Tuesday, June 30, 2009

MICHAEL JACKSON, Picking Up the Pieces - CBS

Part mystery - how did the self-proclaimed "King of Pop" die? How much was he worth? And part soap opera - what will happen to his fortune and his three young children?

The sensationally gifted "King of Pop" who emerged from childhood superstardom to become the entertainment world's most influential singer and dancer before his life and career deteriorated in a freakish series of scandals, died June 25, 2009, at a Los Angeles hospital.
Jackson's Life - and Death - a Spectacle

The 911 Call
Lawyer: Jackson Had Pulse When Found
A Neverland Farewell for Jackson?
Documents: Jackson Worth $236M

Afghanistan's Election Challenges - Crisis Group, Report

The weakness of state institutions, the deteriorating security situation and the fractured political scene are all highlighted by – and will likely have a dramatic effect on – the electoral process.

Afghanistan's Election Challenges, Report 24 June 2009
چالش های انتخابات در افغانستان, Asia Report N°171, 24 June 2009
The executive summary of this report is also available in Dari.

فدراليزم گامي به سوي تجزيه و نابودي افغانستان

Rights group says voters lose trust in Afghan poll

KABUL (Reuters) - Afghanistan's voters were fast losing trust in an electoral process dominated by "criminals and warlords" running in August's presidential poll, an Afghan human rights watchdog said on Tuesday. Rights group says voters lose trust in Afghan poll South Asia ...

Poor Afghan security risks election fraud, ICG says Reuters

Afghanistan's Election Challenges, 24 June 2009

Children carrying the burden of work in Afghanistan - UNICEF

KABUL, Afghanistan, 23 June 2009 – Child labour is an issue of growing concern in Afghanistan. The ongoing political tensions, insecurity and rising food prices have put the livelihoods of vulnerable families and children increasingly at risk. UNICEF - Afghanistan -

UNICEF - Afghanistan - Children carrying the burden of work in ...

Outgoing NATO Commander Slams European Role In Afghanistan

BERLIN (AFP)--The North Atlantic Treaty Organization's outgoing top commander, General John Craddock, had a few parting shots for Europe as he formally handed over his post Tuesday, criticizing the continent's engagement in Afghanistan.
Outgoing NATO Commander Slams European Role In Afghanistan

AP Exclusive: Jackson said net worth $236M in 2007

NEW YORK (AP) — It's one of the biggest mysteries in the Michael Jackson saga: How much was the lavish-spending, massively debt-ridden pop icon really worth?
AP Exclusive: Jackson said net worth $236M in 2007

Jackson Lawyer Says Singer's Will Has Been Found New York Times
Family Wants Jackson Funeral at Neverland People Magazine
MTV.com - People Magazine

Afghan Leader Says U.S.-Backed Guards Killed Police

AP, June 29, 2009 · Afghan President Hamid Karzai accused Afghan guards working for U.S. coalition forces of killing a provincial police chief and at least four other security officers Monday, and he demanded that American forces hand over the guards involved.
Afghan Leader Says U.S.-Backed Guards Killed Police

حمایت حزب اسلامی از حامد کرزی در انتخابات

The Afghan-Pakistan militant nexus -- BBC

The US has declared the Afghan-Pakistan border region to be the new frontline in its war against Islamic militants. Click on the provinces or the links below the map to see how militants operate on either side of the border. Afghan-Pakistan nexus

Q&A: Afghan and Pakistani militancy

حمایت حزب اسلامی از حامد کرزی در انتخابات
هشدار سازمان ملل در مورد افزایش خشونتها در افغانستان

Monday, June 29, 2009

What sort of president? - Washington Times

We constantly hear that no one is able to replace President Hamid Karzai. That is an insult to Afghans. They are fed up with bad governance and corruption, and the incumbent is naturally saddled with this outrage. What sort of president? - Washington Times

Afghans lose US support for opium strategy World news The Guardian

Conspiracy-laden look at messy Afghan history‎ - The Boston Globe

US officials have gotten plenty wrong in policies on Afghanistan, from dealing with a minor holy warrior named Osama bin Laden during the Soviet occupation to abandoning the country afterward and then, in the 1990s, being at least complicit in the formation of the Taliban.
Conspiracy-laden look at messy Afghan history

The Contingency Monitor: The CIA in Afghanistan, or Bin Laden and ...

Michael Jackson's mom granted temporary guardianship of children

A Los Angeles County Superior Court judge issued a ruling this morning granting temporary guardianship of deceased singer Michael Jackson's three children to his mother, Katherine Jackson, a court spokesman said. Michael Jackson's mom granted temporary guardianship of children

Jackson's Children Go Temporarily to His Mother New York Times

Key Afghan presidential candidate courts female vote

KABUL (Reuters) - Afghan presidential hopeful Ashraf Ghani on Sunday identified women voters, long overlooked during harsh years of Taliban rule, as a key bloc in August 20 elections.

Ghani, one of only a handful of serious rivals to President Hamid Karzai among a field of 40 challengers, outlined a seven-point plan to improve women's rights during an address to hundreds of female supporters in Kabul. Key Afghan presidential candidate courts female vote Reuters

Key Afghan presidential candidate courts female vote South Asia ...
Afghan refugees asked to leave Pakistan's Bajaur tribal region in ...

Congress to Consider Crimes against Humanity Bill to Curb Asylum Abuse

The US Congress is stepping up efforts to close a legal loophole that currently lets perpetrators of crimes against humanity live in the United States and avoid prosecution for acts committed overseas. Congress to Consider Crimes against Humanity Bill to Curb Asylum Abuse

عیار کردن مشی ایالات متحده برای مواد مخدر در افغانستان
امریکا افغانستان ته د نشيي موادو پالیسي تعدیل کړه
US changes tack on Afghan poppies

US changes tack on Afghan poppies - BBC

The United States is to change the way it deals with the massive poppy growing industry in Afghanistan.US changes tack on Afghan poppies
استقبال افغانستان از طرح آمریکا در مبارزه با مواد مخدر

کرزی: خارجی ها در روند انتخابات مداخله نکنند
روزنامه های کابل: ۷ سرطان، بازتاب سخنان کرزی
نظارت بر منابع مالی نامزدهای انتخابات
نامزدهای انتخابات افغانستان چه می گویند؟
کرزی له مناظرې په شا شو

All ears US commander wraps up Afghan 'listening tour'



Sunday, June 28, 2009

Michael Jackson's Father Has 'A Lot Of Concerns' Regarding Son's Death

"Our family thanks all of you around the world," said a representative whom Jackson asked to read a statement, which was different from the statement the family issued on Saturday. "Michael's children are our first priority." The statement went on to express that Michael's parents have declared their sole legal authority and responsibility to take care of the three kids, and that only lawyer L. Londell McMillan has the authority to speak for the family. MTV.com

The Associated Press Video: Jesse Jackson: 'Family Wants 2nd Autopsy'
Jackson family seeks normalcy for grieving kids Reuters
msnbc.com - San Francisco Chronicle

US announces big shift in Afghanistan drug policy

TRIESTE, Italy -- The U.S. is shifting its strategy against Afghanistan's drug trade, phasing out funding for opium eradication while boosting efforts to fight trafficking and promote alternate crops, the U.S. envoy for Afghanistan said Saturday. US announces big shift in Afghanistan drug policy

Violence delays mine clearing in Afghanistan

Report: Jackson's Son Thought Pop King Was Joking When He Collapsed

Michael Jackson's eldest son thought his father was joking around when he collapsed on the living-room floor — but soon stood "in a trance" as the King of Pop's personal doctor frantically tried to revive him, a family confidant told the New York Post.
Video: Jacko's death: What next for his children?
ITN NEWS Video: Jacko's death: What next for his children?
Give us the truth, says Joe, irate father of Michael Jackson New York Daily News
msnbc.com - ABC News - USA Today

Michael Jackson's final rehearsal for London concerts may be released as album

Michael Jackson's final rehearsal for his London concert tour was recorded in high definition video and audio on the eve of his death -- and could be released as the King of Pop's final album, sources said Sunday.Read more: Michael Jackson's final rehearsal for London concerts may be ...
The Associated Press Video: Jesse Jackson: 'Family Wants 2nd Autopsy'

Family: Michael Jackson's Death Has Left Them 'Speechless And ... ABC News
Reuters - People Magazine - CNN

Karzai to rebels: Take part in polls

KABUL (PAN): He told the global fraternity and his administration officials to eschew interfering -- and demonstrate complete neutrality -- in the election process. In the same breath, however, he said meetings between foreign ambassadors and election candidates offered no cause for concern. Karzai to rebels: Take part in polls

US backs poll process, not candidates
Karzai auctioning off state: Ghani

Afghan situation is grave: Neumann

WASHINGTON (PAN): The senior diplomat warned failure of the Afghan and international effort to build a state with broad popular support was likely to lead to the fragmentation of the country into separate power centres, because there was no alternative, no general army, party or dictator presently available to hold the state together. Afghan situation is grave: Neumann

Karzai to rebels: Take part in polls
Karzai auctioning off state: Ghani

Precious Works From a Perilous Land (Art Review | 'Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures')

Comparisons are inevitable when you see an exhibition in a second setting. “Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures From the National Museum, Kabul” was moving and illuminating at the National Gallery of Art in Washington in 2008. At the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the last stop of its four-city American tour, it alternates between sparkling vitality and quiet grandeur. Art Review - 'Afghanistan - Hidden Treasures' - Precious Works ...

Afghanistan: Precious Works From a Perilous Land - nytimes
Art Review: Silent Survivors of Afghanistan’s 4,000 Tumultuous Years (May 23, 2008)

Bagram is Now Obama's Guantanamo GlobalPost

U.S., Afghans wary of Karzai re-election

KABUL, Afghanistan – With a nationwide election only weeks away, the paradox of President Hamid Karzai has never seemed more apparent: He is at once deeply unpopular and likely to win.
U.S., Afghans wary of Karzai re-election News for Dallas, Texas ...

Precious Works From a Perilous Land - nytimes

Comparisons are inevitable when you see an exhibition in a second setting. “Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures From the National Museum, Kabul” was moving and illuminating at the National Gallery of Art in Washington in 2008. At the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the last stop of its four-city American tour, it alternates between sparkling vitality and quiet grandeur.
Art Review - 'Afghanistan - Hidden Treasures' - Precious Works ...

Deaths Push Afghan War to the Fore for Germany

Michael Jackson's doctor interviewed by LAPD Los Angeles Times

'No red flag' was raised in the three-hour talks between detectives and Dr. Conrad Murray, a source says. Meanwhile, Jackson's family has an independent autopsy conducted.
Michael Jackson's doctor interviewed by LAPD Los Angeles Times

How Michael Jackson transformed pop music
CNN - Detroit Free Press - Seattle Times
Los Angeles Police Interview Jackson’s Doctor, nytimes

Jacksons rely on strength of family CNN

By 1968, when Michael turned 10, the Jackson 5 was a professional musical machine. They'd won an Apollo Theater talent night the previous year and were working the "chitlin circuit" of black clubs when producer Bobby Taylor urged Motown to sign the group.
Jacksons rely on strength of family CNN

MTV.com - KTLA - BBC News
A Michael Jackson tribute tour by Janet Jackson, brothers in the ...

Saturday, June 27, 2009

US ambassador demands justice for Afghan women - Yahoo! News

KABUL (AFP) – The US global women's ambassador said Friday impunity for attacks against women and girls in Afghanistan was intolerable and the government needed to provide them with better legal protection. US ambassador demands justice for Afghan women - Yahoo! News

US ambassador demands justice for Afghan women - Yahoo! Canada News

Bagram is Now Obama's Guantanamo GlobalPost

Coroner: No Sign of Trauma, Foul Play in Jackson's Death - washingtonpost

Finding Cause May Take Weeks; Fans Grieve Worldwide
In Grief, Icon's Star Shines Anew

'King of Pop' Reigned Worldwide Full Coverage
His Music His Moves His Clothes 911 Call
Talent Far Exceeded Eccentricity

In death, Michael Jackson gets politicians' admiration--but cautiously, latimes
Obama's Thoughts on 'Tragic' Michael Jackson Gay Wired
President Obama Sends Condolences To Michael Jackson's Family, Fans MTV.com

Pop & Hiss, The L.A. Times music blog - latimes

Jackson was one man with a thousand public personas

Video: Source: Jackson Apparently Had Heart Attack The Associated Press Video:
Source: Jackson Apparently Had Heart Attack

Tributes galore across city's radio dial to King of Pop, Michael ... New York Daily News
San Francisco Chronicle - BBC News

G8 foreign ministers lament Afghan corruption

TRIESTE, Italy -- Foreign ministers from the Group of Eight countries meeting in Italy lamented corruption and the lack of basic services such as health and water in Afghanistan, saying Friday that better cooperation among countries in the region was needed to promote stability. G8 foreign ministers lament Afghan corruption

Karzai invites Taliban to vote in election

Analysis: US keeps Asian base key to Afghan war

The new deal with Kyrgyzstan would cost the U.S. $60 million in annual rent, more than triple the previous yearly cost of $17.4 million. Analysis: US keeps Asian base key to Afghan war

Highlights from G8 foreign ministers' statement

Obama, Merkel Find Much To Discuss - washingtonpost

President Obama and German Chancellor Angela Merkel discussed the chaotic situation in Iran, climate change, the world economic crisis and the war in Afghanistan during an Oval Office meeting and lunch, the two told reporters yesterday.
Transcript: President Obama Holds a News Conference With German Chancellor Angela Merkel

U.S. Cases of New Flu Hit a High This Week -- WSJ

The new H1N1 swine flu may cause more-severe illness than similar seasonal strains but may spread less easily, according to preliminary findings from a study of ferrets to be published soon by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention scientists.
U.S. Cases of New Flu Hit a High This Week

House narrowly OKs sweeping climate change bill

WASHINGTON – The House approved sweeping legislation Friday that seeks to reduce global warming by limiting the amount of greenhouse gases emitted by power and chemical plants, oil refineries and major manufacturers. House narrowly OKs sweeping climate change bill

Wall Street Journal - The Associated Press - Reuters

Friday, June 26, 2009

Michael Jackson feared he'd "end up" like Elvis: Lisa Marie

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Michael Jackson's former wife Lisa Marie Presley said on Friday the pop star was a tortured soul who once predicted that he would "end up" like her father, the late rock icon Elvis Presley. Michael Jackson feared he'd "end up" like Elvis: Lisa Marie

The 'King' is dead, long live his merchandise msnbc
New York Daily News - MTV.com
Jackson Was Beacon of Hope for His Declining Hometown of Gary, Ind., nytimes
Mourners pay respects to Jackson at Motown studio AP
Washington Post

President Obama Holds a News Conference With German Chancellor Angela Merkel

PRESIDENT OBAMA: Willkommen. It's my pleasure to welcome Chancellor Merkel to the White House. We had a very productive discussion in the Oval Office, and our meetings will continue this afternoon.
President Obama Holds a News Conference With German Chancellor Angela Merkel

G8 foreign ministers lament Afghan corruption
Obama, Merkel to air differences at meeting

Obama, Merkel Condemn Iran Violence

President Barack Obama and German Chancellor Angela Merkel participate in a joint news conference, in the East Room of the White House in Washington, D.C., 26 Jun 2009
Obama, Merkel Condemn Iran Violence

Obama, Merkel Say Iran May Face Global Isolation Bloomberg
Los Angeles Times - Washington Times - Xinhua

President Obama Sends Condolences To Michael Jackson's Family

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- President Barack Obama has sent his condolences to the family of late pop star Michael Jackson, who died on Thursday afternoon in Los Angeles.
President Obama Sends Condolences To Michael Jackson's Family - Access Hollywood

Michael Jackson feared he'd "end up" like Elvis: Lisa Marie - Reuters

Obama on Michael Jackson (via Gibbs) Newsweek
Michael Jackson's Musical Legacy Will Endure
Mourners pay respects to Jackson at Motown studio AP

Michael Jackson: the wounds, the broken heart

U.S. Senate approves bill to triple aid to Pakistan

The $1.5 billion in annual funding includes money for Pakistani schools, the judicial system, parliament and law enforcement agencies.

"This legislation marks an important step toward sustained economic and political cooperation with Pakistan," said Senator Richard Lugar, the senior Republican on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
U.S. Senate approves bill to triple aid to Pakistan Politics ...

Russia says US-led forces should stem Afghan heroin

MOSCOW, June 26 (Reuters) - A top Russian drugs official said on Friday Moscow should stop the transport of cargo across its territory to U.S.-led forces in Afghanistan if they do not do more to cut the flow of heroin to Russia. Russia says US-led forces should stem Afghan heroin

Russia Says U.S.-Led Forces Should Stem Afghan Heroin - Radio Free ...

Officials Seek Clues in Jackson’s Death - NYTimes

Mr. Oxman told the “Early Show” on CBS: “I do not want to point fingers at anyone because I want to hear what the toxicology report says and the coroner says. But the plain fact of the matter is that Michael Jackson had prescription drugs at his disposal at all times.”
Officials Seek Clues in Jackson’s Death
Jackson Is Mourned by Fans, as Doctor’s Car Is Impounded
Michael Jackson Dies at 50
Share Your Thoughts and Photos
His Style Fit Like a Glove

Times Topics: Michael Jackson

Singer Michael Jackson dies at 50 -- BBC

He was pronounced dead two hours later at the UCLA medical centre. Jackson's brother, Jermaine, said he was believed to have suffered a cardiac arrest. Singer Michael Jackson dies at 50
'One of the greatest stars'
In pictures: Fans' grief

Afghans In Country's North Are Calm, But Wary - NPR

In Afghanistan, the bulk of the violence occurs in the country's south and east. In the north, it's a different story: The area is relatively calm. Afghans In North Are Calm, But Wary

World Hunger Reaches 1 Billion People Mark

Without treatment, cardiac arrest kills quickly - USA
Did Michael Jackson's Stress Contribute to Cardiac Arrest? ABC News

Michael Jackson, King Of Pop, Dies - NPR

Michael Jackson, the man known as the King of Pop to legions of fans around the globe, who lived most of his extraordinary life in the public eye, died Thursday in Los Angeles after going into cardiac arrest. He was 50 years old. Michael Jackson, King Of Pop, Dies
Photo Gallery
Share Your Memories
When Jackson Became King
Full NPR Music Archive

H1N1 'swine' flu has infected an estimated 1 million in US

The virus is also spreading rapidly through the Southern Hemisphere. A French company announces large-scale production of a vaccine. H1N1 'swine' flu has infected an estimated 1 million in US

1 Million Swine Flu Cases in US WebMD

Senate Democrats Say Cost of Health-Care Bill Can Be Trimmed - nytimes
Senators Try to Cut Cost of Health Bill Wall Street Journal

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Michael Jackson dies leaving legacy of award-winning music

Los Angeles Times - Michael Jackson, who died today at age 50, ruled the music world throughout the 1980s, selling millions of records and concert tickets and dubbing himself the "King of Pop. Michael Jackson dies leaving legacy of award-winning music

'Thriller,' MTV made Jackson into megastar
Jackson's mourning fans gather- latimes
Michael Jackson, King Of Pop, Dies - NPR

Jackson death causes media scramble Washington Post
Reuters - New York Times - San Jose Mercury News - MiamiHerald.com

Michael Jackson, Pop Icon, Is Dead at 50 - NYTimes

LOS ANGELES — The singer, songwriter and dancer, whose career reached unprecedented peaks of sales and attention, died Thursday after being hospitalized in Los Angeles.
Michael Jackson, Pop Icon, Is Dead at 50

Troubled Star Was Rushed to Hospital, Unconscious -- nytimes
Madonna 'Can't Stop Crying' Over Michael Jackson
Tricky Steps From Boy to Superstar


Michael Jackson dies at age 50 Entertainment Weekly
New York Times - Washington Post - Los Angeles Times - Newsweek
Video: "King of pop" Michael Jackson dies 25 Jun 09
Al Jazeera

Iran arrests 70 professors after meeting with opposition leader

Mousavi speaks out after days of quiet, blasting the nation's supreme leader and state-controlled media. He promises to continue his campaign to have Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's reelection annulled. Iran arrests 70 professors after meeting with opposition leader
Iranian envoy: CIA involved in Neda's shooting? CNN

Italy urges G8 firmness on Iran - BBC Russia warns G8 against isolating Iran AFP
TIME - CNN International

Obama, Merkel to meet under cloud of disagreement

WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama sits down this week with German Chancellor Angela Merkel under a cloud of disagreement over the way out of the global financial crisis and Germany's role in the U.S.-led Afghan war. Obama, Merkel to meet under cloud of disagreement
U.S. adviser hails Pakistani attack on militants
Iran expected to dominate G8 meeting in Italy

H1N1 'swine' flu has infected an estimated 1 million in US
Los Angeles Times

A First Lady Who Demands Substance - washingtonpost

Michelle Obama Wants to Be Part of Events That Have Purpose And a Message -- and That Parallel the President's Agenda. A First Lady Who Demands Substance
Michelle Obama, Aspiring Activist

US general says troops need new view of Aghan war
Pakistan urges US to end drone attacks

Screen star Fawcett dies aged 62 -- BBC

Actress Farrah Fawcett, who became an icon of 1970s US television, has died of cancer in Los Angeles aged 62. US actress Farrah Fawcett dies at 62 of cancer
Ryan O'Neal to wed Farrah Fawcett

More than just a pin-up: A tribute to actress Farrah Fawcett
Farrah Fawcett could win posthumous Emmy Award - Los Angeles Times

Poor Afghan security risks election fraud, ICG says‎

KABUL, June 25 (Reuters) - Poor security in the east and south and a failure to capitalise on gains made after a 2004 poll will make it more difficult for Afghanistan to stage a meaningful presidential election on Aug. 20, a leading think tank has said.
Poor Afghan security risks election fraud, ICG says
U.S. National Security Advisor General Jim...

Afghan Presidential Candidate Takes a Page From Obama's Playbook‎ - U.S. News & World Report
اشرف غنی برای 'مبارزه با فساد' از مردم کمک خواست

US Envoy Grilled by Lawmakers on Afghan, Pakistan Strategy

US Envoy Grilled by Lawmakers on Afghan, Pakistan Strategy

نیویارک ټایمز: د افغانستان ناکامېدونکي قواوې
ایران: د انتخاباتو نتایج نه فسخ کوو

Afghan Focus At NATO's First Central Asia Talks
Iran's Opposition Vows to Go on Challenging Poll

'Shift needed' in Afghan combat -- BBC

Gen Stanley McChrystal is expected to release new combat rules aimed at reducing the number of civilian deaths. 'Shift needed' in Afghan combat

تاکید فرمانده آمریکایی به 'تغییر' در جنگ افغانستان
بدرفتاری با زندانیان در بازداشتگاه بگرام
انتقاد مدافعان حقوق بشر از تصمیم آمریکا در مورد زندانیان بگرام
روزنامه های کابل: 3 سرطان، اظهارات فرمانده جدید ناتو

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

EXCLUSIVE: President Obama Defends Right to Choose Best Care

Dr. Orrin Devinsky, a neurologist and researcher at the New York University Langone Medical Center, said that elites often propose health care solutions that limit options for the general public, secure in the knowledge that if they or their loves ones get sick, they will be able to afford the best care available, even if it's not provided by insurance.
EXCLUSIVE: President Obama Defends Right to Choose Best Care
The Public Option: Sorting Rhetoric from Reality

WATCH: Obama: Why Gov't Should Get Involved in Health Care
WATCH: Health Care Forum With Obama
TRANSCRIPT: 'Prescription for America'


'Hidden Treasures' Closes in Houston, Heads to New York

The critically acclaimed exhibit "Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures of the National Museum, Kabul" recently ended a three-month run at the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, Texas, where it attracted 317,000 visitors. mailto:newsletter@embassyofafghanistan.org

Afghan girl burned by white phosphorus heads home

White House Hosts Bipartisan Immigration Talks - WSJ

WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama will meet Thursday with a bipartisan, politically diverse group of lawmakers to begin discussing a rewrite of U.S. immigration laws.
Obama, Congress prepare to take up immigration overhaul MiamiHerald
Reuters - Washington Post

Afghan Leader Outmaneuvers Election Rivals -- nytimes

Yet there is a widespread perception among Afghans that Mr. Karzai is the American favorite. Some American officials express resignation that they may be stuck with him for five more years. Afghan Leader Outmaneuvers Election Rivals

Will Afghanistan's election be fair?
اشرف غنی برای 'مبارزه با فساد' از مردم کمک خواست

United We Serve Kick-Off / whitehouse

Last week, when President Obama announced United We Serve -- he called on all Americans to volunteer this summer and do our part to rebuild our communities.

Will Afghanistan's election be fair?‎ - KENNETH P. VOGEL

'Hidden Treasures' Exhibit Seeks To Reveal Another Afghanistan ...

US general says troops need new view of Aghan war

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan -- U.S. Gen. Stanley McChrystal said Wednesday that U.S. and other NATO troops must make a "cultural shift" away from being a force designed for high intensity combat and instead make protecting Afghan civilians their first priority.

U.S. lawmaker troubled by sag in support for defense

Afghanistan: US Should Cooperate With Afghan Investigation Into Apparent Death at Base - HRW

Afghanistan Election: Woman Candidate Braves Retaliation With Presidential Run

One of the bravest candidates is Shahla Atta, a 47 year old university graduate who is currently an MP for Kabul.
Afghanistan Election: Woman Candidate Braves Retaliation With Presidential Run

Will Afghanistan's election be fair?
روزنامه های کابل: 3 سرطان، اظهارات فرمانده جدید ناتو

INTERVIEW-Karzai victory will destablise Afghanistan - rival | Reuters

KABUL, June 24 (Reuters) - A second term for President Hamid Karzai would further destabilise Afghanistan because he has chosen a coalition of antagonistic former military leaders, a rival candidate in the Aug. 20 poll said on Wednesday.
INTERVIEW-Karzai victory will destablise Afghanistan - rival Reuters

Will Afghanistan's election be fair?
اشرف غنی برای 'مبارزه با فساد' از مردم کمک خواست

Editorial - Afghanistan's Failing Forces - nytimes

The news from Afghanistan is grim. In the first week of June, there were more than 400 attacks, a level not seen since late 2001. Editorial - Afghanistan's Failing Forces

Roadside Bomb Kills 3 Aid Workers in Northern Afghanistan ...

Ex-detainees allege US Afghan abuse - BBC

Allegations of abuse and neglect at a US detention facility in Afghanistan have been uncovered by the BBC. Former detainees have alleged they were beaten, deprived of sleep and threatened with dogs at the Bagram military base. Ex-detainees allege US Afghan abuse
'How Bagram destroyed me'
بدرفتاری با زندانیان در بازداشتگاه بگرام
انتقاد مدافعان حقوق بشر از تصمیم آمریکا در مورد زندانیان بگرام

دفاع آمریکا از دیدار سفیر آن کشور با نامزدهای انتخابات افغانستان
جيمزجونز: امريکا په افغان ټاکنو کې بې پرې ده

ملاقات سفیران خارجی باید از طریق دولت تنظیم شود -- 8صبح

The New Strategy in Afghanistan - Charlie Rose

The New Strategy in Afghanistan with David Kilcullen, David Barno, and Tom Ricks
Update on Iran

David Kilcullen, Thomas E. Ricks and David Barno on Jun 23, 2009

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

New U.S. orders in Afghanistan aim to reduce deaths

KABUL (Reuters) - The new commander of U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan will issue orders within days requiring troops to disengage from combat when possible, to reduce civilian deaths that have put their mission at risk, a spokesman said.
New U.S. orders in Afghanistan aim to reduce deaths

Gates asks Gulf leaders for more Afghanistan help

Text: President Obama’s Press Briefing - nytimes

Following is a transcript of President Obama’s opening statement to reporters on June 23, 2009, as transcribed by CQ Transcriptions. Transcript CNBC Video
Obama Assails Iran for Violent Response to Protests

Officials Identify Seven Of Nine People Killed
Metro Train Car Was Overdue for Brake Work

Sarkozy Says Full-Body Muslim Gowns a ‘Symbol of Enslavement’

Karzai accepts rivals' debate challenge - official

KABUL (Reuters) - Afghan President Hamid Karzai has agreed to take part in a public debate with his key rivals as part of an ongoing presidential campaign ahead of the Aug. 20 poll, a spokesman for his election campaign said on Tuesday.
Karzai accepts rivals' debate challenge - official South Asia ...

US envoy meets Ghani, vows neutrality
Afghan opposition candidate seeks debate with Karzai
US does not back any candidate in Afghan polls: ambassador

مجددی: در باره حمایت از کرزی 'استخاره کردم'
روزنامه های کابل: ۲ سرطان، نامزدان 'مفلس'؟

Afghanistan's smuggler children‎

Afghanistan's smuggler children - Channel 4 News

US nat'l security adviser meets Afghan candidates

KABUL – President Barack Obama's national security adviser insisted Tuesday that the U.S. is staying out of Afghanistan's upcoming presidential race — a common refrain among officials seeking to allay suspicions that Washington controls Afghan politics.
US nat'l security adviser meets Afghan candidates - Yahoo! News

US envoy meets Ghani, vows neutrality

UK forces in major Afghan assault -- BBC

British soldiers have launched a major airborne assault on a Taliban stronghold in southern Afghanistan. UK forces in major Afghan assault
مک کرسټل: د ناامنيو لمن غځېدلې ده
فرمانده ناتو: اوضاع افغانستان 'بحرانی' است

مجددی: در باره حمایت از کرزی 'استخاره کردم'
روزنامه های کابل: ۲ سرطان، نامزدان 'مفلس'؟

روزنامه های کابل: سه شنبه ۲ سرطان- -- BBC

آقای مجددی روز شنبه، ۳۰ جوزا/خرداد هنگام اعلام حمایتش از نامزدی حامد کرزی در انتخابات ریاست جمهوری، گفت که از سوی خدا به او "اشاره" شده است که به آقای کرزی رای بدهد
روزنامه ماندگار در سرمقاله خود نوشته است که اگر روحانیان به این سخنان آقای مجددی توجه نکنند، "مرتکب خیانت بزرگ به دنیا و آخرت" خودشان خواهند شد
مجددی: در باره حمایت از کرزی 'استخاره کردم'

روزنامه های کابل: ۲ سرطان، نامزدان 'مفلس'؟
نشریات کابل: دوشنبه اول سرطان
نشریات کابل: یکشنبه 31 جوزا
روزنامه های کابل: شنبه ۳۰ جوزا

Crash on Metro's Red Line Kills at Least 6 - washingtonpost

One train rear-ends and partially vaults another in rush-hour incident outside Fort Totten station in Northeast D.C. It is the deadliest crash in the rail system's history. Crash on Metro's Red Line Kills at Least 6

Officials Expect Toll to Rise to Nine; 70 Injured
'Train Just Opened Up'

Monday, June 22, 2009

Obama signs landmark law to regulate tobacco

WASHINGTON, June 22 (Reuters) - President Barack Obama, citing his own struggle to give up smoking, signed a law on Monday giving the U.S. government broad regulatory power for the first time over cigarettes and other tobacco products. Obama signs landmark law to regulate tobacco

Los Angeles Times - CNN - USA Today - ABC News

Stocks tumble on bleak outlook for world economy

NEW YORK (AP) — A surprisingly bleak forecast for the world economy pushed stocks to their biggest loss in two months. Stocks tumble on bleak outlook for world economy

Web Video Makes an Iranian Woman's Death a Symbol of Iran's Crisis
How Neda Soltani became the face of Iran's struggle guardian.co.uk
FOXNews - Los Angeles Times - Wall Street Journal

Sarkozy Says Full-Body Muslim Gowns a ‘Symbol of Enslavement’

“The issue of the burqa is not a religious issue; it is a question of freedom and of women’s dignity,” Mr. Sarkozy said. “The burqa is not a religious sign; it is a sign of the subjugation, of the submission of women.” Sarkozy Says Full-Body Muslim Gowns a ‘Symbol of Enslavement’
Sarkozy says burqas are 'not welcome' in France The Associated Press

World Hunger Reaches 1 Billion People Mark
Muslims Face Risk In Giving To Charities

U.S. Tightens Airstrike Policy in Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan — The new American commander in Afghanistan said he would sharply restrict the use of airstrikes here, in an effort to reduce the civilian deaths that he said were undermining the American-led mission. U.S. Toughens Airstrike Policy in Afghanistan

NYT Correspondent Escapes in Afghanistan - Baghdad Bureau Blog ...

Sarkozy speaks out against burka -- BBC

French President Nicolas Sarkozy has spoken out strongly against the wearing of the burka by Muslim women in France. "We cannot accept to have in our country women who are prisoners behind netting, cut off from all social life, deprived of identity," Mr Sarkozy told a special session of parliament in Versailles. Sarkozy speaks out against burka
Ban the burka?
New York Times, National Post

World Hunger Reaches 1 Billion People Mark- npr
Muslims Face Risk In Giving To Charities - NPR

Nicolas Sarkozy says Islamic veils are not welcome in France

Nicolas Sarkozy today took a hard line in France's latest row over Islamic dress, saying full veils and face coverings were a sign of women's debasement and "not welcome" on French soil.
Nicolas Sarkozy says Islamic veils are not welcome in France guardian.co.uk

Sarkozy stirs French burka debate - BBC
Sarkozy outlines French exit strategy from crisis AFP
Wall Street Journal - The Associated Press - Telegraph.co.uk -

'Bravest woman in Afghanistan' - washingtontimes

Women's rights activist courts controversy, rails against warlords
'Bravest woman in Afghanistan' - Washington Times
'Bravest woman in Afghanistan' « RAWA News

مجددی: در باره حمایت از کرزی 'استخاره کردم'
بشنوید: سخنان مجددی در حمایت از کرزی

با استخاره هم می توان رییس جمهور انتخاب کرد؟ -- 8صبح
نشریات کابل: 'استخاره' برای انتخابات

British Army officer launches stinging attack on 'failing' UK strategy in Afghanistan

The officer, who works in defence intelligence, has described the British presence in Helmand as an "unmitigated disaster" fuelled by "lamentable" government spin and naïvety.
British Army officer launches stinging attack on 'failing' UK ...

New US battle rule: No fighting near Afghan homes

KABUL -- The U.S. commander in Afghanistan will soon order U.S. and NATO forces to break away from fights with militants hiding among villagers, an official said today, announcing one of the strongest measures yet to protect Afghan civilians.
New US battle rule: No fighting near Afghan homes - Los Angeles Times

New US Battle Rule: No Fighting Near Afghan Homes - ABC News

Responsible Fatherhood / whitehouse

On the 100th anniversary of Father's Day, the President writes a piece on fatherhood in Parade Magazine talking about his own life and highlighting the responsibilities all fathers must step up to:


World Hunger Reaches 1 Billion People Mark - NPR
Muslims Face Risk In Giving To Charities - NPR

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Ashraf Ghani, the challenger who may topple Karzai | Newsweek

Former Afghan finance minister Ashraf Ghani is one of President Hamid Karzai's most articulate and vociferous critics, and a chief contender against the incumbent in the upcoming August presidential election. A U.S.-educated former World Bank official, he quit Karzai's cabinet in 2004, finding it corrupt, and has since then turned down "at least 100 offers" to rejoin Karzai's team. Afghanistan's 'Predatory' State
Ashraf Ghani, the challenger who may topple Karzai Newsweek ...
Dr. Ghani’s Vision for the Future

US envoy meets Ghani, vows neutrality
Afghan opposition candidate seeks debate with Karzai
US does not back any candidate in Afghan polls: ambassador

Three rockets hit Bagram Air Field -- a rare strike inside the vast, heavily fortified compound.

Reporting from Kabul, Afghanistan -- Two U.S. troops were killed and six Americans were wounded today in an early-morning rocket attack at sprawling Bagram Air Field.
Afghan rocket attack kills 2 US troops, wounds 6 Americans -- Los Angeles Times

2 US Soldiers Killed In Bagram Attack CBS News
The Associated Press - BBC News - CNN International

2 US Soldiers Killed In Bagram Attack CBS News

(CBS) Two American soldiers were killed and at least six others wounded in a rocket attack on Bagram Air Field early Sunday morning, Afghan officials said. 2 US Soldiers Killed In Bagram Attack CBS News

The Associated Press - CNN International

Republicans Press Obama on Iran -- WSJ

WASHINGTON --"The president of the United States is supposed to lead the free world, not follow it," said Sen. Lindsay Graham (R., S.C.), on ABC's "This Week," adding that Mr. Obama was being "timid and passive." Wall Street Journal
Republicans Soften Criticism of Obama After Statement on Iran
GOP calls Obama timid as he seeks footing on Iran The Associated Press
Washington Post - AFP - FOXNews

Saturday, June 20, 2009

Ghani hails Obama vow, challenges Karzai to debate

KABUL (PAN): A key challenger to President Hamid Karzai in the August 20 poll, Dr. Ashraf Ghani, has hailed US President Barack Obama's assurance that his administration does not support or oppose any presidential or provincial council candidate.
Ghani hails Obama vow, challenges Karzai to debate
Ghani promises women due rights

Dr. Ghani’s Vision for the Future
کمپاین انتخاباتیداکتر اشرف غنی احمد زی قسمت اول
کمپاین انتخاباتیداکتر اشرف غنی احمد زیقسمت دوم

World Refugee Day Focuses on Plight of 42 Million Uprooted People

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees says people flee their homes not because they want to, but because they have to.
World Refugee Day Focuses on Plight of 42 Million Uprooted People
More Than a Billion People Hungry in the World

Thousands of Protesters Clash with Police in Tehran
تقاضای اوباما ازحکومت ایران درتوقف خشونت واعمال غیرعادلانه
Protesters at UN urge support of Iran, demand new elections, nytimes

Corruption Crusader Aims for Afghan Presidency- nytimes

KABUL, Afghanistan — Ramazan Bashardost, a radical independent who has attacked corruption, could play a spoiler role for President Hamid Karzai.
The Saturday Profile - Corruption Crusader Aims for Afghan ...

A New Afghanistan Commander Rethinks How to Measure Success ...

Obama Pushes Financial Regulatory Overhaul

WASHINGTON — President Obama, striking a forceful tone, said Saturday that he would fight for his package on overhauling the financial regulatory system as he tried to drum up support for his proposed Consumer Financial Protection Agency.
Obama Pushes Financial Regulatory Overhaul

Obama asks men to be better fathers than their own
Obama Criticizes Response to Tehran Protests as ‘Unjust’ - nytimes
Political Protests Spark Violent Clashes in Iran - washingtonpost

Iran police clash with protesters -- BBC

Iranian police have used water cannon, batons, tear gas and live rounds to break up protests over the presidential election, witnesses in Tehran say. Iran police clash with protesters
میرحسین موسوی: در کنار مردم خواهم ماند
اوباما خواستار پایان خشونت علیه مردم ایران شد
واکنش های بین المللی به سخنان آیت الله خامنه ای

Global Health: World Hunger Reaches 1 Billion People Mark

AP, One in six people in the world — or more than 1 billion — is now hungry, a historic high due largely to the global economic crisis and stubbornly high food prices, a U.N. agency said Friday.
World Hunger Reaches 1 Billion People Mark

WHO Declares Swine Flu A Pandemic

McChrystal: Next 18 Months Pivotal In Afghan War - NPR

Morning Edition, -- Is America winning in Afghanistan now?

I don't think the real question is whether America is winning. I think the question is whether the government of Afghanistan and the people of Afghanistan are winning, because ultimately, it's their victory that matters.
McChrystal: Next 18 Months Pivotal In Afghan War

Library of Congress Country Studies : Detailed County Studies.

US admits Afghan airstrike errors - BBC

Failure by US forces to follow their own rules was the "likely" cause of civilian deaths in Afghan airstrikes last month, a US military report says.
US admits Afghan airstrike errors

House Bill Expands Oversight Of NSA

The House intelligence committee late Thursday approved measures to strengthen oversight of the National Security Agency and the overall intelligence community, including by making the jobs of NSA director and general counsel subject to Senate confirmation.
House Bill Expands Oversight Of NSA

House Measure Strengthens Oversight of NSA

In D.C., More Jobs and More Jobless- washingtonpost

District Unemployment Surges Past 10% Despite Expanding Government
D.C. Unemployment Tops 10%

Special Report: Surviving a Layoff
Primary-Care Physicians Needed

Sect. of State Hillary Clinton resting after surgery on broken elbow

WASHINGTON - Secretary of State Clinton is back home resting in her Washington mansion after two hours of surgery on her broken right elbow.
Sect. of State Hillary Clinton resting after surgery on broken elbow
New York Times - msnbc.com - United Press International - Reuters

Friday, June 19, 2009

World 'watching Iran', Obama says -- BBC

US President Barack Obama has told Iran that "the world is watching", after its supreme leader demanded an end to post-election demonstrations. Obama says world is watching Iran
Ayatollah demands end to protests

اوباما: جهان ایران را تحت نظر گرفته است
تاکید کاخ سفید بر پرهیز از مناقشه انتخاباتی ایران
عفو بین الملل: اظهارات رهبر ایران، چراغ سبز سرکوب
Iran's Supreme Leader leaves challenger Mousavi facing a key decision

Reporters in Afghanistan face restrictions

Their crime? Committing journalism, apparently.
Reporters in Afghanistan face restrictions - Los Angeles Times

UN: World hunger reaches 1 billion mark

ROME -- The global financial meltdown has pushed the ranks of the world's hungry to a record 1 billion, a grim milestone that poses a threat to peace and security, U.N. food officials said Friday.

Because of war, drought, political instability, high food prices and poverty, hunger now affects one in six people, by the United Nations' estimate.
World Hunger Reaches 1B People Mark

U.S. Pursues a New Way To Rebuild in Afghanistan

After a tour of the country the following April, Murdock told U.S. officials he wanted to build a 25,000-acre plantation modeled after Dole's vast holdings in the Philippines. But a few months later, he concluded that transportation and security challenges made the project unsuitable for the company. U.S. Pursues a New Way To Rebuild in Afghanistan

U.S. Reconstruction Spending in Afghanistan

Obama admin not backing Karzai's re-election bid

WASHINGTON (PAN): The Obama administration is not supporting Hamid Karzai in his reelection bid in the forthcoming presidential polls, top US officials said Monday.

Instead the administration is taking necessary steps to make sure there is a level playing field for the opposition candidates and Karzai does not take advantage of incumbency.
Obama admin not backing Karzai's re-election bid
Afghan polls: US vows neutrality

Presidential candidates warn of poll boycott
Arsala to voters: choose national interests over tribal agendas
Karzai vows draw negative reaction

The States of Iraq and Afghanistan

“G oing forward, we will not blindly stay the course,” President Obama said in unveiling his new Afghanistan strategy this spring. “Instead, we will set clear metrics to measure progress.”

So how to best measure actual progress?
Op-Chart - The States of Iraq and Afghanistan - Op-Ed

Shadowy Iranian Vigilantes Vow Bolder Action

Mir Hussein Moussavi, the opposition presidential candidate leading the fight to overturn the results of last week’s presidential campaign, published two letters on his Web site on Thursday decrying the violence being carried out by the Basij. Shadowy Iranian Vigilantes Vow Bolder Action

As Confrontation Deepens, Iran's Leader to Speak - nytimes

Khamenei to address Iranians after election unrest Reuters
The Associated Press - CNN - Voice of America -

کودتای خونین در ایران و رقص ننگین در افغانستان

Clinton to Have Surgery to Repair Elbow Fractured in a Fall

WASHINGTON —The mishap occurred as Mrs. Clinton was walking to her car in the basement of the State Department. She was headed to a meeting with President Obama, accompanied by the administration’s special representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, Richard C. Holbrooke.
Clinton to Have Surgery to Repair Elbow Fractured in a Fall

ABC News - New York Daily News - Reuters

Passengers not told pilot of NJ-bound jet had died

Pentagon Admits Some Responsibility in Afghan Incident, But No Disciplinary Action Planned

The top U.S. military officer says U.S. forces have some responsibility for civilian deaths during a battle in Afghanistan's Farah Province in early May, but he says there is no basis for disciplinary action against any American troops.
Pentagon Admits Some Responsibility in Afghan Incident, But No Disciplinary Action Planned

راپور مرتبط به تلفات افراد ملکی در افغانستان
دبیر کل ناتو: چالش های افغانستان بزرگتر می شود

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Congress sends Obama $106 billion war funding bill

WASHINGTON (AP) — Congress on Thursday sent President Obama a massive spending bill aimed at ensuring that the military efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan won't run out of money in the coming months.

Congress has passed such bills every year since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, and with enactment of this legislation the amount will near $1 trillion, with about 70% going to the conflict in Iraq. Congress sends Obama $106 billion war funding bill

Taliban leaders report progress in secret talks with the US and ...