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May 2013Syria's Assad 'confident in victory'Posted: Friday, May 31, 2013 'I don't feel sorry for them... because they don't feel sorry for themselves': Bush risks wrath of injured veterans by saying they volunteered their service Guantanamo guard converts to Islam, demands release of detainees Terry Holdbrooks was deployed to the Guantanamo Bay detention center to guard detainees. The Phoenix, Ariz., resident has become a devout Muslim and an unlikely advocate for the prisoners' rights. Turkish police 'arrest 12 terror suspects' in raids Turkish police have arrested 12 people suspected of links to a terrorist organisation, an official says. Syria's Assad 'confident in victory' in civil war Syrian President Bashar Assad said in an interview broadcast Thursday that he is "confident in victory" in his country's civil war, and he warned that Damascus would retaliate for any future Israeli airstrike on his territory. U.N. investigators say most Syria rebels not seeking democracy Most Syrian rebel fighters do not want democracy and the country's civil war is producing ever worse atrocities and increasing radicalization, independent U.N. investigators said on Tuesday. Russia may revise ban on Syrian arms exports - Minister PM indicated to Putin: 'We'll destroy your missiles if you deliver them to Assad' After Netanyahu made clear he would not allow the S-300 anti-aircraft weapons to go into service, the Russian president reportedly suggested Israel buy them instead Russia to Sell at Least 10 MiG Fighters to Syria Jonathan Manthorpe: Assad begins to gain upper hand in Syrian civil war Recruitment of more loyalists into army, change in strategy pays dividends for Damascus Assad Warns Israel, Claiming a Stockpile of Russian Weapons Russia Criticizes US Refusal to Rule Out Syria No-Fly Zone Syria's Opposition Won't Attend International Peace Talks Hezbollah said to control most of Qusayr in major setback for Syria rebels Western states a gang of arsonists setting countries on fire How to describe the actions of Britain and France towards Syria and by extension, the wider Middle East and Africa regions? Guantanamo guard converts to Islam, demands release of detainees Terry Holdbrooks was deployed to the Guantanamo Bay detention center to guard detainees. The Phoenix, Ariz., resident has become a devout Muslim and an unlikely advocate for the prisoners' rights. America's China mistake As Beijing becomes more bellicose, Washington clings to the hope that military-to-military relations will somehow relieve tensions. They won't. Mormon mother of seven who was jailed in Mexico on drug smuggling charges is FREED by judge as surveillance video clears her of having 12lbs of marijuana Iraq mayhem 'ready to explode' into wider conflict, U.N. official says A wave of deadly bombings struck Baghdad on Thursday in an already remarkably lethal week in Iraq, prompting a U.N. official to warn the mayhem is "ready to explode" into a wider conflict. Baghdad Blasts Continue; 42 Killed, 129 Wounded Pakistani Taliban Withdraw From Peace Talks Over Rehman's Killing US Drone Strike Foiled Peace Process Before It Started US lifts ban on mobile phones and software for Iran The US has eased restrictions on the sale of mobile phones and other communications devices, software and services to Iranians. Obama's new FBI chief approved Bush's NSA warrantless wiretapping scheme James Comey becomes just the latest symbol of the Obama legacy: normalizing what was very recently viewed as radical Venezuela launches 3 surveillance drones as part of initiative to curb drug trafficking Russia blasts US double standards over Syria Posted: Wednesday, May 29, 2013 Nixon and Obama: Like brothers from another mother Ecuador says UK violating human rights of WikiLeaks' Assange Ecuador's foreign minister on Tuesday accused the British government of trampling on the human rights of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange by refusing to allow him to travel to Ecuador, which granted him political asylum almost a year ago. U.S. drone kills Pakistan Taliban Number two: security officials A U.S. drone strike killed the number two of the Pakistani Taliban in the North Waziristan region on Wednesday, three security officials said, in what would be a major blow in the fight against militancy. Afghan police defectors return to fold, kill seven colleagues Two Afghan police officers who had recently rejoined the force after defecting to the Taliban, shot dead seven of their sleeping colleagues on Tuesday, a police chief said. Obama Asks Pentagon for Syria No-Fly Zone Plan Pentagon pushes back against Syria no-fly zone report The Pentagon is pushing back against a report that the White House has asked the Pentagon this month to draw up plans for a no-fly zone inside Syria. Imposing Syria 'No Fly Zone' Would Be Act of War, Warn Critics Peace advocates and policy experts say euphemistic term belies reality that massive bombing campaign would come first Lifting the Fake EU Arms Embargo On May 27, the so-called one-year EU arms embargo on Syria's opposition ended. Officially it does so on June 1. EU nations agreed to end what never existed. Russian Missile Plan Chills Chances for Syrian No-Fly Zone Europe Seeks to Press Russia and Syria on Arms The European Union's decision to lift its arms embargo on Syria, after a bitter, 13-hour debate in Brussels, is intended to put pressure on Russia and President Bashar al-Assad of Syria before peace talks scheduled in Geneva next month, with a message that the West will not allow the rebels to be defeated, senior European diplomats said Tuesday. Russia blasts US double standards over Syrian peace progress The US-Russian initiative for a comprehensive peace conference to resolve the Syrian crisis needs honest effort of those involved. But some nations apparently try to undermine the effort to call the meeting, says the Russia's foreign minister. What A Load Of Dishonest And Contemptible Bull: Why US must stop Russian missiles for Syria: Putin's decision to send S-300 missiles to Syria shows an amoral strategic move by Russia. It also shows up a lack of Western moral concern for the slaughter in Syria. Israeli defense chief indicates if Russia ships advanced missiles to Syria, they could be hit Israel's defense chief said Tuesday a Russian plan to supply sophisticated anti-aircraft missiles to Syria was a "threat" and signaled that Israel is prepared to use force to stop the delivery. Syria promises 'immediate retaliation' if Israel strikes again Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Moallem also says Assad will remain in power until 2014; UN chief warns Syria is 'disintegrating before our eyes.' Time for Russia to make a stand It's time for Russia to make a stand. Now or never. Russia's future is at stake just as much as the future of others. Iran condemns McCain visit to Syria Iran Foreign Ministry Spokesman Abbas Araqchi has condemned US Senator John McCain's visit to Syria to meety Send John McCain to Guantanamo Bay Senator meets with America-hating, Al-Qaeda terrorists Syrian rebels near Israel border stole UN's armored trucks Yarmouk Martyrs Brigade now has two 'virtually indestructible' vehicles, which Israeli expert warns could be used in surprise attacks Russia: Iran must join Syria peace conference Moscow insists on Iran's participation in proposed Geneva talks despite reservations from some Western nations. We Can't Let Monsanto Win on Genetically Modified Food Monsanto has been victorious in court, Congress and the White House. Protests will need to grow to stop them. Food Justice: Monsanto, Factory Farming, and Beyond On May 25, 2013, millions marched against Monsanto across the globe. I took part here in New York City, of course, and was fortunate to have the opportunity to lead a teach-in called: "Food Justice, GMOs, & the Vegan Option (Eat Like a Revolutionary)." 2 Letters Addressed To Mayor Bloomberg Found To Contain Ricin Letters Opened In New York, Washington D.C.; Author Referenced Gun Control Obama and the 1917 Espionage Act The president uses the overly broad and little-used WWI-era law to go after reporters. Terror police called in after prison warden stabbed in attack 'inspired by Woolwich murder' Counter-terrorism police are investigating an attack on a prison warden by alleged fanatical Islamic inmates believed to have been inspired by the Woolwich murder of Drummer Lee Rigby. Suspect in UK killing out of hospital, at police station Head of Libya's parliament resigns over law banning Gadhafi-era officials from senior posts Libya's parliament chief, who served under Moammar Gadhafi before becoming an opposition leader in exile, resigned on Tuesday, just weeks after lawmakers passed a bill banning former regime officials from senior government posts. Somalia: Heavy Bombardments Rock the Kismayu Airport Henry Kissinger Confronted While Receiving The Freedom Award "How does it feel winning a freedom award when you are wanted as a mass murder?" The 'Cult of Capitalism' America Is Being Led Astray By Narcissists Capitalism is now a cult, and Jamie Dimon is the self-appointed leader of the "cult of capitalism." UN Human Rights Chief Slams US Posted: Tuesday, May 28, 2013 The US and the Euro-crisis: Lessons from a comparison There is a striking contrast between how the eurozone and the United States are handling their financial crises. Guinea says death toll from protest rises to 12 At least 12 people have been killed in Guinea during five days of protests over preparations for a legislative election, the government of the West African state said on Monday. Kerry dishes some iffy claims abroad U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry straddled the diplomatic boundary this weekend between presenting the best face of America and a misleading one. UN Human Rights Chief Slams US Over Gitmo, 'War on Terror' 'Time and again' U.S. commits 'profoundly disturbing' rights violations Death to Whistle-Blowers? Help Get Transcripts Out With Bradley Manning's trial set to start in one week and the government refusing to make transcripts public, Freedom of the Press Foundation is crowd-funding to hire a court stenographer whose daily transcripts would then be posted online. For future whistleblowers and us all. Report: Hackers Obtain Specs for US Weapons Systems Latest revelations show depth of ongoing cyber espionage between world powers Japanese mayor apologises for saying US troops should use sex industry But Toru Hashimoto defends Japan's role in recruitment of 'comfort women' to work in brothels during second world war Woolwich Terror Backlash: Two Arrested after Grimsby Mosque 'Attacked with Petrol Bombs' Two men have been arrested after a suspected arson attack on a mosque in Grimsby, as the backlash continues against soldier Lee Rigby's murder at the hands of suspected Islamic terrorists. Woolwich aftermath: Home Secretary Theresa May threatens ban for online radical Islamists - even those who don’t advocate violence Coalition clashes over Home Secretary's plans to revive controversial ‘snooper’s charter’ London Soldier Attack: 10th Suspect Arrested By UK Police In Slaying Police on Monday arrested a 10th suspect in connection with the vicious killing of an off-duty British soldier on a London street in an apparent Islamic extremist attack. Pakistanis: We Want the US Out; New York Times: No, You Don't. The A1 story in Sunday's New York Times, written by Declan Walsh, is titled "U.S. Shift Poses Risk to Pakistan." The story argues that, with the United States gradually dwindling down its political and military engagement with Pakistan, the latter faces a highly uncertain future. Walsh tells us that the disengagement will "diminish" the "prestige" and "political importance" Pakistan held as a (Photo: Al Jazeera)"crucial player in global counterterrorism efforts" and could very well "upset its internal stability." More than 70 killed in wave of Baghdad bombings We've Moved on from the Iraq War - But Iraqis Don't Have that Choice Like characters from The Great Gatsby, Britain and the US have arrogantly turned their backs and left a country in ruins Lionel Richie hits big time again... as an Iraq 'n' roll star Soul legend's songs such as 'Hello' have taken the Arab world by storm How Obama and Al-Qaeda Became Syrian Bedfellows For a president that is executing Bush's "war on terror" against Al-Qaeda and "it's affiliates," it seems odd that President Obama has targeted the secular Syrian government for "regime change." Russian Arms 'to Deter Foreign Intervention in Syria' Obama Asks Pentagon for Syria No-Fly Zone Plan Syria arms embargo: EU divided despite consensus Under intense pressure from Britain and France, the European Union's arms embargo against the Syrian rebels has been lifted. But there is no immediate prospect of European weaponry heading for Syria. Russia to give Syria anti-aircraft missiles to deter 'hotheads' Syria: EU split over push to lift rebel arms embargo Britain and France argue that supplying arms to 'moderates' will lead to less killing, but others say it will only escalate conflict Man beats elderly couple to death, sexually assault 2-year-old great-granddaughter: cops A man arrested fleeing from an Anchorage home wearing boxer shorts has been charged with beating an elderly couple to death and sexually assaulting their 2-year-old great-granddaughter - a case that officials say has shaken investigators for its brutality Couple return home from cinema to find their grandparents murdered and a naked man sexually abusing their daughter, 2, after he was released from jail for IDENTICAL attack four years ago Obama embraces role as consoler in chief to remain above the fray President Obama will gain one more day of respite from the controversies that have crowded in on his administration Tuesday, as he tours the New Jersey coast to inspect the recovery and rebuilding efforts in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. Mourn First The Millions America Slaughtered Posted: Sunday, May 26, 2013 Good Americans Mourn First The Millions America Slaughtered, Then Mourn US Soldiers This veteran is waiting for the year in which the Veterans For Peace, in its Memorial Day Press Release, states that Veterans mourn first, the lives America took in poor countries, both the civilian men, women and children and the patriots that fought our illegal and criminal invasions since 1945. Guatemala extradites ex-leader Alfonso Portillo to US Guatemala's former President Alfonso Portillo has been flown to the United States to face corruption charges. US and allies step up war preparations against Syria, Lebanon, Iran The United States and its allies continue to escalate their military aggression against Syria, behind the smokescreen of a proposed international peace conference scheduled for June in Geneva. Iran begins 'massive' deployment of long-range missile launchers As the Islamic Republic of Iran prepares for presidential elections next month it is fielding a "massive" number of new long-range missile launchers, Iranian media reported on Sunday. Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah clinically dead: Report says Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz is reported to be clinically dead as the monarch is not recently seen in the public. Ahmadinejad Asks for Stop of Gunfights to Restore Peace in Syria Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on Sunday called for the cessation of hostilities and start of national understanding as prerequisite for free election and peace in Syria. Syria army says rebels trapped in Al-Qusayr's north Two-thirds fear 'clash of civilisations' in wake of Woolwich murder YouGov poll shows rise in proportion of people who believe British Muslims pose a threat to democracy Woolwich attack: MI5 'offered job to suspect' MI5 asked Woolwich murder suspect Michael Adebolajo if he wanted to work for them about six months before the killing, a childhood friend has said. Woolwich murder sparks anti-Muslim backlash There has been a huge increase in anti-Muslim incidents since the murder of a British soldier in Woolwich, an inter-faith charity has said. Woolwich attack: Security scares in wake of killing POLICE were called out to three separate incidents yesterday, as security fears soared in the aftermath of the terrorist murder of a British soldier in London. French anti-terror soldier has throat slashed in Paris by 'man of North African origin in Woolwich copy-cat attack' Obama speech suggests possible expansion of drone killings President Barack Obama on Thursday defended his administration's use of drone strikes to kill terrorists as effective, lawful and "heavily constrained," but he also appeared to be laying groundwork for an expansion of the controversial targeted killings. Obama drone oversight proposal prompts concern over 'kill courts' Human rights groups wary after president asks Congress to establish special court or board to authorise legal drone action Congressman Preps Bill to End Terror War Authority In the wake of President Obama's big speech about restraining the war on terrorism, a member of the House intelligence committee is working on a bill to undo the basic authorities to wage it. Marchers in over 400 cities protest Monsanto Protesters rallied in dozens of cities Saturday as part of a global protest against seed giant Monsanto and the genetically modified food it produces, organizers said. A Farmers' Rebellion Lifts the California GOP An election upset could send a pro-business Republican to Sacramento and give hope to the moribund state party. Disruptions: At Odds Over Privacy Challenges of Wearable Computing Perhaps the best way to predict how society will react to so-called wearable computing devices is to read the Dr. Seuss children's story "The Butter Battle Book." Google Glass 'eye wear' is 'potentially dangerous' as it may stop users from seeing something 'utterly obvious' Cops, gun owners, feel pinch from ammo shortage Why I Spoke Out at Obama's Foreign Policy Speech On topics from Guantánamo to drone strikes, I couldn't let the president act as if he were some helpless official at the mercy of Congress. New Zealand to pay colonial compensation Kiwis wrap up three-decade long process to pay hundreds of millions to indigenous peoples for colonial injustice. Obama: Increase in domestic terrorism fueled by Internet Posted: Friday, May 24, 2013 Tax-Avoiding Corporations Siphoning Billions from World's Poorest Global tax structure allows most powerful to cash in while preventing developing countries from benefiting from their own wealth North Korea agrees to return to nuclear talks under pressure from China Pyongyang's special envoy makes concession on nuclear disarmament to ease tensions between communist allies Anti-Drone Protester "Worth Paying Attention To" says Obama CodePink's Medea Benjamin interrupts president's foreign policy speech with surprising results Despite the interruption, Benjamin was not immediately removed from the audience. However, after allowing Obama to continue with his remarks for several more moments, Benjamin once again interjected, this time regarding the death of the 16-year-old Abdulrahman. As her voice rose--and Obama paused to listen--security then intervened: Charting a New Course on Terrorism President Obama offered a comprehensive review of U.S. counterterrorism policies since 9/11, while vowing to ratchet down the violence and acknowledging harm done to America's principles and image. Still, many details of his plans remain fuzzy and follow-through far from certain, says ex-CIA analyst Paul R. Pillar. US government admits to killing four American citizens with drones 'Obama must be taken before ICC for the war on terror' - Chomsky to RT Obama Distorts 'Just War' Principles In assessing the consequences of the decade-plus "war on terror," President Obama sought to place his continued – albeit more targeted – use of violence within the context of just-war principles, stressing self-defense and proportionality, a point that religious ethicist Daniel C. Maguire disputes. Obama: Increase in domestic terrorism fueled by Internet During his foreign policy speech Thursday afternoon, President Obama warned that domestic terrorism would increase in the modern age of the Internet. Obama outlines counterterrorism policy Both the military and the CIA use armed drones in surveillance and strike operations around the world. The military uses them routinely in war zones, while the CIA uses unmanned planes in top-secret operations to track and kill insurgents in the border regions of Pakistan, Yemen and Somalia. Estimates from independent groups on U.S. drone strikes and deaths... Guantanamo, Drone Strikes and the Non-War Terror War: Obama Speaks In a carefully crafted - at times defensive, discourse, Obama said, "In some cases, I believe we compromised our basic values - by using torture to interrogate our enemies and detaining individuals in a way that ran counter to the rule of law," adding, "We unequivocally banned torture." But Obama failed to note that the United Nations Human Rights Commission determined in 2006 that the violent force-feeding of detainees at Guantanamo amounted to torture and that he has continued that policy. 'Not Good Enough': Rights Groups Respond to Obama's Foreign Policy Speech The conversation is welcome, but even newly announced policy changes need more transparency and warrant opposition Prominent Journalists File Suit to Lift Veil of Secrecy Over Manning Trial Last chance to free case from heavy-handed military censorship, say critics of proceedings Eric Holder Signed Off On Search Warrant For James Rosen Emails: NBC News Attorney General Eric Holder personally signed off on the warrant that allowed the Justice Department to search Fox News reporter James Rosen's personal email, NBC News' Michael Isikoff reported Thursday. George Galloway: Woolwich Beheading Attack will be Repeated, EDL are 'Moral Dwarves' George Galloway has described the murder in Woolwich as an "indefensible crime" while defending his claim that Britain's involvement in Syria is equally reprehensible. Was the London killing of a British soldier 'terrorism'? What definition of the term includes this horrific act of violence but excludes the acts of the US, the UK and its allies? What Does Terrorism Mean in 2013? For example, the murder of a Muslim man by white supremacists this month. That wasn't labeled as terrorism by the press. Right, even though hate crimes have very clearly ascertainable, political goals–they are designed to terrorize communities; to express all sorts of political sentiments–and yet very rarely do they get called terrorism. Britain braces for possible copycat attacks Britain is bracing for clashes with right-wing extremists and possible copycat terror attacks after the brutal slaying of a young soldier. Exiled cleric who taught UK knifeman praises 'courage' A Syrian-born Islamist cleric who taught one of the attackers accused of hacking to death an off-duty British soldier on a London street praised the attack for its "courage" and said Muslims would see it as a strike on a military target. RAF jets escort diverted Pakistani passenger plane However, the Guardian understands that the pilot, concerned about a disruptive passenger who had started shouting, asked to divert to Stansted, London's third airport, as a precaution. Fighter Jets Scrambled To Passenger Plane Stockholm rioting continues for fifth night Swedish police seek reinforcements after youths set ablaze cars and attack property and schools in poorer suburbs of capital 'They don't want to integrate': Fifth night of youth rioting rocks Stockholm Youth gang riots in the Swedish capital Stockholm have entered fifth straight night. Hundreds of mostly immigrant teenagers tore through the suburbs, smashing windows and burning cars in the country's worst outbreak of violence in years. Take Syria seriously, stay out Syria's civil war inspired some in Congress and in the media. Stupidity or insanity? Some people don't learn from past mistakes? Why start another body count in a Middle East conflict with no direct relationship to U.S. security? New York Times reporter Bill Keller says, "Get over Iraq," like commanding AIDs patients to get over their disease, and "poof," it will magically happen. Syrian government agrees to take part in peace talks, says Russia What is the U.S. REALLY doing in Syria? Revenge of the Bear: Russia Strikes Back in Syria President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation has drawn a line in the sand over Syria, the government of which he is determined to protect from overthrow. Syrian government agrees to attend Geneva conference, says ally Russia Assad regime agrees 'in principle' to conflict resolution initiative as Syrian opposition comes under pressure to take part as well Police investigate 'hate crime' after Michael Clarke Duncan's grave is vandalised with racist graffiti Inside the KKK: New documentary shows how the hate group known for white hoods and cross burnings is still alive and well in the deep South ANC, US congratulate Zimbabwe on constitution South Africa's ruling African National Congress (ANC) and the United States ambassador to Zimbabwe have congratulated President Mugabe and the generality of Zimbabweans following the coming into law of a new Constitution for the country on Wednesday. Death penalty debate focuses on Colorado governor's view of flawed system As an obviously distraught Gov. John Hickenlooper explained his decision to spare the life of convicted killer Nathan Dunlap, he called the state's death-penalty system imperfect and flawed. 26 killed in 2 simultaneous car bombs in Niger Suicide bombers in Niger detonated two car bombs simultaneously on Thursday, one inside a military camp in the city of Agadez and another in the remote town of Arlit at a French-operated uranium mine, killing a total of 26 people and injuring 30, according to officials in Niger and France. Britain 'should apologise for colonial injustices' Posted: Thursday, May 23, 2013 Moments leading to fatal FBI shooting in Orlando still unclear Initially, FBI officials said Todashev, 27, became violent and lunged at an agent with a knife while he was being questioned about Tsarnaev and an unsolved 2011 triple murder in the Boston suburb of Waltham. The agent, acting on an "imminent threat," then shot Todashev, they said. However, later in the day, some of those officials had backed off that preliminary account, and it's no longer clear what happened in the moments before the fatal shooting, The Associated Press reported. Britain 'should apologise for colonial injustices' says Kenyan commission Britain should issue a "public and unconditional apology" to Kenya for injustices committed during the colonial era, the country's Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission has said. Mugabe signs constitution into law, paving way for vote Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe signed a new constitution into law on Wednesday, replacing a 33-year-old document forged in the dying days of British colonial rule and paving the way for an election later this year. Bradley Manning prosecutors seek to prove WikiLeaks suspect 'aided enemy' Military lawyers tell last hearing before trial they have dropped one of 22 counts but will still press most serious accusation Sweden riots expose ugly side of 'Nordic model' Conversations with residents of this Swedish immigrant neighborhood soon bring tales of fruitless job hunts, police harassment, racial taunts and a feeling of living at the margins that are at odds with Sweden's reputation for openness and tolerance. Sweden riots spread to south of capital Stockholm unrest spreads to south of city as violence continues into fourth night Swedish riots rage for fourth night Police attacked and cars torched in Stockholm suburbs as unrest sparked by long-term youth unemployment and poverty spreads Woolwich terror suspect revealed as Muslim convert known to MI5 Troops in London were advised in the immediate aftermath of yesterday's attack not to wear their uniforms outside their bases A loving father, an Afghan hero and a fine soldier: The innocent drummer, 25, 'slaughtered in London street by Muslim fanatics' WOOLWICH HORROR TOUCHES RURAL ENGLAND: Police swoop on house in Lincolnshire village as it emerges 'Islamists who killed soldier' are British born and known to security services Man in bloody video - named 'Mujahid' - was known to Anjem Choudary's banned Islamist group Al Muhajiroun One of the two men involved in the Woolwich terror attack was known to a banned Islamist organisation and went by the name of Mujahid, The Independent has learned. Masked English Defence League supporters clash with police in Woolwich near scene of horrific killing as mosques are attacked in Home Counties Sergio García: I'm sorry ... I'm not a racist Sergio García has denied racist intent in his comments towards Tiger Woods on Tuesday night, with the Spaniard also escaping any punishment from golf's ruling bodies for his now infamous remarks at the European Tour's annual gala dinner. Obama Admits US Killed 4 Americans in Drone War Only Anwar al-Awlaki was killed deliberately, says the letter, while the others "were not specifically targeted." Obama Gets Heckled About Guantanamo Bay During Speech On Terrorism OBAMA: There is no justification beyond politics for congress to prevent us from closing a facility that never should have been opened. HECKLER: Excuse me, President Obama, you are commander-in-chief-- Obama Heckled. 'Let Me Finish, Ma'am,' President Responds. Transferring Gitmo to the Heartland Obama to tell Congress to 'designate a site' for military commissions and trials of terrorists 'Don't interact, don't talk, they are not humans' - Gitmo guard's basic orders One of the methods used to extract information from Muslim inmates in Guantanamo was to apply sexual interrogation techniques, Terry Holdbrooks, former guard at the camp has told RT. Washington Post Really Thinks U.S. Should Be World's Policeman What is the U.S. REALLY doing in Syria? The Syrian conflict has become a proxy fight between the opposition and its various allies (Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United States, Turkey, etc.) and Bashar al-Assad's regime and its various outsider supporters (Iran, Russia, Hezbollah). Syria Rebels Threaten to Wipe Out Shiite, Alawite Towns Syrian rebels, U.S. disagree on peace talks Austria says peackeepers may quit Golan if EU arms rebels Austria may pull its peacekeeping troops from the Golan Heights, evacuating the U.N. buffer zone, its defence minister warned on Tuesday, as Syria and Israel exchanged fire across a long dormant frontline now inflamed by civil war. Interview With Chris Hedges "Why Are We Not Calling This Fascism?" Chris Hedges, Truthdig, joins Thom Hartmann. The AP scandal is just the latest example of an ongoing – and often corporate backed – assault on our most basic democratic rights. 'March Against Monsanto' Posted: Thursday, May 23, 2013 Obama, in a Shift, to Limit Targets of Drone Strikes President Obama plans to open a new phase in the nation's long struggle with terrorism on Thursday by restricting the use of unmanned drone strikes that have been at the heart of his national security strategy and shifting control of them away from the C.I.A. to the military. Rallying Cry: Citizens Worldwide to Unite in 'March Against Monsanto' Dr. Vandana Shiva: "The March against Monsanto is a call to end the dictatorship over seeds, over life, over food and over our freedom." Man killed in deadly terror attack in London street Dramatic footage of the suspected terrorist attack near the Woolwich barracks today that left one man dead has emerged, showing a man with blood covered hands using jihadist rhetoric to justify the violence. 'We swear by almighty Allah we will never stop fighting you': What man holding bloody cleaver said after 'hacking soldier in Help For Heroes T-shirt to death just yards from Woolwich barracks' Ministers hold emergency meeting after fatal attack in London street One dead and two injured in what is feared to be a terror-related attack in Woolwich FBI agent shoots, kills Orlando man questioned in Boston bombing probe An FBI agent in Orlando shot dead a man questioned in the Boston bombing investigation whom the agency says turned violent during an interview late Tuesday. The suspect was identified by the FBI as Ibragim Todashev, 27, of Orlando. Friend: Orlando man killed by FBI agent was questioned in Boston Marathon bombings New light shed on US government's extraordinary rendition programme Online project uncovers details of way in which CIA carried out kidnaps and secret detentions following September 11 attacks Fails to Comply With Congressional Demand for All Communications With WH About Targeting Conservatives Top IRS official to invoke Fifth Amendment, decline to testify at House hearing IRS Official Lois Lerner: 'I Have Not Done Anything Wrong' 'Worse Than Nixon': Outrage Grows Over Obama Assault on Press Revelations about the targeting of whistleblowers, journalists and news agencies exposes president to increasing scorn Noam Chomsky: Obama was willing to start nuclear war... Posted: Tuesday, May 21, 2013 Noam Chomsky: Obama was willing to start nuclear war to kill bin Laden "We were very close to war with Pakistan, which easily could have turned into a nuclear war, which could have destroyed all of us," he told Jason Liosatos of Global Peace Radio. "The Obama administration was willing to take that chance, though there were other ways of finding and apprehending bin Laden." The Globalization of Hypocrisy The damage caused by the relentless corporate drive for profits has become more clear in recent years. In the most important areas of American life, devastating changes have occurred... President Barack Obama says America is praying for Oklahoma President says that deeds will follow prayers as rescuers will be for the victims 'as long as it takes' Syria and Israel exchange fire in Golan Heights Syrian army says it destroyed 'Israeli vehicle with everyone in it' but Israel reports only minor damage and no injuries First pictures of the missing tornado children: Parents' agony after seven kids drown in Oklahoma City school flattened by two-mile twister and rescuers search for many more buried under rubble Witnesses describe deadly Oklahoma tornado: 'All you could hear were screams' 7 Children Drowned In Basement Of Elementary School At least 91 killed in Moore tornado, hundreds injured Senate panel OKs tax-welfare benefits for newly legal immigrants The SenateJudiciary Committee voted Monday to allow illegal immigrants who get legal status to begin collecting tax-welfare payments, as the panel spent a fourth day working through amendments to the massive immigration bill and party-line splits began to emerge. CIA Honored Benghazi Chief in Secret Ceremony Part of why the State Department has taken the brunt of the political blame for the Benghazi attack, writes Eli Lake, is that clandestine services by definition have very little public oversight. Antiwar.com Sues FBI After Secret Surveillance Free speech is now being considered a threat to national security, says Antiwar.com founder Eric Garris AP CEO calls records seizure 'unconstitutional' The Associated Press' president and chief executive says the government's secret seizure of two months of reporters' phone records has already had a chilling effect on newsgathering, a week after the subpoenas were revealed publicly. Obama DOJ formally accuses journalist in leak case of committing crimes Yet another serious escalation of the Obama administration's attacks on press freedoms emerges Iraqi tribal leaders demand federation All-out war threatened by Anbar's Sunni leaders as new wave of sectarian violence leaves at least 77 people dead. 28 Hezbollah Reported Killed as Fighting in West Syria Continues Hezbollah isn't exactly a militia looking for a cause. They got their start resisting the early 1980?s Israeli occupation, and while they've had political and social work auxiliaries, the combat force has centered on fighting Israel. Al Jazeera deletes its own controversial Op-Ed, then refuses to comment The bizarre behavior by the media giant reflects brewing tensions as it seeks to enter the US television market Julian Assange says messages include speculation he was framed Julian Assange said messages he got from a British agency included speculation he was framed by Swedish officials seeking his extradition. Tornadoes tear through counties across Oklahoma Posted: Monday, May 20, 2013 LIVE UPDATES: Tornadoes tear through counties across Oklahoma TWISTER KILLS 51 Oklahoma Tornado: At Least 37 Dead, 'Horrific' Damage State Medical Examiner: 37 People Dead, Death Toll Expected To Rise A monstrous tornado at least a half-mile wide roared through the Oklahoma City suburbs Monday, flattening entire neighborhoods with winds up to 200 mph, setting buildings on fire and landing a direct blow on an elementary school. At least 37 people were reported killed. Up to TWENTY-FOUR children feared dead in rubble of flattened elementary school including seven who drowned in pool of water after giant TWO-MILE tornado kills 51 in Oklahoma City suburb Climate change: human disaster looms, claims new research Forecast global temperature rise of 4C a calamity for large swaths of planet even if predicted extremes are not reached 'Co-Conspirator': Fox News Reporter James Rosen's Private Emails Given To Justice Dept. By Google As a result of Fox News Channel's State Department reporter James Rosen's 2009 investigation into the government's response to North Korea's repeated provocations, it was reported on Monday that the Department of Justice tracked Rosen's movements as well as subpoenaed telephone and email records. According to the DoJ's subpoena, Google surrendered Rosen's emails, who is described as "an aider and abettor and/or co-conspirator," to the government. Senate investigators: Apple sheltered $44 billion from taxes Ban Ki-moon urges North Korea to end missile tests Mary J. Blige 'hit with $3.4 million tax bill' Mary J. Blige's financial troubles have gotten a whole lot worse. The singer has reportedly been hit with a $3.4 million bill on top of the $900K she already owes the state of New Jersey. Did 9/11 Justify the War in Afghanistan? Using the McChrystal Moment to Raise a Forbidden Question Monday Mayhem: 133 Killed, 283 Wounded in Iraq Coordinated bombing attacks resumed today. At least ten blasts were seen in the capital alone, and a pair of rare explosions occurred far south in Basra. Both Sunni and Shi'ites targeted in them. Attacks kill 10 police in Afghanistan Washington gets explicit: 'war on terror' is permanent Posted: Friday, May 17, 2013 No more drug war in Latin America? Report explores new ways to fight drugs A new OAS report looks at alternatives to prohibiting the drug trade, including legal market regulation, reform of the UN drug convention, and smarter policing. Washington gets explicit: its 'war on terror' is permanent Senior Obama officials tell the US Senate: the 'war', in limitless form, will continue for 'at least' another decade - or two "Astoundingly Disturbing": Obama Administration Claims Power to Wage Endless War Across the Globe Japan's 'secret' trip to North Korea disrupts united stance against Pyongyang Japan's visit to North Korea comes after broad regional agreement that Pyongyang should not be offered talks unless it displays a genuine commitment to denuclearization. 'Worse than death row': Gitmo hunger strike reaches Day 100 100 Days of Guantanamo Hunger Strike: Special Coverage Cannibalizing Syria: The West to blame The latest shocking video to emerge from Syria - showing a militant commander carving out the internal organs of a dead regime soldier and proceeding to eat them in front of the camera - has prompted a telling reaction from the Western corporate-controlled news media. Russia Sends More Advanced Missiles to Aid Assad in Syria Russian warships enter Mediterranean to form permanent task force Mystery Sponsor Of Weapons And Money To Syrian Mercenary "Rebels" Revealed Previously, when looking at the real underlying national interests responsible for the deteriorating situation in Syria, which eventually may and/or will devolve into all out war with hundreds of thousands killed, we made it very clear that it was always and only about the gas, or gas pipelines to be exact, and specifically those involving the tiny but uber-wealthy state of Qatar. The CIA, Qatar, and the Creation of Syria's Jabhat al Nusra UN General Assembly Vote Reflects Shift in Syrian Public Opinion Lavrov says Russia, U.N. agree on Syria Russian Defense Minister Sergei Lavrov said Friday he and U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon are in agreement on the future of Syria. 3 Glaring Hypocrisies in Obama's Iran Policy In testimony to Congress on Wednesday, Obama's State Department official Wendy Sherman reiterated the administration's policy on Iran. Since the intelligence community has concluded for some time now that Iran has not yet decided to pursue nuclear weapons, Sherman felt compelled to recite a litany of supposed Iranian transgressions to justify America's harsh economic sanctions and overall belligerence toward the country. Obama Worse Than Nixon? Pentagon Papers Attorney Decries AP Phone Probe, Julian Assange Persecution Lerner's admission of IRS's inappropriate behavior was pre-planned public disclosure Report: IRS Deliberately Chose Not to Fess Up to Scandal Before Election The IRS commissioner "has known for at least a year that this was going on," said Myers, "and that this had happened. And did he share any of that information with the White House? But even more importantly, Congress is going to ask him, why did you mislead us for an entire year? Republicans Expand I.R.S. Inquiry, With Eye on White House Treasury Knew of I.R.S. Inquiry in 2012, Official Says Flashback: Schumer, Franken urged IRS to target tea party in 2012 IRS stalled conservative groups, but gave speedy approval to Obama foundation IRS Commissioner: Activity 'Absolutely Not Illegal' Rangel: 'This Is Wrong to Abuse the Tax System' Rep. Charlie Rangel (D., N.Y.), who was notably censured for not paying 17 years worth of taxes on rental income from a Dominican Republic villa he owned, said Friday morning, "This is wrong to abuse the tax system." Cemetery Reveals Baby-Making Season in Ancient Egypt The peak period for baby-making sex in ancient Egypt was in July and August, when the weather was at its hottest. Jimmy Carter: 'I do not favor' legalizing marijuana Six months after the former president told a Georgia crowd he supported state efforts to legalize marijuana use, Carter told gathering in Atlanta on Friday he supported keeping weed illegal. Cornel West: Obama "Is a War Criminal" Dark, massive asteroid to fly by Earth on May 31 Michelle Obama speaks of 'hunger' for education First lady Michelle Obama spoke passionately about the importance of education to the African-American community in a commencement address Friday, urging more than 600 graduates of Bowie State University to honor the school's history and to pass their commitment to education on to future generations. Heading for the States? Prepare for the longest US immigration queues ever Welcome to America: now stand in line for three hours. Millions of British holidaymakers and business travellers heading for the US this summer face longer waits than ever to be processed by immigration. DR Congo clashes kill at least 21 Posted: Thursday, May 16, 2013 'Massive' troop deployment in Nigeria Forces being sent to states of Borno, Yoba and Adamawa after emergency imposed in wake of violent attacks by Boko Haram. DR Congo clashes kill at least 21 Violent clashes between rebels and government troops in the restive eastern Democratic Republic of Congo have left at least 21 people dead, a military official said Thursday. IRS targeting: Obama fires commissioner over 'inexcusable' tax scandal President moves to quell furore over IRS's scrutiny of conservative groups by firing acting commissioner Steven Miller The major sea change in media discussions of Obama and civil liberties The controversies over the IRS and especially the AP phone records appear to have long-lasting effects IRS Official in Charge During Tea Party Targeting Now Runs Health Care Office Obama calls for extra funds to beef up US embassy security abroad President tries to draw a line under recent scandals and says he is determined to improve security in wake of Benghazi attack Bomber in Afghanistan kills 15, including six Americans Iraq Horror: 42 Killed, 141 Wounded Note From Boston Bombing Suspect: Attack Was Retribution for Iraq, Afghanistan Wars Dzhokhar Tsarnaev note calls marathon bombing victims 'collateral damage' like the Muslims who've died in US-waged Karzai says U.S. wants to keep 9 bases in Afghanistan Afghan President Hamid Karzai said in a speech Thursday that the United States wants to retain nine bases in Afghanistan after NATO’s formal withdrawal in 2014, his first concrete statement on American plans to stay in the country beyond 2014. Israel Hints at New Strikes, Warning Syria Not to Hit Back In a clear warning to Syria, Israel was considering additional military strikes and that the Syrian president, Bashar al-Assad, would face crippling consequences if he retaliated. Iraq Then, Syria Now? New York Times, sarin and skepticism U.N. urges support for Syria opposition; Russia opposed US smuggling weapons to Syrian rebels: The real Benghazi story Jabhat al-Nusra faces al-Qaeda sanctions at UN under Anglo-French proposal Britain and France are leading a push to designate the leading Syrian rebel force Jabhat al-Nusra as al-Qaeda controlled in an effort to strengthen the moderate opposition. Terrorists kill Syrian troops summary-style, video shows A new video clip shows the al-Qaeda-linked al-Nusra Front terrorists in Syria executing a group of eleven Syrian soldiers summary-style. Feds crack down on bitcoin exchange The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) executed a seizure warrant to shut down the world’s largest bitcoin exchange for operating an unlicensed money transmitting service, according to documents filed in a Maryland court on Tuesday. London police launch probe against Altaf Hussain The London Metropolitan police Wednesday launched an investigation against Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain following complaints by hundreds of British and Pakistani citizens. Guantánamo: 30 of the 100 hunger strikers now being tube-fed In Tehran, All Eyes on North Korea The Left vs. the Liberal Media Media Lens debunks the BBC’s humanitarian interventionists Organic Farmers on Alert Following Monsanto Ruling Posted: Wednesday, May 15, 2013 Revealed: How US State Department 'Twists Arms' on Monsanto's Behalf Selling seeds, selling out democracy: US State Department does biotech industry's bidding Organic Farmers on Alert Following Monsanto Ruling Farmers "concerned" for ruling's implication on upcoming suits against the biotech giant Japanese politicians scramble to distance themselves from 'comfort women' comments The influential mayor of Osaka outraged China and South Korea by saying World War II sex slaves were necessary, prompting fresh doubts about Japan's willingness to acknowledge wartime aggression. IRS Abuses Power in Targeting Tea Party The extraordinary revelation this week that the Internal Revenue Service targeted Tea Party groups for more aggressive enforcement highlights exactly why caution is needed in any response to the much-vilified Supreme Court decision in Citizens United v. FEC. Colorado Tea Party groups believed to be targeted by IRS Claim: Obama Campaign Co-Chair Attacked Romney with Leaked IRS Docs The IRS wants YOU — to share everything A POLITICO review of documents from 11 tea party and conservative groups that the IRS scrutinized in 2012 shows the agency wanted to know everything — in some cases, it even seemed curious what members were thinking. GOP Rep. 'Not Willing' to Take Obama Impeachment Off The Table DOJ Snooping on Journalists A Witch Hunt to Enforce Obama Demand for Total Secrecy Obama, the uninterested president Late Monday came the breathtaking news of a full-frontal assault on the First Amendment by his administration: word that the Justice Department had gone on a fishing expedition through months of phone records of Associated Press reporters. IRS official Lerner speedily approved exemption for Obama brother's 'charity' Lois Lerner, the senior IRS official at the center of the decision to target tea party groups for burdensome tax scrutiny, signed paperwork granting tax-exempt status to the Barack H. Obama Foundation, a shady charity headed by the president’s half-brother that operated illegally for years. Boehner on IRS: 'Who's going to jail over this scandal?' Eric Holder points finger at his DEPUTY who secretly obtained journalist's phone records as Obama is forced to say he has 'confidence' in the Attorney General Eric Holder defends AP seizure citing major security threat to public The US attorney general, Eric Holder, has defended the Obama administration's controversial seizure of phone records from the Associated Press, saying that a story run by the news organisation had posed a major security threat to the American public. Justice Department's pursuit of AP's phone records is both extreme and dangerous The claimed legal basis for these actions is unknown, but the threats they pose to a free press and the newsgathering process are clear BP and Shell raided over allegations they colluded to fix petrol prices Oil giants targeted by European Commission in probe into suspected market manipulation Oxford child paedophile ring case: County Council boss Joanna Simons insists shes will not resign as seven men are found guilty of child rape, trafficking and organising prostitution The belated conviction of seven men who groomed and sexually abused children in Oxford reveals an appalling failure of care, as council boss vows to stay on Eurozone crisis: French economy falls back into recession The Deepening Shame of Guantanamo In talks with Netanyahu, Putin urges restraint on Syria After emergency meeting at Black Sea resort, no word from either head of state about Russia's sale of S-300 missiles to Assad Saudis overtaking Qatar in sponsoring Syrian rebels Syrian Rebel Defends Eating Soldier's Heart as 'Legitimate' Sociopathic Commander's Video Raises Ire Among Rights Groups International Criminal Court examines Israeli raid on Gaza flotilla Hague prosecutor will open preliminary examination into 2010 incident, following appeal referred through Comoros by casualties' families Deadly Benghazi blast caused by fisherman's explosives A blast that killed three people in Libya's second city Benghazi was caused by fishing explosives that detonated accidentally, not a car bomb as originally thought, a local government official said on Tuesday. It's Official! Minnesota Becomes 12th State to Legalize Same Sex Marriage Venezuela's president sends in troops to tackle street crime Nicolás Maduro orders 3,000 troops to patrol Caracas in an effort to lower violent crime rate Are we really in May? Britain hit by SNOW as 65mph winds sweep across the country and a month's worth of rain falls in just 24 hours Cornel West: Obama 'Is a War Criminal' Posted: Tuesday, May 14, 2013 Benghazi car bomb kills 15 A car bomb exploded Monday in the parking lot of a Benghazi hospital, killing at least 15 people and wounding 30, Libya's deputy interior minister said. Cornel West: Obama 'Is a War Criminal' Despite invoking Dr. King, Obama 'tied to Wall Street and drones,' said West. Gitmo prisoner: Obama has 'abandoned' detainees Growing Anger Over American Drones in Yemen US must take Pakistan drone concerns seriously: Sharif Pakistan's incoming prime minister said Monday he wanted to strengthen his country's fractious relations with the United States but warned Washington must take seriously their concerns about drone strikes. US envoy won't attend arms talks led by Iran The United States said Monday it will refuse to send its ambassador to any meeting of the U.N. forum where nuclear disarmament is negotiated when it's chaired by Iran because countries under U.N. sanctions shouldn't be allowed to hold such positions. CIA agent trying to recruit Russian intelligence officer detained in Moscow - FSB Russia's counterintelligence agency has detained a CIA agent in Moscow trying to recruit an officer of the Russian secret service, the Federal Security Service (FSB) announced. The agent was operating under guise of career diplomat. Arrival of U.S. aircraft carrier infuriates North Korea North Korea has criticised the arrival of the US aircraft carrier USS Nimitz in the South for a joint drill as an "extremely reckless" provocation and a rehearsal for war against the communist state. Turkish MP: Al-Nusra Behind Car Bombings Attack Was Near al-Nusra-Held Border Crossing Syria says it reserves right to invade Golan Heights Information Minister Omran al-Zoubi accuses Israel of violating ceasefire, Turkey of turning its border zone into terrorist hotbed Syrian Rebel Bites Heart of Dead Syrian Soldier - Video Savage Online Videos Fuel Syria's Descent Into Madness Under the black flag of al-Qaeda, the Syrian city ruled by gangs of extremists The black flag of al-Qaeda flies high over Raqqa's main square in front of the smart new governor's palace, its former occupant last seen in their prison. Their fighters, clad also in black, patrol the streets, or set up positions behind sandbags. Moaz al-Khatib Exposes Roles of Saudi Arabia and Qatar in the Syrian Crisis on al-Jazeera Consequences of Western Intransigence in Nuclear Diplomacy With Iran As long as Washington refuses to recognise Iran's right to enrich, no substantial agreement will be possible. Angelina Jolie says she had double mastectomy Angelina Jolie has a double mastectomy: Film star takes agonising decision to have both breasts removed after learning she had an 87% risk of getting cancer Answer to Garment Industry's Deadliest Disaster: Labor Unions and Wage Hikes, Not Boycotts US corporations and consumers must advocate for institutional reform, urges Nobel laureate Scandal politics sweep Capitol Hill Just days after news broke that the IRS targeted conservative nonprofits, Speaker John Boehner's House committees will morph into mock courtrooms where the White House will be the defendant in what amounts to a number of high-stakes political trials. IRS targeted groups that criticized the government, IG report says White House stuck on IRS scandal response The IRS scandal puts President Barack Obama in the worst possible position: all of the blame, none of the power to fix it. Benghazi, IRS: Son of Watergate? In his defense of President Obama, Press Secretary Jay Carney is beginning to sound a lot like Ronald Zeigler, Richard Nixon's spokesman. Carney only has to use the word "inoperative," as Ziegler did when incriminating evidence surfaced that proved his previous statements untrue. In IRS scandal, echoes of Watergate KMOV anchor: The IRS is targeting me Larry Connors, a veteran local news anchor at KMOV Channel 4 in St. Louis, says that the Internal Revenue Service has been targeting him since an April 2012 interview he conducted with President Obama -- a fact that he dismissed as coincidence until the recent reports about the IRS targeting conservative groups. Carney: Just Because IRS Apologized Doesn't Mean They Did Anything Wrong Progressive Group: IRS Gave Us Conservative Groups' Confidential Docs McConnell: 'We've Only Started to Scratch the Surface of This Scandal' 'Abuse of Power': Obama's DOJ Blasted for Seizure of AP Phone Records News agency calls behavior 'unprecedented intrusion' and demands all records be destroyed Saudi Arrested in Detroit for Flying With Pressure Cooker Buying Time in Syria Posted: Monday, May 13, 2013 Venezuela's President Maduro Assures Food Shortages Are Due to "Economic Warfare" The New York Times on Venezuela and Honduras: A Case of Journalistic Misconduct 19 wounded in Mother's Day second line shooting New Orleans police say at least 19 people either attending or taking part in a Mother's Day second-line parade in the 7th Ward were wounded in a shooting. Mother's Day Parade horror: Nineteen people - including two young children - are shot in New Orleans as three gunmen open fire in broad daylight during street festivities Will Pakistan finally stand up against illegal US drone attacks? The Peshawar high court has delivered a damning verdict on the strikes. Pakistan must now move towards protecting the security of its citizens Buying Time in Syria The Syrian Army's Success on the ground. Covert Proxy Strategy has come to an almost Standstill Turkey: 9 arrested in car bombings that left 46 dead Nine Turkish citizens believed to have links to the Syrian intelligence agency have been detained in connection with twin car bombings that shattered a Turkish border town, officials said Sunday, as Syria rejected allegations it was behind one of the deadliest attacks in Turkey in years. Turkey says world must act against Syria after bombings Turkey says it won't be drawn into Syria conflict All nine detained over Turkey car bombs are Turkish: deputy PM Deadly Bombs Spark Protests In Turkish Border City Several hundred people, mostly leftist and nationalist demonstrators, marched through the center of the city no more than 50 km (30 miles) from the Syrian frontier, carrying banners and shouting anti-government slogans while onlookers cheered. UK denies Pentagon claim Britain in 'no rush' to free Guantánamo inmate UK Secretary of Defence tells Guardian government is actively pursuing the release of Shaker Aamer, who is on hunger strike Consequences of western intransigence in nuclear diplomacy with Iran As long as Washington refuses to recognise Iran's right to enrich, no substantial agreement will be possible. Seven killed, 68 injured in Quetta suicide bombing QUETTA: The police chief of restive southwestern province of Balochistan narrowly escaped a suicide attack Sunday that killed at least seven people and wounded 68 others, officials said. Afghans Say an American Tortured Civilians The authorities in Afghanistan are seeking the arrest on murder and torture charges of a man they say is an American and part of a Special Forces unit operating in Wardak Province, three Afghan officials have confirmed. Dirty Wars, Filthy Hands: 5 Unsavory Ways America Conducts Its Global War on Terror America's allies are terrorists, warlords, and corrupt officials, plied with bounty payments and quid-pro-quo assassinations. Two more police stations bombed in Libya's Benghazi Some 800,000 people to need food aid in Niger: UN Some 800,000 people will require food aid in Niger in the coming months despite a good harvest last year due to problems supplying cereals to markets, which have pushed up prices, and an influx of Malian refugees, the United Nations said. Growing Anger Over American Drones in Yemen "Mrs. Michele Obama: Tell us can your husband sleep after so many innocent people were killed by his drones?" read a banner held by a Yemeni activist at a recent rally to protest increasing American drone strikes in Yemen. Rule Britannia for global crimes The London government has at long last been forced into recognizing compensation payments for as many as 50,000 Kenyan nationals who were victims of torture and other crimes against humanity during that country's independence struggle in the 1950s. Ronald Reagan: Accessory to Genocide Exclusive: More than any recent U.S. president, Ronald Reagan has been lavished with honors, including his name attached to Washington's National Airport. But the conviction of Reagan's old ally, ex-Guatemalan dictator Rios Montt, for genocide means "Ronnie" must face history's judgment as an accessory to the crime, reports Robert Parry. Mystery virus death toll hits 15 in Saudi Arabia New coronavirus can spread between humans, says WHO official World Health Organisation expert plays down fears of pandemic, saying prolonged contact is needed to transmit disease IRS IG Report: Targeting Conservatives Began In 2010 IRS scrutiny went beyond Tea Party, targeting of conservative groups broader than thought Did David Plouffe Justify IRS Targeting Conservatives? Obama adviser says he was addressing impact of 'dumb' actions, but tweet is likely to fan flames. Wider Problems Found at IRS Probe Says Tax Agency Used Sweeping Criteria to Scrutinize Conservative Groups Soledad O'Brien: 'OK, white person, this is a conversation you clearly are uncomfortable with' Soledad O'Brien, recently yanked from her morning show "Starting Point" on CNN, plans to continue her focus on racial issues and is charging that whites are afraid of dealing with the nation's black-white division. UN says: why not eat more insects? So It Goes: Enron Perp Will Get Out of Jail (Almost) Free By Buying Himself Out After 17 days survivor emerges from Dhaka factory rubble Posted: Friday, May 10, 2013 Hold the front page! We need free media not an Order of Mates In Australia, hard-won rights are being buried beneath corporate might. Alive after 17 days: Survivor emerges against all odds from Dhaka factory rubble Rescuers free a woman as the latest death toll reaches above 1,000 State Department orders firm to remove 3D-printed guns web blueprints Defense Distributed tweeted on Thursday that 'Liberator' project had 'gone dark' at the request of government officials Blueprints for 3D-plastic gun downloaded 100,000 times in 2 days before the State Department orders the site to take down the weapon designs Attack by ethnic militia kills at least 20 Nigeria police officers in central region An ethnic militia killed at least 20 police officers who launched a raid to try and arrest them in central Nigeria, a police commissioner said Wednesday. S.Sudan rebels seize army base, many killed The rebels, led by David Yau Yau and known as the South Sudan Democratic Army (SSDA), say they want to end corruption and the one-party system led by the Sudan Liberation People's Movement. The west and its allies cynically bleed Syria to weaken Iran If western politicians were really interested in saving lives, they would use their leverage to negotiate a settlement What the US Media Won't Tell You About the "Good" Syrian Rebels US media and prominent politicians are talking about arming the opposition, but dynamics on the ground betray rampant over-simplifications Jabhat al-Nusra Behind "Chemical Weapons" Attacks? Russians, U.S. agree to Syria talks ...but anti-Assad opposition may refuse to participate Former SNC chief says Islamic hardliners should be included For Western states mulling over arming Syrian rebel forces, the possibility of advanced weapons ending up in Al Qaeda's hands, and later being used against Western or civilian targets, has been a major sticking point. Robert Fisk: The Syrian Government Is Winning Fisk discusses his reaction to what he calls President Obama's "pitiful" backing of the recent Israeli missile strikes. The wrong 'red line' There have been sketchy reports that Syria did make some use of chemical weapons, as well as allegations that the reported use was "a false flag" operation, designed to call Obama's bluff. As the New York Times notes in a front page story on May 7, Obama "finds himself in a geopolitical box, his credibility at stake with frustratingly few good option". Indefinite Enemies and the Inhumanity of Our 'War on Terror' You're strapped to a metal table, unable to move. They stick a two-foot plastic tube up your nose, then down the back of your throat into your stomach. They squirt in the liquid protein. You gag, bleed, vomit. It's unbearably painful. The practice of involuntary force-feeding is condemned by most medical organizations, including the AMA. It's banned by most governments. It's torture. Outcry over Guantanamo grows, as does hunger strike Free them or put them on trial. Thus urges a petition to President Barack Obama over the prisoners held at Guantanamo, jailed and in limbo for more than a decade. Gitmo is not an anomaly Prisoners in the US are force-fed every day Putin: Russia needs stronger defense against Afghan threats President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday Russia must beef up its defenses in the south and work with Central Asian allies to protect itself and neighbors against the threat of extremist violence emerging from Afghanistan. Everything You've Been Told About Radicalization Is Wrong Despite the rhetoric, scary YouTube videos don't turn people into terrorists Obama Drone War 'Kill Chain' Imposes Heavy Burden At Home In the secretive U.S. war of armed drones, the kill chain runs through a highly classified, windowless brick building here. Jordan's Parliament agrees to expel Israel's ambassador Parliament unanimously voted that the Jordanian government demand that Israel's ambassador in Amman leave the Kingdom in retaliation for Israeli measures against Al-Aqsa Mosque, Petra said. Pit bulls kill jogger — police Woman, 63, was running in rural Los Angeles when dogs attacked and mauled her to death, witness and police say Officials search for 4 pit bulls believed to have killed woman The 63-year-old woman is mauled while on her morning walk in the Antelope Valley community of Littlerock. A $25,000 reward is offered for information leading to the dogs' capture. Russia, China express alarm after Israel hits Syria Posted: Tuesday, May 7, 2013 Secrecy Shrouds Pretrial Hearing in WikiLeaks Case A military judge, Col. Denise Lind, has ordered what prosecutors say is an unprecedented closed hearing Wednesday at Fort Meade to help her decide how much of Manning's upcoming trial should be closed to protect national security. 700 Deaths and Workers Rising: Is Rana Disaster Bangladesh's Triangle Fire? Survivors of the factory collapse near Dhaka block hold sit-on on major highway, demanding pay and compensation for injuries North Korea removes missiles from launch site, U.S. official says Kenyan Mau Mau victims in talks with UK government over legal settlement Payments to thousands who were tortured during 1950s insurgency could open door for other victims of British colonial rule UN investigator suggests it was Syria's rebels who used chemical weapons Rebel forces denied the claims by Carla Del Ponte. The UN commission she leads emphasized today that the investigators had not yet reached conclusive findings. U.S. skeptical on reported use of chemical weapons by Syrian rebels U.S. officials said Monday that they were taking seriously new allegations that Syrian rebels had used chemical weapons but had seen no evidence to confirm the reports. Further Involvement in Syria Would Be an Unmitigated Disaster Robert Fisk: The truth is that after Israel's air strikes, we are involved If the EU and US say nothing about these attacks, approval is granted America and Israel: Imperial Partners in Crime 'This is not a declaration of war': Israel seeks to reassure Syria over airstrikes that reportedly killed at least 42 The Jewish state has sought to persuade the Syrian government that the attacks - which reportedly killed 42 - were not designed to weaken Bashar al-Assad's position Israeli airstrike in Syria brings Iran onstage, raising risk of proxy war Iran dismissed Israeli claims that yesterday's airstrike in Syria targeted Iranian weapons destined for Hezbollah, accusing Israel of looking for an excuse to hammer the 'Axis of Resistance.' Iranian general denies reports of weapons depot in Syria Russia, China express alarm after Israel hits Syria Lebanon condemns Israel's use of airspace to strike Syria Israel carries out second air strike in Syria 42 Syrian soldiers killed in Israeli raids Syria to respond to Israel in due time: Iran Defense Minister Israeli attacks are a 'declaration of war' says Syrian deputy foreign minister With the second strike in three days, Israeli involvement in bloody civil war deepens At least 25 killed, 65 injured in Pakistan election rally bomb attack At least 25 people were killed in a bomb attack at a political rally in north western Pakistan, hospital officials said as cited by Reuters. Some 65 more were injured in the blast, with the Taliban claiming responsibility. South Africa: Law against cannabis is 'unsubstantiated' The Dagga Party of South Africa said on Saturday it wants the law that prohibits the use of cannabis to be justified. So, why are we so loyal to a president who is not loyal to us? Kevin Johnson was pilloried for suggesting Obama has not been good for African Americans. But his question was a good one Drone Strikes Are Winning War in Yemen -- for Al-Qaeda It was a contradiction that perfectly captured the essence of the U.S. drone war against Islamic terrorists: Just as we learned that strikes in Yemen had resumed after a three-month hiatus, a Yemeni journalist gave heart- rending congressional testimony about an attack that killed five in his village of Wessab. General's promotion blocked over her dismissal of sex-assault verdict An Air Force general has run afoul of Congress for granting clemency to a convicted sex offender without any public explanation, the latest case to raise fundamental questions about how the military justice system handles sex crimes. Tanzania church attack: Saudis held for 'act of terror' Eight people - four Saudi nationals and four Tanzanians - have been arrested in connection with the bombing of a new Roman Catholic church in the northern Tanzanian city of Arusha on Sunday. Three girls who went missing TEN YEARS ago are found ALIVE in Ohio dungeon after neighbor hears cries of 'Help, get me out' and kicked in door. Police arrest 'captor' who kept them chained up Baghdad Bombings Continue: 31 Killed New Report Blows the Lid Off America's Recent History of Torture And shows that when it comes to conserving the national-security state, it matters little which party is in power. Clashes over Bangladesh protest leave 27 dead At least 27 people have been killed and dozens hurt after police and Islamist protesters clashed in Bangladesh. Israeli planes bomb Syria Posted: Saturday, May 4, 2013 Israeli planes bomb suspected chemical weapons site in Syria Israel launched an airstrike into Syria, apparently targeting a suspected weapons site, U.S. officials said Friday night. The strike occurred overnight Thursday into Friday, the officials told The Associated Press. It did not appear that a chemical weapons site was targeted, they said, and one official said the strike appeared to have hit a warehouse. Israeli warplanes launch air strike inside Syria Israeli warplanes have launched an air strike inside Syria from Lebanese air space, US officials have said. Bangladesh factory building collapse death toll exceeds 500 Engineer becomes ninth person to be detained over country's worst industrial accident, as number of deaths climbs to 501 Bangladesh building death toll tops 500 The arrest on Friday of Rana Plaza consultant Adbur Razzak brought to nine the number of people held over the April 24 disaster, which has put the spotlight on the many Western clothing retailers who use Bangladesh as a source of cheap goods. In pictures: Made in Bangladesh The garment industry dominates Bangladesh's economy - but its workers often toil in dire conditions. Bolivia's Booting of USAID 'No Surprise' President Evo Morales expels USAID from country following years of fomenting opposition Number of names on U.S. counter-terrorism database jumps The number of names on a highly classified U.S. central database used to track suspected terrorists has jumped to 875,000 from 540,000 only five years ago, a U.S. official familiar with the matter said. 'Appalling irresponsibility': Senior scientists attack Chinese researchers for creating new strains of influenza virus in veterinary laboratory Experts warn of danger that the new viral strains created by mixing bird-flu virus with human influenza could escape from the laboratory to cause a global pandemic killing millions of people. Decades-old question: Is antibacterial soap safe? The review comes amid growing pressure from lawmakers, consumer advocates, and others who are concerned about triclosan. Recent studies in animals have led scientists to worry it could increase the risk of infertility, early puberty, and other hormone-related problems in humans. That Is What People Are Eating: Charges Dropped in First Ag-Gag Case Utah prosecutors have abruptly dropped the case against Amy Meyer, the first person charged under the state's - and possibly the country's - so-called "ag gag" laws aimed at silencing critics of the often-horrific abuses at factory farms, after she filmed a slaughterhouse from the side of a road. U.S. Poll: 29% of Registered Voters Believe Armed Revolution Might Be Necessary in Next Few Years Twenty-nine percent of registered voters think that an armed revolution might be necessary in the next few years in order to protect liberties, according to a Public Mind poll by Fairleigh Dickinson University. U.S. Efforts to Block Democracy in Venezuela Harm Hemispheric Relations The U.S. government stands alone among major world governments in refusing to recognize the results of the recent Venezuelan presidential election. The petulant position of the Obama administration harms U.S. relations across the entire hemisphere and feeds a scenario of violence in that Caribbean country. Capriles Formally Contests Elections Before Venezuela's Supreme Court Representatives from the electoral campaign of ex-presidential candidate Henrique Capriles formally contested last month's elections before Venezuela's Supreme Court today. Venezuela's Globovisión to be Sold but will Maintain Political Line Opposition television channel Globovisión will change hands, but is expected to maintain its anti-government editorial line. Stealing Syria's Oil: The EU Al-Qaeda Oil Consortium The decision of the European Union to lift the embargo on Syrian government's energy exports by importing oil from the 'armed opposition' is another flagrant violation of international law. Syria Agrees: Obama's "Red Line" on Chemical Weapons Is Also Our "Red Line" As many news outlets continue to ask wrong questions, US public shows no appetite for another war US plane crashes in Kyrgyzstan, authorities say Emergencies ministry says military aircraft went down 100 miles west of US base used for troops transiting into and out of Afghanistan Force-feeding at Guantánamo Bay puts pressure on Obama to close prison UN condemns force-feeding of inmates, while lawyer claims drone strikes being used as alternative to detaining suspects Obama Blames U.S. For Gun Violence In Mexico "Most of the guns used to commit violence here in Mexico come from the United States," President Obama said during a speech at Mexico's Anthropology Museum. "I think many of you know that in America, our Constitution guarantees our individual right to bear arms. And as president, I swore an oath to uphold that right, and I always will." Clarence Thomas: Obama 'Approved By The Elites' Because He Says What They 'Expect From A Black Person' When asked about how he felt about the nation's first black President, Barack Obama, Thomas said he always knew it would have to be a person who was “approved by the elites and the media” because if it was someone who they didn't agree with, that person would be picked apart. The Bangladeshi Blood on America's Hands Posted: Wednesday, May 1, 2013 Bolivia, angered by Kerry, says it is ejecting U.S. aid agency Bolivian President Evo Morales declared Wednesday he was expelling the U.S. Agency for International Development from the country, accusing the aid agency of conspiring against his government. The Bangladeshi Blood on America's Hands If a country can't keep wages and costs down, its production will be moved to the next poor nation willing to sacrifice its citizens in the name of economic advancement. This is what organized labor calls the "race to the bottom," and unions have campaigned futilely for decades to stop it. Only there is no bottom, really, in the global food chain because the world has a vast backlog of very poor nations desperate for jobs and anxious to please the multinational companies that buy the cheap goods and rebrand them as J.C. Penny or Benetton or best–buy stuff at Walmart. FDA lowers age for buyers of Plan B pill to 15 In a surprise twist to the decade–plus effort to ease access to morning–after pills, the government is lowering the age limit to 15 for one brand – Plan B One–Step – and will let it be sold over the counter. Guantánamo 'not in the best interests of the American people', says Obama President says 'I don't want these individuals to die' as medical team arrives in Cuba to keep striking protesters alive Ricin found during investigation into poison letters sent to Obama Toxin discovered in Mississippi property once used by James Everett Dutschke and on items in bin nearby, say prosecutors Auditing Process Begins in Venezuela amid Opposition Claims of "Lies" and "Persecution" As Venezuela's electoral organisation begins auditing the 14 April elections, ex-opposition candidate Henrique Capriles has announced his team will not participate, Spain has offered to mediate the "conflict", and the arrest of retired general Antonio Rivero has been met with accusations of "political persecution". 'Huge Win': California Committee Votes to Halt Fracking Food & Water Watch: "California's economy and vital resources hang in the balance if we allow fracking to continue in California" That Is What People Are Eating: Charges Dropped in First Ag–Gag Case Utah prosecutors have abruptly dropped the case against Amy Meyer, the first person charged under the state's – and possibly the country's – so–called "ag gag" laws aimed at silencing critics of the often–horrific abuses at factory farms, after she filmed a slaughterhouse from the side of a road. Protesting Israel's Nuclear Hypocrisy, Egypt Walks Out of Failed Non–Proliferation Talks Egyptian official cites 'continued lack of seriousness' on nuclear–free agreement The Revolution That's Not Being Televised Hundreds gathered in Dallas to reject the Bush Lie Bury, and three went to jail. I flew from Dallas to Syracuse, where hundreds protested Obama's drone–murder program, and 32 went to jail and are still there... Europe bans neonicotinoid pesticides blamed for destroying bee population 15 of the 27 member states voted for a two–year restriction on neonicotinoids despite opposition by countries including Britain |
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