Bahraini forces and armored personnel carriers in the front in the capital, Manama (file photo)
Thursday 7 July 2011
Police attack protesters in Bahrain
New Falsification of Aljazeera about Bahrain
Monday 4 July 2011
Saudi-backed forces attack Bahrainis
Christian Cardinal, Emmanuel III Dally, Meets Grand Shia Ayatollah Sistani in Najaf
100s plan Israel flights on way to Gaza
Hundreds of pro-Palestinian activists plan to fly to Israel before heading for Gaza after pressures by the Tel Aviv regime blocked other campaigners from reaching the impoverished enclave.
The activists plan to fly to the Ben Gurion International Airport in the southeast of Tel Aviv (shown in the picture).
"We have responded to a call from Palestinian associations and about 500 hundred of us, women, men and children, will leave on July 8 to show them the world hasn't forgotten them," the organizers said, AFP reported on Monday.
The group will swarm the Ben Gurion International Airport southeast of Tel Aviv to protest the imposed siege against the Gaza Strip by the Israeli regime since 2007.
The blockade has deprived the entire 1.5 million Palestinian population of the territory of food, medicine, fuel and other necessities.
The campaigners include some 300 French nationals and others from Belgium, Germany, Italy, and the United States.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered aviation authorities to block the move. Media reports say all European passengers will be taken to a separate terminal and subjected to tight screening.
The activists, however, said, " Israel has no right to refuse us entry to the occupied Palestinian territories."
The planned effort come after Greek authorities stood in the way of their fellow humanitarian campaigners that intended to sail to Gaza, apparently buckling under political pressures by the Israeli regime and its key allies in the US and Europe.
The group will swarm the Ben Gurion International Airport southeast of Tel Aviv to protest the imposed siege against the Gaza Strip by the Israeli regime since 2007.
The blockade has deprived the entire 1.5 million Palestinian population of the territory of food, medicine, fuel and other necessities.
The campaigners include some 300 French nationals and others from Belgium, Germany, Italy, and the United States.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered aviation authorities to block the move. Media reports say all European passengers will be taken to a separate terminal and subjected to tight screening.
The activists, however, said, " Israel has no right to refuse us entry to the occupied Palestinian territories."
The planned effort come after Greek authorities stood in the way of their fellow humanitarian campaigners that intended to sail to Gaza, apparently buckling under political pressures by the Israeli regime and its key allies in the US and Europe.
Sunday 3 July 2011
Greece arrests Freedom Flotilla captain
The Greek authorities have arrested the captain of a US-flagged ship planning to sail to the Gaza Strip to attempt to break Israel's blockade of the Palestinian territory.
The Gaza-bound ship The Audacity of Hope was escorted by a Greek coast guard ship to the port of Perama, near Athens, on July 1.
Greece's coast guard said on Saturday that the captain of The Audacity of Hope, 60-year-old John Klusmire, was detained for attempting to cast off without permission, AP reported.
Klusmire is expected to appear in court on Tuesday.
Greece has banned all the ships that are part of the Gaza Freedom Flotilla II, which seeks to break the siege of the coastal strip, from leaving its ports.
Jane Hirschmann, one of the Gaza Freedom Flotilla II organizers, said, “They're making an example of our captain to stop other boats in the flotilla from trying to sail."
Several US activists, who were on the ship, said on Friday that they were intercepted by the Greek coast guard just moments after they left Perama port near Athens.
Greece's Civil Protection Ministry said that the coast guard had been ordered to take “all appropriate measures” to bar Gaza-bound ships from leaving Greece's ports.
Greece has recently expanded its relations with Israel, and the two countries are currently holding preliminary talks on potential energy deals. Greece's cash-strapped government is also currently seeking additional sources of overseas investment, possibly including Israel, to offset its financial crisis.
Israel's security cabinet has ordered the Israeli navy to use all possible means to prevent the incoming international aid flotilla from reaching the Gaza Strip, but the Gaza Freedom Flotilla II organizers insist that they will push ahead with their aid mission.
Some 1.5 million residents of Gaza are being denied their basic rights, including freedom of movement, the right to a decent standard of living, and proper employment, healthcare, and education.
Klusmire is expected to appear in court on Tuesday.
Greece has banned all the ships that are part of the Gaza Freedom Flotilla II, which seeks to break the siege of the coastal strip, from leaving its ports.
Jane Hirschmann, one of the Gaza Freedom Flotilla II organizers, said, “They're making an example of our captain to stop other boats in the flotilla from trying to sail."
Several US activists, who were on the ship, said on Friday that they were intercepted by the Greek coast guard just moments after they left Perama port near Athens.
Greece's Civil Protection Ministry said that the coast guard had been ordered to take “all appropriate measures” to bar Gaza-bound ships from leaving Greece's ports.
Greece has recently expanded its relations with Israel, and the two countries are currently holding preliminary talks on potential energy deals. Greece's cash-strapped government is also currently seeking additional sources of overseas investment, possibly including Israel, to offset its financial crisis.
Israel's security cabinet has ordered the Israeli navy to use all possible means to prevent the incoming international aid flotilla from reaching the Gaza Strip, but the Gaza Freedom Flotilla II organizers insist that they will push ahead with their aid mission.
Some 1.5 million residents of Gaza are being denied their basic rights, including freedom of movement, the right to a decent standard of living, and proper employment, healthcare, and education.
'STL part of psywar against resistance'
The Hezbollah leader says the US-funded Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) was established to turn world public opinion against the resistance and to foment sectarian strife in Lebanon.
Hezbollah Secretary General Seyyed Hassan Nasrallah
Hezbollah Secretary General Seyyed Hassan Nasrallah made the remarks in Beirut on Saturday night during a televised speech in which he condemned the UN tribunal's decision to issue indictments for four Hezbollah members over the 2005 assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri.
The Hezbollah leader rejected the allegations that Hezbollah was involved in the assassination, saying the indictments were premeditated and politicized.
He went on to say that the STL is part of a new US plot to tarnish the image of the popular resistance movement.
He questioned the credibility of the tribunal and said those behind the “politicized” investigation are linked to US and British intelligence agencies.
Israel benefits the most from the US-backed tribunal, he stated.
Nasrallah said the evidence Hezbollah had presented earlier was sufficient to indict Israel for involvement in the attack that killed the former Lebanese prime minister.
On February 14, 2005, a massive bomb blew up the vehicle carrying Rafiq Hariri, killing the Lebanese leader and over 20 other people.
“The tribunal should have investigated the Israeli role in Hariri's assassination,” but it “cooperated with the Israelis instead of questioning them,” he said.
Nasrallah presented new documents indicating that the STL's computers and their documents were not directly sent to The Hague from Beirut, but transferred via Israel.
“The probe should have been carried out by neutral, unbiased people,” while “those behind the probe are linked with US and British intelligence services,” he added, and accused the investigative committee members of ethical and financial corruption.
Nasrallah said the tribunal was “politically motivated from the beginning” and its indictments were based on false witnesses and accusations made by the US and Israel.
“The warrants have been issued against brothers with an honorable history in fighting the occupation.”
“We consider the tribunal an assault on us,” he stated.
“The tribunal is part of the psychological warfare against the resistance,” but the resistance movement is ready to confront any Israeli plots, Nasrallah said.
The STL's investigations should have been confidential but the panel deliberately leaking its decisions to the media to tarnish the image of Hezbollah, he noted.
Nasrallah also accused the Western-backed March 14 coalition of dreaming of inciting sectarian strife in Lebanon and stated that the STL indictments were meant to help pro-Western parties overthrow the Lebanese government.
“A pro-Israel tribunal will not reveal the truth about Hariri's death,” the Hezbollah leader said, recalling how Israelis did not allow anyone to investigate them over the massacre they committed in the West Bank city of Jenin in April 2002.
The Hezbollah leader rejected the allegations that Hezbollah was involved in the assassination, saying the indictments were premeditated and politicized.
He went on to say that the STL is part of a new US plot to tarnish the image of the popular resistance movement.
He questioned the credibility of the tribunal and said those behind the “politicized” investigation are linked to US and British intelligence agencies.
Israel benefits the most from the US-backed tribunal, he stated.
Nasrallah said the evidence Hezbollah had presented earlier was sufficient to indict Israel for involvement in the attack that killed the former Lebanese prime minister.
On February 14, 2005, a massive bomb blew up the vehicle carrying Rafiq Hariri, killing the Lebanese leader and over 20 other people.
“The tribunal should have investigated the Israeli role in Hariri's assassination,” but it “cooperated with the Israelis instead of questioning them,” he said.
Nasrallah presented new documents indicating that the STL's computers and their documents were not directly sent to The Hague from Beirut, but transferred via Israel.
“The probe should have been carried out by neutral, unbiased people,” while “those behind the probe are linked with US and British intelligence services,” he added, and accused the investigative committee members of ethical and financial corruption.
Nasrallah said the tribunal was “politically motivated from the beginning” and its indictments were based on false witnesses and accusations made by the US and Israel.
“The warrants have been issued against brothers with an honorable history in fighting the occupation.”
“We consider the tribunal an assault on us,” he stated.
“The tribunal is part of the psychological warfare against the resistance,” but the resistance movement is ready to confront any Israeli plots, Nasrallah said.
The STL's investigations should have been confidential but the panel deliberately leaking its decisions to the media to tarnish the image of Hezbollah, he noted.
Nasrallah also accused the Western-backed March 14 coalition of dreaming of inciting sectarian strife in Lebanon and stated that the STL indictments were meant to help pro-Western parties overthrow the Lebanese government.
“A pro-Israel tribunal will not reveal the truth about Hariri's death,” the Hezbollah leader said, recalling how Israelis did not allow anyone to investigate them over the massacre they committed in the West Bank city of Jenin in April 2002.
Saturday 2 July 2011
Bahrain's Religious Leaders Refused Dialogue with the Saudi-backed Al Khalifa Regime
Bahrain's religious leaders have refused to engage in a dialogue with the Saudi-backed Al Khalifa regime as there is no foreseeable prospect of political reforms in the kingdom.
One of the leaders of the Islamic National Accord Association (al-Wefaq), Seyyed Hadi Mussawi, said on Friday that Bahrain's largest opposition group has "not yet decided whether or not it will take part in the dialogue."
He pointed out, "We have always urged dialogue. We have no problems with dialogue as it is, yet we do not want to engage in talks that are bound to fail".
Meanwhile, senior Bahraini cleric Sheikh Issa Qasim says the country's political parties should receive public permission before they take part in any serious talks with the government.
Dozens of people have been killed and hundreds arrested in the Saudi-backed crackdown on the protests in Bahrain since mid-February.
Hezbollah: Sayyed Hasan Nasrallah to Address STL Indictment Saturday
Hezbollah Secretary General Sayyed Hasan Nasrallah is to announce on Saturday the party’s stance on the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) indictment.
According to a statement released by Hezbollah’s media relations the Secretary General will deliver a live speech on al-Manar Television on Saturday July 2 at 8:30 p.m. (local time).
On Thursday, STL delegation handed over the indictment, in former premier Rafiq Hariri’s 2005 assassination case, to Lebanese General Prosecutor Judge Said Mirza.
Al-Manar reporter informed that the indictment is consisted of 136 pages and four arrest warrants against Lebanese.
Before Mirza-tribunal delegation’s meeting was over, March 14 media started leaking the indictment’s content, including names of the accused.
Imam Khamenei Congratulates the Eid of Mab'ath
Islamic Revolution Leader Imam Sayyed Ali Khamenei congratulated the auspicious Eid of Mab'ath, the appointment of Last Messenger of Allah Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) to his divine mission.
Islamic Revolution Leader Imam Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei in a meeting with Iranian authorities and a large group of people Thursday, June 30, congratulated the auspicious Eid of Mab'ath, the appointment of Last Messenger of Allah Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) to his divine mission, and described the appointment as the greatest blessing of God and the day as the most blessed day of year.
Imam Khamenei said the current Islamic awakening was a movement in the path of the Messenger and that Muslim nations would not allow Americans and Zionists to divert the great movement or ride it through sowing differences.
Imam Khamenei said the 23-year mission of the Last Messenger left a determining, profound and progressive effect on the history and fate of human being, adding that the Messenger (PBUH) during the short period of his mission founded a society based on faith, rationality, jihad and dignity to which human civilizations are indebted.
Imam Khamenei said the problems of the past and present of the Islamic Ummah were due to Muslims' ingratitude towards the blessing, adding that if Muslim nations enhance their faith in heart and practice, cherish human rationality, pursue jihad in political, military, economic and cultural fields and value their human dignity, they would certainly attain their deserved position.
Ayatollah Khamenei said the current developments in the North Africa and the Middle East showed the Muslim nations have paid attention to the blessing of Islam.
"The Islamic awakening in Egypt, Tunisia and other countries show that the oppressive equation the west and their puppet rulers had imposed on the regional nations in the past 150 years has been collapsed and a new era has opened in the history of the regional nations," Imam Khamenei said.
Imam Khamenei said the future of the regional developments were bright, adding that the arrogant powers were trying to deny the reality and hide the Islamic aspect of the developments.
"Americans, Zionists and their followers in the region have been using all their capacities to divert the great movement of the nations and re-impose the previous oppressive equations by bringing to power their puppet elements; However, once a nation is awakened and stands by the field, it could no more be defeated," Imam Khamenei said.
Ayatollah Khamenei said the current developments in the North Africa and the Middle East showed the Muslim nations have paid attention to the blessing of Islam.
"The Islamic awakening in Egypt, Tunisia and other countries show that the oppressive equation the west and their puppet rulers had imposed on the regional nations in the past 150 years has been collapsed and a new era has opened in the history of the regional nations," Imam Khamenei said.
Imam Khamenei said the future of the regional developments were bright, adding that the arrogant powers were trying to deny the reality and hide the Islamic aspect of the developments.
"Americans, Zionists and their followers in the region have been using all their capacities to divert the great movement of the nations and re-impose the previous oppressive equations by bringing to power their puppet elements; However, once a nation is awakened and stands by the field, it could no more be defeated," Imam Khamenei said.
Imam Khamenei urged the world of Islam to keep vigilance against the efforts and complicated plans of the US and the Zionist regime against the nations, adding however that the Islamic awakening would remain in place.
Imam Khamenei touched on different plots of the enemies of Islam against the Islamic Revolution, including discord, infiltration, assassinations, sectarian and religious differences, and imposition of war against the nation, adding that the Global Arrogance would repeat the plots or similar ones against the awakened Muslim nations.
Imam Khamenei said the Muslim nations can defeat the plots by avoiding argument over trivial issues, avoiding sectarian and religious differences and understanding the significance of the historical movement.
Imam Khamenei underscored Iran's support to any justice-seeking and anti-Arrogance movement, adding that anywhere, a movement takes place against the US and Zionism and any nation which rises up against the US international dictatorship and internal dictators it would enjoy the support of the Iranian nation.
Imam Khamenei then warned that the US, in a complicated plot, tries to create problems for Syria, as a country belonging to line of regional resistance, by simulating the developments of Egypt, Tunisia, Yemen and Libya in the country. The IR Leader said the Syrian incidents were different in nature from other regional developments.
The Islamic Revolution Leader said the nature of regional Islamic awakening was anti-US and anti-Zionist while in Syria, the hand of the US and Zionists was clearly seen.
"The logic of the Iranian nation is that anywhere slogans are chanted in favor of the US and Zionists, that is a deviant move," the IR Leader said. Touching on the innocence of the Bahrain nation, Imam Khamenei said the Bahraini people's movement was similar to the Egyptian, Tunisian and Yemeni movements.
Imam Khamenei regretted that some individuals were following the wishes of enemies of Islam instead of heeding the wishes of their nations.
The Islamic Revolution Leader said the nature of regional Islamic awakening was anti-US and anti-Zionist while in Syria, the hand of the US and Zionists was clearly seen.
"The logic of the Iranian nation is that anywhere slogans are chanted in favor of the US and Zionists, that is a deviant move," the IR Leader said. Touching on the innocence of the Bahrain nation, Imam Khamenei said the Bahraini people's movement was similar to the Egyptian, Tunisian and Yemeni movements.
Imam Khamenei regretted that some individuals were following the wishes of enemies of Islam instead of heeding the wishes of their nations.
'Saudi diplomat abused Indonesian maid'
A Saudi diplomat in Germany has been accused of allegedly abusing his Indonesian maid and refusing to pay her salary for 18 months.
Indonesian protestors demonstrate in Yogyakarta on June 24, claiming their government is failing to protect its migrant workers following the recent execution of an Indonesian maid in Saudi Arabia.
A German human rights group, which made the allegations against the Saudi diplomat in Berlin says it will file a lawsuit in Germany's highest court to press the claims, DPA reported.
The German Institute for Human Rights says the 30-year-old Indonesian maid said that she was beaten and humiliated “like a slave” by the Saudi attaché, whose name has not been announced, and his two wives.
The rights group added that a German labor tribunal has rejected a lawsuit by the maid in earlier June because of “her employer's diplomatic immunity.”
The Saudi diplomat's lawyer Philipp von Berg also denied the allegations as “untrue.”
The rights group says the maid fled the diplomat's home in October, and returned to her house in Indonesia.
“She was never paid the agreed monthly wage of 750 euros, yet worked 18-hour days.”
The mistreatment of Indonesian workers, particularly females, in Saudi Arabia has strained the two states' relations in recent years.
The execution of an Indonesian maid last month also prompted the government of Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to take stern action against Riyadh.
Saudi Arabia "broke the norms and manners of international relations" by carrying out the death sentence, the Indonesian chief executive said.
The Indonesian government has also filed a protest against the Saudi government over the execution of the Indonesian citizen.
The German Institute for Human Rights says the 30-year-old Indonesian maid said that she was beaten and humiliated “like a slave” by the Saudi attaché, whose name has not been announced, and his two wives.
The rights group added that a German labor tribunal has rejected a lawsuit by the maid in earlier June because of “her employer's diplomatic immunity.”
The Saudi diplomat's lawyer Philipp von Berg also denied the allegations as “untrue.”
The rights group says the maid fled the diplomat's home in October, and returned to her house in Indonesia.
“She was never paid the agreed monthly wage of 750 euros, yet worked 18-hour days.”
The mistreatment of Indonesian workers, particularly females, in Saudi Arabia has strained the two states' relations in recent years.
The execution of an Indonesian maid last month also prompted the government of Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to take stern action against Riyadh.
Saudi Arabia "broke the norms and manners of international relations" by carrying out the death sentence, the Indonesian chief executive said.
The Indonesian government has also filed a protest against the Saudi government over the execution of the Indonesian citizen.
Turkey hijab ban distresses women
A large number of the hijab-wearing relatives, and in particular the wives, of the members of Turkey's armed forces have lost their emotional balance because of the country's ban on hijab, a report says.
Turkish women wearing hijab (file photo)
School and university students wearing hijab in Turkey constitute the biggest front of the fight against hijab ban in public sector and educational places in the country, Turkey's Moralhaber News Agency reported.
The hijab-wearing university students, in particular, hold daily gatherings in front of universities and try to materialize their rights through lawful means.
However, hijab-wearing relatives, especially the wives of the members of the armed forces, form another group.
A large number of these people have lost their emotional equilibrium due to a ban on wearing hijab, with many of them having committed suicide because of the tortures they have sustained.
Following the implementation of the hijab ban after the postmodern coup of February 28, 1997 in Turkey, many of these women have not been able to leave their homes merely because they are wearing hijab.
Many of them were also forced to commit suicide due to pressures of criticisms and censures from neighbors and others.
In addition, simply because of the fact that they wear hijab, they have been deprived of health care benefits in military hospitals and have been forced to sustain the pains and miseries from different illnesses.
The hijab-wearing university students, in particular, hold daily gatherings in front of universities and try to materialize their rights through lawful means.
However, hijab-wearing relatives, especially the wives of the members of the armed forces, form another group.
A large number of these people have lost their emotional equilibrium due to a ban on wearing hijab, with many of them having committed suicide because of the tortures they have sustained.
Following the implementation of the hijab ban after the postmodern coup of February 28, 1997 in Turkey, many of these women have not been able to leave their homes merely because they are wearing hijab.
Many of them were also forced to commit suicide due to pressures of criticisms and censures from neighbors and others.
In addition, simply because of the fact that they wear hijab, they have been deprived of health care benefits in military hospitals and have been forced to sustain the pains and miseries from different illnesses.
Saudis urge political prisoners' release
Saudi protesters have taken to the streets in the eastern city of Qatif in Saudi Arabia, demanding the release of political prisoners in the Arab country.
This file photo shows an anti-government protest rally in the eastern city of Qatif in Saudi Arabia.
Despite tight security measures, the protesters held the anti-government demonstration following the Friday Prayers.
The protesters also condemned Saudi Arabia's involvement in the crackdowns on anti-government protests in neighboring Bahrain, and urged the immediate withdrawal of Saudi troops from the tiny Persian Gulf sheikdom.
Protests are illegal in Saudi Arabia and political parties are banned.
Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province has been the scene of anti-government protests over the past months and authorities have arrested scores of people, including bloggers and writers, for taking part in anti-government demonstrations.
Saudi protesters in the east are calling for human rights reform, freedom of expression and the release of political prisoners some of whom held without trial for more than 16 years.
In March, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates deployed troops to Bahrain to help the Manama government crush the nationwide protests. Yet, the protests have only grown more popular.
The protesters also condemned Saudi Arabia's involvement in the crackdowns on anti-government protests in neighboring Bahrain, and urged the immediate withdrawal of Saudi troops from the tiny Persian Gulf sheikdom.
Protests are illegal in Saudi Arabia and political parties are banned.
Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province has been the scene of anti-government protests over the past months and authorities have arrested scores of people, including bloggers and writers, for taking part in anti-government demonstrations.
Saudi protesters in the east are calling for human rights reform, freedom of expression and the release of political prisoners some of whom held without trial for more than 16 years.
In March, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates deployed troops to Bahrain to help the Manama government crush the nationwide protests. Yet, the protests have only grown more popular.
Hamas raps Greece for barring Gaza aid
The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has condemned Greece after the coastguard of the European country blocked the departure of aid ships carrying supplies to the besieged Gaza Strip.
The Gaza-bound aid boat "Audacity of Hope" is escorted by the Greek coastguard ship in the town of Peramat, near Athens, Greece, July 1, 2011.
In a statement released on Friday, the group described the move by the Greek authorities as "inhumane," saying Greece had played into Israeli hands, AFP reported.
Greek security forces returned Canadian and US vessels -- part of the "Freedom Flotilla Two" -- to the port shortly after their departure. The mission is named after the first such convoy, which lost nine of its Turkish activists in a violent attack by Israeli forces on May 31, 2010.
"This is inhumane action, [it] is contrary to international regulations and norms," Hamas said.
"Barring this aid from reaching the Gaza Strip is done as a result of pressure imposed by the Zionist (Israeli) occupiers," it added.
Greece's Civil Protection Ministry said on Friday that the coastguard had been ordered to take “all appropriate measures” to bar Gaza-bound Greek and international ships from leaving Greece's ports.
The ban comes as organizers of the humanitarian aid flotilla to the Gaza Strip say the Tel Aviv regime is making Greece halt the convoy.
The Palestinian resistance group also urged the European Parliament and human rights organizations "to put pressure on the Greek government" to allow the flotilla to sail for Gaza to break Israel's blockade of the Palestinian coastal strip.
It added that the Israeli-imposed blockade "is unjust... and a mark of disgrace on the forehead of humanity."
Israel has ordered its navy to use all possible means to prevent the incoming international aid flotilla from reaching the Gaza Strip.
Some 1.5 million people in Gaza have been denied their basic rights, including the freedom of movement and the right to appropriate living conditions, work, health and education since June 2007 after Hamas took control of the enclave.
Greek security forces returned Canadian and US vessels -- part of the "Freedom Flotilla Two" -- to the port shortly after their departure. The mission is named after the first such convoy, which lost nine of its Turkish activists in a violent attack by Israeli forces on May 31, 2010.
"This is inhumane action, [it] is contrary to international regulations and norms," Hamas said.
"Barring this aid from reaching the Gaza Strip is done as a result of pressure imposed by the Zionist (Israeli) occupiers," it added.
Greece's Civil Protection Ministry said on Friday that the coastguard had been ordered to take “all appropriate measures” to bar Gaza-bound Greek and international ships from leaving Greece's ports.
The ban comes as organizers of the humanitarian aid flotilla to the Gaza Strip say the Tel Aviv regime is making Greece halt the convoy.
The Palestinian resistance group also urged the European Parliament and human rights organizations "to put pressure on the Greek government" to allow the flotilla to sail for Gaza to break Israel's blockade of the Palestinian coastal strip.
It added that the Israeli-imposed blockade "is unjust... and a mark of disgrace on the forehead of humanity."
Israel has ordered its navy to use all possible means to prevent the incoming international aid flotilla from reaching the Gaza Strip.
Some 1.5 million people in Gaza have been denied their basic rights, including the freedom of movement and the right to appropriate living conditions, work, health and education since June 2007 after Hamas took control of the enclave.
Talks begin in Bahrain amid crackdowns
Bahraini rulers have started negotiations with the country's opposition leaders amid the continuing harsh crackdowns on anti-regime demonstrations.
Bahraini anti-government protesters (file photo)
Bahrain's biggest opposition party, al-Wefaq, decided at the last minute to join the government-led “national dialogue” in the Bahraini capital, Manama, on Saturday, AFP reported.
The group says it will withdraw from the dialogue if the people's demands are not met by the government.
"We do not intend to sabotage the dialogue but we do intend to bring to it the demands of the people," said senior al-Wefaq official Khalil al-Marzoug.
Bahraini Parliament Speaker Khalifa Dhahrani said the talks are aimed at drawing up "common principles for the re-launch of the political reform process" with "no preconditions and no ceiling."
The talks come after Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa called for a national dialogue on reform and announced an investigation into the handling of the uprising by Saudi-backed regime forces.
Bahrain's main opposition leaders say authorities must end the protest-linked “show trials” and release detainees before a serious dialogue can begin.
Despite the lifting of an emergency law imposed during a violent crackdown on mass anti-government demonstrations, the Manama regime continues to try civilians in its so-called special courts.
In March, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates deployed military forces in Bahrain to help the Manama regime crush nationwide protests.
Dozens of people have been killed and hundreds arrested in the Saudi-backed crackdown on the protests in Bahrain since mid-February.
The group says it will withdraw from the dialogue if the people's demands are not met by the government.
"We do not intend to sabotage the dialogue but we do intend to bring to it the demands of the people," said senior al-Wefaq official Khalil al-Marzoug.
Bahraini Parliament Speaker Khalifa Dhahrani said the talks are aimed at drawing up "common principles for the re-launch of the political reform process" with "no preconditions and no ceiling."
The talks come after Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa called for a national dialogue on reform and announced an investigation into the handling of the uprising by Saudi-backed regime forces.
Bahrain's main opposition leaders say authorities must end the protest-linked “show trials” and release detainees before a serious dialogue can begin.
Despite the lifting of an emergency law imposed during a violent crackdown on mass anti-government demonstrations, the Manama regime continues to try civilians in its so-called special courts.
In March, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates deployed military forces in Bahrain to help the Manama regime crush nationwide protests.
Dozens of people have been killed and hundreds arrested in the Saudi-backed crackdown on the protests in Bahrain since mid-February.
Friday 1 July 2011
Leader: Regional revolts anti-US in core
Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei insists that the core of recent uprisings in regional countries has been anti-US and anti-Israel and quite different from foreign-based armed unrest in Syria.
Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei
“The essence of the Islamic awakening in the countries of the region is an anti-Zionist and anti-US movement,” Ayatollah Khamenei said on Thursday.
“The Islamic awakening of the regional nations is a movement on the path of the prophets; and through vigilance, Muslim nations and Iran's great nation will not allow the Americans and the Zionists to derail or hijack this magnificent movement by sowing discord and other plots,” the Leader said.
“The great Islamic awakening in Egypt, Tunisia and other countries demonstrates that the cruel and humiliating balance that the expansionist Westerners and puppet rulers had imposed on regional nations in the span of past 150 years has been upset, giving rise to a new chapter in the history of the region,” Ayatollah Khamenei emphasized.
The Leader also reiterated that the Iranian nation and its Islamic establishment would always support any justice-seeking and anti-imperialistic movement.
Ayatollah Khamenei underlined that any movement against the US and Zionism, as well as “any nation that rises against American international dictatorship and [its] domestic dictators” will be supported by the Islamic Republic.
Referring to the recent developments in Syria, the Leader stressed that the US was attempting to incite trouble and disorder against Damascus by making efforts to simulate in Syria the uprisings that took place in Egypt, Tunisia, Yemen and Libya.
Describing Syria as the frontline state in the resistance against the 'Zionist regime' (Israel), the leader said, “But the nature of developments in Syria is different from events in other regional countries,” noting that the involvement of US and Israel in the recent unrests in Syria is evident.
“The Islamic awakening of the regional nations is a movement on the path of the prophets; and through vigilance, Muslim nations and Iran's great nation will not allow the Americans and the Zionists to derail or hijack this magnificent movement by sowing discord and other plots,” the Leader said.
“The great Islamic awakening in Egypt, Tunisia and other countries demonstrates that the cruel and humiliating balance that the expansionist Westerners and puppet rulers had imposed on regional nations in the span of past 150 years has been upset, giving rise to a new chapter in the history of the region,” Ayatollah Khamenei emphasized.
The Leader also reiterated that the Iranian nation and its Islamic establishment would always support any justice-seeking and anti-imperialistic movement.
Ayatollah Khamenei underlined that any movement against the US and Zionism, as well as “any nation that rises against American international dictatorship and [its] domestic dictators” will be supported by the Islamic Republic.
Referring to the recent developments in Syria, the Leader stressed that the US was attempting to incite trouble and disorder against Damascus by making efforts to simulate in Syria the uprisings that took place in Egypt, Tunisia, Yemen and Libya.
Describing Syria as the frontline state in the resistance against the 'Zionist regime' (Israel), the leader said, “But the nature of developments in Syria is different from events in other regional countries,” noting that the involvement of US and Israel in the recent unrests in Syria is evident.
Opposition snubs talks with Manama
Bahrain's religious leaders have refused to engage in a dialogue with the Saudi-backed Al Khalifa regime as there is no foreseeable prospect of political reforms in the kingdom
One of the leaders of the Islamic National Accord Association (al-Wefaq), Seyyed Hadi Mussawi, told AFP on Friday that Bahrain's largest opposition group has "not yet decided whether or not it will take part in the dialogue."
"We have always urged dialogue. We have no problems with dialogue as it is, yet we do not want to engage in talks that are bound to fail," he pointed out.
Meanwhile, senior Bahraini cleric Sheikh Issa Qasim says the country's political parties should receive public permission before they take part in any serious talks with the government.
The remarks come as Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has called for a national dialogue on reform, as authorities prepare to lift a state of emergency imposed during a violent crackdown on mass anti-government demonstrations.
The talks would begin on July 1 and would be "comprehensive, serious and without preconditions," the Bahrain News Agency said.
Bahrain's main opposition leaders say authorities must end the protest-linked 'show trials' and release detainees before serious dialogue can begin.
Despite the lifting of an emergency law, the Manama regime continues to try civilians in its so-called special courts, as part of the government crackdown on peaceful popular protests.
In March, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates deployed military forces in Bahrain to help the government crush nationwide protests.
Dozens of people have been killed and hundreds arrested in the Saudi-backed crackdown on the protests in Bahrain since mid-February.
Souece : PressTV
One of the leaders of the Islamic National Accord Association (al-Wefaq), Seyyed Hadi Mussawi, told AFP on Friday that Bahrain's largest opposition group has "not yet decided whether or not it will take part in the dialogue."
"We have always urged dialogue. We have no problems with dialogue as it is, yet we do not want to engage in talks that are bound to fail," he pointed out.
Meanwhile, senior Bahraini cleric Sheikh Issa Qasim says the country's political parties should receive public permission before they take part in any serious talks with the government.
The remarks come as Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has called for a national dialogue on reform, as authorities prepare to lift a state of emergency imposed during a violent crackdown on mass anti-government demonstrations.
The talks would begin on July 1 and would be "comprehensive, serious and without preconditions," the Bahrain News Agency said.
Bahrain's main opposition leaders say authorities must end the protest-linked 'show trials' and release detainees before serious dialogue can begin.
Despite the lifting of an emergency law, the Manama regime continues to try civilians in its so-called special courts, as part of the government crackdown on peaceful popular protests.
In March, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates deployed military forces in Bahrain to help the government crush nationwide protests.
Dozens of people have been killed and hundreds arrested in the Saudi-backed crackdown on the protests in Bahrain since mid-February.
Souece : PressTV
Syria refugees return from Turkey
Most of the refugees who had fled the Syrian town of Khirbat al-Jawz to neighboring Turkey have returned to their homes.
Syrian refugees stand in front of their tents in a camp in the Turkish border town of Yayladagi in Hatay province, June 28, 2011.
According to locals, the refugees, who were displaced by fierce clashes between Syrian security forces and armed men blamed for the recent unrest in the country, now say security has been restored in the region, a Press TV correspondent reported on Thursday.
Earlier, Turkish officials said the number of Syrians taking refuge in tent cities in Turkey had significantly decreased.
In recent weeks, thousands of refugees living in villages near the border had crossed into Turkey to seek shelter following the launch of an operation by security forces in border cities and villages to hunt down armed gangs.
Rights groups say more than 1,300 civilians have been killed in the country since protests erupted in mid-March.
On May 31, President Bashar al-Assad ordered a general amnesty for all political prisoners, with rights activists in Syria confirming the release of hundreds of detainees.
Despite the freeing of political prisoners, and the president's other assurances to implement reforms, protests continued -- drawing at times similar rallies in response from Assad's supporters.
Earlier in June, the Syrian head of state offered a national dialogue to end the unrest, calling on the authorities, intellectuals and political personalities to discuss at a July 10 meeting amendments to the country's constitution, especially Clause 8, which states that the governing Ba'ath party is the sole leader of both the state and society.
Syrian opposition accuses the country's security forces of being behind the killings. But the Syrian government blames armed gangs for the violence, which has also left scores of security and army forces dead.
Damascus claims that the unrest is being orchestrated from outside the country.
Earlier, Turkish officials said the number of Syrians taking refuge in tent cities in Turkey had significantly decreased.
In recent weeks, thousands of refugees living in villages near the border had crossed into Turkey to seek shelter following the launch of an operation by security forces in border cities and villages to hunt down armed gangs.
Rights groups say more than 1,300 civilians have been killed in the country since protests erupted in mid-March.
On May 31, President Bashar al-Assad ordered a general amnesty for all political prisoners, with rights activists in Syria confirming the release of hundreds of detainees.
Despite the freeing of political prisoners, and the president's other assurances to implement reforms, protests continued -- drawing at times similar rallies in response from Assad's supporters.
Earlier in June, the Syrian head of state offered a national dialogue to end the unrest, calling on the authorities, intellectuals and political personalities to discuss at a July 10 meeting amendments to the country's constitution, especially Clause 8, which states that the governing Ba'ath party is the sole leader of both the state and society.
Syrian opposition accuses the country's security forces of being behind the killings. But the Syrian government blames armed gangs for the violence, which has also left scores of security and army forces dead.
Damascus claims that the unrest is being orchestrated from outside the country.
'Flotilla en route to Gaza despite threats'
Despite the many threats to confront the activists onboard the Freedom Flotilla II, organizers have said they will go ahead with their attempt to break the siege.
One of the chief organizers said Israel issues repeated threats against the flotilla because it is afraid of the truth, a Press TV correspondent reported.
He further added that the plan to get humanitarian aid and construction material into Gaza was a non-violent effort.
Israel's Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman, however, speaking on an Israeli radio program on Tuesday called the activists “hardcore terror activists.”
"No one doubts the intention of those people... they will be onboard several boats. But I am sure we will cope with them," he said.
Israel's security cabinet has ordered the navy to use all possible means to prevent the incoming international aid flotilla from reaching the coastal enclave.
On Thursday, the Irish Ship to Gaza (ISG) campaign said its ship had been "sabotaged in a dangerous manner" in the port of Gocek in southwestern Turkey.
Flotilla members earlier reported that a joint Greek-Swedish-Norwegian boat had also been sabotaged with serious damage to its propeller.
The Freedom Flotilla II departed for the impoverished strip on Tuesday.
The mission is named after the first such convoy, which lost nine of its Turkish activists in a violent Israeli attack on May 31, 2010.
Source : PressTV
One of the chief organizers said Israel issues repeated threats against the flotilla because it is afraid of the truth, a Press TV correspondent reported.
He further added that the plan to get humanitarian aid and construction material into Gaza was a non-violent effort.
Israel's Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman, however, speaking on an Israeli radio program on Tuesday called the activists “hardcore terror activists.”
"No one doubts the intention of those people... they will be onboard several boats. But I am sure we will cope with them," he said.
Israel's security cabinet has ordered the navy to use all possible means to prevent the incoming international aid flotilla from reaching the coastal enclave.
On Thursday, the Irish Ship to Gaza (ISG) campaign said its ship had been "sabotaged in a dangerous manner" in the port of Gocek in southwestern Turkey.
Flotilla members earlier reported that a joint Greek-Swedish-Norwegian boat had also been sabotaged with serious damage to its propeller.
The Freedom Flotilla II departed for the impoverished strip on Tuesday.
The mission is named after the first such convoy, which lost nine of its Turkish activists in a violent Israeli attack on May 31, 2010.
Source : PressTV
Yemenis blast Saudi meddling
Yemeni anti-government protesters have once again held demonstrations, condemning Saudi Arabia's interference in the country's internal affairs.
Yemeni anti-government protesters (file photo)
“Al Saud, listen to millions of people: Saleh will not come back,” the public chanted, according to video footage aired on Press TV.
The rallies came as Yemen's Ali Abdullah Saleh continues to receive treatment in Saudi Arabia for the injuries he received in an attack on the presidential palace on June 3.
The protesters also slammed the United Nations' delayed dispatch of a fact-finding mission, which is to investigate rights violations committed by the government during the demonstrations.
The protesters demand that Saleh stand trial for murdering hundreds of Yemenis during the regime's crackdown on protests, which began in January.
Saleh has been in office for nearly 33 years with opposition groups arguing that his long-promised political and economic reforms have never materialized.
Some 40 percent of Yemenis live on USD 2 a day or less and one third is wrestling with chronic hunger.
Yemen's Deputy Information Minister Abdo al-Janadi has said an expected television interview with Saleh would be aired “after Thursday.”
On Wednesday, however, a Yemeni diplomat said that "Saudi authorities, in compliance with doctors' orders, forbid any filming or visits,” to Saleh since “this contradicts the atmosphere needed for his recovery."
Yemeni and Saudi officials insist that Saleh would return home to continue his tenure -- something the protesting public steadfastly opposes.
The rallies came as Yemen's Ali Abdullah Saleh continues to receive treatment in Saudi Arabia for the injuries he received in an attack on the presidential palace on June 3.
The protesters also slammed the United Nations' delayed dispatch of a fact-finding mission, which is to investigate rights violations committed by the government during the demonstrations.
The protesters demand that Saleh stand trial for murdering hundreds of Yemenis during the regime's crackdown on protests, which began in January.
Saleh has been in office for nearly 33 years with opposition groups arguing that his long-promised political and economic reforms have never materialized.
Some 40 percent of Yemenis live on USD 2 a day or less and one third is wrestling with chronic hunger.
Yemen's Deputy Information Minister Abdo al-Janadi has said an expected television interview with Saleh would be aired “after Thursday.”
On Wednesday, however, a Yemeni diplomat said that "Saudi authorities, in compliance with doctors' orders, forbid any filming or visits,” to Saleh since “this contradicts the atmosphere needed for his recovery."
Yemeni and Saudi officials insist that Saleh would return home to continue his tenure -- something the protesting public steadfastly opposes.
Fresh protests hit Bahrain's capital
Thousands of anti-regime protesters in Bahrain have once again taken to the streets in the capital to protest against the rule of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
Bahraini protesters (file photo)
Activists said Saudi-backed regime forces fired tear gas and stun grenades to disperse the protesters near the Pearl Square site in Manama on Thursday, AP reported.
No injuries were immediately reported during the demonstration.
The demonstrators also demanded that all protesters, opposition leaders and activists detained during the deadly crackdown, be released.
On Wednesday similar protest rallies were held in the towns of Al Musalla, Tubli and Sanabi after the king delivered a speech.
During his speech, the monarch pledged to investigate allegations of human rights violations during the protests.
Anti-regime protesters have been holding peaceful demonstrations across Bahrain since mid-February, calling for an end to the Al Khalifa dynasty's rule.
In March, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates deployed military forces to Bahrain to help the government crush the nationwide protests.
No injuries were immediately reported during the demonstration.
The demonstrators also demanded that all protesters, opposition leaders and activists detained during the deadly crackdown, be released.
On Wednesday similar protest rallies were held in the towns of Al Musalla, Tubli and Sanabi after the king delivered a speech.
During his speech, the monarch pledged to investigate allegations of human rights violations during the protests.
Anti-regime protesters have been holding peaceful demonstrations across Bahrain since mid-February, calling for an end to the Al Khalifa dynasty's rule.
In March, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates deployed military forces to Bahrain to help the government crush the nationwide protests.
18 protesters injured in Yemen
At least 18 protesters have been injured during clashes between policemen and thousands of anti-government protesters in western Yemen, witnesses say.
Anti-government protesters in Yemen (file photo)
The violence broke out in al-Hudaydah province on Thursday, Xinhua reported.
Police fired into the air to disperse protesters demanding the establishment of a transitional council to rule the country in downtown al-Hudaydah city.
Yemen's Ali Abdullah Saleh was seriously injured in a rocket attack on his compound on June 3 and travelled to Saudi Arabia to receive medical treatment.
Following the relocation of Saleh, Yemeni people, who began anti-regime protests in January, have been demanding the formation of a transitional council.
Yemeni clerics and tribal leaders have expressed strong opposition against the return of Saleh, saying Saleh, who has maintained his grip on power in the country over the past 33 years, is unfit to rule anymore.
Protesters have been camped out in the capital Sana'a demanding Vice President Abdrabuh Mansur Hadi to form an interim ruling council to prevent Saleh's return to power.
Police fired into the air to disperse protesters demanding the establishment of a transitional council to rule the country in downtown al-Hudaydah city.
Yemen's Ali Abdullah Saleh was seriously injured in a rocket attack on his compound on June 3 and travelled to Saudi Arabia to receive medical treatment.
Following the relocation of Saleh, Yemeni people, who began anti-regime protests in January, have been demanding the formation of a transitional council.
Yemeni clerics and tribal leaders have expressed strong opposition against the return of Saleh, saying Saleh, who has maintained his grip on power in the country over the past 33 years, is unfit to rule anymore.
Protesters have been camped out in the capital Sana'a demanding Vice President Abdrabuh Mansur Hadi to form an interim ruling council to prevent Saleh's return to power.
UN welcomes Bahraini regime probe
The UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed Bahrain's decision to set up an independent committee to investigate its brutal crackdown of anti-regime demonstrators.
Anti-government Bahrain women take part in a rally organised by. al-Wefaq opposition group.
Ki-moon further stressed that the committee must "be able to work with full independence in accordance with international norms and standards" and that “the government should not interfere in any way.”
Saeed al-Shehabi with the Bahrain Freedom Movement, however, has described the move by the Bahraini regime as “a joke and mockery of justice.”
“I think the formation of this committee is self-defeating because how you can look into the crimes of the person who has appointed you” or have “reconciliation when you are still torturing people?" he said.
The order for the creation of the committee was proposed by Bahrainis Emir Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on Wednesday.
King Hamad has claimed that the government will not interfere in the investigation so that it remains “completely independent.”
On Thursday, the regime, which initiated a brutal crackdown on popular protests in the country, appointed a five-man panel to conduct investigations into the violent clampdown.
Anti-regime demonstrators have been holding peaceful protests in the Persian Gulf kingdom since mid-February, demanding an end to the Al-Khalifa dynasty.
In March however, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates deployed over 1,000 military forces to Bahrain to assist the regime in suppressing the nationwide demonstrations.
Meanwhile, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay has also welcomed the Bahraini move to set up the commission.
Pillay, who has on several occasions condemned the regime's brutal crackdown and called it a “blatant violation of international law,” revealed that she was about to make an assessment mission to Bahrain but held it back at the regime's request as she “always encourages credible national investigations."
The US, which has a huge military base of its Navy's 5th Fleet based in Bahrain, has also welcomed the Emir's move.
Yet, the United States has taken little action against Bahrain's monarchy for its harsh crackdown on peaceful protesters.
The latest anti-regime demonstrations took place on Thursday. Activists said regime forces fired tear gas and stun grenades to disperse the protesters near the Pearl Square site in Manama.
So far, 24 people have been killed, according to official figures released by the regime. More than a thousand have also been reported injured.
Saeed al-Shehabi with the Bahrain Freedom Movement, however, has described the move by the Bahraini regime as “a joke and mockery of justice.”
“I think the formation of this committee is self-defeating because how you can look into the crimes of the person who has appointed you” or have “reconciliation when you are still torturing people?" he said.
The order for the creation of the committee was proposed by Bahrainis Emir Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on Wednesday.
King Hamad has claimed that the government will not interfere in the investigation so that it remains “completely independent.”
On Thursday, the regime, which initiated a brutal crackdown on popular protests in the country, appointed a five-man panel to conduct investigations into the violent clampdown.
Anti-regime demonstrators have been holding peaceful protests in the Persian Gulf kingdom since mid-February, demanding an end to the Al-Khalifa dynasty.
In March however, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates deployed over 1,000 military forces to Bahrain to assist the regime in suppressing the nationwide demonstrations.
Meanwhile, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay has also welcomed the Bahraini move to set up the commission.
Pillay, who has on several occasions condemned the regime's brutal crackdown and called it a “blatant violation of international law,” revealed that she was about to make an assessment mission to Bahrain but held it back at the regime's request as she “always encourages credible national investigations."
The US, which has a huge military base of its Navy's 5th Fleet based in Bahrain, has also welcomed the Emir's move.
Yet, the United States has taken little action against Bahrain's monarchy for its harsh crackdown on peaceful protesters.
The latest anti-regime demonstrations took place on Thursday. Activists said regime forces fired tear gas and stun grenades to disperse the protesters near the Pearl Square site in Manama.
So far, 24 people have been killed, according to official figures released by the regime. More than a thousand have also been reported injured.
Israel blocks access to al-Aqsa Mosque
Israeli security forces have once again restricted access to the al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem's old city due to fears of an ensuing unrest.
The Israeli police have declared that all men under the age 45 will be denied entry into the holy Mosque, Ma'an News Agency reported.
Tel Aviv officials claimed they took the measure following reports of a planned protest at the site.
Al-Aqsa is one of the holiest sites in Islam and has been the scene of violent clashes between Palestinians worshipers and Israeli troops in the course of the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories.
Fearing mass revolts, the Israeli regime often denies access to the holy site by Palestinian men under the age of 45.
Last month, Israeli troops raided the Mosque compound and attacked several Palestinian worshippers
Palestinian worshippers who were prevented from reaching the Al-Aqsa Mosque pray while an Israeli soldier stands guard outside Jerusalem's Old City. Friday, June 3, 2011.
The Israeli police have declared that all men under the age 45 will be denied entry into the holy Mosque, Ma'an News Agency reported.
Tel Aviv officials claimed they took the measure following reports of a planned protest at the site.
Al-Aqsa is one of the holiest sites in Islam and has been the scene of violent clashes between Palestinians worshipers and Israeli troops in the course of the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories.
Fearing mass revolts, the Israeli regime often denies access to the holy site by Palestinian men under the age of 45.
Last month, Israeli troops raided the Mosque compound and attacked several Palestinian worshippers
One dies in fresh Bahraini clashes
As anti-regime demonstrations continue in Bahrain, one protestor has died of injuries on his head sustained by a stun-bomb thrown by the regime's security forces.
Bahraini protesters (file photo)
Thousands of protesters marched in streets across the country on Friday, a Press TV correspondent reported.
Protesters renewed their call for an end to the Al Khalifa regime. They also demanded the release of all detained protesters, activists and opposition leaders.
Security forces of the Saudi-backed regime responded with tear gas and stun grenades, according to some activists.
Anti-regime protesters have been holding peaceful demonstrations across Bahrain since mid-February, calling for an end to the Al Khalifa dynasty's rule.
In March, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have deployed some 1,500 military forces to Bahrain to help the government crush the nationwide protests. Yet, the protests have only grown more popular.
Protesters renewed their call for an end to the Al Khalifa regime. They also demanded the release of all detained protesters, activists and opposition leaders.
Security forces of the Saudi-backed regime responded with tear gas and stun grenades, according to some activists.
Anti-regime protesters have been holding peaceful demonstrations across Bahrain since mid-February, calling for an end to the Al Khalifa dynasty's rule.
In March, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have deployed some 1,500 military forces to Bahrain to help the government crush the nationwide protests. Yet, the protests have only grown more popular.
Leader: Regional revolts anti-US in core
Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei insists that the core of recent uprisings in regional countries has been anti-US and anti-Israel and quite different from foreign-based armed unrest in Syria.
Source : PressTV
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| Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei “The essence of the Islamic awakening in the countries of the region is an anti-Zionist and anti-US movement,” Ayatollah Khamenei said on Thursday. “The Islamic awakening of the regional nations is a movement on the path of the prophets; and through vigilance, Muslim nations and Iran's great nation will not allow the Americans and the Zionists to derail or hijack this magnificent movement by sowing discord and other plots,” the Leader said. “The great Islamic awakening in Egypt, Tunisia and other countries demonstrates that the cruel and humiliating balance that the expansionist Westerners and puppet rulers had imposed on regional nations in the span of past 150 years has been upset, giving rise to a new chapter in the history of the region,” Ayatollah Khamenei emphasized. The Leader also reiterated that the Iranian nation and its Islamic establishment would always support any justice-seeking and anti-imperialistic movement. Ayatollah Khamenei underlined that any movement against the US and Zionism, as well as “any nation that rises against American international dictatorship and [its] domestic dictators” will be supported by the Islamic Republic. Referring to the recent developments in Syria, the Leader stressed that the US was attempting to incite trouble and disorder against Damascus by making efforts to simulate in Syria the uprisings that took place in Egypt, Tunisia, Yemen and Libya. Describing Syria as the frontline state in the resistance against the 'Zionist regime' (Israel), the leader said, “But the nature of developments in Syria is different from events in other regional countries,” noting that the involvement of US and Israel in the recent unrests in Syria is evident. |
Source : PressTV
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