Daniel 12:4   But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end ...

Remember ...And never forget 9/11

Barak coming back?
Jerusalem Newswire 2006/12/31
Ehud Barak, Israel’s prime minister from 1999 to 2001, and notorious for offering unprecedented concessions to the Palestinian Arabs, is preparing to make a comeback.   Sunday saw Barak launch his bid for the leadership of the Labor Party. ...

Messing Up the Middle East
New America Media 2006/12/31
...Fratricidal fighting is threatening to engulf, or already engulfing, the occupied Palestinian territories, Lebanon and Iraq. Both Syria and Iran could soon be next, torn apart by attacks Israel is reportedly planning on behalf of the U.S. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots

Jordan Baathists pledge loyalty to Saddam deputy
The Jerusalem Post 2006/12/31
A previously unknown group of Iraqi Baathists pledged allegiance to Saddam Hussein's fugitive deputy Izzat Ibrahim and named him the "legitimate president of Iraq," a statement issued by the group said Sunday. ..."In the name of Baghdad's Citizens Gathering, we pledge allegiance to Gen. Izzat Ibrahim al-Douri as the legitimate president of Iraq and the chief of the armed forces," said the statement. ...

Iraq's Muslim Extremists Lay Ground for Taliban-style Rule
Assyrian International News Agency 2006/12/30
...Very little is known about Baghdadi. It is not yet clear whether the name Abu 'Umar al-Baghdadi is an alias for Abdallah Rashid Salih al-Baghdadi, the head of the Mujahidin Shura Council. Three possible traits of Abu 'Umar Baghdadi can be inferred from a recent 22-minute audio-taped statement issued by Abu Hamzah al-Muhajir, alias Abu Ayyub al-Masri, the al-Qa'ida leader in Iraq: that he has attained some education in Islamic religious studies, that he has been an active member of the insurgency, and that he is of Hashemite descent. In the statement posted on the internet on November 10, al-Muhajir pledges allegiance to "the venerable shaykh, the brave hero, the Qurayshi Hashemite, who is of a Husayni origin, the Amir of the Faithful, Abu 'Umar al-Baghdadi … to hear and obey, by putting at your disposal and direct orders 12,000 fighters, who constitute the army of al-Qa'ida, who pledge to die for the sake of Allah."   By taking a unilateral initiative to declare an Islamic state without even consulting other insurgent groups, community dignitaries or tribal chieftains in the areas it lays claim to, the Mujahidin Shura Council has been true to its exclusivist salafist ideology. ...

Jumblatt warns of 'Coup in Due Time' in Lebanon
yaLibnan 2006/12/28
..."We have many steps (to undertake), and everything will be (carried out) in due time," Jumblatt told reporters after a meeting with Prime Minister Fouad Siniora Tuesday.   "Then, we will see who will achieve victory? The evil forces or the forces of love and good," Jumblatt added. ..."We must not forget the security coup and the Syrian regime never had or never will have mercy on us," Jumblatt complained. ...Jumblatt on Monday called Syrian President Bashar Assad the "Damascus tyrant." ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Olmert to European Union: ´Yes´ to Abbas, ´No´ to Assad
Arutz Sheva 2006/12/28
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert told European Union (EU) countries and foreign ministry officials that Syrian President Bashar Assad "is up to his neck in activities in support of terrorism" and therefore cannot be considered a part of peace negotiations. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Olivier Guitta: Plan B: Syria’s forgotten — but dangerous — nuclear program
The Examiner 2006/12/28
...new reports show that Damascus is up to no good. Indeed, while world attention is rightly focused on the nuclear capabilities of Iran and North Korea, Syria has been quietly — but quickly — advancing its own secret nuclear program. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Syria: The mullahs' plan B?
American Thinker 2006/12/28
...contributor Olivier Guitta has a fascinating article in The Examiner newspapers today concerning Syria's possible role as an alternative nuclear site for Iran.

...while world attention is rightly focused on the nuclear capabilities of Iran and North Korea, Syria has been quietly - but quickly - advancing its own secret nuclear program.   The first signs appeared in 2003 when the Russian Foreign Ministry inadvertently revealed that a Russian-Syrian agreement for the delivery of a nuclear power plant in an undisclosed Syrian location had been signed. ...

? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Egyptian, Jordanian oppositions protest trade with Israel
The Jerusalem Post 2006/12/28
...Figures published recently by the Israel Export & International Cooperation Institute indicate a 19 percent increase in Israeli industrial exports to Arab countries between January and September 2006, compared with the same period in 2005.   According to the institute's figures, Israeli industrial exports to Egypt have grown by 36% and exports to Jordan have increased by 12.5% this year. ...
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

King checks on citizens' conditions cordoned by snow
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/27
...King Abdullah on Wednesday phoned Major General (GS) Awwad Saleem Masaid Director-General of Civil Defence during which the King checked on preparation of the Civil Defense to deal with impacts of weather condition prevail in the Kingdom, which led to falling of snow and caused closure of some roads.   The King ordered Armed Forces personnel to help Civil Defense apparatus rescue the citizens besieged by snow. ...
A benevolent king?

King orders distributing stoves to school buildings
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/27
King Abdullah II on Wednesday ordered distributing stoves to school building during winter time to be used in classrooms in various parts of the Kingdom to provide school children with the appropriate class school environment, particularly in areas of cold weather. ...this generous gesture by the King emanates from his keenness to secure healthy teaching situations and to provide better conditions for school children. ...
A benevolent king?

Gesture to ourselves
Haaretz 2006/12/27
...Israeli-Palestinian relations are the key to preventing further radicalization in the Middle East, as King Abdullah II of Jordan said this week, but the conflict is still languishing at the stage of gestures. In the absence of a determined leadership, it is the brigade and battalion commanders who are determining how the Israeli-Palestinian conflict looks in daily life; every checkpoint and roadblock and dirt pile and concrete cube is another brick in the wall of hatred. Reducing the number of checkpoints is a gesture not to the Palestinians, but to ourselves.

Olmert: Assad up to his neck in terror activity
yNetNews 2006/12/27
...Prime Minister Ehud Olmert told European Union and other ambassadors Wednesday that “Israel is certainly interested in conducting negotiations for peace with Syria ,” but added that Damascus’ actions indicate that its peace overtures are ‘not serious.’   The prime minister further added that Syrian President Bashar Assad’s regime supports Hizbullah, destabilizes Lebanon, protects Hamas and Islamic Jihad leaders and maintains close ties with Iran, which calls for Israel’s destruction. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Hamas to US: we don’t want state, but destruction of Israel
Judeoscope 2006/12/27
...The PA government sitting under chairmanship of premier Ismail Haneyya on Tuesday declared rejection of an American proposal to establish a Palestinian state with temporary borders within two years.   Haneyya described such plans as an unacceptable intervention in Palestinian internal affairs, adding that Washington should recognize the Palestinian people’s legitimate rights including establishment of a fully-sovereign Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital, release of all prisoners and return of refugees.   He then renewed his welcome to the Jordanian initiative that aims to bring him together with PA chief Mahmoud Abbas in Amman, and stressed the brotherly relations between the Palestinian and Jordanian peoples. ...

Terror groups use cease fire to form guerrilla armies
Palestinians enhancing capabilities, working to mimic Hezbollah warfare
WorldNetDaily 2006/12/27
Hamas and other Palestinian terror groups have been using a cease-fire agreed to last month to smuggle weapons into the Gaza Strip and build Hezbollah-like guerilla armies to confront the Jewish state, according to the Israeli Defense Forces.   "In another few months, in the Gaza Strip we will have to deal with military capabilities of the terror organizations that we haven't been familiar with until now," said Sami Turjeman, head of the IDF's operations department. ...

King, President Mubarak discuss developments in the region
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/26
...King Abdullah II and Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak discussed development of political events in the region.   During a telephone call on Tuesday, the two leaders discussed current efforts at the Arab and international scenes to revive peace talks between the Palestinians and Israelis and means of supporting the Palestinian people to foster their unity and strengthen their internal front. ...

Japan—on the Rise Again
TheTrumpet.com 2006/12/26
...Adding prestige to Japan’s rising sun on the international front, Jordan’s King Abdullah II has called on that nation to become more heavily involved in the most volatile theater of international relations, the Middle East. Channel NewsAsia reported December 19 on what the Jordanian monarch wants on his agenda with Abe during their upcoming first meeting: “Abdullah said he wants to discuss what Jordan and Japan can do jointly for the conflict-battered region ….” ...King Abdullah referred to Japan as not only probably the region’s strongest donor “socially and economically,” but also “probably the most honest broker for the Middle East.” ...
? Daniel 11:21 ...but he shall come in peaceably, and obtain the kingdom by flatteries

Jordan to host a meeting to renew talks regarding Palestinian unity government
Aljazeera 2006/12/26
...the Jordanian government invited Haniyeh to visit Jordan and take part in a tripartite meeting comprising himself, Abbas and King Abdullah II of Jordan. The meeting will endeavor to bridge the domestic Palestinian gap so as to contain the crisis and investigate the possibility of forming a unity government. ...

U.S. Plans to Found Palestinian State in 2007
Zaman Online 2006/12/26
The U.S. administration reportedly plans to found a Palestinian state with provisional borders by the end of 2007 ...this state would be created in accordance with the principles laid out in the “Road Map.” ...

PM demands deeds from Assad
The Jerusalem Post 2006/12/26
...Prime Minister Ehud Olmert told the Kadima faction he wanted to begin negotiations with Assad, but not without preconditions. ..."If they stop the violence, stop supporting Hamas and Hizbullah and break the horrible bond they have with Iran, I have no doubt we can start a diplomatic process and I have no doubt that we want this," Olmert said. "I would advise Assad to refrain from making bombastic statements without a plan behind them, and instead to take the real steps we all want that could lead to a diplomatic process." ...

Israeli spies divided over Syria's peace overtures
Scotsman.com 2006/12 26
Israelis are puzzling over the prospect of peace with Syria after their two foreign intelligence agencies gave dramatically different assessments of recent diplomatic overtures from Damascus.   While the Mossad spy service said Syrian President Bashar Assad had no genuine interest in peace talks, Israel's Military Intelligence said it believed Assad was ready to negotiate if this leads to the return of the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. ...

Muslims "Lagging Behind" (and other news stories/commentary)
Daniel Pipes 2006/12/25
...The fundamental malaise of modern Islam is a sense that something has gone wrong with Islamic history. The fundamental problem of modern Muslims is how to rehabilitate that history: to set it going again in full vigour, so that Islamic society may once again flourish as a divinely guided society should and must ...
Contributed by Bob Anderson.

Report: U.S., European Officials Visit PA Training Base in Jordan
Arutz Sheva 2006/12/25
American and European officials have visited a training base for Palestinian Authority (PA) security forces loyal to PA chairman Mahmoud Abbas, Reuters News Agency reported. A coordinated effort between the United States and the PA, with the agreement of Israel, has placed approximately 1,000 PA troops in Jordan for training prior to being deployed in Gaza. ...

A Role For Egypt and Jordan
Israel Insider 2006/12/25
Jordan's King Abdullah II reaffirmed his support for a Palestinian state on condition that it does not spur an influx of West Bank Arabs into his country. "Jordan will not accept an unjust settlement of the issue, nor will Jordan accept any settlement that comes at its expense," the king told Jordan's Parliament on Nov. 28. ...

Prime Minister Meets Palestinian President
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/25
Prime Minister Marouf Bakhit stressed on Jordan's firm stand and the efforts exerted by His Majesty King Abdullah II to move the peace process forward according to the peace process and through the direct negotiations that will lead to achieving the ambitions of Palestinians in establishing their independent state on the national soil. ...

Olmert Says He Wants to Renew Peace Talks with Syria
Voice Of America 2006/12/25
...Mr. Olmert said the two countries could arrive at dialogue if Syria stops its support for Islamic terror groups, including Hamas that heads the Palestinian Authority and Hezbollah in Lebanon. He also demanded that Syria sever what he called "its appalling connection with Iran." ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots

Majali meets Jordanian-Korean Friendship committee
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/24
Speaker of the House of Deputies Abdel Hadi al-Majali said Jordan under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II has been exerting tremendous efforts in its drive to establish comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East and to redirect the region’s potentials to development and growth in stead of wars and fighting. ...

King congratulates Christian Communities on Christmas Day
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/24
...During a meeting on Sunday with the Council of Head of Churches and representatives of Christian communities in Jordan King expressed his sincere wishes to all members of the Christian communities who have contributed to the building of the country. “Such an occasion embodies the shared values of loveliness, sympathy and tolerance between adherents of Islam and Christianity,” King Abdullah said ...

Israel Must Combat Lethal Terminology
Arutz Sheva 2006/12/24
Once again, Israel is falling into its usual trap - ignoring the insidious nature of Arab propaganda terminology. Despite the quickly discredited Baker-Hamilton Iraq Study Group report, Israel will once again be under the gun to retreat from the Golan Heights and the associated Shabaa Farms. The false terminology "Israeli-occupied territory" once more rears its ugly head; in this case, referring to the Golan and the Shabaa Farms, rather than to Judea, Samaria and Gaza. ...

Olmert Meets Abbas, Agrees to Thaw $100 Million in Frozen Funds
Arutz Sheva 2006/12/24
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert met with Palestinian Authority chief Mahmoud Abbas Saturday night and agreed to release $100 million in tax revenue and ease travel restrictions for PA Arabs.    Wearing smiles, shaking hands and kissing each other on the cheek, Olmert and Abbas began the first official talks held between Israel and the PA in more than two years. ...

Olmert Says He Weighs Prisoner Releases
Forbes 2006/12/24
Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert hinted Sunday that he might release some Palestinian prisoners in coming days, telling his Cabinet "the time has come to show flexibility and generosity," ...

2007 critical year: Jordan king
Trade Arabia 2006/12/23
Jordan's King Abdullah II warned chances were running out for peace in the Middle East, with 'disastrous' consequences in store unless progress is made in the first half of the new year. ...'I believe that the window of opportunity is diminishing and it won't be long before we can say that the futures of the Palestinians are gone,' he told the Japan Institute of International Affairs.   '2007 is a very critical year, and if we don't create a process to move forward in the next six or seven months, then I don't think we ever will. And the outcome of that will be disastrous for all of us, Israel included.' ...'If we don't move forward, I fear we will find ourselves in a situation where we will never have a two-state solution,' he said.   'Therefore we will never have peace between Israelis and Palestinians, therefore we will never have peace between Israelis and Arabs, and therefore we will condemn our region for another decade or two of violence, which none of us can afford.' ...
The king is now pushing hard for 'peace', more so than he ever has, and it appears to be coming to a crescendo this next spring.

Chairman of JICRC congratulates Christians
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/23
...Tamimi, in the congratulation letter sent to Christian community, which Petra received a copy it, said Jordanian people, in their faith and exertion to spread values of justice, peace and right of coexistence certainly deserved to be a good example to be emulated, and set a good model, which embodied a true and mutual love. The values descended from heaven and our Hashemite leadership emphasized it, till Jordan sets a unique example in tolerance, coexistence and human rights and becomes a home for justice, security.
Establishment of peace in Israel and Jerusalem, and coexistence of Jews, Muslims, and Christians on temple mount will truly be a unique example of tolerance and coexistence, albeit short lived.  However, scripture tells us that there must be a catching away (of New Creatures in Christ) before the man of sin is revealed to the world at large.
2 Thessalonians 2:3-12 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; 4) Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God. 5) Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things? 6) And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time. 7) For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. 8) And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: 9) Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, 10) And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11) And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: 12) That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

Japanese PM, Jordan king aim to promote peace in Mideast
The China Post 2006/12/23
Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Jordanian King Abdullah II reaffirmed their commitment to cooperate to promote peace in the Middle East ...

Iran's nuclear program prompts UN sanctions, as Israel threatens military strikes
The Market Oracle 2006/12/23
Iran, seemingly on course to become the next state to acquire nuclear weapons, due to perceived security risks from the USA and Israel, just as before India went nuclear because of China, and Pakistan because of India. Israel is believed to have gone nuclear during the late 1970's as a result of a joint nuclear programme with the South African Apartheid regime, as a deterrence against the Arab states. ...

'All my staff at the church have been killed - they disappeared'
Times Online 2006/12/23
Christians in the Middle East have paid a high price for the Iraq war, the publication of cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad and the Pope’s controversial remarks about Islam.   Egyptian Copts, Iraqi Chaldeans and the Palestinian Orthodox, Roman Catholic and Protestant communities have faced violence and even death at the hands of their Muslim neighbours. ...“All my staff at the church have been killed,” he said. “They disappeared about a year ago and we never saw them again. Of the rest of my congregation, most say they have been targeted in some way or have had letters delivered with bullets in them. People forget, or the Islamic groups don’t realise, that Christianity was in the Middle East before them and therefore they see Christians as being part of ...

Olmert, Abbas Hold Surprise Talks in Jerusalem
National Public Radio 2006/12/23
Israel's Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas held talks today in Jerusalem in a surprise meeting. The Israeli side agreed to some steps to bolster the embattled Palestinian leader. ...

With over 1.5 million tons of uranium ore in over 1,400 uranium mines, Iran started a global yellowcake race that only the US is ignoring.
JonChristianRyter.com 2006/12/23
...As the reemerging Soviet Union builds its own yellowcake stockpiles Iran disclosed that it now has over 1,400 uranium mines within its territory, and has no need to shop around for yellowcake for its uranium enrichment program. ...Just as Pakistan is selling nuclear bomb-making technology to its Islamic neighbors, Iran intends to be the supplier of yellowcake to the Muslim world. Their determination to become a nuclear power has launched a yellowcake race in Asia. Iran successfully produced yellowcake in this past summer.
COMMENT: The equation is more complex than this. CHINA is DESPERATELY short of uranium. They are going to any lengths to lock up supplies. (Watch the futures market!) China & Iran will become even more firmly ensconced in their bed.
Article and comment contributed by Bob Anderson.

Stealth candidates: unofficially officially in the race
JonChristianRyter.com 2006/12/23
...Speaking bluntly, in a real presidential election, no one in their right mind would vote for Obama. That would be like voting for the guy who just moved in down the street from you, that you wave to from time to time but don't know a thing about. That's Obama. He's been a US Senator for about 100 days, give or take a week. Obama takes great care to conceal the fact that he is a Muslim while admitting that he was once a Muslim, mitigating that damning information by saying that, for two years, he also attended a Catholic school. Obama's father, Barack Hussein Obama, Sr. was a radical Muslim who migrated from Kenya to Jakarta, Indonesia. He met Obama's mother, Ann Dunham—an white atheist from Wichita, Kansas—at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Obama, Sr. and Dunham divorced when Barack, Jr. was two. Obama's spinmeisters are now attempting to make it appear that Obama's introduction to Islam came from his father and that influence was temporary at best. In reality, the senior Obama returned to Kenya immediately following the divorce and never again had any direct influence over his son's education. Dunham married another Muslim, Lolo Soetoro who educated his stepson as a good Muslim by enrolling him in one of Jakarta's Wahabbi schools. Wahabbism is the radical teaching that created the Muslim terrorists who are now waging Jihad on the industrialized world. Since it is politically expedient to be a Christian when you are seeking political office in the United States, Obama joined the United Church of Christ to help purge any notion that he is still a Muslim—which, ideologically, he remains to this day. ...
Contributed by Bob Anderson.

Iran Presides over Coalition of Extremists
MEMRI 2006/12/22
...Iran presides over a confederation of extremists comprising Hassan Nasrallah's Hizbullah in Lebanon; Muqtada Al-Sadr's militia, known as Jeish al-Mahdi (the Mahdi Army) in Iraq; and Bashar Al-Assad's Syria - Iran's principal ally, and Iran's subcontractor for guiding and arming Hizbullah, and for providing the political and financial support for the Hamas Islamic ovement in Palestine. [1] Syria is also the headquarters for a variety of small terrorist groups. Its borders serve as the main crossing channel for terrorists feeding the ranks of the suicide bombers of Al-Qa'eda in the Land of the Two Rivers, established by Abu-Mus'ab Al-Zarqawi in Iraq, and for Iraqi Sunni elements active in Iraq. Muwaffaq Al-Rubai'i, Iraq's National Security Adviser, accused Syria of harboring in Damascus the leader of Ansar Al-Sunna organization who "directs the terrorist activities against our people in Iraq." Al-Rubai'i also claimed that 90 percent of terrorists use the Damascus airport before crossing the border into Iraq. [2] ...

Jordan's king warns against fading Mideast peace
Middle East Online 2006/12/23
Jordan's King Abdullah II warned Friday chances were running out for peace in the Middle East, with "disastrous" consequences in store unless progress is made in the first half of the new year. ...Abdullah made an impassioned call for the world to restore hope for Palestinians amid chaos in the Palestinian territories and elsewhere in the region.   "I believe that the window of opportunity is diminishing and it won't be long before we can say that the futures of the Palestinians are gone," ...

King Delivers Speech at Japan Institute of International Affairs
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/22
...King Abdullah stressed that the Palestinian issue is the core of conflict in the Middle East, pointing to the possibility of ending this conflict. The first step is a just settlement of the conflict between Palestinians and Israelis starting from the Arab Peace Initiative of 2002, Israeli withdrawal from all Arab territories occupied since 1967 and a sovereign, viable, and independent Palestine.   The second step, according to King Abdullah is ensuring sustainable peace, through combining security with vibrant economic growth ...
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand
1Thessalonians 5:3-4 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. 4) But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. ...
Revelation 6:1-2 And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, Come and see. 2) And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer. ...
His father handed him a crown and it appears that he is riding a white horse of 'peace', and 'conquering the world' with his message. a bow but no arrows.

New Iraqi political alliance hits snag
CNN 2006/12/22
The creation of a moderate political alliance in Iraq appeared to have made no progress Friday and was further complicated by the Shiite leadership claims that radical Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr must not be excluded.   "President Bush is being misled," senior Shiite parliament member Ali al-Adeeb said in response to Bush's statement Wednesday that an emerging "moderate coalition" would marginalize those who "use violence to achieve political objectives." ...

Moussa: The devils live in the details of the Lebanon deal
yaLibnan 2006/12/22
Addressing reporters after his talks with Saniora, Moussa said: "we've reached the details, and devils live in details."   However, he said: "we've started solving some difficulties … we need to intensify the effort." ...Moussa on Thursday said Syrian President Bashar Assad gave his full support to the Arab League mediation to end the crippling political impasse.   "We are moving toward reaching a Lebanese reconciliation," Moussa said after meeting with Assad. He did not elaborate. ..."I feel relieved," Moussa told reporters. "What is important is to salvage the Arab world from the woes of divisions and threats of what we are seeing in the region." ...
Daniel 2:41-4 And whereas thou sawest the feet and toes (Mohammad's Muslim Kingdom), part of potters' clay, and part of iron, the kingdom shall be divided (divided by time as well as allegiance [Shia vs Sunni and more]); but there shall be in it of the strength of the iron (strong nations as well as political strength via oil), forasmuch as thou sawest the iron mixed with miry clay. 2) And as the toes of the feet (the toes - present day, are of the feet - Mohammad's day - both Muslim) were part of iron, and part of clay, so the kingdom shall be partly strong, and partly broken. 3) And whereas thou sawest iron mixed with miry clay, they shall mingle themselves with the seed of men: but they shall not cleave one to another (the political situation in the Arab/Muslim world is a testament to that), even as iron is not mixed with clay. 4) And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed

Japan reaffirms Middle East commitment to King Abdullah
Moriel Ministries - MorielBeAlertBlog.blogspot.com 2006/12/22
Alert Focus: Antichrist
1 John 2:22
Who is the liar but the one who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, the one who denies the Father and the Son.
REUTERS - December 22, 2006 -- TOKYO -- Japan yesterday reaffirmed to Jordan’s visiting King Abdullah II its commitment to efforts promoting peace in the Middle East, the foreign ministry said. ...
Looks like some Jews have good eyesight.

What is a Hashemite
Moriel Ministries - MorielBeAlertBlog.blogspot.com 2006/12/22
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Hashemites or the Bani Hashim are the direct descendents of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), through his daughter Fatima and (her husband) his cousin Ali (the fourth, and last, "Rightly-Guided" Caliph of Islam). "Hashim" was the name of the great-grandfather of both the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and the Caliph Ali. The Hashemite family ruled, in various forms, over the Hejaz ...

Free Zones Corporation opens three recycling plants - Jordan
MEMAfn 2006/12/22
The Free Zones Corporation (FZC) announced this week the opening of three recycling plants to reduce waste and preserve the country's limited resources. ..."Protecting the environment is part of the corporation's responsibilities… it has allocated part of its land for establishing recycling plants and created an environment department in order to raise awareness on environment issues among investors and employees," FZC Director General Mahmoud Qteishat said during a workshop on environment and investment.   The plants were established at a cost of JD6 million with stakeholders from Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia and Turkey. ...
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

Gaza truce holds for third day despite clash
Middle East Times 2006/12/22
...Amid the tenuous calm, Jordan's King Abdullah II issued his latest appeal to jumpstart the dormant peace process between Israel and the Palestinians, warning of "disastrous" consequences unless progress was made in the first half of 2007.   "2007 is a very critical year, and if we don't create a process to move forward in the next six or seven months, then I don't think we ever will. And the outcome of that will be disastrous for all of us, Israel included," Abdullah said while on a visit to Japan, a major donor to the region. ...

Diplomacy: There goes the neighborhood
The Jerusalem Post 2006/12/22
...Jordan - according to government sources in Jerusalem - is as concerned about the deteriorating tensions in Gaza and the West Bank as is Israel. Likewise, Amman is very wary of Syria, and is not keen on seeing Israel do anything, such as negotiate with Damascus, that could let it break out of its international isolation.   Jordan has long-standing water issues with Syria regarding the flow of the Yarmuk, whose headwaters are in Syria but which is Jordan's most important water source. Tensions between the two countries were further strained earlier this year, following Jordanian allegations that arms for planned terrorist attacks inside the Hashemite kingdom were smuggled in from Syria. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Is the Hatay Problem Solved?
Daniel Pipes 2006/12/22 (update)
January 10, 2005 ...Former foes Turkey and Syria signed a free-trade accord and said they had agreed to put their differences behind them during a visit Wednesday by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Erdogan, at the start of a two-day mission, and his Syrian counterpart Mohammed Naji Otri signed the deal, which had been under negotiation for several years. … A Turkish diplomatic source said Damascus lifted its reservations to signing the trade deal "after a certain accord" was reached on Turkey's sovereignty in the southern province of Hatay, formerly Alexandretta, on which Syria had claims. ...Dec. 22, 2006 update: Two years after the signing of this accord, the Syrian tourism ministry still shows a map that claims Hatay as an integral part of the Syrian Arab Republic.   Comment: Is Damascus playing the same game with Ankara that the Arabs do all the time with Jerusalem, that is, sign an agreement and then ignore it?
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.
Article contributed by Bob Anderson.

Haniya wants new talks with Abbas on unity government
Combined Jewish Philanthropies 2006/12/22
Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniya announced Friday he accepted calls by President Mahmoud Abbas to resume talks on forming a unity government between their respective Hamas and Fatah parties, officials in the premier's office said.   Officials close to Abbas, however, said that resuming the talks would only make sense if Hamas accepted the three conditions of the international community for ending a financial boycott of the Palestinian Authority.   These include recognizing Israel's right to exist, renouncing violence and accepting past interim Israeli-Palestinian peace deals that call for a two-state solution. ...

Olmert giving Abbas one last chance
yNetNews 2006/12/22
...Prime Minister Ehud Olmert is practicing restraint primarily because he wants to give Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas as much leg room as necessary to undertake the decisive and dangerous process that he kick-started last week. The process intended to remove control of the territories from Hamas hands and hand it over to Fatah. ...

Islamofascism on the march in Beirut
The Washington Times 2006/12/22
Hezbollah's aggressive campaign to topple the Lebanese government of Prime Minister Fuad Siniora is just the latest sign of the dark new realities of the Middle East: that Iran and Syria, the Shi'ite terror group's state sponsors, are on the offensive, emboldened by their successes in fomenting violence in Iraq and undermining U.S. popular support for the war there, and in waging a three-front proxy war against Israel without incurring any substantial retaliation ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Syria building 'death trap' villages
The Jerusalem Post 2006/12/22
Warning that Israel may face a "Syrian intifada," a high-ranking officer in Northern Command has told The Jerusalem Post that villages recently built by Syria along the border are planned to be used as "death traps" for IDF troops in Hizbullah-inspired attacks. ...The idea is to draw Israel into an asymmetric war, the officer said ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

The White House Swings between Iraq Solutions - I
A Federal Baghdad, a Fragmented Iraq and Oil Revenues All Round
DEBKA-Net-Weekly 2006/12/22
The plan consists essentially of two parts: a federal Baghdad and the rest of the country split up into three autonomous regions, Kurdish, Sunni Arab and Shiite Muslim. The constitution must be amended to provide the Sunni minority with guarantees that the Shiite majority will never oust them from representative positions in Baghdad’s ruling institutions or alter the borders of their self-governing region. ...

White House Swings between Iraq Solutions – II
Wanted: A Shiite Strongman as Provisional Ruler
...However, DEBKA-Net-Weekly’s Washington sources report that, although nothing has been formally settled, the US president has also been considering a more radical blueprint that would entail the following steps:
1. The Iraqi parliament will meet and declare a state of emergency for six months or more. The exact period is not yet decided.
2. The announcement will include the suspension of the government headed by Nouri al-Maliki and parliament for a pre-defined period.
3. Parliament will then approve the establishment of a national emergency council to govern the country during the period of emergency.
4. Another option is that parliament will endorse a political or military figure as head of the national emergency council and sole ruler of Iraq. ...He must be ruthless and tough enough to crack down and destroy the insurgent forces and the Sunni militias – almost a Saddam Hussein. ...
Contributed by Bob Anderson.

‘Syria preparing to lure Israel into war’
Jerusalem Newswire 2006/12/22
Israeli media reported Friday that Syria has taken a leaf out of the Hizb’allah war manual and is laying the groundwork to draw Israel into a war of attrition. ...Damascus has been overseeing the building of “death trap” villages along its border with Israel. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Report: U.S. Working To Bring Down Assad
All Headline News 2006/12/21
The United States is actively supporting and helping to coordinate the activities of Syria opposition groups ahead of scheduled March elections with the aim of bringing down the regime of Syrian President Bashar Assad. ...The government report notes that the U.S. is facilitating meetings of Syrian opposition elements in Europe, as Syria prepares to hold national elections as part of a major U.S. push for greater democracy in the Middle East. ...
 ? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots

Arms seized with pro-Syria group
United Press International 2006/12/21
As the mounting political crisis tightened the noose on Lebanon, security forces have seized large quantities of arms possessed by a pro-Syrian party. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Majali Meets Japanese Counterpart
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/21
...Kono hailed the role of His Majesty King Abdullah II in restoring peace and security in the Middle East, considering that Jordan is an oasis of security and stability. ...

King meets number of Japanese economic activities
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/21
...King Abdullah stressed the importance of Japan’s Peace and Prosperity Corridor initiative in helping the Palestinian people achieve the economic development and in managing regional development between Jordan and Japan and between Palestine and Israel.   King expressed hope that Japan would contribute to developing Prince Muhammad Bridge between Jordan and Palestine. ...
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

King Meets Japanese Foreign Minister, Former Prime Minister
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/21
King Abdullah II urged the international community to exert efforts to revive the peace process between the Palestinians and Israelis and solve the conflict in accordance with international legitimacy resolutions and the Arab peace initiative adopted in the Beirut summit.   During a meeting with the Japanese Foreign Affairs Minister Taru Aso, the King said realizing a just solution for the Palestinian issue will lead to solving other issues in the region, mainly the Iraqi. ...King Abdullah reviewed Jordan’s efforts and contacts with the Palestinians and Israelis to ensure the resumption of negotiations with a view to establishing an independent Palestinian state living in peace beside Israel. ...

Dinner banquette in honor of King and Queen at Imperial Palace
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/21
Their Majesties Japanese Emperor Hirohito and Empress Michico held on Thursday in Tokyo at the Imperial Palace a dinner banquette in the honor of Their Majesties king Abdullah II and Queen Rania Al Abduallah. ...

MK Shteinitz: Syria Must Recognize Israeli Rule in the Golan
Arutz Sheva 2006/12/21
...Knesset Member Yuval Shteinitz says that Syria must recognize that Israel will not relinquish the Golan Heights, but he also asks if Syria currently has a stable peace with any of its neighbors. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots

Abbas seeks Israel summit before end of year
Ireland On-line 2006/12/21
Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas today said he hopes to hold a long-awaited summit with Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert by the end of the year. ...

Bush rebuffs calls for dialogue with Iran, Syria
The Daily Star 2006/12/21
US President George W. Bush on Wednesday again rebuffed calls to engage in talks with Iran and Syria on Iraq, warning Tehran about its nuclear program and Damascus about destabilizing Lebanon. In a year-end news conference, Bush insisted the United States will not be "run out" of the Middle East by the Iraq crisis and praised Lebanese Premier Fouad Siniora's tenacity in resisting "enormous pressure" from Syria and Hizbullah. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Italian foreign minister warns Damascus to meet demands of world community
The Daily Star 2006/12/21
...At the end of a short visit to Lebanon, D'Alema gave a news conference in which he said the international community has three demands: for Syria to cooperate in achieving stability in Iraq, for all regional states to respect Lebanese sovereignty and helping Palestinians arrive at a national unity government.   While "Italy does not want to isolate Syria or impose sanctions, as Italy has excellent relations with Damascus," he said, such eventualities would depend on the Syrian regime. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots

Analysis: The Russian card
The Jerusalem Post 2006/12/20
...The Russians do not see any problem with combining the role of middleman with that of arms dealer to Syria and other Middle Eastern states.   The usual argument is that the US has been selling weapons to Israel forever and it has never stopped Washington from mediating between Israelis and Palestinians. The only problem with this plan is, how will Moscow convince US President George W. Bush and French President Jacques Chirac, who recently called Syria "the state of murders," to give Damascus another shot at peacemaking. ...

OIC chief confers with Jordanian premier on Palestinian situation
The Raw Story 2006/12/20
...The OIC chief welcomed King Abdullah II of Jordan's offer to host a meeting between Abbas and Haniya in Amman, made Tuesday during a telephone conversation with the Palestinian president.   Both Abbas and Haniya have responded positively to the Jordanian invitation, but any meeting is not expected take place before Sunday, when King Abdullah returns from a visit to Japan. ...

Israel, Jordan upgrade trade pact
The Jerusalem Post 2006/12/20
The Industry, Trade and Labor Ministry on Tuesday signed an upgraded trade agreement with Jordan to ease supervision on jointly produced exports from qualified industrial zones (QIZ) to the United States and boost stronger economic cooperation between the countries. ...The revised agreements came against the backdrop of a surprise visit by Prime Minister Ehud Olmert to Jordan on Tuesday to meet with King Abdullah II.
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

Rice Asking ´Moderate´ Arab States To Form Bloc
Arutz Sheva 2006/12/20
American Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice has begun a new diplomatic tactic of trying to forge an alliance with "moderate" countries ...She included Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia as three of the "mainstream" states despite the growing strength of Muslim Brotherhood extremists in Egypt. ...

Hamas and Fatah agree to stop fighting
Radio New Zealand 2006/12/20
...Officials say the latest truce was reached after intense mediation by Egyptian officials.   King Abdullah II of Jordan also invited Mr Abbas and Mr Haniya to Jordan for talks on ending their conflict and held a surprise meeting in Amman with Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, prodding him to negotiate with the Palestinians.   King Abdullah says his country will do all it can "to help the Palestinians overcome their differences". ...

Mossad Chief Dagan: Syria "More Willing Now Than Ever Before" For War With Israel
Zionist Organization of America 2006/12/20
...Dagan said that as a result of the recent Lebanon war Syria felt more secure and confident in its ability to militarily confront Israel. “Israel’s military deterrence was damaged in the war. Therefore, [Syrian President Bashar] Assad’s self-confidence grew ... They are prepared to take more risks than in the past.” Dagan said that the Syrian army is building up its anti-tank missile units, having seen Israel sustain significant losses and casualties at the hands of Hizballah anti-tank missiles in Lebanon. Moreover, he disclosed that Syria is secretly buying stocks of anti-tank missiles from Russia ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Report: U.S. undermining Syrian leader
EarthTimes.org 2006/12/20
A classified document seen by Time magazine says the Bush administration is quietly trying to politically undermine Syrian President Bashar Assad's regime.   The two-page document said the United States already is supporting meetings within Syria and in Europe to facilitate a more coherent strategy and plan of action for all anti-Assad activists, Time said Wednesday in its online edition. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots

U.S. believes arms smuggled to Lebanon via Syria
Reuters 2006/12/20
..."Analytically, we believe that the smuggling is still continuing," Feltman told reporters. "We believe that Syria has a responsibility to stop allowing its territory to be used for smuggling to Hezbollah." ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Blair calls for alliance against extremism
Jordan Falls News 2006/12/20
..."There is a monumental struggle going on worldwide between those who believe in democracy and moderation, and forces of reaction and extremism," Blair said.   "We must therefore mobilize our alliance of moderation in the region and outside of it to defeat the extremists." ...

Syria, Iraq sign memorandum to cooperate in fighting terrorism, crime
Turkish Weekly 2006/12/20
...The memorandum of understanding sets the ground for cooperation on "developing border monitoring systems and exchanging information on organized crime, economic crimes, drug trafficking, forgery, stealing and smuggling cars," SUNA said. ...

Al-Qaeda's No. 2 Urges Palestinians to Use Jihad, Not Elections
Bloomberg 2006/12/20
Al-Qaeda's second in command, Ayman al-Zawahiri, urged Palestinians to reject elections and wage Islamic holy war to ``liberate Palestine,'' warning that attempts to form a national unity government will fail. ...``Anyone trying to liberate the land of Islam through elections based on secular con  The memorandum of understanding sets the ground for cooperation on "developing border monitoring systems and exchanging information on organized crime, economic crimes, drug trafficking, forgery, stealing and smuggling cars," SUNA said.stitutions or on decisions to surrender Palestine to the Jews will not free a grain of sand,'' he said. ...

Israeli official: We have time to block Iran nuclear program
Haaretz 2006/12/19
...Dagan told the Knesset's Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee that Iran will be in a postion to build a nuclear bomb by 2009, at the earliest, and rejected talk of "a point of no return," saying that "such a concept does not exist."   "The diplomatic effort to block Iran's nuclear program is far from being over. The threat is close enough to draw attention and yet far enough to allow time for action," the source said. ...

Israel denies receiving message from Syria
United Press International 2006/12/19
A prominent Arab TV channel said Tuesday that Syrian President Bashar Assad has sent Israel a message offering peace talks.   However, the Israeli prime minister's office denied having received such a letter. ...

JORDAN FEARS VIOLENCE WILL SPREAD FROM GAZA
Middle East Newsline 2006/12/19
...The sources said Jordan has relayed messages to both Israel and the Palestinian Authority regarding the danger of the Fatah-Hamas militia war. They said the kingdom has bolstered security around the 11 refugee camps and near the Jordan River. ...

Olmert, King Abdullah meet in secret
yNetNews 2006/12/19
...In the late afternoon on Tuesday the PM's office stated that he had met with Jordanian King Abdullah in secret earlier in the day. ...A source in the king's office said that during the meeting Abdullah stressed the need to enter negotiations in order to find a common denominator for resuming the peace process. The king also made it clear that the key for solving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict lies in convincing both sides that they are real partners in a fruit-bearing process.   Jordan's king warned of wasting time and exchanging accusations between the two sides, as well as of hesitation in taking steps which will strengthen peace opportunities. ...

Israel's Olmert pays surprise visit to Jordan
Xinhua Online 2006/12/19
Jordan said on Tuesday that Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert met with King Abdullah II earlier in the day after Olmert made a surprise visit to Jordan.   Jordanian royal court said in a statement that King Abdullah had talks with Olmert who paid a two-hour visit to Jordan and the king also phoned Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas. ...Earlier on Monday, Abdullah promised that he will enhance contact with Israel and the Palestinians in coming phase to help resume their peace talks.

Jordanian Aid Plane Heads to Sudan
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/19
In implementation of King Abdullah II directives, an aid plane left Amman on Tuesday to Faqeeh Hashem area in Sudan from the Jordanian Hashemite Charity Organization. ...
A benevolent king?

Assad Is in Moscow with Half-Billion Iranian Dollars to Upgrade His Army
DEBKAfile 2006/12/19
Syrian president Bashar Asad arrived in Moscow Monday night, Dec. 18, with two items for his host, President Vladimir Putin: A shopping list for weapons and half a billion dollars put up by Iran - in cash if needed - to purchase Russian arms.   In recent months, Tehran has been dispensing colossal sums to its Middle East allies and pawns, mostly to stock up on war materiel and upgrade their military strength. (The Palestinian Hamas prime minister Ismail Haniya alone was awarded quarter of a billion dollars for his war chest when he visited Tehran last week.) ...

Putin concerned over strained Mideast situation
Itar-Tass 2006/12/19
...“Regrettably, the situation in the region remains tense, and we see that the situation in fact is developing from one conflict to another. This cannot but alarm us,” he added.   “We are continuing to most actively participate in Middle East settlement, maintaining permanent contracts with Palestine’s political forces and, considering the dramatic development of events in the PNA, it would be useful and interesting for me to hear you opinion about the development of the situation,” Putin told Assad. ...

Manhigut Yehudit Conference Tuesday to "Start the Revolution"
Arutz Sheva 2006/12/19
...Organizers say the conference will kick off a renewed push toward bringing about an alternative leadership for the State of Israel. Feiglin wrote last week: “It is urgent to replace the culture of perfidy with a culture of loyalty: Loyalty to our spouses, to our family, to our Jewish heritage, our Jewish identity, our Land, our fellow Jews and our G-d. This is nothing short of a revolution…Now it is in your hands. [The conference] will help to jump-start the revolution. You owe it to yourself, your children and your People to be there.” ...Teenage girls who refused to recognize Israel’s court system, demanding to be tried instead by the Sanhedrin and sitting in jail for months as a result, will light the ...

Palestinian official says Olmert and Abbas making preparations for talks
International Herald Tribune 2006/12/19
..."The preparation for the meeting ... is ongoing," Erekat said. "Once the preparations are concluded, the meeting will take place immediately. No date has been set yet."

Arab League chief begins fresh mediation between rival Lebanese factions
SignOnSanDiego.com 2006/12/19
Arab League Secretary-General Amr Moussa began a new round of talks with rival Lebanese factions on Tuesday to resolve growing political and sectarian tensions that are threatening to tear the country apart. ...Saniora has been holed up at his office complex in central Beirut amid a tight security cordon since thousands of Hezbollah supporters and Syrian-backed allies began camping and staging mass protests in front of his office earlier this month. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Netanayhu: Beware the Developing ‘Islamic Reich’
Arutz Sheva 2006/12/19
...Netanyahu warned that the world’s governments must take action against Iran before Ahmadinejad succeeds in his mission to become the next Adolph Hitler.   “When a world leader has openly called for genocide,” said Netanyahu, repeating his statement to a Jewish group last month in Los Angeles, “believe him.” ...

The Sanhedrin's Decision Regarding the Holy Temple, the Temple Mount, and Jerusalem
The Temple Institute 28 Iyar 5765
...The Sanhedrin calls upon the Jewish people to contribute towards the acquisition of materials for the purpose of rebuilding the Holy Temple; the gathering and preparation of prefabricated, disassembled portions of this building to be stored and ready for rapid assembly, in the manner of King David. These contributions will be consider "chulin," i.e., non-sacred, for the purpose of the planning and construction of the Temple.

Jordan's king says he will contact Israeli leadership soon to revive Mideast peacemaking
International Herald Tribune 2006/12/18
..."Jordan will make contacts with Israeli (leaders) in the coming period in addition to the regular contacts we hold with the Palestinians to encourage both sides to undertake steps that could bolster mutual confidence and contribute to moving their peace process forward," Abdullah said in a written statement.   He warned that that failure to reach peace with the Palestinians would threaten the region. "Everyone (in the region), including the Israeli people will pay the price, if no Palestinian state was set up to meet the aspiration of the Palestinian people to independence and freedom," Abdullah said. ...
? John 5:43 "I am come in my Father's name (HASHEM), and ye receive me not: if another shall come "in his own name" (HASHEMITE), him ye will receive.

King meets 5 dailies editor-in-chiefs
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/18
...King Abdullah II asserted on Monday that his keenness focused in this phase on curbing poverty and unemployment and improving the living standard of the citizens. ...King’s remarks came at a meeting with five dailies editor-in-chiefs during which the king talked about a number of local and regional issues. ...King Abdullah underlined the importance of attracting investments and preparing the infrastructure for that, noting to key role of our brothers’ investments in Gulf countries to support Jordan’s economy and national development. ...
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

Jordan closes controversial desert jail
Seattle PI 2006/12/18
...King Abdullah II on Sunday ordered officials to immediately close the prison 162 miles south of the capital, Amman. The prison's 20 detainees were transferred to other facilities, police said.   The al-Jafr Penitentiary came under scathing criticism last June when the United Nations' special investigator on torture, Manfred Nowak, visited the facility and urged its closure because of "systematic beatings and corporal punishment of inmates, amounting to torture." ...

Bush signs nuclear cooperation deal with India into law
Xinhua Online 2006/12/18
U.S. President George W. Bush signed the nuclear cooperation deal with India into law on Monday to allow the United States to provide nuclear reactors and fuel to the ally for the first time in 30 years. ...

Mossad chief: Iran will have nuclear bomb by 2009-2010
Haaretz 2006/12/18
...Meir Dagan, on Monday told the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee that Iran will acquire nuclear weapons by 2009 or 2010. ...
Perhaps just in time to wreak world havoc around the mid-tribulation time frame.

Mossad director Meir Dagan: Syria speeds up arms deliveries to Hizballah while extending fake peace overtures to Israel
DEBKAfile 2006/12/18
...Dagan said Monday, Syria had accelerated its arms deliveries to the Lebanese Hizballah and is in the throes of a strong bid to overthrow the Siniora government. Furthermore, Syria’s Bashar Asad is bent on exacerbating the dangers facing US troops in Iraq. The Mossad chief said Asad is actuated by three motives ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

British PM in Israel, Meeting with Olmert, Abbas
Arutz Sheva 2006/12/18
...Blair presented no new ideas, but said that a new international initiative to solve the Middle East impasse would be forthcoming in a matter of weeks. ...
Hmmm

Saudis report Shi'ite 'state' inside of Iraq
The Washington Times 2006/12/18
Iran has effectively created a Shi'ite "state within a state" in neighboring Iraq, defying both Iraqi Sunnis and neighboring Sunni nations, according to a Saudi security report. ...

The tangled web of Middle Eastern alliances
OnlineOpinion 2006/12/18
...In summary it appears that Iran has launched a diplomatic offensive to paint itself as a force for peace in Iraq. Less known is Saudi Arabia’s campaign to limit Iranian influence in Iraq, and in the Middle East generally, through forming an anti-Iranian alliance.   Israel, meanwhile, is quietly co-operating, to some extent, with the Saudis to counter growing Iranian power. All this represents a new and complicated series of possible strategies, both overt and covert, for regional players. ...

'Still they have not learned that Syria does not take instructions'
The Daily Star 2006/12/18
...The following are excerpts of an interview with Syrian President Bashar Assad conducted by Alix Van Buren and published on Friday in the Italian daily La Repubblica. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots

NATO proposed as security move
The Washington Times 2006/12/18
...One idea circulating in Washington last week called for admitting Israel into NATO.   At least one analyst thinks NATO membership could provide security to Israel, help settle the Israel-Palestinian border and make the alliance a stabilizing force in the region. ...Steven Clemons, director of the American strategy program at the foundation, said after the forum that admitting Israel to NATO would "create massive tension" with its neighbors. He suggested that Israel instead promote ties with modern Sunni regimes in Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Morocco. ...

Iraq: American and Kurdish interests collide
Kurdish Media 2006/12/17
...Jordan, another close American ally, which cannot survive without American aid and military assistance, is sheltering thousands of high-level Saddam Hussein loyalists, who are vigorously campaigning against American forces in Iraq and are trying to bring down the Shiite-dominated government. King Abdullah II of Jordan is helping Iraqi dissidents and insurgent leaders under the pretext that he is against the growing Shiite influence in the Middle East. Harith al-Dhari, leader of the Association of the Islamic Scholars in Iraq, is using Amman, Jordan, as his sanctuary to raise funds from Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states for insurgents and their al-Qaida allies. Dhari has openly supported the American bitter enemy, al-Qaida, yet he is freely moving about in Amman. ...

Aid Convoy due in the Palestinian Lands Monday
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/17
...Head of Jordan’s Representation Office in Gaza Yahia Al Qaralah said in a statement to correspondent of Jordan News Agency in Gaza, that the aid would be distributed to the Palestinians by the concerned Palestinian bodies. “The aid comes in implementation of the Hashemite approach and a translation of His Majesty king Abdullah’s supportive stance towards the Palestinians,” he added.
This move on the part of the king helps portray him to the rest of the world as a compassionate and benevolent ruler.

King orders closure of al-Jaffer Prison Center, transforming it into vocational training school
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/17
During his visit to the National Center For Human Rights ( NCHR) on Sunday, His Majesty King Abdullah II ordered the closure of al-Jaffer prison and transforming it into a center for vocational training. ...
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

Kuwaiti businessman praises investment atmosphere in Jordan
Kuwait News Agency 2006/12/17
...Political stability, good investment infrastructure, and open economic system are favorable factors that attract investors to Jordan, al-Zalzala told KUNA after his meeting with Jordanian Minister of State for Legal Affairs Khalid Al-Zubi. ...Jordanian Monarch King Abdullah II gives priority to investment and instructed all concerned authorities to facilitate measures for investors, according to Al-Zubi.
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

Israel Again Turns Down "Intolerable" Syrian Offer
All Headline News 2006/12/17
Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert on Saturday rejected the latest apparent peace overtures out of Damascus as mere word games. ..."Israel has stated that we are always willing to talk peace," sources in Olmert's office told The Jerusalem Post. "But the Syrian government cannot just say they want peace, they have to show with actions that they are serious." ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Old messages with exquisite timing
Haaretz 2006/12/17
...The timing of the Syrian diplomacy is therefore interesting. It may be tied to the forecasts in Israel about the war expected next summer, and could be connected to Assad's statements about not ruling out "other options" apart from peace. Assad may also wish to neutralize the international pressure vis-a-vis Lebanon ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Jordan's Aqaba likes to party
AZStarNet.com 2006/12/17
...Despite the massive Jordanian flag towering 446 feet above its shores, Aqaba still has a sleepy-former-fishing-village feel. The city's stark concrete promenade remains the domain of local families who snack on grilled fish or smoke from snakelike nargilas along the Red Sea. Meanwhile, local fishermen continue to trawl for grouper, although increasing numbers turn to the easy cash available by converting their skiffs into glass-bottomed tourist vessels.   Aqaba — a desert town of 85,000 — is clearly moving quickly toward becoming an upmarket destination. In recent years, Aqaba has developed a vibrant fitness scene, complete with its own annual triathlon, and Jordan's nascent motorcycle crowd regularly descends upon the town en masse, proudly mounted atop Harleys. ...

Israel and Vatican wheeling and dealing
Melbourne Indymedia 2006/12/17
...The Bilateral Permanent Working Commission between the State of Israel and the Holy See met Wednesday morning (13 December 2006) at the Foreign Ministry to continue negotiations on the "economic agreement" concerning fiscal and property matters. ...

King Abdullah’s Enlightened Vision was behind the Success of AGFUND Projects in Jordan
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/16
His Royal Highness Prince Turki Bin Talal Bin Abdul Aziz, the personal Representative of Prince Talal Bin Abdul Aziz, the President of the Arab Gulf Program for United Nations Development Organizations (AGFUND) attributed the success of AGFUND programs in Jordan to the enlightened vision of His Majesty King Abdullah II. ...
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

A Recipe for Failure
American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research 2006/12/16
For the second time since 9/11, Americans have been treated to the undemocratic phenomenon of private citizens assuming the responsibilities and prerogatives of elected officials.   First they had the 9/11 Commission. Not content to present its findings and recommendations to the US President and Congress, the commission went on a nationwide lobbying campaign to persuade America, and pressure its representatives, into accepting its advice. Now the Baker-Hamilton commission, officially known as the Iraq Study Group, is self-consciously following in its predecessor's footsteps. ...

Al-Maliki talks unity, cabinet reshuffle, acceptance of Baathists
The Raw Story 2006/12/16
Baghdad- Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki on Saturday called on former army members to rejoin the Iraqi forces, extending a hand to Sunnis and even to Baathists in an aim to unite rival religious factions and to kick off a national-unity venture that is "inclusive of all Iraqis." The premier said that "now is the right time" for another reshuffle of his almost 7-month-old cabinet. ...
This appears to be a play from the playbook of Jordan's King Abdullah II.  Hmmm.

Israel-Palestine: It's Time to Go With the Saudi Plan & NATO
TPM Cafe 2006/12/16
...While thinking large, there is another option that could ultimately be subsumed under the Saudi initiative, the NATO option. What if NATO, led by the United States, told Israel that if it reaches an agreement with the Palestinians and the Syrians over the occupied lands, NATO would offer membership to both Israel and the new Palestinian state?   NATO membership would guarantee the borders of both countries, eliminating Israeli fears that territorial withdrawal would harm its security and Palestinian fears of its far more powerful neighbor.   Most important, Israel’s inclusion in NATO would formally send a message to President Ahmadinejad that an attack on Israel would be viewed as an attack on all NATO members. ...

Hariri Accuses Syria and Iran of Blocking the Course of Justice in LebanonHariri Accuses Syria and Iran of Blocking the Course of Justice in Lebanon
Naharnet 2006/12/16
Parliamentary majority leader Saad Hariri on Saturday accused Syria, Iran and local affiliates of launching an onslaught against Premier Fouad Saniora's government to abort the establishment of an international tribunal to try suspects in the assassination of his late father, ex-premier Rafik Hariri and related crimes. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Abbas Throws Down the Gauntlet
The Washington Post 2006/12/16
...Now Hamas must either create a national unity government that can end the siege on the Palestinian people, or lose power.   Yet it is unclear whether his call for early elections is legal or not. Palestinian Basic Law (a sort of constitution) clearly states that the president cannot dissolve the parliament. This rule was implemented to weaken Arafat when he was in power. But, Abbas, by volunteering his own position up for grabs in the election has made it tough for his opponents to reject his call. ...

Proposal to build a South Asian Union (SAU)
Global Politician 2006/12/16
...2. If we can include thirty seven more countries (Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestinian Authority, Syria, Turkey, Cyprus, Iran, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, China, Mongolia, North Korea, South Korea, Japan & Philippine) with the seven countries of SAARC (Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Maldives), then this organization or union will be one of the strongest unions. Then we can establish a powerful single currency like EURO as, for example SACU (South Asian Currency), dollar, or any other selected by the forum. And currency value can be fixed by averaging the currency values of the nations concerned.
3. All states will keep there own national flags as state flag and one common union flag, like that of EU. ...

Can the Israeli-Palestinian Dynamic Change?
American Thinker 2006/12/15
...King Abdullah of Jordan has opened the door for a new dynamic in the Middle East peace process. ...The notion is to create peace within the context of a new BENELUX type of entity, made up of the Independent State of Israel, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, and the Independent State of Palestine. That entity would be known, let us say, as the Confederated States of the Near East, or The Confederated States of Palestine. ...

King Visits Headquarters of Sultan Special Force in Oman
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/15
...King Abdullah II, who is currently on a visit for Oman, visited the headquarters of Sultan Special Forces within the bilateral cooperation and exchanging expertise between the armed forces in both countries. ...

Jordan's King calls Abbas, urging Palestinian unity
Monsters & Critics 2006/12/15
Jordan's King Abdullah II on Friday called Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to underscore the importance of 'closing Palestinian ranks ...'We all attach hopes to the wisdom and awareness of the Palestinian leadership in its various sites to halt the security deterioration and prevent internal fighting taking place among citizens of the Palestinian people,' King Abdullah was quoted as telling Abbas.

Suspension bridge opens for traffic
The Jordan Times 2006/12/15
...Amman Mayor Omar Maani said the new facilities are part of a strategic infrastructure plan aimed at improving the quality of life in the capital, and setting Amman as a model of modernisation to be followed by other cities. ...Maani was quoting directives by His Majesty King Abdullah, who in May entrusted the Greater Amman Municipality (GAM) with drawing up a “serious and comprehensive” project of city planning for the capital — serving as a template and example that can be replicated and evolved in other cities. ... The bridge, constructed at a cost of JD12 million, measures 425 metres in length, while its height from the lowest point in the valley is 45 metres.   The groundbreaking suspension bridge is the first of its kind, not only in the region, but also in the world; most bridges are designed in a straight line, whereas the Abdoun Suspension Bridge is curved ...
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

Make Mideast peace urgent policy priority, interreligious leaders urge U.S. government
Catholic Online 2006/12/15
...In the strongly worded, 2,500-word statement dated Dec. 12 and released Dec. 14, 35 leaders of national religious bodies, compelled by “our shared Abrahamic faith,” said the United States has “an inescapable responsibility and an indispensable role to provide creative, determined leadership for building a just peace for all in the Middle East.” ...

EU leaders demand that Syria stop meddling in Lebanon
International Herald Tribune 2006/12/15
...Damascus "must end all interference in Lebanese internal affairs and actively engage in the stabilization of Lebanon and the region," the leaders said at their two-day summit.   France — a longtime ally of Lebanon, its former protectorate — has insisted the EU take a stronger stance on Syria ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

BSA honours Director General of Department of National Library in Jordan for his role in IPR protection
AMEInfo 2006/12/14
...The Jordanian government is seeking to develop the country's IT and communication sectors and has enacted laws to ensure protection of Intellectual Property Rights. Jordan's drive against software piracy, which has the direct backing of King Abdullah Bin Al Hussein, has earned widespread appreciation for its effectiveness and impact. ...
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

King Abdullah II praises "ideal" relations with Kuwait -- minister
Kuwait News Agency 2006/12/14
Ideal and distinguished relations are what Kuwait and Jordan have, Kuwait's Minister of Public Works and Housing Affairs Bader Al-Humeidi said Tuesday quoting Jordan's King Abdullah II as saying. ...
? Daniel 11:21 ...but he shall come in peaceably, and obtain the kingdom by flatteries

Emaar Jordan to develop USD500 million Dead Sea project
AMEInfo 2006/12/14
...Emaar Jordan has already joined hands with a number of regional and Jordanian investors to form The Dead Sea Company, which will undertake the project in line with the growth plans outlined for the country by the King Abdullah II Fund for Development.   'With a development value of US$500 million, the Dead Sea project by Emaar is one of the largest undertakings in Jordan's property sector recently,' said Mr Issam Galadari, Managing Director, Emaar International ...
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

Jordanian, Iraqi statement

Jordan News Agency 2006/12/13
Interior Minister Eid Fayez and his Iraqi counterpart Jawad Al Bolanni agreed to form joint security committee to study and coordinate all security affairs and take all necessary steps to preserve security and stability of both countries, as well as exchange security information related to fighting terrorism and organized crime.   Al Fayez affirmed Jordan’s commitment to supporting Iraq in line with Arab message and its Hashemite leadership, the statement said. ...
? Daniel 8:23 And in the latter time of their kingdom, when the transgressors are come to the full, a king of fierce countenance, and understanding dark sentences, shall stand up.
? Daniel 8:25 ...and by peace shall destroy many [under the banner of peace, or in order to bring in the peace which this king keeps pushing, many are now being and shall be destroyed]
? Revelation 17:10-14 And there are seven kings: five are fallen (Egyptian, Assyrian, Babylonian, Medo-Persian, Grecian) and one is (Roman) , and the other is not yet come; and when he cometh, he must continue a short space (Hashemite kingdom of Mohammad). 11) And the beast that was, and is not (a demon imprisoned in the bottomless pit), even he is the eighth, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition (released from the pit again and wreaks havoc on the earth). 12) And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings (Arab kingdoms of today), which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the beast. 13 These have one mind (ultimately to destroy Israel), and shall give their power and strength unto the beast (the demon possessed antichrist). 14) These shall make war with the Lamb (God's chosen people Israel & Jesus His only begotten son), and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.
Ok folks, this is what we've been waiting for.  It appears we are now even at the doors.  This appears to be the beginning of the revived Hashemite kingdom of Mohammad once again in 'Babylon' (Revelation 17:11 ...the eighth of the seven) of which the scriptures foretold.  This also 'appears' to be the only way out of Iraq for the U.S..

Jordanian-Iraqi officials open talks on bilateral relations
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/13
...Fayez, who commended the close historical ties linking Jordan with Iraq said upon directives from His Majesty King Abdullah II , all facilities are offered to Iraqi brothers living in Jordan who are treated exceptionally particularly with regard to issues related to residence, investment and study due to their difficult circumstances.   He reiterated Jordan will remain a strong supporter to Iraq and is always keen on preserving Iraq’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. ...

Jimmy Carter Plays the "God Card"
The Huffington Post 2006/12/13
...Carter condemns Israel for its administration of Christian and Muslim religious sites, when in fact Israel is scrupulous about ensuring those of every religion the right to worship as they please consistent, of course, with security needs. He fails to mention that between 1948 and 1967, when Jordan occupied the West Bank and East Jerusalem, the Hashemites destroyed and desecrated Jewish religious sites and prevented Jews from praying at the Western Wall. ...

Syria President Bashar al-Assad Summoned to Moscow
News Blaze 2006/12/13
...President al-Assad has to respond to the summons since Moscow has long been one of Syria's main weapon suppliers and if his responses are not satisfactory then Russia will distance itself from him. ...

Saudis Warn They May Back Sunnis If U.S. Pulls Out Of Iraq
FreeInternetPress.com 2006/12/13
Saudi Arabia has told the Bush administration that it might provide financial backing to Iraqi Sunnis in any war against Iraq's Shiites if the United States pulls its troops out of Iraq, according to American and Arab diplomats. King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia conveyed that message to Vice President Dick Cheney two weeks ago ...

King meets ministers, government officials and business leaders
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/12
...The King urged all parties to build on the economic reforms accomplished over the past few years and promote the favorable investment climate in the Kingdom.   In this regard, King Abdullah affirmed the necessity to back the economic development zones including the Special Development Zone in Mafraq he announced recently due to the vital role of these zones in addressing problems of poverty and unemployment and improving the citizens’ living conditions. ...
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

Syria gearing up for warfare
Herald Sun 2006/12/12
A TOP Israeli military official has told Cabinet that Syria has moved its missile batteries closer to the border and is preparing its forces for a military conflict. ..."Assad is working in two parallel tracks," Brig-Gen Baidatz said.   "On the one hand he is not ruling out a diplomatic solution with Israel, and on the other hand he is preparing his forces for military conflict." ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots

Speaker of Parliament receives U.S delegation
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/11
Speaker of Parliament Abdul Hadi Majali said Jordan’s capital and its qualification for progress and building resides in the wisdom of Hashemite leadership and the true historical cohesion among this leadership.   Majali added during a meeting with the US Task Force for Palestine headed by Zaid Al Asali this enables Jordan to achieve miracles in all fields. ...

STS announces support to Jordan ICT Forum 2006 through participation as Forum Partner
MENAfn 2006/12/11
...Ramzi Zeine, Chairman, STS said: “STS’ agreement with int@j underscores our continuous support to the Jordanian government’s visionary policy of making ICT the backbone of the kingdom’s economy and building the country into a hub for the regional ICT industry. STS is committed to the effective development of the regional IT sector and will use the opportunity provided by the Forum to maximise exposure for our high-performing, specialist solutions that enable our clients to achieve business targets and optimise their return-on-investment.” ...
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

Jordan to Establish National IP Commission
AGIPNews 2006/12/11
...Deputizing for His Majesty King Abdullah II, Minister of Industry and Trade Salim Khaza'la inaugurated the Forum which is organized by JIPA in addition to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the Association for Protection of Industrial Property in the Arab World (APPIMAF). ...“This decision will help the Jordanian government improve the enforcement of intellectual property laws in order to reduce the negative consequences of this problem,” ...
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

"New Caliphate" is Nonsense
The Washington Post 2006/12/11
...For the record, the last serious attempt to create a Caliph was made by Lloyd-George and Churchill, both during the First World War and just after it. They were a keen on a 'Southern Caliphate' as the counterpoint to the Ottoman, an Arab who could rule from Mecca. Their preferred candidates were from the Hashemite family, now ruling Jordan. An emir from the dusty neighborhood thought it was not such a good idea, which is why the Saudis rule over Mecca and Medina now.   Do Bush and Blair need a Caliph as an ogre-enemy -- the kind of figure who was a mother's warning to troublesome children in eighteenth century Europe ...
Hmmm

What's the chance of war with Syria? Top IDF officers appear confused
The Jerusalem Post 2006/12/11
...Head of Military Intelligence's Research Division Brig.-Gen. Yossi Baidatz told the cabinet Sunday that Syrian President Bashar Assad was concerned about an Israeli attack, and as such had stepped up production of long-range missiles and moved anti-aircraft missiles to his border with Israel. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Syrian guerrillas 'to launch resistance within months'
WorldNetDaily 2006/12/11
If Israel does not vacate the Golan Heights within months, a guerrilla organization allegedly formed in Syria will soon launch "resistance operations" against Israeli positions and Jewish communities in the Golan ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

America's death warrant signed
WorldNetDaily 2006/12/11
Like it or not, the United States got its Christmas present from Washington's political elites.   What was it?   Betrayal, packaged in the report by the Iraq Study Group.   They should have wrapped it black paper and tied it with a noose. ...

The Muslim Double Standard
CantonRep.com 2006/12/11
...when Muslims beat infidels, it’s just too bad for the latter; they must submit to their new overlords’ rules with all the attendant discrimination and humiliation mandated for non-Muslims. Yet when Islam is beaten, demands for apologies and concessions are expected from the infidel world at large.   Double standards do not make for international justice. ...

Iraqi PM may face revolt from within government
CNN.com 2006/12/11
Major partners in Iraq's governing coalition are in behind-the-scenes talks to oust Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki amid discontent over his failure to quell raging violence, according to lawmakers involved. ..."The question of confidence in this government must be reconsidered," Parliament Speaker Mahmoud al-Mashhadani, a Sunni Arab, told legislators Sunday. "Why should we continue to support it? For its failure?"

Anti-Corruption Conference Opens At Dead Sea Shores
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/10
Deputizing for His Majesty King Abdullah II, Prime Minister Marouf Al Bakhit opened at the Dead Sea Shores on Sunday the First “Conference of States Parties to the UN Convention against Corruption”. ...the Prime Minister welcomed the conferees and conveyed greetings from the conference’s patron, His Majesty King Abdullah II. ...The premier cited the devastating influence of corruption on the political, economic and social life since it undermined the principles of good governance, democracy, the rule of law, development policies, elimination of investments and capitals and threatening security and peace in the society. ...
? Daniel 8:23 And in the latter time of their kingdom, when the transgressors are come to the full, a king of fierce countenance, and understanding dark sentences, shall stand up.

EU grant to Jordan to help finance Int’l anti-corruption conference
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/10
The European Union has offered a 300,000 euro grant to Jordan to help finance the first “ Conference of States Party to the UN Convention against Corruption,” currently held at the Dead Sea shores. ...

New Aid Convoy Arrives in Palestinian Lands
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/10
...the Jordanian aid comes as a translation of His Majesty’s King Abdullah Supportive stance towards the Palestinians.

Jordan's PM urges worldwide effort to combat corruption
International Herald Tribune 2006/12/10
Jordanian Prime Minister Marouf al-Bakhit on Sunday urged stepped up international efforts to combat corruption, saying it had reached unprecedented levels and played a significant role in global terrorism. ...

King underlines Jordan’s commitments to supporting Palestinian people
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/10
King Abdullah II has underlined on Sunday Jordan’s pledge to supporting the Palestinian people to regain their rights forefront which is establishing the Palestinian independent state on the Palestinian soil. ...King’s remarks made during a meeting with the US working team for Palestine headed by Ziad Al Asali.   King Abdullah expressed his full support for the US working team for Palestine, affirming the importance role of the team to find a just solution for the Palestinian issue.   Jordan, King Abdullah underlined, will continue its support for the Palestinian people to alleviate the socio-economic hardships the Palestinian people are facing.   The delegation members commended King’s efforts to enhance stability in the region, noting that King Abdullah represents the audible, tolerant, and courage voice. ...
 

King opens health, educational, social projects in Southern Ghor
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/10
King Abdullah II on Sunday opened a number of projects that help improve the health, educational and social fields and they were accomplished in very short time. ...These projects, King Abdullah said, are not the last, but rather there are still other projects to be implemented in future that help to solve the problems of poverty and unemployment. ...
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

Jimmy Carter Does it Again!
Israel Hasbara Committee 2006/12/10
...The Israel Hasbara Committee respectfully points out in connection with the word "Apartheid" in the book's title that it is an indisputable historical fact that the only truly apartheid situation in ‘Palestine’ was when Churchill lopped off Trans Jordan in 1922, installed the Hashemites from Saudi Arabia as titular heads and designated it for ‘Arabs Only’. Trans Jordan was originally part of Palestine; an area promised as a Jewish homeland and was under a British protectorate until 1946 when it became an independent sovereign Arab state. To this day, Jews are forbidden to live in Jordan, although they can visit. On another significant historical note, the Jordanian Hashemite monarchy originates from Saudi Arabia. The Hashemite clan is from Mecca, Saudi Arabia and if the Saudi clan had not defeated them in battle, they would still be living there. ...
Hmmm!  That may be a real good justification to take it back then when the 'little horn' king 'shall enter peaceably even upon the fattest places of the province'.
? Daniel 11:24 He shall enter peaceably even upon the fattest places of the province; and he shall do that which his fathers have not done, nor his fathers' fathers; he shall scatter among them the prey, and spoil, and riches: yea, and he shall forecast his devices against the strong holds, even for a time.

No Palestinians, no problem
Haaretz 2006/12/10
...The concept of a Palestinian people is artificial, a grand lie foisted on a gullible and guilt-plagued international community.   The seductiveness of this lies in its simplicity. Remove the Palestinians from the equation, and the equation is solved. No more guilt. No more dilemmas. No land to divide. No rights to share. No Middle East conflict.   How very elegant. Just decide that there are no Palestinians, and the problem vanishes. The magic trick to end all magic tricks. Instant transfer.   No Palestinians, no Palestine - no problem. ...

Israeli intelligence chief warns: Syria is expanding its long-range missile manufacture and anti-tank rocket deployment on Golan
DEBKAfile 2006/12/10
...Brig. Gen Yossi Baidatz, military intelligence chief of research, reported that Syria had increased its production of long-range missiles (picture)and was building up its anti-tank rocket units on the Golan border with Israel. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Israel Agrees to Reopen Mt. Zion Talks with Vatican
Arutz Sheva 2006/12/10
PM Olmert will meet in the Vatican this week with Pope Benedict - two weeks after Israeli diplomats confirmed the reopening of talks over the status of church property on Mt. Zion and elsewhere. ...Rabbi Herman explained that if the Catholic Church receives control of the area, just a few hundred yards from the Temple Mount and adjacent to the Old City walls, it will turn it into "the international center for Catholics all around the world - and if the pope just gives the word, Christians will be flocking over here en masse."   Rabbi Mordechai Goldstein, who founded and still runs the Diaspora Yeshiva, officially known as Yeshiva Toras Yisrael, elaborated in a follow-up discussion with Arutz-7: "According to their bible, the land is to return to the Christians, and 144,000 Jews are to return to Mt. Zion. So their plan is for them to take control of the site, and then to announce that they are holding a mass reenactment of the Last Supper, with [all types of religious rituals], and to invite millions of Christians to come to Jerusalem and celebrate." He said that this means much tourism money for Israel, and that someone in the Israeli government is apparently very interested in making this happen. ...
Right on time...
Article and comment contributed by Mike Smario.

The Six-Day War: A Retrospective
OpinionEditorials.com 2006/12/9
June 5, 2007 will mark forty years since the Six-Day War. As we approach that anniversary, we can expect Israel’s critics, enemies and alleged friends, to intensify their demands for Israel to relinquish and evacuate the “occupied territories”, and help establish a Palestinian Arab State in their place. That demand often comes with a promise of recognition and peace with Israel in exchange for a complete withdrawal. A constant drumbeat of voices ...
? Matthew 24:32-34 Now learn a parable of the fig tree (Israel); When his branch (nation?) is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves (six day war?), ye know that summer is nigh: 33) So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. 34) Verily I say unto you, This generation (40 years? ...hence 2007?) shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.

Jews, Wake Up!
Jewish World Review 2006/12/8
When the history of our times is written, this week will be remembered as the week that Washington decided to let the Islamic Republic of Iran go nuclear. Hopefully it will also be remembered as the moment the Jews arose and refused to allow Iran to go nuclear. ...
Contributed by Bob Anderson.

Info2cell.com participates in Jordan ICT Forum
AMEInfo 2006/12/7
The two-day event held under the patronage of His Majesty King Abdullah II, brought together some of the world's most renowned Information & Communications Technology (ICT) visionaries, policy makers and entrepreneurs to compare progress made and discuss ideas for improvement. ...
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

The West's Groveling Capitulation To Militant Islam
CaliforniaRepublic.org 2006/12/7
Many in the West are congratulating Pope Benedict XVI’s recent trip to Turkey, where in the Blue Mosque he prayed facing Mecca and made other gestures meant to salve the wounds raised by his references to Islam’s history of violence. Personally, I found the whole scene a depressing exhibit of the West’s terminal failure of nerve, one particularly distressing given this Pope’s documented understanding that what we call the “war on terror” is in fact the latest episode in the centuries-long struggle with a militant Islam. ...

Every great empire is lured to its demise in the Middle East
Ruidoso News 2006/12/7
...When the British controlled the world, Jerusalem was under their yoke. Before them, the Ottoman Turks possessed Jerusalem and they controlled half of Asia and Europe. We can keep going back in history to the Muslim Arabs and before them the Romans and before them the Persians and before them the Greeks. Every great empire is lured to its demise in the Middle East. ...At this highly inflamed juncture in the Middle East, if Bush and Olmert are not prepared to do what Holako had done, then they better sit down with their enemies and work out their differences, sooner rather than later. Delaying the inevitable will make the loss that much greater for the American people who never asked for a 100-year war with Arabs and Muslims. Staying the course to get "the job" done that was laid out, yet again, by Bush after his summit meeting with Al-Maliki, leads straight through the gates of Hell.

Rabbi Ariel Arrested, Released
Arutz Sheva 2006/12/7
Rabbi Yisrael Ariel [left], Jerusalem Temple Institute founder, was arrested for several hours today because of a letter he wrote recommending that an IDF officer not be called up to the Torah. ...
Contributed by Mike Smario.

Peace Talks WITHOUT Israel
Lekarev Report 2006/12/7
According to today's issue of the conservative Washington Times' Insight magazine, the White House is looking into a proposal by former Secretary of State James Baker to hold a Middle East peace conference without Israel . ...

Islam Cannot Be Defeated, Says Abdullah
Arab News 2006/12/6
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah yesterday emphasized that Islam would remain strong despite the efforts by enemies to destroy the religion and weaken its followers. ...King Abdullah urged all Muslims to join their hands in the fight against deviants.   “I am sorry to say that some members of this deviant group are our children but they are enticed by Satan,” he said, referring to Al-Qaeda sympathizers in the Kingdom. ...

Jordan woos investors with USD 3 billion Aqaba development
AMEInfo 2006/12/6
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan today announced a major new development programme in the ancient port city of Aqaba, destined to transform the region into a commercial, residential and tourism powerhouse. ..."We have been developing the Aqaba region for some time and this final phase will enable institutional investors to develop one of the most sought after parcels of real estate in the world. Our track record speaks for itself with $2 billion in real estate Public Private Partnerships already underway. We have shown that we're willing to offer levels of flexibility and freedom as well as government support to any private development initiative. With its location Aqaba is the most beautiful blank canvas that any developer could ever wish for." ...
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

Iraqi Premier Moves to Plan Regional Talks
The New York Times 2006/12/6
...“We will send envoys to neighboring countries to exchange opinions on matters and to ask the governments of these countries to help reinforce security and stability in Iraq,” Mr. Maliki said. “After settling the political climate, we will call for a convening of only those countries that want to ensure the security and stability of Iraq.” ...
This should be a ripe environment for King Abdullah II of Jordan to show what he's made of.

Making the Connection Between Iraq and Israel
The Huffington Post 2006/12/5
...The Bush Administration wants Arab states to help the US control the Iraqi civil war. But Iraq's neighbors aren't interested in helping America because of our one-sided approach to the Israeli-Palestinian problem. They see our foreign policy as self-centered; ask why they should help us when we are unwilling to curtail Israel's bellicosity.   This came to a head on November 29th when President Bush met with Jordan's King Abdullah II and Iraq's Prime Minister Maliki. The American media focused on the Bush-Maliki meeting, but for much of the rest of the world the big news was Abdullah's refusal to talk about Iraq and to, instead, focus on the necessity for the Bush Administration to resolved the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. King Abdullah was direct: Bush wasn't going to get help with Iraq until he brokered a reasonable peace agreement between Israel and Palestine. A stiff challenge for a President ...

Arabs appear helpless over Iraq
United Press International 2006/12/5
...Mousa sounded the alarm, warning that "Iraq's unity, territorial integrity, identity, social structure and Arab allegiance are seriously threatened and in great danger."   "Developments on the ground and disorder and violence sweeping Iraq necessitate an immediate Arab action to protect Iraq's future from the dangers of fragmentation and slipping into war that would spill over the border and threaten the region's security and stability," Mousa warned.   Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshiar Zibari was critical of what he described as "Arab neglect and slackening" in taking a leading role to help resolve Iraq's crisis.   "I have asked for a clear Arab support of Iraq's political process and government in which Egypt would take the lead," Zibari said after talks with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak.   "The increasing Iranian role in Iraq of which we are complaining is due to the decline of the Arab role," Zibari added. ...
This is a very clear signal by the leader of the Arab League and the Iraqi Foreign Minister for King Abdullah II of Jordan to step up to the plate and become the Arab leader that is his and Iraq's dark destiny.

King congratulates Finnish President
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/5
...King Abdullah II sent cable on Tuesday to President Tarja Halonen congratulating her in his name ...
? John 5:43 "I am come in my Father's name (HASHEM), and ye receive me not: if another shall come "in his own name" (HASHEMITE), him ye will receive.

Merkel, Chirac urge Syria not to meddle in Lebanon
Reuters 2006/12/5
..."France and Germany call for an end to all interference in the affairs of Lebanon," German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Jacques Chirac said in a joint statement issued after a meeting in Mettlach, Germany.   "They wish that Syria will no longer support forces that want to destabilise Lebanon and the region," the statement said. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Islam gets concessions; infidels get conquered
Los Angeles Times 2006/12/5
...what did the pope do in his controversial visit to Hagia Sophia? He refrained from any gesture that could be misconstrued as Christian worship and merely took in the sights of the museum. Moreover, when he was invited into the Blue Mosque nearby, he respectfully took off his shoes and prayed, eyes downcast, standing next to the the grand mufti of Istanbul like a true dhimmi — a subdued non-Muslim living under Islamic law and acknowledging Islamic superiority.   And therein is the final lesson. Muslims' zeal for their holy places and lands is not intrinsically blameworthy. Indeed, there's something to be said about being passionate and protective of one's own. Here the secular West — Christendom's prodigal son and true usurper — can learn something from Islam. For whenever and wherever the West concedes ideologically, politically and especially spiritually, Islam will be sure to conquer. ...

Arab FMs agree on timetable to build Iraq''s army, police
Kuwait News Agency 2006/12/5
Head of the Arab League's ministerial committee on Iraq, Bahraini Foreign Minister Sheikh Khaled bin Ahmad Al Khalifa said it has been agreed to devise a timetable to build Iraq's army and police before withdrawing foreign troops. ...The meeting expressed overall support for Iraq's unity, protection and Arab identity through rejecting all foreign intervention, he said. ...

Israeli-Arabs Demand National Recognition
Arutz Sheva A7 2006/12/5
The Israeli-Arab sector insists on recognition as a "national minority," including the right to return to places they quit 58 years ago, changes to the flag and anthem, immigration quotas, and more. ...
Note proposed Balkanization of Israel! This is the kiss of death!
Article and comment contributed by Bob Anderson.

Hardliners turn on Ahmadinejad for watching women dancers
Guardian Unlimited 2006/12/5
President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of Iran, who flaunts his ideological fervour, has been accused of undermining Iran's Islamic revolution after television footage appeared to show him watching a female song and dance show.   The famously austere Mr Ahmadinejad has been criticised by his own allies after attending the lavish opening ceremony of the Asian games in Qatar, a sporting competition involving 13,000 athletes from 39 countries. The ceremony featured Indian and Egyptian dancers and female vocalists. Many were not wearing veils. ...

Iran v Saudis in battle of Beirut
Guardian Unlimited 2006/12/5
...A Saudi statement said US policies should be "in accord with the region's actual condition and its historical equilibrium". Translated from diplomat-speak, that was a call for greater White House responsibility. And that in turn meant, for instance, that any post-Baker review attempt to cut and run in Iraq, or "cut and walk" as Washington wags are now terming the proposed withdrawal strategy, should be firmly resisted.   Riyadh is indirectly confronting Tehran in Palestine, where it supports President Mahmoud Abbas against the Iranian-backed Hamas, and in Lebanon, where it is bankrolling the Siniora government.   But the key battleground is Iraq. The Saudis fear that a failure of the US there would confirm the country's domination by Iran, jeopardise the survival of Iraq's Sunni minority and upset political and religious power balances along the entire western Gulf littoral. "Since America came into Iraq uninvited, it should not leave uninvited," a Saudi government adviser, Nawaf Obaid, told the Washington Post ...

Lebanese army increases forces in tense Beirut
yNetNews 2006/12/5
Several thousand soldiers deploy across town Monday, in wake of killing of pro-Syrian demonstrator and fears mass anti-government protests could turn into sectarian violence. Arab League head Moussa warns crisis could worsen ...

MK Bishara to MK Erdan: Go f*** yourself
yNetNews 2006/12/5
During Knesset committee meeting regarding law to ban MKs who support or identify with terror organizations, National Democratic Assembly chairman aims expletive at colleague from Likud. Following Arab MK's removal from meeting, committee decides not to approve law ...

US Islamic group slams Ellison critic
The Jerusalem Post 2006/12/5
...The Council on American-Islamic Relations said Monday that comments by Dennis Prager, a columnist and conservative talk radio host, displayed intolerance toward Islam that makes him inappropriate to serve on the council, which oversees the US Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington. ...

Hamas Chief Promises War Even if PA State is Established
Arutz Sheva A7 2006/12/5
Khaled Meshaal, the Damascus-based leader of the Hamas terrorist organization, makes no bones: Either Israel leaves all of Judea, Samaria and Gaza and agrees to the 'right of return' - or war. ...

King Lectures before students and teachers of RCDS
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/4
...King Abdullah II affirmed that the Palestinian issue will remain the core of conflict in the Middle East; and that the region will not enjoy security and stability as long as the Palestinian issue is not solved in a way that guarantees the legal rights for the Palestinians. ...King Abdullah pointed at the great responsibility on the USA and the UK in supporting peace efforts and in finding a just and comprehensive solution for the Palestinian issue.   Regarding the situation in Iraq, His Majesty reviewed the situation in Iraq, stressing the necessity of the international community's support for the Iraqi people to help them overcome the hard circumstances.   His Majesty also reviewed Jordan's efforts and many other Arab countries to support the national conciliation in Iraq. ...
Here the king is pointing out what way he thinks the world should do regarding the middle east.  He is loudly proclaiming himself a leader regarding these issues.  Now what he waits for is all the world, and especially the Arabs, to crown him to make it all happen.

King Leaves to Britain
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/4
...King Abdullah II left Amman on Monday on a two-days working visit to Britain. ...

King of Belgium praises efforts of King Abdullah to prevail peace in region
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/4
His Majesty King Albert II of Belgium praised the efforts of His Majesty King Abdullah II exerted for a better future for Jordan and for prevailing peace and security in the Middle East. ...
? Revelation 13:3 And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.

King congratulates King of Thailand
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/4
...King Abdullah II on Monday sent a cable to His Majesty King Pumiponu Adulyadet congratulating him in his name ...
? John 5:43 "I am come in my Father's name (HASHEM), and ye receive me not: if another shall come "in his own name" (HASHEMITE), him ye will receive.

Bush's Meeting With A Murderer
Uruknet.info 2006/12/4
President George W. Bush meets today with Abdel Aziz al-Hakim, the turbaned leader of the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq (SCIRI), a Shiite fundamentalist party that is strongly tied to Iran. In so doing, the president is meeting with someone who, perhaps more than anyone else in Iraq, is responsible for trying to destroy Iraqi national unity, prevent national reconciliation among Iraq’s ethnic and sectarian mix, and push Iraq into civil war. ...What’s stunning about Bush’s encounter with al-Hakim is that it occurs precisely at the moment when critically important bridges are being built across Iraq’s Sunni-Shiite divide—bridges that al-Hakim is trying to blow up. ...

Iraqi Shiite politician calls for tougher U.S. action against Sunnis
SanLuisObispo.com 2006/12/4
...Using the terms Shiites use to describe al-Qaida and the Sunni insurgents, Hakim called for tougher U.S. military action. "Eliminating the danger of the civil war in Iraq could only be achieved through directing decisive strikes against the Taqfiri terrorists and Baathist terrorists in Iraq," he said.   Hakim's call for greater action against Sunni insurgents, which came two days before a bipartisan commission is expected to recommend that the U.S. begin reducing the number of U.S. combat troops in Iraq, underscores how at odds Iraq's Shiite leaders are with American policymakers. ...

Iraq Shi'ite urges U.S. to hit insurgents harder
Reuters 2006/12/4
The only way to stave off civil war in Iraq is for U.S. forces to strike harder against Sunni-led insurgents, a leading Shi'ite politician said on Monday after talks with President George W. Bush.   Abdul Aziz al-Hakim, head of the biggest party in Iraq's Shi'ite-dominated government, put the onus on Washington and its allies to take tougher action in Iraq, ...

DEBKAfile Exclusive: Syria’s devious weapon for undermining Siniora – al Qaeda infiltrators cross into Lebanon to radicalize Palestinians
DEBKAfile 2006/12/4
...DEBKAfile’s military sources report that the Olmert government should be doubly concerned by Bashar Asad’s latest gambit, filtering Al Qaeda operatives from their Syrian sanctuary into Lebanon, there to foment Palestinian support for Hizballah’s drive to topple the government in Beirut. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

Syria trying to spark civil war in Lebanon
Ya Libnan 2006/12/4
Using its agents to instigate violence was commonplace during the 1975-1990 conflict that every Lebanese citizen wants to forget. Unfortunately for the Lebanese, Syria is doing everything it can to revive the civil war. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

An Indictment Of Syria
The Evening Bulletin 2006/12/4
...On four successive Sundays during April, 2005, free elections wrested control of the Parliament from being controlled by Syria and/or Hezbollah.   Since that time, 14 anti-Syrian politicians and journalists have been attacked. This includes summertime slayings of progressive Lebanese leaders George Hawi and Samir Qassir, and the maiming of journalist May Chidiac. In December, Jubran Tueni, a member of the Lebanese Parliament and publisher of the daily An-Nahar, was slain.
Thus far, implicated in the Hariri "hit" have been senior Lebanese and Syrian security officials, including four Lebanese security chiefs aligned with the country's pro-Syrian president, General Émile Geamil Lahoud (a Maronite). The Christian-Phalangist, Sunni and Druze communities also blamed Syria, but Damascus and Lahoud have denied any involvement therein. ...
? Daniel 7:8 I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots
Continued justification for Assad's uprooting.

King visits Prime Ministry
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/3
...King Abdullah II affirmed the importance of speeding the process in implementing the programs and plans set by the government for the coming phase that aim at improving the living standards of the citizens. ...
? Daniel 8:25 And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand

King Condoles President of Philippians
Jordan News Agency 2006/12/3
...King Abdullah II on Sunday sent a cable to President of Philippians Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo condoling her over the victims who died in the tornado that hit parts of the Philippians.   His Majesty expressed heart-felt condolences in his name ...
? John 5:43 "I am come in my Father's name (HASHEM), and ye receive me not: if another shall come "in his own name" (HASHEMITE), him ye will receive.

India, Jordan vow cooperation to fight terror
DailyIndia.com 2006/12/2
"India and Jordan could work together with each other in battling this global problem. India like Jordan has suffered from the acts of terror. And we condemn terrorism in all forms. Terrorism, which kills innocent civilians, cannot be justified under any circumstances," Kalam said.   The Jordan King Abdullah II Bin el-Hussein drew a parallel between the July 11 bombings in Mumbai in which at least 186 people were killed and last year's hotel bombings in Amman.   "Jordanians' grief for the suffering of Indian people after the tragic bombings in Mumbai.   Just as Indians offered sympathetic support to our people after the inhuman bombings in Amman a year ago. We must work together to defend our people from such dangers and to protect global peace so that progress and opportunity can flourish," King Abdullah said. ...
? Daniel 8:25 ...and by peace shall destroy many [under the banner of peace, which this king keeps pushing, many are now being destroyed]

Iran Responds to U.S. Fingerprinting Law
Forbes.com 2006/12/2
Iran has enacted a law requiring American citizens visiting the country to be fingerprinted upon arrival, an official said Saturday.   Conservatives drafted the law in retaliation for the U.S. requirement that Iranian visitors be fingerprinted. The U.S. measure, which also applies to nationals of other countries, was implemented after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. ...

Saudis work to curb Iran's influence
Chron.com 2006/12/2
...Saudi analysts say Iran is now trying to wrest the traditional leadership role Riyadh has played in the region. But Saudi Arabia will "not allow Iran to expand at its expense as a big regional power," said Dawood al-Shirian, a Saudi journalist.   "Iran is acting as a Persian state and not as an Islamic state," he said. "The conflict in the region is not a Sunni-Shiite conflict. It's a Persian-Arab conflict." ...

Sadr seeks anti-US bloc in parliament
Gulf Daily News 2006/12/1
...Powerful Iraqi Shi'ite leader Abdel Aziz Al Hakim denied he had warned Iraq's Sunni minority that they would be the "biggest losers" if civil war breaks out.   Hakim met Jordan's King Abdullah and afterwards the palace quoted him as saying: "We are proud of our Arab roots but if a civil war were to take place, the biggest losers will be our brothers in the Sunni community".   An Iraqi militant group called on its Sunni Muslim followers in Baghdad to wage holy war against Shi'ite militias in a "battle of destiny", a statement posted on the Internet said.   "Baghdad is your (Sunnis) city. Do not leave it for the strangers who intend to expel you; it is a battle of destiny now, to be or not to be," the Islamic Army in Iraq said in the statement posted on a main Islamist website. ...

MIDDLE EAST: ITALY CALLS FOR ALLIANCE WITH ARAB WORLD
Adnkronos International 2006/12/1
After meeting with US secretary of state Condoleezza Rice in Shuneh, on the Jordanian coast of the Dead Sea, Italian foreign minister Massimo D'Alema told a press conference on Friday that a "common strategy" with the Arab world is necessary. "I believe the Americans understand that in order to overcome the current crisis - this string of conflicts that from Afghanistan, to Iraq, to Lebanon and Palestine distress the region - an alliance with majority of the Arab world will be necessary," said D'Alema. ...

Pope hailed for praying toward Mecca like Muslims
Trend 2006/12/1
Pope Benedict wound up a fence-mending visit to Turkey on Friday amid praise from the local press for visiting Istanbul's Blue Mosque and praying toward Mecca "like Muslims." ..."In Sultan Ahmet Mosque, he turned toward Mecca and prayed like Muslims," popular daily Hurriyet said, using the building's official name.   His gestures, including support for Ankara's bid to join the European Union and praise for Islam as a peaceful faith, seem to have persuaded the Turks to move beyond the tension following his speech quoting a Byzantine emperor as calling Islam violent. ...

The Islamic Genocide Plan
FrontPageMag.com 2006/12/1
The following words and pictures prove that radical Muslims have long dreamed, plotted, and demonstrated in favor of the annihilation of Israel and all the Jews in the world. Unfortunately, words and demonstrations are not where they are willing to stop. ...

Abbas concedes Hamas talks at an impasse
Business Day 2006/12/1
Mahmoud Abbas, after meeting US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on a new push for Middle East peace, said yesterday talks on a unity government with Hamas had reached a “dead end”. ...

Can the PKK Renounce Violence?
Middle East Forum 2006/12/1
...PKK attacks have sparked a nationalist backlash in Turkey. First, most Turks blame Washington for renewed PKK violence emanating from northern Iraq.[11] This is the single most important factor damaging the U.S.-Turkish relationship. Second, because the PKK enjoys an extensive support network in Europe, many Turks blame Europe for harboring and enabling anti-Turkish terror. Such a perception has damaged Turkey-European Union ties. ...