http://news.linktv.org Link TV News Videos (Filtered by topics: Eid ul-Fitr) en-us Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700 Copyright 2011 Link Media, Inc. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082212?start=35 Turkish authorities heightened security measures at the Bab al-Salam border crossing as Syrian refugees continue to enter, reports BBC Arabic. As for the Syrian refugees, they expressed fear over a prolonged crisis amid competing international positions. Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082212 Syrian Civil War, Syria, Journalist, Egypt, Refugees of the Syrian civil war, Avigdor Lieberman, Bab al-Tabbaneh–Jabal Mohsen clashes, Economy of Egypt, Egypt–Israel relations, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center Presenter, Male #1 As Syrian refugees continue to flow to the Turkish borders, the authorities in Turkey heightened the security measures at the Bab al-Salam border crossing. As for the Syrian refugees, they expressed fear over a prolonged crisis amid competing international positions. Reporter, Female #1 Eid al-Fitr came to an end in Syria, but the familiar holiday scenes were absent this year. Instead of streaming into parks in search of festivities, Syrians flowed to the border in search of safety during Eid. Reporter, Female #1 From here, the Bab al-Salam border crossing, Syrians are fleeing to the Turkish province of Keelis, that holds one of the most important refugee camps, which hosts 15,000 Syrians. Reporter, Female #1 And even though life in Keelis is particularly dull, it is safer, which is why many Syrian families are heading there. Among them is Mohammad al-Sakran's family, who summarizes the status of his country in just a few words. Guest, Male #2 Where are we going? Our country was destroyed, we were displaced, our homes were destroyed, we have nothing left. Reporter, Female #1 The Syrians who lost their homes and left their land sent a message to those they consider one to be partly responsible for the state Syria is in. Guest, Male #2 When it comes to the Russian Foreign Ministry, it wants to screw the Syrian people as much as possible, because the Syrian people are sick of it, and sick of the arrogant regime. Iran, Russia, and Israel are conspiring to exterminate the Syrian people. Reporter, Female #1 Syrians outside the country say they fear their cause will be lost amid the conflicting international positions, especially since those Syrians have accused the regime of President Bashar al-Assad of attempting to conceal the truth by killing journalists. Guest, Male #2 They don't want a free press that reports on the events as they are on the ground, and this is why a sniper killed the Japanese journalist. This is a despicable regime. Reporter, Female #1 So the voice of the Syrian refugees is full of sadness and anger, as they wait for any strong voice that could end the gunfire and return the homeless to their houses. Presenter, Male #1 In Syria, opposition activists said that security and military forces killed over 150 people today in a number of areas; most of them died in Damascus and Daraa. Also according to opposition activists, the city of Homs witnessed heavy shelling today, as a convoy of tanks stormed the capital Damascus in the early hours of the morning. The area of Dariya in the countryside of Damascus was also subjected to artillery shelling that led to the killing and injury of a number of people. Reporter, Female #2 The violence in Syria is not even sparing houses of worship and trees. It is gradually being exacerbated, leaving dozens, or even hundreds, dead and injured. In addition, hundreds of thousands have been displaced. The refugees are fleeing to Turkey, Lebanon, and Jordan. Reporter, Female #2 Most of today's victims of the violence were hit in Damascus and Daraa, according to opposition activists. The scene repeated itself today, as many cities were subjected to heavy shelling since the morning, with Homs and the area of Dariya in the countryside of Damascus being the worst hit. The capital Damascus was stormed by a convoy of regime forces' tanks. Reporter, Female #2 From their station in Jabal Qasioun, the forces also shelled the neighborhood of Kfar Susa and the region near Aisha River in an attack that aimed to eliminate rebels there. The rebels, for their part, have been using these areas to attack the Mazzah military airport for days. This, according to reports by opposition activists, but the authenticity of which cannot be confirmed. Reporter, Female #2 In Aleppo, the battle has still not been settled, as the city of Azaz and Tal Rifaat in its countryside witnessed heavy shelling by the Syrian army's warplanes, according to eyewitnesses. The official Syrian side condemned what it called an exaggeration of the events on the ground, and attributed the claim to false media reports. Guest, Male #3 It is known that some battles took place in Qudsaya, Dumar, and near Asali. And such incidents have taken place occasionally in al-Qadam, and also in some other areas. Yes, operations could be taking place in some of the specific area the media is reporting on, but not on the scale that some in the media are portraying without any objectivity. Reporter, Female #2 Despite the daily loses they endure, the opposition's activists insist on continuing the fight, and on not surrendering until they are victorious, as they say. Guest, Male #4 We will be victorious, God willing. Bashar, we are going to cut off your ears, God willing. Reporter, Female #1 So, the cycle of violence continues in Syria, as the struggle that started as an uprising over 17 months ago turns into a civil war, according to experts, and as the Syrian street is set to lose the most from this escalation, while the international community fails to put an end to the conflict. Samar Hamdan, BBC. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082112?start=1238 <p>Syrian conflict spilling into Lebanon as renewed clashes erupt in Tripoli, US assassination drone strike kills 3 in northwestern Pakistan, Israel asks Egypt to withdraw tanks from Sinai, and more.</p> Tue, 21 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082112 Israel, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Eid ul-Fitr, Bab al-Tabbaneh–Jabal Mohsen clashes, Drone attacks in Pakistan, Defense industry of Iran, Kevin Yoder, Islam in the United States, Egypt–Israel relations Presenter, Female #1 In Bahrain, the February 14th Coalition called for mass participation in a march commemorating Jerusalem Day martyr Hussam al-Haddad in the island of al-Muharraq today. Reporter, Male #1 Bahrain was not filled with joy like past years, but was overcome with sadness, as its forgotten revolution mourned the souls of youth in the prime of their lives, youth who were martyred by regime forces. The last victim is 16-year-old martyr Hussam al-Haddad, who was killed during the commemoration of international Jerusalem Day, so he was named the al-Aqsa martyr. And based on calls by the opposition, citizens boycotted commercial malls and markets that remained nearly empty, as traffic on main roads was limited, and visits to the martyrs' graves increased in a display of their loyalty to them. Reporter, Male #1 The regime's gift to the Bahrainis, that was represented through the killing of martyr al-Haddad on Eid al-Fitr, which Bahraini religious scholar Sheikh Isa Qassem thanked the authorities for, was not the first. Last year, and also on Eid, the regime killed a young boy, Ali Jawad al-Sheikh, by running him over. And on his anniversary, the neighborhoods of al-Kharijiya in the island of Sitra, and the town of al-Daraz witness mass marches. Reporter, Male #1 In solidarity with the family of Ali Jawad al-Sheikh on the island of Sitra, the February 14th Coalition confirmed its determination to receive retribution from the murderers, regardless of how long it takes, and called for national unity, and for not allowing the regime to divide the people by sowing sectarian strife. Guest, Male #2 We have the right to retribution from those who killed martyrs Ali al-Sheikh and Hussam al-Haddad, and all the martyrs. We will not compromise on their rights, neither us nor the parents of the martyrs, no matter how long it takes. We confirm the need for national unity, and we will not allow the Khalifa enemy to divide us and to implant sectarian strife in our beloved country. Reporter, Male #1 The revolutionaries' action continued through the night, as nighttime demonstrations were held in most areas under the banner "Freedom Offerings," during which protestors chanted for the downfall of the regime, and for retribution from the murderers. Reporter, Male #1 The Bahraini regime turned the squares of the cities and town into military sites to crack down on unarmed citizens. It drowned their homes with poisonous gas and pellet bullets, which lead to a number of injuries among the participants in the peaceful protests. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082112?start=1439 <p>Syrian conflict spilling into Lebanon as renewed clashes erupt in Tripoli, US assassination drone strike kills 3 in northwestern Pakistan, Israel asks Egypt to withdraw tanks from Sinai, and more.</p> Tue, 21 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082112 Israel, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Eid ul-Fitr, Bab al-Tabbaneh–Jabal Mohsen clashes, Drone attacks in Pakistan, Defense industry of Iran, Kevin Yoder, Islam in the United States, Egypt–Israel relations Presenter, Male #1 It seems that modern technology continues to penetrate our traditional social fabric. And while technology can be helpful in some instances, it can't replace real connections under any circumstances. Karima Nashmat reports. Reporter, Female #1 The month of bounties and blessings is gone, and other blessed days will come. The blessed Eid al-Fitr crowns the highest image of social solidarity, and strengthens kinship between all Algerians. But with the development of technology, some of us are limiting our social ties to phone calls or text messages, while sending wishes over the Internet through social networking sites. Guest, Male #2 I am against this because affection can't be expressed. Where's the affection? There's no emotion in sending a text message to wish others a happy holiday. Guest, Male #3 It's different when you go into someone's home, and see what they need. We need this kind of kinship, and this is was the prophet, peace be upon him, called for. Guest, Male #4 It is a positive thing on one hand, so people are not disconnected, but on the other, real connections between one another should also continue. Reporter, Female #1 Even if opinions vary between being in favor of electronic blessings, as some have called it, and resenting them, no one can disagree that technology has succeeded in overcoming time and place, but sometimes at the expense of real ties, affection, and a warm family and social environment. After all, Eid is a chance to maintain our kinship and our connection to God. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082012?start=274 <p>Renewed "insider attacks" on foreign troops in Afghanistan alarm NATO, Gaddafi loyalists blamed for bombing in Libyan capital, US asked to hand over drone footage or face UN inquiry, and more.</p> Mon, 20 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082012 Israel, Martin Dempsey, Israel Defense Forces, Eid ul-Fitr, Yemen, Somalia, Israelis, United States, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, US-Afghanistan relations While Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Fitr to mark the end of Ramadan, Indian-controlled Kashmir has erupted into violence as people took to the streets after Eid prayers for pro-independence demonstrations. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082012?start=671 <p>Renewed "insider attacks" on foreign troops in Afghanistan alarm NATO, Gaddafi loyalists blamed for bombing in Libyan capital, US asked to hand over drone footage or face UN inquiry, and more.</p> Mon, 20 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082012 Israel, Martin Dempsey, Israel Defense Forces, Eid ul-Fitr, Yemen, Somalia, Israelis, United States, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, US-Afghanistan relations Presenter, Male #1 The security problems in Yemen have recently worsened, and now threaten the future of the political process. An attempt by soldiers from the Republican Guard that is headed by Ahmed Ali Abdullah Saleh, the son of the deposed president, to storm the Defense Ministry in the capital Sanaa cast its shadow on the attempts to restructure the army and security. Gunmen who are believed to be from al-Qaeda waged several attacks in Aden and Abyan that caused dozens of deaths and injuries. Reporter, Male #2 In Yemen, there are no indications that the security situation might be stabilized in the near future. Even the people's joy during Eid al-Fitr was spoiled with scenes such as these. Reporter, Male #2 This shows part of the aftermath of the double attack waged by gunmen, and believed to be from al-Qaeda, on the neighboring radio and television building and the political security headquarters in the city of Tawahi in Aden Province. The attack resulted in the death of over 20 soldiers and civilians and was widely condemned by political forces, most notably the southern movement. Reporter, Male #2 But at the same time, it revealed loose security procedures, and maybe the state's limited ability to fill all the gaps undermining the country's stability, amid an ongoing state of disruption engulfing the army and security. Guest, Male #3 Suddenly, we found them attacking us with grenades and all kinds of heavy and light machine guns, and from all directions. We were not able to make a single move. Reporter, Male #2 The next day, having barely recovered from the Aden incident, a suicide bomber struck another area: Modiya in Abyan Province, causing deaths and injuries. However, the open war with al-Qaeda is only one of the security issues in Yemen. Reporter, Male #2 Here, in Sanaa, security procedures seem heightened, especially after the attempt to storm the Defense Ministry by soldiers from the Republican Guard. The soldiers had refused the president's decision to be transferred to another military zone. This is what some are viewing as a military mutiny, similar to the incident during which gunmen and police members stormed the Ministry of Defense. Reporter, Male #2 The dangerous security situation is also reflected through intensified fortifications around the president's house, especially after his last decision to end the dependency of some military security on forces divided between the revolution's supporters and opponents. Guest, Male #4 (Mohsen Khadrouf, Retired Brigadier) The security institution is not under control, and this is why there a security vacuum. Al-Qaeda is present, loyalists to the former president are present, and thugs are present. Reporter, Male #2 The Yemeni president is facing difficult challenges, but many people believe the key to the solution remains in his hands. And that key is removing the military leaders who are preventing unification of the army. Hamdi al-Bokari, Al Jazeera, Sanaa. http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrian-refugees-spend-sombre-eid-in-camps?start=0 Muslims around the world are celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr, a holiday to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan. But for Syrian refugees living in camps, the day is passing without much celebration. Sun, 19 Aug 2012 14:11:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrian-refugees-spend-sombre-eid-in-camps Eid ul-Fitr, Refugees of the Syrian civil war, Syrian people, Refugee, Refugee camp, Ramadan (calendar month), Syria-Turkey relations, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Turkey Muslims around the world are celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr, a holiday to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan. But for Syrian refugees living in camps, the day is passing without much celebration. The UN says more than 170,000 Syrian refugees have been registered in Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey. Nearly 70,000 of them are in Turkey, where the government is worried that number will grow as fighting intensifies. Al Jazeera's Stefanie Dekker reports. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-090211?start=641 <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 Meanwhile, Bahraini security forces have crushed fresh nighttime protests in various regions across the country. This news comes hours after the funeral procession of Ali Jawad al-Shiekh, the Bahraini youth who was martyred in the area of Sitra. Some Bahraini rights organizations called on the Manama authorities to launch an independent investigation into the martyrdom of the youth, who was killed by police during a protest after the Eid ul-Fitr prayer. Reporter, Female #2 Despite the crackdown and heightened security measures imposed across Bahraini regions, streets, and alleys, nighttime protests continue. The situation quickly became heated after the funeral procession of martyred Ali Jawad al-Sheikh, in the area of Sitra.Al-Sheikh's death has stirred rage among Bahraini residents. Rights organizations said that the murder of the teenager constitutes a dangerous development and have called for an independent investigation. The boy's death comes after the speech of Bahraini King Hamad Bin Issa al-Khalifa, who called for pardon and justice for the victims. Sources at the medical examiner's office said that the boy died of injuries to the back of his neck, causing hemorrhaging in his spinal cord. The authorities said that the death was caused by serious injuries to the head and are investigating the incident. Regardless, his death has left a dark stain on the authority's record and the record of its security forces, as they targeted a 14-year-old boy on the first day of the blessed Eid ul-Fitr. As the authority's crackdown continues, the youths continue to cling to their demands. Hundreds of youths have staged protests late at night across various towns, including Na'im and Diyah. The protestors confronted the Saudi-backed police and security forces, which fired tear gas and sound bombs to disperse them. The protestors chanted the same slogans recited by people of the Arab Spring. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-090111?start=370 <p>Gaddafi urges resistance against "occupiers" as "Friends of Libya" map out the country's future, Yemeni General al-Ahmar warns Saleh of sharing Gaddafi's fate, Syria's protestors demand the execution of the president, and more.</p> Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-090111 Protest, Palestinian state, Israel, Middle East Peace Process, Eid ul-Fitr, Two-state solution, 2011 Libyan Uprising, Syrian Civil War, Yemen Uprising, Ali Abdullah Saleh Presenter, Male #1 Anti-regime protests continued across various Syrian cities, amid the campaign of raids and arrests. On the eve of Friday, dubbed "Death Not Humiliation," the Syrian opposition has renewed their call for staging more protests after the Eid ul-Fitr holiday. Reporter, Female #1 It seems the movement against Syrian President Bashar Aasad is gaining momentum. This prompted security forces and the shabeha to carry out random sweeps and raids, especially in the city of Hama. To the sound of opposition chants echoing from windows and rooftops, the army carried out random raids in the city. Previously, the army would serve arrest warrants upon entering the homes of wanted activists. Several residents of Hama said that security forces and armed groups loyal to the government conducted nighttime home raids in the areas of Sabouniyah and Marabet. Activists in the city of Durayksih in Bilad said that a six-year-old girl was killed and her mother was wounded when the shabeha opened fire at protests after the Isha'a prayer in al-Jura neighborhood. The situation was not much different in the city of Homs, where several residents were killed or injured in security raids. Gunfire was heard across the city, especially in the Bab Siba'a neighborhood and other areas. Activists confirmed that clashes erupted between troops defecting from the army and security forces in the city of Homs. The town of Rami in Jabal Zawiyah witnessed similar security sweeps, amid heavy gunfire targeting worshippers in a local mosque. Other Syrian cities also witnessed sweeps and arrest campaigns. Meanwhile, more troops announced their defection at the Tala'i base near Idlib, amid reports of heavy gunfire. One day before the Friday rally dubbed "Death Over Humiliation," the opposition renewed their call for staging more protests after the Eid ul-Fitr holiday. Activists released footage of protests in Basr al-Harir in Dara'a province, calling for the Syrian president's execution. Anti-regime protests were also held in the Maydan and Kadam neighborhoods, as well as in the Barza area in Damascus and its suburbs. Protests also broke out in Harasta, Sabqa, Hamouriya, Qaswa, and al-Damir, as well as in the cities of Zabadani and Qaboul. Despite the cutoff of communication in the city of Duma, massive protests were held in the city. The residents also held a funeral procession for a youth who was killed by security forces. In addition, a massive anti-regime protest was held in the Homs neighborhood of Khalidiyah, where the protestors formed human waves. Meanwhile, a group of Kurdish activists are planning on holding a conference next Saturday in Stockholm to empower the Kurdish role in the protest movement in Syria. Presenter, Female #2 In a videotape released online, the Hama province attorney-general announced his resignation in protest of the crackdown on protestors demanding democracy. He also denied the authorities' claim that he was kidnapped by an armed group. Guest, Male #2 (Adnan Bakkour, Hama Province Attorney-General) What was reported by Syrian television that I was kidnapped by armed groups is not true. I am under the protection of the revolutionaries and the people, and I'm in good health as of today's date, Wednesday August 31. The shabeha tried to kidnap me from Hama's Hamadiyah neighborhood, but failed to do so. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-090111?start=817 <p>Gaddafi urges resistance against "occupiers" as "Friends of Libya" map out the country's future, Yemeni General al-Ahmar warns Saleh of sharing Gaddafi's fate, Syria's protestors demand the execution of the president, and more.</p> Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-090111 Protest, Palestinian state, Israel, Middle East Peace Process, Eid ul-Fitr, Two-state solution, 2011 Libyan Uprising, Syrian Civil War, Yemen Uprising, Ali Abdullah Saleh Moving on to Bahrain, where thousands have taken to the streets to attend funeral processions for the 14-year-old boy who was killed during Eid ul-Fitr prayers on Wednesday. Anit-regime protestors in towns and villages around the capital in Bahrain have come out to mourn Ali Jawad. Protestors shouted slogans against the ruling al-Khalifa regime, calling for his downfall. Tensions are high in the Persian Gulf sheikhdom after the killing of Jawad. http://news.linktv.org/videos/rights-group-reports-on-surge-of-torture-and-murder-in-syrian-jails?start=0 Human rights group Amnesty International reports a significant increase in the number of Syrian activists who have died in government custody. It has documented the cases of 88 people, many of them children and some as young as 13. Wed, 31 Aug 2011 08:35:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/rights-group-reports-on-surge-of-torture-and-murder-in-syrian-jails Syrian Civil War, Death in custody, Torture, Syria, Amnesty International, Detention, Summary execution, Sanctions, Homs, Political repression Human rights group Amnesty International is reporting a significant increase in the number of Syrian activists who have died in government custody. The group says it has documented the cases of 88 people, many of them children and some as young as 13. In a majority of cases, it is believed torture may have been the cause of death. Al Jazeera's Omar Al-Saleh reports. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083111?start=884 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 In Bahrain, regime forces have killed a teenager during anti-government protests in the southern city of Sitra. Fourteen-year-old Ali Jawad was shot dead after Bahraini forces attacked protestors following Eid ul-Fitr prayers. He was shot directly into the face by a tear gas canister. His death has sparked angry protests in the northern village of Dair. Reports say regime forces stormed the village and were trying to run over the youth. Human rights activists have repeatedly warned over the increase in the number of deaths due to excessive use of force by Saudi-backed forces to crush the uprising. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083111?start=1203 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 During the joyous Eid ul-Fitr holiday, Somali refugees facing hunger and disease continue to suffer. For its part, the Iranian Red Crescent Society and other organizations provided medical aid and necessary supplies to the refugee camps in order to ease the suffering of the hundreds of families who hang their hopes on the aid. Reporter, Male #1 Not many displaced children here in Mogadishu's refugee camps are smiling on the blessed holiday of Eid ul-Fitr. Indigent orphans in this tiny hut began their Eid holiday waiting for their poor mother who went door-to-door asking for a morsel of food to help their hunger; a hunger that doesn't know the meaning of the Eid. Despite the efforts of charity institutions to hold small celebrations for some of the orphans in the refugee camps and put a smile on their faces, the jubilance of Eid is absent from this camp, which is witnessing such cruel human suffering that nobody in the camp can even think about celebrating the Eid. Islamic organizations are trying to alleviate the sufferings of the destitute families and provide them with the necessary food supplies to survive this difficult time. The government and people of the Islamic Republic of Iran donated large amounts of food through campaigns in solidarity with the Somali people. The supplies arrived at the international airport of the capital Mogadishu. A team from the Iranian Red Crescent Society undertook the mission of delivering the supplies to the disaster-stricken people in imminent need. Guest, Male #2 (Mohamed Hosni, Coordinator for the Iranian Red Crescent in Somalia) We have delivered the humanitarian aid to the Somali people that has been provided by the Iranian people, including food and medicine, and 200 tents to shelter the refugees. Guest, Male #3 (Ali Ibrahim, Somali Refugee Camp Official) The Iranian Red Crescent Society is expanding its work at the refugee camps in the capital. Thousands of families are relying on it in various parts of Mogadishu. The refugees will benefit from these nutritious food supplies. Reporter, Male #1 Hundreds of impoverished families here in these refugee camps are hanging their hopes on Iranian aid, which has begun flowing into Somalia by air and sea to improve the conditions of the starving people in this refugee camp supervised by the Iranian Red Crescent Society. Hamad Silal, Alalam, Mogadishu. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083011?start=34 <p>Gaddafi forces given four days to surrender, seven killed and hundreds arrested as Syrian crackdown continues, Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Fitr, and more.</p> Tue, 30 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083011 Eid ul-Fitr, Israel, Protest, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Israel Defense Forces, Jerusalem, West Bank, Egypt, Bashar al-Assad Presenter, Female #1 On the first day of the Eid ul-Fitr holiday in Syria, the death toll of protestors who fell from the gunfire of security forces rose to seven. Media networks quoted the opposition's local coordination committees saying that six were killed in Daraa, where a massive demonstration started from al-Omari Mosque. The seventh was killed in Homs. Protests also occurred in a number of regions after the Eid prayers. In Damascus, demonstrations took off from al-Hassan Mosque, Zain al-Abideen, Daqar in the Maydan neighborhood, and al-Rifai Mosque. Reporter, Male #1 The Eid holiday came to Syria this year with sadness. Protestors were killed and wounded by the gunfire of security forces. After the Eid prayers, demonstrations began in a number of provinces: Damascus, Rif Dimashq, Homs, Hama, Latakia, Idlib, and Aleppo. Demonstrators in most protests dispersed without any casualties, but the security forces' violent response was focused in Daraa province, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. In the town of Baida, hundreds were arrested. The town became famous for the massive arrest campaigns carried out by the security forces. Protestors chanted slogans demanding the remaining residents descend to the streets, a tactic used in the Egyptian and Tunisian revolutions. Protestors also demanded to execute the Syrian president. The protests in Syria are all similar, their slogans are the same. Images of the protests are only recorded with cell phones. The security still intervenes in the same way, denying the occurrence of any incidents and saying the situation is incited by a foreign campaign targeting the country. With all that is happening, the protestors continue their daily demonstrations as a message to the outside world that the Eid this year came to Syrians with a new era. Mustafa al-Minshawi, BBC. Presenter, Female #1 Meanwhile, EU Foreign Minister Catherine Ashton condemned what she referred to as the brutal repression of the protests in Syria. A spokesperson for Ashton said that the assault on the cartoonist Ali Ferzat was an example of the wide-spread human rights violations. The EU foreign minister also denounced the attack on al-Rifai Mosque in western Damascus on Saturday. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083011?start=195 <p>Gaddafi forces given four days to surrender, seven killed and hundreds arrested as Syrian crackdown continues, Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Fitr, and more.</p> Tue, 30 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083011 Eid ul-Fitr, Israel, Protest, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Israel Defense Forces, Jerusalem, West Bank, Egypt, Bashar al-Assad Presenter, Female #1 In occupied Jerusalem, thousands of Palestinians performed Eid ul-Fitr prayers at the holy al-Aqsa Mosque. The Eid this year comes at a time when Jerusalemites are suffering from a difficult economic situation due to the siege that the Israeli occupation imposes on the sacred city. Reporter, Male #1 Despite economic hardships and the Israeli occupation's siege, Palestinian Jerusalemites welcomed the first day of the joyous Eid ul-Fitr with religious slogans at al-Aqsa Mosque, the Muslims' first Qibla and third Holy Sanctuary. They raised their voices with loudspeakers chanting, "God is great! God is great above all tyrants and arrogance." Guest, Male #2 The Muslims' presence and praying at al-Aqsa, despite the ban and barricades, prove the Muslims' love for the holy al-Aqsa Mosque and their connection to it. The Jerusalemites take Jerusalem's cause to the holy al-Aqsa Mosque. By that, I mean the occupation bans our brothers in the West Bank and Gaza from coming here, but our brothers in Jerusalem filled this vacancy the best they can. Of course, al-Aqsa still needs the worshipers from all of Palestine, and God willing, it will be visited by all Arabs and Muslims in the future. Reporter, Male #1 Thousands of Palestinians performed the Eid prayers at the holy al-Aqsa Mosque, even though the Israeli occupation closed down the city of Jerusalem. Orator of al-Aqsa Mosque and Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, Sheikh Mohammed Ahmad Hussein called for Palestinian unity, commitment to Jerusalem, and standing up to the Israeli occupation's atrocities. Guest, Male #3 (Mohammed Ahmed Hussein, Grand Mufti of Jerusalem) Al-Aqsa Mosque, Jerusalem, the Palestinian people, and the Palestinian cause are in the hands of this nation. Jerusalem is not just for Palestinians. Al-Aqsa Mosque is one of the mosques that Muslims are obliged to travel to, so it is a responsibility for all Muslims. Therefore, we want all Muslims, the rulers and the ruled, the governments, the people, and the countries to take their responsibility for al-Aqsa Mosque, the holy sites, the holy city, and the Palestinian cause which is the primary and central cause for the Arab and Islamic nation. Reporter, Male #1 Not far from al-Aqsa Mosque, Jerusalemites headed to the headquarters of the Red Cross in solidarity with members of the Palestinian parliament from the Change and Reform party who are challenging the decision to expel them from their city of occupied Jerusalem. Guest, Male #4 (Khaled Abu Arfah, Former Minister of Jerusalem Affairs) The Jerusalemites are renewing our vow to our brothers in parliament, to Jerusalem and to the holy al-Aqsa Mosque. We are sending a message to Israelis that we are here in Jerusalem and we remain steadfast. We will not back down and will not leave the city. The occupation should back down and quickly withdraw from the city. Reporter, Male #1 The city of Jerusalem and its residents are enduring much pain and suffering. Despite this, there is a renewed hope that Jerusalem will return to its owners and a flag free of occupation will be raised here. Best wishes to you and to Jerusalem. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083011?start=384 <p>Gaddafi forces given four days to surrender, seven killed and hundreds arrested as Syrian crackdown continues, Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Fitr, and more.</p> Tue, 30 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083011 Eid ul-Fitr, Israel, Protest, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Israel Defense Forces, Jerusalem, West Bank, Egypt, Bashar al-Assad Presenter, Female #1 According to the official Yemeni news agency, Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh has vowed to honor all previous initiatives, including the Gulf plan, and says he is ready to hold immediate elections for a new president. A source close to Saleh said that the president has reached a deal with the opposition, which stipulates that elections are to be held within three months, as Saleh transfers power to his deputy, Abed-Rabbu Mansur Hadi. This political breakthrough, if it holds, has failed to bring joy to the first day of Eid ul-Fitr in Yemen. Many Yemenis are expressing concern over the deteriorating security situation, amid the state of military alert in the country. On the other hand, the revolutionaries are continuing to mobilize on various fronts. Meanwhile, Yemeni children celebrated the Eid amid harsh living conditions. Abdel Rahman Shumari reports from Sanaa. Reporter, Male #1 The situation seems to be getting worse with the arrival of each annual Eid in Yemen. The scene of armed confrontations and military mobilizations is overshadowing the ambiance of Eid al-Fitr and its festivities. As a result, many Yemenis chose to spend the holiday at home. However, some Yemenis who were able to overcome their fear went to visit their friends and relatives to wish them a happy Eid. Guest, Male #2 This year's Eid has a special flavor to it, the flavor of the Arab revolutions. Many challenges still face us here in Yemen, including inflation and a shortage of fuel. However, we are trying our best to enjoy the Eid by visiting our friends and relatives. Reporter, Male #1 The joy of Eid in Yemen's protest squares will not be complete until the victory of the revolution, as cited by the youths of change who have been staging sit-ins across 17 provinces for nearly seven months. The youth movement blamed foreign intervention for the stalemate, which they say seeks to quell the revolution in order to prolong the lifespan of the regime. Guest, Male #3 The youths of Yemen hope that this Eid will mark the victory of their revolution, as they achieve their objectives to build a new Yemen. Guest, Male #4 The victory has been delayed, perhaps due to regional and international conditions. It has nothing to do with internal issues. We have recently seen some mobilization pushing in that direction. I believe victory is coming soon. Reporter, Male #1 The joy of Eid can be seen only in the eyes of the children. The volatile security situation, which may spiral out of control at any time, has stolen the joy of Eid ul-Fitr from many Yemenis. Happy Eid. Abdel Rahman Shumari, Dubai TV, Sanaa. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083011?start=580 <p>Gaddafi forces given four days to surrender, seven killed and hundreds arrested as Syrian crackdown continues, Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Fitr, and more.</p> Tue, 30 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083011 Eid ul-Fitr, Israel, Protest, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Israel Defense Forces, Jerusalem, West Bank, Egypt, Bashar al-Assad Presenter, Male #1 In Egypt, the Eid slogan is "Eid Mubarak without Mubarak." Millions of Egyptians poured into the main squares in Cairo and the various provinces to perform the first Eid ul-Fitr prayer after the downfall of President Hosni Mubarak's regime. Presenter, Female #1 Slogans in support of the January 25 revolution have dominated the chants of worshippers following the Eid prayer, especially those calling for continuing pressure aimed at bringing civil and democratic life back to Egypt. Presenter, Male #1 Our correspondent Abed Basir Hassan reports from Cairo. Reporter, Male #2 The Eid ul-Fitr in Egypt comes this year with a special flavor of the revolution. Massive crowds converged on public squares, especially at Tahrir, or Libration Square, in the heart of Cairo. The square was turned into a festival, during which forces of the revolution reaffirmed their commitment to the revolution until their objectives are achieved. The enthusiastic display in the square, despite the security presence, included activities by several political parties. Reporter, Male #2 Using sign language, this group of deaf and hearing impaired revolutionaries was able to participate. And this group here expressed loyalty to those who paid the price of freedom with their blood. Guest, Male #5 God willing, we call for retribution. This is the only way to heal our wounds. Thank God. Reporter, Male #2 The scene was not much different in Mustafa Mahmud Square in Giza, which was once a hub of support for Mubarak. Some expressed regret over the deposed regime. Guest, Female #2 I wanted to say that his Excellency, the great and generous president, whom we forgot and whom the entire nation forgot is a poor and an oppressed man; he saw bad days ?Let me finish, let me finish. The president has achieved many, many, many things. Reporter, Male #2 These phrases provoked some who insisted that this year's Eid is the best in decades. Guest, Male #6 It's a beautiful Eid. This is the first time I feel the winds of freedom blowing in the country. I wish the Egyptian people a blessed year, wishing the same for Syria, Yemen, and the entire Arab nation. Reporter, Male #2 As they celebrated, the Egyptians didn't forget about those less fortunate. At a time when Egyptians are celebrating their first post-Mubarak Eid ul-Fitr in open areas and squares, elements of the former regime are spending the Eid behind bars. The most notable message this year is "Eid Mubarak without Mubarak" or "Blessed Eid without Mubarak," even if it angers some. Abed Basir Hassan, al-Jazeera, Cairo. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083011?start=1028 <p>Gaddafi forces given four days to surrender, seven killed and hundreds arrested as Syrian crackdown continues, Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Fitr, and more.</p> Tue, 30 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-083011 Eid ul-Fitr, Israel, Protest, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Israel Defense Forces, Jerusalem, West Bank, Egypt, Bashar al-Assad We open with the continued high state of alert in the south of the country today following concrete intelligence warnings of an impending terrorist attack. Troop deployments on both sides of the Israel-Egypt border were reinforced overnight in an attempt to foil a possible terror attack. According to Israeli intelligence, a large terrorist cell in the Sinai Peninsula was poised to carry out a cross-border mission, similar to the one carried out last week when eight Israelis were killed. The cell is reportedly comprised of some ten to twenty members of the Islamic Jihad Organization. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082411?start=998 <p>Libyan regime accuses NATO of war profiteering as opposition places bounty on Gaddafi's head, Yemenis push for victory before Eid ul-Fitr while Saleh plans military assault, Bahrain's opposition bloc shuns election deadline, and more.</p> Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082411 Israel, Libya, Gaza, Israel Defense Forces, Hamas, Eid ul-Fitr, Tripoli, Eilat, Gaza blockade, Palestine Presenter, Female #1 Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh ordered the recruitment of 50,000 troops to purge all supporters of the revolution in Yemen. Saleh called on his son Ahmad and the rest of his family to speed up the mobilization of armed and air forces as well as the deployment of tanks and missiles against supporters of the revolution. Meanwhile, the popular protests continued across Yemeni cities and provinces, demanding the downfall of the regime. Reporter, Male #1 This is a popular festival in Yemen celebrating the victory of the revolutionaries in Libya and the downfall of the Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi's regime. It's also a festival to reiterate the demands of the Yemeni revolution. Under these slogans, thousands of Yemenis have poured into the streets of the capital Sanaa, the province of Taizz, and the city of Dhamar, praising the Libyan revolutionaries. They also called on all revolutionary and political blocs to mobilize efforts to topple the remaining elements of President Ali Abdullah Saleh's regime before the Eid al-Fitr holiday. Meanwhile, Yemenis in the capital Sana'a held celebrations after several members of the armed forces decided to join the revolution and pledge support for it. Guest, Male #2 We, as members of the Republican Guards, have decided to join the people. With our blood and soul, we will support and protect this struggling and free nation. Reporter, Male #1 The youth movement in Taizz announced the launch of a series of revolutionary actions aimed at toppling the province, as part of a new round of escalations. Meanwhile, hundreds of protestors continued to stage sit-in rallies for the third consecutive day near the Taizz provincial building. In a new national initiative, the youths of the revolution brokered a ceasefire in Jawf Province. This news comes after an agreement was signed by the groups in Jawf. The deal calls for the appointment of a new governor as well as for the release of prisoners from the Houthi group and the Reform Party. A revolutionary team prepared a document of oath and reconciliation signed with blood drawn from representatives of all sects and groups staging sit-ins in Sanaa's Change Square. Among the groups signing the document were the Houthis and the reform party. Meanwhile, from his residential headquarters in Riyadh, Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh called for the deployment of 50,000 troops to purge all supporters of the revolution. Knowledgeable sources affiliated with the Yemeni opposition in Egypt said Saleh instructed his son Ahmad and the rest of his family to deploy troops, tanks, and missiles in order to launch what he referred to as "the final battle," which will include storming freedom and change squares. He also called for the deployment of air forces to shell supporters of the revolution. In a notable development, Yemeni Prime Minister Ali Mohammad Mujawar has returned to Yemen from Riyadh after recuperating from injuries he sustained in the assassination attempt against Saleh in June. Yemen will likely continue to live on the brink of crises, especially amid the double-standard policies adopted by the US and its allies in the region, which continue to support the Yemeni regime against the popular uprising. http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082411?start=1381 <p>Libyan regime accuses NATO of war profiteering as opposition places bounty on Gaddafi's head, Yemenis push for victory before Eid ul-Fitr while Saleh plans military assault, Bahrain's opposition bloc shuns election deadline, and more.</p> Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082411 Israel, Libya, Gaza, Israel Defense Forces, Hamas, Eid ul-Fitr, Tripoli, Eilat, Gaza blockade, Palestine Presenter, Female #1 For the first time in the history of the Muslim community in France, fasters in Paris enjoyed a communal Iftar at the Eiffel Tower park. Organizers say the dinner is aimed at creating an atmosphere of brotherhood, forgiveness, and communication between the Muslim community and people of other religions who joined them. Mohamed Moussa reports from Paris. Reporter, Male #1 During the blessed month of Ramadan, the Muslim community in France seems to be traveling to its motherland by fasting and performing its religious duties. This year, for the first time in history, the Muslim community insisted on organizing a Ramadan gathering in the Parisian Eiffel Tower parks, challenging the difficult conditions surrounding it. Guest, Male #2 (Abdullah al-Minawi, Anwar Moroccan French Association Chair) Our goal is to create an atmosphere of communication and brotherhood between the Muslim community and people of other faiths living in France. As you can see, we are eating our Iftar quietly, without bothering anyone. The presence of the police is unjustified. Reporter, Male #1 As usual, French authorities rushed to harass the fasters by maintaining a heavy security presence and threatening to arrest anyone who performed prayers in a public space. The fasters considered it part of a comprehensive harassment campaign against Muslims in France. Guest, Female #2 (Fuziya Banyub, Journalist and Writer) Unfortunately, for years there have been strong attacks from the French right-wing, the republican right-wing, and the extreme right-wing, implemented through laws and policies. Reporter, Male #1 Everyone shared the same loaf of bread to break their fast and to affirm that Ramadan is a month to be close to God, and a month for rapprochement and coexistence between Muslims and non-Muslims. Guest, Female #3 (Anna, non-Muslim French) Usually, Iftar provides a chance to share and communicate without any political motives. This is wonderful, especially since the invitation is open to everyone and is not limited to relatives. Guest, Male #4 (Yousif, French-Tunisian) It's a new idea and it aims at exchanging views. Personally, I started Ramadan in Tunisia and will finish it here. Usually, my wife and I have our Iftar by ourselves so we came here to have a meal with everyone. Reporter, Male #1 Despite the harassment the Muslim community in France is subjected to, it is trying to preserve its traditions and customs, especially during the holy month. Their thirst has been quenched and may God reward them. Ramadan is a month to worship and be charitable but here, it becomes an opportunity to further scrutinize Muslims because Islamophobia in France, or the prejudice against Muslims, does not fast. Mohamed Moussa, Dubai TV, Paris. ** Contact Mosaic News: mosaicnews{at}linktv{dot}org