A rocket fired during fighting between Afghan forces and the Taliban killed at least 15 wedding guests late today (December 31, 2014) in the southern province of Helmand, highlighting the continuing conflict after NATO's combat mission ended, according to the AFP (Agence France-Presse) website.
Most of the victims were women and children in the attack in Helmand's Sangin district, a Taliban stronghold where the U.S. and British troops were involved in years of fierce fighting until this week's withdrawal from Afghanistan.
NATO's war in Afghanistan formally ended on December 28, 2014.
"At least 15 people were killed and 45 wounded when the rocket struck in a firefight between Afghan security forces and the Taliban," said Fareed Ahmad Obaid, police spokesman for Helmand province.
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Palestinians Join ICC, Charge Israel with Crimes; Move Irks Israel, Mars US-Palestinian Harmony
Stunned by a one-vote defeat yesterday in the UN Security Council in their effort to achieve statehood, the Palestinians announced today (December 31, 2014) that they have joined the International Criminal Court (ICC) to pursue war crimes charges against Israel, the Washington Times website reports.
The move by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas set the stage for a diplomatic showdown with the U.S. and drew an angry response from Israel.
"The one who needs to fear the International Criminal Court in the Hague is the Palestinian Authority, which has a unity government with Hamas, a terror organization like the Islamic State group which commits war crimes," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement.
U.S. State Department spokesman Edgar Vasquez said America strongly opposed the move and warned Palestinians it would be "counter-productive and do nothing to further the aspirations of the Palestinian people for a sovereign and independent state."
The move by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas set the stage for a diplomatic showdown with the U.S. and drew an angry response from Israel.
"The one who needs to fear the International Criminal Court in the Hague is the Palestinian Authority, which has a unity government with Hamas, a terror organization like the Islamic State group which commits war crimes," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement.
U.S. State Department spokesman Edgar Vasquez said America strongly opposed the move and warned Palestinians it would be "counter-productive and do nothing to further the aspirations of the Palestinian people for a sovereign and independent state."
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
U.N. Rejects Palestinian Statehood Resolution; Pressed for Israeli Withdrawal from West Bank
A Palestinian-backed United Nations Security Council resolution setting a deadline for a peace deal with Israel failed to garner sufficient votes for passage today (December 30, 2014), according to the JTA (Jewish Telegraphic Agency) website.
The resolution was aimed at achieving a full Israeli withdrawal from the West Bank by the end of 2017.
Eight nations of the 15-member Security Council voted yes, two voted no, and five abstained. Nine votes were required for passage. The no votes came from the United States -- Israel's strongest ally -- and Australia.
Had nine yes votes been obtained for passage of the resolution, the United States was expected to exercise its Security Council permanent status veto power, thus still causing the resolution to be rejected.
The resolution was aimed at achieving a full Israeli withdrawal from the West Bank by the end of 2017.
Eight nations of the 15-member Security Council voted yes, two voted no, and five abstained. Nine votes were required for passage. The no votes came from the United States -- Israel's strongest ally -- and Australia.
Had nine yes votes been obtained for passage of the resolution, the United States was expected to exercise its Security Council permanent status veto power, thus still causing the resolution to be rejected.
Md. Female Episcopal Bp. Has Fatal Hit-and-Run; Killed Baltimore Bicyclist, Placed on Admin.Leave
The Episcopal Diocese of Maryland said a newly ordained bishop, Heather Cook, was the driver allegedly responsible for a hit-and-run accident that killed a bicyclist on December 27 in Baltimore, the NY Daily News website reports today (December 30, 2014).
The Right Reverend Eugene Sutton identified Cook -- who was ordained a bishop last September -- in an email. "I am distressed to announce that Bishop Heather E. Cook was involved in a traffic accident Saturday afternoon that resulted in the death of bicyclist Thomas Palermo, 41," Sutton wrote.
Cook, 58, fled the scene initially. She returned 20 minutes later after she was chased by other cyclists, who copied he vehicle registration number. Cook has been placed on administrative leave.
Cook had been charged with DUI (driving under the influence) and with possession of marijuana in 2010, according to the Caroline County Sheriff's Department, the Baltimore Sun reported.
The Right Reverend Eugene Sutton identified Cook -- who was ordained a bishop last September -- in an email. "I am distressed to announce that Bishop Heather E. Cook was involved in a traffic accident Saturday afternoon that resulted in the death of bicyclist Thomas Palermo, 41," Sutton wrote.
Cook, 58, fled the scene initially. She returned 20 minutes later after she was chased by other cyclists, who copied he vehicle registration number. Cook has been placed on administrative leave.
Cook had been charged with DUI (driving under the influence) and with possession of marijuana in 2010, according to the Caroline County Sheriff's Department, the Baltimore Sun reported.
Monday, December 29, 2014
2nd Swedish Mosque Hit By Arsonists in 4 Days; Many Swedes Seeking to Reduce Immigration
Fire ripped through a Swedish mosque early today (December 29, 2014) in the second suspected arson attack on a Muslim religious center in four days, as many Swedish citizens are seeking to reduce the country's Muslim immigration, the Jerusalem Post website reports.
Firefighters extinguished the blaze in the southern town of Eslov and no one was injured.
"We are working under the assumption it is arson," police officer Marie Keismar said.
Five people were injured when fire broke out in another mosque in the Swedish town of Eskilstuna on Christmas day. The Swedish government is currently considering a new immigration policy that would reduce the number of foreigners it accepts.
Firefighters extinguished the blaze in the southern town of Eslov and no one was injured.
"We are working under the assumption it is arson," police officer Marie Keismar said.
Five people were injured when fire broke out in another mosque in the Swedish town of Eskilstuna on Christmas day. The Swedish government is currently considering a new immigration policy that would reduce the number of foreigners it accepts.
Palestinian Teenager Shot Dead by Israeli Troops; Threw Rocks at Motorists, Ignored Warning Shots
A Palestinian teenager has been shot dead by Israeli soldiers in the occupied West Bank, the Euro News website reports today (December 29, 2014).
The youth was part of a group accused of throwing rocks at motorists driving on a main road.
The army says the fatal shots were fired after warning shots were ignored.
Another Palestinian -- a 16-year-old -- is also reported to have been wounded at the scene. The shootings are being investigated by the army.
The youth was part of a group accused of throwing rocks at motorists driving on a main road.
The army says the fatal shots were fired after warning shots were ignored.
Another Palestinian -- a 16-year-old -- is also reported to have been wounded at the scene. The shootings are being investigated by the army.
Sunday, December 28, 2014
US-Led Afghanistan Coalition Ends Combat Role; Served 13 Years, Defeated Taliban Terrorist Govt.
The US-led coalition in Afghanistan formally ended its combat mission today (December 28, 2014) -- more than 13 years after an international alliance ousted the Taliban government for sheltering the planners of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on American cities -- the Reuters website reports.
About 13,000 foreign troops -- mostly Americans -- will remain in the country under a new two-year mission called "Resolute Support" that will continue the coalition's training of Afghan security forces.
The Afghan army and police are struggling to fight against Taliban militants, who this year killed record numbers of Afghans.
"Today marks an end of an era and the beginning of a new one," said U.S. Gen. John Campbell, commander of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), at the ceremony marking the end of the mission held at the ISAF headquarters in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan.
About 13,000 foreign troops -- mostly Americans -- will remain in the country under a new two-year mission called "Resolute Support" that will continue the coalition's training of Afghan security forces.
The Afghan army and police are struggling to fight against Taliban militants, who this year killed record numbers of Afghans.
"Today marks an end of an era and the beginning of a new one," said U.S. Gen. John Campbell, commander of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), at the ceremony marking the end of the mission held at the ISAF headquarters in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan.
Bandits Rob Convent at Pope's Summer Retreat; Take Mother Superior Hostage, Get 5,000 Euros
Italian police are hunting for a gang of bandits who broke into a convent in Castel Gandolfo -- the Pope's summer retreat -- on Christmas Day and took the mother superior hostage, the Telegraph (British) website reports today (December 28, 2014).
Three men forced a window at the Pius XII Institute in the Alban Hills south of Rome just after midnight on Christmas Eve and began ransacking the mother superior's office on the first floor.
When the mother superior appeared in her office to investigate, the men grabbed her and walked her to her bedroom where she was forced to hand over 5,000 euros from the convent's cash box.
The men then grabbed her mobile phone and locked her in her bedroom before escaping through holes cut in the fence at the back of the convent's grounds. Outside, an accomplice was waiting with a getaway car.
Three men forced a window at the Pius XII Institute in the Alban Hills south of Rome just after midnight on Christmas Eve and began ransacking the mother superior's office on the first floor.
When the mother superior appeared in her office to investigate, the men grabbed her and walked her to her bedroom where she was forced to hand over 5,000 euros from the convent's cash box.
The men then grabbed her mobile phone and locked her in her bedroom before escaping through holes cut in the fence at the back of the convent's grounds. Outside, an accomplice was waiting with a getaway car.
Saturday, December 27, 2014
Five Muslims Injured in Swedish Mosque Arson; PM: Sweden to Stand Strong for Freedom of Rel.
Sweden's prime minister says his country must stand up to threats against religious freedoms, in the wake of a Christmas Day mosque attack, the Big News Network website reports today (December 27, 2014).
Five Muslims were injured when the mosque in Eskilstuna caught fire on December 25.
The blaze is being treated as arson and is the latest in a number of attacks against mosques in Sweden. "It has been 12, one per month, which is far too much," said Prime Minister Stefan Lofven.
He added, "It's totally unacceptable, and we also have had attacks against synagogues. It is very important that we stand strong for freedom of religion, to perform your religion without fear. A threat against that is a threat against our democracy."
Five Muslims were injured when the mosque in Eskilstuna caught fire on December 25.
The blaze is being treated as arson and is the latest in a number of attacks against mosques in Sweden. "It has been 12, one per month, which is far too much," said Prime Minister Stefan Lofven.
He added, "It's totally unacceptable, and we also have had attacks against synagogues. It is very important that we stand strong for freedom of religion, to perform your religion without fear. A threat against that is a threat against our democracy."
Vandals Replace Jesus Statue with Pig's Head; Maim Nativity Display at Haverhill,MA Church
Vandals replaced a baby Jesus statue in a nativity scene display in front of a Haverhill, Massachusetts church with a bloody pig's head early Christmas morning, and police are investigating the heinous act as a hate crime, the Christian Post website reports today (December 27, 2014).
The statue was stolen from the Sacred Hearts Church in Haverhill. A neighborhood woman replaced the statue with one from her own display, making the Nativity display complete again.
"I can't change the world, but I can change my city," Brenda Burns, who donated the replacement baby Jesus statue, said.
Parishioners of Sacred Hearts expressed disbelief that such an incident occurred. "I'm thoroughly appalled. I feel terrible about that. It's very, very sad. I can't believe anybody would do that," one parishioner said.
The statue was stolen from the Sacred Hearts Church in Haverhill. A neighborhood woman replaced the statue with one from her own display, making the Nativity display complete again.
"I can't change the world, but I can change my city," Brenda Burns, who donated the replacement baby Jesus statue, said.
Parishioners of Sacred Hearts expressed disbelief that such an incident occurred. "I'm thoroughly appalled. I feel terrible about that. It's very, very sad. I can't believe anybody would do that," one parishioner said.
Friday, December 26, 2014
Pope:"There Are So Many Tears This Christmas;" Laments Many Children Abused By Trafficking
A somber Pope Francis steeped his Christmas message to the world on Christmas day in sadness for those with little cause for joy -- abused children, refugees, hostages, and others suffering from violence in the Middle East, Africa, Ukraine, and elsewhere -- the Wall Street Journal website reports today (December 26, 2014).
Anguish for children who suffer maltreatment or violence -- including the recent heartless terrorist attack on a Pakistani school -- tempered the pontiff's traditional Christmas day speech, which he delivered from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica.
A crowd -- estimated by the Vatican to number more than 80,000 Romans, tourists, and pilgrims -- filled St. Peter's Square for the "Urbi et Orbi" message (Latin for "to the city and to the world").
"Truly, there are so many tears this Christmas," said Pope Francis, looking solemn and smiling very little, in contrast to his usual jocular demeanor when addressing crowds. He lamented that many children are "made objects of trade and trafficking" or forced to become combat soldiers, as well as those never given the chance to be born because of abortion.
Anguish for children who suffer maltreatment or violence -- including the recent heartless terrorist attack on a Pakistani school -- tempered the pontiff's traditional Christmas day speech, which he delivered from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica.
A crowd -- estimated by the Vatican to number more than 80,000 Romans, tourists, and pilgrims -- filled St. Peter's Square for the "Urbi et Orbi" message (Latin for "to the city and to the world").
"Truly, there are so many tears this Christmas," said Pope Francis, looking solemn and smiling very little, in contrast to his usual jocular demeanor when addressing crowds. He lamented that many children are "made objects of trade and trafficking" or forced to become combat soldiers, as well as those never given the chance to be born because of abortion.
Topless Feminist Grabs Jesus Figurine at Vatican; Woman's Message on Her Torso: "God Is Woman"
A bare-breasted woman from the Ukrainian-centered feminist group Femen -- who snatched the baby Jesus figurine from the St. Peter's Square Nativity scene on Christmas day -- remained under arrest today (December 26, 2014), the AFP (Agence France-Presse) website reports.
The Ukrainian woman, Iana Aleksandrovna Azhdanova, remained under arrest in a Vatican cell awaiting trial for "disturbing the peace, obscene acts in a public place, and theft" for storming the Vatican Nativity scene on December 25.
Using Femen's topless protest dress code in order to increase public attention, Azhdanova was bare from the waist up, and sported the message "God Is Woman" on her torso to thousands of pilgrims packed into St. Peter's Square who looked on.
Azhdanova was apprehended by Vatican police after she rushed to the Nativity scene and grabbed the baby Jesus figurine while shouting anti-religious slogans.
The Ukrainian woman, Iana Aleksandrovna Azhdanova, remained under arrest in a Vatican cell awaiting trial for "disturbing the peace, obscene acts in a public place, and theft" for storming the Vatican Nativity scene on December 25.
Using Femen's topless protest dress code in order to increase public attention, Azhdanova was bare from the waist up, and sported the message "God Is Woman" on her torso to thousands of pilgrims packed into St. Peter's Square who looked on.
Azhdanova was apprehended by Vatican police after she rushed to the Nativity scene and grabbed the baby Jesus figurine while shouting anti-religious slogans.
Israeli Girl,11,Fights for Life from Firebomb Burns; Palestinian Terrorist Tossed Firebomb at Her Car
Doctors at Sheba Hospital in Tel Aviv said today (December 26, 2014) that there is a "slight improvement" in the condition of 11-year-old Ayala Shapira, who still is fighting for her life after a Palestinian Authority terrorist set on fire the car in which she and her father were riding last night, according to the Jewish Press website.
Her father escaped the burning vehicle with light burn wounds. Ayala suffered burns over 40 percent of her body, mostly in the upper parts and in the face.
Last month, Ayala's mother Ruth was targeted in a similar Molotov cocktail attack in the same spot of last night's attack. Her car was destroyed but she was not injured.
The girl's father, Avner, told police that he saw the terrorist lighting the firebomb and throwing it.
Her father escaped the burning vehicle with light burn wounds. Ayala suffered burns over 40 percent of her body, mostly in the upper parts and in the face.
Last month, Ayala's mother Ruth was targeted in a similar Molotov cocktail attack in the same spot of last night's attack. Her car was destroyed but she was not injured.
The girl's father, Avner, told police that he saw the terrorist lighting the firebomb and throwing it.
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
IS Militants Shoot Down Jordanian Coalition Pilot; Post Images Holding His Neck, Might Behead Him
A Jordanian pilot was captured by militants of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), after his warplane crashed today (December 24, 2014) while on a bombing run over Syria -- the first such incident since a U.S.-led coalition began airstrikes against the militant group last summer -- the Washington Post website reports.
The IS militants claimed to have shot down the F-16 fighter plane with an antiaircraft missile.
The Islamic State posted images on social media sites of the man being pulled from a body of water and held by his neck while surrounded by masked militants.
The fate of the captured pilot is uncertain at this time, although it is possible that the IS militants might behead him, as they have already done with several other prisoners, including three American and two British prisoners.
The IS militants claimed to have shot down the F-16 fighter plane with an antiaircraft missile.
The Islamic State posted images on social media sites of the man being pulled from a body of water and held by his neck while surrounded by masked militants.
The fate of the captured pilot is uncertain at this time, although it is possible that the IS militants might behead him, as they have already done with several other prisoners, including three American and two British prisoners.
Pope Rips Vatican Bureaucracy for Power,Wealth; Clerics Must Stop Hypocritical Lives,Put God First
To the Catholic Church's "seven deadly sins," Pope Francis has added the "15 ailments of the Curia," the Yahoo News website reports today (December 24, 2014).
Francis issued a blistering indictment of the Vatican bureaucracy on December 22, accusing the cardinals, bishops, and priests who serve him of using their Vatican careers to grab power and wealth, of living "hypocritical" double lives, and forgetting that they're supposed to be joyful men of God.
Francis turned the traditional, genteel exchange of Christmas greetings into a public dressing down of the Curia, the central administration of the Holy See which governs the 1.2-billion-strong Catholic Church.
Ticking off 15 ailments -- one by one -- of the Curia, Francis urged the prelates sitting stone-faced before him in the marbled Sala Clementina to use the Christmas season to repent and atone, and make the church a healthier, holier place in 2015.
Francis issued a blistering indictment of the Vatican bureaucracy on December 22, accusing the cardinals, bishops, and priests who serve him of using their Vatican careers to grab power and wealth, of living "hypocritical" double lives, and forgetting that they're supposed to be joyful men of God.
Francis turned the traditional, genteel exchange of Christmas greetings into a public dressing down of the Curia, the central administration of the Holy See which governs the 1.2-billion-strong Catholic Church.
Ticking off 15 ailments -- one by one -- of the Curia, Francis urged the prelates sitting stone-faced before him in the marbled Sala Clementina to use the Christmas season to repent and atone, and make the church a healthier, holier place in 2015.
Tuesday, December 23, 2014
Bullet Fired at Window of Paris Synagogue Office; Hatred by "Anti-Jewish Criminals" Soars in France
A bullet fired from an air gun last night crashed through a window of a Paris synagogue's office, the JTA (Jewish Telegraphic Agency) website reports today (December 23, 2014).
The rabbi and his assistant were in the David Ben Ichay Synagogue in Belleville, in the northeastern section of the French capital, when the bullet was fired shortly after 9 p.m.
French police are searching for two suspects who were outside the synagogue about 10 minutes before the attack. Several other attacks against Jews in France -- mostly by Muslims -- have occurred during the past few months, resulting in the current year being the most anti-Semitic France has experienced since World War II.
The Bureau for National Vigilance Against Anti-Semitism -- or BNVCA -- condemned what it called the "anti-Semitic assault on a place of worship in Paris." The watchdog group has made a public call for "everything to be done to identify and question the anti-Jewish criminals."
The rabbi and his assistant were in the David Ben Ichay Synagogue in Belleville, in the northeastern section of the French capital, when the bullet was fired shortly after 9 p.m.
French police are searching for two suspects who were outside the synagogue about 10 minutes before the attack. Several other attacks against Jews in France -- mostly by Muslims -- have occurred during the past few months, resulting in the current year being the most anti-Semitic France has experienced since World War II.
The Bureau for National Vigilance Against Anti-Semitism -- or BNVCA -- condemned what it called the "anti-Semitic assault on a place of worship in Paris." The watchdog group has made a public call for "everything to be done to identify and question the anti-Jewish criminals."
Synagogue Where Jesus Preached Found in Israel; Excavated by Archaeologists in Town of Magdala
Catholic group the Legions of Christ have uncovered a first-century synagogue in the ancient town of Magdala in Israel, where they say Jesus Christ is likely to have preached to the people, the Christian Post website reports today (December 23, 2014).
"Eighty percent of Jesus' public life was here," Father Eamon Kelly said about northern Israel.
Kelly revealed that his organization uncovered the synagogue after starting archaeological excavations at a site in the town of Magdala, believed to be the home of Mary Magdalene, known as one of Jesus' female disciples.
"This is the first synagogue ever excavated where Jesus walked and preached," Kelly said, adding that it is a "hugely important" discovery for both Christians and Jews.
"Eighty percent of Jesus' public life was here," Father Eamon Kelly said about northern Israel.
Kelly revealed that his organization uncovered the synagogue after starting archaeological excavations at a site in the town of Magdala, believed to be the home of Mary Magdalene, known as one of Jesus' female disciples.
"This is the first synagogue ever excavated where Jesus walked and preached," Kelly said, adding that it is a "hugely important" discovery for both Christians and Jews.
Monday, December 22, 2014
Seven of 28 Teens Get Pregnant on School Trip; Girls, 13 and 14, Spent 5 Days Visiting Museums
Seven teenagers from Bosnia became pregnant on a five-day school trip, angering parents and educators, the NY Daily News website reports today (December 22, 2014).
The teens -- from the small town of Banja Luka -- are 13 and 14 years old, said Nenad Babici, the national coordinator for reproductive health.
The school took a group of 28 girls on a trip to Sarajevo -- the capital of the predominantly Islam country of Bosnia and Herzegovina -- to see museums and city sights. A quarter of the students returned home pregnant.
Parents are demanding why there wasn't better supervision on the trip. The case has brought national attention to the increasing number of teen pregnancies in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The teens -- from the small town of Banja Luka -- are 13 and 14 years old, said Nenad Babici, the national coordinator for reproductive health.
The school took a group of 28 girls on a trip to Sarajevo -- the capital of the predominantly Islam country of Bosnia and Herzegovina -- to see museums and city sights. A quarter of the students returned home pregnant.
Parents are demanding why there wasn't better supervision on the trip. The case has brought national attention to the increasing number of teen pregnancies in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Pakistan to Execute 500 Terror Suspects Soon; Due to Recent Killing of 149 at Pakistani School
The government of Pakistan plans to execute around 500 terror convicts in the next few weeks in response to last week's killing of 149 people -- including 133 children -- at a military-run Army Public School in the northwestern city of Peshawar by the local branch of the Taliban, the Christian Post website reports today (December 22, 2014).
Days after Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's announcement about the lifting of the six-year moratorium on the death penalty for terrorism-related cases, Pakistani's interior minister is taking a tough stand against terrorism, even though at least six terrorists have been hanged since December 19.
"Interior ministry has finalized the cases of 500 convicts who have exhausted all the appeals, their mercy petitions have been turned down by the president, and their executions will take place in coming weeks," a senior anonymous government official said today.
A government spokesperson added that the "prime minister has also issued directions for appropriate measures for early disposal of pending cases related to terrorism."
Days after Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's announcement about the lifting of the six-year moratorium on the death penalty for terrorism-related cases, Pakistani's interior minister is taking a tough stand against terrorism, even though at least six terrorists have been hanged since December 19.
"Interior ministry has finalized the cases of 500 convicts who have exhausted all the appeals, their mercy petitions have been turned down by the president, and their executions will take place in coming weeks," a senior anonymous government official said today.
A government spokesperson added that the "prime minister has also issued directions for appropriate measures for early disposal of pending cases related to terrorism."
Sunday, December 21, 2014
Gross Fraud Erodes Franciscan Order's Finances; American Head of Order Says Situation Is "Grave"
The Franciscan Order founded by Saint Francis of Assisi -- who advocated a life of poverty -- is in deep financial trouble following the discovery of massive fraud, and is appealing for help, the AFP (Agence France-Presse) website reports today (December 21, 2014).
Italy's Panorama magazine said the 800-year-old order had invested tens of millions of euros in suspect firms currently under investigation in Switzerland for dodgy practices.
The Italian press has also questioned the order's financial wisdom in spending millions of euros on renovating Il Cantico, a luxury hotel it owns in Rome.
In a rare open letter, the American head of the order, Michael Perry, admitted the situation was "grave."
Italy's Panorama magazine said the 800-year-old order had invested tens of millions of euros in suspect firms currently under investigation in Switzerland for dodgy practices.
The Italian press has also questioned the order's financial wisdom in spending millions of euros on renovating Il Cantico, a luxury hotel it owns in Rome.
In a rare open letter, the American head of the order, Michael Perry, admitted the situation was "grave."
Inmate Forced to Attend Church Service Sues Jail; Muslim Woman Seeking Damages for Jail Practice
Sakeena Majeed, a 24-year-old Muslim woman, was sentenced to 60 days in jail on an assault charge. She is now suing Cleveland's Cuyahoga County jail for forcing her to attend Christian services against her will during her sentence, the Addicting Info website reports today (December 21, 2014).
Majeed filed the lawsuit on December 18, claiming that Cuyahoga County Sheriff Frank Bova and corrections Officer Regina Watts forced her and other inmates to be present at services held by a Baptist minister at the jail. If the inmates objected, they were threatened with solitary confinement.
Majeed also claims that when she told another supervising officer about the issue, she was ignored. She is now seeking unspecified damages.
Majeed's attorney, Matthew Besser, said: "That should be offensive to anybody, no matter what your religion is. The government can't tell you what god to pray to or to pray at all."
Majeed filed the lawsuit on December 18, claiming that Cuyahoga County Sheriff Frank Bova and corrections Officer Regina Watts forced her and other inmates to be present at services held by a Baptist minister at the jail. If the inmates objected, they were threatened with solitary confinement.
Majeed also claims that when she told another supervising officer about the issue, she was ignored. She is now seeking unspecified damages.
Majeed's attorney, Matthew Besser, said: "That should be offensive to anybody, no matter what your religion is. The government can't tell you what god to pray to or to pray at all."
Saturday, December 20, 2014
Israeli Aircraft Make 1st Gaza Hit Since August; Hamas Had Fired Rocket on Israel a Day Before
Israeli aircraft hit Gaza today (December 20, 2014) for the first time since an August truce ended a 50-day war, after a rocket hit the Jewish state, according to the Newsmax World website.
There were no casualties in the air strike, which came just hours after the rocket hit an open field in southern Israel yesterday without causing casualties or damage.
It was the third time a rocket fired from the Palestinian enclave struck within Israel since the August 26 truce between Israel and Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas, the territory's de facto rulers.
The Israeli army said the air strike in the southern Gaza Strip had "targeted a Hamas terror infrastructure site."
There were no casualties in the air strike, which came just hours after the rocket hit an open field in southern Israel yesterday without causing casualties or damage.
It was the third time a rocket fired from the Palestinian enclave struck within Israel since the August 26 truce between Israel and Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas, the territory's de facto rulers.
The Israeli army said the air strike in the southern Gaza Strip had "targeted a Hamas terror infrastructure site."
Syria's Vast Rel. Ancient Sites Now Being Looted; New Report:Widespread Looting at Historic Sites
Syria's vast archaeological sites have suffered extensive damage because of bombing by government warplanes and the demolition of religious shrines by Islamic State militants. But there is an increasing and perhaps more menacing problem: old-fashioned plunder, the Washington Post website reports today (December 20, 2014).
A new report has found evidence of "widespread looting" at locations that Syria has nominated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Under threat are the remains of a Mesopotamian trading post and a 4,500-year-old city that housed thousands of cuneiform tablets, as well as an ancient town with a chapel known for containing the world's oldest depictions of Jesus, according to the report, released this week by the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Susan Wolfinbarger -- president of the association's Geospatial Technologies and Human Rights Project, which produced the study -- said in a statement that "unlike our previous analysis of Syria's World Heritage Sites, we're seeing a lot of damage that appears to be the result of widespread looting."
A new report has found evidence of "widespread looting" at locations that Syria has nominated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Under threat are the remains of a Mesopotamian trading post and a 4,500-year-old city that housed thousands of cuneiform tablets, as well as an ancient town with a chapel known for containing the world's oldest depictions of Jesus, according to the report, released this week by the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Susan Wolfinbarger -- president of the association's Geospatial Technologies and Human Rights Project, which produced the study -- said in a statement that "unlike our previous analysis of Syria's World Heritage Sites, we're seeing a lot of damage that appears to be the result of widespread looting."
Friday, December 19, 2014
Pope Gives 400 Sleeping Bags to Rome Homeless; Ascertains Francis' Enduring Concern for the Poor
Pope Francis marked his 78th birthday on December 17 by ordering the distribution of hundreds of sleeping bags to homeless people in Rome, the AFP (Agence France-Presse) website reports today (December 19, 2014).
Konrad Krajewski -- the archbishop in charge of the pope's charity work -- led an operation in which a minibus packed with 400 sleeping bags carrying a papal ensign toured around the Italian capital last night looking for people who could use them.
"This is a gift for you from the pope on the occasion of his birthday," the Swiss guards who helped in the distribution were quoted as telling the recipients.
Pope Francis -- leader of the world's Catholics -- has made concern for the poor one of the most important themes of his papacy.
Konrad Krajewski -- the archbishop in charge of the pope's charity work -- led an operation in which a minibus packed with 400 sleeping bags carrying a papal ensign toured around the Italian capital last night looking for people who could use them.
"This is a gift for you from the pope on the occasion of his birthday," the Swiss guards who helped in the distribution were quoted as telling the recipients.
Pope Francis -- leader of the world's Catholics -- has made concern for the poor one of the most important themes of his papacy.
Pakistani Military Kills Scores of Islamic Militants; Govt. Payback for Taliban's 149 Murders at School
More than 50 suspected Islamist militants were killed in Pakistani military strikes today (December 19, 2014), and two convicted militants were hanged as the country intensified its campaign against insurgents in the wake of a Taliban assault on a school this week that killed 149 people, The National website reports.
The bloody rampage in Peshawar city on December 16 brought international condemnation and promises of swift, decisive action against militants from Pakistan's political and military leaders.
Pakistan's foreign minister Sartaj Aziz said the attack was his country's "mini 9/11" by terrorists and a game-changer in its fight against terror.
An ambush by security forces in the northwest today left at least 32 militants dead, the military said, to add to 27 killed in airstrikes and ground operations yesterday.
The bloody rampage in Peshawar city on December 16 brought international condemnation and promises of swift, decisive action against militants from Pakistan's political and military leaders.
Pakistan's foreign minister Sartaj Aziz said the attack was his country's "mini 9/11" by terrorists and a game-changer in its fight against terror.
An ambush by security forces in the northwest today left at least 32 militants dead, the military said, to add to 27 killed in airstrikes and ground operations yesterday.
Thursday, December 18, 2014
Palestinians Present UN Draft for Occupied Ter.; Sets End of 2017 Deadline for Israeli Withdrawal
The Palestinian leadership at the United Nations presented a draft resolution for a Security Council vote that sets a deadline of the end of 2017 for Israel's withdrawal from Palestinian occupied territories, the Voice of America News website reports today (December 18, 2014).
However, the Palestinian UN representative, Riyad Mansour, said that he would not press for a quick vote on the resolution, in order to allow for more discussion on the 15-member Security Council.
The Palestinians would need approval of nine of the 15 council members, but any one of the five permanent members -- Britain, France, China, Russia, and the United States -- can veto a resolution.
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said on December 16 that the U.S. has made "no determination" about any possible UN resolution regarding Palestinian statehood.
However, the Palestinian UN representative, Riyad Mansour, said that he would not press for a quick vote on the resolution, in order to allow for more discussion on the 15-member Security Council.
The Palestinians would need approval of nine of the 15 council members, but any one of the five permanent members -- Britain, France, China, Russia, and the United States -- can veto a resolution.
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said on December 16 that the U.S. has made "no determination" about any possible UN resolution regarding Palestinian statehood.
ISIS Kills 150 Women for Not Marrying Terrorists; Rights Org. States Women Buried in Mass Graves
Iraq's Ministry of Human Rights has revealed that at least 150 women were killed by ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) militants after refusing to marry terrorists, the Christian Headlines website reports today (December 18, 2014).
The Ministry made the following statement on December 16: "At least 150 females, including pregnant women, were executed in Fellujah by a militant named Abu Anas Al-Libi after they refused to accept jihad marriage. Many families were also forced to migrate from the province's northern town of Al-Wafa after hundreds of residents received death threats."
According to the group, the women were buried in mass graves.
No other details have been released about the executions.
The Ministry made the following statement on December 16: "At least 150 females, including pregnant women, were executed in Fellujah by a militant named Abu Anas Al-Libi after they refused to accept jihad marriage. Many families were also forced to migrate from the province's northern town of Al-Wafa after hundreds of residents received death threats."
According to the group, the women were buried in mass graves.
No other details have been released about the executions.
Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Pope's Inspiring Role Led to US-Cuba Diplomacy; American and Cuban Delegations Met at Vatican
American President Barack Obama and Cuban leader Raul Castro announced today (December 17, 2014) that the U.S. and Communist Cuba will soon re-establish diplomatic relations. They decided to make the announcement on December 17th, the Pope's 78th birthday, according to the Rome Reports website.
Through a statement, the Vatican announced that in the last few months, Pope Francis had written letters to both Obama and Castro, inviting them to deal with the case of some prisoners. He also called for a new phase in the relationship between both countries.
The statement added that back in the month of October, an American and Cuban delegation met secretly in the Vatican to discuss how they could move forward.
Despite Communist Cuba's known resistance towards religion, the Holy See never broke diplomatic ties with the island. The U.S. ended diplomatic relations with Cuba in 1961, after Fidel Castro seized control of the nation and set up a communist dictatorship.
Through a statement, the Vatican announced that in the last few months, Pope Francis had written letters to both Obama and Castro, inviting them to deal with the case of some prisoners. He also called for a new phase in the relationship between both countries.
The statement added that back in the month of October, an American and Cuban delegation met secretly in the Vatican to discuss how they could move forward.
Despite Communist Cuba's known resistance towards religion, the Holy See never broke diplomatic ties with the island. The U.S. ended diplomatic relations with Cuba in 1961, after Fidel Castro seized control of the nation and set up a communist dictatorship.
US Ground Troops in Iraq Fight ISIS for 1st Time; ISIS Tried to Overrun US Base, Forced to Retreat
American troops in Iraq had their first battle with ISIS troops, after the Islamic militants tried to overrun a base with Americans -- an encounter that left the ISIS troops decimated and in retreat -- the Inquisitr website reports today (December 17, 2014).
The attack took place near the Ein al-Asad base, which includes close to 100 U.S. military advisers. The U.S. troops -- armed with light and medium weapons -- were able to inflict casualties against the ISIS fighters, forcing them to retreat.
The American troops were also aided by fighter jets, which directed air strikes against the ISIS troops that silenced their heavy sources of fire.
The incident was the first time that American troops clashed with ISIS forces on the ground in Iraq. For several weeks, the United States has led more that 1,000 air strikes against ISIS positions in Iraq and Syria, which have hindered the militant group's ability to move about and take control of more land.
The attack took place near the Ein al-Asad base, which includes close to 100 U.S. military advisers. The U.S. troops -- armed with light and medium weapons -- were able to inflict casualties against the ISIS fighters, forcing them to retreat.
The American troops were also aided by fighter jets, which directed air strikes against the ISIS troops that silenced their heavy sources of fire.
The incident was the first time that American troops clashed with ISIS forces on the ground in Iraq. For several weeks, the United States has led more that 1,000 air strikes against ISIS positions in Iraq and Syria, which have hindered the militant group's ability to move about and take control of more land.
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Fed. Judge:Obama's Amnesty Plan Is Unconst.; Obama Violated Separation of Powers for Plan
A federal judge in Pennsylvania has released an opinion in a case of a deported illegal alien who returned to the U.S. that appears to torpedo the amnesty plan President Obama announced November 20 and implemented through memos to government officials, ruling it unconstitutional, the WND (World Net Daily) website reports today (December 16, 2014).
"President Obama's unilateral legislative action violates the separation of powers provided for in the United States Constitution as well as the Take Care Clause, and therefore, is unconstitutional," said U.S. District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
The judge noted Obama "contended that although legislation is the most appropriate course of action to solve the immigration debate, his executive action was necessary because of Congress's failure to pass legislation, acceptable to him, in this regard."
"This proposition is arbitrary and does not negate the requirement that the November 20, 2014, executive action be lawfully within the president's executive authority," the judge wrote. "It is not."
"President Obama's unilateral legislative action violates the separation of powers provided for in the United States Constitution as well as the Take Care Clause, and therefore, is unconstitutional," said U.S. District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
The judge noted Obama "contended that although legislation is the most appropriate course of action to solve the immigration debate, his executive action was necessary because of Congress's failure to pass legislation, acceptable to him, in this regard."
"This proposition is arbitrary and does not negate the requirement that the November 20, 2014, executive action be lawfully within the president's executive authority," the judge wrote. "It is not."
Taliban Gunmen Kill 141 in Pakistani School; Massacre Is Worst in Pakistan in Over a Year
Pakistani officials have fended off Taliban gunmen who stormed a military school in Peshawar today (December 16, 2014), but not before the attackers killed 132 children and nine staff members, the Breaking Christian News website reports.
"Their sole purpose, it seems, was to kill those innocent kids. That's what they did," military spokesman Asim Bajwa said.
Authorities say most of the victims were students in grades 1-10 at the army public school.
Today's attack is the worst in Pakistan in more than a year. Taliban spokesman Mohammed Khurasani claimed responsibility for the massacre.
"Their sole purpose, it seems, was to kill those innocent kids. That's what they did," military spokesman Asim Bajwa said.
Authorities say most of the victims were students in grades 1-10 at the army public school.
Today's attack is the worst in Pakistan in more than a year. Taliban spokesman Mohammed Khurasani claimed responsibility for the massacre.
Monday, December 15, 2014
Pope Francis Bids to Help US Close Guantanamo; Says Vatican Global Contacts Can Place Prisoners
The Vatican today (December 15, 2014) offered to help the United States in its efforts to close its Guantanamo prison in Cuba -- a goal fervently supported by Pope Francis -- the AFP (Agence France-Presse) website reports.
The offer came during talks today between the pontiff's Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin, the number two in the Vatican hierarchy, and John Kerry, the U.S. Secretary of State.
Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi said the Holy See welcomed recent signs President Barack Obama appears to have accelerated efforts to close the controversial prison, where some detainees have been held for more than a decade without charge and tortured.
He also said the Vatican stood ready to "help find adequate humanitarian solutions through our international contacts" in order to help place detainees, adding that Parolin and Kerry discussed the issue in depth.
The offer came during talks today between the pontiff's Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin, the number two in the Vatican hierarchy, and John Kerry, the U.S. Secretary of State.
Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi said the Holy See welcomed recent signs President Barack Obama appears to have accelerated efforts to close the controversial prison, where some detainees have been held for more than a decade without charge and tortured.
He also said the Vatican stood ready to "help find adequate humanitarian solutions through our international contacts" in order to help place detainees, adding that Parolin and Kerry discussed the issue in depth.
Turkey Is Blasted for Mass Arrests of Journalists; EU Says Attack on Press Defies European Values
There has been outrage both within Turkey and internationally to the mass arrests of journalists and broadcasters, the Euro News website reports today (December 15, 2014).
The EU (European Union) has condemned the current detention of more than 30 people, saying the attacks on the press are against European values.
Yesterday, Turkish police raided the offices of a leading newspaper and TV station said to have close links with opposition parties.
Mustafa Yesil -- chairman of the journalists and writers foundation -- said: "These were the only anti-government media outlets. Maybe millions were expressing themselves through these media outlets. The autocratic regime controlled by one person is now trying to prevent this too, but people have no intention of letting him."
The EU (European Union) has condemned the current detention of more than 30 people, saying the attacks on the press are against European values.
Yesterday, Turkish police raided the offices of a leading newspaper and TV station said to have close links with opposition parties.
Mustafa Yesil -- chairman of the journalists and writers foundation -- said: "These were the only anti-government media outlets. Maybe millions were expressing themselves through these media outlets. The autocratic regime controlled by one person is now trying to prevent this too, but people have no intention of letting him."
Sunday, December 14, 2014
Palestinians Set a 2-Year Limit for Occupied Land; Israeli PM Netanyahu Is Opposed to UN Proposal
The Palestinians are to present a draft resolution to the United Nations Security Council on December 17 that would set a two-year deadline for Israel to end its occupation of Palestinian territories, the AFP (Agence France-Presse) website reports today (December 14, 2014).
In the past, the United States has used its UN veto power to block moves it sees as anti-Israel, but U.S. officials said they drew a distinction between a unilateral step, and an effort to draw up a multilateral resolution at the UN Security Council, which would have the backing of many nations. Moreover, the Obama administration is currently considering imposing economic sanctions against Israel -- as U.S.-Israeli relations have reached an all-time low -- due to Israel's continued construction of housing on land seized from the Palestinians.
Jordan last month circulated a draft Palestinian text setting November 2016 as a deadline for the end of the Israeli occupation.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu today rejected all talk of withdrawing from east Jerusalem and the West Bank within two years. He said pulling out now would bring "Islamic extremists to the suburbs of Tel Aviv and to the heart of Jerusalem."
In the past, the United States has used its UN veto power to block moves it sees as anti-Israel, but U.S. officials said they drew a distinction between a unilateral step, and an effort to draw up a multilateral resolution at the UN Security Council, which would have the backing of many nations. Moreover, the Obama administration is currently considering imposing economic sanctions against Israel -- as U.S.-Israeli relations have reached an all-time low -- due to Israel's continued construction of housing on land seized from the Palestinians.
Jordan last month circulated a draft Palestinian text setting November 2016 as a deadline for the end of the Israeli occupation.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu today rejected all talk of withdrawing from east Jerusalem and the West Bank within two years. He said pulling out now would bring "Islamic extremists to the suburbs of Tel Aviv and to the heart of Jerusalem."
San Jose State Univ. Slams Ratio Christi Ministry; Ministry Requires Christians for Chapter Officers
San Jose State University in California has criticized Ratio Christi -- a grassroots campus student ministry -- for its decision to "de-recognize" the campus chapter as punishment for the ministry's "discriminatory" policy for leadership positions, the Christian Post website reports today (December 14, 2014).
School officials wrote to Ratio Christi, explaining their action is as per a new California State University Executive Order on how an organization selects its officers, the ministry revealed on its website.
The ministry requires its chapter officers to be Christian and holding biblical beliefs, and the state of California now deems that as "discriminatory."
"De-recognition" means that the school chapter of the ministry is no longer eligible for student funding and financial services, and cannot participate in student organization fairs, ceremonies. or training.
School officials wrote to Ratio Christi, explaining their action is as per a new California State University Executive Order on how an organization selects its officers, the ministry revealed on its website.
The ministry requires its chapter officers to be Christian and holding biblical beliefs, and the state of California now deems that as "discriminatory."
"De-recognition" means that the school chapter of the ministry is no longer eligible for student funding and financial services, and cannot participate in student organization fairs, ceremonies. or training.
Saturday, December 13, 2014
Blast Rocks French Cultural Center in Gaza City; Attack Sends Worrying Vibes to French Officials
A powerful blast rocked the French Cultural Center in Gaza City last night, marking the second time the facility was hit by an explosion in the past two months, the France 24 website reports today (December 13, 2014).
There were no reports of injuries, but the building was partly damaged, France 24's Gallagher Fenwick reported.
"The outside of the facility has been damaged by an explosive device," he said, adding that the attack was sending worrying signals to French authorities.
"It is very symbolic," Fenwick added, because it was "the last foreign consulate left in Gaza where Palestinians could get visas for abroad."
There were no reports of injuries, but the building was partly damaged, France 24's Gallagher Fenwick reported.
"The outside of the facility has been damaged by an explosive device," he said, adding that the attack was sending worrying signals to French authorities.
"It is very symbolic," Fenwick added, because it was "the last foreign consulate left in Gaza where Palestinians could get visas for abroad."
Swastika Drawn on Hanukkah-Decorated Home; Owner Reports the Incident,Paints Over Swastika
A Jewish man found a swastika drawn on the gate to his home where he had put up decorations for Hanukkah, the Jewish Press website reports today (December 13, 2014).
David Cohen, 72, a resident of North Fort Myers, Florida, told police that he found the swastika drawn onto his gate on December 8.
Cohen reported the incident to the sheriff's office and kept the gate open in order to a avoid seeing the swastika, and then painted over it.
He also placed a Menorah, dreidel, and a Star of David around his lawn, which so far have not been vandalized.
David Cohen, 72, a resident of North Fort Myers, Florida, told police that he found the swastika drawn onto his gate on December 8.
Cohen reported the incident to the sheriff's office and kept the gate open in order to a avoid seeing the swastika, and then painted over it.
He also placed a Menorah, dreidel, and a Star of David around his lawn, which so far have not been vandalized.
Friday, December 12, 2014
Palestinian in West Bank Throws Acid on 4 Girls; Girls' Father Picked Up Palestinian Hitch-Hiker
A Jewish family of six has been the victim of an acid attack in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, injuring a father and his four young girls, the Euro News website reports today (December 12, 2014).
Israeli police and military say a vehicle carrying the family picked up a hitch-hiker near a security checkpoint south of Jerusalem.
The hitch-hiker threw a liquid acid over four young girls and tried to attack the father with a screwdriver. The father escaped.
The suspect -- who the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) say was a Palestinian -- was shot at the scene by a civilian. He remains in serious condition.
Israeli police and military say a vehicle carrying the family picked up a hitch-hiker near a security checkpoint south of Jerusalem.
The hitch-hiker threw a liquid acid over four young girls and tried to attack the father with a screwdriver. The father escaped.
The suspect -- who the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) say was a Palestinian -- was shot at the scene by a civilian. He remains in serious condition.
Rifle Shots Fired at Israeli Embassy in Greece; About 20 Shots Fired by 2 Motorcyclists at Dawn
Two gunmen on motorcycles fired 15-20 shots at the Israeli embassy in Athens before dawn today (December 12, 2014), but no one was injured, the Jewish Press website reports.
Police have closed off the area and are investigating the attack.
The bullet shells indicate that the gunmen fired Kalashnikov semi-automatic rifles.
Israel and Greece maintain good relations, but the government has been critical of Israeli policies towards the Palestinian Authority in recent months.
Police have closed off the area and are investigating the attack.
The bullet shells indicate that the gunmen fired Kalashnikov semi-automatic rifles.
Israel and Greece maintain good relations, but the government has been critical of Israeli policies towards the Palestinian Authority in recent months.
Thursday, December 11, 2014
RC Church in Australia Links Celibacy to Abuse; Church Leaders Ignored Clergy Abuse for Years
The Roman Catholic Church in Australia today (December 11, 2014) conceded that obligatory celibacy may have contributed to priests abusing children, and said clergy should be given "psychosexual" training, the Newsmax World website reports.
In a landmark report, an Australian Catholic Church body dealing with the legacy of child sex abuse added that some church institutions and their leaders turned a blind eye to what was going on for years.
The Truth, Justice and Healing Council also said there was often more concern with protecting the institution than the child and criticized a culture "geared to power over others" rather than service.
Under one section it noted: "Obligatory celibacy may also have contributed to abuse in some circumstances."
In a landmark report, an Australian Catholic Church body dealing with the legacy of child sex abuse added that some church institutions and their leaders turned a blind eye to what was going on for years.
The Truth, Justice and Healing Council also said there was often more concern with protecting the institution than the child and criticized a culture "geared to power over others" rather than service.
Under one section it noted: "Obligatory celibacy may also have contributed to abuse in some circumstances."
US Bishops Say CIA Acts of Torture Were Wrong; "Violated the God-Given Humanity in All People"
The U.S. bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace said acts of torture outlined in a Senate Intelligence Committee report this week "violated the God-given human dignity inherent in all people and were unequivocally wrong," the Catholic News website reports today (December 11, 2014).
Bishop Oscar Cantu of Las Cruces, New Mexico -- the Committee chair -- also called on President Barack Obama to strengthen the legal prohibitions against torture "to ensure that this never happens again."
The bishop joined several religious leaders who condemned the use of torture by the CIA after Democrats in the Senate released a 500-page executive summary of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence findings on December 9.
Sister Patricia Chappell -- executive director of Pax Christi USA -- said she was appalled by the "lack of moral integrity of a nation and individuals who justify the use of torture in the name of national security." She called the actions by the CIA a "travesty of justice and a flagrant violation of human rights, with no reverence for the dignity of human life."
Bishop Oscar Cantu of Las Cruces, New Mexico -- the Committee chair -- also called on President Barack Obama to strengthen the legal prohibitions against torture "to ensure that this never happens again."
The bishop joined several religious leaders who condemned the use of torture by the CIA after Democrats in the Senate released a 500-page executive summary of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence findings on December 9.
Sister Patricia Chappell -- executive director of Pax Christi USA -- said she was appalled by the "lack of moral integrity of a nation and individuals who justify the use of torture in the name of national security." She called the actions by the CIA a "travesty of justice and a flagrant violation of human rights, with no reverence for the dignity of human life."
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Former Polish Pres.:CIA Ran a Facility in Poland; CIA Held, Tortured Al Qaeda Suspects at Facility
Former Polish President Aleksander Kwasniewski said today (December 10, 2014) that while he was in office Poland agreed to a request from Washington for U.S. intelligence agents to use a facility on Polish soil, the Global Post website reports.
Kwasniewski said he was told by U.S. officials the facility would be used by intelligence officials to obtain information from sources who were willing to cooperate.
He added that he did not know what was happening inside the facility.
According to a U.S. Senate report published yesterday, the CIA ran a facility in Poland where Al Qaeda suspects were held in 2002 and 2003, and where they were subject to interrogation methods that rights groups say amount to torture.
Kwasniewski said he was told by U.S. officials the facility would be used by intelligence officials to obtain information from sources who were willing to cooperate.
He added that he did not know what was happening inside the facility.
According to a U.S. Senate report published yesterday, the CIA ran a facility in Poland where Al Qaeda suspects were held in 2002 and 2003, and where they were subject to interrogation methods that rights groups say amount to torture.
Palestinians Blaming Israel for Minister's Death; Hit by Tear Gas Canister Fired by Israeli Troops
The Palestinian Authority is blaming Israel for the death of a cabinet member, saying he died after being hit by a tear gas canister fired by Israeli troops, the Christian Broadcast Network website reports today (December 10, 2014).
Arab sources said Ziad Abu Ein died en route to a hospital after being beaten by Israeli security forces during a protest in Turmus Avya near Ramallah against Israeli "land confiscations" in Judea and Samaria (the West Bank).
Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas said a "brutal assault... led to the martyrdom" of Abu Ein and called for three days of mourning.
Israel said in a statement that it is cooperating with the Palestinians to determine the cause of Abu Ein's death: "The coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, Maj. Gen. Yoav (Poli) Mordechai, and his Palestinian counterpart, Hussein Al-Sheikh, have agreed that an Israeli pathologist will join a delegation of pathologists from Jordan for a joint examination of the circumstances of Ziad Abu Ein's death."
Arab sources said Ziad Abu Ein died en route to a hospital after being beaten by Israeli security forces during a protest in Turmus Avya near Ramallah against Israeli "land confiscations" in Judea and Samaria (the West Bank).
Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas said a "brutal assault... led to the martyrdom" of Abu Ein and called for three days of mourning.
Israel said in a statement that it is cooperating with the Palestinians to determine the cause of Abu Ein's death: "The coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, Maj. Gen. Yoav (Poli) Mordechai, and his Palestinian counterpart, Hussein Al-Sheikh, have agreed that an Israeli pathologist will join a delegation of pathologists from Jordan for a joint examination of the circumstances of Ziad Abu Ein's death."
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Statues of Mary, Joseph Vandalized at Ill. Church; Vandals Knock Over Statue of Jesus, Egg Manger
Police in a Chicago suburb are investigating today (December 9, 2014) an act of vandalism at a Catholic church in which the heads were removed from statues of Mary and Joseph in a convent garden, according to the Reuters website.
The destruction was discovered on December 7, while parishioners at St. Odilo in Berwyn -- a largely Hispanic suburb of Chicago -- were gathering to mark the upcoming feast on December 12 of Our Lady of Guadalupe, said Pastor Anthony Brankin.
Our Lady of Guadalupe -- a depiction of the Virgin Mary -- holds significance for Hispanic Catholics because of reported apparitions in Mexico in 1531.
Besides removing the heads, the vandals also knocked over a statue of Jesus and egged a nativity scene in front of the church, Brankin said.
The destruction was discovered on December 7, while parishioners at St. Odilo in Berwyn -- a largely Hispanic suburb of Chicago -- were gathering to mark the upcoming feast on December 12 of Our Lady of Guadalupe, said Pastor Anthony Brankin.
Our Lady of Guadalupe -- a depiction of the Virgin Mary -- holds significance for Hispanic Catholics because of reported apparitions in Mexico in 1531.
Besides removing the heads, the vandals also knocked over a statue of Jesus and egged a nativity scene in front of the church, Brankin said.
Intruder in NYC Synagogue Stabs Israeli Student; Yelled "Kill the Jews," Attacker Killed by Police
It should have been a peaceful night for Levi Rosenblat, studying the Torah inside a Brooklyn synagogue. But that peace was shattered early this morning (December 9, 2014) when an intruder came into the Chabad-Lubavitch World Headquarters, stabbing Rosenblat on the left side of his head, according to the CNN website.
There would be no other victims. New York police officers quickly arrived at the scene and shot and killed the knife-wielding attacker.
Hours later, Rosenblat -- the 22-year-old student from Israel -- was in stable condition at Brooklyn's Kings County Hospital.
Rabbi Motti Seligson, a spokesman for the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, said that, "According to witnesses, (the attacker) was overheard saying repeatedly, 'Kill the Jews' or something to that effect." The attacker has been identified as Calvin Peters, a 50 year-old African-American man.
There would be no other victims. New York police officers quickly arrived at the scene and shot and killed the knife-wielding attacker.
Hours later, Rosenblat -- the 22-year-old student from Israel -- was in stable condition at Brooklyn's Kings County Hospital.
Rabbi Motti Seligson, a spokesman for the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, said that, "According to witnesses, (the attacker) was overheard saying repeatedly, 'Kill the Jews' or something to that effect." The attacker has been identified as Calvin Peters, a 50 year-old African-American man.
Monday, December 8, 2014
Thousands of Germans Now Protest Islamization; Assured to Preserve Germany's Western Culture
A new type of anti-immigration protest is sweeping across Germany, as thousands take to the streets against what they say is the growing "Islamization" of the country, the Telegraph (British) website reports today (December 8, 2014).
The new protests -- which began in the city of Dresden in the former East Germany -- feature no neo-Nazi slogans and have nothing to do with the traditional far right.
Instead, the demonstrators have adopted the old rallying call of the protests against the East German communist regime that brought down the Berlin Wall 25 years ago: "Wir sind das Volk," or "We are the People." They say they want to preserve Germany's Judeo-Christian Western culture.
Germany is now the second most popular destination in the world for migrants (after the U.S.), and the country is struggling to cope with an unprecedented influx of asylum-seekers.
The new protests -- which began in the city of Dresden in the former East Germany -- feature no neo-Nazi slogans and have nothing to do with the traditional far right.
Instead, the demonstrators have adopted the old rallying call of the protests against the East German communist regime that brought down the Berlin Wall 25 years ago: "Wir sind das Volk," or "We are the People." They say they want to preserve Germany's Judeo-Christian Western culture.
Germany is now the second most popular destination in the world for migrants (after the U.S.), and the country is struggling to cope with an unprecedented influx of asylum-seekers.
UN Asks Nations to House 180K Syrian Refugees; Over 3.2M People Fled Since Syrian 2011 Civil War
The United Nations is calling on countries to take on 180,000 Syrian refugees. The figure represents just five percent of the projected refugee population by the end of 2015, the Euro News website reports today (December 8, 2014).
At least 3.2 million people have fled from Syria since its civil war began in March 2011, and neighboring countries are feeling the strain.
Turkey and Lebanon each host more than one million refugees.
Amnesty International blasted Persian Gulf countries that have failed to resettle a single Syrian refugee.
At least 3.2 million people have fled from Syria since its civil war began in March 2011, and neighboring countries are feeling the strain.
Turkey and Lebanon each host more than one million refugees.
Amnesty International blasted Persian Gulf countries that have failed to resettle a single Syrian refugee.
Sunday, December 7, 2014
Saudi Women Jailed for Driving a Motor Vehicle; Jailed for 6 Days, Sentenced 25 More Days in Jail
Two activists for women's rights in Saudi Arabia were arrested for violating the ban against female drivers in the Muslim nation, and authorities have extended their time in jail, the Inquisitr website reports today (December 7, 2014).
One of the women -- 25-year-old Loujain al-Hathloul -- drove across the border in Saudi Arabia from the neighboring United Arab Emirates where she holds a valid drivers license.
A second woman -- and fellow activist of al-Hathloul, 33-year-old Maysa al-Amoudi -- was also arrested in Saudi Arabia for violating the driving ban.
Both women have already been jailed for six days and are to be held for another 25 days, although no legal reasons were given for the extended jail time. It is believed that Saudi authorities extended their jail time in order to send a strong message to prevent other women from violating the driving ban.
One of the women -- 25-year-old Loujain al-Hathloul -- drove across the border in Saudi Arabia from the neighboring United Arab Emirates where she holds a valid drivers license.
A second woman -- and fellow activist of al-Hathloul, 33-year-old Maysa al-Amoudi -- was also arrested in Saudi Arabia for violating the driving ban.
Both women have already been jailed for six days and are to be held for another 25 days, although no legal reasons were given for the extended jail time. It is believed that Saudi authorities extended their jail time in order to send a strong message to prevent other women from violating the driving ban.
Syria Says Israeli Jets Bombed Two of Its Areas; Calls Attacks on Mil. Installations "Aggression"
Syria accused Israeli jets of bombing two installations inside the country today (December 7, 2014) -- one near the capital of Damascus and the second in a town near the Lebanese border -- The Guardian website reports.
Syrian state television described the attack as "an aggression." It said the air raids occurred near Damascus's international airport and in the town of Dimas.
The state news agency Sana said: "The Israeli enemy attacked Syria by targeting two safe areas in Damascus province, namely the Dimas area and the area of Damascus international airport." It said no casualties were reported. Israel had no comment on the bombings.
It is believed that the target of the strikes might have been advanced Russian-made S300 surface-to-air missiles.
Syrian state television described the attack as "an aggression." It said the air raids occurred near Damascus's international airport and in the town of Dimas.
The state news agency Sana said: "The Israeli enemy attacked Syria by targeting two safe areas in Damascus province, namely the Dimas area and the area of Damascus international airport." It said no casualties were reported. Israel had no comment on the bombings.
It is believed that the target of the strikes might have been advanced Russian-made S300 surface-to-air missiles.
Saturday, December 6, 2014
Thieves Steal 5-Foot Crucifix from Bronx Church; Pastor Says "I've Never Seen Anything Like This"
Unholy thieves stole a 5-by-3 foot crucifix from a Bronx church during services on December 3, the NY Post website reports today (December 6, 2014).
The $5,000 German-made wooden cross was lifted from the lobby of Padau Roman Catholic Church -- near a sign proclaiming, "Jesus wants all of us to come to him" -- between 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m., police sources said.
"I'm distressed. That crucifix means so much to the people here... I've never seen anything like this," said Josu Iriondo, 75, pastor of the church on East 166th Street near Prospect Avenue.
The shameless sinners likely planned the heist ahead of time -- unscrewing bolts that attached the crucifix to a wall before returning to snatch it while parishioners were deep in prayer, Iriondo said.
The $5,000 German-made wooden cross was lifted from the lobby of Padau Roman Catholic Church -- near a sign proclaiming, "Jesus wants all of us to come to him" -- between 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m., police sources said.
"I'm distressed. That crucifix means so much to the people here... I've never seen anything like this," said Josu Iriondo, 75, pastor of the church on East 166th Street near Prospect Avenue.
The shameless sinners likely planned the heist ahead of time -- unscrewing bolts that attached the crucifix to a wall before returning to snatch it while parishioners were deep in prayer, Iriondo said.
Russian High Court Rules JW Website Extremist; Rules Ideas of Jehovah's Witnesses Incite Hatred
The Russian Supreme Court ruled on December 3, 2014 that the website of the religious organization Jehovah's Witnesses (JW) is extremist, according to the RIA Novosti (Russian) website.
Prosecutors in Russia's Tver region filed a claim last year saying that the ideas promoted by Jehovah's Witnesses incite hatred and division.
Jehovah's Witnesses is an international religious organization that began operating in Russia and across the former Soviet Union in the early 1990s.
The Christian sect has some 8 million members worldwide.
Prosecutors in Russia's Tver region filed a claim last year saying that the ideas promoted by Jehovah's Witnesses incite hatred and division.
Jehovah's Witnesses is an international religious organization that began operating in Russia and across the former Soviet Union in the early 1990s.
The Christian sect has some 8 million members worldwide.
Friday, December 5, 2014
Obama Admin. Considers Ec. Sanctions on Israel; Due to Israel's Settlements on Palestinian Terrain
In a move that would greatly erode the friendly long-standing relationship between the United States and Israel, the White House is considering imposing economic sanctions on Israel over its West Bank settlement program, the National Review website reports today (December 5, 2014).
Yesterday, Israeli officials claimed that the White House and State Department held secret meetings to discuss punishing Israel for supporting Jewish settlement construction in the Palestinian territories -- an activity the Obama administration views as "counterproductive" to the peace process.
White House press secretary Josh Earnest refused to confirm or deny the sanction allegations, saying, "I'm not going to talk about any internal deliberations inside the administration, and certainly not inside the White House."
Earnest added that the Obama administration has been "crystal clear about our view of settlement activity," calling them "illegitimate" and "counterproductive" [to the peace process].
Yesterday, Israeli officials claimed that the White House and State Department held secret meetings to discuss punishing Israel for supporting Jewish settlement construction in the Palestinian territories -- an activity the Obama administration views as "counterproductive" to the peace process.
White House press secretary Josh Earnest refused to confirm or deny the sanction allegations, saying, "I'm not going to talk about any internal deliberations inside the administration, and certainly not inside the White House."
Earnest added that the Obama administration has been "crystal clear about our view of settlement activity," calling them "illegitimate" and "counterproductive" [to the peace process].
Vatican Card.Finds Hundreds of Millions of Euros; "Tucked Away," Did Not Appear on Balance Sheets
The Vatican's economy minister said hundreds of millions of euros have been found "tucked away" in accounts of various Holy See departments without having appeared in the city-state's balance sheets, the Reuters website reports today (December 5, 2014).
Australian Cardinal George Pell -- who was named the Vatican's economy minister last February by Pope Francis -- wrote that the discovery meant overall Vatican finances were in better shape than previously believed.
"In fact, we have discovered that the situation is much healthier than it seemed, because some hundreds of millions of euros were tucked away in particular sectional accounts and did not appear on the balance sheet," he wrote in Britain's Catholic Herald Magazine.
Pell did not suggest any wrongdoing, but said Vatican departments had long had "an almost free hand" with their finances and followed "long-established patterns" in managing their affairs.
Australian Cardinal George Pell -- who was named the Vatican's economy minister last February by Pope Francis -- wrote that the discovery meant overall Vatican finances were in better shape than previously believed.
"In fact, we have discovered that the situation is much healthier than it seemed, because some hundreds of millions of euros were tucked away in particular sectional accounts and did not appear on the balance sheet," he wrote in Britain's Catholic Herald Magazine.
Pell did not suggest any wrongdoing, but said Vatican departments had long had "an almost free hand" with their finances and followed "long-established patterns" in managing their affairs.
Thursday, December 4, 2014
Rebel Raid in Chechnya Leaves 20 People Dead; Islamists Responsible for Terrorism in Russia
Heavily-armed Islamist rebels stormed the Russian state Chechnya's capital, Grozny, today (December 4, 2014), resulting in at least 20 deaths in fierce gun battles that followed, according to the Euro News website.
The rebels attacked a police checkpoint before moving to a school and a building housing the media where they battled members of the security forces.
Ten policemen were killed and nearly 30 injured according to Russia's National Anti-Terrorism Committee, which said 10 suspected militants also died in the fighting.
Footage obtained by Reuters showed clashes that included persistent small arms fire and what looked like a shoulder-fired missile striking the media building. An Islamist group has claimed responsibility for the raid.
The rebels attacked a police checkpoint before moving to a school and a building housing the media where they battled members of the security forces.
Ten policemen were killed and nearly 30 injured according to Russia's National Anti-Terrorism Committee, which said 10 suspected militants also died in the fighting.
Footage obtained by Reuters showed clashes that included persistent small arms fire and what looked like a shoulder-fired missile striking the media building. An Islamist group has claimed responsibility for the raid.
Saudi Restaurants Now Banning Single Women; Must Be Accompanied by a Male to Be Served
In a show of support for the belief that men must dominate women under Islam, Saudi Arabian restaurants have begun to ban single women and women not accompanied by a male guardian from entering their premises, the Clarion Project website reports today (December 4, 2014).
Restaurant owners claim that women in restaurants have been behaving in "a shocking way," according to one blogger who supported the ban.
The objectionable behavior included flirting, smoking, and using a mobile phone.
Rights groups expressed outrage over these new restaurant rules, which they said were illegal. "These signs [banning women without men] are against the law and reflect the personal opinions of the restaurant owners," said Khalid Al-Fakhri, secretary general for the National Society for Human Rights. "Restaurants should come up with alternative solutions if its customers are behaving inappropriately."
Restaurant owners claim that women in restaurants have been behaving in "a shocking way," according to one blogger who supported the ban.
The objectionable behavior included flirting, smoking, and using a mobile phone.
Rights groups expressed outrage over these new restaurant rules, which they said were illegal. "These signs [banning women without men] are against the law and reflect the personal opinions of the restaurant owners," said Khalid Al-Fakhri, secretary general for the National Society for Human Rights. "Restaurants should come up with alternative solutions if its customers are behaving inappropriately."
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
France Decides to Recognize a Palestinian State; Becomes 5th Nation in 2 Months to Betray Israel
First it was the British and the Irish. Then the Swedes and the Spanish. And yesterday, the French, also, added their weight to the push for recognition of a Palestinian state, the NY Times website reports today (December 3, 2014).
The vote in the French Parliament favoring such a step was the fifth such gesture in two months -- and the most important one -- in what has amounted to a cascade of support for the Palestinian cause and a widening torrent of criticism of Israeli policy across Europe.
The vote in France is critical, because it carries particular resonance coming from a country with the largest Muslim and Jewish populations in Europe.
Moreover, France has become something of a proxy playing field for the Arab-Israeli conflict, which this summer spilled over into the streets of cities around the country with violent protests against Israel's savage military campaign against Hamas.
The vote in the French Parliament favoring such a step was the fifth such gesture in two months -- and the most important one -- in what has amounted to a cascade of support for the Palestinian cause and a widening torrent of criticism of Israeli policy across Europe.
The vote in France is critical, because it carries particular resonance coming from a country with the largest Muslim and Jewish populations in Europe.
Moreover, France has become something of a proxy playing field for the Arab-Israeli conflict, which this summer spilled over into the streets of cities around the country with violent protests against Israel's savage military campaign against Hamas.
Kerry Welcomes Iranian Air Strikes on Iraq's IS; Says 1,000 Strikes Have Helped End IS Advance
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry today (December 3, 2014) welcomed any Iranian military action against Islamic State (IS) jihadists in Iraq as "positive" after the Pentagon said Tehran had carried out air strikes against the radical Islamist group, the AFP (Agence France-Presse) website reports.
Kerry -- hosting a meeting of an anti-IS coalition in Brussels, Belgium -- said today that international airstrikes were finally stopping the advance of the jihadists across Iraq and Syria, but warned it could take years to defeat them.
Kerry told the meeting of officials from 60 nations in the coalition that a campaign of around 1,000 air strikes had had a "significant" impact on the Sunni extremist IS, which declared a caliphate (an Islamic territory) in Syria and Iraq in June.
"Our commitment will most likely be measured in years," he told the meeting at NATO headquarters, adding that the partners would "engage in this campaign for as long as it takes to prevail."
Kerry -- hosting a meeting of an anti-IS coalition in Brussels, Belgium -- said today that international airstrikes were finally stopping the advance of the jihadists across Iraq and Syria, but warned it could take years to defeat them.
Kerry told the meeting of officials from 60 nations in the coalition that a campaign of around 1,000 air strikes had had a "significant" impact on the Sunni extremist IS, which declared a caliphate (an Islamic territory) in Syria and Iraq in June.
"Our commitment will most likely be measured in years," he told the meeting at NATO headquarters, adding that the partners would "engage in this campaign for as long as it takes to prevail."
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
Three Assailants Rob Paris Home, Rape Woman; Said They Robbed Home "Because You Are Jews"
Three armed assailants invaded the home of a Jewish couple in the Paris suburb of Creteil yesterday, raped a 19-year-old woman, and robbed the home, saying it was "because you are Jewish," local French media reported today (December 2, 2014), according to the Algemeiner website.
"The Jewish community is in shock over this," a journalist who covered the story said.
An hour after the beginning of the attack, the thieves fled with cash, jewelry and other items.
Police investigators managed to track down and arrest two of the suspected assailants, but the third member of the gang is still at large, according to French media.
"The Jewish community is in shock over this," a journalist who covered the story said.
An hour after the beginning of the attack, the thieves fled with cash, jewelry and other items.
Police investigators managed to track down and arrest two of the suspected assailants, but the third member of the gang is still at large, according to French media.
Al-Shabab Mil. Murder 36 Non-Muslims in Kenya; Same Area Where 28 Were Shot on Bus Last Week
Al-Shabab Muslim militants have killed 36 non-Muslim quarry workers in the Kenyan town of Mandera, the Euro News website reports today (December 2, 2014).
Residents of the area close to the Somali border say the assailants separated Muslims from non-Muslims before carrying out the killings.
The latest carnage comes after 28 people were shot dead on a bus in the same area last week. Again, non-Muslims were the targets.
The deaths have caused outrage across Kenya and the government is coming under fire for its failure to protect its citizens.
Residents of the area close to the Somali border say the assailants separated Muslims from non-Muslims before carrying out the killings.
The latest carnage comes after 28 people were shot dead on a bus in the same area last week. Again, non-Muslims were the targets.
The deaths have caused outrage across Kenya and the government is coming under fire for its failure to protect its citizens.
Monday, December 1, 2014
Palestinian Woman Stabs Israeli Man in W. Bank; Woman Shot by Police, Now in Serious Condition
A Palestinian woman stabbed an Israeli man in the occupied West Bank today (December 1, 2014), and was then shot and wounded by police, according to the Reuters website.
Violence in Israel and the Palestinian territories has risen significantly in recent months.
Attacks carried out by Palestinians have killed 11 Israelis. Twelve Palestinians have been killed, including several of the assailants.
The stabbed Israeli man was lightly wounded. The woman who carried out the attack is in serious condition at Jerusalem's Hadassah Hospital.
Violence in Israel and the Palestinian territories has risen significantly in recent months.
Attacks carried out by Palestinians have killed 11 Israelis. Twelve Palestinians have been killed, including several of the assailants.
The stabbed Israeli man was lightly wounded. The woman who carried out the attack is in serious condition at Jerusalem's Hadassah Hospital.
Canada Says Female Citizen May Be IS Prisoner; Gil Rosenberg,31, Had Been in Syria Fighting IS
Canada is trying to confirm reports that a Canadian citizen has been captured by the Islamic State (IS) in Syria, the Daily News website reports today (December 1, 2014).
Israeli media reports said a Canadian-Israeli woman, Gil Rosenberg, has been captured. The reports cited jihadist websites and have not been confirmed by Israeli officials.
"I cannot confirm that and I hope that it isn't true," Israeli Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon told an Israeli television channel when asked about the reports.
Rosenberg, 31, told Reuters that she was in Syria in November. A source linked to the Kurds' fighting force in northern Syria said in early November that she was their first female foreign recruit and had crossed into Syria to fight Islamic State militants.
Israeli media reports said a Canadian-Israeli woman, Gil Rosenberg, has been captured. The reports cited jihadist websites and have not been confirmed by Israeli officials.
"I cannot confirm that and I hope that it isn't true," Israeli Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon told an Israeli television channel when asked about the reports.
Rosenberg, 31, told Reuters that she was in Syria in November. A source linked to the Kurds' fighting force in northern Syria said in early November that she was their first female foreign recruit and had crossed into Syria to fight Islamic State militants.
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