Thursday, February 28, 2013

'I'm just a pilgrim,' Benedict XVI says in public farewell

Rome (CNN) -- Benedict XVI's time as pope came to a historic end Thursday, as he became the first pontiff in six centuries to resign as leader of the world's Roman Catholics, who now number 1.2 billion. - 'I'm just a pilgrim,' Benedict XVI says in public farewell
Benedict XVI pledges 'unconditional obedience' to new pope

Courting Catastrophe in Syria - Consortiumnews

In the 1980s, the U.S. and its Saudi allies teamed up to funnel money and weapons to Afghan Islamists whose bloody “victory” set the stage for the Taliban and al-Qaeda. Now, the same team is heading back to work supporting Sunni rebels in Syria, as the Independent Institute’s Ivan Eland explains.- Courting Catastrophe in Syria
Kerry says Syrian opposition needs more help - Reuters
BBC News - Syria conflict: John Kerry extends US aid to rebels

Iran helped USA to invade Afghanistan and Iraq

Iran helped USA in the invasion of Afghanistan & Iraq because their "enemy" are the same! - Iran helped USA to invade Afghanistan and Iraq - YouTube
US-Iran Engagement Through Afghanistan - Middle East Policy ...
Challenging the Neocons on Iran - Consortiumnews

Japan donates US$ 281 million to UN to fund projects - UNAMA

28 February 2013 – Japan gave US$ 281 million in aid today to the United Nations funds in Afghanistan. The announcement was made at a signing ceremony that took place at the Serena Hotel in Kabul. The funds will support 14 projects being carried out by nine UN funds, programmes and agencies. - Japan donates US$ 281 million to UN to fund projects - unama
Japan and United Nations jointly announce assistance of $281

The Cancer Tests You Should Think Twice About

When assessing the necessity of a particular cancer screening, one has to weigh the risks and benefits. For those who are healthy with no symptoms or risk factors for a particular cancer, more testing is not always better. Learn what tests to approach with caution and what tests you absolutely need to take.  - The Cancer Tests You Should Think Twice About 
Dr. Oz's Kitchen-Cleanout Challenge, Pt 1 - The Dr. Oz Show

U.S.-Brazil Venture Wins Afghan Fighter Contract

WASHINGTON—The U.S. military, stepping up efforts to equip the Afghan Air Force, awarded a long-delayed, $427.5 million contract on Wednesday to Sierra Nevada Corp. and its Brazilian partner, to supply Afghanistan with a small fleet of attack planes. - US-Brazil Venture Wins Afghan Fighter Contract - WSJ
U.N. Report Flags Afghanistan Fraud

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Mikhail's Milieu: Gorbachev Memoir Shows World of Love and Deceit - Der Spiegel

In a new book, former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev provides an intimate look at his life in the Kremlin and at his relationship with his wife Raisa. It reads like a final attempt to convince Russians to love the former Soviet first lady -- and depicts a party leadership that was plagued with deceit and infighting. more... - Gorbachev Memoir Shows World of Love
'Europe Can't Afford an Ungovernable Italy' -- Europe's Last Fan in Washington

Impressions of Afghanistan - William R. Polk - The Atlantic

My second visit was a decade later. Kabul had hardly changed but the regime had. Afghanistan was in a sort of golden age of reform. Everyone was full of hope. The markets were full of furs, rugs and the melons Babur Shah thought worth more than all of India, Hippies, then known as “world travelers,” flooded into the country equipped with their parents’ credit cards to the delight of local merchants. But what was really impressive was the university. Filled with earnest young men and bright, alert and daringly dressed young women, it had an air of excitement. - Impressions of Afghanistan - William R. Polk
Will We Learn Anything from Afghanistan? William R. Polk, Part 1

Will We Learn Anything from Afghanistan? William R. Polk, Part 1 - The Atlantic

In the years since then Polk has been a scholar and diplomat concentrating mainly on Middle Eastern affairs. Three years ago he made a return visit here to report on his latest trip to Afghanistan.

Pope recalls 'joy,' difficulties in final audience

VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Benedict XVI bid an emotional farewell Wednesday to his flock on the eve of his retirement, recalling in his final speech as pontiff moments of "joy and light" during his papacy but also times of difficulty when "it seemed like the Lord was sleeping." - Pope recalls 'joy,' difficulties in final audience
Pope Benedict Evokes Difficult Moments in Final General Audience

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Is the US maintaining death squads and torture militias in Afghanistan? - Guardian

But there's no question, as Rosenberg notes, that "throughout the war, the United States military and the CIA have organized and trained clandestine militias. A number still operate, and remain beyond the knowledge or control of the Afghan government." - Is the US maintaining death squads and torture militias in Afghanistan?
Afghanistan government accuses US special forces of civilian death and torture

Italy halts austerity plan leaving EU in turmoil

Fears that deadlock will lengthen Italy's two-year recession and spill over into rest of the eurozone hit markets across Europe - EU in turmoil as Italy halts austerity - - guardian

What Is Sequestration and What Does It Mean for Me? - National Journal

The White House and Republicans are trading blame over massive spending cuts scheduled to take effect on Friday and an agreement to head off the reductions looks increasingly unlikely. - What Is Sequestration and What Does It Mean for Me?

Ten Hagel Quotes You Need to Know - FP

“I don't have to be President. I don't have to be a senator. I just have to live with myself.” -  Ten Hagel Quotes You Need to Know - Kevin Baron
Senate approves Hagel as new secretary of defense  Reuters

Brown's school funding plan draws mixed reactions

The governor's proposal would funnel more money to low-income, English-learning or foster-care students. Not everyone thinks that's fair. - Brown's school funding plan draws mixed reactions - latimes

The Globalist Agenda!!

The Globalist Agenda represents a plan to bring all of Earth's inhabitants under the control of a single, global state. There is a small, but powerful group of individuals who are the architects and instigators behind the formation and implementation of this "New World Order".- The Globalist Agenda -- The Globalist Agenda - Who Are They?

Senate confirms Hagel as secretary of defense

(Reuters) - The Senate voted to confirm Chuck Hagel on Tuesday as President Barack Obama's new secretary of defense. - Senate confirms Hagel as secretary of defense
Chuck Hagel Confirmed By Senate As Obama's Secretary Of Defense - huffpost

European Activists Could Thwart US-EU Trade Deal

Consumer watchdogs, Internet activists and European farmers are gearing up to fight the planned trade agreement between Europe and the United States. Many in Europe are worried that politicians will make backroom deals at the expense of consumers. - European Activists Could Thwart US-EU Trade Deal - Spiegel
European Obstruction: NATO Reforms Moving at 'Snail's Pace'

IKEA Stops Selling Meatballs in 24 Countries

Swedish furniture chain IKEA has withdrawn its Köttbullar meatballs from stores in 24 countries in the last two days, adding Germany and others to that list on Tuesday after Czech food inspectors found horse DNA in frozen meatballs at a branch in Brno on Monday. - IKEA Stops Selling Meatballs in 24 Countries - Spiegel

What Afghanistan needs after 2014: A lighter, smarter, long-term commitment - foreignpolicy

Maintaining a large military presence in Afghanistan is not in the strategic interests of either the U.S. or the Afghan government. - What Afghanistan needs after 2014: A lighter, smarter, long-term ...Gianni Koskinas
NATO considers large Afghan security force after 2014

Afghan police: Panorama uncovers corruption in Helmand bases - BBC

Afghan police: Panorama uncovers corruption in Helmand bases - Afghan police 'are like The Sopranos'
گزارش تحقیقی بی‌بی‌سی از 'تخلفات' پلیس ولایت هلمند

NATO: No evidence for Afghan claim of possible torture, murder by U.S. forces - CNN

NATO said Monday it has found no evidence to support the allegations, which appeared in a statement Sunday from Karzai's office - NATO: No evidence for Afghan claim of possible torture ...

محور ورځپاڼه: دکابل کوڅې دلوټمارو تر تهديد لاندې دي

دکابل پېنځمې حوزې اوسېدونکي وايي، ددوی په سيمو کې له تېرې یوې مياشتې راهيسې په بې ساري ډول غلاګانې زياتې شوې دي. محور سره په مرکو کې دقرغې په لمن کې دنويو اباديو، نيازبېک، فاضل بېک او اب رسانۍ اوسېدونکي ادعا کوي، چې په يوه مياشت کې ۳۰ کورنه دغلو بانډونو لوټلي دي. -  محور ورځپاڼه: د کابل کوڅې د لوټمارو تر تهديد لاندې دي

Afghanistan braces for severe weather

A winter storm brings deep snow and heavy rain to parts of Pakistan and Afghanistan.- Over a metre of snow is forecast

دولت افغانستان: در شناسنامه الکترونیک قومیت و زبان مادری درج می‌شود

مقام های وزارت کشور/داخله افغانستان می‌گویند که در شناسنامه های الکترونیک بر اساس "هدایت حامد کرزی رئیس جمهوری افغانستان، زبان مادری و قومیت" شهروندان افغانستان به صورت مشخص درج خواهد شد. - دولت افغانستان: در شناسنامه الکترونیک قومیت و زبان مادری درج می‌شود

Young Afghan actor's family proud of Oscar nod

Fawad Mohammadi, 14, attended the Hollywood ceremony with his co-star Jawanmard Paiz, from the film 'Buzkashi Boys.' The film had been nominated in the live action short film category. - Young Afghan actor's family proud of Oscar nod - msn

Complaints on US-led Afghan troops to be checked, Kerry says

(Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said on Monday complaints against Afghans working for U.S. special forces in Afghanistan would be investigated, a day after Afghan President Hamid Karzai ordered U.S. troops to leave a critical battleground province. - Complaints on US-led Afghan troops to be checked, Kerry says

Young Afghan actor's family says Oscar nomination is source of pride even if movie didn't win

KABUL - Relatives of the young Afghan star of "Buzkashi Boys" expressed more pride than disappointment upon learning on Monday that the Oscar-nominated movie didn't win. - Young Afghan actor's family says Oscar nomination is source of pride even …
Oscars 2013: Complete list of nominees and winners - Oscars

Kerry Warns Iran on Eve of Talks - WSJ

Secretary of State John Kerry said in an ominously worded warning that there could be "terrible consequences" if international negotiations aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear program don't show progress in the coming months. - Kerry Warns Iran on Eve of Talks
U.S. Defends Afghan Role After Exit Order

Monday, February 25, 2013

ناټو: داسي هیڅ سند نشته چې په وردک کې د ناټو پوځیانو پرخلاف ادعا ثابته کړي

ناټو ادعا کوي چې داسي هیڅ سند او شواهد نشته چې په میدان وردک ولایت کې له خلکو سره د خاصو ځواکونو د بد چلند په اړه د افغانستان د حکومت تور ثابت کړي. - ناټو: داسي هیڅ سند نشته چې په وردک کې د ناټو پوځیانو پرخلاف ادعا ثابته کړي

Talk of Inquiry, but Not Much Is Sure After Afghan Ban on US Troops - nytimes

KABUL, Afghanistan — A day after President Hamid Karzai ordered elite American forces out of a strategic province near the capital, very little was clear other than his increasing assertiveness in dictating the Western military role in Afghanistan. - Talk of Inquiry, but Not Much Is Sure After Afghan Ban on US Troops
Afghanistan Bars Elite U.S. Troops From a Key Province

Afghan forces 'are just like criminals'

An investigation has revealed how Afghan forces running bases that British soldiers fought to secure are barely able to function – let alone pose a challenge to the Taliban. - Afghan forces 'are just like criminals' - independent

Wall Street trips and falls on cloudy Italian election

(Reuters) - Stocks on Monday suffered their biggest drop since November after a strong showing in Italian elections by groups opposed to the country's economic reforms triggered worry that Europe's debt problems could once again destabilize the global economy. - Wall Street trips and falls on cloudy Italian election

Dow and S&P 500 post worst day of 2013

The Dow and S&P 500 suffered their biggest one-day decline of the year Monday as U.S. stocks were whipsawed by concerns about political instability in Italy. More  - S&P, Nasdaq wrap up worst week of 2013 - Feb. 22 ... - CNN Money

Leftists leading in parliamentary elections in Italy

Rome, Italy (CNN) -- As authorities tallied official results on the final day of Italy's parliamentary elections Monday, polls suggested the center-left -- led by Pier Luigi Bersani -- was on track to defeat controversial three-time Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi.  - Italians head to polls in final day of elections

ادبیات ارگ تند و زیانبار است - جاکوبسن

دپلومات های غربی می گویند که پیام ها و بیانات غرب ستیزانۀ حامد کرزی، رئیس جمهور افغانستان نه تنها به سود آن کشور نیست بلکه می تواند افغانستان و افغان ها را بار دیگر از محراق توجه جامعۀ بین المللی دور سازد. - ادبیات ارگ تند و زیانبار است - جاکوبسن
Mark Jacobson: The Karzai we need - CNN

Drug to Treat Asthma Could Relieve Hives Patients of a Chronic Itch, Study Says

The drug, omalizumab, known by its brand name, Xolair, is a monoclonal antibody approved to treat allergic asthma. In the Phase 3 trial, published online on Sunday in The New England Journal of Medicine, a monthly injection of the drug significantly reduced hives and itchiness - Drug to Treat Asthma Could Relieve Hives Patients of a Chronic Itch ... - nytimes

Afghanistan Bars Elite U.S. Troops From a Key Province - nytimes

KABUL, Afghanistan — The Afghan government barred elite American forces from operating in a strategic province adjoining Kabul on Sunday, citing complaints that Afghans working for American Special Operations forces had tortured and killed villagers in the area. - Afghanistan Bars Elite US Troops From a Key Province

Sunday, February 24, 2013

Oscars 2013: FLOTUS Michelle Obama announces best picture - latimes

One of the most powerful women in the country stepped into the spotlight to announce Oscar’s biggest prize — the award for best picture — even though she wasn’t in the auditorium, or anywhere near Hollywood. - Oscars 2013: FLOTUS Michelle Obama announces best picture
Oscars 2013: Complete list of nominees and winners - Oscars

Oscars 2013: 'Argo' best picture in night of redemption for Ben Affleck - latimes

His film “Argo” took the best picture Oscar on Sunday night at the 85th Academy Awards — more than a little solace, perhaps, for being snubbed in the directing category. - Oscars 2013: 'Argo' best picture in night of redemption for Ben Affleck  ---  Oscars 2013: Complete list of nominees and winners
FULL COVERAGE: Oscars 2013 - Oscars

The 'Buzkashi Boys' land in Hollywood

The kids from Kabul are part of the short film "Buzkashi Boys," which is nominated for best live action short. - The 'Buzkashi Boys' land in Hollywood
Buzkashi Boys - Short Film (Live Action) - Oscars 2013

Oscars 2013: What time are the Academy Awards

The 85th Academy Award nominees and winners have been chosen, the red carpet has been rolled out and the gilded Oscar statues have been polished. - Oscars 2013: What time are the Academy Awards
Oscars 2013: Nominee list  - Oscars - latimes

Afghan president orders U.S. out of strategic province - latimes

KABUL, Afghanistan -- Afghan President Hamid Karzai on Sunday ordered U.S. special forces troops to leave a strategic eastern province, accusing the Americans and Afghans working for them of torturing and abducting civilians. - Afghan president orders US special forces out of strategic province

Withdrawal Symptoms: NATO Struggles over Afghanistan's Future - Der Spiegel

NATO has long said it wouldn't abandon Afghanistan following the conclusion of combat operations at the end of 2014. But the alliance is having trouble agreeing on just what that means. Now, planning for the future training mission has run into trouble. By Matthias Gebauer in Brussels more... -- Withdrawal Symptoms: NATO Struggles over Afghanistan's Future
US Plans Mini-Force in Post-2014 Afghanistan

Panetta, Germany differ on troop numbers in Afghanistan - usatoday

The Obama administration is considering a plan to maintain 352,000 Afghan troops for the next five years as part of an effort to maintain security and help convince Afghanistan that America and its allies will not abandon it once combat troops leave in 2014, senior alliance officials said Thursday. NATO officials are also widely considering that option. - Panetta, Germany differ on troop numbers in Afghanistan

Saturday, February 23, 2013

Insurgents Launch 4 Attacks In Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — A series of early morning attacks hit eastern Afghanistan Sunday, with three separate suicide bombings in outlying provinces and a shootout between security forces and a would-be attacker in the capital city of Kabul. - Insurgents Launch 4 Attacks In Afghanistan

جامعه جهانی اشتباه گذشته را تکرار نمی‌کند

لیون پانیتا، وزیر دفاع امریکا، در سخنرانی‌اش در اجلاس وزرای دفاع ناتو گفت که شمار کنونی نیروهای امنیتی افغانستان باید حفظ شود. او هم‌چنین گفت ایالات متحده امریکا و کشورهای عضو ناتو به حمایت لازم مالی از این نیروها متعهد هستند. -  جامعه جهانی اشتباه گذشته را تکرار نمی‌کند

US, NATO, Mull Afghan Troop Strength After Combat

Defense Secretary Leon Panetta and his NATO counterparts are considering leaving 8,000 to 12,000 troops in Afghanistan after 2014, but a dispute arose Friday between the U.S. and German defense officials over whether that contingent would be an international force or an American one.- US, NATO, Mull Afghan Troop Strength After Combat - ABC News

Friday, February 22, 2013

NATO may keep Afghan forces at peak strength longer

(Reuters) - NATO officials are strongly considering a proposal to keep Afghan forces at their peak strength of 352,000 until at least 2018, as opposed to current plans to cut the force by a third after 2015, alliance officials said on Thursday. - NATO may keep Afghan forces at peak strength longer

Thursday, February 21, 2013

بېلابېل ايتلافونه د رامنځ ته كېدو په حال كې دي - خدمتگار

په افغانستان كې دامريكا پخواني سفير زلمي خليلزاد په دې وروستيو كې دافغانستان له مطرحو سياسي څېرو سره يو لړ ليدنې كتنې كړې دي. دى پر داسې يوې طرحې كار كوي چې پر اساس يې په افغانستان كې يوه ستره سياسي اجماع رامنځ ته كړي. خليلزاد اوس په دې هڅه كې دى چې له قومي مشرانو، مخورو او سياسي څېرو څخه داسې يوه كمېټه جوړه كړي چې له ۲۰۱۴ كال وروسته دافغانستان دوضعيت لپاره كار وكړي او بلاخره دراتلونكو ولسمشريزو ټولټاكنو لپاره يو ګډ كانديد وړاندې كړي. - بېلابېل ايتلافونه د رامنځ ته كېدو په حال كې دي 
نخستین قرارداد اعمار بخش های از شهر کابل جدید به امضاء رسید

60 million in path of winter storm

(CNN) -- A massive winter storm spanning 20 states dumped more than a foot of snow in some places Thursday and brought life to a standstill in parts of the central United States. - 60 million in path of winter storm

U.S. drone strikes up sharply in Afghanistan

Their use rose 72% last year compared with 2011, and the trend is likely to continue as troops withdraw. But while the aircraft reduce risks to U.S. forces, mistakes are deadly for civilians. - U.S. drone strikes up sharply in Afghanistan - latimes
Civilian deaths in war in Afghanistan drop for first time in 6 years

Jerry Buss memorial: Lakers greats recall a man of the people - latimes

Phil Jackson won five championships and advanced to two other NBA Finals while coaching the Lakers for owner Jerry Buss. - Jerry Buss memorial: Lakers greats recall a man of the people - Jerry Buss

Jerry Buss dies at 80; Lakers owner brought 'Showtime' success to L.A. - Los Angeles Times

When Jerry Buss bought the Lakers  in 1979, he wanted to build a championship team. He also wanted to put on a show. - Jerry Buss dies at 80; Lakers owner brought 'Showtime' success to L.A.
Photos: Jerry Buss through the years

Women really do talk more than men - dailymail

Ladies, the next time the man in your life complains you talk too much, silence him with science.  Tell him - at length, of course - it is all because of the Foxp2 protein. - Women really do talk more than men (13,000 words a day more to ...
Why women are the talkative sex - Telegraph

Divided Congress the biggest threat to US power abroad - Telegraph

"The greatest challenge to America's foreign policy today is in the hands not of diplomats but of policymakers in Congress," he said. "It is often said that we cannot be strong at home if we're not strong in the world." - Divided Congress the biggest threat to US power abroad - US Politics - Afghanistan

US drone strikes in Afghanistan rose sharply last year, UN reports

The number of US drone strikes in Afghanistan rose sharply last year compared with 2011, the United Nations said Tuesday.-  US drone strikes in Afghanistan rose sharply last year, UN reports 
Taliban targeting Afghan women and government workers, UN report finds 

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

محور ورځپاڼه: د راتلونکي افغانستان په اړه د بريتانيا او امريکا متضادې طرحې

دافغانستان، بريتانيا او هند ترمنځ په درې اړخيزه غونډه کې دافغانستان دموضوع په اړه دپاکستان او هند ترمنځ دپېچلتيا نوی اړخ په ډاګه شوی دی. هند دبريتانيا دطرحې مخالفت کوي او پاکستان دامريکا دطرحې مخالفت کوي. هندوستان اعتراض لري، چې بريتانيا غواړي پاکستان ته دافغانستان په راتلونکې کې له نورو ګاونډيو ډېر رول ورکړي او برعکس امريکا دې ته لېواله ده، چې دافغانستان په سياسي او امنيتي انتقال کې دګاونډيانو ملاتړ خپل کړي او دسولې پروسه دويم ګام شي. دا هغه څه دي، چې هندوان يې هم غواړي. د راتلونکي افغانستان په اړه د بريتانيا او امريکا متضادې طرحې 

NATO may hold mid-2013 summit to mark Afghan handover

(Reuters) - NATO is considering holding a summit in mid-2013 to mark a milestone in the handover of security responsibilities in Afghanistan to local forces, alliance Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said on Wednesday. - NATO may hold mid-2013 summit to mark Afghan handover
NATO may hold mid-2013 summit to mark Afghan handover - Reuters

Doctors list overused medical treatments - latimes

WASHINGTON — Nearly 100 medical procedures, tests and therapies are overused and often unnecessary, a coalition of leading medical societies says in a new report aimed at improving healthcare and controlling runaway costs. - Doctors list overused medical treatments
Doctors Call Out 90 More Unnecessary Medical Tests, Procedures - forbes

خلیلزاد: افغانستان به اصلاحات ضرورت دارد نه انقلاب

 افغانستان به انقلاب ضرورت ندارد که همه‌چیز از اول آغاز شود و یا نظام از بین برده شود و دوباره کار شروع شود. در شرایطی که افغانستان قرار دارد و خطر‌هایی که علیه این کشور در حال ساخته شدن است، به یک پروگرام ملی و یک تیم ملی و یک اجماع ملی ضرورت است. به‌نظر من، این اجماع ملی دو جنبه را باید در بر داشته باشد: اول بیلانس
برای دوام و دوم، اصلاح. - خلیلزاد: افغانستان به اصلاحات ضرورت دارد نه انقلاب 
خلیلزاد در گفتگو با ۸صبح: برای برون‌رفت از خطر به اجماع ملی نیاز داریم

The Heat: Iran's Political Landscape - Interview with Prince Reza Pahlavi of Iran

Anchor Mike Walter moderates CCTV America's weekly debate program with a special emphasis on the political landscape and current condition of Iran. - The Heat: Iran's Political Landscape - Reza Pahlavi - Home

The Arrogance of Universal Democracy - National Interest

Despite failures in Iraq and Afghanistan, some of the West’s most prominent intellectuals still operate under the assumption that liberal values are universal.- The Arrogance of Universal Democracy - Leon Hadar
The Far-Out Security Threat - Paul R. Pillar

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

خلیلزاد در گفتگو با ۸صبح: برای برون‌رفت از خطر به اجماع ملی نیاز داریم

زلمی خلیلزاد، سفیر پیشین ایالات متحده امریکا در افغانستان گفته است که برای انتقال قدرت سیاسی و نگرانی از آینده به یک اجماع ملی در افغانستان نیاز است. خلیلزاد که در گفتگوی خاص با ۸ صبح و رادیوی آریانا صحبت می ‌کرد هم چنین اتهام ‌های وارد شده از سوی دانا روهرا باکر یک سناتور امریکایی و برخی محافل سیاسی مبنی بر حمایت وی در نشست بن از یگ گروه قومی خاص را رد کرد.-  خلیلزاد در گفتگو با ۸صبح: برای برون‌رفت از خطر به اجماع ملی نیاز داریم
خلیلزاد: افغانستان به اصلاحات ضرورت دارد نه انقلاب 

Afghan civilian deaths drop but attacks on women, children and political targets rise - UN

19 February 2013 – The number of Afghan civilians killed or injured in 2012 decreased for the first time since the United Nations began keeping track of such figures, according to a report released today, but attacks on women and children, and threats on perceived Government supporters, are on the rise. - Afghan civilian deaths drop but attacks on women, children and political targets rise

شورشیان عامل کشته شدن 81 فیصد غیرنظامیان هستند: ملل متحد 

UN experts urge US Congress to renew Violence Against Women A

General Selected for NATO Post Will Retire, Citing Wife’s Health - nytimes

WASHINGTON — Gen. John R. Allen, the four-star Marine Corps officer who served until earlier this month as the top commander in Afghanistan, will retire from the military to focus on “health issues within his family,” President Obama said on Tuesday. - U.S. General Picked for Top NATO Military Post Will Retire ...

Diamonds Worth 35 Million Euros Stolen From Plane - Spiegel

An armed gang driving two cars smashed their way through the security fence surrounding the Brussels airport on Monday night and stole diamonds believed to be worth 37 million euros from an aircraft bound for Switzerland. Not a shot was fired. Police say they're looking for eight men. more... 
Diamonds Worth 35 Million Euros Stolen From Plane

Surrender or Capture?: Files Shed Light on Fate of Stalin's Son - Der Spiegel

For decades, some have suspected that Yakov Dzhugashvili, the oldest son of Soviet dictator Josef Stalin, surrendered to invading German forces instead of being captured. Files in a Russian archive now suggest that the suspicions might be warranted. - Files Shed Light on Fate of Stalin's Son

Monday, February 18, 2013

Deadly new virus is well adapted to infect humans, study finds

LONDON (Reuters) - A new virus that emerged in the Middle East last year and has killed five people is well adapted to infecting humans but could potentially be treated with drugs that boost the immune system, scientists said on Tuesday. - Deadly new virus is well adapted to infect humans, study finds ...
Deadly new virus is well adapted to infect humans - reuters

A New Investment Model for Afghanistan - huffpost

I'm proud to announce that the United States government has signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a new and innovative public-private partnership in Afghanistan with the Aga Khan Foundation.  A New Investment Model for Afghanistan -
The Lessons of Afghanistan: The Post-War Deluge of Ambiguity  -  - Afghanistan War

Thousands of Shiites protest 89 killed in Pakistan

QUETTA, Pakistan (AP) — At least 15,000 Shiite Muslims took to the streets in southwest Pakistan on Monday in a second day of protests following a bombing that killed 89 people. Relatives of the victims refused to bury their loved ones until the army takes action against the militants targeting the minority sect. - Thousands of Shiites protest 89 killed in Pakistan

NATO defense ministers to meet on Afghanistan on Friday - Xinhua

KABUL, Feb. 18 (Xinhua) -- The defense ministers of the NATO and other troop contributing nations will later this week discuss the situation in Afghanistan, said a NATO spokesman here on Monday. - NATO defense ministers to meet on Afghanistan on Friday
وزرای کشور های عضو ایساف در اخیر هفته راجع به افغانستان بحث می کنند

U.S.-led forces prepared to comply with Afghan airstrike limits - latimes

President Hamid Karzai said last week he would curb international airstrikes in residential areas, in an effort to reduce civilian casualties. - U.S.-led forces prepared to comply with Afghan airstrike limits -- U.S. general willing to curb airstrikes in Afghan villages
10 Afghan civilians reported killed in NATO airstrike

AFP: Protests erupt against anti-Shiite violence in Pakistan

QUETTA, Pakistan — Protests erupted across Pakistan Sunday to demand protection for Shiite Muslims after a bomb blast targeting the minority community killed 81 people, the latest in a series of bloody sectarian attacks. - Protests erupt against anti-Shiite violence in Pakistan

Bomb blast in southwest Pakistan kills at least 65

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — A bomb blast killed at least 65 people in the southwest city of Quetta on Saturday in what appeared to be the latest episode of sectarian violence against the country’s beleaguered Shiite Muslim minority. - Bomb blast in southwest Pakistan kills at least 65 - latimes
Pakistan militants kill 5 in attack on tribal official's compound

Sold! JFK's Air Force One bomber jacket fetches $629000 at auction

(CNN) -- Half a century after the heyday of Camelot, a treasure trove of John F. Kennedy personal items now belongs to a bevy of JFK fanatics. - Sold! JFK's Air Force One bomber jacket fetches $629000 at auction

Oscars 2013: Afghan boy's astonishing journey to the Academy Awards - Telegraph

The film which has taken Fawad's life on such an unexpected diversion is a 28-minute coming-of-age saga called Buzkashi Boys, made by an American and Canadian film-making pair who are based in Afghanistan. - Oscars 2013: Afghan boy's astonishing journey to the Academy Awards - Afghanistan

Buzkashi Boys shoots for Oscar with tale of Afghan child dreamers - Guardian

Story of two lads from different backgrounds bonding over love of ancient and bloody sport nominated for Academy Award - Buzkashi Boys shoots for Oscar with tale of Afghan child dreamers 
Nato can work within Afghan air strike ban, says top US commander

پس از مسعود -همه از نام شاه اما بر ضد شاه -- امرالله صالح

آقای کرزی و گل‌آقا شیرزوی در حوزه قندهار به تنهایی توانایی ایجاد پوشش سیاسی به تمام اقوام را نداشتند. از همین‌رو تعلق به شاه سابق، تسلط بر دستگاه قدرت و ایجاد پایگاه حمایت در بیرون از افغانستان، گزینه‌ها و راه‌هایی موازی بود که آن‌ها در استحکام جایگاه خود استفاده کردند.
رابطه آقای کرزی با شخصیت‌های برگشته از تبعید و مهاجرت، قبل از برگزاری لویه‌جرگه قانون اساسی بسیار صمیمانه و نزدیک بود. او کوشش می‌کرد که موجب رنجش شاه سابق و اطرافیانش نشود، اما این گرمی و صمیمیت بعد از تصویب قانون اساسی که در آن نقش شاه به یک لقب سمبولیک تقلیل یافته بود و دیگر هیچ نوع صلاحیت اجرایی خود و اطرافیانش نداشتند، به سردی گرایید. اما احترام شخصی آقای کرزی به شاه سابق به‌عنوان یک موی‌سفید افغانستان تا آخر حفظ شد.- پس از مسعود -همه از نام شاه اما بر ضد شاه
پس از مسعود – کاخ کاغذی، نگاهی به توافقات بن
Tribute to King Zahir Shah....Baba e Millat... ... Gul Agha Sherzai

Sunday, February 17, 2013

U.S. general willing to curb airstrikes in Afghan villages - latimes

KABUL, Afghanistan -- The commander of the U.S.-led coalition in Afghanistan said Sunday that his forces were prepared to comply with President Hamid Karzai’s demand that Afghan forces stop requesting international airstrikes in residential areas. - U.S. general willing to curb airstrikes in Afghan villages
U.S.-led forces prepared to comply with Afghan airstrike limits

New look at Apollo moon rocks reveals signs of 'native' water - latimes

A new analysis of moon rocks suggests the moon's interior may have been damp, a challenge to theories about how it was formed. - New look at Apollo moon rocks reveals signs of 'native' water
Russian 'meteor' was actually a tiny asteroid, NASA says

White House insists it didn't leak immigration plan

WASHINGTON — The White House scrambled Sunday to keep congressional negotiations over immigration reform on track, reassuring senators it did not leak details of a draft bill being written by the administration. - White House insists it didn't leak immigration plan
Obama proposes new visa for illegal immigrants - latimes

White House Immigration Plan Leaked - WSJ

WASHINGTON—New details of a White House immigration plan have been released, upsetting Senate Republicans working on a bipartisan bill and threatening to complicate the delicate legislative process now under way. - White House Immigration Plan Leaked

In Russia, Ruins and Property Spared by Meteor, Side by Side - nytimes

CHELYABINSK, Russia — The shock wave from a meteor that exploded above Siberia last week somehow sheared the roof off a brick and steel factory building while leaving a nearby glass facade unscathed. - In Russia, Ruins and Property Spared by Meteor, Side by Side
Shock Wave of Fireball Meteor Rattles Siberia, Injuring 1,200

Russia starts cleanup after meteor strike

Chelyabinsk, Russia (CNN) -- A day after a spectacular meteor blast shook Russia's Urals region, the cleanup operation got under way Saturday in the hard-hit Russian city of Chelyabinsk. - Russia starts clean-up after meteor strike  -- 5 things about Friday's space events
A meteor and asteroid: 1 in 100 million odds

Asteroid Hits Earth! How the Doomsday Scenario Would Play Out - TIME

Space is an exceedingly random place. Everything in the known universe may be governed by some pretty hard laws of physics, but so are BBs in a jar when you shake them up and down. That doesn’t stop things from getting very chaotic inside. The same extreme arbitrariness is worth keeping in mind as we contemplate our planet’s close brush with an asteroid this week. - Asteroid Hits Earth! How the Doomsday Scenario Would Play Out

Pak 'cozying up to everyone' to retain influence in Afghanistan post US troop pullout: Report

Islamabad, Feb 17 (ANI): As the United States withdraws from Afghanistan for the second time, Pakistan is establishing direct and more active contacts with members of the former Northern Alliance, a report has said. - Pak 'cozying up to everyone' to retain influence in ... - Yahoo! News