News and Analysis (2/12/10)

Threats against protesters make unclear the degree to which the overwhelming pro-government presence reflects popular support of the regime:

• Iran Opposition Protests Fizzle in Face of Overwhelming Security (Christian Science Monitor)

Ahmadinejad claims, and White House spokesman Robert Gates denies, the capability of producing medical grade uranium …

• Ahmadinejad Makes Nuclear Claims, Stifles Protests on Revolution’s Anniversary (Washington Post)

… as the IAEA accuses Iran of a technical policy violaion, potentially creating a strong ally for US designs:

• Atomic Agency Views Iran’s Stepped-Up Enrichment of Uranium as a Violation (NY Times)

A breakthrough for peace between Yemen and the Shia Houthi rebels:

• North Yemen Calm After Truce (Al Jazeera)

After ignoring the law for two years, Afghanistan attempts to implement a peace and reconciliation over the protests of foreign human rights activists …

• Afghanistan Quietly Brings into Force Taliban Amnesty Law (Guardian)

… as local leaders in support of military operations against the Taliban remain concerned about their aftermath:

• Afghans Try to Reassure Tribal Elders on Offensive (NY Times)

An anti-wall activist said that “the partial re-routing had effectively frozen the settlement’s expansion”:

• Israel Acts on West Bank Wall Order (Al Jazeera)

Imran

Minaret of Freedom Institute Program Assistant