KABUL - NATOs expansion into southern Afghanistan will target drug warlords who are the root cause of growing violence, the forces commander said on Saturday. NATO will embark on the biggest mission in its history on Monday when it takes over security from the US-led coalition in six southern provinces, extending its authority to almost all of the country.
British Lieutenant-General David Richards said he hoped to see improvements in the south within three to six months, which would allow the 26-nation alliance to proceed with the final phase of its deployment into the east by the end of the year.
Richards told a news conference in Kabul that the violence was inextricably linked to drugs. Essentially for the last four years some very brutal people have been developing their little fiefdoms down there and exporting a lot of opium to the rest of the world, he said. That very evil trade is being threatened by the NATO expansion in the south. This is a very noble cause were engaged in and we have to liberate the people from that scourge of those warlords.
We do not want to target the farmers. Those people are in debt because of the drug barons, Richards said.
Richards said the key elements of NATOs new role in the south, with the backing of up to 9,000 troops from 37 countries, would be to provide security to foster development, reconstruction and good governance. This will enable an alternative economy to that offered by the drug barons to develop, he said. (But) they are going to fight very hard to keep what theyve got, said Richards. I am not trying to achieve instant victory because I cant do that. Within three to six months I think well have a very clear idea (of how we are progressing).
I think this is a misguided pipe dream but what do I know? I don't see how you can wean farmers away from growing poppies, as there just isn't any other crop that generates this kind of profit potential. The farmers sure won't make a living growing soybeans. But I don't have any suggestions on how to do things better.
Posted by: Steve White ||
07/30/2006 00:00 ||
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Why can't they convert a few KC-10's into cropdusters and just go ape? There must be a reason or they would have done it by now.
#2
MMmmmm, I remember a TV special on just how Opium is Grown, they slit the buds with razors and scrape off the hardened sap a few dys later, that sap is the Opium.
Crop Dusters with weed killer would work, but it's a short range solution, a hundred miles or so range per crop duster, makes it pretty easy to attack the airplane some night and burn it, desperate Farmers would not hesitate to destroy the plane.
Posted by: Redneck Jim ||
07/30/2006 10:19 Comments ||
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BAIDOA, Somalia (AP) - Somalia's prime minister on Saturday accused Egypt, Libya and Iran of providing weapons for Islamic militants who have seized control of much of this country's south. "Egypt, Libya and Iran, whom we thought were friends, are engaged in fueling the conflict in Somalia by supporting the terrorists," Prime Minister Mohammed Ali Gedi said, citing unnamed sources within his government.
You have a strange idea of what makes a friend.
"We call for the international community to put pressure on these countries who want the problems in Somalia to continue," Gedi said.
'cause that'll be all it takes, some good old-fashioned international pressure.
Posted by: Steve White ||
07/30/2006 00:00 ||
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#1
Hmm. We'll think about it. Last time we were there we got bit.
#2
"We call for the international community to put pressure on these countries
Cause if we did it ourself, we might get our hands dirty, and then they wouldn't like us anymore. (Pout/Whine)
Posted by: Redneck Jim ||
07/30/2006 10:32 Comments ||
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#3
Your reading this all wrong. This is the PM of the helpless govt in Baldoa speaking. They are surrounded by the Islamimic Army of Evil that has taken over most of the country and are in fact being aided by the countries mentioned. The Islamist death worshipers have about taken over most of Africa, and are know trying to make inroad in India, and will shortly make thier presences felt in the in Europe and the America's(including the USA).
This is the final war against evil, and it will unfortunitaly come to our shores before we all will recognize it as the evil it is.
I will not bow down to Islam. Give me Liberty or Death.
The General Staff announced yesterday that an investigation has been launched into a retired general who said he had ordered bomb attacks in southeastern Anatolia during his assignment to the region to 'train' civil servants working there.
Retired Gen. Altay Tokat told the news weekly Aktüel that he ordered bombs to be thrown near the homes of two civil servants in the region in what he described as a move to intimidate them and make them understand the gravity of the situation. "The civil servants, the judges who come from western Turkey, do not realize how serious the situation is [in the Southeast]. ... They walk around without a care, do what they want," the magazine quoted him as saying.
Tokat, now a member of the opposition Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), served in southeastern Anatolia between 1995 and 1998 at the height of a separatist campaign at the hands of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) in the region.
The remarks were not the first time that soldiers were under suspicion of carrying out attacks in southeastern Anatolia. In November, two gendarmerie officers tossed a grenade into a bookstore owned by former PKK member Seferi Yýlmaz in the town of Þemdinli near the Iraqi border. Yýlmaz survived and chased down his attackers, who turned out to be noncommissioned officers with suspected ties to top generals. A court last month sentenced the two noncommissioned officers to nearly 40 years in prison for trying to kill Yýlmaz, who had been jailed on charges of membership in the PKK. But Prosecutor Ferhat Sarýkaya, who implicated Land Forces Commander Gen. Yaþar Büyükanýt in the indictment, has been sacked. Sarýkaya appealed the decision for a second time after his initial request was turned down.
The Taepodong-2 long-range missile test-fired by North Korea on July 5 broke up and fell back to earth just after its launch, making its flight much shorter than previously believed, media reports said on Sunday. The Japanese government had previously said the Taepodong-2 fell into the Sea of Japan about 640 km (400 miles) from the launch site.
Sources quoted by Kyodo news agency said the missile exploded in mid-air within 1.5 km of the launch site, either in a northeastern region of North Korea or in its territorial waters on the edge of the Sea of Japan. Experts have said the missile is potentially capable of hitting parts of U.S. territory.
The problem was most likely due to difficulties with the missile's boosters, sources quoted by the Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper said.
A Japanese government official quoted by the Yomiuri said the new analysis, which will be included in a report to be issued by the government early next month, indicated that North Korea's missile technology was still immature.
"It will likely take a long time for North Korea to launch a Taepodong-2 again," he added.
#4
Technically, its not necessary to have a nuclear detonation in order to spread radioactive compounds/materials over a large area. In any case, North Korea = Radical Iran = Terror groups > have an interest in inducing Western withdrawal, containment and isolationism from target regions. And like the terror shellings of northern Israel, concessions and buffer zones is no guaranty of current andor future peace, only of retrenchments, reorganz and new attacks. Israel's withdrawals have only begat bigger enemy formations + bigger enemy rockets-shells launched from longer distances, and terror -centric elements becoming a substantive, de facto part of allegedly moderate or neutral local Govts. NORTH KOREA > until US-Western INTEL can verify the nature of Kimmie's rants, NORTH KOREA SHOULD BETREATED AS A EXPENDABLE DIVERSIONARY "HOLDING FRONT" AGZ USA, JAPAN, and SOKORS, vv Chicoms positioning of milfors ala TAIWAN, VIETNAM, NORTHERN PHILIPPINES, and WESTPAC. China has enuff manpower for both, but not enuff WAR-WINNING LEVELS OF MILTECH/ECON yet in comparison wid tech/econ-superior USA + JAPAN + SOKORS. Against the nations of SE Asia, China has a better chance of near-term victory or diplom concession Once the smaller tech-par or tech-inferior Western democracies or neutrals are gone, China can refocii all her might against North Asia + USA proper. FOR NOW, OR UNTIL YEAR 2015-2020, THE NAME OF THE GAME IS TO AVOID MUTUALLY DESTRUCTIVE ALL-OUT NUCLEAR WAR, PC DESTABILIZE SECTARIANIZE and FACTIONALIZE, AND TO USE AMERICA'S AND WEST'S OWN MILPOL ESTABLISHMENTS INSTITUTIONS, AND VALUES AGAINST THEMSELVES, TO USE DEMOCRACY FOR ANTI-DEMOCRACY.
#5
Hi Joe, the best way to humiliate the NORKS is to simply ignore them, they've been screaming "LOOK AT ME" for decades now, with no results but laughter.
We need to keep it up, humiliation is a powerful weapon in the Asian world, continue to embarrass the shit out of them, it hurts them way down deep inside.
Posted by: Redneck Jim ||
07/30/2006 10:28 Comments ||
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#6
Nice tactics in an office or school environment, but it won't work when the loudmouth you are trying to deal with wants to launch nukes against you and you allies.
Why wait?
I don't wanna find out two years down the road that "damn, ignoring them didn't work" while their first loaded missile is about to hit us or the Japs.
At least wreck their rocket launch pads, and keep them wrecked.
#7
I don't mean "Ignore" as to turn your backs, I mean "Ignore" as to be sure that their attention getting tactics are thrown into the bright light of day, as well as any and all humiliating failures trumpeted around the world with all facts stated with blindingly briliant attention.
In short, "Ignore" as in belittle any attempt to draw favorable attention through their lies and propaganda, example, their "Successful" missle launch, trumpeted around the world with all their lies about flight times and accuracy disproven with facts.
Exactly what is happening right now, a real blow to be called "LIAR" and then another huge blow to then prove it making sure that it's glaringly obvious that the lies were caught.
That hurts Asians more than you know, to lose "Face" can be deadly (To them)
Posted by: Redneck Jim ||
07/30/2006 17:55 Comments ||
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#8
as in: massive distribution of "Team America" DVDs....
Posted by: Frank G ||
07/30/2006 18:13 Comments ||
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The youngest son of Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) has joined the Marine Corps and could be deployed to a war zone in a matter of months, according to a magazine report. Jimmy McCain, 18, will begin basic training in September. He'll spend three months in boot camp and undergo a month of specialized training before being assigned to a unit.
"I'm obviously very proud of my son," the elder McCain told Time, "but also understandably a little nervous." McCain's communications director, Eileen McMenamin, confirmed the Time story but said the senator would not comment further Saturday. McCain has been an outspoken supporter of the war in Iraq and said last month during a Senate debate that withdrawing troops would "risk disaster." Another of the senator's seven children, Jack, 20, attends the U.S. Naval Academy.
In an ironic twist to India's long-standing complaint of terror camps existing on its soil, Pakistan on Saturday said it has given a list of terrorist training camps in India and expected New Delhi to dismantle them. "We have given the list (of terrorist training camps) to India and we would expect India to dismantle them," Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesperson Tasneem Aslam said.
Aslam said that the allegation about existence of 52 terror training camps on Pakistani soil was "a figment of imagination".
She was reacting to an interview given by Minister of State for External Affairs Anand Sharma to Times Now TV channel during which he said that next Foreign Secretary-level talks were unlikely till Islamabad takes "some action" against training camps operating from Pakistani soil. Aslam said that the allegation about existence of 52 terror training camps on Pakistani soil was "a figment of imagination".
In the interview, Sharma said "dismantling of the training camps.....And also extradition of those we have named. We are not saying 'till then' India does not talk like that". Noting that talks could take place when Pakistan realises the need to take firm action, he said "at least, some action should be there".
"Talks cannot be ritualistic. Talks have to be sincere. We are committed to a sincere process for the restoration of peace and normalcy in the region. Pakistan has to demonstrate its commitment and sincerity. That can be only by fulfilling the assurances which they have given. I am very clear on that", he said. Observing that Pakistan has to do something to improve the environment, he said "we have not vitiated the environment. We can't be held responsible for what is happening now".
Posted by: john ||
07/30/2006 08:08 ||
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#1
"We have given the list (of terrorist training camps) to India and we would expect India to dismantle them," Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesperson Tasneem Aslam said.
Aslam said that the allegation about existence of 52 terror training camps on Pakistani soil was "a figment of imagination".
I see.
The camps in Pakistan are imaginary. In reality there are camps in India.
The Pakistani drug crop came in early?
Posted by: john ||
07/30/2006 8:13 Comments ||
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#2
Nest we will hear that Osama Bin Laden is hiding in South India
Posted by: john ||
07/30/2006 11:08 Comments ||
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#3
Among the camps were Mumbai, Bangalore, and various Hindu religious sites.
Posted by: Robert Crawford ||
07/30/2006 20:12 Comments ||
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Keep this in mind next time Malaysia says it supports the war on terror...
Hizbollah fighters are resisting Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon and are not terrorists as charged by the United States, said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar.
He urged the West to see the broader picture of the conflict because it did not result from the capture of two Israeli soldiers by the Hizbollah two weeks ago but by Israel's occupation of Arab lands. The Palestinians, until now, have no country of their own, he said.
And they're doing such a bang-up job with it too
He told reporters that although the Hizbollah had been branded a terrorist organisation by the United States and other Western countries, Israel's actions in Lebanon could be deemed the same.
"What Israel is doing in Lebanon is state terrorism," said Syed Hamid, who had accompanied Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman to a ceremony to hand over land grants to 348 settlers in Felda Bukit Wa Ha here.
More than 600 Lebanese, mostly civilians, have been killed by land, sea and air bombardment of the country by Israel in the latest fighting. The conflict between Israel and Hizbollah, which is supported by Syria and Iran, has also claimed more 50 Israeli lives, both military and civilian, mostly due to rocket attacks.
Many countries and international organisations have called for an immediate ceasefire by both sides, but this has been rejected by Israel and its main ally the United States. Washington and Tel Aviv have demanded that the Hizbollah disarm and withdraw from the areas bordering Israel.
According to Syed Hamid, the United Nations (UN), which lost four unarmed observers after an observation post in Lebanon was bombed by Israeli planes, agreed that the Israeli aggression was disproportionate and violated international laws.
He said the anger felt by Malaysians over the destruction of Lebanon was justified, referring to the massive demonstrations against Israel and the United States in Kuala Lumpur Friday. The Foreign Minister also said that the conflict was not because of religion.
Oh, of course not.
He said that Malaysia, as the chair of the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC), would hold a special meeting on the conflict among eight to 10 members here on Thursday. The meeting would be chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and would seek an urgent stop to the calamity that had befallen Lebanon and Palestine, he said.
"The meeting is being called as the international community has been unable to end the crisis and it appears that the Israelis have been given a blank cheque to slaughter innocent civilians," he said. He added that Syria and Iran have also been invited to the meeting.
#1
Malaysia hosted an al Qaeda conference. Of course it thinks Hezbollah's not a terrorist organization. Prior to 9/11, it did not consider al Qaeda a terrorist organization either. The post-9/11 change was probably due to fear of being bombed like Afghanistan. Malaysia notably opposed the invasion of Afghanistan. Basically, they shed crocodile tears over 9/11 and then opposed American efforts to kill the terrorists and their supporters.
#6
The FM is known also as spudhead. What to expect from one who happens to be the son of an incompromising ultra racist politician father?
The government now can't even allow a discussion on its own constitution(regarding whatever rights and safeguards therein) following the rejecting of the formation of an Inter Faith Council earlier...it rather presume that islam is therefore de facto supreme and 100% unquestionable for all.
Umno Youth will release a list of brands and international companies with operations in Malaysia that are known to be supporting the Israeli regime financially. Deputy chief Khairy Jamaluddin said the move was to inform the public of the brands and companies so that they could either boycott or remain as their clients.
Speaking to reporters after presenting a working paper at an Umno entrepreneurial seminar at Teluk Batik near here Saturday, he said the movement did not want to launch a boycott campaign as it had been ineffective in the past.
"I will suggest that we distribute a list of the companies which are clear Israeli supporters according to their profits so that we are aware of who are helping Israel," he said. He said the people should be informed of these companies so that they could use their right as consumers whether they wanted to continue using their products.
Khairy said the movement Friday received an e-mail on an international coffee shop chain allegedly supporting Israel and sending funds to the zionist regime. He said if there was truth to the claim, the people must be told so they could make their own assessment whether they wanted to continue supporting the company which has a chain of shops in the country.
Khairy also said Umno Youth would continue with its protest against the Israeli atrocities by holding demonstrations throughout the country. He said it was important for Malaysians to continue voicing their protest against Israeli aggression on Palestine and Lebanon.
Khairy and Perak Umno Youth chief Zainol Fadzi Paharudin later led some 500 of the movement's members to hold a demonstration near the seminar venue to condemn Israel.
#1
Article: Khairy said the movement Friday received an e-mail on an international coffee shop chain allegedly supporting Israel and sending funds to the zionist regime.
This chain is Starbucks. Maybe we need to circulate a list of Malaysian Muslim companies so that Americans can decide whether they want to do business with them.
I'd like to see a list of Israeli consumer products sold in America - so I can make a point of supporting them.
Posted by: Barbara Skolaut ||
07/30/2006 0:24 Comments ||
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#3
US-Malaysia 2005 trade:
US imports $33,685.2 billion
US exports $10,460.8 billion
US deficit $23,224.3 billion
US trade decifit is 8.0% of Malaysia's GDP. Using standard multipliers, the US trade deficit contributes to 24-32 of their economy. Time to zero out that figure.
Posted by: ed ||
07/30/2006 1:17 Comments ||
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#4
Umno youth probably don't consider that they live in a glass economy before they started throwing stones. But I doubt this will get much if any MSM coverage. Sigh.
#5
Umno Youth has been the successful bully boys locally. It wants to export that role overseas....against the US mainly, of course. It's gonna hurt you more than it hurts anyone else, ye morons of the fascist genre!
Syria may not have nuclear weapons, but it has created a force of ballistic missiles equipped with chemical (nerve and mustard gas) warheads. Syria is believed to have about 1200 ballistic missiles. About 85 percent of them are SCUDs, and most of these are improved designs from North Korea and Iran.
The main improvement is a larger fuel tank, giving these missiles a range of about 700 kilometers. This allows them to reach anywhere in Israel. About 15 percent of their missiles are more modern (solid fuel) Russian SS-21s.
But these only have a range of 70 kilometers. Thus the Syrians have about 600 missiles with a range of 700 kilometers, another 400 with a range of 300-400 kilometers, and about 200 with a range of 70 kilometers. All these missiles carry a half ton warhead. And some of these warheads carry nerve gas or mustard gas.
There are about 70 mobile launchers for the SCUDs, and about as many for the smaller SS-21s. The SCUD launchers, and support vehicles, are hidden in fifteen or more tunnel complexes. A major disadvantage of the SCUDs is that they take over an hour to fuel and get ready for firing. Some of the liquid fuel is poisonous, and the crews have to be careful while handling it.
While there are some underground SCUD launching facilities, these are probably known to the Israelis, and likely to be bombed early in any conflict. That's why the 70 mobile launchers are so important. These will be much sought after by Israeli aircraft, UAVs and satellites.
Israel also has an anti-missile system (Arrow) that can knock down a few SCUDs at a time. If the Israelis can destroy most of the mobile launchers, and underground launch sites, that might be enough to avoid getting hit with chemical warheads.
These ballistic missiles are really the only reliable weapon Syria has. Poverty, and the end of Cold War era handouts from Russia, has led the 220,000 man Syrian army to decline in quality. The Syrian air force has sunk even deeper. The Syrian forces were never all that great to begin with. But now, all they can do is threaten Israel with chemical warheads carried on ballistic missiles. The United States has threatened to reply with nukes if anyone uses chemical weapons against U.S. troops or civilians. It's unclear if Israel would respond the same way. The Israeli armed forces could roll over the Syrian army and capture all of Syria in short order. The threat of Israeli war crimes trials against Syrian leaders (who survived the Israeli offensive), might be the ultimate deterrent.
publicly order evacuation of all foreigners from Syria, should intel indicate distribution to Syrian OR Hezb forces, and bomb as needed. Try to avoid the kurds....
Posted by: Frank G ||
07/30/2006 18:11 Comments ||
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#3
With even a single bio-chem launch, Syria's entire military and government infrastructure should be reduced to smoking rubble. A combination of American and Israeli forces should provide the service. No nuclear weapons, please, even though they would not be unwarranted. Assad needs to be put on notice to keep his nose clean regarding this. Syria's meddling has been nothing short of infuriating for some decades now. Time for them to walk on eggshells.
#4
Don't forget that Iraq's WMDs have been smuggled into Syria at the end of 2002, as told by George Sada in his book Saddam's secrets, and that the Israeli generals have since been planning for their use against Israel.
#5
leroidavid: we were probably very clear to the Russians that it would be to everyone's advantage both that the WMDs both be shipped out, then *buried*, deeply, in Syria.
It served everyone's interest, and even the Israelis noted that the WMDs were buried, when the blew the story.
#6
With even a single bio-chem launch, Syria's entire military and government infrastructure should be reduced to smoking rubble.
Amen to that but I'm not entirely certain that it would be wise to limit a response to conventional weapons only. Allowing the Islamonuts or their fellow travelers to cross the WMD rubicon while earning only conventional response might well be interpreted as a sign of the extreme weakness of the western position. No need to wave the proverbial red flag in front of the Iranian bull, better that the response to any such provocation be swift, overwhelming, non-conventional, and (to the greatest degree possible) targeted towards military infrastructure and away from civilian populations.
#7
Massive retaliation would be required for any crossing of the the WMD firebreak. Any use of WMD must be a death sentence for the country that uses them. Not necessarily nuclear, but comptete destruction. And it is not only a message for the Islamolooneys. NKor, China, and Russia would also note a wobbly response to WMD use.
A former CSIS informant who once kept tabs on terrorists says the Iranian regime is "mentally and spiritually" preparing its people for war against Israel.
The Ottawa man, now in Tehran, says the hate campaign against Israel is "everywhere" on the streets of the capital.
"It is not good. It is sad," he told the Citizen. "There are posters at intersections of (Hezbollah leader Sheik Hassan Nasrallah) saying Israel must be erased from the map."
Opponents of the Iranian government in Canada say they have received similar reports describing huge posters of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, hardline president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and the Hezbollah leader alongside the slogan: "This war is our war."
"I had some reports where people said that they do not care what the government of Iran wants to do," said Shahram Golestaneh, president of Committee for Defence of Human Rights in Iran. "They are concerned about the possibility of more bloodshed in the Middle East and (concerned) that the government uses all Iran's money to help fight against Israel by its own Hezbollah."
Iran, which backs Hezbollah, has repeatedly denied Israeli claims that it also arms the organization established in the 1980s to combat Israeli forces.
"Our support has been spiritual. If we had military support, we would announce it. ... We don't have any hidden business," ministry spokesman Hamid Reza Asefi said on state-run television yesterday, a day after U.S. President George W. Bush sharply criticized Iran's role in the bloody fighting.
"They don't have any right to tell us why Iran supports Hezbollah at all. The question is, why do they support Israel?" Mr. Asefi said.
Responding to statements from top Israeli officials that the fighting could continue for several weeks, Mr. Bush said Thursday that Iran is connected to Hezbollah, and now was the "time for the world to confront this danger."
John Bolton, U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, also has alleged that Iranians are Hezbollah's "paymasters, and they're calling the tune."
He estimated that Iran contributes $100 million annually to the Shia Islamic militants, who have supplanted Lebanon's central government as the effective political and military force in the southern region bordering Israel.
Yesterday, the 17th day of the conflict which began after Hezbollah crossed the border and captured two Israeli soldiers, Hezbollah launched a new kind of rocket that made its deepest strike into Israel yet.
"With this, the Islamic Resistance begins a new stage of fighting, challenge and confrontation with a strong determination and full belief in God's victory," Hezbollah said in a statement.
The militants said they used the new Khaibar-1 to strike the Israeli town of Afula, but Israel said the Khaibar-1 rockets were renamed, Iranian-made Fajr-5s. They have four times the power and range of Katyusha rockets, making them able to hit Tel Aviv's northern outskirts.
Iran is also believed to have supplied Hezbollah with up to 120 of the Fajr-5 and the somewhat shorter-range Fajr-3.
Earlier this week, about 60 Iranian volunteers left the country with the hopes of joining Hezbollah in the war against Israel. They called it a holy war, were unarmed and hoped to gain entry to Lebanon from Syria.
According to Mr. Golestaneh, some Iranian dissidents were pleased to see the militants, ranging in age from teens to grandfathers, leave the country.
"In one instance," according to the human rights worker "one person said 'In fact I rather they send all their loyalists to the war so we can breathe more easily.' ''
The human rights group also had reports from one source on the ground who said: "Every time there is an outside war, the level of repression inside also increases dramatically to kill any type of dissent."
In the past few days, according to the Canadian-based human rights group, the Iranian government has condemned 10 people to death.
Earlier this week, the Iranian president, who publicly denied the Holocaust last year, said Israel ordained its own destruction.
Mr. Ahmadinejad told clerical staff in Tehran that Israel and its supporters "should know that they cannot end the business that they have begun."
"The occupying regime of Palestine has actually pushed the button of its own destruction by launching a new round of invasion and barbaric onslaught on Lebanon," the president said, Islamic Republic News Agency reported.
Dan Gillerman, Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, responded by asking the world to listen to the Iranian president's words.
"President Ahmadinejad is a very dangerous and very destabilizing force in this world. He is a person who denies the Holocaust while very diligently preparing the next one," Mr. Gillerman told reporters in New York.
#1
It appears that this is a Shiite set piece. They have determined they are ready for the showdown, both the fodder and the fools who lead them. Send enough into the mill and the lampposts will get some use. Fail in that, but by your actions make clear that Iran and Hezbollah are the same thing, and the war will come to you.
Ask professional military people who served in the draft Army at its end and the professional Army of the 90s-00s. As one, I won't want a draft army. Give me volunteers even if it means doing more with less.
You're dreams of a WWII type draft Army have as much to do with reality as the WWII era media had to do with reporting that war. Both were exceptions to the historical record.
God NO
That's the fastest way to destroy our fine Military, bring in a bunch of "Don't wanna be here's" instead of the highly motovated "We want to kick their ASS" good folks we have now.
Posted by: Redneck Jim ||
07/30/2006 10:40 Comments ||
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#7
It's a changed society from that of Dec 7, 1941 and the Korean conflict. Reinstituting the draft would be a monumental disaster. I can't even begin to imagine trying to socialize and educate the ghetto crud that would find their way, albeit unwillingly into the military. Unfortunately we're beyond mandetory conscrption, and have been for several decades now.
#8
Joe,
With respect, we keep the draft mechanism in place more out of vestigial reflex than anything else. The truth of the matter is that although the overwhelming majority of those called would probably go, the resisters would be a disturbingly high number of those called - for example, approximately 375,000 cases of possible draft evasion were investigated in WWII, and 16,000 were actually convicted out of more than ten MILLION actually inducted. That comes down to less than one percent, and that under cultural conditions that would have been very much against anyone accused of draft evasion. This time however, there would be a strong resistance - probably in the double digits - of people who would simply refuse to go, not to mention the courts that would almost certainly back them up.
Mike
Posted by: Mike Kozlowski ||
07/30/2006 10:51 Comments ||
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#9
the only voices that propose a draft, like "Cholly" Rangel D-Assholery NY, are doing so to thwart a unified, effective military, and to try and undermine popular support for national defense. Why are you, JM?
Posted by: Frank G ||
07/30/2006 10:54 Comments ||
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#10
The military couldn't use that many people. The cost of training and equipping a soldier is way too high. The reason our soldiers do so well is because they are so capital intense. This capital intensity is only going to increase for our combat soldiers.
But we do need to face the fact that there is no substitute for boots on the ground, especially after hostilities have ceased but peace is not established. Either we get in the nation building business with some force that's a cross between the Peace Corps and the old Army, or we should just destroy nations and start from scratch.
#11
I can't even begin to imagine trying to socialize and educate the ghetto crud that would find their way, albeit unwillingly into the military.
You brought up a horrifyingly hilarious thought. Vet all Applicant/Draftees and send only the unreformable "Ghettoized" into a different "Army", a whole Corps of Black, Ghettoized "Soldiers" with their hats on sideways, all uniforms neatly arranged with the shirt tails out, pants around their knees, underwear worn on the outside of their Khakis, wearing blindingly white Reboks, and singing "M. C. Hammer" for marching songs as they Loudly Shout "Fuck You Sir" to any orders. The firing range would be a Hoot, trying to hit anything with your Guns held sideways. (I'd pre-punch the targets, and issue them blanks, they'd never know)
On the other hand this could also be used to solve some very real Social Problems, march these fools into real Combat, and clean out the inner cities at the same time, few would return. Be damn sure to keep this Corps entirely segregated from any other branch of the Real Military, and it should work.
Posted by: Redneck Jim ||
07/30/2006 11:08 Comments ||
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#12
That wasn't exactly my idea. And I'd be the Army still gets its fair share of those types of recruits and repairs the work of the public schools by turning most into fine soldiers and citizens. The benefits of service aren't one way.
#15
By my estimation, the number of ground forces we would need for a war with Iran are about the number currently in Iraq. This is based on the following logic:
1) Iran's sole effective offensive weapons are its missiles. Once these are countered by a layered missile defense, the only other offensive threat the Iranians could mount would be an invasion of southern Iraq. A fruitless and bloody endeavor that would turn the Iraqi military into the raw military numbers to join with the US to seriously pound Iran.
2) Otherwise, the US can conduct an air war to neutralize their missile and nuclear capability, but just as importantly, to annihilate their air and ground military and RG forces. Which would lead to,
3) The partitioning of Iran. This would require US ground forces for occupation. But with the vast majority of the Iranian military and RG destroyed, the ethnic minorities in these regions would be more than happy to take over their own management from the Persians.
4) This occupation would be needed only until the people in those territories had voted to secede and to join an adjacent country more to their liking, followed by that adjacent country sending in military forces to take the place of the US.
The bottom line is that the US could "leave" Iraq at any time without fear that it would collapse; but it is very, very useful that we stay there for at least a long while. And yet this means that we have three top combat divisions ready and able to do other things.
#16
Damn Jim, tell me you mean that tongue in cheek.
Posted by: RJB in JC MO ||
07/30/2006 14:26 Comments ||
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#17
Shame on all of us for putting up with what's going on in the Middle East. Shame on us for prefering methods of reaction that lead to more people, like you and me and our kids, dying compared to military morons. Shame on the arm chair generals who have such double standards. If the end requires a means by which children die by the dozens, for instance, and our fear mongers can do nothing but peddle a black future where these results become unavoidable casualties of war, it is a horrendous shame. Perhaps the blackness is due to too many people having their heads in their asses. Shame on me for not being even more vocal against the idiocy of western society and really trying to do somethng. I guess my head is in my ass too.
So its all the fault of the west???
I suppose eastern society is the way to go for you? Islam is not a creation of the west. Do you think your wife & daughters (assuming you might have either)would like to live under the principles of Islam?
Can't figure out where you're comming from bub.
Posted by: RJB in JC MO ||
07/30/2006 15:00 Comments ||
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#20
bet the IP is either Berkeley, Madison, or Peshawar
Posted by: Frank G ||
07/30/2006 15:20 Comments ||
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#21
A draft is immoral. I'd fight any country that thought it owned me enough to force my presence in an army.
#22
#21 A draft is immoral. I'd fight any country that thought it owned me enough to force my presence in an army.
Posted by: Bright Pebbles 2006-07-30 15:54
Nothing "immoral" about conscription, it was the law, it worked. Running off to Canada or hiding, and letting some other poor chap do YOUR duty is "immoral." Failing to do one's part and letting wimmin volunteer to fill the ranks is... "immoral." Openly protesting against a war and aiding-abbetting the enemy while our troops are deployed and engaged is "immoral."
#23
BP - part of "citizenship" along with the benefits, is the cost of defense of the Nation - when needed. A draft is not productive when the battle isn't "to the death" (or utter subjugation) between nations, and where sheer numbers aren't the answer. When it is, it's time to rise to the call or slink off to Canada. Which would you choose?
Posted by: Frank G ||
07/30/2006 16:20 Comments ||
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#24
Army Chief of Staff General Peter Schoomaker's excellent Soldier's Creed. Notice its spelled with a capital "S".
SOLDIER'S CREED
I am an American Soldier.
I am a Warrior and a member of a team. I serve the people of the United States and live the Army Values.
I will always place the mission first.
I will never accept defeat.
I will never quit.
I will never leave a fallen comrade.
I am disciplined, physically and mentally tough, trained and proficient in my warrior tasks and drills. I always maintain my arms, my equipment and myself.
I am an expert and I am a professional.
I stand ready to deploy, engage, and destroy the enemies of the United States of America in close combat.
I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of life.
#25
>I agree. Your head has suffered a rectal impaction. Please let us know if the surgery is successful. Best wishes.
I understand your desire in wanting to know if the surgery will be successful. It means that there might be hope for you as well. But then like any person who is sick, understanding you have a problem is the first step. I understand mine. You certainly dont understand yours.
>So its all the fault of the west???
This is an unfortunate response, making broad universal inductions based on a single sentence. Did I say it is all the fault of the west? No. What I am questioning is how western societies, or many of their leaders certainly, can follow courses of action that mirror the crap that is thrown at them. Rantburg posts quite often state we (America I mean) are better than the Muslim world. Our culture is better. We take a higher moral ground. If you believe this, I will indeed let you know more about possible surgeries to free your heads from the black crevices that they are lodged in. The sad part is that surgery is really a critical, non-biased look at ourselves and the rest of the world. This is very difficult to do, and Im trying the best I can. There are always understandings we reach truth! the real stuff of course that we hold on to no matter what happens in the world. There is so often a complete graying of facts, focused accusations, side stepping of what people are trying to say. It is no wonder a discussion thread like this exists and is a meeting place where those in the know can be comforted that they are not alone.
>I suppose eastern society is the way to go for you?
Why not both societies? Why must there be one or the other?
>Do you think your wife & daughters (assuming you might have either) would like to live under the principles of Islam?
There is such a fear of Islam today. Why are you so frightened about it? It is a beautiful religion. I have a wife of 12 years, a son 9, and a daughter 3. What they want to believe is up to them. My job as a father is to raise them in a way that they can make their own choices and appreciate the need to contribute to the world, not contaminate it. Contribute or contaminate. What will you/we do? What are we really contributing? What are we contaminating?
I am also a western guy living a more simple life in Dahab. I traded my western life of being an electrical engineer to own a scuba diving centre here in Egypt. I saw first hand what three maniacal suicide bombers did to Dahab on April 24th of this year. I see second hand on the news what some maniacal western leaders are doing elsewhere in the world in pursuit of their respective dream/nightmare. I am also a Christian living in the dark world of Islam. Ooh scary stuff. Christianity, like Islam, is a beautiful religion, filled with lots of wonderful teachings. Ive been to most Middle Eastern countries. Damascus is an incredible city, like so many in the Middle East. Iran was a wonderful trip last year. Never been to so many homes for sharing a simple tea and having conversations on our respective experiences. The trip to Iran was a two week affair. Cant remember being invited to any strangers house for a cup of tea when I was living in the US. Are these Iranians the people we need to bomb? Will they be acceptable casualties in our desire to set the world right? Syrians and Iranians are by and large wonderful people. So are the Egyptians, Copts and Muslims alike. So friendly and welcoming, so looking for peace to just raise their families and appreciate the beauty of life. My wife has many Egyptians friends, Muslim women for the most part, that are very wonderful, generous, devout, sweet people. These people are everywhere. Look at the number of comments on this website where the death of these people are justified for the greater good of whatever we are trying to say the world needs. Casualties of necessary wars. Instead of looking to attack personally the bearer of a belief, or the regular jibes at bleeding liberal whatevers that is so ripe on Rantburg, why not look at what is being said. Nope. More of a concern from some on whether the IP is from Berkeley, Madison, or Peshawar! I am a family-man capitalist, trying to build a business in Egypt where I can show people the beauty of what god has given us under the sea. Feel free to add your accusations and labels. This adds clarity to my comments. The real truth behind the words. Right?
>Can't figure out where you're comming from bub.
Can you understand now? I think I know the answer for most on Rantburg. But cant help an evening of a few posts to try to educate some people that are too lost in their own ideologies, their own lives, and of course their own desires.
#26
tiredofitall: Very nice yes, thanks for the lecture. Now, based on yer own screeed - go live in yer Koranic paradise of Iran for a couple of years and then come back and tell us how you feel. That is of course, you have not been incorporated into the world's largest public glass lined parking lot. You see, we just had som Islamo-nut shoot up a number of Jews in Seattle for the high crime of being...well...Jews. So stuff your equivocation. We're all waiting for the "moderate musliim" to make its presence known. My money says that 12 imam shows up first. Bite me!
Posted by: Rex Mundi ||
07/30/2006 16:52 Comments ||
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#27
how are the Copts treated in your Eden?
Posted by: Frank G ||
07/30/2006 17:02 Comments ||
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#28
Hey Tired, lots of us here at RB have spent quality time in the Middle East and have known many a wonderful Muslim man, woman, family.
My issue is not with the individual, but with the Muslim leadership that is in power now. Take a real look around you. Were you comfortable with the reaction to the cartoon issue earlier this year? Are you OK with Ahmadinejad calling for the destruction of Israel? Were your Iranian hosts comfortable with it? If not, were they going to do anything about it? Look at who is fomenting the violence in the world. It is not the west starting this crap. Look at the populations that either give active support or just look the other way. Sorry, but there is a responsiblitiy there.
I don't think that anyone here relishes the thought of blowing people to smithereens. But the radicals that are leading the Islamic world now are openly calling for war. If that is what they really want, then that is what they, and their populations are going to get.
Screw you. Screw Islam. Screw the pedophile "prophet" Mohammad. Screw the backwards-ass nations that all allow Islam to hold political and military power. Screw those in the West who are too piss-ignorant to see that Islam itself is fundamentally incompatible with the rights afforded individuals in a democratic republic. Shove your lecture up your ass.
>Now, based on yer own screeed - go live in yer Koranic paradise of Iran for a couple of years and then come back and tell us how you feel.
Been in Egypt for almost a year. Is this a Koranic paradise? If so, let me tell you the move has been fantastic. Great people, great scuba diving, great adventure. Good to get outdoors.
>You see, we just had som Islamo-nut shoot up a number of Jews in Seattle for the high crime of being...well...Jews. So stuff your equivocation. We're all waiting for the "moderate musliim" to make its presence known. My money says that 12 imam shows up first.
The moderate muslim? Well, as we all know and given the length of time you have been waiting, there are no moderate Muslims. They are all hateful killers with a goal to destroy America and kill all the Jews they can. We should also point out some other highlights, like all Germans are Nazis, or all Jews are cheap misers, and of course all of us Americans are assholes.
As I mentioned, the town I am living in got bombed by three fundamentalist suicide bombers in April. Three days later I saw over 1000 Muslims marching in the street to protest what happened. Dahab has only 3000 people by the way. They were carrying signs like One Love, One God, Stop the violence, Stop the bloodshed, etc. You would have made money on your bet though Rex. In the crowd were a number of Imams from the 7 main mosques in Dahab. Guess what chants they were leading the crowd in? Death to America? What news channel do you watch?
> Bite me!
I already have.
How are the copts? The copts here in Dahab havent all been beheaded yet. The Coptic church in El Tor still stands, it hasnt been bombed yet either, and remarkably there are a number of Copts on my street that work with Muslims. Can you believe it?
Almost all of the people I work with are Muslims. Havent been shot yet weird eh? Strangely, the people here treat me with respect. Must be the calm before the storm. Perhaps a preemptive strike is in order. Get those Muslim terrorists and their Imams too before they get me. Someone pass my plea to the White House. Save me George!
As for remoteman, thanks for some good questions and not mindless misspelled derogatory commentary.
>My issue is not with the individual, but with the Muslim leadership that is in power now.
Yes, mine too. But I also extend this to some leaders in the West. I was comfortable with the reaction to the cartoon issue earlier this year. Muslims were upset. Here in Dahab, people couldnt believe how a newspaper could redicule their prophet. The Koran exhalts Moses and Jesus as prophets and treats them with respect. Were you uncomfortable with Christian groups reaction to the Da Vinci Code?
>Are you OK with Ahmadinejad calling for the destruction of Israel?
No.
>Were your Iranian hosts comfortable with it?
I talk politics and religion quite a bit. What I got from the Iranian people was the impression that Israel, through backing of the US, is pursuing a policy that is solely based on unequal, personal benefit at the expense of anyone who is not Israeli or American. This is their view, not neccessarily mine. I met one person who said Muslims must fight until Israel is wiped off the face of the globe. The rest pretty much just wanted to live in peace and let their neighbors live in peace. People are very tired of whats going on. So many people do not believe that violence is the answer and see a great double standard that exists today.
>If not, were they going to do anything about it?
Dont know. To be honest, never really asked that question, about regime change and such, but it would have been a good one.
>Look at who is fomenting the violence in the world. It is not the west starting this crap.
I think both sides have done their fair share of fermenting violence. The question I ask is what are appropriate responses? The responses I am seeing has indeed made me tired of it all. Do we invade Iran? Do we bomb Lebanon? What will we accomplish in doing this? Less bloodshed.
>Look at the populations that either give active support or just look the other way. Sorry, but there is a responsiblitiy there.
I agree. A number of Muslim leaders are calling for the recognition of Israel and the stopping of bloodshed. A number are not. How do we move forward is the question.
>I don't think that anyone here relishes the thought of blowing people to smithereens.
I dont know, but Ive seen some pretty crazy posts on this website. On this page there is even someone saying:
>If they would stop srcewing around, take the gloves off and declare open season, there wouldn't be a need for the draft.
What does declaring open season mean? And more importantly, what price is too much to pay in collateral damage. Are the 40,000 civilian deaths in Iraq worth what we have accomplished in the country? Again, it seems like a double standard. Attack Iraq before there can be another 911. The 40,000 deaths of women, children, and peaceful men we have right now in Iraq (and this number will of course continue to grow) equates to 13 more 911 scale attacks. This math seems strange. The same thing when we look at the unacceptable casualties Hezbollah nutbars inflict on Israel. This is despicable. I agree with this. But why are nearly 10 times the number of Israeli deaths in Lebanon considered unfortunate, but necessary casualties of war by the US and Israeli leaders?
>But the radicals that are leading the Islamic world now are openly calling for war. If that is what they really want, then that is what they, and their populations are going to get.
And it goes on. More killing. For what? My Dad always taught me if you need to settle a fight with your hands you have already lost the battle. Use your head instead. The gist of my thoughts are that we are not using our heads enough. Just a mad dash for escalating violence. And why is this so? Why cant we use our heads? Where are our heads?
And finally, the last post. Let me copy it again because it says so much:
>Screw you. Screw Islam. Screw the pedophile "prophet" Mohammad. Screw the backwards-ass nations that all allow Islam to hold political and military power. Screw those in the West who are too piss-ignorant to see that Islam itself is fundamentally incompatible with the rights afforded individuals in a democratic republic. Shove your lecture up your ass.
I was trying to shove the lecture up the asses of guys like you Crusader, but there is obviously no room. Still filled with your head.
Gotta go. Sorry for the long post. Perhaps I should have followed Rantburg style. Perhaps just writing "suck my swammy salami you warmonger pigs and shove it up your gaping, cavernous ass". Made the mistake of going for civil, well reasoned discourse :)
#31
I believe I was civil in my inqury....so much for stereotypes?
Posted by: Frank G ||
07/30/2006 19:00 Comments ||
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#32
#16: Damn Jim, tell me you mean that tongue in cheek.
Call it very sharply pointed sarcasm/snark.
Posted by: Redneck Jim ||
07/30/2006 22:01 Comments ||
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#33
Don't go.
I just got here.
" If the end requires a means by which children die by the dozens, for instance, and our fear mongers can do nothing but peddle a black future where these results become unavoidable casualties of war, it is a horrendous shame."
Yes it's an awful shame. If they didn't kidnap and behead and hijack and blow-up and make ridiculous demands and threats and kill people on a daily basis, I probably wouldn't have the nerve to say. Better them than mine. But their it is.
It's them or us. I still like us. You can be on whichever side you choose totally irrespective of religious beleifs.
Perhaps the blackness is due to too many people having their heads in their asses. Shame on me for not being even more vocal against the idiocy of western society and really trying to do somethng. I guess my head is in my ass too.
YEs shame on you for being biased.
If yoou don't like western society and feel so strongly about it why don't you try giving up the western trappings.
You can start with your computer. Give up that phone buddy. No car for you. Toilet gotta go. Fridge is out. Did you like the electric light ? goodbye.
Happy 12th century.
Posted by: J. D. Lux ||
07/30/2006 22:19 Comments ||
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#34
Tired: Sorry I missed ya...and glad to see yer enoying your stay. Sorry too, but 1000 protesters do not convince me though I don't doubt their convictions when it comes to fellow muslims getting whacked. When those same protesters take to the streets to protest the killing of Jews and Christians in the name of a certain other religion, then please come back and be the first to share the good news. I live for the day but I'm not holding my breath. I didn't say all muslims were fanatics - I did say that those moderates continue to sit on their hands and thus give tacit comfort to the extremists. Those who do speak out represent a pitfiully small minority. Much like the White Rose in WWII Germany.
Posted by: Rex Mundi ||
07/30/2006 23:15 Comments ||
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Supreme Leader of Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei received here Saturday afternoon visiting Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez and his accompanying delegation. In the meeting, the Supreme Leader said the whole Islamic world and Arab nations as well as the free nations of the world support Lebanese Hezbollah and due to the brave resistance of the group against the US and the Zionist regime, their leader has become a very popular character in the Arab and Islamic world.
...the Zionist regime invasion of Lebanon was a pre-planned war by the US...
Ayatollah Khamenei said the Zionist regime invasion of Lebanon was a pre-planned war by the US adding that according to the the American plan, the Zionists waged the war to take a long step in accomplishment of American "Greater Middle East Plan", but they ignored Lebanese nation in their calculations. Of course, the Americans do not understand the problem, the real power of Lebanese nation, so they accuse others of interfering in Lebanon's internal affairs.
The Supreme Leader called the current crimes of the Zionist regime in Lebanon as a rare example of crimes and added, in such situation the conscience of the so-called civilized world and the organizations that claim to support human rights and democracy do not get offended and do not protest. Confirming Venezuelan president remarks that the US era is coming to an end in the world, the ayatollah noted that this reality can be seen right now and the number of nations and countries who resist against the US are increasing.
Referring to President Chavez stances on the world issues, Ayatollah Khamenei said they reminded the stances of Simon Bolivar, the Latin American Revolutionary figure. The ayatollah also emphasized the necessity of expansion of bilateral cooperation between the two countries in different fields.
President Chavez, for his part, by expressing pleasure over his new visit to Iran, called Bolivarian revolution of Venezuela as a brother of the Islamic revolution in Iran and said, " We intend to expand relations with Iran in different areas." Chavez said the American empire is coming to an end and the increasing number of governments in Latin America opposed to the US policy is an evidence to prove claim. He emphasized the necessity of consolidation among countries with the same stance and opposed to the US policies and pointed out that such countries should expand their cooperation and increase their ability and potentials and never be frightened by the US threats.
President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad also attended the meeting.
President Hugo Chavez at the head of a high ranking delegation arrived here Saturday afternoon to pay an official 2-day visit to Iran.
#2
We'll all look back on this alliance and regret the ridicule given Pat Robertson for his insight on Chavez! "W" has religated this pest for a succeding administration by being "bogged down" in Iraq and Afghanistan!! What a f**** pity!
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) - Iranian state radio said Saturday that the government would reject a proposed U.N. resolution that would give it until Aug. 31 to suspend uranium enrichment or face the threat of international sanctions. "Iranians will not accept unfair decisions, even in the framework of resolutions by the international bodies," the commentary on state-run radio said.
There has been no official comment to the draft resolution, but state radio often is thought to provide the Iranian government line. "Ultimatum and deadline cannot be acceptable to us," the commentary said, accusing the United States and its allies of making what it called an illegal demand.
The commentary also said the draft might not be approved because of opposition by China.
Tehran said last week it would reply Aug. 22 to a Western incentive package, but the council decided to go ahead with a resolution and not wait for Iran's response.
Posted by: Steve White ||
07/30/2006 00:00 ||
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#1
Aw, you had to go and spoil the surprise. Sheesh.
BEIRUT, Lebanon -- Medicine, food and other humanitarian relief piled up in Beirut on Saturday, with only a trickle making it to the tens of thousands of Lebanese trapped in the war zone in the south. The help has been slowed by the difficult logistics of arranging safe passage during Israeli airstrikes, which have blasted close to the few truck convoys that have made the dangerous drive so far.
No aid trucks have been hit, but artillery shells fell within hundreds of yards of convoys from the international Red Thingy Cross, United Nations and other agencies this week, officials said. Doctors Without Borders was using taxis to transport supplies because ambulances had been targeted, spokesman Sergio Cecchini said Saturday.
Wonder why the IDF targets ambulances? Anyone there have any ideas? Any institutional memories? Any sense of history?
Israel has promised safe passage for aid, but it's done on a convoy-by-convoy basis and often requires 72-hour notice, officials said. Israel said it brought a U.N. observer into an Israeli military control room Saturday to help oversee the transfer of aid.
Meanwhile, Israeli missiles struck near the main Lebanese border crossing into Syria late Saturday, forcing its closure for the first time in the 18-day conflict. The passage has been a gateway for aid entering the country by land.
And for guns and ammo for the Hezbies, but the WaPo reporter neglects to mention that. Must have slipped her mind with the deadline approaching.
#2
Well the lebanase know how to riot at least. They just stormed the UN HQ in Beirut. Still laughing my ass off.
Posted by: Charles ||
07/30/2006 5:42 Comments ||
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#3
Wonder why the IDF targets ambulances? Anyone there have any ideas?
Yep, Hisbollah uses them to move men, arms and ammo feeling it's safe.
After all "Nobody" hits an Ambulance, (Except the Hisbollah,Of course, and their reasons are "Pure")
Posted by: Redneck Jim ||
07/30/2006 10:48 Comments ||
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#4
a Paleo tactic learned by Hezb
Posted by: Frank G ||
07/30/2006 11:11 Comments ||
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#5
Hey Frank glad to see you're Back!
How was the binge fishing trip?
»:-)
Posted by: Al Gore ||
07/30/2006 11:58 Comments ||
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#6
excellent! batteries recharged... :-)
Posted by: Frank G ||
07/30/2006 12:12 Comments ||
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U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice welcomed as a "positive step" the agreement by Hezbollah cabinet members to seek an immediate cease-fire that would include the disarming of militias.
In Beirut, Hezbollah politicians signed on to a proposed peace package earlier Saturday that includes strengthening an international force in south Lebanon and disarming the guerrillas, the government said. The agreement, reached at a cabinet meeting, was the first time Hezbollah had agreed to a proposal for ending the crisis that includes the deploying of international forces.
"They're lying!"
"How can you tell?"
"Their lips are moving!"
Speaking to reporters en route to Jerusalem, Rice also praised powerless and ineffective Lebanese Prime Minister Fouad Siniora for persuading Hezbollah to agree. "The most important thing that this does for the process is that it shows a Lebanese government that is functioning as a Lebanese government," Rice told reporters traveling with her. "That is in and of itself extremely important."
Criminy, the things a diplomat has to do.
Posted by: Steve White ||
07/30/2006 00:00 ||
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I'll believe it when I see it. And I ain't holding my breath.
France has drawn up a draft UN Security Council resolution that would call for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Israel and Lebanon and prepare for the deployment of an international force. The document, distributed to the 15 Security Council members on Saturday, anticipates a draft resolution the United States is planning that would place up to 20,000 peacekeepers along Lebanon's borders with Israel and with Syria.
On Monday, UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan will preside over a meeting of possible troop contributors to such a force, which would include the 25-member European Union, which has expressed interest, as well as Turkey and nations now contributing to a UN peacekeeping force in Lebanon.
The latter have proven themselves to be useless. They actively cooperated with Hezbollah. They should have no part whatsoever in this. Leaving them in sends a signal to the Hezbies that it'll be business as usual.
Chirac, whose country has emerged as the potential leader of the force, has said troops could not be sent until there was a cease-fire accompanied by a political deal.
Since his troops aren't actually supposed to, you know, do anything.
In many respects, the French draft is similar to proposals the United States and Annan have been discussing, except that it calls for an immediate end to the fighting. The United States alone has refused to back such calls, arguing that conditions first had to be ripe for a sustainable cease-fire.
In addition to an immediate cessation of hostilities, France, in its draft resolution, outlined the following conditions for a permanent cease-fire:
-The release of abducted Israeli soldiers and "settlement of issue" of Lebanese prisoners in Israel.
-Disarmament of all militia in Lebanon, including Hezbollah, and the deployment of the Lebanese army along the Israeli-Lebanese border and throughout the country
-A buffer zone in southern Lebanon between the Israeli border and the Litani River, free of any armed personnel and weapons, except those of the Beirut government's security forces and UN-mandated international forces.
-Annan, in coordination with regional and international parties, is to help secure agreement in principle from Lebanon and Israel for a political framework on the above cease-fire conditions.
-The UN Interim Force in Lebanon, after fighting has stopped, is to monitor implementation of an agreement and help humanitarian access and the return of the homeless.
-Delineation of international borders in Lebanon, especially the Israeli-occupied Shebaa Farms area, now part of Syria but claimed by Lebanon. Hizbollah, before the current fighting, has used the Shebaa Farms to justify armed resistance against Israel.
-The Security Council, after confirmation that Lebanon and Israeli have agreed in principle on a political framework for a sustainable cease-fire, should authorize deployment of an international force to support the Lebanese armed forces.
Posted by: Steve White ||
07/30/2006 00:00 ||
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#1
No surprise here.
Anyway, french msm have already dubbed the israeli response a "failure", and the hizballah the victor... along with various reportages about the heroic lebanese red cross EMT deliberately targeted by the jooos but valiantly carrying on, the children traumatized by the war, the refugees coming back to France and worried sick about lebanon being destroyed by the jooos, the wimmen and kiddies killed by the indiscriminate bombings, etc, etc... ad nauseam.
#2
But who listens to France anymore, except arab and african countries who stop spitting in our face when they think they can get something out of it?
#3
that would place up to 20,000 blind peacekeepers along Lebanon's borders
A buffer zone in southern Lebanon between the Israeli border and the Litani River, free of any armed personnel and weapons, except those of the Beirut government's security forces and UN-mandated international forces.
Hezb'Allah would have to have ground troops in the area to protect/impede access to the launchers. If the IFor would actually keep them out so they couldn't become entrenched, it might actually help make it a serious hindrance to Hezb'Allah. Then again, they would have a head-start in getting back into the area before any conflict started, and they would enjoy many of the benefits of being "entrenched" possibly.
Annan, in coordination with regional and international parties, is to help secure agreement in principle from Lebanon and Israel for a political framework on the above cease-fire conditions.
Trying to give him some false sense of relevance/imporance, are we? I'll do it if he's too busy.
Delineation of international borders in Lebanon, especially the Israeli-occupied Shebaa Farms area, now part of Syria but claimed by Lebanon. Hizbollah, before the current fighting, has used the Shebaa Farms to justify armed resistance against Israel.
Maybe it's true. But I think it's just another weak excuse for fighting that only works in the minds of extremists. I wonder what they'll latch onto next.
Disarmament of all militia in Lebanon, including Hezbollah, and the deployment of the Lebanese army along the Israeli-Lebanese border and throughout the country
Give them a one-week deadline to comply before sending in large numbers of peacekeepers (AKA obstructions/hostages) and opening up the border to Syria. Failure to comply means Israel get to hit the "continue" button!
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice arrived in the region Saturday night for the start of another round of shuttle diplomacy between Jerusalem and Beirut, aiming to push a diplomatic solution for ending the war in Lebanon. Rice met with Prime Minister Ehud Olmert Saturday night in private. She will depart for Lebanon Sunday and will decide following meetings there whether to return to Israel for more talks.
The deal being put forth by Rice is for the deployment in Lebanon of an "international stabilization force" comprising 10,000 to 30,000 troops in return for Israel's withdrawal from the controversial Shaba Farms, on the western slopes of Mount Hermon.
Oh lordy, don't do that. Syria and Lebanon (but I repeat myself) will just declare another small chunk of the Golan to be 'Lebanese'. Lather, rinse, repeat.
The international force would assist the Lebanese army to deploy in southern Lebanon and inspect the crossings between Syria and Lebanon, so that no arms will be smuggled to Hezbollah.
Will they be willing to destroy any vehicle that tries to run the inspection sites? Will they shoot any Syrian or Hezbie mooks who try to interfere?
Rice did not ask Olmert during their meeting to end the fighting at this stage, but it is assumed at the Defense Ministry that the IDF has 7 to 10 days to continue its operation in Lebanon.
By Wednesday the U.S. would like to gain approval for a new Security Council resolution that will call for an end to hostilities.
And then two to three months to negotiate the new MNF composition. I'm waiting for the Belgians to step up.
Israel sources estimate the U.S. will allow a few more days for mopping up operations by the IDF.
Defense sources said that in view of Rice's return to Israel, it appears that for the first time since the start of the war, the "diplomatic clock" is beginning to tick faster. According to the sources, the General Staff has received orders to accelerate its offensive on areas close to the border in order to deepen any possible attack on the Hezbollah before the declaration of a cease-fire.
Prior to the Olmert-Rice meeting, sources in Jerusalem said the Bush administration has asked Israel to be flexible over the issue of a pullout from Shaba Farms, so that the support of the Lebanese government to the deal being formulated can be assured. However, following the meeting Saturday night, sources in the Prime Minister's Office said Rice did not present the withdrawal from Shaba Farms as a condition for the support of the government of Lebanon. "Our position is based on the decision of the Security Council that ruled that there is no territorial dispute between us [Lebanon and Israel]," the sources said.
And that's the way it should stay. We simply can't give the Syrians, the Lebanese (but I repeat myself) or the Hezbies any fig leaf on this. The Hezbies have to be seen as beaten.
The Bush administration would like to further the Shaba Farms issue as a gesture to Lebanon's Prime Minister Fouad Siniora, which would be in return for an official Lebanese government request for such a force to be deployed in its territory.
If Siniora doesn't want to issue the invitation, fine, the IDF can find something to do in southern Lebanon. Siniora has no power and no cards to play, so don't give him one.
Over the weekend Olmert indicated his willingness to discuss the Shaba Farms issue. In response to a press question, officials at the Prime Minister's Office reiterated the view Olmert presented during a meeting with France's Chirac, during their meeting last month, that Israel will agree to talk about a pullout from Shaba Farms after Security Council resolution 1559 calling for the disarmament of Hezbollah is implemented and following the international recognition of a Syrian declaration that the Shaba Farms are Lebanese territory.
The defense establishment is opposed to the inclusion of Shaba Farms into any diplomatic arrangement for ending the current confrontation, out of concern that this will be interpreted as an achievement by Hezbollah's leadership. The IDF is not opposed to a pullout on security grounds, but would prefer to see the matter raised under different circumstances and not as part of a cease-fire deal.
Absolutely correct. The Hezbies have to be beaten down, and the region has to see that challenging the IDF leads to the destruction of your military force with nothing to show for it.
The defense establishment is also willing to release the three Lebanese prisoners held in Israel, in return for a return of the abducted soldiers, Ehud Goldwasser and Eldad Regev.
Posted by: Steve White ||
07/30/2006 00:00 ||
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So, I dearly hope the US is not going to pressure Israel on the Shaba Farms -- and I hope strongly that Israel leaders will at last unleash the IDF on South Lebanon, for a massive offensive, to capture a vast part of it, and to be seen as the clear victor of this war.
Golly. You've been working that Chicken Little routine for a week, now, remarkably desparate to declare defeat and surrender. Lemme help you with that:
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) - The presidents of Iran and Venezuela, leading U.S. critics, pledged Saturday to support one another in disputes with Washington. Iran's president, Mahmoud Ahmedinejad, said he saw in the Venezuelan president a kindred spirit. "I feel I have met a brother and trench mate after meeting Chavez," the state-run Iranian television quoted Ahmedinejad.
Is 'trench' the Farsi word for 'grave'?
I think he wants to share a foxhole with him. Hugo's got a purdy mouth
Chavez said he admired the Iranian president for "his wisdom and strength." "We are with you and with Iran forever. As long as we remain united we will be able to defeat (U.S.) imperialism, but if we are divided they will push us aside," Chavez said.
"Mahmoud, we will defend you with our blood!"
"We do not have any limitation in cooperation," Ahmedinejad was quoted as saying. "Iran and Venezuela are next to each other and supporters of each other. Chavez is a source of a progressive and revolutionary current in South America and his stance in restricting imperialism is tangible."
"He's still an infidel so one day he'll have to die, but in the meantime he's very useful to us."
"How does "Venezuelan Missile Crisis" sound, Hugo, old friend?"
Posted by: Steve White ||
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#1
"Trench Mate" is like trench foot or trench mouth, except on a more embarassing part of the body.
#4
Secular = God-based Totalitarianism + Gummerminty-ism is Freedom and Innovation and Progress and Diversity and Pluralism, babey!
You know, the reasons why the USSR + Red China + Commie Bloc, etal. were such icons of econ growth and hyperpower status for their nations.
BEIRUT - The first shipment by sea of US aid for Lebanon arrived on a naval vessel in Beirut on Saturday, carrying medical supplies and thousands of blankets for people affected by the conflict. US development agency USAID said it had transported seven additional emergency medical kits, as well as 1,000 tarps, and 20,000 blankets to Lebanon to be distributed to NGOs working in the area.
The urgently-needed aid arrived on the USS Swift in Beirut and sources at the US embassy in the Lebanese capital said it was expected to be followed by several more such shipments in the coming days. Its the first (shipment) by sea. We are trying to get things in as quickly as possible, said an embassy official.
While sending aid to Lebanon, the United States continues to supply Israel with extra weaponry, including bunker-busting bombs.
Thus meeting all its commitments properly.
Posted by: Steve White ||
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#1
WTF!! Why is "W" sending in the 'goodies' with his left arm while taking them away with his right one?? When the 'good people' of Lebanon elect Hizbullah as their official government in the future (like what became of Hamas), I hope the media play back every second of this bleeding heart administration's blunder, as it comes to slap the US in the 'face'!
#2
Hezbollah supplies all the clinics and schools to buy the people, especially the women and children, or they wouldn't have any support in relatively westernized Lebanon. The US must also win the hearts and minds of the people or we'll will be blamed by proxy for our support of Israel, although they already do. Aid is essential to negotiate any peace or ceasefire.
#3
October 23, 1983. USMC Beirut. I think we've given these muzzie bastards quite enough for God's sake.
DATE OF HOME
NAME OF SERVICEMEMBER SERVICE RANK DEATH STATE HOMETOWN
Carlson, Randall A. ....... USA .... MAJ .... 09/25/1982 .. CT .. Trumbull, CT
Reagan, David L. .......... USMC ... CPL .... 09/30/1982 .. VA .. Virginia Beach, VA
Maxwell, Ben H. ........... USA .... SSGT ... 04/18/1983 .. VA .. Appomattox, VA
McMaugh, Robert V. ........ USMC ... CPL .... 04/18/1983 .. VA .. Manassas, VA
Salazar, Mark E. .......... USA .... SSGT ... 04/18/1983 .. CA .. Pasadena, CA
Twine, Richard ............ USA .... SFC .... 04/18/1983 .. UK .. Salop, UK
Losey, Donald George ...... USMC ... 2LT .... 08/29/1983 .. NC .. Winston Salem, NC
Ortega, Alexander M. ...... USMC ... SSGT ... 08/29/1983 .. NY .. Rochester, NY
Clark, Randy W. ........... USMC ... LCPL ... 09/06/1983 .. WI .. Minong, WI
Valle, Pedro J. ........... USMC ... CPL .... 09/06/1983 .. RP .. San Juan, RP
Soifert, Alan H. .......... USMC ... SGT .... 10/14/1983 .. NH .. Nashua, NH
Ohler, Michael J. ......... USMC ... CAPT ... 10/16/1983 .. NY .. Huntington, NY
Abbott, Terry W. .......... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. OH .. New Richmond, OH
Alexander, Clemon S. ...... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Monticello, FL
Allman, John R. ........... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. NM .. Carlsbad ... NM
Arnold, Moses J. Jr. ...... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. Philadelphia, PA
Bailey, Charles K. ........ USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. MD .. Berlin, MD
Baker, Nicholas ........... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. VA .. Alexandria, VA
Banks, Johansen ........... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. MI .. Detroit, MI
Barrett, Richard E. ....... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. VA .. Tappahanock, VA
Bates, Ronny K. ........... USN .... HM1 .... 10/23/1983 .. SC .. Aiken, SC
Battle, David L. .......... USMC ... 1stSGT . 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Hubert, NC
Baynard, James R. ......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. VA .. Richmond, VA
Beamon, Jesse W. .......... USN .... HN ..... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Haines City, FL
Belmer, Alvin. ............ USMC ... GYSGT .. 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Bland, Stephen ............ USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Midway Park, NC
Blankenship, Richard L. ... USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Hubert, NC
Blocker, John W. .......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Yulee, FL
Boccia, Joseph J. Jr. ..... USMC ... CAPT ... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Northport, NY
Bohannon, Leon Jr. ........ USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Bohnet, John R. Jr. ....... USMC ... SSGT ... 10/23/1983 .. TN .. Memphis, TN
Bonk, John J. Jr. ......... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. Philadelphia, PA
Boulos, Jeffrey L. ........ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Islip, NY
Bousum, David R. .......... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. MI .. Fife Lake, MI
Boyett, John N. ........... USMC ... 1stLT .. 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Camp Lejeune, NC
Brown, Anthony ............ USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. MI .. Detroit, MI
Brown, David W. ........... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. TX .. Conroe, TX
Buchanan, Bobby S. Jr. .... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Midway Park, NC
Buckmaster, John B. ....... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. OH .. Vandalia, OH
Burley, William F. ........ USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. NJ .. Linden, NJ
Cain, Jimmy R. ............ USN .... HN ..... 10/23/1983 .. AL .. Birmington, AL
Callahan, Paul L. ......... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. OH .. Lorain, OH
Camara, Mecot E. .......... USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Campus, Bradley J. ........ USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. MA .. Lynn, MA
Ceasar, Johnnie D. ........ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. TX .. El Campo, TX
Cole, Marc L. ............. USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. OH .. Ludlow Falls, OH
Coleman, Marcus A. ........ USA .... SP4 .... 10/23/1983 .. TX .. Dallas, TX
Comas, Juan M. ............ USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Hialeah, FL
Conley, Robert A .......... USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Orlando, FL
Cook, Charles D. .......... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Advance, NC
Cooper, Curtis J. ......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. North Wales, PA
Copeland, Johnny L. ....... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Burlington, NC
Corcoran, Bert D. ......... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Katonah, NY
Cosner, David L. .......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. WV .. Elkins, WV
Coulman, Kevin P. ......... USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Seminary, NY
Croft, Brett A. ........... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Lakeland, FL
Crudale, Rick R. .......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. RI .. Warwick, RI
Custard, Kevin P. ......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. MN .. Virginia, MN
Cyzick, Russell E. ........ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. WV .. Star City, WV
Davis, Andrew L. .......... USMC ... MAJ .... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Decker, Sidney James ...... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. KY .. Clarkson, KY
Devlin, Michael J. ........ USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. MA .. Westwood, MA
Dibenedetto, Thomas A. .... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. CT .. Mansfield Center, CT
Dorsey, Nathaniel G. ...... USMC ... PVT .... 10/23/1983 .. MD .. Baltimore, MD
Douglass, Frederick B. .... USMC ... SGTMAJ . 10/23/1983 .. MA .. Cataumet, MA
Dunnigan, Timothy J. ...... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. WV .. Princeton, WV
Earle, Bryan L. ........... USN .... HN ..... 10/23/1983 .. OH .. Painsville, OH
Edwards, Roy L. ........... USMC ... MSGT ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Camp Lejeune, NC
Elliot, William D. Jr. .... USN .... HM3 .... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. Lancaster, PA
Ellison, Jesse ............ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. WI .. Soldiers Grove, WI
Estes, Danny R. ........... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. IN .. Gary, IN
Estler, Sean F. ........... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. NJ .. Kenall Park, NJ
Faulk, James E. ........... USN .... HM3 .... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Panama City, FL
Fluegel, Richard A. ....... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. Erie, PA
Forrester, Steven M. ...... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Foster, William B. Jr. .... USN .... HM3 .... 10/23/1983 .. VA .. Richmond, VA
Fulcher, Michael D ........ USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. VA .. Madison Heights, VA
Fuller, Benjamin E ........ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. GA .. Duluth, GA
Fulton, Michael S. ........ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. TX .. Ft. Worth, TX
Gaines, William Jr. ....... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Port Charlotte, FL
Gallagher, Sean R. ........ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. MA .. N. Andover, MA
Gander, David B. .......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. WI .. Milwaulkee, WI
Gangur, George M. ......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. OH .. Cleveland, OH
Gann, Leland E. ........... USMC ... SSGT ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Camp Lejeune, NC
Garcia, Randall J. ........ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. CA .. Modesto, CA
Garcia, Ronald J. ......... USMC ... SSGT ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Gay, David D. ............. USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Harrisburg, IL
Ghumm, Harold D. .......... USMC ... SSGT ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Gibbs, Warner Jr. ......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. VA .. Portsmouth, VA
Giblin, Timothy R. ........ USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. RI .. N. Providence, RI
Gorchinski, Michael W. .... USN .... ETC .... 10/23/1983 .. IN .. Evansville, IN
Gordon, Richard J. ........ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. MA .. Somerville, MA
Gratton, Harold F. ........ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Conoes, NY
Greaser, Robert B. ........ USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. Lansdale, PA
Green, Davin M. ........... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. MD .. Baltimore, MD
Hairston, Thomas A. ....... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. Philadelphia, PA
Haltiwanger, Freddie Jr. .. USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. SC .. Little Mountain, SC
Hamilton, Virgil D. ....... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. KY .. Dayton, OH
Hanton, Gilbert ........... USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. DC .. Washington, DC
Hart, William ............. USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Haskell, Michael S. ....... USMC ... CAPT ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Camp Lejeune, NC
Hastings, Michael A. ...... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. DE .. Seaford, DE
Hein, Paul A. ............. USMC ... CAPT ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Camp Lejeune, NC
Held, Douglas E. .......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Helms, Mark A. ............ USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. NE .. Dwight, NE
Henderson, Ferrandy D. .... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Tampa, FL
Hernandez, Matilde Jr. .... USMC ... MSGT ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Midway Park, NC
Hester, Stanley G. ........ USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Raleigh, NC
Hildreth, Donald W. ....... USMC ... GYSGT .. 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Sneads Ferry, NC
Holberton, Richard H. ..... USMC ... SSGT ... 10/23/1983 .. SC .. Beaufort, SC
Holland, Robert S. ........ USN .... HM3 .... 10/23/1983 .. KY .. Gilbertsville, KY
Hollingshead, Bruce A. .... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. OH .. Fairborn, OH
Holmes, Melvin D. ......... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. IL .. Chicago, IL
Howard, Bruce L. .......... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. ME .. Strong, ME
Hudson, John R. ........... USN .... LT ..... 10/23/1983 .. GA .. Riverdale, GA
Hudson, Terry L. .......... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. AL .. Prichard, AL
Hue, Lyndon J. ............ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. LA .. Des Allemands, LA
Hukill, Maurice E. ........ USMC ... 2ndLT .. 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Iacovino, Edward F. Jr. ... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. RI .. Warwick, RI
Ingalls, John J. .......... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Interlaken, NY
Innocenzi, Paul G. III .... USMC ... WO1 .... 10/23/1983 .. NJ .. Trenton, NJ
Jackowski, James J. ....... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. S. Salem, NY
James, Jeffrey W. ......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. MD .. Baltimore, MD
Jenkins, Nathaniel W. ..... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Daytona Beach, FL
Johnson, Michael H. ....... USN .... HM2 .... 10/23/1983 .. MI .. Detroit, MI
Johnston, Edward A. ....... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. OH .. Struthers, OH
Jones, Steven ............. USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Brooklyn, NY
Julian, Thomas A. ......... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. RI .. Middleton, RI
Kees, Marion E. ........... USN .... HM2 .... 10/23/1983 .. WV .. Martinsburg, WV
Keown, Thomas C. .......... USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. KY .. Louisville, KY
Kimm, Edward E. ........... USMC ... GYSGT .. 10/23/1983 .. IA .. Atlantic, IA
Kingsley, Walter V. ....... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. WI .. Wisconsin Dells, WI
Kluck, Daniel S. .......... USA .... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. KY .. Owensboro, KY
Knipple, James C. ......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. VA .. Alexandria, VA
Kreischer, Freas H. III ... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Indiatlantic, FL
Laise, Keith J. ........... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. East Stroudsburg, PA
Lamb, Thomas G. ........... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. MN .. Coon Rapids, MN
Langon, James J. IV ....... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. NJ .. Lakehurst, NJ
Lariviere, Michael S. ..... USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Perry, FL
Lariviere, Steven B. ...... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. MA .. Chicopee, MA
Lemnah, Richard L. ........ USMC ... MSGT ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Camp Lejeune, NC
Lewis, David A. ........... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. OH .. Garfield Heights, OH
Lewis, Val S. ............. USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. GA .. Atlanta, GA
Livingston, Joseph R. ..... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. IL .. Champaign, IL
Lyon, Paul D. Jr. ......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Milton, FL
Macroglou, John W. ........ USMC ... MAJ .... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Maitland, Samuel .......... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Martin, Charlie R. ........ USMC ... SSGT ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Camp Lejeune, NC
Martin, Jack L. ........... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Oveido, FL
Massa, David S. ........... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. RI .. Warren, RI
Massman, Michael R. ....... USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. MI .. Port Huron, MI
Mattacchione, Joseph J. ... USMC ... PVT .... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Sanford, NC
McCall, John .............. USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Rochester, NY
McDonough, James E. ....... USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. Newcastle, PA
McMahon, Timothy R. ....... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. TX .. Austin, TX
McNeely, Timothy D. ....... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Mooresville, NC
McVicker, George N. II .... USN .... HM2 .... 10/23/1983 .. IN .. Wabash, IN
Melendez, Louis ........... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. PR .. Puerto Rico
Menkins, Richard H. II .... USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Tully, NY
Mercer, Michael D. ........ USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Vale, NC
Meurer, Ronald W. ......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Milano, Joseph P. ......... USN .... HM3 .... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Farmingville, NY
Moore, Joseph P. .......... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. MO .. St. Louis, MO
Morrow, Richard A. ........ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. Clairton, PA
Muffler, John F. .......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. Philadelphia, PA
Munoz, Alex ............... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. NM .. Bloomfield, NM
Myers, Harry D. ........... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Whittler, NC
Nairn, David J. ........... USMC ... 1stLT .. 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Nava, Luis A. ............. USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. CA .. Gardena, CA
Olson, John A. ............ USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. MN .. Sabin, MN
Olson, Robert P. .......... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Lawtons, NY
Ortiz, Richard C. ......... USMC ... CWO3 ... 10/23/1983 .. OK .. Ft. Sill, OK
Owen, Jeffrey B. .......... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. VA .. Virginia Beach, VA
Owens, Joseph A. .......... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. VA .. Chesterfield, VA
Page, Connie Ray .......... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Erwin, NC
Parker, Ulysses ........... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. MD .. Baltimore, MD
Payne, Mark W. ............ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Binghamton, NY
Pearson, John L. .......... USMC ... GYSGT .. 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Perron, Thomas S. ......... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. MA .. Whitinsville, MA
Phillips, John A. Jr. ..... USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. IL .. Wilmette, IL
Piercy, George W. ......... USN .... HMC .... 10/23/1983 .. MD .. Mt. Savage, MD
Plymel, Clyde W. .......... USMC ... 1stLT .. 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Merritt, FL
Pollard, William H. ....... USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Pomalestorres, Rafael I. .. USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. Philadelphia, PA
Prevatt, Victor M. ........ USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. GA .. Columbus, GA
Price, James C. ........... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. AL .. Attala, AL
Prindeville, Patrick K. ... USMC ... SSGT ... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Gainesville, FL
Pulliam, Eric A. .......... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. IL .. E. St. Louis, IL
Quirante, Diomedes J. ..... USN .... HM3 .... 10/23/1983 .. RP .. Calcoocan City, RP
Randolph, David M. ........ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. AZ .. Siloam Springs, AZ
Ray, Charles R. ........... USMC ... GYSGT .. 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Relvas, Rui A. ............ USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. Philadelphia, PA
Rich, Terrence L. ......... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Brooklyn, NY
Richardson, Warren ........ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Brooklyn, NY
Rodriguez, Juan C. ........ USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Miami, FL
Rotondo, Louis J. ......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. Philadelphia, PA
Sanpedro, Guillermo Jr. ... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Hialeah, FL
Sauls, Michael C. ......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. SC .. Waterboro, SC
Schnorf, Charles J. ....... USMC ... 1stLT .. 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Camp Lejeune, NC
Schultz, Scott L. ......... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Keeseville, NY
Scialabba, Peter J. ....... USMC ... CAPT ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Moorehead City, NC
Scott, Gary R. ............ USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. IL .. Rankin, IL
Shallo, Ronald L. ......... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Hudson, NY
Shipp, Thomas A. .......... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Shropshire, Jerryl D. ..... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. GA .. Macon, GA
Silvia, James F. .......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. RI .. Portsmouth, RI
Sliwinski, Stanley J. ..... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. OH .. Niles, OH
Smith, Kirk H. ............ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Miami, FL
Smith, Thomas G. .......... USMC ... SSGT ... 10/23/1983 .. CT .. Middletown, CT
Smith, Vincent L. ......... USMC ... CAPT ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Soares, Edward ............ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. RI .. Tiverton, RI
Sommerhof, William S. ..... USMC ... 1stLT .. 10/23/1983 .. IL .. Springfield, IL
Spaulding, Michael C. ..... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. OH .. Akron, OH
Spearing, John W. ......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. Lancaster, PA
Spencer, Stephen E. ....... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. RI .. Portsmouth, RI
Stelpflug, Bill J. ........ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. AL .. Auburn, AL
Stephens, Horace R. ....... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. MD .. Capitol Heights, MD
Stockton, Craig S. ........ USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Rochester, NY
Stokes, Jeffrey G. ........ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. GA .. Waynesboro, GA
Stowe, Thomas D. .......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Sturghill, Eric D. ........ USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. IL .. Chicago, IL
Sundar, Devon L. .......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. CT .. Standford, CT
Surch, James F. Jr. ....... USN .... LT ..... 10/23/1983 .. CA .. Lompoc, CA
Thompson, Dennis A. ....... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Bronx, NY
Thorstad, Thomas P. ....... USMC ... SSGT ... 10/23/1983 .. IN .. Chesterton, IN
Tingley, Stephen D. ....... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. CT .. Ellington, CT
Tishmack, John J. ......... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. MN .. Minneapolis, MN
Trahan, Lex D. ............ USMC ... PVT .... 10/23/1983 .. LA .. Lafayette, LA
Vallone, Donald H. Jr. .... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. CA .. Palmdale, CA
Walker, Eric R. ........... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. IL .. Chicago, IL
Walker, Leonard W. ........ USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. AL .. Dothan, AL
Washington, Eric G. ....... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. VA .. Alexandria, VA
Weekes, Obrian ............ USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Brooklyn, NY
Wells, Tandy W. ........... USMC ... 1stSGT . 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Wentworth, Steven B. ...... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. Reading, PA
Wesley, Allen D. .......... USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. Philadelphia, PA
West, Lloyd D. ............ USMC ... GYSGT .. 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Weyl, John R. ............. USMC ... SSGT ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Wherland, Burton D. Jr. ... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Jacksonville, NC
Wigglesworth, Dwayne W. ... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. CT .. Naugatuck, CT
Williams, Rodney J. ....... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. FL .. Opa Locka, FL
Williams, Scipio Jr. ...... USMC ... GYSGT .. 10/23/1983 .. SC .. Charleston, SC
Williamson, Johnny A. ..... USMC ... LCPL ... 10/23/1983 .. NC .. Asheboro, NC
Wint, Walter E. Jr. ....... USMC ... CAPT ... 10/23/1983 .. PA .. Wilkes-Barre, PA
Winter, William E. ........ USMC ... CAPT ... 10/23/1983 .. SC .. Fripp Island, SC
Wolfe, John E. ............ USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. AZ .. Phoenix, AZ
Woollett, Donald E. ....... USMC ... 1stLT .. 10/23/1983 .. OK .. Barthesville, OK
Worley, David E. .......... USN .... HM3 .... 10/23/1983 .. MD .. Baltimore, MD
Wyche, Craig L. ........... USMC ... PFC .... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Jamaica, NY
Yarber, James G. .......... USA .... SFC .... 10/23/1983 .. CA .. Vacaville, CA
Young, Jeffrey D. ......... USMC ... SGT .... 10/23/1983 .. NJ .. Moorestown, NJ
Zimmerman, William A. ..... USMC ... 1stLT .. 10/23/1983 .. MI .. Grand Haven, MI
Townsend, Henry Jr. ....... USMC ... CPL .... 12/02/1983 .. AL .. Montgomery, AL
Biddle, Shannon D. ........ USMC ... CPL .... 12/04/1983 .. AL .. Valley Head, AL
Cherman, Sam .............. USMC ... CPL .... 12/04/1983 .. NY .. Queens, NY
Cox, Manuel A. ............ USMC ... SGT .... 12/04/1983 .. NJ .. Union City, NJ
Daugherty, David L. ....... USMC ... CPL .... 12/04/1983 .. OH .. Eastlake,OH
Evans, Thomas A. .......... USMC ... CPL .... 12/04/1983 .. MT .. Conrad, MT
Hattaway, Jeffrey T. ...... USMC ... PFC .... 12/04/1983 .. FL .. Pensacola, FL
Kraft, Todd A. ............ USMC ... CPL .... 12/04/1983 .. ND .. Devilslake, ND
Lange, Mark A. ............ USN .... LT .... 12/04/1983 .. MI .. Fraser, MI
Perkins, Marvin H. ........ USMC ... CPL .... 12/04/1983 .. TN .. Franklin, TN
Gargano, Edward J. ........ USMC ... CPL .... 01/08/1984 .. MA .. Quincy, MA
Dramis, George L. ......... USMC ... LCPL ... 01/30/1984 .. NJ .. Cape May Court House, NJ
*Hernandez, Rodolfo ....... USMC ... - ...... 01/30/1984 .. TX ..El Paso, TX (see below footnote)
Butler, Alfred III ........ USMC ... CAPT ... 02/09/1984 .. FL .. Cocoa Beach, FL
Wagner, Michael ........... USN .... IS1 .... 09/20/1984 .. NC .. Zebulon,, NC
Welch, Kenneth ............ USA .... WO2 .... 09/20/1984 .. MI .. Grand Rapids, MI
*Hendrickson, John ........ USMC ... - ...... 04/13/1990 .. - .. (see below footnote)
*Simpson, Larry H. Jr. .... USMC ... - ...... 08/31/1992 .. - .. (see below footnote)
Hasenfus, Michael ......... USA .... CPL .... 10/20/1984 .. MA .. Dedham, MA
Stethem, Robert D. ........ USN .... SW2 .... 06/15/1985 .. MD .. Waldorf, MD
Higgins, William R. ....... USMC ... COL .... 07/06/1990 .. KY .. Louisville, KY
*Still checking on the following to confirm information:--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PLEASE NOTE: The symbol ' - ' denotes unknown to this web author, and does not
mean that the information is unknown to the Department of Defense.
*Rivers, Paul . ........... USMC ... CPL .... 10/23/1983 .. NY .. Brooklyn, NY
(Listed in article, but his name is not on DOD list, but was in a
2/84 "Leatherneck" magazine article list. Later, it was confirmed by several eye witnesses that he did in fact survive the blast and is living.)
*Hernandez, Rodolfo ........ USMC ... - ...... 01/31/1984 .. DOD - NOT IN LEBANON EVENT (Although the DoD Graves database lhas him listed as not died in Lebanon, but he was wounded on 30 Jan 84 and died weeks later in Germany as a result of wounds.
Some references list him as being wounded 30 Jan and others 31 Jan, but it is
believed he died on 08 Feb 1984 in a German hospital.)
Hendrickson, John ......... USMC ... - ...... 04/13/1990 .. DOD - NOT IN LEBANON EVENT
Simpson, Larry H. Jr. ..... USMC ... - ...... 08/31/1992 .. DOD - NOT IN LEBANON EVENT
(Last 3 on one database, but not on DOD list as being in Lebanon)
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert meets with US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice at his Jerusalem residence Saturday night; Rice reveals initial plans for international peacekeeping force: France, Lebanese army to take part, and will also guard Syria-Lebanon border. Leaders agree diplomatic agreement dependant on release of kidnapped soldiers
The French and Lebanese armies will take part in the multinational peacekeeping force expected to take position along the southern Lebanese border, it was revealed following a meeting between US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Prime Minister Ehud Olmert in Jerusalem.
Let's see if the Frenchies have learned any lessons from their first operations in Bosnia. Not permitting their officers to be handcuffed to a tree would be a useful demonstration.
The two met at the Prime Ministers official residence in Jerusalem late Saturday night for nearly two hours, most of which was spent in one-on-one talks. Olmerts office said that during the entire meeting, Rice did not at all press the issue of a ceasefire. The two leaders agreed that any diplomatic arrangement to end the fighting would be dependent on the release of kidnapped IDF soldiers Ehud Goldwasser and Eldad Regev .
"Until then Ehud, you do what you gotta do," Sec. Rice was overheard to say.
Regarding the establishment of a multinational peacekeeping force, the conditions for its establishment, the length of its mandate and its responsibilities were not yet finalized, although Rice expressed optimism that it would be set up very soon.
Shouldn't take more than two or three months.
Olmert and Rice did not discuss the size of multinational peacekeeping force to be established. Likewise, the question of which countries, other than France and Lebanon, would partake in the force was not confronted.
We'll need lots of consultations. The 511th Heavy Belgian Barbershop Battalion should be deployed. The 239th Austrian Tyrol Yodeling Dragoons, likewise. I'm sure if we talk with them long enough they'll be reasonable.
However, Rice did note that the Lebanese and French armies would deploy along the Syrian-Lebanese border to the east, as well as along the southern border with Israel.
The French will escort the Syrians back and forth, and the Lebanese will politely avert their gaze.
The two also did not discuss Lebanese Prime Minister Fouad Sinioras proposal for a ceasefire. However, Rice did request of the prime minister that Israel avoid striking Lebanese infrastructure.
Unless the Hezbies are using it.
The Prime Ministers Bureau noted that Rice expressed her appreciation to Israel for its actions towards easing the humanitarian crisis for Lebanese citizens by opening channels for the transport of aid. According to Rice, Israels cooperation in enabling aid delivery via the Beirut airport, seaports and by land greatly contributed to the USs stance during the Rome summit last week in which representatives from 15 nations convened to brainstorm solutions for the Israel-Lebanon crisis.
There's your cover for the next couple of days, Ehud, make the most of it.
Posted by: Steve White ||
07/30/2006 00:00 ||
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France, Lebanon to deploy to border with Israel
How about in the interior as well?
Rice did request of the prime minister that Israel avoid striking Lebanese infrastructure.
I think we should be able to do that. We've blasted most of the stuff they care about by now. Does "road maintenance" count?
Rice expressed her appreciation to Israel for its actions towards easing the humanitarian crisis for Lebanese citizens by opening channels for the transport of aid.
Without it, Egypt would not have been able to deliver its half-full semi trailer of aid that will somehow alleviate the suffering of the entire Lebanese population for, say, 15 seconds or so.
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.
Rantburg was assembled from recycled algorithms in the United States of America. No
trees were destroyed in the production of this weblog. We did hurt some, though. Sorry.
BAIDOA, Somalia (AP) - Somalia's prime minister on Saturday accused Egypt, Libya and Iran of providing weapons for Islamic militants who have seized control of much of this country's south. "Egypt, Libya and Iran, whom we thought were friends, are engaged in fueling the conflict in Somalia by supporting the terrorists," Prime Minister Mohammed Ali Gedi said, citing unnamed sources within his government. 
The Taepodong-2 long-range missile test-fired by North Korea on July 5 broke up and fell back to earth just after its launch, making its flight much shorter than previously believed, media reports said on Sunday. The Japanese government had previously said the Taepodong-2 fell into the Sea of Japan about 640 km (400 miles) from the launch site.
The youngest son of Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) has joined the Marine Corps and could be deployed to a war zone in a matter of months, according to a magazine report. Jimmy McCain, 18, will begin basic training in September. He'll spend three months in boot camp and undergo a month of specialized training before being assigned to a unit.
In an ironic twist to India's long-standing complaint of terror camps existing on its soil, Pakistan on Saturday said it has given a list of terrorist training camps in India and expected New Delhi to dismantle them. "We have given the list (of terrorist training camps) to India and we would expect India to dismantle them," Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesperson 
Umno Youth will release a list of brands and international companies with operations in Malaysia that are known to be supporting the Israeli regime financially. Deputy chief Khairy Jamaluddin said the move was to inform the public of the brands and companies so that they could either boycott or remain as their clients.
Supreme Leader of Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei received here Saturday afternoon visiting Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez and his accompanying delegation. In the meeting, the Supreme Leader said the whole Islamic world and Arab nations as well as the free nations of the world support Lebanese Hezbollah and due to the brave resistance of the group against the US and the Zionist regime, their leader has become a very popular character in the Arab and Islamic world.
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) - Iranian state radio said Saturday that the government would reject a proposed U.N. resolution that would give it until Aug. 31 to suspend uranium enrichment or face the threat of international sanctions. "Iranians will not accept unfair decisions, even in the framework of resolutions by the international bodies," the commentary on state-run radio said. 
BEIRUT, Lebanon -- Medicine, food and other humanitarian relief piled up in Beirut on Saturday, with only a trickle making it to the tens of thousands of Lebanese trapped in the war zone in the south. The help has been slowed by the difficult logistics of arranging safe passage during Israeli airstrikes, which have blasted close to the few truck convoys that have made the dangerous drive so far.
U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice welcomed as a "positive step" the agreement by Hezbollah cabinet members to seek an immediate cease-fire that would include the disarming of militias.
France has drawn up a draft UN Security Council resolution that would call for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Israel and Lebanon and prepare for the deployment of an international force. The document, distributed to the 15 Security Council members on Saturday, anticipates a draft resolution the United States is planning that would place up to 20,000 peacekeepers along Lebanon's borders with Israel and with Syria.
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice arrived in the region Saturday night for the start of another round of shuttle diplomacy between Jerusalem and Beirut, aiming to push a diplomatic solution for ending the war in Lebanon. Rice met with Prime Minister Ehud Olmert Saturday night in private. She will depart for Lebanon Sunday and will decide following meetings there whether to return to Israel for more talks.
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) - The presidents of Iran and Venezuela, leading U.S. critics, pledged Saturday to support one another in disputes with Washington. Iran's president, Mahmoud Ahmedinejad, said he saw in the Venezuelan president a kindred spirit. "I feel I have met a brother and trench mate after meeting Chavez," the state-run Iranian television quoted Ahmedinejad.
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert meets with US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice at his Jerusalem residence Saturday night; Rice reveals initial plans for international peacekeeping force: France, Lebanese army to take part, and will also guard Syria-Lebanon border. Leaders agree diplomatic agreement dependant on release of kidnapped soldiers 
