WARNING UNCLOTHED SCENES & GRUESOME VIOLENCE Princely Torture - English
http://www.abcnews.go.com/Blotter/story?id=7402099&page=1
http://www.presstv.com/detail.aspx?id=92354§ionid=351020205
Exclusive Torture Tape Implicates UAE
A senior member of the...
http://www.abcnews.go.com/Blotter/story?id=7402099&page=1
http://www.presstv.com/detail.aspx?id=92354§ionid=351020205
Exclusive Torture Tape Implicates UAE
A senior member of the UAE royal family has been caught, literary red-handed, in a torture scandal after a videotape was released showing a man being severely assaulted by the prince.
The videotape smuggled out of the country by Bassam Nabulsi, a businessman from Houston, Texas, depicts Sheikh Issa bin Zayed al-Nahyan, the UAE Crown Prince's brother, savagely torturing a man.
The victim was beaten with wooden planks with nails protruding from them and then the prince poured salt on his bleeding wounds.
The video also shows the prince setting fire to parts of the victim's body, giving him electric shocks with a cattle prod, ramming desert sand into his mouth, and firing bullets around him with an automatic rifle.
The gruesome footage released by ABC News also shows Sheikh Issa driving over the victim repeatedly with his luxury Mercedes SUV. The sound of breaking bones is clearly audible in this scene.
On the video, the victim identified as Afghan grain dealer Mohammed Shah Poor, screams and asks for mercy but the UAE prince sadistically orders the cameraman to come closer to get a better record of the man's suffering.
A UAE police officer in uniform can also be seen helping Issa and his men torturing the Afghan man.
The Sheikh accused Shah Poor "of short changing on a grain delivery to his royal ranch on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi".
The UAE Interior Ministry has admitted that Sheikh Issa had been involved in the torture but claimed that "The incidents depicted in the video tapes were not part of a pattern of behavior."
The government also insisted that "all rules, policies and procedures were followed correctly by the Police Department."
Sheikh Issa is one of UAE's 22 “Royal Sheikhs” and a son of the country's one and only president, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who died in 2004.
Nablusi, who smuggled the 45-minute tape out of the Arab country, says he too was tortured by the UAE police to force him to hand over the tape to them. He is now filing a lawsuit against the Sheikh in a US federal court in Houston.
The video was allegedly recorded by Nablusi's brother because the Sheikh took pleasure in watching torture scenes later.
Nabulsi who was Sheikh Issa's former business partner, was allegedly arrested and charged by UAE police over narcotics trafficking after he refused to turn over the video. After spending time in a UAE prison, Nablusi was finally deported from the country and his passport was stamped with "Not Allowed to Return to the UAE."
The businessman says the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi was aware of the torture tapes but did nothing and only advised him to leave the country.
UAE is one of the closest allies of the US in the Middle East and the US Navy operates out of a major base near Dubai. It is also one of the biggest customers for US weapons, having signed a $6.9 billion arms deal with Washington in 2008. The UAE is seen by the US as a critical ally in its self-styled “war on terror
More...
Description:
http://www.abcnews.go.com/Blotter/story?id=7402099&page=1
http://www.presstv.com/detail.aspx?id=92354§ionid=351020205
Exclusive Torture Tape Implicates UAE
A senior member of the UAE royal family has been caught, literary red-handed, in a torture scandal after a videotape was released showing a man being severely assaulted by the prince.
The videotape smuggled out of the country by Bassam Nabulsi, a businessman from Houston, Texas, depicts Sheikh Issa bin Zayed al-Nahyan, the UAE Crown Prince's brother, savagely torturing a man.
The victim was beaten with wooden planks with nails protruding from them and then the prince poured salt on his bleeding wounds.
The video also shows the prince setting fire to parts of the victim's body, giving him electric shocks with a cattle prod, ramming desert sand into his mouth, and firing bullets around him with an automatic rifle.
The gruesome footage released by ABC News also shows Sheikh Issa driving over the victim repeatedly with his luxury Mercedes SUV. The sound of breaking bones is clearly audible in this scene.
On the video, the victim identified as Afghan grain dealer Mohammed Shah Poor, screams and asks for mercy but the UAE prince sadistically orders the cameraman to come closer to get a better record of the man's suffering.
A UAE police officer in uniform can also be seen helping Issa and his men torturing the Afghan man.
The Sheikh accused Shah Poor "of short changing on a grain delivery to his royal ranch on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi".
The UAE Interior Ministry has admitted that Sheikh Issa had been involved in the torture but claimed that "The incidents depicted in the video tapes were not part of a pattern of behavior."
The government also insisted that "all rules, policies and procedures were followed correctly by the Police Department."
Sheikh Issa is one of UAE's 22 “Royal Sheikhs” and a son of the country's one and only president, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who died in 2004.
Nablusi, who smuggled the 45-minute tape out of the Arab country, says he too was tortured by the UAE police to force him to hand over the tape to them. He is now filing a lawsuit against the Sheikh in a US federal court in Houston.
The video was allegedly recorded by Nablusi's brother because the Sheikh took pleasure in watching torture scenes later.
Nabulsi who was Sheikh Issa's former business partner, was allegedly arrested and charged by UAE police over narcotics trafficking after he refused to turn over the video. After spending time in a UAE prison, Nablusi was finally deported from the country and his passport was stamped with "Not Allowed to Return to the UAE."
The businessman says the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi was aware of the torture tapes but did nothing and only advised him to leave the country.
UAE is one of the closest allies of the US in the Middle East and the US Navy operates out of a major base near Dubai. It is also one of the biggest customers for US weapons, having signed a $6.9 billion arms deal with Washington in 2008. The UAE is seen by the US as a critical ally in its self-styled “war on terror
0:59
|
21:15
|
The Story of Stuff - Full Version - English
From its extraction through sale and from use through disposal all the stuff in our lives affects communities at home and abroad. Yet most of this is hidden from view. The Story of Stuff is a...
From its extraction through sale and from use through disposal all the stuff in our lives affects communities at home and abroad. Yet most of this is hidden from view. The Story of Stuff is a 20-minute fast-paced fact-filled look at the underside of our production and consumption patterns. The Story of Stuff exposes the connections between a huge number of environmental and social issues and calls us together to create a more sustainable and just world. It will teach you something. It will make you laugh. And it just may change the way you look at all the stuff in your life forever. For more info see www.storyofstuff.com
More...
Description:
From its extraction through sale and from use through disposal all the stuff in our lives affects communities at home and abroad. Yet most of this is hidden from view. The Story of Stuff is a 20-minute fast-paced fact-filled look at the underside of our production and consumption patterns. The Story of Stuff exposes the connections between a huge number of environmental and social issues and calls us together to create a more sustainable and just world. It will teach you something. It will make you laugh. And it just may change the way you look at all the stuff in your life forever. For more info see www.storyofstuff.com
3:25
|
Iran Summoned Western Diplomats - English
Iran's Foreign Ministry summons the Swiss ambassador, who represents US interest in Tehran, in protest to 'interventionist' statements by American officials on Iran's election.
The ministry...
Iran's Foreign Ministry summons the Swiss ambassador, who represents US interest in Tehran, in protest to 'interventionist' statements by American officials on Iran's election.
The ministry also summoned the Canadian charge d'affaires to convey Iran's official protest to Ottawa over the Canadian officials' recent remarks on Iran's presidential vote.
Several European envoys were also summoned on Tuesday over what Iran's Foreign Ministry called 'malicious stance' taken by their countries toward Iran.
On Tuesday, US President Barack Obama expressed 'deep concern' about the post-election unrest in Iran but warned that meddling in Iran's internal affairs would be counterproductive.
"We respect Iranian sovereignty and want to avoid the United States being the issue inside of Iran," he said.
Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Lawrence Cannon also called on Monday for what he called 'a full and transparent investigation into electoral fraud and discrepancies' in Iran's presidential vote.
Friday's presidential election, which saw incumbent Iranian President Mahmoud re-elected for a second term in office, has caused mass rallies by hundreds of thousands of supporters of former prime minister Mir-Hossein Mousavi who reject the election as fraudulent.
The interior minister, who is appointed by president and is in charge of holding the election, has denied the allegation, saying the ministry adopted methods which could not possibly be subject to 'irregularities'.
At least eight people have been killed so far in recent post-election violence in Tehran.
More...
Description:
Iran's Foreign Ministry summons the Swiss ambassador, who represents US interest in Tehran, in protest to 'interventionist' statements by American officials on Iran's election.
The ministry also summoned the Canadian charge d'affaires to convey Iran's official protest to Ottawa over the Canadian officials' recent remarks on Iran's presidential vote.
Several European envoys were also summoned on Tuesday over what Iran's Foreign Ministry called 'malicious stance' taken by their countries toward Iran.
On Tuesday, US President Barack Obama expressed 'deep concern' about the post-election unrest in Iran but warned that meddling in Iran's internal affairs would be counterproductive.
"We respect Iranian sovereignty and want to avoid the United States being the issue inside of Iran," he said.
Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Lawrence Cannon also called on Monday for what he called 'a full and transparent investigation into electoral fraud and discrepancies' in Iran's presidential vote.
Friday's presidential election, which saw incumbent Iranian President Mahmoud re-elected for a second term in office, has caused mass rallies by hundreds of thousands of supporters of former prime minister Mir-Hossein Mousavi who reject the election as fraudulent.
The interior minister, who is appointed by president and is in charge of holding the election, has denied the allegation, saying the ministry adopted methods which could not possibly be subject to 'irregularities'.
At least eight people have been killed so far in recent post-election violence in Tehran.
2:47
|
Tehran Sermon - Rehbar asked for the meaning of HUMAN RIGHTS ? - English & Persian
No rigging in Election. Ahmedineejad \"Our enemies and their media have hired some opportunist and mischievous elements and have misused the simple-mindedness of some people to cause...
No rigging in Election. Ahmedineejad \"Our enemies and their media have hired some opportunist and mischievous elements and have misused the simple-mindedness of some people to cause unrest,\" the government said in a Thursday statement.
It further accused the Western media of \'spreading lies and rumors\' to create doubts over the health of Friday\'s presidential election.
Iran\'s European Union envoy criticized the Western countries for their \"support for these trouble-makers and anarchists under the cover of supporting democracy and the voice of the Iranian people\".
In a Thursday statement, the Iranian embassy in Brussels said, \"All foreign involvement will have a damaging impact and is rejected by the people and the government of the Islamic Republic of Iran\".
Incumbent Ahmadinejad was re-elected as the Iranian president on June 12 with almost two-thirds of votes, but his main rival Mir-Hossein Moussavi has rejected the result as fraudulent and demanded a re-run of the election.
In the statement, the Ahmadinejad administration called on the security forces to take measures to uproot vandalism and the frightening of the public.
Hundreds of thousands of Moussavi supporters have staged daily rallies since the announcement of election results on Saturday, asking the Guardian Council to nullify the election.
Despite Moussavi\'s insistence on the peaceful nature of protests, violence flared in early stages of demonstrations. At least eight people were killed in Tehran and many others sustained injuries.
Iran has revoked all foreign media accreditations and foreign reporters are not allowed to cover gatherings which are banned as illegal.
Moussavi\'s camp has stressed that the post-election rioters are \"not supporters of, or linked to\" the former prime minister, who suffered a crushing defeat in the June 12 poll.
The Moussavi camp says that a number of \"miscreants\" are attempting to de-fame the popular figure and his supporters \"by conducting acts of vandalism\" in his name.
The Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, has also shed light on the situation. The Leader said on Tuesday that those who vandalize public property and stage violent riots are not related to any of the presidential candidates or their supporters.
On Thursday, dozens of Ahmadinejad\'s supporters staged a rally in front of the Justice Department in the capital, Tehran. They also called for strong action against the rioters.
More...
Description:
No rigging in Election. Ahmedineejad \"Our enemies and their media have hired some opportunist and mischievous elements and have misused the simple-mindedness of some people to cause unrest,\" the government said in a Thursday statement.
It further accused the Western media of \'spreading lies and rumors\' to create doubts over the health of Friday\'s presidential election.
Iran\'s European Union envoy criticized the Western countries for their \"support for these trouble-makers and anarchists under the cover of supporting democracy and the voice of the Iranian people\".
In a Thursday statement, the Iranian embassy in Brussels said, \"All foreign involvement will have a damaging impact and is rejected by the people and the government of the Islamic Republic of Iran\".
Incumbent Ahmadinejad was re-elected as the Iranian president on June 12 with almost two-thirds of votes, but his main rival Mir-Hossein Moussavi has rejected the result as fraudulent and demanded a re-run of the election.
In the statement, the Ahmadinejad administration called on the security forces to take measures to uproot vandalism and the frightening of the public.
Hundreds of thousands of Moussavi supporters have staged daily rallies since the announcement of election results on Saturday, asking the Guardian Council to nullify the election.
Despite Moussavi\'s insistence on the peaceful nature of protests, violence flared in early stages of demonstrations. At least eight people were killed in Tehran and many others sustained injuries.
Iran has revoked all foreign media accreditations and foreign reporters are not allowed to cover gatherings which are banned as illegal.
Moussavi\'s camp has stressed that the post-election rioters are \"not supporters of, or linked to\" the former prime minister, who suffered a crushing defeat in the June 12 poll.
The Moussavi camp says that a number of \"miscreants\" are attempting to de-fame the popular figure and his supporters \"by conducting acts of vandalism\" in his name.
The Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, has also shed light on the situation. The Leader said on Tuesday that those who vandalize public property and stage violent riots are not related to any of the presidential candidates or their supporters.
On Thursday, dozens of Ahmadinejad\'s supporters staged a rally in front of the Justice Department in the capital, Tehran. They also called for strong action against the rioters.
Iran raps Western interference in its affairs - English
While the dust from post-election unrest is settling in Iran, the Islamic Republic condemns foreign interference by certain Western states in the country's internal affairs.
Iran's Foreign...
While the dust from post-election unrest is settling in Iran, the Islamic Republic condemns foreign interference by certain Western states in the country's internal affairs.
Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Hassan Qashqavi, said Monday that some European countries and the US have played a major role in provoking the post-election violence that killed scores of people in the past few days.
He made the remarks as the latest pictures show the traffic is normal on Tehran streets, which witnessed calm on Monday and the day before. On Saturday, 'terrorist elements'-who had infiltrated the rallies --created the most violent day of protests by setting fire on a mosque and two gas stations as well as killing a number of people.
“With the main goal of sowing ethnic discord, Western powers have interfered in the election process by hyperbolizing the protests staged against the Iranian poll results,” said Qashqavi in an address to his weekly press conference.
“France has even gone as far as calling for the annulment of the election outcome. What right do they have to make such inappropriate and irresponsible remarks?” asked Qashqavi.
Qashqavi asserted that the Tehran government is planning to respond to the stepped-up “foreign interference” in due time.
Qashqavi went on to criticize foreign media outlets for dramatizing the post-election developments taking place in Iran, saying their efforts to launch a cyber war against the government is “totally out of line”.
“They have resorted into hacking Iranian news sites as a means to widen the gap between the government and the people,” he said.
Earlier on Sunday, Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki had also warned Europe and the US against meddling with Iran's domestic issues.
Over the past few days, Washington and a slew of European powers have adopted a raucous stance on the June 12 election, which saw incumbent President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad win by a landslide.
Defeated presidential rivals Mir-Hossein Mousavi and Mehdi Karroubi have called for the nullification of the results and demanded a re-run, giving rise to eight consecutive days of protests and illegal rallies.
More...
Description:
While the dust from post-election unrest is settling in Iran, the Islamic Republic condemns foreign interference by certain Western states in the country's internal affairs.
Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Hassan Qashqavi, said Monday that some European countries and the US have played a major role in provoking the post-election violence that killed scores of people in the past few days.
He made the remarks as the latest pictures show the traffic is normal on Tehran streets, which witnessed calm on Monday and the day before. On Saturday, 'terrorist elements'-who had infiltrated the rallies --created the most violent day of protests by setting fire on a mosque and two gas stations as well as killing a number of people.
“With the main goal of sowing ethnic discord, Western powers have interfered in the election process by hyperbolizing the protests staged against the Iranian poll results,” said Qashqavi in an address to his weekly press conference.
“France has even gone as far as calling for the annulment of the election outcome. What right do they have to make such inappropriate and irresponsible remarks?” asked Qashqavi.
Qashqavi asserted that the Tehran government is planning to respond to the stepped-up “foreign interference” in due time.
Qashqavi went on to criticize foreign media outlets for dramatizing the post-election developments taking place in Iran, saying their efforts to launch a cyber war against the government is “totally out of line”.
“They have resorted into hacking Iranian news sites as a means to widen the gap between the government and the people,” he said.
Earlier on Sunday, Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki had also warned Europe and the US against meddling with Iran's domestic issues.
Over the past few days, Washington and a slew of European powers have adopted a raucous stance on the June 12 election, which saw incumbent President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad win by a landslide.
Defeated presidential rivals Mir-Hossein Mousavi and Mehdi Karroubi have called for the nullification of the results and demanded a re-run, giving rise to eight consecutive days of protests and illegal rallies.
Must watch-CNN Caught Red Handed - English
In line with foreign media attempts to disrupt post-election stability in Iran, CNN has broadcast a false report which contradicts footage obtained by Press TV.
CNN broadcast an interview with...
In line with foreign media attempts to disrupt post-election stability in Iran, CNN has broadcast a false report which contradicts footage obtained by Press TV.
CNN broadcast an interview with a so-called anonymous witness of Wednesday's protest in Tehran's Baharestan Square, with the aim of depicting Iranian security forces as villains.
Footage obtained by Press TV reporters display some 200 protesters 'illegally' gathering in front of Iran's parliament and at a nearby subway station on Wednesday, to protest the result of the June 12th election.
The CNN's report, however, contains a call from an alleged female witness in Tehran who supposedly describes the situation as the 'massacre' of protesters by the police in Baharestan Square.
The following is an excerpt from CNN newscaster's conversation with the alleged witness:
CNN: You tell us what you saw today when you tried to go to Baharestan Square?
Witness: Police stopped everyone at Sa'di. They emptied the buses that were taking people there and let the private cars go on.
All of a sudden 500 people with clubs and woods came out of Hedayat Mosque and poured into the streets. They started beating everyone and throwing them off Sa'di Bridge. This was a massacre.
CNN: We are not only getting this report from you. We got a report from another source in Tehran describing the situation today being terrible, saying people were being shot like animals; they beat people like animals. Are you safe right now?
Witness: Yes, exactly, exactly. This is what was happening. They beat people so bad.
However, Press TV, which is based in Tehran and was present at the scene, did not find even traces of the false and unfounded report.
It remains unclear, whether CNN -- which has resorted to 'unreliable' sources like social network websites in its coverage of Iran -- was duped by the 'anonymous' caller or was simply faking the phone call in line with the Western agenda of destabilizing Iran.
Iranian officials have condemned foreign media outlets including Britain's state-run BBC over dramatizing the situation in the country by provoking the post-election violence in Iran.
Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hassan Qashqavi on Sunday pinned the blame for the recent post-election turmoil across the country on US and British media outlets.
Post-election unrests were sparked after the Interior Ministry declared Ahmadinejad as the president of the country for yet another four-year term by almost two-thirds of the vote.
People have staged rallies across the country to protest the results of the election. Some of the demonstrations have turned violent.
More...
Description:
In line with foreign media attempts to disrupt post-election stability in Iran, CNN has broadcast a false report which contradicts footage obtained by Press TV.
CNN broadcast an interview with a so-called anonymous witness of Wednesday's protest in Tehran's Baharestan Square, with the aim of depicting Iranian security forces as villains.
Footage obtained by Press TV reporters display some 200 protesters 'illegally' gathering in front of Iran's parliament and at a nearby subway station on Wednesday, to protest the result of the June 12th election.
The CNN's report, however, contains a call from an alleged female witness in Tehran who supposedly describes the situation as the 'massacre' of protesters by the police in Baharestan Square.
The following is an excerpt from CNN newscaster's conversation with the alleged witness:
CNN: You tell us what you saw today when you tried to go to Baharestan Square?
Witness: Police stopped everyone at Sa'di. They emptied the buses that were taking people there and let the private cars go on.
All of a sudden 500 people with clubs and woods came out of Hedayat Mosque and poured into the streets. They started beating everyone and throwing them off Sa'di Bridge. This was a massacre.
CNN: We are not only getting this report from you. We got a report from another source in Tehran describing the situation today being terrible, saying people were being shot like animals; they beat people like animals. Are you safe right now?
Witness: Yes, exactly, exactly. This is what was happening. They beat people so bad.
However, Press TV, which is based in Tehran and was present at the scene, did not find even traces of the false and unfounded report.
It remains unclear, whether CNN -- which has resorted to 'unreliable' sources like social network websites in its coverage of Iran -- was duped by the 'anonymous' caller or was simply faking the phone call in line with the Western agenda of destabilizing Iran.
Iranian officials have condemned foreign media outlets including Britain's state-run BBC over dramatizing the situation in the country by provoking the post-election violence in Iran.
Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hassan Qashqavi on Sunday pinned the blame for the recent post-election turmoil across the country on US and British media outlets.
Post-election unrests were sparked after the Interior Ministry declared Ahmadinejad as the president of the country for yet another four-year term by almost two-thirds of the vote.
People have staged rallies across the country to protest the results of the election. Some of the demonstrations have turned violent.
How CNN Works ? Liars Exposed - English
In line with foreign media attempts to disrupt post-election stability in Iran, CNN has broadcast a false report which contradicts footage obtained by Press TV.
CNN broadcast an interview with...
In line with foreign media attempts to disrupt post-election stability in Iran, CNN has broadcast a false report which contradicts footage obtained by Press TV.
CNN broadcast an interview with a so-called anonymous witness of Wednesday's protest in Tehran's Baharestan Square, with the aim of depicting Iranian security forces as villains.
Footage obtained by Press TV reporters display some 200 protesters 'illegally' gathering in front of Iran's parliament and at a nearby subway station on Wednesday, to protest the result of the June 12th election.
The CNN's report, however, contains a call from an alleged female witness in Tehran who supposedly describes the situation as the 'massacre' of protesters by the police in Baharestan Square.
The following is an excerpt from CNN newscaster's conversation with the alleged witness:
CNN: You tell us what you saw today when you tried to go to Baharestan Square?
Witness: Police stopped everyone at Sa'di. They emptied the buses that were taking people there and let the private cars go on.
All of a sudden 500 people with clubs and woods came out of Hedayat Mosque and poured into the streets. They started beating everyone and throwing them off Sa'di Bridge. This was a massacre.
CNN: We are not only getting this report from you. We got a report from another source in Tehran describing the situation today being terrible, saying people were being shot like animals; they beat people like animals. Are you safe right now?
Witness: Yes, exactly, exactly. This is what was happening. They beat people so bad.
However, Press TV, which is based in Tehran and was present at the scene, did not find even traces of the false and unfounded report.
It remains unclear, whether CNN -- which has resorted to 'unreliable' sources like social network websites in its coverage of Iran -- was duped by the 'anonymous' caller or was simply faking the phone call in line with the Western agenda of destabilizing Iran.
Iranian officials have condemned foreign media outlets including Britain's state-run BBC over dramatizing the situation in the country by provoking the post-election violence in Iran.
Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hassan Qashqavi on Sunday pinned the blame for the recent post-election turmoil across the country on US and British media outlets.
Post-election unrests were sparked after the Interior Ministry declared Ahmadinejad as the president of the country for yet another four-year term by almost two-thirds of the vote.
People have staged rallies across the country to protest the results of the election. Some of the demonstrations have turned violent.
More...
Description:
In line with foreign media attempts to disrupt post-election stability in Iran, CNN has broadcast a false report which contradicts footage obtained by Press TV.
CNN broadcast an interview with a so-called anonymous witness of Wednesday's protest in Tehran's Baharestan Square, with the aim of depicting Iranian security forces as villains.
Footage obtained by Press TV reporters display some 200 protesters 'illegally' gathering in front of Iran's parliament and at a nearby subway station on Wednesday, to protest the result of the June 12th election.
The CNN's report, however, contains a call from an alleged female witness in Tehran who supposedly describes the situation as the 'massacre' of protesters by the police in Baharestan Square.
The following is an excerpt from CNN newscaster's conversation with the alleged witness:
CNN: You tell us what you saw today when you tried to go to Baharestan Square?
Witness: Police stopped everyone at Sa'di. They emptied the buses that were taking people there and let the private cars go on.
All of a sudden 500 people with clubs and woods came out of Hedayat Mosque and poured into the streets. They started beating everyone and throwing them off Sa'di Bridge. This was a massacre.
CNN: We are not only getting this report from you. We got a report from another source in Tehran describing the situation today being terrible, saying people were being shot like animals; they beat people like animals. Are you safe right now?
Witness: Yes, exactly, exactly. This is what was happening. They beat people so bad.
However, Press TV, which is based in Tehran and was present at the scene, did not find even traces of the false and unfounded report.
It remains unclear, whether CNN -- which has resorted to 'unreliable' sources like social network websites in its coverage of Iran -- was duped by the 'anonymous' caller or was simply faking the phone call in line with the Western agenda of destabilizing Iran.
Iranian officials have condemned foreign media outlets including Britain's state-run BBC over dramatizing the situation in the country by provoking the post-election violence in Iran.
Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hassan Qashqavi on Sunday pinned the blame for the recent post-election turmoil across the country on US and British media outlets.
Post-election unrests were sparked after the Interior Ministry declared Ahmadinejad as the president of the country for yet another four-year term by almost two-thirds of the vote.
People have staged rallies across the country to protest the results of the election. Some of the demonstrations have turned violent.
Message of Rehbar, Intelligence Minister and Rafsanjani - English
As Iran continues its efforts to cope with post-election unrest, Leader of the Islamic Republic Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei says the country will deal with the crisis under the law while relying...
As Iran continues its efforts to cope with post-election unrest, Leader of the Islamic Republic Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei says the country will deal with the crisis under the law while relying on national unity.
The Leader said Sunday that legal measures were the only solution to the issues that the country has been facing since the 10th presidential elections on June 12.
“The people\'s emotions, especially that of the youth, must not be toyed with and they should not be pitted against one another as the Iranian nation, regardless of the differences of opinion, is a united nation that has good relations with the [Islamic] establishment.”
Ayatollah Khamenei went on to urge political parties not to play with one another\'s feelings and said, “If the nation and political elite are united in heart and mind, the incitement of international traitors and oppressive politicians will be ineffective.”
The Leader\'s remarks came after certain European countries and the US condemned the measures taken by the Tehran government to restore stability in the country following the election, which saw incumbent President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad win by a landslide.
“They express their opinions about Iran in a manner that one would think all their other problems have been resolved and only the Iranian problem remains,” said Ayatollah Khamenei.
“However, what they do not understand is that wherever they politically set foot in becomes tainted in the eyes of the Iranian nation.”
“Their support will only have a negative effect as the Iranian nation knows during the eight-year sacred defense [the Iraq-Iran war] when their homes were bombarded and destroyed by missiles and chemical weapons were used against them, these governments showed no concern and [instead] aided the enemy of the Iranian nation.”
Pointing to the crimes committed by the US and certain European countries against the people of Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan and Palestine, Ayatollah Khamenei stressed that their “concern and show of humanitarianism is not befitting of these governments and when they voice support for the Iranian nation and certain figures, their intentions are clear and the people are well aware of them.”
Iran\'s Intelligence Minister has dismissed claims of vote-rigging in the presidential election, blaming the US and Israel for the spread of such rumors among the people.
\"I announce that no organized rigging which could affect the result of the election has taken place,\" Gholam-Hossein Mohseni Ejei said in an interview with IRIB\'s Channel Two on Sunday night.
He said the nation\'s enemies conspired several months before the presidential election to stir unrest in the country and dissuade the Iranians from voting.
\"Americans and Zionists sought to destabilize Iran ... they were upset with a stabilized and secure Iran ... even months before the election they started to talk about the possibility of vote-rigging in the election and they continued the course following the vote,\" Ejei said.
He said the Iranian intelligence services were aware of US and Israeli plots to mar the election months before the vote, adding that Iran foiled some assassination attempts masterminded by Washington and Tel Aviv.
Incumbent President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was declared the winner of the presidential election with almost two-thirds of the votes.
The announcement triggered opposition rallies in protest at the result with defeated candidates Mir-Hossein Mousavi and Mehdi Karroubi calling for the result to be annulled.
Ejei took a swipe at Mousavi, saying his demand for holding the election anew would undermine the credibility of the electoral system.
The three defeated candidates -- Mousavi, Karroubi and Mohsen Rezaei -- have lodged more than 600 alleged \'irregularities\' with the electoral watchdog, the Guardian Council.
Mousavi and Karroubi believe these irregularities are enough for the election results to be annulled.
However, the head of Iran\'s Electoral Office, Kamran Daneshjou, has criticized the complaints filed by the defeated presidential candidates for being \'too general\'. The Guardian Council has also stressed that there were no \'major\' irregularities in the presidential election.
More...
Description:
As Iran continues its efforts to cope with post-election unrest, Leader of the Islamic Republic Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei says the country will deal with the crisis under the law while relying on national unity.
The Leader said Sunday that legal measures were the only solution to the issues that the country has been facing since the 10th presidential elections on June 12.
“The people\'s emotions, especially that of the youth, must not be toyed with and they should not be pitted against one another as the Iranian nation, regardless of the differences of opinion, is a united nation that has good relations with the [Islamic] establishment.”
Ayatollah Khamenei went on to urge political parties not to play with one another\'s feelings and said, “If the nation and political elite are united in heart and mind, the incitement of international traitors and oppressive politicians will be ineffective.”
The Leader\'s remarks came after certain European countries and the US condemned the measures taken by the Tehran government to restore stability in the country following the election, which saw incumbent President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad win by a landslide.
“They express their opinions about Iran in a manner that one would think all their other problems have been resolved and only the Iranian problem remains,” said Ayatollah Khamenei.
“However, what they do not understand is that wherever they politically set foot in becomes tainted in the eyes of the Iranian nation.”
“Their support will only have a negative effect as the Iranian nation knows during the eight-year sacred defense [the Iraq-Iran war] when their homes were bombarded and destroyed by missiles and chemical weapons were used against them, these governments showed no concern and [instead] aided the enemy of the Iranian nation.”
Pointing to the crimes committed by the US and certain European countries against the people of Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan and Palestine, Ayatollah Khamenei stressed that their “concern and show of humanitarianism is not befitting of these governments and when they voice support for the Iranian nation and certain figures, their intentions are clear and the people are well aware of them.”
Iran\'s Intelligence Minister has dismissed claims of vote-rigging in the presidential election, blaming the US and Israel for the spread of such rumors among the people.
\"I announce that no organized rigging which could affect the result of the election has taken place,\" Gholam-Hossein Mohseni Ejei said in an interview with IRIB\'s Channel Two on Sunday night.
He said the nation\'s enemies conspired several months before the presidential election to stir unrest in the country and dissuade the Iranians from voting.
\"Americans and Zionists sought to destabilize Iran ... they were upset with a stabilized and secure Iran ... even months before the election they started to talk about the possibility of vote-rigging in the election and they continued the course following the vote,\" Ejei said.
He said the Iranian intelligence services were aware of US and Israeli plots to mar the election months before the vote, adding that Iran foiled some assassination attempts masterminded by Washington and Tel Aviv.
Incumbent President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was declared the winner of the presidential election with almost two-thirds of the votes.
The announcement triggered opposition rallies in protest at the result with defeated candidates Mir-Hossein Mousavi and Mehdi Karroubi calling for the result to be annulled.
Ejei took a swipe at Mousavi, saying his demand for holding the election anew would undermine the credibility of the electoral system.
The three defeated candidates -- Mousavi, Karroubi and Mohsen Rezaei -- have lodged more than 600 alleged \'irregularities\' with the electoral watchdog, the Guardian Council.
Mousavi and Karroubi believe these irregularities are enough for the election results to be annulled.
However, the head of Iran\'s Electoral Office, Kamran Daneshjou, has criticized the complaints filed by the defeated presidential candidates for being \'too general\'. The Guardian Council has also stressed that there were no \'major\' irregularities in the presidential election.
1:32
|
Who is behind Killing of Nida - English
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has asked the Judiciary chief to conduct a through investigation into the death of Neda Aqa-Soltan, an Iranian woman who was shot dead in Tehran's post-vote...
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has asked the Judiciary chief to conduct a through investigation into the death of Neda Aqa-Soltan, an Iranian woman who was shot dead in Tehran's post-vote protests.
In a letter to Iran's Judiciary chief Ayatollah Mahmoud Hashemi-Shahroudi on Monday, Ahmadinejad called for a serious probe into the "suspicious" death of Neda and recognizing elements behind her killing.
"Neda Aqa-Soltan was shot dead in one of Tehran's streets on June 20 by unknown elements in a completely suspicious way," said the president.
"Amid vast propaganda by foreign media and many other evidence about the heartfelt event, it seems definite that opponents of the Iranian nation interfere (in Iran's internal affairs) for their political misuse," he added.
Neda, 26, became a symbol of post-election street rallies in Iran and an international icon in recent days after graphic videos of her death grabbed the attention of world media outlets.
Her death first became suspicious after revelations that she was killed by a small caliber pistol -- a weapon that is not used by Iranian security forces
More...
Description:
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has asked the Judiciary chief to conduct a through investigation into the death of Neda Aqa-Soltan, an Iranian woman who was shot dead in Tehran's post-vote protests.
In a letter to Iran's Judiciary chief Ayatollah Mahmoud Hashemi-Shahroudi on Monday, Ahmadinejad called for a serious probe into the "suspicious" death of Neda and recognizing elements behind her killing.
"Neda Aqa-Soltan was shot dead in one of Tehran's streets on June 20 by unknown elements in a completely suspicious way," said the president.
"Amid vast propaganda by foreign media and many other evidence about the heartfelt event, it seems definite that opponents of the Iranian nation interfere (in Iran's internal affairs) for their political misuse," he added.
Neda, 26, became a symbol of post-election street rallies in Iran and an international icon in recent days after graphic videos of her death grabbed the attention of world media outlets.
Her death first became suspicious after revelations that she was killed by a small caliber pistol -- a weapon that is not used by Iranian security forces
Iraqi SHIA SUNNI unite to rebuild Al Askariya Shrine - 09Aug09 - English
Al ‘Askarī Mosque or the ‘Askariyya Mosque/Shrine (Arabic: مرقد الامامين علي الهادي والحسن العسكري Marqad al-Imāmayn ‘Alī l-Hādī wa l-Ħassan...
Al ‘Askarī Mosque or the ‘Askariyya Mosque/Shrine (Arabic: مرقد الامامين علي الهادي والحسن العسكري Marqad al-Imāmayn ‘Alī l-Hādī wa l-Ħassan al-‘Askarī) is a Shī‘ah Muslim holy site located in the Iraqi city of Sāmarrā 125 km (78 mi) from Baghdad. It is one of the most important Shī‘ah mosques in the world, built in 944.[1] Its dome was destroyed in a bombing by terrorists in February 2006 and its two remaining minarets were destroyed in another bombing in June 2007, causing widespread anger amongst Muslims. The remaining clock tower was also destroyed in July 2007. The remains of the 10th and 11th Shī‘ah Imāms, ‘Alī al-Hādī ("an-Naqī") and his son Hasan al-‘Askarī, known as: al-‘Askariyyain ("the two ‘Askarīs"), rest at the shrine[2]. Also buried within the Mosque are: Hakimah Khātūn, sister of ‘Alī al-Hādī; and Narjis Khātūn, the mother of Muħammad al-Mahdī[3]. Adjacent to this shrine is another mosque, built over the location where the Twelfth or "Hidden" Imām, Muħammad al-Mahdī first entered the Minor Occultation.
The ‘Askariyya Shrine is also known as the "Tomb or Mausoleum of the Two Imāms", "the Tomb of Imāms ‘Alī al-Hādī and Hasan al-‘Askarī" and "al-Hadhratu l-‘Askariyya".
CLAIMS OF SECTARIAN VIOLENCE ARE ABSURD AS THE TWO MAJOR SECTS OF ISLAM, SHIA & SUNNI HAVE RESPECTED EACH OTHERS HOLY FIGURES FOR A LONG TIME. THESE SORTS OF INCIDENCES STARTED AFTER FOREIGN TROOPS ILLEGALY OCCUPIES IRAQ IN 2002 UNDER THE PRETEXT OF HAVING THE WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION AND THEN LATER THE CRUEL DICTATOR SADDAM. OCCUPYING TROOPS ARE STILL IN IRAQ CAUSING THE DISTRESS AND FEAR AMONG THE GENERAL PUBLIC. NOW SHIAS AND SUNNIS ARE UNITING TO EXPELL THE INVADERS FROM THEIR HOMELAND.
More...
Description:
Al ‘Askarī Mosque or the ‘Askariyya Mosque/Shrine (Arabic: مرقد الامامين علي الهادي والحسن العسكري Marqad al-Imāmayn ‘Alī l-Hādī wa l-Ħassan al-‘Askarī) is a Shī‘ah Muslim holy site located in the Iraqi city of Sāmarrā 125 km (78 mi) from Baghdad. It is one of the most important Shī‘ah mosques in the world, built in 944.[1] Its dome was destroyed in a bombing by terrorists in February 2006 and its two remaining minarets were destroyed in another bombing in June 2007, causing widespread anger amongst Muslims. The remaining clock tower was also destroyed in July 2007. The remains of the 10th and 11th Shī‘ah Imāms, ‘Alī al-Hādī ("an-Naqī") and his son Hasan al-‘Askarī, known as: al-‘Askariyyain ("the two ‘Askarīs"), rest at the shrine[2]. Also buried within the Mosque are: Hakimah Khātūn, sister of ‘Alī al-Hādī; and Narjis Khātūn, the mother of Muħammad al-Mahdī[3]. Adjacent to this shrine is another mosque, built over the location where the Twelfth or "Hidden" Imām, Muħammad al-Mahdī first entered the Minor Occultation.
The ‘Askariyya Shrine is also known as the "Tomb or Mausoleum of the Two Imāms", "the Tomb of Imāms ‘Alī al-Hādī and Hasan al-‘Askarī" and "al-Hadhratu l-‘Askariyya".
CLAIMS OF SECTARIAN VIOLENCE ARE ABSURD AS THE TWO MAJOR SECTS OF ISLAM, SHIA & SUNNI HAVE RESPECTED EACH OTHERS HOLY FIGURES FOR A LONG TIME. THESE SORTS OF INCIDENCES STARTED AFTER FOREIGN TROOPS ILLEGALY OCCUPIES IRAQ IN 2002 UNDER THE PRETEXT OF HAVING THE WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION AND THEN LATER THE CRUEL DICTATOR SADDAM. OCCUPYING TROOPS ARE STILL IN IRAQ CAUSING THE DISTRESS AND FEAR AMONG THE GENERAL PUBLIC. NOW SHIAS AND SUNNIS ARE UNITING TO EXPELL THE INVADERS FROM THEIR HOMELAND.
1:53
|
News Report - Saudi and Yemeni Planes hitting Shias in Yemen - 28Aug09 - English
Yemen's Houthi fighters have accused Saudi Arabia of helping the Yemeni army in its deadly offensive against them in the north-western province of Saada.
Zaidi Shia fighters, known as Houthis,...
Yemen's Houthi fighters have accused Saudi Arabia of helping the Yemeni army in its deadly offensive against them in the north-western province of Saada.
Zaidi Shia fighters, known as Houthis, issued a statement on Friday saying that at least two Saudi warplanes have bombed their positions in the al-Malahid district.
The fighters' statement has been dismissed by the Yemeni army as a baseless allegation.
Fighting between Yemeni troops backed by fighter aircraft and Shia fighters has killed dozens, mostly fighters, since the government launched a wide offensive against Shia tribes earlier in the month.
The Shia fighters have been engaged in on and off fighting with Yemen's army since 2004.
Press TV correspondent in Yemen, Akram Al-Hindi, says the military's campaign against Houthi fighters is expected to intensify in the coming days -- despite the growing civilian death toll.
"We have heard that there was a short truce between the government and the Houthi fighters but shortly after that the fighting erupted again," Al-Hindi said.
"The treaty which was signed based on Qatar agreement and Doha agreement has been declared dead from the Yemeni government side," he added.
According to the correspondent, the Houthi fighters claim that the government is intensifying its military offences and this calls for the end of the truce between the two sides.
"This shows that the violence will continue," Al-Hindi concluded.
The Houthis say they are defending themselves against religious oppression. The government says it is fighting an armed insurgency seeking to reinstate imamate rule, which ended in a 1962 coup.
According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, an estimated 119,000 people from the northwest Yemeni town of Saada are currently displaced.
More...
Description:
Yemen's Houthi fighters have accused Saudi Arabia of helping the Yemeni army in its deadly offensive against them in the north-western province of Saada.
Zaidi Shia fighters, known as Houthis, issued a statement on Friday saying that at least two Saudi warplanes have bombed their positions in the al-Malahid district.
The fighters' statement has been dismissed by the Yemeni army as a baseless allegation.
Fighting between Yemeni troops backed by fighter aircraft and Shia fighters has killed dozens, mostly fighters, since the government launched a wide offensive against Shia tribes earlier in the month.
The Shia fighters have been engaged in on and off fighting with Yemen's army since 2004.
Press TV correspondent in Yemen, Akram Al-Hindi, says the military's campaign against Houthi fighters is expected to intensify in the coming days -- despite the growing civilian death toll.
"We have heard that there was a short truce between the government and the Houthi fighters but shortly after that the fighting erupted again," Al-Hindi said.
"The treaty which was signed based on Qatar agreement and Doha agreement has been declared dead from the Yemeni government side," he added.
According to the correspondent, the Houthi fighters claim that the government is intensifying its military offences and this calls for the end of the truce between the two sides.
"This shows that the violence will continue," Al-Hindi concluded.
The Houthis say they are defending themselves against religious oppression. The government says it is fighting an armed insurgency seeking to reinstate imamate rule, which ended in a 1962 coup.
According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, an estimated 119,000 people from the northwest Yemeni town of Saada are currently displaced.
4:51
|
The Illusion - The Diamond Empire - English
"The Diamond Empire" is a documentary produced by Media Education Foundation in 1994. To purchase conflict-free diamonds or not, that is not the question. It is actually to re-think if we...
"The Diamond Empire" is a documentary produced by Media Education Foundation in 1994. To purchase conflict-free diamonds or not, that is not the question. It is actually to re-think if we need diamonds at all to feel happy about ourselves or express our love toward others? More regulations on diamond trade - to purchase only certified diamonds - would only inflate its demand and reinforce the monopoly of De Beers and its likes. Even if somehow we manage to address the problem of "scarcity" by dismembering the diamond cartel and etc., would that solve the problem? If today we address diamond scarcity somehow, tomorrow the hearts-with-illness will desire for some other “precious” metal or material. Instead of De Beers, you will have some other unscrupulous, profit-driven company doing similar exploitation. This is not to suggest that people don't engage in political activism, pressuring politicians and companies through protests and boycotts. Just that doing that won’t be enough. What is needed is a deep cultural shift in how people think and desire and somehow re-orient the focus away from the rat race for bigger, better, faster, and more that you see in almost all parts of the world - those in the middle and upper classes that can afford such luxuries and among the working and poor classes who can't afford but their hearts long for these luxuries, and if tomorrow they become rich, they would join the rat race with similar enthusiasm.
More...
Description:
"The Diamond Empire" is a documentary produced by Media Education Foundation in 1994. To purchase conflict-free diamonds or not, that is not the question. It is actually to re-think if we need diamonds at all to feel happy about ourselves or express our love toward others? More regulations on diamond trade - to purchase only certified diamonds - would only inflate its demand and reinforce the monopoly of De Beers and its likes. Even if somehow we manage to address the problem of "scarcity" by dismembering the diamond cartel and etc., would that solve the problem? If today we address diamond scarcity somehow, tomorrow the hearts-with-illness will desire for some other “precious” metal or material. Instead of De Beers, you will have some other unscrupulous, profit-driven company doing similar exploitation. This is not to suggest that people don't engage in political activism, pressuring politicians and companies through protests and boycotts. Just that doing that won’t be enough. What is needed is a deep cultural shift in how people think and desire and somehow re-orient the focus away from the rat race for bigger, better, faster, and more that you see in almost all parts of the world - those in the middle and upper classes that can afford such luxuries and among the working and poor classes who can't afford but their hearts long for these luxuries, and if tomorrow they become rich, they would join the rat race with similar enthusiasm.
1:51
|
The Diamond Empire - Teaser - English
Is it really worth having those diamonds when they have so much blood on them? Human beings are exploited on both ends of the diamond trade. From the poor miners in Africa to those people who are...
Is it really worth having those diamonds when they have so much blood on them? Human beings are exploited on both ends of the diamond trade. From the poor miners in Africa to those people who are made to believe that their love could only proven by diamond. They probably do not know how much blood is on that diamond. And some, despite knowing, have simply become indifferent and cold, and therefore, in-human. We need to re-think if we really need diamonds - and for that matter, other excessive materialistic possessions - to feel happy about ourselves or express our love toward others? More regulations on diamond trade - to purchase only certified diamonds - would only inflate its demand and reinforce the monopoly of De Beers and its likes. "The Diamond Empire" is a documentary produced by Media Education Foundation in 1994.
More...
Description:
Is it really worth having those diamonds when they have so much blood on them? Human beings are exploited on both ends of the diamond trade. From the poor miners in Africa to those people who are made to believe that their love could only proven by diamond. They probably do not know how much blood is on that diamond. And some, despite knowing, have simply become indifferent and cold, and therefore, in-human. We need to re-think if we really need diamonds - and for that matter, other excessive materialistic possessions - to feel happy about ourselves or express our love toward others? More regulations on diamond trade - to purchase only certified diamonds - would only inflate its demand and reinforce the monopoly of De Beers and its likes. "The Diamond Empire" is a documentary produced by Media Education Foundation in 1994.
1:24
|
Would you buy a diamond if ... - English
More regulations on the diamond trade - specifically, to purchase only certified diamonds - would only reinforce the monopoly of De Beers and its likes.
Human beings are exploited on both ends...
More regulations on the diamond trade - specifically, to purchase only certified diamonds - would only reinforce the monopoly of De Beers and its likes.
Human beings are exploited on both ends of the diamond trade. From the poor miners in Africa to those people who are made to believe that their love could only proven by diamond. They probably do not know how much blood is on that diamond. And some, despite knowing, have simply become indifferent and cold (and therefore, in-human).
We need to re-think if we need diamonds at all to feel happy about ourselves or express our love toward others?
A related question to consider is that Are diamonds really that rare. Is diamond scarcity real or artificial? See another clip on this site by the title "The Diamond Empire"
Even if somehow we manage to address the problem of "scarcity" by dismembering the diamond cartels and etc., would that solve the problem? If today we address diamond scarcity somehow, tomorrow the hearts-with-illness will desire for some other “precious” metal or material. Instead of De Beers, you will have some other unscrupulous, profit-hungry business doing similar exploitation.
People should definitely engage in political activism, pressuring politicians and companies through protests and boycotts. But just that doing that won’t be enough. What is needed is a deep cultural shift in how people think and desire and somehow re-orient the focus away from the rat race for bigger, better, faster, and more, that you see in almost all segments of society around the world - those in the middle and upper classes that can afford such luxuries and those among the working and poor classes who can't afford but their hearts long for these luxuries, and if tomorrow they become rich, they would probably join the rat race with similar enthusiasm.
Change has to start from within ourselves, from transforming our hearts, from changing our standards of beauty and value. More than just sympathy we need to get angry at our complacency and at the exploitation of people and environment and turn our passivity into concrete action.
More...
Description:
More regulations on the diamond trade - specifically, to purchase only certified diamonds - would only reinforce the monopoly of De Beers and its likes.
Human beings are exploited on both ends of the diamond trade. From the poor miners in Africa to those people who are made to believe that their love could only proven by diamond. They probably do not know how much blood is on that diamond. And some, despite knowing, have simply become indifferent and cold (and therefore, in-human).
We need to re-think if we need diamonds at all to feel happy about ourselves or express our love toward others?
A related question to consider is that Are diamonds really that rare. Is diamond scarcity real or artificial? See another clip on this site by the title "The Diamond Empire"
Even if somehow we manage to address the problem of "scarcity" by dismembering the diamond cartels and etc., would that solve the problem? If today we address diamond scarcity somehow, tomorrow the hearts-with-illness will desire for some other “precious” metal or material. Instead of De Beers, you will have some other unscrupulous, profit-hungry business doing similar exploitation.
People should definitely engage in political activism, pressuring politicians and companies through protests and boycotts. But just that doing that won’t be enough. What is needed is a deep cultural shift in how people think and desire and somehow re-orient the focus away from the rat race for bigger, better, faster, and more, that you see in almost all segments of society around the world - those in the middle and upper classes that can afford such luxuries and those among the working and poor classes who can't afford but their hearts long for these luxuries, and if tomorrow they become rich, they would probably join the rat race with similar enthusiasm.
Change has to start from within ourselves, from transforming our hearts, from changing our standards of beauty and value. More than just sympathy we need to get angry at our complacency and at the exploitation of people and environment and turn our passivity into concrete action.
0:55
|
Iran Summons British Ambassador Following UK Incitement in Ashura Riots in Tehran - 30Dec09 -English
Iran has summoned the British Ambassador to Iran following the statements made by David Miliband that incited and supported the Ashura Day violence; now known to have been carried out by the MKO...
Iran has summoned the British Ambassador to Iran following the statements made by David Miliband that incited and supported the Ashura Day violence; now known to have been carried out by the MKO Terrorist Organisation. Aired on December 30, 2009
More...
Description:
Iran has summoned the British Ambassador to Iran following the statements made by David Miliband that incited and supported the Ashura Day violence; now known to have been carried out by the MKO Terrorist Organisation. Aired on December 30, 2009
Husayn ibn Ali (a.s) - Savior of the Sunnah - Latmiya in English
Prophet Adam was given life, a speck of Allah\'s light
He was taught the holy names Allah told him to recite
Beautiful names of knowledge, names of perfection
When the angels heard his words...
Prophet Adam was given life, a speck of Allah\'s light
He was taught the holy names Allah told him to recite
Beautiful names of knowledge, names of perfection
When the angels heard his words they all bowed to him
\"Qala ya Adamu anbi-hum bi-asma-ihim\" (2:33)
Husayn ibn Ali, Anta fee Ghalbi
Prophet Noah warned his people against sin and evil
Allah commanded he build a ship of salvation
72 companions steadfast, remained patient
\"Waqala irkaboo feeha bismiAllahi majraha wamursaha\" (11:41)
We follow what the Prophet said and board the holy safina
Husayn ibn Ali, Anta fee Ghalbi
Prophet Abraham was tested all throughout his life
But giving up Ismael was his biggest sacrifice
If you\'ve ever lost a loved one you know what this means
Ismael held up his neck
\"Ya Abati...inshAllah mina alsabireen\" (37:102)
Husayn ibn Ali, Anta fee Ghalbi
Prophet Moses served justice and fought the pharaoh tyrant
He led the oppressed people against a system filled with violence
He pledged his life to Allah, the Creator Unseen
\"Min aaibadihi waalaaqibatu lilmuttaqeen\" (7:128)
O\' son of Fatima your the righteous human being
Husayn ibn Ali, Anta fee Ghalbi
Prophet Jesus led believers through this world of wilderness
At the land of Karbala his heart would reminisce
His disciples asked, Ya Ruhullah, what land is this
The place where dear Husayn will become victorious
Husayn ibn Ali, Anta fee Ghalbi
Ya Mustafa your grandson learned from you to lead
Against the system of corruption
The system of hypocrisy
People say they love Rasol but what about his family
\"La as-alukum aalayhi ajran illa almawaddata fee al qorba\" (42:23)
The blood of the Holy Prophet splattered on the turba
Husayn ibn Ali, Anta fee Ghalbi
More...
Description:
Prophet Adam was given life, a speck of Allah\'s light
He was taught the holy names Allah told him to recite
Beautiful names of knowledge, names of perfection
When the angels heard his words they all bowed to him
\"Qala ya Adamu anbi-hum bi-asma-ihim\" (2:33)
Husayn ibn Ali, Anta fee Ghalbi
Prophet Noah warned his people against sin and evil
Allah commanded he build a ship of salvation
72 companions steadfast, remained patient
\"Waqala irkaboo feeha bismiAllahi majraha wamursaha\" (11:41)
We follow what the Prophet said and board the holy safina
Husayn ibn Ali, Anta fee Ghalbi
Prophet Abraham was tested all throughout his life
But giving up Ismael was his biggest sacrifice
If you\'ve ever lost a loved one you know what this means
Ismael held up his neck
\"Ya Abati...inshAllah mina alsabireen\" (37:102)
Husayn ibn Ali, Anta fee Ghalbi
Prophet Moses served justice and fought the pharaoh tyrant
He led the oppressed people against a system filled with violence
He pledged his life to Allah, the Creator Unseen
\"Min aaibadihi waalaaqibatu lilmuttaqeen\" (7:128)
O\' son of Fatima your the righteous human being
Husayn ibn Ali, Anta fee Ghalbi
Prophet Jesus led believers through this world of wilderness
At the land of Karbala his heart would reminisce
His disciples asked, Ya Ruhullah, what land is this
The place where dear Husayn will become victorious
Husayn ibn Ali, Anta fee Ghalbi
Ya Mustafa your grandson learned from you to lead
Against the system of corruption
The system of hypocrisy
People say they love Rasol but what about his family
\"La as-alukum aalayhi ajran illa almawaddata fee al qorba\" (42:23)
The blood of the Holy Prophet splattered on the turba
Husayn ibn Ali, Anta fee Ghalbi
9:38
|
Kenneth OKeefe on BBCs Hardtalk - Part 1 - English
Kenneth O'Keefe talks about the Israeli terrorist attack on the MV Mavi Marmara which killed 9 humanitarian activists. Also see http://gazaawareness.blogspot.com/ and...
Kenneth O'Keefe talks about the Israeli terrorist attack on the MV Mavi Marmara which killed 9 humanitarian activists. Also see http://gazaawareness.blogspot.com/ and http://www.islamicinsights.com/news/opinion/good-muslim-bad-muslim-cracking-the-media-code.html
More...
Description:
Kenneth O'Keefe talks about the Israeli terrorist attack on the MV Mavi Marmara which killed 9 humanitarian activists. Also see http://gazaawareness.blogspot.com/ and http://www.islamicinsights.com/news/opinion/good-muslim-bad-muslim-cracking-the-media-code.html
9:01
|
Kenneth OKeefe on BBCs Hardtalk - Part 2 - English
Kenneth OKeefe talks about the Israeli terrorist attack on the MV Mavi Marmara which killed 9 humanitarian activists. Also see http://gazaawareness.blogspot.com/ and...
Kenneth OKeefe talks about the Israeli terrorist attack on the MV Mavi Marmara which killed 9 humanitarian activists. Also see http://gazaawareness.blogspot.com/ and http://www.islamicinsights.com/news/opinion/good-muslim-bad-muslim-cracking-the-media-code.html
More...
Description:
Kenneth OKeefe talks about the Israeli terrorist attack on the MV Mavi Marmara which killed 9 humanitarian activists. Also see http://gazaawareness.blogspot.com/ and http://www.islamicinsights.com/news/opinion/good-muslim-bad-muslim-cracking-the-media-code.html
4:52
|
Kenneth OKeefe on BBCs Hardtalk - Part 3 - English
Kenneth OKeefe talks about the Israeli terrorist attack on the MV Mavi Marmara which killed 9 humanitarian activists. Also see http://gazaawareness.blogspot.com/ and...
Kenneth OKeefe talks about the Israeli terrorist attack on the MV Mavi Marmara which killed 9 humanitarian activists. Also see http://gazaawareness.blogspot.com/ and http://www.islamicinsights.com/news/opinion/good-muslim-bad-muslim-cracking-the-media-code.html
More...
Description:
Kenneth OKeefe talks about the Israeli terrorist attack on the MV Mavi Marmara which killed 9 humanitarian activists. Also see http://gazaawareness.blogspot.com/ and http://www.islamicinsights.com/news/opinion/good-muslim-bad-muslim-cracking-the-media-code.html
7:43
|
Rehabr Ali Khamenie - Most Urgent Issue of the world - Pakistani Flood - English and Persian
Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has described the flood disaster in Pakistan as the \\\"most urgent\\\" issue of the Muslim world.
Addressing crowds of...
Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has described the flood disaster in Pakistan as the \\\"most urgent\\\" issue of the Muslim world.
Addressing crowds of worshippers at Tehran University after Eid al-Fitr prayers on Friday, Ayatollah Khamenei expressed deep sorrow over the catastrophic floods in Pakistan and the lingering humanitarian crisis it has brought to the country.
Iran has so far sent more than 400 tons of humanitarian aid including tents, blankets, food and medicine to Pakistan, and has also announced its readiness to play an active role in the reconstruction of the country\\\'s flood-ravaged regions.
Ayatollah Khamenei said the measures taken so far to relieve the disaster-hit Pakistanis was far from enough and appealed to all Muslims across the globe to help their brothers in Pakistan.
\\\"The Iranian nation and government, other Muslim nations and governments, and Islamic societies including the Organization of the Islamic Conference and Muslims communities in any corner of the world [must] rush to help the Pakistani nation and government and meet the various needs of the flood victims in Pakistan,\\\" the Leader said.
The international community has also pleaded for a boost in global relief efforts to help some 800,000 Pakistanis stranded in areas only accessible by air in the aftermath of the country\\\'s worst-ever natural disaster.
The floods washed through one-fifth of Pakistan in August, leaving at least 1,760 people dead and affecting at least another 17 million.
Ayatollah Khamenei further warned about efforts by some powers to take advantage of the political unrest and security gap in the violence-wracked country.
\\\"Some are seeking to turn Pakistan into their military base,\\\" the Leader cautioned, expressing hope that Islamabad would resolve the predicament by fulfilling its obligations.
More...
Description:
Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has described the flood disaster in Pakistan as the \\\"most urgent\\\" issue of the Muslim world.
Addressing crowds of worshippers at Tehran University after Eid al-Fitr prayers on Friday, Ayatollah Khamenei expressed deep sorrow over the catastrophic floods in Pakistan and the lingering humanitarian crisis it has brought to the country.
Iran has so far sent more than 400 tons of humanitarian aid including tents, blankets, food and medicine to Pakistan, and has also announced its readiness to play an active role in the reconstruction of the country\\\'s flood-ravaged regions.
Ayatollah Khamenei said the measures taken so far to relieve the disaster-hit Pakistanis was far from enough and appealed to all Muslims across the globe to help their brothers in Pakistan.
\\\"The Iranian nation and government, other Muslim nations and governments, and Islamic societies including the Organization of the Islamic Conference and Muslims communities in any corner of the world [must] rush to help the Pakistani nation and government and meet the various needs of the flood victims in Pakistan,\\\" the Leader said.
The international community has also pleaded for a boost in global relief efforts to help some 800,000 Pakistanis stranded in areas only accessible by air in the aftermath of the country\\\'s worst-ever natural disaster.
The floods washed through one-fifth of Pakistan in August, leaving at least 1,760 people dead and affecting at least another 17 million.
Ayatollah Khamenei further warned about efforts by some powers to take advantage of the political unrest and security gap in the violence-wracked country.
\\\"Some are seeking to turn Pakistan into their military base,\\\" the Leader cautioned, expressing hope that Islamabad would resolve the predicament by fulfilling its obligations.
2:20
|
Indian Troops Kill Dozens In Occupied Kashmir As Kashmirs Protest Quran Burning - 13 SEP 2010 - English
Indian troops kill dozens in Kashmir
At least 18 people have been killed and over 100 injured in Indian-controlled Kashmir as soldiers open fire on pro-independence rallies in disputed...
Indian troops kill dozens in Kashmir
At least 18 people have been killed and over 100 injured in Indian-controlled Kashmir as soldiers open fire on pro-independence rallies in disputed Himalayan region.
Security forces opened fire on tens of thousands of protesters in the Budgam and Tangmarg areas.
An Indian soldier was also killed in the violence.
The protests were particularly intense following the news of the desecration of the Quran in the US.
On Sunday, India imposed a curfew in many areas of Kashmir.
However, people have been pouring out to the streets across Kashmir to protest against Indian rule despite the curfews.
The latest round of public outrage began after a government forces' teargas grenade killed a teenager back in June.
More than 80 protesters and by-standers have lost their lives during the unrest ever since.
Article Source: http://www.presstv.ir/detail/142336.html
Kashmiris protest Quran desecration
Hundreds of Muslims have defied curfews in Indian-administered Kashmir and hit the streets to voice their anger over desecration of Islam's holy book in the US.
Protests were held in the region's main city of Srinagar and its neighboring districts despite strict curfews, The Nation reported on Monday.
"Death to the US!" and "Death to Quran desecrators!" chanted the protesters, who described the act as despicable.
The protesters also called for punishment of those behind the desecration of the Quran.
"These are absolutely pro-Islam protests and we demand befitting punishment to those who have desecrated the holy Quran. No Muslim anywhere in the world will watch the desecration of the holy Quran as a mute spectator. This protest is beyond borders and nationalities," a 55-year-old Kashmiri said.
Although an American pastor cancelled earlier plans to burn copies of the Quran, other anti-Islam elements in the US desecrated the holy book in New York and in Washington on the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
The protest rallies in Srinagar erupted after local television showed a small group of protesters tearing apart and burning pages from the Muslim holy book outside the White House on Saturday.
Article Source: http://www.presstv.ir/detail/142324.html
India knocks Press TV off air in Kashmir
India has banned local cable operators in Indian-administered Kashmir from airing Iran's English-language Press TV in the disputed Himalayan region.
State Chief Secretary SS Kapur made the announcement in Kashmir's summer capital of Srinagar on Monday.
"We have decided to impose a ban on the airing of Press TV broadcasts by local cable operators," Kapur told reporters.
The ban comes as Press TV has become popular across the Muslim-majority region due to its enhanced coverage of the regional events over the past three months.
Media organizations have strongly condemned the move and demanded that the government put the channel back on air.
However, reports say more and more people in Kashmir continue to get their news from Press TV via internet services or direct broadcast satellites.
In a separate development, hundreds of Kashmiris have come out to the streets to voice their anger over the desecration of Islam's holy book in the US.
Protests were held in the Indian-administered region's main city of Srinagar, and its neighboring districts despite strict curfews in place.
The protesters, who were shouting anti-US slogans, described the act as despicable, calling for the punishment of those behind the desecration of the Quran.
The protests erupted after pages from the Muslim holy book were torn up and burned in Washington, as well as in other US cities.
The move has outraged Muslims all over the world.
Meanwhile, at least twelve people were killed in Indian-controlled Kashmir as soldiers opened fire on pro-independence rallies on Monday.
Unrest in Kashmir has claimed at least 83 lives over the past three months.
Kashmir has been rocked by a wave of protests over the death of a teenager back in June.
He was killed when Indian police fired teargas shells during demonstrations against India's rule over the mainly Muslim-populated Kashmir.
Article Source: http://www.presstv.ir/detail/142343.html
More...
Description:
Indian troops kill dozens in Kashmir
At least 18 people have been killed and over 100 injured in Indian-controlled Kashmir as soldiers open fire on pro-independence rallies in disputed Himalayan region.
Security forces opened fire on tens of thousands of protesters in the Budgam and Tangmarg areas.
An Indian soldier was also killed in the violence.
The protests were particularly intense following the news of the desecration of the Quran in the US.
On Sunday, India imposed a curfew in many areas of Kashmir.
However, people have been pouring out to the streets across Kashmir to protest against Indian rule despite the curfews.
The latest round of public outrage began after a government forces' teargas grenade killed a teenager back in June.
More than 80 protesters and by-standers have lost their lives during the unrest ever since.
Article Source: http://www.presstv.ir/detail/142336.html
Kashmiris protest Quran desecration
Hundreds of Muslims have defied curfews in Indian-administered Kashmir and hit the streets to voice their anger over desecration of Islam's holy book in the US.
Protests were held in the region's main city of Srinagar and its neighboring districts despite strict curfews, The Nation reported on Monday.
"Death to the US!" and "Death to Quran desecrators!" chanted the protesters, who described the act as despicable.
The protesters also called for punishment of those behind the desecration of the Quran.
"These are absolutely pro-Islam protests and we demand befitting punishment to those who have desecrated the holy Quran. No Muslim anywhere in the world will watch the desecration of the holy Quran as a mute spectator. This protest is beyond borders and nationalities," a 55-year-old Kashmiri said.
Although an American pastor cancelled earlier plans to burn copies of the Quran, other anti-Islam elements in the US desecrated the holy book in New York and in Washington on the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
The protest rallies in Srinagar erupted after local television showed a small group of protesters tearing apart and burning pages from the Muslim holy book outside the White House on Saturday.
Article Source: http://www.presstv.ir/detail/142324.html
India knocks Press TV off air in Kashmir
India has banned local cable operators in Indian-administered Kashmir from airing Iran's English-language Press TV in the disputed Himalayan region.
State Chief Secretary SS Kapur made the announcement in Kashmir's summer capital of Srinagar on Monday.
"We have decided to impose a ban on the airing of Press TV broadcasts by local cable operators," Kapur told reporters.
The ban comes as Press TV has become popular across the Muslim-majority region due to its enhanced coverage of the regional events over the past three months.
Media organizations have strongly condemned the move and demanded that the government put the channel back on air.
However, reports say more and more people in Kashmir continue to get their news from Press TV via internet services or direct broadcast satellites.
In a separate development, hundreds of Kashmiris have come out to the streets to voice their anger over the desecration of Islam's holy book in the US.
Protests were held in the Indian-administered region's main city of Srinagar, and its neighboring districts despite strict curfews in place.
The protesters, who were shouting anti-US slogans, described the act as despicable, calling for the punishment of those behind the desecration of the Quran.
The protests erupted after pages from the Muslim holy book were torn up and burned in Washington, as well as in other US cities.
The move has outraged Muslims all over the world.
Meanwhile, at least twelve people were killed in Indian-controlled Kashmir as soldiers opened fire on pro-independence rallies on Monday.
Unrest in Kashmir has claimed at least 83 lives over the past three months.
Kashmir has been rocked by a wave of protests over the death of a teenager back in June.
He was killed when Indian police fired teargas shells during demonstrations against India's rule over the mainly Muslim-populated Kashmir.
Article Source: http://www.presstv.ir/detail/142343.html
Massive Protests Against Government Crackdown in Bahrain, About 250 Shias Detained - 14 SEP 2010 - English
Pro-democracy protest held in Bahrain
Amid increasing pressure on Shias in Bahrain, hundreds of people have staged a rally in Manama to protest Saudi Arabia's support for the latest crackdown on...
Pro-democracy protest held in Bahrain
Amid increasing pressure on Shias in Bahrain, hundreds of people have staged a rally in Manama to protest Saudi Arabia's support for the latest crackdown on the majority group.
In a pro-democracy movement, protesters reportedly blocked a road connecting Bahrain to Saudi Arabia, stopping hundreds of cars by setting tires on fire on the King Fahd Bridge.
Security officials said that at least four vehicles were damaged in an explosion in the capital city of Manama.
A Bahraini pro-democracy leader based in London, Saeed Shehabi, told Press TV that nearly all useful internet websites in the country had been shut down by the government in an attempt to prevent the spread of news about the situation in the Arab state.
The crackdown on protesters will not prevent further mass demonstrations from those seeking democracy in Bahrain, Shehabi said.
Bahrain's Sunni-dominated government has arrested more than 250 Shias since August, accusing 23 of them of plotting a coup and inciting "violence, rioting and terrorism."
The population of Bahrain is predominantly Shia. However, the majority group has long complained of being discriminated against by the Bahraini government in obtaining jobs and receiving services.
The Shia opposition refuses to recognize the 2002 constitution and has called for a boycott of the October 23 parliamentary elections.
Meanwhile, human rights groups have voiced concern about the situation, urging Bahrain to investigate allegations by some opposition activists that they were tortured while in detention.
Bahrain's Shia Muslims say their rights are being restricted by Sunni rulers and they have been discriminated by ruling elites for years.
The 70 percent Shia population of Bahrain say that authorities in Manama are granting citizenship to thousands of Sunni foreigners to counterbalance the population in the Shia-majority state.
While prominent Shia clerics have been preaching religious harmony and promoting brotherhood, Shia activists have warned the government of sectarian strife should it continue with its discriminatory policies in the Persian Gulf State
Article Source: http://www.presstv.ir/detail/142526.html
More...
Description:
Pro-democracy protest held in Bahrain
Amid increasing pressure on Shias in Bahrain, hundreds of people have staged a rally in Manama to protest Saudi Arabia's support for the latest crackdown on the majority group.
In a pro-democracy movement, protesters reportedly blocked a road connecting Bahrain to Saudi Arabia, stopping hundreds of cars by setting tires on fire on the King Fahd Bridge.
Security officials said that at least four vehicles were damaged in an explosion in the capital city of Manama.
A Bahraini pro-democracy leader based in London, Saeed Shehabi, told Press TV that nearly all useful internet websites in the country had been shut down by the government in an attempt to prevent the spread of news about the situation in the Arab state.
The crackdown on protesters will not prevent further mass demonstrations from those seeking democracy in Bahrain, Shehabi said.
Bahrain's Sunni-dominated government has arrested more than 250 Shias since August, accusing 23 of them of plotting a coup and inciting "violence, rioting and terrorism."
The population of Bahrain is predominantly Shia. However, the majority group has long complained of being discriminated against by the Bahraini government in obtaining jobs and receiving services.
The Shia opposition refuses to recognize the 2002 constitution and has called for a boycott of the October 23 parliamentary elections.
Meanwhile, human rights groups have voiced concern about the situation, urging Bahrain to investigate allegations by some opposition activists that they were tortured while in detention.
Bahrain's Shia Muslims say their rights are being restricted by Sunni rulers and they have been discriminated by ruling elites for years.
The 70 percent Shia population of Bahrain say that authorities in Manama are granting citizenship to thousands of Sunni foreigners to counterbalance the population in the Shia-majority state.
While prominent Shia clerics have been preaching religious harmony and promoting brotherhood, Shia activists have warned the government of sectarian strife should it continue with its discriminatory policies in the Persian Gulf State
Article Source: http://www.presstv.ir/detail/142526.html
2:27
|
Update On Bahraini Strife - Goverment Crackdowns & Amnesty Int. Condemns - 15 SEP 2010 - English
Pro-democracy protest held in Bahrain
Amid increasing pressure on Shias in Bahrain, hundreds of people have staged a rally in Manama to protest Saudi Arabia's support for the latest crackdown on...
Pro-democracy protest held in Bahrain
Amid increasing pressure on Shias in Bahrain, hundreds of people have staged a rally in Manama to protest Saudi Arabia's support for the latest crackdown on the majority group.
In a pro-democracy movement, protesters reportedly blocked a road connecting Bahrain to Saudi Arabia, stopping hundreds of cars by setting tires on fire on the King Fahd Bridge.
Security officials said that at least four vehicles were damaged in an explosion in the capital city of Manama.
A Bahraini pro-democracy leader based in London, Saeed al-Shehabi, told Press TV that nearly all useful internet websites in the country had been shut down by the government in an attempt to prevent the spread of news about the situation in the Arab state.
The crackdown on protesters will not prevent further mass demonstrations from those seeking democracy in Bahrain, al-Shehabi said.
Bahrain's Sunni-dominated government has arrested more than 250 Shias since August, accusing 23 of them of plotting a coup and inciting "violence, rioting and terrorism."
The population of Bahrain is predominantly Shia. However, the majority group has long complained of being discriminated against by the Bahraini government in obtaining jobs and receiving services.
The Shia opposition refuses to recognize the 2002 constitution and has called for a boycott of the October 23 parliamentary elections.
Meanwhile, human rights groups have voiced concern about the situation, urging Bahrain to investigate allegations by some opposition activists that they were tortured while in detention.
Bahrain's Shia Muslims say their rights are being restricted by Sunni rulers and they have been discriminated by ruling elites for years.
The 70 percent Shia population of Bahrain say that authorities in Manama are granting citizenship to thousands of Sunni foreigners to counterbalance the population in the Shia-majority state.
While prominent Shia clerics have been preaching religious harmony and promoting brotherhood, Shia activists have warned the government of sectarian strife should it continue with its discriminatory policies in the Persian Gulf State
Article Source: http://www.presstv.ir/detail/142526.html
More...
Description:
Pro-democracy protest held in Bahrain
Amid increasing pressure on Shias in Bahrain, hundreds of people have staged a rally in Manama to protest Saudi Arabia's support for the latest crackdown on the majority group.
In a pro-democracy movement, protesters reportedly blocked a road connecting Bahrain to Saudi Arabia, stopping hundreds of cars by setting tires on fire on the King Fahd Bridge.
Security officials said that at least four vehicles were damaged in an explosion in the capital city of Manama.
A Bahraini pro-democracy leader based in London, Saeed al-Shehabi, told Press TV that nearly all useful internet websites in the country had been shut down by the government in an attempt to prevent the spread of news about the situation in the Arab state.
The crackdown on protesters will not prevent further mass demonstrations from those seeking democracy in Bahrain, al-Shehabi said.
Bahrain's Sunni-dominated government has arrested more than 250 Shias since August, accusing 23 of them of plotting a coup and inciting "violence, rioting and terrorism."
The population of Bahrain is predominantly Shia. However, the majority group has long complained of being discriminated against by the Bahraini government in obtaining jobs and receiving services.
The Shia opposition refuses to recognize the 2002 constitution and has called for a boycott of the October 23 parliamentary elections.
Meanwhile, human rights groups have voiced concern about the situation, urging Bahrain to investigate allegations by some opposition activists that they were tortured while in detention.
Bahrain's Shia Muslims say their rights are being restricted by Sunni rulers and they have been discriminated by ruling elites for years.
The 70 percent Shia population of Bahrain say that authorities in Manama are granting citizenship to thousands of Sunni foreigners to counterbalance the population in the Shia-majority state.
While prominent Shia clerics have been preaching religious harmony and promoting brotherhood, Shia activists have warned the government of sectarian strife should it continue with its discriminatory policies in the Persian Gulf State
Article Source: http://www.presstv.ir/detail/142526.html
International Rights Activists Express Grave Concern At Crackdown On Shia In Bahrain - 23 SEP 2010 - English
Bahrain triggers human rights uproar
As many as 26 human rights organizations have called on the international community to address Bahrain's suppression of rights advocates and Shias...
Bahrain triggers human rights uproar
As many as 26 human rights organizations have called on the international community to address Bahrain's suppression of rights advocates and Shias population, an Egyptian institute says.
"We stress the international community's responsibility for curbing the security campaign aimed at silencing human rights defenders and concealing the grave abuses committed by the authorities against the citizenry, particularly the Shia community," the organizations said in a petition.
The bodies warned about "the authorities' increasing crackdown on the different forms of expression and peaceful association and assembly" and "the government's growing tendency to set the law aside in favor of naked force, detention, the torture and abuse of peaceful opponents," one of the cosignatories, the Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies (CIHRS), said in a press release on Wednesday.
They said Manama maintained "a policy of systematic discrimination and marginalization of the Shia majority."
The Shia opposition refuses to recognize the 2002 constitution and has called for a boycott of the upcoming parliamentary elections, set for October 23. The protesting organizations also said that the suppression campaign was meant "to pave the way for wide-ranging election fraud."
Despite their demographic predominance in the kingdom, the Shias have long complained about being discriminated against by the Bahraini government when it comes to obtaining jobs and receiving services.
Earlier in the month, the Manama government revoked the citizenship of leading Shia cleric Ayatollah Sheikh Hussein al-Najati, who represents top Iraqi cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani in Bahrain, as well as the citizenship of his family.
An outspoken critic of the government, Sheikh Abdul Jaleel al-Miqdad, has also been prohibited from leading the Friday Prayers.
The Bahraini government has arrested more than 250 Shias since August, accusing 23 of them of plotting a coup and provoking "violence, rioting and terrorism."
Article Source: http://www.presstv.ir/detail/143715.html
More...
Description:
Bahrain triggers human rights uproar
As many as 26 human rights organizations have called on the international community to address Bahrain's suppression of rights advocates and Shias population, an Egyptian institute says.
"We stress the international community's responsibility for curbing the security campaign aimed at silencing human rights defenders and concealing the grave abuses committed by the authorities against the citizenry, particularly the Shia community," the organizations said in a petition.
The bodies warned about "the authorities' increasing crackdown on the different forms of expression and peaceful association and assembly" and "the government's growing tendency to set the law aside in favor of naked force, detention, the torture and abuse of peaceful opponents," one of the cosignatories, the Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies (CIHRS), said in a press release on Wednesday.
They said Manama maintained "a policy of systematic discrimination and marginalization of the Shia majority."
The Shia opposition refuses to recognize the 2002 constitution and has called for a boycott of the upcoming parliamentary elections, set for October 23. The protesting organizations also said that the suppression campaign was meant "to pave the way for wide-ranging election fraud."
Despite their demographic predominance in the kingdom, the Shias have long complained about being discriminated against by the Bahraini government when it comes to obtaining jobs and receiving services.
Earlier in the month, the Manama government revoked the citizenship of leading Shia cleric Ayatollah Sheikh Hussein al-Najati, who represents top Iraqi cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani in Bahrain, as well as the citizenship of his family.
An outspoken critic of the government, Sheikh Abdul Jaleel al-Miqdad, has also been prohibited from leading the Friday Prayers.
The Bahraini government has arrested more than 250 Shias since August, accusing 23 of them of plotting a coup and provoking "violence, rioting and terrorism."
Article Source: http://www.presstv.ir/detail/143715.html
23:51
|
7:28
|
Violent Video Games - English
Discussion of violent video games and the first amendment
Discussion of violent video games and the first amendment