Friday, July 31, 2009

In Afghanistan, U.S. May Shift Strategy - Washingtonpost

Request for Big Boost in Afghan Troops Could Also Require More Americans
McChrystal Preparing New Afghan War Strategy - washingtonpost
US general may ask for more troops for Afghan war

Analysis: Taliban code seen as bid to spruce image
Afghan presidential candidate Ashraf Ghani...

Civilian casualties in Afghanistan keep rising, finds UN report

31 July 2009 – The report, prepared by UNAMA’s Human Rights Unit, focused on improvised explosive devices (IED)/suicide attacks carried out by AGEs, and airstrikes conducted by PGF, the two tactics which the mission says continue to claim the largest number of civilian lives in the ongoing armed conflict.

UN human rights chief Navi Pillay warned that civilian casualties were likely to continue rising unless more effective preventive measures were taken.
Civilian casualties in Afghanistan keep rising, finds UN report

UN envoy says election in Afghanistan is crucial for democracy

Flipping the Taliban - How to Win in Afghanistan - Foreign Affairs

Summary -- The deployment of more U.S. troops to Afghanistan is necessary to tip the balance of power against the Taliban. But this military "surge" must be accompanied with a political one designed to persuade insurgents to give up their fight. Flipping the Taliban
Flipping the Taliban Foreign Affairs
Afghan war spreads to residential areas: U.N. report Reuters

Holbrooke declares war on Taleban bankrollers - Times
Letters: Strategy in Afghanistan - independent

EDITORIAL: Winning in Afghanistan - washingtontimes

A starry-eyed exit strategy is no substitute for winning the war in Afghanistan. On Monday, British Foreign Secretary David Miliband called for talks with moderate Taliban elements to shore up the progress being made on the ground in southern Afghanistan. The Manchester Guardian reported that "there is even talk in London and Washington of a military 'exit strategy.' " EDITORIAL: Winning in Afghanistan - Washington Times

Taliban field manual: A kinder, ...
How to Win in Afghanistan - WSJ.com

Problems plague rebuilding of war-torn Afghanistan‎ - AP
2 indicted in $1 million Afghanistan bribe scheme - washingtonpost

White House Reviewing 'Cash For Clunkers' Program - npr

The CARS program offers owners of old cars and trucks $3,500 or $4,500 toward a new, more fuel-efficient vehicle. White House Reviewing 'Cash For Clunkers' Program

Bailed-Out Banks Gave More Than $30B In Bonuses
Congress Armed For Health Care Battle During Recess

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Presidential Medal of Freedom for Kennedy - Boston Globe

Senator Edward M. Kennedy received another high honor yesterday, courtesy of President Obama. Presidential Medal of Freedom for Kennedy

Washington Times - The Associated Press

Bailed-out banks paid billions in bonuses last year, study shows - LATimes

The report from the New York attorney general heightens pressure to rein in Wall Street pay. The House votes today on a bill that would let shareholders vote on pay packages. Many doubt it would help. Bailed-out banks paid billions in bonuses last year, study shows

Bank Bonus Tab: $33 Billion - WSJ
Banks Paid $32.6 Billion in Bonuses Amid US Bailout - bloomberg
CNNMoney.com - Reuters - New York Times

Lawmakers Cut Health Bills' Price Tag - washingtonpost

Negotiators in House and Senate Move Toward Compromises on Reform Packages
Lawmakers Cut Health Bills' Price Tag
Capitol Briefing: House Democrats Trim $100B from Health Bill

Obama More Bartender Than Mediator At Beer Summit

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Barack Obama played bartender-in-chief on Thursday at a "beer summit" of the main players in a racially charged case that he hoped would be a "positive lesson" in a national dialogue on race.
Obama More Bartender Than Mediator At Beer Summit

Video: President, Policeman, Professor Have a Beer
AP

Jackson's Mother Gains Custody of Children

LOS ANGELES — Katherine Jackson, the mother of Michael Jackson, will be the legal guardian of the late pop singer’s two oldest children, while their biological mother, Deborah Rowe, will have visitation rights under a new settlement agreement announced Thursday.
Jackson's Mother Gains Custody of Children

Video: Katherine Gets Full Custody
CBS
Jackson kids to live with grandma, visit mother AP
Washington Post
Custody Agreement Reached for Jackson's Kids TIME

Russia pushes for CAsia energy projects - Associated Press

DUSHANBE, Tajikistan -- Russian President Dmitry Medvedev on Thursday pushed for energy and transportation projects - in which Russia is likely to lead the way - to boost economic development in Afghanistan and surrounding countries. Russia pushes for CAsia energy projects

Taliban threaten Afghan poll, deadly month nears end

Problems plague rebuilding of war-torn Afghanistan

WASHINGTON -- The special inspector general overseeing tens of billions of dollars in Afghanistan reconstruction projects is warning of a lack of direction and communication among the U.S. agencies handling the work. Problems plague rebuilding of war-torn Afghanistan

Britain and U.S. defend war effort in Afghanistan
US officials warned Pakistan on Taliban spillover

EDITORIAL: Winning in Afghanistan - Washington Times
How to Win in Afghanistan - WSJ.com

Ghani Blames Afghan Government For Corruption - Renee Montagne

One candidate in next month's Afghan presidential election who poses a serious challenge to incumbent Hamid Karzai is his former finance minister.
Ghani Blames Afghan Government For Corruption
Afghan presidential candidate Ashraf Ghani delivers speech to his ...

Roadside Bombs Make For Deadly July In Afghanistan - npr
'America's Battalion' In Afghanistan

Talk to the Taliban, but don't sell out the women and young people of Afghanistan - HRW

But governments need to come clean with what this may all mean for Afghan women, who have not forgotten the promises made by British and US officials that troops were coming in part to liberate them from Taliban oppression. Shades of Fundamentalism

Afghan Women Candidates Campaign in Burqas - NYTimes.
Afghan women campaign in burqas
The woman who will not be silenced‎ - independent

Beyond the Burqa (France)

Taliban vow to disrupt Afghanistan election | International | Reuters

KABUL (Reuters) - The Taliban in Afghanistan warned on Thursday it would attempt to derail next month's presidential election, calling on Afghans to boycott the poll and urging them to "join the trenches of jihad."
Taliban vow to disrupt Afghanistan election International Reuters

Govt to call for revamped Afghan aid effort

Excerpts of Alexander's prepared remarks show he will call for a bigger push to strengthen central and local governments as the key to gaining the support of the Afghan public.

"Security and justice matter as much, if not more than the provision of other basic services in the eyes of many ordinary Afghans," he said in the remarks, to be delivered at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Govt to call for revamped Afghan aid effort

US, Britain: We're not deterred in Afghanistan CNN
Clinton praises British approach on Afghanistan AP
Aljazeera.net

Obama changes healthcare tack to win over the insured

Rather than focusing on the have-nots, he emphasizes how the middle class and others with coverage would benefit from consumer protections in an overhaul. Los Angeles Times
Obama's bill of consumer health insurance rights

Wall Street Journal - San Jose Mercury News
Obama takes health care pitch to NC, Va.

Did Jackson Doctor Fall Asleep As MJ Died?

Report: Authorities Think He May Have, and Dr. Conrad Murray Told Cops He Gave MJ Propofol, the Drug that May Have Killed Him Did Jackson Doctor Fall Asleep As MJ Died?
Complete coverage of Jackson's life and death

Who Will Get H1N1 Vaccines?

(CBS) A CDC advisory committee made it clear Wednesday who should be at the starting line to receive the H1N1 (swine flu) vaccine. They include, pregnant women, those in contact with babies, children and young people from age 6 to 24, health care workers and high risk adults, reports CBS News medical correspondent Dr. Jennifer Ashton.
Who Will Get H1N1 Vaccines?

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

What Dangers Did Diprivan Pose to Michael Jackson?

Anesthetic Propofol Was a 'Contributing Factor' in Pop Star's Death, Reports Say
Propofol: Jackson's 'Milk of Amnesia'?

Swine flu vaccine for 'half US' - BBC

This group also includes people who care for babies, health workers and children between the age of six months and four years.

Young adults aged 19 to 24, and adults - not old people - who have high-risk medical conditions are among a wider group of those to get priority for vaccinations. Swine flu vaccine for 'half US'

Why markets can't cure healthcare‎ - Paul Krugman

There are two strongly distinctive aspects of health care. One is that you don’t know when or whether you’ll need care — but if you do, the care can be extremely expensive. The big bucks are in triple coronary bypass surgery, not routine visits to the doctor’s office; and very, very few people can afford to pay major medical costs out of pocket. Why markets can't cure healthcare

Economists Krugman, Butler On Funding Health Care : NPR

U.S. Drug Agents Target Afghan Poppy Pushers - NPR

The Drug Enforcement Administration is beefing up its presence in Afghanistan, sending dozens more agents to go after caches of opium that are a main source of money for Taliban insurgents.
U.S. Drug Agents Target Afghan Poppy Pushers

'America's Battalion' In Afghanistan

The Afghan Presidential Candidates - Renee Montagne

The leading challenger hoping to win the Afghan presidency away from Hamid Karzai is a man defined by his associations The Afghan Presidential Candidates

Afghan Candidates Hit Campaign Trail
Holbrooke: Democracy At Work In Afghanistan

قانون اساسی طالبان منتشر شد

Miliband Says Britain Will Stick with Afghan Combat Mission

Miliband says the Afghan conflict is in a "tough phase," but that Britain intends to work through the difficulties, side-by-side with the United States as Afghanistan approaches historic elections next month. Miliband Says Britain Will Stick with Afghan Combat Mission

NATO Secretary General Hands Over Reins

باید بین طالبان تفکیک شود
ملگري ملتونه: راتلونکي انتخابات ډیر ستونزمن دي

'Organic' debate goes on, naturally - Los Angeles Times

My point was that farming is a complicated enterprise and there is a huge gray area between certified organic and the stereotypical heavy-duty use of chemical pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers. 'Organic' debate goes on, naturally

'Bachelorette' host dishes on final choice - Chris Harrison

I knew everything was going to be all right when the bird crapped on my shoulder the day before the proposal. But let's back up a bit.
'Bachelorette' host dishes on final choice - msnbc
Seattle Post Intelligencer

Rival warns Karzai win will not be accepted‎

From 1992 to 1996, Kabul was torn apart by a civil war between factions of the mujahideen, who had earlier resisted Soviet occupation. A number of the key players in that carnage are now prominent figures in the various election campaigns. Rival warns Karzai win will not be accepted
Afghanistan may close polls in violent regions

اشرف غنی احمدزی با رادیو آزادی
جهان مرور بر مطبوعات جهان

Rifts emerge over tackling the Taliban - BBC

Guest columnist Ahmed Rashid reports on the growing rift between the US and Pakistan over fighting the Taliban. Taliban tensions

د برتانيا سفير: له طالبانو سره خبرې کېدای شي
آمریکا و بریتانیا خواستار 'جذب' نیروهای میانه رو طالبان
طالبان آتش بس با دولت افغانستان را تکذیب کردند

Afghanistan needs a Henry VII -- Guardian

Kabul needs a tough, tightfisted central ruler who can manage the warlords and promote such basics as trade, clean water, and – we've moved on since 1485 – education for girls
Afghanistan needs a Henry VII

The defeat siren is sounding for Blair's vainglorious jihad in Afghanistan - Guardian

Taliban tensions - Ahmed Rashid on growing US-Pakistan divisions - BBC

Editorial: Lindsey Graham keeps his word - Los Angeles Tims

He stuck to his convictions and ignored partisan politics by being the only GOP senator to vote for Supreme Court nominee Sonia Sotomayor.
A model senator

Afghan election could be a real race

Energetic rivals have spurred Afghan President Hamid Karzai to step into public and hit the campaign trail.
Afghan election could be a real race - Los Angeles Time

Governor signs $84.5 billion spending plan

Schwarzenegger signed a package of legislation to wipe out a $24 billion deficit, cutting health and human services, K-12 and higher education, prisons and other state services, and making up the rest through borrowing and accounting gimmicks. Governor signs $84.5 billion spending plan

Los Angeles Times - San Jose Mercury News - BBC News - Reuters

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

عبدالله عبدالله نماد بازگشت به گذشته - نويسنده: احمد ضيا رفعت

عبدالله عبدالله نماد بازگشت به گذشته - احمد ضيا رفعت

مناظرۀ انتخاباتی داکتر اشرف غنی احمدزی با داکتر عبدالله عبداللهقسمت اول
مناظرۀ انتخاباتی داکتر اشرف غنی احمدزی با داکتر عبدالله عبداللهقسمت دوم
مناظرۀ انتخاباتی داکتر اشرف غنی احمدزی با داکتر عبدالله عبداللهقسمت سوم
مناظرۀ انتخاباتی داکتر اشرف غنی احمدزی با داکتر عبدالله عبداللهقسمت چهارم و اخیر

Gun attack on Afghan campaigner - BBC

A campaign manager for Afghan presidential candidate Abdullah Abdullah is seriously injured after gunmen attack his vehicle. Gun attack on Afghan campaigner
Regional militant nexus

ايده: د افغانستان ټاکنې ډېرې ننګوونکې دي
جنګي مجرمين په حکومت کې مه ګمارئ
نشریات کابل: سه شنبه، 6 اسد

If I were leader...

Obama: Future of Medicare Depends on Health Care Reform - CBS

"We all know right now we've got a problem that threatens Medicare and our entire health care system," the president said. "Unless we act, within a decade, the Medicare trust fund will be in the red."
Obama: Future of Medicare Depends on Health Care Reform

N.C. Terror Suspect May Be in Pakistan

'The Bachelorette: After the Final Rose': We live-blogged it! Entertainment Weekly

'The Bachelorette: After the Final Rose': We live-blogged it! Entertainment Weekly

'Bachelorette' makes her final choice msnbc
ABC News - CNN International
'Bachelorette' star Jillian Harris picks Ed Swiderski, gets her ...
POLL: Who Should Be the Next Bachelor?

Obama Opens Policy Talks With China - nytimes

WASHINGTON — The United States and China inaugurated two days of high-level talks on Monday, exchanging promises of great-power cooperation on weighty issues like climate change while steering clear of potential conflicts over exchange rates and human rights.
Obama Opens Policy Talks With China
US, China talk money, climate; no breakthroughs - washingtonpost

FBI Watched Terror Suspects for Three Years

UK poll: Afghan war is 'unwinnable' - Aljazeera

Most Britons believe the war in Afghanistan is "unwinnable" and want troops pulled out, according to a newspaper opinion poll. UK poll: Afghan war is 'unwinnable' Aljazeera.net

Taliban peace deal was 'bought' for £20000 Telegraph.co.uk

U.S Drug Agents Target Afghan Poppy Pushers

The Drug Enforcement Administration is beefing up its presence in Afghanistan, sending dozens more agents to go after caches of opium that are a main source of money for Taliban insurgents.
U.S Drug Agents Target Afghan Poppy Pushers

NPR: In Afghanistan, Communist-era Tunes At Today's Campaigns

Why Pakistan Balks at the US Offensive in Afghanistan‎

Pakistan is not betting on a U.S. victory in Afghanistan, nor is it going out of its way to help achieve one. Instead, say analysts and former top officials in Islamabad, Pakistan views the conflict in Afghanistan through the lens of its own national interests and its conflict with India — and it will act accordingly, prioritizing securing its own interests in Afghanistan's future. And that could be bad news for a U.S.-led military campaign that depends on Pakistan's help for thwarting the Afghan insurgency. Why Pakistan Balks at the US Offensive in Afghanistan

Why Pakistan Balks at the U.S. Offensive in Afghanistan - Yahoo! News

US Envoy - Most Taliban Funds Come From Overseas - NYTimes.com

BRUSSELS (AP) -- ''More money is coming from the Gulf than is coming from the drug trade to the Taliban,'' Holbrooke told journalists at NATO headquarters in Brussels. He didn't identify the countries where the sympathizers were donating from, but nations located on the Persian Gulf include Iran, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Iraq.
US Envoy - Most Taliban Funds Come From Overseas - NYTimes.com

Nine killed as UN urges Taliban not to scupper Afghan vote
Taliban peace deal was 'bought' for £20000 Telegraph.co.uk
UK poll: Afghan war is 'unwinnable' Aljazeera.net

U.S. Aims In Afghanistan Hinge On Election - npr

August's presidential election in Afghanistan could be more competitive than many observers have been predicting.

That raises a question for U.S. policymakers: what if Karzai — long thought of as America's man in Afghanistan — were to lose? U.S. Aims In Afghanistan Hinge On Election

Holbrooke: Democracy At Work In Afghanistan
James Carville Joins The Afghan Campaign Trail

Israeli Official: No Option Off Table Regarding Iran

Israel insisted Monday that it will do whatever it must to stop Iran from getting a nuclear weapon, even as the visiting U.S. defense chief promised tougher international sanctions if Tehran spurns an offer of talks.
Israeli Official: No Option Off Table Regarding Iran

Monday, July 27, 2009

In War and Isolation, a Fighter for Afghan Women - nytimes

Everybody wants Pashtoon Azfar. Her government, American aid groups and her own colleagues, the midwives of Afghanistan, all want her to work for them, lead them, help them rebuild a health system from the rubble of war.
In War and Isolation, a Fighter for Afghan Women

U.S. Shifts Afghan Narcotics Strategy

Obama's Plan Isn't the Answer - washingtonpost

For the 85 percent of Americans who already have health insurance, the Obama health plan is bad news. It means higher taxes, less health care and no protection if they lose their current insurance because of unemployment or early retirement. Obama's Plan Isn't the Answer

Boston Globe

Deutsche Bank Posts 68% Rise in Net Income

Net income rose to €1.09 billion ($1.55 billion), or €1.64 a share, from €649 million, ...
Deutsche Bank Posts 68% Rise in Net Income

DAB Bank, Deutsche Bank, Pfeiffer Vacuum: German Equity Preview Bloomberg
Reuters

Karzai can 'only win with fraud:' Afghan rivals

"We have had so many years of Karzai now and nothing good has happened," Ahmadazi said. "He has shown himself incapable of attacking corruption or drugs. This is a country where if $100 is spent, only one dollar will reach the people. That is why we have young men joining the Taliban for a couple of hundred dollars. That is why we need to change the president."
Karzai can 'only win with fraud:' Afghan rivals

Karzai urges foreign troops to respect Afghan civilians
New ambassador eager to see greater military progress

CBS News Hires Digital Journalist to Be Based in Afghanistan‎

CBS News executives announced today that they have hired Mandy Clark, a former video journalist for Voice of America News, as the network's digital journalist to be stationed in Afghanistan. CBS News Hires Digital Journalist to Be Based in Afghanistan The ...

Afghanistan rubbishes Pak claims of Indian interference in Balochistan‎ -
One man's mission: Free and fair elections in Afghanistan

UN calls on Afghans not to give up voting right

KABUL, July 27 (Xinhua) -- A spokesperson of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Afghanistan (UNAMA) Monday said that UN wants Afghan people not to let those who bring violence to Afghan community to steal their opportunity to participate the coming presidential polls. UN calls on Afghans not to give up voting right

صدیق:عدهء می خواهند امنیت انتخابات را مختل کنند - azadiradio
قانونی: تعداد زیاد وکلاء در اجلاس اشتراک نمی کنند

British Foreign Secretary Outlines Afghan Strategy

Ghani vows to fight corruption - pajhwok

HERAT CITY (PAN): Promising to fight corruption in government departments, presidential candidate and key challenger to president Hamid Karzai, Dr. Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai has termed the current administration the world's 5th corrupt government. Ghani vows to fight corruption

Rally in Karzai support accused of breaching electoral law

عبدالله عبدالله نماد بازگشت به گذشته - احمد ضيا رفعت
چه کس و چه نیرو، اطلاعات در مورد جنایات جنگی را پنهان نگهداشته است!؟

French president leaves hospital - BBC

France's President Sarkozy leaves a Paris hospital, having spent the night under observation after collapsing while jogging. French president leaves hospital

Could jogging be bad for you?
Sarkozy falls ill while jogging

UK urges change in Afghan strategy

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 militant nexus

US, UK urge Taliban 'integration'
Who are the Taliban?

If I were leader... What would you do as president of Afghanistan?

US, UK urge Taliban 'integration' - BBC

Top American and British officials have called for the inclusion of Taliban fighters who renounce extremism in Afghanistan's political life. US, UK urge Taliban 'integration'
Afghans 'agree Taliban deal'
Afghan-Pakistan militant nexus
Who are the Taliban?

ملبنډ منځلاري طالبان خبرو ته راوبلل
میلیبند: افغانستان با طالبان میانه رو مذاکره کند

Fraudsters of Afghanistan's Reconstruction | Mother Jones

Meet Del and Barbara Spier. The Texas grandparents were bankrupt as of March 2002, but they bounced back big thanks to Afghanistan's contracting free-for-all.
Fraudsters of Afghanistan's Reconstruction Mother Jones

Attack on campaign of presidential candidate wounds civilian in E

KABUL, July 27 (Xinhua) -- Unknown armed men opened fire Monday on a public meeting held in favor of Abdullah Abdullah, a main challenger to sitting President Hamid Karzai in Afghan presidential race, a private television channel said.
Attack on campaign of presidential candidate wounds civilian in E ...

عبدالله عبدالله نماد بازگشت به گذشته - احمد ضيا رفعت

Miliband to Nato: step up development effort in Afghanistan - guardian

With British soldiers being killed at the highest rate since the war against the Taliban started eight years ago, David Miliband, the foreign secretary, will say tomorrow that more effort must be made to promote the political and economic development of Afghanistan.
Miliband to Nato: step up development effort in Afghanistan guardian.co.uk

Sunday, July 26, 2009

Jobs for Our Allies- washingtonpost

AFGHANISTAN IS facing its second presidential election since the United States and its allies liberated the country from Taliban rule.
Jobs for Our Allies: The goal of this trade promotion bill is too critical...
Interrogations and Prosecution

چه کس و چه نیرو، اطلاعات در مورد جنایات جنگی را پنهان نگهداشته است
حضور جنگ سالاران باعث احیای قدرت دوبارهء طالبان شد - رادیو آزادی ...

Eide ties conflict, poverty to HR violations

KABUL (PAN): The United Nations top official in Afghanistan Tuesday identified the ongoing conflict and abject poverty as a significant hurdle to the development of human rights in the country. Eide ties conflict, poverty to HR violations

Afghan refugees' stay in Pakistan extended until 2012
EU reiterates its neutrality in election
Jawad faults the term Af-Pak

چه کس و چه نیرو، اطلاعات در مورد جنایات جنگی را پنهان نگهداشته است!؟

Iran intelligence minister sacked - BBC

Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has sacked one of his ministers, a day after he was forced to cancel the appointment of his vice-president.
Iran intelligence minister sacked
عزل وزیر اطلاعات؛ تسلیم استعفانامه وزیر ارشاد

Nicolas Sarkozy to slow down after collapsing while jogging

French President Nicolas Sarkozy's doctors are expected to advise him to slow down and cut back on his exercise regime after he collapsed while jogging and was kept in hospital overnight.
Telegraph.co.uk

Budget deal puts state in hole for next year

The plan lawmakers approved Friday also includes more than $15 billion in spending cuts largely to education and health and welfare services.Read more:
Budget deal puts state in hole for next year

Lawmakers Approve Most Budget Measures Washington Post
The Associated Press - New York Times - San Diego Union Tribune

Clinton hopes for female president in her lifetime

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Failed presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton said on Sunday she hoped there would a female U.S. president in her lifetime but ruled out the chance she would run again.
Clinton hopes for female president in her lifetime
Clinton says she has no interest in White House The Associated Press

Hillary Clinton seeks to ease Israeli fears over nuclear Iran
Clinton Makes Case for White House Foreign-Policy Record New York Times

French President Falls Ill, Will Remain Hospitalized Overnight

PARIS, July 26 -- President Nicolas Sarkozy of France collapsed while jogging Sunday afternoon and was rushed to a military hospital for tests. His office described the incident as a minor fainting spell and said he never lost consciousness.
French President Falls Ill, Will Remain Hospitalized Overnight

Video: Sarkozy Hospitalized After Collapsing During Jog AP
France's Sarkozy rushed to hospital Reuters

Distrust of government blunting Obama's pursuit of new programs

WASHINGTON -- If President Barack Obama got anything indisputably right at his news conference last week, it was this: The American people don't trust the federal government.
Distrust of government blunting Obama's pursuit of new programs
The Associated Press

BBC فارسی - افغانستان - سوءقصد ناکام به جان مارشال فهیم

Monthly allowances for Jackson's mother, children will be urged

Michael Jackson provided full financial support to his mother when he was alive and his estate should continue to do so after his death, the temporary administrators of the pop star's affairs plan to argue at a hearing next week.

Monthly allowances for Jackson's mother, children will be urged

Afghanistan Offensive 'Dispels German Illusions' - Der Spiegel

In a step that marks a major psychological milestone in postwar Germany, Bundeswehr soldiers are now on the offensive in Afghanistan. Afghanistan Offensive 'Dispels German Illusions'

German Armed Forces Intensify Fighting Against Taliban
'A NATO Exit Would Be Devastating for Afghanistan'
SPIEGEL 360: Our Complete Afghanistan Coverage

Pakistan Consumed by Violence as Taliban Power Grows

Saturday, July 25, 2009

James Carville Joins The Afghan Campaign Trail - NPR

The Democratic strategist who got Bill Clinton elected to the White House has signed on with another dark horse presidential candidate — this one in Afghanistan.

Carville says he sees real hope for Afghanistan's future. It's a future he wants Ghani — a former finance minister and World Bank analyst — to shape.

"It's a fascinating country. It has a very distinct pull on people," Carville says.
James Carville Joins The Afghan Campaign Trail
Learn more about the elections and the three leading candidates.

پاکستان برف بام خود را به بام دیگران می اندازد

طالبان، فقه اسلامی و انتخابات -- آیا انتخابات یک امر شرعی است؟ طالبان چه می گویند

بحث در بارهء وضع موجود افغانستان از جمله انتخابات حتما این سوال را مطرح می سازد که موقف طالبان در مورد انتخابات چیست؟
دید طالبان در رابطه به انتخابات چیست و آنان از منظر ایدئولوژیک چگونه به این پدیده می نگرند؟ برای جواب به این سوال نیازمند نگاهی به گذشته خواهیم بود
طالبان، فقه اسلامی و انتخابات
پس از انتخابات با طالبان گفتگو می کنیم -- 8صبح

موفقیت هدف نیست ! چه چیزی هدف است؟
موفقیت در افغانستان هدف نیست -- 8صبح
بحث نظام سیاسی در برنامه های نامزدهای انتخابات
آمریکا:برگزاری انتخابات سراسری در افغانستان مهم است



Afghans sceptical about elections BBC News

"Peace is a distant and elusive dream. This country was destroyed for 30 years with war after war. It will take more than two elections and presidents to fix it." Sceptical voters
Afghans sceptical about elections BBC News

هولبروک: د هېڅ نوماند ملاتړ او يا مخالفت نه کوو
آمریکا:برگزاری انتخابات سراسری در افغانستان مهم است

کرزی: که بيا ولسمشر شوم، سوله به راولم
د ٢٤ کانديدانو شورا: ټاکنې رڼې نه دي

Spiralling violence unnerves Afghanistan before vote

KABUL — Spiralling Taliban attacks and record Western military deaths have put Afghanistan on edge less than four weeks before key elections that many fear could be overshadowed by violence. Spiralling violence unnerves Afghanistan before vote

US Vice President Says Afghan War 'Worth the Sacrifice'

Gates, in Visit to Israel, Will Find Iran Looming - nytimes

WASHINGTON — Israel has made it clear that it could strike plants at the heart of Iran’s nuclear program, although it has agreed to the Obama administration’s policy of first trying to engage Iran in talks.

Gates, in Visit to Israel, Will Find Iran Looming

ايران اسراييل په اتوم بم وګواښه

Suicide attackers strike southeastern Afghan city

KABUL — Less than a month before Afghanistan's presidential election, Taliban fighters wearing suicide vests attacked a provincial capital Saturday, triggering gunbattles that killed seven militants. U.S. envoy Richard Holbrooke said it is "extraordinary" to hold a presidential election during a war. Suicide attackers strike southeastern Afghan city

Seven suicide attackers strike at Afghan facilities CNN International
Police Stop Suicide Bombers Before they Strike in Afghanistan Voice of America
ABC Online - AFP - United Press International - Long War Journal

As security rises in Kabul, residents feel less safe instead‎

KABUL, Afghanistan — As the United States steps up its civilian presence in Kabul, residents of the ancient capital say they're beginning to feel like a city under siege.
As security rises in Kabul, residents feel less safe instead

First TV Debate in Presidential Camapaign
Foreign Troops a Key Issue in Afghan Presidential Battleground

Afghan woman MP lists 'enemies'

ترجمان امریکایی، پول هنگفت، زنده گی راحت!؟ - rferl

ا افزایش تعداد عساکر امریکایی در افغانستان تعداد ترجمان های که به این کشور فرستاده می شوند نیز بیشتر شده است، اما این ترجمان ها در افغانستان با مشکلات متعدد روبرو هستند
یک ترجمان برای قوای امریکایی حد وسط سالانه 210 هزار دالر معاش دارد، طبعاً هرکس تلاش می کند که این شغل را بدست بیآورد، عده ای هم برای بدست آوردن این کار دروغ می گویند
ترجمان امریکایی، پول هنگفت، زنده گی راحت!؟ - RFE/RL

هولبروک: در انتخابات افغانستان خالیگاه های وجود دارد.
ستراتیژی مواد مخدر در افغانستان تغییر می کند
وزیر خارجه سویدن: ما آمدیم تا از انتخابات حمایت کنیم.

The aid Afghanistan really needs - Guardian

Matt Waldman: To defeat the Taliban insurgency, we need an approach based not on a military solution but on the interests of ordinary Afghans The aid Afghanistan really needs

We need a European defence plan
The big lie of Afghanistan - Malalai Joya
A proud moment for Afghanistan - Nushin Arbabzadah
Afghanistan: Dangerous illusions

Jackson advisor says he turned over $5.5 million

LOS ANGELES — A former financial advisor to Michael Jackson said Friday that he was the person who recently turned over to executors $5.5 million, which had been "a secret between Michael and me." Jackson advisor says he turned over $5.5 million The Associated Press

Sheriff probes leaks by coroner's employees in Jackson case Los Angeles Times

Karzai Vows More Control Over Troops - nytimes

KABUL — Running for re-election, the Afghan president addressed complaints about civilain casualties, raids on private homes and detention without charges.
Karzai Vows More Control Over Troops

Rival to Karzai Gains Strength in Afghan Race
Afghanistan's Leader Skips an Election Debate, Claiming Bias

ترجمان امریکایی، پول هنگفت، زنده گی راحت!؟
گاردین: نمی توان با افزایش تعداد عساکر و توسعهء میدان محاربه پیروز شد

Arrest of Gates also shines a light on 'disorderly conduct' laws - Los Angeles Times

Reporting from Washington -- For some defense lawyers, the arrest of Harvard professor Henry Louis Gates Jr. was less about racial profiling than about how persons can be arrested simply for speaking angry words to a police officer. Arrest of Gates also shines a light on 'disorderly conduct' laws

Obama Shifts Tone on Gates After Mulling Scale of Debate - nytimes
Professor’s Arrest Tests Beliefs on Racial Progress (July 24, 2009)
Text: Obama’s Remarks on Gates’s Arrest (July 24, 2009)
Obama invites police officer for beer - guardian.co.uk,

Friday, July 24, 2009

Karzai 'to review foreign forces' - BBC

Afghan president Hamid Karzai has said that he will review agreements with foreign forces operating in Afghanistan if he is re-elected. Karzai 'to review foreign forces'
کرزی: در صورت پیروزی برای صلح تلاش می کنم
تبلیغات انتخاباتی:"دموکراتیک یا موبوکراتیک"
بحث نظام سیاسی در برنامه های نامزدهای انتخابات

An Alternative History of the US Role in Afghanistan | Mother Jones

In January 2009, they published "Invisible History: Afghanistan's Untold Story," a book that Selig Harrison, the Washington Post's former South Asia bureau chief, calls "a much needed corrective to five decades of biased journalistic and academic writing about Afghanistan that has covered up the destructive and self-defeating US role there."
An Alternative History of the US Role in Afghanistan Mother Jones

US envoy warns of imperfect Afghan poll‎

GHAZNI, Afghanistan — President Barack Obama's special envoy said Friday that Afghanistan's upcoming presidential contest will be imperfect, but the country cannot be held to a democratic standard that even the U.S. struggles to achieve. US envoy warns of imperfect Afghan poll

Fraud casts shadow over Afghan presidential vote
Karzai vows to regulate foreign troops
Afghan president campaigns in capital - washingtonpost.com

ویدیو: اولین مناظره انتخاباتی در افغانستاناولین مناظره زنده -- BBC

اولین مناظره زنده تلویزیونی دو رقیب اصلی حامد کرزی از تلویزیون خصوصی طلوع افغانستان پخش شد
تماشا کنید
ویدیو: اولین مناظره انتخاباتی در افغانستان

Swine flu 'reaches 160 countries' -- BBC

The swine flu virus has reached 160 countries and could infect two billion people within the next two years, the World Health Organization has said. Swine flu 'reaches 160 countries'

Swine flu 'critical care threat'

Obama has lifted global view of US Boston Globe

The center found that in 21 of the countries surveyed, an average of 71 percent of respondents had at least some confidence in Obama’s handling of world affairs.
Obama has lifted global view of US Boston Globe

World opinion of US improves since Obama's election, poll finds
Poll: US image abroad surges under Obama San Francisco Chronicle
ABC News - USA Today - New York Times - Politico

More troops will die in Afghanistan, says Joe Biden | World news

More British and American troops will die in Afghanistan, but the war against the Taliban is in the national interests of both countries, the US vice-president, Joe Biden, said today.
More troops will die in Afghanistan, says Joe Biden World news ...

جنگ در افغانستان "ارزش داشته است"
Biden: Expect more casualties in Afghanistan‎ - AP
TV debate for Afghan contenders

US envoy in Afghanistan's troubled south: local official‎

KABUL — US regional envoy Richard Holbrooke arrived in Afghanistan on Thursday and headed to southern Helmand province, where recently deployed US Marines are battling Taliban insurgents, a local official said. US envoy in Afghanistan's troubled south: local official

US keen to avoid past Afghan-Pakistan mistake - Yahoo! Canada News
US envoy: Securing Pakistan's Swat a top priority

Poll details: Majority in US oppose both wars - washingtonpost

-- A majority of Americans oppose both the war in Afghanistan and the war in Iraq, though the war in Afghanistan is a little more popular. Here are details: Poll details: Majority in US oppose both wars
Rising casualties raise doubts abroad on war
Biden: Expect more casualties in Afghanistan

Afghans slam Karzai for pulling out of poll debate
Afghan Incumbent Misses First Presidential Debate

Ambassador Jawad Addresses Humanitarian Engagement in Afghanistan

In his remarks, Ambassador Jawad spoke of philanthropy in Afghanistan, pointing out that while it has longstanding roots in the country it has lacked institutional mechanisms and networks.
Full Text of Ambassador Jawad's Remarks (.PDF)
http://www.embassyofafghanistan.org/

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Poll: U.S. Image Abroad Surges under Obama

71% of Those Surveyed had Confidence in Obama's Handling of World Affairs; 17% Supported Bush in 2008

(CBS/AP) President Barack Obama's popularity has boosted America's image abroad even though deep suspicions about the U.S. persist in the Muslim world, according to a poll released Thursday. Poll: U.S. Image Abroad Surges under Obama

White House Video -- Going Global

Friends, Family Remember Cronkite - CBS

(CBS) Relatives and friend remembered legendary CBS News anchor Walter Cronkite Thursday at a memorial service at St. Bartholomew's Church in Manhattan, where the Cronkite family worshiped for decades. Friends, Family Remember Cronkite

Video Farewell To Cronkite
Walter Cronkite Laid to Rest
Remembering Walter Cronkite

Some Attack Timing of Minimum Wage Hike

Even with the raise, workers are still behind when inflation is considered: The purchasing power of someone being paid minimum wage is 18 percent below what it was in 1968, economists say.
Some Attack Timing of Minimum Wage Hike - washingtonpost

Minimum wage hits $7.25 as some businesses strain USA Today
Houston Chronicle - Kansas City Star

Swine Flu Prevention Takes on New Urgency - WSJ

Global health officials are scrambling to try to prevent the spread of the H1N1 swine flu virus, with U.S. officials moving Thursday with a recommendation that the Food and Drug Administration approve or license a vaccine. Swine Flu Prevention Takes on New Urgency

Barack Obama raises $2 million, pushes health-care reform at 2 ... Chicago Tribune

Obama: 'Victory' not right word for Afghanistan - washingtonpost

WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama says he's uncomfortable using the word "victory" to describe the United States' goal in Afghanistan. He says the U.S. fight there is against broader terrorism and not a nation. Obama: 'Victory' not right word for Afghanistan

US intelligence gathering in Afghanistan expanded

Biden: Expect more casualties in Afghanistan
President Karzai Skips Afghanistan Presidential Debate

Fed Pushes New Curbs On Lending Practices

The Federal Reserve on Thursday unveiled a proposal to curb abusive lending practices by reining in compensation for mortgage brokers and by helping borrowers better understand the terms of loans available to them. Fed Unveils Plan to Curb Abusive Lending

Afghanistan’s Leader Skips an Election Debate, Claiming Bias - nytimes

Both former ministers in Mr. Karzai’s cabinet, the candidates criticized his government’s performance, particularly its failure to bring security to the country, the lack of justice and widespread corruption.

Mr. Ghani said, “If you think there was improvement in the last five years, vote for this government. If not, vote for justice.” Afghanistan’s Leader Skips an Election Debate, Claiming Bias

SECRETARY-GENERAL SADDENED BY DEATH OF FORMER KING OF AFGHANISTAN ...
The Secretary-General was deeply saddened by the death of Mohammad Zahir Shah, the former king of Afghanistan.

Global Views of U.S. Helped by Obama, Survey Says - nytimes

But it also finds broad opposition to one of his crucial policies — sending more troops to Afghanistan — and confirms a drop in confidence in the United States among Israelis.
Obama Drives Change in Global Views

44 Are Charged in New Jersey-Focused Corruption Inquiry

اسرائیل از سخنان کلینتون درباره ایران انتقاد کرد -- BBC

هیلاری کلینتون، وزیر امور خارجه آمریکا که به تایلند سفر کرده در سخنانی گفته است اگر ایران به سلاح اتمی مجهز شود، ایالات متحده همسایگان این کشور را زیر چتر دفاعی خود قرار خواهد داد
کلینتون: آمریکا همچنان در انتظار پاسخ ایران است
کلینتون: آمریکا ظرفیت دفاعی همسایگان ایران را تقویت می کند

Clinton's Iran Comments Irk Israel
U.S. Pressure On Jewish Settlements Spurs Sales

'آمریکا نگران برنامه اتمی شاه ایران بود'

Switzerland calls for end to Israeli settlements

GENEVA, July 23 (Xinhua) -- The Swiss government on Thursday called on Israel to stop construction of Jewish settlements in occupied Palestinian territories. Switzerland calls for end to Israeli settlements

Netanyahu calls on Arab world to strive for regional peace Jerusalem Post
France Summons Israeli Ambassador Over Settlements Voice of America
Christian Science Monitor

Afghanistan TV debate leaves viewers cold after Hamid Karzai fails to appear - Guardian

Afghanistan's first ever televised presidential debate struggled to ignite interest among voters in Kabul tonight after Hamid Karzai refused to take part and the programme moderator refused to let his rivals attack his record. Afghanistan TV debate leaves viewers cold after Hamid Karzai fails ...

Afghans slam Karzai for pulling out of poll debate International ...
President Karzai Skips Afghanistan Presidential Debate ... wshingtonpost

Karzai Rivals Makes GainsAhead Of Afghan Vote - NPR
Campaigning For Afghan Presidency Gears Up : NPR

Reconciliation As 'Endgame' In Afghanistan?

With another week still to go, July has already become the deadliest month for international coalition forces since they launched the U.S.-led military offensive in Afghanistan in late 2001.
Reconciliation As 'Endgame' In Afghanistan?

Afghan Bill Aims To Criminalize Discrimination Against Women ...
Afghan TV Presidential Debate to Proceed Without Karzai
شرایط حامد کرزی برای مناظره تلویزیونی

Obama Seeks to Calm Fears on Health Reform

This is not just about 47 million Americans who have no health insurance," he said in a prime-time televised news conference, the fourth of his presidency. "Reform is about every American who has ever feared that they may lose their coverage." Obama Seeks to Calm Reform Fears
Analysis: Obama's Toughest Sales Pitch Is Also His Most Critical

Clinton's RemarksOn Iran Irk Israel - npr

Bin Laden son thought killed in U.S. drone strike: NPR

ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - Osama bin Laden's son Sa'ad was probably killed by a U.S. missile strike in Pakistan earlier this year, U.S. National Public Radio has reported, citing U.S. intelligence officials. Bin Laden son thought killed in U.S. drone strike: NPR

US Vice President Says Afghan War 'Worth the Sacrifice'
Afghanistan moves troops to south, clashes in north
Pakistan Seeks U.S. Military Aid
Afghan plan

Feds: US man gave al-Qaida NYC subway information

Nato warning over Afghan mission - BBC

Nato head Jaap de Hoop Scheffer has warned that walking away from the alliance's mission in Afghanistan would have a "devastating" effect.

Speaking in London, the Nato secretary-general said failure would give free run to al-Qaeda.
Warning over Afghan mission
Afghan war is 'worth the effort'

Authorities search Houston office of Jackson's physician - latimes

Investigators from L.A. and Houston, as well as DEA agents, seize documents and computer files from Acres Home Heart and Vascular Institute, a cardiology clinic run by Dr. Conrad Murray.
Authorities search Houston office of Jackson's physician

Gordon Brown insists British troops in Afghanistan have enough helicopters

Gordon Brown clashed today with the outgoing Foreign Office minister Lord Malloch-Brown when he insisted British troops in Afghanistan had enough helicopters for the tasks they faced, and denied he had failed to prepare the country for the recent spate of British military casualties.

Gordon Brown insists British troops in Afghanistan have enough helicopters
Time for honesty over Afghan mission Richard Norton-Taylor

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Afghan war is 'worth the effort' 00 BBC

US Vice-President Joe Biden has told the BBC that the war in Afghanistan is in the interests of the US and the UK. Afghan war is 'worth the effort'
US looks for progress
Warning over Afghan mission

شرایط حامد کرزی برای مناظره تلویزیونی
واگذاری 7.5 هکتار زمین به آمریکا از سوی دولت افغانستا
بلندترین قله افغانستان فتح شد

White House releases list of health executive visitors - latimes

The list shows that executives and lobbyists began visiting in early February for private meetings on healthcare policy. White House releases list of health executive visitors

Obama was meeting with health execs in February The Associated Press
The President On the Issues 0 washingtonpost
Times Online - Reuters - The Associated Press

Transcript: Obama’s Fifth News Conference - nytimes

Six months ago, I took office amid the worst recession in half a century. We were losing an average of 700,000 jobs per month, and our financial system was on the verge of collapse. As a result of the actions we took in those first weeks, we've been able to pull our economy back from the brink. Transcript: Obama’s Fifth News Conference

Obama Moves to Reclaim the Debate on Health Care
White House Official Links Health Care Plan to Fiscal Balance

Michelle Obama's new hairdo or don't?

First Lady and fashion plate Michelle Obama showed off a new bob hairstyle that's all her own at a country music celebration at the White House last night. Los Angeles Times
Short notice: Much ado over first lady's 'do

Two billion people cast into darkness as total eclipse crosses Asia - Times

Tens of thousands of people — from renowned astrophysicists to farmers — descended on a muddy Indian village yesterday to watch the best solar eclipse of the 21st century from what was predicted to be one of the finest vantage points on the planet.
Two billion people cast into darkness as total eclipse crosses Asia
Full solar eclipse turns day to night in Asia - AP

Millions of Afghan children forced to work - survey South Asia ...

Joint Chiefs Chairman 'Appalled' By Detainee Abuse Photos

Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, expressed outrage to his combatant commanders after seeing some of the detainee abuse photos now under wraps by the Obama administration, according to a highly sensitive memo obtained Wednesday by FOX News. Joint Chiefs Chairman 'Appalled' By Detainee Abuse Photos

US-born militant who fought for Al Qaeda is in custody Los Angeles Times
Long Island Man Charged in Attack on US Base in Afghanistan, nytimes

Millions of Afghan children forced to work - survey

KABUL (Reuters) - Almost 30 years of conflict have forced millions of Afghan children to go without education and work to help feed their families, U.N. and Afghan government figures released on Wednesday showed.

Of Afghanistan's 8.4 million children -- more than a third of the population of 28 million -- 1.2 million are the main breadwinners for their families and many more supplement family incomes, according to a survey conducted by the Afghan government, UNICEF and the independent Afghanistan Research And Evaluation Unit (AREU) from 2008 to 2009.
Millions of Afghan children forced to work - survey South Asia ...

Hamid Karzai pulls out of historic TV debate just hours before broadcast - Guardian

In a country where politics is dominated by tribal chiefs, village mullahs and unsavoury warlords, the people of Afghanistan will tomorrow be treated to a unique exercise in modern democracy. Hamid Karzai pulls out of historic TV debate just hours before broadcast

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

The Question of Security: Who to Satisfy and Who to Pacify

Security in the context of today’s Afghanistan has much to do with a strategy on how to deal with different stakeholders. The Question of Security: Who to Satisfy and Who to Pacify

HUNDREDS OF AFGHAN REFUGEES IN PAKISTAN ANNOUNCE THEIR SUPPORT FOR DR. GHANI
Housing, Jobs Top Priorities: Ghani
اشرف غنی برای 'مبارزه با فساد' از مردم کمک خواست
آغاز برنامه گسترده مبارزه با فساد در افغانستان
Dr. Ghani’s Vision for the Future

Taliban claims responsibility for new wave of attacks in Afghanistan

Reporting from Kabul, Afghanistan -- Sowing security fears less than a month before presidential elections, a wave of gunmen and suicide bombers staged coordinated attacks in two eastern cities Tuesday that killed at least six Afghan security officers and eight of the insurgents during hours of chaotic fighting. Los Angeles Times
Aljazeera.net - BBC News - AFP

روزنامه های کابل: سه شنبه ۳۰ سرطان
آغاز برنامه گسترده مبارزه با فساد در افغانستان
اشرف غنی برای 'مبارزه با فساد' از مردم کمک خواست

Europe raises pressure on Israel to stop settlements

JERUSALEM, July 21 (Reuters) - Germany, France and EU president Sweden on Tuesday joined Western nations pressing Israel to stop building settlements in East Jerusalem and the West Bank under a U.S.-led effort to resume stalled peace talks.
Europe raises pressure on Israel to stop settlements

guardian.co.uk - The Associated Press - AFP