Newsy - World

4 U.S. Troops Killed in Afghanistan as Peace Talks Begin

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 22:23:47 -0500

(Image source: U.S. Air Force)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

An attack on a U.S. airbase in Afghanistan has reportedly claimed the lives of four American troops — just hours after the White House announced the beginning of peace talks with the Taliban.

The attack took place at Bagram Airfield, located outside Kabul.

“Fighters reportedly attacked the base with some kind of indirect fire, which could mean it was hit by rockets or mortar rounds.” (Via Al Jazeera)

The attack came just hours after the U.S. called on the Taliban to renounce violence and embrace the Afghan constitution.

It’s also the same day NATO officially handed security in the country over to the Afghan military, and more than a few analysts fear Afghan troops won’t be able to control the still-hostile Taliban. (Via BBC)

“A Taliban spokesman said that they would continue to attack U.S. targets in Afghanistan. As one senior U.S. official said, ‘This may be a significant development, but peace is not at hand.’” (Via ABC)

While the Taliban’s ability to wage an all-out war is greatly diminished, analysts say they can still carry out attacks on high-profile targets.

Earlier Tuesday, the group claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing which killed three civilians in Kabul. It’s the fifth high-profile attack in the past month and a half. (Via CNN)

There are currently around 68,000 U.S. troops still in Afghanistan. That number is expected to fall to almost half that by the end of the year as the U.S. withdraws from the country.

U.S., Taliban to Hold First Formal Peace Talks

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 14:06:00 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY MATT MORENO

The U.S. and the Taliban will open what’s expected to be long and complex peace talks to end the conflict in Afghanistan.

The meetings will take place in Qatar’s capital city of Doha, and are scheduled to start Thursday. (Via CBS)

The talks will first center around figuring out the other side’s agendas. U.S. officials are also expected to bring up a possible prisoner exchange. (Via CNN)

BBC reports there are some preconditions... the Taliban must:

- renounce violence

- break ties with Al-Qaeda

- and respect the Afghan constitution, including the rights of women and minorities

The dialogue is another step toward the Obama administration's goal of removing combat forces by 2014. The announcement comes amid increased violence from Taliban insurgents in recent weeks, something the U.S. has dismissed as “desperation moves.”

One U.S. official told reporters, “These statements represent an important first step towards reconciliation, a process that after 30 years of armed conflict in Afghanistan will certainly promise to be complex, long and messy but nonetheless this is an important first step.” (Via ABC)

The U.S. has reportedly been trying to hold talks with the Taliban since 2010, but those attempts were unsuccessful.

A writer for USA Today calls this agreement the “most serious effort by all sides” and says the White House has “guarded optimism” toward the talks.

“My perspective has always been this war’s gonna have to end with a political reconciliation. So, I would frankly be supportive of any positive movement in terms of reconciliation.” (Via BBC)

The announcement comes a day after NATO handed over full security duties to Afghanistan for the first time since 2001. (Via euronews)

Afghan President Hamid Karzai announced his envoy will travel to Doha to meet with insurgent leaders shortly after the U.S.-Taliban talks.

98-Year-Old Man Charged with Nazi War Crimes

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 10:26:00 -0500

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(Image source: euronews)

BY NICHOLE CARTMELL

Hungarian prosecutors have charged a 98-year old man for his alleged participation in Nazi war crimes.

Laszlo Csatary was arrested for his supposed involvement in the murder of more than 15,000 Jews during World War II. According to his indictment, Csatary served in the Nazi police in 1944 and during this time reportedly he regularly beat Jewish prisoners with a dog-whip. (Via The Christian Post)

Csatary denies these allegations, saying he was merely an intermediary between Hungarian and German officials.

Euronews reports Csatary received the death penalty following World War II. He fled into hiding, and eventually sought refugee status under an assumed name in Canada until 1997. At that time, he was deported because he lied on his application for citizenship.

Fifteen years later, reporters from British tabloid newspaper, The Sun, found him living in an apartment in Budapest.

Jewish human rights organization Simon Wiesenthal Center labeled him as one of its most wanted war criminals. In 2012, the organization brought new evidence to a Budapest prosecutor suggesting Csatary’s involvement in the deportation of Jews who were eventually murdered.

Evidence the organization said, “...reinforces our insistence that he be held accountable for his crimes. The passage of time in no way diminishes his guilt and old age should not afford protection for Holocaust perpetrators.”(Via BBC)

This charge comes on the heels of another high-profile case involving Nazi war crimes.

Reports identified Michael Karkoc as a former officer in the SS last week. His unit was responsible for burning villages and killing civilians who revolted.

Allegations his son denied, saying... “That’s the God’s honest truth. My father was never a Nazi.” (Via The Star Tribune)

As for Csatary, he’s expected to head to trial within the next three months.

NATO Hands Off to Afghanistan: Now What?

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 09:20:00 -0500

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(Image source: The New York Times)

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

Afghanistan is now in complete control of its own security after NATO formally handed over combat operations to the Afghan government.

In a ceremony in Kabul Tuesday morning, coalition officials turned over security operations to Afghan forces for the first time since 2001. U.S. and coalition forces will fall into a “support-only” role for the next 18 months. (via Al Jazeera)

Afghan President Hamid Karzai says "This is a historic moment for our country and from tomorrow all of the security operations will be in the hands of the Afghan security forces … " (via whitehouse.gov)

“But as this was all going on, as they’re holding the ceremony — breaking news. A bomb exploding in the middle of Kabul, reportedly targeting on of the country’s top political leaders. So, uh, that’s Afghanistan for you this morning.” (via Fox Business News)

That attack killed three people and injured dozens of others. Afghan security forces believe they’re ready to handle the country’s security, but incidents such as this leave others skeptical.

“They say they’ve made leaps and bounds, they’ve made a lot of improvements over the past few years, but critics say there is no way this Afghan national army is ready to take on the Taliban. But ready or not, they are now leading the charge.” (via CNN)

The BBC notes Afghan forces have been gradually increasing from fewer than 40,000 six years ago to nearly 350,000 today. In contrast, coalition forces “… currently [have] about 97,000 troops in the country … the bulk of whom - some 68,000 - are from the US.”

And The New York Times says while American units may sometimes be close by when incidents arise, under the new stipulations “ … Afghan forces must operate without American air support, medical evacuation helicopters or partnered combat units. If they get in trouble, NATO will not be riding to the rescue, except in the most dire cases.”

By the end of 2014, all U.S. and coalition combat forces are scheduled to leave the country — leaving behind only small task force to train and advise.

Brazilian Protests Grow 230K+ Strong

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 08:24:00 -0500

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(Image source: The Rio Times)

BY NICHOLE CARTMELL

A hike in bus fares is the latest complaint in the long line of frustrations for several thousand protesters in Brazil. Most demonstrations have remained peaceful. Others not so much.

“Protesters threw rocks at police and set fire to the state assembly building... Protests grew in 11 cities. In the capital Brasilia, the Congress building was stormed.” (Via BBC)

Many media outlets are calling these the largest protests Brazil has seen in recent history. The number of demonstrators is estimated at 230,000, spreading across the country. (Via Al Jazeera)

What started two weeks ago as peaceful protests over transportation costs and prices for World Cup tickets, has grown to a larger movement focused on government corruption.

CNN says the 9 cent hike in bus tickets to a price of a $1.50 was quote “the straw that broke the camel's back in a much larger issue.” Protesters are frustrated with “how government nickel-and-dimes the poorest out of their money, then throws it out on lavish, high-profile projects.” (Via Channel 4)

A typical Brazilian worker on minimum wage makes just under $340 a month. That means, at $1.50, a worker would spend about 25 percent of their pay on transit if they took the bus twice a day. (Via Sky News)

Compare that to the recently built soccer stadium in Brazil for the World Cup. It’s one of the world’s most expensive, standing at an estimated cost of around $600 million — 90 percent of which was paid with public money. (Via RT)

Nonetheless, the demonstrations are legitimate as far as Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff is concerned. He said it is natural for young people to demonstrate.

Top News Headlines: NATO Returns Security Lead to Afghans

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 06:46:00 -0500

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(Image source: U.S. Army)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

NATO has returned control of security in Afghanistan to Afghan forces for the first time since 2001.

NATO and U.S. will now shift into a supporting role — with complete troop withdrawal scheduled in 18 months. Afghan President Hamid Karzai calls it a great day. (Via Sky News)

“ … where the Afghan people will see their own children, their own young ones, providing protection to their lives and to their country.” (Via BBC)

Protests in Brazil that started over the cost of public transit have expanded into what euronews calls “a far wider revolt.”

Hundreds of thousands of demonstrators took to the streets in Rio de Janeiro — outraged over alleged corruption, the expense of public services and money spent on soccer’s World Cup.

Despite the ongoing protests, it’s reported there have only been a few outbreaks of violence between demonstrators and police. (Via WKYC)

The latest search for the body of Teamsters boss Jimmy Hoffa is set to continue in Oakland Township, Michigan today — about 45 miles north of Detroit.

According to the Detroit Free Press, the field where the authorities are searching came under scrutiny in January when the son of one of Hoffa’s associates told media the Teamsters boss was buried there.

Last September, authorities dug up a driveway in Roseville, Michigan looking for Hoffa. NBC says other rumored resting places over the years have included the Giants Stadium and General Motors’ headquarters.

In sports — the best stories always seem to emerge during the playoffs — and we’re seeing that in the Stanley Cup finals. The Boston Bruins beat the Chicago Blackhawks 2-0 last night — and it started like this.

“Chris Kelly finds Daniel Paille. 1-0 Bruins. Paille’s second straight game with a goal. He had two goals in the first 17 games of this postseason.” (Via ESPN)

Edward Snowden: 'Truth is Coming and It Cannot Be Stopped'

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 19:15:56 -0500

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(Image source: South China Morning Post)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

More revelations Monday from NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden. In a live online chat hosted by The Guardian newspaper, he warned: “The truth is coming, and it cannot be stopped.”

Moderated by the reporter who broke the story, Glenn Greenwald, the former NSA contractor took questions online and defended his decision to reveal secret surveillance programs. (Via The Guardian)

Defending himself from accusations of treason, Snowden wrote Monday: “I did not reveal any U.S. operations against legitimate military targets... I pointed out where the NSA has hacked civilian infrastructure ...These nakedly, aggressively criminal acts are wrong no matter the target.” (Via The Guardian)

During the 90-minute chat, he dismissed the idea he was spying for China in return for safe harbor, and stressed even low-level agents can get access to Americans’ classified information.

When asked whether the NSA listened in on domestic calls, he said the agency collects everything, even the content of emails, saying: (Via CBS)

“They excuse this as ‘incidental’ collection, but at the end of the day, someone at NSA still has the content of your communications.” (Via NSA)

A writer for TIME says these answers were revealing in more ways than one.

“[They] demonstrated that he is not simply concerned about potential government monitoring of American citizens; he is an extreme skeptic of government surveillance of all sorts. In that sense, Snowden is emerging as an heir to Julian Assange."

Questions remain over his exact whereabouts. He was last seen leaving his hotel in Hong Kong, where he fled to avoid extradition. He said Monday he’s had no contact with the Chinese government.

G8 Summit: What's on the Agenda

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 13:21:00 -0500

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(Image source: BBC)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

Leaders from the world’s largest economies are meeting in Northern Ireland on Monday for their annual G8 summit — with a focus on the global economy and the bloodshed in Syria.

Two days of talks has brought together leaders from the U.S., the U.K., Russia, Germany, Canada, Japan, France and Italy. As for what’s on everyone’s agenda... (Via BBC, Wikimedia Commons)

British Prime Minister David Cameron has said he wants to see a E.U./U.S. free trade deal on the table, as well as plans to crack down on global tax havens and make global firms more transparent. (Via euronews)

On Sunday, Cameron and Russian President Vladimir Putin met — at odds over the prospect of arming Syrian rebels. (Via Al Jazeera)

“There are very big differences we have between the analysis we have on what happened in Syria and who is to blame."

Little progress on Syria is expected at the G8, largely due to the presence of Putin. He’s warned against arming the rebels and stressed his country’s arms contract is in full compliance with international law. (Via France 24)

But days after announcing it would step up military assistance for the rebels, President Obama is hoping he can come to some agreement with Syria’s most powerful ally. (Via UTV)

This will be Obama’s first face-to-face meeting with Putin since last year’s G-20 summit. (Via RT)

Obama’s expected to see some major lobbying from Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, who’s looking for the go ahead from the U.S. on the Keystone Pipeline. (Via CTV)

Harper argues the multi-billion dollar project could give his economy a major boost. (Via NBC)

And for Japan’s Shinzo Abe and Germany’s Angela Merkel.... central banks and monetary policy will likely top their agendas. The two are holding bilateral talks during the summit to discuss long-term growth in their countries. (Via Die Welt)

And Cameron’s hopes for a $265 billion trans-Atlantic trade plan may be dashed by French President Francois Hollande, who has insisted on special exceptions for the French film industry and holds EU veto power over the negotiations. (Via The Guardian, France TV Info)

According to The Telegraph, Hollande “will be in the comfortable and pleasing position of deciding whether the Prime Minister’s G8 summit is a triumph or a humiliation.”

And in his first G8 meeting, Italian Prime Minister Enrico Letta, whose country faces the worst tax evasion problem within the G8, will be looking for any trade deal that can be used to prop up Italy’s struggling economy. (Via YouTube / Number10Gov)

Overshadowing these talks is the revelation from NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden in The Guardian Sunday night that British intelligence had spied on its allies during the 2009 G-20 summit. Britain’s Cameron said Sunday he couldn’t comment on the allegations.

Top News Headlines: Obama Speaks Before G8 Summit

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 06:55:00 -0500

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(Image source: Sky News)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Leaders of the G8 nations are meeting in Northern Ireland — and Syria is expected to top the agenda.

U.K. Prime Minister David Cameron and Russian leader Vladimir Putin met Sunday — at odds over the prospect of arming Syrian rebels. (Via Sky News)

President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama addressed young people in Belfast this morning. It’s the Obamas’ first visit to Northern Ireland. (Via BBC)

The blind Chinese activist remembered for his daring escape from house arrest last year now says he’s being forced to leave New York University.

NYU says it assigned Chen Guangcheng a one-year fellowship when he arrived in the United States. But that year is up, according to the university. (Via WTNH)

Chen alleges he and his family are being forced out under pressure from the Chinese government. (Via WSBT)

The New York Post reports NYU has been in talks to open a campus in Shanghai.

Days after blowing off talks with South Korea, North Korea now says it’s ready to discuss tensions on the peninsula with the U.S. But according to Washington, the North will have to meet a few conditions first. In a statement carried by North Korean state media — the country’s military leaders proposed high-level talks with senior U.S. officials to ensure peace in the region, and warned the United States to agree with its “resolute step and good intention.” (Via RT)

The Obama administration has said before it would be open to talks with North Korea if the country would denuclearize and comply with U.N. sanctions. (Via CNN)

The back-and-forth continued in Game 5 of the NBA Finals Sunday night. The Spurs beat the Heat 114-104. And it happened in large part, due to this — San Antonio head coach Gregg Popovich put Manu Ginobili in the starting lineup for the first time in the postseason. Ginobili responded with 24 points — but he shared with his teammates, too. (Via Sports Illustrated)

“And this move paid off. He got into a flow. Nice entry pass inside to Tim Duncan.” (Via ESPN)

British Intelligence Reportedly Spied on G20 Delegates

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 18:18:58 -0500

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(Image source: The Guardian)

BY MATT PICHT

Edward Snowden and The Guardian newspaper have blown the lid off quite a few U.S. intelligence-gathering operations in the past few weeks. Now The Guardian is revealing new information putting United Kingdom intelligence agencies in the hot seat.

The Guardian’s latest leaks pertain to the U.K.’s Government Communications Headquarters, or GCHQ, which is a British intelligence organization similar to the NSA. The agency was apparently ordered to collect information on foreign delegates at the British-hosted G20 summit in 2009.

Documents revealed to The Guardian show the GCHQ allegedly used several tactics to spy on various delegates. These include tricking delegates into using Internet cafes with keylogging and email interception software installed on every computer; bypassing security of Blackberry phones to monitor communications; and specifically targeting the communications of certain delegates, including the Turkish finance minister and Russian leader Dmitry Medvedev.

This latest revelation comes a week after news of the massive PRISM spying operation, which put intelligence agencies in both the U.S. and the U.K. in a lot of hot water. British Minister of Defense William Hague defended the GCHQ’s use of PRISM before Parliament on Sunday.

“It has been suggested that GCHQ uses our partnership with the United States to get around U.K. law. … I wish to be absolutely clear that this accusation is baseless.” (Via BBC)

Hague is technically right: The GCHQ’s actions were within legal limits.

The agency gets its authority from the Intelligence Service Act of 1994, which allow British intelligence agencies the legal power “to obtain and provide information relating to the actions or intentions of persons outside the British Islands … in the interests of national security … or in the interests of the economic well-being of the United Kingdom.” (Via The National Archives)

Essentially, the British government has the power to spy on any foreign national as long as it’s in the interest of U.K. national or economic security. Evidently giving diplomats a slight edge during negotiations counts as the latter.

Thanks to the NSA’s PRISM program, it now has the means to do so on a much broader scale. The GCHQ reportedly contacted PRISM officials with 197 information requests since at least May 2010. (Via PolicyMic)

The Guardian’s latest allegations could lead to an uncomfortable conference for the U.K.: Britain is preparing to host a summit for the G8 nations Monday.

North Korea Calls for Talks with U.S.

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 17:59:48 -0500

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(Image source: The New York Times / Chang W. Lee)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

In a statement carried by North Korean state media, the country’s military leaders proposed high-level talks with senior U.S. officials to ensure peace in the region and warned: (Via RT)

“[The United States] should not lose the opportunity that is laid out and should actively agree with our resolute step and good intention.” (Via CNN)

The Obama administration has said before it would be open to talks with North Korea if the country would denuclearize and comply with U.N. sanctions. While the State Department gave no immediate response to Pyongyang’s request, White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough had this to say on CBS’ “Face the Nation”:

“We’ll judge them by our actions, not by the nice words that we heard yesterday. I will say that the bottom line is they’re not going to be able to talk their way out of the very significant sanctions they are under now.” (Via CBS)

Per The Wall Street Journal, a North Korean official said denuclearization could be on the table, but building up its own nuclear arsenal for now remains a priority.

A Seoul-based North Korea expert told The Washington Post: “The North Koreans know darn well this offer is unacceptable. ... It’s so self-serving. When the Americans reject it, they’ll be able to say, ‘Look how hostile the world is, they won’t even recognize us as a sovereign state.’”

North Korea has a history of ducking out of deals. It launched a missile test in February after promising the West it would suspend nuclear testing. Then in March, it declared the 1953 armistice agreement that ended the Korean War invalid. (Via NBC, ABC)

And this latest proposal comes just days after Pyongyang called off a rare summit planned with South Korea — something analysts say follows a pattern.

“North Korea always likes to cause some tension and raise their value, seeing the value of having talks. And so they’ll be able to come in to the talks with a better bargaining position.” (Via Al Jazeera)

This would be the second high-level meeting between the U.S. and North Korea since Kim Jong-un took power. During the last round of talks, the North agreed to suspend its nuclear activities in return for food aid, only to later announce plans for a long-range missile.

Pope Blesses Hundreds of Harley-Davidsons

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 11:45:30 -0500

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(Image source: Canada.com)

BY CHARESSE JAMES

Move over, Vespas and pedestrians; road hogs have taken over the Vatican streets.

“35,000 Harley-Davidsons are looking for their nod from the Holy Father. Rome is hosting the 110th anniversary of the company’s founding.”

“So the street leading up to St. Peter’s Square has been turned into a parade route.” (Via WNBC)

At least 30,000 Harley Davidsons were present, coming from all over the world to tour Rome and the Eternal City. It was all part of a festival celebrating the 110th anniversary of the motorcycle maker’s founding, taking place in several cities around the world. (Via WTVR)

“There were modern and vintage Harley-Davidsons. And with so many bikers on the road, hundreds of police were deployed to supervise traffic. The street leading up to St. Peter’s Square will become a parade route for the bikers.” (Via WVVA)

According to The Washington Times, Pope Francis will bless motorcycles and their riders in a special ceremony at St. Peter’s Square. The Catholic Church expects between 1,000 and 2,000 bikers to fill the square for the blessing.

For the occasion, the company gave Pope Francis two Harleys and a leather jacket. But he’s probably sticking with the popemobile.

Egypt Cuts Ties With Syria, Backs No-Fly Zone

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 10:24:00 -0500

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(Image source: The New York Times)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi announced he’s cutting all ties with Syria’s government and calling on the wider international community to impose a no-fly zone over the war-torn country.

Addressing a stadium full of Muslim Brotherhood supporters, the Egyptian leader ordered the Syrian Embassy in Cairo be shut down, telling his country: (Via Sky News)

“We have decided to date to cut off relations with the Syrian regime and to close its embassy in Cairo. We will also withdraw Egyptian diplomatic representatives from Damascus.” (Via BBC)

But Morsi also explained Egypt will not abandon Syria “until it achieves its rights and dignity.” (Via Wikimedia Commons / Wilson Dias / ABr)

Saudi Arabia, Qatar and several other Arab nations have been aiding opposition forces in Syria’s civil war for more than a year now. Egypt, while critical of President Bashar al-Assad, had been reluctant.

But Morsi’s call for a no-fly zone over Syria prompted Russia, a close ally of Assad’s, to claim any attempt by the U.S. and its allies to do so would violate international law. (Via ABC)

The Egyptian president also condemned neighboring Lebanon’s Hezbollah Shiite movement, which has been backing Assad’s forces. (Via CBS)

His announcement highlights the rift between Sunni and Shiite Muslims. Assad and those within his regime are Alawites, an offshoot of Shiite Islam. Egypt is an overwhelmingly Sunni nation, with many leading clerics calling for a jihad in Syria.

“Syria is now the battleground for a Sunni-Shiite conflict, and it could end up pitting one Muslim nation after another, against each other across the region.” (Via Fox News)

Given the timing of Morsi’s announcement, many labeled his desire to help the rebels disingenuous. It comes at a time of growing frustration against the president, with a nationwide anti-government protest scheduled for the end of the month. (Via RT, Jewish News One)

Are Animals the New Political Party in Mexico?

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 08:30:21 -0500

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(Image source: Facebook / El Candigato Morris)

BY LOGAN TITTLE

If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em — or when it comes to politics in Mexico, just throw a cat in the mix.

Meet Morris. The 10-month-old tabby has been taking the media by storm, and he has his paws set on becoming Xalapa’s first feline mayor. (Via KSAT)

But Morris won't be allowed on the actual ballot come Election Day in July, being an animal and all. Regardless, his campaign staff is still asking people to write in his name anyway. So should they?

Aside from going after rats, the cat-idate says he’ll do exactly what he promises: eat, sleep, yawn and conduct other catlike activities. His campaigners say that this is exactly why you should vote for him. (Via WXMI)

We’re not sure if that’s much of a reason, but Morris’ team does have a more solid message behind their campaign.

The two men who first nominated Morris wanted to send a message about the city’s corrupt politicians. And to make sure he would represent their vision well, they sat the mayoral candidate down for an interview and “discussed” certain topics. We can’t really tell what kind, but we’re pretty sure Morris gave honest answers. (Via Facebook)

So how is Morris faring with the public? Not too badly. He reportedly has a higher approval rating than all other running candidates.

Not to mention the supposed support of President Obama, which has yet to be confirmed, and PETA, which released this press release including a letter specifically addressed to the four-legged candidate asking him to “pounce on the opportunity to reduce the number of homeless dogs and cats … [require] everyone to spay and neuter their animals … and treat strays kindly.”

But if you don’t think cats are purrfect for politics, believe it or not, there are other animals in Mexico you can support.

There’s Tina the Hen, who promises to end hunger in her hometown of Tepic, and Chon the Donkey, who’s been campaigning since May.

Or Titan. His slogan: “The only one who admits that he’s in this for the bone,” which in Mexico commonly refers to a prize or political spoils, according to ABC.

Mexico’s elections will be held on July 7 across 14 states.

Top News Headlines: Iran Elects New President

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 06:40:00 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons / Mojtaba Salimi)

BY LOGAN TITTLE

Hassan Rouhani, Iran’s newest president, is settling into his new title after claiming just more than half of the votes needed in the Iranian presidential election — and people are celebrating.

“Tens of thousands of people have taken to the streets of Tehran to celebrate the election of Iran's new president, Hassan Rouhani. He described the vote as a ‘victory of moderation over extremism.’”

(via Sky News)

The 65-year-old moderate cleric reportedly won more than three times the votes of his closest opponent.

“He promised an environment with greater personal freedoms. He also indicated he would free political prisoners and jailed journalists and reduce the high tension with the outside world.”

(via CLTV)

Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi announced to thousands of supporters Saturday that the country is cutting all diplomatic ties with Bashar al-Assad’s government in Syria.

“We have decided to date to cut off relations with the Syrian regime and to close its embassy in Cairo. We will also withdraw Egyptian diplomatic representatives from Damascus.”

(via BBC)

The move signifies a strong stance against Lebanon’s Hezbollah-armed group, which has has been supporting Bashar al-Assad’s army against the rebel forces.

(via GlobalPost)

Morsi also called for a no-fly zone over Syria, where the UN says more than 93,000 people have died since the uprising turned into an all-out civil war almost three years ago.

(via CBS)

And switching gears for some entertainment news — Kim Kardashian and Kanye West welcomed their first child Saturday — five weeks earlier than expected.

TMZ confirmed the 32-year-old new mom had a “natural” birth at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Beverly Hills.

Global Grind reports Kanye was right at Kim’s side along with her mother, Kris Jenner.

The rapper and new dad even missed his own listening party for his new album, “Yeezus,” to be there. And while some of the fans weren’t pleased with this absence, they understood he had a new family to attend to.

And to sports — for the first time since 2004, the Stanley Cup final series has been tied at one game apiece.

Just like Game 1, Game 2 of the series went into overtime, except this time the Boston Bruins came out with a 2-1 win.

(via Bleacher Report)

The Bruins had a rough start in the first period — with the Chicago Blackhawks outshooting them 19-4 in just the first 20 minutes, scoring one goal. But the team turned it around in the second period and later scored again in overtime for the win.

“Paille left circle...Red Sox score! Paille from the left wing side wins in an OT!”

(via WBZ)

U.N. Estimates World Population of 11 Billion by 2100

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 18:55:33 -0500

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(Image source: Indiana Public Media / guiguibu91)

BY MATT PICHT

There are about 7.2 billion people living on the planet today. If that number makes you feel a little claustrophobic, you might not want to hear this next report, because that number’s only going to get a lot bigger.

 According to a new report by the United Nations, the world population is expected to jump to 11 billion by 2100, with steady increases in third-world fertility rates and life expectancy fueling the growth.

The estimate was revised upward from 2011’s guess of 10.1 million after new statistical methods revealed fertility rates in Africa failed to decline as expected. (Via University of Washington)

The U.N.’s estimate is based on data from 233 countries or areas around the world. But as The Weather Channel points out, those projections could vary wildly if the birth rates change.

“If each woman in the world has half a child more or less than the current figures assume, that could swing the total population from anywhere between 7 and 17 billion. … The most likely scenario … is that the actual population will range from 9 to 13 billion by the end of the century.”

Eleven billion seems like a lot of people, but at least the population growth might be slowing down. A writer for The Guardian says although the overall population will keep rising, the rate of increase peaked in the ’70s and has been falling ever since.

“The power that women had to limit births increased. The need to have more offspring to secure an old age free of poverty diminished. A human population explosion that had been underway for 120 years came to an end. … Population levels will continue to rise for many decades. But the acceleration ended more than 40 years ago.”

Other interesting estimates from the report: India is slated to surpass China as the world’s most populated country by 2028, and Nigeria is set to overtake the U.S.’ population 20 years after that. (Via BBC)

Patriots Owner Says Putin Stole His Super Bowl Ring

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 17:02:57 -0500

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(Image source: The Boston Globe / Kommersant Photo / Dmitry Azarov)

BY JAMAL ANDRESS

In 2005, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft graciously gave his $25,000 Super Bowl ring to Russian President Vladimir Putin — or at least that’s how the story has been told.

But now Kraft says the gift giving was a little less voluntary than we all thought.

While speaking at a gala, Kraft told the crowd: “I took out the ring and showed it to [Putin], and he put it on and he goes, ‘I can kill someone with this ring.’ ... I put my hand out and he put it in his pocket, and three KGB guys got around him and walked out.” (Via New York Post)

Yep, that’s stealing. Kraft says Putin stole the ring because he was “taken with its uniqueness.”

At the time, Kraft released a statement saying, “I decided to give him the ring as a symbol of the respect and admiration that I have for the Russian people and the leadership of President Putin.” (Via CBS)

Kraft has won three Super Bowl rings with the Patriots. Most owners are lucky to have one, but does that mean he should have to donate his ring to Russia? Yes ... yes, it does.

Kraft says he was contacted by the White House and instructed to say it was a gift. A Bush official told Kraft the ring would help ease tensions between the two countries. (Via USA Today)

Kraft reportedly tried to plead his case, saying he had emotional ties to the ring and he doesn’t want to see it on eBay. But according to Kraft, “There was a pause on the other end of the line, and the voice repeated, ‘It would really be in the best interest if you meant to give the ring as a present.’” (Via Fox Sports)

A writer for Yahoo! points out just how much that Super Bowl ring means to everyone who has the honor of earning one.

“The Super Bowl ring is one of the greatest symbols of athletic triumph. ... I've met enough former players, coaches, and executives who would never be separated from their rings to know that the buzz lasts forever.”

Kraft told NFL.com picking a favorite Super Bowl victory is like “asking about different children. ... Every child is special.”

Well, Kraft’s third-born is currently on display at the Library of Moscow Kremlin Museum.

Iran Elects Moderate Cleric as New President

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 16:20:26 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons / Mojtaba Salimi)

BY MATT PICHT

Iran elected a new president Saturday, and their choice was a surprising one. Moderate cleric Hassan Rouhani has decisively won the Iranian presidential election, claiming just more than 50 percent of the vote he needed to avoid a runoff election.

Rouhani’s victory comes as an upset over an expected win for conservative loyalists to the regime. According to state media, Rouhani received almost three times as many votes as his closest opponent. (Via The Guardian)

CNN reports Rouhani was able to rally opposition voters with his gentle criticism of the administration.

“He started being tactfully but very passionately critical of the regime. He called for reform, he called for better relations for the West. And then all of a sudden, you had this opposition movement.”

Rouhani was endorsed by many Iranian politicians, including two former presidents, and was the sole moderate voice in the race after the only reformist candidate withdrew on Tuesday. An analyst told the BBC Rouhani now has a clear mandate to reinstate the moderate politicians who backed his candidacy.

“A lot of them have been sidelined and marginalized over the years, who may now come back into the political scene. And it depends really the sort of team Rouhani’s able to build up.”

A writer for Time notes many observers suspected the disillusioned reform voters wouldn’t participate in elections, after the perceived failures of the last presidential race.

“Iran’s educated urban youth are still smarting from the fallout from the 2009 election, when their preferred candidate … lost to incumbent Mahmud Ahmadinejad. Many suspected fraud and millions took to the streets, only to face a brutal crackdown that saw scores killed and thousands detained and beaten.”

But voter turnout for these elections was stronger than ever, with more than 72 percent of the eligible population turning up at polling stations, forcing administrators to extend the voting period by as much as four hours. Analyst Hooman Majd told Al Jazeera the high voter turnout is a triumph for the Iranian people.

MAJD: “At the end of the day, for the Iranian people this is a great day. … They’ve really shown that they care about their country and they care about their future.”

REPORTER: “And that they can make a difference?”

MAJD: “And that they can make a difference.”

The other candidates have three days to appeal the results to Iran’s Guardian Council. If no appeals are made, Rouhani will be sworn in on Aug. 3 by Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Ecuador's New Media Law 'Death Certificate of Freedom'?

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 16:12:24 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons / Agencia Brasil)

BY JASMINE BAILEY

Ecuador’s parliament has passed a controversial bill aimed at tightening the reins on media — a bill that some call unconstitutional, limiting free speech.

“The bill would allow the creation of a government body to implement civil and criminal sanctions against journalists who break the law. It would redistribute control of the country’s broadcasting, limiting private media to just a third of all frequencies.” (Via Al Jazeera)

Under the so-called “Communications Law,” punishments for breaking the law would include hefty fines or mandatory public apologies for media outlets found guilty of “media lynching” — the “concerted and repetitive defamation of individuals or companies.” (Via BBC)

These new restrictions are part of a promised push for major proposals by Ecuadorian President Rafael Correa. In February he won re-election, also gaining his first legislative majority with 100 of the 137 seats in the National Assembly.

Correa has been known in his past terms to clash with reporters and make claims that the media is biased. For alleged errors he has sued the press, and his administration has reportedly forced rebuttals. (Via Wikimedia Commons / Agencia Brasil )

Supporters of Correa and the newly passed bill say it will make communications more balanced and prevent monopolies. (Via Financial Times)

Gabriela Rivadeneira, the president of the National Assembly, told The New York Times, “Let there be no doubt that there are rights for everyone and not just for a privileged group, which is what is wanted by some opposition legislators or the mercantilist press that has commercialized information.”

However, there is a much different sentiment from the opposition. It claims the new bill could open the door to unlawful censorship by the government.

Opposition leader Andres Paez wrote on Twitter, translated into English, “It prevents the debate! It prevents us from exposing our view!” and “Today is a funeral for Ecuador. … The death certificate of freedom.”

And Carlos Lauria, America’s senior program coordinator at the New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists, said Correa’s goal with the new law is to hush the opposition, “muzzling all critics of his administration.” (Via The Wall Street Journal)

No official word yet on when the bill might become law.

Archaeologists Discover Lost City In Cambodian Jungle

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 10:52:57 -0500

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(Image Source: Sydney Morning Herald)

BY CHARESSE JAMES

Hidden in the depths of the Cambodian jungle lays an ancient city, undiscovered until now.

Australian archaeologists using remote sensing technology uncovered the lost city, which had been hidden for more than a millenium under the dense undergrowth. (Via Sydney Morning Herald)

According to NPR, the 1,200-year-old-city was part of the Hindu-Buddhist Khmer Empire that ruled much of Southeast Asia from about 800 to 1400 A.D., which coincides with Europe’s Middle Ages.

The expedition used an instrument called Lidar, which was strapped to a helicopter that criss-crossed a mountain north of Angkor Wat. As Dawn.com reports:

“It effectively peeled away the jungle canopy using billions of laser pulses, allowing archaeologists to see structures that were in perfect squares, completing a map of the city which years of painstaking ground research had been unable to achieve.”

The team discovered temple sites, signs of canals and roads, a cave full of ancient carvings and a series of mounds that remain a mystery. (Via The Age)

The team’s discovery is set to be published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Top News Headlines: 2nd Chemical Plant Explosion Kills 1

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 06:44:00 -0500

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(Image source: WESH)

BY BRIANA ALTERGOTT AND LOGAN TITTLE

A second explosion in two days has left one dead at a Louisiana nitrogen plant just miles from where two other workers from another plant were killed Thursday.

“Police say workers over-pressurized a nitrogen vessel, causing it to rupture. At least five people were taken to the hospital. Two of them were in critical condition.”

(via WLWT)

“There was some type of catastrophic failure. We don't know what caused it, we'll find that out as we work with the plant.”

(via WESH)

The incident happened around 6:30 Friday night at a CF Industries facility in Donaldsonville, about 30 miles away from Thursday’s explosion. Authorities say the chemical was taken care of immediately.

(via KTBS)

And in Colorado — some evacuation orders have been lifted as crews continue to battle the state’s most destructive fire in history.

Rainfall and light wind came Friday, helping crews contain 30 percent of the blaze in the Black Forest area. Thousands of anxious residents of northern Colorado Springs have been allowed to return home.

(via KWGN)

The fire has taken the lives of two people and destroyed nearly 500 homes since it was sparked Tuesday and tens of thousands were evacuated.

Colorado’s governor has declared his state a disaster area and officials told WLEX the danger isn't over.

“I want to remind people, we still have a fire.”

“We’ve seen before that these fires can appear to be under control, and you get a strong wind, and all the sudden they blow back."

“It is not a done deal. Thirty percent is not 100 percent.”

President Obama has decided to begin arming Syrian rebels after more than a year of debate over whether it is worth the risks of involving the U.S. in another war.

White House officials say the decision is “finalized” and will not be changed by the president’s upcoming meeting with his fellow heads of the Group of Eight.

(via WSYM)

The final push for supplying the weapons came this week after U.S. intelligence agencies concluded that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s forces had used chemical weapons against the rebels.

(via WFTV)

So far, many of the U.S.’s European allies have reacted supportively to the chemical weapons assessment.

(via WINK)

FIFA Working to End Soccer Turban Ban in Quebec

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 18:13:01 -0500

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(Image source: The Globe and Mail)

BY COLLIN RUANE

Controversy in Canada is brewing as FIFA has stepped up against the Quebec Soccer Federation’s ban on religious headdresses.

The ban was implemented more than two weeks ago and drew heavy criticism across the board from advocates who argued the decision discriminated against religious groups. (Via CTV)

Examiner reports the Quebec Soccer Federation, or QSF, didn’t implement the ban for religious reasons — the organization said it wanted to keep players safe. This comes after more than 20 soccer teams announced it wouldn’t attend a tournament in Montreal.

FIFA says the use of turbans should be allowed, but it does have a few guidelines players must follow if wearing them.

The Globe and Mail reports players are free to use turbans during games “as long as they were the same [color] as the jersey, looked professional, were not attached to the jersey and did not pose any danger to players.”

The QSF’s decision to ban turbans stirred a lot of controversy. But in fact, after FIFA’s statement, the QSF doesn’t appear opposed to changing its current turban guidelines — even saying it was relieved to hear that FIFA made a decision. (Via Yahoo!)

Some felt the initial ban on turbans was an example of the QSF taking a stance against religion. A blogger for the Edmonton Journal argued the religious headdresses shouldn’t have been a source of divisiveness.

“It seems to me that the one group that is least in danger of imposing its values on anyone else are the couple of hundred Sikh kids in the middle of all this, who would just like to get in a little soccer in the five minutes or so we have left before winter returns.”

The QSF is expected to hold a press conference Saturday to share with reporters and the public its views on FIFA’s ruling.

Nazi Next Door: Accused War Criminal Living in Minnesota

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 12:05:00 -0500

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(Image source: KMSP)

BY BRIAN BONDUS

A former commander of a Nazi SS unit accused of burning villages filled with women and children is reportedly living in Minnesota.

Ninety-four-year-old Michael Karkoc, pictured here, served as an officer in the Ukrainian Self Defense Legion and the Galician Division. Both groups’ members were blacklisted from immigrating to the United States. (Via WCCO)

In 1949, he allegedly lied to immigration officials to get into the U.S., saying he had not served in the military during World War II. Karkoc now lives here in Minneapolis, Minn., and one neighbor has mixed feelings.

“Someone has to be responsible, you know, for some kind of punishment. ... I really don’t know what you should do.” (Via KMSP)

Well, Karkoc hasn’t committed any war crimes in the United States, so he’s OK here, but he did lie to immigration authorities. That’s grounds for deportation, and he could possibly face charges in Poland for war crimes done in that country.

A writer for the American Thinker says he could escape all charges by pleading poor health. He also says the Israelis might be interested in Karkoc because of his role in the suppression in Warsaw. He says any prosecution would be difficult but would send a message to war criminals.

“Unfortunately, there are few living witnesses, which makes trying Karkoc for war crimes difficult. ... In a few years, there won’t be any of war criminals left. But prosecuting Karkoc for his crimes would send a message to the rest of them that the world will pursue them to the grave in order to bring them to justice.”

Karkoc remarried in America and has four children.

Iran's Unpredictable Election: Who'll Replace Ahmadinejad?

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 11:03:00 -0500

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(Image source: The New York Times)

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

Iran is ruled for life by a supreme leader, but every four years the nation also elects a president to run the day-to-day affairs.

For the last eight years that president has been Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, but now he must step down because of term limit restrictions. The race for his successor is tightly controlled by Iran’s ruler — Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. (via RT)

“The leader’s allies have disqualified a number of candidates who may have posed a threat to clerical rule. In the end, six candidates now go forward to the first round of voting.” (via BBC)

All six candidates are from Iran’s alliance of Shiite Muslim clerics, are Revolutionary Guard commanders and are considered traditionalists. However, three candidates have separated themselves from the pack —

— Including Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili, who’s emerged as the frontrunner. The 47-year-old is said to be the most outspoken hard-liner in the group, making it almost certain Iran’s troubled relationship with the U.S. will continue. (via CBS)

Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf is said to be a close second. Another hard-line conservative, he is the current mayor of the Iranian capital, Tehran. (via CBS)

And Hassan Rowhani rounds out the top three — the only candidate with an even slightly different views than the other traditionalists — promising better relations with the U.S. and other western countries. (via CBS)

All Iranian citizens are able to vote, but The New York Times points out the supreme ruler vets the candidates, suppresses unwanted voices and keeps a watchful eye over the public.

“The Iranian government is known to restrict digital communication in various ways. Google said Wednesday that it had uncovered a vast Iranian spy campaign that had been targeting tens of thousands of Iranian citizens over the past three weeks.”

Iranian elections are extremely unpredictable due to lack of independent polling and possible manipulation. In 2005, Ahmadinejad reportedly came out of nowhere to win the presidency.

Chinese Astronauts Board Country's Space Station

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 22:08:22 -0500

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(Image source: NBC)

BY COLLIN RUANE

China’s fifth manned mission is well underway as the crew of the country’s latest space launch has boarded China’s space capsule. It’s being called one of China’s most advanced space missions yet.

It began with a launch on Tuesday and is expected to last the rest of the month. The crew includes two men and one woman, China’s second female astronaut. (Via BBC)

The trio piloted the spacecraft to the Tiangong-1 orbiting science lab, successfully docking and entering the station Thursday. (Via NBC)

The crew will focus on conducting tests and experiments while on board the capsule and will attempt a manual docking later in the mission. (Via Al Jazeera)

This is the third and final mission for Tiangong-1 as China prepares to send more advanced modules in its place. (Via KXLY)

The end goal is for China to have its own functioning space station by 2020 — a goal the country’s leaders say they’re determined to meet. China is not one of the countries involved in the International Space Station project. (Via WRC)

According to Voice of America, the Chinese government hopes this mission will be just another example of how the developing country is quickly becoming a new superpower.

The crew’s planned 15 days in space will make this the longest manned mission for a Chinese crew since the country’s space program began in 1992. China sent its first person to space just 10 years ago.

U.S. Confirms Syria's Use of Chemical Weapons

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 22:02:43 -0500

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(Image source: Al Jazeera)

BY ALEX MALLIN AND STEVEN SPARKMAN

U.S. officials say they are now confident Syrian President Bashar al-Assad did in fact use chemical weapons against his own people — and the U.S. is upping its aid to the Syrian rebels in response.

U.S. Deputy National Security Advisor Ben Rhodes told reporters in a conference call that 100 to 150 people had been killed by sarin nerve gas — a weapon banned under international law — and it was the Assad regime, not the rebels, who carried out the attacks. (Via Politico)

Back in August of last year, President Obama said it would be a game changer for the U.S.’s position on Syria if any such proof ever came to light.

“A red line for us is [if] we start seeing a whole bunch of chemical weapons moving around or being utilized. That would change my calculus. That would change my equation.” (Via International Business Times)

So now that the evidence is apparently in, what’s next? Rhodes didn’t give any specifics in the conference call but said the U.S. would now provide the rebels with “military support.”

Sen. John McCain said Thursday he was told “military support” means sending U.S. weapons directly to the rebels, although there has been no confirmation of that from the White House. (YouTube / SenatorJohnMcCain)

The announcement by the administration that Assad has crossed the “red line” actually comes months after U.S. allies arrived at the same conclusion. So why did the administration make this announcement now?

The New York Times says there’s been a sudden surge in high-level meetings about Syria ever since Hezbollah joined forces with Assad and “claimed the strategic city of Qusayr and raised fears in Washington that large parts of the rebellion could be on the verge of collapse.”

McCain, one of the most vocal supporters of greater intervention, took a subtle swipe at the administration for waiting so long to come around and even suggested a stronger response than just arming the rebels.

“He has now acknowledged what the French and others and all the rest of us knew. … But just to provide additional weapons to the Syrian National Army is not enough.” (Via C-SPAN)

Rebel forces have specifically requested heavy weaponry and a “no-fly zone” over the country to counter Assad’s air force. Syria is expected to be at the top of the agenda for next week’s G8 Summit in Northern Ireland.

Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II Defaced in Westminster Abbey

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 20:43:01 -0500

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(Image source: ITV)

BY MATT PICHT

A painting of Queen Elizabeth II was defaced Thursday, allegedly by an angry dad who has been denied the right to see his children.

The painting was commissioned for the queen’s Diamond Jubilee and depicts the queen in the center of Westminster Abbey. The culprit apparently tried to spray-paint the word “Help” on the portrait before security intervened. (Via ITV)

The painting was purchased for Westminster Abbey by Lord and Lady Harris of Peckham and went on display three weeks ago. Lord Harris told the BBC he was shocked to learn of the vandalism.

“When I first heard about this at 2 o’clock today, I was completely devastated that someone could do this to, in my opinion, one of the best pictures ever painted of the queen.”

Police have arrested 41-year-old Tim Haries on suspicion of criminal damage. Haries is a member of the activist group Fathers 4 Justice, which campaigns for equal parenting rights on behalf of divorced dads. According to Daily Mail, the divorced Haries “has spent the last three and a half years fighting through the private family courts to have contact with his children.”

Fathers 4 Justice said Haries acted on his own without the group’s support but said it sympathizes with his plight. A representative told Channel 4 News Haries’ actions highlight the injustices of British family laws.

“These were clearly the actions of a very desperate man who felt he had no voice, nowhere else to turn after losing his children.”

Fathers 4 Justice has a history of flamboyant demonstrations. In 2004 a protester from the group made headlines when he scaled the front of Buckingham Palace dressed as Batman. (Via The Telegraph)

Still, lashing out at the queen? It’s an odd choice, but evidently an effective one — Haries’ protest garnered headlines from nearly every British news agency. A writer for The Guardian claims this incident demonstrates just how deeply Brits care about their royalty.

“There’s something primitive about our attitude to royal portraits; they are tokens of the ruler herself. … That's why this iconoclasm is a shock: not because the royal image is vulnerable, but because it really does feel outrageous to desecrate the Queen’s image.”

Westminster is currently working to remove the graffiti and restore the painting, a process that’s expected to take at least 10 weeks.

NewsCorp CEO Rupert Murdoch Files for Divorce

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 15:29:22 -0500

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(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY MATT PICHT

Media tycoon and News Corp CEO Rupert Murdoch is separating from his third wife Wendi Deng Murdoch after 14 years.

Deadline Hollywood broke the news early Thursday morning, noting Murdoch had filed divorce papers with the New York State Supreme Court. A company rep soon confirmed the news.

Deng is a Chinese-born American citizen, who met Rupert Murdoch at a company party in 1997. The couple married in 1999, three weeks after Murdoch divorced his previous wife of 32 years.

The 38-year age gap and the speed of Murdoch’s remarriage had many observers branding Deng a gold digger. But she’s proved herself an able media mogul as well, handling Myspace’s Chinese operations and producing her own movie. (Via CNN)

And besides, how many trophy wives would do this for their husbands?

That’s Deng in the pink suit there, defending Murdoch from a pie to the face during the news corp phone-hacking hearings of 2011. (Via PBS)

Murdoch’s divorce will reportedly not affect the company in any way, though it’s still unclear what role the couple’s two children will have in the family business. As The New York Times points out, Wendi has had to fight for her children’s rights in the past.

“In 2006, a battle broke out when Mr. Murdoch said … Grace and Chloe … would not have the same voting rights as his children from his previous two marriages. The couple worked out a more mutually acceptable agreement.”

His last divorce from previous wife Anna was one of the world’s costliest — with his ex receiving $1.7 billion dollars of his assets.

How the Syrian Death Toll Compares to Other Civil Wars

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 09:43:00 -0500

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(Image source: The New York Times / Tomas Munita)

BY NICHOLE CARTMELL

As the fighting continues in Syria, the death toll continues to rise. The U.N. reported at least 93,000 people have been killed in Syria since the start of the civil war.

This number shows an increase of 30,000 since the U.N. last reported on the issue in November 2012. And since the start of December, just under 27,000 new killings were recorded. (Via Channel 5)

The Syrian conflict has also seen a large increase in the average monthly number of killings. In the summer of 2011 the average was about 1,000 per month. That average has jumped to more than 5,000 since July 2012. (Via BBC)

The U.N. High Commissioner on Human Rights points out its not just militants who are dying, but civilians and children as well. As many as 6,561 children have been killed, a number she calls “unbearable.” (Via Xinhua)

President Bashar al-Assad’s government forces have been battling rebels since March 2011.

The fear now is that this conflict will spread into a region-wide conflict. Just last week, Syrian rebels captured a border crossing in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, the only crossing linking Syria and Israel. (Via Channel 4)

But how does the death toll in Syria compare to past conflicts in the region?

As many as 30,000 died in the Libyan civil war of 2011 — a death toll that far surpassed that of any other nation in the Arab Spring. But the fighting in Libya lasted about only eight months compared to the two-year battle in Syria. (Via US News and World Report)

How does Syria’s death toll compare to one of history’s most brutal civil wars? In about a four year span more than 618,000 died in the U.S. Civil War. (Via Imperial War Museums)

The U.N. High Commissioner urges a ceasefire in Syria before any more are killed.

UN Report: 10.5 Million Children Are Domestic Laborers

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 19:39:50 -0500

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(Image Source: International Labour Organization)

BY MATT PICHT

June 12th is the World Day Against Child Labour, and to mark the event, the International Labour Organization, or ILO, released a new report with some startling revelations about child labour in the world today.

The ILO’s 87-page report describes the conditions children work in worldwide. Some of the eye-opening statistics: 215 million children worldwide are working, many full-time. Of those, 10.5 million work in a domestic setting, for households or families not their own. And of those children, 6.5 million are between the ages of 5 and 14 — and 71 percent are girls.

The report focuses on domestic labor, which can include everything from cooking and cleaning to child care and gardening. Voice of America reports the organization is trying to raise awareness about what it sees as a dangerous practice.

“The ILO says child domestic work is not recognized as a form of child labor in many countries because of the blurred relationship with the employing family. But ... stresses the child is not treated like a family member. It adds the hidden nature of domestic work makes it difficult to protect the child.”

Many impoverished parents believe sending their children to work domestically is the best option. But ILO program director Constance Thomas told the BBC child exploitation isn’t limited to fields and factories.

“It also means working in domestic work, working in the homes of other people. And that parents need to understand the risks their child is exposed to when this occurs.”

Those risks include physical, sexual, and psychological abuse. Many of the children are isolated from their families and come to depend on their employers, making them vulnerable to all sorts of abusive behaviors. (Via Vimeo / BEELDRADIO)

Several world leaders have responded to the report by denouncing child labor and urging for action to protect those children affected.

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry called on the international community to fulfill “our collective commitment to these children by adopting national policies that eliminate child labor and create an environment that prevents the exploitation of children.” (Via U.S. State Department)

And Pope Francis brought up the issue his weekly general audience, saying “All children have a right to play, study, pray and grow within their own families in an atmosphere of harmony, love and serenity. It is their right and our obligation. … Woe to those who suffocate their joyful enthusiasm of hope.” (Via Catholic News Service)

But raising awareness and passing laws against child labour can only go so far. A representative from the African Child Trust told Al Jazeera, legislation will not solve the real causes of child labor.

“It’s good, but the answer really is to attack the poverty, to attack the need. … Without a helping hand, legislation is not going to be the answer.”

If you’re interested in helping eliminate child labor, The Huffington Post has a list of charitable groups to which you can contribute.

Pope Francis Mentions 'Gay Lobby' in Vatican

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 19:32:48 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY MATT MORENO

For almost eight years, Pope Benedict XVI never spoke out too much about internal Catholic Church affairs. But now, a loose lipped Pope Francis I has taken over and is speaking out.

“According to Pope Francis there is a gay lobby in the Catholic Church and it needs to be taken care of. The comments were published from one of the pope’s private meetings.” (Via HLN)

CNN reports, Pope Francis told a group of officials privately, “In the Curia, there are holy people. But there is also a stream of corruption. … The 'gay lobby' is mentioned, and it is true, it is there … We need to see what we can do.”

But, what does a “gay lobby” mean? A writer for The Huffington Post gives her take on what she suspects it means.

She believes Pope Francis is referring to “A subset of gay priests have flouted the rule of celibacy, abused their positions of power, acted as an ‘[exempt]-from-the-rules-class’ within the church, and used their connections to bully other priests into silence.”

The Vatican says since the pope’s comments came from a private meeting, it won’t issue a statement on the “gay lobby.” But the claims are nothing new.

Days before Pope Benedict’s resignation, Italian media reported on a possible “gay lobby” inside the Vatican and said there was also corruption and blackmail among high ranking officials. (Via The Telegraph)

“Pope Francis’s mentioning of that basically puts it on the record. This is the first time, of course, a pope has spoken so candidly about the problems within the Vatican, but its very much the way we’ve seen Pope Francis operate.” (Via CNN)

The Vatican did publicly address those earlier claims, calling them “unverified, unverifiable or completely false.” (Via The Guardian)

The Catholic Church officially opposes same-sex relationships and marriages.

Turkey's Erdogan to Protesters: 'Patience Has a Limit'

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 11:27:00 -0500

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(Image source: The Daily Beast / Yusuf Sayman)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

After nearly two weeks of chaos in the streets of Turkey, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan had plans to meet with some of the protesters. But following a wave of violence overnight from government security forces, those protest leaders have apparently pulled out of the talks.

“Really no sense that dialogue can break the deadlock here. What seems to be shaping up over the next few days is that much of the dialogue will be done in the streets.” (Via CNN)

Organizers say it’s clear Erdogan’s approach to the unrest is unwavering, based on the scores of bulldozers and riot police he deployed the night before he was set to meet with protest leaders. (Via BBC)

His refusal to back down from his hardline stance has thousands of demonstrators calling for his ousting. (Via ABC)

“Our prime minister is a dictator like Hitler, like Mussolini.”

“He tries to limit our rights of liberty and our showing our ideas.” (Via NBC)

Erdogan’s at the center of the violent clashes broadcast across the world the past 13 days. It started as a demonstration over plans to develop a shopping center in Istanbul's Gezi Park … (Via Google, Jewish News One)

… before spreading through Taksim Square and across all of Turkey. (Via The Media Co-op, CBS)

“I ask the protesters to look at the bigger picture, to understand what kind of game is on display and withdraw from there if they are sincere. I expect this as prime minister.” (Via Al Jazeera)

Critics say his focus on morality — like his proposal to ban alcohol sales after 10 p.m. — is just another way for him to legislate Islam in the secular country. He’s reportedly warned protesters, “Nobody can stop Turkey’s rise but Allah.” But The Young Turks’ Cenk Uygur says the strategy isn't working. (Via Euronews, Democracy Now!)

“All it’s done is make the protests larger and larger. All you have to do is listen to them earnestly. Give them a hearing as you’re supposed to do as their elected representative.” (Via The Young Turks)

Former White House Middle East adviser Marc Ginsberg writes in The Huffington Post Erdogan has only himself to blame, saying: “Only Erdogan can rescue himself from his worst tendencies. So far, he is playing true to form, which may set the stage for a potential shift against his party in the upcoming local and presidential 2014 elections.”

Over the weekend, the prime minister threatened to expel the nation’s “anarchists and terrorists” from the streets and branded the protesters “looters” and “vandals.” (Via YouTube / Hakan Tosun)

But as a columnist for Project Syndicate writes, in the end, Erdogan has a choice to make: “Quell the dissent and ‘go Chinese,’ or allow Turkey to complete the path to democracy.”

At least four people, including one police officer, have died in the protests. More than 4,000 have been injured.

World's Oldest Man Jiroemon Kimura Dies at 116

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 07:07:00 -0500

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(Image source: MSN)

BY LOGAN TITTLE

The world’s oldest person — and oldest man ever to have lived — died at the age of 116 in Tokyo Wednesday morning.

Jiroemon Kimura, born in April 1897 in Japan, died of natural causes. WZVN reports Kimura stayed pretty busy even in his old age. (Via Sky News)

“He was a mailman, then he was a farmer. In order to keep busy this year, he was learning English because, he says, ‘I wanna keep sharp.’ … In case you’re keeping count, he has 14 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, 15 great-great grandchildren.”

He was recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest living person in December 2012 at the age of 115 years and 253 days.

And while he’s taken the title of world’s oldest man, he was well off the all-time record of the longest-living person in history set by Frenchwoman Jeanne Calment, who died in 1997 at the age of 122.

Kimura used to say his long life and good health were all thanks to a little sunshine.

“Maybe it’s all thanks to the sun above me. I am always looking up towards the sky, that is how I am.” (Via The Telegraph)

But it might also have something to do with his heritage, as his replacement as the world's oldest person is also from Japan, a woman called Misao Okawa. She's 115.

Al Qaeda's 'Inspire' Magazine Hacked, Tweaked by U.S.

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 20:11:03 -0500

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(Image Source: Inspire Magazine)

BY JAMAL ANDRESS

Al Qaeda’s English-language online magazine Inspire was reportedly hacked by U.S. officials last month to confuse the magazine’s followers.

The Washington Post broke the story, saying: “When [the latest issue of Inspire] appeared online, the text on the second page was garbled and the following 20 pages were blank.”

The sabotaged version of the magazine was taken down shortly after being published online but according to the report this isn’t the first time the magazine has been sabotaged, and it’s not always this blatant.

An unnamed official with the U.S. intelligence office says the hacks can be very strategic "You can make it hard for them to distribute it, or you can mess with the content. And you can mess with the content in a way that is obvious or in ways that are not obvious..."

Some of the more subtle changes include sabotaging files so they come up blank when a user clicks on them or altering a technical point in a set of bomb making instructions.

The order to “destabilize” the magazine reportedly came from President Obama after he learned the Boston bombers learned how to build their pressure cooker bomb from an issue of Inspire. (Via Flickr / whitehouse)

The magazine praised the Tsarnaev brothers and the Boston Bombing, calling the tragedy “terrific” and writing of the brothers, “a single lone jihad operation can force America to stand on one foot and live in a terrified state, full of fear and rare restlessness,” (Via NBC)

There is some debate from free speech advocates on whether the U.S. government should or shouldn’t be hacking terrorism websites or whether they should be taken down entirely.

But for now, national security experts believe simply interfering with sites like Inspire is the best option. If the site were to be taken down entirely, the content would splinter off to other sites, making it more difficult to track. (Via Politix)

According to the report, every time an issue of this magazine is set to be released, the NSA, CIA, Pentagon, State Department and Justice Department have a say in whether it should be tampered with or sabotaged.

NSA Whistleblower Edward Snowden: Headed for Russia?

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 19:07:17 -0500

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(Image source: The Guardian / The Heavy)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

After getting the boot from his employer and reportedly checking out of his Hong Kong hotel, the FBI is now scrambling to find NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden.

When asked if he had a plan, he told The Guardian: "The only thing I can do is sit here and hope the Hong Kong government does not deport me.”

There’s now word Russia has offered to consider an asylum request from Snowden.

While it’s unknown if the fugitive has actually filed one, The Guardian reports a Kremlin spokesperson told a Russian newspaper: “If such an appeal is given, it will be considered. We'll act according to facts."

Some have pointed out Russia’s poor track record when it comes to freedom of speech... so, why the double standard for Snowden? A human rights lawyer tells The Christian Science Monitor: (Via RT)

“I find it hard to keep a straight face when our Russian authorities make these declarations.. So what could be driving this sudden concern for Snowden? Just old-fashioned propaganda considerations.”

According to The Atlantic Wire, this would make Snowden the sixth American intelligence officer to defect to Russia — the fourth from the NSA. The other three defected to the Soviet Union in the 1960s.

He would need first to be charged before he could be formally extradited, but supporters are already one step ahead — starting an online petition demanding he be pardoned. (Via White House)

But while authorities prepare to search for the missing whistleblower, several media outlets believe they’ve tracked down the girl he left behind — identifying her as dancing acrobat Lindsay Mills. (Via The Telegraph)

On her blog — which has since been taken down — Mills describes her time in Hawaii as an “emotional rollercoaster” with her “man of mystery.” (Via Buzzfeed)

On Tuesday the NSA, FBI and Department of Justice are expected to brief lawmakers from the House regarding surveillance programs.

Will Turkish Riots, Use of Force Prevent Talks?

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 10:41:00 -0500

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(Image source: Sky News)

BY NICHOLE CARTMELL

Protesters in Istanbul’s Taksim Square have been met by force from Turkish riot police. The police fired tear gas at the demonstrators — who’ve been in the square now for nearly two weeks.

“There is water cannon behind me. … lines of police in riot gear are stationed just below me. … This is the biggest show of force in this square for well over a week.” (Via BBC)

Over the course of the past 11 days, protests have erupted among those in Turkey unhappy with the way the Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan is governing the country. (Via ITV)

The prime minister defended the latest police action. Erdogan warned he won’t show any more tolerance. (Via Al Jazeera)

Still, Erdogan is scheduled to meet with protest leaders Wednesday. It remains unclear if this meeting will still take place, but a writer for The National says it is needed as a way to save face for the upcoming election.

Even though Erdogan’s has been in power for the last 10 years and his party received the majority vote in the last election, some argue that if he needs votes outside of the AKP party he can’t afford to ignore the movement.

The head of the independent polling firm A&G told The National, "All politicians have to read this street movement correctly. If they don’t manage to understand it properly, it may cost them votes.”

But Sky News points out if you move away from Taksim Square, you would find people going on with their day to day lives. The unrest is coming primarily from younger people.

“There is a section of society that feels he is leading this country in the wrong direction, an increasingly authoritarian, an increasingly conservative Islamic direction. They do not speak for all of Turkey.”

The death toll from the protests has reached four. Three children and one policeman have died in the demonstrations.

Taliban Blamed in Beheading of 2 Children

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 11:01:00 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons / Staff Sgt. Shane Hamann)

BY NICHOLE CARTMELL

The Taliban has been blamed for the beheading of two children in the southern Afghan province of Kandahar.

The provincial governor's office said Monday the boys were ages 10 and 16. This was punishment when the 10-year-old was reportedly caught collecting food at a security checkpoint. Little is known about the older boy.

According to the BBC, the Taliban has officially denied killing the 10-year-old and has condemned the act.

But the BBC also notes, Taliban fighters have been known to behead targets, and usually deny taking such actions against children. In 2012, the Taliban was accused of beheading two children in south and east Afghanistan, but the militants claimed they weren’t responsible.

A writer for Combat Journalist told International Business Times the Taliban doesn’t care about local people.

“The Taliban (doesn’t) need the local support because their support and weaponry come from outside countries like Pakistan and Iran.”

This slaying of children follows in a long line of recent bloody incidents in Afghanistan. Insurgents launched a pre-dawn attack near Kabul’s main international airport Monday.

Witnesses say militants took over a building on the west side of the airport and began a standoff with Afghan security forces. The target appeared to be NATO’s airport headquarters. (Via euronews)

The Kandahar Governor is now seeking to capture the insurgents responsible using whatever means necessary.

S. African President Calls Mandela's Condition 'Serious'

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 09:10:00 -0500

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(Image source: Flickr / South Africa The Good News)

BY NICHOLE CARTMELL

The health of beloved former South African President Nelson Mandela remains unchanged Monday. Mandela was re-admitted to the hospital over the weekend after his lung condition deteriorated.

On Saturday, current president Jacob Zuma released a statement saying Mandela was in serious but stable condition. (Via Flickr / South Africa The Good News)

Mandela’s family has taken charge of his hospital stay. On Sunday, Mandela’s daughter Zindzi remained positive saying, “I've seen my father and he's well. He's a fighter.” (Via The Guardian)

The Star points out this is the first time the presidency has called Mandela’s condition serious.

“In all of Mandela’s previous hospitalisations – six times alone in the past six months – the presidency had resolutely tried to put a positive spin on statements to what it has described as routine procedures or recurring lung infections.”

Many have expressed wishes and prayers for a speedy recovery. But some believe Mandela is very near death.

The Sunday Times carried the front page headline: "It's time to let him go." And quoted a longtime friend of Mandela saying, "The family must release him so that God may have his own way. They must release him spiritually and put their faith in the hands of God.”

At the same time many are not ready to let him go. Sky News reports Mandela is highly revered in South Africa.

“He is the man that they credit for their freedom. He is the man they credit with bringing the country peacefully to democracy...And because of that he is enormously loved.”

And its because of Mandela’s influence on South African politics, an ITV news reviewer says...

“There is a fear as to once that figurehead goes, what will happen to South Africa. It's in a very delicate political state.”

Mandela has been praised for his fight against the apartheid and racial segregation in South Africa. But since overcoming this, South Africa has yet to tackle imbalances in decent housing, education, and health care. (Via ABC)

Mandela was elected as South Africa’s first black president in 1994. His term lasted until 1999. President Zuma has asked the people of South Africa and the media to respect the privacy of Mandela and his family during this time.

North, South Korea Agree to High-Level Diplomatic Talks

Sun, 09 Jun 2013 22:19:11 -0500

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(Image source: The Diplomat)

BY MATT PICHT

Representatives from North and South Korea met Sunday in an effort to de-escalate tensions between the rival countries.

North Korean delegate Kim Song Hye met with her South Korean counterpart Chun Hae-sung at the “truce village” of Panmunjom. This is the first official dialogue between the two countries in years. (Via Al Jazeera)

After 18 hours of discussion, both sides agreed to hold a higher-level government meeting to discuss specific action. Voice of America reports Kim Song Hye gave a brief press conference at the conclusion of the talks.

“Kim said both sides agreed to call the upcoming meeting an ‘inter-governmental talk,’ to discuss issues that should be resolved as soon as possible, such as the resumption of two stalled inter-Korean ventures in the North.”

One of those ventures is likely to be the Kaesong industrial complex, a jointly run facility that North Korea effectively shut down in April. (Via Euronews)

An analyst for the BBC says Seoul will be looking for some substantive indications that Pyongyang is genuinely interested in continuing this diplomacy.

“South Korea wishes to cut the vicious cycle of the North raising military tension, renewing dialogue only to face further brinksmanship.”

South Korean officials have expressed hope for a peaceful resolution to recent tensions between the two countries. As The Washington Post notes, at least this time it looks like they might make it to the table.

“The last time Seoul and Pyongyang met on the peninsula for formal talks, in February 2011, North Korea’s representatives abruptly refused to continue, and the North said its counterparts were ‘scoundrels’ and ‘traitors’ who had no interest in reconciliation. Those talks, too, had been designed to pave the way for a higher-level meeting.”

The next round of dialogue will reportedly take place in Seoul on Wednesday.

Top-Secret Bilderberg Group: 5 Things to Know

Sun, 09 Jun 2013 19:28:13 -0500

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(Image source: The Washington Post / Mark Gail)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

The world’s most exclusive club met this weekend behind closed doors to hammer out a deal for a one-world order — or at least that’s what the conspiracy theorists would say. Here are five things you need to know about the meet-up of the world’s power brokers, the Bilderberg Group.

First off, who’s on the guest list. More than 100 bankers, world leaders and royalty showed up for this weekend’s annual summit in Watford, England. (Via Bloomberg)

The lineup includes the IMF’s Christine Lagarde, ex-CIA Chief David Petraeus, British Prime Minister David Cameron and the CEOs from Amazon and Google, to name a few.

“They’re globalists. They want to try to spot presidents and prime ministers.” (Via Sky News)

Next up, what happens at Bilderberg stays at Bilderberg. The group describes itself as a “forum for informal, off-the-record discussions about megatrends and the major issues facing the world.” (Via Bilderberg Group)

Shrouded in secrecy, no minutes are made public from the meetings, and with few exceptions, no journalists are allowed in. (Via BBC)

“There’s a canal, and you've got to go up the hill, and there’s this high fence pinned by concrete blocks with spotlights at the top of it. It’s fair to say, no one from here is getting in there without permission.” (Via The Telegraph)

It’s that lack of transparency, which has made for the ultimate conspiracy theory.

“They planned the fake Al-Qaeda Arab Spring here a few years ago.” (Via YouTube / TheAlexJonesChannel)

Plots to overthrow national governments and form a one-world dictatorship, talk of a secret cure for cancer — you name it. The conspiracy theories surrounding the Bilderberg Group abound, and perhaps with some reason. (Via History Channel)

A writer for The Guardian questions why attendees are so tight-lipped.

“It may seem odd ... that a bunch of our senior politicians will be holed up for three days in luxurious privacy with the chairmen and CEOs of hedge funds, tech corporations and vast multinational holding companies, with zero press oversight.”

The group was established in 1954 to foster dialogue after the Cold War between the U.S. and Western Europe. This year, topics like Europe’s debt crisis, U.S. foreign policy and cyber warfare were atop the agenda.

The summit was also slated to discuss “challenges in Africa,” though a writer for RT notices that continent went unrepresented during the summit, and the six Turkish guests were the only Middle Eastern voices.

Which brings us to No. 5. According to the group, no agenda, no resolutions, no votes and no policy will actually come out of the summit.

But as a blogger for The New York Times puts it,

“More restrained critics argue while the Bilderberg Group may not make formal decisions, it sets a consensus that spreads among business and political elites, molding the global agenda.”

If you’re wondering who foots the bill for the luxurious weekend, The Telegraph reports British taxpayers will end up paying millions in security costs.

Iran Announces First Space Monitoring Center

Sun, 09 Jun 2013 12:09:00 -0500

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(Image Source: BBC)

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

Iran says it has set up its first space tracking center to monitor objects passing in orbit overhead.

Iran’s defense minister says the center will continuously track objects moving in space, and that it is ready to share that data with other countries. (via Al-Arabiya and BBC)

This news comes just a few months after Iran announced it successfully launched and returned a monkey pilot into space. (via KHOU)

But questions were raised about the mission’s success when “before-after” photos of the monkey surfaced.

Photos released by Iranian officials seemingly depicted two entirely different animals. Iranian officials say there was a mix-up during the pictures’ release, and they accidentally sent out a photo of one of their other space-trained primates. (via The Independent)

According to RT, Iran’s latest achievement is a major concern for U.S. officials who believes it may be bringing them closer to developing long-range missile capabilities.

“Tehran has denied these claims, maintaining that the space program is purely civilian-orientated. Of particular concern to Washington is Iran’s ambition to put more satellites into orbit, which Tehran says are aimed at monitoring earthquakes, improving security and increasing military surveillance.”

Iran says its ultimate goals include launching its own satellite in orbit and sending manned space flights. Officials believe they will have both of these accomplished by 2020.

Francis: 'I Didn't Want To Be Pope'

Sun, 09 Jun 2013 08:35:00 -0500

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(Image source: Lauren Cater / CNA)

BY ALEX MALLIN

Pope Francis is the leader of the 1.2 billion members of the world’s Catholic Church, though speaking off the cuff to a group of students at the Vatican, he admitted he never really wanted to be.

“Someone who wants to be pope doesn’t really like themselves. God wouldn’t bless that. I didn’t want to be pope, OK?” (Via NTDTV)

It’s becoming a common trend for the new pope, who has gained a reputation for being especially candid with his followers. (Via Express)

Rather than sticking to pages of prepared statements he had for the students, he decided to speak directly to them and let several ask him questions directly. (Via NPR)

The pope was responding to a question from a 6-year-old named Theresa, one of the thousands of Italian and Albanian Jesuit students on a visit to the Vatican. (Via Fox News Latino)

Francis also admitted he has been staying in the Vatican hotel for his “psychiatric health,” rather than the luxurious papal apartment. (Via WAGA)

He said: “It’s not just the question of riches but also a personality issue. I need to live among people, and if I lived on my own, perhaps a little isolated, it wouldn’t do me good.” (Via The Guardian)

It may result in some anxiety for the world’s Catholics. Pope Benedict made a similar admission during his time as pope, and wound up being the first to abdicate in almost 600 years. (Via The Vatican)

Francis — the former archbishop of Buenos Aires — was elected back in March and since then has made it a point to pay special attention to addressing poverty and inequality. (Via ABC)

A writer for the Catholic Herald says he wasn’t surprised by the admission: “Ambition, or the desire to get to the top, or just to ascend to a position of greater power, is a serious sin. ... Indeed, Christians are supposed to vie for the lowest place, and in being crucified, Jesus showed us what the lowest place looked like.”

Francis says he accepted the position because he loves Christ.

Top News Headlines: Santa Monica Shooting Suspect Identified

Sun, 09 Jun 2013 06:48:00 -0500

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(Image source: Santa Monica Police Department)

BY LOGAN TITTLE

Police have identified the Santa Monica shooting suspect as 23-year-old John Zawahri.

Zawahri is suspected of setting fire to a house where two people believed to be the suspect’s father and brother were found dead before going on a shooting spree that left two more people dead and one critically wounded.

(via KIRO)

Zawahri was eventually shot and killed by police in the school’s library.

“The suspect was enrolled at Santa Monica College as early as 2010 and police did have contact with him when he was a juvenile.”

(via KABC)

A source told the Los Angeles Times he had mental health problems and a fascination with guns and they had been concerned. He carried several guns and at least 1300 rounds of ammunition during his 10 minute reign of terror.

Police are still investigating the suspect’s potential motive for the rampage, but Chief Jacqueline Seabrooks told reporters she believes the suspect had prepared for this beforehand.

“Anytime someone puts on a vest of some sort, comes out with a bag full of loaded magazines … and has to be neutralized at the hands of the police, I would say that that’s premeditated.”

(via CNN)

Attempts to defend the government data surveillance program, code-named PRISM, are ongoing. Officials say the data collection is done with the full knowledge and authorization of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court.

On Saturday, the nation’s top intelligence official, Director of National Intelligence James Clapper explained in a statement, “PRISM is not an undisclosed collection or data mining program.”

The top secret program reportedly began seven years ago, and has grown exponentially under the Obama administration. PRISM allows NSA agents access to data resources from nine different companies.

Clapper’s statement is being considered the government’s strongest defense of the program since The Washington Post and the Guardian ran stories earlier this week detailing the National Security Agency’s court-ordered access to U.S. telephone companies’ “metadata.”

Spokespersons for some of the companies involved have consistently denied participation in PRISM.

And to world news — South Africa’s former President, Nelson Mandela spent a second night in the hospital being treated for a lung infection.

(via CBS)

The 94-year-old is particularly vulnerable to health problems with his lungs after contracting tuberculosis in the 1980’s during his 27-year imprisonment.

It is his third time in the hospital over the last six months. He was treated for pneumonia back in March. His condition deteriorated to the point where it was found necessary to hospitalize him. Reports say he is in serious but stable condition.

(via BBC)

Stay with Newsy for more headlines throughout the day. For Newsy, I’m LT, highlighting your top news headlines. Making you smarter, faster.

U.S. Drone Strike Kills 7 in Pakistan

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 08:44:11 -0500

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(Image Source: U.S. Air Force)

BY NICHOLE CARTMELL

Seven people are dead after a suspected U.S. drone strike hit a northwest area in Pakistan. This comes just three days after the newly elected Pakistani prime minister called for an end to U.S. drone attacks.

The target was a compound in a village in the North Waziristan tribal region, close to the Afghan border. The area is known as a stronghold of Taliban and Al-Qaeda-linked militants. (Via Google Maps)

This is the first drone strike on Pakistani soil since Nawaz Sharif was sworn into power. In an address to Parliament Wednesday, Sharif renewed a call to end these attacks.

“Daily drone attacks must stop now. We respect the sovereignty of others and the U.S. should respect ours. It is not fair that we respect other’s sovereignty and they do not respect ours.” (Via Al Jazeera)

But these drone strikes are a complicated issue in Pakistan.

The Bureau of Investigative Journalism reports since 2004, there have been 369 drone attacks in Pakistan, 317 of which were carried out by the Obama administration. What’s more is that between 2,500-3,500 people have been killed by the strikes. (Via Wikimedia Commons)

Obama makes the case that drones are a necessary tool against armed groups like the Taliban. In May, the president said the drone strikes in Pakistan were part of a legitimate campaign against terrorists and the killings are “legal” and “just.” (Via BBC)

But interestingly, parts of the Pakistani government and military are often accused of turning their heads or even condoning some of the drone strikes. (Via CNN)

In May, a U.S. drone strike killed the No. 2 leader of the Pakistani Taliban. It remains unknown who the target was in the latest drone attack.

Top News Headlines: Gunman Kills 4 in Santa Monica Shooting

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 08:11:00 -0500

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(Image source: NewsBreaker)

BY BRIANA ALTERGOTT

Four people were killed and five left injured in southern California when a heavily armed gunman went on a shooting rampage near Santa Monica College Friday afternoon.

The first reports of shots came just before noon. When police responded minutes later, they found a nearby house on fire, but no gunman. Two men died in the blaze, and early reports indicate they might have known the killer. Police believe the suspected gunman chose his victims at random. He was dressed in a tactical vest and carried an AR-15 style rifle, pistols, and more magazines for the rifle. (Via ABC)

The suspect was killed by police in a shootout at Santa Monica College. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident. (Via KBCS)

Former South African President Nelson Mandela has been readmitted to the hospital with a recurring lung infection.

94-year-old Mandela is reportedly in “serious but stable condition.” He was hospitalized early Saturday after the state of his health deteriorated in the last few days. (Via Fox News)

Mandela has been in and out of hospitals several times in the last few months. His most recent hospital stay was back in April for pneumonia. (Via CNN)

Even though the weather is now clear in central Europe, record flooding is still causing serious problems in Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria.

Runoff is causing river levels to rise. Authorities expect high water levels to peak on Monday. (Via NPR)

Residents further upstream are beginning to clean up the debris left behind by the receding floodwaters. Twenty people have reportedly died in the floods. (Via Sky News)

Tech companies continue to clarify their involvement in the National Security Agency’s data mining program.

The NSA began the program, called PRISM, in 2007 to track foreign targets suspected of terrorism. Reports indicated it harvested information directly from the central servers of Internet giants including Google, Facebook and Microsoft. (Via The Washington Post)

These companies have largely denied that aspect of the story, in many cases issuing statements explicitly denying the NSA has unfettered access to their companies’ servers. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg called such press reports “outrageous.” (Via The Next Web)

The U.S. Government, meanwhile, has acknowledged the existence of Prism, but called the media’s disclosure of the program “reprehensible” and said doing so puts Americans at risk. (Via San Francisco Chronicle)

Putin and Wife Announce Divorce on Russian TV

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 18:39:18 -0500

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(Image Source: RIA Novosti)

BY MATT PICHT

Russian President Vladimir Putin is notoriously close-mouthed about his private life, but on Thursday the world leader dropped a bombshell. In a joint interview with his wife Lyudmila, announced his marriage was over.

The couple made their decision in a planned but unscripted interview for Russia 24, after attending a ballet performance of “La Esmeralda.” President Putin called this a “civilized divorce”, and said the two will always remain friends.

The Putins have two adult daughters and were on the verge of celebrating their 30th anniversary. So why the sudden split? According to state media RIA Novosti, the demands of Vladimir’s job were getting to be too much for Lyudmila.

“All my activity, all [my] work is connected to being in the public eye. … Some people like this, some don’t, but there are people who are completely incompatible with this.”

Lyudmila added: “I really do dislike life in the public eye and air travel is very difficult for me. And we hardly see each other.”

This announcement would account for Mrs. Putin’s recent media absence. According to The Huffington Post, Lyudmila disappeared from public view for a prolonged period back in 2012 leading to all kinds of media speculation about her health.

The separation probably won’t help the reticent Putin with the rumors swirling around his private life. The Telegraph took this opportunity to remind us of a particularly beloved piece of Putin gossip: his supposed affair with Olympic gymnast and politician Alina Kabayeva.

“While there is no substantive evidence that Mr Putin was romantically linked to Miss Kabayeva … the alleged affair has long been the hottest gossip topic among Russia's elite. … Mr Putin has angrily claimed that there is ‘not one word of truth’ in any of the allegations, while Miss Kabayeva's spokesperson has refused to discuss what she derided as ‘nonsense.’”

A spokesman for Putin said the president has not yet made plans to draw up the official divorce proceedings.

Miss World Pageant Scraps Bikini Contest

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 14:08:00 -0500

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(Image source: Youtube / OfficialMissWorld)

BY BRIAN BONDUS

This year’s Miss World Pageant is already getting a cover-up. Not a scandal or conspiracy — but the bikini contest.

The pageant takes place in Indonesia this year where the majority of the population is Muslim. Traditional bikinis go against the country's conservative values. (Via Youtube / ThePhilipinas)

So instead for the beach portion of the competition the women will wear bathing suits with a sarong— A skirt-like coverup. (Via New York Daily News)

Indonesia is the most populous Muslim country in the world — more than 87 percent of the population. This has “Fox and Friends” fired up that one religion is changing the global competition.

"Why? So Muslims won’t be offended. That’s right, one group changing the entire world pageant for everybody else.”

The Daily Mail reports the nations top Islamic body is calling for the cancellation of the entire pageant saying it doesn’t set a good example for Muslim youth.

Instead pageant organizers are altering the bikini portion and plan to continue on with the pageant as planned.

137 contestants will compete for the Miss World crown on September 28^th.

North Korea, South Korea Talk About Talking

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 10:19:00 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons / Edward N. Johnson)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

In what looks to be a breakthrough on the Korean peninsula, the North and South have announced their first government-level talks in years.

North Korean state TV announced Pyongyang was open to holding talks with its neighbor. (Via CBS)

South Korean President Park Geun-hye has been demanding talks to no avail since she took office in February. In a statement, the country’s Unification Ministry — the body tasked with dealing with the North — accepted the offer. (Via ABC)

“We hope the government-to-government talks will become an opportunity to build trust between the South and North.” (Via The New York Times)

Pyongyang says it's putting the Kaesong complex on the table. That’s the industrial park jointly run by both countries until it was shut down in April. It was considered the last symbol of cooperation between the two nations. (Via Channel NewsAsia)

According to The Wall Street Journal, “To Seoul, the significance of the Kaesong plant is symbolic rather than economic, as it has represented the thread that has kept the Koreas connected since its opening in 2004, remaining in operation through several downturns in ties, even military confrontations.”

North Korea also said it's willing to discuss the issue of cross-border ties, including tourist exchanges and family reunifications.

Bloomberg calls the announcement North Korean President Kim Jong-un’s “biggest concession” since its rocket launch in December and February’s underground nuclear test.

For months, the North has repeatedly rejected the South’s calls for talks, so why now?

In May, North Korea sent a special envoy to China to meet with high-level officials there. There’s some speculation the Chinese might have pressured its ally to engage in disarmament talks. (Via NTDTV)

“In the past, behavior of theirs we’ve always seen them raising tensions, then lowering tensions. Perhaps now, North Koreans, for internal reasons, think its time to de-escalate and return to negotiation." (Via CNN)

“Another motivation might be more prosaic. Putting 53,000 people out of work, the effect of the withdrawal from Kaesong is hard to sell, even in North Korea." (Via Al Jazeera)

The talks are set for June 12 in Seoul.

Rebels, Syrian Army Battle for Crucial Outposts

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 09:29:00 -0500

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(Image source: Al Jazeera)

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

Syrian rebels have seized a border crossing in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, adding to fears the civil war might spill over into a region-wide conflict.

On Thursday, rebels captured a U.N.-patrolled border crossing at Quneitra, the only crossing linking Syria and Israel. (Via Channel 4)

“It is significant in many ways, and in a symbolic way as well. You know, the border between Syria and Israel — despite all the strong rhetoric between the two countries — has been quiet for almost 30 years.” (Via Al Jazeera)

The New York Times says increased fighting near the Israeli-controlled territory has leaders worried: “Israel has repeatedly declared that it has no intention of getting involved in the Syrian civil war but that it will act to protect its own interests.” Israel says it will not tolerate “a heating up of the Golan frontier and a spillover of fire into Israeli-held territory.”

The rebels’ taking of Quneitra comes a day after being dealt a major blow by government forces.

President Bashar al-Assad’s forces — backed by Hezbollah militants — retook the strategic town of Qusair from rebel forces yesterday. It offers the regime better access to the Mediterranean Sea and control over vital supply lines. (Via The Wall Street Journal)

White House Press Secretary Jay Carney says the U.S. condemns Assad’s use of Hezbollah fighters to retake the strategic town.

"It is clear that the regime could not contest the opposition’s control of a place like Qusair on its own and is depending upon Hezbollah and Iran to do their work for them.” (Via BBC)

Securing Quneitra could help the rebels regain a foothold in the key area of southwestern Syria after losing Qusair, but Haaretz says the rebel victory could turn out to be short-lived.

The Syrian regrouped and re-engaged rebel forces shortly after losing the crossing. “[Israeli Defense Forces] positioned in lookout towers around noon said Assad’s forces had regained control of the crossing, amidst heavy fighting.”

Syrian state TV is also reporting the Syrian army recaptured the Quneitra. The U.N. estimates more than 80,000 people have been killed since the uprising began in Syria two years ago. (Via CNN)

The New Isolationism: Obama Treads Carefully Abroad

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 20:56:02 -0500

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(Image source: Flickr / The White House)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

War weary and eager to focus on nation-building at home, more than a decade of conflict abroad is breeding a new isolationism for America.

This week’s National Journal Magazine cover story looks at the cautious foreign policy born out of a decade of war in the Middle East.

Public polls suggest Americans oppose intervening in new conflicts — namely in Syria. And President Obama has made clear his focus on a more restrained foreign policy. (Via Global Post)

OBAMA: “We must define our effort not as a boundless ‘global war on terror’ — but rather as a series of persistent, targeted efforts to dismantle specific networks of violent extremists.” (Via NBC)

Certainly, drones make that more specific goal possible — striking at individuals, not armies, and keeping American “boots” off the ground, though Obama has promised to scale back those operations, as well. (Via PBS)

In the 1990s late ambassador Richard Holbrooke coined the term "Viet-malia" syndrome — referring to gun-shy attitudes after conflicts in Somalia, where the "Black Hawk Down" debacle played out, and in Vietnam. (Via CBS)

Michael Hirsh, who wrote this week's cover story, calls the current phenomenon Iraq-ghazi-stan syndrome — the effect of long slogs in Iraq and Afghanistan and last year's messy intervention in Libya. (Via Al Jazeera)

HIRSH: “The combination of these events — the huge expense of these wars — has driven President Obama to demilitarize foreign policy, as it were. He does not want to put more boots on the ground anywhere.”

Of course, isolationism doesn’t enter into a president’s vocabulary, not since Pearl Harbor. White House national security adviser Ben Rhodes told National Journal the president’s approach will be one of “rebalancing” — the use of “soft” power. (Via Flickr / The White House)

Though, since U.S. withdrawal from Iraq, violence there has been especially widespread — perhaps a sign of tougher times to come in Afghanistan. With 700 killed, April was Iraq’s deadliest month since 2008. (Via Euronews)

Though Afghan troops could require training through 2018, and Obama has to weigh the needs of its fledgling government with dwindling American support for what is now the nation’s longest-ever war. (Via CNN)

China and E.U. in Spat Over Wine Trade

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 18:54:43 -0500

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(Image source: Bloomberg)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

China and the European Union are playing a game of tit-for-tat — with the Far East nation claiming French wines are entering the market unfairly.

Less than 24 hours after the E.U. announced it would impose punitive tariffs on Chinese solar panels, China announced it was launching an investigation over what’s known as “dumping.” (Via CBS)

— that is, selling a product abroad for less than at home. The probe comes at the request of Chinese wine makers who allege the wines dumped into China from Europe make it hard for them to compete. (Via NBC)

The move is seen by many analysts as retaliation on China’s part — though mostly symbolic. But there is some speculation China could follow up with some steep tariffs against European-made wines. (Via CNN)

The E.U. has denied any predatory pricing, calling China’s actions misleading and flat-out-wrong.

The E.U.’s 27 member countries exported nearly $1 billion worth of wine to China last year — with France of course leading the pack. According to France 24, Paris has slammed the Chinese investigation as “inappropriate and reprehensible.”

But what do the numbers say? A writer for The Wall Street Journal says the amount of wine France exports to China keeps going up, but prices stay the same. With that in mind, it doesn’t really make a whole lot of sense for the French to sell their wine at a lower cost.

“More plausibly, sales of European wine have followed the trend of other luxury goods in China: The country’s burgeoning middle class and nouveau riche want to spend more of their new-found wealth on French wine, German cars and other brand-name Western goods.”

This follows a series of previous disputes between the two trading partners involving products like pipes and chemicals. China is currently caught up in 18 of the E.U.’s 31 ongoing trade investigations.

Top News Headlines: Syrian Forces Retake Strategic Town

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 06:34:00 -0500

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(Image source: BBC)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

Syrian government forces say they’ve reclaimed the strategic town of Qusayr from rebels with the help of Hezbollah guerillas.

According to Al Jazeera, both state TV and Syrian rebels have confirmed the successful surprise attack. (Via Al Jazeera)

“For both sides, it was of huge strategic importance. The president’s army is claiming an important victory.” (Via BBC)

In Oklahoma, another level of tragedy is emerging after tornadoes have left their mark on the area.

In the cleanup efforts — health risks in the form of bacteria stirred up by the storms. A doctor tells CBS puncture wounds are common during cleanup. (Via KXAN)

“We need to wash it with soap and water as soon as we can, or do some type of an antiseptic wipe or towelette — will really help to decrease some of the bacteria that could be in there.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says half of tornado-related injuries are likely to come after the storm — especially amid the abundance of exposed nails.

A gay-rights heckler interrupted first lady Michelle Obama during a speech at a DNC fundraiser Tuesday night in Washington. No cameras were present, but ABC says Mrs. Obama confronted the heckler, saying —

“‘One of the things I don’t do well is this.’ She then actually left the podium and she told her, ‘Listen to me or take the mic, but I’m leaving. You all decide. You have one choice.’”

At that point — NBC reports — the crowd chanted for the first lady to stay. And the heckler was escorted out.

New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez, Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Ryan Braun and at least 18 other major league baseball players could soon face suspensions for performance enhancing drugs.

USA Today reports Tony Bosch — director of the lab known as Biogenesis — has agreed to cooperate with the MLB investigation into PEDs.

And to make matters worse for Rodriguez, Braun and the others, the MLB plans to make these suspensions much more severe than in the past. ESPN, who broke that story, explains.

“Rather than seek standard 50-game suspensions for first time offenders however, one source familiar with MLB’s investigations said the commissioner's office is considering 100-game suspensions.”

Americans Warned Against Visiting the Pyramids

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 17:27:08 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons / Ricardo Liberato)

BY MATT MORENO

Is it safe to visit the great pyramids? The U.S. Embassy in Egypt says American tourists should be careful when visiting the site, but Egyptian officials say all is well.

The U.S. Embassy released a statement saying it “has become aware of an increasing number of incidents at or near the Giza Pyramids. The majority of these incidents are attributed to over-aggressive vendors, though the degree of aggressiveness in some cases is closer to criminal conduct.”

The embassy says it’s had reports of groups of individuals pounding on vehicle doors and sometimes attempting to open them. It warns there seems to be a lack of security in the area. (Via National Geographic)

“Lack of business made the sellers, the suite vendors, very persistent and annoying and attacking, you see, by force. Pushing hard at tourists in any way to get some money.” (Via BBC)

An administrator at the American University in Cairo, who’s lived in Egypt for 13 years, says things have changed recently. He told USA Today in March his wife was harassed by vendors and police asked for money.

But Egyptian officials say the stories are “baseless.” The Egyptian minister of antiquities denies any problems, saying a group of 1,000 students held a graduation at the pyramids recently and everything was fine. (Via Ahram Online)

A writer for AmericaBlog says Egypt is probably worried about declining tourism revenue. “This is awful news for Egypt’s tourist industry, that’s suffered over the years, first from terrorism, then from the recent political unrest. So the news of the pyramids becoming increasingly unsafe ... isn’t going to help.”

The U.S. isn’t the only country to warn against possible dangers in Egypt. The United Kingdom warned against traveling in the Sinai Peninsula due to an increasing threat of kidnappings.

American Tourist Allegedly Gang Raped in India

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 12:44:00 -0500

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(Image source: Ynaija)

BY JASMINE BAILEY

A developing story out of India where an American tourist was reportedly gang raped by a group of men Tuesday.

“Police say she was sexually assaulted by a group of men in the North. So far there are no arrests.” (Via CBS)

According to the BBC the unidentified woman, who is thought to be between 35 and 40 years old, was attacked after accepting a ride from a group of men in a truck in the resort town of Manali.

Manali is a popular Indian town for backpackers. Police set up roadblocks in search of the culprits and the U.S. Embassy in India said it is in talks with authorities. NBC reports local police now have three possible suspects.

The local director of police said:

“The three suspects have not yet been formally arrested but the investigating team is hopeful there will be a breakthrough in the case very soon.”

According to The Wall Street Journal the victim was examined and did not appear to have suffered any serious physical injuries from the ordeal.

This recent attack follows an attack on a Swedish woman visiting India just three months ago. She was allegedly gang raped while camping with her husband. Six men were arrested in that case.

These cases come as India’s justice system is being highly scrutinized by the public. Widespread protest were sparked in December when a 23-year-old Indian medical student died after a group of men gang raped her on a public bus in Delhi. (Via Al Jazeera)

The six men in that case were charged with rape. One has since hanged himself. (Via Daily Mail)

Citizens continue to push for stricter laws protecting women from sexual assault. A U.N. survey found 95 percent of women in New Delhi, India said they felt unsafe in public places.

U.N. Unclear Which Side's Using Chemical Weapons in Syria

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 11:38:00 -0500

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(Image source: TIME / Alessio Romenzi)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

The United Nations announced it has grounds to believe chemical weapons have been used in the ongoing war in Syria — but it’s unclear by which side.

Witnesses, medical staff and alleged victims were among those interviewed by U.N. investigators. In their report to the Human Rights Council, the authors counted 17 massacres between January and May. (Via ABC)

The U.N. panel heard accounts of chemical weapons used by both rebel and government fighters, though most reportedly involved President Bashar-Al Assad’s forces. (Via RT)

The report says its findings are inconclusive — further testing is needed to be sure what substances were used and by whom.

One thing the report did reach a conclusion on — both sides were accused of carrying out war crimes — warning that without a political solution to the crisis, the human rights violations will continue, writing: (Via BBC)

“war crimes and crimes against humanity have become a daily reality in Syria where the harrowing accounts of victims have seared themselves on our conscience.” (Via The Independent)

As the debate over chemical weapons use continues, the U.S. and its allies continue to weigh their military options.

President Obama had said he considers the use of such weapons a “red line,” but needs concrete evidence before taking action. In April, the White House pointed to Assad’s regime as likely behind sarin nerve gas attacks on rebel forces. (Via CBS, Fox News)

U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has called for chemical weapons inspections following those claims. (Via Al Jazeera)

Last month Turkey claimed its testing of Syrian war casualties near the border offered proof of chemical weapons use. (Via NBC)

Since the civil war erupted more than two years ago, its estimated it has claimed 80,000 lives.

Customer Service-Minded Al-Qaeda Creates Complaint Dept.

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 10:34:00 -0500

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(Image source: Foreign Policy)

BY BRIANA ALTERGOTT

After taking control of parts of a rebel-held city in Syria, al-Qaeda has set up a complaints department.

Al-Qaeda posted a public notice in the Syrian city of Raqqa claiming the group is open to receiving complaints from citizens. (Via Alarabiya)

According to The Telegraph, it reads, "Anyone who might have a complaint... can come and submit their complaint in any headquarters building of the Islamic state. We promise that we will ensure accountability for anyone committing violations..."

The notice was signed by the “Emir” of Raqqa, a name given to al-Qaeda sub-leaders. (Via Albawaba)

This comes just days after one of those leaders was reprimanded in a letter by the group for his job performance.

The Associated Press found the written complaint against Mokhtar Belmokhtar in a house in Timbuktu. (Via NPR)

“In the letter, al-Qaeda leaders pointed out failures to answer his phone, attend meetings, and even file expense reports.” (Via Fox)

The U.S. State Department says Belmokhtar’s group is responsible for assaulting the natural gas facility in Algeria in January. (Via ABC)

The attack left more than three dozen people dead, including three Americans.

Chinese City Plans to Fine Unwed Mothers

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 18:02:38 -0500

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(Image source: National Geographic / Sarah Tyler)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

It’s the latest attempt at population control in China: one city is planning to impose fines on unwed mothers.

According to the Global Times, under legislation being considered by the city government of Wuhan, single moms would be forced to pay “social compensation fees” and it’s apparently targeted directly at those who “knowingly have children out of wedlock.”

Tea Leaf Nation says those fines could add up to about $13,000 — that’s four times the average yearly income in Wuhan.

Social compensation fees, as they’re called, aren’t new. They’re given to parents in China who break the country’s family planning rules designed to keep the birth rate low.

Al Jazeera reports there’s a fear more “sewer babies” could come of the fines. That’s referring to the abandoned newborn cut from a sewage pipe last week which had many pointing fingers at China’s one-child policy.

Under the decades-old policy, parents must apply for a permit or pay up if they wish to have another child. Of the 35,000 abortions each day in China, the majority are from young, single mothers. (Via BBC)

Some say the new policy comes down to the social stigma of being an unwed mother in China.

Per The Inquisitor, one user on Weibo — China’s Twitter equivalent — commented: “Single mothers are already subjected to social discrimination and now they are thinking of fining them. They [Wuhan officials] have lost their minds [and are just] trying to make more money.”

In response to the criticism, authorities in Wuhan reportedly released a statement clarifying that the proposal has not been finalized.

Could Protests Be Beginning of Turkish Spring?

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 10:43:00 -0500

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(Image source: Twitter / @cigdemtopariak)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

A small park demonstration turned widespread anti-government protest — the wave of unrest in Turkey continues, now drawing comparisons to the Arab Spring.

For three days, protesters in Taksim Square have clashed with police. It began as a protest over government plans to demolish an Istanbul park and replace it with a shopping center. (Via YouTube / HakanTosun)

But due in part to a heavy-handed police response, it grew overnight to protests in more than 50 Turkish cities. (Via CBS)

As the protests escalate, some recall a familiar scene — pointing to revolution that kicked off in Egypt’s Tahrir Square back in 2011. (Via RT)

... questioning whether this unrest is on the heels of some sort of Turkish equivalent of the Arab Spring. (Via The Examiner, The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)

The Guardian dubs the protests an “Occupy-style” movement, pointing to use of tear gas and chemical sprays by police, who have begun setting fire to the tents where demonstrators were sleeping.

Protesters have taken to wearing homemade gas masks for protection. (Via The Hurrieyet Daily News)

At the center of the protests is Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan — who’s come under pressure for being too authoritarian — now 10 years into his regime. He recently rejected the notion the protests are in any way a Turkish Spring. (Via NBC)

Erdogan has backed down from plans to demolish the park, but a writer for Commentary Magazine says his decision to put a mosque there instead is more proof he’s out of touch.

“His announcement is the equivalent of sticking up his middle finger at Istanbul’s secularists and liberals.”

While there are plenty of comparisons to be had, a writer for Al Arabiya says the situation is far more nuanced than first meets the eye — adding most of the Arab Spring comparisons are coming from journalists with little knowledge of Turkish politics. (Via Al Arabiya)

“One cannot possibly analyze the situation in Turkey by staring out their hotel window in Istanbul. I went to Disneyland once. That doesn’t make me Tinkerbell.”

An expert on Turkey for the Brookings Institute tells the BBC the coverage is lacking some needed perspective. The motivations behind Taksim Square are different from what we saw in Tahrir Square.

“Basically an uprising against an authoritarian regime that was in power for 30 years. The Turkish government, despite all its imperfections was democratically elected.”

More than 1,000 people have been arrested at the 90 demonstrations across the country. Several hundred injuries have been reported.

Top News Headlines: Fire Kills 100+ at Chinese Poultry Plant

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 07:02:00 -0500

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(Image source: BBC)

BY NATHAN BYRNE

A fire at a Chinese poultry plant has reportedly killed at least 119 people. About 100 workers were able to escape from the plant.

According to the BBC, firefighters are investigating a possible ammonia leak that could’ve made the fire more dangerous. (Via BBC)

Other reports suggest three electrical explosions sparked the fire — which is being called China’s deadliest since 2000. (Via Al Jazeera)

At least two people are dead and several are missing after massive flooding in the Czech Republic.

The flooding has also damaged half of Prague’s 51 metro stations. RT reports 17 of them are submerged.

The Czech Republic has seen flooding like this before. Eleven years ago, 17 people died in a major flood. Sky News says the country has spent millions trying to build flood defenses.

Army PFC Bradley Manning has been hailed as a hero and a whistleblower for sharing secret documents with Wikileaks. But more than three years after his arrest, his trial on charges of aiding the enemy officially begins.

Manning has admitted to some of the charges against him. He stole U.S. diplomatic cables and other documents — which he started sending to WikiLeaks while in leave in 2010. (Via HLN)

Manning has been held at Fort Leavenworth since April 2011. The trial could last all summer. (Via NBC)

Former NBA player Mookie Blaylock faces charges in an Atlanta car accident that killed one woman and seriously injured him.

Police say Blaylock will be charged with driving with a suspended license and failing to stay in his lane. (Via WAGA)

Police are currently working on reconstructing that accident. Blaylock’s condition has reportedly been upgraded to serious. (Via WXIA)

Russia Bans Same-Sex Foreign Couples From Adopting

Sun, 02 Jun 2013 20:05:51 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons / Kremlin)

BY MATT MORENO

Russia is tightening its adoption policies yet again. Now, foreign same-sex couples are no longer allowed to adopt children.

A Russian official told RIA Novosti “an additional amendment will be passed, stipulating that adoptions are possible only for two-parent (traditional) foreign couples.”

These new restrictions join a long list of other changes made to Russian adoption policies including having a sufficient income, a clean criminal record and not being from the United States. (Via GlobalPost)

Homosexuality was once punishable by jail time in the Soviet Union but was decriminalized in 1993. Disallowing foreign same-sex adoptions is a controversial move, but Russian President Vladimir Putin has been a leader for conservative ideals.

Putin said back in April: “It is a current issue and we need to think about it. We respect our partners but ask them to respect Russia’s cultural traditions and ethical, legal and moral standards." (Via BBC)

The move stems from a recently signed French law allowing marriage equality and adoption rights for same-sex couples. France became the ninth European country to allow gay marriage.

Putin has since said Russia might review adoption agreements with France and other countries because homosexuality goes against “traditional Russian values.” (Via The Advocate)

The move isn’t too surprising, considering Russia’s Duma is expected to pass a bill banning what it calls “gay propaganda” aimed at minors. The bill won nearly unanimous support in a preliminary vote in January. (Via Voice of America)

These new restrictions come months after another major policy change. As of late last year, American families are no longer allowed to adopt Russian children after Putin stopped the practice. The law forced families, some in the final stages of adoption, to cut ties with Russian orphans. (Via The New York Times)

Iraq Records Highest Monthly Death Toll in 5 Years

Sun, 02 Jun 2013 16:45:16 -0500

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(Image source: NBC)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

This May Iraq recorded its highest monthly death toll in five years, stirring fears the country is on the brink of civil war. The BBC has more.

“Almost everyday of the past week has seen multiple explosions, in what even officials concede is a sharp deterioration in security.” (Via BBC)

The United Nations says more than 1,000 Iraqis were killed in the violence and twice as many injured in May. Nine out of 10 were civilians — with car bombs and other explosives mostly to blame. (Via NBC)

Sky News reports what makes this month stand out is the attacks — which are most often directed at the Shi’ite majority— struck Sunni targets as well.

Iraqi authorities say al-Qaeda and other Sunni-backed groups are behind most of the violence. But Al Jazeera points out the wave of attacks on Sunni mosques in recent weeks suggests Shia fighters are also responsible.

The Guardian says the bloodshed is bringing back fears of another sectarian conflict — pitting al-Qaeda and Sunni fighters against Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki’s Shi’ite government.

While the numbers don’t compare to the massive violence Iraq saw in 2006 and 2007, some point out the numbers are beginning to climb.

In a news release, the United Nations envoy to Iraq condemned the growing wave of attacks. “Systemic violence is ready to explode at any moment if all Iraqi leaders do not engage immediately to pull the country out of this mayhem."

The latest attack came from a car bomb which killed more than 20 people and injured 50 others in a wedding party in Baghdad Wednesday.

Egyptian Parliament Ruled Unconstitutional by Supreme Court

Sun, 02 Jun 2013 15:57:59 -0500

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(Image Source: Euronews)

BY MATT PICHT

It’s been over two years since the overthrow of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, and the country’s future is still uncertain. On Sunday, Egypt’s Supreme Constitutional Court ruled the country’s only remaining legislative bodies were elected unconstitutionally.

The SCC’s ruling mainly concerns the Shura Council, the upper house of Egypt’s Parliament. The Council is the only legislative power in Egypt following the SCC’s dissolution of Parliament’s lower house last year. (Via The Guardian)

The other institution affected by Sunday’s ruling is the Constituent Council, which drafted Egypt’s constitution in November 2012. The constitution was publicly ratified in December, and thus will probably not be affected by the SCC’s latest decision. (Via The Telegraph)

This ruling is the latest salvo in the legal battle between the Islamist-dominant administration and the Mubarak-era remnants in the judiciary. An opposition lawyer credits the judges for not bowing to political pressure exerted by President Morsi.

“The Court ruled bravely despite the pressure that the Muslim Brotherhood and the ruling party have tried to impose on it. Both the upper house and the lower house were illegally elected.” (Via Euronews)

But while most of Morsi’s opponents are praising the court’s decision, some opposition members say it comes eight months too late. According to Ahram Online, an opposition MP told his Twitter followers the court will have a tough time enforcing the ruling.

“The delay of the verdict makes it hard to implement. The Shura Council will remain in place until after elections for the House of the Representatives. And the Constituent Assembly is invalid but the constitution will remain because it was ratified by a national referendum.”

No date is currently set for new Parliamentary elections, but President Morsi has hinted they might take place in October.

Russia's Smoking Ban Goes Into Effect, Gets Ignored

Sun, 02 Jun 2013 15:49:01 -0500

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(Image Source: Sky News)

BY BRIAN BONDUS

A new smoking ban in Russia started Saturday — prohibiting smoking in public places including airports, public transportation and educational facilities. The goal is to create a healthier workforce and reverse a population decline.

Russians smoke a lot. The BBC reports 40 percent of adults smoke in Russia — compared to 27% in the U.S. — and the average Russian smokes 139 packs of cigarettes each year. That’s significantly higher than the U.S. at 51 packs per year.

“And that has consequences for public health. It’s estimated that every year up to half a million Russians die [of] smoking related diseases.”

Russia’s Health Minister says the new ban will save up to 200,000 lives a year, but how are Russians taking the news? Well as you would expect, non-smokers are supportive and smokers feel targeted and unfairly treated.

And on the first day of the ban, not much changed. Smokers continued to smoke on college campuses and outside train stations... (Via Saudi Gazette)

… because the fines have not started yet. They will eventually range from $15 to $50.

This is just the first phase of President Vladimir Putin’s plan to decrease smoking in Russia.

The Independent reports next year the ban will extend to restaurants, bars and shopping centers. Also, cigarette companies will no longer be able to advertise cigarettes and Russian movies will not show smoking.

One Sky News contributor says even though these new bans are not influencing any action currently — Russia is heading in the right direction.

“They’re just not ready for this yet ... FLASH It seems everyone smokes over there. Everywhere you look you see cigarette butts on the floor … But they are making progress. “

Turkish Protesters Celebrate as Police Retreat

Sun, 02 Jun 2013 11:59:10 -0500

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(Image source: The Guardian)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

Thousands of protesters are claiming victory as police stand down following days of unrest in Istanbul.

This has been the scene in Taksim Square. What started as an environmental protest over government plan to demolish a park, took a violent turn Friday when police used force to break up the otherwise peaceful sit-in. (Via BBC)

“The demonstrators are now saying it’s no longer about a park in Istanbul. It’s now about the excessive use of police force, and about the government of the elected prime minister himself, Recep Tayyip Erdogan.” (Via CNN)

“The police tried to push them back with water cannons, but these protesters into their second day now were determined not to be defeated.” (Via Sky News)

The protest swelled to tens of thousands in several cities overnight, with protesters voicing their anger over Erdogan and his Islamist-rooted Justice and Development Party. He’s seen as increasingly authoritarian by many Turks, who are now calling for an end to his 10-year regime. (Via CBS)

Erdogan has since vowed to move forward with the plans to develop the park and accused his opposition party of encouraging the protests. In a televised speech, he denounced the use of excessive police force as a mistake. (Via PBS)

By Saturday afternoon, Turkish security forces had began to withdraw from Taksim Square in Istanbul, allowing the demonstrators to continue. Protests still rage on in nearly 50 cities across Turkey. (Via RT)

Turkish authorities say more than 1,000 protesters have been arrested so far, with hundreds reportedly injured.

Top News Headlines: Storms Batter Midwest, Head East

Sun, 02 Jun 2013 09:01:33 -0500

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(Image source: Matthew Staver / The New York Times)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

More severe weather is in store, as a slow-moving storm creeps across the Midwest into parts of the East Coast. This storm system comes less than two weeks after a deadly tornado struck parts of Oklahoma City.

It also follows the second round of twisters that tore through the same area Friday, killing nine and injuring more than 100. (Via CBS)

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected to reach the Northeast by Monday night. The Weather Channel warns at least 40 million people should prepare for severe weather in the region. (Via WWLP)

The unrest continues in Turkey — marking the third day of anti-government protests involving tens of thousands in Istanbul and the capital city of Ankara.

What began as a protest over plans to redevelop a park in the city’s Taksim Square turned into a wider rally against Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s ten-year regime. (Via Russia Today)

Turkish media report police have withdrawn from the square, leaving the violence unchecked. More than 1,000 protesters have been arrested. (Via Al Jazeera)

For the first time in the country’s history, Pakistan marked a peaceful transition to a new democratically elected government.

In Islamabad Sunday, newly-elected members of the National Assembly were sworn in. The Pakistan Muslim League, enjoys a comfortable majority in the parliament and is headed by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The party is set to form a new government on Wednesday. (Via BBC, The Telegraph)

Elsewhere in the region, Iraq suffered its deadliest month in five years.

According to the U.N. mission to the country, more than 1,000 civilians were killed and twice as many injured this May — the highest monthly death toll since 2008. Car bombs and other explosions are responsible for a majority of the deaths. (Via NBC)

For Newsy, I’m Elizabeth Hagedorn. Highlighting your top news headlines, making you smarter faster.

China Would Rather Not Talk About Tiananmen Square

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 19:31:58 -0500

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(Image source: YouTube / Daniel Rodriguez Herrera)

BY ZACH TOOMBS

This week marks 24 years since protests against China’s government led to a brutal crackdown on demonstrators. Activists estimate hundreds were killed, although no official tally exists — and Chinese leadership says, don’t expect one anytime soon.

This was the iconic image of defiance that came out of the 1989 pro-democracy protests in Tiananmen Square. But the number of those killed by troops — and even still missing — remains undocumented. (Via YouTube / Daniel Rodriguez Herrera)

The Communist Party allowed protests throughout the spring but had had enough by June 3, when it sent military forces in to clear the square. (Via ABC)

The resulting bloodshed still draws international criticism. The U.S. State Department said this week China should “end harassment of those who participated in the protests and fully account for those killed, detained, or missing.” (Via U.S. Department of State)

That message has become something of an annual tradition for the State Department. But China’s not so keen on the reminder. The nation’s Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hong Lei responded in a statement funneled through state-run news agency Xinhua, saying the U.S. should “stop interfering in China's internal affairs so as not to sabotage China-U.S. relations.”

The Chinese government maintains that the student protests were counter-revolutionary, akin to treason. China’s president, Xi Jinping, is not expected to address the anniversary when he meets with President Obama next week. (Via The Telegraph)

But more broadly, human rights could be part of that discussion — especially with the recent prison sentencing of an American minister by China’s neighbor, North Korea.

Second Man Charged in Woolwich Murder

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 19:30:35 -0500

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(Image source: BBC)

BY MATT PICHT

London authorities charged a second man Saturday in the brutal slaying of soldier Lee Rigby in Woolwich.

According to reports, 28-year-old Michael Adebolajo and 22-year-old Michael Adebowale attacked Rigby on the afternoon of May 22. The pair crashed their car into the victim, then hacked him to death with machetes. Cell phone video captured a bloody-handed Adebolajo minutes after the stabbing. (Via the The Guardian and ITV)

Both men were shot but not killed by police after resisting arrest. Adebowale was charged Thursday after spending six days in the hospital.

The Independent reports both men are being charged with the same crimes: Rigby’s murder, attempted murder of two police officers and possession of illegal firearms. Adebolajo is expected to appear in court Monday, after recovering from his wounds.

Several other suspects have also been arrested this week on conspiracy charges connected to the killing. The BBC reports police are conducting a much broader operation beyond the arrest of these two men.

“They won’t just be wanting to examine the potential case against these two. They’ll be looking at who their associates were, what happened in the past, and looking at the case in a much wider way.”

Tensions have flared in Britain in the wake of Rigby’s murder. British police arrested 58 people after a clash between far-right protesters from the British National Party and anti-fascist groups turned violent Saturday.

“Around 100 BNP supporters gathered at Old Palace Yard … but hundreds of anti-fascist campaigners were also there, chanting that the BNP were racists and scum.” (Via The Daily Mirror)

Rigby’s family has asked for peaceful respect from the community and says Rigby would not want violent acts carried out in his name.

Australia Ranked Happiest Developed Nation

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 13:30:41 -0500

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(Image source: Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development)

BY NICHOLE CARTMELL

You might find a few more smiles down under compared to other places across the world.

Home to beautiful beaches, magnificent coral reefs and extensive deserts, Australia has been ranked as the world's happiest nation among developed economies for the third year in a row. (Via YouTube / pleasetakemeto)

This is according to the Better Life Index report, released this week by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The study analyzed 36 countries on criteria like income levels, health, safety and housing.

When it comes to these measures of well-being, Australia takes the cake. 84 percent of Australians say they have more positive experiences in an average day than negative ones. And it seems like money might have something to do with it.

More than 73% of Australia's 23 million people aged 15 to 64 have a paid job, seven percent above the OECD average. And the average amount of spending money for each household is nearly $29,000 a year. (Via Wikimedia Commons / Anthony Winning)

The BBC points out Australia's economy has stayed relatively strong despite the recent financial crisis worldwide. It was the only major developed nation to avoid the global recession in 2009. And Australia has seen a greater demand of its natural resources over the past two decades, also boosting its economy.

But the notion of happiness appears to be debatable. The data from the Better Life Index report conflicts with others of its kind.

The Happy Planet Index report ranks Costa Rica as the happiest nation in the world based on its ecological footprint, life expectancy and experience well-being.

The U.N. also released a “happy” list of its own last year. According to Gallup polls taken from 2005-2011, Denmark reigned supreme. (Via TIME)

OECD put Sweden, Canada, Norway and Switzerland in the top five, along with Australia. The U.S. came in as number six.

Marines Upset Over Reduced Hot Meals

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 11:33:00 -0500

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(Image Source: Military Times / Dan Lamothe)

BY JASMINE BAILEY

U.S. Marines at Camp Leatherneck in Afghanistan are not happy as a move by the Obama administration comes Saturday that will eliminate a key daily meal from the menus.

“The corps is eliminated the midnight ration service which is a hot breakfast for Marines on the midnight to noon shift or a hot dinner for Marines working noon to midnight.” (Via KFMB)

“The camp will also remove its 24-hour sandwich bar. But they will still have something to eat. Those other meals will be replaced with prepackaged Meals Ready-to-Eat or MREs.” (Via WOAI)

The administration justifies this move as representative of preparation for the massive withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan in the coming months.

And explaining the reduction in hot meals is a tactical move, as support services need to go home before the ones who provide those service workers security. (Via Youtube / William Lawrence)

Registered dietitian and Captain Christina Deehl told CNN “When we initially entered Iraq and Afghanistan, soldiers were eating MREs every day until we were logistically established. Once again when we draw down and pull out, we will see a similar trend.”

But still, the move is not a popular one. And while none of the Marines will speak on record about the change, one wrote to his wife and agreed to have his letter shared with NBC anonymously. He wrote:

"This boils my skin. One of my entire shifts will go 6.5 hours without a meal. If we need to cut back on money I could come up with 100 other places… Instead, we will target the biggest contributor to morale.”

Before the change, which began June 1^st, soldiers had four hot meals a day. As of Saturday that number will be cut to three and eventually to two. (Via Daily Mail)

The rest of the meals will be supplemented with MREs. (Via Wikimedia Commons)

According to Military Times, training at Camp Leatherneck will assist the transition of responsibility from coalition forces to Afghan units before all troops in Afghanistan are withdrawn by 2014.

Russia Plans to Arm Syrian Government With More Weapons

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 10:29:00 -0500

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(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons / Alex Beltyukov)

BY NICHOLE CARTMELL

A deal is a deal... At least that seems to be the case for Syria and Russia when it comes their arms agreements.

Russia is reportedly planning to deliver at least 10 MiG fighter planes to the Syrian government headed by Bashar al- Assad, despite widespread criticism from western nations. (Via The Moscow Times)

RIA Novosti reports this $1 billion contract was signed back in 2007, but because of the outbreak of civil war in Syria the original deal was put on hold.

And now it appears to be back on. An MiG aircraft representative said Friday a Syrian delegation is currently in Moscow talking about the “details and timeframe of a possible contract.”

This comes shortly after Russia said it would go ahead with plans to deliver S-300 anti-aircraft missiles to Syria. That shipment is part of a $900 million contract signed back in 2010. (Via BBC)

While Assad won’t say whether Syria is actually in possession of these weapons yet, he did tell Al-Manar TV these contracts have nothing to do with the current conflict in Syria. “We have negotiated with them on different kinds of weapons for years, and Russia is committed to honoring these contracts.” (Via Syrian Arab News Agency)

The Syrian civil war has resulted in the deaths of more than 80,000 people since the conflict began more than two years ago. In hopes of aiding the situation, the European Union ended its Syrian arms embargo early last week.

According to CNN, “That move was seen as opening the door for European nations to help rebel fighters militarily, though it may give Russia more wiggle room to back its longtime ally, Assad.”

The U.S. has highly criticized Russia’s pro-Syrian stance. In regards to the arms deals, Secretary of State John Kerry said Friday...

“Whether it’s an old contract or not, it has a profoundly negative impact on the balance of interests and the stability of the region, and it does put Israel at risk.” (Via Al Jazeera)

In June, the U.S. and Russia are expected to hold a peace conference focused on Syria in Geneva. But Fox News contributor Fred Barnes says the U.S. is relying too heavily on Russia to find a solution to the Syrian conflict.

“They put all their eggs in one basket, the Russians. Now, the Russians don’t want to help out. The Russians are backing Syria... They are going to continue to arm them.”

Assad has said Syria will attend the Geneva conference “in principal”. However, if there are conditions set that he deems unacceptable, Assad said Syria would not attend.

Turkish Citizens Call For 'Revolution' Amid Violent Protests

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 09:17:00 -0500

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(Image Source: BBC)

BY ALEX MALLIN

Tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannons. That’s the scene in Turkey as protests have erupted across the country resulting in violent clashes between police and citizens.

“Tensions have been growing over the past four days. What began as a peaceful sit in over plans to demolish a popular park ended in violent clashes.” (Via BBC)

The protests started in Istanbul’s Gezi Park, as Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan refused to answer calls against destroying the park, plans were to replace it with a large shopping mall. (Via YouTube / New News in World)

The protest lasted four days but after police used tear gas to try and disperse the crowds, the altercations became violent and escalated into broader dissent against the Islamist government. (Via RT)

Amnesty International called for Turkish authorities to put an end to the police violence and open an investigation into the hundreds injured in police interventions throughout the country. (Via Amnesty International)

A CNN iReport from a Turkish citizen made startling accusations of police abuse: “Police are packing people into the subway stations and throwing in tear gas, attacking hospitals where the injured are being treated... People from all ages and races, all political viewpoints are coming together to fight.” (Via CNN)

It has echoes of the Arab Spring protests of 2010, one citizen saying the demonstrations are “the beginning of a summer of discontent.” (Via Stuff)

Websites have sprung up, scheduling more protests across the country, the hashtag #occupyturkey has started trending on Twitter, with a banner calling for a revolution against the government. (Via Twitter)

Social media has been the primary tool for the protests to come to light.

The Guardian reports Turkey’s government has been relying on state-run media to downplay the unfolding violence in the country.

Erdogan has been prime minister since 2002, and his regime has been criticized as increasingly authoritarian. Just last week the Parliament voted to ban alcohol sale and consumption between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. (Via Ahram Online)

Erdogan has tried to push for Turkey’s emergence as a major power, but has met resistance from citizens saying the prime minister is trying to “impose an Islamist state.” (Via Boing Boing)

Construction on the park has been temporarily suspended.

Top News Headlines: Twisters Kill 5 in Oklahoma

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 07:20:00 -0500

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(Image source: The Oklahoman / Jim Beckel)

BY BRIANA ALTERGOTT

Here’s a look at your top news headlines from Newsy.

Just 11 days after a devastating tornado killed 24 people in Moore, Oklahoma, multiple twisters touched down in the Oklahoma City area Friday, killing five, including a mother and her baby.

NBC reports the area was being hit with “life-threatening” flash floods when this recent storm touched down during evening rush hour. Authorities aren't sure exactly how many tornadoes hit land but one of them reportedly stretched a mile wide.

Law enforcement and Red Cross damage assessment workers will head to the affected areas at dawn to get an idea of the extent of the damage.

(Via FOX)

Three U.S. Naval Academy football players are under investigation for allegedly raping a female midshipman last year.

According to CBS, the woman’s attorney said the incident happened at an off-campus party. The three players, one of them her boyfriend, allegedly raped her while she was drunk.

She initially filed a report in February 2012, but four months later, she stopped cooperating with investigators, and the investigation was halted.

One of the players was set to graduate last week but will have to wait until the investigation is complete. The other two are juniors at the Annapolis, Maryland school.

(Via KCNC)

Elsewhere in the world, Turkey has entered a second day of violent protests, with police and protesters clashing in Istanbul and Ankara.

The unrest began as a peaceful protest over plans to redevelop Gezi Park in Taksim Square into a shopping mall. Things escalated after police used tear gas.

(Via BBC)

Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan insisted the park project would go on and said police would remain in Taksim Square to preserve order.

(Via The Guardian)

And U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel has accused the Chinese government of involvement in cyber espionage and blamed the Chinese government and military for repeated intrusions into U.S. information systems.

During a speech at an annual Singapore conference, Hagel said, "The United States has expressed our concerns about the growing threat of cyber intrusions... The establishment of a cyber working group is a positive step in fostering US-China dialogue on cyber.”

(Via The Australian)

Hagel’s remarks come just days after China’s defense ministry dismissed a Pentagon report accusing them of accessing U.S. weapon designs.

(Via FOX)

Pepper Spray and Gas Used on Protesters in Istanbul

Fri, 31 May 2013 18:56:46 -0500

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(Image source: CNN)

BY CANDICE AVILES

A four-day protest in Turkey turned violent when Turkish police fired tear gas and water cannons at protesters camped out in Istanbul’s main commercial district Friday.

“Thousands of people are protesting a government decision to demolish a park in the city center and replace it with a shopping mall.” (Via Fox News)

Turkish authorities detained at least 60 people during the protest. A reporter for Al Jazeera described the chaotic scene saying tourists were running everywhere trying to take refuge at coffee shops and homes:

“Certainly the predominant complaint here is that police are firing teargas (sic) indiscriminately. But they are also coming under attack from protesters. You can see them with rocks and there are injuries here.”

However, it seems the protest that started as a fight to save a park has taken on an entirely new focus.

One activist told CNN, “This is an uprising, a protest against the increasing bans” — bans such as a new law forbidding vendors from selling liquor between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Adding to the people’s complaints, some also blame the government’s policy on Syria for twin car blasts that killed at least 52 people. The government, in turn, is showing a disturbing trend in how it handles its critics.

“Widespread use of pepper spray and tear gas and water cannons by the Turkish security forces any time somebody tries to gather together to organize a protest.” (Via CNN)

According to Turkish news agency Anadolu, a district court confirmed it will hear a case against the rebuilding of historical barracks, the project that prompted the original protests.

The court reportedly also ordered a temporary stop on construction.

Syrian Forces Kill American Woman, 2 Others

Thu, 30 May 2013 22:12:31 -0500

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(Image source: Breaking News Network)

BY ALEX MALLIN

The same day Syria announced it received a shipment of Russian missiles, a state-run news agency reports that military forces killed an American woman and two other Westerners.

According to CNN, the woman is believed to be Michigan resident Nicole Mansfield. The Syrian news report showed copies of Mansfield’s driver’s license and passport.

Reports suggest the three, including one British citizen, were killed in the city of Idlib. The news agency identified them as “western terrorists” and showed weapons it accused the trio of carrying. (Via Heavy)

Michigan Live says reporters visited the address on Mansfield’s ID card and found no one home. They then visited another home potentially connected to Mansfield where they found an eviction notice posted on the door from May 21.

If the reports are true, it would likely add more fuel to already heated American-Syrian relations.

President Obama has recently been under pressure to directly intervene in the country, which is in the midst of a two-year civil war that has taken the lives of more than 70,000 people. (Via Voice Of America)

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has been accused of a host of civil rights abuses and recently announced he’s confident of his regime’s victory. (Via New Europe)

He then said the country received a shipment of Russian missiles, an act that some speculate could spur a preemptive attack by Israel on the missiles. (Via The Guardian)

CBS says the State Department hasn’t confirmed Mansfield’s death, but it has started an investigation into the matter.

No Charges for Mother of Baby Found in Chinese Sewer Pipe

Thu, 30 May 2013 21:23:16 -0500

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(Image source: China Daily)

BY CANDICE AVILES

Days after a baby was rescued from a sewer pipe in China, authorities identified the baby’s mother, but she will not face charges.

The dramatic rescue video of the crew desperately trying to free the infant shocked the world. But aside from some minor injuries, the baby is expected to make a full recovery. (Via The Telegraph)

“This doctor says his lips and face were dry and blue after he was removed from the pipe. He also suffered cuts and severe bruising.” (Via ABC)

The Guardian reports the baby’s 22-year-old mother was the one who contacted authorities and watched as they rescued her child. But it wasn’t until after police found bloodstained tissues and toys in her room that she confessed the child was hers.

Local media reports say the mother became pregnant from a one-night stand. A writer for NBC adds her partner would not acknowledge he was the father, and she was unable to afford an abortion.

“The mother took to hiding the pregnancy by wearing baggy clothes and tying strips of cloth around her stomach. She then secretly gave birth to the boy in a fourth-floor public bathroom … only to reportedly have the baby slip from her hands after delivery.”

Initially the incident was being handled as a murder investigation, but CNN reports authorities now say the mother will not be charged.

“The police are saying that this is really an accident ... They say it could have been just a case of someone who was very afraid and very ashamed.”

Assad Confirms Syria Received Russian Missile Shipment

Thu, 30 May 2013 10:15:41 -0500

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(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons / High Contrast)

BY NICHOLE CARTMELL

Amid rising tensions, Syria has reportedly received the first shipment of an advanced Russian air defense system.

In an interview with Hezbollah-linked Al Manar TV, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said the rest of S-300 anti-aircraft will arrive soon. And w ith this he also says the Syrian army has made major achievements against rebels and now holds “the balance of power” in the conflict.

Russia said earlier this week it would go ahead with plans to deliver the S-300 anti-aircraft missiles to Syria. The shipments are all a part of a $900 million contract between the two countries signed back in 2010. (Via Al Jazeera)

Israel was also a topic in Assad’s comments. He assured the Syrian government will take any action necessary to ward off Israeli attacks or any other interference that might disrupt this goal.

Israel suggested earlier its military might strike the Russian missiles. The Israeli International Affairs Minister showed strong disapproval of Russia’s decision to send the missiles, claiming it would encourage “‘support to a brutal regime’ ... while Assad was slaughtering his own civilians." (Via The Jerusalem Post)

According to The Independent, “the S-300s would bolster [the Syrian Army’s] armoury, allowing it to counter air strikes launched from foreign airspace, such as those believed to have been launched by Israel from its own and Lebanese airspace.”

For countries like the U.S. and Russia, the goal right now is to find a solution to the ongoing conflict in Syria. This delivery comes only days after the EU lifted an arms embargo on Syria, which allows its 27 member countries to send weapons to rebels fighting to overthrow Assad's regime.

But the BBC reports the contention surrounding these missiles could hinder US-Russian efforts to hold a peace conference on Syria in Geneva in June. Assad has said Syria would take part in the meetings in principle but doubts it would actually yield results.

And furthermore, little progress has been made in arranging those talks. U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said Wednesday, “We have yet to find out, agree, mutually agreeable and convenient date for a meeting, and also we have yet to see how the opposition groups are discussing their unity issues.” (Via Voice of America)

On Wednesday, the Syrian army recaptured the strategic airport of Daba'a in the area of al-Qusayr. More than 94,000 people have been killed in the 26-month Syrian conflict.

Staff Sgt. Robert Bales to Plead Guilty of Afghan Massacre

Wed, 29 May 2013 21:08:18 -0500

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(Image source: Los Angeles Times / Spc. Ryan Hallock)

BY STEVEN SPARKMAN

The U.S. soldier accused of carrying out a massacre in Afghanistan last year will reportedly plead guilty in order to avoid the death penalty.

“Staff Sgt. Robert Bales plead guilty to premeditated murder and faces life in prison. A military judge will decide at a later date whether it’s with or without parole.” (Via WCBS)

“He’s charged with sneaking off the base and shooting 16 Afghan civilians including nine children.” (Via CBS)

The massacre last March stunned Americans and angered Afghanis, raising tensions between the two governments. The fact that so many of the victims were children wasn’t lost on either side.

“...children shot dead, men losing entire families in mourning.”

“‘They killed a child,’ says this mother. ‘Was this child part of the Taliban?’” (Via ABC)

Bales’s lawyers had initially planned to argue that he was insane at the time of the massacre, but the Los Angeles Times says such cases are hard to prove. Still, the defense says Bales’ mental problems should rule out the death penalty.

“Defense lawyers have said Bales suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder after several extremely emotional incidents during his previous three combat deployments, including a bombing that blew the legs off a colleague during his fourth deployment, shortly before the killings.”

The plea hearing is set for next Wednesday. In order to be granted the deal, Bales must demonstrate to a judge that he understands the charges against him by recounting exactly what happened that tragic night.

Even Al Qaeda Makes Employees Fill Out Expense Reports

Wed, 29 May 2013 16:24:44 -0500

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(Image source: The New York Times)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

And here you thought catty office drama was reserved for your workplace. A letter obtained by the Associated Press shows even terror network Al Qaeda gives its employees performance reviews.

“Al Qaeda bosses nailing this diva terrorist for ignoring calls and not filing expense reports. They even accused Mokhtar Belmokhtar of not being a team player." (Via Fox News)

“Al Qaeda sent a scathing appraisal to one its operatives, code named Abu Abas. It blasts him for botching a kidnapping...” (Via CBS)

Perhaps this shouldn’t come as a surprise considering the “Al Qaeda Manuel” British authorities stumbled upon — complete with tips on how not to die in a drone strike. (Via The U.S. Department of Justice)

As for the underperforming employee Mokhtar Belmokhtar, New York Magazine gives us a rundown of just what got the terrorist in trouble.

He apparently...

- “Doesn’t work well with others.”

- “Failed to meet fund-raising targets”

and then there’s his..

- “Insubordination”

It looks like that was about all the office drama Belmokhtar could take. He quit and formed his own terror group in North Africa. (Via BBC)

Latest Drone Strike: Top Taliban Figure Killed?

Wed, 29 May 2013 10:30:00 -0500

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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

BY ELIZABETH HAGDEORN

Reports today of a U.S. drone strike out of northwest Pakistan — killing between four and seven, including a high ranking Taliban leader.

Pakistani intelligence officials say an unmanned aircraft launched two missiles at a house in the North Waziristan region of Pakistan — a Taliban stronghold on the Afghan border. (Via Google Maps)

The drone strike reportedly killed the Pakistani Taliban’s second-in-command, Wali-Ur Rehman. (Via CBS)

Rehman was the leader of the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, or the TTP. He was seen as the more moderate voice to the the militant group — more likely to engage in peace talks than the group’s leader, Hakimullah Mehsud. (Via Al Jazeera)

The director of an Islamabad-based think tank told The Wall Street Journal,

“I would rather have Wali ur Rehman alive than dead. This now strengthens the Hakimullah Mehsud clan. Wali ur Rehman is a reasonable man. It is possible to negotiate with him.”

The Taliban, however, denied to Pakistani newspaper, The News International, that Rehman was dead. No comment yet from the U.S.

The Pakistani government has condemned the attacks, with Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry writing:

“Drone strikes are counter-productive, entail loss of innocent civilian lives, have human rights and humanitarian implications and violate the principles of national sovereignty, territorial integrity and international law.” (Via The New York Times)

Pakistan's newly elected government is set to take over in a few days. It’s incoming Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has repeatedly called on Washington to end drone strikes in his country. (Via BBC)

This drone strike is the first since President Obama pledged less than a week ago to scale back drone attacks against suspected terrorists. (Via The White House)

Pakistani intelligence officials tell the Washington Post three children were among the injured in Wednesday’s drone strike.

U.S. Officials Bust $6B Online Money Laundering Network

Tue, 28 May 2013 22:14:05 -0500

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(Image Source: Flickr / skettalee)

BY CHRISTIAN BRYANT

U.S. Secret Service agents indicted seven people connected to an online services company Tuesday in what’s being called the world’s largest online money laundering scheme. CNBC has the details.

“Authorities allege Liberty Reserve facilitated criminal activity for processing at least 55 million illegal transactions for at least one million users worldwide, totalling six billion dollars...”

USA Today reports five of the seven men indicted were arrested Friday in three different countries — the United States, Spain and Costa Rica. Authorities allege those millions of transactions “concealed the proceeds of credit card fraud, identity theft, computer hacking, child pornography, narcotics trafficking and other crimes.”

At a press conference, authorities called Liberty Reserve PayPal for criminals. The only thing required to get started was an e-mail address. CBS breaks down how this seven-year-long criminal network did its dirt.

“Money would be sent to money exchangers in countries with lax oversight … The cash would be converted to credits … Those credits could be used to pay other users or be cashed out.”

ABC reports Liberty Reserve allowed users to remain anonymous while completing transactions.

But according to the indictment, that anonymity backfired when a law enforcement agent busted the operation by creating an account and using the name “Joe Bogus” and location “123 Fake Main Street” in “Completely Made Up City, New York.” Really.

The Wall Street Journal points out Tuesday’s bust got the attention of the virtual-cash community: “Law-enforcement officials are concerned about criminals' ability to move around money outside the regulated world of banks and traditional money-moving services such as Western Union.”

Authorities seized $25 million in 45 banks across the world. Two of the men indicted are still at large in Costa Rica.

Ladders on Everest: Is the Highest Peak Becoming Less Cool?

Tue, 28 May 2013 21:58:45 -0500

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(Image source: National Geographic)

BY CHRISTIAN BRYANT

Remember when summiting Mount Everest was a feat few people attempted and even fewer actually completed?

Credit goes to Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay for doing it before it was the thing to do. (Via History Channel)

But times have changed, and now getting to the top of Earth’s highest mountain is more a cafeteria line than remarkable climb.

Several sources reported this week the Expedition Operators Association in Nepal is considering putting a ladder on the Hillary Step, a rocky spot 40 ft before the summit, to help ease congestion. (Via Metro)

A writer for HNGN outlines the issue, saying “Some of the climbers [at the Hillary Step] waited almost two hours for their turn to continue up the mountain, in an overcrowding phenomenon that, some say, can be deadly.”

The plans come after the deaths of many mountaineers and Sherpas, and mountaineering officials believe the ladder will help with safety and overcrowding. But just how congested is it on Mount Everest? (Via Time)

This photo taken by a German mountaineer in 2012 shows not a colony of ants, but what Outside’s Scott Rosenfield describes as a “conga line” of climbers. (Via Outside)

Here’s another 2012 picture featured in National Geographic showing backpackers pretty much piggy-backing their way across the Hillary Step. One writer climbing on the 50th anniversary of the first American to summit the mountain reflected, “The mountain has become an icon for everything that is wrong with climbing. Unlike in 1963, when only six people reached the top, in the spring of 2012 more than 500 mobbed the summit.”

Experts on mountaineering say advances in equipment and Sherpa efforts have resulted in more climbers making it to the top of Mount Everest than ever before. Sources report on a single day in 2012, 234 climbers reached the peak. Compare that to just eight in 1983 and a slight bump up to 40 a decade later.

According to The Verge, veteran climbers feel the influx of inexperienced climbers on the mountain have devalued the sport. Forecasting technology allows climbing candidates to know the best days to make the trek, leading to many people going up on the same days.

The BBC notes two other proposed solutions that have divided the climbing community including limiting the number of climbers and issuing permits based on proven skill. But some caution restriction on visitors could also have unintended effects on the Nepalese economy.

The Toronto Star reports, “Expeditions spent almost $12 million guiding climbers and paid $3 million in fees to the Nepalese economy.”

Russia Giving Syria Anti-Aircraft Missiles; E.U. Not Happy

Tue, 28 May 2013 11:05:22 -0500

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(Image Source: PressTV)

BY JASMINE BAILEY

Russia announced Tuesday it will go ahead with plans to deliver S-300 anti-aircraft missiles to Syria.

“Moscow said it would help to deter foreign intervention… Deliveries of the S-300 missile system to Syria are done within the contract signed a few years ago… We believe these deliveries are a stabilizing factor.” (Via Al Jazeera)

In 2010 Syria agreed to buy four S-300 missiles from Russia for $900 million. According to PolicyMic the first shipment could come in about three months.

So what are these S-300 missiles and how might they be used by Syrian president Bashar al-Assad’s regime? (Via Wikimedia Commons / RIA Novosti archive)

Well, a writer for The Jerusalem Post reports the missiles could potentially be used to shoot down civilian planes — specifically those from Israel.... with the Israeli International Affairs Minister placing strong disapproval on Russia’s decision, claiming it would encourage “‘support to a brutal regime’ by completing the sale of the S-300 system while Assad was slaughtering his own civilians.”

But Israel is still hoping the sale will be suspended and although Russian officials insist it will still happen, the missiles have not yet been sent to Damascus.

The Israeli Defense Minister said "I hope they will not leave, and if, God forbid, they reach Syria, we will know what to do.” (Via BBC)

“The Israelis are being very circumspective, very cautious…about how they respond …Assad would like nothing better than to blame this whole mess on Israel… then all of the sudden maybe he stands a chance of survival.” (Via Fox News)

Russia’s move comes one day after the European Union’s decision to lift its arms embargo on Syrian rebels — a decision Russian officials have openly criticized as they have continued to block efforts to put more pressure on Bashar al-Assad.

“Russia is warning that the decision could torpedo next month’s planned Syrian peace talks in Geneva. As reaction continues to pour in the British foreign secretary William Hague has praise for the move.” (Via CNN)

However, the E.U. says the end of the embargo doesn’t necessarily mean it will immediately be supplying the Syrian opposition with weapons.

“Britain which along with France, supports arming the opposition to President Assad says it has no immediate plans to do so. The E.U. will also want to avoid endangering the peace talks that the U.S. and Russia have been working toward.” (Via BBC)

And those plans for peace talks make Russia’s shipment plans especially controversial.

Just Monday U.S. Senator John McCain made an unannounced visit to Syria — sneaking into the country to meet with rebel leaders. McCain is the highest-ranking U.S. official to visit the war-torn country. No word yet on what was specially discussed. (Via The Guardian)

The Daily Beast’s Josh Rogin first broke the story. He reports McCain met with leaders of the Free Syrian Army before returning to Turkey several hours later. One of the group’s leaders called the visit, “ … very important and very useful especially at this time ... We need American help on the ground.”

Bashar al-Assad has agreed “in principle” to take part in peace talks between Russia and the U.S. That conference is set to take place in Geneva next month.

Chinese Baby Rescued From Sewer Pipe

Tue, 28 May 2013 08:55:00 -0500

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(Image source: CNN)

BY JASMINE BAILEY

A miraculous and heartbreaking story coming out of China — where a newborn baby was rescued from a sewage pipe.

Residents of an apartment building reportedly heard the weak cry of the baby boy and saw a tiny foot in the toilet of a communal restroom late Monday and called for help. When they arrived, authorities found the two-day-old infant... (Via Sky News)

...seemingly flushed down the toilet. And the pipe that was reportedly only about 3 inches in diameter. (Via Irish Examiner)

“Unable to pull the baby out, rescuers went to the floor below and sawed out the entire section of sewer pipe. But still the baby remained wedged inside.” (Via CNN)

“The section of the pipe was carried carefully to a nearby hospital… It seems he was flushed down the toilet very soon after he was born. His parents haven’t been found.” (Via Al Jazeera)

The abandoned infant is currently going by name of the incubator he is recovering in — Baby Number 59. So now the question is why would someone do this to a newborn baby — especially a boy.

Because, as NBC points out, with China’s strict one-child policy — an attempt to relieve overcrowding — many families want a boy to carry on their name — girls are often unwanted. Other potential explanations...

“Some couples, for example, fear they may face heavy government fines. Sometimes there’s other cases where women simply get pregnant and they didn’t realize they were pregnant or they didn't want to get pregnant.” (Via BBC)

Baby Number 59 is expected to make a full recovery — unbelievably only suffering severe bruising. Chinese authorities are investigating the case as attempted murder as they continue to search for the parents.

Man Fends Off Cougar Attack with Skateboard

Tue, 28 May 2013 08:10:00 -0500

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(Image source: The Vancouver Sun)

BY BRIANA ALTERGOTT

Forget traditional weapons — a man in Banff, Alberta used only a skateboard to fight off a cougar attack.

“He was hit from behind, knocked to the ground, he elbowed back, didn't really know what was happening, but swung his elbow back, hit the cat and then was able to use his skateboard to defend himself and escape the area.”

(Via NTV)

He was walking on a dirt path, listening to music through earbuds and had his jacket hood pulled over his head, which might have made him look enticing to the hungry cougar, according to a park official.

(Via WWMT)

Miraculously, he wasn’t injured, and the area has been blocked off until further notice. But the cougar is still on the loose, which has park officials nervous.

“Cougars are very wary of people. It’s very uncommon to even see a cougar, and so when we have an activity like this, it’s very unusual and very much a concern to us.”

(Via Global News)

“I have a couple of children that like to play in the backyard, and my dog. So now we have to take extra precautions.”

(Via CBC)

Park staff say they may need to euthanize the animal if they find it, but they will try to figure out why it attacked before it comes to that.

Is Toronto Mayor Rob Ford Having The Worst Month Ever?

Mon, 27 May 2013 21:07:13 -0500

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(Image Source: CBC)

BY CHRISTIAN BRYANT

To those of you who thought President Obama has been taking a lot heat for Benghazi and the IRS, you need only look to our northern neighbors to see someone who’s really waist deep in a flood of criticism.

“Mayor Rob Ford has lost two more senior staffers from his office. His press secretary and deputy press secretary have left their jobs. Last week, Ford and his chief of staff also parted ways.” (Via CBC)

We’re not going to make the call on whether or not Toronto Mayor Rob Ford is having the worst month ever, but we will give a full treatment on the embattled politician and the recent allegations.

Reports surfaced last week from Gawker and the Toronto Star that a cell phone video existed allegedly showing Ford smoking from a crack pipe. Two of the Star’s reporters described what they saw.

Donovan: “The video, which appears to be real, shows Mayor Rob Ford in a room, shirt open, lolling back in his chair.”

Doolittle: “...He seems incoherent, he rambles...”

Ford was later dropped as head football coach of a Catholic secondary school for comments deemed “disgusting” by parents and teachers. Ford told the Toronto Sun’s David Menzies the school consisted of kids from rough upbringings and football was a “a carrot” dangled in front of students to keep them active in school. Teachers rebuked Ford’s candid assessment. (Via The Huffington Post)

Ford found out Monday two of his staffers — the press secretary and deputy press secretary — resigned amid the recent drug abuse allegations. Ford also apologized Monday for his harsh words toward the media. (Via The Hollywood Reporter)

Now this is where things get really interesting...

Gawker set up an Indiegogo account to buy the video allegedly showing Ford smoking crack... and they’ve surpassed their goal of $200,000. Although, they have the money, Gawker Editor John Cook wrote an update to the page, saying they’ve since lost touch with the owners of the video.

The politician used some time on his radio show Sunday — alongside his brother and city councilor Doug Ford — to play a little offense, calling the media “a bunch of maggots” and denying the video even exists. (Via New York Daily News)

“There’s no video, so... that’s all I can say. You can’t comment on something that doesn’t exist.” (Via Newstalk 1010)

Still, the Ford scandal continued to nosedive with this: A 21-year-old Canadian rapper named Corey Charron made a song called, wait for it, “Smoking Crack With Rob Ford.”

Drug abuse allegations. Staffers departing. Fired as head coach of a high school football team. And, on top of that, a 21-year-old rapper makes a diss track about you.

No word yet on whether or not Gawker will even be able to purchase the video of Ford that kicked this into motion, but MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow has an idea of how this thing might play out. (Via CNET)

“But until the video surfaces, and you know it will, it is the maybe crack-smoking mayor of Toronto, versus Gawker, versus the Toronto Star, versus the crowdfunding power of people... and eventually something’s going to have to give.”

John McCain Visits Syria, Meets With Rebel Leaders

Mon, 27 May 2013 17:59:33 -0500

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(Image source: The Washington Times)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

Arizona Republican Senator John McCain became the highest ranking U.S. official to visit the war-torn country of Syria after he unexpectedly slipped across the border from Turkey to meet with Syrian rebels on Monday.

“McCain’s office now confirming that the Senator met with rebel leaders, that happened earlier today. Senator McCain you may know, has been critical of the Obama administration … " (Via CNN)

Per The Daily Beast’s Josh Rogin, who first broke the story, McCain met with leaders of the Free Syrian Army before returning to Turkey several hours later. One of the group’s leaders told the Daily Beast, “The visit of Senator McCain to Syria is very important and very useful especially at this time... We need American help on the ground.”

In those meetings, Rogin says rebel leaders called on the U.S. to step up its support of the Syrian opposition by providing no-fly zones and airstrikes against President Bashar-al Assad’s forces. (Via BBC)

President Obama has been reluctant to intervene militarily in Syria. Despite reports of chemical weapons use in the war-torn country, the Obama administration has ruled out unilateral action. (Via ABC)

A senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, McCain has been one of the loudest voices in Congress calling for a greater U.S. role in ending the bloody civil war.

“We need to have a game-changing action and that is no American boots on the ground, establish a safe zone, and to protect it and to supply weapons to the right people.” (Via Fox News)

McCain’s meeting comes as U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry meets with top Russian diplomats in Paris to discuss ways to end the war.

Fire Breaks Out on Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship

Mon, 27 May 2013 15:10:54 -0500

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(Image source: Twitter / @RoyalCaribPR)

BY CANDICE AVILES

Bad luck for cruise ships strikes again. On Monday a fire broke out on the Royal Caribbean Cruise ship Grandeur of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean tweeted this picture showing the portion of the ship that was damaged by the blaze. But the cruise line confirmed everyone was safe and no guest or crew members are missing. (Via Twitter / @RoyalCaribPR)

The fire started just before 3 a.m. NBC reports it was contained to a small area and was put out about two hours later.

“The fire broke out on the Aft Mooring deck now we’re told there were firewalls on board the ship to help contain the fire and it was contained on board according to U.S. coast guard officials.”

CNN points out the fire prompted a quick change in plans for the ship’s destination.

“The Grandeur of the Seas ran into problems en route to the Bahamas. It’s now headed to Freeport for evaluation.”

The cruise line confirmed they got to Freeport safely and put up guests whose rooms were affected by the fire in hotels. (Via Royal Caribbean International)

This Memorial Day mishap is the latest in what seems to be a trend of cruise ship problems.

“In January 2012, 32 people died when the Costa Concordia capsized off italy’s coast.” (Via WPBF)

In February, a fire in the Carnival Triumph left the ship stranded in the Gulf of Mexico. The ship was left without power and running toilets for four days. (Via WKRG)

And earlier this month, an Australian couple reportedly fell over board the Carnival Spirit. The couple has not been found. (Via CBS)

This seemingly constant flow of nightmares has done its fair share of damage on the public’s trust.

According to USA Today, a Harris poll done in March showed 17% drop in trust for Carnival Cruise Lines amongst a group of 2,200 U.S. adults. Other rival lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Holland America also dropped, though not as dramatically.

EU Divided on Easing Syria Arms Embargo

Mon, 27 May 2013 12:28:18 -0500

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(Image Source: euobserver.com)

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

European Union leaders meeting in Brussels Monday are deeply divided over whether to lift an arms embargo which prevents countries from sending weapons to Syrian rebels.

“They’re considering a draft text, allowing countries to send weapons to Syrian rebels on a case-by-case basis.”

Britain and France are the most outspoken proponents of scrapping the current embargo, claiming that arming “moderate” opposition fighters will help protect Syrian civilians and force Bashar Al-Assad’s regime to come to the negotiating table.

But the BBC points out countries like Austria and the Czech Republic are weary — fearful that any weapons sent from the EU could end up in the wrong hands.

“The opposition is not a coherent bloc. Some are not moderates. Al Qaeda elements are known to be involved in the fighting. Britain believes a game-changer is needed, but most here don’t want to risk it.”

The Telegraph reports … “The Netherlands and Germany are trying to tweak the compromise text to avoid what one diplomat called a potential ‘catastrophe’ for EU foreign policy - an open split on Syria, and a free-for-all on who ships what, to whom.”

If leaders fail to negotiate new terms before the deadline Friday, then each individual country will become responsible for creating its own sanctions — and in theory, could choose to send weapons to opposition forces on their own without the approval of other nations.

Chinese Teen Carves Name into Egypt's Luxor Temple

Mon, 27 May 2013 10:37:24 -0500

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(Image source: News.Sohu.com)

BY CHARESSE JAMES

Teenagers just want to make their marks on the world. But one Chinese teenager may have chosen the absolute worst place to leave his personal touch.

The 3,500-year-old sandstone wall in Egypt’s Luxor Temple. The carved message? “Ding Jinhao was here.” (Via YouTube / rndomn8)

It was then photographed by an embarrassed Chinese traveler and shared on Weibo, China's microblogging site. A few days later, it was posted to Reddit. (Via Imgur)

From the traveler who posted the photo: “We [tried] to wipe out the shame with tissue, but it was difficult to clear it out, and we could not use water as the relic is a historical relic 3,500 years old. All of the … members of our tour group kept silent after seeing the sentence as we felt ashamed.” (Via CNN)

The vandalism generated a massive wave of online backlash in both Egypt and China. Angry internet users embarked on a — quote — “human flesh search” to determine Jinhao’s identity. After he was found, the 15-year-old’s information was posted online, his school’s website was hacked and he was reportedly harassed by nearly 90,000 internetters. (Via Reddit)

And his parents have been reaching out to local press, apologizing for their son’s actions:

“We want to apologize to the Egyptian people and to people who have paid attention to this case across China. He has realized he made a mistake, and we beg your pardon, please give him a chance to correct his act. The kid has a good academic record, but is a little introverted. This is too much pressure for him to take.” (Via Daily Mail)

This is just the latest Chinese tourist incident that’s gained less than positive attention.

In fact, earlier this month, Wang Yang, a senior Communist party member, urged Chinese tourists to improve their behavior overseas. According to The Telegraph, “He had warned that ‘uncivilized behavior’ — such as talking loudly and spitting — was damaging the country’s reputation.”

Syrian Reporter Killed by Sniper, Adds to Media Death Toll

Mon, 27 May 2013 10:07:40 -0500

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Image Source: SANA

BY NICHOLE CARTMELL

A well-known Syrian journalist has been killed by sniper fire in a rebel attack not far from the Dabaa air base.

Yara Abbas and her crew were reportedly ambushed by an armed group while heading from al-Qussair to the Syrian capital Damascus. (Via The Daily Star)

Al-Qussair, an area near the Lebanese border, has become a strategic area for battles between rebels and Bashar al-Assad led government troops.

State-run agency SANA reports Abbas has been added to the rank of "martyrs” after she was targeted by “terrorists”. (Via Google Maps)

Information Minister Omran al-Zoubi described her as fastidious, active and a faithful colleague, with “strong confidence in Syria, Syrians, Syrian media and in herself.” He also hoped she would be the last of the martyrs in Syria. (Via SANA)

RT reports more than 150 reporters have been killed in the Syrian uprising as of April 2013. Most of these victims were either civilian journalists or local freelancers working for professional media. (Via RT)

NBC Chief Foreign Correspondent Richard Engel and his crew were kidnapped and held for five days after being jumped by 15 gunmen loyal to the Assad regime. After his escape Engel pointed out, quote...

“While we are very happy there are many people who are still not at liberty to do this sort of thing. They’re still hostages. There are still people who do not have their freedom inside Syria.”

More than 94,000 people have been killed in the conflict that started back in 2011. (Via BBC)

On Monday Navi Pillay, the the United Nations’ High Commissioner for human rights, said the international community is failing to protect these victims from war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide, saying...

“...all parties to Syria’s conflict had shown ‘flagrant disregard of international law and human life,’ citing the government’s indiscriminate and disproportionate use of force... as well as ‘gruesome crimes’ by anti government forces, including torture and executions.” (Via The New York Times)

Pillay called for action from other countries to end what she called a “humanitarian disaster.” The European Union is currently trying to find a political solution. It is discussing amending an arms embargo, which would allow countries to supply Syrian rebels with weapons.

Riots in Sweden Bring Immigration Issues to Forefront

Sun, 26 May 2013 22:07:17 -0500

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(Image source: Sydsvenskan / Johan Nilsson)

BY MATT PICHT

In the suburbs of Stockholm, Sweden, nightly riots this week left burned-out cars, broken windows and dozens of arrests. Now the riots have largely calmed down, and authorities are left to pick up the pieces and ask: How could this happen in Sweden?

The riots reportedly began as a protest against the police killing of an elderly immigrant, but they quickly escalated. Up to 200 cars have been burned, as well as police stations, restaurants and a school. (Via Euronews)

As with the riots in London in 2011 or Paris in 2005, there are numerous theories swirling among the media as to what could have caused such an outbreak. (Via RT)

Community organizers and social workers blame youth unemployment and the disenfranchisement of the poorer classes.

They point to a report recently released by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, which showed Sweden has the fastest-growing income inequality of any of the 33 countries studied.

And many of the poor are immigrants, tying race and immigration into the already-complicated issue. Deutsche Welle points out the bulk of the rioting took place in the suburb of Husby, where 80 percent of the population are first- or second-generation immigrants from the Middle East.

“The communities were built in the 60s and 70s to provide inexpensive housing. In the beginning, it was poorer Swedes who moved into these areas, but after a while, more and more immigrants began to arrive … The Swedes moved away and the immigrants stayed.”

The debate now is whether the country’s immigration policy has failed or whether the state has failed its immigrants. A writer for Businessweek says Sweden has become an increasingly hostile environment.

“Stockholm has pushed its immigrants out to its ugliest suburbs ... Even if Sweden didn’t mean to isolate its immigrants in hideous towers, the immigrants’ location still sends a signal. You can live here, but you don’t get to belong.”

But many Swedes lay the blame on the immigrants themselves, saying they’re increasingly failing to integrate into Swedish society. And that view is gaining traction among Swedish voters.

The anti-immigration Sweden Democrats party broke into the mainstream in the 2010 election and now controls 20 of the 349 seats in parliament. The party’s chairman responded to the riots by urging a strict cutback in immigration. (Via Sverigedemokraterna)

A writer for the Guardian cautions the Swedish government against taking a reactionary stance, saying that like the 2011 riots in London, the causes of the Stockholm riots might be more complex than first appearances would suggest.

“Sweden's centre-right coalition leaders should resist the temptation of undoing decades of enlightened social policy. Instead they should ask themselves some humbler, lower-order questions about how the riots in Husby spread to cities around the country … Sweden needs to read its own riots with care.”

Sweden’s integration minister told the press that Sweden would continue to be an open and tolerant society, and the actions of a violent minority should not be seen as representative of the entire immigrant population.

Second Stabbing in Woolwich; Suspect in First Identified

Sun, 26 May 2013 15:15:38 -0500

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(Image source: RTV)

BY JASMINE BAILEY

Another stabbing incident coming out of Woolwich, a district southeast of London.

Sky News reports a man in his mid-20s was stabbed only about 300 yards from Wednesday’s scene where a British soldier was brutally murdered.

But authorities don’t believe the stabbing is related to Wednesday’s incident that is now being considered a terrorist attack. This most recent incident is not believed to have caused life-threatening injuries to the victim. Police are still gathering information and searching for suspects. (Via Daily Mail)

In the meantime, family and friends of Wednesday’s stabbing victim, Drummer Lee Rigby, mourn his death as authorities try to bring justice. (Via The Telegraph)

Immediately after Rigby’s murder, an onlooker captured this man on video with bloodied hands and still holding the weapons believed to be used in the slaying. He has now been identified as 28-year-old Michael Adebolajo. (Via ITV)

He and another suspect were shot by police before being detained. They are both in stable condition as they continue to recover in separate hospitals. However, authorities have now discovered Adebolajo was previously arrested in Kenya in 2010.

“Anti Terrorism officials in Kenya have been quoted as saying that he was arrested because it was believed that he was trying to train and fight with the Al Shabaab Islamist militants in Somalia.” (Via BBC)

Adebolajo, who is a British citizen, claimed that while being detained in Kenya he was tortured and sexually assaulted before being deported back to Britain without being charged. (Via Guardian)

The Independent reports “After the incident, members of his family said he was ‘pestered’ by MI5 agents pressuring him to become an informant for them and infiltrate radical Islamic extremist groups. [Adebolajo’s] … brother-in law claimed constant demands to get him to spy on Muslim clerics might have pushed him over the edge.”

British authorities also continue to look beyond Adebolajo in their investigation. On Saturday three additional arrests were made on suspicion to commit murder.

“Two of the individuals actually had to be tasered before being taken into custody in an investigation that is complex and rapidly developing. Since Wednesday some eight individuals have been taken into custody.” (Via CNN)

Of those eight, three have been released from custody. The British government is now reportedly in talks to form an extremist task force aimed at examining the presence of extremist groups in the county.

Syrian Government Agrees to Attend Peace Talks

Sun, 26 May 2013 14:50:52 -0500

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(Image Source: BBC)

BY MATT PICHT

The Syrian uprising against President Bashar al-Assad has been going on for over two years, and has claimed an estimated 80,000 lives. Now, Syria’s Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem has announced the Syrian government is willing to give diplomacy another chance to resolve the struggle.

At a press conference in Baghdad Sunday, al-Muallem said that the Syrian government would, “in principle,” send a delegation to an international peace conference about Syria to be held in Geneva this June. (Via CNN)

Al-Muallem’s announcement comes after both the U.S. and Russia pressured the Syrian government to attend. The BBC reports, both countries hope this conference will encourage each side of the conflict to move toward compromise.

“While the conference agenda is not yet clear, both Moscow and Washington have said any agreement should be based on the final communique issued in June last year … [which] calls for ‘a sustained cessation’ of violence and the establishment of a transitional government.’”

But the question remains whether Syria’s opposition coalition will even attend the talks. Coalition representatives are meeting in Istanbul today for a fourth day of discussion, and as Al Jazeera reports, leaders of the opposition are having trouble assuming a unified front.

“The delegates have so far not agreed on who will be president after [former leader] Moaz al-Khatib steps down. The opposition group is also examining ways to expand its base.”

The international community is putting increasing pressure on the opposition to review the talks. Ahram Online notes the failure of the Geneva talk to produce any resolution would be a serious blow to international hopes for a peaceful resolution to this struggle.

“...failing to reach a formula to end violence at the time of the conference will not change the equation, and each power — the US and Russia — will return to its previous position on the issue … More so, neither side will come under criticism for providing aid to either party in the conflict.”

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry is scheduled to meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Paris on Monday to discuss the particular details of the conference.

Is the Syrian Civil War Spilling Into Lebanon?

Sun, 26 May 2013 08:58:00 -0500

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(Image source: BBC)

BY ALEX MALLIN

At least four people were injured after two rockets hit a Hezbollah stronghold in the Lebanese capital of Beirut.

The attack came just hours after Hezbollah leader Hasan Nasrallah pledged to further support to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. (Via YouTube / Hands Off Syria)

It was the first time he had publicly acknowledged his group’s role in the Syrian civil war. (Via BBC)

Assad’s government has received increasing international pressure for its role in the two-year war, which has resulted in the deaths of more than 70,000. (Via Global Post)

But observers say the Beirut attack is a further indicator the war could be spilling over into Lebanon — as its northern region has seen heavy and random outbreaks of fighting over the past week. (Via Al Arabiya)

Because the two rockets hit just hours after Nasrallah’s announcement, however, it’s led many news agencies and Lebanese officials to believe the strike wasn’t random at all.

The first rocket hit a car dealership — injuring four people — though none were supposedly injured when another rocket hit the second floor of an apartment building. Three of the injured were Syrian workers. (Via CNN)

Syrian rebels have recently made threats to attack a Hezbollah base. A senior commander in the Free Syrian Army was quoted as saying, “We used to say ‘We’re coming to get you, Bashar,’ and now we will say ‘We’re coming to get both of you, Bashar and Hasan Nasrallah.” (Via Washington Post)

Nasrallah has defended his support of the Assad regime, and portrayed Hezbollah involvement as a symbol of a broader war against Israel: “If Syria falls into the hands of America, Israel, and the takfiris, the people of our region will go into a dark period. If Syria falls, Palestine will be lost.” (Via The Guardian)

It comes the same week that U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry pledged further aid for the Syrian rebel resistance — a point of contention among top U.S. officials concerned arming the rebels could place American weapons in the hands of radical Islamists and Al-Qaeda militants. (Via CBS / The New American)

There’s speculation as to where the rockets originated from, but Lebanese authorities say it’s still not clear who fired them. Lebanese President Michel Sleiman has denounced the attacks as an act of terrorism.

2M March Against Monsanto, Genetically Modified Foods

Sun, 26 May 2013 08:51:00 -0500

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(Image source: Facebook / March Against Monsanto)

BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN

What’s in your food? That was the question raised by nearly 2 million activists this weekend in a global protest against genetically modified foods and the driving force behind them.

“No GMOs!”

Organizers say demonstrators in 52 countries took part in the protests dubbed “March Against Monsanto.” (Via WYFF)

They’re targeting the St. Louis-based biotech company that produces genetically modified — or GM — seeds. These seeds grow crops which are resistant to things like pests and drought conditions. (Via News 12)

Monsanto maintains this allows it to increase the global food supply and points to FDA research that says there’s no difference between GM and organically grown foods. (Via CTV)

“Our vision is doubling yields in corn, soy and in cotton. So doubling yields by about 2030 using a third less resources.” (Via Al Jazeera)

But critics say GM foods are responsible for health risks and environmental problems. There are also concerns Monsanto has nearly formed a monopoly on the world’s seed supply. (Via WPEC)

“It’s the idea of monopoly on seeds, a patented monopoly on seeds worldwide that makes the whole question of Monsanto and the GMO question so extremely important in so many countries.” (Via RT)

The U.S. Senate rejected legislation Thursday that would allow states to require labels on GM foods. More than 60 countries already have mandatory labeling laws.

Google Attempts to Connect a Billion More Users to Internet

Sat, 25 May 2013 20:48:57 -0500

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(Image source: Google)

BY CANDICE AVILES

Is there anything tech giant Google isn’t willing to try? The company is attempting to build wireless networks in developing markets to connect at least a billion more people to the Internet.

The Wall Street Journal reports the wireless networks would be put in areas like sub-Saharan Africa and southeast Asia — places that currently don’t even have wired Internet connections. (Via Google Maps)

Early reports suggest Google might team up with local telecommunications firms in those areas to develop the networks and supporting business models.

Google can make this happen a few different ways. It can either create a massive satellite-based network or use the gaps in television broadcast airwaves — but only if government regulators allow it. Those gaps between broadcast TV channels are also known as “television white spaces.” (Via PC Magazine)

And if it doesn’t use TV white spaces, Ars Technica reports Google is also experimenting with blimps and balloons to transmit signals for networks.

This move has been in the works for some time now, as Google sees financial promise in it.

“More Internet users ... would drive online advertising on many of Google’s services. The company currently derives 87% of its annual revenue from selling online ads. The activities underscore how the Web search giant is increasingly aiming to have control over every aspect of a person’s connection to the Web across the globe." (Via The Wall Street Journal)

However, GigaOm seems to think Google’s goal of reaching billions of people might be a little far-fetched.

“Google is focusing its efforts primarily in rural areas, but if Google really plans to connect a billion unconnected people, it would also need to hit urban centers. Still ... it could have an enormous impact on the developing world. In sub-Saharan Africa, 3G and 4G cellular is practically non-existent.”

Google might have competition when it comes to accomplishing its mission, though. (Via Microsoft)

According to TechCentral, both Google and Microsoft are pouring money into pilot projects testing the potential of the white-spaces spectrum. If the companies get permission to use white spaces, “it could help bring billions of people in emerging markets online for the first time. The social and economic impact would be vast.”

Google has declined to comment on this topic.

French Soldier Stabbed in Neck in Paris

Sat, 25 May 2013 20:36:34 -0500

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(Image source: Sky News)

BY COURTNEY TEZENO

Just days after a British soldier was brutally killed in London, a French soldier on patrol in a busy Paris shopping district was stabbed in the neck.

BBC reports the stabbing raises concerns about copycat strikes following the death of British soldier Drummer Lee Rigby, who was beheaded in broad daylight. The two men arrested in Rigby’s murder said they were seeking revenge for violence against Muslims.

The Telegraph reports this attack is “being treated as a terrorist incident.”

The 23-year-old French soldier was in uniform with two colleagues at a railway station when an unidentified man with a box cutter attacked him from behind.

According to The Washington Post, police said security cameras show a man changing out of a robe and putting on European clothes before disappearing into the crowd near the train entrance.

“The lone attacker was described as a young man wearing a Muslim prayer cap and a North African-style robe called a jellabah.”

The French defense minister told CNN the soldier’s military service is what made him a target.

“The aim was to kill the soldier because he was a soldier … The attacker wanted ‘to kill a soldier who is in charge of French security,’ he said.”

The soldier is currently in stable condition, and while his injuries are not considered life-threatening, the chief officer of the district says his wounds are “serious enough.”

“Thousands of people were in the area at the time of the attack ... It would have been quite easy to blend into the crowd and then disappear.” (Via Daily Mail)

A manhunt is underway to track down the attacker. President François Hollande delivered a televised statement urging authorities to look at “all the possibilities” as they investigate the assault.

'Black Widow' Suicide Bomber Attacks Russian Police

Sat, 25 May 2013 13:55:00 -0500

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(Image source: BBC)

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

At least 12 people were seriously wounded after a “black widow” bomber blew herself up near a city square in the southern Russian region of Dagestan.

“The bomber has been identified as the widow of two Islamic militants. These so-called ‘black widows’ have been responsible for several suicide bombings in Russia.”

Five Russian police officers were among the seriously injured, with one at least one of the officers currently in critical condition. Police have identified the “black widow” as 25-year-old Madina Alieva.

Alieva was previously married to two Islamic militants. According to the BBC, “Her first husband was killed in 2009 and her second husband in 2012,” both by Russian forces.

Voice of America explains “black widows” get their name by the attacks they carry out in retaliation toward the Russian government.

“Islamic militants are believed to advise fighters' widows that they can be reunited with their husbands by carrying out a suicide attack. Such bombers are known as ‘black widow’ attackers.”

According to The Telegraph, Dagestan, where the attack took place, is “ … an ethnically mixed, mostly Muslim region … [it] has become the most violent province in [southern Russia], where insurgents say they are fighting to carve out an Islamic state ... ”

The conflicted region was also briefly home to the Boston bombing suspects Tamerlan and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev.

Tamerlan, who was killed in a police operation to capture the two brothers, made a lengthy visit to Dagestan last year and trained with a radical Islamist group. (Via Daily Mail)

There is no apparent connection between the Boston Marathon bombing and this latest attack. The “black widow” bombing was the second suicide bombing in Dagestan this week.

Anti-Muslim Backlash Spikes After Woolwich Attack

Sat, 25 May 2013 12:48:00 -0500

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(Image source: BBC)

BY JOHN O’CONNOR

According to several faith-based charities, there has been a massive spike in anti-Muslim related activity in England after a British soldier was hacked to death in south London.

Faith Matters — a helpline which takes emergency calls related to racially-based hate crimes — normally receives about six calls a day.

But according to the BBC, that number shot up dramatically after soldier Lee Rigby was brutally slain in Woolwich.

“Since the attack happened here in Woolwich they’ve had about 150 calls related to attacks on members of the Muslim community. Attacks on cars, racial abuse and that sort of thing.”

The Guardian reports many Muslims expressed sympathy for the family of Lee Rigby during their Thursday and Friday prayers, claiming the two men accused in the attack do not represent the beliefs of the Islamic faith.

But despite the outreach by Britain's Muslim community to disassociate themselves with the attackers, the Huffington Post reports there have been a series of attacks against Muslims throughout England.

“ … mosques have been targeted by lone far-right extremists across the country … The widespread nature of the attacks has caused concern that there may be a more prolonged backlash against Muslims than previously anticipated … ”

British police are taking the matter very seriously. They have already arrested a number of people throughout Great Britain for allegedly posting offensive messages on social media sites.

France Begins First Large-Scale Withdrawal From Mali

Sat, 25 May 2013 10:55:00 -0500

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(Image source: U.S. Air Force / James Richardson)

BY NICHOLE CARTMELL

France has started its largest withdrawal from Mali since troops were sent to the country just over four months ago.

About 80 trucks are headed back from a base outside Mali’s capital, Bamako. France originally sent close to 4,000 troops to Mali back in January to help push Islamists out of the country. (Via BBC)

That number is projected to be down to 1,000 by the end of the year.

France sent troops to the area back in January when the Mali government asked for Western help. At that time, Islamists had driven the country’s armies out of the northern region. (Via Sky News)

But over the past few months both French and Malian forces have moved forward securing key areas like Gao and Timbuktu that were once controlled by Islamist rebels. (Via Al Jazeera)

But this cut back of troops comes as an Islamist group took responsibility for deadly attacks on army barracks and a uranium mine in Niger.

According to CNN, the attacks were in response to Niger's cooperation with France in a "war against Sharia." (Via CNN)

According to The Wall Street Journal, these incidents highlight the concerning new trend that many of the same militants are regrouping in neighboring countries.

Intelligence reports from both the French and U.S. now show militants have set up shop at a tentative new base in southwest Libya--an area, which until now, drew little U.S. attention. A senior U.S. official explained the movement this way...

“It's a concern that squeezing a balloon on one end will create a pocket of terrorists on the other.”

As for Mali... the country’s army and a UN peacekeeping force will take over control come July, ahead of planned nationwide elections.