Afghanistan: August 2009

Monday, August 31, 2009

Afghan president leading in vote - BBC

It said the ballots from 47.8% of polling stations had now been counted. President Hamid Karzai has gained 45.8% of the votes tallied, with his nearest rival, Abdullah Abdullah, at 33.2%, the independent commission reports. Afghan president leading in vote
US 'needs fresh Afghan strategy'

په جلال اباد کې سېلابونو ١٠ تنه وژلي دي
آمریکا 'به استراتژی جدیدی برای افغانستان نیاز دارد'

Princess Diana Remembered 12 Years Later: See Her Most Stylish Moments

Princess Diana, who along with companion Dodi Al-Fayed lost her life in a fatal car accident in Paris 12 years ago today, was a faithful follower of fashion and a worldwide style icon.
Princess Diana Remembered 12 Years Later: See Her Most Stylish Moments

UN plans Afghanistan summit in Kabul - guardian

Diplomats want to shore up whatever government is formed by holding first ever top-level meeting in capital

The United Nations is planning to host an international summit on the future of Afghanistan for the first time in Kabul – an attempt to bestow credibility on the new government that emerges from the country's bitterly contested presidential election.

UN plans Afghanistan summit in Kabul World news guardian.co.uk
پاریس میزبان بحث انتخابات افغانستان

In Afghanistan, We Know Failure When We See It

Victory in Afghanistan will be achieved when the Pashtuns consent to the government's legitimacy and stop actively and passively supporting the Taliban insurgency.
In Afghanistan, We Know Failure When We See It - huffingtonpos
US Commander Says Afghan War Needs A New Strategy

Los Angeles wildfire doubles in size overnight
Multiple wildfires scorch West in dry, hot weather The Associated Press
Los Angeles Times - ABC News
آتش سوزی ناحیه لس آنجلس 'دو برابر' شده است

Afghanistan's hidden heroin addicts‎

KABUL—The flame from a match pierces pitch-black darkness, casting an eerie glow on dirty, feral faces.

These are the human moles of Kabul, drug addicts who live in the stark ruins of the Russian Cultural Centre, all rubble and dank subterranean warrens.
TheStar.com World Afghanistan's hidden heroin addicts

AFGHANISTAN: Kabul drug addicts running out of hope‎

American Antiwar Movement Plans an Autumn Campaign Against - nytimes

A restive antiwar movement, largely dormant since the election of Barack Obama, is preparing a nationwide campaign this fall to challenge the administration’s policies on Afghanistan.
American Antiwar Movement Plans an Autumn Campaign Against ...‎

AFGHANISTAN: Kabul drug addicts running out of hope‎ - (IRIN)

Change in Afghanistan must come from within - The Observer

GORDON BROWN has made a flying visit to Afghanistan, calling the campaign to secure the country's recent election worthwhile.

In the end, it may be that solutions cannot be imposed by the west, but need to emerge from within an Afghan society free of the interference that has for three decades exacerbated its problems. Change in Afghanistan must come from within World news The ...

British PM's Afghan visit highlights West's concerns‎ - AFP
U.S. Assembles Metrics to Weigh Progress in Afghanistan and ... - washingtonpost

Opportunities expand for empowered Afghan women

The U.S. government is also aware of the potential. It has allocated $27 million that soon will be distributed in small flexible grants "to empower Afghan women [private organizations] at the local level," according to Melanne S. Verveer, the U.S. ambassador at large for global women's issues. Opportunities expand for empowered Afghan women - Washington Times

Analysis: Vote snarls US job instead of easing it‎ - AP

Sunday, August 30, 2009

U.S. Walks Fine Line in Afghan Vote - WSJ

Fraud allegations have marred the election, however. Afghan and international observers say supporters of both candidates stuffed ballot boxes and intimidated voters.

Supporters of Mr. Karzai painted it as a U.S. attempt to force the rightful winner into a run-off. Opponents sought to portray it as another sign that the president, who came to power with the backing of the Bush administration, has lost Washington's blessing and could no longer effectively govern. - US Walks Fine Line in Afghan Vote Wall Street Journal

Xinhua - BBC News
Many Women Stayed Away From the Polls In Afghanistan - Washington Post
عبدالله عبدالله از تقلب گسترده در انتخابات خبر داد
UN plans Afghanistan summit in Kabul‎

Japan Democrats take power, tough challenges loom

Sunday's victory by the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) ends a half-century of almost unbroken rule by the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and breaks a deadlock in parliament, ushering in a government that has promised to focus spending on consumers, cut wasteful budget outlays and reduce the power of bureaucrats. Japan Democrats take power, tough challenges loom
Japanese Opposition Wins Elections in Landslide- nytimes
Japan's Audacity of Hope Wall Street Journal
Times Online - Xinhua

Bush daughter Jenna Hager becomes 'Today' reporter

NEW YORK — NBC's "Today" show has hired someone with White House experience as a new correspondent — former first daughter Jenna Hager. Bush daughter Jenna Hager becomes 'Today' reporter The Associated Press

Jenna Bush Hager Becomes Member of the Press
New York Times

"Special: Afghanistan - The Road to Peace"

Afghanistan is still in turmoil. The terrorist threat from the Taliban, strict enforcers of Islamic fundamentalism, has spread to every part of the country. Civilian deaths in terrorist attacks and armed conflict have been increasing, and now stand at their highest level in eight years.
NHK WORLD TV Programs - Society

US fears clock ticking on Afghanistan - latimes
افغانستان به بازسازی نیاز دارد، ولی خروج جوانان تحصیل کرده افغان از کشور شان در حال افزایش است

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Kennedy's Letter to Pope Benedict - washingtonpost

At Sen. Edward M. Kennedy's request, President Obama last month delivered a letter to Pope Benedict XVI. Until Saturday, at Kennedy's burial, when Cardinal Theodore McCarrick read aloud from it and from a Vatican response, the letters' contents were not publicly known.
Kennedy's Letter to Pope Benedict

BURIAL AT ARLINGTON: 'We Loved This Kind And Tender Hero'
View All Items in This Story

United States - Washington DC - Statement by Ambassador of Afghanistan

Senator’s letter to pope, Vatican reply read aloud

“I know that I have been an imperfect human being,’’ Kennedy wrote, “but with the help of my faith, I have tried to right my path.’’ A final farewell

Kennedy's letter to pope and reply Video
Father's care recalled Ted Jr.'s remarks

Sen. Edward M. Kennedy laid to rest near brothers - latimes

Hamid Karzai in fiery row with US official - Times Online

When Holbrooke raised the possibility of a run-off, Karzai flew into a rage and accused Holbrooke of forcing a second round “against the interests of Afghanistan”. Hamid Karzai in fiery row with US official Times Online

Tally in Afghanistan Shows Karzai Lead Widening - nytimes
The Associated Press - Aljazeera.net
Afghanistan's Dostum Leaves Country After Vote - Radio Free Europe ...

Kennedy Laid to Rest at Arlington - CBS

(CBS/AP) Sen. Edward M. Kennedy was laid to rest alongside slain brothers John and Robert on hallowed ground at Arlington National Cemetery on Saturday evening, celebrated for "the dream he kept alive" across the decades since their deaths. Kennedy Laid to Rest at Arlington

Sen. Kennedy Joins Brothers at Arlington
Story: Mass Honors 'The Greatest Legislator'
Explore: Funeral Honors Kennedy Legacy

Complete coverage of Sen. Kennedy's life and death

The Afghanistan Challenge - washingtonpost

Things in Afghanistan are not going well. Is that because the situation requires a different kind of military leadership, as suggested by the Pentagon's decision to install a new commanding general? Or is it because political leaders have been unable to articulate credible goals and a credible strategy? What would you do? - The Afghanistan Challenge

British prime minister visits Afghanistan
US faces smaller, smarter enemy in Afghanistan

Body of Sen. Kennedy Arrives in D.C. for Burial - washingtonpost

"Ted Kennedy was the baby of the family who became its patriarch," Obama said. "The restless dreamer who became its rock." Body of Sen. Kennedy Arrives in D.C. for Burial

Praised as Family Man, Advocate
Obama's Eulogy Video
Son's Eulogy Mass Program
Kennedy Photos Full Coverage

A final farewell

U.S. Accuses Pakistan of Altering Missiles - nytimes

WASHINGTON — The United States has accused Pakistan of illegally modifying American-made missiles to expand its capability to strike land targets, a potential threat to India, according to senior administration and Congressional officials. U.S. Accuses Pakistan of Altering Missiles

White House Claims Pakistan Modified U.S. - Made Missiles - Report
Tally in Afghanistan Shows Karzai Lead Widening

Family and Leaders Pay Kennedy Tribute - nytimes

BOSTON — Under relentless rain and with heavy hearts, hundreds of mourners both great and ordinary bade farewell to Senator Edward M. Kennedy here on Saturday. Family and Leaders Pay Kennedy Tribute

Transcript: Edward Kennedy Jr.’s Remembrance of Senator Kennedy
Text: President Obama’s Eulogy for Senator Kennedy
Partial list of those who attended Kennedy funeral - AP
Week in Review In Kennedy, the Last Roar of the New Deal Liberal

Afghan's Karzai extends poll lead - BBC

The election commission announced he has just over 46% to Abdullah Abdullah's 31.4%. The election commission has maintained that there were only a few complaints of voting irregularities. Afghan's Karzai extends poll lead

Brown hints at Afghan troop rise
Washington Post - Radio Free Europe

راسموسن: افغانستان کې د اړتيا تروخته پاتې کېږو
براون:ممکن است نیروهای بریتانیا در افغانستان افزایش یابد

Abdullah won't accept result if the incumbent wins

"If the democratic process does not survive, then Afghanistan doesn't survive," Abdullah said, adding he would refuse to recognise the outcome. He said the international community was concerned the drawn-out elections could worsen security. - Abdullah won't accept result if the incumbent wins

Karzai widens lead in Afghanistan vote count CNN
Karzai Using Rift With US to Gain Favor NYtimes
American government condemns fraud in Afghan election Telegraph

Ted Kennedy Jr. remembers his father

My name is Ted Kennedy Jr., a name I share with my son, a name I share with my father. Although it hasn't been easy at times to live with this name, I've never been more proud of it than I am today. Ted Kennedy Jr.'s remembrance of his father
Reuters - Baltimore Sun - Chicago Tribune

Camelot continues: Caroline Kennedy finds her voice for beloved uncle Teddy

Friday night - as Kennedy remembered her late uncle at a presidential library in Boston that bears her slain father's name - she was an eloquent, loving niece, and perhaps the last living link to the age of Camelot.

"I looked up and there was this one star hanging low in the sky that was just bigger than all the rest and brighter than all the rest," she said. "I know it was Jupiter but it was acting a lot like Teddy."Camelot continues: Caroline Kennedy finds her voice for beloved - NewYorkDailyNews

Kennedy Memorial and Burial Schedule FOXNews
Boston Globe - New York Times - Chicago Tribune

US Afghan 'row' worries British diplomat - BBC

A senior British diplomat has said an "explosive" meeting between the US special envoy to Afghanistan and the country's president is very worrying.

He said foreign criticism could "de-legitimise the whole process". "I think if there are doubts about corruption in the election, etc, it would be far better, at least in the first instance, to let the Afghan procedures with UN support run their course before jumping to conclusions."

Lord Ashdown added that undermining the election could have disastrous consequences. "If it is the case that the Americans by some form or another have declared these elections illegitimate as it were, have undermined the legitimacy of the electoral process, then our capacity to be able to win back the support of the Pashtun tribes from the Taliban is lessened.
US Afghan 'row' worries British diplomat
US envoy 'in angry Karzai talks'

Presidential election helps diminish sharp ethnic divide of Afghanistan

KABUL, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- One of the byproducts of Aug. 20 Afghan presidential election is the considerable shrinking of the sharp ethnic divide of post-jihad Afghan society. Presidential election helps diminish sharp ethnic divide of ... Xinhua
Afghan vote fraud claims gather momentum AFP
Bloomberg - New York Times

Accused of Drug Ties, Afghan Official Worries U.S. - IHT
انترنیشنل هرالدتربیون: با فهیم قسیم چگونه برخورد باید صورت گیرد؟

Friday, August 28, 2009

White House condemns any Afghan vote fraud‎ - AFP

"We condemn any acts of fraud; it is important that the outcome of these elections reflect the will of the Afghan people," NSC spokesman Michael Hammer said. White House condemns any Afghan vote fraud‎
Washington Post - Reuters - Telegraph.co.uk
US Concerned About Allegations of Afghan Election Fraud

US helicopter accidentally dumps Afghan ballot boxes‎ - reuters
Abdullah's supporters threaten to take up arms over 'rigged' election - independent

Actions matter more than PR for US military: Mullen

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - "Our biggest problem isn't caves; it's credibility. Our messages lack credibility because we haven't invested enough in building trust and relationships, and we haven't always delivered on promises," he wrote. Actions matter more than PR for US military: Mullen

guardian.co.uk - Foreign Policy - The Washington Independent
Joint Chiefs Chairman: Quit Talking, Start Demonstrating US ... FOXNews

Jackson's Death Ruled a Homicide New York Times

“The manner of death has been ruled: homicide,” according to the brief statement.
Jackson's Death Ruled a Homicide New York Times

The Associated Press

In Kennedy, the Last Roar of the New Deal Liberal

“An important chapter in our history has come to an end,” Barack Obama said in his first public remarks on the death of Senator Edward M. Kennedy. - New York Times

Allies and Adversaries React to Kennedy's Death - nytimes
Boston Globe - ABC News

Video: First Person: Kennedy Mourned With Tears, Words The Associated Press

NATO chief: mission to last 'as long as it takes'

ANKARA, Turkey -- "The situation is not satisfactory right now, but we have made progress," Fogh Rasmussen told a small group of reporters at the end of his two-day visit to Ankara.

"We will stay as long as it takes to secure the country. We will stay committed, we will assist the Afghan people in securing their own country, and therefore we will stay as long as it takes."

"We will prevail, we must prevail," the NATO chief said. "We cannot afford Afghanistan to once again become a safe haven for terrorists. If terrorists get rooted in Afghanistan once again, terrorism will easily and quickly spread through Central Asia and further." NATO chief: mission to last 'as long as it takes'

Reaching Out in Afghanistan
Britain names Gen. David Richards new army chief

US voices concern at Fahim as VP - Pajhwok

WASHINGTON (PAN): The Obama administration was seriously concerned over Martial Muhammad Qasim Fahim having an important position in the new Afghan government, a State Department official said Thursday. US voices concern at Fahim as VP

Accused of Drug Ties, Afghan Official Worries U.S. - NYTimes.com

Fury at Nato's Afghan clinic raid - BBC

A member of the Afghan parliament has criticised a Nato air strike on a clinic where a Taliban leader was being treated for his injuries. Fury at Nato's Afghan clinic raid
(( کرزی او هولبروک پرټاکنو همنظره نه و))
دیدار اخیر هولبروک با کرزی 'پرتنش' توصیف شد

US envoy 'in angry Karzai talks'
Court lifts final curbs on Pakistan scientist - BBC

Senator Kennedy's Brain Cancer Followed a Typical Course

The story of Kennedy's battle with the disease is one that raises questions of hope and reality and of how much the healthcare system should pay for hope.

The cost is high. Estimates from experts vary from $100,000 to $500,000. Of course, for Kennedy -- who had insurance as a senator, was eligible for Medicare, and was personally wealthy -- cost was never an issue. MiamiHerald.com

Weighing Hope and Reality in Kennedy's Cancer Battle New York Times
Ted Kennedy called a man of quiet faith

US envoy 'in angry Karzai talks' - BBC

Richard Holbrooke raised concerns about ballot-stuffing and fraud, by a number of candidates' teams, sources say. The US envoy also said a second-round run-off could make the election process more credible, the sources said. - US envoy 'in angry Karzai talks'
دیدار اخیر هولبروک با کرزی 'پرتنش' توصیف شد
جنگ لفظی کــــرزی با نمایندۀ خاص اوبامــــا

US helicopter accidentally dumps Afghan ballot boxes‎ - reuters
US Envoy Held 'Explosive' Meeting With Karzai - FOXNews

Abdullah Rejects Karzai's 'Mafia-Like' Power Sharing Deals ...

Aug. 27 (Bloomberg) - “I don’t find a place for myself in this mafia-type system,” Abdullah said in an interview last night at his home in Kabul. He spoke hours after the Independent Election Commission said Karzai had widened his lead, 42 percent to 33 percent for Abdullah, with about 17 percent of votes counted. Abdullah Rejects Karzai's 'Mafia-Like' Power Sharing Deals ...

Abdullah's supporters threaten to take up arms over 'rigged' election - independent

Karzai Widens Lead in Afghanistan's Presidential Vote Tally‎
Accused of Drug Ties, Afghan Official Worries U.S. - NYTimes.com

Thursday, August 27, 2009

22 border guards killed suicide attack - pajhwok

KABUL (PAN): At least 20 people, mostly paramilitary personnel, were killed in a massive suicide bombing at the Torkham border crossing in the lawless Khyber tribal region Thursday evening, a top administrator said. 22 border guards killed suicide attack

Call for re-election in 12 provinces

Accusations of Vote Fraud Threaten Results - washingtonpost

Complaints on All Sides Threaten to Discredit Result, Hinder U.S. Policy Accusations of Vote Fraud Threaten Results
Discussion: What's Wrong with Afghanistan?

Afghan elections expose US war doubts‎ - A-times
US warns Karzai on fraud, corruption, militia ties Reuters

Accused of Drug Ties, Afghan Official Worries U.S. - IHT

Massachusetts Mourns a Kennedy Brother, Again

Senator Edward M. Kennedy's family watched Thursday as his coffin was carried by an honor guard to a hearse at the Kennedy compound in Hyannis Port, Mass. More Photos >
Massachusetts Mourns a Kennedy Brother, Again
Kennedy Case Shows Progress, Obstacles in Cancer Fight

Farewell to a Favorite Son - washingtonpost
Mourners Gather To Pay Respects To Kennedy - npr
Memories carry multitudes to wake Boston Globe

Afghan Youths Seek a New Life Far From Home - nytimes

PARIS — On the edges of a Salvation Army soup line in Paris, a soft-spoken Afghan boy told the story recently of how he ended up in Europe, alone.

“First they ask where they can go to have papers, then where they can go to school, and where after that they can get a job,” Mr. Centres said. Afghan Youths Seek a New Life Far From Home

US Military In Afghanistan Denies Rating Reporters‎

US warns Karzai on fraud, corruption, militia ties

(Reuters) - Karzai met twice with U.S. President Barack Obama's envoy to Afghanistan, Richard Holbrooke, after the Aug. 20 presidential election, including a private lunch in Kabul that turned "tense" when the U.S. envoy raised the possibility of a run-off.

After that confrontation, the two finished dessert and shook hands, officials said.
US warns Karzai on fraud, corruption, militia ties
guardian.co.uk - AFP - New York Times
Accused of Drug Ties, Afghan Official Worries U.S. - IHT

Shortage Of Civilian Experts Slows Afghan Rebuilding

Thousands of American troops are setting up combat outposts throughout Afghanistan. But in order to rebuild the country, U.S. civilian experts in fields such as farming, irrigation and the rule of law are needed. Shortage Of Civilian Experts Slows Afghan Rebuilding - NPR

Discussion: What's Wrong with Afghanistan?
On Leadership: Why are things going badly in Afghanistan, and what ... - washingtonpost

New Guidelines For NATO Forces In Afghanistan To Minimize Civilian Casualties

NATO's military commander in Afghanistan has issued new guidelines to its International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) emphasizing priority to minimize civilian casualties in its mission of annihilating Taliban insurgents. New Guidelines For NATO Forces In Afghanistan To Minimize Civilian ...
Afghans in greatest danger since Taliban fell: Amnesty
The Associated Press
مرور روزنامه های کابل

Accused of Drug Ties, Afghan Official Worries U.S. - NYtimes

WASHINGTON — It was a heated debate during the Bush administration: What to do about evidence that Afghanistan’s powerful defense minister was involved in drug trafficking? Officials from the time say they needed him to help run the troubled country. So the answer, in the end: look the other way. Accused of Drug Ties, Afghan Official Worries U.S. - NYTimes.com

Delay further muddies confused Afghan poll picture Reuters

2008 Human Rights Report: Afghanistan

Kennedy Remembered As Civil Rights Champion - npr

Sen. Edward Kennedy's skills were never more successful and constant than in the area of civil rights: for minorities, for women, for the disabled and for immigrants. Kennedy Remembered As Civil Rights Champion
Sen. Orrin Hatch's Song About Kennedy: 'Headed Home'
HEALTH CARE: Will Kennedy's Death Revitalize Health Care Push?

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Beyond Camelot: His shining moments endure - Boston Globe

Ted Kennedy will be remembered for his legislative achievements in health care, education, civil rights, and immigration.(Boston Globe) Beyond Camelot: His shining moments endure
President Obama to delivereulogy at Kennedy's funeral
Kennedy to be buried at Arlington
Edward Kennedy, 1932-2009

Sen. Kennedy's death leaves a void that won't be filled - latimes
Kennedy's literary chapter in history ends with Ted's death

Karzai 'saddened' by Kennedy death‎

'President Karzai offers his condolences and sympathies to the Kennedy family and the people of the United States of America,' a statement released by his office said.

Low Afghan vote turnout raises legitimacy questions

Joint Statement from Afghan Presidential Candidates

Dr. Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai joins with other candidates to call for national unity and investigation of the widespread election fraud claims. Ashraf Ghani for President » Joint Statement from

Verifying votes - Election monitoring is big business but can we trust them? - BBC
Discussion: What's Wrong with Afghanistan? - washingtonpost

Obama Mourns Passing of 'a Colleague, a Counselor and a Friend'

The president called Kennedy "one of the greatest senators of our time and one of the most accomplished citizens to serve our democracy." He added that Kennedy was "synonymous with the Democratic party" and a "singular figure in American history."

A transcript of Obama's full remarks can be read here.

Obama Orders Flags Flown at Half-Staff in Honor of Kennedy

The Afghanistan Challenge: What's Wrong with Afghanistan? - washingtonpost

Things in Afghanistan are not going well. Is that because the situation requires a different kind of military leadership, as suggested by the Pentagon's decision to install a new commanding general? Or is it because political leaders have been unable to articulate credible goals and a credible strategy? What would you do? On Leadership: Why are things going badly in Afghanistan, and what ...

Discussion: What's Wrong with Afghanistan?
Slade Gorton: No Victory on the Cheap
New Game, New General

Kennedy to Be Laid to Rest Near Slain Brothers - washingtonpost

Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, the political patriarch who died late Tuesday after a 15-month battle with brain cancer, will be buried Saturday at Arlington National Cemetery, close to the famed gravesites of his slain brothers. Kennedy to Be Laid to Rest Near Slain Brothers

Senator to Be Buried at Arlington Cemetery
Timeline: Edward M. Kennedy, 1932-2009
44: Obama: A 'Great Leader' Lost
Remembering Kennedy
Q&A Transcript Audio Gallery

Fresh explosion rocks Afghan city - BBC

A blast has been reported in the southern Afghan city of Kandahar, a day after the country's deadliest bombing for a year killed some 43 people there. Fresh explosion rocks Afghan city
نتایج 20 درصد آراء انتخابات افغانستان اعلام شد
انفجاری مرگبار شهر قندهار افغانستان را لرزاند

Verifying votes - Election monitoring is big business but can we trust them?

Obama Offers Tribute to ‘a Defender of a Dream’ - NYtimes

OAK BLUFFS, Mass. — President Obama on Wednesday praised the life and legacy of Senator Edward M. Kennedy, calling him “one of the most accomplished Americans ever to serve our democracy.” Obama Offers Tribute to ‘a Defender of a Dream’

Gifted and Flawed, Legislator From a Storied Family
Edward Kennedy, Senate Stalwart, Dies
Kennedy fought aggressive cancer- CNN

Holbrooke: Persian Gulf oil money fuels Taliban insurgencies‎

ISTANBUL, Turkey (CNN) -- America's top diplomat for Afghanistan and Pakistan says the deadly Taliban insurgency in those countries relies heavily on funding from the oil-rich Persian Gulf. Holbrooke: Persian Gulf oil money fuels Taliban insurgencies‎ - CNN

Karzai Widens Lead in Afghan Vote - NYtimes

US helicopter accidentally dumps Afghan ballot boxes‎

KABUL, Aug 26 (Reuters) - A U.S. military helicopter carrying ballot boxes packed with votes from last week's Afghan election accidentally dumped some of them somewhere over the rugged mountains of Nuristan, officials said on Wednesday. US helicopter accidentally dumps Afghan ballot boxes‎
Karzai widens lead over Abdullah in Afghan vote‎

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Massachusetts Sen. Edward M. Kennedy Dies at 77 - washingtonpost

Edward M. Kennedy, one of the most powerful and influential senators in American history and one of three brothers whose political triumphs and personal tragedies captivated the nation for decades, died at 77. Massachusetts Sen. Edward M. Kennedy Dies at 77

Mass. Sen. Ted Kennedy Dies at 77, After Cancer Battle
Statement From the Kennedy Family
Edward Kennedy, 1932 --2009

US Senator Edward Kennedy dies Reuters

Edward Kennedy, Senate Stalwart, Dies - nytimes

Senator Edward M. Kennedy of Massachusetts, a son of one of the most storied families in American politics, a man who knew triumph and tragedy in near-equal measure and who will be remembered as one of the most effective lawmakers in the history of the Senate, died Tuesday night. He was 77 . - Edward Kennedy, Senate Stalwart, Dies

Milestones: Edward M. Kennedy Video
Times Topics: Edward M. Kennedy

On Afghanistan, Political Test for Obama - washingtonpost

President Obama is caught between two important constituencies as he recalibrates his policy in Afghanistan -- the generals who want more troops, and the base of his own party, whose tolerance for a worsening conflict is quickly evaporating. On Afghanistan, Political Test for Obama
Special Report: The AfPak War
فاینانشل تایمز: جنگ سالاران هنوز هم کلید های دروازه های کابل را در دست دارند

Ramadan For Kids?- Dr. Asma Mobin-Uddin - NPR

"Young children don't have the obligation to fast," says the author. "Generally, after puberty is the time that the obligations of the faith become a responsibility." Ramadan For Kids?
Inside Ramadan With Arsalan Iftikhar

CIA interrogation memos provide fodder for both sides - latimes
New York Times - Wall Street Journal
CIA Releases Its Instructions For Breaking a Detainee's Will - washingtonpost
CIA memo details procedures for breaking detainees - Reuters

Observers warn that allegations of fraud and small number of declared results make figures unreliable - Guardian

The first results from Afghanistan's presidential elections, announced today, gave the incumbent, Hamid Karzai, a slender lead over his main rival.

Six presidential candidates including the former finance minister Ashraf Ghani and the deputy parliamentary speaker, Mirwais Yassini, yesterday signed a statement in which they warned that "fraud in the elections could result in increased tension and violence in the country". Early Afghanistan election results give Karzai narrow lead
Christian Science Monitor - Bloomberg- 'Rigging' fears in Afghan poll - BBC
Abdullah's supporters threaten to take up arms over 'rigged' election - independen

Devastating blast rocks Afghan city - BBC

A massive car bomb explosion in the southern Afghan city of Kandahar has killed at least 40 people. Devastating blast rocks Afghan city
Reuters

انفجاری مرگبار شهر قندهار افغانستان را لرزاند

Blasts kill 36 in Kandahar as preliminary Afghan election results are declared - Times

Anders Fogh Rasmussen, the Nato Secretary General, urged all sides to handle the election in a “proper manner", saying it was important that they were seen as credible in order to maintain public support. “It is critically important that we stay committed to Afghanistan, he said at the alliance’s headquarters in Brussels. Blasts kill 36 in Kandahar as preliminary Afghan election results ...
Voice of America - Christian Science Monitor - Telegraph.co.uk
US appeals for calm after Afghan vote - AFP

Partial Tally Shows Karzai Has Slight Edge Over Challenger

With just over half a million votes -- 10 percent of the ballots -- counted, Karzai had captured 40 percent and Abdullah 38 percent. Karzai Holds Slight Early Lead

No Clear Winner in Early Afghan Vote Count - nytimes
Afghans say they'd like to have a winner _ now‎ - AP
Partial results put Karzai ahead in Afghan vote - CNN

شبکه اطلاع رسانی افغانستان - اولین روزنامه انتقادی الکترونیکی آزاد ...

Young Guantanamo Detainee Back In Afghanistan - AP

Jawad was arrested in Kabul in December 2002 and accused of tossing a grenade at an unmarked vehicle in an attack that wounded two U.S. Special Forces and their interpreter. Family members say he was about 12 when he was arrested. Young Guantanamo Detainee Back In Afghanistan AP

Marines Find Afghan Mission Is A Matter Of Trust
'Inhumane' CIA Terror Tactics Spur Criminal Probe - AP
Paul Craig Roberts: Americans: Serfs Ruled by Oligarchs

Monday, August 24, 2009

CIA Abuse Cases Detailed in Report on Detainees - NYtimes

WASHINGTON —The Justice Department released a long-secret report Monday chronicling abuses inside the Central Intelligence Agency’s overseas prisons, showing how interrogators choked a prisoner repeatedly and threatened to kill another detainee’s children.
CIA Abuse Cases Detailed in Report on Detainees
Document Viewer: Interrogation Memos

New Investigation of The CIA's Methods - WSJ
The CIA Inspector General's Report - washingtonpost
US: CIA Report Shows Need for Investigation of Torture and Abuse - HRW

More Afghan Candidates Claim Fraud - WSJ

In one, the Ghani team alleges that gunmen associated with Dr. Abdullah forced people to vote in the northern province of Balkh. The provincial governor is a former warlord who openly backed Dr. Abdullah.

"There is no way this election is legitimate. It is not free or fair by any stretch of the imagination," said one of Mr. Bashardost's campaign aides. More Afghan Candidates Claim Fraud

Journalist shot dead in Pakistan
'مردان مسلح روزنامه نگار افغان را در پاکستان کشتند'

Hamid Karzai expected to gain first-round victory in Afghanistan, Times

Preliminary results of last week’s Afghan presidential contest are expected to show today that President Karzai is heading for a comfortable first round victory, amid widespread allegations of electoral fraud. Hamid Karzai expected to gain first-round victory in Afghanistan ...

Afghan Cabinet Minister Says Karzai Won Election Convincingly
New York Times

'Inhumane' CIA terror tactics spur criminal probe - AP

WASHINGTON — The Obama administration launched a criminal investigation Monday into harsh questioning of detainees during President George W. Bush's war on terrorism, revealing CIA interrogators' threats to kill one suspect's children and to force another to watch his mother sexually assaulted. - 'Inhumane' CIA terror tactics spur criminal probe

Will Holder's 'Reckoning' on Detainee Abuse Fall Flat? Newsweek
Wall Street Journal - MiamiHerald.com - Los Angeles Times - New York Times - CIA Threatened To Kill Suspect's Children - CBS
Unplugged: Uncovering CIA Interrogations

Lethal dose of propofol killed Michael Jackson

L.A. County coroner's officials found deadly levels of the powerful anesthetic after examining the pop star's body, according to documents unsealed today in Houston. Lethal dose of propofol killed Michael Jackson

AP Source: Coroner rules Jackson's death homicide
TIME

Don’t sneer at Afghanistan’s wind of change - London Times

We might not call it democracy, but don’t let’s be cynical: these elections are a vital step on the road away from violence Don't sneer at Afghanistan's wind of change Rosemary Righter ...

Wall Street Journal - guardian.co.uk - Telegraph.co.uk
Mullen: Afghanistan 'vulnerable' to Taliban - Washington Times
Rendition of Terror Suspects Will Continue Under Obama - NYtimes
New details emerge of CIA interrogators' alleged abuse of prisoners - Los Angeles Time

U.N. urges calm in wait for Afghan poll result

KABUL (Reuters) - The United Nations special envoy to Afghanistan urged candidates and voters on Monday to remain patient while complaints surrounding last week's disputed presidential election are being considered. U.N. urges calm in wait for Afghan poll result

U.N. urges calm in wait for Afghan poll result - Yahoo! News
برنامه نامزدهای انتخابات افغانستان برای تامین امنیت
روزنامه های کابل: ۲ سنبله

Afghan Cabinet Minister Claims Karzai Victory
Candidates Question Afghan Vote Wall Street Journal

U.S. Military Says Its Force in Afghanistan Is Insufficient - nytimes

BAGRAM, Afghanistan — American military commanders with the NATO mission in Afghanistan told President Obama’s chief envoy to the region this weekend that they did not have enough troops to do their job, pushed past their limit by Taliban rebels who operate across borders. US Military Says Its Force in Afghanistan Is Insufficient
AFP - Los Angeles Times
Mullen Says Afghan Security Situation 'Serious,' Getting Worse

Karzai's rival cries foul play‎ - Asia Times
Karzai on course to win

Sunday, August 23, 2009

Six wildfires ring Greek capital - BBC

Thousands of residents of Athens' northern suburbs spend the night away from home as wildfires continue to threaten the area. Six wildfires ring Greek capital
Fighting the flames
See map of affected region

Karzai Opponent Alleges 'Widespread' Voter Fraud - washingtonpost

KABUL, Aug. 23 -- Karzai's aides responded sharply Sunday night to Abdullah's charges of fraud, calling them political propaganda and accusing Abdullah of trying to bypass the election-review process by taking his complaints to the media. The aides did not answer any of Abdullah's specific charges but said they had received similar reports of election violations by Abdullah's camp. Karzai Opponent Alleges 'Widespread' Voter Fraud

Times Online - CNN

Obama faces tough choices on Afghan war plans

WASHINGTON - As public support for the Afghanistan war erodes, President Barack Obama is faced with two equally unattractive choices: increase U.S. troops levels to beat back a resilient enemy, or stick with the 68,000 already committed and risk the political fallout if that's not enough. Obama faces tough choices on Afghan war plans

Vote fraud allegations mount in Afghanistan - msnbc
Fraud Complaints Could Affect Afghan Elections - NPR
CNN - Wall Street Journal

McCain critical of US performance in Afghanistan

Senator John McCain, the 2008 Republican presidential candidate, says the performance of the US military in Afghanistan lags behind the show of force it displayed in Iraq.

Sen. McCain said McChrystal had to ask for as many troops as he wanted saying he feared the commander be pressured into asking for less. The pressure, he said, was not "necessarily from the president. …I think it's from the people around him and others that I think don't want to see a significant increase in our troops' presence there.'' PRESS TV - guardian.co.uk - The Associated Press - Wall Street Journal

The New Republic: The Man In The Middle: Why Can't Our Afghan ...

Afghan conflict serious, 'deteriorating'-Mullen Reuters

WASHINGTON, Aug 23 (Reuters) - The situation in Afghanistan is deteriorating along with U.S. public support for the war, Washington's top military officer said on Sunday as the new commander on the ground assesses whether to seek more troops.
Afghan conflict serious, 'deteriorating'-Mullen - Reuters

Afghanistan War 'Serious' and 'Deteriorating,' Mullen Says - Foxnews
New York Times - Wall Street Journal - The Associated Press - PRESS TV

دریاسالار مولن: اوضاع افغانستان در حال وخیم تر شدن است

Paul Craig Roberts: Americans: Serfs Ruled by Oligarchs

Americans think that they have “freedom and democracy” and that politicians are held accountable by elections. The fact of the matter is that the US is ruled by powerful interest groups who control politicians with campaign contributions. Our real rulers are an oligarchy of financial and military/security interests and AIPAC, which influences US foreign policy for the benefit of Israel. -- Paul Craig Roberts: Americans: Serfs Ruled by Oligarchs

Our real rulers are an oligarchy of financial and military ...
Americans: Serfs Ruled by Oligarchs : Information Clearing House - ICH

(http://www.infowars.com/americans-serfs-ruled-by-oligarchs/ )

Germany's Steinmeier proposes Afghan pull-out talks

BERLIN (Reuters) - German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who is bidding to oust Angela Merkel as chancellor of Germany in an election next month, said he wanted a timetable for a military pull-out from Afghanistan. Germany's Steinmeier proposes Afghan pull-out talks‎

Afghans 'Gloomy about Future' , more... - Der Spiegel

Presidential Elections in Afghanistan: Taliban Attacks Scare Off Voters
'People Will Come with Their Kalashnikovs':
SPIEGEL 360: Our Complete Afghanistan Coverage

Opinion - The war for Afghanistan's women - Los Angeles Times

It's not worth risking U.S. lives unless we raise the status of Afghan women. Los Angeles Times

Women voter turnout sinks in Afghanistan - AFP - Seattle Times

Our Afghan Ambassador: The Man in the Middle‎

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Obama marks beginning of Muslim holy month- washingtonpost

Ramadan, a monthlong period of prayer, reflection and sunrise-to-sunset fasts, begins Saturday in most of the Islamic world. Obama said Ramadan's rituals are a reminder of the principles Muslims and Christians have in common, including advancing justice, progress, tolerance and the dignity of all human beings. Obama marks beginning of Muslim holy month
Ramadan Kareem - wh.gov
YouTube - President Obama Gives Ramadan Message - Reuters

The President and the 'Necessary War' Myth - Robert Kagan
Op-Ed Contributor - In Afghanistan, the Choice Is Ours - NYTimes.com - RICHARD N. HAASS

EU: Afghan vote 'fair but not free' Aljazeera

Wadir Safi, a professor of law at Kabul University, said that international monitoring efforts had been insubstantial. "The monitoring system was not visible at all, especially the international monitoring system. [At] Kabul University, which I saw myself, it was very late and it was not even necessary to monitor the students - they know how to vote," he told Al Jazeera. "In the other constituencies, especially the provinces - no monitoring groups have gone there."
EU: Afghan vote 'fair but not free' Aljazeera
Wall Street Journal - BBC News
گزارش گروه ناظر انتخاباتی در افغانستان از بروز تخلف
Taliban Reportedly Cut Off Fingers of 2 Voters - Voice of America
Intimidation and Fraud Observed in Afghan Election New York Times
Taliban attacks leave poll soaked in Afghan blood - Times Online

Friday, August 21, 2009

U.S. Seeks Overhaul in Kabul After Vote - Wall Street Journal

One development being watched closely by U.S. officials as a potentially helpful sign is Mr. Karzai's negotiations with individuals who might serve as the equivalent of his chief operating officer. Among them are Washington's former ambassador to the United Nations, Zalmay Khalilzad, and Afghanistan's former finance minister Ashraf Ghani, who also ran for president.

U.S. officials seem most intrigued by the possibility of Mr. Ghani, an anti-corruption crusader and a technocrat who has worked as a World Bank economist. American diplomats emphasize that they haven't promoted Mr. Ghani's candidacy, but they also say his ascension to some executive position could be a positive development for Afghanistan.

"If he can bring coherence to the government, then that's a good thing," said a U.S. official working on Afghan policy. U.S. Seeks Overhaul in Kabul After Vote - Wall Street Journal

Ethnic tension a factor in Afghan vote, envoy says
New York Times - TIME
Video: Karzai, Abdullah Both Claim Lead The Associated Press

President Obama Gives Ramadan Message - White House

Ramadan Kareem - As the new crescent moon ushers in Ramadan, the President extends his best wishes to Muslim communities in the United States and around the world.

Each Ramadan, the ninth month on the lunar calendar, Muslims fast daily from dawn to sunset for 29 or 30 days. - White House
YouTube - President Obama Gives Ramadan Message - Reuters

ظلم واستبداد اقلیت حاکم در افغانستان ،نویسنده:سلیک هاریسن،مترجم پشتو:هاری
Op-Ed Contributor - Afghanistan's Tyranny of the Minority ... SELIG S. HARRISON

Obama Praises Afghans for Turning Out to Polls - nytimes

WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama congratulated the Afghan people Friday for pulling off a presidential election in the midst of violent intimidation by Taliban militants but cautioned that more difficult days lie ahead for the war-weary nation.
Obama Praises Afghans for Turning Out to Polls - New York Times

Two Claim to Lead Afghan Race for President New York Times
Karzai, Abdullah claiming Afghan election victory - Washington Times
Karzai, Abdullah Claim Victory in Afghanistan - WSJ

Western diplomats laud Afghan election - guardian

US and Nato officials quick to proclaim poll a success despite violence and fears of electoral fraud

Western powers rushed today to declare Afghanistan's presidential elections a success despite evidence of irregularities and violence on polling day and growing uncertainty about whether the vote would return a credible result. guardian.co.uk

Afghanistan, on the edge, but not over it - Richard Engel, NBC

Karzai, Abdullah Claim Victory in Afghanistan - WSJ
Christian Science Monitor - BBC News
Rivals claim success in Afghan vote CNN

Candidates warned to avoid early claims of victory in Afghanistan election

Reporting from Kabul, Afghanistan - Election officials and Western diplomats today warned candidates against making premature claims of victory after aides to President Hamid Karzai said it appeared he had won Thursday's election. Candidates warned to avoid early claims of victory in Afghanistan ...‎ - Los Angeles Time
Afghanistan, on the edge, but not over it - World Blog - msnbc.com

Karzai, Abdullah teams claim wins in Afghan vote‎ - AP
Karzai, Abdullah teams claim wins in Afghan vote - washingtonpost.com