News and Analysis (5/5/09)

“The firing [of rockets] is a method, not a goal. Resistance is a legitimate right, but practicing such a right comes under an evaluation by the movement’s leaders.” – Khaled Meshal

• Addressing U.S., Hamas Says It Grounded Rockets (NY Times)

Conflict seems almost inevitable as Taliban forces expand into neighboring Burer district:

• The Taliban Tightens Hold In Pakistan’s Swat Region (Washington Post)

“There’s been a view that the U.S. is willing to sacrifice Pakistan’s democracy to preserve its own”:

• What the Pakistani People Would Tell Obama (LA Times)

Avoiding a huge international relations crisis:

• U.S. Military Says Afghan Bibles Have Been Destroyed (Reuters / Washington Post)

Critics label the selection of Marshal Fahim, who is accused of murdering prisoners of war  in the 1990, as a “‘terrible step backwards”:

• Afghan President Hamid Karzai Picks Ex-Warlord as Election Running Mate (Guardian)

Despite fears over the recent increased violence:

• Iraq Committed to June 30 Withdrawal for American Troops (AP / Washington Post)

Imran

Minaret of Freedom Institute Program Assistant