Rabu, 02 September 2009

ISRAEL, SAUDI DAN HAM

• إسرائيل والسعودية... وحقوق الإنسان!

الإثنين, 24 أغسطس 2009

جميل الذيابي
لا يملك من يتمعن في الحملة الإسرائيلية الأخيرة على المملكة العربية السعودية إلا أن يمد رجليه في وجه كل تلك المطالب «السخيفة»، أو الاستلقاء والقهقهة طويلاً استخفافاً واحتقاراً لتلك الحملة «الحمقاء»، التي يحاول زعماء إسرائيل الترويج لها ضد المملكة بهدف تحقيق مكاسب سياسية جديدة.
إسرائيل حبلى بوجوه اللصوص والمجرمين الغارقين في مص الدماء، الذين فتكوا واغتالوا شعباً واغتصبوا والتهموا أرضه بالقوة، وعلى رغم ذلك لا تزال نكتهم السياسية «السمجة» تتجدد، وآخر تلك «النكات الساذجة» ما خرج به وزير خارجية إسرائيل ليبرمان، عندما دعا محرضاً الكونغرس الأميركي إلى بحث قضية حقوق الإنسان في السعودية بعد وقوف الأخيرة في وجه مطالب بلاده وعدم الاستجابة لها أو الالتفات إليها، ورفضها كافة الضغوط نحو تطبيع العلاقات مع تل أبيب.
لن أقول يخطئ ليبرمان وحكومته وشعبه وشعاراتهم «الكاذبة»، لكن يخطئ من يعتقد أن السعودية قد تتراجع يوماً عن مواقفها الثابتة تجاه القضية الفلسطينية، أو يمكن أن تتنصل من مسؤولياتها العربية والإسلامية، بل على إسرائيل تغيير طبائعها «الخبيثة الملتوية» أولاً، فقد كشفت مبادرة السلام العربية أن إسرائيل هي المعرقل والمعوق الحقيقي لكل جهد دولي نحو الوصول الى حل سلام شامل وعادل في المنطقة، كما أن ممارساتها باتت مفضوحة للأسرة الدولية، فهي تحاول صرف الأنظار عن جوهر القضية الأساسية باختلاق مواضيع ومواقف جديدة ضد دول تقف في وجه سياساتها ونياتها وأكاذيبها وأضاليلها الإعلامية.
ومما يدلل على ذلك ما جاء في حديث ليبرمان الأخير، بقوله «إن مشكلات أخرى في العالم غير مشكلة الشرق الأوسط يجب على المجتمع الدولي أن يحلها أولاً، قبل أن يطرح مطالبه على إسرائيل»، وهو ما يعني الهروب من لب المشكلة وعملية السلام، ودليلاً على أن ما تقوله اسرائيل في موضوع السلام لا يتجاوز المماطلات والدعايات المجانية.
أليس آخر من يجب أن يتحدث عن حقوق الإنسان هو الكيان الإسرائيلي المحتل والقاتل والمستبد والمعربد؟! أليس هذا الكيان هو عرّاب المجازر والمذابح ضد الإنسانية، حتى باتت لا تعد ولا تحصى خلال ستين عاماً منذ احتلال فلسطين؟!.
هل نسي وزير الخارجية الإسرائيلي ليبرمان المذابح والمجازر التي نفذها قومه وجنوده في فلسطين ولبنان ضد شيوخ ونساء وأطفال، ومنها للمثال لا للحصر، مجزرة بلدة الشيخ ودير ياسين (1948)، وخان يونس (1956)، وصبرا وشاتيلا (1982)، ومذبحة الحرم الإبراهيمي (1994)، ومجزرة جنين (2002) ومجزرة قانا الثانية (2006)، وآخر تلك المجازر المرعبة ما حدث خلال الحرب على غزة في (2009)؟!
هل ان من ينفذ أعمال القتل العشوائي، ويدمر قرى ويقتل سكانها بالكامل ويمحوها عن الخريطة، ويستخدم الاسلحة المحرمة دولياً ضد الأبرياء، ويقوم بالاعتقالات التعسفية ويمارس التعذيب، ويمنع العلاج والمساعدات الطبية عن الجرحى، يعرف معاني الإنسانية أو حقوقها ومبادئها أو يكترث بالاتفاقات الدولية؟!
هل من يتعامل تعاملاً عنصرياً مقيتاً مع الفلسطينيين الذين يحملون الجنسية الإسرائيلية (عرب 1948) ويهدم البيوت العربية في الجليل والمثلث والنقب على رؤوس أهلها ليلاً، يعرف معاني حقوق الإنسان؟!
إسرائيل تدرك أنها كاذبة وكذبت وما زالت تكذب حتى اصبحت على راس قائمة الكذابين الدوليين، والعالم كاشف لخططها الإجرامية وأفكارها المؤامراتية، لكن بعضه ما زال يجاملها بالصمت انسجاماً مع مواقف أميركية.
أما السعودية فسجلها السياسي واضح، فقد تحملت المسؤولية بشجاعة وتقدمت إلى قمة بيروت العربية عام 2002 بمبادرة سلام واضحة المواد والبنود، ووافق عليها كل القادة العرب، رغبة في تحقيق سلام واضح المعالم، ومذ ذلك الوقت والمبادرة معروضة على طاولة الإسرائيليين، لكنهم لا يزالون يماطلون ويكذبون ويبتعدون عن روح المبادرة وأفقها السلمي، بقدر ما يحاول المجتمع الدولي تقريبها منهم للقبول بها رغبة في تحقيق سلام دائم في المنطقة.
لا يعني كل ما ورد أعلاه أنه ليست على السعودية ملاحظات وانتقادات في مجال حقوق الانسان، لكن السعودية تعمل وفق آلية إصلاحية لتحسين هذه الحقوق، والأكيد أن سجلها في هذا المجال أنقى وأنظف ألف مليون مرة من السجل الإسرائيلي الإجرامي.
هناك مشكلة عالمية عندما يستخدم القتلة والجزارون ملف حقوق الإنسان ضمن ملفات المساومة والابتزاز السياسي، في محاولة لاستغلال هذه القضية لتحقيق أهداف سياسية تتفق ونيات هؤلاء وأهوائهم السياسية، وإلا كيف يمكن لدولة مثل إسرائيل صاحبة الملفات الإنسانية السوداء الأسوأ عالمياً، أن تنتقد دولاً أخرى في مجال حقوق الإنسان، وهي التي ارتكبت جرائم بشعة في حق الأطفال والنساء والشيوخ، ودمرت المساجد على رؤوس المصلين، والمستشفيات على رؤوس المرضى، والمدارس على رؤوس الطلاب، من دون أدنى اعتبار إنساني، ثم تأتي لتتحدث عن الإنسان وحقوقه.
حقاً، إنها كارثة حقيقية تحل بالإنسان عندما تتحدث إسرائيل عن حقوقه وشؤونه.

OBAMA....WAHAI...OBAMA....

• هل يتقدم أوباما إلى الأمام أم يبدأ هروبه الكبير؟

الاربعاء, 19 أغسطس 2009
حسن نافعة *

بعد انقطاع طال خمس سنوات عن زيارة سنوية كان قد اعتاد القيام بها سنوياً منذ توليه السلطة عام 1981، عاد الرئيس مبارك لزيارة واشنطن هذا الأسبوع في ظروف دولية وإقليمية تبدو مختلفة بعد أن جرت مياه كثيرة خلال السنوات الخمس المنصرمة في أنهار واشنطن والقاهرة والعالم والمنطقة. فواشنطن تغيرت كثيراً خلال هذه الفترة بعد أن تصدع مشروع المحافظين الجدد وانطلقت من بقايا حطامه ثورة سلمية دفعت إلى البيت الأبيض بشاب أميركي مثقف من أصول أفريقية مسلمة. ولأن مستقبل هذا الشاب يبدو أمامه وليس خلفه فمن الطبيعي أن تدور في رأسه أحلام عريضة لتغيير أميركا والعالم. والقاهرة بدورها تغيرت كثيراً خلال الفترة نفسها حيث شهدت حراكاً سياسياً تمت السيطرة عليه مما أجهض أحلام التغيير ولو إلى حين.
ولأن الرئيس مبارك رجل مخضرم تخطى الثمانين، ويبدو من ثم في خريف العمر، فمن الطبيعي أن يحمل تاريخه وراءه وأن تكون عملية انتقال السلطة من بعده هي أكثر ما يشغل اهتمامه في هذه اللحظة. والنظام العالمي نفسه تغير، بسقوط مشروع المحافظين الجدد وانكشاف عجز وحدود القوة العسكرية الأميركية واندلاع أزمة مالية واقتصادية عالمية كادت تهدد بنية النظام الرأسمالي نفسه وبروز طموحات سياسية لروسيا واقتصادية للصين.
وأخيراً وليس آخراً فقد تغيرت منطقة الشرق الأوسط كثيراً واندلعت فيها خلال الفترة نفسها حروب وتعمقت صراعات أفرزت حالة فريدة من الاستقطاب بين مشروعين للهيمنة على المنطقة أحدهما تقوده إسرائيل والآخر تقوده إيران! في سياق كهذا يمكن القول إن زيارة الرئيس مبارك لواشنطن هذه المرة تستمد أهميتها ليس فقط من كونها تؤسس فقط لمرحلة جديدة من العلاقات الثنائية بين مصر وأميركا عقب مرحلة من التوتر طالت لسنوات ولكن أيضاً من كونها تأتي في نهاية سلسلة طويلة من اللقاءات جمعت الرئيس الأميركي أوباما مع عدد كبير من زعماء المنطقة المعنيين بالصراع العربي الإسرائيلي لاستطلاع رأيهم قبل إطلاق خطة أميركية جديدة لتسوية هذا الصراع أو لفرضه إن لزم الأمر. وأياً كان الأمر، فليس بوسع أحد أن يجادل في وجود رغبة حقيقية لدى الإدارة الأميركية الجديدة للسعي لإيجاد تسوية مقبولة للصراع العربي الإسرائيلي. وهناك مؤشرات كثيرة تدل ليس فقط على وجود هذه الرغبة وإنما أيضاً على توافر جدية، تبدو غير مسبوقة، في التعاطي مع الجهود الرامية إلى التوصل إلى تسوية.
ففي حدود علمنا لم يحدث من قبل في تاريخ الولايات المتحدة أن بدأ رئيس أميركي ولايته الأولى بالتعبير بمثل هذا الوضوح عن اهتمامه بالصراع العربي الإسرائيلي، ناهيك عن إقدامه على اتخاذ خطوات إجرائية وضعته في ما يشبه المواجهة مع الحكومة الإسرائيلية. لذا كان من الطبيعي أن يلفت أنظار المراقبين بشدة قيام الرئيس أوباما فور دخوله البيت الأبيض بتعيين جورج ميتشل مبعوثاً شخصياً له وإقدامه على توجيه انتقاد علني لسياسة الاستيطان ومطالبة إسرائيل بوقف كل أنشطتها الاستيطانية في الأراضي المحتلة، ورأوا في هذه الخطوات دليلاً قاطعاً على أن تغيراً جوهرياً طرأ على نهج الإدارة الأميركية في التعامل مع قضايا المنطقة. غير أن التعبير عن حسن النوايا شيء والقدرة على ترجمة النوايا إلى حقائق ملموسة شيء آخر.
وإذا كان أوباما قد نجح في إثبات حسن نيته إلا أن الانطباع السائد أنه عجز حتى الآن عن إثبات قدرته على تغيير ما يجري على أرض الواقع. إذ يشير تطور الأحداث إلى أن نتانياهو نجح ليس فقط في وقف قوة اندفاع أوباما في اتجاه البحث عن تسوية نهائية وشاملة وعرقلة الجهود الراميـــة إلى تهيئة الأوضاع لبدء عملية تفاوضية أكثر جدية، وإنما أيضاً في تشتيت هذه الجهود وتوجيهها نحو دروب وعرة ومسارات خاطئة ومضللة، بدليل:
1- رفض نتانياهو الاستجابة لطلب أوباما وقف النشاط الاستيطاني ونجاحه في استنفار القوى الموالية لإسرائيل داخل الولايات المتحدة، خصوصاً في الكونغرس وفي وسائل الإعلام ومراكز البحوث الموالية للحركة الصهيونية، وتحريضها على استخدام كل ما في حوزتها من وسائل الابتزاز لثني أوباما عن ممارسة أي نوع من الضغوط على إسرائيل، مع الحرص في الوقت نفسه على تجنب الدخول في مواجهة مباشرة معه وتأجيل القيام بعملية استعراض صريح للقوة إلى وقت لاحق.
2- سعي نتانياهو، والقوى المتحالفة معه داخل وخارج الولايات المتحدة، لتشتيت جهود أوباما وسحبها إلى دروب ومسالك فرعية لإثبات أن الاستيطان ليس هو العقبة الأساسية في طريق التسوية وأن العقبات الأخرى، كالخلافات الفلسطينية - الفلسطينية والصراعات العربية - العربية وطموحات إيران الإقليمية، تبدو أكثر خطورة وأكثر مدعاة للقلق.
3- التظاهر باتخاذ موقف مرن من قضية الاستيطان مع السعي في الوقت نفسه للحصول على ثمن باهظ في مقابل وقفه موقتاً، كالتطبيع مع الدول العربية التي لم تبرم اتفافات سلام مع إسرائيل، خصوصاً دول الخليج. ولأن أوباما يدرك أنه ليس من مصلحته الدخول في مواجهة مع قوى اللوبي الصهيوني، على الأقل في هذه المرحلة المبكرة من ولايته، فمن الواضح أنه فضل إحناء رأسه للعاصفة في الوقت الراهن والعمل على شراء المزيد من الوقت للسماح لكل الأطراف المعنية بإعادة ترتيب أوراقها. لكن المشكلة أنه بدأ يدرك في الوقت نفسه أن الوقت لم يعد في مصلحته وأنه ما لم يتمكن من تحقيق نتائج حاسمة في اتجاه البحث عن تسوية شاملة ونهائية خلال فترة زمنية معقولة، أقصاها نهاية العام المقبل، فستفلت الفرصة من يديه إلى الأبد، مثلما أفلتت من قبل من يدي كارتر، وهو ما قد يعرضه للمخاطرة بمستقبله السياسي كله ويجعل من خسارته في انتخابات الرئاسة المقبلة أمراً شبه مؤكد.
لذا لم يكن مستغرباً أن تؤكد بعض التقارير والتحليلات السياسية التي نشرت أخيراً في وسائل الإعلام الأميركية على أن أوباما أصبح معرضاً لنفس مصير الرئيس كارتر. ولأن بيغن لم يغفر لكارتر مطلقاً ما تصور أنها ضغوط مارسها عليه في كامب ديفيد للتوصل إلى معاهدة سلام مع مصر، فإن الكثير من التقارير الصادرة حديثاً عادت لتؤكد أن بيغن كان قد ألقى بكل ثقله للحيلولة دون إعادة انتخاب كارتر لفترة ولاية ثانية. ويبدو أن بيغن كان على يقين من أن كارتر ينوي في فترة ولايته الثانية ممارسة أكبر قدر ممكن من الضغوط لحمل إسرائيل على قبول تسوية على المسارات الأخرى بالشروط نفسها التي قبلت بها على المسار المصري، وهو ما لم يكن بيغن على استعداد للتسليم به تحت أي ظرف.
في سياق كهذا يبدو واضحاً تماماً أن مهمة أوباما في البحث عن صيغة مقبولة للتسوية لن تكون سهلة على الإطلاق. فالدروس المستفادة من «العملية» التي جرت للتوصل إلى مثل هذه التسوية، والتي طالت لأكثر من ثلث قرن حتى الآن، تثبت أن السلام الحقيقي بات مرهوناً بشمولية التسوية، وأن أي تقدم جزئي على أي مسار من المسارات قد لا يمثل بالضرورة، وفي جميع الأحوال، خطوة في الاتجاه الصحيح. ولأن أوباما لا يريد أن يلقى مصير كارتر نفسه فليس أمامه سوى الاختيار بين أحد سبيلين. الأول:
يدفعه نحو المضي قدماً، وبأقصى سرعة ممكنة، على طريق البحث عن تسوية شاملة حتى لو اضطر لبلورة تصور أميركي للحل والسعي لفرضه على الأطراف المعنية كافة. أما الثاني: فيغريه بالتمهل والحذر حتى لو اضطر في نهاية المطاف إلى النكوص والتراجع تجنباً للمواجهة مع اللوبي الصهيوني والتي قد تطيح به في انتخابات الرئاسة المقبلة مثلما أطاحت بالرئيس جيمي كارتر من قبل. وعلى أي حال فليس من المستبعد أن تسير الجهود في الخطين بالتوازي معاً.
فبعد أن وقع ميتشل في المحظور وبدأ يضل طريقه بالسير في اتجاه البحث عن «عملية سياسية» جديدة تبدأ بإجراءات لبناء الثقة تربط بين وقف الاستيطان والتطبيع، وهو ما اعتبره كثيرون في الولايات المتحدة نفسها انحرافاً عن الطريق المستقيم لن يقود إلا إلى متاهة جديدة، بدأ البعض يدفع في اتجاه بلورة حل أميركي يتم فرضه بالتعاون مع المجتمع الدولي. ويبدو أن «لجنة حكماء» مشكلة من جيمي كارتر وجيمس بيكر وبرينت سكوكروفت وزبيغنيو بريجنسكي، قد فرغت لتوها من وضع اللمسات الأخيرة لخطة أميركية للتسوية تقوم على:
1- دولة فلسطينية منزوعة السلاح داخل حدود لا تتطابق بالضرورة مع حدود 67.
2- الاعتراف بالقدس عاصمة للدولتين الإسرائيلية والفلسطينية.
3- تسوية قضية اللاجئين على أساس التعويض والتوطين وليس العودة.
4- ضم الكتل الاستيطانية الكبرى المتاخمة للدولة الإسرائيلية وتعويض الفلسطينيين من خلال عملية متفق عليها لتبادل الأراضي. ومن الواضح أن الرؤية التي تعكسها هذه الخطة هي أقصى ما يمكن أن يطرح أميركياً كأساس للتسوية. وحتى بافتراض أنه يمكن لإدارة أوباما أن تتبناها وتطرحها كخطة أميركية رسمية للتسوية وأن تسعى بهمة وحزم لفرضها على جميع الأطراف بالتعاون مع الأمم المتحدة والقوى الدولية الكبرى، وهو أمر مشكوك فيه، إلا أنني أعتقد جازماً أنه لن يقدر النجاح مطلقاً لأي تسوية لا تتضمن حلاً حقيقياً وعادلاً لقضية اللاجئين. وإذا أرادت الولايات المتحدة أن تطرح خطة قابلة للفرض على أطراف الصراع فعليها أن تتبنى خطة سياسية مستوحاة من اعتبارات القانون الدولي وليس خطة مبنية على اعتبارات دينية تلمودية مستوحاة مما يعتقد أميركياً أنها قابلة للتسويق إسرائيلياً. إن أي خطة تبنى على فكرة التسليم بضم الكتل الاستيطانية الكبرى لإسرائيل ورفض عودة اللاجئين الفلسطينيين هي خطة أقل ما يقال فيها أنها ترجح كفة الاعتبارات الدينية على كفة الاعتبارات السياسية.
ولأنه يستحيل التوصل إلى حلول دينية لصراع سياسي واجتماعي ممتد، فمن الضروري أن تبنى التسوية على أسس سياسية وليس دينية. ولن تكون هناك تسوية سياسية للصراع في الشرق الأوسط، قائمة على حل الدولتين، إلا إذا اقتنعت إسرائيل بأن عليها الاختيار بين بديلين لا ثالث لهما:
القبول بحدود 67 من دون أي تعديل كحدود نهائية للدولة الإسرائيلية وعودة اللاجئين الفلسطينيين إلى ديارهم، أو القبول بالحدود المنصوص عليها في قرار التقسيم مع حصر عودة اللاجئين الفلسطينيين في هذه الحالة داخل حدود الدولة المخصصة للعرب في هذا القرار. أما أي حل آخر فسيواجه بالرفض من القوى الدينية على الجانبين. ولأن أوباما لن يستغرق وقتاً طويلاً آخر قبل أن يكتشف أن مقومات التسوية الشاملة والنهائية للصراع العربي الإسرائيلي لم تنضج بعد أتوقع أن تبدأ إدارته منذ الآن في إعداد خطة «الهروب الكبير» من التسوية وليس خطة التسوية!. وأرجو على أي حال أن أكون مخطئاً في هذا الاستنتاج!
* كاتب مصري

40 TAHUN REVOLUSI AL-FATEH: KOL. GADDAFI MERANCANG MOBIL PELURU

الاربعاء, 02 سبتمبر 2009




نموذج من سيارة «الصاروخ» التي صممها القذافي وعرضت للمرة الأولى عشية الاحتفالات بالثورة
طرابلس، برن - أ ف ب، أ ب - أحيا الزعيم الليبي معمر القذافي أمس الثلثاء الذكرى الأربعين لتسلمه السلطة في احتفال ضخم حضره العديد من رؤساء دول والحكومات العربية والافريقية والاميركية اللاتينية، ولكن في غياب العديد من القادة الغربيين.

وتُجرى هذه الاحتفالات وسط جدال أثاره الاستقبال الحافل الذي لقيه عبدالباسط المقرحي الذي كان يمضي عقوبة بالسجن في اسكتلندا إثر إدانته باعتداء لوكربي وأفرج عنه لأسباب طبية كونه يعاني مرحلة متقدمة من السرطان.

وفضّل عدد كبير من القادة الغربيين الراغبين في تطبيع العلاقات مع ليبيا الغنية بالنفط، عدم المشاركة في الاحتفالات لتجنب أي جدال.

لكن هذا الغياب لن يفسد احتفالات القذافي الذي تابع مساء الإثنين عرضاً في مطار معتيقة، القاعدة العسكرية الأميركية السابقة التي تبعد ستة كيلومترات شرق طرابلس، بحضور عدد من القادة الافارقة والرئيس الفلسطيني محمود عباس.

وبدأ العرض الذي يحمل عنوان «فارس ورجال» ويتألف من حوالى ثلاثين لوحة، قرابة منتصف الليل بالتوقيت المحلي (22.00 تغ) واستمر لساعتين من الموسيقى والإضاءة والرقصات بمشاركة مئات من الراقصين والخيالة من ليبيا وتونس والمغرب ومصر وأوكرانيا.
وستبلغ الاحتفالات أوجها عند الساعة 23.00 (21.00 تغ) مساء الثلثاء بعرض مدته 90 دقيقة يستعيد سنوات الحكم الأربعين للعقيد القذافي.

وسينظم الاحتفال الذي قال المنظمون إنه جدير «بافتتاح دورة لكأس العالم في كرة القدم» في حديقة عامة وسط طرابلس.
وقبل ذلك سيتابع الزعيم الليبي وضيوفه في الساحة الخضراء عرضاً عسكرياً تشارك فيه وحدات من جيوش افريقية وعربية واوروبية.
وخلال العرض ستحلق ثمانون طائرة عسكرية بينها طائرتا رافال تابعتان للجيش الفرنسي، للقيام بعروض جوية في سماء طرابلس.
وزينت المدينة بالمناسبة بآلاف المصابيح الملونة بينما علقت على الجدران صور وشعارات تمجد العقيد القذافي.
وبمناسبة هذه الاحتفالات وتحركات ضيوف «القائد» وبينهم رئيسا فنزويلا هوغو تشافيز والدومينيكان ليونيل فرنانديز، شهدت الشوارع الرئيسية في العاصمة اختناقات هائلة مساء الاثنين.
وسيحضر رؤساء دول افريقية عدة شاركوا الإثنين في قمة الاتحاد الافريقي حول النزاعات في افريقيا، في الاحتفالات مع ضيوف آخرين بينهم رئيس الدولة الصربي بوريس تاديتش ورئيسة الفيليبين غلوريا ارويو.

وتأتي هذه الاحتفالات بعد انتصارين ديبلوماسيين حققهما القذافي بحصوله في 20 آب (اغسطس) على حرية المقرحي وبانتزاعه من سويسرا اعتذاراً رسمياً عن اعتقالها نجله هنيبعل.
وقبل احتفاله بذكرى ثورة الفاتح التي حملته الى رأس السلطة، احتفل العقيد القذافي بانتصار آخر هو الذكرى الأولى لمعاهدة الصداقة التي وقعها مع ايطاليا لمحو تاريخها الاستعماري في بلاده.
وقد قدمت ايطاليا بموجبها اعتذارات غير مسبوقة الى طرابلس مرفقة بتعهد بدفع تعويض عن استعمارها ليبيا قيمته خمسة بلايين دولار.

ويقول القذافي انه ولد عام 1942 تحت خيمة بدوية في صحراء سرت لعائلة بدوية فقيرة من الرعاة من قبيلة القذاذفة ونشأ على تربية دينية صارمة بقي وفياً لها. وقد التحق بالجيش في 1965.
وفي السابعة والعشرين من العمر، قام مع أحد عشر ضابطاً آخرين في الأول من ايلول (سبتمبر) 1969، بإطاحة نظام الملك الليبي ادريس السنوسي المسن الذي كان في فترة نقاهة في تركيا، دون اراقة قطرة دم واحدة.

وعميد القادة العرب «القائد» الذي اعلن نفسه ملك ملوك افريقيا، يمكنه اضافة لقب جديد الى القابه، إذ أصبح عميد القادة الافارقة بعد وفاة الرئيس الغابوني عمر بونغو في حزيران (يونيو) الماضي.
وفي برن (سويسرا)، قالت الحكومة السويسرية إن ليبيا لم تف بوعدها بإطلاق رجلي أعمال سويسريين اعتُقلا إثر توقيف نجل القذافي، هنيبعل، في جنيف العام الماضي. وقال ناطق باسم الرئيس السويسري هانز - رودولف ميرز إن الرجلين لم يتمكنا من مغادرة طرابلس على رغم تعهدات خطية بذلك من رئيس الوزراء الليبي. وامتنع الناطق عن التعليق على طلب جديد لليبيا يقضي بأن يدفع الرجلان غرامة قبل الإفراج عنهما.

ووقع ميرز في 20 آب (أغسطس) الماضي اتفاقاً مع رئيس الوزراء الليبي البغدادي المحمودي يقضي بإعادة العلاقات بين البلدين وأن تدرس لجنة تحكيم مشتركة قضية توقيف هنيبعل القذافي. وقال الناطق السويسري أمس إن ليبيا لم تعيّن ممثلها في لجنة التحكيم مع انقضاء المهلة الزمنية لذلك

APA PERSOALAN DI MASYARAKAT KITA???

• • أين الخلل في مجتمعاتنا العربية والإسلامية؟

الثلاثاء, 01 سبتمبر 2009

عبدالعزيز بن عثمان التويجري *

أضاف تمرّد الحوثيين في اليمن رقماً جديداً إلى المناطق الأربع المشتعلة منذ سنوات في العالم الإسلامي، وهي: فلسطين والعراق والصومال وأفغانستان لتصبح المناطق المتفجرة خمساً. كما أن لبنان الذي يبدو للعيان آمناً مستقراً، لا يزال يعاني من اضطراب شديد يهدد أمنه الوطني واستقراره السياسي ونسيجه الاجتماعي. حيث لم يتمكن الفريق الفائز في الانتخابات التشريعية التي أجريت فيه قبل أسابيع، من تشكيل الحكومة وفقاً لأحكام الدستور. وهي حالة شاذة يعيشها هذا البلد الذي لم يتعافَ تماماً حتى الآن من آثار الحرب الأهلية المدمرة التي استعرت في القرن الماضي.
وعلى رغم اختلاف واضح في طبيعة الأزمة التي تعانيها كل دولة من هذه الدول الخمس التي ذكرنا آنفاً، من حيث الظروف والأسباب الداخلية والعوامل الخارجية، فإنَّ القاسم المشترك بينها يكمن في أنها تواجه جميعاً المجهول؛ إذ لا أحد يعرف إلى أين تتجه الرياح العاتية التي تعصف بالأمن والسلم والاستقرار فيها. وفي جميع الأحوال، فإن السؤال الذي يتبادر إلى الأذهان هو: أين الخلل؟ كيف يتفق أن يحل شهر رمضان مع تصاعد اضطراب الأوضاع في هذه الدول الخمس، من دون أن يراعي طرف من الأطراف حرمة لهذا الشهر المبارك، والجميع مسلمون من أهل القبلة؟ وليس هذا أول رمضان يشهد انفجاراً في الأوضاع في هذه المناطق، بل يكاد يكون من العادة المتبعة أن يضطرب حبل الأمن فيها أو يزداد اضطراباً، مع حلول الشهر الكريم. فكأن ثمة من يحرص على أن يقترن شهر الصيام، بالاقتتال بين المسلمين، مما يؤدي إلى تشويه صورة الإسلام، وإلى تأكيد الحجج الواهية للذين يثيرون الشبهات حول هذا الدين الحنيف.

وليس ثمة شك في أن الحالة اليمنية تختلف عن الحالة في كل من العراق وأفغانستان والصومال، وأن الوضع في الأراضي الفلسطينية غيره في المناطق الأخرى لأسباب موضوعية ليست خافية على أحد. ففي الحالتين العراقية والأفغانية يرتبط الأمر بالاحتلال الأجنبي، بغض النظر عن الملابسات التي أدت إلى هذا الاحتلال. أما في الصومال، فإن الأمر يتعلق من جهة بالصراعات القبلية والنزاعات حول السلطة، ومن جهة أخرى بتواطؤ جهات أجنبية مع أطراف محلية، وهو الأمر الذي يتمثل في التدخل الأثيوبي المسلح، وفي وجود القوات التابعة للاتحاد الأفريقي. أما الحالة الفلسطينية، فهي حالة قائمة الذات، تشكل نموذجاً فريداًً من نوعه للدولة التي اغتصبت أراضيها وسلبت سيادتها أول الأمر، بقرار من الجمعية العامة للأمم المتحدة في تشرين الثاني (نوفمبر) 1947، ثم وقع احتلالها بالكامل في حرب حزيران (يونيو) 1967 من طرف مَن اغتصبوها أولاً، على رغم صدور قرارات من مجلس الأمن ومن الجمعية العامة للأمم المتحدة، تقضي بالانسحاب من الأراضي الفلسطينية المحتلة إلى حدود ما قبل الخامس من حزيران 1967. فهذه الفروق في طبيعة الأزمة وفي الظروف والملابسات والأسباب المؤدية إليها، لا تمنع من القول إن ثمة ترابطاً بين الحالات الخمس على نحو ما، وأن الأمر في نهاية المطاف يرتبط بخلل كبير في النظام العربي من جهة، وفي النظام الإسلامي من جهة أخرى. وأقصد بالنظامين العربي والإسلامي في هذا السياق، العمل العربي المشترك في إطار جامعة الدول العربية، والعمل الإسلامي المشترك في إطار منظمة المؤتمر الإسلامي.

وإذا كانت الخطة العربية لتسوية القضية الفلسطينية قد اعتمدت من طرف جامعة الدول العربية ومنظمة المؤتمر الإسلامي، وتواصلت الجهود التي تبذلها كل من المملكة العربية السعودية وجمهورية مصر العربية ودول أخرى، من أجل المصالحة بين الأطراف الفلسطينية المتنازعة من دون أن تصل إلى نتيجة مرضية حتى الآن، فإن المساعي المبذولة على الصعيدين العربي والإسلامي لحل الأزمة الصومالية، ليست بذات أثر ملموس. أما الجهود العربية الإسلامية التي تبذل على مستوى أو آخر، لإعادة الأمور إلى نصابها في كل من العراق وأفغانستان، فهي دون المطلوب. ربما كان ذلك بسبب الطبيعة الخاصة للأزمة في هاتين الدولتين، مما يجعل التأثير في القرار السياسي فيهما لفائدة استتباب الأمن وإنهاء الأزمة، بعيد الاحتمال إن لم يكن مستحيلاً، وذلك بحكم الوجود الأجنبي الجاثم في البلدين، إما في شكل احتلال أميركي، كما هو الشأن في العراق، أو في شكل هيمنة قوات الحلف الأطلسي، كما هو الأمر في أفغانستان. مما يقتضي إعادة النظر في الأسلوب الذي ينهجه العمل العربي الإسلامي المشترك للإسهام في تسوية الأزمة في هاتين الدولتين، وفي الصومال أيضاً.

إن المواقف التي تتخذها جلّ الدول الأعضاء في جامعة الدول العربية وفي منظمة المؤتمر الإسلامي، من الأطراف المشاركة في النزاعات والاشتباكات المسلحة في هذه الدول الثلاث، ليست ذات فعالية وتأثير إيجابي، في الوقت الذي يتطلب الأمر اتخاذ مواقف شجاعة وحاسمة لدعم القوى الوطنية الإصلاحية، ومقاطعة الأطراف الخارجة على القانون التي تمارس القتل والتدمير والتخريب، ولا تنصاع للنداءات الداعية إلى السلام والتفاهم والتصالح والمساهمة في إنقاذ الوطن من المصير المشؤوم الذي يُساق إليه. إن التردد في اتخاذ الموقف الحازم إزاء تدهور الأوضاع في هذه المناطق الثلاث، من طرف المجموعة العربية الإسلامية، يساعد في فتح المجال أمام الجهات الأجنبية، للتدخل، لا لحلّ الأزمة، فليس في مصلحتها إيجاد حلّ لها، وإنما لتفجير الوضع بما يحقق أهدافها في تمزيق الصف الوطني ولضمان بقائها في المنطقة لأغراض لم تعد خافية.

هل يمكن القول إن خطورة الأوضاع في كل من العراق وأفغانستان والصومال تستدعي النظر بجدية ومسؤولية في موضوع إنشاء قوات إسلامية لحفظ الأمن والسلام؟

أما الموقف المطلوب إزاء الأزمة الطاحنة التي تهدد أمن اليمن وسلامته واستقراره، فهو عقد قمة عربية عاجلة، لدعم الشرعية في هذه الدولة، ولإجبار الطرف المتمرد ومن يدعمه على الرضوخ لهذه الشرعية. أما لبنان فالوضع فيه جدّ معقد، لكنه لا يستعصي على الحل إذا أخلصت القوى اللبنانية المختلفة الولاء للبنان، وقدمت مصالحه على أي مصلحة أخرى. فالشعب اللبناني بطوائفه المختلفة وتركيبته الفسيفسائية الفريدة، لا يمكن له أن يستقر إلاّ إذا عاد إلى روح الطائف وألغى عصبية الطوائف.

إن العالم العربي الإسلامي يقف اليوم في مفترق طرق، تتهدد مصالحه الحيوية العليا أزمات مفتعلة، يشترك في نسج خيوطها أطراف من الداخل وأُخَر من الخارج، والهدف المشترك الذي يجمع بينها، هو تمزيق الوطن العربي الإسلامي الكبير، وإضعافه وإفقاره، وشدّه إلى الوراء، وإغراقه في بحار متلاطمة من الأزمات والمشاكل كقطع الليل. ومن المؤسف أن جميع من يتمرد على الشرعية ويحمل السلاح في وجه الدولة في كل من العراق وأفغانستان والصومال واليمن، يتدثر بعباءة الإسلام. أليس هذا أمراً مريباً؟
* المدير العام للمنظمة الإسلامية للعلوم والتربية والثقافة – إيسيسكو

Senin, 26 Januari 2009

OPINI: NEGOSIASI MAUT

Opinion: Negotiating Death

By Zainab Al-Arabi

18/01/2009

By its statement of full support for Israel in its war on Gaza, the American Congress was sending out a message to the Arab rulers: Be quiet, or else. Sadly no Arab ruler replied with a forceful statement regarding this matter. None of them screamed at America, telling it to go to Hell demanding that the aggression stop immediately or America would regret it. Instead ‘negotiations’ began on what to put in any statement from the UN Security Council.

What ‘balance’ was needed for the resolution to pass. Remove this word, put in that word, and all the while Palestinians were dying by the hundreds.

You don’t have to be a supporter of Hamas, to say unequivocally that this is unacceptable; that relations between America and the Arab countries would suffer. Of course, the American ambassador to Libya has just arrived recently; therefore he is still enjoying ‘guest status’, according to Arab hospitality rules. We can’t hurt his feelings yet. But isn’t this what the world wants to see?

Arab rulers who no longer act hastily, radically, behaving quite civilly? Should we applaud them for not upsetting the equilibrium in the Middle East, thus contributing to the stability of the region? Thank you for not turning to violence and ‘terror’, for keeping your cool despite the deadly and heart wrenching situation. Each country has its own problems and doesn’t need any more headaches.

The Egyptian President has his own reasons - concerning security agreements - for keeping the Rafah border crossing closed, while negotiations continue in Egypt. I could understand his position if Gaza wasn’t being pounded, day in day out, by the Zionist army that is trying out new American weapons on the Palestinians. But then he too is to be commended for keeping ‘peace’ in sight, ignoring the Gazans’ suffering.

Why should I worry anyway? They’ll all work it out in the end, with or without us just as they have done before. As one Palestinian lady told me, “This time we are really on our own.”

In other areas of the world where there is armed conflict, the victims have the means to leave. They can walk, run to another place. Aid is able to reach them from international organisations. In Gaza there is nowhere to go, nowhere to hide. Three weeks of war, more than a thousand dead, and the Arab rulers are still undecided whether to meet or not; meet in Doha or Riyadh? They all want to be seen as moderates who do not support terror.

After the 2001 attacks on the Twin Towers in America, in all television programmes and in all policies, Muslims were told that they couldn’t say, “Yes, what happened is terrible, but…” Denounce terrorism or be thrown out of America or Europe, etc., the same should be applied to Western governments, and companies now. They can’t say, “What Israel is doing is terrible, but…” Stop business permits for companies who have branches in Israel, until they publicly denounce Zionist terror.

If Israeli Jews are themselves doing this, and are showing the Zionist state for what it really is, demanding this from Western companies is not asking for the impossible. Why are Muslims accused of turning into extremists because of ‘religious texts’, and not the Zionists? They take texts in the Old Testament literally.

Texts in Leviticus and Deuteronomy call for the destruction of Israel’s enemies without mercy. And if some will argue against that, then tell me why they claim that the land was promised to them in the Bible if they didn’t take it literally?

However, Orthodox Jews and Israeli writers are challenging this belief every day. They are denouncing their “country’s” inhuman treatment of Palestinians, questioning the very essence of its existence, and revealing unknown secrets of the military, and politicians –past and present.

In their newspapers one can find evidence of the growing fear that they have turned into an apartheid state. Some go even further accusing the government of using ‘ethnic cleansing’ against the Palestinians. The foreign minister, Livni, among other ministers, has in fact been quoted speaking of the ‘transfer’ of Palestinians.

In view of what is going on, some Israelis have come to realise that the only solution is a one-state solution.

This solution in itself a radical suggestion, it goes without saying that those who speak of this are called ‘traitors’ and ‘self-hating’ Jews. Taking a lesson from history the Zionists should realize that might does not last forever, and that the military monster they have created cannot be fed forever.

(The Tripoli Post)

OPINI: PERILAKU POLITIKUS AS

Opinion: American Politicians and Complicity to Murder

by Ali Alarabi
18/01/2009

One cannot help it when watching droves of American politicians from all colours and stripes repeating the Israeli PR offensive that goes along with war on Gaza in asking the rhetorical question: "what would you do if someone is firing rockets at your own house" to feel how misinformed, or even deceptive those politicians were.

American politicians are repeating the Israeli lines without bothering or considering what the Palestinians have to say about this war that was imposed on them and is destroying them right now. It was US President-elect Obama who set the tone for the Israeli PR during his visit amidst the election campaign last year when he cornered himself and said it in Israel.

Obama has subsequently remained conspicuously silent during the initial wave of Israeli attacks, signaling his approval of what’s happening in Gaza thus becoming hostage to his own words in defending Israel’s “right” to attack Gaza.

To say that the reason for the Israeli assault on Gaza, which cannot be described other than a Massacre, is because Hamas fired its useless rockets, which is more of harassment than a military threat, is misleading and disingenuous at best. Israeli politicians used Hamas rockets to jockey for a better position in the upcoming election and to show the Israeli electorate who is tougher and who can silence those harassing rockets.

The number of Palestinians killed by Israel has reached over a 1000 at the time of writing this article. Israel’s indiscriminate attacks on densely populated civilian areas is illegal and in clear violation of International Humanitarian law, IHL. Article 51 of the First Additional Protocol that states that an attack is indiscriminate and therefore prohibited by International Law.

Even when Israeli politicians claim that there were Hamas fighters present in civilian areas that too is legally prohibited for Israel to attack those areas, as they will end up killing scores of civilians. Historically, Israel has in past armed conflicts with Arab states and the Palestinians resorted to bombing civilian areas and launched indiscriminate attacks killing innocent civilians.

On April 8, 1970, Israel bombed the Bahr el Baqr children school south of Port Said in Egypt killing 46 school children. Israel claimed then that the Egyptian Army had used the school as a military site. The same happened in the same year when Israel bombed a civilian factory in Abu Za’abal area killing 80 Egyptian workers. That too it was claimed by the Israelis to have been a military site.

Over two years ago, in 2006, Israel bombed and killed over a hundred Lebanese civilian refugees who took shelter in a compound in south Lebanon. Yet again, Israel also claimed that Hezbollah fighters used the UN compound. None of Israel’s claims were found to be true, including its latest attack in Gaza that destroyed a UN-run school that was packed with horrified refugees killing over forty young children.

Hamas too was trying to have a better negotiating position at the table with Israel through its rockets. What Hamas wanted was, and still is, for Israel to lift its blockade on Gaza from land and sea that choked the life of 1.5 million Palestinians, turning their life into and endless desperation.

Israel wants Gaza under Hamas to be quite, deprived of its homemade rockets while Israel itself is not doing anything in exchange by way of letting up. If Hamas or any Palestinian group dare to violate or challenge Israel’s terms or even harass Israel, Israel will in turn use, or threaten to use the full might of its army as we see in this case.

Therefore, keeping Gaza locked into a tight siege is important for Israel and its supremacy in the region hence surrounding the strip with a wall and army units, controlling those inside and those out, thus keeping the entire Palestinian population in Gaza hostage to the Israeli leaders’ whims. Exactly like a prison or Ghetto, or both.

This controlling environment, coupled with Israeli violence or threat of using it for any ‘bad behaviour’ on the part of Hamas or the Palestinians in general, including those in the West Bank, has turned the Palestinians into slaves to the Israeli masters.

Israel cannot expect the Palestinians to remain quiet while watching their piece of land taken away from them bite-by-bite, and inch-by-inch, including their water resources.

Resistance to the Israeli occupation is a legal right and a legitimate choice, particularly in the absence of a fair and just peaceful settlement that takes into account the Palestinian refugees’ right of return, with Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine. Without this, peace will remain just a pipe dream.


Ali Alarabi writes on the Middle East and is a member of the Arab Writers Group syndicate, he can be reached at: alialarabi1@aol.com

(The Tripoli Post)

OPINI; SIAPA TERORIS?

Opinion: Terrorism vs. Heroism

By Mohammad Azeemullah
11/01/2009

Howsoever the Jewish State patronized by the United States of America, tries to paint the tormented and terrorized face of helpless Palestinians with the black tinge of terrorism, howsoever it continues to degrade and humiliate the believers with its unprecedented and unmatched technological prowess and howsoever it remains indulged in unethical and unscrupulous propaganda of killing the innocent in the name of national security of which victims are mostly women and children, the Palestinian movements for freedom continue to dominate the psyche of the modern world with its formidable message against barbarism, butchery and savagery.

The tussle between the west headed by USA with Israel as their illegitimate child and various resisting organizations in Palestine is not between the two opposite poles of power but between the oppressed against the oppressor and the deprived against the privileged.

The rest of the world has resigned to the colossal strength of the USA and its allies and is a helpless spectator against the brute and brutality inflicted upon the starving and homeless Palestinians except some daring freedom fighters who, despite lacking modern artillery, stand against the tormenter.

The hollowness and superficiality of harmony among fellow Arab countries to project a united front to deal with the crisis and to pronounce even a single statement against the gruesome drama of carnage, which is still in progress, articulate the uppermost degree of abnormality Arab world possesses in its moral health of political order and system.
Their mere watchfulness to the on-going massacre is a witness to their party in the crime against humanity.

The Al Jazeera television channel which boasts of its neutral reporting and perhaps the only voice of the Arab world to the public at large even fails to live up to the expectation as it constantly carries the news caption WAR ON GAZA instead of MASSACRE IN GAZA.

War is waged between the two equal and opposite forces and not between a powerful, beleaguered state as Israel and the hapless refugees in bondage who rely for water to drink upon others.

Humanity at large must cry and shed tears how the reckless murder in broad day light is carried out with clusters of bombs over schools, hospitals and residential areas with only one goal to achieve i.e. frustrating the moral of any resistance group towards freedom.

The United States of America which leads the world with fake mask of symbolic civilization seeks its sadistic pleasure into the bloodshed of innocent Muslims and sponsors its allies to strangulate the very voice of freedom for which it has stood firmly so far. What hypocrisy!

One must acknowledge that Islam does not promote inequality and is absolutely against barbarity, brutality and injustice of any kind. The Holy Quran speaks: "...and fight them on until there is no more tumult or oppression, and justice and faith in Allah prevail. But if they cease, let there be no hostility except to those who practice oppression"(2:193).

The USA and its allies must understand the undercurrents in order to avoid a long-drawn-never-ending battle between the two antithetical camps.

It is also time to look broader beyond a certain line and redefine the word 'terrorism' as those resisting the Israeli aggression and putting a brave front to the genocide is not terrorism, it is heroism.

(The tripoli Post)

OPINI: THE TRIPOLI POST TENTANG SIKAP MESIR ATAS SERANGAN ISRAEL KE JALUR GAZA

Opinion: Egypt Too Powerless and Corrupt to Act

By Robert Fisk
11/01/2009

There was a day when we worried about the "Arab masses" - the millions of "ordinary" Arabs on the streets of Cairo, Kuwait, Amman, Beirut - and their reaction to the constant bloodbaths in the Middle East. Could Anwar Sadat restrain the anger of his people?

And now - after three decades of Hosni Mubarak - can Mubarak (or "La Vache Qui Rit", as he is still called in Cairo) restrain the anger of his people? The answer, of course, is that Egyptians and Kuwaitis and Jordanians will be allowed to shout in the streets of their capitals - but then they will be shut down, with the help of the tens of thousands of secret policemen and government militiamen who serve the princes and kings and elderly rulers of the Arab world.

Egyptians demand that Mubarak open the Rafah crossing-point into Gaza, break off diplomatic relations with Israel, even send weapons to Hamas. And there is a kind of perverse beauty in listening to the response of the Egyptian government: why not complain about the three gates which the Israelis refuse to open? And anyway, the Rafah crossing-point is politically controlled by the four powers that produced the "road map" for peace, including Britain and the US.

Why blame Mubarak? To admit that Egypt can't even open its sovereign border without permission from Washington tells you all you need to know about the powerlessness of the satraps that run the Middle East for us.

Open the Rafah gate - or break off relations with Israel - and Egypt's economic foundations crumble.

Any Arab leader who took that kind of step will find that the West's economic and military support is withdrawn.

Without subventions, Egypt is bankrupt. Of course, it works both ways. Individual Arab leaders are no longer going to make emotional gestures for anyone. When Sadat flew to Jerusalem - "I am tired of the dwarves," he said of his fellow Arab leaders - he paid the price with his own blood at the Cairo reviewing-stand where one of his own soldiers called him a "Pharaoh" before shooting him dead.

The true disgrace of Egypt, however, is not in its response to the slaughter in Gaza. It is the corruption that has become embedded in an Egyptian society where the idea of service - health, education, genuine security for ordinary people - has simply ceased to exist.

It's a land where the first duty of the police is to protect the regime, where protesters are beaten up by the security police, where young women objecting to Mubarak's endless regime - likely to be passed on caliph-like to his son Gamal, whatever we may be told - are molested by agents.

There has developed in Egypt a kind of religious facade in which the meaning of Islam has become effaced by its physical representation.

Egyptian civil "servants" and government officials are often scrupulous in their religious observances - yet they tolerate and connive in rigged elections, violations of the law and prison torture.

A young American doctor described to me recently how in a Cairo hospital busy doctors merely blocked doors with plastic chairs to prevent access to patients. In November, the Egyptian newspaper Al-Masry al-Youm reported how doctors abandoned their patients to attend prayers during Ramadan.

And amid all this, Egyptians have to live amid daily slaughter by their own shabby infrastructure.

Alaa al-Aswani wrote eloquently in the Cairo paper Al-Dastour that the regime's "martyrs" outnumber all the dead of Egypt's wars against Israel - victims of railway accidents, ferry sinkings, the collapse of city buildings, sickness, cancers and pesticide poisonings - all victims, as Aswani says, "of the corruption and abuse of power".

Opening the Rafah border-crossing for wounded Palestinians - the Palestinian medical staff being pushed back into their Gaza prison once the bloodied survivors of air raids have been dumped on Egyptian territory - is not going to change the midden in which Egyptians themselves live. Sayed Hassan Nasrallah, the Hizbollah secretary general in Lebanon, felt able to call on Egyptians to "rise in their millions" to open the border with Gaza, but they will not do so.

Ahmed Aboul Gheit, the feeble Egyptian Foreign Minister, could only taunt the Hizbollah leaders by accusing them of trying to provoke "an anarchy similar to the one they created in their own country."

But he is well-protected. So is President Mubarak.

Egypt's malaise is in many ways as dark as that of the Palestinians. Its impotence in the face of Gaza's suffering is a symbol of its own political sickness.

(The tripoli Post)

OPINI: THE TRIPOLI POST

Opinion:Israel is No Friend of Obama

By Akbar Muhammad
08/01/2009

Why should the Israelis expect any sane and rational human being to believe that their barbaric attack on Gaza and the indiscriminate slaughter of defenseless and helpless civilians including men, women, the elderly, and children can be justified? Why have not the Israelis wait until a new president is about to take office on a platform of change? It has been reported over and over again that Israelis have planned this attack for over one year. Did they plan it in order to make sure that the number one issue that Barack had to deal with is the problem of Israel and the Palestinians? Again, why did they plan the attack in the middle of the western world's celebration of their Christmas and New Year holidays?

It is obvious to all who are looking that the Zionist entity wants to be center stage regardless of circumstances. Israel wants to see if they can play the new president like they played Bush for the last eight years.

In President Bush's radio show on Saturday January 3, he tried to justify, in words, Israel's attack on the Palestinians in Gaza. Gaza is an area of 150 square miles and home to a population of 1.5 million. It is the most densely populated area in the world as the Palestinian people were forced into this small area in 1948 when Israel usurped their land.

President-elect Barack Obama has been quiet on this issue because he knows that this is the most highly explosive challenge that he will face as soon as he steps foot in the White House. The question is; why didn't the Israelis give Barack Obama the chance to implement a new policy that may bring about a lasting peace.

Barack Obama is very knowledgeable and has fresh ideas of how to move the peace process and has behind him the history of the mistakes of the presidents who came before him. Israel, not knowing what direction he may be headed, has already put him in an awkward position before he walks into the White House.

President Bush has shown complete weakness in the face of the Israelis savage slaughter of the Palestinian people. Pat Buchanan asked the right question in one of his articles: should the Israelis have this much control over American foreign policy toward the Middle East?

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said when she emerged from the White House to speak to the press, "we would like to see a cease-fire, but a cease-fire that is durable and sustainable." Is she saying that the Israelis should keep killing until we have a durable and sustainable cease-fire? The Israelis can look at this as a green light to continue their slaughter.

How can Barack Obama not hear the world that has said loud and clear that the savage and barbaric attack against the people of Gaza is immoral and not keeping with civilized behavior even in warfare. What justifies the massacre of an entire family, including nine children, just to kill one man?

Barack has to ask, are these Israelis who commit these crimes his friends, as they claim? During the presidential campaign, President-elect Barack Obama said that he would convene a conference of Muslim leaders from around the world within his first year in office and it was later reported that he would make a speech from a Muslim capital within the first 100 days. Is this attack on Gaza a plot by the Israelis to thaw these plans? It would be almost impossible now, with the current atmosphere, to carry this out because the world is not only upset with the Israelis but they are upset with the United States government that supplies them with money and weapons to carry out their carnage against the Palestinian people. Now that the Israelis are for the last eight days have started a ground offensive, where will this slaughter go?

President-elect Barack Obama is now put in a position to see if he can make changes we believe in. One change must be the foreign policy vis-à-vis the Palestinians and the Israelis. He must have the strength and courage to make a mid-course correction that will stop the Israelis from having an inordinate amount of influence and control when it comes to American foreign policy toward the Middle East. They are testing whether Barack Obama has the strength to stand up and refuse to say "we back Israel right or wrong."

A 'friend' would never do that to his benefactor. Israel is no friend to Barack Obama. No friend to the American people! Some political analysts believe that Israeli arrogance and disrespect to human life show without any doubt that Israel is an enemy of Israel.

About The Author
To make comments or contact Akbar Muhammad you may email him at Africandtheworld@msn.com

(The Tripoli Post)

PERNYATAAN PM TURKI ATAS SERANGAN ISRAEL KE JALUR GAZA

Turkey PM Defends His Condemnation of Israel, Says His Words Not Tougher than Phosphorus Bombs Used by Israel Against Children
16/01/2009

The Prime Minister of Turkey Tayyip Erdogan defended his outspoken criticism of Israel's Gaza offensive and said it did not mean he was anti-Semitic.

Erdogan has described Israel's military offensive against Gaza as "a crime against humanity" and defended those remarks on Tuesday in a speech to his ruling AK Party in parliament, broadcast live on television in Turkey.

"There are people who are disturbed by me speaking of my discomfort over the killing of civilians, (including) children. . . If we do not state what is just and lawful, then we will lose our self-respect," he said.

"I am (also) a leader who has said that anti-Semitism is a crime against humanity," he said.

Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of using white-phosphorus munitions during its offensive. The Israeli army has said it will not give details of its munitions.

"There are people who say that the prime minister's statements are too tough (on Israel), but my words are not tougher than phosphorus bombs," Erdogan said.

Erdogan said Israeli media were spreading false information about the Gaza offensive.

"Excuses are found for mass killings of children at schools, hospitals and mosques, especially by Jewish-backed media," he said. "News stories saying that terrorists hide among children or (describing bombings) as technical errors or accidents are aimed at making fun of the world (public opinion)."

Erdogan on Tuesday visited 10 Palestinians evacuated to Turkey after being injured in the Israeli offensive on Gaza.

Speaking outside a private hospital in Ankara afterwards, Erdogan said Turkey was ready to treat more Palestinians if needed.

The ten Palestinians and accompanying relatives arrived earlier on Tuesday at Ankara's Esenboga airport by an ambulance plane which took off from Egypt, the Anadolu news agency reported.

They were treated on board by Turkish doctors and were transferred to a private hospital on arrival.

More than 1100 Palestinians have been killed including 400 children and over 5200 others wounded since the launch of the Israeli raid on Gaza on December 27, 2008.

(The Tripoli Post)

PEMBANTAIAN ISRAEL TERHADAP WARGA SIPIL PALESTINA DI JALUR GAZA

Coward Israeli Army Keeps on Massacring Gaza Children, Killing 1085 Wounding Over 5000

16/01/2009 (hari ke-21)

Hamas Remains Defiant, Promising Victory over Zionist Terrorists

The coward Israeli military has continued to massacre Palestinian civilians in Gaza Strip for 22 days now killing hundreds of children, women and the elderly.

During the three-week aggression on Gaza, the Israeli military has failed to win against the Palestinian resistance which, despite its lack of weapons, lack of air defenses against US-made F-16s was able to stop the Israelis from reaching their declared goals.

The Israeli terrorist army has killed so far more than 1100 people including 370 children, 100 women and 120 elders. This is in addition to over 5000 people wounded including 450 seriously which indicates that the death toll will be rising.

Israeli jets targeted the northern town of Jebaliya early Thursday, dropping white phosphorous bombs on the residents, a Press TV corresponded reported.

White phosphorus, classified as a 'chemical weapon' by the US intelligence, is an incendiary material that causes horrific burns, severe injuries or death when it comes in contact with skin.

Israeli strikes set UN and media buildings and a hospital ablaze Thursday as tanks rolled deep into Gaza City.

Hundreds of terrified civilians, many gripping wailing children, fled the advancing Israeli troops inside Gaza's main city as warplanes pounded the impoverished Hamas-ruled enclave in a bid to stem Palestinian rocket fire.

Despite the fierce offensive, Hamas remained in control of the cities and succeeded to stop all incursions for that matter. Hamas also continued to launch projectiles Thursday, sending 30 more missiles including two long-range Grad missiles crashing into the southern Israeli city of Beersheva and wounding five people.

Shortly after United Nations chief Ban Ki-moon arrived in Israel, a shell hit the main UN compound in Gaza, wounding three employees, setting fire to a warehouse filled with tonnes of aid and leading the UNRWA agency to partly suspend operations.

An UNRWA spokesman said tens of millions of dollars worth of humanitarian aid had been destroyed in the blaze and the attack was condemned by British Prime Minister Gordon Brown and a European Union commissioner.

Ban said he had conveyed his "strong protest and outrage" and demanded an explanation in talks with Israeli officials as part of a regional truce tour.

Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said that Israeli troops had shelled the compound in Gaza in response to fire coming from the building.

UNRWA spokesman Chris Gunness denied the claim."There were no militants or militant activity in our compound," he said.

In southwestern Gaza, an Israeli strike hit the Al-Quds Hospital in the Tal al-Hawa neighbourhood, where dozens of Israeli tanks rumbled into the streets after dawn, sparking fierce clashes with Palestinian gunmen.

A French doctor said staff and patients at the hospital were trapped by Israeli fire in the neighbourhood and part of the building was destroyed.

"The Israelis are bombing and attacking all around the hospital. We can't get out. There's fire, and we're trapped inside. The water has been cut off," Regis Garrigue told AFP by telephone from the building.

The International Committee of the Red Cross said about 100 patients and medical staff were put at risk when the hospital suffered a "direct hit."

An Israeli raid also hit a building housing several media outlets in central Gaza City, wounding two cameramen.

In all, at least over fifty people were killed in Gaza on Thursday, medics said, but the exact number of casualties was likely to be much higher as the ongoing clashes blocked ambulances from reaching the wounded.

Israel launched its aggression on 27 December with aim purpose to stop these missiles fired by Hamas and other Palestinian resistance groups in Gaza.

(The tripoli Post)

PERALATAN KUNA ARAB LIBYA

Disappearing Tools, Vanishing Vocabulary: The Kitchen
09/08/2008

From early hearths to today’s appliance-equipped wonderlands, kitchens have always been at the heart of any home. However, before blenders and supermarkets, and before kitchens were equipped with microwaves and refrigerators, food preparation was a time-consuming process, requiring tools that today are unlikely to be seen outside of a museum.

The rha or mill, for example, is something not often seen these days, although one feature of the rha has lingered on tenaciously in some places in the form of songs and chants originally sung by women while working the mill.

One intriguing aspect of these songs is the relationship between the rhythm of the song, the mood of the singer, and what she wants to produce. Fast energetic songs are generally happy, and are sung while making crushed wheat for example, while slower, sad songs were sung while grinding rice-flour which would be used to make mahalabia (a milk pudding) and baby food, among other things.

While spices would be ground in a much smaller mill, the rha could be so big that it would take two women to work it, each swinging the wooden handle a half-circle, before handing it over to the other.

Another one-time essential part of any Libyan household was the shakwa, which is typically made out of a whole lambskin, which is cleaned, cured and then rubbed and disinfected once a month with salt and juniper.

The shakwa is used to churn milk to butter by shaking it from side to side with the help of a rope. Part of the butter produced in this way would then set aside for use, while the rest of it was stored in the soufa, where it is left to clarify and turn into samn or ghee.

The soufa, like the shakwa, is also made out of whole lambskin, however with the soufa the lamb’s wool is left intact. This explains the soufa’s name, which comes from the word souf or wool.

The soufa and shakwa can still be found and are still used in some parts of Libya today, however they are nowhere near as common as the ubiquitous gufa, a large basket that has long been used for a vast variety of purposes, and is still widely used throughout the country.

On the other hand, while tanur bread is still made, these days it is more likely to be baked inside an ordinary oven than in the traditional way, using the clay oven or the tanur.

The tanur is made up of clay hoops which are fixed on top of each other to form a cylinder about 1 meter in diameter, and the dough is then placed against the inside of the tanur, which is heated to a degree that bakes the bread.

These types of ovens have been made out of metal and other materials that have the advantage of being much easier to move than the very heavy clay ovens.

However, it is said the bread baked in the metal tanur does not have distinctive taste of original tanur bread, and so as with so many other things that have made food preparation easier, more practical, and less time-consuming its advantages are not without drawbacks.

SONDOS ELGATIT

(The tripoli Post)

PEMELIHARAAN SITUS ARKEOLOGIS LIBYA

Archaeologist: Libyans Should Make More Effort to Preserve Their Archaeological Wealth

04/05/2008 01:19:00

There is an urgent need to protect Libya's world-class heritage assets by supporting the rapid expansion of the Department of Antiquities, with new resources and manpower to become a more effective custodian and curator of Libyan heritage, the chairman of the Society for Libyan Studies of London and Director of Canterbury Archaeological Trust, Dr. Paul Bennet told a large audience who listened attentively to his lecture on Thursday 24 April which took place at the Academy of Graduate Studies.

"Libya's archaeological heritage is a long term asset and it has the potential to create long term revenue and above all provide meaningful employment to the Libya's burgeoning youth," he added.

"I am here to support the antiquity department at its very difficult time, at a time when it is growing from a point of standstill. Libya has got a fantastic archaeological heritage and therefore it is certainly worth preserving." explained Dr. Bennets to his attentive audience.

Dr. Bennet also made a special appeal to members of the society to be made custodians of their own resources so that they can help in the preservation of the Libya's rich archaeology which is currently under threat from the ongoing economic development that is taking place in the country.

"Much as Libya is experiencing growth in terms of its infrastructure, but we have to adjust to the way we develop and make sure that our development doesn't have a major impact to this wonderful archaeological resource," appealed Dr. Bennet.

Dr. Bennet is a professional archaeologist and a part-time lecturer at the University of Kent who has been working in Libya on a voluntary basis since 1972. For the last nine years he has, with Professor Andrew Wilson of Oxford University and Ahmed Buzaian of the University of Garyounis, Benghazi, been working on the site of Euesperides, the first Benghazi, founded in c.600 BC.

The heritage sites of Libya are precious assets for the nation that have huge potential to provide foreign revenue and long-term, fulfilling jobs for Libya's young graduates and workers. Libya's archaeological heritage is therefore worth preserving.

The presentation was made in support of Libya's archaeological heritage on behalf of Dr. Bennet's friends and colleagues in the Department of Antiquities of Libya.

The lecture was organized in partnership between the British Council and Shell.

It was attended by various invited guests, including diplomats, oil company workers, academicians, environmentalists, students and journalists.

(The Tripoli Post)

PETUALANGAN GURUN PASIR AKAKUS,

Gateway Journey to the Wonders of the Desert of Akakus
03/11/2007

One of the important aspects of any organised trip is that it reassures the traveler from the outset and that it embeds everlasting memories to treasure for life. From the moment we alighted down the steps of the Bouraq Air flight to Sebha and met our friends at the start of our four-day 1265km desert trip, we knew that our Gateway journey to the wonders of the Desert of Akakus was going to be an unforgettable experience.

Hamed, our Tourag Guide, and Ali, our driver, put us at ease from the outset with their courteous efficiency and warm welcome. As it was too late for us to travel south that evening we headed off to our first overnight stop in Sebha.

After a most enjoyable, relaxing evening at the Al Gebel Hotel on the edge of a cliff we embarked on the desert expedition by heading to the Germa Museum some 170km south of Sebha, traveling through picturesque and history-laden villages such as Abjad, Bil-Haret, il- Hamra, Barzuz, Bint Bayya (Princess's Daughter).

Towns with enchanting names emerge from the desert and fade in the mirror as our vehicles continued south for 170 pleasant kilometers, passing romantically named villages such as Tinahama, Ghar Geba (The neck in English), El Garaja (Reading of the Koran), El Fjieg, Tikkariba, El Kharajk and finally the last two outposts of Twiwa and El Fahhaha before eventually arriving at the little museum at Germa.

From Germa we proceeded west towards Ubari and Sedeles, before returning to Twiwa for lunch at the Ubari Magic Libya camp.

We left Awinat passing through Zinkekra – Grefa – El Hatija and arrived at the Ubari centre, over 200 km from Sebha. Ubari has an early 19th century mosque sometimes referred to as the Tourag Mosque. Then we were off to Sedeles going through Tixwinet a village just before Awinat. Sedeles, which is the northernmost point of the range, is jumping off point for the Jabal Akakus.

We then crossed to Akakus area and got off the main road into a sand path that led to the Akakus Magic Libya Camp. After a cold fresh orange juice that quenched our thirst we were shown to our tents. Later in the evening we had a great dinner.

Early the next morning I was lucky enough to witness the magnificent sunrise coming out from behind the rocks of Akakus. It was most impressive and gave us a brilliant start for the day ahead of us, our much awaited tour of Akakus with our Guide and river Ali both dressed as Tourags. It really made us feel that we were now part of the Desert.

In order to reach the Akakus sites we were driven on sandy wadi beds through canyons. One could see the landscape opens up to the present wide vistas of jogged mountains gnawed by the wind and sun. The predominant colours are blue, gold and shades of plum black. Centuries of sandblasting have darkened the cliff faces.

Despite all the desolation, the sites are easily accessible by a four-wheel vehicle, necessitating a short scramble to reach the cliff shelter where the Prehistoric paintings have wondrously survived.

As our guide Hamed proudly described to us, we were then truly in the 'Heart of Akakus'

A short but an adequate visit to the main sites of the Jabal Akakus, using a four-wheel drive vehicle requires at least 5 days.

While admiring this most spectacular site and scenery near one of the dry lakes, at Tihadin we came across a Tourag Family. Under the watchful eye of their mother, two very young boys aged between three and four rushed out of a house made of straw, chasing each other happily and playing in the clean unpolluted air. Believe me, it could take your breath away!!!

The kids’ father was away trying to get what he co-uld for his lovely family by selling goats, and receiving handouts by passing tourists.

We came across many different desert plants, particularly the very popular Fahhaha. According to Hamed, if one had to thread on this poisonous plant he would have a salty taste for at least three days; if a camel had to bite at this plant - it would die!!! We also came across lovely flying coloured birds, camels, snakes and many others animal spices.

Then we made out way to the cave paintings. The prehistoric rock paintings and carvings of the Jebel Akakus are the big draw of Southwestern Libya. They located in a spectacularly beautiful area.


The Akakus chain of mountains runs north south for 250km, starting from the area just west of Sedeles and finishing down at the Takkark-houri. Geologically these mountains are a continuation of the Tassil-n-Ajjer in neighbouring Algeria. The formation of the Akakus rocks is fantastic and beyond explaining.


On our trip we also came across several dry lakes that from a distance would give the impression they are actually full of fresh water. But it is all an illusion. When you get nearer you could see that they are completely dry.


Although often faded, the rock paintings of the Akakus provide a unique record of life in the Sahara thousands of years ago - some 3000 years. There are paintings of both animals and humans. They range from lively hunting scenes, with beasts in full flight, to stylised representations of human figures, some with little matchstick heads and others with disproportionate round heads.

Some of the scenes are clearly narrative, depicting worship and celebration on a battle. Unfortunately, even after several decades of research, it seems impossible to date the rock paintings with any degree of precision, as is also the case with paintings.
Besides the paintings and carvings, the Akakus region also has other fragile evidence of human settlement. All the painting material was naturally manufactured. Our guide explained that coloured rock would be reduced to powder generally red, more rarely white occasional black or green mixed with Ostrich egg albumen or milk and applied to the rock face.

Akakus’ rock art has made the region very popular.

On our trip we also visited Awls on entering the valley of Til Wawwet. One can witness the different caves with different paintings, this time showing the hunting era. Paintings of humans with Circular Heads, Square Heads and 'Triangle Heads with different Touarag face features from different tribes.

We came to the end of our trip by entered the valley of Adad, which means a Thumb. Then we returned to Sebha Airport, but not before again stopping for lunch at the Ubari Magic Libya Camp that was complimented by a wonderful tasty lunch followed by fresh fruit and cold drinks!

Hamed and Ali did everything in their power to make our visit to the Akakus a memorable trip. They succeeded. What more could one wish for in 40 degrees temperature as we admired nature and its beauty?

Special thanks go to the Magic Libya team particularly Chantal – Mustafa and Eid. Magic Libya has made it happen again for us. I would recommend them to anybody wanting to visit the Desert after this successful trip during which we covered 1265km in four days.

Just before leaving for Sebha Airport, I managed to photograph the most beautiful sunset that I have ever witnessed in my whole life. I will always treasure this photo that will remind us of this unforgettable Gateway journey to the wonders of the Desert of Akakus.

TTONY TABONE
(Executive Chief Concierge at Tripoli's Corinthia Bab Africa Hotel)

(The Tripoli Psot)

KESAKSIAN SAMI ZAPTIA TENTANG TRIPOLI, LIBYA

My Tripoli Local is Better than My England Local!
03/06/2007


When I first returned to Tripoli from England in the early 90's I was very disappointed to find that bakeries were still in the 'command economy age'. “Take it or leave it”, seemed to be the motto and 'be grateful for what you get' was the attitude.

But I am now very happy to say - as do most my ex-pat friends – that Tripoli today offers one of the best bakeries in the region. Not only does Libyan bread rival that of our neighbours Malta, Tunisia and Egypt - but in my personal opinion - it’s even better than my local Tesco bakery in England! Yes Libya is better than England!

At rush hours you cannot drive past the best bakeries in Tripoli such as, the one on the main Gurji road next to the old Tripoli College, the one in Za-wiet Al Dihmany and there are two in my locality in Al Hadba Al Khadra, to name a few.

But I must point out and congratulate my local modern bakery called 'Al Forn' (The Oven) in Al Hadba Al Khadra. The variety and range of products it offers are superb. It is, thankfully, no longer just an old style bread factory, but it is a modern-day bakery offering bread, drinks as well as sweet and savory products and ready to eat snacks.

If you need a quick take away snack you can grab a cold drink with your pizzas, bureeks, tuna stuffed horns, brioches, cakes etc etc.

As for the breads, where do I start: flat bread, salt free bread, traditional tanoor bread, paninis, various French sticks, Egyptian/Syrian-type bread, wholemeal, multigrain, oat, wheat, barley breads. Bread mixed with olives, with rosemary, with tomatoes, and the list goes on and on. And all freshly made.

And – as my bakery owner keeps pointing out - unlike at my Tesco, Sainsburys or Asda bakery in England - nice bread does not cost me one pound sterling – or two dinars fifty to you and me – but usually only between 4 and 8 small loafs per a quarter Libyan dinars! Alhamdu lilah (Thank God), we should be grateful.

Equally on a progressive note - and hopefully as a sign of the improving times – I was pleasantly surprised the other month to find that paper bags had replaced plastic bags at the bakery. The owner told me that the authorities had informed them for health reasons to stop using plastic bags for hot bread.

Congratulations to the health/environmental department that is responsible for this decision. It is a good start and there is so so much more to be done in the public safety and consumer protection arena. Well done. And well done to all the bakery owners out there. We appreciate you and please keep it up.

SAMI ZAPTIA
(A graduate of the NES/Monitor Group Leadership Development Program)

(The Tripoli Post)

GODDES VENUS-LIBYA

Libya to Get Back Its “Goddess Venus” from Italy Taken During Colonial Era
29/04/2007

Italy can return to Libya an ancient statue of Venus taken to Rome during Italian colonial rule in 1913, after a court ruled on Monday it was not part of Italy's cultural heritage.

The headless "Venus of Cyrene" was carried away from the town of Cyrene -- an ancient Greek colony -- by Italian troops and put on display in Rome.

Former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi's promise to return it on a visit to in 2002 was blocked by legal action lodged by a group called "Our Italy," whose aim is to keep Italy's cultural treasures in Italian ownership.

Alessandro Ruffini, lawyer for the Libyan embassy in Rome, told Reuters the Lazio appeals court ruling that Italy did not have an historic claim to the statue was "well grounded."

The 2nd century statue of the goddess Venus is now housed in Rome's National Roman Museum.

The headless marble figure of the goddess of love is a copy of a Greek statue that has never been found, said Silvana Rizzo, an archaeologist at the ministry.

Libyan authorities requested the statue in 1989, but a protracted judicial battle ensued with a group that considered the work part of Italy's cultural heritage.

Last week, a court ruled in favor of returning the statue to Tripoli, the ministry said in a statement. No date has been set for the return.
In 2005, Rome returned to Ethiopia the 1,700-year-old Axum obelisk taken in 1937 on the orders of fascist dictator Benito Mussolini.

(The Tripoli Post)

GHADAMES DESERT OF LIBYA

Ghadames - The Pearl of The Desert
10/03/2007

One of the best-known municipalities of Libya is Ghadames. It is an oasis town 683 km. Southwest of Tripoli that has a population of about 20,000 (2005 estimate), next to the borders of Tunisia and Algeria. The old part of the town was surrounded by a wall. Today it is one of the best preserved of Arab towns in Libya. It has been declared World Heritage of the UNESCO.

The Ghadames population is composed of groups of people of Arab origin and other groups of ancient Libyan source. They speak Arabic which the Arab Muslim Leader Ugba ibn-Naafa’ brought with him to the city when he conquered it twice in the 7th century A.D.). The inhabitants also speak a sort of a vernacular language that is common today among the indigenous people of Ghadames. They are, of course Libyans.

Ghadames is recognized for its beautiful and inventive architecture, designed to fight the dramatic extremes in Saharan climate.

All houses are made out of mud, lime, and palm tree trunks. They are constructed so that all intersect, with covered alleyways between them, and attached roofs above them, allowing passage from one house to another.

The streets are both dark and with far lower temperatures than what one would find outdoors. It is a town that distinguishes itself by its shape and appearance; both extraordinary.

It is composed of several quarters that used to be inhabited by different family groups. The houses also are virtually part of a troglodyte world. Most families in the new town still own their house in the old town and it is possible to visit one or two of them today.

Rooftops were interconnected by walkways used only by womenfolk to meet each other. Unless accompanied by men belonging to the family women were never seen in the alleys of the old town.

Ghadames stands still as one of the most valuable spots in Libya for the traveller. Here one finds a tranquil old city with the colour white chosen for the building.

This town represents popular engineering, and is the result of a complex knowledge on how to deal with extreme temperatures. The positioning of the houses is far from casual. Every angle, every wall, every opening in the roofs over the alleyways, are parts of the same organism.

While the entire population has moved out of the old town to the modern nearby village, the old centre still provides a popular shelter from the summer heat.

Each of the seven clans that used to live in old part of the town had its own district, of which each had a public place where festivals could be held.

In the 1970s, the government built new houses outside of the old part of the town. However, many inhabitants return to the old part of the town during the summer, as its architecture provides better protection against the heat.

The first records about Ghadames exist not before the Roman period, when from time to time there were troops in the town. The Roman name for the town was Cydamus.

So the history of this oasis town is thought to go back some 5000 years. It owes its origins to the copious fresh water that till recent years kept the oasis full. For two centuries it was a Roman outpost and the people of the Byzantine Empire converted he Berbers to Christianity.

They stayed that way until the 7th Century when Muslim Arabs armies arrived and the population quickly converted to Islam.

For centuries Ghadames has been an important trading town and in the 19th century played an important role as base for the Trans-Saharan trade.

The economic base for Ghadames has been dwindling over the ears. Earlier the town was an important stopover on the caravan routes crossing the Sahara. through the Sahara, including slavery, originating from and ended their journey there. The market was rich in produce from all areas of Africa and the Mediterranean countries.

This commercial activity brought substantial wealth to this beautiful Libyan oasis, known as the pearl of the desert.

Today’s income for the inhabitants is derived from some camel breeding, diminutive agriculture and administrative and military activities. Tourism too could and should revive, and become even greater than it was in the colonial period.

The inhabitants of Ghadames, (Cydamae in the Roman times), are the Touareg lovers of freedom and liberty. People loved to hear the still of the night being broken by the music of a simple cane flute: or to attend the scene of a curtain of silence being lifted by the artistic fingers of a Bedouin woman playing a beautiful tune on strings attached to a small leather-coated drum: or the uproar of a tumuli on the dance ring with the songs of the Touareg.

Ghadames Oasis has its own framework of customs and habits, and its own social ways of life. The existence of a water spring endowed on its special attraction and gave it vital life arteries. Thus, it became one of the most important commercial stations for merchants’ caravans.

Legend has it that the name GHADAMES has an interesting story behind it. It is said that a long time before the town was given its name, a caravan passing through a valley decided to have lunch.

When it was all over, packed their belongings and left the spot, a member of the caravan noticed that one of the cooking utensils was missing. At this he exclaimed: “we forgot them at Ghadames (meaning: We left them at yesterday’s lunch.

In Arabic ‘Ghada’ means lunch and ‘ams’ means in Arabic means ‘Yesterday’. Therefore, ‘Gha-dames’ means yesterday’s lunch. But by chance, the Roman name “Gyadamae” has been transformed to “Ghadames”.

It is just a legend, for Ghadames took its name from a distortion of its original name, ‘Cydamus’. Its present name has no relation with (Ghada - Arabic for lunch).

It is possible to visit Ghadames in one day from Tripoli but it takes 14 hours of driving. A two or three-day trip is much better allowing time to visit Nalut, al-Kabaw or Yfren along the way.

(The Tripoli Post)

IDUL FITRI DI LIBYA

Libyan Eid Unveiled
28/10/2006

by Alaeddin Bashir Abukabda

Belated Libya celebrates once again the departure of Ramadan. Fasting and deep religious dedication are momentarily laid aside and replaced by celebration and gaiety. Today, we will forsaken the impenetrable religious halo which encircles “Eid Al Fitr” and which characterizes most Libyan customs, and instead we will take a close and methodical insight at what really occurs within, and without the local households as they hail and bid farewell to the solemnity of the sacred month of Ramadan.
Libyan traditional feasting is mainly an intermingling and intertwining of pageant customs and religious rites with the epicurean element justly supervening for an ephemeral instant over the deeply-rooted Islamic impositions and beliefs.
During the three consecutive festive days the Libyan population rediscovers, before relapsing into common daily affairs, the pleasure of reuniting with close relatives thus sharing with long-missed kins an abundant repast prepared overnight by untiring and diligent housewives.
These meals consist mainly of a variety of customary dishes such as baked beans soup, stuffed peppers and mutton along with other equally relishable and desirable dishes.
However, tradition has it that “Eid Al Fitr” should be mainly devoted to exquisite sweet delicacies such as the delicious “magrud” made of delicately-prepared dates within fillo-pastry and covered by a molass-like dense syrup, or the more notorious “baklava`” in shapes and numerous varieties that in unison mollify the surliest of moods and contribute to the success of the day.
However, “Eid Al Fitr” is not only a tribute to culinary tastes. It signifies a spiritual ablution and redemption from daily conflicts and sorrows.
The first day commences with a long and heart-felt morning prayer and sermon in remembrance of the month that has passed, dethroned by the oncoming “Shawwal”.
It is a joyous occasion with important religious significance. Happiness is observed as attaining spiritual uplift after a month of fasting. Muslims dress in holiday attire as worshippers greet and embrace each other in a spirit of peace, love, and brotherhood.
After that, all believers direct themselves homewards to enjoy the intimate pleasures of familial company as neighbours visit each other and relatives indulge in prolonged visits lasting all day long.
In the meantime, nearby streets are teeming with boisterous children brandishing newly-purchased toys, whilst showing off in exultant pride brand new garments bought specially for the occasion doomed to be-come thoroughly miserable and piteous by the end of the day.
Many families gather in the paternal household and return to their native cities, which in some cases involve long nightly journeys.
Nowadays, new generations that are engaged in games or other activities with their peers, have relinquished such customs (more is the pity) preferring instead to dedicate the festive time loitering in downtown Tripoli.
“Eid Al Fitr” also means heavy and unequalled spending as a Libyan citizen duly points out, “The Eid has become a strong commercial business. I spend my monthly salary before and during these three days. In the past, we were happy just to spend some time with our families.”
This new trend is evident nowadays as more and more families flock into downtown Tripoli and indulge in sundry entertainments duly embellished, prim and proper and newly clad. Fun parks, such as that facing the Al Fateh Tower enlarged and renewed, furnish amusement in the form of roller coasters, bumping cars and other equally enjoyable games to the same effect.
Likewise, restaurants offer special menus a` la carte with a wide selection of presumably traditional dishes such as couscous, “hraimi” (fish soup), cakes, pastries and Arabic salads all to attract selected clients.
When asked what this recurrence really meant to Muslims, a passerby said: “Eid Al Fitr is a time dedicated to love and to our families, during which all Muslims cast their problems and worries away by spending dear moments with those they cherish.

(The Tripoli Post)

WARISAN BUDAYA ISLAM

Islam's Cultural Legacy
15/10/2006

Amid rising Islamophobia in the West, the Italian art city of Venice is playing host to a major exhibition celebrating Islam’s contribution to Western civilization and arts. It is intended to showcase Islamic civilization in the Middle Ages and highlight its interplay with Western culture and civilization across eight centuries.

The fair, titled "Venise et l'Orient", was opened on October 3 and will end on February 18, next year. It comes as the West and the Muslim world are experiencing some of the worst periods of their relation in recent history. The event is clearly showing how Islamic civilization left its indelible mark on the West in the Middle Ages.

According to the Paris-based Arab World Institute (IMA), which is organizing the fair jointly with the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, visitors are being given the chance to view some 200 objects from Venetian collections and from the great museums of the world.

Pottery, oil paintings, carpets, coins, silver plates and wooden items brought to the Republic of Venice or 'Serenissima' are among the exhibits at 'Venice and the West'.

The exhibits - about 250 objects - show how the Islamic civilization became a source of inspiration for the Venetians.

Qur`anic verses inscribed on glass lamps and ceramic plates made in Venice and sold in the East show how impressed Europe was by the Islamic calligraphy.

They chart the history of the Republic of Venice from its beginnings in the eighth century as the power of the Byzantine empire dwindled, through its rise as trading and maritime power in the Mediterranean and Adriatic in the 12th-15th centuries - when it reached its maximum power and territorial extension as probably the richest city in the world - through to its struggle against the expanding Ottoman empire in the 16th-17th centuries and its decline and dissolution in 1797 when French troops of Napoleon Bonaparte invaded the city.

The exhibition seeks to examine the artistic and cultural exchanges between Venice and the most powerful Islamic dynasties - the Mamelouks and the Ottomans - over those centuries.

From the end of the 13th century to the beginning of the 14th century, Venice flourished with palaces, carpets, silks, brocades and velvets imported from the Orient.

Eastern knowledge and techniques were in turn transmitted from the Orient to Venice in the Middle Ages, and the exhibition displays some of the luxury objects with Islamic decorations that the 'Serenissima' exported to the major capitals of the East.

The IMA said on its website, that the presence of Mamelouks and Ottomans wearing their typical garments in the paintings of the great masters of the Venetian Renaissance will convey the Venetians’ familiarity with their Mediterranean neighbours.

Marie George Nida, one of the exhibition's organizers was quoted as saying, that the exhibition highlights cross-fertilization between the West and Islam to counter war-mongering clichés that now make international headlines.

The fair's logo is a computerized photo of the masterpiece painting of Venetian artist Gentile Bellini, showing the Otto-man Sultan Mohammad II face-to-face with the Venetian duke Giovanni Mocenigo.

As part of efforts to recognize Islamic contribution to human civilization, a new wing of Islamic art is also to be inaugurated in the Louvre museum in 2009.


The long-awaited section in the world's largest museum will showcase up to 10,000 pieces, one of the greatest concentrations of Islamic art in existence.

As further proof of the importance of this cultural sector, the New York-based Metropolitan Museum of Arts and the British Museum also have departments of Islamic art.

(The Tripoli Post)

LIONEL RICHIE MENGGOYANG TRIPOLI

Lionel Richie Performs in Tripoli All Night Long, Says: 'I had a Great Time, I will be Back'

17/05/2006

With the Leader of the Revolution's home as a backdrop, the American singer Lionel Richie jived and rocked for an adoring audience on Saturday 15 April 2006 in a concert to mark the 20th anniversary of a US raid on Libya.

"Libya I love you, I'll be back," the Oscar and Grammy award-winning singer songwriter said to roars of approval from more than 1,000 senior Libyan officials and diplomats gathered in front of the shell-cratered building.

"Hana would be happy tonight," said Richie during his performance, referring to the adopted daughter of the Leader who was among the over 40 slain in the 1986 air strikes on the cities of Tripoli and Benghazi. One member of the audience climbed on stage to dance with Richie, whose hits All Night

Long, Say You, Say Me, and Dancing On The Ceiling were being heavily played on US radio airwaves around the time Washington ordered the strike.
Richie was followed by Spanish opera stars Jose Carreras and Ofelia Sala who belted through a selection of classic favorites backed by 60-piece orchestra under a cloudless night sky.

Egyptian singer Mohammed Munir and folklore troupes from Egypt and Syria also participated in the festival.

Radiating charm and wit, Richie brought the soberly dressed audience repeatedly to its feet with a succession of his greatest hits, persuading them to sing along and dance.
He won laughs when he joked that some in the audience knew the words to his songs better than he did, and drew shouts of "thank you" and "we love you" from some in the crowd.

Richie, a former Commodores singer who co-wrote with Michael Jackson the number-one hit We Are The World in 1985, told a press conference his presence in Libya was a "historic event," and said he took part because "music unites people".
The concert was named "Hana Peace Day" in honor of the child, one of several infants killed in the strike.

The concert was held in Bab Al-Azizia barracks near the ruins of the Leader of the Revolution's residence, targeted by the attacks that have never been removed so to remain a material witness to what the Libyans believe was a blatant aggression against their country.

"We will not forget but we do not want to be hostages of the past," a concert organizer told AFP. "We want to live in the present and express through our music our renewed union with the world," he added.

The event ended with a group of children dressed as angels standing on a balcony of the house and waving candles as they sang along to a recording of the US humanitarian pop anthem "We are the world".
During the Reagan administration, American forces bombed Tripoli and Benghazi in the early hours of April 15, 1986.

Then President Ronald Reagan said it was in retaliation for what he called Libyan complicity in the bombing of a discotheque in Berlin a month earlier.

Organizers said the music provided a deliberately upbeat commemoration of the 1986 raid, an event that marked one of the lowest points in the decades Libya spent being seen as an outlaw state that supported terrorism.

However, it was Ms. Aisha Muammar Al-Qathafi, the daughter of the Libyan leader, who officially opened the concert by a short but state to the point statement. She said:
“I welcome you with the greetings of Islam: ‘As-salam A'aliakum wa Rahmatu Allahi wa Barakatuhi’".

"Peace be upon our gracious land. Peace be upon all world peace delegates who shared with us this day." “Please allow me to invite you for a moment of salience on the souls of our martyrs who were killed at the hands of the enemies of peace,” she said.

“Today I stand in front of this steadfast home in which "Today, I stand before this resilient house, where twenty years ago my childhood was torn apart and my toys and childhood's dreams were destroyed,” said Ms. Aisah, at the opening of the concert, which began on Saturday at 2.30am, the exact hour at which US warplanes flying out of British bases hit their targets 20 years ago," she added.

Ms. Al-Qathafi, currently a lawyer, was about 10 at the time of the attack.
"Twenty years ago on this day I awoke to the sound of bombs and rockets and the cries of my brothers. My memory never forget, nor history will ever erase it. But today we try to heal our wounds and shake hands with those who are here with us tonight. Yes for peace, no for destruction," she said.”

The superstar Richie started by a statement:
“It is an honor for me to be here with you tonight. This is my first time ever to be here in Libya. I would like to say to you, it was an opportunity for me to walk in the streets, I must tell you that I would return to this country, I promise you. People were wonderful, we spent a wonderful time. Hospitality is unbelievable. I recommend you to explore this beautiful world in Libya. This night is wonderful honor for Hana whose name is linked to peace."

(The Tripoli Post)

ISLAMPHOBIA MEDIA ISLAM

Paris, Washington Agree to Silence Islamic Voices of Freedom
25/12/2004

Finally, Paris and Washington have found something to agree on, that is to further oppress and strangle Arab and Islamic media outlets at the era of globalization.

France's Council of State (CSA), the country's highest administrative court, has ordered the satellite company Eutelsat to stop broadcasts of Al-Manar television, allegedly linked to the Lebanese political party and militant Shiite Muslim group Hezbollah.

Arab media groups, intellectuals and journalists have condemned the French move and called it a part of the over all oppression of Arabs and Muslims.

Al-Manar television blasted a decision by a French court to ban its EU broadcasts as a "dangerous precedent." The move is "an affront to freedom of expression, a denial of the principles that France has always backed and a dangerous precedent in France's attitude toward Arab media," Al-Manar said in a statement.

Al-Manar said the decision had been made "at Israel's declared instigation and following a political campaign organized by the Zionist lobby in France."

"To stop Al-Manar broadcasts and to silence its voice has been triggered by the fact that it is exposing the truth about the Arab-Israeli conflict and the fact that it carries the voice of resistance against occupation," it said.

The bans on the broadcasts within the European Union had to be implemented within 48 hours, the court said after ruling that the channel had violated laws against inciting racial hatred.
In another seemingly coordinated move with the French government, Washington put Al-Manar TV on a list of terror organizations and as a result it lost its satellite feed last Saturday.

"We are sorry to lose our audience in France and America. We will work to change that. Meanwhile, we still have our faithful viewers elsewhere," said Hassan Fadlallah, Al-Manar's news director.
Fadlallah told The Associated Press, "This is a blatant attack on press freedoms and an exercise in intellectual terrorism against the voices that are opposed to U.S. and Israeli policies. It is part of an organized Israeli campaign against Al-Manar to keep it from transmitting the facts of the Arab-Israeli struggle."

Lebanese authorities have threatened to reciprocate against French channels for the ban. Lebanon considers Hezbollah - a militant Shiite Muslim group high on the U.S. list of terrorist organizations - to be a legitimate resistance organization fighting Israeli occupation.
Al-Manar is broadcast in Europe via Paris-based Eutelsat as part of a package of nine channels put out by Saudi-based Arabsat.

France's broadcast regulator, the Higher Audiovisual Council (CSA) had granted a license to the channel on Nov 19 on condition it respect French laws prohibiting racist comment.

The French government backed a ban on Al-Manar, which had been the target of criticism from Jewish groups in France.

Al-Manar, the self-proclaimed "Channel of Resistance and Liberation" and “The Channel of Arabs and Muslims”, airs documentaries, dramas, political talk and health shows. It is considered one of the best channels as it provides useful service and education to its viewers.
Some of its entertainment programs are centered on "the struggle" against Israeli occupation of Palestine, with some of its game shows featuring questions on the Arab-Israeli conflict.

Youssef Fawaz, a 42-year-old grocer, said he watches Al-Manar and will continue to do so "because it speaks for all Arab people."
He rejected accusations that Al-Manar incites violence, saying the station "shows facts on the grounds. They (Americans) are the violent ones, they are the terrorists.

Look what they've done to Iraq." The station is widely seen in the Palestinian territories for its interviews and quick coverage of events affecting Palestinians.

It is also popular with Shiite Muslims, believed to be the largest group in Lebanon. "Al-Manar is committed to the truth, and the Americans are afraid of the truth reaching the public there," said Ali Sharefeddine, a Lebanese student.

(The Tripoli Post)

WORLD ISLAMIC CALL SOCIETY (WICS) CONFERENCE

7th General Conference of Islamic Call, Tripoli Nov. 26-29, 2004
30/11/2004

Muammar Al-Gaddafi addresses the First Islamic Call Congress held in Tripoli, 11-16 December 1970.

Tripoli— The 7th General Conference of Islamic Call has commenced yesterday in Tripoli under the theme "We have not sent you forth but as a mercy for mankind," which is a verse from the Holy Quran, and to continue until Monday.

The conference comes as the largest Islamic gathering since the events of 11 September 2001. It brings together over 250 international cultural and humanitarian organizations constituting the general assembly of the World Islamic Call Society (WICS).

Speaking to The Tripoli Post about the objectives of the conference, Mr. Ibrahim Rabu, Head of the Department of Conferences and International Organizations at WICS, said the conference comes at a rather important time and aims at discussing the WICS' program for the coming four years.

The sixth general conference was held in 2000 in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Rabu said The conference is to discuss how best the objectives of the WICS can be accomplished as well as current international developments and their effect on the Islamic humanitarian efforts that are undertaken by members of the general assembly of the WICS.
Also the conference is to select 36 members for the World Islamic Call Council that will supervise WICS, as an international humanitarian organization, for the coming four years, Rabu said.

The conference will also shed light on the universal aspect of Islamic call and to underline the element of "mercy" for mankind in Islam and in its comprehensive aspect that calls for justice, peace and security to all.

Among the delegates to the conference is Sierra Leone's Ahmad Tejan Kabbah and Philippines' Vice President Noli de Castro as well as representatives from the UN nations, the Vatican, senior officials, Islamic scholars, academics.

(The Tripoli Post)

CATATAN PETUALANGAN CAR;LA PERROTTI

"The Safest Desert"
17/08/2008

"The Safest Desert"

Following her latest solo walk across the Desert, CARLA PERROTTI issues a call for Peace in Africa

World-renowned desert explorer, Carla Perrotti, whose daring desert explorations have earned her a global following, has gone where few humans have before: into some of the world’s most challenging deserts, alone, recently completed a historic solo walk across the Sahara’s Akakus Tadrark region in Libya.

Speaking to reporters as she emerged from the Libyan Desert, Ms. Perrotti said she was looking forward to the experience and that it exceeded her every expectation. She said that the Libyan Desert is one of the most beautiful and historic deserts in the world.

"It is full of ancient history. Everywhere I turned, I made one exciting new discovery after another: ancient writing on rocks and stones and remnants of extraordinary monolithic structures." The she declared,: "I am dedicating this experience as a token for peace for the people of Africa and others all around the world."

Ms. Perrotti credits her Libyan support team for the professionalism, attentiveness and care it provided her, helping her prepare for what in the past has been a gruelling and intense experience.

"The Libyan people are a very considerate, good-hearted people and my Libyan ground crew was exceptional. They helped make all the difference in helping me get across the desert safely - having made extraordinary preparations that allowed me to devote more time to enjoying the living history written across their incredible desert."

Ms. Perrotti told reporters the physical challenge was offset by the desert’s magnificent natural and ethereal beauty. "The heat was quite bearable. Probably the hardest part for me was carrying my backpack and all my camping equipment. At times I was quite exhausted, burdened by the weight of my supplies, but the precise preparations made by my Libyan team, and, of course, drawing on inner strength gained from hours of training and years of experience walking solo across the world’s deserts, helped me to carry on."

Libya’s Nadia Murabet, principal promoter of Ms. Perrotti’s latest desert exploit, provided additional insights into Carla’s persona.

"Carla Perrotti is an extraordinary woman, a citizen of the world who has left her dynamic footprint in many of the world’s most challenging deserts, including the Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, the Simpson Desert in Australia, the Tenere Desert in Niger, and the snake-infested Kalahari Desert in southern Africa.

"The Guinness Book of World Records recognises Carla as the first human being to walk across the China’s foreboding Taklamakan desert," Ms. Murabet said.

"As the 21st century continues to unfold, Africa will evolve into a more dynamic continent. Europe, Asia and the nations of the West are coming into a new consciousness regarding Africa, where the old ideas are dying and new ideas are on the rise. Africans in the Diaspora have a special role to play regarding the rebranding of the Continent.

"As the West adapts to a 'new Africa' that's taking giant steps into the millennium, Africa’s children in the Diaspora are the bridge builders between the worlds. And that is a wonderful mission to share in. Building living bridges between Africa and the world," Ms. Murabet added.

Ms. Perrotti remarked that people often tell her that what she does, crossing the desert solo, seems incredible. "That may appear to be the case, but I think everyday people in parts of Africa face challenges which are much more difficult. That’s why I have dedicated this desert walk to peace in Africa - and the cause of peace all around the world…"

As she trekked across the desert, she said she had the sun, the stars, and a beautiful full moon for company. "This was a truly wonderful experience, especially with my celestial friends travelling with me across the dunes. The Libyan Desert has so much beauty and I tried to absorb it all."

Asked what she personally gains from her desert explorations, without missing a beat, Ms. Perrotti replied: "The desert builds this extra-consciousness where I feel I’m absorbing nature’s beauty. The desert transmits so much serenity and positivity in its majestic solitude."

She said she finds a deep connection with the mysteries of the desert, adding that, from her experience, the Libyan Desert may well be one of the safest, most secure deserts that she’d ever crossed.

As she concluded her press conference, Ms. Perrotti expressed a desire to see more people make the same connection with the desert that she has.

"I would love for people around the world to have this wonderful experience."
She went on to say: "I believe the five deserts I’ve crossed, with the Libyan Desert being number six, allowed me to connect them all with an invisible thread of appreciation for the true beauty of our planet.

"My dream is to tie these threads together and unite the human race in a message of peace in Africa, peace all around the world."

(The Tripoli Post)