LinkTV World News Video Feed http://news.linktv.org Link TV News Videos (Filtered by topics: United Nations Human Rights Council) en-us Thu, 31 Jan 2013 14:52:00 -0800 Copyright 2011 Link Media, Inc. UN Report: Illegal Israeli Settlements Must Go http://news.linktv.org/videos/un-report-illegal-israeli-settlements-must-go?start=0 The United Nations Human Rights Council issued a report in which it found Israeli settlements illegal and said that the settlers must be withdrawn. The report states that the Israeli settlements impede all aspects of life in Palestine. Al Jazeera investigates. Thu, 31 Jan 2013 14:52:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/un-report-illegal-israeli-settlements-must-go United Nations Human Rights Council, Israeli settlement, Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Palestine, West Bank, Jerusalem, Israeli-occupied territories, Israel, Foreign relations of Israel, Borders of Israel The United Nations Human Rights Council issued a report in which it found Israeli settlements illegal and said that the settlers must be withdrawn. The report states that the Israeli settlements impede all aspects of life in Palestine. UN: Syrian Rebels' Summary Executions a 'War Crime' http://news.linktv.org/videos/un-syrian-rebels-summary-executions-a-war-crime?start=0 The United Nations Human Rights Council has announced that the execution of soldiers from the Syrian army by the armed opposition is likely a war crime, and assured that if the video recording of the execution is real, then it will amount to evidence of war crimes if a trial is held. Meanwhile, 24-year-old Nujeen Dirik, the leader of a Kurdish armed unit that is affiliated with the Syrian branch of the PKK in Turkey, was killed in the northern city of Aleppo. Fri, 02 Nov 2012 16:37:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/un-syrian-rebels-summary-executions-a-war-crime Syrian Civil War, Idlib Governorate, United Nations Human Rights Council, Free Syrian Army, Summary execution, War Crime, Syrian army, Syria, Human rights, Hillary Clinton Presenter, Male #1 The United Nations Human Rights Council regrets the execution of soldiers from the Syrian army by the armed opposition, and considers it a war crime. And a Canadian website reveals that the plot to destroy Syria was prepared by the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Israel in 2007. Reporter, Female #1 The video of the armed opposition's execution of 8 soldiers from the Syrian army, who were captured in Idlib Province, did not pass unnoticed. It pushed the international community and international organizations to condemn it, as the UNHRC expressed its regret over the execution of soldiers from the Syrian army by the armed opposition, considering it as a likely war crime. The spokesman for the UNHRC, Robert Colville, clarified that the Council will examine the pictures carefully. He called on everyone to respect international human rights legislation, and assured that if the video recording is real, then it will amount to evidence of war crimes if a trial is held. Reporter, Female #1 The Syrian National Council prompted opposition fighters to hold accountable all those who violate human rights. On the other hand, Amnesty International sees that the shocking video portrays a possible war crime that is currently ongoing, and shows a complete disregard of international human rights laws by the armed groups. Reporter, Female #1 In a related development, 24-year-old Nujeen Dirik, the leader of a Kurdish armed unit that is affiliated with the Democratic Unity Party, which is the Syrian branch of the PKK in Turkey, was killed in the northern city of Aleppo, after a week of being detained by opposition fighters. Reporter, Female #1 On the other hand, tension once again dominates the Syrian-Turkish border after both sides exchanged a number of shells. Sounds of machine gun clashes and several explosions were heard. This was in the wake of a bloody day in which dozens were killed, most of them civilians, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Violent clashes continued between the Syrian army and the armed opposition in different parts of the country. Official Syrian TV mentioned that special forces killed a number of terrorists in Atarib, and targeted another armed group along the Aleppo-Damascus road. This came at a time when al-Ghouta al-Sharqiya in the countryside of Damascus witnessed shelling by warplanes, along with Talbiset Homs, where planes were seen bombing the area. Reporter, Female #1 Far from the events on the ground, the Syrian National Council, which includes most of the opposition factions, rejected the creation of any alternatives to itself, after America hinted at this. The council denounced statements by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, in which she hinted at creating a more comprehensive framework for the opposition. They stated that any discussion of bypassing the National Council, or forming alternative frameworks, is an attempt to harm the Syrian revolution and plant seeds of discord and disagreement. Reporter, Female #1 It's the first time the National Council has released such a report. In a detailed financial report that was published, the opposition Syrian National Council announced that the total number of donations it received over the year has reached USD 40 million. Half of that amount came from Libya, and the other half came from Qatar and the Emirates. The funds were deposited into two accounts, one in Qatar for the Qatari contribution, and the other in Turkey for both the Libyan and Emirati contributions. Reporter, Female #1 This comes at a time when the Canadian Global Research website revealed that a plan to destroy Syria had been prepared by the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Israel in 2007. In a report that quoted Israeli research centers, as well as the "Clean Break" report from joint Israeli-American research, it clarified that the plan was put in place to ensure the security of Israel. Israel would attain security by targeting Syria, the lively and independent state. Reporter, Female #1 The website stated that the two reports published in 2007 and 2008 by the Counterterrorism Center, which is affiliated with the American military, revealed the presence of international networks of terrorist organizations affiliated with al-Qaeda. Their mission was to send fighters to Iraq and Syria. They added that Libya was relied upon as a focal point to train al-Qaeda members and arm them, to be sent on missions according to NATO's agendas. UN condemns Syrian rebels' summary execution of regime soldiers [New TV, Lebanon] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-110212?start=171 <p>Mauritanian president remains in Paris as opposition calls for end to military rule, UN condemns Syrian rebels' summary execution of regime soldiers, Arab-American voters lean toward Obama in US elections, and more.</p> Fri, 02 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-110212 Israel, US presidential election, 2012, Republican Party (United States), Democratic Party (United States), Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz, Syrian Civil War, Arab American, Israeli American, Mahmoud Abbas, Egyptian Revolution Presenter, Male #1 The United Nations Human Rights Council regrets the execution of soldiers from the Syrian army by the armed opposition, and considers it a war crime. And a Canadian website reveals that the plot to destroy Syria was prepared by the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Israel in 2007. Reporter, Female #1 The video of the armed opposition's execution of eight soldiers from the Syrian army, who were captured in Idlib Province, did not pass unnoticed. It pushed the international community and international organizations to condemn it, as the UNHRC expressed its regret over the execution of soldiers from the Syrian army by the armed opposition, considering it as a likely war crime. The spokesman for the UNHRC, Robert Colville, clarified that the Council will examine the pictures carefully. He called on everyone to respect international human rights legislation, and assured that if the video recording is real, then it will amount to evidence of war crimes if a trial is held. Reporter, Female #1 The Syrian National Council prompted opposition fighters to hold accountable all those who violate human rights. On the other hand, Amnesty International sees that the shocking video portrays a possible war crime that is currently ongoing, and shows a complete disregard of international human rights laws by the armed groups. Reporter, Female #1 In a related development, 24-year-old Nujeen Dirik, the leader of a Kurdish armed unit that is affiliated with the Democratic Unity Party, which is the Syrian branch of the PKK in Turkey, was killed in the northern city of Aleppo, after a week of being detained by opposition fighters. Reporter, Female #1 On the other hand, tension once again dominates the Syrian-Turkish border after both sides exchanged a number of shells. Sounds of machine gun clashes and several explosions were heard. This was in the wake of a bloody day in which dozens were killed, most of them civilians, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Violent clashes continued between the Syrian army and the armed opposition in different parts of the country. Official Syrian TV mentioned that special forces killed a number of terrorists in Atarib, and targeted another armed group along the Aleppo-Damascus road. This came at a time when al-Ghouta al-Sharqiya in the countryside of Damascus witnessed shelling by warplanes, along with Talbiset Homs, where planes were seen bombing the area. Reporter, Female #1 Far from the events on the ground, the Syrian National Council, which includes most of the opposition factions, rejected the creation of any alternatives to itself, after America hinted at this. The council denounced statements by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, in which she hinted at creating a more comprehensive framework for the opposition. They stated that any discussion of bypassing the National Council, or forming alternative frameworks, is an attempt to harm the Syrian revolution and plant seeds of discord and disagreement. Reporter, Female #1 It's the first time the National Council has released such a report. In a detailed financial report that was published, the opposition Syrian National Council announced that the total number of donations it received over the year has reached USD 40 million. Half of that amount came from Libya, and the other half came from Qatar and the Emirates. The funds were deposited into two accounts, one in Qatar for the Qatari contribution, and the other in Turkey for both the Libyan and Emirati contributions. Reporter, Female #1 This comes at a time when the Canadian Global Research website revealed that a plan to destroy Syria had been prepared by the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Israel in 2007. In a report that quoted Israeli research centers, as well as the "Clean Break" report from joint Israeli-American research, it clarified that the plan was put in place to ensure the security of Israel. Israel would attain security by targeting Syria, the lively and independent state. Reporter, Female #1 The website stated that the two reports published in 2007 and 2008 by the Counterterrorism Center, which is affiliated with the American military, revealed the presence of international networks of terrorist organizations affiliated with al-Qaeda. Their mission was to send fighters to Iraq and Syria. They added that Libya was relied upon as a focal point to train al-Qaeda members and arm them, to be sent on missions according to NATO's agendas. Syrian regime declares conditional truce as Islamist group rejects holiday ceasefire [New TV, Lebanon] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-102512?start=36 <p>Syrian regime declares conditional truce as Islamist group rejects holiday ceasefire, Israel calls Sudan a terrorist state after Khartoum holds Tel Aviv responsible for air strike, both US presidential candidates pledge to continue drone assassinations, and more.</p> Thu, 25 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-102512 Israel, Catherine Ashton, African Union, Salam Fayyad, Hamas, Eid al-Adha, Ceasefire, Air strike, Prime Minister of the Palestinian National Authority, Palestinians Presenter, Female #1 Hours before the start of Eid al-Adha, Syria agreed to stop its military operations. However, the opposition conditioned the truce on the release of its prisoners by Friday, while what is known as Ansar al-Islam, or the Partisans of Islam, rejected the truce. Reporter, Female #2 Syria's announcement of its final and official stance on the truce proposed by Brahimi was delayed. But the regime's response is a gift to the Syrian people during the holiday. The announcement was made a few hours before the start of Eid al-Adha by the general leadership of the Syrian army, but it reserved what it called the right to respond to attacks by armed groups. Military operations will stop on the Syrian territory from Friday until Monday. Reporter, Female #2 On the other hand, the Free Syrian Army confirmed its commitment to the truce, but conditioned it on the release of its prisoners on Friday. Meanwhile, Ansar al-Islam gunmen doubted the regime's army will abide by the truce, and considered themselves unconcerned with the ceasefire. UN Human Rights Council investigators have indicated war crimes and crimes against humanity are occurring in Syria. The head of the investigators' commission, Brazilian Paulo Pinheiro, announced that it sent the Syrian president a letter asking for permission to enter Syria. Reporter, Female #2 Meanwhile, before the truce goes into effect, the situation on the ground in Syria has not eased since military battles continue between the two sides of the struggle, and have also intensified. Agence France-Presse reported that opposition fighters took control of Aleppo's strategic Ashrafiye neighborhood that holds a Kurdish majority. At the same time, clashes were ongoing between regime forces and opposition groups vying to control al-Sirian, a Christian-majority neighborhood located south of al-Ashrafiye. Reporter, Female #2 The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the cities of Daraya, Harasta, and Douma in the countryside of Damascus were shelled, and clashes erupted on the outskirts of al-Tadamon and al-Qaddam, south of the capital, and in Maarat al-Numaan in Idlib, and in al-Rastan in Homs. The opposition Observatory also reported finding the body of the pastor of St. Elias Greek Orthodox Church, Fadi al-Haddad, who was slaughtered in the city of Qatana in the countryside of Damascus. He had been kidnapped by unidentified gunmen a few days ago. Reporter, Female #2 On the other hand, the official Syrian TV channel said the death toll of the massacre committed by what is called Liwa al-Islam, or Islam Brigade, in Douma, has risen to 25. The channel said the victims were slaughtered on Ali ibn Abu Talib Street. It also broadcast videos of a car explosion carried out by terrorists in a crowded street at the Tadamon entrance in Damascus, indicating that the preliminary toll of the explosion is four killed, and 11 injured civilians. This comes as Syrian Prime Minister Dr. Wael al-Halqi is visiting Homs Province to look into the situation of its residents under the direction of President al-Assad. Guest, Male #1 (Dr. Wael al-Halqi, Syrian Prime Minister) Homs is calling on its residents to return, because life here is completely normal. The government will also start, and it has started, to prepare a database of afflicted people in Homs and other provinces. The government will provide financial compensation equal to half the estimated value presented by the governors and sub-committees. Reporter, Female #2 On the international front, the Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed that the United States is coordinating and providing logistic support to supply weapons to the Syrian opposition. At the same time, the Iranian Islamic Republic's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, accused Washington and Zionism of creating crises in the region with the aid of their agents here to distract their people of the imminent dangers they face. He said some are seeking revenge against Syria because for three decades, it stood in the face of Zionists, and defended the resistance factions in Palestine and Lebanon. UNHRC condemns widespread rights violations by Syrian government forces [IBA, Israel] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-092812?start=987 <p>Kenyan forces surround al-Shabab militants' final stronghold, Bahrainis stage massive marches on the "Friday of Rage," Palestinians shrug off Abbas's bid for UN statehood, and more.</p> Fri, 28 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-092812 UN General Assembly, Israel, Syrian Civil War, Palestinians, Syria, Nuclear program of Iran, Benjamin Netanyahu, Iran, Kismayo, Bahrain Uprising The United Nations Human Rights Council condemned widespread gross violations by Syrian government forces, and voted to the extend the mandate of its own investigation for another six months. More than 30,000 people are estimated to have been killed in the violence so far. Although it has been denied entrance into Syria since it was established one year ago, the independent inquiry has interviewed more than 1,100 victims, refugees, and defectors. Iraq urges international community to recognize Saddam Hussein's crimes as genocide [Al-Iraqiya TV, Iraq] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-092012?start=1076 <p>Pakistan calls in army to guard embassies as thousands clash with police, Israeli air strike kills two Hamas security officers in Gaza, UN human rights rapporteur arrives in Morocco to investigate torture claims, and more.</p> Thu, 20 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-092012 Israel Defense Forces, Israel, Rafah, Hamas, Kabul, Anti-Americanism, Air strike, Afghanistan, Palestinians, Innocence of Muslims Presenter, Female #1 The human rights ministry called on the international community to consider the crimes of the defunct dictatorial regime as genocide crimes. Presenter, Male #1 During a talk at the Human Rights Council in Geneva, Human Rights Minister Mohammed Shiaa al-Sudani called on the United Nations and the international community to recognize the crimes committed by the dictatorial regime. Reporter, Male #2 This time, in the Swiss capital Geneva, the United Nations General Assembly is holding an international conference on Iraq. A large exhibition marked the opening of the conference, in which the crimes of the former regime were documented. It was sponsored by the Iraqi human rights ministry, with the participation of the state institutions that are responsible for war victims and mass graves, the effects of which remain poignant in human consciousness. Guest, Male #3 (Mohammed Shiaa al-Sudani, Human Rights Minister) This is being held to expose the crimes that were committed during this period. This is not the first such mobilization to address these issues. This is a series of mobilizations that have attracted international attention, at this conference as well as the London conference. We hope to continue mobilizing in the rest of the world's capitals, God willing. Reporter, Male #2 The Iraqi human rights ministry is addressing the horrific numbers of mass graves that the former dictatorial regime left behind. This comes at a time when new excavations are exposing areas that had not been previously announced. This matter requires international condemnation and special legislation, which are now considered part of the United Nations' responsibilities, in order to accompany a series of Iraqi measures that were recently passed to punish the perpetrators and deliver justice to the victims. Guest, Male #4 (Rasool Karim, Iraqi Activist) The UN has everything to do with human rights. We must always focus on human rights violations, especially when it comes to the crimes and prisoners, because everything is related to human rights. The United Nations holds the power, and is the primary sponsor of human rights. They are responsible for making the decisions through the Security Council. Guest, Male #5 In Iraq, there are still about 250,000 missing people, and I think that the work in Iraq continues to unveil their fate. This must be accomplished soon. We must speed this up, and this is a good start. Reporter, Male #2 The influential international figures who visited the Iraq exhibition were not very familiar with the magnitude of these criminal acts of oppression and tyranny. This is due to a lack of information, as reports were not made available to the public for many years. And this is also due to the almost complete absence of documentation. Reporter, Male #2 The human rights ministry is working in different languages to document over three decades of organized crimes against the Iraqi people by the dictatorship. And although it has ended, its effects remain. From the United Nations General Assembly in Geneva, Saif al-Khayat, Al-Iraqiya. Bahrainis rally in solidarity with political prisoners sentenced to death [Al-Alam, Iran] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091812?start=33 Protests in solidarity to support political prisoners unjustly sentenced to death took place in all parts of Bahrain, reports Al-Alam. They coincide with a session of the Human Rights Council entitled, "Bahrain is the graveyard of human rights." Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-091812 United States, Anti-Americanism, Islam, Palestinians, UN General Assembly, Syrian Civil War, Syria, Israel, Human rights in Bahrain, Bingöl Presenter, Female #1 From the February 14th Coalition to mass protests in Bahrain, stands taken in solidarity to support those unjustly sentenced to death took place in all parts of the country. Protests took place on the day of the week reserved for honoring Bahrain's martyrs, and a mass sit-in was organized in the town of al-Maqsha in association with the Human Rights Council, part of the United Nations in Geneva. Reporter, Male #1 This week, the day of the week reserved for the martyrs of Bahrain was dedicated to the female martyr Zeinab al-Juma'a. Demonstrations took place in several parts of the country, under the slogan "Our dignity is from God, we will continue in the path of martyrdom until victory is achieved." In honor of the female martyr, the revolutionaries presented her family with a bouquet of flowers, and promises of commitment and loyalty. As protestors also like to say, "The people want the downfall of the regime." Reporter, Male #1 These demonstrations and events have not been silent since taking off on February 14th of last year. They are reinvigorated daily with a new slogan. This time, the slogan encompasses all political associations in the town of al-Maqsha. It is in line with the session of the Human Rights Council, part of the United Nations in Geneva, entitled, "Bahrain is the graveyard of human rights." Guest, Male #2 They inflicted all forms of torture on my body. Reporter, Male #1 These are the words of a child no older than 12 years old. They ask, "What are the sins of the children of Bahrain? And why has regime harassment been limited to children?" Guest, Male #3 You cannot listen to what one family says. They mock some of their supporters in the form of institutions, saying, "This is the recommendation of the Ministry for Human Rights, and this is the recommendation of the Minister for Human Rights." Reporter, Male #1 There is no end to the violations. This is the conclusion reached by the president of the Bahrain Human Rights Monitor, Abdulnabi al-Ekri. Guest, Male #4 (Abdulnabi al-Ekri, President of Bahrain Human Rights Monitor) A report by the secretary-general regarding activists and those who cooperate with the United Nations, has put Bahrain at the top of a list of 16 countries, making it the most dangerous country for human rights violations and the persecution of human rights activists. Reporter, Male #1 In Geneva, where the Human Rights Council was held, rights activists were surprised at the size of the official Bahraini delegation. This spurred comments by some that the regime has suspicious plans to justify their violations. Reporter, Male #1 Yet the delegation's mission was uncovered after it deliberately sabotaged the seminar held by human rights activists in the Persian Gulf. The sabotage and harassment of Bahraini activists did not satisfy the regime. A regime journalist intimidated the Vice President of the Persian Gulf Center for Human Rights, Khaled al-Feymi, during an intense exchange of words. Human rights organizations welcome appointment of UN Special Rapporteur for Eritrea [BBC Arabic, UK] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071812?start=675 Several Eritrean human rights organizations have welcomed a resolution by the UN Human Rights Council to appoint a special commissioner for Eritrea, saying it shows growing concern over the state of human rights violations in Eritrea, BBC Arabic reports. Wed, 18 Jul 2012 18:28:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071812 Politics of Israel, Kadima, NATO, Afghanistan, Afghanistan War, Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel, Haredi Judaism, Taliban, Damascus Presenter, Male #1 Several Eritrean human rights organizations have welcomed a resolution by the UN Human Rights Council, the HRC, to appoint a special commissioner for Eritrea. The Council issued the resolution during its twentieth session. In a statement that the BBC obtained a copy of, the organizations said that the resolution shows the growing concern over the state of human rights violations in Eritrea. The organizations urged the HRC to make braver decisions in order to deal with such dangerous violations. Reporter, Male #2 This is how life appears in the Eritrean capital, Asmara: completely calm and normal. Eritrea, which has an area of 118 square kilometers and a population of four million, sits on a great wealth of natural resources, and owns many islands overlooking the Red Sea, with a costal line reaching nearly 1,000 kilometers. Reporter, Male #2 Since its independence from Ethiopia in 1993, Eritrea has been ruled by Isaias Afewerki. The country seldom makes international headlines, except with regard to its political and border conflicts with neighboring countries, or its alleged intervention in Somalia, and support for the armed al-Shabaab militant group. This makes Eritrea a semi-isolated country that keeps to itself, according to some. The opposition accuses the regime of being one of the last radical and totalitarian systems in the world. Reporter, Male #2 The UN Human Rights Council has recently unveiled what's being described as a "miserable state of human rights" in the country. In a rare resolution, the HRC condemned the wide-scale and systematic violation of human rights and fundamental freedoms by Eritrean authorities. The violations include executions outside the judicial system, random acts of execution, enforced disappearances, systematic torture, indiscriminate detention, solitary confinement, as well as inhumane and insulting imprisonment conditions. Reporter, Male #2 The HRC also criticized the severe restrictions on the freedoms of expression and opinion, and well as the freedoms of the press, religion, association, gathering, and assembly. The violations also include the detention of journalists and human rights activists, as well as political reformists, clergymen, and experts. The Council also condemned the mandatory recruitment of citizens for unspecified periods of time in the National Service. The policy led to forcing minors to join the army, as well as threatening and detaining families of those suspected of deserting the National Service. Reporter, Male #2 The HRC called on the Eritrean government to immediately end all forms of indiscriminate detention, including torture and inhumane punishment. The Council also called for the release of all political prisoners, and for the formation of an independent judicial system. Reporter, Male #2 In order the monitor these issues, the Council decided to appoint a special commissioner in Eritrea. His name is yet to be announced. The decision was largely welcomed by the Eritrean opposition. The government of Asmara will likely welcome the resolution. However, observers expressed doubt over the ability of President Afewerki's regime to meet the requirements necessary for the implementation of such a resolution. Anwar al-Ansi, BBC. Mass killing in Syrian town of Tremseh shocks international community [New TV, Lebanon] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071312?start=35 A new Syrian massacre occurred in the town of al-Tremseh in Hama Province, in which over 150 people were killed, New TV reports. In another development, the UN observers' team to Syria has suspended its work due to the unacceptable level of violence. Fri, 13 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-071312 Mogadishu, Somalia, Muslim Brotherhood, Saudi Arabia, Tremseh massacre, 2011-2012 Sudanese protests, 2011-2012 Jordanian Protests, 2011-2012 Saudi Arabia protests, Gaza, Politics of Egypt Presenter, Female #1 A Syrian military source confirmed that the armed forces carried out an operation targeting members of armed terrorist groups that led to the killing of a large number of them, and did not lead to the death of any civilians. Reporter, Female #2 As the Security Council is making preparations for a session on the crisis in Syria, a new massacre occurred in the town of al-Tremseh in Hama, in which over 150 people were killed. The regime and the opposition traded accusations, while the opposition asked the UN Security Council to issue an urgent and firm resolution on the regime in Damascus, as an official Syrian military source announced that armed military forces killed a large number of terrorists in al-Tremseh on Thursday. The source said an operation was executed and did not lead to the killing of civilians, but large quantities of weapons were confiscated, and documents retrieved, including the IDs of non-Syrians; one of them was Turkish. The military source confirmed that the Syrian forces searched hideouts, finding the bodies of a number of civilians who were previously kidnapped by the armed terrorist groups, then killed. Reporter, Female #2 On the other hand, a Syrian media source said the bloody media channels carried out the Tremseh massacre in coordination with terrorist groups in an attempt to alter public opinion against Syria, and push for foreign intervention on the eve of the Security Council's session. As for the international envoy to Syria, Kofi Annan, he condemned the massacre, saying the observers' delegation is ready to verify the facts. He demanded freedom of movement for the delegation, saying the use of heavy weapons is a violation of the Syrian government's vows. The White House said the horrendous acts committed by al-Assad's forces must stop, and require a coordinated international response at the United Nations. For its part, Russia condemned the massacre, and called for an investigation into it. It said the massacre serves the interests of parties that wish to instigate a religious and sectarian struggle in Syria. Reporter, Female #2 In a separate development, the head of the Syrian National Council, Abdel Baset Sayda, asked the Security Council to hold an urgent session dedicated to protecting the people from the killing they are subjected to, and for an urgent meeting of Arab foreign ministers. He also asked for an international investigation into the massacres by the Human Rights Council and international organizations. Sayda confirmed that the only solution is the removal of the killing elite, and that no dialogue can be held with the killers. Guest Male #1 (Abdel Baset Sayda, Head of Syrian National Council) In case this cannot be achieved because of an expected and undesired Russian veto, we must take action with the "Friends of Syria" group, and this grouping is large and consists of over 100 countries and holds international legitimacy. It must take action, and take practical steps, practical steps. The condemnations and the statements are no longer meaningful. Reporter, Female #2 On the ground, al-Ra'es Street in al-Mazzeh neighborhood in the center of the Syrian capital was shaken by a car explosion that resulted in material losses. The official SANA news agency said armed terrorist groups detonated an explosive device attached to the car. Reporter, Female #2 In another development, the head of the UN observers' team to Syria, General Robert Mood, said during a press conference that the delegation has suspended its work due to the unacceptable level of violence, clarifying that the delegation's mission is to observe the ceasefire, but that the rise of violence has obstructed the monitors' ability to fulfill the mission. Reporter, Female #2 The Syrian minister of national reconciliation affairs, Ali Haidar, confirmed that his doors are open to everyone wishing to communicate, and that he has started indirect contacts. He sent a message that those who refuse to go to Damascus under the pretext that they fear arrest, by saying "If you don't accept our guarantees, then I will be personally responsible for protecting you," and pointed to his willingness to meet in Beirut. He said that anyone can go to Lebanon, and that everyone would guarantee the person's safety in Lebanon. He concluded by saying, "Let's talk here, and decide what we will do." Meanwhile, protests were held on Friday in different parts of Syria under the banner of "Toppling Annan, al-Assad, and Iran's servant." UN warns of rising sectarian killings in Syria as gunmen attack pro-Assad TV channel [BBC Arabic, UK] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062712?start=36 Emad Sara, director of the news channel Al-Ekhbariya, denounced the attack on the channel this morning that killed three journalists, reports BBC Arabic. Meanwhile, the UN released a report saying that the violence in Syria is spiraling out of control. Wed, 27 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-062712 United Nations, Iraq, Syrian Civil War, Nouri al-Maliki, Bahrain Uprising, Politics of Sudan, Lebanese people, Anti-Zionism, Economy of Israel, United Nations Human Rights Council Presenter, Male #1 The Syrian Revolution General Commission said 17 people were killed in various regions of Syria, most of them in Idlib and the countryside of Damascus. Shelling continued in parts of Idlib, Homs, Deir az-Zour, Daraa, Hama, and the countryside of Damascus. Activists said the towns of Khan as-Subul, Sarja, and Abu Samis have been shelled since dawn, leading to casualties. Reporter, Male #2 Emad Sara, director of the news channel Al-Ekhbariya, denounced the attack on the channel this morning. He said the opposition has no desire to convey the opinions of others. Guest, Male #2 (Emad Sara, Director of News Channel Al-Ekhbariya) Three of our journalists were martyred, and of course, their only crime was conveying words; words that you all know well, words of truth, words that express the other point of view. They conveyed the message of their freedoms in their own way. As such, they were targeted. Presenter, Male #1 Human rights investigators in the United Nations released a report today that says the violence in Syria is spiraling out of control. According to the report, the Syrian government is using combat helicopters and artillery to shell residential neighborhoods. It points to the increasing number of sectarian attacks. The report adds that a number of Syrian regions have descended into civil war since the UN-backed ceasefire this past April. However, Karim Abu Zaid, one of the UN investigators who prepared the report, insisted that there is still ambiguity around the Houla Massacre. Reporter, Male #3 The threat of a civil war between numerous opponents is looming over all of Syria. UN investigators submitted a report to the Human Rights Council, warning that vast parts of the country are on the brink of war. Guest, Female #1 (Navi Pillay, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights) We are gravely concerned by the latest reports of an upsurge in violence, and the growing military operations by government forces and armed opposition groups. Innocent civilians are caught in the line of fire. The international observers are subject to serious dangers as well. Reporter, Male #3 The UN Human Rights Council listened to the testimonies of the investigators, whose delegation visited Syria, documented the events there with images and videos, and conducted live interviews. The Houla Massacre, where an entire family was killed, and the world's horrified reaction to it, were important parts of the report. Guest, Male #4 (Paulo Sergio Pinheiro) The manner in which these killings took place resembles those previously and repeatedly documented to have been committed by the government. While the commission cannot rule out the possibility that the opposition fighters are responsible for the killings, it does not believe that is likely. Reporter, Male #3 Representatives of Western countries and some Arab countries held the Syrian government responsible for the continuing violence. Qatar called for referring the issue to the Security Council, in order to issue a resolution under Chapter 7 of the UN Charter. As for Washington, it adhered to condemning President Bashar al-Assad's regime. Guest, Female #2 (Eileen Chamberlain Donahoe, US Representative to the UN) The Assad regime is waging a brutal campaign against the Syrian people, characterized by aerial bombardment, mass killings, rape, and other atrocities. Reporter, Male #3 The report criticized Syria's armed opposition, and accused it of committing violations, and using children in missions that expose them to the dangers of fighting. However, the basis of the report was completely rejected by the Syrian government and its allies. The Venezuelan representative believed that certain parties which he described as imperialist are seeking to sabotage the Kofi Annan plan, and push the situation toward a Libya-style military intervention. Meanwhile, the Syrian representative reiterated his president's statement that Syria is engaged in a real war. Guest, Male #5 (Faisal Hamoui, Syrian Representative to the UN) My country's delegation will not take part in this session, in protest of the bias and politicization of the situation. Reporter, Male #3 While waiting for reaching a political settlement that all relevant parties in the Syrian issue can agree upon, the Human Rights Council's discussion remains impeded by international disagreement on how to approach the crisis. The Syrian dissidents and anti-regime protestors consider this disagreement a mere excuse for the international community's failure in dealing with the matter. Wael Hajjar, BBC. Official Syrian Report Blames Rebels for Houla Massacre http://news.linktv.org/videos/official-syrian-report-blames-rebels-for-houla-massacre?start=0 The Syrian government has released a report clearing itself of any involvement in last week's massacre in Houla. Susan Rice, US ambassador to the United Nations, slammed the regime's version of events as "another blatant lie." Fri, 01 Jun 2012 09:05:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/official-syrian-report-blames-rebels-for-houla-massacre Houla massacre, Syria, Syrian Civil War, Susan Rice, Houla, Sectarian Violence, Summary execution, United Nations Human Rights Council, Civilian casualties, Al-Qusayr The Syrian government has released a report clearing itself of any involvement in last week's massacre in Houla. Susan Rice, US ambassador to the United Nations, slammed the regime's version of events as "another blatant lie." UN members warn of civil war in Syria on 'The Friday of the children of Houla' [New TV, Lebanon] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-060112?start=364 UN warnings of a full-fledged civil war have been issued for Syria, as Syrians held demonstrations on a Friday titled "The children of Houla are the torches of victory," and a new massacre was committed in the countryside of al-Qusayr, New TV reports. Fri, 01 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-060112 Syrian Civil War, Houla massacre, Yemen Uprising, Palestinians, Israel, Syria, Ban Ki-moon, Istanbul, 2011-2012 Jordanian Protests, Egyptian presidential election, 2012 Presenter, Male #1 An international warning of a full-fledged civil war has been issued for Syria. Syrians held demonstrations on a Friday titled "The children of Houla are the torches of victory," and a new massacre was committed in the countryside of al-Qusayr, targeting workers. Reporter, Female #1 The international community has heightened its warning to a looming civil war in Syria. During a joint press conference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Russian President Vladimir Putin said there are emerging elements of a civil war in Syria. Guest, Male #2 (Vladimir Putin, Russian President) Today, we are seeing emerging elements of civil war in Syria. It is extremely dangerous. Russia doesn't support any side of the conflict, and does not supply Damascus with weapons that could be used in a civil war. Guest, Female #2 (Angela Merkel, German Chancellor) We both made clear that we are pushing for a political solution, and that Annan's plan can be a starting point. Reporter, Female #1 For his part, British Foreign Minister William Hague stressed the importance of implementing the Annan plan and reiterated his country's fear of a civil war in Syria. This came during talks held by Hague with the Syrian opposition and UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in Istanbul. Guest, Male #3 William Hague, British Foreign Minister) The United Nations secretary-general and I, as well as the Syrian opposition, believe that Syria is on the edge of an all-out civil war and a collapse into sectarian strife. Reporter, Female #1 For her part, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navi Pillay, said a full-fledged conflict in Syria would put the entire region "in grave danger." She also called on the international community to support the Annan plan. In a statement read by her representative at the UN Human Rights Council's special session on Syria, Pillay said Syrian forces and militias accused of committing a massacre in Houla could face prosecution for crimes against humanity. Reporter, Female #1 In response to a call by the opposition, Syrians held anti-regime demonstrations on a Friday titled "The children of Houla are the torches of victory." The demonstrations were held in honor of the children killed in the Houla massacre in Homs Province. The participants chanted anti-regime slogans. Reporter, Female #1 On the other hand, Syrian state television broadcast scenes of al-Gha'eb, or the missing prayers, for the martyrs of al-Houla massacre. The prayers were held at the Great Umayyad Mosque in Damascus and other mosques in Aleppo and Latakia. On the ground, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said 12 workers were killed on a bus while traveling across the countryside of al-Qusayr. The victims were shot to death after their hands were tied behind their backs. The Observatory called on the international observers to visit al-Qusayr and investigate the killings. In Homs, activists uploaded videos online showing neighborhoods being shelled as international observers toured the city. Bahrainis continue protests against US arms shipment to al-Manama regime [Al-Alam, Iran] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052512?start=1190 <p>Brotherhood candidate claims early lead as protestors rally against Mubarak-era candidates, Lebanese hostages released in Syria as Annan plans to meet with al-Assad officials, Iran's nuclear talks moved to Moscow after reaching a stalemate, and more.</p> Fri, 25 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052512 Egyptian presidential election, 2012, Israel, Iran, Nuclear program of Iran, Syrian Civil War, Muslim Brotherhood, Hassan Nasrallah, Ahmed Shafiq, Lebanon, P5+1 Presenter, Female #1 Bahrain's revolutionaries called for demonstrations on the Friday of "rejecting the US arming of the regime," which crushed protests in numerous regions. The revolutionaries called for taking to the streets to express loyalty to political prisoners. The revolutionaries shut down some of the vital roads to protest the continuing arrest of women by the regime. Bahraini cleric, Sheikh Issa Qassim, asserted that the crisis will not end until authorities submit to the people's demands. Reporter, Male #1 Bahraini residents chanted slogans in solidarity with prisoners in the regime's prisons, coinciding with the February 14 Youth Coalition's calls to hold similar marches across the country to mark "Friday of rejecting the US arming of the al-Manama regime." The marches were soon confronted by the regime with gunfire and tear gas, wounding a number of protestors, and many others were arrested, mostly women. The repression prompted residents of various areas to shut down main roads with burning tires to express their anger towards the escalating repression in all forms. Reporter, Male #1 For his part, Sheikh Issa Qassim asserted that the crisis in the country will not end until the authorities submit to the people's demands. During his Friday speech in Diraz region, Sheikh Qassim condemned the authorities' denial of holding any prisoners in custody, while hundreds are cooped up in prison. Guest, Male #2 (Sheikh Issa Qassim, Bahraini Cleric) The issue of these rights violations has become undeniable. It is internationally condemned, even by the major allies of the current regime. This was revealed as a result of the discussions at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva pertaining to Bahrain's human rights violations report. Reporter, Male #1 The regime's denial of detaining protestors was accompanied by accusation from the Minister of Justice, Khalid al-Khalifa, who accused the people of committing violence in the country. At the same time, he said the regime is ready to enter a conditional dialogue, with clear and explicit condemnation of the violence committed by the opposition. These accusations prompted denunciations and condemnations by political opposition parties, who consider this a dangerous escalation. Reporter, Male #1 Meanwhile, the government is ignoring the international and regional pressure to release detained opposition figures, most notably activist Nabeel Rajab, and Abdulhadi al-Khawaja, who has been on a hunger strike for over three months, in addition to al-Khawaja's daughter, Zainab, who was sentenced by the regime's judiciary to six months in prison. Maryam al-Khawaja slams UNHRC during Bahrain rights review [Press TV, Iran] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052312?start=977 A number of human rights activists spoke of international double standards at the United Nations Human Rights Council's Universal Periodic Review of Bahrain, reports Press TV. Among them was Maryam Alkhawaja, daughter of activist Abdulhadi Alkhawaja. Wed, 23 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052312 Nuclear program of Iran, Israel, Iran, Saeed Jalili, P5+1, Baghdad, Yemen, Economy of Yemen, Egyptian presidential election, 2012, Politics of Israel Human rights activists say the mechanisms of the United Nations Human Rights Council for redress are selective and are failing the citizens of countries in need of it. At the Universal Periodic Review of Bahrain, the activists said it is simply becoming too hard for them to watch other countries receive the attention that Bahrain desperately needs. Nada Dhaif of BRAVO Medics and Maryam al-Khawaja, daughter of hunger striking activist Abdulhadi al-Khawaja, highlight the UNHRC's intervention in other countries because of international pressure, but points out that there isn't consistent international condemnation of the human rights violations in Bahrain, including abduction from hospitals. Bahraini security forces attack protestors as crackdown continues [Al-Alam, Iran] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052112?start=637 <p>Deadly suicide attack on Yemeni capital leaves 90 soldiers dead, two Lebanese killed in heavy clashes as Syrian conflict spills over, NATO agrees to hand over security lead to Afghan troops by mid-2013, and more.</p> Mon, 21 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-052112 Palestinians, NATO, Afghanistan, Israel Defense Forces, Israel, Afghanistan War, United Nations, Military of Yemen, Akkar District, Afghan National Security Forces Presenter, Female #1 Demonstrations calling for toppling the regime are continuing in Bahrain, while security forces burned residential homes in the village of Maameer. On the other hand, political and rights activists called for a sit-in in front the UN headquarters in Geneva, which was holding a session designated for discussing human rights, and on its agenda was the case of human rights violations in Bahrain. Reporter, Male #2 Bahrain, an island with a dark night, and the suffocating smell of toxic gas fill its cities. All that can be heard are the screams of its residents, and gun fire mixed with cries. People who do not know calm; every morning has its own slogan, and protestors calling for peaceful demonstrations on the week of "rejecting the US arming of the regime," and solidarity with the wanted and the fugitives. These calls were answered in various cities and villages in Bahrain, and demonstrations emerged. Reporter, Male #2 In one of its countless violations, Bahraini security forces burnt a house in the village of Maameer, by firing poisonous and petrol bombs on the homes of the residents of the area, as a punishment for participating in a demonstration, only to demand their rights. Reporter, Male #2 In a new crackdown on the freedom of expression, Ahmed Reda, a media figure, tortured by police officer Isa Majali, to force him to confess to publishing false news and participating in anti-regime demonstrations. The interior ministry is refusing to allow his family and lawyers to visit him, for fear of seeing the signs of torture on him. Meanwhile, the case of the Bahraini regime's violations against the people was being viewed by the UN Human Rights Council. One hundred different human rights organizations worldwide called for an end to the assault on the freedom of expression, and the release of all rights and online activists. They also called on the UN Human Rights Council and all relevant governments to use their influence on the ruling al-Khalifa family to end its violations of these rights. Presenter, Male #1 The participating countries in the session to review the human rights case in Bahrain directed sharp criticisms at the al-Manama government, due to the violations and crimes it committed against its people. And throughout the session that was held in Geneva, the Bahraini government delegation seemed fully aware of the continuing violations, was not able to respond to the condemnations and criticisms directed to them by participating countries. The delegation was subject to precise and clear questions regarding violations and the international obligations, and for not implementing the recommendations of the fact-finding commission. However, the official answers of the Bahraini delegation were not spared of untruths. UNHRC to discuss Bahrain's human rights record in quadrennial review [Press TV, Iran] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-051512?start=1151 <p>Fierce clashes between Yemeni troops and al-Qaeda kill 44 in volatile south, Palestinian prisoners end hunger strike as Israeli forces clash with protestors on "Nakba" Day, UN observers under fire again in Syria, and more.</p> Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-051512 Palestinians, Nuclear program of Iran, Gaza, Iran, Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Yemeni al-Qaeda crackdown, Nakba, Palestinian prisoners in Israel, Middle East Peace Process, Syrian Civil War The UN Human Rights Council will discuss Bahrain's rights record in its upcoming Universal Periodic Review, or UPR, in Geneva. The UPR examines the human rights records of all human member states; Bahrain's human rights situation will be discussed on May 21. The Persian Gulf kingdom has come under fire for its human rights violations in the wake of the revolution that has shaken the US ally since February 2011. UNHRC: Israel's decision to sever ties is 'very unfortunate' [IBA, Israel] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-032712?start=865 <p>Syria accepts Annan's ceasefire plan as Assad tours former rebel stronghold, Tunisia's Ennahda to preserve secular basis of the state, Sudan suspends summit with South Sudan following clashes, and more.</p> Tue, 27 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-032712 Israel, West Bank, Palestinians, Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Israel Defense Forces, Egypt, Hunger strike, Syrian Civil War, Ennahda, 2012 Ozar Hatorah Toulouse shooting The president of the UN Human Rights Council said that the Israeli decision to sever ties with the organization is very unfortunate. The comment by UNHRC Commissioner Navi Pillay comes in the wake of the Israeli announcement that it will cut all ties with the group following the UN agency's decision to probe how West Bank settlements infringe on Palestinian rights. US Ambassador to Israel Dan Shapiro said that he understands the Israeli decision, and he charged that the UN body neglects far more urgent violations taking place in Syria and Iran. UNHRC focuses on Israel's treatment of Palestinians [IBA, Israel] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-031912?start=567 <p>Hundreds of thousands rally on "day to support oppressed Iraqis," UN report finds Israeli settlers stealing Palestinian water springs, Saudi protests in solidarity with Abha students spread to Riyadh, and more.</p> Mon, 19 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-031912 Israeli–Palestinian conflict, Israel, United Nations, Palestinians, Gaza–Israel conflict, Gaza, Syria, 2003 invasion of Iraq, Bahrain Uprising, Jews Israel was the focus of a session held by the United Nations Human Rights Council, which met to discuss five resolutions on Israel's treatment of the Palestinians, including one from Pakistan demanding the return of the Golan Heights to Syria. The council also invited a senior Hamas member to testify, a move that Israeli diplomats are working to prevent. North Korean Defectors Call on China to End Repatriation http://news.linktv.org/videos/north-korean-defectors-call-on-china-to-end-repatriation?start=0 Pressure is mounting on China to stop their policy of repatriating North Korean refugees, especially in the wake of Kim Jong-un's declaration that defectors during the 100-day mourning period for Kim Jong-il will be executed. Broadcaster MBC covers the South Korean protests. Tue, 06 Mar 2012 13:49:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/north-korean-defectors-call-on-china-to-end-repatriation North Korean defectors, South Korea, Kim Jong-un, Kim Jong-il, North Korea, United Nations Human Rights Council, Cha In-Pyo, Pyongyang, Seoul, United Nations Convention Against Torture Yul Kwon: Now there's a growing concern that the lives of North Korean migrants detained in China are in danger. China's policy is to send them back to North Korea. And what's worse is that Kim Jung-un has declared that refugees who flee during the 100-day mourning period of his father's death would be executed, along with their families. MBC reports on the efforts being made to encourage China to change its policy towards North Korean refugees. Reporter: Young North Korean defectors gather at the Embassy of the People's Republic of China. They're appealing for an end to repatriation of North Korean refugees. North Korean Defector: If they're sent back to North Korea, they will never see their families again. Please help them, please. Reporter: Together with the North Korean defectors, celebrities raise their voices, since they can easily influence public opinion. Cha In-pyo, South Korean Actor: If they are sent back to North Korea, defectors, as well as their families, will face execution. Reporter: The Korean Freedom Federation is calling on China to stop its policy of repatriating defectors and urges China to take humanitarian steps if it wants to become influential and powerful alongside America. Also, a member of the Forward Liberty Party, Park Sun-young, went on a hunger strike. South Korea's government is considering bringing up this issue of North Korean defectors to the UN Human Rights Council meeting in Geneva, Switzerland. Cho Byung-jae, South Korean Foreign Ministry Spokesman: We urge all countries to follow the principle of non-refoulement and the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhumane or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. Reporter: However, it is not easy for the UNHRC to make the defectors issue an agenda item. That's because China insists that North Korean defectors are not refugees, but just cross the border illegally for economic reasons. China also has to maintain a special relationship with North Korea. Although the South Korean government has actively addressed the issue of North Korean defectors, it's been difficult to resolve the problem through international organizations. But South Korea's government will keep on making efforts to have bilateral discussions with China on the issue. UN report expresses concern over involuntary disappearances in Kashmir [Press TV, Iran] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-030112?start=579 A new annual report submitted by the United Nations Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances has named Indian-controlled Kashmir as one of the places where the disappearances have been prevalent, Press TV reports. Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-030112 United States, Anti-Americanism, Iran, United Nations, Pentagon, Iranian legislative election, 2012, Egyptian presidential election, 2012, Yemen Uprising, US-Afghanistan relations, Kashmir Presenter, Male #1 A fresh annual report submitted by the United Nations Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances has named Indian-controlled Kashmir as one of the places where the disappearances have been prevalent. The report has blamed India for not responding to its contentious requests. Shahana Butt reports from Indian-administered Kashmir. Reporter, Female #1 (Shahana Butt, Press TV Reporter) United Nations Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances has submitted its annual report, which will be discussed during the March session of United Nations Human Rights Council. The report has mentioned about the disappearances and the presence of mass graves in troubled region of Indian-administered Kashmir. The report says despite its repeated requests to carry out a country visit, the Indian government has not come up with any formal reply, nor has rebutted the allegation of enforced disappearances. Guest, Male #2 (Khurram Parvez, International Human Rights Tribunal) India would be reviewed in the United Nations. There is universal periodic review of India happening this year. So this report by the UN Working Group on Enforced Disappearances would also form the opinion of the member states regarding what India has been doing on the human rights situation in India and particularly in Kashmir for us. Reporter, Female #1 It was reported that between 1989 and 2009, the action of military and paramilitary forces in disputed Kashmir have resulted in more than 8,000 enforced and involuntary disappearances, and more recently, state rights commission has acknowledged the presence of 2,700 graves in three provinces, encompassing a total of 55 villages. Meanwhile, in its fresh right-to-information query about the prosecution pertaining to Indian soldiers involved in crimes related to human rights over the past 20 years, the general government in Kashmir for the first time has claimed that Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Defense in New Delhi have not given the prosecution sanctions under Armed Forces Special Powers Act in any of the human rights cases since 1990 to date. Guest, Male #3 (Parvez Imroz, Human Rights Lawyer) The Supreme Court is saying that people who have committed the crime, like rape, like killing, like fake encounter, they should be punished for that. They don't have the legal impunity under the AFSPA, Armed Forces Special Powers Act. Reporter, Female #1 The chief minister of Indian-administered Kashmir over the past one year has been proposing to Indian government the withdrawal of Armed Forces Special Powers Act. However, Indian government has denied the proposal following Indian Army instructions. Human rights groups have usually accused India of rights violations in Kashmir, but so far India has not come up with a firm investigation, and says it punishes those found guilty. Indian-administered Kashmir is under conflict since 1989 and nearly 50,000 people have been killed so far according to official records, and it continues to be a dispute between two nuclear armed countries, India and Pakistan. Syria Walks Out of UN Human Rights Meeting, Homs Destruction Continues http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrian-ambassador-walks-out-of-un-human-rights-meeting-as-homs-destruction-continues?start=0 As the devastation continued in Homs, Syrian UN Ambassador Faysal Khabbaz Hamoui stormed out of a UN human rights session in Geneva. Tue, 28 Feb 2012 16:24:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/syrian-ambassador-walks-out-of-un-human-rights-meeting-as-homs-destruction-continues Syria, United Nations Human Rights Council, Homs, Syrian Civil War, Siege of Homs, Mortar (weapon), Artillery, Geneva, Syrian army, Residential area Amateur video of the devastation in Homs, Syria, where shooting and shelling continues to threaten the lives of residents, and Syrian UN Ambassador Faysal Khabbaz Hamoui storms out of a UN human rights session in Geneva. Hundreds of Palestinians join Khader Adnan's hunger strike [Palestine TV, Ramallah] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-021412?start=1091 <p>Bahrain blocks return to Martyrs' Square on revolt anniversary, tension high as South Sudan accuses Sudan of air attack, Gaza's sole power station closes after running out of fuel, and more.</p> Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-021412 Bahrain Uprising, Palestinians, Manama, Pearl Roundabout, Bahrain, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Gaza, Yemen Uprising, Syrian Civil War Presenter, Male #1 The occupation's court decided to extend the detention of prisoner Khader Adnan for another four months. Adnan has been on a hunger strike for 58 days. The court denied the appeal submitted by the Palestinian Prisoners' Society. The Palestinian national police considered the ruling to be the equivalent of a death sentence against Adnan. The occupation's prison administration has begun to take punitive measures against the prisoners striking in solidarity with Khader Adnan. Reporter, Male #2 After prisoners announced their solidarity with Khader Adnan, who entered the 58th day of his hunger strike, the occupation authorities, or the so-called "prison administration," imposed new punishment such as conducting nightly raids and denying the prisoners' family visits, as well as beating and harassing them. Guest, Male #3 (Helmi al-Araj, General Director of the Center for Defense of Liberties and Civil Rights) We demand the international community, international human rights organizations, and the UN Human Rights Council to form a fact-finding committee to visit and inspect the prisons, and see the reality of the prisoners' conditions. They will find that these prisons are not suitable for human beings. Reporter, Male #2 The arbitrary measures against those behind bars did not intimidate these prisoners, who affirmed they will continue their strike until Adnan's release. Adnan is suffering from the two harshest conditions due to solitary confinement and the arbitrary administrative verdict without any actual charges. Guest, Male #4 (Qadura Fares, Palestinian Prisoners' Society President) We are committed to expressing solidarity, and helping the prisoners' movement and supporting our brother Khader Adnan's struggle. We also call on all Palestinians and Arabs across the world to stand up and support him with real action. Brother Khader Adnan is struggling for two major issues: against torture, humiliation, abuse, the destruction of human dignity, and against administrative detention. Reporter, Male #2 The prisoners' battle of empty stomachs is the only weapon they possess to defend their dignity and express their rejection of the prison administration's policy of humiliation. Presenter, Male #1 Students at Birzeit University in the provinces of Ramallah and al-Birah organized a sit-in in solidarity with prisoner Adnan in front of the Ofer prison with the cooperation of the popular resistance committees. Occupation forces targeted them with sound grenades and teargas, leading to a number of injuries. Reporter, Female #1 As part of the daily scene of solidarity with prisoner Khader Adnan, who has been on a hunger strike for 58 days, students at Birzeit University organized a sit-in called for by the popular resistance. It was held in front of the Ofer prison, west of Ramallah. Their voices were unified against the policy of administrative detention and the occupation. Guest, Male #5 (Abdullah Abu Rahmah, Popular Committee Against the Wall and Settlement) We are in solidarity with the hero Khader Adnan, and we support his legendary resistance. We also support the prisoners in a number of prisons who have also begun their hunger strike against the occupation's policy and the prison administration. Many students at Birzeit University are also joining the strike. Reporter, Female #1 This scene did not please the occupation forces, who responded with sound grenades, teargas and rubber bullets, wounding dozens of protesters. Fifty-eight days and Khader Adnan is still fighting the battle of the empty stomach, challenging his executioners in hopes of eliminating the injustice and oppression of the occupation. Life with dignity or martyrdom, Khader Adnan is fighting the occupiers with this slogan from inside their prison cells. And outside those cells, a circle of solidarity is expanding daily and taking action to appeal to the international community. Sara al-Adhra, Palestine TV, Ramallah. UN views situation in Syria as civil war [Future TV, Lebanon] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-120111?start=34 In Syria, shelling by al-Assad brigades continues to target the residents of Homs, Hama, and Idlib, leading to the deaths of 21 people. The UN Human Rights Council announced that the death toll in Syria has exceeded 4,000 people since the eruption of the revolution, describing the situation as civil war. 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 Presenter, Female # 1 In Syria, shelling by al-Assad brigades continues to target the residents of Homs, Hama, and Idlib, leading to the deaths of 21 people. Reports indicate regime forces and the shabeha stormed the town of Tremseh in the countryside of Hama as the opposition held a strike in a number of cities. The UN Human Rights Council announced that the death toll in Syria has exceeded 4,000 people since the eruption of the revolution, describing the situation as civil war. Reporter, Male # 1 The majority of Syrian cities and towns turned into ghost towns. Stores were closed and the streets semi-deserted. This comes in response to the opposition's call to hold a general strike to mourn the dead, who have been perishing daily since mid-March by the bullets of al-Assad's brigades. Wide-participation in the strike was reported in all of Hama's markets and streets in support of the city's countryside that is being subjected to a bloody military operation. But despite the general strike, anti-regime protests were held on streets crowded with demonstrators demanding the downfall of President Bashar al-Assad and his regime. The Syrian Revolution's General Commission reported confrontations between Syrian security and students in the city of Darayya in the countryside of Damascus. Security forces were attempting to prevent them from holding an anti-regime march in the city. So the students challenged the presence of armed security across Darayya's streets amid reports that al-Assad's brigades attacked those participating in another student protest. Syrian security forces fired tear gas at the students, causing some to suffer from nausea and unconsciousness. Meanwhile, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navi Pillay, said the death toll in Syria since the protest movement started has reached at least 4,000. She characterized the current situation in Syria as civil war. Amid these conditions, the leadership of the Syrian National Council confirmed the Free Syrian Army will soon start its armed operations against military, security, and political Ba'ath Party leadership sites in the heart of Damascus. The SNC said this comes in response to the massacres committed by the regime and the wide-scale security operations carried out in Syrian cities and towns. These on-the-ground developments did not constitute an obstacle to the opposition's ongoing eight-month-old revolution. For this reason, the opposition continues to mobilize its supporters, asking them to participate in mass protests on what it called the Friday of "we demand a buffer zone." The opposition's supporters held massive night marches in line with the mobilization taken on the Tuesday of "a united Syria is our homeland." Opposition websites said the bullets of al-Assad's forces resulted in the deaths of at least 27 people in Homs, Idlib, Hama and the countryside of Damascus. On the other hand, Syria announced it will suspend its membership in the Union for the Mediterranean, which was established in July 2008 under France's initiative. The official Syrian news agency SANA reported the freeze comes in response to the unjustified European measures taken against the Syrian people. It viewed the European Union's series of measures as a blatant violation of its national sovereignty and a clear interference in Syria's internal affairs that lacks any sort of objectivity. Syrian protestors demand the formation of transitional council [Future TV, Lebanon] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082411?start=341 <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 Syrian forces stormed the city of Mayadin in Deir az-Zour and killed seven civilians amid reports of raids in the neighborhoods of al-Bayada in Homs. Supporters of the opposition organized massive demonstrations during which participants chanted slogans calling for freedom, the downfall of the regime, and the formation of a transitional national council to run the country in the post-President Bashar al-Assad phase. Reporter, Male #1 Since early this morning, the northeastern Syrian province of Deir az-Zour has been witnessing a broad security campaign by Syrian security forces. In al-Mayadin, a number of victims were killed and wounded amid heavy tank fire. At the same time, Syrian security forces backed by tanks stormed the village of Bourahmah in Deir az-Zour, where a mass demonstration challenging the armed security presence in the streets broke out. And while security buses and vehicles were reported heading to the eastern town of Mataiya in Houran, most regions in Homs, especially the neighborhoods of al-Khalidiya, al-Bayada, al-Zir Street, al-Mreija, and Bab as-Sibaa are enduring raids and arrest campaigns, combined with heavy gunfire and explosions. These on-the-ground developments come on the last day of the UN humanitarian delegation's mission. Today, the delegation visited the central city of Hama and the neighboring cities of al-Rastan and Talbisa to look into the humanitarian situation there. The tour comes hours after the killing of a number of people by the Syrian security forces' gunfire in the countryside of Hama, amid raid campaigns and a wave of wide-scale arrests. Eyewitnesses said Syrian security forces opened heavy fire at protestors in the town of al-Rastan in the countryside of Homs. According to the same witnesses, a number of people were killed and wounded but could not be tended to due to the heavy gunfire. On the other hand, activists say Syrian forces backed by armored trucks raided a tribal region near the border with Iraq, killing one person and arresting dozens. The city of Idlib witnessed a general strike as all commercial stores closed in protest of the Syrian security's use of live bullets against protestors. In addition, the neighborhoods of the city witnessed a children's protest demanding that Assad leave. Under these circumstances, the opposition's pages on social networking sites released a video showing soldiers standing on tanks and firing directly at residential neighborhoods and homes. The websites did not specify the date the video was filmed or its location. Another video showed anti-regime detainees being humiliated and hit by Syrian security forces. To complete the series of nightly marches launched by the opposition after Taraweeh prayers since the beginning of Ramadan, supporters of the opposition organized a massive demonstration last night. Participants chanted slogans calling for freedom and the downfall of the regime. The protestors also carried banners demanding the formation of a transitional national council to run the country in the post-President Bashar al-Assad phase. Other banners congratulated the Libyan people for overthrowing Colonel Muammar al-Gaddafi's regime, in the hope of a similar fate for Assad. UN orders Syria crackdown probe as opposition forms a national council [Al Jazeera, Qatar] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082311?start=931 <p>Libyan opposition forces storm Gaddafi's Bab al-Aziziya compound and destroy his sculpture of a fist crushing a US plane, after a defiant Saif al-Islam earlier reemerged in Tripoli.</p> Tue, 23 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082311 2011 Libyan Uprising, Muammar Gaddafi , Tripoli, Libya, Saif al-Islam, Israel, Bab al-Aziziya, Egypt, Palestinian rocket attacks on Israel, Cairo Presenter, Female #1 The UN Human Rights Council has adopted a draft resolution calling for the formation of an independent committee to investigate human rights violations in Syria. Presenter, Male #1 The draft resolution was proposed by the US, the EU, and the four Arab countries at the council: Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Kuwait. Meanwhile, Russia, China, and Cuba have opposed the resolution. Presenter, Female #1 The Syrian opposition held a press conference in Istanbul to announce the outcome of their meeting aimed at forming a national council to represent the opposition inside and outside Syria. Presenter, Male #1 On the ground, the UN team has arrived in the city of Idlib. The visit coincided with a protest rally that was held on city streets demanding the downfall of the regime. Presenter, Female #1 The Syrian Revolution Coordination Union said that the army has withdrawn from Harasta in Rif Dimashq, after storming the city at dawn. Reporter, Male #1 Gunfire, tanks, and raids on one side; and blood, death, funerals, and more protests on the other. This is the dominant scene in Syria. Since March 15, Syria has been witnessing bloody days. Funeral processions are being held daily, from Dara'a in the south to Idlib in the north; and from al-Bukamal and Deir ez-Zour in the east, passing through Homs, and ending at the coastal cities. These images, which have recently surfaced from Jisr al-Shoughour, bring back to memory the era of ignorance which many thought had long passed, as cited by activists. Ignorance, which is not limited by time or place, reflects the low morals of some, described as "defenders of the homeland front." Meanwhile, Homs's cities and villages are still being placed under siege and witnessing military operations; and the death tolls continue to rise. The situation is similar in Latakia, al-Bukamal, and other Syrian cities. Under the dark shadow of night, this military convoy is rushing to the area of al-Koriya in Deir ez-Zour, where security forces are conducting sweeps and raids. The campaign is also targeting the city of Harasta in Rif Dimashq and other villages in Rif Hama. These protestors are no longer frightened by the sound of gunfire and shelling. After performing the Taraweeh prayer in the area of Binish in Idlib, Ibrahim joins the night protests calling for the downfall of the regime. In Babi Houd and Rustin in Homs, the protests often turn into popular celebrations calling for freedom and the ouster of Assad. This is Syria, where activists launched the freedom revolution. They are gaining new momentum from Tunisia, Egypt, and Libya, vowing to continue with steadfastness and announce their complete separation from a regime that will not last forever. UN delegation visits Homs as Syrian regime seizes weapons at Iraqi border [New TV, Lebanon] http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082211?start=1098 <p>Libyan revolutionaries claim victory as sporadic fighting continues across the capital, Libyans around the world celebrate the fall of Tripoli, a look back at the key moments of the February 17 Revolution, and more.</p> Mon, 22 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 http://news.linktv.org/videos/mosaic-news-082211 Libya, 2011 Libyan Uprising, Muammar Gaddafi , Tripoli, Syria, Bashar al-Assad, Benghazi, NATO, Syrian Civil War, Homs Presenter, Female #1 Following its visit to Rif Dimashq, the UN humanitarian delegation arrived in Homs, where three people were killed today in fresh protests. Reporter, Female #1 Today's death toll among civilians has risen to five, as confirmed by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The Observatory said that two people were killed and four others were wounded in gunfire by "elements" loyal to the Syrian regime in the city of Misyaf near Hama. US Ambassador Robert Ford visited Hama for the second time. The Observatory added that elements of the regime opened fire on city streets to celebrate Assad's speech. In addition, three more people were killed in Homs during a protest on the Abdul Rahman al-Duroubi Street. The protestors took to the streets as soon as the UN humanitarian delegation announced its plan to visit the city. Syrian opposition websites showed video clips of shooting incidents in "Freedom Square" in Homs, adding that security forces opened fire at the protestors as soon as the UN team left the city. According to the official Syrian story, armed groups opened fire at Syrian police near the provincial building in Homs, as the UN team was passing by. The source added that a policeman was killed and several others were wounded in the shooting. The head of Homs Provincial Council, Ghassan Abdel-Al, said that the gunmen who were onboard a Kia Rio vehicle were pursued and arrested. In another development, the Syrian General Customs Department at the Tanaf border crossing seized a large arms shipment along the Iraqi-Syrian border. The sources added that the shipment was hidden onboard an Iraqi vehicle. According to SANA news agency, President Assad issued a decree to form a "Parties Affairs Committee," led by the interior minister. The committee would handle specific tasks pertaining to the recently issued multi-party law, as part of the political reform program. Meanwhile, attorney and head of the Syrian League for the Defense of Prisoners of Conscience and Opinions, Khalil Maatouk, said that the Syrian authorities released Abdel Karim Rihawi, the head of the Syrian League for the Defense of Human Rights. Rihawi was arrested on August 11 in a Damascus cafe. UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon accused President Assad of failing to deliver on his promises. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay said that the death toll in the mass protests has reached 2,200. This news comes during a special session held by the UN Human Rights Council, as called for by the Coucil's 23 members, including four Arab countries: Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The Council called for the formation of an independent committee to investigate human rights violations against civilians in Syria.