• Terrorists rejoicing over new Iraq 'plan' (December 6, 2006) - Reaction to Study Group: 'Allah and his angels' responsible, 'era of Islam and of jihad' declared A high level U.S. commission's recommendations for an eventual withdrawal from Iraq and for dialogue with Iran and Syria proves "Islamic resistance" works and America will ultimately be defeated, according to senior terrorist leaders interviewed by WND. The militants, from the largest Palestinian terror groups in the Gaza Strip and West Bank, welcomed the policies outlined by the Iraq Study Group, which they claim recognizes Islam is the "new giant of the world." The group is led by former U.S. Secretary of State James Baker. "The report proves that this is the era of Islam and of jihad," said Abu Ayman, a senior leader of Islamic Jihad in the northern West Bank town of Jenin. The Islamic Jihad terror group is responsible for every suicide bombing in Israel during the past two years. "[With the Iraq Study Group report], the Americans came to the conclusion that Islam is the new giant of the world and it would be clever to reduce hostilities with this giant. In the Quran the principle of the rotation is clear and according to this principle the end of the Americans and of all non-believers is getting closer," Abu Ayman said. According to Abu Abdullah, a senior leader of Hamas' so-called military wing, Baker's report is a victory for Islam brought about by "Allah and his angels." "It is not just a simple victory. It is a great one. The big superpower of the world is defeated by a small group of mujahedeen (fighters). Did you see the mujahedeens' clothes and weapons in comparison with the huge individual military arsenal and supply that was carrying every American soldier?" exclaimed Abu Abdullah, who is considered one of the most important operational members of Hamas' Izzedine al-Qassam Martyrs Brigades, Hamas' declared "resistance" department. "It is no doubt that Allah and his angels were fighting with them (insurgents) against the Americans. It is a sign to all those who keep saying that America, Israel and the West in general cannot be defeated on the ground so let us negotiate with them," Abu Abdullah said. Abu Abdullah said following a withdrawal from Iraq, the U.S. will be defeated on its own soil. "America must understand that with anti-American governments in Latin America and with Islam growing and reinforcing, including in the U.S. itself, the next step would be a total defeat on their (American) land, not a relative one like they are facing in Iraq," he said. Abu Nasser, the second-in-command of the Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigades terror group in the West Bank, called the Iraq Study Group report a "great victory" from which other jihadist organizations can learn. "The Iraqi victory is a great message and lesson to the revolutionary and freedom movements in the world. Just to think that this resistance is led by hundreds of Sunni fighters who defeated hundreds of thousands of Americans, British and thousands of soldiers who belong to the puppet regime in Baghdad. What would be the situation if the Shiites will decide to join the resistance?" commented Abu Nasser. The Al Aqsa leader said his group learned from the "Iraqi resistance" that jihad will ultimately destroy Israel. The Al Aqsa Brigades is the declared "military wing" of Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas' Fatah party. "If Israel will not start negotiating its withdrawal we are ready to launch the new stage of the intifada," Abu Nasser said. Islamic Jihad's Abu Ayman said after the U.S. "defeat" in Iraq is finalized, insurgents there should move to the West Bank and Gaza to help destroy Israel. "We hope that after chasing the occupation from Iraq, these jihad efforts and experiences will be transferred to Palestine, and yes, I mean that we expect these fighters will come to Palestine as part of a big Islamic army." See Ezekiel 38,39. more... | Iran | Gog/Magog | Israel | Islam | America |
• Follow God Or Vanish, Ahmadinejad Tells West (December 6, 2006) - Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has warned Western leaders to follow the path of God or "vanish from the face of the earth". "These oppressive countries are angry with us ... a nation that on the other side of the globe has risen up and proved the shallowness of their power," Ahmadinejad said in a speech in the northern town of Ramsar, the semi-official news agency Mehr reported Wednesday. "They are angry with our nation. But we tell them 'so be it and die from this anger'. Rest assured that if you do not respond to the divine call, you will die soon and vanish from the face of the earth," he said. The outspoken president also maintained Iran's defiance over its controversial nuclear programme, saying it was on course to fully master nuclear technology. "Thank to God's help, we have gone all the way and are only one step away from the zenith. "We hope to have the big nuclear celebration by the end of the year (March 2007)," Ahmadinejad said, echoing comments he has made on numerous occasions in recent months. A defiant Iran has refused to suspend its uranium enrichment work, a process that the West fears could be extended to make nuclear weapons. Iran however insists its nuclear programme is solely aimed at generating energy. France's Foreign Minister Philippe Douste-Blazy said Wednesday after a Paris meeting on Tehran's nuclear programme that the UN Security Council is agreed "there will be sanctions" on Iran, though their extent is yet to be decided.| Iran | Gog/Magog | Israel | Islam | How does their achieved victory with nuclear energy equate to crushing their enemies? I thought the developing of nuclear energy was to be for peaceful purposes. It seems to me that he's boasting of how it will help crush their enemies. It sure sounds like he knows something we don't, eh? I wonder what he sees Iran's "zenith" as being? Could it be an attack on Israel?
• Rabbis Urge Israelis To Revolt Against Government (December 6, 2006) - A group of prominent rabbinic leaders in Israel and abroad yesterday issued a call for Israeli citizens to launch a democratic uprising to bring down the government of Prime Minister Ehud Olmert. "Out of love for each and every Jew, we call on the people of Israel and its leaders to begin a democratic uprising to immediately replace this government, which constitutes an ominous threat to the nation of Israel," the Rabbinical Congress for Peace, a coalition of over 1,200 rabbinic leaders and pulpit rabbis, said in a statement. Among the Rabbinical Congress members who signed the statement were Mordechai Eliyahu and Abraham Shapira – both of whom served as chief rabbis for the state of Israel – and Rabbi Meir Mazuz, head of the Tunisian Jewish community in Israel and one of the country's most well-respected rabbis. The rabbis were responding to a national address last week commemorating the death of Israel's founder and first prime minister, David Ben-Gurion, in which Olmert stated he is willing to give up most of the West Bank in exchange for "real peace." During the speech, Olmert called for immediate negotiations with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. Olmert said he would release "many, many" Palestinian prisoners as part of a deal. The Rabbinical Congress for Peace labeled Olmert's national address a "crime." "In his deplorable speech, Olmert in essence announced a 'liquidation sale' and collective suicide of the people in Israel including the release of thousands of the most dangerous terrorists from Israeli jails. Israeli citizens must launch a democratic uprising and protest to bring down the government immediately," the rabbis said in a statement. more... | Israel | I think once the Gog/Magog invasion happens, the majority or at least a lot of Israelis will be this fervent in their religion. If God saved you with fire and brimstone from heaven as prophesied, would you wake up to the fact that the Bible is real and so is their national identity connected with God and their ancestors? I don't think the liberal Jews see the world that way now, but perhaps after they see God save their collective butts there will be stronger calls from Israel to rebuild the temple and that will be obliged. Then, a few years later, the man of sin will stand in the Holy of Holies and declare himself to be god.
• Strengthening the European Neighbourhood Policy - Foreshadowing of the covenant with many? Prophecy News Watch (December 6, 2006) - The European Commission today tabled proposals on new ways to strengthen the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP). The first 18 months of implementation of the ENP have shown good results. The new position paper aims to increase the impact of the policy, by proposing ways to help partners willing to reform to do so faster and better, and provide incentives to convince those who are still hesitant. The new proposals are accompanied by progress reports on Israel, Jordan, Moldova, Morocco, Tunisia, Ukraine and West Bank and Gaza Strip which started to implement their ENP Action Plans in 2005. The Communication will feed into work during the incoming German Presidency in the first half of 2007. European Commissioner for External Relations and Neighbourhood Policy, Benita Ferrero-Waldner said: "I believe that our Neighbourhood Policy is bringing real benefits to Israel and today we are offering to the country even more attractive incentives. They will bring the Policy into sharper focus, concentrating on key areas of mutual interest like people to people contacts, deepening economic and trade relations and stronger co operation on energy and transport. The Neighbourhood Policy has made a positive start, but the EU can do much more. We must rise to the challenge of promoting peace, stability and economic prosperity of our neighbours." Today's progress report on Israel takes stock of achievements since the Action Plan was formally adopted in April 2005. Implementing the Action Plan has better defined the path and framework of EU-Israel relations while deepening and strengthening co-operation in a wide spectrum of areas. EU-Israel cooperation has developed in the areas of political dialogue, anti-terrorism, promotion of trade and investment, justice and security, science and technology including space cooperation, as well as higher education. Furthermore technical workshops have been organised on a large number of specific subjects relating, for example, to preventing terrorist financing, promoting judicial and police cooperation, protecting the environment, and combating racism/xenophobia/anti-semitism. From 2007-13 the budget foreseen for the countries of the ENP is €12 billion, 32% more in real terms than in the last budget period. To maximise the impact and leverage of this EU funding the Commission will propose the creation of:

  • A Neighbourhood Investment Fund, to which Member States will also be invited to contribute, which would be used to leverage additional lending from the European Investment Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and other development banks. The contribution from the Community Budget would be €700 million. It is estimated that this fund could encourage lending of several times the amount of grant funding. If Member States were to match the EC contribution, the Fund could generate a considerable amount of concessional lending.
  • €300 million will also be set aside for a Governance Facility, to provide additional support on top of normal country allocations to acknowledge and support the work of partner countries who have made most progress in implementing their Action Plans.

  Today's Communication also proposes:

  • A clear perspective for all ENP partners, eastern as well as southern, of deep economic and trade integration with the EU, going beyond free trade in goods and services to address non-tariff barriers and achieving comprehensive regulatory convergence.
  • Substantially improved visa procedures for certain types of visitors.
  • Ad hoc or regular ministerial and expert level meetings with ENP partners on subjects like energy, transport, the environment and public health. This multilateral approach can usefully complement the bilateral work on which the ENP is based.
  • Strengthened political co operation, more systematic association of ENP partners with EU initiatives (foreign policy declarations, positions in international fora as well as participation in key programmes and EU agencies).
  • A more active role for the EU in conflict-settlement efforts in the region.
  • A strengthened regional approach in the east based on existing Black Sea co operation.

| Israel | Islam | EU/UN |

• Important Mideast declaration signed at Tampere EU conference (December 6, 2006) - The European Union and Mediterranean countries reached agreement in Tampere on Tuesday on a joint declaration on a number of issues, including the Middle East peace process. The statement confirms that the partners are committed to a just, comprehensive, and sustainable solution in the conflict between Israel and the Arabs. The text was accepted unanimously, although Foreign Minister Erkki Tuomioja said that lengthy discussion was needed first. In addition to the EU countries, signatories included Israel, the Palestinian Authority, Syria, Jordan, and Egypt. Signing on behalf of the Palestinians was former cabinet minister Nabil Shaath, who is a close advisor of President Mahmoud Abbas. The declaration was approved at the end of the two-day Euro-Mediterranean Conference of Ministers of Foreign Affairs (EUROMED). The text on the Middle East was fairly general in its language. Foreign Minister Tuomioja said that it is not intended to substitute any other initiatives and actions that have been taken on behalf of peace. "It nevertheless offers us important political framework for 35 states", Tuomioja noted at the end of the meeting on Tuesday. He praised the discussions held on the Middle East, which began at Monday evening’s working dinner, as "very good and constructive", although they were also time-consuming. Israel and the Palestinians began a cease fire in Gaza on Sunday. In the statements issued in Tampere, the ministers called for revitalised efforts to promote the peace process in the whole Middle East. Both Arab League Secretary-General Amr Mussa and Foreign Minister Walid al-Moualem of Israel’s arch-enemy Syria, expressed their support for recent developments. "We hope that the cease fire will be achieved also for the West Bank", Moualem said. | Israel | Islam | EU/UN | Signs of a move for peace. It will come. It will be shaky, but I think the missiles will stop for a time and the temple will be rebuilt. It will probably only happen after God wipes out the Gog/Magog invasion and the world will be too concerned about going against Israel to keep up what's been happening since Lebanon and before. Keep watching!
• Declassified IDF Photos and Footage Expose Hizbullah Tactics (December 6, 2006) - The IDF has decided to release photos, documents and videos proving Hizbullah's intentional use of civilians to shield its weapons, missile-launchers and surveillance equipment. Photos at link | Israel | Islam | Why do civilians get  caught in the crossfire in Israel? Because they make themselves or the terrorists make them be in the crossfire. Either way, it's set up to prevent attacks or make Israel look bad to the world if the attacks kill civilians. Either way Israel looses ground and that's the whole idea. Wear them down and run them out.
• Second Volcano Erupts in Russia's Far East in 2 Days (December 5, 2006) - A second volcano on the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia's Far East has erupted, spewing ash up to an altitude of 5,000 meters (26,500 feet), a local seismology center spokesman said Tuesday. The Shiveluch volcano last erupted in September 2005, the spokesman said. He added that the resulting plume poses no threat to the local residents of a village 30 kilometers (19 miles) from the volcano, but that there is a danger to aircraft flying near the mountain. Shiveluch, the northernmost active volcano on Kamchatka, is the second to erupt on the Pacific peninsula in two days. Local emergency services reported Monday that the Karymsky volcano has increased its activity, spewing ash up to an altitude of 6,900 meters (22,637 feet). Karymsky is one of Kamchatka's most active volcanoes, and rises to 1,486 meters (4,875 feet) above sea level in the southeast part of the peninsula. According to experts, there are more that 150 volcanoes on Kamchatka, 29 of them active. | Earth Changes |
• Finland Ratifies EU Constitution (December 5, 2006) - Finland ratified the EU constitution on Tuesday adding one more country to the list of member states having given the nod of approval to a document whose fate is still undetermined. The parliament approved the constitution by an overwhelming majority with 125 voting in favour and 39 against, with the Finnish president still to sign off the procedure, expected sometime next week. Finland's move makes it the 16th member state to largely complete ratification of the document and the seventh country – along with Estonia, Latvia, Malta, Luxembourg, Belgium and Cyprus – whose vote comes after the shock 'no' referendums by French and Dutch voters last year. Coming at a stage when some member states are quietly thinking about how to get all or part of the constitution back on track, the Finnish vote is a symbolic boost to the document. Paavo Lipponen, the president of the Finnish parliament, said the vote had produced "an even greater majority of member states in favour of this treaty." He added Finland has contributed to making a "front against tearing the treaty apart and starting from zero," amid expected re-negotiations of at least part of the document from next year onwards. more... | EU/UN | Solana | Herb Peters: "June 29, 2004: The EU’s heads held their semi-annual summit and appointed Solana as their first, super Foreign Minister. And, according to the new Constitution, Solana will also become the Vice President of the EU Commission once the Constitution enters into force. This position would place Solana over the EU’s purse strings."
• Hamas Chief Promises War Even if PA State is Established (December 5, 2006) - Khaled Meshaal, the Damascus-based leader of the Hamas terrorist organization, makes no bones: Either Israel leaves all of Judea, Samaria and Gaza and agrees to the 'right of return' - or war. Meshaal is officially the head of the diplomatic desk of Hamas, but is recognized as the #1 man in the terrorist organization. The target of a failed Israeli assassination attempt a decade ago, Meshaal told a Lebanese newspaper this week that Hamas will not hesitate to resume its armed warfare against Israel. Specifically, he threatened, "If within six months, the international community does not come up with a plan for the establishment of a Palestinian state in the 1967 borders [i.e., on all the land liberated by Israel in the Six Day War - ed.] and for the return of the refugees, the Palestinians will turn to an armed struggle against Israel." "We can have an intifada even when running the Palestinian Authority," Meshaal said, explaining that the ceasefire was not designed to bring peace, but is rather another stage in the war with Israel. "The current calm [cease-fire in Gaza - ed.], just like the escalation [before that], is part of the way we manage the conflict with Israel." Many Israeli military men and analysts have said that Hamas is using the current truce in Gaza to rearm and regroup towards the next round of fighting. Hamas Authority Prime Minister Ismail Haniye, visiting in Syria, echoed Meshaal's position in a speech at a refugee camp. He said the Palestinians will not give up on "even one grain of sand of Palestine," and that Syrian President Assad promised him that all the Palestinian [terrorist] prisoners incarcerated in Israel would be freed. more... | Gog/Magog | Israel | Islam | Maybe if Israel gives away more land they'll ease up? That seems to be the solution provided by the world and even Israel's faithless leaders. If they would only turn to God. Well He promised He would protect them from Gog/Magog. Let's hope they come to Him before He allows 2/3 of them to be killed after the abomination of desolation. They are blinded until the fullness of the Gentiles. Romans 11:25-27
• Turkey warns EU not to push it away from membership negotiations (December 5, 2006) - Turkey's premier warned the EU on Tuesday not to push his country away from membership negotiations, as the EU presidency backed a proposal to partially suspend them because of Ankara's refusal to open up to trade with Cyprus. EU "membership is part of a global vision, it is the most important project of the 21st century," Recep Tayyip Erdogan said. "It is an issue that cannot be sacrificed to small calculations and mundane issues." "To distance Turkey from the negotiating table would be a grave mistake," Erdogan said. "Turkey has nothing to lose. If anyone will lose, it will be the EU." The EU's decision to suspend or continue talks could hinge on Turkey's willingness to open up to trade with EU member Cyprus, something the Turks refuse to do until an embargo on Turkish Cypriots on the north of the island is lifted. The embargo stems back to Turkey's 1974 invasion of the island to stop a coup aiming to unite the entire island with Greece. EU nations are divided over whether to partially freeze membership talks. Some see Turkish membership as a way to anchor a moderate Muslim nation in the West while others are concerned over the impact on immigration, EU finances and Turkey's commitment to democracy and human rights. Finland, which holds the rotating EU presidency, said it backed the proposal to partially freeze talks. | Islam | EU/UN | That's a common tactic. Appease us or we will make life difficult for you. That and conquering by the sword. That is if they truly hold their Koran in high regard. If we can judge a Muslim by their holy book, then we better not listen to the lies they are willing to tell about being a "religion of peace." They're either lying or deluded, but since you can see what their book says yourself, and they claim to hold it so dear, then the answer is given already. Beware and keep watching. If we are seeing prophecy unfold before our eyes, then there is nothing we can do but make everyone aware. But given that it will happen anyways, I don't think that awareness will get much past those searching for Truth. Certainly not to the point of action. If the antichrist's power is worldwide, what better group than Muslims, who believe their destiny is world conquest by the sword, to be the antichrist's power base all over the world. Remember that the Bible says beheading is the main cause of a martyr's death in the tribulation when you recall what happened to Daniel Pearl in Iraq at the hands of Muslim radicals. Just wait until even the moderate Muslim believes his/her messiah is on earth. I think "moderate Muslim" will be a term of the past. Just a thought, we will see.
• Iran Urges Arab Countries To Eject US Military (December 5, 2006) - Iran's top national security official urged his Arab neighbors Tuesday to eject the US Military from American bases in the region and instead join Tehran in a regional security alliance. Ali Larijani told Arab leaders attending a conference here that Washington is indifferent to their interests and will cast them aside as soon as they are no longer useful. | Iran | Islam |
• Iraqi Christians plead for help from White House (December 5, 2006) - Faced with growing repression by Muslims, Christians from an ancient tradition in Iraq are calling on American political leaders for help before their entire community is extinguished. Christian Assyrians and some of their supporters demonstrated in front of the White House yesterday, highlighting an alarming trend reported by the U.N.: While representing just 5 percent of the Iraqi population, 40 percent of the refugees fleeing the country are Assyrians. One of the speakers at the rally, Nina Shea of Freedom House's Center for Religious Freedom in D.C., told WND that because of the "ethnic cleansing," the Christians want an autonomous district in Iraq they can administrate. The zone, called the Nineveh Plains Administrative Unit, would allow Assyrians and other Christians to practice their faith, speak and teach their language, and work their land without fear of persecution. Unlike the Sunnis and Shiites, the Christians have no militia and are completely defenseless, Shea said. "They need to administrate their own governmental unit to protect themselves," she said. "Otherwise, with the chaos and violence and persecution targeting Christians for religious reasons, which the U.N. has documented, they will disappear. Shea insisted it's in the interest of the U.S. to take a stand. With the loss of the highly educated and skilled Christians, she argued, Iraq is "experiencing a brain drain as well as sane drain – a force of moderation and a bridge to the West." | Iran | Islam | America | Coming soon to a town near you, Christian killers. I don't think it's as far away as most think. Imagine this kind of situation in your neighborhood. What would you do? I hope you would get as close to Christ as you can and remember you are an eternal being, saved by the blood of Christ. Have no fear, but be ready to face these things. Each situation is different, and while I believe the church will be gone before this kind of persecution comes to America, in this volatile world, you never can tell. Keep watching!
• Turkey Seeks To Boost Iran Ties (December 4, 2006) - Turkey and Iran have agreed to further strengthen trade and diplomatic ties following a one day visit to Tehran by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan Sunday. Erdogan was in Tehran to hold talks with Iranian leaders over regional issues, bilateral relations and Iran’s controversial nuclear energy program. Speaking at a press conference prior to returning to Turkey late Sunday, the Turkish Prime Minister said that Ankara considered its ties with Tehran to be of great importance and was pleased that the relationship was improving. Turning to international affairs, Erdogan said that both Turkey and Iran attached great importance to territorial integrity of Iraq. “I saw that Turkish and Iranian authorities have similar view on this matter. The situation in Iraq affects whole region. We focused on how we can stop the clash of sects there,” he said. Regarding Lebanon, Erdogan said that it was time for unity and solidarity in that country and that Turkey, Iran and Syria should work together to help resolve the problems there. Iran’s First Vice President Parviz Davudi said that Turkey and Iran were two important countries of the Islamic world and that they should work to boost bilateral relations. Not only the region but also whole international community would benefit from a return to stability in Iraq, he said. Erdogan also said that the two countries were working to boost their bilateral trade to $10 billion, though there was a need for greater balance as Iranian exports of natural gas account for much of this volume. | Iran | Gog/Magog | Islam | I think the Muslims will start to unite together against a common enemy very soon and I think we know who that enemy is, Israel. Notice that Gog/Magog includes Russia, Turkey, and Iran. Should this news come as a surprise? Not with our Bible's open!
• Syria smuggling missiles to Hizbullah (December 4, 2006) -  Long-range missiles, as well as truckloads of advanced anti-tank missiles originating in Iran and Syria, have been smuggled to Hizbullah in Lebanon during the past four months since the war ended this summer, The Jerusalem Post has learned. The IDF destroyed most of Hizbullah's long-range missile array during the month-long war, including the Iranian-made Fajr and Zelzal. But according to new intelligence obtained by the defense establishment, in the four months since the war, Hizbullah has received weapon convoys carrying short-range missiles, anti-tank missiles and long-range missiles. Most of the weapon convoys crossed into Lebanon from Syria at night. With the increasing possibility that Hizbullah protests, launched in Beirut on Friday, would topple the US-backed government of Lebanese Prime Minister Fuad Saniora, the Israeli defense establishment had decided not to take any chances and on Sunday raised the level of alert in the North. Israel is concerned that the Lebanese instability will ignite the situation along Israel's northern border. Hizbullah, Military Intelligence believes, might use the Lebanese political instability as an excuse to launch attacks against Israel - not necessarily by renewing Katyusha rocket attacks like the ones used during the 34-day war this past summer, in which 4,000 rockets were fired at Israel, but by firing anti-aircraft missiles at Israeli aircraft flying over Lebanon to collect intelligence. more... | Iran | Gog/Magog | Islam |
• Mullah: Iran-Turkey-Syria cooperation helps preserve Iraq (December 4, 2006) - Mullah Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani told the visiting Turkish PremierTayyip Erdogan cooperation among regional states notably Iran, Turkey and Syria is among major factors in safeguarding Iraq's territorial integrity and removing insecurity. Mullah said that due to common interests, offering plans by these countries on Iraq and holding joint commissions could be effective in this respect. The Expediency Council chairman remarked in the meeting that finding a solution to Iraqi problem needs an Islamic-International initiative for which the Organization of the Islamic Conference(OIC) is a suitable body for exchanging consultations and providing a plan for restoring security and tranquility to the war-torn country. He also noted that formation of a joint working group by Iran, Syria and Turkey would positively affect not only developments in Iraq, but also those in Lebanon and Palestine. | Iran | Gog/Magog | Islam | The alliances will come about. We know this because the Bible talks specifically about Iran and Turkey attacking Israel along with Russia (ancient Scythians). As you've heard me say in the last newsletter, I believe Isaiah 17 speaks to why Syria is not included in this attack. According to that chapter, they leave the cities because of the children of Israel. Could the defense agreement between Syria and Iran be the "hooks in the jaws" that bring them all against Israel? Keep watching!
• Netanyahu: Gaza turning into second Lebanon (December 4, 2006) - Opposition Chairman Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday, following a short period of silence, that "the desire to restore calm in Sderot does not match the desire for a one-sided ceasefire." The faction members called on the government to prevent Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh from returning to the Palestinian Authority territories, if he leaves to Damascus or Tehran as planned. "It is completely obvious that Haniyeh's coordination talks in Damascus and Tehran will deal with the terror activity against Israel," the faction said in a statement. Since the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip was declared, Netanyahu refrained from publicly criticizing the government, a role which was taken by other right-wing politicians and spokespeople. During a Likud faction meeting, the chairman criticized the ministers. "Hamas continues to fire rockets, and if it doesn’t stop there will be tragic outcomes which we have already witnessed," Netanyahu said. He added that "the restraint policy will lead to a dangerous situation in which Gaza will become a second Lebanon, as Hamas will be strengthened and because of the unilateral ceasefire. It is strengthening Hamas and weakening the moderates." The Likud leader warned: "Likud's policy will be different and will work to topple the Hamas government and to launch talks with a moderate government in the Palestinian Authority based on mutuality. There is a need to carry out a consistent operation to defeat terror in Gaza, to seal the Philadelphi route and prevent arms smuggling into Gaza." more... | Israel | Islam |
• Putin wanted Blair to gag poisoned spy (December 3, 2006) - THE Russian president, Vladimir Putin, has expressed his anger at Britain’s failure to gag Alexander Litvinenko in the final hours of his life, the cabinet has been told. Margaret Beckett, the foreign secretary, told ministers that the Russian government had “taken exception” to the poisoned former spy’s deathbed letter accusing the Putin regime of murdering him. This weekend a potential suspect — Andrei Lugovoi — admitted he had been contaminated with the radioactive poison polonium-210 but insisted: “I’ve been framed.” Beckett, who spoke to her Russian counterpart before Thursday’s cabinet meeting, said the Russians had “seemingly failed to understand” that Litvinenko was under police supervision rather than in custody. Amid signs that his death could cause a diplomatic row, Tony Blair concluded the cabinet meeting by saying “the most important issue” was likely to be Britain’s long-term relationship with Moscow. Another minister present said: “It caused some alarm that this case is obviously causing tension with the Russians. They are too important for us to fall out with them over this.”  more...
• Call for lifting borders separating Islamic states (December 3, 2006) - Head of Iran's Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Mines, Alinaqi Khamoushi  said that just as borders are lifted in Europe, the same move should be considered by Islamic states, IRNA reported. He made the remark at the fourth conference and exhibition on the strategy of Iraqi market and its executive strategies in Kermanshah. Khamoushi noted that the people of Islamic states are a single Ummah and therefore no borders should separate them. "Given the current shortages in Iraq, we should provide the Iraqi people with the facilities available in Iran. We are duty-bound to do our best to help our neighbor under the most critical conditions. "We should act in such a way as to build up mutual confidence. We believe that to have healthy trade relations, neither side should export goods to the other country without issuing the required documents," he said. The official said that Iranians can participate in establishment of new factories in Iraq or help reconstruct the damaged industrial units. "There is no need for Iraqi partners to invest in such joint projects. Iran's government will make investment and once the projects become operational, in the long-run the due amount will be repaid through turnover. If this is materialized, a major part of Iraq's problems will be solved," he added. He noted that according to the plans made at Iran-Iraq Chamber of Commerce in Tehran, every Iranian border province will be active on Iraqi market. The fourth conference and exhibition on the strategy of Iraqi market and its executive strategies opened in the border city of Kermanshah today and will continue up to December 6. | Islam | I wouldn't be too surprised if we start seeing this kind of cooperation amongst Muslim nations. They will eventually be united under the antichrist and if we are as close as it seems, this plays right into that ultimate destination. Islam will come together under their god. We'll just have to wait and see. If they have a common goal (destruction of Israel) perhaps it will help them get together.
• "Backscatter" X-Ray Screening Technology (December 1, 2006) - Post-September 11, airline travel security has invoked the increased use of technology and better training of security personnel as a means of improving travel security. Some of these proposals, such as improved training for airport screeners, checking all bags for bombs, strengthening cockpit doors, and placing air marshals on flights, do not implicate privacy interests and are sound security measures. Others, however, present privacy and security risks to air travelers because they might create data files directly linked to the identity of air travelers. These files if retained could provide the basis for a database of air traveler profiles. Recently plans were announced by the Transportation Security Administration to propose the trial use of backscatter x-ray for passenger screening at several U.S. airports. EPIC will make available on this page aviation security and privacy —related documents it obtains from the government under the Freedom of Information Act law about the adoption of "backscatter" x-ray technology intended for use in screening air travelers. The stated goal of these new proposals is to rely on technology to reduce the "hassle factor" in airports and to reduce security threats. The core idea is to focus security resources on suspicious travelers, while ensuring that most people are not inconvenienced by heightened security. Terrorists, however, have been known to go to great lengths to look like most people. Will a technology that will capture detailed images of potentially all airline travel passengers lead to greater safety? Current technology can successfully detect dangerous substances, firearms and other weapons without backscatter x-ray imaging of passengers. Can the goal of safe air travel be reached without reproducing a digital image of a passenger's body? It has long been recognized by security experts that it is impossible to eliminate all threats to airline travel. Is the application of "backscatter" x-ray technology a deterrent and not a solution to perfect airline travel safety? If this is true, then is the trade off in passenger privacy worth the effort to deter terrorists? The application of security technology and increased passenger screening has also resulted in an increased detection of non-violent criminal offenses. Is the application of "backscatter" x-ray technology to screen airline passengers more than just a means of detecting terrorists? | Technology | To see examples of this technology, go here.  For the picures showing why this is considered an invasion of privacy, click here.
• Pope hailed for praying toward Mecca like Muslims (December 1, 2006) - Pope Benedict ended a sensitive, fence-mending visit to Turkey on Friday amid praise for visiting Istanbul's famed Blue Mosque and praying there facing toward Mecca "like Muslims." The Pope, who sparked protests across the Muslim world with a speech two months ago seen as criticizing Islam, looked relaxed and pleased as he entered the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit for a mass at the end of the four-day trip. His first visit to a mostly Muslim country, held under tight security for fear of protests by nationalists and Islamists, was highlighted by a series of conciliatory gestures culminating in a stop on Thursday afternoon in Istanbul's famed Blue Mosque. Istanbul Grand Mufti Mustafa Cagrici, who prayed with him there, said Benedict had faced Mecca and stood like Muslims do when they pray aright. "These were very nice gestures," he told NTV television. "The Pope's dreaded visit was concluded with a wonderful surprise," wrote daily Aksam on its front page. "In Sultan Ahmet Mosque, he turned toward Mecca and prayed like Muslims," the popular daily Hurriyet said, using the building's official name. Just before leaving, Benedict said he hoped his visit was seen as "a sign of friendship between religions" that helps bring countries and cultures closer together. His gestures, including support for Ankara's bid to join the European Union and praise for Islam as a peaceful faith, seem to have persuaded the Turks to move beyond the tension following his speech quoting a Byzantine emperor as calling Islam violent. | Islam | RCC |
• The Coming Era of Magical Physics (November 30, 2006) - In the past year several scientific claims that apparently contradict "known" physical laws have been making headline news. Some are so contradictory to personal experience that their application would seem like "magic" if we were not already in an age of remarkable discoveries. In 1907 Lord Haldane, Britain's Minister of War, stated that "The aeroplane will never fly." Of course what he didn't know was that Orville Wright had already proven him wrong on Dec. 17, 1903 by becoming the first man to fly (the Wright Brothers didn't hold official public demonstrations until 1908). We hold Lord Haldane's comment up to ridicule now because we know how wrong he was. But even Wilbur Wright said, "I confess that in 1901, I said to my brother Orville that man would not fly for fifty years... Ever since, I have distrusted myself and avoided all predictions." Scientific history is full of such botched predictions, though when a scientist of rank and experience says, "it will never work", they are frequently right. When new scientific claims seem to contradict "known" physical laws objectivity is difficult to maintain, even for the best trained scientists. In 2007 three of these breakthrough discoveries and claims could either make it into demonstrable prototypes or be confirmed by other research labs. Some of the claims are already experimentally confirmed, some are unconfirmed but from credible sources, and some are scientifically unsubstantiated but just too bold to ignore. If confirmed they would be a "hat trick" of remarkable advances that seemingly contradict everyday physical laws. In colloquial terms they are: invisibility, anti-gravity and perpetual motion. more... | Technology |
• E-passports with RFID chips cracked (November 30, 2006) - The New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) is not concerned about reports from the U.K. that say RFID (radio frequency ID) chips in passports can be cracked in as little as 48 hours. British newspaper The Guardian reports it was able to access the data stored on RFID cards in Britain’s newly launched smart passports. However, the DIA says there isn’t enough information contained within the New Zealand passports’ chips to create counterfeit travel documents. DIA passport manager David Philp confirms that it is possible to access the information stored on the RFID chips and use it to make a clone. However, the RFID chip in the e-passports currently issued in New Zealand is just one security feature out of more than 50 contained in the passport.
  Having just a cloned chip isn’t sufficient to create a counterfeit passport, Philp says, and adds that such an endeavour is quite involved. While New Zealand passports are "highly desirable," the DIA has seen very few credible counterfeited ones, he says. While the general design goal of the e-passport is to lock the holder’s identity to the document in a secure manner, Philp says that there has to be a balance between risk management and customer service. The passport has to be readable around the world in a reasonable amount of time and ideally in more situations than just immigration. Philp gives airport check-ins as one example of where RFID-equipped passports should be readable. Making the e-passport harder to read is possible, Philp says, but it would make immigration processing take longer and inconvenience people. Researcher Peter Gutmann at the University of Auckland’s department of Computer Science is sceptical that the RFID chip provides any real security benefit. In fact, Gutmann goes further and says in his technical background paper, Why biometrics is not a panacea, that RFIDs in passports "are a disaster waiting to happen." German and Dutch passports have already been compromised, according to Gutmann, and this can be done remotely as well. He points to successful attacks by Dutch RFID security specialist Harko Robroch, who has intercepted passport and reader device communications from five meters away. Gutmann says eavesdropping on the reader was possible up to 25 meters. In comparison, the Guardian article says U.K. passports are readable 7.5cm away, a far shorter distance than Robroch’s interception, but enough in situations such as public transport, where people are close together, to siphon off the data stored in the RFID chip. However, Gutmann’s worst-case scenario for RFIDs in passports occurs not when they’re being compromised for counterfeiting purposes, but are used to identify the holder. The RFID chip could be used to trigger explosive charges and Gutmann points to a study that shows the current U.S. passport design caused a small, non-lethal explosive charge concealed in a rubbish tin to detonate. Terrorists could then target specific nationalities automatically, says Gutmann. | Technology |
• 1,400 Terrorists for Gilad Shalit? (November 28, 2006) - Reports of an imminent prisoner-exchange deal are once again in the air. This time, they speak of up to 1,400 Arab terrorist prisoners going free in three stages, in return for Gilad Shalit. Egypt's Minister of Intelligence, Omar Suleimon, is scheduled to arrive in Israel within the next two days to finalize the details of the agreement. Egypt figures heavily in the deal: the abducted soldier Gilad Shalit is scheduled to be transferred to that country, and from there to Israel, as part of the deal. The agreement under consideration stipulates the following three steps: An unknown number of Palestinian terrorists currently incarcerated in Israel for various crimes will be set free, immediately after which Corp. Shalit is to be transferred to Egypt. A second group of terrorists will then be freed, followed by Shalit's return to Israel. In the third stage, Israel will free a final group of terrorists. Just yesterday, speaking at a memorial to David Ben-Gurion in Sde Boker, Prime Minister Ehud Olmert implied that terrorists would be freed only after the kidnapped soldier is returned home. "I hereby declare," he said, "that when Gilad Shalit is released and returned to his family, safe and sound, the Government of Israel will be willing to release many Palestinian prisoners – including ones who were sentenced to lengthy prison terms – in order to increase the trust between us and prove that our hand is truly extended in genuine peace." more... | Israel | Islam | I'd say I can't believe it, but it's typical. 1,400 terrorists to "increase the trust between us and prove that our hand is truly extended in genuine peace." I want Gilad returned as much as anyone, but what they're doing is releasing 1,400 people who will most likely participate in more attacks against Israel again. I know Israel listens to what their enemy says, they don't want peace, they want Israel gone and now it appears that Israel will help them attain that goal.
• Olmert’s Speech Angers Many, Even in Kadima (November 28, 2006) - “How can it be that the Prime Minister, the leader of our party, talks about a new, broad diplomatic plan without even consulting with his own party members?” So say at least two Kadima members. The News First Class Hebrew Web site reports on two Kadima Knesset [Parliament] Members who have scathing criticism for their party leader and prime minister. “Because there’s a cease-fire for a day and a half, we have to go and promise a Palestinian state and the release of terrorist prisoners?” rails one of them, preferring to remain anonymous. Another Kadima MK said he categorically opposes Olmert’s plan as it was articulated yesterday, noting that other MKs feel the same way. Olmert said the Arab side must give up its demands for the “right of return” of millions of Arabs to Israel–but this followed a list of far-reaching Israeli concessions that he offered. Arab spokesmen refused Olmert’s demand to give up the “right of return.” Hamas deputy leader Abu Marzouk, based in Damascus, said, “We reject any deal that does not recognize the right of return...The Palestinian people will never give up this sacred right. Our people have been fighting for 58 years to achieve the right of return for all those who were expelled from their homeland.” MK Tzvi Hendel, of the National Union Party, was disgusted by Olmert’s offer to destroy more Jewish communities. “I have no expectations,” he said, “from a man who is so devoid of morality that in the middle of a terrorism war, and amidst threats of murderous terrorism from every direction, he is not embarrassed to promise the enemy the expulsion of the residents and the establishment of a terror state.” Hendel said he expects Avigdor Lieberman (Yisrael Beiteinu) and Eli Yishai (Shas) “not to betray their voters, and to immediately quit the Olmert government.” Speaking at a memorial to David Ben-Gurion, Israel’s first prime minister, Olmert said he believes Ben-Gurion would have supported his plan. But MK Gilad Erdan of the Likud said it is more likely that Ben-Gurion is actually turning over in his grave “at the military and diplomatic blindness shown by the Prime Minister.” MK Erdan said that Olmert “continues to ignore the warnings of the security leaders, choosing instead to deal with withdrawals and retreats instead of strengthening Israel’s strength and deterrence power.” MK Yuval Shteinitz (Likud), a former Chairman of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, condemned Olmert for offering to make an agreement with a group that has broken all agreements in the past. “The speech symbolizes the end of Israel’s determination to fight terrorism,” said Shteinitz, a former left-wing professor. “Olmert promises land to Hamas, which has murderously violated all the previous agreements and truces without changing its principles and charter.” On the other hand, far-left Meretz MK Chaim Oron said, “Finally, the mantra that ‘we have no partner’ has been replaced. The Government of Israel must act to strengthen the PA’s national unity government that will arise and conduct a real dialogue toward a permanent arrangement that will bring an end to the cycle of bloodshed in our region.” Internal PA negotiations for a unity government have been stuck for months. The Labor Party welcomed Olmert’s speech. Faction whip MK Yoram Marciano said, “Labor supports Olmert’s diplomatic initiative and peace moves, as…expressed [in his speech]...In response, the Palestinian Authority must stretch out its arm in peace and lay down its arms in order to create a life of hope and peace between the two nations.” | Israel | Islam | I guess I'm not alone in thinking this is a bad idea.
• Hitler's On The Verge of Victory (November 26, 2006) - HITLER'S dream is about to come true - with a Treaty of BERLIN next year. Britain and other EU countries will be tied to a single European constitution if German Chancellor Angela Merkel has her way. And the treaty would come into force on the 75th anniversary of Hitler coming to power. The power-crazed EU plan was scuppered two years ago by voters in France and Holland. But now Frau Merkel wants to use Germany's six-month EU presidency to push it through at a summit in Berlin on March 25 - WITHOUT asking voters. UK Independence Party leader Nigel Farage said: "They are not bothered about what the voters think." | EU/UN |
• The Gym of the Soul (November 15, 2006) - "No matter what, you can overcome your past," he said. "With help, if you look to God, you can overcome your past and be reborn." Hmm. That's an interesting quote. You may be wondering who said it. Sounds like it would be from a prominent evangelical leader, or maybe someone with a powerful testimony, or perhaps a youth pastor hoping to break through to a crowded room of young people. Or, would you believe, Rocky Balboa? Or, to be more accurate, Sylvester Stallone, the actor who created and starred in the iconic series of films about the down-and-out boxer who became the heavyweight champion of the world — several times over several movies. Stallone spoke of being reborn in a teleconference with pastors and religious leaders concerning the faith elements of the unlikely sixth movie that's due out Dec. 22. And, OK, I'll admit, it's my personal favorite series of movies. Except, perhaps, for that fifth one that never should have been made. Yes, I own the DVD boxed set. And now I'll have to buy a new one when the sixth — and theoretically final — film gets added. And, yes, when I dialed in, I was skeptical. Alright, I'll admit, I laughed out loud when I learned that the film was being marketed to the "faith and values" crowd. I believe my exact words were, "I'm not believin' this!" But then I listened in. Please know the reason I'm such a fan of the Rocky films is not just because they are about an underdog who gets a million-to-one shot at the title. I'm not even a boxing fan. But I love stories about redemption. Stallone reminded those of us on the call that the opening shot of the original film is of a painting of Jesus looking down on Rocky in the boxing ring in a rundown gym. And no, I didn't have to go back to verify that, I already knew. But, I've long wondered why he chose to open with that. I never guessed Stallone himself would explain it to me, but this week he did — oh, and to everybody else on the call. He first explained that he felt compelled to write the first film, and he believes that drive came from above. He said the character of Rocky was meant to reflect the characteristic nature of Jesus. "It's like he was being chosen, Jesus was over him, and he was going to be the fella that would live through the example of Christ," Stallone said. "He's very, very forgiving. There's no bitterness in him. He always turns the other cheek. And it's like his whole life was about service." But, Stallone confessed, his own life didn't follow the humble example of the boxer who made him a Hollywood star. more... Let's hope that Stallone really pushes for bringing some good Christian roles to the screen.