Hunt Intensifies: Saddam's Illicit Fortune

Family clues to Iraq's missing oil billionsAccording to Jason Burke 12-31-06: At the Guardian this morning...
American and Iraqi government investigators tracing hundreds of millions of pounds missing from Saddam Hussein's illicit fortune are hoping to question members of the former dictator's close family...
They won't, however, be searching a few, who attended this party.One of the "Good Days" for Saddam's Son-in lawsChad posts a collection of Videos: Hussein: Video of Tyrant
-View Frontline's interactive: Saddam's Family Tree

Officials from the FBI, the American Treasury and the State Department particularly want to find £2.2bn in illegal profits that Saddam's regime is alleged to have earned from 2000-2003 from an oil-for-trade pact signed with Syria that was outside the official United Nations administered oil-for-food program, according to official documents released to a US congressional sub-committee...

The U. N, who imposed economic sanctions, including a ban on oil sales, on Iraq in 1990 after Saddam invaded Kuwait...And the oil-for-food program was launched in December 1996 to ease the impact of the sanctions on ordinary Iraqis (who under 15-nation UN Sec. Council supervision) authorized the government to sell oil and use the proceeds to buy civilian goods...

In a report submitted to the CIA last year Charles Duelfer, a former UN arms inspectors, estimated that Saddam had amassed $10.9bn 'through illicit means' between 1990, when sanctions were imposed, and 2003. The dictator is also believed to have hidden cash in accounts in Switzerland, Japan, Germany and other countries and to have invested in precious stones, possibly diamonds purchased in the Far East.

-Back in May 6, 2003 it was reported: U.S.: Saddam's family took $1 billion from bankFrom the Observer:A thug who used terror and war to stay in powerFrom correspondents in Awja, Iraq: Clan plans 'Saddam library' blog posts on link to Saddam at The Truth Laid Bear ~~~~~~~~~~-Read International reactions to: Iraq's execution of SaddamDon Surber breaks it down:
Most Europeans favored hanging Hussein
Womanhonorthyself: Megalomaniacal Genocidal Tyrant
..or um..Hero?James Joyner posts: Saddam Hussein Executed in Baghdad The Captain posts: Saddam Buried, But Lives Again (Briefly)Linked at: Basilsblog | Joscafe | ConservativeCat~~~~~~~~~~

Somalia: The Hunt for Al-Qaeda Continues

AFP-B.Ahari: Somali Transitional Fed. Gov.
P. M. Ali Mohamed Gedi; parliamentarians/Mogadishu-Crushing the Hub of Al-Qaeda Terror Operatives As the Somalia forces, along with their Ethiopian military support, drove out the Islamic militias, who seized their capital; crowds of thousands came to greet the Prime Minister... A message forwarded from PM Ali Mohamed Gedi to the clan elders in Mogadishu:

"There are certain people wanted by the international community, and by us... and if you can tell us their whereabouts, we would appreciate it...And that would be a sign of collaboration.”

The task to purge Somalia of Al-Qaeda suspects speeds
forward!-Interesting comment (below) from a reader!AFP-B.Ahari: Flushing out Sheikh Hassan Dahir Aweys loyalists~~~~~~~~~ READER'S COMMENT: It is wonderful to hear what real men, fighting a war, can do when they are not hampered by "Political Correctness;" treasoness politicians, AKA, Democrat Party; seditionist Media; anarchist Liberals and socialist.

The USA could have won the war in Irag four years ago had they not adhered to the nonsense of fighting a war using the stupid requirement of "Rules of Engagement." The only rule of war is to win and be victorious. No other rule is logical or necessary.

Thankfully, the Ethiopians do not have traitors like John Kerry, Bill and Hillary Clinton, Nancy Pelosi, John Conyers, Charles Rangel and the ACLU and C.A.I.R., just to name a few. Therefore they were able to go into Somalia and destroy the religion of hate, ISLAM/ Muslims, with impunit and fight a war as wars should be fought.

The feminist influenced ethos of Political correctness has allowed our enemies to achieve victories that would never have been possible when America fought wars to win and not to appease.

The USA should take a lesson fron Ethiopia and kill, destroy and defeat the enemy in Iraq and anywhere else in the world where our survival as a nation is at risk. The USA must not be ashamed to be a nation under GOD, and must not be afraid to be number 1.
Respect is the name of the game; not the approval of the UN or any other world entity.
Even in the year 2006, as in times past, evil does exist and is alive a doing quite well. Evil never surrenders, it must be destroyed. -Mtesa Tirhaka~~~~~~~~~The captain posts: Islamists Bug Out Of Somalia
Basilsblog | Joscafe | StoptheACLU
outsidethebeltway | ConservativeCat~~~~~~~~~

Gerald Ford: Paying Respects

UPDATE 12-30-06: Our 'sky and city' was filled with the memory of a patriot, this morning...which strengthens and instills confidence that sometimes greatness is not measured by the largest sphere of political influence... Sometimes Greatness, just "IS"...

12-29-06: Just returned this evening from St. Margaret's Episcopal Church, after paying my respects to a great man, and former President, Gerald Ford. In the morning his casket will be flown on to Washington to lie in state, in the Capitol Rotunda, for others to pay their tribute...
Photo by JL: FOXEverywhere throughout our town, at the funeral, and as I drove home; I am reminded of the incredible contribution that he and family have made in our lives, communities, hospitals, and dozens of developments (both here, and in Vail.)...A carry-over of the living support he provided, when he helped to reinstill faith for our nation, in difficult times...
Photo by MB: Crews completed 12-29-06Hundreds of News crews were lined up for miles, as thousands of Ford-friends arrived... I stayed late, and many of the news-casters were folding up... Caught a picture of FOX (pictured above) by far the nicest...

Thought you might like this little tribute: CSMonitor: interview-Click-image-to-ViewGodfrey Sperling Jr., a longtime Washington bureau chief for the Monitor, began covering Gerald Ford in the 1950s when the future president was running for re-election to Congress...
The two sons of the Midwest seemed to enjoy each other's company. A picture of them chatting in the Oval Office was a feature of Sperling's office. Mr. Ford was the first US president to attend the newsmaker breakfast for reporters that Sperling hosted for 40 years, and well after the former president left office, they remained in touch. A note sent to Sperling for his 90th birthday came with "warmest regards." "That's Jerry," he said. blog posts on Gerald Ford at The Truth Laid Bear Rick Moran clears up a few things
...As does the Captain
Ford saved 700 lives as Navy lieutenant
VIDEO: Contributions which have spread "world-wide"
to help heal the Culture of America!
blog posts on link to gerald ford at The Truth Laid Bear
beltwaytrafficjam | joscafe
basilsblog | conservativecat~~~~~~

UPDATE: Saddam Executed

UPDATE: Done! Drudge reports: Saddam Hussein hanged, says Al Hurra TV station Shortly before 6 a.m. (0300 GMT) on Saturday...~~~~~~~~-Was writing this...
Much has been said...And many lives taken by Saddam loyalists who seek to return him to power or disprove the ability of a Free Iraq. Someday all tribes will find the WILL to merge, and I believe that the portion of the Arab world who continue to refute this notion, also deny that Peace is the ultimate goal. Any rough journey is greater than a destination which invalidates Freedom! Someday it will ring, but meanwhile, Saddam must go!MB: To Late to Give ChoicesAside from the need for closure for Iraq; this will be the second most important sign of Iraqi Governmental control. The first, of course, was the formation of a Free Iraqi Government. And now, we hope that the Iraqis' need to exercise the powers of their government will not be halted by a portion of the US government who "petition for Iraq's exercise to take more control” before they quickly "petition to halt their ability"...

The following posts Express:
-Mohammed (Iraq the model) says: Year 2007 will definitely be without
Saddam walking on the ground"It's going to be a long night but it looks like the
morning will bring the news Iraqis have long waited for."
-As the Captain predicted:
The Execution Is A Go For Tonight ... Perhaps
Planck's Constant: Russell's Paradox
and the Execution of Saddam Hussein
Outside the Beltway posts:
Saddam to be Hanged by Sunday *UPDATE: Tonight*The Right Nation: Sic Semper TyrannisFull updates at: Memeorandum

Russia Fuel Smear, an Iranian Influence?

Russia Belarus Gas Pricing Row Sparks Jitters in Europe
This embarrassing deadlock had an "Iranian Ahmadinejad feel" to it...So, looking into the archives...I'm Correct! But, where does this leave the Belarusians during a slow power struggle to weaken Russia? Read story!

Iran to Expand Cooperation With Belarus in All Spheres-From an earlier meeting, this year in Iran, to discuss boosting trade and economic cooperation between the two countries; Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said:

“Iran is interested in cooperation with Belarus and is ready to develop interaction in all spheres.” The Iranian leader said cooperation agreements in industry, education, science, technology and other spheres will be concluded soon.

Ahmadinejad said Belarus and Iran are powerful and independent countries having excellent relations. “Our countries decisively want to develop cooperation, and I am sure the visit by the Belarusian president will mark a new stage in bilateral relations,” he said.

As you know, Russia and Belarus are meeting to try and defuse a gas war that could threaten supplies to the EU. The spat raises new concerns about EU energy dependence on Russia...Read the Captain's: Belarus Doubles Down
With cries by Belarus of "Blackmail" yet has cost Russia more than $35 billion over the past 10 years, Belarus lies sandwiched between Russia and the European Union, as they threaten to retaliate by refusing to allow transit of Russian gas to Europe, potentially hitting supplies in Germany, Lithuania and Poland...

-Rick Moran cites a trail of mismanagement, incompetence, and corruption of governmental dealings, found within the Iranian Regime: IN IRAN, YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR~~~~~~Iran's meetings with Lukashenko, sounds like a well calculated insurance policy, while Putin grasps to keep business deals with Iran in place, during threat of sanctions... Does Iran's collaborative effort with Lukashenko, attempt to slowly weaken Russia's fuel 'strong-hold' on the region?

When Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko says he will not give in to Russian demands that it pay more for fuel, he means it. But can these people last through the winter? He told them to burn "whatever" to keep warm...but are the Belarusians in danger as he pursues other options outside of his agreement with Russia?

Most prefer a merge with Russia! Read what the Belarussians want!~~~~~~~~~
The Captain speaks of the deepening effects:
Belarus Gets The Ukrainian Treatment From Its Pal
Putin congratulated Lukashenko with his mock victory, and tried to protect his business dealings together with Iran...Have Iranian interventions placed Russia in a Difficult position? Security sanctions take on a whole different meaning...
blog posts on Belarus at The Truth Laid Bear
beltwaytrafficjam | joscafe
basilsblog | conservativecat~~~~~~

Belarus to Impose Russia Media Blackout

With the Russia/Belarus failure to reach an agreement on a new gas price for Minsk, Thursday... Lukashenko, known for his hard-line towards restricting media and information flows, & violating the rights of the Belarusians; Begins Jan 1, 2007, imposing a blockade on all Russian media...
(Minsk sources reveal on Friday)...Белоруссия намерена объявить блокаду российских СМИ?HT-Ivan Lenin Image: LJ user nomad-3px This seems very complicated...But the first question:
Does Minsk Stand A Chance In Gas War With Gazprom? Belarus' failure to honor its commitments under the oil agreement of 1995 has cost Russia more than $35 billion over the past 10 years...

This is more than Belarus' annual GDP. Gazprom's losses from Minsk's failure to abide by the package agreement of 2002 (under which it would buy gas at domestic Russian prices in exchange for the set up of a joint gas shipment venture) amounted to some $10 billion...
Russian-Belarusian deadlockThe unilateral interpretation of bilateral agreements sooner or later leads to a crisis in relations and to a deadlock. The first victim of this crisis has been trust between the two countries' leaderships...But see what is at stake here for Putin:
The Captain explains:
Belarus Doubles Down"The Russians have the ball in their court now, and they have to decide whether losing 20% of their revenue this year and possibly losing all influence in Belarus is worth the price hikes and the shakedown racket that Putin wants to implement."
Fuel War: Failure to reach CompromiseGazprom spokesman Sergei Kupriyanov confirms the concession to Belarus:

"We have agreed to the most comfortable conditions for Belarus," Kupriyanov said on December 27. "We want to obtain 50 percent [of Beltranshaz], not control over it, and we are [offering] a price that is even higher than the market one."

Of course, Putin's current decision toward unification of Russia:
Putin: Union state of Russia
and Belarus long overdue
And this for: Belarus- Lukashenka Eyes Union With Ukraine
-Snippets according to RIA Novosti:

"If there is no progress in talks on gas or any other source of conflict, Lukashenko may face a full-scale Russian-Belarusian crisis on January 1..."A cut-off of fuel in the dead of winter"
Part of the Belarusian opposition may then go over to Lukashenko's side, and he may even get political support from Central Europe."

blog posts on Belarus at The Truth Laid Bear beltwaytrafficjam | joscafe
basilsblog | conservativecat~~~~~~

U.S. Dollar: Turbulence or Calm "Shared"

FNB economist Cees Bruggemans is positive about what the economy has in store for us next year...And gives: Five scenarios for 2007, one outcome "After the reality shock of the second quarter when rand and
global asset markets suddenly encountered selling pressure...# Markell Ltd-06; Current CurrencyAn interesting article on the US Dollar decline assessment:

The perils of a currency crash are not nearly as great as they were in the days of the dollar's absolute dominance 30 or 40 years ago. Globalization has led to the development of a number of growth centers in the world economy which share the burden of turbulence. Gone are the days when an American finance minister could boast: "The dollar is our currency, but it's your problem."

Article translated from the German by Christopher Sultan -A Spiegel article By Christian Reiermann asks:
How Dangerous is the Dollar Drop?The US currency's role as a lead currency isn't as important as it used to be, currency experts and the German government say.
Excerpt: "The Americans, for their part, welcomed foreign investment. For them, it was almost a tradition to save very little and spend more than they earned -- essentially achieving affluence on credit. Foreigners financed the Americans' almost obsessive consumer spending, which spurred worldwide economic growth for years." European info...Alex Serkov- 06; "Young Euro"-View Chart of: Value of Euro in Dollar terms
with German exports by region"The Future is in Futures" by Pearce Financial, LLC: Trade Alert: Short Euro currency
Long Swiss Franc Spread~~~~~~~~~~Other financial News:
Financial Times: NYSE vote approves Euronext deal" Rival efforts to create the first transatlantic exchange and industry champions in Europe and the US have also left regulators with a tough task in overseeing a rapidly-evolving sector."~~~~~~~~~~US stocks surge
"“What you’re seeing is window dressing, people want to finish up the year looking like they own the best names,” said Philip S. Dow." ~~~~~~~~~~Steve Verdon (outsidethebeltway) posts:
Good News In the Housing Market
Providing the latest info, an excellent link, and a caution.
Can the bull keep running? They are suggesting: "Invest abroad and diversify. Our experts think the resource boom can't last forever."~~~~~~~~~~ joscafe | basilsblog | ConservativeCat
womanhonorthyself (thanks for link!)

Villains Alone: Forging the Wild Frontier

RETRACTION: They're not alone... They have thugs, terrorists, and world rejects; as they threaten to stop payment on (and halt) current business dealings...This has never been about an "inherent philosophy"...It is about sending an entire culture "packing" under threat of a nuclear bomb......And a new era to usher in "Villains with bombs."
Entirely odd as it might seem… The Iranian Regime insists upon maintaining its position to forge ahead, and today (Dec 27, 2006) the Iranian Parliament has voted to accelerate this enrichment process, amidst the World's “Completely reasonable set of requests.” These requests were not designed to halt the program (per say) but stop enrichment in the midst of “removal of Israel” threats...
Iran's Parliament has also voted to revise dealings
with the International Atomic Energy Agency. There is a bit of "Terror" in this, reminiscent of Iraqi destabilization... I guess their PR is only used to destabilize neighbors; and not to build a place in honor amongst the world community.~~~~~~~~~~A must read by Inthebullpen: Iran is Already at War with the West
Another must read by the Captain: So The Message Got Delivered, Then
"An internal removal of the mullahcracy and the establishment of a real democracy offers the safest and most effective path to prevent nuclear proliferation"
~~~~~~~~~~outsidethebeltway | joscafe | basilsblog
ConservativeCat

Gerald Ford: Never to be Forgotten

Gerald Ford, the oldest living President (93) passed away, Tuesday... It was during his term, Gerald Ford, sought to reconcile Americans with their presidency, after the 1974 resignation of Richard Nixon (man to far right) And went on to be defeated in the next Presidential election by J.Carter (pictured to the left)... Sadly, Reagan (to Carter's right shoulder) would develop Alzheimer's...G. Bush Sr. (further to Reagan's right) Remembers -ALL-AFP- NEWSPAPER internet; Gerald Ford (4-R)Standing shoulder to shoulder, in front of the Reagan library in Simi Valley on November 4, 1991 by AFP...An American Presidential span of over thirty years...Gerald Ford, will always be remembered by friends, as a decent and kind human being...We honor him today, in Vail; and here in Rancho Mirage. He touched the lives of all of us...And will never be forgotten.~~~~~~~~~~Others post tributes:Rick Moran describes Gerald Ford, as I have... The reason? Because just as we (the residents who lived around him) he too, has met Ford
Moran's post: A GOOD AND DECENT MAN
Don Surber honors Ford and has a line-up of tributes:
Gerald Ford: Profile in courage
The Captain: poses a an interesting question
Michelle has additional political info!
Chris Lawrence's excellent (must view) post at Outsidethebeltway:
(And has an HUGE line-up; some of whom I've already included, too)
~Gerald Ford, RIP~
-Complete coverage at memeorandum~~~~~~~~~~~~

UN Post: Ban Ki- Moon Takes Oath

If 192 Nations are to find unification and create a better world for future generations; this man will soon have the task of enabling it to be so. Sworn in today, Ban-Ki-Moon, the future U. N. Secretary General...Pictured here amidst a South-Korean Round of applause, in Seoul.
Jacques-AFP: Ban-Ki-Moon
UN Secretary General- 07-View Full Text of Speech
A post so vital amidst today’s militant conflicts, massive displacements, and a World by which many global treaties have collapsed...Somewhere between bias, loss of integrity, and mishandling of billions($) intended for the poor; this organization has failed to meet the mark for the 21st century.

A few highlights of his speech, today:

Member States need a dynamic and courageous Secretariat, not one that is passive and risk-averse. The time has come for a new day in relations between the Secretariat and Member States. The dark night of distrust and disrespect has lasted far too long. We can begin by saying what we mean, and meaning what we say.

We cannot change everything at once. But we can build progress in a few areas, and so make way for progress in many more. That will require intensive and continuous dialogue. It will require us to work together transparently, flexibly and honestly. And it will require us to start with an open mind. Today, I ask both colleagues and Member States to work with me in that spirit. You have the right to expect the same of me....

By strengthening the three pillars of the United Nations -- security, development and human rights -- we can build a more peaceful, more prosperous and more just world for our succeeding generations. As we pursue our collective endeavor to reach that goal, my first priority will be to restore trust. I will seek to act as a harmonizer and bridge-builder. And I hope to become known to all of you -- Member States or Secretariat -- as a Secretary-General who is accessible, hard-working, and prepared to listen attentively.

~~~~~~~~~joscafe | outsidethebeltway | ConservativeCat

Wisdom and Mystery of Ayasofya Museum

"Jesus increased in wisdom and stature and grace" (Luke 2:52) "But wisdom is justified of all her children" (Luke 7:35)
The name of this structure is "Holy Wisdom"...Through-out the centuries it had served as a Catholic Church, then a Mosque...And now, after completion; visitors enter its beautiful doors, as a museum...Read more
"Holy Wisdom" Museum in Istanbul; Constantinople
(Click-to-enlarge)After awakening this Christmas morning, I remember having dreamt of a huge pink Church... Searching online...I found it! The only differences were minimized pillars surrounding, and at the very center... a damaged gold leaf (dome topple) was arched to an enormous steep oval cathedral...

A writing in Wikipedia tells of the incredible history of this structure's voyage from Catholicism, to Islam, to Museum. And thousands of years later, it seems that the journey of civilization still continues along, in these loops...

"Once the seat of the Orthodox patriarch of Constantinople and a principal setting for Byzantine imperial ceremonies; and was severely damaged several times by earthquakes. The dome collapsed after an earthquake in 558; its replacement fell in 563. There were additional partial collapses in 989 after which an Armenian architect named Trdat was commissioned to repair the damage. During the Latin Occupation (1204-1261) the church became a Roman Catholic cathedral. After the Turks invaded Constantinople, Hagia Sophia was converted to a mosque in 1453. In 1935, under the orders of Turkish president Kemal Atatürk, Hagia Sophia was turned into the Ayasofya Museum." Full history

Because Islam tends away from representational imagery, many mosaics were destroyed and others were covered with plaster. The Ottoman Sultans, however, periodically removed the plaster to service and maintain the mosaics, before re-plastering. The walls of the nave bearing the names of Muhammad and the first caliphs destroyed many of the original mosaics...

(Romans 11:33-34). "We speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory" (1 Cor. 2:7).

Dashing Through the Snow!

My goodness... Look at them all!... 25, to be exact :)
I always thought that these were reindeer... but I guess not. Especially after seeing the reindeer film over at -VIDEO- 800 lb Gorilla!!! Brace yourself, now... lol

~~~~ Merry Christmas to All ~~~~

Visit Adamsblog: Carnival of Christmas II~~~~~~~~joscafe | basilsblog
Jay at: stoptheACLU
womanhonorthyself | outsidethebeltway
And a very uplifting post by : DonSurber

Hezbollah Crimes: A Legal Record

Several pending (or finalized) lawsuits around the World community are designed to create a Legal record of the crimes of Jihad armies of Iran; merged onto all corners of the globe. Although families are left to the task of tracking down and collecting court settlements from Iranian government's frozen assets; the facts, proven evidence, and court trials become a public record of History, by which crimes of the jihadist group's state sponsors, are recorded.

-Canadian PM accuses Hamas, Hezbollah, of genocide
-Iran owes $254 mn to victims of 1996 attack
-Bush signs anti-Hamas law
-U. N. Human Rights Council to charge Hezbollah?
"For Hezbollah’s military operations in Lebanese civilian areas."
-Security Council Approves Iran Sanctions
-Correction: by Allahpundit (And another perspective at bottom of post)
-UN Approves meaningless sanctions on Iran
-Flight: direct violation of the Lebanese law
-Syria preparing the border for war- "death traps"
-Continue to Beware of Martyrs Battalions in gulf
~~~~~~Meanwhile: Friends in Nigeria, Auz, Balarus, US, UK:We are a few of the Regions of the World who take stands, and remain the most vulnerable. We continue to be on the look-out for small groups that might do harm, and question the validity of propaganda as it unfolds. The jihadist ministate group's state sponsor, Iran, has found a way to divide our countries (But only if we let them.)~~~~~~On Thursday: 21 December 2006, 23:56
According to Saed Bannoura - IMEMC (& Agencies)
Hezbollah: “Portuguese plane arrived from Tel Aviv to Beirut"
Al Manar TV, run by the Lebanon-based Hezbollah party, reported that the party is in possession of documents that state that a Portuguese military plane carrying eleven passengers, who remained unidentified, made a direct flight from Tel Aviv to Beirut.
The party said that this flight was the first of its kind in the history of Lebanon and is considered a direct violation of the Lebanese law. The plane, according to the report, landed in Beirut on November 21, which is the same day when the Lebanese Minister of Industry, Pierre Gemayel, was assassinated.

Lebanese officials said that all direct flights from Tel Aviv to Beirut are illegal according to the Lebanese law, and that all flights from Tel Aviv to Lebanon must fly through a third place, which is usually Lamaka, Cyprus whic his one frequently used destination Story~~~~~~joscafe | basilsblog
outsidethebeltway | Conservativecat
Update
-Allahpundit posts full info: Judge renders $254 million
verdict against Iran for Khobar Towers bombing
-An interesting perspective on the UN Sanctions...
Inthebullpen posts- Three Quick Items of Interest:"The measure seems to be aimed at forcing the hand
of Tehran back to the negotiation table, something
Tehran doesn’t seem at all interested in."StoptheACLU:
Responsibility for Khobar Towers
Attack Falls on Iran~~~~~~

Ayman al Zawahiri: Looks to the Left

It appears that every nation, which has been attacked by Al Qaeda, has gone on to elected a terror-appeasing government...The new US Congress stance and push for "restricting US Defense funding" or "cut-backs" during War, runs pretty close to this trend...It's the big mistake, the wrong message, and serves to diminish the stance against terror...
Al Qaeda Sends a Message to Democrats: Deranged jihadist, Zawahri, can count on Liberal representatives to continue the grilling of current war policy; in their quest for restriction of a desperately needed funding, to protect our troops in Iraq. This confidence has been deadly for Iraqis and our troops!
CNN WAS THERE! (If only Zawahiri still was)
1981- Dr. Zawahiri Wants out!-Here's a few Zawahiri reflections:
LGF: Al Qaeda to Democrats: We Won When You Won
"Zawahri calls on the Democrats to negotiate with he and Osama bin Laden, not others in the Islamic world; who Zawahri says cannot help."

The captain posts: To Democrats: You're Not All That
"We have to remember that Zawahiri, like any delusional psychopaths, the AQ jihadis claim credit for everything under the sun."

-And What's this? SF Gate believes that Laden may have had a:
"Nip and tuck?
-Allah Pundit gives a few answers for this:
Zawahiri to Democrats: You owe us
-For terrorist outcasts who align with our Nov. elections-
Wizbang posts: Al Qaeda's Message to the Democrats
-Jay at stoptheaclu says:
Al Qaeda Sends a Message to Democrats"How about that? Al Qaeda thinks the defeat of the Republican party in the election was a victory and are reaching out to their fellow democrats to surrender!"~~~~~~~~FAST FACT: The U.S. has established a reward of $25 million for information leading to his capture. He is believed to be in Iranian control...

The World Doth Protest Little (too late?)

If you are in Nigeria, Italy, France, Lebanon, or specific Eastern Europe locations, pay close attention to the direction of these Islamists' Coups!~~~~~~UPDATE: MOGADISHU:

Somali Islamists claimed to have captured a frontline position from Ethiopian-backed government forces while the embattled Somali prime minister warned that foreign "terrorists" had joined the ranks of the Islamic forces. Prime Minister Ali Mohamed Gedi said that 4,000 "foreign fighters" had taken advantage of the conflict to infiltrate the lawless country. "This shows how terrorists are gaining ground in Somalia, so we are calling on the international community to be aware of what is happening in Somalia," he added.

~~~~~~Right now, these "take-overs" leave otherwise very decent rulers silenced, to avoid the fall of their Governments...(So they just wait.) I am not sure that the "turning inside-out" of civilization can be stopped... But if time and geography, should place this scourge on your door-step, I pray for your strength.
Somali Islamists urge Muslim fighters to join jihadAfter four days of clashes between Islamist forces and pro-government troops...Dozens have been killed and hundreds wounded. Thousands of civilians openly targeted by Islamists and forced to flee their homes!...

These Militias (above) pictured with their new weapons; have just defected from the transitional federal government of Somalia, to join the movement's "holy war" against Ethiopia. Many were either forced to fight, or simply followed the chance of food for survival...And forget about aid reaching the starving and suffering of this country...(as planned.)
Thousands flee as war escalates in SomaliaIraqi Shiites seize Sunni neighborhoods in Baghdad'Turkish Hezbollah' issuing terror threats
Iran and Syria, jihadist ministate group's
state sponsors now march in Beruit
A Palestinian State, Sovereignty of Lebanon, Christians of Somalia, or Government of Iraq, are of ZERO IMPORTANCE to the Militant Islamists. Many just can't see this yet...
Chad at inthebullpen has this: Allah Hates Ethiopia"Why is Allah so hateful? Allah must be to call for jihad against all of these nations, the residents therein and even those who follow his chosen faith of Islam and don’t wage war for him."
Primordial Precepts: The Bi-polar Wars
Interesting posts concerning Terrorist Propaganda:
Inthebullpen:Zawahiri Singled Out England,
but Still Needs a History Book
Allahpundit: UK cops alarmed by jihadi
Internet chatter urging holiday strike
beltwaytrafficjam | joscafe
basilsblog | conservativecat

Iran: The Cost Without Ratification

The Iranian Regime's continued reluctance to take the necessary time and cooperation, needed to safely secure enrichment within this technology, is difficult to understand. And so typical is their leadership's attempt to "twist" the World's need for regulation, by making their request "the culprit."
Stovsky-06; Iranian Nuclear Program -BushehrEuropeans push for vote on Iran resolution by weekend A majority of World powers have remained with an enormous obligation to hold Iran accountable, in order to uphold the safety of this technology. Coupled with Iran's threats of annihilating Israel, threats of retaliation towards those who support sanctions, and Straits of Hormuz, closure...A re-think of sanctions have faced constant vetoes by those with Iranian business dealings...

Targeting a freeze to 11 entities, involved in Iran's sensitive nuclear and missile programs, Ahmadinejad said:

"The bullying powers today, in confronting Iran's peaceful nuclear technology, are faced with a sea of courageous people," he added in a speech in Gilan-e Gharb town, in Iran's western Kermanshah province."

Russia wants delay in vote on Iran sanctions at UNThe $800 million light-water reactor (built by Russia for Tehran) at Bushehr; is claimed to be "exempted in the resolution"... Last month a Russian underground site indicated that Russia is waiting to receive further payment from Iran... When I returned to this site, the post had been removed! I can only imagine the difficulty at which Russia might be facing, when dealing with Iran. ~~~~~~~~ ASSETS FREEZE: Russian diplomats have said that they want to dilute the resolution's demand for a freeze of financial assets of a list of Iranian companies and called for a distinction between legal and illegal activities of these firms...
The resolution says these firms could still access funds for legal activities governed by prior contacts but Russia apparently wanted to remove the word "prior."

"I do not think there is going to be a vote tomorrow (Friday)," Moscow's U.N. ambassador, Vitaly Churkin, told reporters in a recess during the talks among the six nations. "Maybe Saturday, yes, but clearly we will need tomorrow for further thinking and maybe further discussions of the draft resolution," Churkin said...More

Participants in the talks reported, on condition of anonymity, that Russian President Vladimir Putin was himself conducting consultations in Moscow.~~~~~~~~joscafe | basilsblog | ConservativeCat| Beltwaytrafficjam

Iraq: World resisted Peace-Keeping Efforts

Who didn't notice when the Iraqis became living, breathing testimony (against all odds) of a people successfully removed from, dictatorial rule to sovereign nation? I distinctly recall that it was the politics of one half of the nation of Iraq's liberators, who only had eyes to build platform for a Whitehouse return.

Not to worry...58 percent and 70 percent of eligible Iraqi voters, dodged bullets as they continued to turn out for the elections (January - December 2005)... Who couldn't see that every moment of their new-found sovereignty and establishment of Iraqi constitution, they fought the LABEL: "illegal war."
Markan-UK Dec. 19th; Defending Their Survival
At such time after Saddam's removal and de-Baathification was complete; a new level of militarization in this war, spelled its shift into a full int'l peace-keeping effort...The challenge against effort, thwarted the peace-keeping, and prevented a full int'l support. Could it have prevented the current tragedy?

I believe that the effort of Iraqi Freedom was humble; and in the background the least humble intention was the formation of 'Islamic States.' But now, as the Iranian Revolutionary Guard have infiltrated the institutions of the Iraqi state (once again forming a 'state within a state')...We see destabilized governments, and our soldiers fighting 5 enemies at once! al-qa`ida, the loyalists to the ex-president, the criminals,
the sectarian militias and the domestic insurgents
Allahpundit has more about the various insurgents in Iraq
More of today's Iraq Posts

James Joyner posts: White House and Joint
Chiefs Clash Over More Troops
Meanwhile, is there not a single country in the
World who is not at war with Radical Islamists? Jihadwatch: Neighboring Thai villages at center
of violence between Muslims, Buddhists
Iraqslogger posts : VIDEO: Exposed: Sadr's Ramblings, AnxietiesEmbarrassing Leaked Video Shows Sadr, Deputies Bickering "The Video came one day after the Pentagon identified his Mahdi Army as eclipsing al Qaeda in Iraq as "the most dangerous accelerant" of violence in that country. (Arabic) Nir Rosen gives the translation."

Basilsblog: Iraq War Refugees Trapped in Limbo~~~~~~~~ConservativeCat | joscafe | womanhonorthyself

Return of the Cultural Protectionists

Interesting article by George F. Will: Dimwitted Nod to 'Diversity' explains the pernicious idea of "interculturality" found in the: Protection from English-language cultural standardisation...
~~~~~~~~A little more by George F; as he explains:

All bromides are banal, but not all banalities are harmless. The convention on diversity is an attempt to legitimize cultural protectionism, and to cloak it in Orwellian rhetoric praising what the convention actually imperils -- the autonomy of culture left free to flower and evolve without the supervision of governments.

Organized by France and Canada, UNESCO Diversity, was approved last year by 148 of 154 members of the U. N. educational, scientific and cultural organization, much to the objection by the US (with Israel)...And 4 countries of whom abstained...

With 30 ratifications needed and soon to be formally submit; Denmark, Slovenia, Estonia, Cyprus, Austria, Lithuania, Sweden, Bulgaria, Luxembourg, Malta, Finland, Spain, Slovakia, as well as the European Union, agree and hold interest in, and to affirm the sovereign right of nations to “protect and promote the diversity of cultural expressions.” ~~~~~~~~George F. Will says:

By elsewhere defining cultural goods and services as crucially unlike goods and services that are "solely" economic, the convention implicitly establishes that cultural protectionism is not inhibited by standard free-trade agreements. And, worse, it leaves latitude for individual nations to declare some goods -- wine, coffee, textiles -- as cultural "expressions," hence eligible for protectionist measures.

Hollywood films earn 65 percent of the French box office -- and 90 percent in the rest of Europe. Canada has fretted about Canadians reading U.S. magazines that absorb Canadian advertising dollars. China and many African and Latin American countries think as France does. But Mexico, Brazil and Venezuela are exporters of soap operas...read more!

~~~~~~~~basilsblog | joscafe
Beltwaytrafficjam | RightWingNation
ConservativeCAt

Reconciliation: Hopes for Strength in Iraq

Successful attendance at the reconciliation conference in Baghdad...With ideas to be presented before Parliament...

The conference included the secret arrival of Tony Blair, who expressed his support for his counterpart Nouri Al-Maliki, and engaged in discussions with President Jalal Talabani... After which, Blair Left to Basra (South) where he supported the courage of the 7100 British soldiers, deployed in the area...

...Although Blair still faces growing pressure
to withdraw the British quota in Iraq.~~~~~~~~Proposed, were a series of “recommendations” by Mr. Maliki; outlining the return to the army by former members of the Baath party (single ex-party under the mode of Saddam Hussein.) This proposal was designed to unite and meet the best interests of Peace and reconciliation, amongst all those who will contribute to the stability of the Iraqi government...
~~~~~~~~
The Captain has this:

"De-Baathification had its uses in the early days of occupation, but it has been a stumbling block for quite a while now. The Iraqis need to reconcile all of its internal factions to create a working civil society and to rebuild its infrastructure."

According to AFP who quotes the spokesman:

The various proposals made with the conference “are declarations of good intention which still remain to be implemented”, however recognized Nasser Al-Ani, spokesman of the conference. “Only one important practical measurement was recommended”, which must be still presented by Mr. Maliki before the Parliament, “it is the payment of significant pensions to the former soldiers”, explained Mr. Ani.

~~~~~~~~More Iraq news:
Don Surber posts this excellent article:
Newsweek reporter: 'Iraqis are more optimistic
about the future than most Americans are'
And read this post at outsidethebeltway:
Is Iraq a Democracy?
(James Joyner posts what the State Department
determines to be 'The Pillars of Democracy')
Iraq: Political Parties Consider Uniting Against Al-Sadr "We call for resolving the militia issue, which is
certainly the key to defusing the crisis."
Allahpundit gives us: surprising info about Iraq
Rice reflects: "If you are at all responsible for the decision to overthrow Saddam Hussein, you feel a personal responsibility
for what's going on there every day," "she said.~~~~~~~~ConservativeCat | Perri Nelson's website ~~~~~~~~

Iranian Elections: Moderate Shift

Beware of ridiculing one man's failure...It just might be your own.~~~~~~~~The Parliament lists partisans of Ahmadinejad, having obtained only three seats out of the fifteen of the town council of the capital, paving a very clear victory of former president, Centrist Cleric Akbar Hachémi Rafsandjani...
Let's review the philosophies of Cleric Rafsandjani:Jaiveed-06; Rafsandjani & Khamenei exchange differencesAs former president of the Islamic Republic of Iran of 1989 to 1997, Ali Akbar Hachemi Rafsandjani has always said, “I am against extremism and I always reject it." During all my life I was in favor of moderation.”
And so, with this election, small steps begin at which a climate of apathy might be allowed to slowly replace extremists’ values.

Rafsandjan speaks of a "population in a worrying situation of weakening of the values, dignity and individual regard, a situation of precariousness of the means of existence”, threatening “national safety and the rights and fundamental freedoms”... and says that he will want to increase the participation of the women to the public life, that it swears us all its large gods who it does not know about the inhuman punishments such as the lapidation, the execution and scourging imposed to the Iranian women... Read -Article Translated from French :)~~~~~~~~~
The Iranian student's hands were tied, amidst Ayatollah Khamenei (see video)...Even as he sought to justify the imprisonment of thousands of students, journalists, and bloggers, while rallying support for neighboring military destabilizations...This government's repressive policies towards the media (above all, the restrictions and judicial harassment) must... END!
The only way to end the current deadlock in Iranian/US
differences, is by the shift of the reformers of moderation!
-Other input around the net:
-Read this excellent post by Rick Moran: Pragmatists Gaining Ground in Iran Rick reminds us that: "While the regime manipulates the election, Ahmadinejad is not without his own ability to fiddle with the vote."

Another dose of reality:
James Joyner (outsidethebeltway)...
Ahmadinejad Supporters Lose in Local Elections"Were Iran a democracy, this would be significant news indeed."

And also views at Perri Nelson's Website:
A Decisive Defeat for Ahmadinejad
And while the students, dangerously come forth:The Captain posts: Dissent In Iran And Its Aftermath"This week, the same students have gone
on the run, in fear of the Iranian president."
Allahpundit at Hotair posts: Iranian students in hiding
after heckling Ahmadinejad
Inthebullpen posts: Iran Cracks Down on Student Protestors
"The international community that cares about regime change in Iran must respond and show those students who are targeted are important figures."~~~~~~~~~

Hamas: A Vote will Explode the Region

Militant Islamists are claiming that a: Call for vote will explode the regionNever mind that everywhere you look there is the same "bleak" picture of "thug losers" with heavy artillery, exchanging rounds in the streets...And of whose factional violence this year, have claimed over 320 Palestinian lives...
Ryamed-06; "Haniya fears his own shadow!"
(And it's no wonder.)The captain has this to say: The Real Civil War (Updated)"Perhaps this is the only way in which the Palestinians will get tired of war. It's unfortunate, because this could have been resolved a decade ago if Yasser Arafat had the courage to accept Ehud Barak's two-state solution."

Now this morning we are told:Palestine factions agree on ceasefire "The accord was confirmed by Hamas spokesman Ismail Radwan, who told AFP that the ceasefire pact stipulates that "armed men must stop circulating on the streets."

The Palestinian's long string of 'no-result' during over half a century of warring: Arafat (PLO) and Hamas; and now, Abbas (PLO) and Hamas...leave me to wonder how the Palestinians can still believe that rocket launchings against Israel, and mis-management by militant leadership, can ever hope to bring result...And what percentage of success towards their state, have they been given by groups who fight amongst themselves without addressing Israel's proposals? ~~~~~~~~~~
And as Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniya arrived back home in Gaza City, earlier this week (following a tour of Arab countries and Iran.) He is said to have collected commitments for the Palestinians... (One really has to wonder what percentage of monies donated to the Palestinians, will actually reach the Palestinians.)~~~~~~~~~~
Insidethebullpen remarks about: Fatah Border Guard Ambushes
Hamas Palestinian Prime Minister"That’s odd Sudan would give money to Hamas when there are refugee camps filled with people who could better use the funds."
Joscafe | basilsblog
AllahPundit posts: Abbas calls for elections,
pushing Palis towards civil war
And gives the possible outcomes!
A Blog for All posts:
The Ceasefire that Never Was
"Just remember, you cannot call this
a civil war until Matt Lauer does."
Prosandcons posts: The Palestinian “Authority”
has rapidly maturing voters.
LGF: World's Shortest Ceasefire Ends, AP Shills ~~~~~~~~~~For once, I would like to see the Palestinian people gain more voice, to pull this conflict away from warring militants, as they reach an agreement with Israel.~~~~~~~~~~

Sending a Little Joy!

MB- Wrapping, cooking and decorating!As you are going about preparing for the Holiday, try to think of someone that you know who will be alone this Holiday, and send a little Christmas Joy their way!
And if you are that person, get out & spend the holiday with someone less fortunate as yourself! :) Just take a look around the earth as see how fortunate you truly are! ~~~~~~~~A Few Last-minute locations:
To get time-lines on last minute packages
Send a bouquet or centerpiece: 1-800-flowers
Better send it now: 3 days left: Harry & David
Arrange to have your packages picked up: FED EX
Live 365: Every type of Christmas Music imaginable! ~~~~~~~~jos cafe | basils | outsidethebeltway
stoptheACLU | Conservativecat ~~~~~~~~

UAE Holds First FNC Elections

UPDATE: Amal Abdallah Al-Koubaïssi! The election of a woman to the national Council federal CNF of the plain Arab Emirates marked Saturday the first legislative poll in the history of this monarchy of the Gulf, a small step on the way of a very controlled opening! :)
Ablel Mohal- 06; History is made in UAE!
ABU DHABI: For the first time in history, those selected by the rulers of the seven emirates (which make up the UAE) went to the polls to choose half of the country's Federal National Council or FNC!~~~~~~~~~~~~The seats are contested by 439 candidates, including 65 women, while the other 20 members are nominated by the emirate rulers after the polls...
Ablel Mohal- 06; History is made in UAE!
Although only a tiny percentage of the population have been invited to vote at these elections, the government has been keen to point out that this is a starting point on the route to broader political participation... Poll Locations were: Dubai, Ras al-Khaima,
al-Sharja, Ajman, Umm al-Quain and al-Fujaira~~~~~~~~~~~~
Welcoming Changes in the Middle EastPerhaps the perception of Democracy as a "policy of the west" has been far more detrimental to Middle-Eastern Arab's acceptance, than the actual "Democracy" itself… To remove this western label, one only has to consider the tens of millions around the globe, of EVERY CULTURE, who currently live under their own form of democratic government.

Now, Saudi Arabia too, has lifted restrictions to allow Women to vote and run in chamber of commerce elections...Changes for the Kingdom, are as gradual and welcome for the Saudi people, as were in the first stages of all Democracy. (United Kingdom etc.)
Perhaps King Abdullah, will decide to take to
vote a 'Middle Eastern version below:
This may solve a desperate need to end militant conflicts in Iraq (by restoring law and order) and also enable a sound arbitration towards King's Peace plan for Palestine. A move which would enable US to disengage its position (and clear up several inaccuracies, too.)~~~~~~~~~~~~Tags: King Abdullah | Saudi Arabia
Sultan bin Fahd bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud
Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud
Prince Turki Al-Fasial
Prince Abdel-Rahman | Bandar bin Sultan~~~~~~~~~~~~ Joscafe | Basilsblog | Beltwaytrafficjam

Primordial Precepts: The Bi-polar Wars

Allow Friends at gozerog to provide music for this post!
(Below) a few 4D insights on Wars and Earth changes:
An interesting Video by Science Journal, shows the details of a completed analysis of last year's captured stardust comet particles...View: VIDEO Stardust Samples
Tiny solar-system particles once thought to be from ancient stars having exploded and died...Are now found to be hot particles from the inner solar system migrated out to the cold!...A long held Scientific belief of our distant outer origins, becomes "re-discovered" as primordial material! (as if the solar system has turned itself inside out.)
Similar with my insight on Earth changes. Many believe that we are negatively impacting the survival of Earth; but I believe that from a higher level, many here have outgrown the earth. In fact, I can see a connection of how the evolution of the Earth seems to be directly affecting a bi-polar human struggle.

The least civilized and least developed of our planet now merge forward, focused on an in-ward growth struggle of impatience, desperation, intolerance.. But cannot find their place in modern civilization! And we who have merged and grown in Modern civilization are free intellectually, but trapped physically, yet unable to travel beyond this violent (primitive) dance!

THE CONFLICT: A more developed man believes he holds complete creative and corrective powers over our massive and mysterious 'holding-station' Earth; while the primal man feels he may only effect its destruction!

Granted, our civilization has a far wider gauge of which measures its violence; but who can deny the seeds of the Earth and Earth changes, have positioned tribes and societies toward their efforts for survival...

Earth must be their lesson nowEarth changes will force as many to leave, as will colonize away from Earth...Some of us will teach the Primal Modern man to create before they destroy.(^__^) But we cannot stop Evolution in any Political format!

An interesting "Invisible Mountain" study As scientists continue research in order to gauge the effects of global climate change, they are beginning to look closely at conditions beneath Earth's ice sheets, which are said to cover roughly 15 percent of the planet. Just as the surface ice has morphed over its 2.7 million-year life, the world beneath the ice has likely evolved. Jeanna Bryner reveals an interesting "twist" to environmental issues: Invisible Mountains Revealed under Greenland Ice Using the same NASA GISMO technology to map ice sheets on Mars... Read more about:
The opposite poles of environmental research
Check back for: The ominous Earth cycle of geomagnetic reversal!
-Coming right up! :D -M.B.
Previous posts:Stardust to Drop Cargo Stardust: Cosmic Samples Earth Survival: Quest Beneath the Sea Earth Impact: Examining Sumatra quake 21st Century: New Age of Discovery K. Peninsula's Ring of FireNASA: Docking with the ISS!
Visit Dr. Sanity: Carnival of the insanities!
~~~~~~ConservativeCat | Joscafe | Basilsblog
Beltwaytrafficjam | perri nelson's website
womanhonorthyself

Sandhurst Academy: Royal Graduate

My father is British, and I was raised with a fond respect for the Royal Family. Today: Prince William is said to have become a Military Graduate .
Adrian Dennis (AFP/AFP)December 16, 2006 01:31am
A graduate from the elite Sandhurst military academy Military School, and a now army officer, to launch his military career....

The second in line to the throne 2nd Lieutenant William Wales. pictured here with his Queen Grandmum; ElizabethII...On this day she told the Cadets,
"This is a milestone day...which will stay forever in your minds."

~~~~~~~~... And only one day after a British police inquiry gave its final ruling on Princess Diana's death, in a high-speed car crash in Paris in 1997. ~~~~~~Maybe the Iraqis will begin to improve:
Iraqis Adapt British Military Academy as Model
RUSTAMIYAH, Iraq, May 26, 2006 – They call it "Sandhurst in the Sand." The Iraqi military academy here is modeled after Britain's Sandhurst Royal Military Academy, in Camberley, Surrey, and it has begun turning out officers for the new Iraqi army. Read more
Other Royalty Posts:
The Lovely Poltimore Tiara
Another Day, Another Knight
A Palace Launching
Mandatory Qur'an ~~~~~~-Other posts of England:
Jagger- Respect For China
Space Travel- & Hawking's Copley Metal
Hawking: Space Colonization Needed ~~~~~~ConservativeCat | Joscafe | Basilsblog
Beltwaytrafficjam | perri nelson's website
womanhonorthyself

Karzai: Courage in the Middle East

Concerning Men of Power, in our World today... We see Leaders of the Middle East who are opposed to Terrorists, but discretely challenge the threat from a "protected middle ground." Today, this philosophy fails to provide stability and protection for ones nation...Instead, we ALL have to work together to disolve terror.

"If one holds a Brotherhood to Terror"
One remains "a Brother to Terror"~~~View the VIDEO story Below!~~~
President Hamid Karzai (below/left) is a man beyond Kings...
And remains one of the most Courageous men of today's Middle East.Image: DYLAN MARTINEZ; - View Photo Gallery
CAPTION ABOVE: Hamid Karzai greets the former King of Afghanistan, Mohammad Zahir Shah, after receiving a Koran from the king outside his residence on the outskirts of Rome, December 18, 2001. The former King resisted all efforts to be returned to power; and supported Hamid Karzai for President of Afghanistan.

-KARZAI EXPLAINS WHAT REALLY HAPPENED, TO
BRING U.S. TROOPS TO THE CALL FOR LIBERATION:
-View this wonderful story (tiny clips) or go here.
VIDEO 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5
- 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10 -
(Quick Time Movie) NATO and US: A call to Aid Afghanistan It's a long trail to RID Terror, but we must 'walk the walk' and hold firm ground, while providing terrorists with no other path to take, but to dissolve... Inside of every culture and religion; THIS remains the goal of the entire Earth...
Today, we out-number Terror Groups, "millions to 1".
How can the World deny our combined strength?
Karzai Speaks in reference to the Taliban...

"Liberate Afghanistan from these people,
they are going to hurt everybody,
not just Afghans" -Hamid Karzai

-A brief bit of the origins and history of Hamid Karzai:

When his father was murdered in Pakistan, presumably by agents of the Taliban, Hamid Karzai, was selected to succeed his father as Khan of the half-million Popalzai. He immediately defied both the Pakistan and Taliban governments by leading a convoy of tribal mourners to carry his father's body home for burial in Kandahar, a stronghold of the Taliban. The Taliban did not dare intervene. This act of defiance made Hamid Karzai the most visible leader of resistance to the Taliban among the Pashtun people… read more

~~~~~~Today Karzai addresses Pakistan, and the recent spate of suicide bombs:
This tyranny against our people is not by the nation of Pakistan, it is by the government of Pakistan ," he added to cheers from a crowd of around 500 students, teachers and local dignitaries. Karzai also sent a message to the Taliban’s fugitive leader Mulla Omar and other commanders that “if it is you operating out of a basement of Pakistan’s ISI (Inter-Services Intelligence spy agency) God may break your backbone”.
Almost 2,100 militants have been killed in Afghanistan since Sept 1 in operations involving special forces soldiers, an official said, meaning more than half of the country’s insurgency-related deaths this year have come in the last three months.~~~~~~ Middle East posts today:Inthebullpen posts: Taliban Commander Hekmatyar:
We Won with Democratic Victory "Hekmatyar who?"
James Joyner (outsidethebeltway) posts: Losing Afghanistan on the Cheap"Anthony Cordesman argues that the trends are going the wrong way in Afghanistan but that we can still win there if we act fast."

And with all the merging violence in the Middle East, we forget that this is changing History, and while many are displaced, they are "detaching" from years of lack of civility." Patience and perseverance is needed.Rick Moran posts: The Refugee Problem in Iraq: Bad to Worse
The captain reports: Saudis: Don't Leave Iraq”Or they would have to actually send troops into Iraq to stop the violence, perhaps all the way to Baghdad.”

Thehillchronicles: Kerry to visit Iraq - what for…"Kerry has always had a tendency to conveniently forget that the American people are not to be underestimated."
ConservativeCat | Joscafe | Basilsblog
Beltwaytrafficjam | perri nelson's website
womanhonorthyself

Resignation: Saudi Ambassador to US

Prince Turki Al-Fasial, one of the most respected and highly regarded Ambassadors from any country, has resigned to the post of Saudi Ambassador to the US, Monday. A post he held since 9/2005.
Gulf news gives more detail of his departure..
The Saudi ambassador is one of the most influential diplomatic positions in Washington and is arguably the most important overseas post for the kingdom.

His departure is very unfortunate for the United States, and all those who knew him...Prince Turki had become an essential ally in building continuing diplomatic relations with the Saudi Kingdom...And further understandings of the Middle East.Saudi ambassador’s credentials accepted by United StatesA 2005 speech to Oxford University PPE Society
Transcript 12/07/2006 speech by Prince Turki Al-FaisalA very recent conference by Prince Turki; at which he shares his thoughts on the stability of the regions of the Middle East...
Saudi Ambassador to the US Prince Turki Al-Faisal remarks on “Leadership and Middle East Stability”at the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on December 6, 2006

VIDEO: Prince Turki Al-Faisal on Iraq
تركي الفيصل غادر واشنطن بعد وداع العاملين في السفارة

"Turning to Iraq, Prince Turki said that the Kingdom continues to work to bring stability to Iraq, and that a solution must come from within the country. “The struggle in Iraq is political, not sectarian or ethnic. Pure political ambition is driving the fighting, and only a political solution will stop it. Efforts to engage all parties must be strengthened,” he said. read more

~~~~~~ConservativeCat | Joscafe | Basilsblog
Beltwaytrafficjam | perri nelson's website