Israel Demolishes Buildings 50 Meters Away From Al-Aqusa to Build a Synagogue

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Mideast Asia

Israel Demolishes Buildings 50 Meters Away From Al-Aqusa to Build a Synagogue

8 February 2013

Jerusalem: The Israeli government has been demolishing several historical buildings near Al-Masjid al-Aqusa. It was claimed that authorities plan to build a synagogue and a police station on the site.

The Israeli bulldozers began destroying the ancient building and archways on Wednesday morning, just a 50 meters away from the al-Aqsa Mosque, one of the holiest sites of Islam.

The al-Aqusa Foundation for Waqf and Heritage, released a public statement expressing deep resentment against the Israeli act. According to the foundation’s statement the demolition struck at historic buildings in the Old City. The Israeli authorities plan to build a synagogue, a reception hall, an advanced surveillance and police station, a museum, several restrooms, and a new entrance which leads to the tunnels west of the Old City Wall.

http://www.arabnews.com/israel-demolishes-buildings-50-meters-away-al-aqsa

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No Israeli soldier indicted despite 100 rights abuse cases in the Palestinian territories

 8 February 2013

An Israeli group investigating human rights abuses in the Palestinian territories is criticizing the army for not indicting a single soldier despite more than 100 criminal investigations into the troops’ alleged offenses last year.

Yesh Din researcher Lior Yavne says the military’s investigative process was defective and there was improper supervision of the advocate general’s corps. In a statement this week, he said this leads to a feeling of lawlessness in the Palestinian territories. His remarks follow a government report released on Wednesday on a deadly Israeli naval raid on a Gaza-bound international flotilla in 2010 that killed nine pro-Palestinian Turkish activists.

That report called for changes in the way the military investigates itself. The army says the statistics don’t reflect a lack of due process in the military.

http://www.arabnews.com/no-israeli-soldier-indicted-despite-100-rights-abuse-cases

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Yemen Seeks Investigation of Seized Arms

 Feb 08 2013

UNITED NATIONS (AP) — Yemen has asked the United Nations Security Council to investigate a ship the Yemeni authorities said they had seized with a cargo of Iranian-made missiles, rockets and other weapons, the United Nations envoy to Yemen said Thursday.

The Security Council’s members are discussing Yemen’s request, the envoy, Jamal Benomar, said Thursday after the Council’s consultations on Yemen’s political transition.

Yemen’s Defense Ministry said Wednesday that the ship that the Yemeni authorities seized last month was carrying explosives, rockets, surface-to-air missiles, rocket-propelled grenades and large amounts of ammunition.

President Abdu Rabbu Mansour Hadi of Yemen sent a message to his Iranian counterpart, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, last week. In it, Mr. Hadi urged Mr. Ahmadinejad to stop sending arms to Yemen and to stop supporting a southern separatist movement, according to an official in the Yemeni president’s office, who spoke Thursday on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the news media.

Mr. Benomar would not say if the United Nations could confirm that the weapons were Iranian. He said it would be up to the United Nations investigation to determine “where the shipment came from, who the recipients were, etc.”

Yemen has said recently that illegal arms shipments have made their way through the country’s porous borders. It is home to an active branch of Al Qaeda. The country has been struggling with a transition to democracy since protests a year ago forced Ali Abdullah Saleh to step down as president. Mr. Hadi leads a transitional government that is trying to promote reconciliation, draft a new constitution and hold elections.

Mr. Saleh, who was allowed to stay in Yemen under a power-transfer deal, has been blamed by many for using loyalists and relatives in powerful posts to stall reform efforts.

Britain’s United Nations ambassador, Mary Lyall Grant, and the Moroccan ambassador, Mohammed Loulichki, who led a recent Security Council mission to Yemen, said Mr. Hadi and other government officials had urged the Council to impose strong measures against anyone trying to undermine the political transition.

The Security Council adopted a resolution in June that threatened nonmilitary sanctions against those trying to interfere with Yemen’s political transition.

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/02/08/world/middleeast/yemen-asks-un-to-investigate-seized-arms-cargo.html?ref=world

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Yemen: Iran must halt aiding insurgents

8 February 2013

SANAA: Yemen’s president has asked his Iranian counterpart to stop backing armed groups on its soil after coastguards seized a consignment of missiles and rockets believed sent by the Islamic Republic, a government official said yesterday.

Abdel-Rashid Abdel Hafez, a government official, said President Abdu Rabbo Mansour Hadi had contacted Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, to demand Tehran stop smuggling in weapons.

Full report at:

http://www.arabnews.com/middle-east/yemen-iran-must-halt-aiding-insurgents

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Iraq official reports threats ahead of April vote

 8 February 2013

BAGHDAD: An Iraqi official says militants have issued death threats against employees of the country’s election commission, raising concerns about security ahead of the upcoming provincial balloting.

The April 20 vote is the first nationwide ballot since 2010 and an important test for embattled Prime Minister Nuri Al-Maliki.

Full report at:

http://www.arabnews.com/iraq-official-reports-threats-ahead-april-vote

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Iran president tells US to correct its attitude

 8 February 2013

CAIRO: Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad says his country cannot hold meaningful talks with the US on Tehran’s disputed nuclear program if Washington is threatening his country.

His comments at a news conference in Cairo Thursday echoed those of Iran’s supreme leader, who said earlier in the day American proposals for direct talks are pointless while Washington is “holding a gun” to Iran through sanctions.

Full report at:

http://www.arabnews.com/iran-president-tells-us-correct-its-attitude

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Iran to allow Egyptians to enter visa-free

Iranian foreign affairs minister has announced that Egyptian tourists and businesspeople will be able to enter Iran without visas

 7 Feb 2013

Iranian foreign affairs minister Ali Salehy announced on Wednesday that "Tehran will exempt tourists and traders coming to Iran from Egypt from visa requirements," according to the Egyptian state-run MENA news agency.

Full report at:

http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/64256/Egypt/Politics-/Iran-to-allow-Egyptians-to-enter-visafree.aspx

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Southeast Asia

Malaysian Muslims told at Friday prayers to ‘hate’ Valentine’s Day

February 08, 2013

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 8 — Federal religious authorities today warned Muslims against celebrating Valentine’s Day next week, in a message that consistently crops up annually in February, by pointing out that it could lead to pre-marital sex.

Today’s Friday sermon by the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim), read out at mosques nationwide, comes amid a campaign called “Mind the Valentine’s Day Trap” launched together with about 250 non-governmental organisations last month.

“Create a feeling of anti-Valentine’s Day in your hearts and minds, start hatred of celebrating it,” Jakim’s sermon told Muslims nationwide.

Full report at:

http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/muslims-told-at-friday-prayers-to-hate-valentines-day/

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Amid ‘Allah’ row, DPM pledges ‘justice for all’

 Feb 08 2013

PETALING JAYA, Feb 8 — With the “Allah” controversy raging on, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin stepped in today to pledge “justice for all races”, saying the basis of the government’s work is to ensure every ethnic group in multiracial Malaysia is not marginalised.

But the deputy prime minister stressed that “justice” in this context must take into consideration the level of development and socio-economic status of each community.

“This has also been interpreted and explained through the government’s policies and provisions in the Federal Constitution... that all levels of society must be protected,” Muhyiddin (picture) said at the launch of the school-level “Religious Harmony Week” at SM Seksyen 3 Bandar Kinrara here.

Full report at:

http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/amid-allah-row-dpm-pledges-justice-for-all/

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Eight Malaysians suspected to be involved in militant activities since 2010

February 07, 2013

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 7 — At least eight Malaysians, including one who was shot dead in Southern Philippines, are believed to have been linked to terrorist activities since 2010.

Malaysian authorities also detained seven foreigners believed to be involved in terrorist groups. Below are incidents involving Malaysians and foreigners who were involved in terrorism:

Feb 7, 2013 - Two men and a woman, all Malaysians, were detained by the police in Kajang, Selangor on suspicion of being involved in terrorist activities and suspected to be 'head honchos' in recruiting several Malaysians for terrorism.

Full report at:

http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/eight-malaysians-suspected-to-be-involved-in-militant-activities-since-2010/

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Europe

Atheist church in London a runaway success amongst non-believers

Feb 08 2013

New York: A ''church'' In London - The Sunday Assembly - offers monthly services in north London for atheists and nonbelievers. The Sunday Assembly- a brainchild of stand-up comedians Pippa Evans and Sanderson Jones- is a congregation for atheists and nonbelievers started in January. It is drawing overflowing crowds to its monthly services at the Nave, a deconsecrated church in the northern part of the city, reports New York Daily News. Evans said they were expecting about 20 people to turn up, but were amazed when 200 people turned up on the first day. The number swelled to 300 for the second, forcing the church to send more than two dozen people to a bar around the corner to catch a live computer feed of the proceedings. Evans said the idea is about keeping a centre of community for those who are losing their religious faith. The gatherings themselves are not unlike something one finds at regular church, but a bit more rollicking in temperament. At the first two meetings, guest speakers have included a children’s author, and physicist Harry Cliff, who, along with other researchers at Switzerland''s CERN Large Hadron Collider, helped in the discovery of Higgs boson, the so-called "God Particle". The duo came up with the idea of The Sunday Assembly while driving to a comedy show together. While the congregation is made up primarily of non-believers, Evans says the focus of the services is in no way to demean people of faith. Jones said he and Evans will add a second service each month, and he is working on setting up a YouTube channel so that the atheist services can be viewed around the world. The Sunday Assembly''s website also features a page for those who would like to start up congregations in their own home towns.

http://www.indianexpress.com/news/atheist-church-in-london-a-runaway-success-amongst-nonbelievers/1071452/

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UN Hails Drop In Female Genital Mutilation in Africa and the Middle East

February 08, 2013

Figures that reveal that fewer girls in Africa and the Middle East are being subjected to female genital mutilation (FGM) show it is possible to end the practice, the UN has said.

FGM, which typically involves removing the clitoris, can lead to bleeding, infections and childbirth problems.

The UN data said it was particularly in decline amongst the young in Kenya.

Kenyan women aged between 45 and 49 are three times more likely to have been cut than girls aged 15-19, it said.

Full report at:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-21367942

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US air raids kill hundreds of Afghan children: UN

 Feb 08 2013

NEW YORK: Attacks by US military forces in Afghanistan, including air strikes, have reportedly killed hundreds of children over the last four years, according to the UN body monitoring the rights of children. 

The Geneva-based Committee on the Rights of the Child told the United States this week that it is ”alarmed at reports of the death of hundreds of children as a result of attacks and air strikes by the US military forces in Afghanistan”.

The committee said it was troubled that the casualties were ”due notably to reported lack of precautionary measures and indiscriminate use of force”.

Full report at:

http://dawn.com/2013/02/08/us-air-raids-kill-hundreds-of-afghan-children-un/

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WUC Condemns Illegal Deportation of Uyghurs from Malaysia

4 February 2013

Human Rights Watch (HRW) reported yesterday that Malaysia secretly deported 6 Uyghur men to the People's Republic of China (PRC) on 31 December 2012. In violation of international law as they were still under review following their applications, this incident is reminiscent of the deportation of 11 Uyghurs from Malaysia on 18 August 2011 and continues a disturbing trend to deport Uyghur refugees from countries with strong economic and diplomatic ties to the PRC. The World Uyghur Congress (WUC) calls on the international community to take stock once again of the failings of Malaysia to uphold international law and fundamental human rights and for the PRC to divulge information on their whereabouts.

Full report at:

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United Nations investigating Iran link to Yemen arms seizure

Feb 8, 2013

UNITED NATIONS: UN sanctions experts are investigating the Yemeni government's claims that Iran supplied rockets and explosives seized from a ship last month, diplomats said Thursday.

The case was raised at a UN Security Council meeting where UN special envoy Jamal Benomar called on the 15-member body to end "acts of obstruction" to the country's democratic transition.

Iran sanctions experts went to Yemen last week following the seizure of the ship on January 23, officials said.

Full report at:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/United-Nations-investigating-Iran-link-to-Yemen-arms-seizure/articleshow/18394497.cms

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India

Narendra Modi told us 2002 riots were unfortunate: EU envoys

 Feb 8, 2013

NEW DELHI: European Union, which has ended over a decade-old boycott of Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi, has been told by him that the 2002 riots in the state were unfortunate.

Modi took the unusual step of driving to Germany embassy here to a luncheon meeting with envoys and representatives of several European Union member countries that was hosted by German ambassador Michael Steiner. The meeting remained undisclosed for one month till EU ambassador Joao Cravinho went public on Thursday.

Full report at:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Narendra-Modi-told-us-2002-riots-were-

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unfortunate-EU-envoys/articleshow/18402250.cms

'Accountability' for Gujarat riots important: EU

 February 07, 2013

At a time when Narendra Modi is reaching out to cross-section of people nationally and internationally, the European Union on Thursday stressed on the "accountability" for the 2002 Gujarat riots, maintaining that the matter was of "interest" to everyone.

It also said the issue of 2002 riots figured in its meeting with Modi, who had met the EU delegation last month after victory in the Gujarat assembly polls.

"Modi came to (have) lunch with us in January at our invitation to discuss what happened in 2002. To discuss issues that have risen in terms of judicial process, accountability for 2002, to also discuss the development in Gujarat and his recent electoral victory," said Joao Cravinho, ambassador of the European Union to India.

Full report at:

http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/newdelhi/Accountability-for-Gujarat-riots-important-EU/Article1-1008181.aspx

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An affiliate of the Muslim World League backs Qur’an recitation contest in Kerala

 8 February 2013

An All-Kerala Qur’an recitation competition will be held in Chalakkal near Alwaye on Feb. 23 with the support of the Jeddah-based International Qur’an Memorization Organization (IQMO), an affiliate of the Muslim World League.

IQMO agreed to support the competition following talks between Sheikh Abdullah Basfar, secretary-general of the organization, and K.M. Rasheed and Nuruddin Valayil, representatives of the Islamic Center in Chalakkal.

Full report at:

http://www.arabnews.com/iqmo-backs-qur%E2%80%99-contest-kerala

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India rejects OIC suggestion to allow mission to J&K

Feb 8, 2013

NEW DELHI: Strongly rejecting Organisation of Islamic Cooperation's suggestion of allowing an OIC fact- finding mission to Jammu and Kashmir to assess rights situation there, India said on Friday the grouping has no "locus standi" on such matters and termed suggestions to this effect by Pakistan foreign minister as "propagandist".

"The OIC has no locus standi on matters concerning the internal affairs of India or the recent incidents on the LoC. We have already clarified that UNMOGIP has no relevance in regard to the latter.

Full report at:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/India-rejects-OIC-suggestion-to-allow-mission-to-JK/articleshow/18399094.cms

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Omar government constitutes panel to amend J&K’s anti-rape law

AHMED ALI FAYYAZ

 Feb 08 2013

Amendment to be tabled in the budget session of legislature

The Jammu and Kashmir government on Wednesday decided to amend the State’s rape-related laws and procedures in the coming session of the Legislature. A five-member committee has been constituted and asked to come up with fresh suggestions, primarily based on the Justice Verma Committee report, within a week.

A high-level meeting chaired by Minister of Law and Parliamentary Affairs Mir Saifullah designated Advocate-General Mohammad Ishaq Qadiri as the head of the committee and directed him to formulate a draft of the amendment in view of the Verma Committee report. It was made clear in the meeting on Wednesday that the State committee would be free to reject or accept the Verma Committee suggestions, irrespective of their rejection or acceptance by the Central government.

Full report at:

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/omar-government-constitutes-panel-to-amend-jks-antirape-law/article4390413.ece

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Muslim convert can’t get backward class status, rules Madras high court

Feb 8, 2013

CHENNAI: A converted Muslim woman's claim to be considered as a backward class candidate for a government job has been rejected by the Madras high court.

Justice K Chandru, rejecting the petition filed by A Fathima, said: "She was a Hindu before her marriage and born in Hindu Sengunthar community. Therefore, she cannot transfer her community only because of her marriage." Her claim to be considered as a backward class Muslim cannot be entertained because it is based on her marriage and not on her birth, he said. Fathima had applied for the post of assistant in the rural development and panchayati raj department.

Full report at:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Muslim-convert-cant-get-backward-class-status-rules-Madras-high-court/articleshow/18392893.cms

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After 12 years, cops crack Udhampur village massacre involving militants

 Feb 08 2013

Jammu: An incomplete address written by a man just before his death — this may seem an unlikely clue to crack a 12-year-old case involving militants. But this is exactly what led the police to solve the massacre of seven villagers, including four village defence committee members, in Udhampur district.

Recently, three militants and their over ground worker (OGW) were arrested for the crime. The accused have been identified as Farooq Ahmed (code name Nasir), Manzoor Ahmed (code name Furqan), Abdul Latif (code name Fayaz) and Mohammad Din (OGW) — all residents of Ramban district. The whereabouts of another militant, Showkat Patwari alias Hussainu, is unknown. Eight others involved in the crime have died in various encounters with the security forces during the past 10 years. They include Hizbul Mujahideen’s the then divisional commanders, Billoo Gujjar and Amanullah alias Iqbal, Nadeem, Bilal, Shahid Lata Peer, Saddar Din, Gazi and Kari.

Full report at:

http://www.indianexpress.com/news/after-12-years-cops-crack-udhampur-village-massacre/1071125/

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Pakistan

Former Pak Air Force man heads Fidayeen unit to free jailed militants

Feb 08 2013

Islamabad: A special Fidayeens unit headed by former Pakistan Air Force personnel has been formed by the Pakistani Taliban and the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan to attack jails and free imprisoned militants, according to a media report today.

The "Ansar Al-Aseer" (supporters of prisoners) unit is led by Adnan Rasheed, a former Pakistan Air Force personnel who escaped from a jail in the north-western town of Bannu after it was attacked by some 200 Taliban fighters on April 15 last year.

Rasheed was convicted for an attempt to assassinate former President Pervez Musharraf.

He was recently seen with Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan spokesman Ihsanullah Ihsan in a video in which the banned group made a fresh offer for talks with the government.

Full report at:

http://www.indianexpress.com/news/former-pak-air-force-man-heads-fidayeen-unit-to-free-jailed-militants/1071459/

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Bloody day in Karachi leaves 14 dead

By Saad Hasan

February 8, 2013

KARACHI: On a day when an irked Supreme Court demanded from Karachi authorities what were the political affiliations of criminals arrested for some 3,000 murders, the city witnessed a surge in killings with more than 14 people dead on Thursday.

The deaths occurred in incidents that involved such diverse motives as sectarian hatred and illicit love affair. They took place in areas stretching from North Nazimabad to Mauripur.

Unidentified men walked into the clinic of Dr Abid Mirza Baig in North Nazimabad’s Block H and shot him dead. The Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat (ASWJ) claimed that the doctor was their sympathiser.

Full report at:

http://tribune.com.pk/story/504366/unabated-violence-bloody-day-in-karachi-leaves-14-dead/

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Bomb kills 10 people and wounded 23 in northwest Pakistan

Feb 8, 2013

PARACHINAR, PAKISTAN: A bomb planted near a market in north-western Pakistan killed 10 people and wounded 23 others on Friday, the latest in an uptick in attacks in recent months, government officials said.

The blast occurred in Kalaya, the main town in the Orakzai tribal area, said local government administrator Khaistan Akbar. Orakzai is one of several areas in the semiautonomous tribal region along the Afghan border where the military has been battling a domestic Taliban insurgency.

Full report at:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/pakistan/Bomb-kills-10-people-in-northwest-Pakistan/articleshow/18401684.cms

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Eye-catching rickshaws promote peace in Pakistan

Feb 08 2013

Karachi : Pakistani youth leader Syed Ali Abbas Zaidi has a plan to counter the relentless message of violence spewed forth by radical Islamic groups in his country _ and he is stealing a gimmick from the hard-liners' own playbook to do it.

His weapon: the three-wheeled motorized rickshaws that buzz along Pakistan's streets carrying paying customers.

Radical Islamists have long used the rickshaws as a canvas to market slogans in support of religious warfare in neighbouring India and Afghanistan and to foster hatred against the United States.

Full report at:

http://www.indianexpress.com/news/eyecatching-rickshaws-promote-peace-in-pakistan/1071415/

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Strike in Karachi over sectarian killings called by Ahl-i-Sunnat Wal Jamaat

 Feb 08 2013

KARACHI: A strike was being observed in Karachi on a call given by the Ahl-i-Sunnat Wal Jamaat (ASWJ) against the ongoing wave of sectarian killings on Friday, DawnNews reported.

Vehicular traffic remained sparse as public transport remained off the roads.

Markets, businesses and schools were closed.

CNG stations were shut for 24 hours across the province due to the load-shedding management system.

Incidents of rioting and gunfire were reported in Guru Mandir area of the city where some protestors burnt tyres and blocked the roads.

Full report at:

http://dawn.com/2013/02/08/strike-in-karachi-over-clerics-killing/

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Nawaz urges govt to take Taliban talks offer ‘seriously’

 Feb 08 2013

LAHORE: The chief of Pakistan’s main opposition party on Thursday urged the government to immediately take result-oriented steps in response to an offer of peace talks by the banned Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants.

In a statement issued in Lahore, Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz (PML-N) chief Nawaz Sharif said that the Pakistani Taliban’s offer of peace talks should be taken seriously, and that the government should not waste any time in taking concrete steps in that direction.

Full report at:

http://dawn.com/2013/02/07/nawaz-urges-govt-to-take-taliban-talks-offer-seriously/

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Pakistan should be taken out of bloodshed, led towards peace: TTP Punjab

February 8, 2013

Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) Punjab chapter has maintained that Pakistan should be taken out of the ongoing violence and led towards peace, Express News reported on Friday.

In a statement, the group welcomed political parties’ positive response to the peace talks offer and said that it should not be taken as a weakness.

The statement added that the US and India have gained influence over Pakistan which is harmful for the country.

Full report at:

http://tribune.com.pk/story/504482/pakistan-should-be-taken-out-of-bloodshed-led-towards-peace-ttp-punjab/

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More needs to be done in war on terror, says Kayani

 Feb 08 2013

ISLAMABAD: Army Chief Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani said on Thursday there was more to do in the fight against terrorism.

“While acknowledging that there is more to do, both leaders were pleased with the progress to date,” a statement by the International Security Assistance Force (Isaf) said after a meeting between Gen Kayani and outgoing commander of the 50-nation coalition force in Afghanistan Gen John Allen.

This was Isaf commander’s farewell call on Gen Kayani as he departs after completing his tenure in Afghanistan.

Full report at:

http://dawn.com/2013/02/08/more-needs-to-be-done-in-war-on-terror-says-kayani/

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Sikhs criticise Peshawar police for withdrawal of forces

 February 8, 2013

PESHAWAR: The Sikh community lashed out at the Peshawar police for removing 20 policemen deployed at Mohallah Jogan Shah and Quaidabad following the abduction of Rakbir Singh on January 21.

The SSP ordered the posting of 20 policemen to protect Sikhs from kidnappings, theft and muggings – threats routinely faced by the thriving businessmen.

“Actually, Railways Minister Ghulam Ahmad Bilour and Haroon Bilour visited us and directed the police to protect us, but the deployment was only for two days. We have not seen them since,” said a member of the Sikh community requesting anonymity.

Full report at:

http://tribune.com.pk/story/504305/temporary-appeasement-sikhs-criticise-peshawar-police-for-withdrawal-of-forces/

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Pak. policy makers do some soul searching on Kashmir

ANITA JOSHUA

 Feb 08 2013

Two days after Kashmir Solidarity Day was observed nationwide, Pakistan’s Kashmir policy came in for considerable criticism from various politicians and foreign policy wonks with some admitting to a fatigue in the nation’s diplomacy.

There was near unanimity on ‘The Kashmir Issue’ — organised by the Foreign Office-backed Institute of Strategic Studies — about the harm done to the policy by former President Pervez Musharraf, particularly the Kargil War and the decision to look for a solution outside the U.N. resolutions.

Full report at:

http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/pak-policy-makers-do-some-soul-searching-on-kashmir/article4390306.ece

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Africa

President's son leads Chadians against Islamists in Mali

President Idriss Deby's son, General Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, leads a mission of around 1,000 troops to 'fight Al-Qaeda allied fighters and eradicate terrorism from the mountains of northeast Mali'

7 Feb 2013

Around 1,000 troops from Chad led by President Idriss Deby’s son advanced towards the mountains of northeast Mali on Thursday to join French search-and-destroy operations hunting rebels.

A column of 100 Chadian armoured vehicles, jeeps and supply trucks rolled out of Kidal, the Saharan town 1,200 km (750 miles) northeast of the capital Bamako.

From Kidal, French and Chadian forces backed by French warplanes are striking against Islamist rebel hideouts in the Adrar des Ifoghas mountain range, straddling the border with Algeria.

Full report at:

http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/9/64293/World/International/Presidents-son-leads-Chadians-against-Islamists-in.aspx

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Gunmen kill 9 polio health workers in Nigeria

Feb 8, 2013

KANO (NIGERIA): Gunmen on motorbikes shot dead nine health workers who were administering polio vaccinations in two separate attacks in Nigeria's main northern city of Kano on Friday, police said.

No one claimed responsibility but Islamist militant group Boko Haram — a sect which has condemned the use of Western medicine - has been blamed for carrying out a spate of assaults on security forces in the city in recent weeks.

The shootings will hit efforts by global health organisations to clear Nigeria of polio — a virus that can cause irreversible paralysis within hours of infection.

Full report at:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/rest-of-world/Gunmen-kill-9-polio-health-workers-in-Nigeria/articleshow/18402468.cms

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French troops begin withdrawal from Timbuktu

Feb 8, 2013

TIMBUKTU, Mali: French troops began to withdraw from Timbuktu Thursday after securing the fabled city as they ramped up their mission in another northern Mali city, searching for Islamic extremists who may be mixing among the local population.

French military spokesman Col. Thierry Burkhard said Thursday that the operation to secure Gao is still under way, nearly two weeks after French and Malian troops moved into the area. New clashes nearby raised questions about how solid a hold the French military has on the strategic area.

Full report at:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/rest-of-world/French-troops-begin-withdrawal-from-Timbuktu/articleshow/18394747.cms

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South Sudan bishop wins UN peace prize

Bishop Emeritus Paride Taban from South Suda is due to receive the award from UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon at a March 1 ceremony in Geneva

7 Feb 2013

A bishop from South Sudan was Thursday named winner of a UN peace prize in recognition of his efforts to build trust among warring communities in the conflict-torn region.

Bishop Emeritus Paride Taban won the 2013 Sergio Vieira de Mello Prize for his work at the Holy Trinity Peace Village in Kuron, in the east of South Sudan.

Full report at:

http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/64296/World/Region/South-Sudan-bishop-wins-UN-peace-prize.aspx

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Landmine kills four Malian troops as France mulls exit

Feb 8, 2013

GAO, MALI: Four Malian troops were killed by a landmine in territory reclaimed from Islamist rebels, police said Thursday as France mulled handing over its four-week-old intervention to UN peacekeepers.

The deadly explosion Wednesday between the northern towns of Douentza and Gao came six days after a similar blast in the same area killed two Malian soldiers, underlining the danger the Islamist fighters still pose despite fleeing the towns under their control.

"A Malian army vehicle was blown up by a mine placed by the Islamist criminals," a paramilitary police officer said.

Full report at:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/rest-of-world/Landmine-kills-four-Malian-troops-as-France-mulls-exit/articleshow/18395437.cms

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Tunisia, in Crisis, Girds for New Chaos at Funeral

 Feb 08 2013

TUNIS, Tunisia (AP) — The funeral for a leading leftist politician assassinated in Tunisia is expected to draw waves of mourners, and many fear that a national strike the same day could touch off riots nationwide in the country that started the Arab Spring.

The family and allies of Chokri Belaid accuse the ruling part of complicity in his Wednesday killing, and although they have offered no proof the allegations have sharply raised tensions ahead of Friday's funeral. The country's main labor union has called a general strike for the first time in 35 years, raising fears of nationwide confrontations.

Tunisia's prime minister offered to replace the government after Belaid's killing, but that attempt may have backfired as his own ruling Islamist part rejected his decision.

http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2013/02/08/world/middleeast/ap-ml-tunisia-

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Arab World

At Least 26 Killed in Car Bomb Blasts in Iraq Shi'ite Areas

 Feb 08 2013

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - At least 26 people died in a series of car bomb explosions targeting Shi'ite Muslims in markets in Iraq on Friday, police and hospital sources said.

In the Shi'ite district of Kadhimiya in the capital Baghdad, 13 people were killed when a car bomb blew up inside a bird market, followed by a second blast just 100 meters (yards) away around one minute later.

Full report at:

http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2013/02/08/world/middleeast/08reuters-iraq-

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Egypt presidency condemns killing fatwa as 'terrorism'

Egypt's presidential office condemns political violence and hate speech, following a recently released religious edict that permits the killing of political opponents

7 Feb 2013

Egypt’s presidential office has condemned the practice of or invitation to political violence, as said in a Thursday statement.

The released presidential statement comes two days after a cleric from Al-Azhar issued a religious edict – on air – giving the green light to kill opposition leaders Mohamed ElBaradei and Hamdeen Sabbahi.

Full report at:

http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/64295/Egypt/Politics-/Egypt-presidency-condemns-killing-fatwa-as-terrori.aspx

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Pro-Assad group hacks Sky News Arabia sites

7 February 2013

DUBAI: A pro-Syrian regime cyber group hacked the Twitter and Facebook accounts of Sky News Arabia, the Abu Dhabi-based Arabic news channel said on Thursday.

The “Syrian Electronic Army” — said to be close to the Syrian regime — hacked into the channel’s social network accounts at around midnight on Wednesday, the broadcaster said.

The hacked accounts were two Twitter handles, @skynewsarabia and @skynewsarabia_c, and the channel’s Facebook page.

Full report at:

http://www.arabnews.com/pro-assad-group-hacks-sky-news-arabia-sites

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Community Monitors sought to ensure women’s protection: JCCI

 8 February 2013

The Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) has called on the Ministry of Labour to employ community monitors to oversee and inspect markets and shopping malls employing Saudi women.

The JCCI's human resources committee sent the proposal to the labour ministry.

Samir bin Muhammad Hussein, head of the committee, said all members unanimously agreed to forward the proposal to the ministry. The aim is to "provide a safe work environment for Saudi women who have become a key partner" in the country's development, said Hussein.

Hussein praised the labour ministry for successfully integrating Saudi women into the workplace, particularly at lingerie and cosmetics shops.

Full report at:

http://www.arabnews.com/monitors-sought-ensure-women%E2%80%99s-protection-jcci

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Case of 9-year-old boy abused by parents referred to court

 8 February 2013

Police authorities in Makkah referred the case of Rakan, the nine-year-old boy who has been severely abused by his parents, to the general prosecutor following the complaint submitted by the boy’s grandfather requesting authorities to protect Rakan and charge the father with abuse.

The case in itself has gained new momentum at this stage, after the Human Rights Commission issued a statement condemning and denouncing all kinds of physical and psychological torture the child experienced, a local newspaper reported. Meanwhile, a committee was formed to follow up on Rakan’s condition at King Fahad Hospital where he is being treated with utmost secrecy in a special room, with officials from the Ministry of Social Affairs present at his side.

Full report at:

http://www.arabnews.com/case-9-year-old-boy-abused-parents-referred-court

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Assad blamed for destruction

8 February 2013

CAIRO: Leaders of the Muslim states on Thursday called for a "serious dialogue" between Syria's government and an opposition coalition on a political transition to end nearly two years of civil war, but pinned most of the blame for the bloodshed on the state.

The summit backed an initiative by Egypt, Turkey, Iran and Saudi Arabia to broker negotiations to stop the fighting in which at least 60,000 people have died.

“We all agreed on the necessity to intensify work to put an end to the tragedies which the sisterly Syrian people are living through,” Egyptian President Muhammad Mursi told the closing ceremony.

Full report at:

http://www.arabnews.com/assad-blamed-destruction

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Oman to curb reliance on expats, raise minimum pay for nationals

8 February 2013

Oman’s government will limit the number of foreign workers and sharply raise the minimum wage for locals in a drive to increase employment of Omani citizens, state news agency ONA reported.

A statement by the Council of Ministers, carried by ONA and seen by Reuters yesterday, said the government would aim to limit foreign workers to 33 percent of Oman’s total population.

The minimum monthly wage for Omanis in the private sector will jump to 325 rials ($ 845) this July from the current 200 rials, ONA quoted the council as saying.

Full report at:

http://www.arabnews.com/oman-curb-reliance-expats-raise-minimum-pay-nationals

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Clashes rock Damascus; half of refugees lack medical care

 8 February 2013

BEIRUT: Syrian troops and rebels clashed again yesterday in the capital Damascus, a day after what activists described as the heaviest fighting in months in President Bashar Assad’s seat of power.

The clashes were inching closer to the heart of the city, but still were focused in outlying neighborhoods such as Qaboun, Jobar and Zamalka in the northeast and the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk in the south, according to the activist groups Syrian Observatory for Human Rights and the Local Coordination Authorities.

Full report at:

http://www.arabnews.com/clashes-rock-damascus-half-refugees-lack-medical-care

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Top Mubarak associate leaves prison, Egyptian security official says

Feb 8, 2013

CAIRO: An Egyptian security official says one of deposed leader Hosni Mubarak's most trusted men has been released from prison pending further investigation into corruption charges.

Safwat el-Sherif, the country's former parliament speaker, has walked out of Torah prison late Thursday, the official says. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the press.

Full report at:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/Top-Mubarak-associate-leaves-prison-Egyptian-security-official-says/articleshow/18393716.cms

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Syrian soldiers dance to American R&B star Usher's in online video

A video posted online purportedly shows Syrian soldiers taking a break from the country's civil war by bopping around to American R&B star Usher's hit song "Yeah!

7 Feb 2013

A video posted online purportedly shows Syrian soldiers taking a break from the country's civil war by bopping around to American R&B star Usher's hit song "Yeah!"

The soldiers dressed in camouflage combat gear — some armed with automatic rifles or rocket-propelled grenades poking out of their flak jackets — form a conga line and shimmy past the camera grinning.

Full report at:

http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/64299/World/Region/Syrian-soldiers-dance-to-Usher-in-online-video.aspx

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Hamdeen Sabbahi defies death threats, vows to continue revolutionary path

Responding to an edict issued by a fiery Salafist cleric calling for the assassination of opposition NSF figures, Hamdeen Sabbahi says his revolutionary convictions give him strength

Friday 8 Feb 2013

Opposition figure Hamdeen Sabbahi said on Friday that peaceful protests will continue until the revolution’s goals have been achieved and until retribution for all slain protesters has been achieved.

Sabbahi stated that this would take place regardless of death threats against him or other members of opposition umbrella group the National Salvation Front (NSF).

Full report at:

http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/64309/Egypt/Politics-/Hamdeen-Sabbahi-defies-death-threats,-vows-to-cont.aspx

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South Asia

Pakistani cleric provoked attackers: Bangladesh Ahmadiyya leaders

 Feb 08 2013

Leaders of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat yesterday alleged that a Pakistani Islamic cleric provoked a group of religious bigots into torching six tents at the persecuted community's annual convention venue in Gazipur's Kaliakoir upazila Wednesday evening.

“On February 3, the Pakistani Moulavi [Hanif Zalondhari] and some others delivered instigating speeches against us. After their speeches, a tense atmosphere was created in that area,” said Mobasherur Rahman, national ameer of the community.

He raised the allegations during a press conference at Ahmadiyya Muslims's headquarters in the capital regarding Wednesday's attacks.

Full report at:

http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268313

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Afghan boys from nominated film to walk the red carpet at Oscars

By Kim Gamel

    Feb 08 2013

KABUL: Fawad Mohammadi has spent half his life peddling maps and dictionaries to foreigners on a street of trinket shops in Kabul. Now the 14-year-old Afghan boy with bright green eyes is getting ready for a trip down the red carpet at the Oscars.

It will also be his first time out of the country and his first time on a plane. Mohammadi was plucked from the dingy streets of the Afghan capital to be one of the main stars of “Buzkashi Boys,” a coming-of-age movie filmed entirely in a war zone and nominated in the Best Live Action Short Film category.

Full report at:

http://dawn.com/2013/02/08/afghan-boys-from-nominated-film-to-walk-the-red-carpet-at-oscars/

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Maldives Court Judge suspended over allegations of sexual misconduct

By Mohamed Naahee | February 7th, 2013

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has suspended Criminal Court Judge Abdul Baari Yoosuf, informing him to not to report for work until it makes a final decision on his position.

JSC media official Hassan Zaheen confirmed to Minivan News that the judge had been suspended from Wednesday (February 6) onwards, but refused to provide any details. Local newspaper Haveeru reported that Baari Yoosuf was suspended over a disciplinary problem.

“The judge has been asked to not to report to work until further notice from JSC. The matter is being investigated by the JSC, so no additional information can be provided at the moment,” Zaheen said.

Full report at:

http://minivannews.com/politics/criminal-court-judge-abdul-baari-yoosuf-suspended-over-allegations-of-sexual-misconduct-52498

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Ferry With Up to 100 Aboard Capsizes in Bangladesh

 Feb 08 2013

DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP) — A passenger ferry capsized Friday after colliding with another ship on a river in central Bangladesh, dumping as many as 100 people into the water, officials and witnesses said.

Police said there were no immediate reports of casualties after the ferry, MV Sarash, went down on the River Meghna in Munshiganj district, 32 kilometers (20 miles) south of Dhaka. There was confusion over the number of passengers on board the ferry at the time of the accident, but those at the scene said some people were missing.

Full report at:

http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2013/02/08/world/asia/ap-as-bangladesh-ferry-

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Bangladeshi aiming to 'destroy America' nabbed

 Fri Feb 08 2013

New York : A 21-year old Bangladeshi man, who came to the US aiming to "destroy America", has pleaded guilty to attempting to carry out a terrorist attack for the al-Qaeda at the Federal Reserve Bank here using a 1,000-pound bomb.

Quazi Mohammad Rezwanul Ahsan Nafis, entered his guilty plea to the charge of attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction at the US District Court for the Eastern District of New York yesterday.

Full report at:

http://www.indianexpress.com/news/bangladeshi-aiming-to-destroy-america-nabbed/1071405/

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Demos continue demanding death for Quader Mollah

 Feb 08 2013

Thousands continued to pour out onto the streets for the third day yesterday in countrywide demonstrations demanding capital punishment for Jamaat-e-Islami leader Abdul Quader Mollah alongside all other war criminals.

Through different programmes people from all walks of life reiterated their vow to keep alive their movement till their demand for death penalty was met.

International Crimes Tribunal (ICT)-2 on Tuesday sentenced Quader Mollah to life in prison for committing crimes against humanity during the 1971 Liberation War.

Full report at:

http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268300

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Optimistic about democratic future, “despite a few hiccups”: President Waheed

By Mariyath Mohamed | February 7th, 2013

President Mohamed Waheed Hassan has stated that he is considering contesting in the upcoming presidential elections “in view of the current achievements and the general reading [he] gets from the public,” adding, however, that “much work has still to be done during the next few months.”

Although the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) has previously stated that Waheed could contest as the party’s candidate if he became a member, local media has recently reported that Waheed is considering running through his own 3217-member strong Gaumee Ithihaad Party (GIP).

Full report at:

http://minivannews.com/politics/%E2%80%9Coptimistic-about-democratic-future-despite-a-few-hiccups%E2%80%9D-president-waheed-52534

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North America

U.S. envoy says France ransoms fed Africa's al-Qaeda

 Feb 08 2013

The former American ambassador to Mali says France paid $17 million in ransoms to free French hostages and that the money ended up in the hands of the same al-Qaeda militants the country is fighting now.

In an interview that aired on Friday on iTele, Vicki Huddleston said the money allowed al-Qaeda’s North Africa branch to flourish in Mali.

Full report at:

http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/us-envoy-says-france-ransoms-fed-africas-alqaeda/article4393262.ece

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There is no place for violence in Tunisia's democracy: US

 Feb 8, 2013

WASHINGTON: Condemning the assassination of Tunisian Opposition leader Chokri Belaid, the United States said that there is no place for violence in the democracy of this North African country.

"We are watching the situation (in Tunisia). We condemn the assignation of Chokri Belaid, but we remain hopeful that Tunisia can realise the aspirations that their people fought for. There's no place for violence in Tunisia's democracy.

Full report at:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/There-is-no-place-for-violence-in-Tunisias-democracy-US/articleshow/18392129.cms

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Senate Hearing Draws Out a Rift in U.S. Policy on Syria

By MICHAEL R. GORDON and MARK LANDLER

 Feb 08 2013

WASHINGTON — In his first term, President Obama presided over an administration known for its lack of open dissension on critical foreign policy issues.

But on Thursday, deep divisions over what to do about one of those issues — the rising violence in Syria — spilled into public view for the first time in a blunt exchange between Senator John McCain, Republican of Arizona, and the leaders of the Pentagon.

Testifying before the Senate Armed Services Committee, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta acknowledged that he and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, had supported a plan last year to arm carefully vetted Syrian rebels. But it was ultimately vetoed by the White House, Mr. Panetta said, although it was developed by David H. Full report at:

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/02/08/us/politics/panetta-speaks-to-senate-panel-on-benghazi-attack.html?ref=world

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US media shines spotlight on self over drone secrets

 Feb 08 2013

WASHINGTON: The US media has turned a spotlight on itself after three news organisations admitted keeping the location of a drone base in Saudi Arabia secret at the request of the US administration.

The New York Times, the Washington Post and the Associated Press this week acknowledged withholding the information since 2011, provoking harsh criticism from media watchers and fellow reporters – even their own.

Margaret Sullivan, the public editor at The Times, said the newspaper “ought to be reporting as much and as aggressively as possible” on the drone program, which has never been officially acknowledged.

Full report at:

http://dawn.com/2013/02/08/us-media-shines-spotlight-on-self-over-drone-secrets/

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Panetta defends military response in Libya attack

8 February 2013

WASHINGTON: Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said yesterday that the speed of the attack on the US Consulate in Benghazi, Libya, last September kept US armed forces from responding in time to save the four Americans who were killed.

Testifying for likely the last time in Congress before he steps down, Panetta defended the US military’s response on a chaotic Sept. 11 day as the Obama administration tried to assess the threat from protests in Tunisia, Egypt, the Libyan capital of Tripoli and other countries.

Full report at:

http://www.arabnews.com/panetta-defends-military-response-libya-attack

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Panetta backs Syria rebels arms plan

February 08, 2013

The US defence secretary has acknowledged for the first time that he supports arming Syrian rebels.

In testimony to Congress, Leon Panetta said he still supported the supply of weapons to rebels fighting forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

The plan was proposed by then-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and David Petraeus, then director of the CIA, but reportedly rebuffed by the White House.

The US has so far offered only diplomatic backing to Syria's rebels.

More than 60,000 people are estimated to have been killed in the 22-month conflict.

The UN says it fears continuing violence could destabilise the whole region, and more than 600,000 Syrians have fled into neighbouring countries.

Full report at:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-21373367

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Drones Are Focus as C.I.A. Nominee Goes Before Senators

By MARK MAZZETTI and SCOTT SHANE

 Feb 08 2013

WASHINGTON — Engaging a high-ranking Obama administration official for the first time in an extensive public discussion of the use of drones for targeted killing, members of the Senate Intelligence Committee on Thursday pressed John O. Brennan, President Obama’s nominee for director of the Central Intelligence Agency, about the secrecy of the strikes, their legal basis and the reported backlash they have produced in Pakistan and Yemen.

Full report at:

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/02/08/us/politics/senate-panel-will-question-brennan-on-

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