Israeli commandos attack aid ship – the discussion continues

When I read headlines like: Deaths as Israel storms aid ship or Israeli Massacres Go International; Commandos Kill 16 Free Gaza Activists I despair.  And then to read the vitriolic comments for and against the action, my sense of desperation grows.  I feel more strongly for the underdog and I can not fathom why such …
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Destruction and massacre in The Middle East- the embarrassment of the rich world

A cease fire in Gaza has allowed the full scale of death and devastation to be be seen. Hundreds of people killed and wounded, mostly civilians in a few short weeks. Buildings and utilities destroyed. For what? For pride. There is no doubt that the conflict in Palestine is complex. There is no easy solution. …
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Living in Hebron: A work of fiction. But only just.

A new film shows the reality of life for people in the middle east.  A simple story of students breaking curfew to go to a school reunion it brings to life the tension and impossibility of humanity in the middle east.  It will not be released till April, but this review gives a sense of …
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A chance for peace between Syria and Israel

There are reports that Israel is considering returning the Golan Heights to Syria in return for peace.  The occupation of teh Golan Heights by Israel is the principal reason that peace talks broke down. It would be a milestone in Middle East diplomacy if Israel were to follow through on this idea and would raise …
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What peace process in the middle east?

How can anyone be deluded about the unwillingness to compromise in the Middle East.  The Annapolis meeting of last year has proven to be worthless (as expected).  Poisoning water (of soldiers as well as civilians) is tantamount to chemical warfare and unethical.  The bombing raids just exacerbate the problem.  Israels belligerents need to grow up …
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Will US vindication of Iran promote softer diplomacy?

The US National Intelligence Directorate issued a report today stating that Iran has not pursued nuclear weapons development since 2003. This is in stark contrast to the US’s aggressive words in international circles and the snubbing of Iran’s President on a recent visit to the US. The IAEA continuing to analyse the nature of Iran’s …
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Middle east peace: after Annapolis

This report and linked reports by the BBC analyse the problems and opportunity for peace in the Middle East which the Bush administration has sponsored.  Unfortunately there remain fundamental differences which will impede progress, including the exclusion of important stakeholders in the process (such as Hamas) and the favourable bias that many feel the US …
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Report on Iran’s nuclear programme is not the drama expected

The report by the IAEA on Iran’s nuclear programmes is not the dramatic revelation that some expected.  In Iran’s favour, most of the data reveals authentic energy applications of nuclear material.  On the other hand, questions remain about what current activities are.  And those questions are being asked. The response by both Iran and the …
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At last, well spent Iraqi reconstrcution funds on power from China and Iran

It is welcome news that Iraq is working with Chinese and Iranian businesses to expand the country’s power infrastructure. Shanghai Heavy Industry of China will build a $ 940 million, 1,300 MW plant and Sunir of Iran will build a $ 150 million, 160 MW plant. Together they will increase Iraqi electricity generating capacity by …
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