News and Analysis (7/26-27/08)

At the Hamdan trial, they just pretend the CIA doesn’t exist:

• The Agency Name that Dare Not be Spoken (LA Times)

Without evidence, India accuses Pakistan with complicity in bombings …

• India on Alert After Two Days of Bombings Kill 46 (Reuters)

… while protests over land theft underscore that Kashmiris seek independence from India, not annexation to Pakistan:

• Successful Protest Gives Kashmiris in India a Sense of Freedom (LA Times)

Under the Taliban opium production was cut 91% on the pronouncement that it was unIslamic; under Karza’s implementation of the American mandated “War on Drugs,” there is talk of “narco-corruption” and a record crop:

• Former US Official Accuses Afghan Government of Stymying Anti-opium Efforts (Christian Science Monitor)

Continuing sectarian violence mocks claims of a successful “surge”…

• Gunmen Kill Seven Shi’ite Pilgrims in Baghdad (Reuters)

… while things get worse in Pakistan both militarily …

• U.S. War on Terrorism Loses Ground in Pakistan (LA Times)

… and economically:

• Inflation Adds to Pakistan’s Troubles (Christian Science Monitor)

In cases of manslaughter Islamic law encourages forgiveness in exchange for either God’s mercy or financial compensation; Saudis are asking for more cash, and hold the mercy:

• Saudis Face Soaring Blood-Money Sums (Washington Post)

As Israel takes a break from killing Gazans, Palestinians take on the job themselves:

• In Gaza, Palestinian Factional Strife Heats Up (LA Times)

ImadadDean