http://news.linktv.org Link TV News Videos (Filtered by topics: Diplomacy) en-us Sun, 07 Apr 2013 09:30:00 -0700 Copyright 2011 Link Media, Inc. http://news.linktv.org/videos/raw-video-kerry-urges-turkey-israel-reconcile-to-aid-peace?start=0 US Secretary of State John Kerry is on tour in Istanbul, ahead of his third visit to Israel. Kerry discussed Iran's nuclear program, the Syrian conflict and urged Turkey to restore diplomatic relations with Israel for the benefit of the Middle East peace process. Sun, 07 Apr 2013 09:30:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/raw-video-kerry-urges-turkey-israel-reconcile-to-aid-peace Nuclear program of Iran, Israel–Turkey relations, John Kerry, Israel, Turkey, Syria, Diplomacy, Bashar al-Assad, Istanbul, Associated Press US Secretary of State John Kerry is on tour in Istanbul, ahead of his third visit to Israel. Kerry discussed Iran's nuclear program, the Syrian conflict and urged Turkey to restore diplomatic relations with Israel for the benefit of the Middle East peace process. http://news.linktv.org/videos/israel-pm-apologises-to-turkey-for-gaza-flotilla-raid?start=0 US President Barack Obama is rounding off his Middle East visit -- and there seems to have been one major development. Israel says it will restore full diplomatic relations with Turkey, after apologizing for a botched naval raid in 2010 that killed nine Turks. That seems to have followed behind the scenes pressure from Obama. Al Jazeera's Nicole Johnston reports from Jerusalem. Fri, 22 Mar 2013 15:57:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/israel-pm-apologises-to-turkey-for-gaza-flotilla-raid Israel–Turkey relations, Gaza flotilla raid, MV Mavi Marmara, Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel, Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Barack Obama, Israel Defense Forces, Gaza blockade US President Barack Obama is rounding off his Middle East visit -- and there seems to have been one major development. Israel says it will restore full diplomatic relations with Turkey, after apologizing for a botched naval raid in 2010 that killed nine Turks. That seems to have followed behind the scenes pressure from Obama. Al Jazeera's Nicole Johnston reports from Jerusalem. http://news.linktv.org/videos/raw-video-korean-protester-stabs-himself-over-japanese-visit?start=0 <strong>WARNING: Graphic Content.</strong> A Japanese special envoy arrived in South Korea on Friday to continue talks aimed at improving diplomatic relations between the two countries. Shortly before the envoy's arrival at Gimpo International Airport a demonstration was held in which one man, Lim Chang-geun, mimicked hari-kiri by stabbing himself in the stomach. Relations between South Korea and Japan have been strained by a territorial dispute over rocky outcroppings that Korea calls Dokdo and Japan calls Takeshima and which both claim. "Before sending us an envoy, Japan should have apologized before the international community and South Korean people," said protester Oh Chun-do. "Without an apology the envoy means nothing." Japan's envoy, Fukushiro Nukaga, will meet with South Korea's incoming President Park Geun Hye. <br /> Fri, 04 Jan 2013 12:29:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/raw-video-korean-protester-stabs-himself-over-japanese-visit Liancourt Rocks, Japan-South Korea relations, Fukushiro Nukaga, Gimpo International Airport, South Korea, Japan, Stabbing, Park Geun-hye, Protest, Seppuku WARNING: Graphic Content. A Japanese special envoy arrived in South Korea on Friday to continue talks aimed at improving diplomatic relations between the two countries. Shortly before the envoy's arrival at Gimpo International Airport a demonstration was held in which one man, Lim Chang-geun, mimicked hari-kiri by stabbing himself in the stomach. Relations between South Korea and Japan have been strained by a territorial dispute over rocky outcroppings that Korea calls Dokdo and Japan calls Takeshima and which both claim. "Before sending us an envoy, Japan should have apologized before the international community and South Korean people," said protester Oh Chun-do. "Without an apology the envoy means nothing." Japan's envoy, Fukushiro Nukaga, will meet with South Korea's incoming President Park Geun Hye. http://news.linktv.org/videos/thai-social-media-analyzes-obama-visit-subtext-linkasia-112312?start=0 President Obama visited Thailand to mark 180 years of diplomatic relations between Bangkok and Washington. Thailand is one of Southeast Asia's big economies and a growing trading partner of China. Contributor Ying Panyapon reports on how Thailand's social media interpreted the visit.&nbsp; Wed, 21 Nov 2012 18:40:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/thai-social-media-analyzes-obama-visit-subtext-linkasia-112312 Barack Obama, Thailand, Social media, Bangkok, Southeast Asia, Diplomacy, China, LinkAsia, Yul Kwon President Obama visited Thailand to mark 180 years of diplomatic relations between Bangkok and Washington. Thailand is one of Southeast Asia's big economies and a growing trading partner of China. Contributor Ying Panyapon reports on how Thailand's social media interpreted the visit. http://news.linktv.org/videos/japan-pm-vows-no-compromise-in-islands-dispute?start=0 Japan and China are in a war of words over who owns a chain of islands in the East China Sea, and leaders from both countries say they will not compromise. The territorial dispute has caused violent protests and confrontations in recent weeks. Thu, 27 Sep 2012 08:34:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/japan-pm-vows-no-compromise-in-islands-dispute Senkaku Islands, Yoshihiko Noda, China-Japan relations, East China Sea, Japan, China, Taiwan, Territorial dispute, Japan-Taiwan relations, Japan Coast Guard Japan and China are in a war of words over who owns a chain of islands in the East China Sea, and leaders from both countries say they will not compromise. The territorial dispute has caused violent protests and confrontations in recent weeks. Steve Chao reports from Ishigaki, near the disputed islands. http://news.linktv.org/videos/dems-gop-trade-barbs-over-obamas-foreign-policy?start=0 Democrats this week are fighting back against Republicans who have portrayed the Obama administration's foreign policy as weak and unfocused. Former secretary of state Madeleine Albright defended Obama, while also describing GOP policies as outdated. Wed, 05 Sep 2012 09:17:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/dems-gop-trade-barbs-over-obamas-foreign-policy Obama administration foreign policy, Madeleine Albright, Barack Obama, Foreign relations of the United States, US presidential election, 2012, New START, Syrian Civil War, Afghanistan War, Iraq War, US-Iran relations Democrats this week are fighting back against Republicans who have portrayed the Obama administration's foreign policy as weak and unfocused. Former secretary of state Madeleine Albright defended President Obama's handling of foreign affairs in an interview with VOA's Carolyn Presutti, while also characterizing GOP policies as outdated. http://news.linktv.org/videos/ecuador-president-suicide-for-uk-to-enter-embassy-seize-assange?start=0 Ecuador's President Rafael Correa warns Britain would regret entering the Ecuadorian embassy to seize Julian Assange, while the US State Department argues the Wikileaks founder is trying to deflect attention from sexual assualt allegations in Sweden. Tue, 21 Aug 2012 09:13:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/ecuador-president-suicide-for-uk-to-enter-embassy-seize-assange Julian Assange, Rafael Correa, Ecuador, Asylum, WikiLeaks, Extradition, Victoria Nuland, United Kingdom, Diplomatic immunity, Sweden Ecuador's President Rafael Correa warns Britain would regret entering the Ecuadorian embassy to seize Julian Assange, while the US State Department argues the Wikileaks founder is trying to deflect attention from sexual assualt allegations in Sweden. http://news.linktv.org/videos/raw-video-ecuador-says-assanges-fears-are-legitimate?start=0 Ecuadorean foreign minister Ricardo Patiño confirms Julian Assange has been granted political asylum. In a strongly worded statement, he says Assange could face political persecution if his extradition was allowed to go ahead. Thu, 16 Aug 2012 09:53:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/raw-video-ecuador-says-assanges-fears-are-legitimate Julian Assange, Ecuador, Ricardo Patiño, Asylum, Extradition, WikiLeaks, Quito, US-Ecuador relations, Sweden, United States Ecuadorean foreign minister Ricardo Patiño confirms Julian Assange has been granted political asylum. In a strongly worded statement, he said Assange could face political persecution if his extradition was allowed to go ahead, and Sweden and the United States had failed to provided the reassurances Ecuador had sought over the case. http://news.linktv.org/videos/if-at-first-you-dont-succeed-un-touts-replacement-syria-envoy?start=0 Veteran Algerian diplomat Lakhdar Brahimi is being touted as the new joint UN-Arab League special envoy for Syria. But can the man who helped negotiate an end to apartheid in South Africa succeed where Kofi Annan failed? Fri, 10 Aug 2012 08:33:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/if-at-first-you-dont-succeed-un-touts-replacement-syria-envoy Syrian Civil War, Lakhdar Brahimi, Syria, Kofi Annan, Syrian conflict peace proposals , Kofi Annan peace plan for Syria, United Nations, Arab League, Diplomacy, UN Secretary-General Veteran Algerian diplomat Lakhdar Brahimi is being touted as the new joint UN-Arab League special envoy for Syria, diplomats said late Thursday. Brahimi would replace Kofi Annan, who announced his resignation citing lack of international support. But can the man who helped negotiate an end to apartheid in South Africa succeed where the former UN Secretary-General failed? http://news.linktv.org/videos/raw-video-kofi-annan-quits-impossible-syria-mission?start=0 Kofi Annan attacks '"finger-pointing and name-calling" at the UN Security Council as he announces his resignation as international peace envoy to Syria. Thu, 02 Aug 2012 10:56:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/raw-video-kofi-annan-quits-impossible-syria-mission Kofi Annan, Kofi Annan peace plan for Syria, Syrian Civil War, Syria, United Nations, Arab League, UN Security Council, Diplomacy, Ban Ki-moon, Nabil al-Arabi Kofi Annan attacks '"finger-pointing and name-calling" at the UN Security Council as he announces his resignation as international peace envoy to Syria. http://news.linktv.org/videos/international-leaders-call-for-al-assad-to-resign?start=0 Britain and the United States have called for Syrian president Bashar al-Assad to step down and UN chief Ban Ki-moon has urged the Security Council to take strong action. Thu, 19 Jul 2012 09:07:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/international-leaders-call-for-al-assad-to-resign Bashar al-Assad, Syrian Civil War, Syria, UN Security Council, Battle of Damascus, UN Security Council Resolution, Dawoud Rajiha, Assef Shawkat, Ban Ki-moon, United Nations Britain and the United States have called for Syrian president Bashar al-Assad to step down and UN chief Ban Ki-moon has urged the Security Council to take strong action. http://news.linktv.org/videos/world-leaders-pressure-russia-and-iran-over-syria-support?start=0 The presidents of France and Tunisia today added their voices to calls for Russia and Iran to help resolve the worsening conflict in Syria. Francois Hollande took aim at Russia's refusal to back a Western-backed UN Security Council resolution. Tue, 17 Jul 2012 19:58:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/world-leaders-pressure-russia-and-iran-over-syria-support Syrian Civil War, François Hollande, Moncef Marzouki, UN Security Council, Syria, Tunisia, France, Russia, Iran, Bashar al-Assad The presidents of France and Tunisia today added their voices to calls for Russia and Iran to help resolve the worsening conflict in Syria. Francois Hollande took aim at Russia's refusal to back a Western-backed resolution due to be voted on by the UN Security Council on Wednesday, which threatens Syrian authorities with sanctions if they continue using heavy weapons. Meanwhile, Moncef Marzouki described Russia and Syria as "friends" of Tunisia, but warned that the countries shouldn't "have friends only in Syria." Footage courtesy of Reuters. http://news.linktv.org/videos/democracy-now-july-12-2012?start=272 Today a Democracy Now! special on the life, politics, and music of Woody Guthrie, the "Dust Bowl Troubadour." Born a hundred years ago on July 14, 1912, in Oklahoma, Guthrie is best remembered as a musician, but he also had a deeply political side, speaking out for labor and civil rights at the height of McCarthyism. Plus headlines, and more.<br /> Thu, 12 Jul 2012 10:58:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/democracy-now-july-12-2012 Woody Guthrie, Protest song, Centennial, McCarthyism, Mitt Romney, Syrian Civil War, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, 2011-2013 Spanish Protests, Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, Nawaf al-Fares The regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has suffered the first known defection from its diplomatic ranks. In a statement to the news network Al Jazeera, Syria's ambassador to Iraq, Nawaf al-Fares, announced his resignation and his new allegiance to Syria's rebels. Nawaf al-Fares: "I'm announcing my resignation as Syria's ambassador to Iraq. I'm also announcing my withdrawal from the Ba'ath Party, and I call on all party members to do the same, because the regime has used it as a tool to oppress the people and their aspirations to freedom and dignity. I'm announcing, from this moment on, that I'm siding with the revolution in Syria. It's my natural place in these difficult circumstances which Syria is going through." U.S., Allies Propose New Syria Sanctions The defection of Syria's ambassador to Iraq, Nawaf al-Fares, comes as President Bashar al-Assad faces the threat of new international sanctions at the United Nations. On Thursday, the United States and three Security Council allies submitted a new proposal that would give Assad a 10-day deadline to implement an international ceasefire plan or face new sanctions. The U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, Susan Rice, said the sanctions would shore up the work of international monitors inside Syria. Susan Rice: "The fact is that UNSMIS, regrettably, is not at present able to do the job that this council mandated it to do, because of the regime's persistent refusal to take the basic steps to halt the violence. Without this council taking concrete measures to increase the pressure for the Annan and Geneva plans to be implemented by the government, it's not plausible to assume that UNSMIS will be any more able to fulfill its mandate in the future than it is now." Syrian Diplomat: Sanctions Could Derail Peace Plan In response to the proposal suggested by the United States and three Security Council allies, Syria's ambassador to the United Nations, Bashar Jaafari, said the threat of new sanctions could derail the international ceasefire plan. Bashar Jaafari: "We are fully committed towards the success of Mr. Kofi Annan's plan. But at the same time, we are fully warning everybody that the other efforts deployed by here and there, by this country or that country, to derail the six-points plan of Mr. Kofi Annan from its initial track, would be extremely dangerous." http://news.linktv.org/videos/ukrainians-open-up-their-homes-to-fans-of-euro-2012?start=0 Ukraine has used its hosting of the Euro 2012 football championships as an opportunity to promote a friendlier image to the international community. As thousands of football fans swarm into the country, ordinary Ukrainians are opening up their homes to foreign guests as part of an initiative called "Rooms for Free." Thu, 28 Jun 2012 11:52:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/ukrainians-open-up-their-homes-to-fans-of-euro-2012 UEFA Euro 2012, UEFA European Football Championship, Ukraine, Citizen diplomacy, International community, Ukraine national football team, Poland, Diplomacy, Football, Sport Ukraine has used its hosting of the Euro 2012 football championships as an opportunity to promote a friendlier image to the international community. As thousands of football fans swarm into the country, ordinary Ukrainians are opening up their homes to foreign guests as part of an initiative called "Rooms for Free." http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrian-government-expels-absent-foreign-diplomats?start=0 Syria barred a string of foreign diplomats Tuesday, as the country plunged into its most profound international isolation in decades. A US State Department spokesman said, "In almost every respect this is an empty gesture." Tue, 05 Jun 2012 16:18:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrian-government-expels-absent-foreign-diplomats Houla massacre, Syrian Civil War, Syria, International isolation, Bashar al-Assad, Diplomacy, Kofi Annan peace plan for Syria, United States, US Ambassador to Syria, Europe Syria barred a string of US and European diplomats Tuesday, saying they were "no longer welcome" as the country plunged into its most profound international isolation in decades. US State Department spokesman Mark Toner said, "In almost every respect this is an empty gesture." http://news.linktv.org/videos/syria-what-options-are-the-international-community-considering?start=0 Jon Snow is joined by International Editor Lindsey Hilsum and from Washington by Matt Frei to discuss what steps the international community may take in order to stop the violence in Syria. Wed, 30 May 2012 15:53:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/syria-what-options-are-the-international-community-considering Syrian Civil War, Houla massacre, Syria, Bashar al-Assad, François Hollande, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Vladimir Putin, Russia, Turkey, Assad family Jon Snow is joined by International Editor Lindsey Hilsum and from Washington by Matt Frei to discuss what steps the international community may take in order to stop the violence in Syria. http://news.linktv.org/videos/democracy-now-may-30-2012?start=2809 In a divided decision, Britain's Supreme Court has upheld the extradition of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange to Sweden over alleged sex crimes. Assange's attorney says the ruling sets an alarming precedent for judicial independence in Europe. With the global spotlight on the Assange case, WikiLeaks whistleblower Bradley Manning marks two years behind bars. Journalist Glenn Greenwald argues that Obama's secret "kill list" is "the most radical power a government can seize. And, after the United States and 11 other countries formally expel Syrian diplomats following a massacre of more than 100 people in the village of Houla, does this incident mark a tipping point in favor of foreign military intervention? Plus headlines, and more.<br /> Wed, 30 May 2012 12:31:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/democracy-now-may-30-2012 WikiLeaks, Julian Assange, Extradition, United States, United Kingdom, Sweden, Supreme Court of the United Kingdom, Appeal, Bradley Manning, Houla massacre The United States and 11 other countries have formally expelled Syrian diplomats following a massacre of more than 100 people in the village of Houla. U.N.-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan now says Syria has reached a "tipping point" after more than a year of conflict. We're joined by Charles Glass, an award-winning journalist, author and broadcaster specializing in the Middle East. Glass reported from Syria last month for the New York Review of Books. The U.S. and 11 other countries have formally expelled Syrian diplomats following a massacre of over one hundred people in the village of Taldou, near Houla. Dozens of children were killed in the Houla attack, which marked the deadliest single incident of the 15-month uprising against Bashar al-Assad. In a coordinated action, countries including Germany, France, Britain, Canada and Japan ordered the departure of Syrian ambassadors from their capitals. In Washington, State Department spokesperson Victoria Nuland said Syria's top diplomat in the US has been told to leave within three days and also blamed Iran for the massacre. VICTORIA NULAND: This morning, we called in Syrian Charge d'Affaires Zuheir Jabbour and informed him that he is no longer welcome in the US and gave him 72 hours to depart. We took this action in response to the massacre in the village of Houla, absolutely indefensible, vile, despicable massacre against innocent children, women, shot at point-blank range by regime thugs, the Shabiha, aided and abetted by the Iranians who were actually bragging about it over the weekend. That was State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland. Meanwhile, UN Arab League envoy to Syria Kofi Annan has said the country has reached a ”tipping point” after more than a year of conflict. On Tuesday, Kofi Annan made an emergency trip to Damascus and met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. KOFI ANNAN: I shared with President Assad my assessment that the six-point plan is not being implemented as it must. We are at the tipping point. The Syrian people do not want their future to be one of bloodshed and division, yet the killings continue and the abusers are still with us today. Earlier, U.N. human rights spokesman Rupert Colville said initial investigations suggested most of those killed in the village of Taldou were summarily executed. For more, we are going to Charles Glass, award winning journalist, author, broadcaster specializing in the Middle east. He joins us from London. His most recent piece for the New York Review of Books is called "Syria: The Citadel and the War." Charles Glass, welcome to DEMOCRACY NOW! Can you respond to the latest in Syria and then talk about what people were saying in Aleppo and Damascus where you have just returned from? I think the massacre at Houla and Taldou [UNINTELLIGIBLE] are clear indications of how urgent it is to find … to force both sides in the conflict, the opposition and the regime, to negotiate a settlement, which would ultimately probably mean a change of regime, but certainly a transition. In the absence of that, you will have the Russians arming the government, you'll have the Saudis, the Qataris, possibly the US, Turkey, arming the opposition, which can only exacerbate the civil war. As remember from civil wars in Iraq and Lebanon, more massacres will then take place. This was the biggest fear amongst people that I spoke to in both Damascus and Aleppo. It is a big fear that most of the minorities – remember that Syria is a country composed of many minorities: Christians, [UNINTELLIGIBLE], Kurds, Armenians and others — and those minorities are terribly afraid of massacres that might take place if the conflict escalates. Charles Glass, who are the Shabiha militiamen who were allegedly responsible for this massacre? “Shabiha” is an Arabic term that means roughly "ghost." It also means someone who disguises himself. Initially, the Shabiha were small-time gangsters in the port areas around Latakia. They are occasionally called upon to do favors for the Alawites of the regime. Some of the favors involve being at checkpoints with soldiers, being at checkpoints with the police. They will go into people's houses as they did in Homs and commit murders. They will intimidate people. They are above, clearly above the law. If they were, indeed, as everyone suspects, involved in the massacres in Houla and Taldou, then they should be held responsible. One of the things that happened very early in the uprising in Syria, which began with demonstrations by students in the southern town of Daraa was that the governor of Daraa was responsible for the torture of children who were arrested during the demonstrations and after the demonstrations. Because Bashar al-Assad did not arrest the governor, who is a relation of his, immediately, a lot of people who believed that Bashar al-Assad could be a reformer lost their faith in him. There are still some people — many people — in Syria who support the regime, but if he does not do something about this and doesn't bring those responsible to account, he will lose even more support. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, speaking yesterday, said that certain countries were using this massacre, the Houla massacre, as "a pretext for voicing demands relating to the need for military measures to be taken." One of the things you point out in your article is that the majority of people you spoke to in Aleppo and Damascus are opposed to any kind of military intervention in the conflict. Well, they all remember what happened when the US invaded Iraq and they do not want that kind of chaos. They do not want a total destruction of the state and then a prolonged civil war with the ethnic and sectarian cleansings that they saw in Iraq. Remember, they received over 2 million refugees from Iraq who were fleeing the chaos that came after the American invasion. They do not want to be subject to that themselves. Surely, those who use the massacre as justification to call for western airstrikes or western invasion should think that actually this massacre should be a reminder of what could happen not only without an invasion, but because of an invasion. That makes it all the more urgent for pressure to come from Russia on the government and from the West and Saudi Arabia and Qatar on the Opposition to sit down and hammer out binding agreements that will end this conflict before it destroys the country. US General Martin Dempsey, the Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, discussed the possible military intervention in Syria during an interview on Fox. GENERAL MARTIN DEMPSEY: There's always a military option. But that military option should always be wielded carefully because one thing we've learned about war, I have personally learned personally about war, is that it has a dynamic all its own. It takes on a life of its own. So you will always find military leaders to be somewhat cautious about the use of force because we're never entirely sure what comes out of the other side. But that said, it may come to a point with Syria because of the atrocities. That was US General Dempsey. Charles Glass, your response? The general makes a good point — that you cannot predict the outcome of an invasion. I think one of the outcomes, is that it might unite a lot of the Syrians against an invasion. Syria has a long history of fighting foreigners when they came in. When the French invaded in 1920, and kept the country under French mandate from 1920 to 1945, they fought and rebelled almost every year. Large sections of Damascus and other cities in Syria were destroyed by French artillery in order to keep French rule. And they haven't forgotten. They haven't forgotten that. They still feel very strongly Arab, very strongly Syrian and want to preserve their sovereignty. A western invasion is very much feared. Even more than a western invasion, a Turkish invasion are feared. I spoke to many Armenians in Aleppo. There is a large Armenian community in Aleppo. They remember the Armenian massacres of the First World War and they do not want to see Armenian troops coming in, nor to the Kurds of northeast Syria want to see the Turks coming in because the Turkish record of treatment of Kurds in Turkey is appalling. Earlier this year, DEMOCRACY NOW! spoke to Karam Nachar. He is a cyber activist working with Syrian protesters via social media platforms. He has advocated for international intervention. KARAM NACHAR: While I do realize that liberals around the world in particular are very wary of the replication of the Iraq scenario for instance. The world, I think, should know that this is not Iraq. This is a society that has been mobilizing against the regime for the past year. There is a humanitarian disaster unfolding on the ground. There is a moral responsibility to protect the Syrian people. This is not a perfect situation. It is complicated. It will require a lot of money and a lot courage and a lot of involvement on the part of the international community … Charles Glass, your comments on what Karam Nachar had to say? Mr. Nachar has every right to call for help from any corner he can because people are being killed in Syria. But those who are contemplating being the intermediator should think very carefully about the consequences of their actions. As the general said, you can't predict what that outcome will be. It will certainly raise the stakes. The Syrian army is not an entirely demoralized army the way the Iraqi army was after fifteen years of sanctions and after losing wars in Kuwait and Iran. The Syrian army is well armed, well supported by the Russians. It could lead to very serious — very serious —disputes between the US and Russia along the lines of the Cold war. I do not know anyone wants to go back to that, especially now when there is the chance with so much leverage from the west and from Russia on the two sides, there is the chance to force them to meet and to talk about a way of solving this peacefully. And what do you envision that pressure to look like? Particularly, talk about the role of Russia that has sided with Syria, but also cited constantly how it felt betrayed around the US NATO intervention in Libya. Russia has its own interests in the region. It also fears a Salafist uprising in Syria as much as it did in Chechnya. Whether that is a pretext or genuine is very difficult to say. But the Russians have — because they arm the Syrian regime and they are the only ones arming them with weapons they need, they could cut that supply, or threaten to cut that supply, if the regime does not come to the table. Similarly, the west and Saudi Arabia and Qatar could threaten to cut off all aid to the opponents if they don't come to the table. Charles Glass, very quickly: Iran. We have ten seconds. The US is blaming Iran for what is going on in Syria. Well I think Iran could blame the US for what is going on in Syria in the sense that the reason most of the outside powers turned against the regime was not because of human-rights violations, which the US tolerated for years when the CIA used to render suspects to Syria. The reason they do not like the regime anymore is because of its close relationship with Iran. Charles Glass, I want to thank you for being with us, former ABC News Chief, Middle East correspondent, spent 10 days in Syria, in Damascus and Aleppo. http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrian-diplomats-expelled-following-houla-massacre?start=0 Western powers are stepping up diplomatic pressure on Syria over the killing of civilians, with three countries including Australia expelling senior Syrian diplomats. This follows the massacre of 108 people in Houla on Friday, including many children and women. Tue, 29 May 2012 08:44:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrian-diplomats-expelled-following-houla-massacre Houla massacre, Syria, Syrian Civil War, Houla, Summary execution, Ceasefire, Bob Carr, Kofi Annan peace plan for Syria, UN Security Council, Artillery WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT. Western powers are stepping up diplomatic pressure on Syria over the killing of civilians, with three countries including Australia expelling senior Syrian diplomats. This follows the massacre of 108 people in Houla on Friday, including many children and women, reportedly by forces loyal to the Syrian regime. http://news.linktv.org/videos/chinese-state-media-unravels-on-chen-story?start=0 China's tightly controlled state propaganda machine was in complete disarray as the Chen Guangcheng saga played out last week, with conflicting messages abounding. Contributor David Bandurski breaks down the sequence of events that played out between state and social media. Fri, 11 May 2012 18:51:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/chinese-state-media-unravels-on-chen-story Chen Guangcheng, Propaganda, State media, Social media, Microblogging, Hu Jintao, Media, Embassy, Gary Locke, Wen Jiabao China's tightly controlled state propaganda machine was in complete disarray as the Chen Guangcheng saga played out last week, with conflicting messages abounding. Contributor David Bandurski breaks down the sequence of events that played out between state and social media. http://news.linktv.org/videos/china-and-us-seek-common-ground-in-high-level-talks?start=0 This week, the Chen case threatened to derail the Strategic and Economic Dialogue between the US and China. The talks seek to improve communication between the US and China on issues ranging from the economy to security. Fri, 04 May 2012 20:57:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/china-and-us-seek-common-ground-in-high-level-talks U.S.–China Strategic and Economic Dialogue, Diplomacy, Chen Guangcheng, Beijing, Hillary Clinton, CCTV News, LinkAsia, Yul Kwon, United States This week, the Chen case threatened to derail the Strategic and Economic Dialogue between the US and China. The talks seek to improve communication between the US and China on issues ranging from the economy to security. State broadcaster CCTV reports form the SED conference. http://news.linktv.org/videos/chinese-activist-says-he-was-forced-to-leave-us-embassy?start=0 In an exclusive interview with Channel 4 News, Chinese dissident Chen Guangcheng says he left the sanctuary of the US Embassy in Beijing because he feared for his family's safety - not because he chose to leave. Wed, 02 May 2012 16:13:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/chinese-activist-says-he-was-forced-to-leave-us-embassy Chen Guangcheng, Beijing, US-China relations, House arrest, United States, China, Hillary Clinton, Diplomacy, Embassy, Gary Locke In an exclusive interview with Channel 4 News, Chinese dissident Chen Guangcheng says he left the sanctuary of the US Embassy in Beijing because he feared for his family's safety - not because he chose to leave. Our Asia correspondent John Sparks reports. http://news.linktv.org/videos/chen-guangcheng-leaves-us-embassy?start=0 Chen Guangcheng left the US embassy and went into a Beijing hospital after China gave officials promises about his safety. But a friend of the blind Chinese activist says he was pressured, and agreed to stay in China to protect his family. Wed, 02 May 2012 09:42:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/chen-guangcheng-leaves-us-embassy Chen Guangcheng, Beijing, Hillary Clinton, Embassy, United States, House arrest, Diplomacy, Associated Press Chen Guangcheng left the US embassy and went into a Beijing hospital after China gave officials promises about his safety. But a friend of the blind Chinese activist says he was pressured, and agreed to stay in China to protect his family. http://news.linktv.org/videos/are-china-and-us-cooperating-over-blind-lawyers-asylum-bid?start=0 A human rights activist says high-profile Chinese dissident Chen Guangcheng is likely to get US asylum, removing a thorn in the side of relations between the two countries. Chen escaped from house arrest last week to the US embassy in Beijing. Mon, 30 Apr 2012 10:27:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/are-china-and-us-cooperating-over-blind-lawyers-asylum-bid Chen Guangcheng, Human rights in the People's Republic of China, China, Beijing, House arrest, United States, Lawyer, Abortion, Embassy, Diplomacy A human rights activist says high-profile Chinese dissident Chen Guangcheng is likely to get US asylum this week, which would remove a constant thorn in the side of relations between the two countries. Chen, a blind lawyer, escaped from house arrest last week and is thought to be in the US embassy in Beijing. http://news.linktv.org/videos/democracy-now-040512?start=370 In a broadcast exclusive, Democracy Now! reveals the name of the police officer who allegedly killed 68-year-old Kenneth Chamberlain, a retired African-American Marine who was shot dead in his own home in White Plains, New York, after he inadvertently triggered his medical alert pendant. Plus headlines, and more. Thu, 05 Apr 2012 10:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/democracy-now-040512 United States, US Congress, Shooting, Civilian casualties, Barack Obama, Politics of the United States, Suicide attack, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, Athens, World Trade Organization Secretary of State Hillary Clinton warned Wednesday that the time to find a diplomatic resolution with Iran over its nuclear program is "not infinite." She said all options remain on the table. Hillary Clinton: "We want to see a peaceful resolution of the international community’s concerns, but the time for diplomacy is not infinite, and all options remain on the table to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, and until Iran comes into compliance with its international obligations, and demonstrates the peaceful intent of its nuclear program, they will continue to face strong pressure and isolation." http://news.linktv.org/videos/could-syrias-crisis-spread-across-the-middle-east?start=0 International diplomacy has so far failed to find any way to end the bloodshed in Syria. As the violence continues, there are growing fears that other regional powers could be sucked into Syria's conflict. Fri, 30 Mar 2012 16:29:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/could-syrias-crisis-spread-across-the-middle-east Syrian Civil War, Syria, Sunni Islam, Alawite, Shia Islam, Hezbollah, Lebanon, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Diplomacy Hillary Clinton, the US secretary of state, is expected to meet Saudi leaders in Riyadh on Friday, with the crisis in Syria topping the agenda. Clinton is set to hold talks with King Abdullah, Prince Saud al-Faisal, the Saudi foreign minister, and other senior Gulf diplomats to find ways to end the bloodshed in the country. International diplomacy has so far failed to end the conflict and there are growing fears that it could spread across the region. Al Jazeera's Jonah Hull reports. http://news.linktv.org/videos/kofi-annan-expresses-optimism-after-first-round-of-assad-syria-talks?start=0 UN-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan concludes he is "optimistic" a cease fire can be achieved after meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, but acknowledges that a peace deal will take time. Mon, 12 Mar 2012 15:46:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/kofi-annan-expresses-optimism-after-first-round-of-assad-syria-talks Kofi Annan, Bashar al-Assad, Syria, Syrian Civil War, Ceasefire, Peace talks, Arab League, United Nations, Diplomacy, Raw video UN-Arab League envoy Kofi Annan concludes he is "optimistic" a cease fire can be achieved after meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, but acknowledges that a peace deal will take time. http://news.linktv.org/videos/diplomats-head-to-syria-with-no-solution-in-sight?start=0 Syria has agreed to let in three high-level diplomats, all of whom have said they aim to bring about a political solution to the crisis and to foster dialogue between the government and opposition. Tue, 06 Mar 2012 16:29:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/diplomats-head-to-syria-with-no-solution-in-sight Syria, Syrian Civil War, Bashar al-Assad, Kofi Annan, Valerie Amos, Li Huaxin, Humanitarian crisis, Chinese Ambassador to Syria, United Nations, Arab League Syria has agreed to let in three high-level diplomats, all of whom have said they aim to bring about a political solution to the crisis and to foster dialogue between the government and opposition. http://news.linktv.org/videos/raw-video-barack-obama-and-benjamin-netanyahu-open-bilateral-meeting?start=0 Raw video of US President Obama and Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel's opening remarks before a meeting in the Oval Office. Mon, 05 Mar 2012 16:04:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/raw-video-barack-obama-and-benjamin-netanyahu-open-bilateral-meeting Benjamin Netanyahu, Barack Obama, US-Israel relations, Middle East Peace Process, Iran, Israel, Nuclear program of Iran, Sanctions against Iran, Iran-Israel relations, Prime Minister of Israel US President Obama and Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel speak to the press before a meeting in the Oval Office, March 5, 2012. http://news.linktv.org/videos/kofi-annan-appointed-un-arab-envoy-on-syria?start=0 The UN and Arab League have appointed Kofi Annan, a former head of the world body, to act as a joint special envoy on Syria. It's a high-profile appointment that reflects growing international concern over developments in the country. Fri, 24 Feb 2012 09:01:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/kofi-annan-appointed-un-arab-envoy-on-syria Kofi Annan, Syria, Syrian Civil War, Bashar al-Assad, Russia, United Nations resolution, Arab League, UN Secretary-General, UN Security Council Resolution, Diplomacy The United Nations and the Arab League have appointed Kofi Annan, a former head of the world body, to act as a joint special envoy on Syria. It's a high-profile appointment that reflects growing international concern over developments in the country. Al Jazeera's Alan Fisher reports from Washington, DC. http://news.linktv.org/videos/bombardment-of-syrias-homs-continues?start=0 The Free Syrian Army says it is desperately trying to defend civilians but has warned of serious consequences if the international community fails to act. But, as shells continue to fall on residential areas, little progress is being made at the UN. Tue, 14 Feb 2012 15:38:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/bombardment-of-syrias-homs-continues Syria, Homs, Siege of Homs, Syrian Civil War, Free Syrian Army, Angela Merkel, Artillery, Peacekeeping, Tank, Arab League The Free Syrian Army says it is desperately trying to defend civilians but has warned of serious consequences if the international community fails to act. But, as shells continue to fall on residential areas, a plan for a joint Arab League and United Nations peacekeeping force seems a long way from becoming a reality. http://news.linktv.org/videos/russia-calls-for-arab-league-solution-to-crisis-in-syria?start=0 Russia's foreign minister Sergei Lavrov has called for an Arab League solution to the crisis in Syria, just days after it vetoed a resolution tabled by the Arab League at the UN Security Council. Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:01:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/russia-calls-for-arab-league-solution-to-crisis-in-syria Syria, Bashar al-Assad, Russia, Sergei Lavrov, Arab League, UN Security Council Resolution, Syrian Civil War, Damascus, UN Security Council, Diplomacy Russia's foreign minister has called for an Arab League solution to the crisis in Syria, just days after it vetoed the Arab League's resolution on Syria at the UN Security Council. Speaking after talks in Damascus with Bashar al-Assad, Sergei Lavrov said the president was ready to seek dialogue with all poltical groups. Although he failed to reveal when exactly when that might occur, Lavrov did say that Assad was "completely committed to stopping violence regardless of where it came from." http://news.linktv.org/videos/russia-criticizes-hysterical-reaction-to-syria-un-veto?start=0 Russia Today offers a different perspective on the mounting international criticism directed at Moscow over its decision to block the latest UN resolution on Syria. Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:37:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/russia-criticizes-hysterical-reaction-to-syria-un-veto Syria, Syrian Civil War, UN Security Council, Russia, UN Security Council Resolution, UN Security Council veto, Susan Rice, William Hague, Bashar al-Assad, Diplomacy Russia Today offers a different perspective on the mounting international criticism directed at Moscow over its decision to block the latest UN resolution on Syria. http://news.linktv.org/videos/inside-story-has-syria-been-given-a-license-to-kill?start=0 The UN has again failed to condemn the Syrian government for its crackdown on protesters after Russia and China blocked a Security Council resolution. Has diplomacy reached the end of the road? Inside Story discusses the issues. Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:38:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/inside-story-has-syria-been-given-a-license-to-kill Syria, Syrian Civil War, UN Security Council, Russia, Bashar al-Assad, UN Security Council veto, Vitaly Churkin, Bashar Jaafari, UN Security Council Resolution, Diplomacy The UN has again failed to condemn the Syrian government for its crackdown on protesters, after Russia and China blocked a Security Council resolution. Has diplomacy reached the end of the road? Guests Dimitry Babich, Sameer Al Taqi, and Shadi Hamid discuss the latest developments. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mahmoud-ahmadinejad-and-hugo-chavez-mock-ridiculous-arrogance-of-us?start=0 The presidents of Iran and Venezuela mocked the US over its move to expel a Venezuelan diplomat at the start of Ahmadinejad's visit to four left-leaning Latin American nations. Tue, 10 Jan 2012 09:32:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mahmoud-ahmadinejad-and-hugo-chavez-mock-ridiculous-arrogance-of-us Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Hugo Chávez, Venezuela, Iran, US-Venezuela relations, US-Iran relations, President of Iran, Nuclear program of Iran, Latin America, Diplomacy Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez mocked the US over its move to expel a Venezuelan diplomat at the start of Ahmadinejad's visit to four left-leaning Latin American nations. http://news.linktv.org/videos/iran-uk-relations-deteriorate?start=0 Embassies closed, sanctions tightened, and diplomatic relations now sour, relations between Britain and Iran have entered new, uncharted, territory. Fri, 02 Dec 2011 11:16:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/iran-uk-relations-deteriorate Iran, Diplomacy, United Kingdom, Embassy, Press TV Embassies closed, sanctions tightened, and diplomatic relations now sour, relations between Britain and Iran have entered new, uncharted, territory. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-120111?start=1237 <p>UN views situation in Syria as civil war, Amnesty International accuses Saudi Arabia of 'wave of repression', Yemeni forces continue to shell Taiz, and more.</p> Fri, 02 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-120111 Iran, Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan, Syria, NATO, Protest, Bashar al-Assad, Civil war, Turkey, Ali Abdullah Saleh A mob has gathered outside the Iranian embassy in the British capital London as diplomats are preparing to leave the country. The Iranian Foreign Ministry said they gathered outside the Iranian diplomatic residence in a coordinated move. He said the crowd has caused disturbances for the diplomatic staff preparing to leave Britain following the closure of the Iranian embassy. This is while the staffers have another day to leave British soil. The Iranian Foreign Ministry has called on Britain to protect the mission and to immediately stop the disturbances so the diplomats can leave British soil ahead of the 48-hour deadline. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-100311?start=1248 Yemeni protestors, scholars denounce state clerics' Fatwa, Bahraini court sentences 36 additional protestors to prison, Libya revolutionaries launch fresh assault on Sirte as post-Gaddafi Cabinet takes shape, and more.<br /> 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 US Defense Secretary Leon Panetta arrived in Israel this morning for a series of meetings related to major security issues as well as bilateral defense relations. On his way to Israel, Panetta warned that Israel is becoming increasingly isolated in the Middle East. The defense secretary encouraged Israel to make concessions by explaining that Jerusalem has a commitment from Washington to guarantee its security needs. Therefore, Israel should be willing to take risks for peace. This is Panetta's first Middle East trip since becoming Pentagon boss. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-093011?start=1216 Yemeni and Syrian demonstrators unify Friday's call for 'victory', thousands gather in Cairo's Tahrir Square to 'reclaim the revolution', and Mauritanian youth condemn country's census as racist.<br /> Fri, 30 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-093011 Protest, Arab Spring, Yemen Uprising, Yemen, Friday prayers, Sanaa, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Ali Abdullah Saleh, Egyptian Revolution We open with continued attempts by the Palestinian Authority to convince undecided Security Council members to support their bid for statehood. PA President Mahmoud Abbas and Foreign Minister Riad al Maliki have scheduled yet another tour of persuasion abroad next week. British Telegraph reported today that Maliki will visit Bosnia while Abbas will travel to Columbia, Portugal, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic. The Palestinians say that they need just one more vote endorsing their bid for full United Nation's membership to reach the nine necessary to pass the request to the Security Council. Even if a majority is reached, however, the United States has already vowed to exercise its veto power over the initiative. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091311?start=792 <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 The diplomatic crisis with Turkey will eventually be resolved through common sense and cold calculation. This is what Prime Minsiter Benjamin Netanyahu told reporters when touring Israel's southern border. In an attempt to diffuse the situation with Ankara, the prime minister said that Israel should not cling to all kinds of comments, clearly referring to provocative statements made by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Netanyahu was on Israel's border with Egypt to observe the progress in the construction of the security fence. He promised that the barrier would be completed by next September, three months ahead of schedule. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-090811?start=1200 <p>New clashes break out in Sudan's Blue Nile as state authorities say life is "back to normal," Bahraini activists plann "Friday of no concessions" rally, Syria's opposition appeals for international observers, and more.</p> Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-090811 Protest, Israel, Libya, Egypt, Palestinians, Civilian casualties, 2011 Libyan Uprising, Muammar Gaddafi , Syrian Civil War, Bahrain Uprising The war of words between Turkey and Israel continues as the deepening crisis between the two former allies sees no sign of easing off. Speaking publicly for the first time on the breakdown of diplomatic relations with Ankara, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told a graduation class of naval officers last evening that the "deepening crisis with Turkey was not our choice and it is not our choice today. We respect the Turkish people and heritage, and we certainly want to improve ties." http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-090211?start=948 <p>Yemen's and Bahrain's pro-democracy movements retake to the streets in massive numbers, Syrian protestors vow to choose "death rather than humiliation," UN urges a quick mission to stabilize Libya, and more.</p> Sat, 03 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-090211 Protest, Israel, Diplomacy, Gaza flotilla raid, Palestinian state, Turkey, Syria, Gaza blockade, MV Mavi Marmara, Ahmet Davutoglu The top story this hour: Turkey has expelled the Israeli ambassador and cut all its military ties over Tel Avivs deadly attack on a Gaza-bound Turkish aid ship last year. Turkey's move comes shortly before the publication of a UN report on Israel's 2010 aggression in the international waters. Nine Turkish nationals were shot dead during the Israeli commandos attack on activists onboard the Freedom Flotilla. The UN report, leaked by the New York Times has called Israel's use of force against the aid ship excessive and unreasonable. Yet it has described as legitimate Israel's blockade of Gaza. Ankara considers the siege illegal and wants Tel Aviv to apologize for its attack. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-090211?start=1085 <p>Yemen's and Bahrain's pro-democracy movements retake to the streets in massive numbers, Syrian protestors vow to choose "death rather than humiliation," UN urges a quick mission to stabilize Libya, and more.</p> Sat, 03 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-090211 Protest, Israel, Diplomacy, Gaza flotilla raid, Palestinian state, Turkey, Syria, Gaza blockade, MV Mavi Marmara, Ahmet Davutoglu Joining us now from our Tel Aviv studio to discuss the latest regional developments is Middle East analyst Dr. Ra'anan Gissin. Many of Israel's critics are today arguing that an apology to the government of Turkey over the 2010 flotilla deaths would have been the right step diplomatically speaking and would have cost nothing. Whereas now Israel is paying a very high price with the fracturing of ties with the former and very rare ally in the middle east. Do you share this view? Gissin: Regrettably, now it's too late. I think along the way, Israel has done the utmost, I mean bent backwards and tried to exhaust all the possibilities to try to accommodate the Turks and accommodate Ardwan and come to sort of a compromise. But as we go along, we found out really that actually what we are facing here is a new form of diplomatic warfare. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-090211?start=1365 <p>Yemen's and Bahrain's pro-democracy movements retake to the streets in massive numbers, Syrian protestors vow to choose "death rather than humiliation," UN urges a quick mission to stabilize Libya, and more.</p> Sat, 03 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-090211 Protest, Israel, Diplomacy, Gaza flotilla raid, Palestinian state, Turkey, Syria, Gaza blockade, MV Mavi Marmara, Ahmet Davutoglu Presenter, Male # 1 Yesterday, Lebanon took over the United Nations Security Council presidency for the month. International relations experts fear Hezbollah's government will distance itself from important issues, notably from the events in Syria and the Special Tribunal for Lebanon. William Azzam reports. Reporter, Male # 2 The recognition of a Palestinian state tops the important issues proposed at the UN Security Council during Lebanon's presidency for the month of September. And even if this function is not expected to cause disagreements between the Lebanese and foreign countries, it is certain the position on Syria's events and the Special Tribunal for Lebanon was and remains a divisive issue. Guest, Male # 3 (Sami Nader, International Relations Expert) One can see the depth of the crisis. The depth of this crisis is not only related to the defensive strategy but the national strategy, including diplomacy. Regardless of the Lebanese government's position, it will not be based on an agreement and we can see that through the struggle in the country, the heated political debate, and the conflicting points of view. So regardless of Lebanon's position, it will not be based on a consensus, which reveals the depth of the crisis in the country. However, the question is to what extent can the prime minister avoid these inconsistencies? This is the major question. To what extent can Prime Minister Mikati coexist with Hezbollah, which is calling for one thing while the Lebanese government is calling for another? This is clear in their respective positions on the international tribunal and the ongoing events in Syria. To what extent can the head of the government, the president, Minister Walid Jumblatt's side coexist with Hezbollah's position and its allies? Reporter, Male # 2 In between adopting a form diplomacy that relies on subordination to the Syrian regime and defending its position at the UN, which stance should Lebanon adopt on the events in Syria? Guest, Male # 3 Lebanon's position should confirm its commitment to freedoms and the defense of human rights. At the same time, it should adopt a position that calls for the non-interference in the affairs of another country. There is not disagreement on that last point. The disagreement will arise when someone raises a slogan against the inference in the affairs of another Arab state and uses that slogan to strike at an essential principle, which is the people's right to self-determination and the people's right to self-expression. http://news.linktv.org/videos/inside-story-why-wont-the-international-community-stand-up-to-bashar-al-assad?start=0 Just the threat of government violence in Libya was enough to prompt Western military intervention, but the killing of hundreds of Syrian civilians by their government has drawn little more than lukewarm rebukes from Western governments. Fri, 05 Aug 2011 16:27:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/inside-story-why-wont-the-international-community-stand-up-to-bashar-al-assad Bashar al-Assad, Syria, Syrian Civil War, Hama, UN Security Council Resolution, International community, Western world, UN Security Council, Libya, Muammar Gaddafi Just the threat of government violence in Libya was enough to prompt Western military intervention, but the killing of hundreds of Syrian civilians by their government has drawn little more than lukewarm rebukes from Western governments. Inside Story: Why Won't the International Community Stand Up to Bashar al-Assad? http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-072711?start=37 British Foreign Minister William Hague says that his country is now dealing with the Libyan Transitional National Council as if it was the Libyan state. Al Jazeera reports that Hague announced the UK's official recognition of the Council after London decided to expel Libyan embassy staff from the UK. Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-072711 Afghanistan, UN Security Council, Palestinian state, Protest, Palestine, Middle East Peace Process, Ramadan, Libya, Yemen, Pakistan Presenter, Male #1 British Foreign Minister William Hague said that his country is dealing with the Libyan Transitional National Council as if it was the Libyan state. Presenter, Female #1 Hague announced the UK's official recognition of the Council after London decided to expel the Libyan embassy staff from the UK. Guest, Male #1 (William Hague, British Foreign Minister) As for the question about the recognition of countries, or states or governments, we consider this a unique situation that we have not seen before. However, in dealing with the Transitional National Council as the only official authority, we are now dealing with it as if it were the state of Libya. This is our position and our way of dealing with them. There is no essential change in our approach. The reason that we can do this now is the high level of trust which will aid in lifting the frozen Libyan assets to help Libyan students. We look at this matter from a legal standpoint and a political standpoint, and there is no dispute between them whatsoever. Presenter, Male #1 The UN envoy to Libya Abdul al-Khatib said that the Libyan government and the Transitional National Council are still far from reaching an agreement to end the crisis in the country. Presenter, Female #1 Al-Khatib said that the Libyan government informed him that it is a must to end NATO's attacks before any negotiation begins. The government also informed him that Gaddafi's leadership in the country is not negotiable in the context of finding a solution to the Libyan crisis. Reporter, Male #1 The positions of Gaddafi's regime and those of the opposition's political leadership, represented by the Transitional National Council, are still far apart. The UN envoy to Libya Abdul Ilah al-Khatib made this statement after holding talks with both sides in Tripoli and Benghazi. Tripoli is still insisting on its position, rejecting any condition that calls for Gaddafi stepping down to settle the Libyan crisis. It also requires that NATO stop its military operations in Libya before it enters negotiations on any settlement. Guest, Male #2 (Al-Baghdadi al-Mahmoudi, Prime Minister of Gaddafi Regime) The most important thing is to stop this aggression on the Libyan people in order to make decisions for a peaceful solution. Otherwise, we're wasting our time and effort, and we don't have the ability to make any decisions under any other condition. Reporter, Male #1 As for Benghazi, it says that it will not accept any initiative to end the conflict in Libya that does not include Gaddafi stepping down as the very first step. As the allotted time for NATO's military intervention in Libya approaches its end, it appears that the situation will become more complicated if Gaddafi insists on his conditions for settlement. The revolutionaries, despite the progress they have achieved on the battlefronts, do not have sufficient equipment to overthrow Gaddafi anytime soon. On the ground, NATO warned that it will shell any civilian site, industrial or agricultural, that is used by Gaddafi's forces to launch military strikes. NATO warplanes bombed sites that appeared to be civil in the city of Zliten. But a NATO spokesman says that Gaddafi's forces are using many facilities that were originally used for civilian purposes. On the battlefronts, the revolutionaries are still besieging the city of Brega, but the numerous landmines planted around the city have prevented them from seizing it so far. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071311-world-news-from-the-middle-east?start=750 Somali humanitarian organization makes urgent plea for aid, Obama urged to probe Bush torture claims as secret prison details emerge, main opposition group pulls out of Bahrain's national dialogue, and more.<br /> Wed, 13 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071311-world-news-from-the-middle-east Syria, Israel, Protest, Bashar al-Assad, Human Rights Watch, Damascus, Human rights, Syrian Civil War, Somalia, Bahrain Presenter, Female #1 In its first statement regarding the events in Syria, the UN Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the attacks by President Bashar al-Assad's loyalists on the US and French embassies in Damascus. In the council's statement issued unanimously by all 15 members, the German ambassador to the UN, Peter Wittig, urged the Syrian authorities to protect diplomatic facilities and diplomats. Guest, Male #1 (Peter Wittig, German ambassador to the UN) The members of the Security Council condemn in the strongest terms the attacks against embassies in Damascus, which have resulted in damage to embassy premises and injuries to diplomatic personnel. The members of the Security Council recall the fundamental principle of the inviolability of diplomatic missions and the obligations on host governments, including under the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, to take all appropriate steps to protect embassy premises. In this context, the members of the Security Council call on the Syrian authorities to protect diplomatic property and personnel. Presenter, Female #1 Syria was quick to respond to the Security Council's statement. Syria's UN Ambassador Bashar Jaafari accused the US and France of distorting and exaggerating the facts of the attack. Jaafari said the protests were organized by some youths who wanted to express their opinion regarding the two embassies' interference in Syria's internal affairs. He indicated that some of the protestors who participated in the two incidents were arrested and will be brought to justice. Guest, Male #2 (Bashar Jaafari, Syria's UN Ambassador) We deeply regret that the delegations of the United States of America and France have distorted and exaggerated the facts regarding yesterday's demonstrations, which were organized by some youth to express their views with regard to the interference in Syria's internal affairs by the embassies of the above mentioned countries. None the less, in keeping with the commitment of the government of the Syrian Arab Republic to respect its international obligations, law enforcement forces made every effort to insure the safety of those embassies including by deploying reinforcements to help protect the embassies and arresting some demonstrators who are currently being questioned and will be brought to justice. http://news.linktv.org/videos/how-a-little-white-ball-changed-the-globe?start=0 in 1971, an American table tennis team broke the icy relations between the US and China by playing an exhibition game against a Chinese team in Beijing. Now the teams have reunited to commemorate this historic event. Fri, 08 Jul 2011 17:48:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/how-a-little-white-ball-changed-the-globe Ping Pong Diplomacy, China, Beijing, Exhibition game, Richard Nixon, Mao Zedong, 1972 Nixon visit to China, Diplomacy, United States, Table tennis Forty years ago, an American table tennis team broke the icy relations between the US and China by playing an exhibition game against a Chinese team in Beijing. That small event led to Richard Nixon's historic visit to China and the establishment of diplomatic and economic relations. Members of both teams from 1971 are in the US to commemorate what came to be known as Ping Pong Diplomacy. These days, it may be hard to recall the icy relationship that existed between China and the United States just 40 years ago. Back in the 1970s, the two countries had no diplomatic relations -- in fact, their leaders didn't talk at all, except to exchange harsh words through media. To the U.S., China was conspiring with the Soviet Union to conquer the world. To china, Americans were 'Yankee Imperialists' and 'Evil Capitalists.' But then, there was a ping pong game. And almost overnight, the relationship between the two countries improved -- and now, China and the U.S. are linked through trade and other ways that might have been unthinkable just a few decades ago. This week, the Asia society commemorated the ping pong game that brought the two nations together. Here's linkAsia's Annie Fu.