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Afghanistan
Al-Qaeda fighters in Afghanistan working hand-in-hand with al-Qaeda in Iraq
A convoy of U.S. military Humvees snakes along the dusty valley road, its occupants unaware they are being filmed from a distant hilltop. Suddenly, a massive explosion hits one vehicle, flipping it over and engulfing it in flames. The images were purportedly recorded in eastern Afghanistan late last year and appear on a militant propaganda video CD obtained by The Associated Press that gives a graphic indication of an insurgency that has adopted Iraq-style guerrilla tactics.

The change has raised questions about whether local militants are simply emulating those destructive methods, such as roadside bombings, or if al-Qaida could be importing fighters from Iraq, where attacks have been considerably more sophisticated than in Afghanistan. An alleged Iraqi member of al-Qaida and three others from Pakistan-controlled Kashmir were caught by Afghan security forces trying to sneak into Afghanistan from Iran this month. During interrogation they said a large group of fighters from Iraq was headed here, according to authorities in southwestern Nimroz province. "They're linked to al-Qaida and fought against U.S. forces in Iraq. They have been ordered to come here. Many are suicide attackers," Nimroz Gov. Ghulam Dusthaqir Azad told the AP.

His report suggested insurgents on two fronts in the war on terror could be cooperating to fight the United States, and that foreign militants operating in Afghanistan were entering not just from Pakistan as previously thought. In a videotape Jan. 30, Osama bin Laden's deputy, Ayman al-Zawahri, said al-Qaida was waging war against U.S. forces in Iraq and Afghanistan, and he threatened a new attack in the United States. "Who is pulling out of Iraq and Afghanistan, us or you?" al-Zawahri said in the tape, addressing Americans. The U.S. military in Kabul refused to comment, saying it doesn't discuss intelligence matters.
Posted by: Dan Darling || 02/17/2006 02:25 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:

#1  An alleged Iraqi member of al-Qaida and three others from Pakistan-controlled Kashmir were caught by Afghan security forces trying to sneak into Afghanistan from Iran this month.

There are an awful lot of connections in that single sentence.
Posted by: trailing wife || 02/17/2006 13:01 Comments || Top||


Four killed in Taliban attacks
Suspected Taliban militants killed two policemen in Afghanistan while a bomb blast claimed the lives of two militia soldiers working with security forces, said officials on Thursday. More than 60 suspected Taliban militants armed with machineguns and rockets raided the police post on Wednesday, killing one policeman and injuring four others, said Nimroz Governor Ghulam Dastagir Azad. Some Taliban fighters also appeared to have been killed in the two-hour gunfight, judging by blood and ripped clothes and shoes left at the scene, he added. A purported Taliban spokesman confirmed the clash but said the militants did not suffer any casualties. "Yes, we carried out that attack but we had no casualties. We believe four policemen were killed," Qari Yousuf Ahmadi told reporters by satellite phone from an unknown location.
Posted by: Fred || 02/17/2006 00:00 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:


Africa Horn
Two U.S. Marines Choppers Crash Off Africa
Two Marine Corps transport helicopters carrying a dozen troops crashed Friday off the coast of Djibouti, and two were rescued in the initial search, the Pentagon said. The status of the other 10 aboard the CH-53E choppers was not immediately known, officials said.

A search-and-rescue mission by troops from the United States, Djibouti and France was under way, according to a statement issued by Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa, a U.S.-led military force headquartered at Camp Lemonier, a French military base in Djibouti.

The helicopters were on a nighttime training mission at the time of the crash, whose cause had not been determined Friday night. At the Pentagon, a spokesman, Lt. Cmdr. Joe Carpenter, said there was no indication of hostile fire.

Members of the Djiboutian military notified U.S. officials at about 5:30 p.m. local time (9:30 a.m. EST) that the helicopters had crashed in the Gulf of Aden not far from the Djiboutian coastal town of Ras Siyyan. Djiboutian military members who were near the impact site were able to rescue two injured crew members, according to the Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa statement. The two were transported to Camp Lemonier and were listed in stable condition.
Posted by: ed || 02/17/2006 18:33 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:


Britain
Area of Birmingham (UK) evacuated, bomb disposal team sent in
LONDON - Police said on Thursday they had evacuated an area of the central English city of Birmingham after finding a “suspicious substance,” and that army bomb disposal squads had been sent in. “Police have this morning evacuated properties in the Long Nuke Road area,” a spokesman for West Midlands Police was quoted as saying by Britain’s domestic Press Association news agency.

Police said a 100-metre (-yard) cordon, described as a precautionary measure, had been placed around the site of the discovery. “This follows the execution of a warrant at a property in Long Nuke Road, where a suspicious substance was recovered. It is not known at this stage what the substance is,” the spokesman said. The Press Association added later that army bomb disposal experts had been called to the scene by police. Police declined to confirm why the premises was searched, but the warrant was not executed under the Terrorism Act.
Posted by: Steve White || 02/17/2006 00:00 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:

#1  You know things are getting bad when a UK story breaks first in a Pakistani(?) paper.
Posted by: Quatermass || 02/17/2006 0:40 Comments || Top||

#2  Rooters: Bomb disposal officers have taken away a suspicious substance found during a raid by officers on a house in Birmingham on Thursday but police said they did not believe it had any terrorism connection.

Officers sealed off a street and evacuated homes in the Bartley Green area of the country's second city after the discovery was made by officers carrying out a raid executed under a non-terrorism related warrant.

A spokeswoman for West Midlands Police said the cordon was later lifted and a substance taken to a laboratory for tests. It was not yet known what it was. "We do not think this is linked to a terrorist act," the spokeswoman added. "If we find a substance that cannot be identified, but could contain an explosive substance, then we automatically implement our emergency planning procedures.

She said the area was now returning to normality.
Posted by: Steve || 02/17/2006 7:34 Comments || Top||

#3  Nothing to see here ... move along. Trust us, don't defend yourselves - that might provoke your attacker ... just move along and be prepared to roll into a fetal position if the youths express their well-justified anger at your insensitivity .....
Posted by: Thrairong Ulolet5337 || 02/17/2006 9:23 Comments || Top||


Caribbean-Latin America
Colombia to bomb Farc guerrillas
Colombia is planning to launch air raids on a national park after six police officers were allegedly killed by guerrillas on Wednesday. The government said it was preparing to attack rebel positions in La Macarena, 170km (100 miles) south of Bogota.

The officers were protecting hundreds of labourers involved in a coca eradication project in the park. Left-wing Farc rebels have attacked the area on a number of occasions, killing dozens of police officers and soldiers. Mr Uribe said that his government was looking at how to evacuate La Macarena before launching the raids on rebel positions.

Nearly 1,000 labourers have been removing coca plants by hand because aerial spraying is banned in national parks. Earlier this year, the Colombian government sent some 2,000 troops, along with 1,500 police officers to La Macarena to protect the workers. Last year, guerrillas killed 29 soldiers working to destroy coca near the park, in some of the heaviest losses suffered by Mr Uribe's administration.
Posted by: Fred || 02/17/2006 00:00 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:

#1  Colombia is planning to launch air raids on a national park ....

Has anyone alerted Earth First? They might still have time to pack the kill zone with protesters.
Posted by: AzCat || 02/17/2006 0:13 Comments || Top||

#2  I was just thinking - my idea of a National Park and the locals must be different than Columbians.....but I bet they know their own better..
Posted by: Frank G || 02/17/2006 0:16 Comments || Top||

#3  3500gaurds/1000 workers.wow
Posted by: raptor || 02/17/2006 5:18 Comments || Top||

#4  Macarena?
Posted by: Jackal || 02/17/2006 13:45 Comments || Top||


Caucasus/Russia/Central Asia
Russia caves in to Islamonutz
MOSCOW, Feb. 17 — In a controversy with echoes of the Islamic anger over Danish cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad, the authorities in a central Russian city today ordered the closing of a newspaper that published a cartoon showing Muhammad along with Jesus Christ, Moses and Buddha.

The cartoon, published on Feb. 9 in the official city newspaper in Volgograd, prompted some criticism and a federal criminal investigation but no public outrage. That may be, in large part, because it depicted the figures respectfully, renouncing violence, though Islamic teachings forbid any depiction of Muhammad.

"Well, we did not teach them that," Moses says in a caption as the four watch a television set showing two groups confronting each other with banner and clubs and hurling stones. The cartoon appeared on Page 5, accompanying an article on an agreement signed by regional political parties and organizations to combat nationalism, xenophobia and religious conflicts.

Volgograd's first deputy mayor, Andrei O. Doronin, announced the closing of the newspaper, Gorodskiye Vesti, or City News, "in order not to inflame ethnic hostilities," according to the official Russian Information Agency. He gave the newspaper a month to liquidate its assets, leaving the fate of its staff unclear.

The closing came in the wake of the international protests over the Danish cartoons, which reverberated in Russia, a country with an estimated 20 million Muslims. Political and religious leaders here joined in denouncing the cartoons, although there have not been violent protests like those elsewhere.

Chechnya's vice premier, Ramzan Kadyrov, suspended the work of the Danish Refugee Council in the battered republic. The Russian president, Vladimir V. Putin, said, "One has to think a hundred times before publishing something, doing something or drawing something."

Most of the criticism against the cartoon in Volgograd came not from Muslim or other religious leaders, but rather from the local branch of United Russia, the pro-Putin political party that dominates governments across the country. Those complaints prompted Russia's deputy prosecutor general, Nikolai I. Shepel, to announce an inquiry on Wednesday.

Officials in Volgograd initially defended the newspaper, but another deputy mayor, Konstantin E. Kalachyov, said the decision to close the newspaper was an effort to contain a scandal that was "fanned up artificially" in the wake of the fury over the Danish cartoons.

"You can say that the journalists were taught a lesson in political correctness," he said in a telephone interview.

Since a city enterprise owns the newspaper, the mayor's office was essentially shutting its own business, though Mr. Kalachyov said he hoped the newspaper's staff could continue to work at a new city-owned paper that would replace Gorodskiye Vesti.

Today's decision was denounced as censorship. "It is a downright disgrace," Igor Yakovenko of the Russian Union of Journalists told Interfax.

Other religious leaders, including representatives of the Russian Orthodox Church and the chairman of the Islam Rights Center, told Interfax that the closing was excessively strict. The Public Chamber, a newly created federal advisory body, also called for the closing to be reconsidered.

Tatyana A. Kaminskaya, the paper's editor, said in a telephone interview that no one had called the newspaper to complain about the cartoon in the eight days since its publication. She had not, she added, considered the furor surrounding the Danish cartoons when she decided to commission the cartoon.

"We had an absolutely different goal when publishing this: to show the unifying force of all religions, which are based on kindness," she said. "None of the religions teach evil or war. I am a believer myself. And our newspaper never intended to insult the feelings of any believer."
Posted by: Unique Battle || 02/17/2006 12:43 || Comments || Link || [1 views] Top|| File under:

#1  Not that The Soviet Union Russia has ever been a bastion of free speech or anything. I'd love to see how they'll reconcile this with their campaign in Chechnya.
Posted by: Zenster || 02/17/2006 13:11 Comments || Top||

#2  Sweden did the same. Buhbye freedom of speech. click
Posted by: jpal || 02/17/2006 13:13 Comments || Top||

#3  possibly this newspaper, Gorodskiye Vesti, had ticked off someone in the recent past and the authorities were just looking for a reason to close it

It would follow a russian template.
Posted by: mhw || 02/17/2006 14:12 Comments || Top||

#4  Anyone keeping a scorecard? I'm losing track of who has and who hasn't capitulated.
Posted by: Sherry || 02/17/2006 14:35 Comments || Top||

#5  As with the cartoons themselves, they are just being used as an excuse. United Russia is the nationalist group created by Putin as a counterbalance against the growing fascist movement in Russia.

For them to be the guiding force for this closure makes as much sense as the Young Republicans demanding the closure of a Hispanic newspaper in the US, for writing an article opposed to illegal immigration. In other words, it doesn't make any sense, unless they were ordered to from the top.
Posted by: Anonymoose || 02/17/2006 15:13 Comments || Top||


Dagestani leader steps down
Russia's oldest and longest-serving regional leader, Magomedali Magomedov, who has ruled volatile and clannish Dagestan since 1991, unexpectedly announced Thursday that he was stepping down, after meeting with President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin the day before. "I decided voluntarily to resign from the post of chairman of the State Council of Dagestan before my term expires," Magomedov said at a hastily called news conference at the Makhachkala airport Thursday afternoon, minutes after his plane arrived from Moscow. "I told the president I was getting old and asked him to accept my resignation," the 75-year-old Dagestani leader told shocked journalists. "The president agreed."

Magomedov said he had brought with him the name of the Kremlin's candidate to succeed him, but he refused to disclose it. The State Council, a body symbolizing a collective presidency for representatives of the 14 biggest ethnic groups living in Dagestan, convened late Thursday to discuss the candidate. Dmitry Kozak, the presidential envoy in the Southern Federal District, was to visit Makhachkala on Friday and was expected to announce the candidate, a spokesman for Magomedov, Eduard Urazayev, told Interfax. The news agency, citing "unofficial information," said Magomedov had proposed Mukhu Aliyev, who has been the speaker of the Dagestani legislature since 1994.

Aliyev, 65, is an ethnic Avar, representing the largest ethnic group in Dagestan, which has long been in competition for power with the second-largest group, the Dargins, to which Magomedov belongs. Dagestan's legislature, the People's Assembly, would have to vote on the Kremlin's nomination.
Continued on Page 49
Posted by: Dan Darling || 02/17/2006 02:38 || Comments || Link || [1 views] Top|| File under:


Europe
3 Belgian GICM members convicted
A Belgian court has found three men guilty of belonging to an Islamist group linked to terror attacks in Madrid and Casablanca, in Morocco. The court ruled they were leaders of a Belgian cell of the al-Qaeda-linked Moroccan Islamic Combatant Group. Abdelkader Hakimi and Lahoussine El Haski were sentenced to seven years each and Mostafa Louanani to six years.

The March 2004 train bombings in Madrid killed 191 people and the attacks in Casablanca in May 2003 killed 45. The trial, which began in November, is the first to be covered by Belgium's tough new anti-terror laws. The court found eight other men guilty on lesser charges but acquitted two. The three chief defendants, all of whom are Belgian nationals of Moroccan origin, denied belonging to the Moroccan Islamic Combatant Group (GICM). But the court ruled that they had provided logistical support to the group by allowing members to stay with them after the Madrid bombings, and by raising funds. Reading out a 300-page verdict, the judges said Hakimi had visited Afghanistan and Croatia for training and had established a GICM cell in Belgium, the Associated Press news agency reports.
Everything after 'yer guilty! guilty, guilty, GUILTY!!" was superfluous.
El Haski was guilty of raising money for the group, while Louanani was responsible for finding recruits to fight in the insurgency in Iraq, the judges said. Under Belgium's terror legislation, a maximum five-year sentence can be handed down for belonging to a terrorist organisation, and a 10-year term if convicted of playing a co-ordinating role in helping terrorists.
Time off for good behavior, of course, so they'll be jugged for about five years.
Defence lawyers argued the only evidence against some of the accused was that they knew men charged with serious crimes.
Posted by: Dan Darling || 02/17/2006 02:04 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:


Home Front: WoT
Navy's F-14 fighter jet flies its final mission
The F-14 Tomcat, the fighter jet that soared into the national imagination in the movie Top Gun, has flown into the danger zone for the last time. The Navy announced Thursday that the last F-14 combat mission was completed Feb. 8, when a pair of Tomcats landed aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt after one dropped a bomb in Iraq. Capt. William Sizemore, who flew on that last mission, said the Tomcat will be missed.

"This is one of the best airplanes ever built, and it's sad to see it go away," Sizemore said in a Navy report from the ship. "It's just a beautiful airplane. And it just looks like the ultimate fighter."

Although still swift and deadly, the F-14 is a victim of changing times. For example:
• Sophisticated missiles have made its specialty, aerial dogfighting, obsolete. Opposing aircraft target each other from miles away, often before the pilots can see each other except on radar.
• Precision bombing is the new priority, and despite modification, the Tomcat can't carry the loads of the new F/A-18 Super Hornet.
• It's too expensive in the long run. The jet that flew its first combat missions in September 1974 requires 50 hours of maintenance, compared with five to 10 hours for the Super Hornet, for each hour of flight time.
The F-14 and its Navy pilots were at the heart of the 1986 movie Top Gun, in which Tom Cruise played Maverick, an impetuous pilot training at the Navy's elite flight school in Miramar, Calif. Top Gun enhanced the reputation of an already legendary jet, said Adm. William Fallon, the U.S. Pacific commander and a former F-14 weapons officer. "Potential opponents, at the mere thought there might be Tomcats around, would head off the other direction," he said.

Although the Navy is better served by the newer jets, the beautiful F-14 will be missed, Fallon said. "It was the last of the pure fighters."
Posted by: Seafarious || 02/17/2006 11:30 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:

#1  Okay propeller-heads:
Has the Phoenix been adapted to any other fighter (or vice versa) in the inventory?

It was (is) the ultimate standoff aerial killer, no?
Posted by: .com || 02/17/2006 11:39 Comments || Top||

#2  Depends, .com; I've heard that the Phoenix was great if you were shooting at relatively slow/unmaneuverable bombers from long range, but that it wasn't that maneuverable of a missile. And that it needed a lot of maintenance as well.
Posted by: Phil || 02/17/2006 11:48 Comments || Top||

#3  requires 50 hours of maintenance,

Like some women I'm glad I don't go out with...
Posted by: Raj || 02/17/2006 11:58 Comments || Top||

#4  Phil, I seem to recall a test in which the F-14 launched AIM-54s against six (6) supersonic maneuvering targets at a range of 120 nm. The last target was destroyed at >80nm. The F-14 as a gun fighter only made sense if you have to make a visual ID of your target. The decision to scrap the F-14 was a combination of rising maintenance costs and the need to free up cash to buy F-18 E/F SuperHornets. Kind of like the Air Force selling its soul to buy F-22s.
Posted by: RWV || 02/17/2006 12:28 Comments || Top||

#5  Adm William Fallon....coincidental since the Topgun school moved to Fallon NAS
Posted by: Frank G || 02/17/2006 12:51 Comments || Top||

#6  To get its huge rage the Phoenix lobs itself into a target basket in a parabolic arc before using its onboard radar to identify its target. To my knowlege the Tomcat was the only fighter to fire it 'parrently the Iranians still have some AIM64's left but I doubt they are useable.
The Tomcat was not designed as a fighter but as an inteceptor to shoot down, at long range soviet badgers and bears that were approaching carrier battle groups.
Posted by: pihkalbadger || 02/17/2006 12:54 Comments || Top||

#7  ..Phoenix was adapted from the Eagle, which was to have gone on a plane called the Missileer - a huge, subsonic truck of a plane that was supposed to just cruise in lazy circles over the fleet and wait for Russian bombers and missiles to obligingly fly within range. When the Navy balked at Missileer (it was replaced by a little bird called the Phantom II) the Eagle was redesigned into Phoenix and was to have been the sole armament for the F-111b (AKA the "Sea Aardvark"). When the -111B was scrapped (overweight, underpowered, and shoved down the USN's throat by Robert MacNamara), the Phoenix - already tested an nearly ready - was easily adapted to what became the Tomcat.
It was essentially intended to deal solely with bombers and Soviet air-launched air-to-surface missiles. It really wasn't all that capable against smaller and more maneuverable targets, but that's why they had Sparrow, Slammer and Sidewinder, plus the gun. .Com, for the anti-bomber/missile role it was wiyhout peer. The ultimate aerial killer is still the AIM-9 Sidewinder, whose design is essentially based on WWII German technology. Covering all models from the original Korean War-era bird to the present -9L, the official kill rate is around 85%. I suspect the actual kill rate is as high as 90%.

Mike
Posted by: Mike Kozlowski || 02/17/2006 12:59 Comments || Top||

#8  Sophisticated missiles have made its specialty, aerial dogfighting, obsolete. Opposing aircraft target each other from miles away, often before the pilots can see each other except on radar.

How often is this myth going to be repeated? This is the same reason the F-4 didn't originally have a cannon, but then along came the Vietnam war and it was discovered "all-missiles-all-the-time" was a mistake.

While it may be true that none of our top-of-the-line fighters have had a gun kill in some time, we haven't exactly been facing worthy adversaries lately. That could change if we find ourselves facing the Chinese someday.
Posted by: Dar || 02/17/2006 13:15 Comments || Top||

#9  • Sophisticated missiles have made its specialty, aerial dogfighting, obsolete. Opposing aircraft target each other from miles away, often before the pilots can see each other except on radar.

Someone has forgotten their history. With all technology there is a cycle of action/reaction. I'm sure our opponents will attain stealth and capabilities to close the distance once again. When they do, we'll pay once again for the attitude that 'no one dog fights' anymore.
Posted by: Glinemp Ebbomonter1494 || 02/17/2006 13:18 Comments || Top||

#10  While the AMRAAM doesn't have the range of the Phoenix, it's getting better, and the D varient has some neat tricks.
Posted by: Jackal || 02/17/2006 13:49 Comments || Top||

#11  The irony of weaponry is that for every weapon there is a counter.

Now we are entering into an age where drones may rule the sky, and air-to-air missiles may be overcome with lasers and anti-electronics energy weapons.

But both of these might be overcome with something crude and simple, perhaps a heavily armored aircraft, an aircraft equivalent to a tank. Slow, awkward, but fairly invulnerable, its purpose would be to get well within range to use more conventional weaponry, such as gatling guns.

Such an aircraft would possibly use a fanwing-type propulsion system, instead of a jet or prop engine, and be almost as slow as a helicopter. But if it had armor plate that could not be penetrated by an air-to-air missile, and not needing sophisticated electronics to fly, it could muscle its way to air superiority.

Ironic that such an inexpensive, low-tech machine could prove itself better for a while than multimillion dollar masterpieces of technological sophistication.

About the fanwing system:

http://www.fanwing.com/
Posted by: Anonymoose || 02/17/2006 15:50 Comments || Top||

#12  Sorry but the article is all wrong. Ecept it in the Top Gun movie the F14 was not a dogfighter. It was no F15, it was not F16 it was not even an F16.

Wghat was the role of the F14? Protect the fleet. And it was ideal for that: it was a fast plane who could keep supersonic flight for much longer than an F15 or F18 can because at high speeds its wing behaves like a delta and thus an F14 burns fuel at a far lower rate yan an F18 or F15. Its radar has an enormous range and also scans a much wider range (I think it is 180 degrees aginst 60 for an F18). it can engage several targets simultaneously (launch a missile against a planeand attck another without waiting for the first missile having reached its target) and keep track of a gaizilion plane. And because of the roommier nose of an F14 there is no way technologies being equal that an F18 can get a radar half as capable. With missiles whose range is over 60 miles an F14 covers a LOT of airpace. And that is important because a carrier has a limited number of interceptors and this cannot afford to need twoo dozens planes flying simultaneosly just for air defence. And that it will have to do with F18s: an F18 must turn towards its target (narrow radar cone), go subsonically (limited endurance in supersonic) towards it (short ranged missiles) where an F14 will simply erase it from airspace with a Phoenix. In the time it takes an F18 to get into firing position the hostile could have launched a missile against a carrier.

Phoenixes are unadequate aginst fast, maneuverable planes? Hwta is the problem? No plane, even the F16, remains fast and manueverable once they are loaded with ordnance big enough to harm a ship: they can't fly supersonic and are real dogs.

What I have heard about the whole thing is that the Navy is not happy with the replacement of the F14 by a plane the F18 who, be it the regular Hornet or the Super-Hornet quite simply can't do its job and that the reasonable thing would have be to modernize the F14 when it was time (during Clinton presidencies) instead of letting the Navy with only an unadequate plane (the F18) until it gets the new generation plane (the navl counterpart to the F22). But apparently shoving F18s through the Navy's throat presented more opporrtunities for pork than modernizing the F14 and the Phoenix.
Posted by: JFM || 02/17/2006 16:22 Comments || Top||

#13  The preceeding should have read:

Except in the Top Gun movie the F14 was not a dogfighter. It was no F15, it was not F16 it was not even an F18
Posted by: JFM || 02/17/2006 16:25 Comments || Top||

#14  It's too expensive in the long run. The jet that flew its first combat missions in September 1974 requires 50 hours of maintenance, compared with five to 10 hours for the Super Hornet, for each hour of flight time.

Of course they do. We are talking of very old air frames who are litterally falling apart. It would be an entirely differnt matter if it they were brand new Super-F14s. And while we cannot be sure about relative costs of a SuperHornet against that hypothetic Super-F14 the fact is that regular F18s were two or there times more expensive to buy than regular F14s. THe navy wasn't happy that the supposedly cheap plane ended costing much more than the more capable F14. Additionally the Hornet carbon wing doesn't take damage gracefully, even minor damage like the one caused by small arms bullets; they literally tear apart.
Posted by: JFM || 02/17/2006 16:42 Comments || Top||

#15  JFM: I don't know enough to comment on the technical aspects of your comments, but in the last 50 years has there been a major transition of military aircraft (aside from some Skunk Works projects), that was not accompanied by heated arguments - both within and without military circles?

On the one hand, I don't know enough to gainsay the decision. On the other hand, I understand enough about military-industrial pork aspects and the lurches in DoD budgeting to be suspicious of such decisions.

The F-22 saga comes to mind here.

/one long rhetorical comment
Posted by: Xbalanke || 02/17/2006 16:47 Comments || Top||

#16 
"It was (is) the ultimate standoff aerial killer, no?"

"Was" is the operative here. Keep in mind it's tech pedigree is late 1960's early 1970's. Times and capabilities have changed.

Not just for us, but for our erstwhile adversaries as well. There no longer exists a threat that the Pheonix was intended to meet that cannot be met by new weapons. For now.

I was in the fleet at the time the Tomcat was deployed, it WAS a GREAT fighter! Times have changed and our war fighting ability has progressed to the point that the F-14 is now
obsolete.

I must admit there is a certain sadness that this is so, but, I welcome the changes because they bring an increase in leathality (sp?) and economy!

There exists capabilities today that we do not know about, and, there are emerging technologies that we are not aware of. Keep in mind the F-117
Nighthawk existed for nearly 5 years before it was revealed. Same for the B-2.

It is reasonable to be concerned that we are being trianglated, and that we will be consumed, however, in reality, I do not believe it will happen.

As it stands now, there isn't a single nation, or nations, we cannot obliterate at will without the need for boots on the ground.

Iraq, as a nation building experiment is just that, an experiment! If need be, we can dispense with that mindset and just lay waste to those that oppose us. We know that, they know that, the only obsticle (sp?) is our will to do so.

Just my considered opinion!

Nuck

P.S. I love the name generator.

Posted by: Nuck Fozzle2168 || 02/17/2006 18:36 Comments || Top||

#17  C'mon, "Nuck". Who are you? W'dja usta be? Whadday hidin', eh?
Posted by: ustabeBobby || 02/17/2006 21:00 Comments || Top||

#18  lethality
obstacle

Fred's name generator is very cool, indeed. Now even anonymity is individual.
Posted by: trailing wife || 02/17/2006 21:26 Comments || Top||

#19 
"C'mon, "Nuck". Who are you? W'dja usta be? Whadday hidin', eh?"

Ex Navy! Hiding nothing. Ex brown shoe, VA-87 when they flew A-7E's. CLAW-1. Been there, done that! Rode the America (CV-66) God rest her soul! Bastards used her for target practice.

Was an enlisted man, Nuclear weapons team! No Slack, in Light Attack! Jesus, I'm frickin old!

Still, I do know a few things about Carrier Ops!
Posted by: Nuck Fozzle2168 || 02/17/2006 23:58 Comments || Top||


India-Pakistan
Cleric in cartoonist death reward
A Pakistani cleric has offered a 1.5 million rupee (£19,400) reward and a car for anyone who kills the cartoonist who drew the Prophet Muhammad cartoons. Another Islamist leader has been put under house detention, amid fears of more deadly demonstrations, officials said. The cleric did not name the cartoonist. Several cartoonists submitted images to the Danish newspaper Jyllands-Posten, which first published them.

Meanwhile, police arrested 125 prophet cartoons protesters for violating a ban on rallies in eastern Pakistan, amid expectations of more demonstrations around the country in the wake of riots that have killed five people this week. About 300 police swooped down on the protesters, who gathered at a roundabout in Multan city, chanting, "We are slaves of the prophet," and trampling on a Danish flag, said Sharif Zafar, a police official in Multan. Protesters shouted "Death to Musharraf" as they were bundled into two police buses.
"Death to Musharraf! Death to Israel! Death to Hans Christian Andersen!"
"Yeah, yeah, we know. Now into the van with you and [THUMP!] mind your head."
Zafar said they were being taken to a police station because they were violating a ban on rallies in the Punjab province - declared after deadly riots in the provincial capital Lahore on Tuesday. In Karachi, a youth group called Pasban called a strike in the teeming port city, where about 40,000 people joined a peaceful protest. "We expect that people of all sects and walks of life will keep their businesses shut to convey a message to the Western world," said Altaf Shakoor, Pasban's chief.
"Or else."
Supporters of the radical Jamaat-e-Islami, Pakistan's largest Islamic group, also planned to hold rallies in Karachi after midday prayers, said Sarfaraz Ahmed, a spokesman for the anti-US. group.
Thank Allan it's Friday...
Posted by: Gleque Clomolet5778 || 02/17/2006 09:34 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:

#1  These Muslim clerics need to start dying unexpectedly in large numbers and under mysterious circumstances.
Posted by: Bomb-a-rama || 02/17/2006 10:13 Comments || Top||

#2  I am offering a 1 million rupee reward for that cleric's nuts on a platter!
Posted by: mmurray821 || 02/17/2006 10:57 Comments || Top||

#3  The cleric did not name the cartoonist.

Typical Muslim planning. Who the hell are they going to know who to kill?
"No. Not that one. No million for you. Nope. Not him either. No million for you. Nope. Not him..."
Friggin morons...
Posted by: tu3031 || 02/17/2006 11:19 Comments || Top||

#4  #2. Planning on serving Hindu Kush oysters, mMurray?
Posted by: GK || 02/17/2006 11:27 Comments || Top||

#5  :: urk ::
Posted by: Seafarious || 02/17/2006 11:28 Comments || Top||

#6  i think I saw somewhere that they jugged Hafez Saeed, a founder of LET. Confirmation?
Posted by: liberalhawk || 02/17/2006 11:40 Comments || Top||

#7  tu, "Planning? I don't need no stinkin' planning."

Killing and gun sex come with the territory.
Posted by: SR-71 || 02/17/2006 12:07 Comments || Top||

#8  I think you're right...

Qureshi did not name any cartoonist in his announcement. He did not appear aware that 12 different people had drawn the pictures.

Appears the light of Islam don't shine too brightly on our Holy Man...
Posted by: tu3031 || 02/17/2006 12:21 Comments || Top||

#9  A Pakistani cleric has offered a 1.5 million rupee (£19,400) reward and a car for anyone who kills the cartoonist who drew the Prophet Muhammad cartoons.

And now it's up to our loyal ally in the fight against terrorism to arrest this same cleric on charges of soliciting murder and murder for hire. Any takers on this happening sometime soon?

[crickets]
Posted by: Zenster || 02/17/2006 13:41 Comments || Top||

#10  Nah. Just make an open counter-offer: Any jihadist cleric (mullah or imam), dead, we pay $20,000.

Head required.
Posted by: mojo || 02/17/2006 14:06 Comments || Top||

#11  Here's another cartoonist you can put on your list....
Link
Posted by: Pholung Glamble6692 || 02/17/2006 15:21 Comments || Top||

#12  "Cleric in cartoonist death reward"

Reminds me of the time Father O'Malley hired a hitman to rub out a couple of alterboys.
Posted by: DepotGuy || 02/17/2006 16:11 Comments || Top||

#13  it"s like the whole islamo-fascist culture is hell-bent on committing mass suicide.
Posted by: Thrigum Angotch2369 || 02/17/2006 16:13 Comments || Top||

#14  This guy has made visits to the US, sponsored by our own charmingly moderate Muslim community.
Posted by: Robert Crawford || 02/17/2006 16:30 Comments || Top||

#15  A million dollars...tax free...just for shooting a European...hmmm.

Say, Mullah, does it matter if an infidel bags that cartoonist?
Posted by: Dreadnought || 02/17/2006 16:30 Comments || Top||

#16  I long ago suggested that these "troublesome priests" be systematically sanctioned. I also said that since the US is squeamish about such things, that the Russians would be a better choice to do the wetwork.

I figure that if you set an optimum 96-hour clock from when they shoot their mouth off, and the sanction is authorized, to their final departure, it would insure that everybody knows where they stand.

To make it all the better, the sanctions should not look like obvious murder, but instead appear to be wrath-of-god stuff. Sudden boils all over their body that all break at the same time; all their hair and teeth falling out; "bloody flux"; suicide by sex toy; spontaneous human combustion; infestation with worms, etc.
Posted by: Anonymoose || 02/17/2006 17:47 Comments || Top||

#17  The exact ID of the alleged "cartoonist" doesn't matter once the head is removed from the body, the allegation alone (just like the accusation of blasphemy) is enough to justify the killing of any infidel or apostate. I looked this up in my Islamic Catechism.
Posted by: Whutch Threth6418 || 02/17/2006 18:16 Comments || Top||

#18  I'd give a dollar and a box of Crackerjack to the person or persons who wack the Packastani Cleric who made the original offer, except that would make me no better than he.

Fergit it.
Posted by: Bobby || 02/17/2006 23:31 Comments || Top||


Govt official's house bombed in Wana
DERA ISMAIL KHAN: A bomb exploded at the residence of the Wana political agent's clerk, near Chashma road, damaging a vehicle and a portion of the house. According to details, unidentified individuals planted the bomb under a parked car in the early hours of Thursday. The car and three rooms of the house, including the drawing room, were completely destroyed, while the clerk's brother and other guests, who were sleeping in the guest, escaped unhurt.
Posted by: Fred || 02/17/2006 00:00 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:


Behind protest politics : Locals wreak havoc on multinationals
PESHWAR: WednesdayÂ’s strike, held to condemn the publication of blasphemous cartoons in European newspapers, not only caused extensive damage to property and infrastructure, but also provided an opportunity to local businessmen to wreak havoc on their multinational competitors.

Looting and plundering were the hallmarks of the strike, unprecedented in the history of the NWFP, where three people lost their lives and property worth millions of rupees was destroyed. Thousands participated in the protests staged in various parts of Peshawar and cantonment areas, but most of the people did not know what they were supposed to do. Unaware of their objectives, the protestors even attacked houses and residential areas instead of peacefully condemning the blasphemous act.

The strike was apparently held to show to the world that Muslims could even sacrifice their lives to protect the honour of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). The leaderless mob went berserk, going from one place to another. A display of uncontrolled emotions seemed to be the rationale behind the strike.

Local transporters had been protesting the permission granted to the South Korean company Daewoo to run their buses on various routes within the province. Since the company provides quality service, commuters preferred Daewoo to local bus services on long routes. The protesters, led allegedly by some local transport union leaders, went to the Daewoo bus stand and set busses and coaches on fire causing a loss of millions of rupees. “The company suffered a loss of between Rs 250 million and Rs 300 million,” the manager of the company told reporters.

The protestors even tried to break into banks and steal money but were stopped in time at various places when police fired teargas. Though the protestors ravaged every building, office, shop and bank that came in their way, some people particularly targeted Soneri Bank. “Some people among the protestors at the Yadgar Chowk asked to pelt stones on Soneri Bank since it was owned by Aga Khan and demonstrators ransacked its branches,” said Ibrar Ali, an eyewitness. He said that though no bank was spared, Soneri Bank was the main target.

Franchise offices of Telenor, a Norwegian Telecom Company, were another target however, at some places Mobilink offices were also gutted. Some Telenor franchises covered their signboards with large banners inscribed with Kalima-e-Tayyaba but protestors uncovered these boards and then destroyed them. An outlet of the KFC which is regularly targeted by Islamic extremists, was completely destroyed. People went inside the KFC building and destroyed it completely, looting it and setting it on fire. A nearby Mobilink franchise also received similar treatment.

Afghan refugees and people from suburban villages also joined the protest and some of them were seen carrying looted mobile phone sets, shoes and other goods after they had ransacked shops at Sadar Bazaar and on University Road. People took full advantage of the chaotic situation and helplessness of the police and went around the city freely looting shops. At various places, miscreants uprooted billboards, telephone cables and cut down heavy electric transmission lines. The Peshawar Electric Supply Company and the Pakistan Telecommunications Company Limited were even unable to restore supply lines till Thursday.
Posted by: Fred || 02/17/2006 00:00 || Comments || Link || [1 views] Top|| File under:

#1  The high culture and peacefulness of islam once again amply demonstrated. When the west bends over backwards to try and get along islamic people go vandal. Aren't we ready for Step #9 yet?
Posted by: Sock Puppet O´ Doom || 02/17/2006 0:36 Comments || Top||

#2  #10 - jump a step when they attack a clown
Posted by: Frank G || 02/17/2006 0:39 Comments || Top||

#3  Frank, did someone attack Al Gore?
Posted by: Choluger Jock5886 || 02/17/2006 9:31 Comments || Top||

#4  Cool beans. Continually destroying the valuable property of foreign investors will result in the withdrawal of all offshore capital and goods. The last time I checked, most Muslim countries barely make anything more sophisticated than Turban Torque Wrenches™. Good to see them vigorously pushing themselves back into a stone age setting that matches their law giving.
Posted by: Zenster || 02/17/2006 11:32 Comments || Top||

#5  Mexico codified its intolerance of foreign ownership in its Constitution. Got it double digit unemployment, a stagnate economy, and the need to off load a million of its citizens a year to prevent a revolution. Wonder where the Pak's think they're going to off load their masses?
Posted by: Glinemp Ebbomonter1494 || 02/17/2006 13:12 Comments || Top||

#6  And not only that, but try getting a decent bucket of chicken around here anymore...damn you, INFIDELS!
Posted by: Mahmoud Al-Tightassi || 02/17/2006 13:33 Comments || Top||

#7  Damn, #2 CJ5886!

Post a spew alert, willya?

Do you know how hard it is to get OJ & rum off a monitor?
Posted by: Barbara Skolaut || 02/17/2006 21:53 Comments || Top||


55 held for Chinese's murders
QUETTA: As many as 55 suspects were taken into custody on Thursday after police raids in Hub and Sakran areas in connection with the killing of three Chinese engineers along with their Pakistani driver on Wednesday. Khuzdar Police Chief Pervez Zahoor, giving details of the operations, said that the raids were carried out in collaboration with the ATF. A large cache of arms and ammunition was also seized during the raids, he said.
Posted by: Fred || 02/17/2006 00:00 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:

#1  Khuzdar Police Chief Pervez Zahoor, giving details of the operations, said that the raids were carried out in collaboration with the ATF.

55 suspects Moonshiners sans carry permits.

/Janet Reno biyotch
Posted by: RD || 02/17/2006 16:10 Comments || Top||


Pirkoh pipeline blown up
The main gas pipeline to Pirkoh Gas Plant was blown up on Thursday as two major plants were shut down. Dera Bugti District Coordination Officer Abdul Samad Lasi said that unidentified individuals blew up the pipeline at 12:30am near the Pirkoh compression plant. Loti Gas Plant is also connected with the same compression plant, and the two plants in turn are linked to the Sui gas field.

With the plants being closed, companies are expected to experience a gas shortage. However, Lasi said that this shortage would be compensated by drawing on gas from other sources. He said that the Sui Northern Gas Pipeline Limited would be the worst hit from the blast, and there would be a gas shortage in Multan and Faisalabad.

Meanwhile, unidentified men blew up the railway track near Machh once again on Thursday. According to details, a two-foot stretch of the track was blown up with explosives. All trains on the route have been suspended. No casualty has been reported and efforts are underway to repair the track.
Posted by: Fred || 02/17/2006 00:00 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:


50,000 bitch and moan in Karachi
Around 50,000 people attended a peaceful demonstration here on Thursday to protest the publication of cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad (PTUI bees pee upon him) in newspapers across Europe. Meanwhile, a complete shutter-down strike was observed in Multan city and cantonment area and Dera Ghazi Khan at a call by 200 tradersÂ’ organisations. The main demonstration at MA Jinnah Road in Karachi was organised by Ahle Sunnat-o-Jamaat (ASJ). No one was hurt in the rally and there were no reports of damage to property.
Posted by: Fred || 02/17/2006 00:00 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:

#1  how's that bird flu coming?
Posted by: Frank G || 02/17/2006 0:11 Comments || Top||

#2  Appears "white" is in again this year in Karachi.
Posted by: Besoeker || 02/17/2006 6:21 Comments || Top||

#3  shutter-down strike
Closing the arms plant?
Posted by: 6 || 02/17/2006 7:34 Comments || Top||

#4  Great. Each cartoon has caused, what, some million dollars worth of lost productivity and damages? These little devils are more cost efficient than JDAMs. More cartoons please. Oh, and let's get that gay Muslim movie out ASAP! Each frame of celluloid should be worth its weight in platinum.
Posted by: Zenster || 02/17/2006 11:36 Comments || Top||

#5  The people of the United States of America applaud the adherents of the noble faith of Islam, in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, who implicitly renounce terror by means of mass democratic rallies. The State Department advises the President and Congress to increase aid to Pakistan, by $2,000,000,000 per year, to meet the needs of the democratic protesters who may have to miss work in order to exercise freedom of religion.
Posted by: State Department || 02/17/2006 18:17 Comments || Top||

#6  The people of the United States of America applaud the adherents of the noble faith of Islam, in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, who implicitly renounce terror by means of mass democratic rallies.

Except that they're not renouncing terror in those rallies and we're not applauding them, you fu&kwit moron. All of those people in the graphic most deeply desire to impose one of the world's most backward belief structures on a huge number of unwilling people.

You and what you believe in is one of the things that will most likely result in large portions of the Middle East being carpet bombed with nuclear weapons. I'm beginning to feel that nothing else will solve the problem that twisted individuals like you represent.
Posted by: Zenster || 02/17/2006 20:47 Comments || Top||

#7  The people of the United States of America applaud the adherents of the noble faith of Islam, in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, who implicitly renounce terror by means of mass democratic rallies.

Except that they're not renouncing terror in those rallies and we're not applauding them, you fu&kwit moron. All of those people in the graphic most deeply desire to impose one of the world's most backward belief structures on a huge number of unwilling people.

You and what you believe in is one of the things that will most likely result in large portions of the Middle East being carpet bombed with nuclear weapons. I'm beginning to feel that nothing else will solve the problem that twisted individuals like you represent.
Posted by: Zenster || 02/17/2006 20:48 Comments || Top||


Yet another Pak cartoon strike
LAHORE: Tehreek-e-Namooz-e-Resalat Muhaz (TNRM) has called a province wide strike today (Friday) to protest the publication of cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad (PTUI peace be upon him) in European newspapers and the government's failure to maintain law and order.

Dr Sarfraz Naeemi, Ittehad Tanzeemul Madaras Denia secretary general, told reporters on Thursday that protests would be staged outside all major mosques after afternoon prayers to condemn government allegations that religious leaders were involved in violence and destruction of property during the strike on February 14. Naeemi said the government should track protestors who had masqueraded as seminary students and take action against them. "If a religious activist is proved guilty then the TNRM will personally hand him over to the police."
Posted by: Fred || 02/17/2006 00:00 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:

#1  Whoo Hoo! What are we up to, now? Each cartoon must have been responsible for at least a couple of million smackeroos in property damage and lost productivity. These little puppies are more effective than nepotism when it comes to hollowing out Muslim economies. More cartoons, please.
Posted by: Zenster || 02/17/2006 14:04 Comments || Top||


Daewoo suspends bus service from Multan
Korean transport company Daewoo has suspended its Multan-Lahore and Multan-Peshawar bus services until the restoration of normalcy, company's spokesperson said on Thursday. "We have suspended services on these routes for the time being, and will resume running buses on these routes after the situation returns to normal," he said after the company's terminal in Peshawar was torched on Wednesday. Meanwhile, local transport also remained suspended in Multan, while a franchise office of Scandinavian mobile service provider Telenor was closed in Dera Ghazi Khan by its owners, and the company's publicity boards were also removed from the city.
From the looting article above:
Local transporters had been protesting the permission granted to the South Korean company Daewoo to run their buses on various routes within the province. Since the company provides quality service, commuters preferred Daewoo to local bus services on long routes. The protesters, led allegedly by some local transport union leaders, went to the Daewoo bus stand and set busses and coaches on fire causing a loss of millions of rupees. “The company suffered a loss of between Rs 250 million and Rs 300 million,” the manager of the company told reporters.

Posted by: Fred || 02/17/2006 00:00 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:

#1  Sounds to me like the Pakis need one large collective spanking. An intense one at that.
Posted by: Bomb-a-rama || 02/17/2006 9:55 Comments || Top||

#2  until the restoration of normalcy

Uh ... that might take a real, real loooooong time. Like for-fricking-evah. Not that there ever was any normalcy to begin with.

It's difficult not to gloat watching Pakistan's economy swirl around and 'round as it gets sucked into the toilet of Islamist extremism. Musharraf is getting his just reward for all his perfidy.
Posted by: Zenster || 02/17/2006 14:46 Comments || Top||


Iraq
Search under way for civilian plane missing in Iraq
A small civilian aircraft, en route from Azerbaijan to Iraqi Kurdistan, is missing in mountainous northern Iraq and search teams have been dispatched to look for it, the director of Sulaimaniyah airport told AFP. "We lost radio contact at 11:14 pm (1914 GMT) with the private plane which was transporting five Azerbaijani businessmen and have not heard from the plane since," Kamaran Ahmad Abdallah said Friday. Interior ministry troops and Kurdish militiamen have been dispatched to an area near the Iranian border, some 100 kilometres (65 miles) north of the town of Halabja, to search for the missing plane, he said. The weather was snowy at the time contact was lost with the pilot, he added. Sulaimaniyah airport, some 330 kilometres (205 miles) north of Baghdad, was recently opened to international flights.
Posted by: Seafarious || 02/17/2006 09:49 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:


Iran demands UK pull out of Basra
Iran's foreign minister called on Britain on Friday to pull its troops out of the southern Iraqi city of Basra, saying their presence was destabilizing the city.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran demands the immediate withdrawal of British forces from Basra," Manouchehr Mottaki told reporters through an interpreter during a visit to Lebanon.

"We believe that the presence of the British military forces in Basra has led to the destabilization of the security situation in the city," he said, adding that the British presence had also negatively affected the security situation in southern Iran itself.

Mottaki was apparently referring to a spate of recent bomb attacks in southern Iran. Tehran has accused the British military in Iraq of cooperating with the bombers who killed eight people in attacks in January.

The minister also denounced what he said were human rights violations by the British forces in Basra.

Iran last month accused the British military in Iraq of cooperating with bombers who attacked targets in the Iranian oil city of Ahvaz, killing eight people.
Posted by: Dan Darling || 02/17/2006 05:53 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:

#1  Iran demands...?

Heh, heh. In the name of Mystical Mythical M.E. Stability, I see. Slippery bugger, heh.
Posted by: .com || 02/17/2006 6:27 Comments || Top||

#2  Perhaps a forward advance into Iran is in order?
Posted by: Captain America || 02/17/2006 7:21 Comments || Top||

#3  I agree Captain America. A Eastern shift would be nice, the Arabs down there don't like the Mullahs that much. Or North and East, help the Kurds in Northwest Iran.
Posted by: plainslow || 02/17/2006 8:21 Comments || Top||

#4  The proper diplomatic response would be for Iraq's FM to object to Iran "meddling in the internal affairs" of Iraq.
Posted by: Anonymoose || 02/17/2006 8:54 Comments || Top||

#5  The proper diplomatic response would be for Iraq's FM to call on Iran to pull its agents and weapons out of the southern Iraqi city of Basra, saying their presence was destabilizing the city.
Posted by: Darrell || 02/17/2006 9:00 Comments || Top||

#6  How about "Nuts !"
Posted by: wxjames || 02/17/2006 9:23 Comments || Top||

#7  Iran's foreign minister called on Britain on Friday to pull its troops out of the southern Iraqi city of Basra, saying their presence was destabilizing the city.

WTF business is it of Iran's what goes on in Basra?

The minister also denounced what he said were human rights violations by the British forces in Basra.

Haaahahaahahahahahahaahahahahahahahahhahahhahaaa......er....*cough cough*

Sorry 'bout that.
Posted by: Bomb-a-rama || 02/17/2006 9:52 Comments || Top||

#8  In the name of Mystical Mythical M.E. Stability, I see.

"Middle East Stability", you say? That rates right up there with one of my all time best oxymorons; Arab Unity.
Posted by: Zenster || 02/17/2006 11:18 Comments || Top||

#9  this fits with the Iranian complaints that British agents were fomenting unrest in the Arab areas of south-western Iran.
Posted by: lotp || 02/17/2006 11:30 Comments || Top||

#10  lotp, A certain amount of psychological projection going on, I'd say.
Posted by: SR-71 || 02/17/2006 12:03 Comments || Top||

#11  Man, our Muslim friends get sooooooo pissed off when they finally realize that two can and will play at this game. I'll bet the infidel fighting back is a real no-no in the Koran.
Posted by: tu3031 || 02/17/2006 12:12 Comments || Top||

#12  Wasn't it just a couple months ago that the U.K. leaked that they hard proof that some of the bomb-making equipment they were finding was of Iranian manufacture?

This isn't a surprising development, considering the release of the U.K. beatings video a couple days ago, though.
Posted by: Mizzou Mafia || 02/17/2006 14:11 Comments || Top||

#13  With this the cartoon riots the abu photos, the bomb threats everything..
The Mad Mullahs are really whipping the street up into a frenzy.
What's it leading to?
Posted by: 3dc || 02/17/2006 21:07 Comments || Top||


Iraq to probe death squad allegations
The Shiite-dominated Interior Ministry announced an investigation Thursday into claims of death squads in its ranks as police found a dozen more bodies, bringing the number of apparent victims of sectarian reprisal killings here to at least 30 this week.

The probe was announced after U.S. military officials indicated there was evidence to support the allegation of death squads. The 12 men found on Thursday had been bound and shot in the head execution-style.

At least 27 other people were killed in violence across
Iraq, including three tribal sheiks slain in a drive-by shooting. Three supporters of anti-U.S. cleric Muqtada al-Sadr died in a mortar barrage, and gunmen killed two owners of a convenience store that sold beer. Islamic extremists often target shops selling alcohol or DVDs deemed pornographic.

Sunni Arabs have been complaining for months that kidnappings and murder by Shiite-led commandos operated by the Interior Ministry are driving many Sunnis into the ranks of the insurgents. Shiites insist that they must retain control of Iraqi security forces in the next government.

In the death squad case, Iraqi security officials said the Interior Ministry probe would focus on a single incident involving 22 Iraqi policemen who U.S. authorities said were detained last month before they were able to kill a Sunni Arab man north of Baghdad.

"They were dressed as Iraqi highway patrolmen but only four of those individuals were planning to conduct a kidnapping and subsequent murder of a Sunni individual," Maj. Gen. Rick Lynch told reporters Thursday.

Maj. Gen. Joseph Peterson, who commands the civilian police training teams in Iraq, gave a slightly different version to the Chicago Tribune for a story Thursday about the death squad.

Peterson said the 22 men were wearing police commando uniforms but turned out to be employed by the Interior Ministry as highway patrol officers. He said four were believed to be ringleaders while the 18 others were likely following orders. All were picked up at a checkpoint.

"We continue to believe that there's more of these out there," he said.

But Lynch said this could have been an isolated incident.

"We have no indication they have done this in the past," he said. "All we know this is an isolated incident. We are not saying it couldn't have happened (previously), but we are not aware of it."

Maj. Gen. Hussein Kamal, who announced the investigation, said the four policemen identified by Peterson as ringleaders had been transferred to the U.S.-run
Abu Ghraib prison in western Baghdad and the rest were held in Iraqi jails.

Kamal, Iraq's deputy interior minister in charge of domestic intelligence, hinted that the scope of the probe could go beyond the 22 policemen arrested last month.

"After Iraqi authorities were informed by the Americans about the so-called commando forces engaging in assassinations, the interior minister immediately formed an investigation committee to uncover what has actually happened," Kamal said.

The U.S. military has been fighting a tough battle to rebuild a legitimate Iraqi security force that it hopes will eventually replace American-led coalition forces and maintain order throughout the country.

There is no shortage of Iraqis, particularly in Baghdad, who say family members have been kidnapped and killed by men wearing police uniforms.

"Interior Ministry special forces detained my brother and four cousins two weeks ago from (Sunni Arab) al-Aqsa Mosque in northern Baghdad's Shula neighborhood," 24-year-old security guard Ayad Ali Mahdi said.

"After two days, their bodies were found in pickup truck on a highway. It was horrific. Their bodies were tortured and mutilated by drills and an oxyacetylene welder," Mahdi said.

The relative of another victim described how two dozen men wearing security forces uniforms broke into his northern Baghdad home last month, pushed his pleading wife aside and dragged out his two brothers, the only men at home at the time.

"We contacted many police stations searching for them but couldn't find any trace. After nine or 10 days, we heard 36 dead bodies were found near (the southern Iraqi city of) Kut, and I found my brothers among them," said Sunni Arab taxi driver Youssef Abdul-Karim, 35.

"They were blindfolded, handcuffed and severely tortured. One of my brothers had drill wounds in his head, while the other was shot in the head and chest."

A Sunni Arab political group, the Iraqi Islamic Party, welcomed the Interior Ministry investigation and said perpetrators should be brought to justice.

Iraq's human rights minister, Nermine Othman, said Interior Ministry officials have been behind numerous execution-like murders, either by taking part in the roundups and killings or providing police uniforms, information on potential victims and weapons to culprits.
Posted by: Dan Darling || 02/17/2006 02:16 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:


Gunmen assassinate Iraqi army officer, soldier in Kirkuk
Gunmen killed on Thursday an Iraqi army officer and his companion in the northern city of Kirkuk, said the Iraqi police, adding that an Iraqi civilian was kidnapped in the same city. A police source told KUNA that insurgents opened fire on a military patrol killing the officer, Hekmat Abduljabbar Qambar, and solider Muntaseb Ahmad Abdusattar.

The source added that armed men abducted an Iraqi civilian named Sayyed Kool Ali Muhammad in Kirkuk. He also said that an armed group threw a grenade on the house of an Iraqi engineer called Khamees Zaidan Khalaf wounding both his spouse and young son.

In the meanwhile, an Iraqi military checkpoint was assaulted by insurgents south of Kirkuk. The incident led to a fire exchange between the insurgents and the Iraqi military who arrested eight of the attackers including two wounded women, said the source. The source also said the Iraqi forces stormed a town in Qadhaa Alhuwaijah detaining eight people who were handed over to the US-led forces in the country.

In the governorate of Diali, Iraqi forces, backed by American troops, attacked insurgents' shelters and arrested 102 suspects. Two insurgents were killed and an Iraqi solider was slightly wounded in the operation, which also resulted in discovering a big stock of arms. A statement issued by the US-led forces said that 25 of the detainees were dangerous fugitives.

Earlier today, three booby-trapped cars exploded, one near the Turkish Embassy, north Baghdad, the second in Aqaba Bin Nafaa field, and the third in western Baghdad, resulting in five deaths and 30 injuries.
Posted by: Fred || 02/17/2006 00:00 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:


Gunmen kill 3 tribal leaders in drive-by shooting north of Baghdad
Drive-by gunmen killed three prominent Iraqi tribal members in an attack on their car north of Baghdad on Thursday, police said. The three sheiks were killed while heading to a funeral in Khan Bani Saad, about 40 kilometers (25 miles), northeast of Baghdad, Diyala police's Joint Coordination Center said.

The attackers were in a minibus when they fired machine-guns at the sheiks' vehicle, police cited eyewitnesses as saying. Police identified the victims as Sheik Mindah al-Khafaji, 55, a clan leader and head of Khan Bani Saad tribal council; Sheik Hanash al-Moussaoui, 45, a member of Khan Bani Saad's local council; and Raad Ahmed Chibish al-Jibouri, 45, a Sunni Arab member of the tribal council. Police initially erroneously identified one of the victims as a Shiite sheik, Raad Ahmed al-Moussaoui.

Khan Bani Saad is a predominantly Sunni Arab town of about 40,000 people on the edge of Diyala province, which borders Baghdad. It has been the scene of previous attacks targeting religious leaders and supporters of U.S.-led reconstruction.
Posted by: Fred || 02/17/2006 00:00 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:


Jordan embassy driver killed in Baghdad
AMMAN - A Jordanian embassy driver was killed on Thursday when gunmen opened fire on his vehicle at a petrol station in the Iraqi capital before driving off with it, government spokesman Nasser Jawdeh said. “A Jordanian embassy car was the target of gunfire from armed men who wounded the Iraqi driver Jamal Salman Russen who had stopped at a petrol station to fill up,” Jawdeh told state-run Petra news agency.

Passersby rushed the wounded driver to hospital where he later died of his injuries, Jawdeh said, adding that the gunmen seized the vehicle and fled with it to an undisclosed location.

“The Jordanian government is following up on this incident with the concerned parties in Iraq,” Jawdeh added.
Posted by: Steve White || 02/17/2006 00:00 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:


Israel-Palestine-Jordan
Israel frees Hamas leader
Israel has freed a senior Hamas figure from jail days before he is due to be sworn in as a member of the new Palestinian parliament. Ahmed el-Haj Ali, 66, a leading Hamas cleric from Nablus in the West Bank, said he was released on Wednesday after five months in jail under a so-called administrative detention order.
Posted by: Fred || 02/17/2006 00:00 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:

#1  They remembered to implant the RFID chip before releasing him?
Posted by: 3dc || 02/17/2006 1:52 Comments || Top||

#2  Something to remember: someone who's been deep-sixed can't be "released".
Posted by: Bomb-a-rama || 02/17/2006 10:50 Comments || Top||

#3  Here's hoping that when they released him in the West Bank the pockets of his new silk suit were stuffed with C-notes and Cuban cigars while they blew kisses and thanked him for all the 'help.'
Posted by: Zenster || 02/17/2006 11:25 Comments || Top||


Palestinian woman attempts to stab officer at Temple Mount complex
A young Palestinian woman attempted to stab a police officer at the Temple Mount complex in Jerusalem on Thursday morning. The woman, a 27-year-old resident of Bethlehem, ran toward the officer screaming "God is Great" before she attacked him with a 30 centimeter-long knife.
Vicious little beast, isn't she?
Other officers at the site managed to restrain the woman, and took her into custody, ending the incident without injury. A preliminary investigation at the Minorities Department in the Jerusalem police revealed the woman intended to stab the officer to avenge the death of the husband. It is as yet unclear who he was and under which circumstance he died.
Or even if he's dead. Or even if she's married.
Posted by: Fred || 02/17/2006 00:00 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:

#1  30 centimeter-long knife? hmmmmm
Posted by: LorrainaBobbett || 02/17/2006 6:24 Comments || Top||

#2  It could be her husband was one of those who were shooting rockets at Isreal and got heli-zapped in the last couple of months.
Posted by: Charles || 02/17/2006 8:10 Comments || Top||

#3  Better shut the whole place down for a couple of months while investigation of the incident drags on.
Posted by: Zenster || 02/17/2006 11:39 Comments || Top||

#4  Other officers at the site managed to restrain the woman,..

Should've popped her in the face with a fist.
Posted by: Bomb-a-rama || 02/17/2006 16:57 Comments || Top||

#5  repeatedly
Posted by: Frank G || 02/17/2006 18:09 Comments || Top||


Southeast Asia
MILF still harboring JI members
Two Al Qaida-linked Indonesian terrorists who masterminded the 2002 Bali bombing that killed 202 people are believed to be coddled by splinter groups of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said yesterday.

Col. Gaudencio Pangilinan, head of the AFP Counter-Intelligence Group, reported to President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo in yesterday’s Command Conference in Malacañang that Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) bomb experts Umar Patek and Dulmatin are either in Basilan or in Jolo.

“We have received information that the two are either in Jolo or in Basilan where they are being protected by MILF factions,” Pangilinan said in an interview after the security meeting.

The AFP leader said the two key suspects in the Bali bombings have reportedly revived an MILF training camp where they have been recruiting “clean skins” and plotting attacks.

Washington, ManilaÂ’s closest security partner in the region and the countryÂ’s biggest source of military assistance, has put up an $11 million bounty for the arrest of the terrorists.

US officials have also criticized the government for failing to cut the JI-links of some MILF groups while peace negotiations are ongoing with the Muslim rebels.

Pangilinan admitted that the recent intelligence report should be taken seriously by negotiators both from the government panel and the MILF to ensure that terror links would not jeopardize the signing of a peace accord this year.

“We have to discuss this with the MILF. Are their splinter groups taking the government for a spin by coddling those terrorists and negotiating peace at the same time? We have to be sure,” Pangilinan said.

For his part, AFP spokesman Col. Tristan Kison said the MILF central command has been very cooperative in tracing the whereabouts of Dulmatin and Patek.

“Our intelligence officers are verifying this report. It is possible that a training camp has been activated, but the MILF is helping us on this. There are certain areas that are considered their strongholds and we respect that,” Kison said in a separate interview.

The terror threat, along with the renewed efforts of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New PeopleÂ’s Army to recruit more members, was the main topic in yesterdayÂ’s meeting with the President, Kison said.

“We are tracking down these personalities. We have reason to believe that they have not yet left the country.”

MILF chief negotiator Mohaqher Iqbal has assured the government that MILF splinter groups are being isolated to finally pin down the JI terrorists.

“We renounced terrorism as an instrument to achieve our political goals. We’re helping isolate and interdict terrorists in our areas, but we’ve not validated the presence of JI members in our camps,” Iqbal said.

The government and the Muslim rebel group are expected to sign a final agreement on ancestral domain issues after achieving a breakthrough in their recent informal talks in Malaysia this month.

The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process has set a timeline for the signing of the peace accord this year to finally end more than three decades of secessionist movement in the southern region.
Posted by: Dan Darling || 02/17/2006 05:36 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:

#1  I'm certain the MILF is helpingf the Phil gov with looking for them. In the US we call it a Snipe hunt.
Posted by: 49 pan || 02/17/2006 7:00 Comments || Top||

#2  sounds like they could use a little thunderstruck.
Posted by: bk || 02/17/2006 20:37 Comments || Top||


Fresh 4-phase coup plot uncovered in the Philippines
The Philippine government and armed forces said they were containing a plot to overthrow and perhaps even kill President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo by fugitive mutineers backed by retired officers and opposition figures.

"Everything is under control," Lieutenant Colonel Tristan Kison, the armed forces spokesman, said on radio on Friday.


He said extra security was in place and the justice department was investigating the masterminds but troops were on normal alert.

"We discovered that there are some who are recruiting, but I cannot tell you who they are," Kison said. "Knowing and proving are different things."

Last year, Arroyo survived a political crisis, including an impeachment attempt, over allegations of vote-rigging and corruption.

Police in Manila went on heightened but not maximum alert on Friday over reports of large anti-Arroyo protests planned for February 24, the day before the country marks the 20th anniversary of the "people power" revolt that ousted dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

"Monitor well and be ready for any contingency," said the capital's police chief, Vidal Querol.

Opponents suspect Arroyo's government of amplifying threats to ward off plotters and seek sympathy.

Fresh talk of a plot by some elements of the military has been growing since the escape from an army camp in January of four alleged leaders of a bloodless, one-day mutiny in 2003.

Quoting two senior generals, Reuters reported details of the plot on Thursday, including a mass escape of mutineers originally set for January, taking hostages at a gathering of military commanders, occupying army camps and removing Arroyo.

Intelligence officials said a politician identified with the opposition was offering up to 500 million pesos ($9.7 million) to oust Arroyo, an economist whose term is due to run until 2010.

The two generals said two politicians, one with a military background, and several retired officers had been identified as the masterminds of the four-phase plot.

Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez said the rogue troops planned to assassinate him and Arroyo.

"The president is aware of this. They mentioned two names in their plot," he said on Thursday. "It's me and the president."

He said a document with details of the plot had been found in the locker of one of 27 mutiny leaders still in detention.

"They were supposed to carry out a mass jail break on either January 20 or 21," he said, adding that the plan was to have culminated this month or in March, when the president was due to address graduates of the Philippine Military Academy.

Arroyo, who is also commander-in-chief, is to skip this weekend's annual reunion of the academy, one of the alleged targets of the plot.

Arroyo called generals to a security briefing on Thursday, a day after six armored vehicles beefed up defences at the presidential palace.

On Thursday, one of the four escaped mutiny leaders called on Filipinos to wear red bands on their left arms to protest against "the fake government of Macapagal Arroyo."
Posted by: Dan Darling || 02/17/2006 05:35 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:


Arroyo wants Dulmatin, Patek hunted down
PRESIDENT Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ordered the military to look into reports that the two top Al-Qaeda-linked Indonesian militants wanted by the US and other countries for the deadly 2002 Bali bombings could still be hiding in the southern Philippines.

Arroyo issued the directive during a command conference of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) top brass in Malacañang Thursday morning.

"She [Arroyo] tasked the intelligence units to look into this," military spokesman Tristan Kison told reporters in Camp Aguinaldo.

Ric Blancaflor, head of the government's anti-terrorism task force, on Tuesday said authorities have kept up the hunt for Dulmatin and Umar Patek, key suspects in the nightclub bombings that killed 202 people on Indonesia's Bali island in 2002.

The pair, who are top members of the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI), reportedly fled to Mindanao to escape a nationwide manhunt in Indonesia. But nothing has been heard of them since a major military offensive that was believed to have driven Abu Sayyaf guerrillas, led by Khaddafy Janjalani, and the two Indonesians from southern Maguindanao province.

"From our latest reports from the operational units, we have no reason to believe that they have left the country," said Blancaflor.

Military intelligence estimates placed the strength of the JI in the country at 30, all of whom are in Mindanao.
Posted by: Dan Darling || 02/17/2006 05:33 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:


Bali bombers still hiding out in Mindanao
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Thursday said that it will step up its hunt on two Jemaah Islamiah (JI) members who are reportedly still hiding in the dense jungle of central Mindanao. The military identified the two suspected terrorists as Dulmatin, a Malaysian engineer said to be involved in the Bali bombing in October 2002, and Omar Patek, an Indonesian explosive expert.

Col. Tristan Kison, chief of the AFP public information office, said the strengthening of operation against the two is part of the directive of President Arroyo. Kison told reporters in a press briefing that AFP intelligence officers updated President Arroyo on the status of the two JI operatives hiding in the country. "The intelligence officers gave the impression [to the President] that Dulmatin and Patek might be in Central Mindanao," Kison said. Dulmatin and Patek reportedly entered the country sometime in 2004 and were reportedly being coddled by the group of Abu Sayyaf chieftain Khadaffy Janjalani.
Posted by: Dan Darling || 02/17/2006 02:44 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:


Indonesian coppers arrest 2 men with 3,000 detonators on passenger ferry
Police arrested two men and seized 3,000 detonators and fuses on a passenger ferry in northern Indonesia, a senior officer said Friday.

The devices were seized on a ferry in Nunukan in east Kalimantan province after being transferred from a boat that had left a port in nearby Malaysia, Maj. Gen. Sitompul said.

The arrests occurred last week, but were only made public on Friday, he said.

The two men will be charged under laws regulating explosive materials that carry a possible death penalty, he said.

Sitompul declined to speculate on whether the detonators were intended for terrorist use.

Illegal miners and fisherman who catch fish by first killing them with primitive bombs regularly buy fuses and detonators on the black market in Indonesia.

But authorities have long said that terrorists were smuggling explosive materials through east Kalimantan province, which is also close to the insurgency-wracked southern Philippines.
Posted by: Dan Darling || 02/17/2006 02:29 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:

#1  I'm sure there's a rational, logical, believable explanation for this - that's total bullshit.
Posted by: .com || 02/17/2006 7:41 Comments || Top||

#2  Yeah, well TSA took my lighter when I went through the metal detectors at Ft. Lauderdale...
Posted by: tu3031 || 02/17/2006 13:55 Comments || Top||


Syria-Lebanon-Iran
Jumblatt denounces the Syrian/Iranian axis
h/t Harry's Place. Click on the link to watch and listen to Druize leader Walid Jumblatt openly challenge both Lahoud and Assad - and denouce the Syrian/Iranian axis. Unthinkable just a short time ago.
Posted by: lotp || 02/17/2006 19:43 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:

#1  Hey! How come Fred gets to post stuff 35 minutes before midnight?

Oh, yeah... It's his site.



I wanted to comment on the Poles won't allow Iranian Idiots to 'investigat' the holocaust in Poland: I understand, but the Mad Mullahs will spin it!
Posted by: Bobby || 02/17/2006 23:25 Comments || Top||


Iran: Nuclear Weapons Use Now Okay. Says So In The Koran Somewhere.
On February 16, 2006, the reformist Internet daily Rooz (www.roozonline.com) reported for the first time that extremist clerics from Qom had issued what the daily called "a new fatwa," which states that "shari'a does not forbid the use of nuclear weapons."

The following are excerpts from the Rooz report by Shahram Rafizadeh:

"When the Entire World is Armed With Nuclear Weapons, it is Permissible to Use These Weapons as a Counter-[Measure]"

"The spiritual leaders of the ultra-conservatives [in Iran] have accepted the use of nuclear weapons as lawful in the eyes of shari'a. Mohsen Gharavian, a disciple of [Ayatollah] Mesbah Yazdi [who is Iranian President Ahmadinejad's spiritual mentor], has spoken for the first time of using nuclear weapons as a counter-measure. He stated that 'in terms of shari'a, it all depends on the goal.'

"The religious leadership of the Islamic Republic [of Iran], which has until now regarded the use of nuclear weapons as opposed to shari'a, and has repeated this point again and again, has so far kept silent about this. In spite of the fact that, in the last few weeks, some of the senior [leaders] of the Islamic Republic have tried to reduce the pressure [exerted by] the radical [conservatives], the radicals nevertheless seem to have complete control over the [political] arena.

"[Iranian National Security Council Secretary] Ali Larijani, who is in charge of the nuclear dossier, has spoken to reporters only once since the [IAEA] Board of Governors approved its resolution - and his silence is significant.

"But yesterday, the IraNews news agency published recent remarks by Mohsen Gharavian regarding the nuclear issue. Gharavian is a lecturer at the religious schools of Qom, and is a disciple of [Ayatollah] Mesbah Yazdi. In his recent remarks, he said for the first time that the use of nuclear weapons may not constitute a problem according to shari'a. He further said that 'when the entire world is armed with nuclear weapons, it is permissible to use these weapons as a counter-[measure]. According to shari'a, too, only the goal is important...'

"[Gharavian] said that he sees no problem with the military use of nuclear weapons [sic]: 'One must say that when the entire world is armed with nuclear weapons, it is only natural that, as a counter-measure, it is necessary to be able to use these weapons. However, what is important is what goal they may be used for."

"The Ultra-[Conservatives] in Iran Have Launched a New Effort to Prepare the Religious Grounds for Use of These Weapons"

"This cleric, who is close to the government, also referred to the nuclear talks and to the future phases of the negotiations. He called the 'reporting' - rather than 'referring' - of the Iranian nuclear dossier [to the Security Council] playing with semantics, and said: 'The main goal of the West has been to put pressure on the Islamic Republic regime of Iran in order to generate fear. However, we will wait [to see] the future behavior of Europe and America, and then make the best decision.'

"Gharavian's statement is the first public statement by the Mesbah Yazdi group on the nuclear issue. Until now, none of the top-ranking religious [leaders] have authorized, on religious grounds, the use of nuclear weapons. But now it seems that the ultra-[conservatives] in Iran have launched a new effort to prepare the religious grounds for use of these weapons..."
Once again proving that you can break a heck of a lot of eggs and still not make an omelet.
Posted by: Anonymoose || 02/17/2006 08:40 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:

#1  We knew it was coming.
Posted by: Darrell || 02/17/2006 8:58 Comments || Top||

#2  Tell him, thanks for the OK.
Posted by: plainslow || 02/17/2006 9:07 Comments || Top||

#3  So according to the religious leadership of the Islamic Republic it is perfectly right to use nuclear weapons to achieve your purposes. So if Isreal decide to use them it is ok. Mr Bush don't be undecided about this matter. It is Ok . Just use the damn things. Remenber that "shari'a does not forbid the use of nuclear weapons." So go on and gift the religious leadership of the Islamic Republic with a couple of them .
Posted by: pescador || 02/17/2006 9:53 Comments || Top||

#4  Hey, lets just fuck around with them for another 4 years!
Posted by: Cleasing Ulolulet6603 || 02/17/2006 10:37 Comments || Top||

#5  Soon there will be a fatwa that says shari'a demands the use of nuclear weapons.
Posted by: Scott R || 02/17/2006 10:44 Comments || Top||

#6  I'm a bit confused here. If Iran seeks only peaceful uses of nuclear power, why are Iranians searching for justification for using the nuclear weapons that they claim they don't have and are not interested in obtaining?

It's a pickle.
Posted by: Scott R || 02/17/2006 10:49 Comments || Top||

#7  So nuking Mecca is Islamically approved?

How ironic.
Posted by: Robert Crawford || 02/17/2006 10:55 Comments || Top||

#8  Pescador, this goes back to the old rule, "The kaffir's head must be lower than the Muslim's head." Thus, only a Muslim may ride a horse, but the kaffir may ride only a mule... except if the Muslim is riding a mule, the kaffir must get down and walk. Likewise, the Muslims may use nuclear weapons (read that as Shia Muslim, of course!), but the kaffir may not use weaponry as powerful or as advanced, even if they were the ones who bloody well invented the things!
Posted by: trailing wife || 02/17/2006 11:02 Comments || Top||

#9  the kaffir may not use weaponry as powerful or as advanced, even if they were the ones who bloody well invented the things!

Boy howdy, are they in for a surprise! It's absolutely incredible to watch Iran claw and fight its way into first place for becoming the world's first fused glass parking lot. They should feel fortunate if we only bomb them with conventional weapons.
Posted by: Zenster || 02/17/2006 11:12 Comments || Top||

#10  ..why are Iranians searching for justification for using the nuclear weapons that they claim they don't have and are not interested in obtaining?

Something to remember: these clerics aren't the smartest people in the world.
Posted by: Bomb-a-rama || 02/17/2006 11:59 Comments || Top||

#11  Man, the Religion of Pieces is really on a toot, isn't it?

These ratbags need to be spanked. They need to be spanked HARD, and soon. The only way we're going to prevail against this primitive murder cult is to crush it. Faster, please...

Posted by: Dave D. || 02/17/2006 12:37 Comments || Top||

#12  Oh but what about all the peace loving moderate Muzzies ?
Posted by: wxjames || 02/17/2006 14:10 Comments || Top||

#13  Another brain fart-wa just in time for the quasi-secretive nuke weapon program in Iran.

Is this a Islamofacsist version of M.A.D.

My money says Bombs away M.F.er
Posted by: Captain America || 02/17/2006 14:46 Comments || Top||

#14  Oh but what about all the peace loving moderate Muzzies ?

Well, what about them? Where are they? Why aren't they protesting the malign image that Ahmadinejad gives them? When will they renounce his intentions to "wipe Israel off of the map"? When will they make a concerted effort to dry up all the "halawah" funding transactions that support violent jihad? When will they begin turning in imams that preach violent jihad? When will they finally shout out loud even a few paragraphs of protestation to fill the yawning void currently known as their thundering silence? Inquiring minds want to know!
Posted by: Zenster || 02/17/2006 14:53 Comments || Top||

#15  Number 9. Number 9. Number 9.
Posted by: Sock Puppet O² Doom || 02/17/2006 16:15 Comments || Top||

#16  No, not Number Nine. I think we oughtta try Number Six first, and see if that does the trick.
Posted by: Dave D. || 02/17/2006 17:17 Comments || Top||

#17  B-A-R is right- intellectual wattage is no criteria to become a mullah or Shiite leader
Posted by: Frank G || 02/17/2006 17:27 Comments || Top||

#18  I read his "goal" statements to mean it's OK for muslims to nuke infidels. I's required to nuke jews (better goal) and bestest of all to nuke Israel off the map.

Not very bright. Not a whit.
Posted by: Hupomoger Clans9827 || 02/17/2006 17:37 Comments || Top||

#19  I give it zero chance something like this will be broadcast of the network evening news. And the population goes another day oblivious to anything but Brad/Angelina/Jen and Cheney/lawyer-target-practice.
Posted by: ed || 02/17/2006 17:40 Comments || Top||

#20  We respect the sovereignty of the elected government of Iran, and its right to defend against those who threaten its territoriality. We respect the right of the Islamic Republic to develop, plant and use nuclear weapons - even in pre-emption = against its adversaries. And we commit to making the changes in US domestic and foreign policies, that will eliminate the cause of the Iranian people's "Death to America" chants, for which Americans must accept sole blame. We respect the right of the elected government of Iran to embrace the Koran as the source of its legislation in general, and on the specific question of use of nuclear weaponry for Islamic jihad. Islam is a noble faith, and nothing but good can come out of it. Any contrarian statements by Americans are the product of heretics, who need to be put in concentration camps.
Posted by: State Department || 02/17/2006 18:01 Comments || Top||

#21 
IMO, Dave D, using Ann Coulter as a an example in #7 trivilizes an otherwise insightful list of options that begs deeper analysis.
Posted by: RD || 02/17/2006 18:16 Comments || Top||

#22  How so?

The reference to Coulter in Option #7 is there as a somewhat tongue-in-cheek reminder that that's more or less what she had advocated in a remark-- which caused quite an uproar at the time-- to the effect that "we should invade their countries, assassinate their leaders, and forcibly convert them to Christianity".

I'm not sure I understand how that "trivializes" what I wrote; but YMMV.

Posted by: Dave D. || 02/17/2006 18:49 Comments || Top||

#23  YMMV,

agreed, your work afterall,

you did a serious differentiated list, maybe personalities distract.

#2. APPEASEMENT: Maybe if we're nicer to the Muslims--ala George Galloway, or maybe if we just let them kill all the Jews in Israel-- they won't hate us so much and then they'll leave us alone.

I quit. ;)
Posted by: RD || 02/17/2006 19:45 Comments || Top||

#24  #16 Dave, I cannot agree with that.

I know Muslims who are better citizens that most native-born DemocRats. AND they speak out in their community (and the community at large) against the islamonazis and their crap. (Notice I show them the respect of calling them "Muslim" - with a capital M - instead of my usual "moslem," which is done to show my deliberate disrespect for the islamonutz.)

You try to fuck with my friends, I'll shoot you myself.

The anti-American, anti-freedom ones, on the other hand....
Posted by: Barbara Skolaut || 02/17/2006 21:44 Comments || Top||


Terror Networks
Al-Qaeda has 50-year plan, conflict to continue for at least 10 years
The country's anti-terrorism chief said on Thursday radical reforms were needed to tackle the al Qaeda threat and that it was "hopelessly optimistic" to think authorities would stamp out the danger in the next 10 years.

Peter Clarke, head of the anti-terrorist branch, said fundamental changes had to be made into the investigation and prosecution of terrorism cases.

The country needed a new national counter-terrorism structure, he said and called for changes to trials to allow jurors to hear evidence which currently courts rule to be too prejudicial.

Clarke's comments come after the government won key votes on two controversial security bills this week, one which toughened up existing security measures and another which brought in national identity cards.

Speaking at a conference at London's Royal United Services Institute, Clarke said police were still learning about the nature of the al Qaeda threat and how to deal with it.

Asked whether police would be in a position to counter the threat within five to 10 years, he said that was "hopelessly optimistic."

"I only wish that could be the case but I very much doubt it," he told the conference, adding it was thought Osama bin Laden's organisation had a 50-year strategy in place.

The threat to the country was graphically demonstrated last July when four suicide bombers killed 52 commuters on London's transport system. Two weeks later police say four other suspects attempted to repeat the attack but their bombs failed to go off.

There were now 60 defendants awaiting trial for suspected terrorism offences in Britain, a number Clarke described as "unprecedented".

Consequently, Britain needed a new central hub for dealing with counter-terrorism as currently only London had the necessary resources.

"The events of last July showed this is no longer appropriate," he said. "We need some form of national structure which still draws on the traditional local links."

Much of the recent heated debate in the country has focussed on whether new powers sought by the government infringed civil liberties and would alienate the Muslim community, which critics say would be counter-productive.

It has also seen terrorism, an issue on which parties traditionally work together, becoming a major political issue.

Describing himself as a "human rights policeman", Clarke said no one could claim the "monopoly on wisdom".

"What we must do is avoid policies and procedures that in themselves generate distrust," he said. "It is nothing to do with appeasing extremists or political correctness."

Problems often arose, he said, because tight legal restrictions meant the public had to be kept in the dark.

"Much of the debate and comment about counter terrorism has been skewed or lacking in detail because of the length of time it takes cases to reach trial," he said.

He cited the dramatic 2003 raid on London's Finsbury Park Mosque, which had been a focal point for extremists not just in Britain but across Europe and beyond.

It was only after radical cleric Abu Hamza al-Masri was jailed this month for inciting his followers at the mosque to commit murder that police could reveal they had found evidence of possible militant training camps in Britain.

Clarke also said jurors should be trusted more.

"I have a difficulty around the degree of information we allow jurors to hear," he said. "There is a real question here about to what extent in this day and age we should trust juries to judge the truly probative from the prejudicial."
Posted by: Dan Darling || 02/17/2006 01:54 || Comments || Link || [1 views] Top|| File under:

#1  I wonder if losing Afghanistan, the fall of potential WMD sources in Iraq and Libya and global heat on Syria were in the plan or if somebody has been lying on their weekly reports.
Posted by: rjschwarz || 02/17/2006 8:55 Comments || Top||

#2  We the people of the United States will continue to stay the course of squelching occasionaly violent acts perpetrated by the misunderstood and oppressed minority of the noble faith of Islam. If it takes 50 years and bankrupts the US Treasury then so be it, as long as we look resolute. And if enemy conduct eventually threatens the American homeland, we will meet them with resolve. And if they overwhelm us, we will still act resolute. We are resolved, damn it! Any further display of irresolution by Rantburg posters and you will all be sent to Gitmo, for education on the noble faith of Islam. America will survive, inshallah.
Posted by: State Department || 02/17/2006 18:08 Comments || Top||

#3  State Department, once is funny, twice is amusing, beyond that the routine becomes boring, and ev even annoying... however heartfelt it may be. Also, there are lots of computer people here, so you might want to show that you're being sarcastic thusly:

/sarcasm
or
/end sarcasm

Yours most sincerely,
tw
Posted by: trailing wife || 02/17/2006 21:43 Comments || Top||

#4  Wasn't the Reich's plan a thousand years?
Didn't work out so well did it?
Posted by: Redneck Jim || 02/17/2006 22:20 Comments || Top||

#5  Iff correct "the Plan" will weirdly and mysteriously coincide with the approxi time frame when Russia-China, or at least China, will allegedly surpass the USA as global number one man on the block - ditto for the approxi "10 years" vv both Russia's and China's publicly reported time frame for when these two nations will be ready for full-scale war ags the USA, AND ONLY THE USA. OOOOOPPPPPPPPPPPPPSSSS, Britney did it again - how does she Britney get herself and Mother Hillary-Cindy into these things???
Posted by: JosephMendiola || 02/17/2006 23:38 Comments || Top||


Al-Qaeda run like a corporation, complete with vacation benefits and personality conflicts
Al Qaeda and the like have similar weaknesses to other modern organizations, according to two West Point studies that portray the terror network as sophisticated but its daily operations as banal.

As a consequence, the study "Stealing al Qaeda's Playbook" says, the United States should conduct counterinsurgency and psychological operations against terrorist organizations in a subtle manner that avoids "direct engagement" whenever possible.

The other study, "Harmony and Disharmony: Exploiting al Qaeda's Organizational Vulnerabilities," analyzes seized al Qaeda documents and lists ways to combat the group on many levels, such as targeting its finances and undermining it with propaganda. (Watch how some documents indicate al Qaeda provides vacation benefits for operatives -- 2:03)

The documents, which reside in a classified database called "Harmony," examine what the study calls "the banality of al Qaeda's day-to-day operations."

The Harmony materials "identify the al Qaeda recruitment criteria, the training program for 'new hires,' and the tactics of information, political and military warfare needed to defeat the Jews and Crusaders."

"The documents reflect meticulous operational calculations being made by the leadership over intended results and available opportunities for exploitation," according to the study. "The strategic discussions reflect a patient, organized and determined foe that has known defeats, but one with the ability to learn from its mistakes."

The study recommends different means of attacking al Qaeda, such as targeting its finances, confusing and embarrassing the rank and file, and exploiting ideological rifts.

It also looks at al Qaeda as a business, with the same inherent personality conflicts, intra-organizational disputes and arguments over allocating resources of any corporation.

"The corporate culture appears to be similar to other modern organizations," the study states.

Indeed, some of the documents used by researchers indicate that al Qaeda has vacation plans -- seven days every three weeks for married members, five days a month for bachelors -- and provides its members with 15 days of sick leave a year.

One document states that al Qaeda operatives must request vacation 10 weeks in advance, and another document outlines the pay scale for members: about $108 a month for married members, less if they're single and more if they have more than one wife.

The Harmony documents, some of which date back to the 1970s, when Islamists tried to overthrow the secular government of Syria, "also reveal a high level of arrogance and intense ambition" common to jihadist groups, the study states.

"While the theology may seem reactionary, the organization insists on using modern management principles as well. Instruction is provided on applying information technology, manipulating the media and researching the use of nuclear weapons for the cause of jihad."

The "Playbook" study takes a different approach, outlining six major trends in the thinking of prominent jihadists, including al Qaeda No. 2 Ayman al-Zawahiri, and describing how the United States could counter each one:

# Direct engagement with the United States has been positive for the movement because it rallies locals, drains U.S. resources and puts pressure on Washington's allies.

To counter the first trend, the study says the United States "should avoid direct, large-scale military action in the Middle East. If such fighting is necessary, it must be done through proxies whenever possible."

# The movement has become decentralized, making training camps obsolete and opening doors to new venues for training, such as urban areas and the Internet.

Therefore, the study authors write, the United States "must be aware of the consequences of creating new theaters for jihad, particularly in the Arab world. The U.S. must also find ways to redirect the alienation among Muslim youth that is fueling recruitment."

# Jihadist ideologues want to establish Islamic states that can be used as training bases and to help develop the "nuclei of the future jihadi order." But rather than overthrowing a sitting ruler, they would be content to create enclaves in poorly policed regions.

The United States should compete by helping local surrogates establish their own enclaves "in regions where there are security vacuums," according to the study.

# Jihadists frown on bad publicity and want to foster an image that will convince people to join their groups.

The study suggests using Cold War-era propaganda tactics to covertly sway public opinion. Attempts by the U.S. "to elicit pro-American feelings in the Middle East by making public pronouncements about the true nature of Islam or the virtues of democracy" should be avoided.

# Jihadists see religious leadership as integral to attracting youths and lending legitimacy to violence.

The United States "should very carefully and unobtrusively support Muslim religious leaders and movements" that counter the movement, even if the leaders are not friendly with the West," the study says.

"If the bottom line is a rejection of violence against the United States and its allies, [such groups] should be supported."

# Jihadists look for insights in Western thought and U.S. strategic planning.

According to the study, the United States should counter these efforts by "establishing a think tank staffed with highly trained experts on the Middle East and counterinsurgency whose sole purpose would be to identify the major jihadi thinkers and analyze their works."
Posted by: Dan Darling || 02/17/2006 00:36 || Comments || Link || [0 views] Top|| File under:

#1  interesting DD. Glad they don't use Fedex. The savings would free up additional attacks
Posted by: Frank G || 02/17/2006 0:46 Comments || Top||

#2 
The History of Valentine's Day
Every February, across the country, candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. But who is this mysterious saint and why do we celebrate this holiday? The history of Valentine's Day -- and its patron saint -- is shrouded in mystery. But we do know that February has long been a month of romance. St. Valentine's Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. So, who was Saint Valentine and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? Today, the Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred.




One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men -- his crop of potential soldiers. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine's actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death.

Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons where they were often beaten and tortured.


According to one legend, Valentine actually sent the first 'valentine' greeting himself. While in prison, it is believed that Valentine fell in love with a young girl -- who may have been his jailor's daughter -- who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter, which he signed 'From your Valentine,' an expression that is still in use today. Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is murky, the stories certainly emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic, and, most importantly, romantic figure. It's no surprise that by the Middle Ages, Valentine was one of the most popular saints in England and France.


Posted by: Mukhtiar Chachar || 02/17/2006 4:43 Comments || Top||

#3 
Redacted by moderator. Comments may be redacted for trolling, violation of standards of good manners, or plain stupidity. Please correct the condition that applies and try again. Contents may be viewed in the
sinktrap. Further violations may result in
banning.
Posted by: Mukhtiar Chachar || 02/17/2006 4:44 Comments || Top||

#4  Fascinating.
Fuck off.
Posted by: .com || 02/17/2006 4:54 Comments || Top||

#5  Really no surprise here. When we took down AQ and taliban in Afganistan, there were many documented pissing matches over really trival shit.

"I wanted that bomb" "No, I want it"...tick..tick.tick BOOM!

The fact is that when scum is joined with scum, you end up with scum squared.
Posted by: Captain America || 02/17/2006 7:25 Comments || Top||

#6  "According to the study, the United States should counter these efforts by "establishing a think tank staffed with highly trained experts on the Middle East and counterinsurgency whose sole purpose would be to identify the major jihadi thinkers and analyze their works."

Wonder if RB could get the contract?
Posted by: TomAnon || 02/17/2006 8:50 Comments || Top||

#7  identify the major jihadi thinkers and analyze their works

The RB report that said: "His name is Abu X. He wants to kill Joooos" would be too short for those week-long conference thingies.

Posted by: Seafarious || 02/17/2006 8:53 Comments || Top||

#8  Their use of proxies is what most analysts have missed. They have allied with gangs, the Mafia, and other arms merchants to achieve the goals of draining American resources and causing division. The liberal agenda seems to even coincide with Al Qaeda's. However, Christians and Jews have their own play Book and subtle psy-ops they have no knowledge of, "darkened in their understanding" as they are;)
Posted by: Danielle || 02/17/2006 10:19 Comments || Top||

#9  Danielle, you are a gem. :-D
Posted by: trailing wife || 02/17/2006 11:06 Comments || Top||

#10  Looove letters from Pakistan again, I see.
Posted by: Pappy || 02/17/2006 11:19 Comments || Top||

#11  It also looks at al Qaeda as a business, with the same inherent personality conflicts, intra-organizational disputes and arguments over allocating resources of any corporation.

Fine. Send them Donald Trump and they'll be bankrupt in a few weeks. We'll have them doing cheesey reality shows to make ends meet. I can see it now, "You're Boomed!"

The United States "should very carefully and unobtrusively support Muslim religious leaders and movements" that counter the movement, even if the leaders are not friendly with the West," the study says.

We've already tried that sh!t. His name was Osama bin Laden.
Posted by: Zenster || 02/17/2006 14:39 Comments || Top||

#12  If al-Qaeda renounces terror and choses the democratic process which has handed several recnt victories to really noble faith bearers of Islam, then we will negotiate with al-Qaeda, with the end of paying compensation to the families of the misunderstood 19 individuals who gave their lives for the noble faith of Islam on September 11, 2001. Our apology for making al-Qaeda members angry enough to martyr themselves to the faith that gives comfort to over 1 billion people, will follow. If the American Constitution does not conform to the will of al-Qaeda, then the Constitution will be written to accomodate those friends.
Posted by: State Department || 02/17/2006 18:13 Comments || Top||

#13  with the end of paying compensation to the families of the misunderstood 19 individuals who gave their lives for the noble faith of Islam on September 11, 2001.

Whoever you are, State Department, I advise you to avoid spewing this sort of deranged bile anywhere within the borders of the United States of America. You just might get your @ss handed to you on a plate. Personally, I'd like some time alone with you for prolonged discussion of the immense value that extensive parking lot therapy can have for individuals of your belief set. I rarely do this, but you richly deserve a polite FOAD & HAND.

Moderators, please sinktrap the previous post.
Posted by: Zenster || 02/17/2006 20:41 Comments || Top||

#14  Har karz dosti ka ada kaun karega? Hum na rahe to dosti kaun karega? E khuda mere doston ko salamat rakhna, Warna meri shaadi mein dance kaun karega?
.....................................................
Do pal ki bhi khushi na mili to kya hua umr bhar gam ke sahare ji lenge, Kya hua jo hamari girlfriend nahi, hum aapki girlfriend ke sahare ji lenge.
......................................................
Tere DIL mein rahenge SMS bankar,Dhadkano mein bajenge RINGTONE bankar,Kabhi apne DIL se juda mut Samajana,Hum tere saath chalenge NETWORK bankar!
..............................................................................
Hum dua karte hain Khuda se, ki wo aap jaisa dost aur na banaye, Ek Cartoon jaisi cheez hai humare paas, kahin wo bhi common na ho jaye
...........................................................
Zindagi behaal hai, Sur hai na taal hai, Msg box bhi kangal hai, kya aapki sms factory me hartal hai, Yaar kuch to bhejo ye meri mobile ki zindagi ka sawaal hai.
...................................................................
o hamne aurtUnka ashiyana dil mein basa rakha hai, Unki yadon ko seene se laga rakha hai, Pata nahi yaad aate hain wohi kyun, Vaise dost on ko bhi bana rakha hai.
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Dil mein umeedo ki shamma jala rakhi hai, Humne apni alag duniya basa rakhi hai, Is umeed ke saath ki ayega SMS aapka,
Humne mobile par nazrein jama rakhi hein.
..........................................................................
Zindagi Hey to Khwab Hain, Khwab hain tu Manzilen Hain,Manzilen Hain to Rastay Hain Rastay Hain TU Mushkilen Hain our Mushkilen Hain Tu "Main Hoon Na"
...............................................................
Ae dil kissi ki yaad mein rona fajool hai .. ye aansoo bade anmol hain inhe khona fajool hai .. royo to unke liye jo tum par nisaar hain .. unke liye kya rona jinke aashiq hazaar hain
.............................................................
Phoolon se khoobsurat koi nahi. .. Sagar se gahra koi nahi. .. Ab aapki kya tarif karu...Dosto me aap jaisa...Nalayak koi nahi!
...........................................................
Zindagi jaise ek saza si ho gayi hai, gham ke saagar me is kadar kho gayi hai, tum kar do ek SMS yeh guzarish hai meri,tumari SMS ki adat si ho gayi hai.
Posted by: Mukhtiar Chachar || 02/17/2006 4:44 Comments || Top||



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A multi-volume chronology and reference guide set detailing three years of the Mexican Drug War between 2010 and 2012.

Rantburg.com and borderlandbeat.com correspondent and author Chris Covert presents his first non-fiction work detailing the drug and gang related violence in Mexico.

Chris gives us Mexican press dispatches of drug and gang war violence over three years, presented in a multi volume set intended to chronicle the death, violence and mayhem which has dominated Mexico for six years.
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Two weeks of WOT
Fri 2006-02-17
  Pak cleric rushdies cartoonist
Thu 2006-02-16
  Outbreaks along Tumen River between Nork guards and armed N Korean groups
Wed 2006-02-15
  Yemen offers reward for Al Qaeda jailbreakers
Tue 2006-02-14
  Cartoon protesters go berserk in Peshawar
Mon 2006-02-13
  Gore Bashes US In Saudi Arabia
Sun 2006-02-12
  IAEA cameras taken off Iran N-sites
Sat 2006-02-11
  Danish ambassador quits Syria
Fri 2006-02-10
  Nasrallah: Bush and Rice should 'shut up'
Thu 2006-02-09
  Taliban offer 100kg gold for killing cartoonist
Wed 2006-02-08
  Syrian Ex-VP and Muslim Brotherhood Put Past Behind Them
Tue 2006-02-07
  Captain Hook found guilty in London
Mon 2006-02-06
  Cartoon riots: Leb interior minister quits
Sun 2006-02-05
  Iran Resumes Uranium Enrichment
Sat 2006-02-04
  Syria protesters set Danish embassy ablaze
Fri 2006-02-03
  Islamic Defense Front attacks Danish embassy in Jakarta

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