of return
Thousands of demonstrators of all ages take part in protest demanding Palestinian rights.
Hezbollah says Lebanon crackdown 'declaration of war'
Nasrallah accuses Lebanon government of starting war on behalf of America, Israel.
Israel reports 'preliminary work' towards Syria talks
Israel said on Monday that "preliminary work" has been carried out towards resuming long frozen peace talks with Syria.
Lebanon airport official removed over alleged Hezbollah ties
By ZEINA KARAM, Associated Press Writer
Lebanon's Cabinet decided Tuesday to remove Beirut airport's security chief over alleged ties to the militant Hezbollah group, the country's information minister said.
Lebanon's political conflict turns violent
By Tom Perry
Supporters of Lebanon's U.S.-backed government fought gun battles in Beirut on Wednesday with gunmen loyal to the Hezbollah-led opposition, escalating the country's worst internal crisis since the 1975-90 civil war.
Clashes erupt in Lebanon as Hezbollah stages labor strike
By SAM F. GHATTAS, Associated Press Writer
Protesters from the Hezbollah-led opposition clashed with supporters of Lebanon's U.S.-backed government Wednesday as a strike by the Shiite
BTU Industries Chairman and CEO addresses USAEF on U.S.-Arab Energy Relationship and Wealth Reallocation Forum event
The American Middle East Economic Affairs Committee (AMEEAC) is pleased
Register today to attend this year’s U.S. –Arab Economic Forum on May 7-9, 2008 in Washington D.C.
You only have one week left to be a part of this premier event by registering
Iraq's Tareq Aziz goes on trial
AFP - Tareq Aziz, the international face of hanged Iraqi president Saddam Hussein's regime, went on trial on Tuesday on charges of executing 42
Saudi inflation nears 10 pct, ups pressure on govt
Reuters - Inflation in Saudi Arabia jumped to almost 10 percent in March, its highest since at least the oil boom of the 1970s, raising pressure on the state to offset price pressures on the oil exporter's 25 million people.
Bush to visit Israel, Saudi Arabia, Egypt
By BEN FELLER,Associated Press Writer AP
WASHINGTON - President Bush will visit Israel, Saudi Arabia and Egypt in May, a trip intended to hail Israel's 60th anniversary but also shove along
Syria nuclear disclosure a warning to North Korea, Iran: Bush
AFP - President George W. Bush said Tuesday he disclosed details of an alleged Syrian nuclear drive to send a clear "message" to North Korea and Iran that they could not hide their nuclear activity.
Lebanon's Bank Audi Q1 net profit rises 14 pct
Reuters - Lebanon's Bank Audi said on Tuesday its net profit for the first quarter of 2008 rose by 14.4 percent from the same period a year ago.
LEBANON: Fatah says it will take over security at all Palestinian refugee camps
BEIRUT, (IRIN) - Fatah's security chief in Lebanon says his faction will extend security control over all Palestinian camps in order to prevent the
Arab League chief to return to Lebanon for new talks
Arab League chief Amr Mussa is heading back to Beirut on Thursday to meet with key political figures in a fresh bid to find a solution Lebanon's protracted political crisis.
Female teachers dying on the roads in Saudi Arabia
By DONNA ABU-NASR, Associated Press Writer
Roads in Saudi Arabia are among the world's most dangerous but one type of victim stands out: female teachers who are dying at alarming rates because of long commutes through the desert to reach remote schools.
Iraq opens trial against Aziz, others over merchant slayings
By SAMEER N. YACOUB, Associated Press Writer
An Iraqi court on Tuesday opened the trial of Tariq Aziz, one of Saddam Hussein's best-known lieutenants, and seven other defendants facing charges in the 1992 execution of dozens of merchants.
Arab diva's necklace sold at auction for $1.3M By BARBARA SURK, The Associated Press
By BARBARA SURK, The Associated Press
An antique necklace made up of 1,888 pearls that once belonged to the Arab world's most famous singer was sold Tuesday for more than $1 million at an auction in this rich Gulf emirate, organizers said.
The `Cat Lady of Baghdad' battles on, saving strays of Iraq
By BRADLEY BROOKS, Associated Press Writer
The mission was to get Simba al-Tikriti out of Iraq and to a new life in Britain.
Militiamen ambush drives back US patrol in Sadr City
By KIM GAMEL, Associated Press Writer
Dozens of fighters ambushed a U.S. patrol in Baghdad's main Shiite militia stronghold Tuesday, firing rocket-propelled grenades and machine gun bursts as the American push into Sadr City increasingly faces pockets of
Iraq Minister of Industry and Minerals to Keynote U.S.-Arab Economic Forum in Washington D.C.
DETROIT, PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The American Middle East Economic Affairs Committee (AMEEAC) is proud to announce today that
The fear factor that silences
By Paul Findley
Candidates for public office, high and low, are bewitched -frightened is the more accurate word - by an unwarranted but costly fear of the US lobby that functions on behalf of the State of Israel.
Lebanon puts off trial of suspect in alleged NY terror plot
By Associated Press - BEIRUT, Lebanon
Lebanon's state-run news agency says a military court has postponed the trial of an alleged al-Qaida loyalist accused of plotting to attack New York City train tunnels.
Carter Meets Hamas Leader Meshaal
By VOA News
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter met with exiled Hamas leader Khaled Meshaal again Saturday in Syria, despite objections from both Israel and the United States.
Lebanon Marks 25th Anniversary of US Embassy Bombing in Beirut
By VOA News
Friday marks the 25th anniversary of the U.S. Embassy bombing in the Lebanese capital, Beirut, that killed 52 people.
Lebanon Progress in the quest to ban cluster bombs
On the eve of the Global Day of Action to Ban Cluster Bombs, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) released a report calling the
Where will the US alliance in Lebanon lead?
By Borzou Daragahi
Beirut - The U.S. diplomat's message was clear: Stay the course.
TBut some are wondering whether it's a path to ultimate defeat.
Days before the Lebanese are set to again to vote on a president, U.S. assistant secretary of State for Near East affairs, C. David Welch, arrived in Beirut. He came to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the U.S. Embassy bombing.
Former ambassador has a surprise for Lebanon on Hezbollah
Beirut - Former Lebanese ambassador and intelligence chief Johnny Abdo
Who's who on the Arab rich list
Forbes magazine's latest listing of the world's richest people counted plenty of individuals and families based in the Gulf. GSN lists the wealthiest Gulfis
Syria - Banked by Lebanon
Lebanese lending institutions branch eastward
Dark, heavy storm clouds continue to linger over the heads of many bankers worldwide, troubled by the subprime market crisis, fraud, financial
Bush: US backs Lebanon sovereignty, democracy
WASHINGTON - US President George W. Bush on Thursday accused Iran and Syria of undermining democracy in Lebanon and renewed his support for the embattled government of Prime Minister Fuad Siniora.
Will Lebanese leaders accomplish anything with regional tours?
BEIRUT: Lebanon's political bosses have sprinted into action in the two
Welch calls on rival Lebanese parties to elect new president
BEIRUT: US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs David
Siniora says Welch's visit achieved no breakthrough
BEIRUT: Prime Minister Fouad Siniora said on Friday that US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs David Welch's visit has not
Lebanon's parliament speaker sets stage for dialogue
BEIRUT, April 19, 2008 (AFP) - Lebanon's parliament speaker Nabih Berri on
Kuwaiti firm acquires Lebanon's Monoprix and Giant for $97 million
BEIRUT:
A major Kuwaiti food company acquired Lebanon's Monoprix and Giant stores for $97 million. Michael Abchee, the general manager of Admic which owns Monoprix and Giant malls, told The Daily Star that Kuwait's
Lebanese increasingly feel inflation's pinch by Rita Daou
by Rita Daou
BEIRUT (AFP) - Loretta Beayni works 10 hours a day, six days a week in a
THE IMPACT OF MIGRATION ON CHURCHES TO BE FOCUS OF GLOBAL ECUMENICAL CONFERENCE IN BEIRUT
Testimonies by young Christians from the Middle East on why many of them leave the region in search of a brighter future will inform the Public Hearing
Opposition floats fresh ideas to untangle political logjam
By Hussein Abdallah
Daily Star staff
BEIRUT: Free Patriotic Movement leader MP Michel Aoun was quoted as
A world of art and culture rolls into Beirut
The Home Works IV Forum on Cultural Practices opens Saturday
Preview
BEIRUT: An outsider reading the cultural and political news coming out of
Lebanon marks civil war outbreak as new conflict looms
BEIRUT: Decades after the outbreak of its civil war, Lebanon is teetering on
Clashes kill 13 in Baghdad's Sadr City
By BUSHRA JUHI, Associated Press Writer
Shiite militants fought U.S. and Iraqi forces around Baghdad's Shiite district
Libya allegedly went on gun-buying spree
By ARIEL DAVID, Associated Press Writer
The Libyan officer tried to cloak the purpose of his call to the Italian arms
Iraq: Mass grave found south of Baghdad
By BUSHRA JUHI, Associated Press Writer
Iraqi soldiers acting on tips from detained Shiite militiamen found 14 bodies Saturday that had been buried in a field south of Baghdad, officials said.
Bush defends halt in troop withdrawal
Iraqis taking on more responsibility, Bush says; U.S. to stay on offensive
The Associated Press
EMIRATES ANNOUNCES FLIGHTS TO LOS ANGELES
Gateway to Hollywood advances American expansion for the Dubai-based, international airline
NEW YORK, NY – Emirates, one of the world’s most successful and fastest-
US: Syria backs foreign fighters in Iraq
Despite increased counterterrorism efforts by Damascus, as much as 90
US: Lebanon vote delay 'unacceptable'
By AFP
WASHINGTON (AFP) — The White House on Monday condemned delays in Lebanon's presidential vote as "unacceptable" and urged outside forces to
Geagea gets pledge of support from officials in Washington
Lf leader discusses Syria, hizbullah with rice, hadley
Daily Star staff
BEIRUT: Lebanese Forces (LF) boss Samir Geagea, who left for the United States on Saturday, met on Tuesday with Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice as part of a tour of America.
Israelis Kill Four In West Bank
 Source: BBC News
Israeli commandos have opened fire on an unmarked car in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, shooting dead four Palestinian militants.
Those killed include Muhammad Shahada, 48, a senior leader of Islamic Jihad, and Ahmed al-Balbul, also 48, a leader of Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades.
Lebanon weighs its attendance at an Arab Summit hosted by Syria
 Benjamin Ryan, NOW Staff
It appears that Lebanon may finally be getting an invitation this Wednesday to the Arab Summit in Damascus scheduled for March 29, despite Syria’s
Saudi crown prince visits Qatar to heal rift
Saudi Crown Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz arrived in Doha on Monday on a visit that seals a thaw in ties between Saudi Arabia and Qatar after years of tensions.
Egypt brokers Israeli-Hamas truce
CAIRO, March 11 (UPI) -- Egypt brokered an informal truce between Israel and Hamas linking the opening of the border to Egypt with a cease-fire, an intelligence report says.
Lebanon presidential election postponed
Lebanon Prime Minister Fouad Seniora
By HUSSEIN DAKROUB, Associated Press Writer
A parliament session to elect a new president was postponed Monday until March 25 — the 16th such delay since September — as rival factions
Lebanon charges 5 in bus bombings
By BASSEM MROUE, Associated Press Writer
The leader of the extremist Fatah Islam group and four Syrians were formally charged Tuesday with bus bombings last year that killed three people and wounded 20 others, judicial officials said.
Violence across Iraq kills at least 42
By BRADLEY BROOKS, Associated Press Writer
Violence killed at least 42 people Tuesday, including 16 bus passengers caught in a roadside bombing in southern Iraq, after the deadliest day for U.S. troops in precisely six months.
US: Iraqi women bomber trainer caught
By PATRICK QUINN, Associated Press Writer
The U.S. military announced the capture Saturday of an insurgent leader
Israeli strikes kill 50 in Gaza
By IBRAHIM BARZAK, Associated Press Writer
Israeli troops, tanks and aircraft targeted Gaza militants bombarding
Moussa warns Damascus to help out in Beirut
BEIRUT: The head of the Arab League, who just left Lebanon after yet another abortive effort to broker a solution to the deadlock that has left the
US sends warship near Lebanon
Deeply concerned about Lebanon's political strife, the United States on Thursday sped its USS Cole warship there in what officials described as a signal aimed at bolstering regional stability.
Israel warns Gaza invasion impending
By ALON BERNSTEIN, Associated Press Writer
Israel's deputy defense minister warned on Friday of a disaster in the Gaza Strip after Israel activated an air raid system to protect a major city from
Hezbollah reject US ships off Lebanon
By ZEINA KARAM, Associated Press Writer
Hezbollah denounced the deployment of U.S. warships off Lebanon's coast and said Friday it won't be intimidated, while the U.S.-backed Lebanese government distanced itself from the military move.
Turkish troops pull out of Iraq
 By BURHANETTIN OZBILICI, Associated Press Writer
Turkey's military said Friday it has ended a ground offensive against Kurdish rebels in Iraq, but said that foreign influence did not play a role in its decision.
Saudi-Syria crisis over Lebanon 'threatens Arab summit'
Lebanon's political crisis has damaged relations between Syria and Saudi Arabia, putting at risk next month's Arab summit in Damascus, Arab officials in Riyadh warned on Thursday.
US Treasury freezes assets of Syrian president's cousin Thu Feb 21, 1:17 PM ET
The US Treasury on Thursday froze the assets of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's cousin as part of widening sanctions against Damascus targeting officials engaged in "public corruption."
US steps up sanctions on Syria over Lebanese crisis
by P. Parameswaran
The United States stepped up sanctions on Syria Thursday, blaming it for fomenting a political crisis in Lebanon and for hindering the prospects of an Arab summit to be hosted by Damascus.
Kuwait embassy threat adds to Lebanon tensions
by Rana Moussaoui
The Kuwaiti embassy in Beirut was evacuated on Thursday after an anonymous threat of a rocket attack, the latest scare in Lebanon as foreign governments act on security amid mounting political and sectarian tensions.
Threat prompts evacuation of Kuwaiti embassy in Beirut - Summary
Author : DPA
Beirut - Staff at the Kuwaiti embassy in Beirut were evacuated Thursday from the complex after an anonymous threat was made, a Lebanese security official said. "The embassy received a threat call ... this prompted the evacuation of all employees to search the area," the source said without elaborating.
Belgrade's US Embassy set on fire
By SLOBODAN LEKIC, Associated Press Writer
Serb rioters broke into the U.S. Embassy and set fire to an office Thursday, and police clashed with protesters outside after a large demonstration against Kosovo's declaration of independence.
Hariri memorial and Mugnieh funeral pack Beirut
 
by Rita Daou and Rana Moussaoui
Hundreds of thousands of government supporters converged on central Beirut on Thursday for the third anniversary of ex-premier Rafiq Hariri's assassination, as just miles away Lebanon's opposition Hezbollah prepared to bury a top commander slain by a car bomb.
Crowds mass for Lebanon memorials
Thousands of people are gathering in the Lebanese capital, Beirut, to mark three years since the assassination of former PM Rafik Hariri.
Lebanon crisis simmers 3 years after Hariri death
By Tom Perry - Analysis
BEIRUT (Reuters) - Three years after Rafik al-Hariri's assassination, the crisis unleashed by his death opens ever deeper rifts in Lebanon and threatens the state and society the leader tried to rebuild after the civil war.
US: Iraqi hospital director detained By KIM GAMEL, Associated Press Writer
By KIM GAMEL, Associated Press Writer
When twin blasts ravaged crowded pet markets earlier this month, Iraqi authorities offered a chilling account: Mentally disabled women carried the hidden explosives perhaps as unwitting bombers for al-Qaida in Iraq.
Museum of Ghosts: Beirut's tributes to late leaders
By Nahlah Ayed
Navigating through a particularly chaotic intersection near downtown Beirut, you could almost miss the bronze statue of Lebanon’s first post-independence president, if it weren’t for its enormous size.
Additional US sanctions against Syria
 President George Bush said he was widening US sanctions against Syria, targeting officials engaged in “public corruption,” amid charges Damascus is destabilizing Iraq and Lebanon.
Former PM’s project of electoral reform yet to bear fruit
NOW Staff
Former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri with his family member, rebuilt largely with his own fortune.
March 14 turns up the heat, but what’s cooking?
Benjamin Ryan, NOW Staff
Saad Hariri and Walid Jumblatt, calling for February 14 demonstrations one year ago. (AFP/Dalati and Nohra)
Imad Mugniyah assassinated in Damascus
 Another car bomb strikes in the Levant, this time in Syria
Benjamin Ryan, NOW Staff
Syrian police at the site of a car bomb in Damascus. Top Hezbollah official Imad Mugniyah was killed in the explosion, which occurred last night in the Kfar Suseh neighborhood. (AFP)
Imad Fayez Mugniyah, or Moughnieh, or Mughnieh, has a different biography
Lebanon Calm Again After Riots Kill 7
 By SAM F. GHATTAS
Shiite Muslims began burying their dead on Monday, a day after seven protesters died in rioting and clashes in Beirut's southern suburbs that were reminiscent of Lebanon's 15-year civil war. The government declared a day of mourning, and calm returned to the capital city's Shiite neighborhoods. Prime Minister Fuad Saniora ordered schools and universities closed for a day in an attempt to prevent more friction between political groups.
Cleric Warns of More Beirut Unrest
 By SAM F. GHATTAS
A top Shiite cleric warned Monday that violence in Beirut could spin out of control, a day after seven protesters died in rioting and clashes in the city's southern suburbs that were reminiscent of Lebanon's 15-year civil war. But the area was calm Monday as troops patrolled and Shiite Muslims buried their dead. Prime Minister Fuad Saniora declared a national day of mourning and ordered universities and schools closed to prevent further friction among political factions.
Druze Leader Warns Of Anarchy And War In Lebanon
 A leading member of Lebanon's anti-Syrian governing coalition on Sunday warned of anarchy and raised the specter of war in the country, which is suffering its worst political crisis since the 1975-90 civil war. More stories like thisDruze leader Walid Jumblatt urged powerful opposition group Hezbollah to break its alliance with Syria, which supports the Shi'ite Muslim group and its allies in their political campaign against the U.S.-backed governing coalition.
Syria's Assad targets opposition
 Syrian president utilises fact that West bases its dealings with Damascus on interests, not human rights.
By Khaled Yacoub Oweis - DAMASCUS
Syria is stepping up a campaign against dissidents in a sign of President Bashar al-Assad's increasing confidence that US-led efforts to isolate his country have faltered.
Sadr warns Mahdi militia not to break ceasefire
Members of Sadr movement in Iraqi parliament urge cleric leader not to renew ceasefire with US.
NAJAF, Iraq - Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr on Thursday warned members of his Mahdi Army militia not to break a six-month ceasefire as his fighters clashed with US and Iraqi soldiers in Baghdad.
Israeli raids on Gaza kill seven Palestinians
Israeli tank shell hits high school in Gaza, killing one teacher, wounding three students.
GAZA CITY - Six Palestinian fighters and a teacher were killed in Israeli raids on Gaza on Thursday, the latest deadly strikes on the Hamas-run territory.
Aoun and Nasrallah in primetime
NOW Staff
We don’t know about you, but we soldiered through two-and-a-half hours of the Aoun-Nasrallah interview on Wednesday night (with an hour to spare),
Under fire - Sleiman dodges attempts to derail his candidacy, for now
Benjamin Ryan, NOW Staff
Posters like this on in Beirut’s downtown, proclaiming Army Commander Michel Sleiman “the savior,” dot the cityscape in the days leading up to yet
The (other) presidential election
 David Kenner, NOW Staff
The marathon American election season passed one of its major markers yesterday with the “Super Tuesday” primary, with votes held in 24 states. The results last night brought the Republican race into greater focus, while
Amin Gemayel: Nasrallah has the last say in politics
Former President Amin Gemayel said that the Arab states are concerned over the situation in Lebanon and expressed hope that Arab League Secretary General Amr Moussa succeeds in his mission to Beirut.
MP Hariri: We will not surrender, no matter what they threaten us with
 MP Saad Hariri held a press conference at Qoreitem to commemorate the upcoming third anniversary of ex-Premier Rafik Hariri’s assassination.
Car bomb targets US patrol, kills Iraqi By BRADLEY J. BROOKS, Associated Press Writers
By BRADLEY J. BROOKS, Associated Press Writers
A suicide car bomber targeted a U.S. patrol Tuesday in Mosul, killing at least
This Last "State of the Union" should prepare for the future..
By Walid Phares
The last State of the Union Address of President George Bush must prepare the nation for the future not only state the perceived achievements. It must
Detlev Mehlis - Justice for Lebanon
By MICHAEL YOUNG
Detlev Mehlis speaks slowly. So when he says, "I haven't seen a word in his reports during the past two years confirming that he has moved forward," there is time for the meaning to sink in.
Hizbollah criticises Lebanon army over riot deaths as tensions rise
Ferry Biedermann, Financial Times
Lebanon's army came in for rare criticism yesterday from the country's
Internationals report on assassination
Taylor Long, NOW Staff
Just as in his piece submitted to the Independent shortly after the September assassination of MP Antoine Ghanem, in which he inaccurately
Drawing a political map in Lebanon
Street fights may forge a new green line
Hanin Ghaddar, NOW Staff
On the evening of January 27, riots broke out near the southern suburbs of
ISF official assassinated in Hazmieh
A massive car bomb killed Captain Wissam Eid of the ISF Information Branch along with ten others
By Benjamin Ryan, NOW Staff
Fire crews extinguish blazes set by the bomb that killed Capt. Wissam Eid and at least ten others on Friday. (AFP/STR)
Lebanese cellular networks lock up whenever there is a bombing,
Patriarch repeats call for unity: 'Brothers deal with each other' Patriarch repeats call for unity: 'Brothers deal with each other'
Fadlallah accuses america of sowing political 'mines'
By Maroun Khoury
Daily Star correspondent
BKIRKI: Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Butros Sfeir said Wednesday that
A conference to save Lebanon's future
By Michael Young
For some years now, Arab diplomacy has been a chronicle of death foretold. In Iraq, Darfur, and the Palestinian territories, either Arab states have been too anemic to seize the initiative, or have worked at cross purposes. Now,
Press Under Siege Conference Raises a Cry for a Freer Middle East Press
By Abigail Hauslohner
A conference on media freedom in the Middle East might sound like a quixotic endeavor in a region where the very words “media freedom”—let alone
Bush and Sarkozy in Middle East on more than a courtesy call
By Taylor Long, NOW Staff
US President George W. Bush left the Middle East yesterday after a quick stopover in Sharm al-Sheikh to visit with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak,
March 14 will not open roads blocked by opposition
MP Antoine Zahra of the Lebanese Forces said that the majority is betting on
PRESIDENT BUSH AND PEACE BETWEEN PALESTINE AND ISRAEL
By Elias H. Tuma
President George W. Bush has realized several objectives on his visit to the
Lebanon Blast Hits U.S. Embassy Car, 4 Slain
 Source: Msnbc.com
BEIRUT, Lebanon - An explosion targeted a U.S. Embassy vehicle Tuesday in northern Beirut, killing four Lebanese and injuring a local embassy employee just ahead of a farewell reception for the American ambassador, U.S. and Lebanese officials said. In Washington, State Department spokesman Sean McCormack said two embassy employees — including the driver — were in the vehicle damaged in the blast, which could be heard across the Lebanese capital and sent gray smoke billowing near the Mediterranean coast.
Captive Israeli's Tale Becomes Kids Book
 Source By: Yahoo.MidEast.com
Years before he was a soldier seized by Palestinian militants, 11-year-old Gilad Schalit penned a simple parable about how enemies can get along. His story, "When the Shark and the Fish First Met," has now been published as a children's book that teaches tolerance — while its author, now 21, spends his 19th month captive in the Gaza Strip.
Judge Gunned Down In Baghdad
 Source By: News.Yahoo.Com
Gunmen assassinated a Sunni judge as he headed to work in Baghdad on Monday, the latest of thousands of professionals killed in unsolved cases since the ouster of Saddam Hussein's regime in 2003. Appeals Court Judge Amir Jawdat al-Naeib was slain a week after police arrested a group of militants who specialized in intimidating or killing doctors, academics and judges, according to an Interior Ministry official. He said the aim of such attacks is to empty the country of professionals and scientists.
Israel-Palestinian Talks Open On Core Issues
 Source By:www.uk.news.yahoo.com
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert warned on Monday that Israel and the Palestinians may not reach a peace deal within US President George W. Bush's target of a year as both sides began discussing the conflict's core issues. Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni and former Palestinian prime minister Ahmed Qorei, the top negotiators, met in Jerusalem for the first time since Bush's landmark peace mission last week.
An Iraqi House Was Rigged to Kill American Soldiers
 Source By:The New York Times
The courtyard was a scene of devastation, strewn with medieval mud brick and modern cinder block, shattered alike by the explosion that killed six American soldiers and their Iraqi interpreter. From the alleyway outside a day later, there was little sign that this was the house where the bomb exploded Wednesday, during an offensive to clear Sunni insurgents from the northern Diyala River valley, 60 miles north of Baghdad.
Bush Delivers Arms Sale to Saudi Arabia
 Source By: www.wtopnews.com
Saudi Arabia (AP) - President Bush, on his first visit to this oil-rich kingdom, delivered a major arms sale Monday to a key ally in a region where the U.S. casts neighboring Iran as a menace to stability. Bush's talks with Saudi King Abdullah, which began over dinner and were continuing with late-night meetings, also were expected to cover peace between Israelis and Palestinians and democracy in the Middle East.
Hezbollah Sets Resolution Terms
 Source: BBC News.com
The Lebanese opposition group Hezbollah has said openly that it will not allow a president to be elected unless it gets a third of the cabinet seats.
This would give Hezbollah and its allies a veto over key decisions.
Two UNIFIL soldiers wounded by an explosion at Rmeileh
 Source NowLebanon.com
Two UN soldiers in South Lebanon were injured on Tuesday in a roadside blast that targeted their convoy, a senior security official told AFP. “An explosive charge placed on the side of the road blew up as the patrol drove by in the region of Rmeileh, near Sidon,” said the official, who asked not to be identified. Doctors at the hospital in Sidon identified the two injured soldiers as Irish, the official said.
Hariri welcomes Arab League plan
 Source: Al Jazeera
Lebanon's parliamentary majority leader has welcomed an Arab draft plan to end the constitutional crisis in Lebanon, after Syria threw its weight behind it, according to diplomatic and political sources.
UN troops wounded in Lebanon blast
 Source Al Jazeera.com
Two UN peacekeeping soldiers have been slightly wounded after a roadside bomb struck their vehicle in south Lebanon.
Milos Strugar, a spokesman for the UN Interim Force in Lebanon, said on Tuesday: "One Unifil vehicle was hit in an explosion on the coastal road at the northern entrance of Sidon."
More troops deployed in Beirut
 Lebanon's army has deployed more soldiers in Beirut amid fears the killing of a man in anti-government protests could lead the country into sectarian violence.
Security sources said that the military increased its forces in districts that lead to central Beirut where the opposition is staging a sit-in to demand the resignation of the government.
Egypt Permits Pilgrims To Cross Back Into Gaza
 JERUSALEM — Egypt allowed about 2,000 Palestinian pilgrims to cross back into the Gaza Strip on Wednesday after they had been stranded for days in the Egyptian Sinai on their way back from Mecca in Saudi Arabia. The decision may exacerbate tensions between Egypt and Israel over what Israel regards as Egypt’s failure to maintain a secure border with Gaza.
Egypt Records 19th Bird Flu Death
 A second woman from Egypt's Nile Delta region died of bird flu on Monday, the health ministry said, bringing the week's toll from the virus to four.
The deaths are thought to have resulted from exposure to poultry infected with the H5N1 strain. Two other women tested positive for the virus on Friday.
Nineteen people have now died of bird flu in Egypt in the past two years.
Hamas Militants Die In Gaza Raid
 Source: BBC NEws
Israel has carried out a helicopter attack on the north of the Gaza Strip in which six militants were killed, Palestinian hospital sources say.
Three of the dead were believed to be members of the Hamas Islamist group.
An Israeli army spokesman says the attack was launched after militants fired missiles at Israeli troops operating in the area. Israel has carried out numerous raids which it says are aimed at stopping the firing of rockets into Israel.
Lebanon delays vote for 11th time
The speaker of the Lebanese parliament, Nabih Berri, has postponed for the 11th time the election of a new president.
A parliamentary session had been due to take place later on Saturday, but has now been delayed until 12 January.
Democrats: Redeploy Troops From Iraq
 WASHINGTON - The United States should redeploy troops from Iraq, allowing the military to focus on terrorist threats in Pakistan and Afghanistan, New York Rep. Kirsten Gillibrand said Saturday.
"Congress is challenging the administration's strategy in Iraq in favor of a better one that will effectively combat terrorism and create stability in the Middle East," she said during the weekly Democratic radio address. "Time and time again, we voted for a strategy to redeploy troops out of Iraq to leave policing the streets to Iraqis and to focus our mission on anti-terrorism, and we won't give up."
Bin Laden Issues Warning On Iraq, Israel
 CAIRO, Egypt—Osama bin Laden warned Iraq's Sunni Arabs against fighting al-Qaida and promised to expand the terror group's holy war to Israel in a new audiotape Saturday, threatening "blood for blood, destruction for destruction."
more stories like thisMost of the 56-minute tape dealt with Iraq, apparently al-Qaida's latest attempt to keep supporters in Iraq unified at a time when the U.S. military claims to have al-Qaida's Iraq branch on the run.
Middle East Toy Fair To Underscore UAE's Role As Trading Hub
 The Middle East Toy Fair, the region's leading trade fair for toys, baby products and educational supplies will underscore the emirate's potential as a major trading hub by attracting international exhibitors to meet major regional buyers in Dubai from 31st March to 2nd April 2008 according to organizers Epoc Messe Frankfurt GmbH.
'The Middle East Toy Fair is the ideal platform for exhibitors to network and meet major buyers, industry influencers, and educators involved in the shaping of the Middle East toy market,' said Monica Schulz Blank, Show Manager Middle East Toy Fair.
Pakistan’s Bhutto Assassinated
 Source: MSNBC.com
Pakistan - Pakistan opposition leader Benazir Bhutto was assassinated Thursday in a suicide bombing that also killed at least 20 others and plunged the nuclear-armed country into chaos ahead of a general election she had hoped to win.
The death of the charismatic former prime minister created fears of mass protests and an eruption of violence across the volatile south Asian nation, which also is a hotbed for Muslim extremists.
Sheikh Hassan Al-Masri’s Reply To Bishop Al-Rahi Launches A Series Of Condemnations
 Source: Now Lebanon!
The reply of Sheikh Hassan Al-Masri, a member of the Amal Movement’s politburo, to the statement of Maronite Bishop Bechara Al-Rahi accusing Aoun of being the opposition’s tool has launched a series of condemnations by politicians.
Masri accused Rahi of not caring about his parish and becoming a constitutional expert. “If you don’t know the constitution as well as your parish, we advise you to keep your mouth shut.”
Iraq Government Backs Amnesty Law
 Source: BBC News
Iraq's government has backed a draft law that enables the release of thousands of suspected insurgents held captive by US and Iraqi forces.
The amnesty law is thought to specify offences for which prisoners who have been held without charge can be freed
Iran Wants Talks With US Ambassador
 Source: By Qassim Abdul-Zahra and Bradley Brooks
Iran wants to renew high-level talks with U.S. officials on security in Iraq, insisting that discussions take place between ambassadors and not lower-level functionaries, Iraqi officials said Monday.more stories like thisThe Iranians also want a clear-cut agenda for the meeting, which the American side has not yet provided, according to Sami al-Askari, an adviser to Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and a member of parliament.
Settlement Dispute Stalls Mideast Talks
 Source: Adam Entous
Israeli and Palestinian negotiators opened a second round of statehood talks on Monday but the Palestinians ruled out addressing substantive issues until Israel agreed to stop settlement building near Jerusalem.
more stories like thisAhead of the U.S.-backed negotiations, the first in seven years, Israeli ministers met to consider relaxing Israel's criteria for releasing Palestinian prisoners.
Bush 'loses patience' with Syria
US President George W Bush says he has long since lost patience with Syria's President Bashar al-Assad, and has ruled out opening a dialogue with him.
Bush Loses Patience With Syria
 US President George W Bush says he has long since lost patience with Syria's President Bashar al-Assad, and has ruled out opening a dialogue with him.
"He doesn't need a phone call, he knows exactly what my position is," Mr Bush said at a year-ending news conference.
Bush Reserves Judgment On Destroyed Tapes
President Bush insisted today that he did not personally know about the existence or destruction of CIA interrogation videotapes until briefed on the matter earlier this month, and said that he would withhold judgment until after investigations are completed.
Lebanese Man Sentenced In Bomb Attempt
 Source: CBS News International
A court convicted a Lebanese man Tuesday and sentenced him to 12 years in jail in a failed attempt to bomb German trains, judicial officials and the defense lawyer said. Three other defendants were acquitted. The four were charged with planting crude bombs on two trains at the Cologne station on July 31, 2006. The devices failed to explode because of faulty detonators.
Syria Arrests 2 Human Rights Activists
 Source: CBS News International
A human rights group said Tuesday that Syrian authorities have arrested two activists, raising to at least seven the number detained following a recent meeting of opposition groups in Damascus.
President Bush has criticized the crackdown, calling on the Syrian government to release the jailed activists.
Officials: Turkey Withdraws From Iraq
 Source: Hamid Ahmed
Turkey sent hundreds of troops about 1 1/2 miles into northern Iraq early Tuesday in an operation against Kurdish rebels but then withdrew them later in the day, Kurdish officials said. Jamal Abdullah, a spokesman for the regional Kurdistan government, told The Associated Press that the Turkish troops had withdrawn in the evening.
Bush Set For Tour Of Middle East
 Source: BBC News International
George W Bush will make his first visit as US president to Israel and the West Bank in January, in an attempt to revive the Middle East peace process.
He plans to build on progress made at the Annapolis talks in November and help the sides work towards peace and reconciliation, a spokeswoman said.
Israel Frees Palestinian Woman and Son
 Gaza Strip - A Palestinian woman who bore and raised a son while imprisoned in Israel was released with her child on Monday to joyous tears and jubilant chants of "God is Great!" Samar Isbaeh, 24, spent 28 months in jail after she was convicted of assisting the Islamic militant group Hamas in the West Bank and conveying messages to group members in the Gaza Strip. Nineteen months ago, Isbaeh gave birth to her son, Barra, who remained in jail with her.
5 Killed In Gaza Airstrikes
 Source: SARAH EL DEEB, Associated Press Writer
Gaza Strip - Israeli airstrikes blasted two cars in Gaza Monday night, killing five Islamic Jihad militants, including a senior commander and a master rocket maker. Islamic Jihad spokesman Khaled el-Batch confirmed that Harazin was killed. Palestinians said he was a top commander for both the West Bank and Gaza and he rarely traveled in vehicles for fear of Israeli attack. They said he was on Israel's wanted list for nine years.
Turkish Planes Bomb Northern Iraq
 Source: BBC News
Turkish warplanes have bombed suspected Kurdish rebel bases deep inside northern Iraq - in what appears the first time fighter jets have been used.
They targeted the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) in areas near the border, officials said. The Turkish media said up to 50 planes were used.
TIMELINE: Events In Lebanon Since Hariri's killing
Source: David Cutler, London Editorial Reference Unit
Here is a chronology of some of the main events in Lebanon since former Prime Minister Rafik al-Hariri was killed, along with 22 other people, on February 14, 2005.
READ MORE!!
Car Bombing In Beirut Kills Lebanon's Top Military General And At Least Two Others
 Source: Pravda.Ru - Picture Source: AnNahar.com
One of Lebanon's top military generals and at least two others were killed in a car bombing in a Christian suburb of Beirut, an attack further destabilizing a nation in a deep political crisis.
The target of the early morning attack, Brig. Gen. Francois Hajj, a top Maronite Catholic in the command, was considered a leading candidate to succeed the head of the military.
Israeli Tanks Push Deep Into Gaza
 Source: BBC NEWS
Israeli tanks and bulldozers have moved deep into the southern Gaza Strip in the biggest incursion into the territory in months.
Three Palestinian militants were killed early in the fighting, local medical officials said.
Israeli military officials say two soldiers were wounded. Reports speak of 30 or more tanks being involved.
Hamas Burns 'Confiscated' Drugs
 Source BBC News
The Palestinian movement Hamas has burnt a large pile of illegal drugs it says it confiscated in Gaza recently.
Hamas spokesman Ihab al-Ghussein said the drugs were worth about $4m (£1.97m), and had mostly been smuggled into Gaza through tunnels from Egypt.
Israeli Leader: Iran Is Still Dangerous
 Source: Yahoo Middel East Live!
TEL AVIV, Israel - Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert on Tuesday delivered a fierce rebuttal to a U.S. intelligence assessment that Iran has halted its nuclear weapons, saying Tehran still poses a major threat to the West and the world must not let down its guard.
Rejecting the main conclusion of the U.S. National Intelligence Estimate that Iran dropped its nuclear weapons program in 2003, Olmert said, "Iran was and remains dangerous, and we must continue international pressure with full force to dissuade Iran from nuclear tendencies." It was Olmert's first public comment on Iran since the report was released last week.
Politics-Weary Lebanese Tune Out Crisis
 Source: Yahoo News
Lebanon - A choir of Christians and Muslims sang carols under a Christmas tree in Beirut, a welcome note of good feelings for Lebanese increasingly frustrated with stubborn politicians leading the country to the brink of collapse by refusing to compromise on a president.
"It's a moment of joy in a country in limbo," Janmarie Haggar, a member of the American University of Beirut choir, said after the Monday night performance. "It makes us forget what's going on outside."
On Tuesday, Parliament again postponed — for the eighth time since Sept. 25 — a vote for a new president as political bickering continued to snarl efforts to install army chief Michel Suleiman as a compromise candidate for the post. A scheduled vote next Monday is already in doubt.
Double Bombing In Iraqi Province
 Source: BBC Middel East
At least 26 people have died in two blasts in Iraq's Diyala province. One attack was carried out by a female suicide bomber.
Both attackers struck members of US-backed local groups that have been helping to fight al-Qaeda.
A woman wearing a vest packed with explosives killed 16 people in Muqdadiya, 90km (55 miles) north-east of Iraq's capital, early on Friday.
Iraq Prison Hit By Mortar Barrage
 By: BBC News
A number of mortars have hit a prison in Baghdad, killing at least seven inmates, Iraqi officials say.
About 20 others, including several policemen, were injured in the incident, reports say.
The prison is close to the main buildings of the interior ministry, and it is not known if it was specifically targeted for attack.
Lebanon President Vote Set For Yet Another Delay
 BEIRUT – Lebanon's presidential vote will be delayed again because rival factions are still haggling over ways to amend the constitution to allow the election of the army chief as the new president, politicians said on Monday.
Parliament is due to convene on Tuesday in an 8th attempt to elect a president, a post vacant since Nov. 23 when the term of pro-Syrian Emile Lahoud expired. The feuding anti- and pro-Syrian camps agreed last week on General Michel Suleiman as a consensus candidate for the post.
Lebanese Hezbollah Supporters Protest Electricity Outage
Beirut - Lebanon's ongoing power outages on Monday sparked protests in Beirut's southern suburbs, which is mostly inhabited by Hezbollah followers and where daily rolling power outages have reached up to 20 hours in some areas.
By:Middle East News
Lebanese Presidential Vote on Hold Again
Lebanon's presidential election was postponed again on Friday, despite rival leaders' agreement in principle to give the post to army chief Michel Suleiman in a step that would ease the country's deep political crisis.
Source: China Daily/Agencies
Syria frees 18 Jordanians
Eighteen Jordanian prisoners released this week by Syria after an
U.S. may be softening Syria policy
WASHINGTON, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- U.S. political allies agreed to drop challenges against the Lebanese presidential campaign of a Syrian ally, a
US Plans New Spy Satellite Program
By ANNE FLAHERTY and PAMELA HESS,Associated Press Writers
WASHINGTON - The U.S. is pursuing a multibillion-dollar program to develop
Patriarch slams Lebanon opposition for vote boycott
Reuters - Saturday, December 1BEIRUT - The influential head of the
Lebanon army chief gets key backing By BASSEM MROUE, Associated Press Writer
By BASSEM MROUE, Associated Press Writer
Lebanon's top Christian opposition leader said Thursday he will back the
Lebanon president vote postponed as compromise looms by Paul Kattan
by Paul Kattan
Lebanon's parliament postponed for a week a vote that had been set for
EU-Iranian talks break up; no compromise By GEORGE JAHN, Associated Press Writer
By GEORGE JAHN, Associated Press Writer
An 18-month attempt to persuade Iran to mothball uranium enrichment
A PEACE CONFERENCE AT ANNAPOLIS!
By Elias H. Tuma
In 1974 I had a meeting with Aaron Yariv, then Minister of Information is Israel. As expected we discussed the Arab Israeli conflict and how to promote a peace process. Two points were highlighted. First, negotiation is
Political crisis deepens in Lebanon
By ZEINA KARAM and BASSEM MROUE, Associated Press Writers
Prime Minister Fuad Saniora assured his country Saturday that the military was in control of the streets while lawmakers struggled to overcome a
Australian leader defeated in election
By ROHAN SULLIVAN, Associated Press Writer
Conservative Prime Minister John Howard, one of the Bush administration's
Skeptical Arab leaders agree to attend Mideast peace conference
Miret el Naggar | McClatchy Newspapers
CAIRO, Egypt — Arab countries reluctantly agreed Friday to attend next week's U.S.-sponsored Middle East conference in Annapolis, Md.,
Bombing shatters Baghdad's calm
By Nancy A. Youssef and Hussein Kadhim, McClatchy Newspapers
BAGHDAD — A remote-controlled bomb exploded in the middle of a crowded
U.S. blames Shiites in new Iraq violence
By ROBERT H. REID, Associated Press Writer
Four members of an Iranian-backed Shiite cell confessed to bombing a
Lebanon deal elusive as U.N. warns of confrontation
By Nadim Ladki
BEIRUT (Reuters) - Lebanon's main anti-Syrian Christian leader accused
Lebanon's Presidential Crisis Not Settled, Yet
French, Arab, U.S. and Russian efforts have so far failed to strike a breakthrough that could settle the dispute plaguing Lebanon's Presidential
Saudis defend punishment for rape victim Wed Nov 21, 9:19 AM ET
The Saudi judiciary on Tuesday defended a court verdict that sentenced a
Military says Iraqi, US troops detain 81 in Diwaniyah 1 hour, 25 minutes ago
Iraqi and US troops detained 81 suspected extremists during a three-day
US commander gives part credit to Syria for military gains in Iraq
The number of foreign combatants with Al-Qaeda ties in Iraq is down
Lebanon deal elusive, U.S. accuses Syria of meddling By Nadim Ladki
By Nadim Ladki
The United States and Lebanon's main anti-Syrian Christian leader on
US seeks to close Mideast deal next year By MATTHEW LEE and ANNE GEARAN, Associated Press Writers
By MATTHEW LEE and ANNE GEARAN, Associated Press Writers
The United States will try to close an Israeli-Palestinian peace deal before
Israel OKs arms for police in West Bank
By MARK LAVIE, Associated Press Writer
Israel's premier approved a shipment of Russian arms to police in the West
Arabs skeptical about Mideast conference
By SALAH NASRAWI, Associated Press Writer
Arab countries are warming — slightly — to next week's U.S.-brokered
General Aoun and Saad Hariri: The Chance to save Lebanon
Elias Aoun
In a recent interview Mr. Saad Hariri made a reference to the principles of
Mideast tourism revenues to hit $51b
By Shakir Husain, Staff Reporter
London: Middle East tourism revenues will more than double to $51 billion and visitor arrivals are expected to grow by 66 per cent in four years as the
Emirates to boost inflight service
Dubai: Emirates Airline is investing more than $600 million in inflight products and services, reinforcing its dedication to providing the "best in air travel" experience.
Saudi Prince Prince Al Waleed Bin Talal buys A380 as private jet
By Saifur Rahman, Business News Editor
Dubai: Luxury got a new dimension and a new name - A380 'Flying Palace' - as Saudi billionaire Prince Al Waleed Bin Talal on Monday signed a deal to buy the world's first end-to-end double-decker corporate jet, a deal valued
Aircraft sales soar past $80b
By Saifur Rahman, Business News Editor, and Robert Ditcham
Dubai: Plane sales soared to new heights in the first two days of the Dubai
Economic divide among Arabs
By Nader Habibi, Special to Gulf News
A combination of sound economic policies and record high oil revenues, has
Syria and the illusion of pursuing peace in Annapolis
By Mohammad Habash
To understand why there is so much Syrian skepticism regarding the Annapolis meeting it may be useful to analyze the differences between the
US group: Iraqis face wide-raging problems in Mideast, detentions in Lebanon
The Associated Press
BEIRUT, Lebanon: Iraqi refugees face a wide array of problems in the Middle East, from lack of basic assistance to
Lebanon’s Presidency and the New World Order
By Elias Aoun
There are many dark predictions, but they can all be transcended by taking a different path, making wiser decisions, so that the dark plots do not have
Gulf carriers on buying spree at 'Dubai Air Show'
Fast growing carriers from Arab Gulf strive to keep pace with robust air travel market.
Abbas Meets West Bank Hamas Leaders
By STEVEN ERLANGER
JERUSALEM — The Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas, met Friday with a group of Hamas leaders in the West Bank, the first time he has done so
2,000-Year-Old Christian Community in Iraq Gains a Spiritual First in Baghdad
By ALISSA J. RUBIN
BAGHDAD — There is neither a cross nor a sign on the heavy metal gate to indicate that this is the official residence of one of the country’s most
Military Bill Approved, but Without Iraq Increase
By ROBERT PEAR
WASHINGTON — House and Senate negotiators approved a $459 billion
Syria to allow US in to screen refugees By MATTHEW LEE, Associated Press Writer
By MATTHEW LEE, Associated Press Writer
Syria has agreed to allow U.S. interviewers into the country to screen Iraqi refugees for admission to the United States, clearing a major obstacle to the
Iraq frees 500 from detention camps By SINAN SALAHEDDIN, Associated Press Writer
By SINAN SALAHEDDIN, Associated Press Writer
U.S. and Iraqi authorities freed 500 prisoners Thursday from a detention
Dubai bridge collapse kills 7 By BARBARA SURK, Associated Press Writer
By BARBARA SURK, Associated Press Writer
A bridge under construction in this booming Gulf city collapsed Thursday, killing seven workers and injuring 15, Dubai police said.
US Army chopper crashes in Italy; 5 dead
A U.S. Army helicopter crashed in northern Italy on Thursday, killing at least five people on board, the Army said.
US applauds election plan in Pakistan By DEB RIECHMANN, Associated Press Writer
By DEB RIECHMANN, Associated Press Writer
The Bush White House on Thursday applauded Pakistani President Gen.
A call to arms: three Palestinian militant groups
Jund al-Sham, Ansar Allah and Islamic Jihad go on the record about their past and future in the resistance
Members of the March 14 alliance and the Syrian Opposition in the United Kingdom held a daylong demonstration in London to protest a conference
Patriarch Sfeir: It is up to the Lebanese to solve their problems
Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Sfeir said that the conditions the Lebanese are
Geagea says he will meet with Aoun
Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea said he will meet FPM leader MP
French meet Syrians and urge free Lebanon election
France's relations with Syria will normalize if the presidential election in
Hezbollah guerrillas stage military exercises in southern Lebanon
Hundreds of unarmed Hezbollah guerrillas staged military-style exercises in
Maliki declares victory over violence during walkabout By Waleed Ibrahim
By Waleed Ibrahim
Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al- Maliki declared victory over "terrorist groups
Iraq: Nearly 2.3 million displaced By LAUREN FRAYER, Associated Press Writer
By LAUREN FRAYER, Associated Press Writer
Nearly 2.3 million Iraqis — the vast majority of them women and children —
Jordan: Militant sentenced for attack By JAMAL HALABY, Associated Press Writer
By JAMAL HALABY, Associated Press Writer
Jordan's military court convicted an al-Qaida militant Monday of involvement
Abbas: all sides want peace By ANNE GEARAN, AP Diplomatic Writer
By ANNE GEARAN, AP Diplomatic Writer
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said Monday that all sides want to
Saudi King Tries to Grow Modern Ideas in Desert
By THANASSIS CAMBANIS
JIDDA, Saudi Arabia — On a marshy peninsula 50 miles from this
Baghdad's churches join rest of Iraqis in suffering
Post US-led invasion violence, insecurity severely reduces number of Iraqi churchgoers.
Gulf Arabs could drop dollar pegs in unison
Following Kuwait’s example, UAE, Qatar may unshackle own currencies from US dollar.
Iraq: 27 killed or found dead Thursday By LAUREN FRAYER, Associated Press Writer
By LAUREN FRAYER, Associated Press Writer
Bombs and drive-by shootings killed at least 21 people across Baghdad and
Lebanon set to privatise mobile phone network by Rana Moussaoui
by Rana Moussaoui
Debt-laden Lebanon, which has among the highest phone bills in the world,
Lebanon rivals to press crisis talks at home 49 minutes ago
 Rival Lebanese leaders Michel Aoun and Saad Hariri are heading home for further negotiations on the deadlock over electing a new president after
Sudan tries to clear out Darfur refugees By ALFRED de MONTESQUIOU, Associated Press Writer
By ALFRED de MONTESQUIOU, Associated Press Writer
Sudanese officials have been pressuring people to leave refugee camps in
Egypt Must Strengthen Institutional Capacity to Address Economic Challenges and Sustain Growth
WASHINGTON — Recent economic growth and stabilization in Egypt has
Attempted Answers to Specific Questions And the Fate of Lebanon as per the Design of the Society of Jesus
by Elias Aoun
Before commencing the body of this text, the author recommends the
reading of his book, Vatican Assassins: “Wounded In
Free abducted priests: Pope
VATICAN CITY: Pope Benedict appealed yesterday for the release of two Catholic priests
Blackwater, other guilty firms must go
BAGHDAD: Iraq insisted yesterday that US private security firm Blackwater and “other companies who commit crimes” leave Iraq after its guards opened fire in
Lebanon vote postponed to November 12
BEIRUT: Lebanon delayed its presidential election by nearly three weeks to November 12 yesterday
Salameh receives award from Arab bankers in North America
BEIRUT: Central Bank Governor Riad Salameh received on Tuesday the "Best Achievement" award in Washington from the Arab Bankers Association of North America,
LEBANON: Lack of environmental policies costs $550m, says ex-minister
DEIR AL-QAMAR, (IRIN) - Ramzi Msharrafyeh stepped carefully between the burned bushes and trees in
FUTURE-MPs shelter from assassins in Beirut hotel
By Tom Perry
BEIRUT, (Reuters) - Lebanese lawmaker Hadi Hbeich has barely seen daylight in a month, sheltered in a Beirut hotel with other MPs behind tight security designed to
Laura Bush meets breast cancer survivors
By DONNA ABU-NASR, Associated Press Writer
One Saudi woman ignored the cancer growing in her breast for fear of seeing a male doctor.
Saddam officials on death row By The Associated Press
By The Associated Press
A glance at the three former Saddam Hussein officials sentenced to hang for a 1980s military crackdown against Kurds in northern Iraq, which killed
Swapped POW wasn't fighter, wife says
By SCHEHEREZADE FARAMARZI, Associated Press Writer
A Lebanese man released by Israel in a prisoner exchange with Hezbollah was never a fighter for the militant group, his wife insists, saying he is
Mid-East diary: Summit prospects
By Jeremy Bowen - Middle East editor, BBC News
Another Middle East peace summit is coming up in the United States, but there are risks in holding summits on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and one
Bush steps up Mideast peace push By MATTHEW LEE, Associated Press Writer
By MATTHEW LEE, Associated Press Writer
LONDON - President Bush is sending his national security adviser to the
Iraqi Kurds: no to Turkish military push
By YAHYA BARZANJI, Associated Press Writer
IRBIL, Iraq - Thousands of Kurds joined rallies across northern Iraq and
Dozens killed in two blasts near Bhutto's convoy in Pakistan Story Highlights
At least 30 people were killed near a motorcade carrying former Pakistani P.M.
Who's to Blame for the Middle East's Problems
Posted by Shadi Hamid
In response to my blog-colleague Michael’s post below, I find it surprising
Lebanese Army foils plot to bomb UNIFIL convoy
By Mohammed Zaatari - Daily Star staff
NAQOURA: Lebanese Army intelligence said on Monday it had detained
Lebanese MPs meet for first official session in months
Lawmakers from both camps honor slain colleagues
By Hani M. Bathish - Daily Star staff
BEIRUT: A total of 87 members of Parliament, more than two-thirds of MPs,
Shi'ite tribal leaders in Iraq say Islamism on rise
By Mariam Karouny
BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Shi'ite Islamist political parties are imposing strict
Libya wins seat on U.N. Security Council
By EDITH M. LEDERER, Associated Press Writer
UNITED NATIONS - Libya won a seat on the powerful U.N. Security Council on Tuesday.
Hezbollah says progress on prisoner swap
By SAM F. GHATTAS, Associated Press Writer
BEIRUT, Lebanon - Hezbollah's leader said Tuesday there is "positive progress" in negotiations to swap two Israeli soldiers captured by the group
Attacks targeting Iraqi forces kill 17
By SINAN SALAHEDDIN, Associated Press Writer
BAGHDAD - A series of attacks across Iraq targeted security forces and tribal leaders on Tuesday,
Rice wins Egypt's support for conference
By MATTHEW LEE, Associated Press Writer
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice won public support Tuesday for a Mideast peace conference from a skeptical Egypt, boosting her bid to secure
Syrian military plane crashes; 3 die
By ALBERT AJI, Associated Press Writer
A small Syrian military plane crashed south of Damascus on Sunday, killing three people, witnesses at the scene said.
US-Iraq group mulls security, Blackwater
By KIM CURTIS, Associated Press Writer
A joint U.S.-Iraqi commission reviewing American security operations after a deadly shooting of Iraqi civilians allegedly at the hands of Blackwater USA guards met for the first
Abu Dhabi eyes private equity stake
by James Bennett
Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) is locked in talks to acquire a 10% stake of private equity firm Apollo
Saudi, Bahrain defend trafficking measures
by Dylan Bowman
The US report criticises the treatment of immigrant workers such as maids.
Saudi Arabia and
Kuwait puts in $1.6bn Boeing order
by Safura Rahimi and Reuters
Boeing is set to unveil its 787 Dreamliner today at its production plant in Washington.
US-led forces kill top al-Qaida leader By PAULINE JELINEK, Associated Press Writer
By PAULINE JELINEK, Associated Press Writer
U.S.-led forces have killed one of the most important leaders of al-Qaida in Iraq, a
AT&T Offers Customer Service in More Than 160 Languages
AT&T Breaks the Language Barrier for Millions of Limited-English-Speaking Consumers
SAN ANTONIO, Sept. 25, 2007 — For multicultural consumers across California, accessing vital communications services has never been easier. AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) has announced a service with Language Line Services that offers over-the-phone customer service in virtually all widely spoken languages on the planet.
U.S. moves in Iraq may push Iraqi and Iranian governments closer
The US arrest of an Iranian official to Iraq has resulted in closed borders between the two Middle Eastern countries – a decision that may take an economic toll.
By Dan Murphy
Iran shut most of its border crossings with Northern Iraq on Monday to protest the US military's arrest of an Iranian official who had been visiting Iraq as part of an official delegation.
Israel welcomes Syria joining ME forum
Israel on Monday welcomed a US announcement that Syria will be invited to an upcoming Mideast peace conference, saying it has "no problem" sitting down with its archenemy.
Bush Calls Lebanon Killing 'Horrific'
“We will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Lebanese people, as they resist attempts by the Syrian and Iranian regimes and their allies to destabilize Lebanon and undermine its sovereignty.”
Lebanon Holds Funeral for Lawmaker
BEIRUT, Lebanon, Sept. 21 — Thousands of Lebanese attended the funeral today of an anti-Syrian lawmaker whose assassination further rocked Lebanon’s political order as the country prepares to select a new president.
Gunpowder dialogue in Lebanon
By Ghassan Michel Rubeiz
Political killing in Lebanon is serial. It is maddening. There seems to be no cure for it.
The explosion of September 19 targets the Christian community in Lebanon. The Christians of this country have become a demographic minority over the last few decades as a
what if Lebanon comes divided in two?
By Father Michel Rouhana
I received yesterday a very very interesting Email from a kind reader. This Email had thre attached grafics that help understanding the international impact the Lebanse presidential elections has on the globe.
Sfeir Warns against two Lebanons
Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Sfeir was quoted Saturday as warning that if a new president was not elected on time, Lebanon could face the slicing of authorities into two Presidents, two parliaments and two cabinets.
Lebanon blast kills 4, officials say
Blast hits Christian neighborhood in Beirut
20 people injured, buildings heavily damaged
Vehicle with government license plate hit
Cars on street engulfed in flames
BEIRUT, Lebanon (CNN) -- An explosion struck a Christian neighborhood in east Beirut, Lebanon, on Wednesday, killing four people, according to Red
Syria complains of Israeli 'aggression'
By SAM F. GHATTAS, Associated Press Writer
Syria complained to the United Nations Tuesday about Israeli "aggression and violation of sovereignty" after what a U.S. official said was an airstrike deep in Syria that hit a target.
Jordan king tells Cabinet curb food cost
By JAMAL HALABY, Associated Press Writer
A sudden jump in food prices ahead of the holy Muslim fasting month of Ramadan prompted Jordan's king to warn his Cabinet Tuesday to find ways to curb the rise or resign.
Sept. 11 anniversary marked overseas
By JASON STRAZIUSO, Associated Press Writer
The main U.S. base in Afghanistan fell silent Tuesday at the moment the first hijacked jetliner struck the World Trade Center. Soldiers bowed their heads in prayer.
Iraq insurgents attack U.S. headquarters
By BASSEM MROUE, Associated Press Writer
Insurgents fired rockets or mortars Tuesday at the sprawling garrison that houses the headquarters of American forces in Iraq, killing one person and wounding 11 coalition soldiers, the U.S. command said.
The Iranian Offensive in the Middle East
The Shiaa Terror Strategy
By Sgt. AKL, Fadi
After the establishment of the Khomeini regime in Iran, the Mullahs in
National Unity and President Aoun
Elias Aoun
Each Lebanese community has elements of strength within it. Since weakening one will eventually weaken everyone, then their survival depends on thinking in terms of utilizing each element of strength to benefit the whole.
Lebanese partners plan first plush hotel in Iraqi Kurdistan
A Lebanese group unveiled plans Monday to build the first five-star hotel in the Kurdish area of northern Iraq.
Terror leader possibly dead after siege at refugee camp in Lebanon
The leader of an Islamist militant group may be among the 39 insurgents killed as Lebanese forces overtook a Palestinian refugee camp where militants had holed up and staged attacks for months, according to a Lebanese official and media reports Monday.
US general wants heftier forces to prop up Abbas in West Bank - Israeli daily
The US security coordinator in the Palestinian territories wants five new Palestinian battalions deployed across the Occupied West Bank in an effort to bolster Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in his power struggle with Hamas, according to a report published Thursday.
US tells Lebanon army: 'you can count on our support'
The United States has pledged continued support to Lebanon's army, which has been fighting a vicious battle against al-Qaida-inspired Islamist militants.
France renews initiative to break Lebanese deadlock
France has sent a high-ranking envoy to resume its diplomatic initiative for breaking Lebanese political deadlock, local newspaper The Daily Star reported on Friday.
Saudi envoy quits Lebanon amid attack warnings
The ambassador of Saudi Arabia, a leading supporter of Lebanon's beleaguered Western-backed government, has left Beirut in the face of attack warnings, a senior Lebanese official said on Saturday.
Lebanese source: Saudi ambassador left Lebanon amid threats
By DPA
Beirut - The Saudi ambassador to Lebanon Abdel Aziz Khoja has left the country after receiving threats, a Lebanese security source said Saturday.
Lebanese army raids militants' last strongholds in northern camp
BEIRUT, Aug. 25 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese army gunship helicopters on Saturday raided Islamist gunmen's last strongholds in a northern Palestinian refugee camp following evacuation of some families of the militants.
Fateh's revenge in Gaza, yellow flags, Abu Mazen pictures, and songs for Sameeh El Madhoon
By Hamza El Attar - Gaza
They feel that they are lost in a storm of Green society, society belongs to Hamas and no more Fateh, they are defeated, broken and in their opinion they can revenge from Hamas but with another way far from the sound of bullets.
What is planned for Lebanon, and how to save the country?
Part I of II
By Elias Aoun
Probably one of the ways to comprehend the U.S. plan for Lebanon is to read the words of U.S. Colonel James “Bo” Gritz who has been called “THE” American Soldier,
Lebanese army claims breakthrough in siege camp Thu Aug 9, 1:41 PM ET
Lebanese troops made a new breakthrough on Thursday in the final part of a refugee camp in the north of the country where Islamist militants remain holed up, an officer said.
Saudis absent from Iraq security meeting
By ALBERT AJI, Associated Press Writer
Iraq's deputy foreign minister urged neighboring countries to support its efforts to bolster security, and said he hoped a new regional body meeting for the first time Wednesday would produce real
1 killed in Jerusalem's Old City
A Palestinian man grabbed a pistol from an Israeli security guard in Jerusalem's Old City and shot him Friday, but was shot dead by another guard as he tried to flee, Israeli police said.
Plane crash in French Pacific kills 17
By TIPHAINE ISSELE, Associated Press Writer
A small airplane plunged into the sea moments after taking off from the French Polynesian resort island of Moorea, apparently killing all 20 people aboard in the territory's worst-ever plane crash,
3Com supports Ministry of Education to help revitalize Lebanon
As part of its initiative to improve education and address skills shortages in Lebanon, 3Com has provided vital networking equipment to the Ministry of Education's new headquarters in Beirut.
3Com supports Ministry of Education to help revitalize Lebanon
As part of its initiative to improve education and address skills shortages in Lebanon, 3Com has provided vital networking equipment to the Ministry of Education's new headquarters in Beirut.
Hopes for independent Palestine dim as Middle East crisis escalates
Reports on a possible agreement reached between Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Palestinian Authority Mahmoud Abbas gave rise to numerous comments on the possibility
Saudi Foreign Minister says the kingdom will attend US-sponsored Mideast peace conference
Saudi Arabia supports and will attend a Middle East peace conference proposed by U.S. President George W. Bush for later this year, the Saudi Foreign Minister said Wednesday.
US sets asset freeze for those threatening Lebanese stability
by Paul Handley
The United States Thursday announced a move to freeze US assets of anyone considered a threat to the Lebanese government, saying its sovereignty and democratic institutions "are increasingly under attack."
Fierce fighting between Lebanese army and Islamists
Lebanese soldiers fought fierce battles on Friday with Islamists holed up inside a Palestinian refugee camp, with eyewitnesses reporting fires raging in a small area still controlled by the militants.
Bush administration moves against US branches of Iran-based charity
The Bush administration took action Tuesday against an Iran-based foundation, including its US branch, for allegedly providing support to Hizbullah, which the United States has blamed for bloodshed in Lebanon.
Nasrallah insists unity government 'only solution'
Hizbullah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah defiantly declared on Tuesday that the formation of a national unity government is the "only" solution to the eight-month-old political crisis that continues to paralyze Lebanon.
French envoy presses feuding politicians toward dialogue
French envoy Jean-Claude Cousseran continued his rounds of talks with Lebanese politicians on Tuesday, as part of France's initiative to relaunch dialogue between feuding leaders here in time for the Saturday arrival of French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner in Beirut.
11 Lebanese soldiers wounded in clashes with Islamists
Eleven Lebanese soldiers were wounded on Monday in clashes with Islamist militants holed up for more than two months in a refugee camp in northern Lebanon, hospital sources said.
French envoy begins bid to solve Lebanon crisis
Top French diplomat Jean-Claude Cousseran arrives in Beirut on Monday to try and nudge Lebanon's rival political parties into ending a crisis that has paralysed the country for eight months.
With Iraq on fire, rest of world on hold
By Warren P. Strobel and Nancy A. Youssef, McClatchy Newspapers
WASHINGTON - Two months ago, President Bush enthusiastically accepted an invitation to visit Singapore in September. But he abruptly changed plans, and his summit with Southeast Asian leaders is off. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is skipping an Asian meeting
Lebanon bending under extremist challenge
By Mahan Abedin
The military conflict in the Nahr el-Bared Palestinian refugee camp in northern Lebanon, coupled with growing political instability in Beirut, has shifted attention away from the south and the possibility of a further round of fighting between Hezbollah and Israel.
Bush calls for conference to restart Mideast peace talks
President George W. Bush called Monday for an international conference to include Israel, the Palestinian Authority and some of their Arab neighbors to help restart peace talks and pledged more aid to President Mahmoud Abbas' government.
The Lebanese need more than vague, symbolic promises from their leaders
Lebanon's polarized political leadership "broke the ice" at last weekend's talks in La Celle de Saint Cloud, but a long-term thaw in relations depends on each camp making a real commitment to abiding by the Constitution in the September 25 presidential elections.
Brammertz report on Hariri probe satisfies Damascus
Damascus is satisfied with Belgian Prosecutor Serge Brammertz' eighth report to UN chief Ban Ki-moon on the progress of the UN probe into the assassination of former Premier Rafik Hariri, the Syrian UN envoy announced Friday.
U.N. report finds ”number of persons” involved in Hariri killing
Chief U.N. investigator Serge Brammertz has identified a "number of persons" who may have been involved in the assassination of Lebanon's ex-Premier Rafik Hariri and indicated investigators had "significantly narrowed down" possible motives for the killing.
Lebanon Army Girds for New Fight at Camp
More than 150 civilians fled from a Palestinian refugee camp in northern Lebanon on Wednesday as soldiers ringing the neighborhood moved up tanks and armored vehicles for a possible showdown with Islamic militants barricaded inside.
Iraq: U.S. forces kill 13 as Bush vows to win war
American forces battled Iraqi police and gunmen Friday, killing six policemen, after a U.S. raid to capture an Iraqi police lieutenant accused of leading a cell of Shiite militiamen, the military said. Seven gunmen also died in the fight.
Lebanon: Nine soldiers dead in two days, rockets fired on north
The Lebanese army pounded positions of rocket-firing Islamists in heavy clashes around a refugee camp on Friday, as the military's death toll continued to climb.
Lebanese women demand role in resolving impasse
The Lebanese Women's Council (LWC) declared on Tuesday that Lebanese women would have a say in stopping what it called poisonous sectarian strife in the country.
Brammertz's visit to Syria linked to probe into Gemayel killing
UN investigator Serge Brammertz's visit to Syria last week was intended to gather information on the identity of assailants who used a stolen car in the November 21, 2006, assassination of Industry Minister Pierre Gemayel.
Beirut archbishop pays tribute to Siniora's 'great sacrifices'
Beirut Archbishop Boulos Matar paid tribute on Tuesday to what he said were Prime Minister Fouad Siniora's "great sacrifices" for Lebanon.
Hizbullah confirms plan to attend France summit
Hizbullah officials said on Tuesday that the group would send a delegation to a summit of Lebanese political leaders in France this weekend, despite concerns over comments made Monday by French President Nicolas Sarkozy characterizing the group's operations as "terrorism."
Official: Iraq gov't missed all targets
By ANNE FLAHERTY and ANNE GEARAN, Associated Press Writers
A progress report on Iraq will conclude that the U.S.-backed government in Baghdad has not met any of its targets for political, economic and other reforms, speeding up the Bush administration's reckoning on what to do next, a U.S. official said Monday.
Troops storm Pakistan mosque compound
By ZARAR KHAN, Associated Press Writer
Government troops stormed the compound of Islamabad's Red Mosque before dawn Tuesday, prompting a fierce firefight with militants accused of holding about 150 hostages inside, officials said. At least 40 rebels and three soldiers were killed.
Boeing: Qatar Airways has placed 787 order
by Dylan Bowman
Qatar Airways has refused to confirm the 787 order.
Boeing has confirmed that Qatar Airways has placed an order for its new long-haul 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
President says Iran and Syria can help a lot in fighting terrorism in Iraq
Iraq's president said in remarks aired Friday that the country could have been more successful in ending the insurgency and sectarian violence if it had received full support from Iran and Syria.
Syria, Jordan left in the lurch with Iraqi refugees: UNHCR
The UN refugee agency on Friday called on the international community to "put its money where its mouth is" after Syria and Jordan were left in the lurch to deal with some two million Iraqi refugees.
Israel, Syria, wary of border moves
Israel and Syria are wary of each other's recent actions along the border they share, it was reported Saturday.
Lebanese investigation says Islamic militants behind minister's killing
The Associated Press
BEIRUT, Lebanon: The investigation into last year's assassination of a Christian Cabinet minister points to the involvement of al-Qaida-inspired Islamic militants, a Lebanese security official familiar with the case said Saturday.
At least 105 killed in Iraq village blast
KIRKUK - At least 105 people were killed Saturday when a truck bomb devastated a crowded Iraqi village market and demolished many homes, the top local security, administrative and health officials said.
Pakistani president: Lal Masjid militants to surrender or die
ISLAMABAD, (Xinhua) -- Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf on Saturday said remaining hard-line militants in Islamabad-based Lal Masjid, or Red Mosque, should surrender or die,TV channels reported.
Palestinian government employees loyal to president get salaries after 17 months
Palestinian government employees loyal to President Mahmoud Abbas on Wednesday stood in long lines outside banks in Gaza Strip to collect their first full salaries in 13 months. The salary payments were a boost to Abbas in his power struggle with Hamas, which took control of Gaza Strip last month.
Moroccan, Israeli foreign ministers meet By JOHN LEICESTER, Associated Press Writer
By JOHN LEICESTER, Associated Press Writer
The foreign ministers of Israel and Morocco held their first publicly disclosed talks in years Wednesday, with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict at the heart of the discussion.
Hundreds surrender at Pakistani mosque
By STEPHEN GRAHAM, Associated Press Writer
About 700 followers of radical clerics surrendered Wednesday to government forces who encircled the Lal Masjid, or Red Mosque, with troops and armored personnel carriers.
U.S. heightens security for 4th of July
By DEEPTI HAJELA, Associated Press Writer
Americans celebrated Independence Day on Wednesday amid heightened security following attempted car bombings in Britain, and thousands of immigrants became U.S. citizens at ceremonies around the country.
Sanaa 'knew Al-Qaeda was planning an attack'
Yemen's president said Tuesday security authorities knew Al-Qaeda was plotting attacks in the country after a suicide car bomber killed seven Spanish tourists and two local drivers.
Israelis resume security talks with Abbas
Israel and the Palestinian government of President Mahmoud Abbas have resumed security talks after a long break, both sides said Tuesday. Meanwhile in Gaza, Hamas gunmen took up positions Tuesday around the stronghold of the shadowy group holding kidnapped British journalist Alan Johnston, stepping up the pressure to secure the correspondent's release.
Cousseran invites deadlocked Lebanese factions to Paris
French envoy Jean-Claude Cousseran arrived in Beirut Tuesday carrying invitations for 14 Lebanese political parties to attend an inter-Lebanese meeting in Paris from July 14 to 16 aimed at getting rival factions to talk in the hope they would resolve their differences and end the political crisis.
No Permanent Settlement in Lebanon: Palestinian Refugees Must Redistribute to Other Countries
Joseph Hitti – Boston – Massachusetts
· Both the Arab world and the West are to blame for the plight of the Palestinian refugees
· The history of western anti-Semitism ultimately led to the creation of Israel and the displacement of the Palestinian people
Commentary on the White House Proclamation
Elias Aoun
President George W. Bush issued a proclamation (June 29th) suspending the entry into the United States of persons, including Lebanese and Syrian government officials, “who deliberately undermine or harm Lebanon’s sovereignty, its legitimate government, or its democratic institutions, or
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