| H1 Washington Post Obama's 'Kick Me' Diplomacy By Charles Krauthammer, Obama's rookie mistakes on Russia and Iran are a harbinger of things to come. Iran Easing Aspects Of Nuclear Program Report Cites Lag at Centrifuge Facility Stratfor Part 4: The Obama Administration and the Middle East Pursuing complex bilateral and multilateral policies, primarily with the region’s seven main players: Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Syria, Egypt and Turkey. Iran Has Enough Uranium for Bomb - Daniel Dombey, Financial Times Implementation of the NPT Safeguards Agreement and relevant provisions of Security Council resolutions 1737 (2006), 1747 (2007), 1803 (2008) and 1835 (2008) in the Islamic Republic of Iran, GOV/2009/8 Implementation of the NPT Safeguards Agreement in the Syrian Arab Republic, GOV/2009/9 Asia Times Iran's security concerns weigh heavy The idea of a "grand bargain" between the United States and Iran over the latter's nuclear program hinges on Washington offering Tehran a guarantee of no regime change and respect for its borders. The Iranian leaders, however, have increasingly pressing concerns over the deteriorating situation in Pakistan and Afghanistan. This presents a disquieting picture that operates against maintaining Iran's nuclear potential latent. - Kaveh L Afrasiabi ( Los Angeles Times U.S. rethinking missile defense in Europe, Gates tells NATO Defense Secretary Robert Gates says the Obama administration will assess the cost and feasibility of the system, which Russia strongly opposes David Rothkopf 20 things that won't survive the crisis Stephen Walt Obama's war No More Hypocrisy: Germany is a Great Power Körber Foundation A 67-page policy paper presenting an overview of Germany's postion in Europe and in the world The Economist The collapse of manufacturing The financial crisis has created an industrial crisis. What should governments do about it? Christian Science Monitor Lieberman nod to Netanyahu tips Israel right The controversial leader of the Yisrael Beytenu party endorsed Likud's Benjamin Netanyahu Thursday, virtually ensuring that a right-wing coalition will govern the country. We need a truth commission to uncover Bush-era wrongdoing As Latin America's experience shows, there's great value in confronting official misdeeds. The Arab world's (uneven) progress A knowledge society is budding. But further reform is needed, for the sake of American security, global prosperity, and Arab dignity. Syria: Seeking New Openness, but Sticking to Old Tactics Syria wants to end its diplomatic isolation and connect with the West, but continues to use some of its old tricks to secure its hold in Lebanon. WSJ Vote Count Boosts Iraqi Premier's Rivals Although Maliki won the most votes in provincial elections last month, close votes in some areas mean he must build alliances to wield majority rule Ha’aretz – Indyk: Netanyahu may seek Syria deal to deflect U.S. pressure Ex-U.S. envoy to Israel: One of Bill Clinton's mistakes was to become too involved in Israeli politics China and Japan: Morton Abramowitz, a former U.S. assistant secretary of state, calls on Barack Obama to invite the leaders of China and Japan to set up an ongoing series of trilateral summits to work out how the three countries will cooperate. Independent Obama: one month in the White House Rupert Cornwell:: He has committed a few rookie errors and had to deal with a global recession that is only getting worse, but Barack Obama is yet to lose the gloss that won him the election. Guardian Hamas rejects deal for lifted blockade Leaders call for international pressure on Israel to force borders open to relieve humanitarian crisis The lure of Putinism Simon Tisdall: Russia's leader remains popular domestically - but economic discontent may undermine Vladimir Putin's political strategy Obama's Afghanistan surge Ilan Goldenberg and Patrick Barry: The decision to send 17,000 US troops to Afghanistan won't achieve success without a broader regional strategy Michael Williams: What do the Europeans think? So far, no one has really asked them – but do send more troops, please Beijing loved Bush's America. Now it is much less sanguine Isabel Hilton: Hillary Clinton arrives in China knowing this most crucial relationship is off to a frosty start. It may all hinge on climate talks Iran: Waiting for the "Fish-Tail" Report Asharq Alawsat -
By Amir Taheri Iran: Khatami's Ruse BY: Kamal Nazer Yasin | ISA Taking a page from the hard-liners’ book, the reformists may be engaged in an elaborate game of deception, and there are reasons to believe that Khatami's bid for presidency announced last weekend is part of a reformist game of deception. The Economist Saudi reforms No time to lose King Abdullah has made some welcome changes. He must hurry up and make a lot more Financial Times Wanted: leaders to face demons of Europe’s past The risk is that popular disturbances become self-sustaining: that a defensive move here fans the embers of nationalism there; that the single market unravels. The newer democracies of the EU in eastern and central Europe are particularly vulnerable, writes Philip Stephens Editorial Comment: Obama’s home run The administration needs a lot more money to save the US banking system – which will be forthcoming only from voters who feel they are being rescued. This plan may help win them over The Times A Second Chance Netanyahu is a resilient Israeli politician. Can he also be a statesman? Iraq's Resurgent Nationalism
The Nation. - The provincial capitals are rife with intrigue, and many of them--Kirkuk, Mosul, Baquba and Basra, for instance--are perched at the brink of civil strife. New York Times Editorial Salvaging Afghanistan Given how fast things are coming apart in Afghanistan — the Taliban have now moved into peaceful areas near Kabul — President Obama needs to come up with a strategy soon PAUL KRUGMAN Who’ll Stop the Pain? The Obama administration’s policy initiatives will help in this difficult period — but it’s trying to mitigate the slump, not end it. No doubt this recession will pass — but how, and when? DAVID BROOKS Money for Idiots The nation’s economy is an interwoven context that we all share. To stabilize this communal landscape, sometimes you have to give money to those who have been foolish. Despite Kyrgyz Vote to Close U.S. Base, Gates Explores Options to Keep It Open Iran Has More Enriched Uranium Than Thought At Trial, Iraqi Calls Shoe-Throwing Payback Netanyahu Gains in Bid to Be Israeli Premier The Orange Emperor Has No Clothes BY: Fyodor Lukyanov | The Moscow Times Despite living separately for the last 17 years, Russia and Ukraine are still inextricably intertwined. How the U.S. Lost a Vital Kyrgyzstan Air Base How the U.S. Lost a Vital Air Base By Baktybek Abdrisaev, Don't simply blame Russia for Kyrgyzstan's decision, a former envoy says. After Georgia. The EU and Russia: Follow-Up Report (PDF; 952 KB) Source: House of Lords European Union Committee Geopolitical Diary: Europe's Russian Paralysis Stratfor The Economist Eastern Europe Europe is facing nightmarish problems in its east. With help from the West, meltdown can be avoided Charlemagne Unruly neighbours Europe wants more non-Europeans at the top table. But who should make way? | H2 The Open Source Center (OSC) of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence - A 32 page “Guide to Major Daily Turkish Newspapers,” OSC Media Aid, 7 October 2008. Boston Globe Turkey's strained ties to the West If Erdogan wants to restore his reputation as a statesman and a reliable partner of the West, Turkey must repair its ties with Israel, normalize relations with Armenia, and welcome ships from Cyprus. (By David L. Phillips, Boston Globe) Do We Understand Turkey?
Ian Lesser Download File, Format: PDF, Size: 1348 KB Jerusalem Post Turkey's shift toward Iran, Syria is no short-term blip By JONATHAN SPYER The prospect of Turkey moving toward the Iranian-led alliance can no longer be dismissed as fanciful. Ashkenazi apologizes to Turkish counterpart after Mizrachi says Erdogan should "look in the mirror." The Economist Iraq and its Kurds Not so happy The new strength of Iraq’s central government is alarming the Kurds Iraq's Kurds and Turkey An unusual new friendship Turkey and Iraq’s Kurds are getting on a lot better than usual Ha’aretz The Turkish man's burden There are many different theories about Turkey's increasingly harsh criticism of Israel and its treatment of the Palestinians. Some have suggested that the hostility is grounded in the internal struggle between Turkey's secular military and the country's Islamist ruling party Thanks, but no thanks How Israel rejected offer for 'peace' hospital and angered Turkey Ha'aretz, By Akiva Eldar It all began two years ago, during a visit by Olmert to Ankara. FT Turkey rate cut surprises markets Turkey’s central bank cut its main borrowing rate by 150 basis points, a much bigger step than markets had expected at a time when eastern European neighbours are considering raising rates to shore up their currencies İsrail'deki Seçimin Sonuçları ve Türk-İsrail İlişkilerine Etkileri . Irak Yerel Seçimleri ve Seçim Sonrası Durumun Türkiye'nin Irak Poltikasına Etkileri. Howard Eissenstat and Manan Ahmed at Informed Comment: Global Affairs on Turkey-Israel and on Pakistan. McClatchy Armenian-American group accused of lobbying violations US Supports Greater Regional Role For Turkey RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty Turkish PM slams Olmert's 'inconsistency' Ynetnews İç Basında Türk Dış Politikası Dış Basında Türkiye – BBC Türkçe 0700 1800 – VOA Türkçe 0630 1345 2130 DW - (UTC) 0830 1130 1530 Turkish Press Review Google News Turkey TurcoPundit ASAM Google News Fırat News Agency KurdishMedia Kurdish Kurdish Aspect Dış Basında Irak BBC Monitoring Inter-national Informed Comment: Iraq: Kurdish-Arab War in the Offing? Iraq's Kurds Call for U.S. Mediation With Baghdad The Middle East Times The Kurds in the northern autonomous region of Iraq are worried that the U.S. forces will leave the country without intervening in resolving key disputes with the central Baghdad government, amid warnings that the unresolved questions could erupt into an Arab-Kurdish war. President Barzani meets with Turkey’s special envoy Iraq's Kurds Lose Again
Kurdish Aspect Iraqi Kurd Premier Warns Of Violence Between Kurds, Arabs If Hillary goes to Jakarta, can Barack be far behind?
Reuters - My tip at the time was either Indonesia or Turkey. In recent weeks, Turkey’s star has probably faded as its relations with Israel soured recently. Turkey back to the forefront
Yemen Times Barzani calls to ease tension within KPU Energy Security Challenges for Israel Following the Gaza War
Journal of Energy Security Babacan expects progress in Gaza truce talks Russia, Turkey back Bahrain in face of Iranian territorial claims İran Kuzey Irak'a Yönelik Bombardımanı Durdurdu Kurdish-Arab relations tense in Iraq Statements from Kurdish leaders warning of war if regional differences are left unsettled before U.S. troops leave are a national disservice, officials said. Cevdet Aşkın Feinstein's Blurt Leads to US Confirmation That It Uses Pakistani ... The model the US is pushing is based on the same system the US set up in Turkey, which is fully functioning and helping Turks share intelligence that allows . Google News Greece Cyprus Turkish Cypriot Press ABHaber Dış Basında Türkiye-AB İlişkileri Günlük Haftalık AB'ye vize kararı
Haluk Kabaalioğlu, Haluk Nuray, Harun Gümrükçü yorumladı ABHaber-Analiz:Avrupa Adalet Divanı'nın kararıyla Türklere vizenin kalkması şimdilik zor(ingilizce) ABAD: 'İş Gezilerinde Vize Gerekmeyecek' Avrupa Birliği Adalet Divanı, Soysal davasında aldığı kararda, hizmet sunmak amacıyla Birlik ülkelerine giren Türk vatandaşlarına uygulanan vizenin haksız olduğuna karar verdi McClatchy Armenian-American group accused of lobbying violations ABD'de Ermeni Örgütü İçin Soruşturma Açılması İsteniyor Kısa adı ANCA olan Amerika Ermeni Ulusal Komitesi adlı örgütün, lobi kuruluşu olarak kayıtlı olmamasına rağmen siyasi faaliyetlerde bulunduğu ve Ermenistan’daki bir siyasi partiyle yakın ilişkiler içinde olduğu belirtiliyor. Eniştem beni niye öptü? Turkish diplomacy remains silent – ANALYSIS Avrupa Konseyi:Yunanistan Azınlık Haklarını Korumalı (orjinal tam metin) Enlargement: rewind, pause or forward? European Voice Parris, anti-government scholar spar over Turkey at panel Azerbaijan says has gas to fill Nabucco pipeline Russian-Turkish Condominium - Analysis - News EU Official Expresses Preference for Nabucco Pipeline In a February 19 interview published by the Russian business daily Kommersant, a European Union official emphasized that Brussels is committed to diversifying its sources of energy, and expressed a preference for the proposed Nabucco pipeline over a rival route called South Stream. Azerbaijan: Air Force Chief Murder Remains a Mystery More than a week after the February 11 murder of the commander of Azerbaijan�s air force and anti-aircraft defenses, officials are remaining tight-lipped about their investigation. Film casts light on dark chapter of Turkish past GUEST COMMENT: The End of the Cyprus Problem Turkish initiative: questions Azerbaijani Oil Chief Says Country Can Supply Pipeline Voice of America BALKANS: France and Turkey Make Nice EU energy ministers wrangle over $4.7 billion wish list Institute for International Journalism: Turkey and the EU: A never ending story... Turkish American Chamber of Commerce and Industry Conference on ... *** Greece negotiating to buy Azerbaijani gas: PM Analysts say Obama should keep having close relations with Turkey Film casts light on dark chapter of Turkish past Turkey ranks No. 3 in world drug league | H3 Son Dakika Milliyet Hürriyet Zaman GH Türkiye Birinci Sayfalar Akşam Birgün Bugün Cumhuriyet Dünya Hürriyet Milli Gazete Milliyet Posta Radikal Referans Sabah Star Taraf Tercüman Türkiye Vakit Vatan Yeni Şafak Zaman Arşiv Video NTV CNNTürk Milliyet Cengiz Çandar Ahmet Taşgetiren Ruşen - Çakır Taha Akyol Fikret Bila Hasan Cemal Murat Yetkin İsmet Berkan Fehmi Koru Taha Kıvanç Şamil Tayyar Ali Bayramoğlu Yasemin Çongar Ertuğrul Özkök Hasan Ünal Ahmet Hakan M Ali Birand Cüneyt Ülsever Enis Berberoğlu Oktay Ekşi Özdemir İnce Mehmet Y Yılmaz MUHARREM SARIKAYA ERDAL ŞAFAK ENGİN ARDIÇ ERGUN BABAHAN EMRE AKÖZ Umur Talu HASAN BÜLENT KAHRAMAN NAZLI ILICAK MEHMET BARLAS MAHMUT ÖVÜR YAVUZ DONAT Ekonomi ABDURRAHMAN YILDIRIM Ercan Kumcu Erdal Sağlam |
| H4 New York Times Editorial Salvaging Afghanistan Given how fast things are coming apart in Afghanistan — the Taliban have now moved into peaceful areas near Kabul — President Obama needs to come up with a strategy soon PAUL KRUGMAN Who’ll Stop the Pain? The Obama administration’s policy initiatives will help in this difficult period — but it’s trying to mitigate the slump, not end it. No doubt this recession will pass — but how, and when? DAVID BROOKS Money for Idiots The nation’s economy is an interwoven context that we all share. To stabilize this communal landscape, sometimes you have to give money to those who have been foolish. Despite Kyrgyz Vote to Close U.S. Base, Gates Explores Options to Keep It Open Iran Has More Enriched Uranium Than Thought At Trial, Iraqi Calls Shoe-Throwing Payback Netanyahu Gains in Bid to Be Israeli Premier Congressmen and Kerry Visit Gaza U.S. Tries a Trillion-Dollar Key for Locked Lending The Obama administration hopes to encourage new lending by effectively subsidizing the profits of hedge funds and private equity firms that serve as bankers to the banks. Japan’s Ruling Party Faces Political Extinction Obama Makes Overtures to Canada’s Leader Diplomatic Memo: Clinton Addresses N. Korea Succession Biden Says Bush Gave Al Qaeda Recruiting Tool | H5 Washington Post Obama's 'Kick Me' Diplomacy By Charles Krauthammer, Obama's rookie mistakes on Russia and Iran are a harbinger of things to come. Iran Easing Aspects Of Nuclear Program Report Cites Lag at Centrifuge Facility How the U.S. Lost a Vital Kyrgyzstan Air Base How the U.S. Lost a Vital Air Base By Baktybek Abdrisaev, Don't simply blame Russia for Kyrgyzstan's decision, a former envoy says. On Asia Trip, Clinton Shows How She'll Try to Repair the U.S. Image Around the World U.S.-China Trade Ties Erode Amid Accusations Officials From Each Nation Complain of Protectionism Kyrgyz Parliament Approves Plan to Close U.S. Air Base Gates Says Talks Continue on Key Transit Point in Afghan War Recession Economics - How Do We Repay the Stimulus Spree? By Michael Kinsley, Money well spent, is still money spent. So, how do we repay the stimulus spree? Recession's Hidden Virtues By Michael Gerson, The recession is a reminder of capitalism's influence over human suffrage and hope Asia's and Eastern Europe's Pain Column | Sharp downturn in industrial exports from both regions signals a long slog ahead. Shoe-Throwing Iraqi Defends Attack on Bush — Jailed Journalist Says He Found President's Manner Infuriating Prince of Darkness Denies Own Existence Listening to neoconservative mastermind Richard Perle at the Nixon Center yesterday, there was a sense of falling down the rabbit hole. Detainee Alleging Torture to Be Sent to Britain, Source Says Succession Struggle In N. Korea Hinders Talks, Clinton Says U.S. Holds Firm on Reparations, Israel in U.N. Racism Talks 3 Acquitted in Killing of Russian Reporter Trial of Minor Suspects Highlights Prosecutors' Failure to Identify, Arrest Key Figures Trouble Trickles From Steep Drop in Oil Prices Once Flush Global Economies, Energy Projects Stall U.S. Has Dual Task On Climate Change To Sway Both Congress, Other Nations To Approve Cuts in Greenhouse Gases NAFTA Renegotiation Must Wait, Obama Says President Warns Against Protectionism | H6 Guardian Hamas rejects deal for lifted blockade Leaders call for international pressure on Israel to force borders open to relieve humanitarian crisis The lure of Putinism Simon Tisdall: Russia's leader remains popular domestically - but economic discontent may undermine Vladimir Putin's political strategy Obama's Afghanistan surge Ilan Goldenberg and Patrick Barry: The decision to send 17,000 US troops to Afghanistan won't achieve success without a broader regional strategy Turning rhetoric into action in Afghanistan Michael Williams: What do the Europeans think? So far, no one has really asked them – but do send more troops, please Beijing loved Bush's America. Now it is much less sanguine Isabel Hilton: Hillary Clinton arrives in China knowing this most crucial relationship is off to a frosty start. It may all hinge on climate talks Rebel without a hope Khaled Diab: Behaving like an ageing rock star, Muammar Gadafy is on a doomed mission to create a United States of Africa Egypt has got its priorities wrong Brian Whitaker: The regime is more likely to enforce petty rules to protect its sense of authority than laws that serve the public good Clinton's reward to Indonesia Dayo Olopade: Hillary Clinton's trip to the world's largest Muslim country highlights its growing importance to US foreign policy Bailouts add £1.5tn to Britain's debt Brown says world is hit by an 'economic hurricane', as UK's debt rises to 150% national income No trade-off on trade Lara Birkes and Jake Colvin: President Obama may not want to make international trade one of his top priorities, but he may have no choice In praise of ... small languages Editorial: Big languages are bullies, while small ones are underdogs that deserve our fullest support Bill Emmott: The economic suffering here has been harsh and long, but at last political change is coming |
| H7 Iran: Khatami's Ruse BY: Kamal Nazer Yasin | ISA Taking a page from the hard-liners’ book, the reformists may be engaged in an elaborate game of deception, and there are reasons to believe that Khatami's bid for presidency announced last weekend is part of a reformist game of deception. The Economist Saudi reforms No time to lose King Abdullah has made some welcome changes. He must hurry up and make a lot more Globalisation Turning their backs on the world Senator John Kerry meets with Assad this weekend in his new role as chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, and with a policy objective in line with President Obama. The visit could advance the cause of Mideast peace. (Boston Globe) Roubini The Worst Economic and Financial Crisis Since the Great Depression Reveals the Weaknesses of the Laissez Faire Anglo-Saxon Model of Capitalism David Rothkopf 20 things that won't survive the crisis Laura Rozen Why is Obama taking so long to make appointments? Chas Freeman to chair NIC? An interview with Kori Schake on her new book Managing American Hegemony: Essays on Power in a Time of Dominance Adel Abed al-Mahdi calls for strengthening ties to Gulf, especially Bahrain ... could be read as a sign of ISCI siding with the Gulf Arabs over Iran (after the Saudis, Egypt and Jordan all rose to Bahrain's defense) or as a formality. Interesting. Covert Action and Iran’s Nuclear Program The Early Read: On Iran With a contentious presidential election around the corner, a nuclear standoff looming, and a new U.S. diplomatic track to navigate, Iran is poised to dominate international headlines this spring. A slew of new tomes helps Western readers unlock the Persian puzzle. The Quiet American: How the World Views Obama - Joe Klein, Time Open Mideast Doors with Respect - Rami Khouri, Daily Star
Putting Iran's Intentions to the Test - Nikolas Gvosdev, National Interest
A Russian Answer to Iran's Threat - John Hughes, CS Monitor
Rising crime could be the recession's next effect McClatchy Newspapers Experts say that the next piece of collateral damage from the recession could be a spike in crime, as rising unemployment and widespread law-enforcement budget cuts begin to take their toll
Iraq's Choice: An Iranian or Gulf Model BY: Abdul Rahman Al-Rashed | Asharq Alawsat Hassan al Alawi, the Iraqi writer who led a controversial battle against Saddam Hussein in the 1990s, summarized the crisis in one question: how can citizens of the Gulf States live luxurious lifestyles while the Iraqi citizen lives a wretched lifestyle in a country that is richer in resources and has more potentiality? Balochis intensify rebellion in Iran
Violence between Iranian security forces and ethnic Baloch insurgents has escalated in Iran's southeastern province, with Jundullah (Soldiers of God) militants unleashing suicide car bombings and executions in response to what they claim is state-sponsored discrimination against their Sunni Muslim minority. There are now fears that foreign fighters could be drawn into the battle, possibly destabilizing Iran and the region Time for a Global Stimulus - Matthew Yglesias, The American Prospect Memo to Iraq, from Colombia As US lawmakers visit, Mideast ponders what comes next
McClatchy Obama Shouldn't Stick to 16-Month Iraq Pullout Plan Henry Kissinger's Choice To The World: New World Order or ‘chaos’ Iranian Drones: In an editorial, the paper notes with concern the development by Iran of an unmanned aerial vehicle with a range of 1,000 kilometres. It worries that Iran might begin to use drones for the same kind of pinpoint attacks the United States is currently carrying out in the war on terrorism. The Somali Conflict: The Role of External Actors DIIS This 34-page Danish report assesses the effect of external interventions in Somalia since 1991 The president of Africa? | H8 Iraq Updates IraqSlogger Google News Iraq Iran Syria Mideastwire.com - NPR Iraq Bahrain Gains Support in Row Over Iran's Claims on It Iraq's final election results secure victory for Maliki Final election results released Thursday echoed what already was known: The political party of Prime Minister Nouri al Maliki won big in provincial polls Jan. 31, a victory stemming from his crackdown on sectarian violence in the war-torn nation As U.S. lawmakers visit, Mideast ponders what comes next U.S. lawmakers toured the Gaza Strip Thursday in a high-profile visit that came as the new Obama administration in Washington is developing its diplomatic priorities for the Middle East Fast Afghan Troop Push May Hurt Iraq Time Iraq a Haven from the Global Financial Crisis -- For Now Iraq Hiring U.S. to Rebuild Port Iraq's navy is paying the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to revamp part of southern Iraq's Umm Qasr port, which is vital to the security of Iraq's southern oil exports. Syria samples show more uranium The UN nuclear agency says it has found more uranium particles in samples from the site of an alleged Syrian nuclear facility Maliki takes Basra, Baghdad in elections BAGHDAD, Feb. 19 (UPI) -- The coalition backed by Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki won more than 25 percent of the provincial council seats in election results released Thursday. Iraqi VP speaks on post-election landscape ) -- Islam is a set of guiding principles in Arab democracy where political differences result in an overall benefit for the people, the Iraqi vice president said. Unemployment poses security risk in Iraq (UPI) -- Rising unemployment rates among men under the age of 30 in Iraq may pose a threat to national security, the United Nations said in a report. Gas Reserves in Lebanese Regional Waters? Randa Takieddine - An interesting news item was published this week in the oil and gas journal "Petrostrategy," which is known for being a credible publication. The magazine said that the US Houston-based firm, Noble Energy, had obtained drilling results conducted in the offshore Tamar gas field off the Israeli coast, which was discovered in January, saying that they had exceeded expectations. | H9 Ha’aretz – Indyk: Netanyahu may seek Syria deal to deflect U.S. pressure Ex-U.S. envoy to Israel: One of Bill Clinton's mistakes was to become too involved in Israeli politics Benn Back to 1984? Mike Prashker: U.S. Jews voted against racism, while Israel voted for incitement U.S. Mideast envoy: Settlements are not the only issue Livni to Haaretz: I may consider joining a Likud-Yisrael Beitenu coalition Peres to try to promote unity coalition, but eidely expected to ask Netanyahu to form government ANALYSIS / Netanyahu's victory is starting to turn sour The Likud xhairman's choices will go from bad to worse as he weighs Lieberman's stunning demands Editorial / Keep Lieberman out of the government Israel's democracy is being degraded as large parties woo a suspected criminal who led racist campaign. Peres to give nod to Likud leader, but will make last plea for unity; Livni: I won't not be a fig leaf 'Iran already enriched enough uranium to make atomic bomb' Experts tell 'NY Times' that new UN nuclear watchdog report cites 209 kilograms of fissile material previously unaccounted for Peres to give nod to Likud leader, but will make last plea for unity; Livni: I won't not be a fig leaf Yedioth Ahronoth Chance for change in Iran/ Bechor Khatami victory in upcoming Iranian elections could greatly affect Israel Hamas: Egypt agrees with us
Mahmoud al-Zahar accuses Israel of impeding talks on long-term truce, vows Islamist group will not agree to link Shalit's fate to agreement. 'Israel rejected our prisoner list. If they accept it, we have a deal,' he says Daily Alert.org – Hebrew Press Editorials (2008) - Middle East Progress - EJC Israeli Press Review – Google News Israel - Palestine Hamas 'sends Barack Obama letter' US Senator John Kerry and two congressmen visit Gaza, in the first visit since Hamas seized control of the strip. Israel was out of the loop in Lebanon By James Harkin Middle east envoy Mitchell speaks to Jewish leaders BESA How Successful Was Israel's Gaza Operation? - Stuart A. Cohen In Israel's Gaza operation, it was the Israeli side that declared a unilateral cease-fire. The Hamas leadership did not have to make any formal concession in order to bring about a cessation of the IDF onslaught. Hence, it could always claim that the attack had in fact failed, provided enough Hamas leaders survived to tell that tale - which was indeed the case. (BESA Center for Strategic Studies-Bar-Ilan University) Energy Security Challenges for Israel Following the Gaza War
Journal of Energy Security Peres calls rival Israeli leaders Israeli President Shimon Peres is to meet leaders of the two main political groups to assess who should form the next government Yasir Abu Hilala -- the many benefits of anticipated release of Marwan Barghouti .. enthusiastic -- Fatah needs to reform itself to face the coming challenges and Hamas needs to understand it has no future without Palestinian unity. Al-Ghad. MEI Editor's Blog: Multiple Arab Diplomatic Offensives Michael Dunn notes the obstacles... Gaza: the "new war", Mary Kaldor Daily Telegraph Benjamin Netanyahu dreamed of a comeback - now it may give him nightmares The Likud leader is on track to be Israel's next PM, but his plans already need rewriting, says David Blair One Month After the Gaza War - Leslie Susser Netanyahu: Put Up or Shut Up - Gideon Levy, Haaretzi Who’s behind Madoff?
Online Journal Supporting George Mitchell |
| H10 Christian Science Monitor Lieberman nod to Netanyahu tips Israel right The controversial leader of the Yisrael Beytenu party endorsed Likud's Benjamin Netanyahu Thursday, virtually ensuring that a right-wing coalition will govern the country. We need a truth commission to uncover Bush-era wrongdoing As Latin America's experience shows, there's great value in confronting official misdeeds. The Arab world's (uneven) progress A knowledge society is budding. But further reform is needed, for the sake of American security, global prosperity, and Arab dignity. Guantánamo detention: How harsh is it? President Obama must decide whether to embrace or change Bush's detention policies. Obama off to Canada to tighten ties In Canada, the president's first foreign destination, the focus will be on rebuilding a deep alliance. Differences loom however, on climate change, protectionism, and troops in Afghanistan. Hero or villain? Iraq's shoe thrower faces judgment Iraqis are split over whether Muntadhar al-Zeidi, whose trial began Thursday in Baghdad, should be condemned for rudeness or hailed for braver Obama threads a mortgage needle If his plan doesn't curb foreclosures soon, he'll need to be like FDR and try again. ASIA The Economist Fighting the Taliban A strategy for avoiding defeat America needs to show more patience—and more delicacy—on both sides of the Afghan-Pakistani border Pakistan In the face of chaos How Pakistan’s army is failing, and what America must do, to crack down on rampant Islamist insurgencies in the region Afghanistan and Pakistan Boots on the ground America is sending more troops and helping build a bigger Afghan army, but will still struggle to defeat the Taliban Time Pakistan and China: A Fraying Friendship? Commentary: Kinetic illusions (UPI) -- Two Afghanistan camps are emerging in the Obama administration -- one that favors negotiations with Taliban "reconcilables" and the other that says the United States should stick it out for another 10 years, if necessary. But are the American people willing to go along? And doesn't the current financial and economic upheaval put a bit of a crimp on grandiloquent expressions of open-ended bravura? Daily Star Global leadership, a reality lost and not found By Ian Bremmer Obama's win or loss, the US economy is in the toilet
By David Ignatius China and Japan: Morton Abramowitz, a former U.S. assistant secretary of state, calls on Barack Obama to invite the leaders of China and Japan to set up an ongoing series of trilateral summits to work out how the three countries will cooperate. From LRB, Eric Hobsbawm reviews Bomb, Book and Compass: Joseph Needham and the Great Secrets of China by Simon Winchester. Reuters: TEXT-Talk to some Taliban, but from strength-adviser Indonesia, U.S.: A Move Toward Re-engagement A "comprehensive partnership" with Indonesia could be the cornerstone of a new U.S. foreign policy in Southeast Asia. Pakistan: Fallout From a Report of U.S. Attacks A British media report that the United States is launching attacks in Pakistan from a base in the country's southwest could lead to fresh attacks on Pakistani and U.S. military interests in country. [more] Dr. George Friedman: Japan Destined for Comeback Despite current economic weaknesses, Dr. George Friedman predicts Japan sooner or later will make a big comeback. CFR Fellow Jeffrey Mankoff writes in a new Expert Brief that the Kremlin views the Obama administration’s increased focus on the Afghan conflict as a “source of leverage – announcing that if Washington wanted the anti-Taliban campaign to succeed, it would have to go through Moscow.” A new CFR Daily Analysis says the United States intends to take over the responsibility for providing more combat troops in Afghanistan, leaving development policy increasingly to its European allies. Afghan Solution: In an editorial, the paper says by pressing a military solution in Afghanistan, President Obama is not only summoning another failed U.S. imperial experiment but insists on adding his country's name to those of Britain and Russia, who were squarely defeated. India's nuclear submarine plan surfaces
Along with announcing a dramatic increase in its defense budget, India has revealed that a secretive project to build three nuclear submarines is nearing completion. As tensions with Pakistan remain high and China's naval presence expands, the subs are part of New Delhi's plans to beef up security by completing nuclear-launch capabilities on land, air and sea. - Siddharth Srivastava James Fallows The US, China, and saving the world Afghanistan: Some in Kabul Say What’s Needed is a Political & Economic Surge, Not Necessarily More Foreign Troops The US plan to carry out a troop surge in Afghanistan is proving a deeply divisive issue inside the country. While most Afghans are supportive of any move that could end the Taliban insurgency, many already view the presence of foreign troops as a mixed blessing. Some experts suggest that a winning strategy must include drastic revisions in the way foreign forces operate in Afghanistan, along with an intensification of efforts to improve political and economic conditions. Clinton says North Korea's Kim Jong Il may step down soon The secretary of State says the U.S. and allies are trying to figure out how to respond to a change of power. Experts fear a new regime could be even more belligerent. Clinton urges N Korean dialogue The US secretary of state warns North Korea that relations will not improve until it talks to the South and ends its nuclear ambitions. US 'keen to boost Asia ties' Job seekers China's factory towns hard-hit by economic slump Reynolds' China Hillary's visit to China - what will be on the agenda? Afghan challenges Nato faces bleak times in unstable Afghanistan Taming the Good Taliban - Trudy Rubin, Philadelphia Inquirer U.S. - NORTH KOREA Putting peace first By CHRISTINE AHN AND PAUL LIEM Denuclearization of North Korea is still possible. Japan's opposition gathers momentum
The fortunes of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party have headed steeply downhill since Junichiro Koizumi's retirement in 2006. If the polls are anything to go by, the opposition Democratic Party of Japan will emerge victorious in the upcoming general elections. Visiting US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's unorthodox meeting with the party's leader certainly lends weight to such speculation. - Purnendra Jain NATO Commander Praises Troop Increase for Afghanistan - John D. McKinnon, Wall Street Journal American diplomacy in Asia Japan's crashing economy Cold medicine China's rural consumers Pretend you're a Westerner Try Real Change with 'North Korea' - Claudia Rosett, Forbes Pakistan Agreement: In an editorial, the paper says the battle for the soul of Pakistan has been joined, as a result of the agreement to allow Sharia law in the Swat region. Will it be a modern nation-state, or is it going to slip into an Islamist miasma from which nothing will emerge but trouble, the paper asks. Troubling Pakistan: In an editorial, the paper expresses alarm at Islamabad's deal with Islamists in Swat. Trying to discern which of its multiplicity of voices represents the real Pakistan is the foremost of a multitude of troubling questions, it says. Mrs. Clinton's View of Japan - Japan Times Crisis challenge for Sino-Indian trade
Trade momentum between India and China survived the onset of the global economic crisis. The two neighbors must now look towards easing suspicions and lowering still high trade and cultural barriers if they are to take advantage of the opportunities emerging from the slowdown. - Pallavi Aiyar
Pakistan fears poverty surge
Pakistan, where one-third of the population is considered to be living below the poverty level, is returning to the International Monetary Fund for more cash on terms critics say will hurt those that most need help. Funding from the US in return for "war on terror" assistance is a preferred alternative. - Syed Fazl-e-Haider A U.S. patrol finds anger and distrust in Afghanistan McClatchy Newspapers Five miles from the muddy bazaar where smiling merchants offered tea to U.S. Army Col. David Haight and insisted that outsiders were making all the trouble, a deadly reception had been prepared for his five-vehicle patrol. Japan and Afghanistan: In an editorial, the paper warns that the United States may call for more Japanese contributions to the stabilization of Afghanistan and Pakistan, and says Japan should develop its own approaches to the issue before being told by Washington to do something. U.S. Sees Power Rifts in North Korea Hillary Clinton expressed concern that a possible power struggle inside North Korea's leadership is undermining efforts to disarm the nation | H11 IHT In Mohammad Khatami we hope Mohammad Khatami gives Iran its best chance of reconciling with neighbors and the world community. ORBITING DEBRIS Make room in space Instead of continuing to cling to the theory of "freedom of action" in space, all space-faring countries would be well advised to sit down and talk about mutual restraint and coordination. Paying Paul but robbing Peter By JOHN C. COATES AND DAVID S. SCHARFSTEIN The Troubled Asset Relief Program has channeled aid to bank holding companies rather than banks. This is not a good use of scarce capital. EUROPE European press review No More Hypocrisy: Germany is a Great Power Körber Foundation A 67-page policy paper presenting an overview of Germany's postion in Europe and in the world The Economist Eastern Europe Europe is facing nightmarish problems in its east. With help from the West, meltdown can be avoided Charlemagne Unruly neighbours Europe wants more non-Europeans at the top table. But who should make way? Italy’s creeping fascism, Geoff Andrews Kosovo and Serbia: a quiet compromise? , Eric Gordy Afghan Commitment: In an editorial, the paper berates countries like Germany, France, and Italy, calling them backsliders whose half-hearted commitment to the war in Afghanistan has been a disgrace. Kosovo: One Year Later BY: Joseph Germani | Diplomatic Courier One year ago today, when Kosovo declared its independence, critics around the world forecasted that the event would embolden other secessionist areas and leave the Serb minority with little protection. Thankfully, in the past year the fears surrounding Kosovo’s declaration of independence did not materialize. Kosovo, Year 1: A New Country Is Born Misfiring market National rivalry puts EU single market under strain Algeria: A Strategic Gas Partner For Europe Journal of Energy Securit MEPs Want Special Monitoring of EU Funds for Bulgaria and Romania BY: Valentina Pop | EU Observer Members of the European Parliament's budgetary control committee are likely to ask the EU commission in March to deliver regular updates on the spending of EU funds in Bulgaria and Romania “Poland — Think Tank Guide,” OSC Media Aid, 18 July 2008. | H12 RFE/RL Google News Azerbaijan The Orange Emperor Has No Clothes BY: Fyodor Lukyanov | The Moscow Times Despite living separately for the last 17 years, Russia and Ukraine are still inextricably intertwined. Russian-Turkish Condominium - Analysis - News After Georgia. The EU and Russia: Follow-Up Report (PDF; 952 KB) Source: House of Lords European Union Committee Russia: Clouds on Gazprom's Horizon Gazprom's production and export values both declined in 2008, and further drops are predicted for 2009. This bodes ill both for the energy company and for Russia Wasting energy Russian-style, Angelina Davydova Russia Stalled factories and fireside chats Ukraine's economic slump Default options Obama, Osama and Medvedev
The 1,600-kilometer Karachi-Khyber-Kabul supply line envisioned by the United States and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is for all practical purposes dead - thanks to neo-Taliban guerrillas in Pakistan's tribal areas. If Washington and Moscow can't hash out a new route, the only other realistic possibility for the coalition is courting Iran, which is already deeply connected to Russia, and China. - Pepe Escobar CFR Fellow Jeffrey Mankoff writes in a new Expert Brief that the Kremlin views the Obama administration’s increased focus on the Afghan conflict as a “source of leverage – announcing that if Washington wanted the anti-Taliban campaign to succeed, it would have to go through Moscow Iran and Russia: John Hughes of Brigham Young University considers the possibility that in return for Russian pressure upon Iran to end its military nuclear program, the Obama White House would abandon the missile defense project the Bush White House had planned to build in Europe. Reversal of Fortune BY: Arkady Ostrovsky | Foreign Policy Vladimir Putin’s social contract has been premised on an authoritarian state delivering rising incomes and resurgent power. But the economic crisis is unraveling all that. And what comes next in Russia might be even worse. Obama, Osama and Medvedev - Pepe Escobar, Asia Times Iran, Azerbaijan meet on energy trade
United Press International Kyrgyzstan’s parliament today voted overwhelmingly to close an important base for supplying U.S. military forces in Afghanistan (RFE/RL). President Kurmanbek Bakiyev, who has already called for the closure of the Manas base, now must sign the measure and the United States would have 180 days to leave the base. The Kyrgyz move comes at a time when Taliban forces have stepped up attacks on the main road supply route from Pakistan to Afghanistan. It follows Bakiyev’s visit to Moscow, during which a $2.1 billion Russian aid package to Kyrgyzstan was announced. U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates criticized Russia for hampering U.S.-led efforts in the region, despite Moscow’s own offer of a conduit for goods to Afghanistan The Economist examines the troubled state of journalism in Russia through the eyes of reporters and editors in three newsrooms. Gates Willing to Pay More for Base Defense Secretary Gates played down Kyrgyzstan's moves to kick the U.S. off a strategic air base and said he was willing to negotiate higher rent to stay. |
H13 The Times A Second Chance Netanyahu is a resilient Israeli politician. Can he also be a statesman? Netanyahu secures support from LiebermanYisrael Beitenuwon 15 of the 120 seats in the Israeli parliament last week, and has been wooed ever since by the Likud party Iran has enough uranium for a bomb The country's reported stockpile of low-enriched uranium had risen to 1,010kg from 630kg in November, says agency US 'disappointed' over Nato response to troop call Robert Gates, US Defence Secretary, calls for civilian back-up from allies after low numbers of troops sent to Afghanistan Iran to rebuild city wrecked by 'Tehran militias' The $1.5 bn contract covers Basra, where British forces had fought Shia extremists believed to be armed by Iranian state US plea for civilians as Afghan troops call fails Robert Gates, the US Defence Secretary, pleaded with Nato allies to send civilian personnel instead of soldiers Kim Jong Il anoints son as next dear leader Reports from the hardline state confirm that privately educated Kim Jong Un is being prepared as successor Labour's New Deal isn't working A new generation are growing up jobless. If they haven't worked, they should receive less benefit Frank Field DECLARATIONS
By Peggy Noonan
Times are hard, but dynamism isn't dead. By Chen Deming
China calls on the world's governments to learn from histor Obama sought to reassure Canada that he had no intention of turning some of his campaign rhetoric on trade into actual barriers between the U.S. and its largest trading partner. By John A. Hall
The Obama administration may want to remind President Medvedev of his promise to investigate the killings of journalists in his country. Does an anti-Semitic conference deserve U.S. participation of any kind? Nationalizing troubled banks may be the only answer Former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan thinks it's necessary. His successor, Ben Bernanke, doesn't rule it out. From editorial pages to the blogosphere to boardrooms, this is the question on many minds: Should the United States nationalize some banks? | H14 Financial Times Wanted: leaders to face demons of Europe’s past The risk is that popular disturbances become self-sustaining: that a defensive move here fans the embers of nationalism there; that the single market unravels. The newer democracies of the EU in eastern and central Europe are particularly vulnerable, writes Philip Stephens Editorial Comment: Obama’s home run The administration needs a lot more money to save the US banking system – which will be forthcoming only from voters who feel they are being rescued. This plan may help win them over Netanyahu’s hopes of governing rise Benjamin Netanyahu, leader of Israel’s rightwing Likud party, became the likeliest candidate to lead the country’s next government after winning the backing of the ultranationalist Yisrael Beiteinu party US senator says Syria must actA top US Senate leader has played down prospects for a swift improvement in relations with Syria until Damascus curbs support for Islamist militant groups and addresses other US concerns Reassuring gloom The Treasury must not raise taxes or cut spending now, but it must reassure investors that gilts are worth holding Not-so-safe havens The UBS settlement with the US government is a vivid reminder that sustained enforcement action can work in tackling tax havens Obama hits home on foreclosures The administration needs a lot more money to save the US banking system – which will be forthcoming only from voters who feel they are being rescued. This plan may help win them over Czechs say they are fighting to protect the EUThe Czech Republic has tried to reinvigorate its EU presidency, saying it is determined to uphold unity and ensure that member states obey the rules on the single market Summit to tackle ballooning US deficit Barack Obama will host a bipartisan summit on fiscal discipline next Monday that will aim to address America’s long-term struggle to control entitlement costs in healthcare and social security | H15 Los Angeles Times U.S. rethinking missile defense in Europe, Gates tells NATO Defense Secretary Robert Gates, in Krakow, Poland, says the Obama administration will assess the cost and feasibility of the system, which Russia strongly opposes Iran has enough fuel for a nuclear bomb, report says The report by the IAEA, the United Nations' nuclear watchdog, surprises diplomats and arms control experts. Officials note that major obstacles remain to building a weapon. Clinton says North Korea's Kim Jong Il may step down soon The secretary of State says the U.S. and allies are trying to figure out how to respond to a change of power. Experts fear a new regime could be even more belligerent. India concerned by Pakistan's truce with militants India fears militants will be emboldened by the pact to allow Sharia law in Pakistan's Swat region. Some fear a Hindu backlash against India's Muslim minority, or even the latter's radicalization Rosa Brooks U.S. corporations and banks keep putting their hands out for more bailout money from Congress. Does giving them more do the rest of us any good? Jury acquits three charged in Russian journalist's death Supporters of outspoken reporter Anna Politkovskaya blame a faulty investigation and corrupt authorities for the verdict. Two Chechen brothers and a former police officer were immediately freed |
