http://news.linktv.org Link TV News Videos (Filtered by topics: Al-Aqsa Mosque) en-us Fri, 16 Nov 2012 16:52:00 -0800 Copyright 2011 Link Media, Inc. http://news.linktv.org/videos/rival-palestinian-factions-unite-against-gaza-attacks?start=0 Al Jazeera reports that during protests in the West Bank city of Ramallah, Hamas flags were raised, and chants echoed in support of the movement, in a scene that has been rare since the Hamas-Fatah split in 2007. Clashes have erupted across the West Bank and Jerusalem during demonstrations that took place after Friday prayers against the Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip. Fri, 16 Nov 2012 16:52:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/rival-palestinian-factions-unite-against-gaza-attacks Gaza–Israel conflict, West Bank, Palestinians, Ramallah, Jerusalem, Friday prayers, Hamas, Israel Defense Forces, Hebron, Damascus Gate Presenter, Male #1 The city of Jerusalem and Hebron's town of Beit Amr witnessed confrontations between Israeli occupation forces and Palestinian youths this afternoon. In Jerusalem, confrontations broke out between occupation forces and dozens of Palestinian worshippers at Bab al-Amoud. The soldiers arrested a number of youths and beat dozens of Palestinian women. The West Bank witnessed rallies that took off after Friday prayers denouncing the ongoing Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip. It also called for ending the division, and reviving efforts for national unity. Reporter, Female #1 This is how occupation forces anticipated the first Friday prayers in the city of Jerusalem after the military operations against Gaza. The city that is isolated from the rest of the Palestinian cities, had its streets shut down, and was transformed into a military base. The city's men under the age of 40 were not allowed to pray at the al-Aqsa Mosque. Guest, Male #2 They closed the roads. They want us to go all the way around just to get home. Reporter, Female #1 Prayers ended with protests condemning the ongoing military operations against Gaza. The occupation police cracked down on the demonstrations and attacked the participants, arresting many young people. Reporter, Female #1 Another confrontation was witnessed in the town of Beit Ummar in Hebron. Smoke and sound bombs were used by the occupation forces to suppress the angry Palestinian youths. The confrontations took place after marches took off from across the West Bank. In the city of Ramallah, two marches were held. One was called for by Hamas, and the other by the leadership of the National Committees. In a rare scene since the division, Hamas flags were raised, and chants echoed in support of the movement. Guest, Male #3 (Ahmed Atoun, Member of the Legislative Council for Hamas) We must avenge the bloodshed in Gaza as a united force. This is the message we send to the West Bank. We ask for an immediate end to the division, and an end to the security coordination with Israel. We must be united, not fragmented. Reporter, Female #1 The call for ending the division still lacks the genuine political will to respond to it. The demand for national unity remains constricted to slogans repeated by the Palestinian street. Similar marches were held in the cities of Nablus, Jenin, and Hebron, calling for an active Arab role to respond to the Israeli escalation. Guest, Female #2 (Khalida Jarar, Member of the Legislative Council for Hamas) The Palestinian and Arab request is for temporary international protection for the people under occupation, in cooperation with the Arabs, from whom more is required. Reporter, Female #1 For some, the military escalation represents a test for the international community's ability to halt the military operation against the Gaza Strip. However, for many, it is a real test for the Palestinians and their ability to end the division, which they have failed to do time and time again. Shirin Abu Aqla, Al Jazeera, occupied Ramallah. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-111612?start=35 <p>Israel pounds Gaza as Arabs rally in solidarity with Palestinian people, Jordan caught between demands for king's ouster and pleas for reform, European leaders meet to finalize plan for military intervention in Mali, and more.</p> Fri, 16 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-111612 Gaza–Israel conflict, Gaza, Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Israel, Palestinians, Hamas, Israel Defense Forces, Mahmoud Abbas, Friday prayers, Jerusalem Presenter, Male #1 The city of Jerusalem and Hebron's town of Beit Amr witnessed confrontations between Israeli occupation forces and Palestinian youths this afternoon. In Jerusalem, confrontations broke out between occupation forces and dozens of Palestinian worshippers at Bab al-Amoud. The soldiers arrested a number of youths and beat dozens of Palestinian women. The West Bank witnessed rallies that took off after Friday prayers denouncing the ongoing Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip. It also called for ending the division, and reviving efforts for national unity. Reporter, Female #1 This is how occupation forces anticipated the first Friday prayers in the city of Jerusalem after the military operations against Gaza. The city that is isolated from the rest of the Palestinian cities, had its streets shut down, and was transformed into a military base. The city's men under the age of 40 were not allowed to pray at the al-Aqsa Mosque. Guest, Male #2 They closed the roads. They want us to go all the way around just to get home. Reporter, Female #1 Prayers ended with protests condemning the ongoing military operations against Gaza. The occupation police cracked down on the demonstrations and attacked the participants, arresting many young people. Reporter, Female #1 Another confrontation was witnessed in the town of Beit Ummar in Hebron. Smoke and sound bombs were used by the occupation forces to suppress the angry Palestinian youths. The confrontations took place after marches took off from across the West Bank. In the city of Ramallah, two marches were held. One was called for by Hamas, and the other by the leadership of the National Committees. In a rare scene since the division, Hamas flags were raised, and chants echoed in support of the movement. Guest, Male #3 (Ahmed Atoun, Member of the Legislative Council for Hamas) We must avenge the bloodshed in Gaza as a united force. This is the message we send to the West Bank. We ask for an immediate end to the division, and an end to the security coordination with Israel. We must be united, not fragmented. Reporter, Female #1 The call for ending the division still lacks the genuine political will to respond to it. The demand for national unity remains constricted to slogans repeated by the Palestinian street. Similar marches were held in the cities of Nablus, Jenin, and Hebron, calling for an active Arab role to respond to the Israeli escalation. Guest, Female #2 (Khalida Jarar, Member of the Legislative Council for Hamas) The Palestinian and Arab request is for temporary international protection for the people under occupation, in cooperation with the Arabs, from whom more is required. Reporter, Female #1 For some, the military escalation represents a test for the international community's ability to halt the military operation against the Gaza Strip. However, for many, it is a real test for the Palestinians and their ability to end the division, which they have failed to do time and time again. Shirin Abu Aqla, Al Jazeera, occupied Ramallah. http://news.linktv.org/videos/french-imams-frances-muslims-have-no-ties-to-terrorism?start=0 Al Jazeera reports that a delegation of imams from France are on a five-day visit to Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories. They confirmed that their most prominent messages include eliminating the impression held by Israelis that Muslims in France are against Jews and support terrorism, in the aftermath of the attack that was carried out by Mohamed Merah against students at a Jewish school in the French city of Toulouse. Mon, 12 Nov 2012 14:11:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/french-imams-frances-muslims-have-no-ties-to-terrorism Muslim, Islam in France, Al-Aqsa Mosque, Palestinian territories, Israel, Imam, Hassen Chalghoumi, Jerusalem, Palestinian nationalism, France Presenter, Female #1 A delegation of imams from France started a visit to Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories that will last five days. On its first day, the delegation visited the holy al-Aqsa Mosque and met with a number of officials from the Department of Islamic Endowment. The delegation is scheduled to meet with Israeli and Palestinian representatives, and visit Muslim holy sites and the Holocaust museum. Reporter, Male #1 A delegation of French imams chose the holy al-Aqsa Mosque as the starting point of their visit. Its members say they came to build a bridge for peace between Palestinians and Israelis. They confirmed that their most prominent messages include eliminating the impression held by Israelis that Muslims in France are against Jews and support terrorism. They also say they came to change the stereotype about Muslims in the aftermath of the terrorist attack that was carried out by Mohamed Merah against students at a Jewish school in the French city of Toulouse. Guest, Male #2 (Hassen Chalghoumi, President of France's Conference of imams) Of course, there is a clear message. The first is that France's Muslims have no ties to terrorism, and no ties to those who kill Jews in the name of the Palestinian cause. A cause that is right, clean, just, faithful and strictly political. Reporter, Male #1 However, the delegation's visit renews a controversy for those who believe that such a visit further enables the occupation's hegemony over Jerusalem and the al-Aqsa, and grants the occupation legitimacy while others view the visit as the implementation of Islamic Law. Guest, Male #3 (Mohammad Hussein, Mufti of Jerusalem and the Holy Sites) During this visit, they are following the guidance of the Prophet, peace be upon him, to make a trip to al-Aqsa Mosque. The delegation clearly stated that it stands with the Palestinian cause. Reporter, Male #1 But the position of Jerusalemites was split; some welcomed the visit, while others were skeptical of the impact this visit will have on the political level. Guest, Male #4 We fear that such visits will become acceptable, then they become relied on, and finally they become a habit for Muslims around the world. This is what helps the occupation stay in control of Jerusalem and the people of Jerusalem. Guest, Male #5 We are in favor of the presence of Islamic delegations so they can witness the destruction of the city of Jerusalem. Reporter, Male #1 The delegation will visit the graves of those killed in the Toulouse attack, who were buried in the city of Jerusalem, and the Yad Vashem Holocaust history museum. It will conclude its visit by participating in a conference that brings together the heads of the heavenly religion in Israel with the attendance of Israeli President Shimon Peres. Whether the visit normalizes the occupation, as seen by some Palestinians, or affirms the rights of Muslims to visit their holy sites, as others say, their hopes hinge on the Muslims' ability to unify and work against the occupation's distortion and judaization of the holy al-Aqsa Mosque and its attempts to divide it. Elias Karram, Al Jazeera, from the courtyards of the holy al-Aqsa Mosque. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-111212?start=1217 <p>West Africa bloc commits to military intervention in Mali, Kuwaiti opposition holds massive rally against electoral changes, Israel threatens to escalate attacks on Gaza after series of air strikes, and more.</p> Mon, 12 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-111212 Israel, Israel Defense Forces, Syria, Syrian Civil War, Israel-Syria relations, Golan Heights, Palestinians, Hassan Nasrallah, Hezbollah, Lebanon Presenter, Female #1 A delegation of imams from France started a visit to Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories that will last five days. On its first day, the delegation visited the holy al-Aqsa Mosque, and met with a number of officials from the Department of Islamic Endowment. The delegation is scheduled to meet with Israeli and Palestinian representatives, and visit Muslim holy sites and the Holocaust museum. Reporter, Male #1 A delegation of French imams chose the holy al-Aqsa Mosque as the starting point of their visit. Its members say they came to build a bridge for peace between Palestinians and Israelis. They confirmed that their most prominent messages include eliminating the impression held by Israelis that Muslims in France are against Jews and support terrorism. They also say they came to change the stereotype about Muslims in the aftermath of the terrorist attack that was carried out by Mohamed Merah against students at a Jewish school in the French city of Toulouse. Guest, Male #2 (Hassen Chalghoumi, President of France's Conference of Imams) Of course, there is a clear message. The first is that France's Muslims have no ties to terrorism, and no ties to those who kill Jews in the name of the Palestinian cause. A cause that is right, clean, just, faithful, and strictly political. Reporter, Male #1 However, the delegation's visit renews a controversy for those who believe that such a visit further enables the occupation's hegemony over Jerusalem and the al-Aqsa Mosque, and grants the occupation legitimacy, while others view the visit as the implementation of Islamic law. Guest, Male #3 (Mohammad Hussein, Mufti of Jerusalem and the Holy Sites) During this visit, they are following the guidance of the Prophet, peace be upon him, to make a trip to al-Aqsa Mosque. The delegation clearly stated that it stands with the Palestinian cause. Reporter, Male #1 But the position of Jerusalemites was split; some welcomed the visit, while others were skeptical of the impact this visit will have on the political level. Guest, Male #4 We fear that such visits will become acceptable, then they become relied on, and finally they become a habit for Muslims around the world. This is what helps the occupation stay in control of Jerusalem and the people of Jerusalem. Guest, Male #5 We are in favor of the presence of Islamic delegations so they can witness the destruction of the city of Jerusalem. Reporter, Male #1 The delegation will visit the graves of those killed in the Toulouse attack, who were buried in the city of Jerusalem, and the Yad Vashem Holocaust history museum. It will conclude its visit by participating in a conference that brings together the heads of the heavenly religion in Israel with the attendance of Israeli President Shimon Peres. Reporter, Male #1 Whether the visit normalizes the occupation, as seen by some Palestinians, or affirms the rights of Muslims to visit their holy sites, as others say, their hopes hinge on the Muslims' ability to unify and work against the occupation's distortion and judaization of the holy al-Aqsa Mosque, and its attempts to divide them. Elias Karram, Al Jazeera, from the courtyards of the holy al-Aqsa Mosque. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-102612?start=1132 <p>Sectarian violence claims 112 lives in Myanmar, terrorist attack and government killings "violate" Syria's ceasefire as mass protests erupt, suicide bombing targets Afghan mosque during Eid prayers, and more.</p> Fri, 26 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-102612 Eid al-Adha, Israel, Ismail Haniyeh, Eid prayer, Politics of Israel, Yisrael Beiteinu, Likud, Benjamin Netanyahu, Avigdor Lieberman, United Nations Presenter, Male #1 The Al-Aqsa Foundation for endowment and heritage warned of calls made by Jewish organizations to perform mass Jewish prayers in the al-Aqsa Mosque starting on the next Hebrew month. This reveals the excessive amount of Judaization inside the holy city. Reporter, Male #2 Scenes like this one are now familiar and ever-present in the courtyards of the al-Aqsa Mosque. It does not move the consciousness of the international community, or the Arab consciousness that is preoccupied by its internal worries. The scene in the surroundings of Jerusalem is now very distorted. Extremist groups violate all sanctuaries, and call for dividing al-Aqsa Mosque, the first Qibla, forecasting a demonstration of thousands in the next few days. Guest, Male #3 (Omar al-Ghul, Adviser to the Palestinian Prime Minister) The excavation under the mosque is part of several steps that were followed and implemented by extremist Zionist settler organizations, and Benjamin Netanuyahu's government and the governments that preceded it. Reporter, Male #2 On the other hand, the ground under al-Aqsa is in a race against time, as the excavations are continuing in search of a temple that does not exist except in the minds of extremist groups. What these pictures reveal is the scale of these excavations that were described as the largest in 150 years. Here, a city underground is shown being excavated by Jewish extremist groups that purposely distort historic facts by linking the site to Jewish history that has no trace on our land. Guest, Male #4 (Hanna Issa, Secretary-General of the Islamic-Christian Committee) There are excavations that are happening now from the Damascus Gate to al-Buraq wall, and the purpose is to steal the ruins and stones from these areas and to plant them in distant areas for the Jews to claim as part of their heritage. Israel also wants to prove to the world that these ruins date back to the era of King David, and not to the Arab-Islamic era. Reporter, Male #2 In light of the internal concerns of Arab capitals, Jewish groups are openly talking about a historic chance to fulfill their ominous dream of establishing the so-called temple on the rubble of the al-Aqsa Mosque. http://news.linktv.org/videos/raw-video-israeli-police-storm-al-aqsa-mosque-compound?start=0 Israeli police stormed a holy site in Jerusalem's Old City on Friday, dispersing dozens of Palestinians who police say lobbed rocks at officers. The clash occurred at a compound containing the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of Islam's holiest sites. Jews call the compound the Temple Mount because of the biblical Jewish temples they believe once stood there. An Israeli police spokesman said Palestinian protestors threw rocks at police stationed at the compound entrance. The police stormed inside and used stun grenades to disperse the rioters. <br /> Fri, 05 Oct 2012 12:10:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/raw-video-israeli-police-storm-al-aqsa-mosque-compound Al-Aqsa Mosque, Temple Mount, Old City (Jerusalem), Israel Police, Throwing stones, Dome of the Rock, Palestinians, Stun grenade, Riot control, Raw video Israeli police stormed a holy site in Jerusalem's Old City on Friday, dispersing dozens of Palestinians who police say lobbed rocks at officers. The clash occurred at a compound containing the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of Islam's holiest sites. Jews call the compound the Temple Mount because of the biblical Jewish temples they believe once stood there. An Israeli police spokesman said Palestinian protestors threw rocks at police stationed at the compound entrance. The police stormed inside and used stun grenades to disperse the rioters. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-100512?start=221 <p>Thousands of Jordanians take part in Friday protests despite king's dissolution of parliament, Israeli forces clash with worshippers at Al-Aqsa Mosque, Syrian rebels down military plane on outskirts of Damascus, and more.</p> Fri, 05 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-100512 Syrian Civil War, Syria, Nuclear program of Iran, Syria-Turkey relations, Palestinians, Benjamin Netanyahu, Politics of Turkey, Sanctions against Iran, Damascus, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Presenter, Female #1 Israeli occupation forces arrested a number of Palestinian worshippers, and others were injured and suffocated by sound and gas bombs fired by occupation soldiers inside the courtyards of the holy Al-Aqsa Mosque. Palestinian officials asserted the presence of documents confirming that some Israelis who were dressed as Arabs, otherwise known as Arabists, took part in stone-throwing. This gave the army an excuse to storm the entire courtyard, conducting military training to be able to control Al-Aqsa Mosque in the future. Reporter, Female #2 As soon as Friday prayers ended, crowds of the occupation's forces began to raid the courtyards of the holy Al-Aqsa. They fired gas and sound bombs. There were injuries, and a number of worshippers were arrested. The occupation's forces had the usual excuse: Some young people threw stones at soldiers who were inside the mosque's courtyards. Reporter, Female #2 Despite the small number of worshippers who were inside the mosque due to the strict Israeli measures, there were a number of soldiers. Some were undercover, wearing Palestinian clothing, according to eyewitnesses. This caused officials to assert that what happened was training for the execution of a future plot. Guest, Male #1 (Ahmed al-Rowaidi, Jerusalem Affairs Counselor at the President's Office) We have documents saying that there had been previous arrangements for the attack that took place today. The Arabists started throwing stones in order to make way for Israeli security forces to enter the holy Al-Aqsa Mosque's courtyards as a training session. Reporter, Female #2 The scene was tense, given the occupation forces' prior reinforcement in the morning hours. This scene pushed a number of youths to organize a demonstration inside the courtyards. They protested last week's admission of extremist groups from the Israeli right into the courtyards to perform Jewish religious rituals. Guest, Male #2 (Mohamed Hussein, Mufti of Jerusalem) Muslims have the right to be in their mosques. These raids, these affronts, come within a series of provocations. They follow episodes in the past week of raids on Al-Aqsa Mosque, and attacks on worshippers in Al-Aqsa's courtyards. Reporter, Female #2 Palestinian official and civic leadership called for the Arab League and the Islamic Conference to convene, and to take practical measures to protect sanctuaries. This includes Christian holy sites, which have been subject to vandalism several times. The latest involved slogans that insult Christ, peace be upon him, on the walls of one of the churches near Al-Aqsa Mosque. Reporter, Female #2 Palestinians fear that what is happening is training for future plots. The worse case would be the implementation of a plot like the one that took place at Al-Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron-- dividing the holy Al-Aqsa Mosque physically, and through the use of scheduled times. Then there is the establishment of the so-called Temple Mount. Jivara al-Bedairi, Al Jazeera, occupied Jerusalem. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-100212?start=34 <p>Jewish extremists storm Jerusalem's al-Aqsa Mosque, Somalia's al-Shabab claims responsibility for blasts in "liberated" Kismayo, Iranian rial falls to all-time low as Western sanctions take hold, and more.</p> Wed, 03 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-100212 Politics of Israel, Taliban, Afghanistan, Mahmoud Abbas, Israel Defense Forces, Israel, Muslim, United States, Al-Aqsa Mosque, Kismayo Presenter, Female #1 Israeli police arrested three Palestinians after a fistfight that occurred in the courtyards of the holy Al-Aqsa Mosque. This news comes after a group of settlers stormed the mosque's courtyards. The police also arrested two settlers after they performed prayers in the courtyards. In addition, settlers assaulted the Franciscan monastery in Jerusalem, and wrote slogans insulting Christians and Christ, peace be upon him. Presenter, Female #1 The Israeli occupation reinforced its security presence in Jerusalem during the days that coincide with the Jewish celebrations of what's known as Sukkot, or the Festival of Booths. Reporter, Male #1 Nearly 100 settlers, headed by Moshe Feiglin, leader of the extremist wing of the Likud ruling party, stormed the courtyards of Jerusalem's Noble Sanctuary, under the protection of Israeli occupation forces. The settlers were confronted with dozens of Muslim worshippers. Reporter, Male #1 The scene quickly escalated into a physical altercation, which ended with the arrest of three Palestinians. The occupation's forces also arrested Feiglin and another settler for disobeying orders, and performing Talmudic prayers in the Noble Sanctuary's courtyards. Guest, Male #2 (Ahmed al-Rueidi, Head of Palestinian Presidential Office's Jerusalem Affairs Unit) This new crime is part of the campaign that's being waged against the holy Al-Aqsa Mosque. Israel is now plotting to build the alleged Temple Mount, and change the status of the holy Al-Aqsa Mosque regarding shared prayer times and areas. Reporter, Male #1 This aggression, which comes amid the celebrations of the Jewish Sukkot holiday, was preceded by tight security measures around Al-Aqsa Mosque. Muslims under the age of 45 were prevented from performing prayers at the mosque. Not far from here, Jewish settlers attacked the Franciscan monastery in Mount Zion. They wrote slogans insulting Christ, peace be upon him, and signed them with the phrase "Price Tag." This was quickly erased by occupation forces before the arrival of the media. Guest, Male #3 (Wadi Abu Nassar, Catechetical Commission Media Advisor) Israeli authorities are apparently not taking matters very seriously. They don't want to deal with this dangerous phenomenon. I believe this dangerous phenomenon is posing a threat not only to Muslims and Christians, but also to all reasonable people in the region. Reporter, Male #1 Israeli police said that they are investigating the incident and trying to see if it's linked to other recent aggressions. Guest, Male #4 (Moshe Berikit, Israeli Police Brigadier General) We are evaluating this serious aggression, and doing everything in our power to identify the address of the person who wrote these phrases. Reporter, Male #1 However, this series of aggressions continues. Previous attacks were also launched against the Latrun monastery near Jerusalem, as well as mosques in the occupied West Bank, without the arrest of suspects in most cases. It coincides with calls for dividing prayer times between Muslims and Jews at the Noble Sanctuary, in addition to calls for turning its courtyards into public spaces frequented by everyone. Reporter, Male #1 Palestinians believe that the attacks on the Muslim and Christian holy sites would not take place if it weren't for the protection provided by the occupation to the perpetrators. These acts of aggression appear to be a test of Jerusalemites' reactions before they launch premeditated plans that could be much worse. Elias Karam, Al Jazeera, occupied Jerusalem. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-092112?start=1230 <p>Blasphemy anger spreads to Asia as Pakistan protests turn deadly, Egypt's Copts and Muslims come together to denounce anti-Islam film, over 300 officers charged in Turkey's "sledgehammer" coup plot, and more.</p> Fri, 21 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-092112 Islam, Muhammad, Nuclear program of Iran, 2012 US diplomatic missions attacks, Kashmir, Israel, Muslim, Bashar al-Assad, Syrian Civil War, Innocence of Muslims Presenter, Male #1 The Islamic movement inside the Green Line, headed by Sheikh Raed Salah, is holding the 17th annual festival called "Al-Aqsa is in Danger" this evening. Presenter, Female #1 Thousands of Palestinians inside the Green Line are expected to participate in the festival. It is being held in support of the case of the holy al-Aqsa, in light of what al-Aqsa Mosque is being subjected to from Israeli violations. Calls are being made to turn its courtyards into public spaces, and as well as calls to divide it. Reporter, Male #2 Excavations in the surroundings of the holy al-Aqsa Mosque have not stopped. This is the latest excavation taking place at the Umayyad palaces, adjacent to the southern wall of the mosque. The occupation is looking for archeological evidence of the Temple of Solomon. The search is continuing underground as well. Out of sight, tunnels are being dug that may have extended underneath al-Aqsa. Muslims say that there are landslides, aged trees are falling in the courtyards, and cracks are spreading in its seating and prayer areas, which prove that excavations are taking place. Guest, Male #3 (Ikrimah Sabri, Chairman of the High Islamic Commission) There are two goals. The first goal is to look for their ruins, if there are any. Until now they haven't even found a stone to support their claims. The second goal is to demolish al-Aqsa through twisted and hidden ways. Reporter, Male #2 Al-Aqsa is surrounded by biblical gardens, and the occupation's hands are extending out to its southern enclave, Silwan, which is witnessing expedited settlement projects that will eradicate its Arab and Islamic roots. The occupation has prepared plots to expand the yard of the Buraq Wall, otherwise known to Jews as the Wailing Wall. From the Palestinians' perspective, all of this calls for forming a fact-finding committee of unbiased experts to discover what the occupation is destroying at the holy site. Guest, Male #2 (Hatem Abdel Qader, Fatah's Minister of Jerusalem Affairs) Al-Aqsa Mosque is sounding an alarm bell. It is calling on the Arab and Islamic world to urgently and immediately take action in order to save it, and to pressure for an investigation committee that can look into the violations, breaches, and dangers surrounding the holy al-Aqsa Mosque. Reporter, Male #1 This settlement siege is not the only thing worrying Palestinians. There are Israeli calls to turn al-Aqsa's courtyards into public areas for everyone to enter, and for imposing a time division between Jews and Muslims to perform their prayers at al-Aqsa. These calls accompany the daily indecent violations by foreign tourists and Jewish extremists, which do not take into account the holiness of the place, or the feelings of the family of the Prophet. Reporter, Male #1 This raises the level of danger looming around the first Muslim Qibla, and the third holiest site. Palestinians want Arabs and Muslims to point their compasses in this direction. They think that the Arab Spring distracts from Jerusalem and the Palestinians' case, which encourages the Israeli occupation to besiege al-Aqsa, and to tighten its grip on Jerusalem. Elias Karram, Al Jazeera, occupied Jerusalem. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091812?start=1237 <p>Bahrainis rally in solidarity with political prisoners sentenced to death, seven dead in PKK ambush of Turkish military convoy, female suicide bomber kills 12 in Kabul over anti-Islam film, and more.</p> Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091812 United States, Anti-Americanism, Islam, Palestinians, UN General Assembly, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Israel, Human rights in Bahrain, Bingöl Presenter, Male #1 In the framework of Judaizing the holy city, the occupation's forces intensified their oppressive measures against Jerusalemites in the town of Silwan, south of the holy al-Aqsa Mosque. It issued evacuation orders to a number of homeowners in preparation for demolition, in addition to confiscating the lands of al-Rahma Cemetery, southeast of the al-Aqsa Mosque. Reporter, Male #2 The town of Silwan, which borders the southern wall of the holy al-Aqsa, is one of the militant fronts in the occupied city. In their preparations to demolish the whole mosque, the occupation's authorities seek to obtain the town, because of its important geographic location adjacent to the holy mosque. Guest, Male #3 (Ibrahim Awadallah, Assistant Undersecretary for the Palestinian Dar al-Ifta) The neighborhoods of al-Bustan and al-Silwan are very close to or adjacent to al-Aqsa Mosque. It's quite normal for them to be targeted. They are targeted by legal and judicial means, either by seizure of the land, or through claims of purchase, and so on. Anyway, these neighborhoods are being targeted. Reporter, Male #2 The occupation's excavations reached all along the southern wall, the Umayyad palaces, and the Arab and Islamic ruins, in its attempt to eradicate them. The town of Silwan was also targeted, in the form of orders issued to citizens to evacuate their homes, and in hints that dozens of homes would be demolished under the pretext of a lack of permits. Guest, Male #3 Al-Aqsa Mosque is in imminent danger, and it seems that the plots are no longer being hidden. Many of them are being announced. Some extremist forces are publicly targeting the existence of al-Aqsa Mosque. And sadly, they're sponsored by the Israeli government. Reporter, Male #2 With that, Tel Aviv's government is intensifying all of its Judaization projects, by supervising and inexhaustibly endorsing settlement communities who are actively working inside of occupied Jerusalem. Reporter, Male #2 From west to east, the city is being subjected to plots of seizure and displacement, and the stricken Silwan neighborhood is nothing but a blatant Arab and Palestinian example of what occupied Jerusalem and its holy mosque are being subjected to. Ali Dar Ali, Palestine TV, northern occupied Jerusalem. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091412?start=223 <p>Four Yemenis killed in US embassy clashes over anti-Islam video, Western embassies come under attack in Sudan and Tunisia, Pope Benedict calls for religious tolerance as violence rages in nearby Syria, and more.</p> Fri, 14 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091412 United States, Anti-Americanism, Tehran, Friday prayers, Iran, Innocence of Muslims, Muhammad, Islam, 2012 US diplomatic missions attacks, Syrian Civil War Presenter, Female #1 Al Jazeera's correspondent in Sudan reported the deaths of three Sudanese after they were run over by police cars. This occurred as protestors against the film that offended Islam attempted to storm the American embassy in Khartoum. Sudanese security forces confronted thousands of protestors with tear gas to stop them from advancing towards the embassy. The protestors had set the German embassy on fire in the capital Khartoum earlier in the day. Protestors also threw stones at the German and British embassies, and tried to break their exterior fences. The police, who were deployed in the surroundings of the two embassies, interfered by firing tear gas to disperse the protestors, and arrested a number of them. Presenter, Female #1 And in Tunisia, protestors stormed the American embassy building in the capital, where they pulled down the American flag, and raised a black banner with the Tawheed slogan instead. Heavy black smoke clouds were seen covering the skies of the area where the embassy is located. Police used tear gas in an attempt to disperse the protestors. Media outlets reported that the police fired live ammunition in the air to disperse the angry crowd. Presenter, Female #1 Ismail Haniyeh, Prime Minister of the sacked Palestinian government, demanded that the United States apologize to the Islamic world about the film that offended Islamic sanctities. Angry demonstrations swept a number of Palestinian cities to condemn the offensive film. Reporter, Male #1 A Friday titled, "The Friday to support the messenger of God, Muhammad, peace and prayer be upon him," was held to express anger against anyone who stands with the film that dared to offend Islam. Guest, Male #2 (Ismail Haniyeh, Palestinian Prime Minister) I sacrifice my father, mother, myself, and my children for you, messenger of Allah, peace and prayers be upon him and his family and followers. Reporter, Male #1 Ismail Haniyeh, prime minister of the government in Gaza, led the prayers at the Great Omari Mosque. Guest, Male #2 We raise our voices once again. The American administration must apologize to the Arab and Muslim nation for this offensive film. Reporter, Male #1 After Friday prayers, the streets in different areas of the Strip were ready for massive, angry demonstrations. They were jointly organized by Hamas and the Islamic Jihad Movement. Guest, Male #3 We will not allow anyone-- not the West, not America, and not the Zionists-- to interfere in our religion, or to offend our religious symbols, especially our Prophet Muhammad, peace and prayers be upon him. Guest, Male #4 The situation is inciting strife between Muslims and Christian in Islamic countries. It did not deceive us as Muslim youths, and I am aware of what is happening around us in the world. Reporter, Male #1 A message of anger has come out of the besieged Gaza, and from all Palestinian cities, against the film that offended Islam, and those who stand behind it. A message which says that Islam and the holy prophet are a red line, and any offense or insult directed at them will not be tolerated. Reporter, Male #1 Here in the occupied city of Jerusalem, thousands came out from al-Aqsa Mosque and its courtyard after Friday prayers. They walked down the streets of the Old City before they reached Bab al-Amoud, where they clashed with Israeli occupation forces, which prevented them from reaching the American consulate in Jerusalem, and also arrested some of them. Reporter, Male #1 It is not new for Palestine to be angered, and to rise up to support the holy prophet. Why would it be, when al-Aqsa Mosque is here, and when this is where the messenger Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, ascended to heaven? Tamer al-Mishal, Al Jazeera, Gaza, Palestine. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091312?start=1516 <p>US embassy protests spread across the Middle East as anger over anti-Islam film grows, shelling of Aleppo continues as UN special envoy arrives in Damascus, Palestinian protestors call for end to Oslo peace accords, and more.</p> Thu, 13 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091312 United States, Israel, Iran, 2012 US diplomatic missions attacks, Nuclear program of Iran, Islam, Tehran, International Atomic Energy Agency, Bahrain, Palestinians Presenter, Male #1 Under the protection of the occupation's army, settlers raided the holy al-Aqsa Mosque to perform Talmudic rituals. A number of guards at al-Aqsa confirmed that the settlers raided the mosque from the direction of Bab al-Maghariba, and toured its yards and its different facilities. They noted that a confrontation was about to occur between people who were praying and the occupation's police. The guards added that a number of foreign tourists who were with the settlers behaved inappropriately, contrary to behavior that respects the holiness of al-Aqsa. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083112?start=1175 <p>Yemeni street witnesses renewed mobilization against military rule, Iraq denies existence of al-Qaeda-affiliated Free Iraqi Army, Hezbollah rejects deployment of UN forces to Syrian-Lebanese border, and more.</p> Fri, 31 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083112 Syrian Civil War, Nuclear program of Iran, International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran, Yemen, Syria, Israel, Yemen Uprising, 2011-2012 Jordanian Protests, Iraqi Army Presenter, Female #1 Dozens of foreign activists and members of the anti-Zionism association held a sit-in in front of the Israeli entity's embassy in Amman after a delegation from "Welcome to Palestine" was prevented from entering the occupied territories. The campaign had called for holding a protest in front of the embassies of France and the Israeli entity in Amman. Jordanian security forces arrested a number of the protestors to prevent them from approaching the Israeli entity's embassy. Presenter, Female #1 Activists noted that the occupation's authorities prevented them from entering the West Bank through the Jordanian border, but they confirmed that they will try to enter again this year, describing the Palestinian territories as a big prison. Presenter, Female #1 On the 43rd anniversary of the burning of the holy al-Aqsa mosque, the Hamas movement organized a festival in Gaza in solidarity with occupied Jerusalem and its residents, who are subjected to all types of aggressions and the Judaization of the city. The Palestinians called on the Islamic world to bear its responsibilities towards Jerusalem and occupied Palestine. Reporter, Male #1 The festival that was organized by Hamas in Gaza, on the 43rd anniversary of the burning of the holy al-Aqsa mosque, provided an opportunity to expose the ongoing Zionist crimes and plots to take over Jerusalem, and the attempts to Judaize it, demolish its holy sites, and implant imaginary and forged realities for the Jewish people underneath the city. Guest, Male #2 (Ahmed Abu Halbia, Hamas Member of the Palestinian Legislative Council) The Zionist enemy is increasing and continuing its operations to dig and establish a network of tunnels underneath the holy al-Aqsa mosque and its squares and surroundings. The Zionist enemy is using chemical substances to burn and fragment the foundations of the holy al-Aqsa mosque. Reporter, Male #1 Hamas confined the inevitable demise of the Israeli occupation from all of Palestine, and the nation's holy sites, adding that the demise of the occupation is a mere a matter of time. Reporter, Male #1 Thousands of participants in the festival confirmed Jerusalem's Muslim identity and its inevitable return to Muslim rule and governance. They called on the nation to bear its responsibilities towards Jerusalem and Palestine. Guest, Male #3 We all came out to directly tell Arabs, the world, Muslims, and Islamic countries that Jerusalem is part of our belief system, a part of our religion, and that we will never abandon it. We will continue until its return to Arab and Islamic rule. Guest, Female #2 Where are the 1.5 billion Muslims? I tell the people that now is the time. Al-Aqsa is being desecrated, destroyed and demolished. We are being deprived of praying in it. The time has come! Reporter, Male #1 The Muslims' first destination for holding prayers is a wounded captive, whose holiness is being violated by gangs and flocks of extremist settlers, while the nation of a billion is in deep sleep. But the verses of a holy book preserved by God will not vanish, and all the aggressors' plots will fail. History's damnations will haunt them, and will haunt those who remain silent. Mustafa Abdelhadi, Al-Alam, from the Palestine field in the city of Gaza, Palestine. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081712?start=467 <p>Scores killed in clashes between Syrian Army and Free Army in Aleppo, Nasrallah vows to turns Israelis' lives into hell if Lebanon is attacked, Bahraini regime condemned after jailing prominent rights activist, and more.</p> Fri, 17 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081712 Israel, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Palestinian rocket attacks on Israel, Free Syrian Army, Lebanon, Palestinians, Quds Day, Hassan Nasrallah, Al-Aqsa Mosque Presenter, Female #1 The Israeli police intensified their security procedures inside and around al-Aqsa Mosque, as thousands of Palestinians arrived to perform the last Friday prayers of the month of Ramadan. Presenter, Male #1 At crossings and checkpoints, Israeli security turned back many Palestinians coming from the West Bank. Israeli occupation authorities prevent males over the age of 12 and under the age of 40 from entering al-Aqsa Mosque to pray. Reporter, Male #2 Palestinians had mixed feelings as they headed to the holy al-Aqsa Mosque to perform the Friday prayers that precede the Eid al-Fitr feast. Palestinians felt joy and sadness at once, especially the residents of the occupied West Bank. They come today to bid farewell to the holy al-Aqsa Mosque that they will be deprived from seeing until next year. Guest, Female #1 For us, in the West Bank, it's very sad, because we have to wait an entire year to come here once. Guest, Male #3 It is a must for every human to pray at al-Aqsa Mosque. Every person, so we can support al-Aqsa Mosque facing these conditions. Reporter, Male #2 For many residents of the occupied West Bank, the facilities offered by the occupation during the holy month of Ramadan are viewed as a once in a lifetime chance to visit Jerusalem and to perform prayers at the holy al-Aqsa Mosque. For many years, the occupation's procedures prevented them from reaching Jerusalem. And for the youth, it was the first time they were able to see al-Aqsa. However, many others, who did not meet the age requirement were heartbroken. Guest, Male #4 Everywhere in the world, people don't want to get old. Here, we hope to be 40 or 50 years old. God willing, it will be easier in the future, and we'll get rid of the occupation. Reporter, Male #2 Despite the facilities, the occupation forces' presence was visible at the entrances of Jerusalem and the gate of al-Aqsa, where thousands of security members were deployed, implementing tight security measures. The facilities presented by the Israeli occupation to the Palestinians this year are a mere mask covering its ugly face, which is represented by a policy of harassment and Judaization, and the relentless attempts to uproot Arab and Muslim history from this holy city. Reporter, Male #2 Al-Aqsa that is besieged by Judaization projects is witnessing a fierce attack by the occupation and its extensions, embodied in calls to consider its squares public areas where everyone would be allowed to enter. And a schedule would be imposed on other squares, allowing Jews to perform prayers there; Palestinians strongly reject the plan. Guest, Male #5 (Sheikh Ekrima Sabry, Chairman of the Supreme Islamic Council in Jerusalem) We reject this issue of division; we reject turning al-Aqsa's squares into public squares, and we confirm that we will not relinquish an atom of dust from al-Aqsa. Reporter, Male #2 Palestinians feel that the Israeli occupation is taking advantage of the Arab and Muslim worlds' preoccupation with the so-called Arab Spring to impose a different reality on the ground, and to tighten its grip on Jerusalem. Elias Karram, Al Jazeera, occupied Jerusalem. Presenter, Female #1 Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad considered Israel a cancerous tumor that will soon be removed. Ahmadinejad said in front of protestors who gathered at Tehran University for the Jerusalem Day speech that the countries of the region will soon end the presence of the Zionist occupiers on Palestine's lands, as well as American hegemony over the world. Presenter, Male #1 Ahmadinejad added that westerners say they want a new Middle East, and we also want that, but that in our Middle East there will be no trace of Zionists. Presenter, Female #1 Egyptian authorities decided to close the Rafah crossing to traffic for five days starting today, Friday, for the weekend and the Eid al-Fitr vacation. Presenter, Male #1 An Egyptian security source announced that work will resume at the crossing on Wednesday morning, according to the new procedures. It will open for humanitarian cases, or for pilgrims returning from Saudi Arabia. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-080312?start=1034 Amid heightened security measures, thousands of Palestinians headed to al-Aqsa Mosque to perform the third Friday prayers of the month of Ramadan, reports Dubai TV. Most men under 40 were barred from entering the city of Jerusalem. Fri, 03 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-080312 Syrian Civil War, Syria, Palestinians, Jerusalem, Israel, Bashar al-Assad, Obama administration foreign policy, UN Security Council, West Bank, Barack Obama Presenter, Female #1 Amid heightened security measures, thousands of Palestinians headed to al-Aqsa Mosque to perform the third Friday prayers of the holy month of Ramadan. The same way it is every Friday, Palestinian worshippers endured a suffocating siege, with most men barred from entering the city of Jerusalem due to restrictions imposed by the occupation forces at security checkpoints. Presenter, Female #1 Men between the ages of 12 and 40 are usually barred from entering the holy city. These restrictions, which Palestinians say are part of their collective punishment, are being justified by the occupation forces as "necessary measures." Presenter, Female #1 Joining us from Jerusalem via phone is our correspondent Mohammed al-Sayyed. Mohammed, how does the scene appear in Jerusalem? Were there any problems or confrontations during the prayers? Guest, Male #1 (Moahmmed al-Sayyed, Dubai Correspondent in Jerusalem) Today was just like the past two Fridays when Palestinians head to the holy al-Aqsa Mosque, with one difference in terms of the number of worshippers. Today, the number of Palestinian worshippers who came from all over the West Bank to al-Aqsa Mosque was relatively high. Guest, Male #1 From Jenin in the north to Hebron in the south, vehicles carrying Palestinian worshippers started to line up early in the morning at Jerusalem's two main checkpoints, Ramallah-Qalandiyah and Bethlehem, amid heavy police and army presence. The Israeli army barred most men under the age of 40 from entering. Guest, Male #1Again, the number of worshippers converging on al-Aqsa Mosque was high today. The prayers ended thirty minutes ago amid heavy police presence, with officers being deployed in every corner of the Old City. There were no reports of confrontations with the Israeli police on this third Friday of the holy month of Ramadan. Presenter, Female #1 Mohammed al-Sayyed from Jerusalem, thank you. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-072712?start=658 <p>Saudi forces fire live rounds at demonstrators in al-Qatif, Syrian rebels wage "mother of all battles" as civilian death roll rises, Israeli settlers use mobile homes to expedite colonization of Palestinian land, and more.</p> Fri, 27 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-072712 West Bank, Ramadan, Palestinians, Israel, Muslim, Qatif, 2011-2012 Saudi Arabia protests, Srinagar, Syrian Civil War, Al-Khader Security was tight throughout the day in and around Jerusalem's Old City, as an estimated 100,000 Palestinian worshippers made their way to the al-Aqsa Mosque to take part in the second Friday prayer services of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Most of the participants arrived from the West Bank through the Qalandia checkpoint. All female Muslims and children under the age of 12 were permitted to enter Israel, while only men over the age of 40 were allowed in due to security concerns. The prayers ended without incident. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-072012?start=1112 <p>International community remains silent on ethnic cleansing in Myanmar, Egypt's striking workers to occupy Mahalla factory until their demands are met, Protestors defy government ban on rallies with 25 marches across Bahrain, and more.</p> Fri, 20 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-072012 Israel, Burgas, 2011-2012 Saudi Arabia protests, Hezbollah, Foreign relations of Israel, Saudi Arabia, Bulgaria, Muslim, Rohingya, El-Mahalla El-Kubra Presenter, Male #1 Statements by the occupation government's attorney general, Yehuda Weinstein, indicating that the al-Aqsa Mosque is part of the occupation state were met with wide-scale condemnation on the street. This comes as officials have called on the international community and the Arab peoples to assume their responsibilities in the face of the dangers that await the al-Aqsa Mosque. Reporter, Male #2 There is official and public concern over the future of al-Aqsa Mosque following statements by the occupation state's attorney general, in which he boasted that al-Aqsa Mosque is inseparable from his entity's territory; an entity that is tirelessly trying to legitimize its illegal presence in the heart of the holy land. Guest, Male #3 We all know that al-Aqsa Mosque is in danger. We must overcome our silly differences, and put them behind us and remember that we face a project that is more serious than these issues. Reporter, Male #2 And while the occupation state has closed in on the holy city and spread corruption in its heart and surroundings, the statements of its attorney general has fervently reached al-Aqsa Mosque. It has also heightened the level of aggression on a city that has always been the gate to war, or peace. Guest Male #4 (Mahmoud Habash, Minister of Endowment and Religious Affairs) The sense of danger is heightened by the reaction of the Arab, Muslim, and international communities. You can barely hear a timid Arab or Muslim reaction. You barely hear it. Have the Arabs, Muslims, and the world relinquished control of al-Aqsa Mosque and Jerusalem to Israel? We will not recognize it; we will not recognize Israeli sovereignty over Jerusalem. We will not recognize any Israeli sovereignty over al-Aqsa Mosque. Reporter, Male #2 And in between an escalating aggression on the ground, and extremists who don't care about anyone, the Israeli judiciary pardons its settlers and extremists through this legislation that comes only days after the Levy Committee's call to adopt settlements in legislation, and seize Palestinian land. Guest, Male #5 The Levy Committee's report, and the assessments of the attorney general on al-Aqsa Mosque, are attempts to legally cover up Israel's violations of Palestinian land and the Palestinian people's rights, and the violation of international law which clarifies and confirms that occupied territories, including east Jerusalem, are indeed occupied. Reporter, Male #2 So once again, our experience proves the occupation state's fanaticism that only makes our situation worse. The citizens considered the statements of the occupation government's attorney general as the beginning of a dark phase that is manipulated by the extremists who proclaim night and day that their historical opportunity to seize the rest of the city had come, as Arabs continue to be preoccupied with their internal affairs. Bayrou Jumhour, Palestine TV. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052512?start=1361 <p>Brotherhood candidate claims early lead as protestors rally against Mubarak-era candidates, Lebanese hostages released in Syria as Annan plans to meet with al-Assad officials, Iran's nuclear talks moved to Moscow after reaching a stalemate, and more.</p> Fri, 25 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052512 Egyptian presidential election, 2012, Israel, Iran, Nuclear program of Iran, Syrian Civil War, Muslim Brotherhood, Hassan Nasrallah, Ahmed Shafiq, Lebanon, P5+1 Presenter, Male #1 In occupied Jerusalem, the Israeli occupation continues to dig and construct fake tombs around the holy al-Aqsa Mosque and the Old City. Reporter, Female #1 Implementing the Israeli government's decisions in cooperation with the occupation's municipality, the so-called Elad Settlement Organization, and the ministry of environmental protection, the occupation's bulldozers took initiative to plant thousands of fake tombs in Jabal al-Zaytoon, east of al-Aqsa Mosque. The tombs extend through Wadi Silwan in the south, and Wadi Rababa, west of the holy al-Aqsa Mosque. Guest, Male #2 (Mohammed al-Fattah, Eyewitness) Overnight, it became a Jewish cemetery. If someone was to see it today, they would think it was there for thousands of years. They came and dug holes in the ground. After that, they put steel blocks and covered them with concrete. Then, they put stones and marked them as if they were the headstones of these tombs. Guest, Male #3 (Mustafa Abu Zahrah, Official in the Cemetery Committee) This morning, concrete mixers and dumpers came and poured cement into these holes, and then they covered them up with stones, as you can see here. After that they covered the cement and stones with dirt, to give it an antique appearance. Overnight, this area became a fake, mythical Jewish cemetery. Reporter, Female #1 The settlements' methods of forgery vary, from claiming ownership of the Jerusalem houses to demolishing them under the pretext of lacking a permit, or seizing land owned by the Islamic Waqf, or Endowment Foundation, and digging and constructing tombs that contain nothing but cement and steel blocks. Guest, Female #2 (Hajja Ruwuqa al-Salaima) They brought steel and concrete blocks in order to turn this area into a Jewish cemetery. We live here right next to it. They want to close the roads on us. This is unacceptable. Guest, Male #4 We were born here. We were living here before 1967. They demolished my house and told me that this is Jewish cemetery land. All of these are lies aimed at distorting the history of this land. They want to turn this into Jewish land. They just want to take anyone's land. Those claiming to be environmentalists are the ones behind this. Reporter, Female #1 The Israeli occupation's municipality is still expanding its plan to Judaize the city and forge its reality. These tombs appear to be thousands of years old to the eye, but the truth is not so. They were built today and are free of history. The new Israeli approach to occupy the lands and houses of Jerusalemites, overturn the facts, and forge the history, is manifested in constructing these fake tombs on land owned by the Islamic Waqf Foundation. Sarwa al-Shakra, Palestine TV, occupied Jerusalem. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-040612?start=33 <p>Thousands rally behind dying "godfather of human rights" in Bahrain, Israel seals off West Bank and Jerusalem to celebrate Passover, Mali's Tuareg rebels declare independence in the north, and more.</p> Fri, 06 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-040612 Israel, Passover, West Bank, Palestinians, Eilat, Turkey, Jerusalem, Abdulhadi Alkhawaja, Azaouad, Syrian Civil War Presenter, Male #1 Tight security measures and restrictions characterize every Friday in the occupied territories, rendering the Palestinians' attempt to enter al-Aqsa mosque a difficult mission. But this week, these measures were doubled under the pretext of celebrating Jewish holidays, but no consideration was taken for the Palestinian Christians' observance of Good Friday. Israel imposed a full security cordon on the West Bank, and raised the state of alert in occupied Jerusalem in an arbitrary measure that will extend until Sunday night. This has paralyzed normal life in both sites. Our correspondent Shorouk Asaad reports from occupied Jerusalem. Reporter, Female #1 Few Christians in Palestine were able to reach the Church of the Resurrection in Jerusalem on Good Friday. Israel imposed a closure on the West Bank, and deployed police and security in Jerusalem, the Old City and its surroundings. Guest, Female #2 They allow Israelis to wander around, and walk as they please at the expense of our comfort. We feel discriminated against. You can't understand how difficult it is to feel this way. Look, my children are five and six years old. When I leave the house, they ask me, "Mom, is the checkpoint going to be crowded, or are you taking the Jaba road?" Reporter, Female #1 Reaching Jerusalem to pray, visit family, or for any other reason is difficult except for those who carry an Israeli security permit. Very few permits are issued to Christians from Gaza and the West Bank. Israel provides Israelis with access to Jerusalem so they can freely move around the city on Jewish Passover, while it deprives Palestinians from reaching their holy sites. Guest, Male #2 Why should permits be issued to begin with? Why should one need a permit to go to Jerusalem from Bethlehem, Ramallah, Nablus or Gaza? And especially on holidays. Some family members receive a permit, while the others don't. So how can a Christian Palestinian family celebrate a holiday when some of its members are missing? Reporter, Female #1 Israel tightened the checkpoints in the West Bank, and those between the West Bank and Jerusalem. One can only pass through them in the case of an emergency and Jerusalem residents after painfully long waits. Otherwise, all permits were canceled. Guest, Male #3 I run a school, and I gave the teachers permits because in April we have school field trips. They came back and told me that all permits are rejected during all of April, not just this week. Sadly, we have to deprive ourselves and our kids of everything just so their highnesses can have a good time. Guest, Male #4 The most important thing for them is to make it impossible to reach Jerusalem, and they use security as a pretext. They think this will lead the people who pray there, and its original inhabitants, to forget about Jerusalem. Reporter, Female #1 Like every week, thousands of Muslims are also deprived from reaching al-Aqsa mosque. So checkpoints around the city of Jerusalem, and those spread throughout the West Bank were shut down, depriving Palestinians of their free movement just so Israelis can enjoy their holiday. Shorouk Asaad, Dubai TV, occupied Jerusalem. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-033012?start=33 On the 36th commemoration of Land Day, marches were launched from the Gaza Strip and Arab countries towards the Israeli border for the "Global March to Jerusalem," while Palestinian territories witnessed clashes in a number of areas, Al Jazeera reports. Fri, 30 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-033012 Syrian Civil War, Syria, Nuclear program of Iran, Land Day, Israel, Palestinians, Bahrain Uprising, Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Iran, Bahrain Presenter, Female #1 On the 36th commemoration of Land Day, a Palestinian was martyred near the Beit Hanoun crossing by the gunfire of the occupation forces. Twenty others were injured during massive demonstrations held for the occasion. Marches were launched from the Gaza Strip and Arab countries towards the border to take part in the "Global March to Jerusalem," which was called for by Palestinian activists. Meanwhile, the Palestinian territories witnessed demonstrations in a number of areas, during which clashes broke out between Palestinian youths and Israeli occupation forces. At the military checkpoint between Ramallah and Jerusalem, dozens of youths threw stones at Israeli soldiers, who responded by firing tear gas and stun grenades to disperse the protestors. Clashes erupted shortly before a march planned from the Kalandia refugee camp towards the military checkpoint on the occasion of Land Day. The occupation's authorities imposed a complete military siege on the West Bank for 24 hours. Shirin Abu Aqla has the details. Reporter, Female #2 The city of Jerusalem woke up to its constant siege. The world's attention was on the city, but the occupation's control of the city was stronger. Thousands of Israeli forces were deployed in the city, its surroundings, and its entrances on the occasion of Land Day. The Palestinian territories were completely sealed off for 24 hours. The fuse for the confrontations was quickly ignited. Male Jerusalemites under the age of 40 were prevented from entering the Old City to perform prayers at al-Aqsa Mosque. Occupation forces attacked Palestinian youths with their horses, batons, and tear gas. Some youths were injured, and a number of others were arrested by the Israeli occupation forces. Around the city of Jerusalem, the atmosphere was just as tense. At the Kalandia checkpoint that separates the city from the northern West Bank, hundreds of Palestinians gathered to participate in a centralized march. The march did not reach the military checkpoint. The occupation's forces mobilized hundreds of its members and confronted the march with tear gas and rubber bullets, causing additional injuries and asphyxiations. Guest, Male #1 (Mustafa Barghouti, Palestinian Legislative Council Member) This is a great day for the rise of the Palestinian people's popular resistance. This is a day to strengthen the contemporary Palestinian revolution, the day that begins the Palestinian spring. Guest, Female #3 (Khalida Jarrar, Palestinian Legislative Council Member) Our message to the international community is that there are a people robbed of their land every day. There are pervasive settlements violating international law. Reporter, Female #2 One of the familiar methods used to crack down on peaceful protests is "skunk" water cannons. Regardless of the different methods it uses, Israel is not able to suppress Palestinian protests since it continues to confiscate their land. Guest, Male #2 (Poli Mordechai, Israeli Army Spokesman) We are seeing fewer protests, and we hope we can completely get rid of them. Reporter, Female #2 There are approximately 150 settlements in the West Bank, including Jerusalem. Nearly half a million settlers live there. Palestinians say they threaten the possibility of establishing the state they dream of. Yet another heated day in the life of the Palestinians, a day linked to this specific occasion. But, it should be known that 40 percent of the West Bank's land is threatened by the settlements and the separation wall, so even if the situation calms down, it remains ripe for an escalation. Shirin Abu Aqla, Al Jazeera, from the Kalandia checkpoint, north of occupied Jerusalem. Presenter, Female #1 Protestors gathered at the Jordanian-Israeli border to mark Land Day. Palestinians living in Europe and other parts of the world took part in the demonstrations, as well as Jews from the Jews United Against Zionism movement. They demanded an end to Israeli occupation. Hundreds of Palestinians and Lebanese also gathered in southern Lebanon to commemorate Land Day. Demonstrators rallied near the border with Israel in the village of Arnoun, raising Palestinian and Lebanese flags and chanting slogans against the Israeli occupation. The Tunisian capital saw protests after Friday prayers to commemorate Land Day. Protestors raised slogans expressing their support for the Palestinian people and condemning the occupation. They also demanded the criminalization of normalizing ties with Israel. Political groups and parties organized a rally in front of the Constituent Assembly in the Tunisian capital, demanding the implementation of a constitutional article that criminalizes any form of normalization with Israel. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-022412?start=471 Tension is running high in Jerusalem following attempts by Jewish extremists to storm al-Aqsa Mosque, reports Dubai TV. In response, unarmed worshippers are entrenched in the compound day and night to defend it. Fri, 24 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-022412 Israel, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Syrian people, Palestinians, Bashar al-Assad, Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Israel Defense Forces, Homs, Bahrain Presenter, Male #1 Tension and the occupation's police were both present today at the al-Aqsa Mosque. Since the early morning hours, Israeli police set up checkpoints at the entrances of the noble sanctuary and in areas overlooking occupied Jerusalem, as occupation soldiers checked IDs of Palestinians wishing to pray at al-Aqsa Mosque. Tension is running high in the city, following attempts by Jewish extremists to storm al-Aqsa Mosque and its squares, through the Mughrabi and Silsila gates. The Supreme Muslim Council of Palestine described the Israeli action as "provocative," and called for international and Arab intervention to put an end to it. Sherouk Asa'd reports from Jerusalem. Reporter, Female #1 These video clips captured by Palestinian worshippers show the daily attempts of Jewish extremists to storm al-Aqsa Mosque. In response, unarmed worshippers are entrenched in the compound day and night to defend it. Jewish extremists usually storm the mosque from its western gate near the Buraq Wall, under the protection of the Israeli army; an indication that such a decision is shared by Jewish extremists and the official institution. Guest, Male #2 (Sheikh Ikrima Sabri, Supreme Muslim Council Head) The settlers don't dare enter al-Aqsa squares without police and government protection. The right-wing Israeli government supports these groups in their acts of aggression and arrogance. Reporter, Female #1 The number of storming incidents has recently increased, amid fears over an Israeli plan to divide al-Aqsa Mosque between Jewish extremists in the western area adjacent to the Buraq Wall on one side, and Muslim worshippers on the other. The division plan is being implemented for a few hours each day, especially as Palestinians remain preoccupied in countering attacks by extremists. Guest, Male #2 (Fakhri Abu Diab, Popular Committee for Defending Jerusalem) The first step is to divide the mosque based on prayer times. This will be followed by another plan to divide the site. The occupation entity is trying to test the pulse of the Palestinian, Muslim, and Arab public. Guest, Male #3 (Ahmed al-Ruwaidi, PA Official in Charge of Jerusalem File) What we fear most in 2012 is a division of the holy Aqsa Mosque. However, our people in Jerusalem stepped up to their responsibility today and defended the mosque. I believe remaining steadfast in this city is the only way to defend our holy sites. Reporter, Female #1 What Israel is doing today could amount to testing the pulse of the Palestinians in preparation for a greater project that extends beyond the division of al-Aqsa mosque. Israel's plan is as old as its occupation of East Jerusalem that started in 1967. Israel says it has entered the final stage of its plan, attributing the sudden acceleration to the world's distraction with recent changes in the region. Sherouk Asa'd, Dubai TV, occupied Jerusalem. Presenter, Male #1 The Israeli occupation had a late encounter with the Gaza Strip. Israeli fighter jets carried out a nighttime raid on eastern parts of the Zaytoun neighborhood in Gaza, injuring two Palestinians. The Israeli army said the raid targeted a Palestinian group that was getting ready to launch missiles at settlements adjacent to the Strip. The raid was preceded by an announcement by the Popular Resistance Committees that confirmed three rockets were launched at the area of Ourin in southern Israel. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-011112?start=939 <p>Tunisia's Kasserine marks first anniversary of the revolution, Pakistan fires defense secretary amid escalating crisis, Iran accuses Israel of assassinating nuclear scientist in Tehran, and more.</p> Wed, 11 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-011112 Protest, Israel, Tehran, Iran, Nuclear program of Iran, Pakistan, Qatif, Ali Abdullah Saleh, Avigdor Lieberman, Bashar al-Assad Presenter, Female #1 Israeli settlers stoned the car of the of the security commander of Tulkarem district, as he traveled on the road leading to Nablus from Ramallah in the northern West Bank. Security sources said that Major General Ibrahim Heneihin was not harmed but his aide sustained moderate injuries and was transported to the hospital. In addition, the settlers set three cars ablaze in the village of Deir Istiya and fled toward the Emmanuel settlement. They also wrote anti-Arab slogans on mosque walls in a village in the northern West Bank. Israeli occupation authorities have seized hundreds of dunums from Palestinian land in the area of Jabal al-Mukaber overlooking the Aqsa Mosque in occupied Jerusalem. The land will be used to build new settlements. Palestinian organizations called on their officials to overcome their differences and unite with Muslims and Arabs in order to counter the Israeli Judaization policy. Reporter, Male #1 This is Jabal al-Mukaber, where the first call to prayer was issued after Jerusalem was captured at the hands of victorious Saladin al-Ayoubi and which overlooks the holy al-Aqsa Mosque. Today, Jabal al-Mukabar is being targeted by the occupation authorities, which continues to seize its land and sacred sites. Large plots of land will be confiscated in order to build new settlements. Guest, Male #2 (Mazen Abu Qalbain, Member of the Jabal al-Mukaber's Land Defense Committee) The objective is to force out or expel the citizens from their land because. They want the land not its people. This is an act of oppression. They don't allow us to build yet they continue to build and bring Jews to settle on our land which they seize. They are seizing the land, not buying it, because we don't sell our land. Reporter, Male #1 The Popular Committee against the Wall and Settlement called on the Palestinian leadership and all factions to overcome their differences and focus their attention on Jerusalem, which is facing a major settlement campaign. Guest, Male #3 (Jamal Juma'a, Head of the Popular Campaign Against the Wall and Settlement) This requires the Palestinian Authority, the Palestinian leadership, the national blocs, as well as the Arab and Muslim world to take a serious position. If this is a holy city as they say, then they must immediately and seriously mobilize to protect it. One way to protect the city is by imposing an Arab embargo and sanctions on Israel, and by expelling ambassadors of counties that maintain official ties with Israel. Reporter, Male #1 It is worth mentioning that Jabal al-Mukaber faced a similar settlement campaign a few years ago. The campaign led to the construction of more than one settlement that housed hundreds of settlers, who are continuing to harass the peaceful residents of Jabal al-Mukabar. These plots of land and others will be confiscated in favor of the settlement campaign and the Israeli occupation's greed. With this, Jerusalem will be the Palestinian city most consumed by the settlement campaign. Khader Shahin, Alalam, occupied Jerusalem. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-121211?start=34 Arab towns and cities in Palestine witnessed a comprehensive general strike as tens of thousands demonstrated in protest at an Israeli plan to confiscate land in the Negev and displace over 30,000 Bedouin people, reports Dubai TV. Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-121211 Israel, Protest, Iraq, Jerusalem, General strike, Syria, Civilian casualties, Bedouin, Avigdor Lieberman, Temple Mount Presenter, Female #1 In occupied Jerusalem, the occupation authorities closed the Bab al-Maghariba Bridge that leads to al-Aqsa Mosque in the Old City of occupied Jerusalem. The occupation authorities claimed it was due to concerns over public safety. Yesterday, Arab towns and cities in 1948 Palestine witnessed a comprehensive general strike as tens of thousands demonstrated in front of the Israeli prime minister's office in occupied Jerusalem in protest to the Israeli plan to wipe out the identity of the Negev. The plan entails confiscating at least 900,000 donums of Arab land in the Negev and displacing over 30,000 people. Shuruk Asaad reports from occupied Jerusalem. Reporter, Female #2 Arab villages and towns inside the Green Line observed a general strike in response to a call by the High Follow-Up Committee for Arab Affairs. Meanwhile, thousands of angry Palestinians demonstrated in front of the Israeli prime minister's office in occupied Jerusalem demanding the Israeli government overturn the Praver report that it approved. The plan displaces 30,000 Palestinian Bedouins from the Negev, confiscates approximately 900,000 donums of their land and begins settlement and Judaization programs there. Guest, Male #1 (Atta Abu Madleem, High Steering Committee of the Arabs of the Negev) This law does not guarantee the ownership of the land; it ensures the displacement of 30,000 citizens; it ensures that the western Negev is completely cleared of all Arabs. It is the first time in the history of Israel that it says that one part of the state should be devoid of Arabs, the people of the Negev and the Bedouins. It is the western Negev. So we confirm that we will bury this plan whether the state likes it or not. Reporter, Female #2 The Negev constitutes nearly 60 percent of historic Palestine's territory. In 1948, Israel confiscated 90 percent of this land. And today, it wishes to seize what remains. This road was paved by refusing to recognize nearly 30 Palestinian villages in the Negev in the past few years, leaving tens of thousands of its residents without life's most basic needs, such as water and electricity networks. Today, these villages are facing the threat of complete annihilation. Guest, Male # 2 (Hamad Abu Daabes, Islamic Movement Within the Green Line) The plans are not scientific, or professional. They are political and racist. Repressive measures are targeting the citizens to displace them from their land. For this reason, everyone here is taking a united stand in solidarity. Reporter, Female # 2 Palestinian anger is growing in the Negev and a notable popular involvement is the response to the rising Israeli racism and the old same Israeli approach used against Palestinians. In Jerusalem, it is the construction of settlements and in Hebron, the Triangle, and the Negev: a Judaization campaign. These are the continuous catastrophes facing the Palestinians. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-100711?start=37 Today, Israeli occupation forces imposed additional restrictions on Jerusalem worshippers and West Bank residents in a bid to prevent them from reaching and praying at al-Aqsa Mosque. In the area of Negev in the southern 1948 occupied territories, a general strike took place to protest a government plan to seize 800,000 acres of land and displace 30,000 Bedouins from their villages. Fri, 07 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-100711 Egypt, Syria, Syrian Civil War, Bashar al-Assad, Cairo, Protest, Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Yemen Uprising, 2011-2012 Jordanian Protests, Libya Presenter, Male #1 Today, Israeli occupation forces imposed additional restrictions on Jerusalem worshippers and West Bank residents in a bid to prevent them from reaching and praying at al-Aqsa Mosque. The ban excludes men over the age of 45 who carry Israeli residency cards. The Israeli police deployed additional troops and set up checkpoints in East Jerusalem and at the entrances of West Bank cities. The occupation authority completely sealed off the West Bank, effective Thursday night until Saturday evening, in observance of the Day of Atonement, the holiest Jewish holiday. In the area of Negev in the southern 1948 occupied territories, a general strike took place to protest a government plan to seize 800,000 acres of land and displace 30,000 Bedouins from their villages, which are not recognized by Israel. In addition, thousands of protestors converged on the city of Beersheva, demanding recognition of their villages in an attempt to prevent a repeat of the Judaization campaign that targeted the areas of Muthalath and Galilee in the northern occupied territories. Sheruk Asa'ad reports from Beersheva in the Negev Desert. Reporter, Female #1 This Palestinian Bedouin village in the Negev Desert in the northern region of Palestine is one of 14 villages which Israel has wiped off the map and refuses to recognize. In conjunction, Israel is planning to execute the so called the "Praver" project aimed at seizing 800,000 acres of Arab land in the Negev and displacing 30,000 Palestinians in order to build ten Israeli settlements. In what was described as the largest rally in years, thousands of people gathered in the city of Beersheva to demand recognition of Bedouin villages. Guest, Male #2 (Taleb al-Sani, Arab Israeli Member of Knesset) They want to displace 30,000 people from 14 villages. The worst part is turning this plan into a law. In the name of law, they can practice racism and fascism. No more Nakbas or catastrophes. Guest, Male #3 (Majal Zahaliqa, Arab Israeli Member of Knesset) They are pushing us toward a confrontation. The declaration of "Land Day" was triggered by land seizure. We are on the verge of declaring a new "Land Day." Guest, Female #2 (Amal al-Sani, High Steering Committee of the Arabs of the Negev) What do they expect? The Negev is 12 million acres. We are demanding our rights of ownership over 680,000 acres. Do they expect us to give up what little is left for us? This is all we have. Reporter, Female #1 In 1980, Israel forcefully expelled 90 percent of the Negev population. Only 10,000 out of a total of 100,000 Palestinians are currently living in the southern territories of Palestine. Israel is refusing to recognize the Arab villages in a bid to confine the remaining residents to smaller communities similar to reservations. Israel is launching a new Judaization campaign, similar to the one implemented in the areas of Muthalath and Galilee. Guest, Male #4 (Mohamed Baraka, Arab Israeli Member of Knesset) The Negev is home to the largest area owned by the Arabs. They have confiscated everything we won in Muthalath and Galilee. Now it's the Negev's plan. Reporter, Female #1 Israel hasn't had enough, and seems to be thirsty to cause even more tragedy. Meanwhile, Palestinians in the Negev had their say today as some described the scene as "The Negev Spring." Sheruk Asa'd, Dubai TV, Beersheva. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-092711?start=674 <p>Syrian army deserters clash with security forces in al-Rastan, Israel resumes excavations under Jerusalem's al-Aqsa Mosque, and a US airstrike kills 35 people in eastern Afghanistan.</p> Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-092711 Israel, Palestinian state, Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Al-Qaeda, NATO, Hamas, Palestinians, Syrian Civil War, Yemen Uprising, West Bank Presenter, Female #1 The Israeli entity's interior ministry approved the construction of 1,100 new settlements in occupied East Jerusalem. The ministry announced in a statement that the district planning committee approved the construction of 1,100 new settlement units in the Gilo neighborhood of East Jerusalem. The statement added that the district planning committee passed a plan to build settlement units in the Gilo neighborhood near Bethlehem City in the West Bank. Chief Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erakat considered the decision to build new settlement units in occupied East Jerusalem a rejection of the proposal by the mediators of the Middle East Quartet. Erakat accused the Israeli entity of destroying the two-state option by expanding its settlement projects and occupation measures. He added that today, Tel Aviv responded to the Quartet statement that called for a halt to unilateral action by both sides, in particular a halt to settlements. Erakat called on all countries to support the Palestinian attempt to obtain full membership at the UN Security Council and recognize the state of Palestine. The Israeli occupation continues its excavation operations under the holy al-Aqsa Mosque aimed at Judaizing occupied Jerusalem and taking over the Islamic heritage. Political observers revealed that occupation authorities have begun to dig a large tunnel. The tunnel passes underground the Silwan neighborhood, extends to the Wadi Hilwa neighborhood, runs through the wall of the Old City, and ends underneath the square in front of the holy mosque. Reporter, Male #1 Every day, there is increasing Judaization and danger for the city of Jerusalem, and specifically for the holy al-Aqsa Mosque. The Israeli occupation authorities continually initiate and complete their plans underground al-Aqsa Mosque and in its surrounding areas. One of the most dangerous plans is the creation of a large tunnel that passes underground Silwan, extends to the Wadi Hilwa neighborhood, runs through the wall of the Old City of Jerusalem, and ends underneath the square in front of the holy al-Aqsa Mosque. Guest, Male #2 (Sheikh Akrama Sabri, Head of the Supreme Islamic Body) These tunnels are a blatant assault on the Islamic Waqf, or Islamic endowments, because the ground underneath and surrounding the mosque are Islamic endowments. In addition, the historic monuments underneath and around al-Aqsa are facing the threat of collapse, obliteration, and annihilation. Reporter, Male #1 Reports indicate that the occupation connected the new tunnel with a 500-meter-long Silwan tunnel that opened months ago, which extends from the west of Ein Silwan Mosque, passes underground Silwan's main avenue and houses that lead to al-Aqsa Mosque. Guest, Male #3 (Najih Bakirat, Head of the Manuscripts Department of al-Aqsa Mosque) I believe it aims to weaken al-Aqsa Mosque's buildings. The next tunnel will not be under Bab al-Ghawanmeh, like the tunnel that was dug in 1996, but will be underneath Marwani Mosque. Once the Israeli occupation seizes control underground, it will seek control above ground. They're looking for an opening to set foot inside al-Aqsa Mosque. Reporter, Male #1 It has been indicated that the tunnels reached the foundations of the holy al-Aqsa Mosque, and more specifically, underneath the women's praying chamber and the Islamic museum in the southwestern part of the holy al-Aqsa Mosque. The Israeli occupation is racing against time by digging a number of tunnels around and underneath al-Aqsa Mosque, the First Qibla, and the Third Holy Sanctuary, in order to impose its final control of it. Khadar Shahin, Alalam, occupied Jerusalem. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083011?start=195 <p>Gaddafi forces given four days to surrender, seven killed and hundreds arrested as Syrian crackdown continues, Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Fitr, and more.</p> Tue, 30 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083011 Eid ul-Fitr, Israel, Protest, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Israel Defense Forces, Jerusalem, West Bank, Egypt, Bashar al-Assad Presenter, Female #1 In occupied Jerusalem, thousands of Palestinians performed Eid ul-Fitr prayers at the holy al-Aqsa Mosque. The Eid this year comes at a time when Jerusalemites are suffering from a difficult economic situation due to the siege that the Israeli occupation imposes on the sacred city. Reporter, Male #1 Despite economic hardships and the Israeli occupation's siege, Palestinian Jerusalemites welcomed the first day of the joyous Eid ul-Fitr with religious slogans at al-Aqsa Mosque, the Muslims' first Qibla and third Holy Sanctuary. They raised their voices with loudspeakers chanting, "God is great! God is great above all tyrants and arrogance." Guest, Male #2 The Muslims' presence and praying at al-Aqsa, despite the ban and barricades, prove the Muslims' love for the holy al-Aqsa Mosque and their connection to it. The Jerusalemites take Jerusalem's cause to the holy al-Aqsa Mosque. By that, I mean the occupation bans our brothers in the West Bank and Gaza from coming here, but our brothers in Jerusalem filled this vacancy the best they can. Of course, al-Aqsa still needs the worshipers from all of Palestine, and God willing, it will be visited by all Arabs and Muslims in the future. Reporter, Male #1 Thousands of Palestinians performed the Eid prayers at the holy al-Aqsa Mosque, even though the Israeli occupation closed down the city of Jerusalem. Orator of al-Aqsa Mosque and Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, Sheikh Mohammed Ahmad Hussein called for Palestinian unity, commitment to Jerusalem, and standing up to the Israeli occupation's atrocities. Guest, Male #3 (Mohammed Ahmed Hussein, Grand Mufti of Jerusalem) Al-Aqsa Mosque, Jerusalem, the Palestinian people, and the Palestinian cause are in the hands of this nation. Jerusalem is not just for Palestinians. Al-Aqsa Mosque is one of the mosques that Muslims are obliged to travel to, so it is a responsibility for all Muslims. Therefore, we want all Muslims, the rulers and the ruled, the governments, the people, and the countries to take their responsibility for al-Aqsa Mosque, the holy sites, the holy city, and the Palestinian cause which is the primary and central cause for the Arab and Islamic nation. Reporter, Male #1 Not far from al-Aqsa Mosque, Jerusalemites headed to the headquarters of the Red Cross in solidarity with members of the Palestinian parliament from the Change and Reform party who are challenging the decision to expel them from their city of occupied Jerusalem. Guest, Male #4 (Khaled Abu Arfah, Former Minister of Jerusalem Affairs) The Jerusalemites are renewing our vow to our brothers in parliament, to Jerusalem and to the holy al-Aqsa Mosque. We are sending a message to Israelis that we are here in Jerusalem and we remain steadfast. We will not back down and will not leave the city. The occupation should back down and quickly withdraw from the city. Reporter, Male #1 The city of Jerusalem and its residents are enduring much pain and suffering. Despite this, there is a renewed hope that Jerusalem will return to its owners and a flag free of occupation will be raised here. Best wishes to you and to Jerusalem. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082911?start=1262 <p>Killings and defections continue in Syria as a fragmented Transitional Council is formed in Turkey, Bahraini opposition rejects the king's speech, Libyan revolutionaries mass for assault on Sirte, and more.</p> Mon, 29 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082911 Israel, Middle East Peace Process, Palestinians, Catherine Ashton, Palestinian state, Palestinian National Authority, Civilian casualties, European Union, 2011 Libyan Uprising, Syrian Civil War Presenter, Male #1 Jerusalem is important to Muslims and Christians around the world. The following report explores the time from the beginning of the Iranian revolution to the founding of international Jerusalem or al-Quds Day until today. Reporter, Female #1 These sad minarets and domes will never erase the day of August 7th, 1979 from its long memory. On that day, the leader of the Islamic Revolution, Imam Khomeini, stood up and said: Guest, Male #2 I call on all Muslims around the world to dedicate the last Friday of the blessed month of Ramadan a day for Jerusalem. Reporter, Female #1 Since this call was issued, Jerusalem has had an annual date with its lovers and supporters across the entire Islamic world. They take to the street chanting its name and they pray for its salvation. They affirm that the Islamic nation may become ill, but it will never die. This year saw the beginning of a recovery from the disease of humiliation and delusion that has plagued the nation for decades. The first and most important manifestations of this recovery are the Arab people's revolutions against their tyrannical regimes loyal to the US and the Zionist occupation state. The strike against these regimes was a blow to the balance of power advocating global tyranny. Times have changed; after 2011, there will be no place in the world for those who established relationships with those who robbed Jerusalem's national identity, history, and sanctity; giving them legitimacy to Judaize the city by demolishing the homes of its residents and by building occupation settlements in an attempt to remove Jerusalem from the center and heart of the Islamic world. Jerusalem is the rightful center for Muslim causes. How can it not be when it was the first Qibla for Muslims; the third Mosque that they travel to; it is also Misra, the site where the Prophet, peace be upon him, ascended to the heavens; and the place where people gather on judgment day. In addition, one prayer in Jerusalem equals 500 prayers elsewhere. All these virtues prompt thousands of people every year to take to the streets in support of Jerusalem. Every one of them carries in their heart a dear hope: that God sends them al-Buraq, just like the one sent to the Prophet, so that it will carry them in one glance into Jerusalem. Not only because al-Buraq will shorten the distance to Jerusalem, but also because it will help them overcome police checkpoints in occupied Jerusalem. The checkpoints bar Muslim residents of the city from praying in their mosque without stringent conditions regarding their age and type of ID. On many occasions, no one under the age of 50 or carrying Palestinian IDs are allowed to pass under the pretext of security precautions. Today, Jerusalem is not witnessing anything new. It has tirelessly managed to defeat its enemies throughout history. Al-Buraq Revolution in 1929 was the best witness for that. Not too long ago, the 2000 Intifada was sparked from al-Aqsa Square, which was turned into a hell for the occupation. Therefore, Muslims on the last Friday of Ramadan are expected to perform their true duty for Jerusalem, by supporting and praying in the city, according to the Prophet's instruction, may peace and prayers be upon him. If they cannot reach the city, they at least send oil to its lamps. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082611?start=215 The international al-Quds or Jerusalem Day in support of Jerusalem and its liberation from the Israeli occupation comes this year as the Islamic awakening continues to gain momentum in the fight against oppression, weakness, and tyranny, reports Al-Alam. Fri, 26 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082611 Friday prayers, Quds Day, Syria, Syrian Civil War, Israel, Jerusalem, Protest, Bashar al-Assad, Palestinians, Air strike Presenter, Male #1 In occupied Palestine, Israeli occupation authorities imposed a tight curfew on the holy city of Jerusalem. They also set up checkpoints and closed the streets leading to the holy al-Aqsa Mosque in order to prevent Palestinians from entering the mosque to perform the last Friday prayer of Ramadan. Reporter, Male #2 The international al-Quds or Jerusalem Day in support of Jerusalem and its liberation from the Israeli occupation comes this year as the Islamic awakening continues to gain momentum in the fight against oppression, weakness, and tyranny. The occupation's authorities imposed strict measures in the holy city to prevent worshippers from entering the Aqsa Mosque to perform the last Friday prayer of Ramadan and mark the international al-Quds Day. Guest, Male #3 There were too many checkpoints in the West Bank. They only allowed entry to people of specific ages and this caused problems. Checkpoints were packed with people waiting to enter. Unfortunately, the ban is affecting many people. Guest, Female #1 Yes, there were checkpoints and a ban in effect. We crossed five checkpoints on the way here. All young residents were denied entry. It wasn't easy. Reporter, Male #2 The Palestinian residents, who were able to enter the holy city, whether from the West Bank or inside Palestine, stressed the importance of marking the international Quds Day. They called on the Arab and Muslim nations to withstand all hardship and head to the holy city and its sacred mosque. Guest, Female #2 They prevented many people from entering. They are being very strict. They are giving the Muslims a hard time. All streets were cordoned off. They also closed the border crossing. Guest, Male #5 Wake up Arabs! Wake up! Wake up! Stop being passive! Wake up! Reporter, Male #2 On this last Friday of the holy month, the holy city is calling for help, hoping someone will finally respond and free it from the occupation, which has been disrupting its sacred mosque for decades, which is known to Muslims as their first Qibla. Despite the Israeli occupation's strict measures, which include imposing curfew and banning thousands of Palestinian from entering the city of Jerusalem, thousands of others entered the city to perform the last Friday prayer of Ramadan and mark the international Quds Day. Khadr Shahin, al-Alam, occupied Jerusalem. Presenter, Male #1 The Palestinians in the Gaza Strip marked international Quds Day by staging mass rallies on city streets. Participants called on the Arabs and Muslims to bear their responsibility by countering the Israeli occupation and its campaign to Judaize the holy city. They also called on the international community to refrain from supporting the Israeli entity at the expense of Palestinian rights. Reporter, Male #6 Marking international Quds Day, and with the participation of all national and Islamic factions, the Palestinians took to the streets of Gaza in mass rallies. They chanted slogans denouncing all forms of Israeli aggression and reaffirmed their rights in Palestine, most notably in Jerusalem. The Hamas Movement called on the Arab and Muslim worlds to bear their responsibility toward the holy city, which is facing grave danger. Guest, Male #7 (Dr. Ismail Radwan, Hamas leader) We say to our Arab and Muslim worlds: Jerusalem is in danger. You must bear your responsibility toward Jerusalem and Palestine, which is the fundamental issue for the Arab and Muslim worlds. In the name of the resistance factions and in the name of the Palestinian people, we would like to reaffirm our commitment to our national principles, most notably Jerusalem. Reporter, Male #6 For its part, Islamic Jihad called on the Arabs and Muslims to mobilize and unify their efforts in order to defeat the Israeli occupation and expel it from Palestinian land. Guest, Male #8 (Khadr Habib, Islamic Jihad leader) The Arab and Muslim nations must mobilize their forces and unify their efforts in order to achieve their goals and uproot this foreign seed planted amidst them. The presence of this entity here is illegitimate, and will remain as such until it's uprooted, God wiling. Reporter, Male #6 The Democratic Front said international Quds Day has become an occasion to renew all forms of struggle against the Israeli entity. They also called on the international community to bear its responsibility toward the Palestinians and urged it not to take the side of the Israeli occupation. Reporter, Male #6 International Quds Day will continue to sound the alarm bell, warning all Muslims of the Israeli threats facing the city of Jerusalem and its holy shrines. It's a day to call on them to unite and assume their responsibility toward Jerusalem by liberating it from the oppression and the Israeli occupation's fist. Mustafa Abed-Hadi, Alalam, Gaza, Palestine. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081211?start=1026 Syria's demonstrators refuse to "kneel down" and vow to reclaim their dignity, Bahrain's pro-democracy protesters show no sign of retreat, Saudis rally for the release of political prisoners, and more.<br /> Fri, 12 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-081211 Protest, Israel, Friday prayers, Palestinians, Humanitarian aid, 2011 Israel protests, Bahrain, Hamas, Al-Aqsa Mosque, Saudi Arabia Israeli forces have tightened security in and around Jerusalem al-Quds and have banned tens of thousands of worshipers from attending Friday prayers. Israel has denied entry to al-Asqa Mosque to men under the age of 50 and women under the age of 45 as Palestinians perform the second Friday prayer of Islam's holy fasting month of Ramadan. Palestinians have called the restrictions a "collective punishment." They say the restrictions on movement have affected their economy and made travel extremely difficult. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-080511?start=656 <p>Thousands take to the streets of Syria chanting "God is with us," Yemeni opposition questions President Saleh's constitutional legitimacy, Israel restricts access to al-Aqsa Mosque on first Friday of Ramadan, and more.</p> Fri, 05 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-080511 Israel, Protest, Palestinians, Gaza, Israeli Air Force, Air strike, Ramadan, Friday prayers, Syria, Palestinian rocket attacks on Israel Presenter, Female #1 The Israeli occupation imposed heightened security measures at the main entrances of occupied Jerusalem on the first Friday of the holy month of Ramadan. The occupation barred anyone under the age of 40 from entering the city to perform Friday prayers in the noble al-Aqsa Mosque. Reporter, Male #1 During the first hours of dawn, Palestinians came from across the West Bank's cities and villages to the main entrances of Jerusalem to perform prayers on the first Friday of the holy month. In the hot sun, they waited for the Israeli jailors to allow them to enter the city. However, only a small number of elderly people were allowed in, and the majority performed prayers at the occupation's checkpoints that separate them from the blessed al-Aqsa Mosque. Guest, Female #2 We've been here since 6 a.m., and it's now 8:30 and we're still standing. We're exhausted. I'm sick and feel terrible. I can't believe it. Guest, Female #3 Once we leave this area, it's possible to enter from here but they make us return to the first or second or third checkpoint. This is happening to a lot of people here. Guest, Female #4 I tried to go in but they made me return. The first time they said I wasn't the legal age. They made me go back a second and third time. They allowed me to go in on the fourth try. I crossed the first and second checkpoints, but they made me go back at the third checkpoint. Reporter, Male #1 The scene is not very different in the sacred city. Dozens of checkpoints were set up at the main entrances of the Old Town's gates that lead to the blessed al-Aqsa Mosque. And amid inspections and occupation measures, the city seems to be occupied once again. Guest, Male #2 The enemy shut down everything. It is waging a war against us on all fronts. It is using all means to fight against us, all means! But believe me, our faith in the almightily God is the only thing that keeps us strong. May God's will be to keep our faith strong and make us love each other. Guest, Female #5 Old men and women are all standing. They are not allowed to enter in cars or buses. This situation can only be solved by God. Reporter, Male #1 It is worth mentioning that the occupation's authorities are heavily reinforcing their presence during the holy month. The occupation transformed the city of Jerusalem into a military zone on this day. But despite these occupation's measures, tens of thousands of Palestinians entered the city and performed their prayers at al-Aqsa, also known as the first Muslim Qibla and the third Noble Sanctuary. Khadir Shahin, al-Alam, occupied Jerusalem. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-072611?start=1366 Prince Turki al-Faisal says there would be serious consequences for US-Saudi relations if the US vetoes the Palestinians' proposal for UN recognition of a Palestinian state, but a new Israeli study raises questions about Saudi Arabia's ability to distance itself from the US. Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-072611 Protest, Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, Drought, Palestinian state, Saudi Arabia, Human rights, Syria, Yemen, Bahrain Presenter, Female #1 An Israeli study raised questions about Saudi Arabia's ability to distance itself from the US despite the fact that the only Saudi official who has spoken on the issue is Prince Turki al-Faisal. Israel's carefully-drawn equation could not be altered by King Faisal, who became its victim. Reporter, Female #2 Prince Turki al-Faisal waved the weapon of oil in the face of the US in an op-ed published in the Washington Post newspaper a month ago. In the article, he stated that there would be serious consequences for US-Saudi relations if the US vetoes the Palestinians' proposal for UN recognition of a Palestinian state. The article resurfaced in a new study on the US-Saudi relationship by the Begin-Sadat Center in Tel Aviv. The researcher said that Riyadh and Washington are still "very distant from parting ways," despite the Saudi leadership's anger toward the Obama administration. He noted that Saudis "are all bark and no bite." The Israeli researcher downplayed Turki al-Faisal's article as well as an article by Nawaf al-Obaidi, a security adviser working in a research center that belongs to Prince Turki. Al-Faisal's views were not seriously taken into consideration since he was appointed as director-general of the Saudi intelligence and was the Saudi ambassador in Washington and the UK several times, but was later pushed out. If such a position was taken by Saudi officials in power, then the US and Israel would not have reacted with such indifference. Proof is evident in King Faisal's position, which led to his assassination when he denied oil supplies to the West. He received a letter from the US in the mid-1970s that threatened the use of violence against Saudi Arabia in order to protect American interests. On that day, the king's response was "fine, God willing." Henry Kissinger, the secretary of state at the time, asked the king what his demands were in order for him to reverse the decision to stop supplying oil to the US. The king made the statement and followed it by saying he wishes to perform the two Rak'ah's in the al-Aqsa Mosque before his death. This position cost him his life. However, history does not forget. The Israeli study ruled out the possibility of a similar position in light of the strategic relations between the two countries, in addition to their economic, financial, and military relations. Saudi Arabia paid the US an estimated 90 billion dollars in one lump sum before even receiving weapons. And if relations with the US are to be severed, questions on the ability to regain this amount will rise. As for the more essential question, will the kingdom be able to stand against its ally the US, once again, and reinstate King Faisal's position? ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org