News and Analysis (2/2/10)

A grave injustice for Tristan Anderson, who suffered brain damage when he was struck in the head with a tear gas canister while protesting against Israel:

• Israel: No Charges to be Filed in Case of American Injured in Protest (Washington Post)

As Israel mulls the idea of expanding the investigation into their conduct in Gaza last winter…

• Israel Admission on White Phosphorus Doesn’t Settle Larger Debate (Christian Science Monitor)

… Controversy erupts as evidence merges Israel attempted to cover up its attack on the only flour mill in Gaza, a move that may constituent a war crime:

• UN Find Challenges Israeli Version of Attack on Civilian Building in Gaza War (Guardian)

Gen. Ashfaq Kiyani says strategic depth doesn’t require control, only “a peaceful, stable and friendly Afghanistan,” that provides a secure border so they need “not be looking at two fronts”…

• Pakistan’s Army Chief Seeks Stable Afghanistan (Washington Post)

… However, regional corporation is needed to help stabilize Afghanistan:

• Q&A: Who Else Could Help in Afghanistan? (Christian Science Monitor)

“Bribery is a crippling tax on people who are already among the world’s poorest…. The Afghans say it is impossible to obtain a public service without paying a bribe”:

• Corruption Robs Afghans of a Quarter of Nation’s GDP, Report Says (LA Times)

Will the PA’s plan to develop infrastructure finally provide a stable base on which the Palestinians can demand independence?

• A Real Plan to Build Palestine (Guardian)