Anger over Pakistani support-English
Pakistan has agreed to support the king against the protestors
ONE Middle Eastern intervention makes the headlines every day. The other barely rates a mention. The first is ostensibly aimed at...
Pakistan has agreed to support the king against the protestors
ONE Middle Eastern intervention makes the headlines every day. The other barely rates a mention. The first is ostensibly aimed at protecting civilians and at facilitating change, the second at safeguarding the status quo.
Libya’s Muammar Qadhafi has been told he must go. Bahrain’s ruling Al Khalifa family, on the other hand, must stay. Some Arabs, one could be forgiven for assuming, are worthier of democracy and civil rights than others.
Yet the degree of hypocrisy may not be as great as it seems. After all, while the future of Tunisia and Egypt remains unwritten, there can be little reason to doubt that the US and its allies would prefer to preserve the basic structures of the Ben Ali and Mubarak regimes, albeit with new figureheads and, if possible, less visible signs of oppression and the odd concession to pluralism.
From their point of view, the ideal outcome in Bahrain would be similar: a few nods in the direction of cosmetic reform to placate the restive segments of society, but not much more than that — and certainly nothing that could jeopardise Bahrain’s crucial strategic relationship with the US, especially its status as a home for the Fifth Fleet. The trouble, of course, is the impossibility of rearrangements that could be passed off as regime change.
At best the prime minister, in situ for four decades, could be replaced. But he is the king’s uncle, and even if he could be persuaded, without occasioning a family split, to step aside, his successor would inevitably be another Al Khalifa.
That US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton felt obliged earlier this month to mildly berate the regime in Manama for its transgressions against mostly peaceful protesters was obviously in large part a consequence of not wishing the contrast with western actions in Libya to seem too stark. It is highly unlikely that the decision by Saudi Arabia and the UAE to send in troops was taken without Washington’s imprimatur, given that both are effectively American satrapies in geo-strategic terms.
The foreign troops, which are officially supposed to guard strategic installations, rather than assist in ‘crowd control’, were evidently despatched under a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) agreement dating back to Saddam Hussein’s neighbour-threatening rhetoric in 1990, which preceded the invasion of Kuwait. (His stance was thoroughly embarrassing at the time for oil-rich states that had during the previous decade supported Iraq in its war against Iran.)
That was, however, a joint defence pact among the Gulf potentates, to the effect that the violation of any GCC state’s sovereignty would be construed as aggression against all. Internal unrest did not figure in their calculations. Bahrain does not face any external threat, although there can be little doubt its emissaries have, in private discussions, conjured up the bogey of a threat from Iran.
Tehran’s domestic and foreign policies are often indefensible, but cables from Bahrain-based US diplomats over recent years, released by WikiLeaks, suggest it hasn’t lately been going out of its way to interfere in Bahrain. The Gulf state’s majority Shia population resents the almost exclusively Sunni regime because of irrefutable instances of discrimination rather than because of imprecations from Iran.
Given that at least 70 per cent of Bahrainis are Shias, it is hardly surprising that the majority of those who are economically disadvantaged fall in the same category. But their exclusion from privilege is not just a matter of demographics.
For instance, in order to keep out Bahraini Shias from the security forces, the government regularly recruits troops from abroad — notably from Yemen and Pakistan. And whereas the value of public representation can be judged by the fact that a royally nominated senate can overrule the elected lower house, even so the constitutional arrangements sanctioning the latter preclude the possibility of a Shia majority.
It inevitably follows that the monarchy’s supporters are mostly Sunni and its opponents mostly Shia, and even though the protests launched last month weren’t, on the face of it, sectarian in nature, casting them in that light tends to become a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Bahrain does not differ from its Gulf neighbours only in a demographic sense: it’s also relatively less well endowed with natural resources, and therefore poorer in per capita terms. And it has been rocked by popular unrest more frequently.
Referring to an uprising in the mid-1950s, Prof Fred Halliday noted in Arabia Without Sultans: “The British realised that Bahrain had a more advanced and therefore dangerous political character than any other Gulf country. Because the oil revenue and level of production was so much lower than in Kuwait, they had been unable to turn the indigenous population into a parasitic class with an enslaved migrant proletariat underneath. Their response was intensified repression, and a tightening of control by the Al Khalifa family.”
Notwithstanding the differences, however, Bahrain’s neighbours realise that if the Al Khalifas are toppled the Al Sauds, Al Nahyans and Al Jabers could follow. The marriage of tribal feudalism and modern capitalism cannot forever endure, but efforts will no doubt be made to preserve it for as long as petroleum remains crucial to meeting western energy needs.
In terms of totalitarian tactics, the Al Sauds in particular are more than a match for Qadhafi and his sons. But don’t expect any push for democracy in Saudi Arabia. Pressure for often intangible and invariably more or less meaningless reforms is at far as it will go.
Bahrain falls in the same basket, essentially. Were the situation to become too fraught, the US would probably begin disentangling itself from its intricate defence links with the troubled kingdom. In the interests of advancing potentially democratic interests, it would make much more sense to do so right away. But don’t hold your breath.
The Yemeni regime, meanwhile, will also continue, for as long as it is feasible, to enjoy the benefit of the doubt. Syria, on the other hand, is a much more likely candidate for the Libyan treatment.
More...
Description:
Pakistan has agreed to support the king against the protestors
ONE Middle Eastern intervention makes the headlines every day. The other barely rates a mention. The first is ostensibly aimed at protecting civilians and at facilitating change, the second at safeguarding the status quo.
Libya’s Muammar Qadhafi has been told he must go. Bahrain’s ruling Al Khalifa family, on the other hand, must stay. Some Arabs, one could be forgiven for assuming, are worthier of democracy and civil rights than others.
Yet the degree of hypocrisy may not be as great as it seems. After all, while the future of Tunisia and Egypt remains unwritten, there can be little reason to doubt that the US and its allies would prefer to preserve the basic structures of the Ben Ali and Mubarak regimes, albeit with new figureheads and, if possible, less visible signs of oppression and the odd concession to pluralism.
From their point of view, the ideal outcome in Bahrain would be similar: a few nods in the direction of cosmetic reform to placate the restive segments of society, but not much more than that — and certainly nothing that could jeopardise Bahrain’s crucial strategic relationship with the US, especially its status as a home for the Fifth Fleet. The trouble, of course, is the impossibility of rearrangements that could be passed off as regime change.
At best the prime minister, in situ for four decades, could be replaced. But he is the king’s uncle, and even if he could be persuaded, without occasioning a family split, to step aside, his successor would inevitably be another Al Khalifa.
That US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton felt obliged earlier this month to mildly berate the regime in Manama for its transgressions against mostly peaceful protesters was obviously in large part a consequence of not wishing the contrast with western actions in Libya to seem too stark. It is highly unlikely that the decision by Saudi Arabia and the UAE to send in troops was taken without Washington’s imprimatur, given that both are effectively American satrapies in geo-strategic terms.
The foreign troops, which are officially supposed to guard strategic installations, rather than assist in ‘crowd control’, were evidently despatched under a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) agreement dating back to Saddam Hussein’s neighbour-threatening rhetoric in 1990, which preceded the invasion of Kuwait. (His stance was thoroughly embarrassing at the time for oil-rich states that had during the previous decade supported Iraq in its war against Iran.)
That was, however, a joint defence pact among the Gulf potentates, to the effect that the violation of any GCC state’s sovereignty would be construed as aggression against all. Internal unrest did not figure in their calculations. Bahrain does not face any external threat, although there can be little doubt its emissaries have, in private discussions, conjured up the bogey of a threat from Iran.
Tehran’s domestic and foreign policies are often indefensible, but cables from Bahrain-based US diplomats over recent years, released by WikiLeaks, suggest it hasn’t lately been going out of its way to interfere in Bahrain. The Gulf state’s majority Shia population resents the almost exclusively Sunni regime because of irrefutable instances of discrimination rather than because of imprecations from Iran.
Given that at least 70 per cent of Bahrainis are Shias, it is hardly surprising that the majority of those who are economically disadvantaged fall in the same category. But their exclusion from privilege is not just a matter of demographics.
For instance, in order to keep out Bahraini Shias from the security forces, the government regularly recruits troops from abroad — notably from Yemen and Pakistan. And whereas the value of public representation can be judged by the fact that a royally nominated senate can overrule the elected lower house, even so the constitutional arrangements sanctioning the latter preclude the possibility of a Shia majority.
It inevitably follows that the monarchy’s supporters are mostly Sunni and its opponents mostly Shia, and even though the protests launched last month weren’t, on the face of it, sectarian in nature, casting them in that light tends to become a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Bahrain does not differ from its Gulf neighbours only in a demographic sense: it’s also relatively less well endowed with natural resources, and therefore poorer in per capita terms. And it has been rocked by popular unrest more frequently.
Referring to an uprising in the mid-1950s, Prof Fred Halliday noted in Arabia Without Sultans: “The British realised that Bahrain had a more advanced and therefore dangerous political character than any other Gulf country. Because the oil revenue and level of production was so much lower than in Kuwait, they had been unable to turn the indigenous population into a parasitic class with an enslaved migrant proletariat underneath. Their response was intensified repression, and a tightening of control by the Al Khalifa family.”
Notwithstanding the differences, however, Bahrain’s neighbours realise that if the Al Khalifas are toppled the Al Sauds, Al Nahyans and Al Jabers could follow. The marriage of tribal feudalism and modern capitalism cannot forever endure, but efforts will no doubt be made to preserve it for as long as petroleum remains crucial to meeting western energy needs.
In terms of totalitarian tactics, the Al Sauds in particular are more than a match for Qadhafi and his sons. But don’t expect any push for democracy in Saudi Arabia. Pressure for often intangible and invariably more or less meaningless reforms is at far as it will go.
Bahrain falls in the same basket, essentially. Were the situation to become too fraught, the US would probably begin disentangling itself from its intricate defence links with the troubled kingdom. In the interests of advancing potentially democratic interests, it would make much more sense to do so right away. But don’t hold your breath.
The Yemeni regime, meanwhile, will also continue, for as long as it is feasible, to enjoy the benefit of the doubt. Syria, on the other hand, is a much more likely candidate for the Libyan treatment.
0:41
|
[02 Dec 2013] The Kurdistan Regional Government says it has reached an oil export deal with Turkey - English
The prime minister of Iraq\'s semi-autonomous Kurdistan region says Arbil and Ankara have agreed on the final details of an oil export deal.
Nechirvan Barzani says the finalization of such...
The prime minister of Iraq\'s semi-autonomous Kurdistan region says Arbil and Ankara have agreed on the final details of an oil export deal.
Nechirvan Barzani says the finalization of such cooperation is a great achievement for Iraq and the Kurdistan region. He said that by signing the deal, the Kurdistan region will for the first time become a net contributor to the Iraqi national income. This, as Iraqi oil minister and his Turkish counterpart yesterday agreed that oil exports from anywhere in Iraq need the central government\'s approval. Baghdad says any independent exports from the region would be illegal but Arbil insists that it has the right to sell the oil independently.
More...
Description:
The prime minister of Iraq\'s semi-autonomous Kurdistan region says Arbil and Ankara have agreed on the final details of an oil export deal.
Nechirvan Barzani says the finalization of such cooperation is a great achievement for Iraq and the Kurdistan region. He said that by signing the deal, the Kurdistan region will for the first time become a net contributor to the Iraqi national income. This, as Iraqi oil minister and his Turkish counterpart yesterday agreed that oil exports from anywhere in Iraq need the central government\'s approval. Baghdad says any independent exports from the region would be illegal but Arbil insists that it has the right to sell the oil independently.
0:46
|
[02 Feb 2014] israel returns remains of Palestinian woman died 12 years ago during Intifada - English
Tel Aviv returns the remains of a young Palestinian woman who died during the second Intifada or uprising against the Israeli occupation 12 years ago.
Palestinians in the West Bank town of...
Tel Aviv returns the remains of a young Palestinian woman who died during the second Intifada or uprising against the Israeli occupation 12 years ago.
Palestinians in the West Bank town of Bethlehem were jubilant as an ambulance carrying the remains of Ayat al-Akhras arrived. The family is expected to bury the 18-year-old\\\'s remains on Monday. Akhras was killed in 2002 at the height of the second Palestinian Intifada. She died after she detonated an explosive belt in West Jerusalem al-Quds killing two Israelis. The remains of over 280 Palestinians killed in confrontations with Israeli forces are still held in Israel. Tel Aviv has agreed to return the remains of 36 Palestinians but has only released six bodies so far.
More...
Description:
Tel Aviv returns the remains of a young Palestinian woman who died during the second Intifada or uprising against the Israeli occupation 12 years ago.
Palestinians in the West Bank town of Bethlehem were jubilant as an ambulance carrying the remains of Ayat al-Akhras arrived. The family is expected to bury the 18-year-old\\\'s remains on Monday. Akhras was killed in 2002 at the height of the second Palestinian Intifada. She died after she detonated an explosive belt in West Jerusalem al-Quds killing two Israelis. The remains of over 280 Palestinians killed in confrontations with Israeli forces are still held in Israel. Tel Aviv has agreed to return the remains of 36 Palestinians but has only released six bodies so far.
21:25
|
[02 July 13] New Arab peace initiative - English
An Arab League delegation visited Washington and stated that the Arabs would agree to a resolution of the Arab Israeli conflict based on a return to the 1967 borders with mutually agreed swaps....
An Arab League delegation visited Washington and stated that the Arabs would agree to a resolution of the Arab Israeli conflict based on a return to the 1967 borders with mutually agreed swaps.
Meanwhile resistance movements including Hamas have rejected, while Netanyahu himself hasn\'t shown enthusiasm.
Is there some kind of deal taking place whereby the US will respond to the ongoing Arab calls to get more involved militarily in Syria on condition that Arabs on their side make this latest gesture to Israel?
More...
Description:
An Arab League delegation visited Washington and stated that the Arabs would agree to a resolution of the Arab Israeli conflict based on a return to the 1967 borders with mutually agreed swaps.
Meanwhile resistance movements including Hamas have rejected, while Netanyahu himself hasn\'t shown enthusiasm.
Is there some kind of deal taking place whereby the US will respond to the ongoing Arab calls to get more involved militarily in Syria on condition that Arabs on their side make this latest gesture to Israel?
49:35
|
[05 July 13] Egypt army overthrows Morsi - English
Egypt\'s army chief has ousted President Mohamed Morsi and dissolved the country\'s constitution in a move aimed at resolving the country\'s debilitating political crisis. General Abdel Fattah...
Egypt\'s army chief has ousted President Mohamed Morsi and dissolved the country\'s constitution in a move aimed at resolving the country\'s debilitating political crisis. General Abdel Fattah al-Sisi made the announcement on state television on Wednesday.
Sisi also said that new parliamentary elections will be held, and declared head of Supreme Constitutional Court Adli Mansour as the caretaker leader. The army announced the roadmap hours after its two-day ultimatum to Morsi came to an end.
Sisi said that the army was fulfilling its \"historic responsibility\" to protect the country, and Morsi had \"failed to meet the demands of the Egyptian people.\"
Meanwhile, opposition leader Mohamed ElBaradei said the roadmap announced by Sisi \"meets the people\'s demands for early presidential elections.\"
Egypt\'s second largest Islamist group, the al-Nour Party, also said it agreed to the army roadmap in order to put an end to the country\'s political crisis.
More...
Description:
Egypt\'s army chief has ousted President Mohamed Morsi and dissolved the country\'s constitution in a move aimed at resolving the country\'s debilitating political crisis. General Abdel Fattah al-Sisi made the announcement on state television on Wednesday.
Sisi also said that new parliamentary elections will be held, and declared head of Supreme Constitutional Court Adli Mansour as the caretaker leader. The army announced the roadmap hours after its two-day ultimatum to Morsi came to an end.
Sisi said that the army was fulfilling its \"historic responsibility\" to protect the country, and Morsi had \"failed to meet the demands of the Egyptian people.\"
Meanwhile, opposition leader Mohamed ElBaradei said the roadmap announced by Sisi \"meets the people\'s demands for early presidential elections.\"
Egypt\'s second largest Islamist group, the al-Nour Party, also said it agreed to the army roadmap in order to put an end to the country\'s political crisis.
0:46
|
[06 Dec 2013] Syrian media reject opposition accusation of government using chemicals in Damascus countryside - English
Syrian media reports reject the opposition\'s latest accusation that government forces used chemicals in Damascus countryside.
Syrian media say claims of a gas attack by the army in al-Nabek are...
Syrian media reports reject the opposition\'s latest accusation that government forces used chemicals in Damascus countryside.
Syrian media say claims of a gas attack by the army in al-Nabek are completely false and baseless. They\'re calling the allegation an attempt to justify the recent defeats of terrorist groups in their confrontations with army units. This comes a day after the foreign-backed opposition accused government troops of using poison gas. Back in August, hundreds of people lost their lives in a nerve gas attack around Damascus. Both sides blamed each other for the attack. Later on, the Syrian government agreed to give up the country\'s chemical weapons arsenal when an agreement between the U-S and Russia averted an attack on Syria.
More...
Description:
Syrian media reports reject the opposition\'s latest accusation that government forces used chemicals in Damascus countryside.
Syrian media say claims of a gas attack by the army in al-Nabek are completely false and baseless. They\'re calling the allegation an attempt to justify the recent defeats of terrorist groups in their confrontations with army units. This comes a day after the foreign-backed opposition accused government troops of using poison gas. Back in August, hundreds of people lost their lives in a nerve gas attack around Damascus. Both sides blamed each other for the attack. Later on, the Syrian government agreed to give up the country\'s chemical weapons arsenal when an agreement between the U-S and Russia averted an attack on Syria.
5:42
|
[06 June 2012] P5+1 unwilling to resolve Iran N-issue - English
[06 June 2012] 'P5+1 unwilling to resolve Iran N-issue' - English
While Iran and the P5+1 are getting ready to meet again in Moscow later this month, the Western side is ignoring Iran's request...
[06 June 2012] 'P5+1 unwilling to resolve Iran N-issue' - English
While Iran and the P5+1 are getting ready to meet again in Moscow later this month, the Western side is ignoring Iran's request for preparatory talks to set the agenda ahead of the meeting.
Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Saeed Jalili has written a letter to the EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton about the issue. Jalili has warned that the P5+1's foot-dragging on holding a preparatory meeting raises doubts about its determination to have successful talks in Moscow.
The preparatory meeting was agreed in previous negotiations to set the agenda of the main meeting. Jalili's Deputy Ali Bagheri sent two letters to Ashton's deputy Helga Schmid in May and June regarding the preparatory meeting. Bagheri says the response he received fails to address the agenda-setting talks.
Press TV has conducted an interview with Mohammad Marandi, professor of University of Tehran, to further explore the issue.
More...
Description:
[06 June 2012] 'P5+1 unwilling to resolve Iran N-issue' - English
While Iran and the P5+1 are getting ready to meet again in Moscow later this month, the Western side is ignoring Iran's request for preparatory talks to set the agenda ahead of the meeting.
Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Saeed Jalili has written a letter to the EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton about the issue. Jalili has warned that the P5+1's foot-dragging on holding a preparatory meeting raises doubts about its determination to have successful talks in Moscow.
The preparatory meeting was agreed in previous negotiations to set the agenda of the main meeting. Jalili's Deputy Ali Bagheri sent two letters to Ashton's deputy Helga Schmid in May and June regarding the preparatory meeting. Bagheri says the response he received fails to address the agenda-setting talks.
Press TV has conducted an interview with Mohammad Marandi, professor of University of Tehran, to further explore the issue.
0:49
|
[10 Dec 2013] Newly emerged letter revealed that Saudi Arabia has send many criminals for fighting in Syria - English
A newly-emerged letter on social media has revealed that Saudi Arabia agreed to the plan to send many criminals for fighting in Syria back in 20-12.
The letter was apparently issued by the Arab...
A newly-emerged letter on social media has revealed that Saudi Arabia agreed to the plan to send many criminals for fighting in Syria back in 20-12.
The letter was apparently issued by the Arab monarchy\'s Interior Ministry in March last year. It says the accused were from different nationalities. They would receive amnesty if they agreed to being trained and sent to Syria for fighting the government of President Bashar al-Assad. The letter also shows that most of the criminals were convicted of drug-related offences, murder, and rape, and had to be beheaded by sword under Saudi law. Syria\'s envoy to the U-N had earlier revealed that SAUDI criminals were among the militants fighting against Damascus. Bashar al-Ja\'fari said the Saudi intelligence was aware of the presence of such criminals in Syria.
More...
Description:
A newly-emerged letter on social media has revealed that Saudi Arabia agreed to the plan to send many criminals for fighting in Syria back in 20-12.
The letter was apparently issued by the Arab monarchy\'s Interior Ministry in March last year. It says the accused were from different nationalities. They would receive amnesty if they agreed to being trained and sent to Syria for fighting the government of President Bashar al-Assad. The letter also shows that most of the criminals were convicted of drug-related offences, murder, and rape, and had to be beheaded by sword under Saudi law. Syria\'s envoy to the U-N had earlier revealed that SAUDI criminals were among the militants fighting against Damascus. Bashar al-Ja\'fari said the Saudi intelligence was aware of the presence of such criminals in Syria.
5:06
|
[10 Dec 2013] OPCW pres says israel others should join chemical arms treaty - English
The head of the Organization for Prohibition of Chemical Weapons the OPCW says Israel and several other countries should join the chemical arms treaty.
Ahmed Uzum-ju received the Nobel Peace...
The head of the Organization for Prohibition of Chemical Weapons the OPCW says Israel and several other countries should join the chemical arms treaty.
Ahmed Uzum-ju received the Nobel Peace Prize on behalf of the Organization in Oslo. The Hague based organization was awarded the prize for its efforts to eliminate Syria\'s chemical arms arsenal. The OPCW sent experts to Syria after a sarin gas attack killed more than 1400 people in the Damascus Countryside in August. Both the government and foreign backed insurgents blamed each other for the attack. Later on, the Syrian government agreed to give up the country\'s chemical weapons arsenal to avert a US attack on Syrian soil.
More...
Description:
The head of the Organization for Prohibition of Chemical Weapons the OPCW says Israel and several other countries should join the chemical arms treaty.
Ahmed Uzum-ju received the Nobel Peace Prize on behalf of the Organization in Oslo. The Hague based organization was awarded the prize for its efforts to eliminate Syria\'s chemical arms arsenal. The OPCW sent experts to Syria after a sarin gas attack killed more than 1400 people in the Damascus Countryside in August. Both the government and foreign backed insurgents blamed each other for the attack. Later on, the Syrian government agreed to give up the country\'s chemical weapons arsenal to avert a US attack on Syrian soil.
0:32
|
1:55
|
[11 Dec 2013] Iran met its first obligation under the IAEA agreement allowing inspection of Arak\'s facilities - English
Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency have wrapped up what\'s been desrcibed as a productive meeting on Tehran\'s nuclear energy program in the Austrian capital. The two sides will hold a...
Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency have wrapped up what\'s been desrcibed as a productive meeting on Tehran\'s nuclear energy program in the Austrian capital. The two sides will hold a fresh round of talks in Tehran on January 21.
The latest talks follow a recent nuclear deal between Iran and the permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany. Tehran also earlier agreed to provide the I-A-E-A access to formerly off-limit sites. Iran met its first obligation under the I-A-E-A agreement at the weekend, by allowing the UN nuclear agency inspectors to visit Arak\'s heavy-water facility.
More...
Description:
Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency have wrapped up what\'s been desrcibed as a productive meeting on Tehran\'s nuclear energy program in the Austrian capital. The two sides will hold a fresh round of talks in Tehran on January 21.
The latest talks follow a recent nuclear deal between Iran and the permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany. Tehran also earlier agreed to provide the I-A-E-A access to formerly off-limit sites. Iran met its first obligation under the I-A-E-A agreement at the weekend, by allowing the UN nuclear agency inspectors to visit Arak\'s heavy-water facility.
1:52
|
[11 Dec 2013] US senators to introduce bill to impose new measure against Iran - English
A group of defiant US lawmakers will introduce a bill to impose more sanctions on Iran despite Washington\'s efforts to hold off new measures.
Senate aides say a vote on the bipartisan plan is...
A group of defiant US lawmakers will introduce a bill to impose more sanctions on Iran despite Washington\'s efforts to hold off new measures.
Senate aides say a vote on the bipartisan plan is expected in January. The bill aims to target Iran\'s remaining oil exports and foreign exchange. The administration of President Barack Obama has been calling on lawmakers to delay any more sanctions as a diplomatic path with Tehran is pursued. Iran and the P5+1 group reached a nuclear deal in Geneva last month. Tehran agreed to limit its nuclear energy program in exchange for some sanctions relief. The sides have agreed to work to reach a comprehensive deal in six months. Tehran has warned that new US sanctions will kill the Geneva deal.
More...
Description:
A group of defiant US lawmakers will introduce a bill to impose more sanctions on Iran despite Washington\'s efforts to hold off new measures.
Senate aides say a vote on the bipartisan plan is expected in January. The bill aims to target Iran\'s remaining oil exports and foreign exchange. The administration of President Barack Obama has been calling on lawmakers to delay any more sanctions as a diplomatic path with Tehran is pursued. Iran and the P5+1 group reached a nuclear deal in Geneva last month. Tehran agreed to limit its nuclear energy program in exchange for some sanctions relief. The sides have agreed to work to reach a comprehensive deal in six months. Tehran has warned that new US sanctions will kill the Geneva deal.
2:59
|
[11 Feb 2014] Russia criticizes US for adding individuals & companies to sanctions list - English
Russia has criticized the United States\' recent decision to blacklist a number of individuals and companies for evading sanctions against Iran.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov says...
Russia has criticized the United States\' recent decision to blacklist a number of individuals and companies for evading sanctions against Iran.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov says the US measure will hinder progress on ending the standoff over Iran\'s nuclear energy program. Ryabkov added that the unilateral U-S sanctions are illegitimate. Last November, Iran and the five permanent members of the U-N Security Council plus Germany reached a landmark agreement on Tehran\'s nuclear energy program. Under the deal, Iran agreed to limit its nuclear activities in return for the West easing its anti-Tehran sanctions. In late January, the two sides implemented the deal, with the West easing some of its sanctions.
More...
Description:
Russia has criticized the United States\' recent decision to blacklist a number of individuals and companies for evading sanctions against Iran.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov says the US measure will hinder progress on ending the standoff over Iran\'s nuclear energy program. Ryabkov added that the unilateral U-S sanctions are illegitimate. Last November, Iran and the five permanent members of the U-N Security Council plus Germany reached a landmark agreement on Tehran\'s nuclear energy program. Under the deal, Iran agreed to limit its nuclear activities in return for the West easing its anti-Tehran sanctions. In late January, the two sides implemented the deal, with the West easing some of its sanctions.
1:46
|
[11 Feb 2014] Syria Deputy Foreign Minister says no agenda has been agreed on for peace talks in Geneva - English
Syria\'s Deputy Foreign Minister says no agenda has been agreed on for the so-called peace talks in Geneva, blaming the opposition party of refusing to discuss the issue of terrorism.
Meqdad...
Syria\'s Deputy Foreign Minister says no agenda has been agreed on for the so-called peace talks in Geneva, blaming the opposition party of refusing to discuss the issue of terrorism.
Meqdad added that the opposition is only trying to waste time. He made the remarks after holding the second round of negotiations with the foreign-backed opposition in Geneva. The first round of talks last month produced no tangible results, with each side blaming the other for the ongoing violence. But according to U-N envoy, Lakhdar Brahimi, some common ground was reached.
More...
Description:
Syria\'s Deputy Foreign Minister says no agenda has been agreed on for the so-called peace talks in Geneva, blaming the opposition party of refusing to discuss the issue of terrorism.
Meqdad added that the opposition is only trying to waste time. He made the remarks after holding the second round of negotiations with the foreign-backed opposition in Geneva. The first round of talks last month produced no tangible results, with each side blaming the other for the ongoing violence. But according to U-N envoy, Lakhdar Brahimi, some common ground was reached.
7:56
|
23:41
|
[13 Dec 2013] The Debate - New Iran Sanctions Despite Deal - English
Under the Geneva deal reached between Iran and the world powers, Washington had agreed to refrain from slapping new sanctions on Iran. So why has Washington decided to blacklist Iranian individuals...
Under the Geneva deal reached between Iran and the world powers, Washington had agreed to refrain from slapping new sanctions on Iran. So why has Washington decided to blacklist Iranian individuals and companies?
The US response: We carried out the new sanctions within the framework of the existing sanctions regime which had forced Tehran to the negotiating table and did not constitute new measures. But the US Undersecretary of State Wendy Sherman, insists that Congress could theoretically keep imposing new sanctions on Iran as long as they do not make it about their nuclear program. Sherman said \"the only commitment we have made in this agreement is no new nuclear-related sanctions.\" What does Sherman\'s remark signify?
Is there a disparity and division between the US Congress and the Obama administration, Israel\'s continued efforts to sabotage the nuclear deal, and the chances of this nuclear deal falling apart.
More...
Description:
Under the Geneva deal reached between Iran and the world powers, Washington had agreed to refrain from slapping new sanctions on Iran. So why has Washington decided to blacklist Iranian individuals and companies?
The US response: We carried out the new sanctions within the framework of the existing sanctions regime which had forced Tehran to the negotiating table and did not constitute new measures. But the US Undersecretary of State Wendy Sherman, insists that Congress could theoretically keep imposing new sanctions on Iran as long as they do not make it about their nuclear program. Sherman said \"the only commitment we have made in this agreement is no new nuclear-related sanctions.\" What does Sherman\'s remark signify?
Is there a disparity and division between the US Congress and the Obama administration, Israel\'s continued efforts to sabotage the nuclear deal, and the chances of this nuclear deal falling apart.
1:54
|
[13 Dec 2013] UN chief deplores use of chemical weapons in Syria - English
The UN secretary-general has deplored the use of chemical weapons in Syria and has called on the international community to sanction those responsible for the chemical attacks.
Ban Ki-moon\'s...
The UN secretary-general has deplored the use of chemical weapons in Syria and has called on the international community to sanction those responsible for the chemical attacks.
Ban Ki-moon\'s statement came a day after a UN report concluded that banned chemical weapons were used at least five times before Damascus agreed to dismantle its arsenal. However, the report did not lay blame for the attacks. The report said evidence indicated chemical weapons were probably used in Khan al-Assal outside Aleppo on March 19 against soldiers and civilians. The government and opposition accused each other of using chemical weapons at Khan al-Assal, and the report said none of the parties in Syria denied their use in the village. Swedish expert Ake Sellstrom, who led the UN investigation team that compiled the report, reminded reporters that the mandate did not allow him to point the finger at anyone.
More...
Description:
The UN secretary-general has deplored the use of chemical weapons in Syria and has called on the international community to sanction those responsible for the chemical attacks.
Ban Ki-moon\'s statement came a day after a UN report concluded that banned chemical weapons were used at least five times before Damascus agreed to dismantle its arsenal. However, the report did not lay blame for the attacks. The report said evidence indicated chemical weapons were probably used in Khan al-Assal outside Aleppo on March 19 against soldiers and civilians. The government and opposition accused each other of using chemical weapons at Khan al-Assal, and the report said none of the parties in Syria denied their use in the village. Swedish expert Ake Sellstrom, who led the UN investigation team that compiled the report, reminded reporters that the mandate did not allow him to point the finger at anyone.
2:32
|
[13 June 2012] Russia FM visits Iran - English
[13 June 2012] Russia FM visits Iran - English
Russia's foreign minister Sergei Lavrov in Tehran With less than a week to the scheduled comprehensive talks between Iran and the p5+1group, that...
[13 June 2012] Russia FM visits Iran - English
Russia's foreign minister Sergei Lavrov in Tehran With less than a week to the scheduled comprehensive talks between Iran and the p5+1group, that includes also Russia, Russia's Foreign minister has made an official visit to Tehran to discuss issues ranging from bilateral ties to the Moscow talks and the developments in Syria.During his meeting with a number of Iranian officials including Secretary of Iran's Supreme National security council Saeed Jalili and his Iranian counterpart Ali Akbar Salehi, in which both sides called for an increase in the volume of bilateral trade which currently stands at 3 billion dollars annually.
Right after the meeting the two ministers held a joint press conference, both sides said they hold similar views regarding the situation in Syria. Meanwhile Iran's foreign minister Ali Akbar Salehi referring to the upcoming talks between Iran and the p5+1 group due in Moscow noted that the results of the negotiations would be fruitful if they're based on cooperation.
Lavrov for his part said that Moscow is to invite around 15 countries, including Iran, for an international meeting on Syria. He further noted that said the conference would call for the implementation of the plan by UN-Arab League joint envoy Kofi Annan. Kofi Annan's six-point peace plan for Syria launched in February 2012 is considered as the most serious international attempt to resolve the Syrian unrest. Lavrov's official visit to Tehran comes only days after the Presidents of Iran and Russia met on the sideline of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in China. The two presidents had agreed to boost bilateral cooperation in different fields
More...
Description:
[13 June 2012] Russia FM visits Iran - English
Russia's foreign minister Sergei Lavrov in Tehran With less than a week to the scheduled comprehensive talks between Iran and the p5+1group, that includes also Russia, Russia's Foreign minister has made an official visit to Tehran to discuss issues ranging from bilateral ties to the Moscow talks and the developments in Syria.During his meeting with a number of Iranian officials including Secretary of Iran's Supreme National security council Saeed Jalili and his Iranian counterpart Ali Akbar Salehi, in which both sides called for an increase in the volume of bilateral trade which currently stands at 3 billion dollars annually.
Right after the meeting the two ministers held a joint press conference, both sides said they hold similar views regarding the situation in Syria. Meanwhile Iran's foreign minister Ali Akbar Salehi referring to the upcoming talks between Iran and the p5+1 group due in Moscow noted that the results of the negotiations would be fruitful if they're based on cooperation.
Lavrov for his part said that Moscow is to invite around 15 countries, including Iran, for an international meeting on Syria. He further noted that said the conference would call for the implementation of the plan by UN-Arab League joint envoy Kofi Annan. Kofi Annan's six-point peace plan for Syria launched in February 2012 is considered as the most serious international attempt to resolve the Syrian unrest. Lavrov's official visit to Tehran comes only days after the Presidents of Iran and Russia met on the sideline of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in China. The two presidents had agreed to boost bilateral cooperation in different fields
5:41
|
1:46
|
[15 Dec 2013] Delhi govt formation seems impossible amid differences - English
The government formation in India\\\'s New Delhi State seems impossible for the time being, as differences remain.
The Bharatiya Janata Party, the BJP and the Congress have NOT agreed to 18...
The government formation in India\\\'s New Delhi State seems impossible for the time being, as differences remain.
The Bharatiya Janata Party, the BJP and the Congress have NOT agreed to 18 conditions set by the Aam Aadmi Party --- also known as the Common Man\\\'s party --- which led Delhi assembly elections last week. The BJP and the Congress Party came second and third in the elections. The Aam Aadmi Party is demanding unconditional support by the two other parties. Its leader Arvind Kejriwal says that the BJP and the Congress Party must back his election manifesto, which includes a campaign against corruption. The BJP has rejected that it offered support to the Aam Aadmi Party. The Congress Party has also criticized the Aam Aadmi Party\\\'s leader for setting conditions. If no political solution is found in the coming days analysts say Delhi could soon be heading for President\\\'s rule with a Lt Governor taking all decisions till the state goes in for a fresh poll again in the coming months.
More...
Description:
The government formation in India\\\'s New Delhi State seems impossible for the time being, as differences remain.
The Bharatiya Janata Party, the BJP and the Congress have NOT agreed to 18 conditions set by the Aam Aadmi Party --- also known as the Common Man\\\'s party --- which led Delhi assembly elections last week. The BJP and the Congress Party came second and third in the elections. The Aam Aadmi Party is demanding unconditional support by the two other parties. Its leader Arvind Kejriwal says that the BJP and the Congress Party must back his election manifesto, which includes a campaign against corruption. The BJP has rejected that it offered support to the Aam Aadmi Party. The Congress Party has also criticized the Aam Aadmi Party\\\'s leader for setting conditions. If no political solution is found in the coming days analysts say Delhi could soon be heading for President\\\'s rule with a Lt Governor taking all decisions till the state goes in for a fresh poll again in the coming months.
0:48
|
[15 Jan 2014] OPCW: Syria security concerns slows transport - English
The raging conflict in Syria is affecting efforts to neutralize its chemical arsenal.
The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons says security challenges have slowed the transport...
The raging conflict in Syria is affecting efforts to neutralize its chemical arsenal.
The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons says security challenges have slowed the transport of the Arab country\'s chemical weapons abroad for destruction. The OPCW says it\'s taking additional measures to complete its mission, and that Syria\'s chemical arms will be destroyed as planned by the end of June. Damascus agreed to hand over its chemical weapons to the body as part of a plan proposed by Russia to prevent a US attack on the country. Washington threatened airstrikes on Syria, following the August 21 chemical attack near the Syrian capital. The gas attack killed hundreds of people there. Both Damascus and Moscow say it was carried out by insurgents to provoke a Western invasion of Syria.
More...
Description:
The raging conflict in Syria is affecting efforts to neutralize its chemical arsenal.
The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons says security challenges have slowed the transport of the Arab country\'s chemical weapons abroad for destruction. The OPCW says it\'s taking additional measures to complete its mission, and that Syria\'s chemical arms will be destroyed as planned by the end of June. Damascus agreed to hand over its chemical weapons to the body as part of a plan proposed by Russia to prevent a US attack on the country. Washington threatened airstrikes on Syria, following the August 21 chemical attack near the Syrian capital. The gas attack killed hundreds of people there. Both Damascus and Moscow say it was carried out by insurgents to provoke a Western invasion of Syria.
1:56
|
[16 Dec 2013] Iran N deal should be implemented ASAP - English
EU foreign ministers meeting in Brussels have agreed that the deal reached on Iran\'s nuclear program should be implemented as soon as possible.
EU foreign ministers meeting in Brussels have agreed that the deal reached on Iran\'s nuclear program should be implemented as soon as possible.
5:15
|
1:41
|
[17 Feb 2014] Iran, P5 1 resume nuclear talks - English
Iran\'s Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says the resumed talks between Iran and the five permanent members of the UN Security Council which include the United States, Britain, France, Russia,...
Iran\'s Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says the resumed talks between Iran and the five permanent members of the UN Security Council which include the United States, Britain, France, Russia, and China plus Germany will start in good faith.
He met with the European Union foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton, who represents the P5+1 group of countries, in Vienna a day ahead of the negotiations that will take place in the city over next three days. The two sides agreed on a landmark interim deal last November in Geneva. The initial deal, which took effect in January, saw Iran curbing some of its nuclear activities in exchange for easing parts of nuclear-related sanctions.
More...
Description:
Iran\'s Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says the resumed talks between Iran and the five permanent members of the UN Security Council which include the United States, Britain, France, Russia, and China plus Germany will start in good faith.
He met with the European Union foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton, who represents the P5+1 group of countries, in Vienna a day ahead of the negotiations that will take place in the city over next three days. The two sides agreed on a landmark interim deal last November in Geneva. The initial deal, which took effect in January, saw Iran curbing some of its nuclear activities in exchange for easing parts of nuclear-related sanctions.
4:47
|
[18 feb 2014] A new round of talks over Iran nuclear program begins in Vienna - English
Iran\'s deputy foreign minister, Abbas Araqchi, says the dismantling of the country\'s nuclear facilities is not on the agenda of the ongoing talks with the five permanent members of the U-N...
Iran\'s deputy foreign minister, Abbas Araqchi, says the dismantling of the country\'s nuclear facilities is not on the agenda of the ongoing talks with the five permanent members of the U-N Security Council plus Germany, known as the P5+1 group
Arachqi-- who\'s also Iran\'s top nuclear negotiator-- says Iran has stressed that the basis of the talks must be an agreed action-plan. Any subject outside the framework of the plan cannot be negotiated. The Iranian official was speaking with reporters in Vienna, following the first round of the nuclear talks between Iran and the P5+1 group. Araqchi said the first round was a good start.
More...
Description:
Iran\'s deputy foreign minister, Abbas Araqchi, says the dismantling of the country\'s nuclear facilities is not on the agenda of the ongoing talks with the five permanent members of the U-N Security Council plus Germany, known as the P5+1 group
Arachqi-- who\'s also Iran\'s top nuclear negotiator-- says Iran has stressed that the basis of the talks must be an agreed action-plan. Any subject outside the framework of the plan cannot be negotiated. The Iranian official was speaking with reporters in Vienna, following the first round of the nuclear talks between Iran and the P5+1 group. Araqchi said the first round was a good start.
21:13
|
[18 Feb 2014] The Debate - Nuclear Negotiations - English
Iran and the P5+1 resume nuclear talks some three months after reaching an interim deal. Iran says the dismantling of its nuclear facilities is not on the agenda. Just a few days ago, the...
Iran and the P5+1 resume nuclear talks some three months after reaching an interim deal. Iran says the dismantling of its nuclear facilities is not on the agenda. Just a few days ago, the country\'s leader, Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei said he was \"not optimistic\" about the negotiations but would not oppose them. Does Iran have good reasons to distrust the US? Is a final agreement within reach? I\'m Homa Lezgee and you\'re watching the Debate.
Guests:
-Press TV Newsroom Director, Hamid Reza Emadi (Tehran).
- American Institute for Foreign Policy, Michael Linn (Washington).
Subjects:
1) In Geneva both parties agreed that \"the Iranian nuclear program will be treated in the same manner as that of any non-nuclear weapon state party to the non-proliferation treaty\". Yet Wendy Sherman, the US nuclear negotiator, told Congress she believes that Iran has no need for either a heavy water reactor or the second enrichment facilities in Fordo. She added that Iran should give up some centrifuges. All these demands go beyond the requirements of the NPT. How do you explain the duplicity?
2) Iran has announced it won\'t suspend activities in the Arak heavy water reactor, will not reduce the number of its centrifuges or stop RD-related projects...so is there going to be major disagreements about the agenda of the talks?
3) American insistence on \"zero enrichment in Iran\" is one reason for the failure of past talks. Last November\'s deal was only possible because the US was prepared to be more realistic.
4) Measures that go beyond the NPT may be required for a time to build confidence.
5) As long as the US keeps repeating its threat that \"all options are on the table\", including military action, compromise seems uncertain...
6) What is a compromise? Iran will probably have to accept temporary limitations on its nuclear program and submit to extra inspections. In return, world powers must respect the country\'s right to the peaceful use of nuclear technology, including enrichment.
7) How do you interpret the recent remarks by Iran\'s leader that he is \"not optimistic\" about the negotiations? Does Tehran have good reasons to distrust the US?
8) Is a final agreement within reach?
More...
Description:
Iran and the P5+1 resume nuclear talks some three months after reaching an interim deal. Iran says the dismantling of its nuclear facilities is not on the agenda. Just a few days ago, the country\'s leader, Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei said he was \"not optimistic\" about the negotiations but would not oppose them. Does Iran have good reasons to distrust the US? Is a final agreement within reach? I\'m Homa Lezgee and you\'re watching the Debate.
Guests:
-Press TV Newsroom Director, Hamid Reza Emadi (Tehran).
- American Institute for Foreign Policy, Michael Linn (Washington).
Subjects:
1) In Geneva both parties agreed that \"the Iranian nuclear program will be treated in the same manner as that of any non-nuclear weapon state party to the non-proliferation treaty\". Yet Wendy Sherman, the US nuclear negotiator, told Congress she believes that Iran has no need for either a heavy water reactor or the second enrichment facilities in Fordo. She added that Iran should give up some centrifuges. All these demands go beyond the requirements of the NPT. How do you explain the duplicity?
2) Iran has announced it won\'t suspend activities in the Arak heavy water reactor, will not reduce the number of its centrifuges or stop RD-related projects...so is there going to be major disagreements about the agenda of the talks?
3) American insistence on \"zero enrichment in Iran\" is one reason for the failure of past talks. Last November\'s deal was only possible because the US was prepared to be more realistic.
4) Measures that go beyond the NPT may be required for a time to build confidence.
5) As long as the US keeps repeating its threat that \"all options are on the table\", including military action, compromise seems uncertain...
6) What is a compromise? Iran will probably have to accept temporary limitations on its nuclear program and submit to extra inspections. In return, world powers must respect the country\'s right to the peaceful use of nuclear technology, including enrichment.
7) How do you interpret the recent remarks by Iran\'s leader that he is \"not optimistic\" about the negotiations? Does Tehran have good reasons to distrust the US?
8) Is a final agreement within reach?
2:40
|