News and Analysis (7/15/09)

Israeli troops confirm the aggressive and indiscriminate nature of their orders during the siege of Gaza:

• Israel Troops Speak Out on Gaza War (Al Jazeera)

The Uighurs were originally protesting a Chinese program that forced hefty fines  on workers who refused  relocation:

• China Unrest Tied To Labor Program (Washington Post)

In supporting Ahmadinejad, Khamenei has lost credibility, respect in the public eye and the aurora of infallibility:

• Supreme Leader Khamenei Diminished in Iranians’ Eyes (LA Times)

Less than 5% of Israel’s population of 7  million, Israeli settlers and their interests enjoy a disproportionate representation:

• Why US Diplomats are Visiting Israeli Settlers (Christian Science Monitor)

Alon Hilu believed his book would make Israel stronger by advancing reconciliation with the Palestinians; critics label the book anti-Semitic:

• Israeli Author’s Zionist Novel Creates Controversy (Washington Post)

“Some call him a genius, a sort of Bob Dylan of Iran, and say his satirical music accurately reflects the frustrations and disillusionment of young Iranians”:

• Iran Singer Gets Jail Term for Koran Disrespect: TV (Reuters)

Imran

Minaret of Freedom Institute Program Assistant