News and Analysis (8/3/09)

U.S. unlikely to  reap any benefits from the study as the total number of civilian deaths continues to rise:

• In Afghanistan, Taliban Kills More Civilians Than US (Christian Science Monitor)

“The conference plans to adopt a re-write of Fatah’s 1989 convention… the new one firmly commits the Palestinians to peace talks, although it still mentions ‘armed struggle’ as a theoretical right”:

• Fatah Set for West Bank Conference (Al Jazeera)

Prime Minister al-Maliki and Kurdish President Barzani agree to settle their differences over Iraq’s most destabilizing issue:

• Iraqi and Kurdish Leaders Pledge to End Disputes (Washington Post)

Iranian authorities promise jail time to any critics expressing their opposition to state sponsored oppression …

• Iran Court Warns Against Criticizing Proceedings (LA Times)

… Meanwhile, the US  considers the logistics and economical impact of sanctions on Iran:

• U.S. Weighs Iran Sanctions if Talks Are Rejected (NY Times)

International condemnation over Israel’s illegal actions, which only serve to further undermine the peace process:

• Outrage at East Jerusalem Evictions (Al Jazeera)

Will an indictment weaken Yisrael Beitenu and the coalition of right-wing politicians under Netanyahu?

• Police Urge Indictment Of Israel’s Lieberman (Washington Post)

Imran

Minaret of Freedom Institute Program Assistant