http://news.linktv.org Link TV News Videos (Filtered by topics: Al-Forat TV) en-us Thu, 19 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Copyright 2011 Link Media, Inc. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071912?start=552 Al-Forat reports that Saudi Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr is on a hunger strike despite being tortured by security forces inside the prison. Saudi Arabia's Eastern Center for Human Rights expressed concern over the news from his relatives, who confirmed he was alive. Thu, 19 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071912 Israel, Syrian Civil War, Hezbollah, Syria, Israelis, United States, Burgas, Hassan Nasrallah, Nimr al-Nimr, Zine El Abidine Ben Ali Presenter, Male #1 Saudi religious scholar Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr is on a hunger strike despite being continuously tortured by security forces inside the prison. Presenter, Female #1 Saudi Arabia's Eastern Center for Human Rights expressed concern over the news reported by al-Nimr's relatives that he is being tortured by security forces after getting arrested on July 8. He is also on an open-ended hunger strike. The center said that al-Nimr's relatives visited him and saw signs of severe torture, such as bruises on his face and eye; in addition, his front teeth have been removed. Presenter, Female #1 The center clarified that al-Nimr has been on an open-ended hunger strike since his arrest. He is being force-fed with a tube, and his hands are tied and cuffed as he lies injured on a hospital bed in the military prison in al-Dhahran, indicating that his relatives' visit was the result of an invitation from the authorities. This was done to assure his supporters that he is alive in order to prevent public uproar. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071912?start=621 <p>Russia and China veto Western-backed UN resolution on Syria for the third time, Iran condemns terrorism and slams Israeli accusations as baseless, Hezbollah vows continued resistance to Zionists, justifying loyalty to Assad, and more.</p> Thu, 19 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071912 Israel, Syrian Civil War, Hezbollah, Syria, Israelis, United States, Burgas, Hassan Nasrallah, Nimr al-Nimr, Zine El Abidine Ben Ali Presenter, Male #1 The military court in Tunisia sentenced former President Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali to life in prison. Presenter, Female #1 Judge Hedi al-Ayari said the verdict issued against Ben Ali came after he was convicted for complicity in the killing of 43 protestors during the revolution that toppled his rule. The judge added that the trial included 40 figureheads from Ben Ali's regime, among them Ali Sirati, the former of presidential security, who was given a 20-year prison sentence. His former interior minister, Rafik Belhaj Kacem, was sentenced to 15 years, and Ahmed Friaa was acquitted. On the other hand, the victims' families expressed anger over the light verdicts. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062912?start=1107 Al-Forat reports that 15 were killed when three booby-trapped cars exploded in northern Baghdad, and bombs in Baqubah and Fallujah injured six. Meanwhile, unidentified armed gunmen blasted a gas pipeline using an explosive device in Ninawa Province. Fri, 29 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062912 Israel, Ivory Coast, Mohamed Morsi, Kashmir, Women's rights in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain Uprising, Syrian Civil War, Ibrahim Hamed, Avigdor Lieberman, Illegal immigration from Africa to Israel Presenter, Female #1 Seventeen people were martyred or wounded when three booby-trapped cars exploded in the area of Shatea al-Taji in northern Baghdad. A security source confirmed that three booby trapped cars exploded, which resulted in the deaths of two people; 15 others suffered from various injuries. Nearby cars were damaged. The source added that ambulances hurried to the scene to transport the wounded to a nearby hospital. Security forces cordoned off the area in anticipation of more explosions. Presenter, Female #1 In Baqubah, an explosive device placed on the side of the road detonated, striking a Kia minibus; as a result, three civilians were injured. And in southern Fallujah, a booby-trapped car exploded on al-Seteen Street in the area of al-Shohadaa. Three soldiers were critically wounded. Presenter, Female #1 Unidentified armed gunmen blasted a gas pipeline using an explosive device in Ninawa Province. Presenter, Female #1 A source at the Ninawa operations command center confirmed in a press statement that the pipeline links al-Batna and the Haql Ain oil well near Zomara. Without adding more information, the source indicated that oil pumping through the pipeline was delayed for nearly three hours before a specialized team fixed it, and then the pumping resumed. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062212?start=380 Over half a million refugees in Yemen's southern provinces are facing widespread disease and a lack of food, clothes, and shelter, Al-Forat TV reports. This comes as battles have intensified between the Yemeni army and al-Qaeda in recent months. Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062212 Israel, Palestinians, Economy of Sudan, Susya, Syria-Turkey relations, Kabul, Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, Palestinian rocket attacks on Israel, Middle East Peace Process, Shaul Mofaz Presenter, Female #1 Widespread disease, destruction, and a lack of food and medicine is the status of Yemen's southern provinces, after having been afflicted by war and armed conflicts. Presenter, Male #1 Amid this painful reality, fear of an increasing number of refugees is growing, after battles intensified between the Yemeni army and al-Qaeda elements. From Sanaa, our correspondent Ibrahim al-Motaa reports. Reporter, Male #2 This is the state of the security and humanitarian conditions in Yemen's southern provinces, the result of heated battles between the Yemeni army and armed elements of al-Qaeda. Reporter, Male #2 While hosting the director of the Agency for International Development, President Hadi confirmed the severity of the humanitarian situation in the southern provinces remains at it worst. It is a humanitarian crisis that threatens the lives of over half a million refugees who were displaced by battles that caused widespread destruction to the southern regions' infrastructure. Guest Male #3 (Abdul Rahman Bursan, Human Rights Activist) People here in southern Yemen, whether they are refugees from Abyan Province or from the areas that saw major battles, are suffering a lot. They have no access to housing or food. There is widespread disease among children, like diarrhea and the flu. The weather during the summer also adds to their suffering since there are no air conditioners. So they are suffering from the heat, as well as from the lack of food, clothes and shelter. Reporter, Male #2 Southern provinces are enduring never-ending suffering, as al-Qaeda elements threaten the security and stability of these regions. Military sources confirm that the Yemeni air force conducted air raids targeting terrorist leaders in Abyan Province. This comes in the framework of targeting the remaining terrorist elements in these regions. But the continued air raids against al-Qaeda elements that planted many land mines are leading to an increase in the number of refugees despite the army's recent victories. Guest, Male #4 (Essar al-Saqafi, Media Activist) The air strikes, lack of security, destabilization of Abyan Province, the spread of land mines in all areas, residential, non-residential and agriculture land, are the main reasons for the refugees' displacement. And all these issues create an obstacle to their return to their homes. Reporter, Male #2 In the past few months, the armed confrontations in the north created over 31 thousand refugees, according to official sources. They are living a difficult humanitarian situation that isn't very different from the one refugees in southern provinces are enduring. This confirms that the humanitarian situation of Yemeni refugees requires more international support to resolve the crisis. Reporter, Male #2 Refugees in Yemen are experiencing difficult humanitarian challenges as a result of the ongoing battles that still continue today despite the army's victories. So the refugees' situation remains the most important in Yemen amid the country's political, security, and humanitarian challenges. Ibrahim al-Motaa, Al-Forat, Sanaa. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-060512?start=1122 In Yemen, battles between the army and al-Qaeda's terrorist groups were renewed in the province of Abyan, as security forces requested a cordon around the capital Sanaa in anticipation of possible terrorist operations in the capital, Al-Forat TV reports. Tue, 05 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-060512 Illegal immigration from Africa to Israel, Jerusalem, Israel, Migrant worker, Illegal Immigration, Hosni Mubarak, Naksa, Syrian Civil War, Nuclear program of Iran, Human rights in Bahrain Presenter, Male #1 In Yemen, battles between government forces and al-Qaeda's terrorist groups were renewed in the province of Abyan, as security forces requested a security cordon around the capital Sanaa in anticipation of possible terrorist operations in the capital. Presenter, Female #1 For his part, the UN envoy to Yemen Jamal Bin Amr warned in a report to the Security Council of the escalating violence and the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the country. He requested urgent aid for Yemen. Ibrahim al-Mutaab has the details. Reporter, Male #2 This is a recurrent scene as the confrontations are renewed between the Yemeni army, whose military missions are still supported by organized popular committees, and armed members of al-Qaeda in Yemen's southern provinces. Military sources said a suicide attack targeted a military reconnaissance force in the Lawdar district of Abyan Province, killing four fighters from the popular committees supporting the Yemeni army, and injuring others. Meanwhile, the Yemeni army is expanding its military strikes against al-Qaeda members through ongoing battles in the cities of Zinjibar and al-Kawd in Abyan Province, which have caused many casualties in the ranks of the group. Guest, Male #3 (Ahmed Saif Hashid, Yemeni Parliamentarian) The security card was played by those calling for reform and by the authorities. Both sides are playing the security card and the al-Qaeda card. And this led al-Qaeda to carry out this attack. Reporter, Male #2 As fighting continues in the major cities of the southern province, knowledgeable sources said Yemen's naval forces are still incapable of preventing the infiltration of al-Qaeda fighters and the flow of weapons through the sea. This comes as the army, as well as a large number of fighters from the popular committees, started moving towards Shakra, an important stronghold for the terrorist group's members. This confirms that Yemen's naval ports are still facing many issues that are helping al-Qaeda members. Guest, Male #4 (Mohamed Shamsan, Researcher) I believe that naval forces, especially on this front, are weak; they have not received the proper training to confront a threat like al-Qaeda. The Yemeni military forces in general, and the naval forces in particular, are not even trained to confront pirates who are very active in Yemen's regional waters. Reporter, Male #2 As the confrontation continues with al-Qaeda, which is attempting to move its battle with the army into major cities in the southern provinces, the Yemeni Interior Ministry ordered heightened security measures in the security zone surrounding the capital Sanaa, in anticipation of security breaches in the capital. Reporter, Male #2 As the fighting continues in the southern provinces, citizens are not ruling out the possibility of having the capital turn into a new platform for the combat with al-Qaeda, which has vowed to carry out surprise operations. Ibrahim al-Mutaa, Al-Forat, in front of the Defense Complex, Sanaa. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-051712?start=1352 <p>Renewed clashes erupt in Lebanon's Tripoli as Hezbollah is blamed, Israel and Iran beat the drums of war ahead of nuclear talks in Baghdad, the White House threatens to target anyone 'obstructing' transition in Yemen, and more.</p> Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-051712 Israel, Syrian Civil War, Tel Aviv, Tripoli, Lebanon, Iran-Israel relations, US-Yemen relations, US-Israel relations, Al Wefaq, Egyptian presidential election, 2012, Eli Yishai Presenter, Male #1 Iraqis marked the national day of the mass graves martyrs, committed by the defunct Saddam regime. Presenter, Female #1 May 16th was chosen to be the annual day dedicated to the martyrs of the mass graves, after the first and largest mass grave was discovered in the al-Mahawil region, of northern Babil Province, in 2003, after the Saddam regime collapsed. Considered the bloodiest in modern history, the barbaric massacres claimed the lives of tens of thousands of men, women, and children, after they were buried alive or killed execution-style. These scenes, which still haunt humanity today, record an echoing scream of the brutality and savagery of Saddam, the dictator, and are protesting anyone attempting to extend his policy, be it the Arab or regional regimes, or the political entities in Iraq. Reporter, Male #2 No one disagrees that Iraq, in its modern history, went through the most difficult and bloodiest era after the Baathists seized power in 1970s. This was an era during which the people experienced the cruelest calamities, which turned the spring into a deadly autumn. Truckloads of youths, elders, and women were driven to the altar of freedom where their pure blood wrote the story of a country that was founded on the principles of Imam Hussein, peace be upon him, and learned to stand in the face of those who tried to deprive them of their convictions. In his speech at the official ceremony marking the national day for the mass grave martyrs in Baghdad, the prime minister stressed on the importance of following the example of the unity manifested by the martyrs of the mass graves, and to work together to solve the current crisis. Guest, Male #3 (Nouri al-Maliki, Iraqi Prime Minister) Today, Iraq is still fragile. It has not yet completed the construction of its infrastructure. But come, let us agree on one basic thing that we do not violate: we mustn't allow anyone to become a dictator or an abuser. Let's meet face to face and speak openly. We want you to speak out, so we can find out who's right and who's wrong. Reporter, Male #2 According to the minister of human rights, a series of government measures were taken recently to disclose the remains of thousands of victims, through establishing a database for all the people who went missing during that era. Some families of the victims believe that these measures came too late. They believe that some of the victim's cases were given preference, at a time when no one dared to challenge the selection process. Guest, Male #4 I'm still waiting for justice to be served. I want to ask a question: Does the ministry of human rights handle prisoners' cases only? How about those people whose families were killed and their homes destroyed? None of these families have been compensated. Reporter, Male #2 This is a call on the relevant institutions not to keep the issue of mass graves merely for commercial purposes, or to limit it to its commemoration day, but to seriously look into compensating their families and truly honoring their pure blood. Al-Forat, al-Hareth Mohamed, Baghdad. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-050312?start=1342 A report by a US watchdog revealed that large amounts of funds allocated by Congress for Iraq's construction went into the accounts of terrorist groups, most notably al-Qaeda, adding that some contractors confessed they paid protection fees, reports Al-Forat TV. Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-050312 Syrian Civil War, Politics of Israel, Iraq, Bashar al-Assad, Politics of Iran, Mauritania, Abbasiyah, Bahrain Uprising, Tariq al-Hashemi, Mohammad-Reza Rahimi Presenter, Male #1 A report by a US watchdog revealed that large amounts of funds allocated by Congress for Iraq's construction went into the accounts of terrorist groups, most notably al-Qaeda. Presenter, Female #1 According to the report published by Agence France-Presse, American military commanders confirmed that some terrorist groups have received over four million dollars from financial transactions allocated to public projects. The report indicated some of the money was found after raiding terrorist cells, adding that some contractors confessed they paid fees to be protected by these groups. Other American commanders confirmed there is compelling evidence that local authorities, especially the governors, have been stealing funds allocated to public projects, and offering them to insurgents in exchange for a promise they would not attack projects they are sponsoring. Reporter, Male #2 It seems the evil of armed groups and Takfiri gangs have not been limited to security and the theft of the citizens' lives since the downfall of the former regime. They have also been stealing Iraq's money, directly or indirectly, by imposing fees on companies and contractors in exchange for not attacking any of their projects, sometimes demanding almost 50 percent of the project's funding. This was indicated in an American report, and Congress has questioned the allocation of these funds, and the parties responsible for wasting them. Guest, Male #3 We don't know where these funds went. Were they spent on the infrastructure, or did they go to some other people? Who was in charge of these funds? Are those responsible for these funds still in office? Or are other parties in charge of this money? And what is the purpose of spending these huge sums of money at this time? Reporter, Male #2 It is clear to the public that the security vacuum and lack of effective oversight are some of the causes behind the loss of control of the continuous crises since the downfall of the tyrant. However, these reports indicated that nearly 76 percent of the people who were surveyed confirmed that funds allocated to construction projects were wasted by corruption and fraud, with some officials and contractors splitting these funds. This is the stumbling block hindering Iraq's economic progress. Experts say this is also a legal case, and the government must impose regulations and prosecute those responsible. Reporter, Male #2 According to political observers, the amount of funds wasted due to the fear of armed groups and the officials' embezzlement would suffice to build projects and make investments that would raise the citizens' living standards. From Baghdad, Ahmed Taghi, Al-Forat. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-042512?start=867 Al-Forat TV reports that Iraqi citizens complain of an ongoing lack of security despite an overwhelming number of security checkpoints, highlighting the weakness of Iraqi counter-terrorism operations and intelligence efforts. Wed, 25 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-042512 Israel, Nuclear program of Iran, Human rights in Bahrain, Benjamin Netanyahu, Iran-Israel relations, Bahrain, Bahrain Uprising, United Nations, Israeli-occupied territories, Palestinian prisoners in Israel Presenter, Female #1 An explosive device placed in the center of al-Kufa District in the northern part of the holy Najaf governorate was detonated. Presenter, Male #1 A security source said the explosive device was placed in a civilian car and exploded in the Maysan neighborhood near Imam Ali Bridge, peace be upon him, in the center of the city of al-Kufa. The source added it is still unknown whether the blast caused any casualties. For years, this has been a recurring scene in Iraqi cities, especially in the capital Baghdad: multiple terrorist bombings followed by calm that is strained by the fear of what comes next. Presenter, Female #1 This scene reflects the lax and weak mechanism of the security apparatus combating terrorism. At the same time, citizens complain of an overwhelming number of security checkpoints amid little or no intelligence efforts. Al-Hareth Mohamed has the details. Reporter, Male #2 After every terrorist bombing that rocks an Iraqi city, cautious calm dominates the streets of the capital Baghdad. The streets of the country are characterized by relative stability. However, some describe this calm as temporary. Figures indicate the so-called progress achieved by those responsible for security is in fact giving the terrorist groups a better opportunity to organize their branches and plan car bombs and their hateful explosive devices. And the citizens end up with the largest losses. Guest, Male #3 (Hussein al-Inawati, Security Expert) Today we're talking about democracy, but we couldn't be more removed from democracy. I don't know what this concept of "democracy" means. Since 2003 until now, the security institutions have been run by the same people. They enjoy the same jurisdictions. Reporter, Male #2 The Commission on Security and Defense in the Iraqi parliament revealed the extent of the security institutions' complacency in going after terrorist cells, saying it is caused by their weak intelligence and information work. Statements by the security leaders appear on media outlets only after terrorist security breaches have taken place. Their words are limited to condemnation and denunciation, with an abundant amount of future promises that cannot compensate for the bloodshed of innocent people. Even worse, most of the fact-finding committees that are formed after these attacks never announce the results of their investigations. Guest, Male #4 (Qasim al-Araji, Member of Commission for Security and Defense) The security forces complain about the weakness of the intelligence agency and its negligence. They say they do not have access to any real information that would help them anticipate the enemy's moves. Reporter, Male #2 The various kinds of taxes the citizens pay for maintaining security do not result in the control of the security situation. Only worsening traffic jams are observed as the scorching summer approaches. Checkpoints have turned into an annoying obsession that follows the citizens everywhere they go. The people are raising their voices and demanding serious efforts be exerted to strengthen the intelligence work, retake control of the mobile checkpoints and stations, and clear bottlenecks from the roads. It seems the security leadership is accustomed to issuing reassuring statements every now and then. But without really exerting any tangible efforts to rectify their mistakes, or actually working on solving the issues promptly so the tragedy of terrorist operations won't be repeated in the country. From Baghdad, al-Hareth Mohamed, Al-Forat. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-040412?start=1348 <p>British report points to Africa as the new frontier for the "war on terror," Russia warns arming Syrian opposition would lead to more bloodshed, Al-Shabab claims responsibility for deadly blast at Somali theater, and more.</p> Wed, 04 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-040412 Israel, Al-Qaeda, Terrorism in the United Kingdom, Houthis, Syrian Civil War, Israeli settlement, Benjamin Netanyahu, Hana Shalabi, Zuwarah, Nasiriyah Presenter, Female #1 Inas is a deaf girl who talks with her eyes and pure soul through the captivating strokes of her expressive art. With her brushes, she produces paintings that reflect the life of people in her city. Presenter, Male #1 Great artists praised the paintings of Inas, attesting she has a talent that needs to be nurtured. Our correspondent Wahab al-Ghazi takes us on a short journey with Inas in the following report. Reporter, Male #2 Inas Abdul Nasser is a 14-year-old girl who was born deaf and mute, but God bestowed her with a talent that many healthy people envy. God granted her the talent to draw, leading Inas to create the most beautiful artworks, painting figures and drawings that express her inner emotions. She revealed her talent at a very young age. Guest, Female #2 I started drawing when I was a little girl, and when I got older I started loving painting. God willing, in the future, I will produce more and greater paintings, and hold large exhibitions, God willing. Guest, Female #3 Of course, I would like to mention that Inas is a child with special needs. She lost her hearing and also suffers from many heath issues. But she is blessed with an innate talent to draw. This talent will allow her to become a well-known artist, and to live with and learn from great artists. She began showing her talent at a very young age. I remember when she was almost three years old, she was drawing pictures at a level that no other children in elementary school could. She started drawing as soon as she was given her first pen. Reporter, Male #2 Inas has attracted admirers to every art exhibition she has held; they come to appreciate her mature artwork. This achievement was attained through the support she received from her family, and some artists, teachers and educators. She has been admired by international artists, and some have offered large sums of money to purchase her paintings, but she has declined due to the pride she feels about her work. Guest, Male #3 (Mohamed al-Suwadi, School Activity Supervisor) In fact, this student has expressed herself through a series of visual artworks that we can see in this exhibition. This student creates a genuine addition to aesthetic beauty with these lines, colors and strong contours. We do not see this quality of work, even by students in the fine arts institute. Guest, Male #4 (Abdul Nasser Ghaeb, Father of Inas) We consider it to be a special talent since she can't hear. So we think her talent is really special. And, of course, we provided her with everything she needs to produce this great work. Reporter, Male #2 This is Inas after working on paintings that shine with real creativity. She observes, then expresses with her hands the colors of nature. Perhaps she wants to tell the world through her brushes, colors, and drawings that she exists, and that she can hear, speak and experience life to its fullest. From the city of al-Nasiriyah, Wahab al-Ghizi, Al-Forat. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-022812?start=1371 <p>Amnesty accuses Iran of intensifying clampdown ahead of elections, Saudi Arabia takes new measures to avoid an uprising, death toll mounts as shelling of Syria's Baba Amr continues, and more.</p> Tue, 28 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-022812 Israel, Iran, Nuclear program of Iran, Gaza, Palestinians, Tehran, Saudi Arabia, Iranian legislative election, 2012, Yemen Uprising, Palestinian prisoners in Israel Presenter, Male #1 University students in Baghdad demonstrated against the federal government's new budget for stipulating they would be allocated funds instead of monthly salaries. The students called on the legislative and executive authorities to quickly end their suffering by granting each student a monthly salary, similar to their peers in the universities of the Kurdistan region. Our correspondent Ra'id al-Maliki attended the student demonstration and has the following report. Reporter, Male #2 University and college students gathered in front of the Bab al-Muadham campus to hold a demonstration to denounce what they described as the failure to guarantee their rights. The students condemned items in the government's public budget that stipulate the monetary funds they are granted will be deduced from their salary if they are not employed by a government institution. They said this stipulation does not meet their demand for monthly salaries, to be appropriated from a budget they consider to be their share of the oil revenue. Guest, Male #4 We heard of armored vehicles and a change in the budget on TV. Did they forget about the Iraqi students' rights? Where is the Iraqi student? Where are their rights? Reporter, Male #2 The students, who stressed the demonstration is independent and received no support from any political party, summarized their grievances and made key demands. They called on the legislative and executive institutions to take these demands into consideration. They said they will hold another demonstration if their requests are not met. Guest, Male #5 Allocating salaries to all students in Iraqi institutes, colleges and universities. Second, we demand a law to allocate salaries from the 2012 budget, and we ask that this law be approved, ratified and enforced this month. And if this law is not implemented this month, all Iraqi students will hold another demonstration and a public sit-in. Reporter, Male #2 From here, in Baghdad, the voices of university students rose. The students remain in limbo, waiting for either a response by the officials or a rejection of their demands, just like previous ones. It is worth indicating that al-Mouwaten parliamentary bloc is the first party to raise the issue in parliament, asking for appropriating monthly salaries to students. However, the political agendas of certain blocs prevented the plan from moving ahead. Guest, Male #5 (Aziz Kazim Alawani, Al-Mouwaten Representative) Our students are an investment in our future but they still thought it was too much to give them. We requested 100,000 dinars per month; 100,000 dinars per month from the budget for students in colleges and institutes. We asked that it be added in a separate category. It can be taken from the additional revenue generated from the rise in oil prices. Reporter, Male #2 From Baghdad, Ra'id al-Maliki, al-Forat. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-011012?start=1383 <p>Guantanamo Bay prison still in use despite Obama's campaign promise, Syria's Assad blames unrest on "foreign conspiracy," Yemeni masses reject US-backed immunity law, and more.</p> Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-011012 Israel, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Bashar al-Assad, Knesset, Guantanamo Bay detention camp, Ali Abdullah Saleh, Nuclear program of Iran, Bahrain Uprising, Hosni Mubarak Presenter, Male #1 In an attempt to hinder pilgrims from heading to the holy city of Karbala, terrorists detonated two booby-trapped vehicles targeting convoys of pilgrims in the Sha'ab and Bayaa districts in Baghdad. Five pilgrims were martyred and 34 others were wounded in the attacks. A security source said the first attack targeted the Sha'ab district, killing and wounding nine pilgrims. The second bombing took place near the Husseiniat of A'imat al-Baqii in the Muwasalat neighborhood of Bayaa District, martyring four people and wounding 27 others. Presenter, Female #1 The streets of the Iraqi capital Baghdad are filled with masses of pilgrims walking on foot towards the holy city of Karbala. Citizens from the cities of Tikrit, Ramadi and Mosul set up service tents on the road from Baghdad to Karbala to compete with local residents to provide hospitality to the pilgrims paying respect to Abu Abdullah al-Hussein. Fatima al-Hassani reports. Reporter, Female #2 Pilgrims are walking to the holy city of Karbala to mark al-Arbaeen, the end of the forty days of mourning for Imam al-Hussein's martyrdom, peace be upon him. Millions of pilgrims of various ages from all Iraqi provinces are on their way to pay their respect. Roads and streets of the capital Baghdad, a passageway to Karbala, were filled with large crowds of pilgrims from the northern provinces as well as residents of Baghdad heading towards the Qibla of the Free. Guest, Female #3 We don't feel tired because we want to mourn our Lady Zainab. That's why we don't feel tired or despair. Despair turns into comfort. We are not tired now, and God willing we will not get tired even after arriving there. I was hoping to be bombed on this road to Hussein. My only wish in life is to be martyred. I'm not scared of any bombing, and I brought my younger son with me. Reporter, Female #2 Meanwhile, organizers of the convoys eagerly offer the pilgrims to Abu Abdullah, peace upon him, all the services that they can provide such as food, shelter and hospitality. Guest, Male #2(Sheikh Ahmed, Sheikh of al-You Riyash Tribe of Tikrit) I'm a tribal Sheikh from Salah al-Din Province. I'm the chief of al-Barias Tribe. I came here to provide service to the pilgrims of the Prophet's family. This is a humanitarian message. We are here to serve Abu Abdullah and everyone, God willing. They came from all over the country, including Ramadi and Tikrit. We want our Iraq to become one, and God willing our nation will be united Reporter, Female #2 Millions of pilgrims travel thousands of miles, leaving behind everything to head to the city of martyrs, Karbala. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-121511?start=219 <p>Iraqis mark end of US military occupation, Bahraini forces clash with protestors attempting to occupy major highway, inside Syria's media war, and more.</p> Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-121511 Protest, Iraq, Withdrawal of US troops from Iraq, West Bank, Baghdad, Politics of Iraq, Gaza, Israel, Hamas, Pakistani Taliban Presenter, Female #1 New blasts shocked neighborhoods in Baghdad, martyring and wounding a number of people. This raised a number of questions about the security situation as the US troops continue to withdraw from Iraq. Meanwhile, members of parliament demanded that intelligence and security efforts be exerted to put an end to these attacks. Knowledgeable sources of Iraqi affairs called for the launch of new security efforts to coincide with the US troop withdrawal. Saleh al-Quraishi has the details. Reporter, Male #1 This is the same scenario. Armed groups struck various parts of the country, martyring and wounding a number of people within two days. An explosion detonated by a booby-trapped vehicle targeted a patrol unit in the capital Baghdad. A number of security members were killed and wounded. In Diyala, Salah ad-Din and Anbar, the scene was not much different. These incidents prompted some members of parliament to demand that responsible institutions update their security plan to guarantee security during the celebratory period after the troop withdrawal. Guest, Male #2 (Shawan Mohamed Tah, Member of Parliament) The security situation in Iraq needs a change in strategy. His Excellency the Prime Minister, who is also the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, must bear this responsibility. Reporter, Male #1 This escalation of violence coincided with the interior ministry's announcement of capturing the ruler of so called Tariqah al-Naqshabandi terrorist group. However, this kind of announcement is often offset by an increasing number of attempts from so-called sleeper cells to prove their presence. Based on this, security forces face a phase filled with danger after they fully take over the security mission. It will be a real test for the Iraqi forces' capability and readiness. Guest, Male #3 (Halai Jalwa Mur'e, Iraqi Affairs Observer) The violent operations, attacks, and assassinations are not only linked to the US troops' presence. When an individual or a group assassinates a judge, it has nothing to do with the US army. The reasons for the assassination were internal, not foreign. The internal reasons are linked to conflicts in the country among Iraqis. Reporter, Male #1 As the last American soldiers leave Iraq, there will be no more excuses for certain groups to describe themselves as "resistance groups." Knowledgeable sources of Iraqi affairs assert that the next phase will also expose these groups' agendas in the new Iraq. But what are the most prominent factors fueling acts of terror in the next phase? Guest, Male #4 (Dr. Ahmad al-Abyad, Writer and Journalist) There is the fact, as we mentioned, that we are at a political crossroads amid ongoing political disputes. The second fact is that Iraq is still seen as a weak country that lacks strength and prestige, and that doesn't intimidate criminals, as a matter of fact. The third fact is that there are regional disputes that revitalize these groups in Iraq, which is a very important factor. The forth, which is also very important, is that our security operations' administration, if that is the correct name for it, is not at a level that relies on or is based on intelligence. Reporter, Male #2 It is worth mentioning that the foreign troops are progressing towards the final withdrawal, scheduled for the end of this year. Less than 6,000 soldiers remain in Iraq, according to US confirmations. From Baghdad, Saleh al-Quraishi, al-Forat. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-121211?start=1215 The recent Iraqi political scene is witnessing a notable escalation of popular and official demands that the government cleanse the Iraqi territory of terrorist groups, especially the Mujahedin-e-Khalq group, reports Al-Forat 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, Male #1 The recent Iraqi political scene is witnessing a notable escalation of popular and official demands that the government cleanse the Iraqi territory of terrorist groups, especially the Khalq group, the MEK, and not vindicate the group's crimes against the Iraqi people with impunity. The residents of Diyala and other provinces held a massive rally attended by various parties and tribes demanding the government not succumb to international pressure and commit to its pledge to expel the MEK from Iraq for its crimes and genocide that violate international norms and humanity. Reporter, Male #2 Despite governmental and constitutional provisions stipulating that terrorist groups are not allowed to exist in Iraq, the Mujahideeni Khalq, or MEK, still resembles a cancer in the body of Iraq. With excessive audacity, it holds depraved power that undermines Iraq's sovereignty aimed at sowing strife among the various communities of the same nation. In addition, it carries out vicious agendas to overthrow the political process. In a massive rally at the gate of Camp Ashraf, residents of Diyala and other provinces of different groups and affiliations, including those still subject to the gang's aggressions, appealed to the government, demanding that it cleanse their land of MEK's toxins. They indicated the province cannot be stable as long as the gang remains at large and incessantly carries out its plans. Expelling the MEK from the country represents an imminent national need and constitutes a response to the people's demands to preserve their interests, security, and sovereignty, which MEK has relentlessly attempted to violate. MEK's crimes include attacks on Iraqi forces and tearing up the Iraqi flag with blatant audacity. For this reason, the protestors' shock at the international community's approach in dealing with the group was not groundless, as all countries that were once sympathetic towards the MEK are now refusing to receive them because the organization is listed as a terrorist group. After the demise of the illegitimate regime that the deceased tyrant secured for this terrorist group, Iraqis were eagerly aspiring to remove all its Baathist remnants, including the MEK. MEK members played a role in the crackdown of the popular uprising, and carried out acts of violence and persecution alongside the perpetrators of Saddam's repression against the Iraqi people throughout the defunct government's reign. The massive rally demanding the expulsion of the MEK is a message to the government, demanding that it not succumb to international pressure to extend the deadline of the gang's expulsion from Iraq. The rally's demand is straightforward: that the government complies with its set schedule to cleanse Iraq of groups that are banned by the constitution voted for by the people. They also demand to recover farmers' lands that were seized by the gang after Saddam's government fell. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-111711?start=1158 Former Saudi intelligence chief Prince Turki al-Faisal warned that any possible military attack against Iran will lead to serious consequences for the world, especially the United States, reports Iraq's Al-Forat TV. Thu, 17 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-111711 Protest, Iran, Israel, Nuclear program of Iran, International Atomic Energy Agency, Civilian casualties, Industrial action, Kuwait, Syrian Civil War, West Bank Presenter, Male #1 Former Saudi intelligence chief Prince Turki al-Faisal warned that any possible military attack against Iran will lead to serious consequences for the world, especially the United States. In the Iranian city of Esfahan, thousands of students demonstrated in support of their country's nuclear program. Reporter, Female #1 Former Saudi intelligence chief Prince Turki al-Faisal said that any possible military attack against Iran will have "catastrophic consequences." Guest, Male #2 (Turki al-Faisal, Former Saudi Intelligence Chief) An attack on Iran I think will have catastrophic consequences, not only because of the human loss but also because Iran will retaliate. Reporter, Female #1 Prince Turki believes Iran's retaliation will be carried out throughout the world, including against many US interests. Guest, Male #2 It will only make the Iranians more determined to build a nuclear weapon and gain support for the government. It will not end the program; it will merely delay it, if anything. Reporter, Female #1 This opinion was reinforced by a human chain formed by Iranian students Wednesday morning around the nuclear plant in Esfahan south of Tehran to show support for their country's nuclear program. Guest, Male #3 Iran will become a nuclear country, that's the end of it. Our message to the world is that their threats will not make us back down. Reporter, Female #2 The International Atomic Energy Agency released a report indicating it has reliable information that Iran has built a massive container to conduct hydrogen experiments, which is believed to be a strong indicator of possibly developing the weapon. Iran criticized the report saying it is biased and politically motivated, and denied the allegations of developing nuclear weapons. The report roused speculation in media networks that the United States and Israel may take military actions against Iran to destroy its nuclear programs. However, the US president said he prefers a diplomatic solution while not excluding other options. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-111111?start=1330 <p>Yemeni protestors reject granting "immunity to killers," Bahraini activists take action on the "Friday of revolutionary will," Palestinians commemorate Arafat as speculation over his death continues, and more.</p> Fri, 11 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-111111 Syria, Palestinians, Foreign relations of Israel, Yemen Uprising, Bahrain Uprising, Yasser Arafat, Palestinian state, Dennis Ross, Hassan Nasrallah, 2011-2012 Jordanian Protests Presenter, Male #1 The US ambassador's apology to the Iraqi people for the United States' position in assisting Saddam's regime in quelling the Shaaban or Popular Uprising of 1991 has reinforced the justice of the uprising and its pioneering of the Arab Spring. The following report has more details. Reporter, Male #2 Twenty-one years after its launch, the Shaaban Uprising has proven it was just and had the right approach. This was acknowledged by the United States in its apology to the Iraqi people for the behavior the former President George Bush Sr.'s administration, which sided with Saddam's regime against the Iraqi people in 1991. The US stance was influenced by certain countries, which have openly and repeatedly announced their stance with the regime due to special interests. Just like they stand today against certain nations for the same narrow interests. The Shaaban Uprising, which was rejected by major powers, began in 1991 when the oppressed and persecuted people of Iraq raised their voices to demand justice and to stop the regime from quelling and silencing them. What followed was the most barbaric forms of killing and abuses against an unarmed people who carried nothing but the slogan, "We bow to no one but God." They taught mankind peaceful ways to demand rights, at a time when only the voices of the regime's media could be heard. The media helped cover up the most brutal forms of genocide, killing, and suppression of demands committed by the regime. The US administration did not only apologize but described the uprising as "the first spark for the Arab Spring," and thanked the two religious and tribal institutions that led the popular protest mobilizations. These mobilizations had a significant and lasting impact on the Iraqi people's will for victory over tyranny. The uprising also had an impact on the Arab people, who triumphed by expressing their vision of dignity and will for freedom. They have proven their power over long-standing dictators in the region. The US's acknowledgement prompted other countries that opposed the uprising to also commit to legally and morally compensate the stricken people for turning a blind eye toward these violations. Presenter, Female #1 Deputy speaker of al-Muwatin bloc, Mohammed al-Mashkour, said the US ambassador's apology to the Iraqi people for not supporting the Shaaban Uprising came "too late." Mashkour said it would have been more worthwhile had the US government supported the Shaaban Uprising, which demanded justice and the most basic human rights. He continued by saying that if the uprising had succeeded, Iraq and the region would have avoided many of the problems that ensued after 1991. For its part, the New York Times said Bush Sr.'s position towards the Iraqis was extremely cruel, as he ordered the US troops to step aside when the uprising was crushed by the warplanes of Saddam's regime, which executed tens of thousands of people. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-102611?start=1323 <p>Anti-regime Syrians strike as massive pro-Assad rally held in Damascus, Libya's new ruler urges NATO to stay through 2011, Iranian workers rally in solidarity with "Occupy Wall Street," and more.</p> Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-102611 Israel, Egypt, Middle East Peace Process, Middle East Quartet, Israeli settlement, Protest, Palestinians, Victoria Nuland, US Department of State, Syrian Civil War Presenter, Male #1 Media sources announced the departure of the last US soldier from the Wasit and Diyala provinces, as stipulated by the Framework withdrawal Agreement signed between Baghdad and Washington. The sources quoted military leaders in Wasit saying that the Iraqi Air Force Command Center received all security installations of the Delta military base from the US military, which completed transporting its personnel and equipment outside the country. In another development, Diyala Governor Abed Naser al-Mahdawi announced the withdrawal of the last US soldiers deployed in the Baladruz, Khalis, and Miqdadiyah counties. Al-Mahdawi confirmed that plans were being drafted to counter the security challenges in the upcoming phase. Presenter, Female #1 With the year-end US troop withdrawal approaching, fears are mounting over the possibility that the withdrawal may cause a logistical and information void in the country. However, Iraqi parliamentarians have stressed the importance of implementing the withdrawal as planned, saying it's a popular decision and that Iraqis are capable of facing the upcoming challenges. Meanwhile, observers confirmed that the American side is mandated by the security agreements signed with Baghdad to help protect Iraq and its airspace. Ahmad al-Zaidi has the details. Reporter, Male #2 Four hundred and eighty-five US bases have been handed over to the Iraqi forces, leaving 20 bases scattered across the country to be handed over by the end of the year. However, fears are mounting that the long-awaited withdrawal may likely leave behind a logistic and information void in the country. Iraqi members of parliament stressed the importance of implementing the withdrawal, saying that the Iraqi people are capable of facing the upcoming challenges. Guest, Male #3 The US forces' overstay in Iraq doesn't mean security. It means deterioration and indicates that the Iraqi forces are not ready. The withdrawal of the occupied forces from Iraq means the Iraqi forces are ready and capable of taking over the security file. Reporter, Male #2 Political analysts confirmed that the US government is mandated to provide logistical and intelligence support as well as to help protect Iraq's borders and airspace, in accordance with the security agreement signed with Iraq. Guest, Male #4 I believe the agreement or articles of the Framework Agreement made reference to these points. The Framework Agreement doesn't only address the military issue. Yes, there will be forces remaining for training purposes as stipulated by articles of the agreement but there are security benchmarks that the American side is responsible for, which will help both sides maintain relations after the withdrawal. The Framework Agreement also addresses other political, economic, and cultural aspects, including the logistical support for the political process, as specified by the agreement's articles. Reporter, Male #2 Fears are mounting over the Iraqi forces' readiness and capability of maintaining security and infiltrating terror networks. This is what's on everyone's mind. By interpreting the political and security status quo in the country, one can conclude that the Iraqi government will face logistical and informational challenges, pending the implementation of the security agreement. For Forat Channel, Ahmad al-Zaidi, Baghdad. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-101811?start=1335 The Iraqi Ministry of Women's Affairs held a ceremony to mark the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, especially after official data indicated that approximately 25 percent of the Iraqi population is under the poverty line. Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-101811 Gilad Shalit, Palestinian prisoners in Israel, Hamas, Israel, Poverty, Al-Shabaab, Yemen Uprising, Syrian Civil War, Occupy Wall Street, Iraq Presenter, Male #1 The Iraqi Ministry of Women's Affairs held a ceremony to mark the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, especially after official data indicated that approximately 25 percent of the Iraqi population is under the poverty line. At the ceremony, the ministry unveiled the government's five-step plan to improve the living standards of the poor; plans that the deprived have gotten used to hearing. Fatima al-Hassani reports. Reporter, Female #1 Poverty affects a quarter of the Iraqi population. Extreme poverty is still one of the most prominent challenges the country faces right now. Despite the decrease in the number of poor people from 12 million in 2005 to seven million in most recent years, many families are facing bitter challenges while trying to secure their daily food. Guest, Male #2, We are living under harsh conditions, there's no aid, no electricity, no water. I live off the dumpster; my clothes are from the dumpster. We don't have flour; we have nothing, no water. I'm ill but I don't have money to see the doctor. Guest, Female #2 We don't have land. We don't have a breadwinner. I have ten daughters and no son. We look for anything to help us survive. Reporter, Female #1 One of the most important programs adopted by the Iraqi government in 2010 was a strategic plan to reduce poverty. Its goal is to fight poverty and improve the living standards of the poor within five years. The Ministry for Women's Affairs is one of the ministries responsible for the program's success through a series of projects that were revealed at the ceremony for the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. Presenter, Male #1 Meanwhile in the Country of Wealth and Affluence, residents of the holy city of Najaf are still living below the poverty line. They live in tin shacks, just like their counterparts in other Iraqi cities. The citizens demand the authorities grant them their deprived and stolen rights. Ralah al-Kara'awi reports. Reporter, Male #3 Their homeland was taken away from them; they built their homes from ruins with tin sheets, palm tree leaves, and bamboo, which will hopefully protect them from the hot summer and cruel winter. From dawn to dusk every day, they search in for anything with value from piles of garbage that they can then exchange for food to stave off their children's hunger. Guest, Male #4 Where can we go? We don't have shelter. These tin shacks are all we have. They don't even protect us from the rain. When it rains, it pours down on us. What can we do? We all need help. Where else can we go? I don't know. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-100411?start=1354 A photo gallery opened in Erbil to honor the survivors of the organized massacres of innocent Kurdish people committed by Saddam Hussein's regime committed against the Kurds in the late 1980s. Iraq's Al-Forat TV reports. Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-100411 Protest, Pakistan, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Civilian casualties, Mogadishu, Al-Shabaab, Qatif, 2011-2012 Saudi Arabia protests, Syrian Civil War Presenter, Male #1 A photo gallery opened in Erbil to honor the survivors of the organized massacres of innocent Kurdish people committed by the former regime in what is named "al-Anfal Campaign." These pictures document the massacres that Saddam's regime committed against the Kurds in the late 1980s. Ala'a Ta'i reports. Reporter, Male #2 Traditionally, a government official inaugurates the opening of an exhibition. But this exhibition was inaugurated by a group of country women who have little formal education, but graduated from the university of martyrdom and sacrifice, the university of al-Anfal. Thousands of martyrs and wounded graduated from al-Anfal, and only a small number of them are still alive. In coordination with a German organization, the Ministry of Martyrs and the Anfal Affairs held the first exhibition to showcase the images of the living instead of the dead. These people survived the genocidal campaigns executed by Saddam's Baath regime in the 1980s, which victimized thousands of Kurds. Guest, Female #1 (Janar Sa'ad, Former Minister of Martyrs and Anfal Affairs) We are exerting efforts so that this crime will not be repeated in the future, and to teach new generations as well as older generations about what happened in Iraq. Therefore, this will be a history lesson for the coming generations so this does not happen again, and will provide reassurance to everyone living in Iraq. Reporter, Male #2 These faces are troubled from being separated from their loved ones, their memories, and final farewells. Most of them watched their children and loved ones die, unable to save their lives. The photo gallery represents a salute to the survivors and their sufferings, offers condolences, and allows the families' memories of the martyrs to live on today and tomorrow, just as they did yesterday. The regional ministry of martyrs is not an organization administered by an agency like in Baghdad. The ministry advocates the martyrs' financial and spiritual rights, especially with the recent openings of mass graves to rebury the remains of martyrs in the region. Guest, Male #3 (Sabah Ahmed, Minister of Martyrs and al-Anfal Affairs in Kurdistan) The joint efforts are attempting to accelerate the process of transporting the remains of some martyrs from the holy city of Najaf to Tab al-Adi Center in Erbil. There are joint teams from Baghdad and Kurdistan conducting necessary inspections. Once these inspections are complete, the remains of the remaining martyrs will be transported. Reporter, Male #2 The Kurds believe that this rapid progress was made in honor of the martyrs' blood. Therefore, they will not forget the martyrs just like they will not forget about their families. In other provinces, the killer is often compensated for lost lives, which is an issue that has yet to be resolved. From Erbil, Ala'a Ta'i, al-Forat. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-100311?start=1360 An al-Forat camera crew visits District 12, an agricultural area east of Baghdad, which is suffering from a severe shortage of public services. The only road leading to the area has been closed for seven years, causing hardships for local residents. Mon, 03 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-100311 Israel, Protest, Middle East Peace Process, Jerusalem, Yemen Uprising, Yemen, Ali Abdullah Saleh, Syrian Civil War, Bahrain Uprising, 2011 Libyan Uprising Presenter, Male #1 Our camera crew visited District 12, east of Baghdad, which is suffering from a severe shortage of public services, health centers, schools, and other facilities. The only road leading to the area has been closed down for seven years by authorities under a security pretext, which has caused hardships for local residents. Abdul Razzaq al-Rahim reports. Reporter, Male #2 While everyone speaks of initiatives to revive the agriculture sector so that it can become a substantial source of income for the nation, the authorities have closed the roads and shut off the water supply to the farm lands in the eastern area of the capital Baghdad near Sadr city, known as District 12. The residents, mostly farmers, described the measure as a cruel six-year-long punishment that followed the 2005 security incidents in the area. Guest, Male #3 There are no services, no roads, no fresh water, and no water for the farms; I mean there's no water at all. There's nothing. The area is totally closed down. None of the TV stations visit the area. We are being displaced. This area is part of the village of Sawaed. There is nothing more to say, just go see for yourselves. Many homes have been abandoned. Some residents are renting in the city. Reporter, Male #2 Green trees were replaced by concrete barriers, and freshwater streams are now filled with sewer water. The roads to other inhabited villages were almost entirely abandoned due to the difficulty of travelling from this large open-air prison to the market to sell crops, to hospitals, or to government institutions. Even the schools are dozens of kilometers from the village. The children have to go to school on foot or on the backs of mules. Perhaps maintaining security and providing services to the people of this area was not as easy and cheap as building these concrete barriers to isolate the area from its surroundings. Meanwhile, the rest of the world is becoming more open, travel visas are becoming futile, and means of communication are increasing with the construction of more roads and other facilities. Not far from the city of Sadr lies this area, which has been isolated from the outside world due to past security breaches in the city. Its green lands have turned into undeveloped land, and its residents now form a small community of unemployed people who hope that one day life will return to this disaster-stricken area. From eastern Baghdad, Abdul Razzaq al-Rahim, al-Forat. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-092711?start=1347 <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 Citizens demanded the government fulfill its duty of protecting them instead of making accusations and condemnations that will not bring the victims back to life. They also demanded the government reduce the number of checkpoints and bomb detectors in the city, which have not been able to prevent terrorists from achieving their goals. Hussein al-Shimari reports. Reporter, Male #1 The Karbala residents' wounds from the painful Nakhib incident have not yet healed since the shocking bombings of the passport and identity card office in the eastern region of Abbasiya. This terrorist attack victimized over 100 citizens who were martyred or wounded, sounding the alarm for all politicians and leaders of the country. The incident provides clear evidence of the flawed security measures to protect citizens, as Iraqi politicians are preoccupied with internal disputes and personal gains, and are completely disconnected from the Iraqi citizens' concerns, sufferings, and sorrows. Guest, Male #2 Al-Qaeda is known for their terror. Yesterday they targeted pilgrims, and today they targeted the residents of Karbala. This became known to us. God willing, we will stay here. God willing. Guest, Male #3 (Ali Ibrahim, Journalist) Why is Iraqi blood becoming cheap? The officials are safe in their ivory towers, closing the doors on any conflict or problem and abandoning the citizens. The local security agency said the incident occurred in zone two not zone one, which is outside its jurisdiction. If the provincial building, the police headquarters, the federal court, and the passport office are not included in zone one, then which department is part of zone one! Reporter, Male #1 The corridors of al-Hussein Hospital in Karbala Province were filled with dozens of wounded people, including the elderly, women, and children. In addition, there are over 34 wounded members of the security institution. Some were at the site of the attack guarding the government departments, while the others rushed to the bombing site to evacuate the martyrs and wounded, and were injured in the bombings that followed. Guest, Male #4 (Colonel Sarih, Member of the Karbala Police Department) I heard the call for help and saw the smoke. I jumped in my car and rushed to the passport office. The national guards were not able to enter the area. The homes were on fire. I went inside to help evacuate the families. I was worried about the residents' safety. Someone detonated a booby trapped car in the area. People were running scared. Guest, Male #5 I was walking in the area when the explosion struck. I was taken away by a car. Reporter, Male #1 The streets of Karbala are still living in frustration and fear in the aftermath of the repeated security breaches. Residents are questioning the reason behind filling city streets with checkpoints and bomb detectors as they are not effective. At the same time, they demand the government take swift and urgent measures to protect the citizens and prevent more bloodshed throughout Iraq. Al-Forat, Hussein al-Shimari, the holy city of Karbala. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-092611?start=1289 <p>Massive crowds across Yemen reject Saleh's call for elections, a mass grave is uncovered in Tripoli as Libyan revolutionaries push into Sirte, and Bahraini protestors hold 'Second Dignity Blockade.'</p> Mon, 26 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-092611 Palestinian state, Mahmoud Abbas, Palestinians, President of the Palestinian National Authority, Ali Abdullah Saleh, 2011 Libyan Uprising, Syria, Bahrain, Yemen Uprising, Kirkuk Presenter, Female #1 Four people were martyred and 12 others were wounded in a series of terrorist attacks that struck al-Kahtib neighborhood in the Douliyah area. The terrorists simultaneously bombed five homes, martyring four residents, injuring nine, and substantially damaging several nearby homes. Meanwhile, two Iraqi soldiers and a civilian were wounded in a roadside bomb attack, targeting an Iraqi army patrol vehicle on Palestine Street near the Turkmen Club in the Babel suburb of Alexandria. Furthermore, an Iraqi police patrol has uncovered a large cache of light arms, ammunition, and explosives hidden in a deserted farm in the Buhairat area. Presenter, Male #1 Over the past seven years, terrorist gangs have been seeking to stir sectarian strife in Kirkuk Province. The ethnically diverse community of Kirkuk has been targeted by these terrorist gangs in their campaigns of murder, displacement, bombing, and assassination of medics and intellectuals. Amjad Hilaihel has the details. Reporter, Male #2 A crisis continues to unfold in Kirkuk Province, amid a deteriorating security situation. Despite the security measures taken in the province, terrorist gangs still systematically target the residents and breach security. The terrorists are desperately seeking to shake the unity of the city, whose residents are vowing not to fall prey. Guest, Male #3 (Ali Mahdi, Member of the Kirkuk Provincial Council) Unfortunately, security forces in Kirkuk are failing to protect the safety of the residents. Following numerous meetings with security forces and the Iraqi Turkmen front, it has become imperative to form a special Turkmen protective security force. Guest, Male #3 (Mohammad Hassan, Activist) We urge security forces to step up their intelligence work to eliminate these gangs. Reporter, Male #2 The criminal acts of assassination, which the province continues to witness, still pose a challenge to security forces despite the fact that they have become limited to the predominately Turkmen area of Tiseen in central Kirkuk Province. This prompted Kirkuk officials to order a review of the security measures in order to restrain these gangs and put an end to their bloody actions. Guest, Male #5 (Najah Hussein, Member of Kirkuk Provincial Council) Security agencies in the province of Kirkuk are made up of different ethnic groups. Frankly, they have been infiltrated. Certain groups may take different actions depending on who it is and where they are. All these shortcomings exist in the province. Reporter, Male #2 In the end, bloodshed will remain fresh in the memories of the people of Kirkuk, who have lost the most valuable thing to terrorism. The residents here describe the Tissen area as "little Karbala." If these walls could talk, they would sing thousands of sad and tragic tunes in memory of the martyrs. While the three days of mourning may be over, the memory of the martyrs will be kept in history forever, as they are alive and well in God's hand. From the memorial council of al-Beit Mosque in central Kirkuk, Amjad Hilaihel, al-Forat. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091311?start=1337 <p>Turkey's Erdogan champions Arab causes as Arab League offers hollow rhetoric, UN calls on Yemen to halt attacks on peaceful demonstrators, residents of Libya's Bani Walid given two days to flee, and more.</p> Tue, 13 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091311 Syrian Civil War, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Israel, Egypt, Protest, Syria, Cairo, Turkey, Civilian casualties, Embassy Presenter, Female #1 The Baghdad mayor's office announced that one of its cleaning employees has been martyred and two others injured in a terrorist bomb attack in eastern Baghdad. The office said in a press statement that a bomb exploded in the Ghadir district, targeting people who were carrying out their daily work to serve the citizens of Baghdad. Presenter, Male #1 In light of the ongoing targeting of Iraqi elites and intellectuals, the Turkmen community in Kirkuk Province has called for the formation of a special force to protect them. Meanwhile, the federal government's head of security affairs held a meeting with the provincial council's security committee to explore ways to restore stability in the province. Amjad Hilaihel reports. Reporter, Male #2 Despite the recent positive measures taken in the public service sector, the city of Kirkuk is still suffering from the series of crises that struck the province. The political situation remains volatile due to instability and complexity of the region. In light of the recent attacks on Turkmen intellectuals, the residents of Kirkuk have called for the formation of a special Turkmen force to protect the province. Meanwhile, the federal government's director-general of security affairs arrived in Kirkuk and met with the province's security committee. Guest, Female #2 We came here today to rally for our rights. We held a meeting to press for our Turkmen's rights. They are not granting us any legitimate rights. Guest, Male #3 (Ahmad Ruzi, Member of Turkmen League) We met with the fact-finding committee that was formed by the Iraqi parliament. We submitted a report including all the incidents that have taken place in Kirkuk, including the assassinations and crimes committed against the people of Kirkuk, especially the Turkmen. Reporter, Male #2 A joint press conference was held by the head of the provincial council and the security chief at the Kirkuk provincial building. Both sides announced they reached an agreement for the implementation of measures to improve security and stability for all residents of Kirkuk, especially the Turkmen. Guest, Male #4 (Nijm al-Din Karim, Kirkuk Provincial Council Chief) We have several demands. The number of police officers in Kirkuk is 1,500, which is not enough. We urged the Iraqi government to achieve our demands, and they promised to do so. This is why the federal government has sent this delegation. Reporter, Male #2 While some are hoping this latest visit will help outline the security measures aimed at protecting all residents of Kirkuk, especially the Turkmen who are still calling for their legitimate rights, many questions remain unanswered. From the Kirkuk provincial building, Amjad Hilaihel, al-Forat. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-090911?start=539 <p>Demonstrators flock to Yemen's change squares for a "peaceful revolutionary escalation," Egyptian activists seek to "correct the path," anti-regime Bahrainis take to the streets, Iraqi protestors demand an end to corruption in Baghdad's Tahrir Square, and more.</p> Fri, 09 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-090911 Protest, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Political corruption, Friday prayers, Yemen Uprising, Egyptian Revolution, 2011-2012 Jordanian Protests, Bahrain Uprising, 2011 Iraq protests Presenter, Male #1 The Iraqi capital Baghdad and a number of provinces witnessed peaceful demonstrations demanding to fight corruption in government institutions, cancel the quota system, enforce unimplemented verdicts, and that security ministers be assigned. The most prominent platform for the protests was Tahrir Square in central Baghdad, which witnessed an intensive deployment of security forces in order to respond to any violations or breaches by the protestors. Ayat Fadil has the details. Reporter, Male #2 Improving services, providing security, tackling unemployment, and raising the standard of living for the citizens: all these were slogans chanted by protestors on Friday in Tahrir Square. Masses gathered to demand reforms and the eradication of corruption. They wanted to send the government a message that its citizens' interests must rise above all political disputes and rivalries. Guest, Male #3 The people need services, the first of which is to end unemployment. And increase salaries; the prices of goods and salaries must be compatible. Also, laborers must work; companies and factories must be opened; the country's economy must be revived; the production and agriculture sectors must be revived; we need services and the most important one is electricity. Guest, Male #4 Our protest is not a violation of the law, nor does it challenge the authorities, and it does not threaten the state's status but it is a right guaranteed by the constitution. All high-ranking officials must listen to the protestors. Reporter, Male #2 The demonstrators are surprised by the government's procrastination in responding to their legitimate demands. Meanwhile, others threatened to change the pace of protests and begin an open-ended sit-in if the government does not deliver on its promises. Guest, Female #1 We will continue to protest until they meet our demands. Guest, Female #2 What response? What reply? They make citizens feel like their country's fate is unknown. We don't where we're heading; we don't know where to go. There are no services and no one is even mentioning or commenting on the situation. They are too busy fighting over political posts and accusing each other of corruption. Reporter, Male #2 It is worth mentioning that protests in Baghdad did not witness any disturbances. Instead, there was noticeable cooperation and harmony between the protestors and the security members. These protestors say they will return every Friday until all their demands are met. With that, they place the burden on the government to prove the truthfulness of its slogans that drew these people to the ballot boxes. Ayat Fadil, Al-Forat, from Tahrir Square in Baghdad. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083111?start=1361 Syria's local committees warn against foreign intervention as the regime is accused of torture, Bahraini teenager killed in anti-regime protest, Israeli settlers training attack dogs ahead of Palestinian UN bid, and more.<br /> Wed, 31 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083111 Protest, Israeli-occupied territories, 2011 Libyan Uprising, Libya, Israeli settlement, Palestinian state, Israel Defense Forces, Mustafa Abdel Jalil, Middle East Peace Process, Civilian casualties Presenter, Female #1 Iranian artists are renowned for painting Quran verses on woven textiles. They managed to produce the world's first woven Quran, on which artist Youcef Madafi depicted the Quran's verses. Ahmed Ali has the details. Reporter, Male #1 The charm of the holy book of Quran is not limited to its eloquence and articulation, or to its sentences and verses. Its charm is also reflected in the aesthetic value of its characters and words, which has drawn wide attention from artists of various schools and backgrounds. Weaving the verses of the Quran is an art that Muslim artists care a great deal for. They used their creativity to produce an edition of the Quran with one of the finest materials used to make thread: silk. Silk is characterized by its exquisite tissues, delicate texture, and beautiful appearance. Guest, Male #2 The aesthetic value of the verses of the holy book of Quran motivated us to move forward in our artistic work and produce weaves of Quran verses. What we did was design the graphics and combine them, then used them to produce the textile. We managed to produce a large amount of these weaves in different sizes with various designs. Reporter, Male #1 The Iranian artists continued to advance on their path of weaving the verses of the Quran until they succeeded this year in producing the world's first silk Quran. This woven silk Quran was created by Iranian artist Youcef Madadi, a native of Tabriz city in northwestern Iran. Guest, Male #3 This edition of the holy book of Quran contains 130 pages and weighs 8.5 kilograms. It took about six months to weave five parts of this edition, and finishing all 30 parts of the Quran may take about two and a half years. Reporter, Male #1 The calligraphy used in this edition of the Quran was inspired by the late Hajj Agha Nairizi and was woven in 30 different colors and various types of gilding. The size of the page is 50 by 70 centimeters. Guest, Male #3 We tried to introduce this edition of the holy book of Quran to the world, and we received invitations to show it in a number of countries such as Qatar and Lebanon. As for the characteristics that distinguish this edition from other types of Quran, we can say for certain that the woven Quran will be more durable and less susceptible to damage. Reporter, Male #1 It is worth noting that an important feature of this valuable work is that every five pages of an ordinary edition of the Quran are woven onto one page. In addition, each page is leather-rimmed, making it washable. The production of this unique edition of the woven Quran in Tehran coincided with the holy month of Ramadan, the month of the revelation of the Holy Quran. Ahmed Ali, al-Furat, Tehran. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org 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