'Christian terrorist'? Norway case strikes debate

When the "enemy" is different, an outsider, it's easier to draw quick conclusions, to develop stereotypes. It's simply human nature: There is "us," and there is "them." But what happens when the enemy looks like us — from the same tradition and belief system? - 'Christian terrorist'? Norway case strikes debate - AP
Royal palace among Norway targets Herald Sun, A week later, Norway mourns 76 victims

What is the Knights Templar? - Fareed Zakaria

The group has come to everyone's attention because of Anders Behring Breivik's killing spree in Norway, now just over a week ago. He claimed in his rambling manifesto to represent a modern-day "Knights Templar". But who are they? -- What is the Knights Templar? -- European Union's 2010 Terrorism Situation and Trend Report -- Norway's tragedy - Terrorism
Norway suspect claims he planned more attacks, police say

Which countries have the most vacation days?

(CNN) -- The United States has been called the "no-vacation nation," and looking at the table above, it's not hard to see why. - Who has the most vacation days?
Stocks: 'It's one day at a time' - Stocks lose $700B in value this week - Seniors: We need our Social Security!

ISRAEL: Protest tents launch Israel's summer of discontent - latimes

Two weeks into Israel's housing protest, demonstrations are sweeping the country. More than 150,000 people took part in protests nationwide calling for socioeconomic change and demanding "social justice." - ISRAEL: Protest tents launch Israel's summer of discontent
U.S. hikers expect Iran verdict soon

Senate Negotiators Scramble to Finalize Debt Deal After Reid Bill Tanks - latimes

The Senate failed to advance debt-ceiling legislation moved by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, even as lawmakers say progress is being made on a final agreement that they hope can pass before the Aug. 2 deadline to avoid a federal default. - Senate Negotiators Scramble to Finalize Debt Deal After Reid Bill Tanks
Camp Pendleton Marines in Afghanistan warned of Taliban threat

Kabul: the best of times, the worst of times

Afghanistan's capital has boomed with the influx of overseas money during the war years of the past decade but many Afghans say they have seen little of the benefit, and they worry about what will happen to the economy, and their security, when the foreign forces, and their foreign money, leave. - Kabul: the best of times, the worst of times - Sydney Morning Herald
US commanders concerned about Ramadan fighting

US military chief Mike Mullen takes the heat in Afghanistan - Lyse Doucet

Summer in southern Afghanistan is blazing hot in every way; temperatures soar and the fighting season reaches its peak. - US military chief Mike Mullen takes the heat in Afghanistan - Bomb Hits Police HQ in Southern Afghanistan -- Egypt changes Mubarak trial venue

Muslim "Terrorists," White "Lone Wolves," and the Lessons of Oslo - Michelle Chen

Last week in Norway, comfortable illusions were shattered so suddenly that people around the world were left grasping for new ones. A nation known as a peaceful bastion of liberalism exploded in a convulsion of sheer hatred. And the reflexive media reaction that followed ricocheted between fear-mongering about Muslim violence to flaunting a uniquely American extremism. - Muslim "Terrorists," White "Lone Wolves," and the Lessons of Oslo
The news coverage of the Norway mass-killings was fact-free conjecture guardian BBC, the New York Times, The Guardian, the Washington Post

Pakistan: U.S. Diplomats Need Government Permission To Travel - huffingtonpost

ISLAMABAD — Pakistan has placed new travel restrictions on American diplomats living in the country, a U.S. official said Saturday, in the latest sign of the breakdown in ties between Islamabad and Washington since the U.S. raid that killed Osama bin Laden. - Pakistan Places New Restrictions On U.S. Diplomats
US Accuses Iran Of 'Secret Deal' With Al-Qaeda

Bush Details 9/11 Memories for Documentary in Rare Interview [VIDEO]

When President George W. Bush learned that two planes had barreled into the World Trade Center buildings on Sept. 11, 2001, he was sitting in front of a group of children who were reading aloud. So as to not cause alarm, he remained calm and stoic. And for it, he received much flak. - Bush Details 9/11 Memories for Documentary in Rare Interview [VIDEO]

Bush explains slow reaction to September 11 attacks | Reuters

Former President George W. Bush says his apparent lack of reaction to the first news of the September 11 2001 attacks was a conscious decision to project an aura of calm in a crisis. - Bush explains slow reaction to September 11 attacks Reuters -- George W. Bush: The 9/11 Interview coming to National Geographic ...

FBI teaches new recruits to read 'anti-Islam' books - Telegraph

The FBI taught new recruits about Muslims with a power point presentation that recommended they read books criticised as sharply prejudiced against Islam. - FBI teaches new recruits to read 'anti-Islam' books - Telegraph - PressTV - FBI teaches new recruits to read 'anti-Islam' books
Police: Breivik had other targets - Breivik planned to plant many bombs

The allure of Afghanistan -- Al Jazeera English

Afghanistan is not often perceived as a mineral Holy Grail. -- But, as it turns out, between $1-3 trillion in mineral wealth lies unexplored across the Hindu Kush. There's enough uranium, lithium, copper and iron ore to potentially turn Afghanistan into a commodities powerhouse. - The allure of Afghanistan -- Mining Afghanistan's mineral wealth
FBI teaches new recruits to read 'anti-Islam' books - Telegraph

The Muslims of Norway | Foreign Affairs

Last Friday’s terrorist attacks by Anders Behring Breivik against Norway’s central government district and a political youth camp of the Labor Party targeted not only the Norwegian political system but the very idea behind Norway’s multicultural society and, in particular, the place of Muslims within it. - The Muslims of Norway Foreign Affairs - Violent "Counter-Jihadism" Foreign Affairs

Zara Phillips wedding: Ceremony at Edinburgh church - BBC

The Queen's granddaughter Zara Phillips has married England rugby player Mike Tindall at a ceremony in Edinburgh. - Zara Phillips marries in Scotland - Reporter's view of the Royal MileNew - Newlyweds and guests leave church Watch - Zara and Mike: The 'other' wedding -
Royal Wedding Encore: Zara Phillips Gets Married in Scotland TIME - ABC News - CBS News - Daily Mail - Queen's granddaughter weds in Scotland CNN

Stocks lose $700B in value this week

NEW YORK (CNNMoney) -- Washington's inaction regarding the debt ceiling cost investors nearly three-quarters of a trillion dollars in this week -- at least on paper. - Stocks lose $700B in value this week
Stocks: Worst week in 2011

UN urges anti-drug measures for both Afghanistan and ‘consumer countries’

The head of the United Nations anti-drugs agency has called for strengthening border controls around Afghanistan – still the world’s leading producer of opium and heroin – boosting security in that country, and lowering demand in so-called “consumer countries.” -- UN urges anti-drug measures for both Afghanistan and ‘consumer countries’

Kandahar mayor's battle against corruption cost him his life, daughter says

Rangina, who said she was her father's closest confidante, said "criminals and thieves and corrupt people working for the government" killed her father. - Kandahar mayor's battle against corruption cost him his life ...
Budget, debt worries plague troops in Afghanistan

Norway Displays Unity at Attack Victim’s Funeral

It was a mission that an anti-immigrant extremist sought to thwart when he killed Ms. Rashid, 18, and at least 76 others a week ago in attacks on the government headquarters and at an isolated camp that were meant to turn Norway upon itself. - Norway Displays Unity at Attack Victim’s Funeral nytimes

Editorial, Holding Pakistan to Account - nytimes

The Obama administration’s decision to suspend $800 million of its $2 billion in annual security aid to Pakistan inevitably raises the question of why the United States should continue to give Pakistan any military aid at all. - Holding Pakistan to Account
Turks Are Stunned as Country’s Top Generals Quit

Turkey: Military chiefs resign en masse - BBC

The chief of the Turkish armed forces, Isik Kosaner, has resigned along with the army, navy and air force heads. -- military chiefs resign -- Turkey 'plot' officers on trial
U.S.: Iran Has 'Secret Deal' with al-Qaeda - TIME
امریکا: ایران با یک شبکه القاعده به یک توافق سری دست یافته است

Apple holding more cash than USA - BBC

Latest figures from the US Treasury Department show that the country has an operating cash balance of $73.7bn (£45.3bn). - Apple's most recent financial results put its reserves at $76.4bn. - Apple has more cash than US government - US Congress split over debt issue

Violent videos of Oslo killer's 'mentor' - Telegrpah

The suspected “mentor” of the Oslo killer Anders Breivik has backed violent videos apparently advocating a "war between Christians and Islamists" and the establishment of "Order 777" it can be disclosed. - Violent videos of Oslo killer's 'mentor'

Turkey's entire military command quits over row with government - Telegraph

Turkey's entire top brass quit on Friday night leaving one America's strongest military's allies leaderless as the country's Islamic government confronts senior officers for conspiring against the prime minister - Debt ceiling Q&A: How did we get here, what happens next?
Turkey military command quits in row with government - AFP

U.S. is refocused on covert strikes in Pakistan

Since the raid that killed Osama bin Laden, the Obama administration believes Al Qaeda is vulnerable to a 'knockout punch,' one of the president's senior advisors says. - U.S. is refocused on covert strikes in Pakistan Latimes
In Turkey, top military figures apparently resign en masse

Debt-ceiling debate: Now it's the Senate's turn

The Republican plan passed 218-210, with no Democratic votes. The Senate promptly voted down the measure Friday night 59-41 and is continuing work on its own solution that might win bipartisan support. - Debt-ceiling debate: Now it's the Senate's turn latimes
Debt ceiling Q&A: How did we get here, what happens next?

Eikenberry leaves Afghanistan amid concerns for its future - Washingtonpost

KABUL — With his departure, the United States loses a diplomat with varied experience in Afghanistan and a prominent voice of skepticism about the nation’s deepening involvement in the war. -- Eikenberry leaves Afghanistan amid concerns for its future
No permanent U.S. bases in Afghanistan: U.S. ambassador Reuters

The New American Dream: Retirement

It used to be that a home in the suburbs defined the American Dream, but today we’re just happy to have enough money to retire on, according to a new survey produced ... - The New American Dream: Retirement
U.S. Economy Slowed Sharply in First Half of 2011

Talks on long-term Afghan-U.S. partnership stalled

The United States is seeking long-term access to military bases for counterterrorism operations and for training and mentoring the Afghan security forces. .....Talks on long-term Afghan-U.S. partnership stalled washingtonpost - PressTV - Talks on long-term Afghan-US 'partnership' stalled -- Bush details 9/11 memories for documentary AP

Afghanistan: Helmand bus blast kills 18 civilians

At least 18 Afghan civilians have been killed by a roadside bomb in southern Helmand province, police say. - Civilians killed in Afghan blast - انفجار مین کنار جاده‌ای در هلمند ۱۶ نفر را کشت -- مراسم یاد بود همکار کشته شده بی بی سی
Mullen: Surge in Afghan violence, assassinations expected; to ... washingtonpost
Eikenberry leaves Afghanistan amid concerns for its future

Norway shooting: Funerals for Breivik victims BBC

The first funerals for victims of Norway's gun and bomb attacks are held, as the remaining names of the dead are released by police. - First funerals for Norway victims - Norway remembers victims Watch - In pictures: Funerals

Prince William gives Kate a pair of Diana's earrings

Kate Middleton already wears Princess Diana's sapphire and diamond engagement ring, and now the Duchess of Cambridge has received more jewels from her husband's late mother. - Prince William gives Kate a pair of Diana's earrings
Queen to Kate: Wedding dress display ‘horrid’

Obama dismisses House debt plan, urges Senate compromise

Washington (CNN) -- President Barack Obama urged Senate Democrats and Republicans to take the lead in the congressional debt ceiling talks Friday -- one day after House GOP leaders temporarily pulled their plan back from consideration due to a lack of support. FULL STORY - Obama dismisses House debt plan, urges Senate compromise
Afghanistan Crossroads

“The Wars of Afghanistan: Messianic Terrorism, Tribal Conflicts, and the Failures of Great Powers”

In “ The Wars of Afghanistan ,” Peter Tomsen builds a compelling case for blaming much of the U.S. heartache in Afghanistan on its supposed ally in the region, Pakistan. Indeed, Tomsen’s book, which provides a sweeping look at Afghanistan and its legacy of turmoil, offers among its many policy prescriptions that the United States withhold military aid to its ally, because the more funds that go ... “The Wars of Afghanistan: Messianic Terrorism, Tribal Conflicts, and the Failures of Great Powers” by Peter Tomsen - washingtonpost

Q&A: How ordinary Americans could be affected

A U.S. debt default could weigh on people's financial lives in several ways, such as boosting interest rates on loans and denting already fragile retirement accounts if the stock market continues to tumble. - How the debt-ceiling crisis could affect ordinary Americans latimes
Suicide bombers, gunmen attack Afghan provincial capital

America at war: The failures of Petraeus and McChrystal - The Nation

Looking back into the events of first decade of new millennium, one is bewildered to see that despite being the most powerful nation on earth and having military apparatus on a scale greater than the sum of every other country, the US has patently failed to impose its solution on Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan. - America at war: The failures of Petraeus and McChrystal
BBC News - Petraeus on Afghanistan progress

Quiz: Test your U.S. history knowledge - CNN

Test results released in June showed that fewer than one-quarter of all students are proficient in American history. The results, released in "The Nation's Report Card: U.S. History 2010," by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics, - Quiz: Test your U.S. history knowledge -- If students fail history, does it matter?

روزنامه های کابل: چهارشنبه، ۵ اسد

انتقاد اراده این است که حالا که نظامیان آمریکایی قصد خروج از افغانستان دارند، ممکن است با کنار رفتن آمریکایی ها از صحنه نبرد افغانستان، دور دیگری از جنگ های خونین میان افغانها تحت عنوان طرفداران و مخالفان دولت یا "توطئه طرفداران و مخالفان دموکراسی" آغاز شود. -- روزنامه های کابل: چهارشنبه، ۵ اسد
'آمریکا با افغانستان اعلامیه استراتژیک امضا می‌کند نه پیمان استراتژیک'
U.S. envoy praises Karzai, signals reset in Afghan ties Reuters

Gold steady; eyes on U.S. budget talks

(Reuters) - Gold held steady on Friday, heading for its fourth straight week of gains, as investors watched U.S. debt ceiling talks after Republicans delayed a vote on the debt plan. - Gold steady; eyes on US budget talks -- Gold milestones on the road to record high
10 Smart Investments to Hold in Case the US Defaults - DailyFinance

Bit By Bit, Afghanistan Rebuilds Buddhist Statues

When the Taliban controlled Afghanistan a decade ago, they were fanatical about eliminating everything they considered un-Islamic. - Bit By Bit, Afghanistan Rebuilds Buddhist Statues
Suicide Attacks Target Afghan Government Compound NPR

Norway shootings: Anders Behring Breivik's YouTube video posted hours before killings

The man who detonated a bomb in Oslo before killing at least 85 people on Utoya island posted a 12 minute video on YouTube hours before committing the atrocities. - Breivik recorded video before killing spree - Breivik posted hate-filled video on YouTube hours before attacks
Norway attacks: police confirm names of further 24 victims - Telegraph Follow the latest developments from the tragedy in Norway

Turban bomb kills Kandahar mayor – and leaves Karzai bereft of allies - Independent

As Nato prepares to pull out, the Taliban is positioning itself to step into the vacuum - Turban bomb kills Kandahar mayor – and leaves Karzai bereft of allies
Norway killer parked car bomb at door of PM's office
FBI teaches new recruits to read 'anti-Islam' books - Telegraph

Norway's Muslim immigrants ponder future - BBC

The car bombing in Oslo and the shooting of scores of young men and women on an island nearby, were carried out in the name of an extreme racist and Islamaphobic ideology, with the ultimate goal of reversing Muslim migration to Europe. - Muslims ponder futureImmigrants uneasy - The victims - Timeline of attacks - Norway police end Utoeya search

Poll lead masks French Socialists' uncertainty

Whichever politician wins the Socialist Party primary will go into the spring 2012 presidential election as favourite to be the next French head of state. - French Socialists' uncertainty - French Socialist ticket - possible candidates
Alleged Libyan rape victim comes to US to stay- CNN

Remembering Ahmed Omed Khpulwak - BBC

He was inside when suicide bombers and other militants launched their attack. His brother says he sent him two text messages. The first read: "I am hiding. Death has come." In the second, he wrote: "Pray for me if I die." In the evening, Omed's family attended his funeral. They said his body had been hit by 11 bullets. -- Brave reporter - BBC journalist killed in Afghanistan attacks - RTÉ - BBC tribute to journalist

Taliban attack Hamid Karzai ally in southern Afghanistan - Guardian

An apparent campaign to eliminate Hamid Karzai's most important allies in southern Afghanistan has continued with an assault on the base of the powerful warlord Matiullah Khan. - Taliban attack Hamid Karzai ally - US ambassador condemns assassination of Kandahar mayor -
BBC journalist killed in Afghanistan

همکار بخش افغانستان بی‌بی‌سی در ارزگان کشته شد

احمدامید خپلواک، خبرنگار آزاد بخش پشتوی بی‌بی‌سی در افغانستان در جریان حملات شورشیان به شهر "ترین کوت"، مرکز ولایت ارزگان کشته شد. بی بی سی در مورد کشته شدن آقای خپلواک اطلاعیه ای به این شرح صادر کرده است :- همکار بخش افغانستان بی‌بی‌سی در ارزگان کشته شد -- Brave reporter
حمله طالبان به مرکز ارزگان۲۱ کشته و ۳۸ مجروح بجا گذاشت

BBC stringer killed in Afghanistan - World Service

This morning we received the extremely sad news that the BBC's stringer in Oruzgan province in Afghanistan, Ahmed Omed Khpulwak, had been killed. He died in the city of Tarin Kowt during a prolonged assault involving suicide attackers. - 'A brave reporter' - Deadly attacks strike Afghan town

Norway attacks intensify political resolve of many youths - latimes

The Norway massacre may shape the views of an entire generation. Already, youth parties, both liberal and conservative, are reporting membership surges. - Norway attacks intensify political resolve of many youths
Breivik's purported manifesto - CNN

How Afghanistan civilian deaths have changed the way the US military fights - CSM

Civilian deaths and injuries in Afghanistan rose by 20 percent between the spring of 2010 and the spring of 2011, according to a UN report. Training and technology are two ways to address that. - How Afghanistan civilian deaths have changed the way the US military
Afghanistan, the Taliban, and the US deficit

Suicide bombers, gunmen attack Afghan provincial capital - latimes

A team of insurgents kills at least 21 people, many of them women and children, in Oruzgan. - Suicide bombers, gunmen attack Afghan provincial capital - Afghanistan mayor killed by suicide bomber

Boehner: 'We don't have the votes, but we're getting there'

Boehner said he still doesn't have votes for debt deal, but lawmakers say they're convinced he'll get them.… Boehner: 'We don't have the votes, but we're getting there' -- Senate to take up House debt bill Thursday night -- The Associated Press - Wall Street Journal
Wall Street tells Washington: Strike a deal

Kandahar Mayor's Killing Another Blow to U.S. Afghanistan Effort - TIME

An honest man in a city of thieves, Kandahar mayor Ghulam Haider Hamidi once exemplified hopes that the U.S.-led nation-building effort would leave behind a better Afghanistan. - Kandahar Mayor's Killing Another Blow to U.S. Afghanistan Effort
Will the Karzai Clan Be Able to Hang On to Kandahar?

'آمریکا با افغانستان اعلامیه استراتژیک امضا می‌کند نه پیمان استراتژیک'

رایان کروکر، سفیر آمریکا در کابل گفته است که روابط استراتژیک آمریکا و افغانستان بر اساس یک اعلامیه تنظیم خواهد شد و نه پیمان ـ طوری که قبلا گفته شده بود. 'آمریکا با افغانستان اعلامیه استراتژیک امضا می‌کند نه پیمان استراتژیک'
هشدار سفیر جدید آمریکا در کابل نسبت به 'خروج عجولانه' - سپنتا: امضای پیمان استراتژیک به سود افغانستان است

Afghan war: Mayor of Kandahar killed in suicide attack

Ryan Crocker, the US ambassador to Afghanistan, said the US "condemned in the strongest possible terms the death of another top government official", and expressed his condolences. - Bomber kills Afghan city leader - شهردار قندهار در حمله انتحاری کشته شد

Norway commission to investigate Breivik attacks

The prime minister also announced a national memorial, and said the government would contribute to the cost of funerals of the victims. - Norway to probe attacks response - Massacre texts - Norway will stand firm, says PM - Massacre texts - Italian MEP backs Breivik ideas
نروژ واکنش به حادثه کشتار ۲۲ ژوئیه را بررسی می کند

Café or Nay? Argh! Is coffee bad for you or not?

Some studies say coffee is good for you; others say it's bad. The scientists are just as confused as we are. - Argh! Is coffee bad for you or not?

Analysis: Obama's leadership image on the line in debt saga Reuters

(Reuters) - President Barack Obama's credibility as a leader hangs in the balance along with America's gold-plated credit rating as he strives to break a debt impasse with Republicans and avoid a ruinous default. - Analysis: Obama's leadership image on the line in debt saga - Snapshot: Developments in debt talks - San Francisco Chronicle - Fox News

Reduction in international aid will risk Afghan economy

According to World Bank officials, Afghanistan will face economic challenges and may face economic fall down if there is a reduction in international aid. - Reduction in international aid will risk Afghan economy KHAAMA ... - Afghanistan's biggest need: a flourishing economy - Robert B. Zoellick
Mayor of Kandahar killed in suicide blast

Suicide blast kills mayor of Afghanistan's Kandahar

KANDAHAR (Reuters) - The mayor of Afghanistan's southern Kandahar city was killed in a suicide bomb attack on Wednesday, officials said, .... Suicide blast kills mayor of Afghanistan's Kandahar ... - Reuters
انتقال مسئولیت امنیتی، فرصتی برای پیوستن مخالفان به برنامه صلح

US panel rejects bid to end all Pakistan aid

The House Foreign Affairs Committee easily rejected the measure, with five lawmakers voting yes and 39 voting no. But the bill in its current form would still impose tighter controls over aid, making it contingent on measurable progress by Pakistan. - US panel rejects bid to end all Pakistan aid - Financial assistance to Pakistan: US Congress votes against ...
US aid to Pakistan: ‘Corruption becoming a hurdle in implementation’

Longevity secrets from a 100-year-old doctor

Dr. Ephraim Engleman still sees arthritis patients regularly in San Francisco. NBC’s Robert Bazell reports. - Longevity secrets from a 100-year-old doctor
Behaving badly? Blame the brain -- Why polar peoples have bigger brains

Debt ceiling: Debt threat has Wall Street scrambling - latimes

Business executives have stepped up appeals for political action and prepared contingency plans in case the stalemate persists. - Wall St. scrambles as debt ceiling deadline nears
Dollar gets trashed as U.S. debt fears deepen

AFGHANISTAN: Urgent need to tackle human trafficking

KABUL, 25 July 2011 (IRIN) - Afghanistan should develop mechanisms to raise awareness about the dangers of human trafficking, support victims and prosecute perpetrators, say rights activists. - AFGHANISTAN: Urgent need to tackle human trafficking
Urgent need to tackle human trafficking - United Nations ...

'Tell the police to hurry. People are dying here!'

Julie Bremnes, 16, was one of the youths caught on Utoeya island during Anders Behring Breivik's killing spree on Friday. - Texts from the massacre scene - Police name Norway terror victims -- Profile: Anders Behring Breivik - BBC

Egypt's Hosni Mubarak is 'depressed and refusing food' - BBC

Egypt's ex-President Hosni Mubarak is weak and refusing solid food, according to the country's official news agency. - Egypt's Mubarak 'refusing food'

In Afghanistan, US military officials say it's now or never - CSM

In the weeks ahead in eastern Afghanistan, US commanders expect violent clashes between Taliban and US soldiers. It could be a key time for American forces, before US troops start exiting. - In Afghanistan, US military officials say it's now or never
Clinton: Taliban talks unpleasant but necessary - CBS News

Obama, Biden Offer Condolences at Norwegian Embassy

President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden left the White House on Tuesday afternoon to visit the Norwegian Embassy and offer condolences for the terror attacks last week in which nearly 80 people were killed. - Obama, Biden Offer Condolences at Norwegian Embassy

Olsen: Patriot Act May Allow Cell Phone Tracking

The Patriot Act may have given the federal government powers to use cell phone data to track Americans inside the United States, the general counsel for the National Security Agency said on Tuesday. -- Olsen: Patriot Act May Allow Cell Phone Tracking - National Journal
NSA Lawyer Questioned Over Cellphone Location Tracking of Americans

Washington's Foreign-Policy Hypochondria

Why the U.S. has become the meddling Aunt Myrtle of the international community. - Washington's Foreign-Policy Hypochondria - National Interest
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly in Afghanistan -- Obama, Biden Offer Condolences at Norwegian Embassy

An Atmosphere of Suspicion - European Right Under Pressure in Wake of Attacks

Europe's right-wing populists are not used to being on the defensive. But the perpetrator of last Friday's horrific attacks in Norway was steeped in their anti-immigration, Muslim-skeptical ideology. They now find themselves in an uncomfortable position. - European Right Under Pressure in Wake of Attacks
Breivik emailed 'manifesto' to 250 British contacts just before attack

Afghanistan hits back over U.S. aid spending report

(Reuters) - Afghanistan's government hit back on Tuesday over a U.S. watchdog report on aid spending in Afghanistan last week, saying several assertions in the report were wrong and that future audits needed to be "more balanced and accurate".- Afghanistan hits back over U.S. aid spending report
No permanent bases in Afghanistan - U.S. envoy

Afghan security forces say foiled Kabul airport plot

(Reuters) - Afghan security forces foiled a plot by insurgents to attack Kabul International Airport after finding a cache of weapons and five Afghan army uniforms just days after a deadly attack on the city's Intercontinental hotel, officials said on Tuesday.- Afghan security forces say foiled Kabul airport plot Reuters

Long-term deal with U.S. must be on Afghan terms: Karzai

(Reuters) - Afghan President Hamid Karzai said on Tuesday that Afghanistan will only sign a long-term "strategic partnership" deal with Washington if the United States meets Afghan conditions including an end to controversial night raids on homes. - Long-term deal with U.S. must be on Afghan terms: Karzai - Karzai outlines Afghan 'conditions' for future US ties

Afghanistan refutes US audit report on aid money

KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) -- The Afghan government on Tuesday disputed findings from a scathing U.S. report that said Kabul officials are thwarting U.S. efforts to protect American aid money from being stolen. - Afghanistan refutes US audit report on aid money - Yahoo! Finance -- Afghanistan Disputes US Audit Report on Aid Money - ABC News

U.S. trucking contracts funded Taliban, source says - (CNN)

Kabul, Afghanistan -- "There were indications dollars were flowing to criminals or to the enemy," said the Pentagon official, .... - U.S. trucking contracts funded Taliban, source says
Tribes Watch and Wait After Karzai Brother’s Killing nytimes Envoy Says U.S. Will Start Afghan Pullout, Slowly

Norway killings: 100,000 people in Oslo march for peace - Telegraph

At least 100,000 people, many carrying white or red roses, rallied in Oslo on Monday to show support for victims of attacks that killed 76 people, police said. - Norway killings: 100000 people in Oslo march for peace -- Stepbrother of Crown Princess among Anders Breivik's victims
Norway killer's links to English extremists revealed - British police investigating Knights Templar right wing radicals

IMF demands end to partisan bickering over debt ceiling as America's deadline day looms

Tick tock. With a week to go until Uncle Sam runs out of cash, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said that enough was enough yesterday, calling on politicians to stop bickering and act urgently to stave off global financial meltdown by raising their country's debt ceiling. - IMF demands end to partisan bickering over debt ceiling as America's deadline day looms - The Independent

Europe's resurgent far right focuses on immigration, multiculturalism

The far right in Europe has enjoyed a renaissance over the past 30 years, driven by resentment of the growing powers of the European Union and by rejection of the "multiculturalism" that has accompanied rapid immigration from the developing world. - Europe's resurgent far right focuses on immigration, multiculturalism -- Norwegian PM: 'This will change Norway' CNN

Mass rallies for Norway victims - BBC

Crown Prince Haakon told 100,000 people gathered in Oslo that "tonight the streets are filled with love". - Mass rallies for Norway victims - Flowers for the dead in Oslo - PM: Norway will never be same Watch
Obama warns Republicans over debt - Obama's speech in full Watch - Boehner hits back Watch

Barack Obama’s speech as delivered - Politico

"We can’t allow the American people to become collateral damage to Washington’s political warfare." --- "American people may have voted for divided government, but they didn’t vote for a dysfunctional government." - Text of Obama's remarks -- Text of Boehner's prepared remarks
Parties Head to Showdown as Obama Warns of a ‘Crisis’- New York Times - Fox News - Politico

هشدار سفیر جدید آمریکا در کابل نسبت به 'خروج عجولانه'

سفیر جدید آمریکا در افغانستان تاکید کرده است که کشورش با مسئله خروج نظامی از افغانستان "با احتیاط" برخورد کرده و در این برنامه عجله نخواهد کرد. - هشدار سفیر جدید آمریکا در کابل نسبت به 'خروج عجولانه'
انتقال مسئولیت به افغان‌ها و خروج نیروهای خارجی

The costly errors of America's wars - Michael Shank, Guardian

With Washington now waging war, in some form, in six Muslim countries – Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen – there are several trends now prevalent in our foreign policy-making that must be reformed posthaste. - The costly errors of America's wars - Afghanistan World news guardian -- US money 'funnelled to the Taliban' - Telegraph

Ryan Crocker, Top Diplomat In Afghanistan, Tries To Quell Fears About U.S. Withdrawal

KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — America's new top diplomat in Afghanistan sought Monday to allay the fears of the Afghan people who worry the U.S. is abandoning the nation after the drawdown of American forces began. - Ambassador To Afghanistan Tries To Quell Withdrawal Fears - AFGHANISTAN
Egypt's Former President To Be Tried Alongside Ex-Minister

WRAPUP 9-Amid dueling debt plans, Obama to address nation

WASHINGTON, July 25 (Reuters) - Top U.S. lawmakers rolled out dueling debt plans on Monday that offered little prospect for compromise, -- Rival US debt plans pushed as deadline looms -- Boehner Debt Plan Seeks Boosts of $1 Trillion, $1.6 Trillion - Bloomberg

Budget games: Debt ceiling plan counts on war savings

NEW YORK (CNNMoney) -- Senate Democrats want to cut an eye-popping $1 trillion in war spending over the next 10 years. - CNN - Politico - Atlanta Journal Constitution - Fox News

Norway Suspect Claims To Be Part Of Terror Network

The man who confessed to the twin attacks that killed dozens of people in Norway was arraigned in court Monday, where he claimed he was part of a terror network that had two other cells. - Norway Suspect Claims To Be Part Of Terror Network -- Police Lower Death Toll In Camp Massacre - NPR -- عامل کشتار نروژ 'همدست داشته است'

Jalalabad airport attacked by militants

Kabul, Afghanistan (CNN) -- A group of militants Monday attacked Jalalabad airport in eastern Afghanistan, lobbing grenades at the airport's main gate, according to Ahmad Zai Abdulzai, Nangarhar provincial spokesman. - Jalalabad airport attacked by militants
U.S. trucking contracts funded Taliban, source says

Crocker assumes post as new U.S. ambassador to Afghanistan

Kabul, Afghanistan (CNN) -- Veteran diplomat Ryan Crocker was formally sworn in as the new United States ambassador to Afghanistan on Monday, just as the first U.S. soldiers began departing the country after nearly 10 years of war. - Crocker assumes post as new U.S. ambassador to Afghanistan
New Envoy to Afghanistan Says U.S. Will Start Pullout, Slowly

Ambassador Crocker Presents Credentials

Kabul – New U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan Ryan Crocker presented his diplomatic credentials to Afghan President Hamid Karzai at a ceremony today at the Presidential Palace. - Ambassador Crocker Presents Credentials - U.S. Ambassador Crocker Sworn In - kabul.usembassy

Afghan women opposed by former allies

KABUL — The nine women appointed last year to negotiate with the Taliban were ready to confront the architects of Afghanistan’s most repressive regime. But they were not prepared for a slew of unlikely critics: the very women they claim to represent. - Afghan women opposed by former allies -- U.S. trucking funds reach Taliban, military-led investigation ... washingtonpost

As it happened: Norway attacker in court - BBC

Anders Behring Breivik, who has admitted carrying out Friday's twin attacks but has not pleaded guilty, has made his first court appearance in a closed session - As it happened: Norway attacker in court -- Norway gunman 'has accomplices' - PM: Norway will never be same Watch

Norway attacks shatter a nation's innocence

Reporting from Oslo— Norwegians have always taken pride in their open, trusting society. - Norway attacks shatter a nation's innocence -- Suspect in Norway attacks is denied public platform in court - latimes - Christian Science Monitor - The Associated Press - Washington Post -- Norway Suspect Claims That He Did Not Act Alone nytimes

Obama cancels fundraising appearances amid stalled debt talks

Washington (CNN) -- President Barack Obama has canceled two fundraising appearances Monday, a campaign official said, as weekend talks to resolve the nation's debt-ceiling crisis hit a new stalemate. - Obama cancels fundraising appearances amid stalled debt talks - European shares fall on debt default concerns
Norway terror suspect to appear in court

Killings in Norway Spotlight Anti-Muslim Thought in U.S. - nytimes

The man accused of the killing spree in Norway was deeply influenced by anti-Muslim bloggers and right-wing activists in the United States, lacing his 1,500-page manifesto with quotations from them. - Oslo Killings Shed Light on Anti-Muslim Sentiment
Suspect Cultivated Parallel Life to Disguise Plans -- Norway gunman wants to appear in court in uniform AP

The Maid's Tale - Newsweek

She was paid to clean up after the rich and powerful. Then she walked into Dominique Strauss-Kahn's room—and a global scandal. Now she tells her story. - The Maid's Tale - Newsweek
Strauss-Kahn accuser speaks out - BBC

Norway attacks: Anders Behring Breivik 'a bomb waiting to explode' - Ian Stephen

The 1500 page document reveals a chilling obsession with what he saw as being destructive to the world. - Norway attacks: Anders Behring Breivik 'a bomb waiting to explode'
Hunt for Britons linked to Norway killer Anders Behring Breivik --- German tourist hailed a hero after saving 30 lives

Afghans gradually take over security in several areas - Latimes

Western troops have begun handing over security duties, beginning with seven relatively tranquil areas, a key first step for NATO in its plans to wind down the nearly 10-year war. - Afghans gradually take over security in several areas
Taliban Blamed in Death of Afghan Officer’s Son nytimes
روزنامه های کابل: یکشنبه، ۲ اسد

Debt-ceiling standoff grinds on - latimes

Democrats and Republicans line up behind competing proposals to avoid federal default and alarm in financial markets. - Debt-ceiling standoff grinds on

Norway mass killer wants time in court to tell why

(Reuters) - Anders Behring Breivik wants to tell Norway and the world why he killed at least 93 people in a bomb attack and shooting rampage when he appears in court on Monday, his lawyer said. - Norway mass killer wants time in court to tell why - Norway's mass killer pursuing anti-Islam crusade -- BBC News - Wall Street Journal - Wikipedia: 2011 Norway attacks

'Breivik manifesto' details chilling attack preparation - BBC

A 1,500-page "manifesto" recently published online, entitled 2083: A European Declaration of Independence, has been attributed to Anders Behring Breivik, who has admitted being behind Friday's bloody twin attacks in Norway. - Manifesto details attacks -- Suspect's profile
Extreme ideology that motivated killer - 'Gunman didn't stop shooting' - Norwegian attacker 'acted alone'

سپنتا: امضای پیمان استراتژیک به سود افغانستان است

مشاور امنیت ملی ریاست جمهوری افغانستان می‌گوید باوجود اختلاف‌نظرها در طرح پیمان استراتژیک افغانستان با امریکا، تمایل امضای این قرارداد میان حکومت‌های افغانستان و امریکا وجود دارد.- سپنتا: امضای پیمان استراتژیک به سود افغانستان است
مناسبات استراتژيک امريکا با هند؛ محور اصلی مذاکرات کلينتون در دهلی‌نو -- یک عضو مجلس سنا: پاکستان در کشتن دشمن و در فاتحه‌خوانی دوست است

Alleged Norway Shooter Considered WMD Attack, Jihadi Alliance - ABC News

Vocally anti-Muslim, Anders Breivik considered truce in order to obtain WMDs. - Norway Terror Suspect Considered WMD Plot, Jihadi Alliance - ABC News
WATCH: Norway Terror Suspect's Video Manifesto -- Wikipedia: 2011 Norway attacks

US now faces two debt ceiling deadlines: Asian financial markets and possible default - CSM

As the clock ticks toward government default, House Speaker John Boehner says he’ll have a plan by the end of the day Sunday. Asian financial markets and Wall Street are watching closely. - US now faces two debt ceiling deadlines: Asian financial markets and possible default
Norway mourns, ponders impact of terror attacks -- Is Afghanistan safer, or isn't it?

An Interview with a Madman: Breivik Asks and Answers His Own Questions - TIME

Around 2000, I realized that the democratic struggle against the Islamization of Europe, and European multiculturalism, was lost. It is simply not possible to compete with democratic regimes that import millions of voters. - TIME -- Killer's Manifesto: The Politics behind the Norway Slaughter
Far-Right Groups Distance Themselves From Norway Massacre WSJ

US squandered £21 billion on private contractors in Afghanistan and Iraq - telegraph

Waste, mismanagement and poorly conceived projects mean the United States could have lost more than 15 per cent of the total given out in contracts and grants. - US squandered £21 billion on private contractors in Afghanistan and Iraq
Norway shooting: Anders Breivik's diary of terror

Analysis: Brutal attack tests Norwegian society

(Reuters) - Before Friday's deadly attacks by a Norwegian on a self-styled mission to save European "Christendom" from Islam, it was not uncommon to see Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg taking public transport to work and senior ministers walking in Oslo without bodyguards. - Analysis: Brutal attack tests Norwegian society -- Norway's mass killer pursuing anti-Islam crusade

Norwegians fill Oslo cathedral to mourn - latimes

The prime minister addresses the memorial, which the king and queen attend. Also in Oslo, a police official says suspect Anders Behring Breivik is cooperating. - Norwegians fill Oslo cathedral to mourn -- Norway attacks: Norwegians seek comfort from clergy, church services after attacks

Norway gun suspect 'acted alone' -- BBC

The main suspect in Norway's twin terror attacks tells police he acted alone, as grief-stricken mourners attend memorial services. -- Norwegian attacker 'acted alone'New - Norway attacks: Memorial service Live -- Special Report: Norway attacks

Norway attacks: police investigate fears main suspect was part of a larger terror group

Acting Chief of Police Sveinung Sponheim said: "He has had a dialogue with the police the whole time, but he's a very demanding suspect." - Police fear Norway suspect was part of larger terror group -- Norway killer confesses to 'atrocious but necessary' massacre - telegraph

سپنتا: د ۲۰۰۳ کال تړون د اساسي قانون خلاف دی'

افغان چارواکي وايي د امريکا او افغانستان ترمنځ د ستراتيژيک تړون د لاسليکېدو پر سر يو مهم اختلاف د ۲۰۰۳ ميلادي کال تړون دی چې پر بنسټ يې په افغانستان کې د امريکايي ځواکونو حضور قانونمند شوی دی. - سپنتا: د ۲۰۰۳ کال تړون د اساسي قانون خلاف دی -- کابل و واشنگتن روی بعضی موارد سند ستراتیژیک توافق نظر ندارند
سند همکاریهای استراتژیک با آمریکا نهایی نشده است

Washington's singular accomplishment, Asia Times

And despite everything, there's still good news when it comes to what Americans can accomplish in the face of the impossible! No, not a debt-ceiling deal in Washington. So much better than that. - Washington's singular accomplishment -- The real AfPak deal -- Reckoning with Taliban irreconcilables

Oslo Suspect Wrote of Fear of Islam and Plan for War - nytimes

OSLO — The Norwegian man charged Saturday with a pair of attacks in Oslo that killed at least 92 people left behind a detailed manifesto outlining his preparations and calling for a Christian war to defend Europe against the threat of Muslim domination, according to Norwegian and American officials familiar with the investigation. - Oslo Suspect Wrote of Fear of Islam and Plan for War --- Attacks Put Spotlight on Rise of Right Wing in Europe

Norwegian gunman boasted of links to UK far right

The Norwegian prime minister, Jens Stoltenberg, said Norwegian officials were working with foreign intelligence agencies to see if there was any international involvement in the slaughter. Norwegian gunman boasted of links to UK far right --- Profile of a killer
When a nation lost its innocence at the crack of gunfire -- Editorial: Reason must prevail in Norway's agony - Guardian

Norway - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Norway, Norwegian: Norge (Bokmål) or Noreg (Nynorsk)), officially the Kingdom of Norway, is a Nordic unitary constitutional monarchy occupying the western portion of the Scandinavian Peninsula, as well as Jan Mayen, ..... - Norway - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Norway attacks: Saturday 23 July as it happened - Guardian Reaction to Norway attacks: world leaders condemn violence

Norway suspect 'admits attacks' - BBC

"He thought it was gruesome having to commit these acts, but in his head they were necessary," Mr Breivik's lawyer Geir Lippestad told Norwegian media. - Norway suspect 'admits attacks' - Norway mourns twin attack victims - Suspect's profile - Far right fears -- Special report: Norway attacks -- متهم حملات نروژ: کارم وحشتناک اما ضروری بود

Mohammed Zahir Shah -- 'Father of the Nation'

Mohammed Zahir Shah (15 October 1914 – 23 July 2007) was the last King (Shah) of Afghanistan, reigning for four decades, from 1933 until he was ousted by a coup in 1973. Following his return from exile he was given the title 'Father of the Nation' in 2002 which he held until his death.[2] -- Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Early Contacts - U.S.-Afghan Relations -- Building long-distance roads across Afghanistan. -- President Eisenhower is welcomed at the airport by King Zahir Shah -- President John F. Kennedy and King ... - Gallery

از چهارمین سالروز وفات بابای ملت یادبود بعمل آمد

از چهارمین سالروز وفات اعلیحضرت ظاهرشاه، شاه سابق افغانستان امروز جمعه در تپهء مرنجان و ارگ ریاست جمهوری یادبود بعمل آمد. از چهارمین سالروز وفات بابای ملت یادبود بعمل آمد
ختم قرآن عظیم الشان به مناسبت چهارمین سالگرد وفات بابای ملت برگزارشد -- ازچهارمین سالگرد وفات بابای ملت یاد بود بعمل آمد --چهارمین سال وفات اعلیحضرت محمد ظاهر شاه بابای ملت محمد داود مومند -- دملت دبابا دمړينې دڅلورم تلين درنا وى وشو
Zahir Shah King of Afghanistan باباي ملت محمد ظاهرشاه‏‎ -- Mohammed Zahir Shah: Biography from Answers.com -- Images for King Zahir Shah

Afghanistan's biggest need: a flourishing economy - Robert B. Zoellick

American and NATO troops will soon be moving out of Afghanistan, and people are asking whether the Afghan army will be able to provide security. An equally important question is: Will the Afghan economy be able to provide for the country? - Afghanistan's biggest need: a flourishing economy - Washington Post

Island shooting death toll rises to 84 as terror attacks rock Norway - Telegraph

A gunman dressed as a policeman killed 84 people at a summer camp, police have now revealed. - Island shooting death toll rises to 84 as terror attacks rock Norway
Oslo: 'it was like a war zone' -- Norway attack: who was behind the attack?

Norway suspect described as right-wing Christian; death toll hits 91 - latimes

Norwegian police said Saturday that the death toll from Friday's attacks has risen to 91 and confirmed that they have arrested a suspect whom they described as a right-wing Christian fundamentalist. - Norway suspect described as right-wing Christian; death toll hits 91
Norway under attack -- Suspect in Norway's attacks CNN Norway survivor played dead

Afghanistan's biggest need: a flourishing economy - Robert B. Zoellick

Afghanistan's biggest need: a flourishing economy - Washington Post

The Taliban's Likely Negotiator With The U.S.

After months of rumors, most observers in Kabul now believe that American officials have met with a Taliban envoy face to face. - Listen to the Story -- The Taliban's Likely Negotiator With The U.S. : NPR -- The Taliban's likely negotiator with the U.S. 89.3 KPCC
As Leadership Changes, So Could Afghanistan Strategy

Norwegian man, 32, arrested in attacks that leave 87 dead - latimes

National broadcaster NRK identifies the suspect as Anders Behring Breivik. A police official says he appears to have acted alone in both the bombing and the shooting rampage. - Norwegian man, 32, arrested in attacks that leave 87 dead - Photos: Norwegians stunned by sudden, deadly attack - Interactive: The site of the blast, before and after nytimes

Norway PM: 'No one will bomb us to silence' - BBC

In a news conference, Jens Stoltenberg addressed the attackers directly saying: "No one will bomb us to silence, no one will shoot us to silence, no one will ever scare us from being Norway." - PM's defiant message Watch
Oslo: Bomb blast near Norway prime minister's office -- Scores killed in Norway attacks

Boehner calls off debt talks; Obama says he left 'extraordinarily fair' deal on table

Washington (CNN) --The president said his administration had offered "an extraordinarily fair deal" to cut expenditures and raise revenues, in return for Congress agreeing to hike the nation's debt ceiling. - Boehner calls off debt talks; Obama says he left 'extraordinarily fair' deal on table - What if the debt ceiling isn't raised?

Twin terror attacks shock Norway BBC

Norway has been hit by twin attacks - a massive bomb blast in the capital and a shooting attack on young people at a governing Labour Party youth camp. - Oslo bomb Live -- LIVE: Oslo explosion
End of innocence? -- 'There are many casualties' Watch - 'Windows were blown out'
انفجار بمب و تیراندازی مرگبار در نروژ