04/07/07

How does the GWOT go? Well if stats are a guide we've more attacks and deadlier ones at that! (0407078b)

How does US money wind up in the hands of "insurgents" Sunni's at that? Ask Sy Hersh, he seems to have the skinny on Bush's backing of Al Qaida related groups, I know, I know ... Huh? (040507a) And, lest we forget to mention, "our terrorists" (040607f) Then there is our other terrorists (040707a) But wait, there's even more! Other groups, black money, Iraq, civil war and a regional roll back plan, "whoopeeeee we're all going to die" (0407070c)

"The Surge" is it just me or do the numbers keep getting larger? Escalation? At what cost? (040607a) Perhaps this: a two hour life span for a new arrival (040607b)

This war "began" with 9/11. Interesting then is one Omar Sheikh who is connected to it, British intel, Pakistani intel, US intel and hss been gallivanting around the globe for one reason or other in the pay of one organization or another. Yet, no one gives him credit for all the he has done (040107d)

I guess we know where some of the cocaine for discerning US noses comes from, thanks to the "study" by the CIA (040107e)

The Central Theater:

Israel ... Palestine .... Lebanon

An example of how complex things get: the Saudis, our ally in Iraq against Iranian influence is not getting the weapons they want because Israel, our other ally against Iran doesn't trust the Saudis, (040507b)

The Saudi's big camel like nose is snuffing about the entrance to the proverbial tent, they say Israel must make concessions first, for peace, I guess that will go over like the proverbial "lead balloon. (040207a)

The "greater" Muddle Eastern Theater:

Egypt, ... Jordan ... Syria ... Iraq ... Saudi Arabia, etc.

Iraq: Bush is not the only one in a "bubble of his own making" "straight talking McCain has one too, at least in Baghdad (040307a)Killing continues, US military losses exceed those of Iraq's (040107a) however a different picture emerges if you count police, civilians and other innocents

How can this help matters? Iraq's government now wants to make Kikurk more Kurdish by reducing its Arab population. When the vote comes later this year the Kurds will get what they want, oil, wealth for whatever kind of state they want and the ire of the Turks next door. (040207d) Part two, arguments (040207e) Part three, complaints (04207f)

The Greater Islamic regions, Eastern Theater:

Iran ... Pakistan ... Afghanistan et al

Iran:

What the current "war with Iran" looks like (040407d) This is the profile of the group the US is accused of using (040407e)

We have a "hair trigger" situation based upon our rules of engagement. Is it only a matter of time now? (040107f) So our Asshole in Chief has OK'd attacks, small granted, but attacks (040107g) Here is the overview as it might be seen (040107h) More interesting details and a reasonable surmise that capturing each others personnel is escalatory (040207c)

Iran releases the Brits, (040407a) I would bet that this has nothing to do with the US release of a captive Iranian, (040407j) or the deal concerning an FBI agent in Turkey, mentioned in other stories, nah, no connection.

Coincidentally, rumor has it that Good Friday is the day, (040107i) howzaboutdemapples? As for the Iranian nukes, I like this story describes exactly what is going on in a "secret" Iranian facility (040307b) - almost as interesting are the comments Both sides seem to have miscalculated how their stratagems would work out and neither have altered them (040307c) ... so ... this is NOT a good thing

Why Tony Blah Blah Blairz map is a croc o' shit: hear it from the experts and have a bit of history thrown in (040107j)

Afghanistan: Why are we having such a hard time winning hearts and minds? Because we are killing to man bodies? Nah...(040107l)

Pakistan: Someone who can challenge the leadership, but is he, would he be "safe" for "western interests? (040207b)

The Greater Islamic regions, Southern Theater:

Sudan, ... Ethiopia ... Somalia, etc.:

Sudan: Mia Farrow, China, the 2008 Olympics, Darfur, oil, genocide and US companies turning a blind eye to it all (40107d)

Chad: The violence spreads between Darfur and Chad, sorrow and distrust between Arab and non Arab begins and deepens (040107b)

Japan: seems to have a memory problem almost as bad as Bush when made a statement to the effect that Japan and the US have had a long peaceful history, oh yeah, that Pearl Harbor, atomic bomb thing ... right. Fascism? Who knows, ya gotta ask Abe (040107k)

Russia: An update on Chechnya, Grozny is being rebuilt and a strongman is in charge, with a personality cult already, rebels are active but on a small scale (040507c)

A small story, but I've kept all three parts. There used to be a thing called the "brain drain" meant to refer to the many "best and brightest" foreigners who would "move mountains" to come to the US. Now we seem to be turning off the spigot. 150,000 applications for visa's in one week? Twice what is allowed in one year? What kind of effects will this have on our future? (040607d) part two (040607e) part three (040607f)

Retired General Eaton says the conservatives are the worst thing that has happened to the US military. (040407h) Wesley Clark, one time Presidential hopeful,, organizes against the Iran attack (040407i)

Big water projects in the US west are meant to deal with a decline in precipitation. Climate change seems to be having an impact (040407f) Part two,the "water war" between the haves and have nots is "fired up" (040407g)

Then "nature's poster child" the seal pups, thousands are presumed dead (040507d) because a lack of ice in the St. Lawrence means no place for them to be raised. Dozens of nations at risk due to the effects of Global Warming ? Yes, but the danger is not immediate, it's a "next generation" thing (040507e)

It is thought that if oil peaks and becomes expensive then its use will decline and so will its effects of global warming, well, maybe not so, really read on (040507i) Then too, the first symptom of Peak Oil is upon us, it seems, flat production with rising demand - this translates into poorer nations being priced out of the market (0400507j)

A bit on peak oil: Guess what the US has not plan to deal with it (040507f) But good 'ol Slick Dick Cheney, he dun tol' us all 'bout dis heyah peekin' ob dee oil, yassuh (040507g)

The use of anonymous sources to create inflammatory articles is defended by the media saying: "Hey, trust us!" When the people, already led to one stupid jackass of a war are being convinced that another one is necessary, (040607c) Wondrous is this!

At least someone is fact checking the Farting Mouth in Chief these days, not the "MEDIA" but someone (040407b) Also, the Big Dumbbell criticizes Pelosi for going to Syria while helping his own cronies do the same thing, (040407c) can you spell "flip-flop"?

A traipsing trip down memory lane, let us linger longingly over those 16 words the Master Dumbbell uttered in his fate of the onion speech before the Iraq invasion, where DID those words come from: follow the rabbit down he hole, and don't worry, be happy (040307f)

Exemplars of the "new survivalism" that has supplanted journalism in the US and perhaps elsewhere as well. Comfort breeds contentment, contentment breeds ineffectual affections which seem to be "newsy" but are vapid exhalations at best. (040307e)

The Supreme Court renders a decision on C02 emissions? Well what is next? (040307c)

Guantanamo, the hunger strikers, some of them, continue. One wonders how anyone really knows the numbers involved, nonetheless it seems their sacrifice makes headlines and probably has an influence on the GWOT. (040907a)

The Central Theater:

Israel ... Palestine .... Lebanon

Lebanon: The country is in what is now a "waiting" game - a two way deadlock (040807a) Part two, details shmetails (040807b)

The "greater" Muddle Eastern Theater:

Egypt, ... Jordan ... Syria ... Turkey

Iraq: The most dramatic attack thus far, inside the Green Zone (041207a)People leave the country by the tens of thousands, hope flickers out (040807c) A personal story, despite grievous loss, this woman still voices a vision of hope, incredible (040907d)

The surge continues some positive signs but these are outweighed by the overall situation (040907e) and official pronouncements are contradicted by the people living in "liberated" areas (040907f) the Battle in and around Baghdad continues dozens die or are wounded (041007a) Part two, shifting tactics (041007b) Part three, Killing and bombing (041007c) A surge in the death rate, on a daily basis, it is a record breaker (041207b)

And the human cost of this war, the claims filed for compensation, or redress of grievances by "the people" (041207c)

Turkey: It seems words, threats really are exchanged between the Kurds and the Turks (040907b) More sharp words and a glimpse into the complexities of Turkish, Israeli, Iranian, Kurdish and Iraqi politics, intrigue and resource grabbing (041307f) Part two, the details (041307g)

The Greater Islamic regions, Eastern Theater:

Iraq ... Iran ... Pakistan ... Afghanistan ... Saudi Arabia ...

Iraq: Surging toward a failure? So it seems (041107a) Bushwhackoff once touted it as a model of "success" we revisit Tal Afar (041107b)

A vulnerable Green Zone, a million man march called by Sadr, and a fragmenting set of civil wars (041307a)

Iran: How the drum beat goes on and on and on (041307c)

Afghanistan: seems people hereabouts want the Taliban back, seems like the "plan ain't workin' out (040907h) More than a few, it seems (040907i) The Taliban learns psychological warfare and put it to use (041007i)

The Greater Islamic regions, Southern Theater:

Sudan, ... Ethiopia ... Somalia, etc.:

Morocco: Bombings here and in Algeria, just a side note, I guess (041407a)

Ecuador's left leaning leader heads for an electoral victory, not that the whole situation is "normal" (041407b) Part two, who waits in the wings (041407c)

The damned Democraps SAY they're anti war but they will not cut off funding, are willing to compromise, I guess this meaning giving the hemorrhoid in Chief all the shit he can eat, and not playing hard ball as this article outlines. (0041007e)

The Federal Attorney flap continues but it has uncovered another, what might be called "emailgate" and it may expose more than any WH person would want (041007g) of course subpoenas for Gonzales are being demanded also, this currently is the "front line" Democraps are pushing on with the WH (041007h) and its denizen farting mouthed fly eaters. Oops the emails are lost, millions of them, Oh well (041307e)

Oops the national media buries a story that would provide an example of politicalizing at its worst (041307i)

And, as has been mentioned before, it's not the fog of war, but the tornado that keeps us blind deaf and dumb (041007f)

India may soon be the counterweight that the US would have to cancel out Chinese influence. Military hardware in the news, it is a harbinger of another rising Asian power. Another long term problem being created for short term gains. (041307h)

Way back in the 70's there was the "Vietnam Syndrome" and by the 80's the Army was "hollow" now there is a comparison to be made with today's military, it is not a bright picture (041307b) Why we cannot keep just "looking from the sidelines (041307d)

It's the little lies that matter most these days, a Repugiclan specialty (040907g) So if you own a newspaper say and you publish lies that lead a nation into war when IS it time to recant and acknowledge the truth of the matter? I guess 4 years is too short a time for this sort of thing, that's how long the "Anthrax Hoax" has been going on. (041007d)

The unsung heroes of the peace movement are honored at a bar in Texas (040707d)

You know, it is stories like this that provide "fuel" for the great Jackass in Chief to ponder a strike on Iran. The region is going nuclear and that can't be good, can it? (041507h)  Part two, times have changed, yassir, dey hab uh-huh (041507i) Part three, lots o' wannabeees (041507j)

The Greater Islamic regions, Eastern Theater:

Iraq ... Iran ... Pakistan ... Afghanistan ... Saudi Arabia ...

Iraq: So, is it whack a mole or squee3ze the balloon which best descibes our current set of tactics and strategy? (042007e) of 4 million displaced the generous US is willing to take 7000, maybe (042007f)

Spectacular attacks in the capital, body count rising (041807a) Some of the details (041807b) Our casualty rate, does it have a sustained uptick? (041807c)

Karbala has the worst violence but Baghdad "gives it a go" (041607e) And what about the advantages and disadvantages of a "timetable" (041607f) An overview of the sitcom with the speculations appropriate (041607g)

So what is up with that million man march? (04`1607c) And a look at the Mahdi army, its leader and some speculations concerning the massive display of nationalism (04`1607d)

Here we are taking sides in a selected field of the Iraq Civil War. (041507k) How interesting, I'll but you can't GUESS who we're backing and where, but there are LOTS of players (041507l)

Iran: How do we know what Iran is up to? (042107c) What is likely, what is and what might be. An interesting traipse through current thought.

Ah the sweet aroma of hope's ambrosia, some movement on both sides, recently, make for some happy talk - another window of opportunity appears while the root problems remain (041607a) Part two, the main notion being that Iran has options which allow it freedom to avoid confrontation. (0416 07b)

Afghanistan: Iran's influence growing here? The US again taking out an enemy of its enemy? By that measure the US and Iran should be allies in Afghanistan (042107b)

China: The ongoing "battle for Taiwan" continues, (041507f) if at a snail's pace. The nation of the Chinese mainland still has its aim, and they're clear about it (041507g)

Korea: They haven't lived up to their word, hmmm, does this seem like a pattern to ANYONE? Well, does it? (041507m) Not that I like the bastards, but even I am bored/annoyed with the uselessness of this news story/non-news story

The Greater Islamic regions, Southern Theater:

Sudan, ... Ethiopia ... Somalia, etc.:

Somalia: Mogadishu becomes a ghost town, exodus, battles and refugees (042007b) Part two, some details of this fighting (042007c) complete with the "typical" low estimate of opposition forces, where do they get that information, they yellow pages? Part three, aid has a hard time reaching through (042007d)

Morocco:

Nigeria: A national corrupt election being staged after corrupted local and provincial elections? (042107a)

Like the proverbial "canary in a coal mine" the Arctic region changing portends far reaching changes (041507a)Part two, Some one gathers facts on the ground (041507b)

One wonders what would happen if Japan became a military power again? Something of a change is in the wind (041907f)

I guess this is an "oil war" or revolution, Nigeria has some unrest over an "election" (041507c) Part two, they've got good reason to take to the streets (0451507d)

The US attorney firings have sparked an investigation and a slow burn has carried "the illumination" to shed light on Karl Rove , Bush and others (041907b) Gonzales vs. Gonzales with the world as a witness (042007g)

Large scale voter fraud? From the top down? Not like told days where ballot boxes were stuffed or lost or voter rolls just didn't have the right names (041907a) And here is an example (042007a)

Where does the Dumbbell in Chief get his flatulent incompetents? Why a "tier 4" university, what say Pat? (041607h) The parallels and not of Vietnam, Afghanistan and Iraq (041607i)

Bill Moyers lets the media have it, but, well, will it make a difference? (042007h)

"The Supreme's" 5 - 4 abortion decision is not simple (041907d) and based partly on a slanted debate using "loaded" terminology (041907c) and how that Jerkoff in Chief', that insufferable bastard's hand extends to harm women both here and abroad (041907e)

Just an overview from a friend of mine, check out the links. (042807a) The time grows short young grasshopper!

Rudi, the Gigolo" the "schnoz" of New York says we'll have another 9/11 if Dems are elected, what a jack head (042507h)

What the F!!!!? George, the coke sniffing coward, Bush getting a Purple Heart? From a Vietnam Vet? Ya gotta read it, it's a keeper (042507e)

The Central Theater:

Israel ... Palestine .... Lebanon

Palestine: The effects of the boycott, nearly a year old, are devastating, yet ineffective (042207e)

The Greater Islamic regions, Eastern Theater:

Iraq ... Iran ... Pakistan ... Afghanistan ... Saudi Arabia ...

Saudi Arabia

Just in, Saudis break up a terrorist plot with the arrest of 172 individuals, guess what, they were trained in Iraq. (042807h) It seems this is a case of spill over from that blighted country where the Saudis and others fight through proxies for influence and gain.

Pakistan: More and more, the closer you look at Pakistan the more troublesome it seems. (042807b) Something's got to give

Iraq: The latest on The Surge a new tactic has old problems that the Iraqi resistance takes advantage of (042507i)

The daily grind in Baghdad, Part one, getting the kids to school and going for gas (042307a) Part two, unforgettable childhood memories (042307b) and the "welcoming committees" (042307c)

A clever and determined foe in the third deadliest place in Iraq, Diyala (042207a) Part two, tactical changes and challenges (042207b) Part three, the melee (042207c) Part four, those left behind (042207d)

Korea and Myanmar? Sitting in a tree? China manages this situation well and to advantage, though not directly, or openly, of course. (042807c) They get their mention, and maybe a pound of flesh to boot. And Part two (042807e)

Maybe this explains where Russia is "coming from" these days (042307f)

The Greater Islamic regions, Southern Theater:

Sudan, ... Ethiopia ... Somalia, etc.:

Somalia: Mini Baghdad, Mogadishu, continues its descent into chaos (042207f) Part two, civilians suffer the most (042207g) Part three. some of the players (042207h) and Part four, who dies (042207i)

Central African Republic: portrait of a chaotic state on the downturn (042207j) Note, it borders Chad.

Extreme water problems set for Africa (042807d) and, by extension, the rest of the world, after all we are all one, and ain't that the truth

Fighting the good fight? Saving ancient peoples, preserving them from contact, some go to extraordinary lengths to keep those in their charge safe from rampaging capitalist exploitation (042807f)

Canada has a bit of a row over how Canadian soldier have become complicit with torture in Afghanistan. (042507d) Looks like their Mini Bush has some flack Despite proof, the government heads on dumbfoundedly enough toward its own "big muddy." (042507f)

Losses of freedom, the usual steps to a fascistic American wearing a patriotic disguise, the ten simple steps (042807g)

It seems the spate of scandals has a theme, a connection if you will,the characters all have connections to our decision to invade Iraq (04207d)

The DoJ scandal widens a bit (042807i) in this story, the miracle, to my way of looking at it, is that it is a miracle that the press is following it at all, after all

RNC's cyber election hit squad. The target was Ohio in 2004 and could they do it again? (042507a) Rove has perfect Jim Crowe vision and seems to see life that way, more voter fraud in the hear and now (042507b) Is everything up to date in Kansas City? Have they gone about as far as they can go? Maybe, if you include voter fraud ruminations from the Kansas City Star (042507c)

After seeing those "touchy feeley kinds of "energy company" commercials, one wonders what kind of "commercial" this story would make? Our never ending thirst for "black gold" takes us to sensitive coast lines and possibly some resistance to the BushDork's plans for allowing public lands to be used for corporate use. (042807j)

Bill Moyers speaks upon the future of what was once called reporting, journalism or investigating-get ready for disappointment. (042507g)

Yet another example of the "trend of incompetence surfacing" in what may yet be another scandal, based on idiot appointments (042307g)

Here it's from a Media Man himself, Moyers, the media complicit in the "run up" (I LOVE that phrase!) to Iraq (042307e)

Getting the word out into the "general press" regarding the debate concerning attacking Iran may be the key to stopping such an attack (042207j) 

Hey a story in this category, whooooppeeeee!!! Ok, so 200 freed based on DNA evidence, the good news is double, first some persons imprisoned wrongly are freed, second, it is a nice argument against the death penalty! (042307h)

05/04/07

If Iraq was supposed to be a part of some grand scheme to spreads democracy in the middle east then the current data would have the project be a failure (050707c)

We're fighting the war but the Jackass in Chief has gone AWOL (043007g)

The Department of Homeland Security, after a five-year hunt for Osama, finally brought charges against… Greg Palast (043007d)

Maybe he has not read this report yet, it says that George "the fly up his father's ass" Bush doesn't get it that the big uptick in terrorist activity is related to the failure in Iraq. (042907e) So the world is less safe thanks to our own "crazy George" the second and its all in black and white

A 91% increase in terrorist attacks in Iraq from 2005 to 2006? I guess we should be proud of that kind of progress. (050107e)

Rudolph "the jiggling gigolo" Guliani, says electing anyone but him risks death and terror. (043007a) What a dumb ass he is

And take a look at Bill Moyer's glimpse of the past when the "Iraq thing" was just getting warmed up (043007b) Mr. Moyers also has a word to say about on what Democracy is and what it means to be a reporter, journalist, or intellectual in one (043007c)

The Greater Islamic regions, Eastern Theater:

Iraq ... Iran ... Pakistan ... Afghanistan ... Saudi Arabia ...

Iraq:

This all goes back to the basic question: "How did our oil get under their sand?" The new oil law, much anticipated in some circles, meets resistance (050407c)

One wonders when a tete-a- tete with our puppets, uh, I mean, ally, the Iraqi government, will be in order. Their support of favored factions in the sectarian conflict is not helping matters for anyone, even themselves but, as the kids say, "Oh well." (050207a)

What is life like under the surge? (050207b) Here is a close up, bird's eye lowdown on that caper, What ever that mean Who controls the highways? (050207c) And the whole idea of moving around is, well, an adventure to say the least (050207d)

Another peak in casualties as we top 100 this month-are we sick yet? (050107f) and so let us return to those thrilling days of yesteryear and quote the bastards just to see what these jackanapes have said regarding the Iraq war-(050107g) it will either be depressing or humorous to see what they before it all went to hell in a hand basket

Iran's influence in Iraq grows by about a billion dollars, or so it is said. 050107b) Maybe we'll both work together to rebuild that shattered land and then we can all go home! NOT

Could a "change of heart" be taking place? Could "oil politics" become a source of division? (043007e) Only time will tell

Pakistan:

Iraq: I have said it, that the Iraq war is worse than Vietnam, but not for the reasons stated in this article; my point has always been that we will "lose the affection" of many, many millions of people, split the world with another faction and that memories will persist for generations, (043007f) thus the long term is way long term in comparison to Vietnam.

The Brits and Basra, looks like leaving is more than a sweet sorrow. The drawdown will continue and, with chaos in the wings, it will be quite an adventurous time as everyone tries for the prize (042907c)

Not really important, I guess, but does it help us that a large portion of construction projects have gone bad (042907a)-this does not help our "image" with the Iraqi's

Iran: Maybe this should be in the elections section but everyone seems to say, "all options are on the table" (050407a)

So where is the USS Nimitz? (050407d) Iran, well some interesting tales that illustrate, if only through a couple of stories, the much larger picture

A new struggle for a new Iran? Some resistance to their leader and the problems he's created in his quest for whatever it is he is questing for. (042907d) Maybe with our Jackass in chief weakening too this whole "conflict" will "blow over" in due time.

Repeated hints that the "relationship" between the US and Russia is changing or, (042807l) perhaps by now, has changed-and not in a way that stabilizes either

The Greater Islamic regions, Southern Theater:

Sudan, ... Ethiopia ... Somalia, etc.:

Somalia: The death rate in Mogadishu begins to approach that of Baghdad, (042807k) over the last six days have been heavy duty as hundreds of thousands flee the chaos and fighting.

Rice is an important food crop, it is also an important source of methane emission. Methane is a "global warming gas" and this is now on the radar too (050107a)

Australia, gets a bit drier and people are noticing (043007i) Meanwhile the polar ice cap melting 30 years ahead of schedule? This can't be good, can it? It seems the predictions being made are, more and more, becoming dated quicker and quicker (050107c) No doubt that is "is us" (050107d)

Politics sure seems to take its own sweet time to end a disaster of a war, doesn't it? (050407e)

The Repuglicans should loose this election, according to a formula that has worked the last six times and in historical retrospect, (050307b) however, the damned Dems will do their best to F - - - it up, wanna bet? So what DO the top tier repuglicans look like these days? Reagan perhaps? (050407b)

The election of the most least of the common denominators and what's with this "tier" rating system we've been seeing? (050307a)

Hubris, that is the deadliest sin, and our Dimbulb in chief is guilty as charged, a great read. (050107h)

Terrorism, well it depends, who is doing the bombing and who is getting bombed. abortion clinics are OK, but nothing else (043007h)

While people in "Katrina Land" complain about help not arriving the US government has been sitting upon hundreds of millions of dollars (042907b) worth of cash and supplies donated, wassup wid dat, yall?

The Fort Dix plot was quashed, but what does it really say about one of our Dumbell in Chief's main reason for STAYING in Iraq, NOW which is to say, - if we leave Al Qaida will follow us home-George, it seems they're already here and homegrown at that. (050907e) Then there is the role of the informers, two of them, it is enough to wonder what would have happened if they, the informers, had just "gone along" and not done any encouragement. Where does criminal behavior end and entrapment begin (051007c) Keep in mind our Great Hyena's minions have a piss poor record of "thwarting serious attacks (051007x)

Al Qaida stronger than ever? I guess we won't be hearing that of Faux News. (050807g) They've had defeats, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia are mentioned, but the threat still grows and there is potential for more mayhem-thanks George It has been said before that the US is playing into AQ's hands? Here is a bit of an update on that thought (050907b)

Jihad comes to America? These guys were serious, it seems and had plans and plots. (050807a) Our Royal Fly Up His Father's Ass will make hay on this, but isn't it just another piece of evidence indicating his abject failure? And another 35,000 troops to deploy? This is separate and different from those in "the surge" it seems. (050807d)

In one sense you can't blame them for lying at the time, in another sense, the fear, which prompted the lying, was realized anyway and soon thereafter, so what WAS the point of hiding the massacre? (050607a)

What happens to wounded Iraqi soldiers should have their American counterparts happy for all the benefits they have despite the VA hospital scandals. (050607c)

Who rules France now (050707d) And what effect will this have on the GWOT?

The Central Theater:

Israel ... Palestine ... Gaza .... Lebanon

Israel/Palestine: Just look at the thinking in this article and how it has changed, Israel wants a buffer zone the prevent rocket attacks from Gaza. (050807c) But the problem is how to create it, maintain it and such like without further problems, such as sparking even more attacks elsewhere?

The Greater Islamic regions, Eastern Theater:

Iraq ... Iran ... Pakistan ... Afghanistan ... Saudi Arabia ...

Iraq:

"Leave or we'll behead you!" Baghdad's welcome wagon gets "friendlier" (051107b)

How much turf do we "control" in Iraq, (050907c) maybe we'll find out when we can manage to keep the green zone safe? Apparently not much and the mistakes the US made have been detailed since the very onset of military operations (050907d)

Saaaaaay who runs this country anyway? The Iraqis? Hahahahahahahahaha. We don't want the Iraqi government to take a summer break, not without passing some much needed laws first, (051007a) no, not the ones you might think, but the ones that Cheney recently checked up on and which are important to the Royal Pain himself. Here is a bit more on the "summer break" and the precious oil law that needs passing, (051007b ) oh and a few other details, bombings, the surge, and all that.

Apparently the Iraqi government called upon the US government to set a timetable for withdrawal, (050907a) but no one over here paid any attention, because the media did not

Iraqi children dying at unprecedented rates and half of these dead are newborns (050807f)

A poem makes it in here, finally, but it is a mother's lament from Baghdad, when will it end? (050707a)When will this farce, this idiocy and this shame end? Walls in Baghdad, murder, suspicion, a truly puppet regime, why things area now working well-in sum, an overview of what it is like today (050707e) And a brief survey of "events" around the country (050707f)

Iran:.

What would Iran's response be to an attack? What would the regions reaction be? (050607d) So the solution is to outsource, and keep the record clear, Iranians are good at that. (050607e)

What do the generals say? They say the truth should be shoved down Bush's throat, (050707c) I have a better idea, actually, but that orifice may already be compromised by the presence of his head.

Afghanistan:

Part one, how the Taliban gets a taste of globalization and "unity of cause" (051007f) Part two, I guess it is team work, Al Qaida, Taliban and Jihadis from all over the place, especially the "safe areas" of Pakistan (051007g)

Violence upticks, is there no end in sight? (051107c)

Pakistan:

This country has "too many playa's and to many plots to keep up the act. Of course that's been said for some time now,, mainly by me. I've said this is the country to keep an eye on and this article shows why. (05110k) And as if on cue we've this lovely piece of news (051207c) Which was followed by this, the resulting death toll (051207b)

Chinese bubbles make me happy and they also make me blue… with apologies to the unflappable Don Ho, Part one, it looks as though China could be in for some rough and tumble economic times-and with so many newbie investors too. (051107j) Part two, a reasonable picture and reasonable outcomes, unfortunately, (051107i)

Oil wars are fought contract by contract, sometimes, (051207a) not always by bloody wars or via insurrections, as in Nigeria. Russia comes out on top in this battle.

Good relations with China? Meanwhile 10% of Tibet's population is resettled into villages where they get to rebuild, from scratch. (050607g)That will make the Chinese welcome, you betcha!

The Greater Islamic regions, Southern Theater:

Sudan, ... Ethiopia ... Somalia, etc.:

Sudan: There's plenty of good money to be made by supplying Sudan with the tools of the trade, and its one, two, three, what is that profit for? (apologies to Country Joe) Russia and China in on "a good thing" (050807b)

Somalia: Mogadishu has settled down a bit,. Now we see criminals and warlords being given control of the national police and the city itself. (050607h) Sound like a good plan to you?

A seven part series on the threat of species extinction's that may result from global warming (050707h) Part two, how fast is extinction happening? (050707i) Part three, biodiversity is understood, but what is not is how one extinction can have a cascade effect causing others (050707j) Part four, going to extremes for extreme life forms 050707k) Part five, the problems with parks and preserves-they are better than nothing, but how well to they help? Fragmentation is the problem (050707l) Part six, how a species is saved, a current battleground for preservation and the current "best practice" for ecological "healing"(050707m) Part seven, how politics of immigration interferes in the most unexpected of ways with ecology (050707n)

A hellmark, uh, I mean hallmark of Bad Boy Bush, is putting foxes in charge of henhouses, pederasts in charge of child care see: Michael Baroody in charge of the nation's Consumer Product Safety Commission (050907g)

Speaking of earmarks as eyesores the US attorney scandal, just keeps going and going and going The US attorney scandal, may be giving the WH some serious "back chat" (051007d) and perhaps a bit of a headache for The Great Dimwit in Chief, but then some Exlax should relieve the stress. And maybe there are even more who were "asked to leave" (051007e) so the case widens, does it not?

Globally the moderate left is loosing ground, (050807h) not everywhere, but enough for a trend, growing conservative movements feed on immigration worries, are funded by the rich, and energize their supporters with a variety of "us vs them ideologies"

CondiGirl is she the "smoking gun" we are all looking for when it comes to the "blame game" for "who lost Iraq"? (050707g)

Why DON'T we protest? I guess the war "isn't ours" and is far away, happening to other people? Read it and weep (050607f)

Another watchdog bites the big green one. Dow Jones goes down-so who will watch over the corporate world? (050707b Rupert Murdoch? Please!!!

Can you believe that the our attorney general "hadn't thought about haebas corpus? Believe it. (051107d) And then he does not know about the things he knows about ... WHAT? (051107e)

Murray Waas reports that that the 'White House withheld e-mails' (051107f) the withheld records," citing documents (051107g) and information made available to him by "senior government officials."(051107h)

See B.S., likes its consultants as long as they are on board with our would be Royal DimBulb in chief, fire them otherwise (051107a)

One way to disappear a war is to disappear its casualties (050907f)

It takes a "super tornado" to remind those of the "bible belt" that the National Guard is not on hand to deal with things like flooding and other disasters because they are in Iraq (050807e)

Where has liberal radio gone, long time passing. Why do we have shock jock news-where's a voice that cares, Where has common decency gone, gone with along with the FCC Who are we hearing now? Who are we hearing now? (apologies to Peter, Paul and Mary) (050607b)

News flash: Real Balls in Uniform: Someone is thinking and it is our CENTCOM commander Admiral Fallon. He has said there'll be no attack on Iran as long as he's in charge.(051707a)

The Central Theater: Israel ... Palestine ... Gaza .... Lebanon

Israel:

And, of course, Israel/US strategy have a price to pay: rocket attacks and such like, but I guess most Israeli's live far enough away from "the troubles" (051807c} that the policy will continue and the US, well, it just writes the checks.

Gaza:

Gaza fighting between Hamas and Fatah continues and stability may come into question if this fighting continues at this rate or escalates; it is not sustainable. Jerusalem and Washington D.C. must be MIGHTY proud that their tactics are having "good effect." (051707i)

Violence in Gaza, now it seems chaos kills more there than the Israeli's are, these days anyway (051407k) a sad measure if ever I saw one, and one in which we and Israel have a hand.

Hamas and Fatah do not seem to "call the shots" in Gaza, it is done by the gunmen and whoever supplies and pays them to shoot it up. Of course, one of the main problems is that the financial boycott orchestrated by Israel and its client state, the US, (051807b) this has clearly had one of its intended effects, a weakened Palestinian State incapable of putting any pressure on anyone to achieve any of its objectives.

The "greater" Muddle Eastern Theater: Egypt, ... Jordan ... Syria ... Turkey

Even appearing moderately Islamist has its difficulties in Turkey (051307a) large protests and a bombing signal a rift in this society that may well run deep and dovetail, in an unfortunate fashion, with the conditions of their "neighborhood"

The Greater Islamic regions, Eastern Theater: Iraq ... Iran ... Pakistan ... Afghanistan ... Saudi Arabia ...

Iraq:

So another day another few dozen bombs, mortar attacks, battles with insurgents, between insurgents, chaos, air sorties and what have you. (051707d)

If Iraq is not a failed and fragmented state I don't know what is, yet we still hear that it is on the verge of fragmentation, the verge of civil war. (051707c) Well, enough's enough I say, it is hell over there and it is a hell of our government's making.

This country is now the epicenter of the "holy war against the west" ironically this argues against a quick pull out and for a denial of any kind of victory, (051507c) unfortunately we have our Dumbbell in Chief in charge and that's NOT a good thing.

Iraq's oil production has "accounting" problems and either we have big liars or big thieves, you take your pick. (051407g) No one seems to recall anything about that highway that was build from Kuwait into Iraq's oil fields? Anyone?

The options for Iraq as they stand now, let's see, um … there is God awful, double dog bad and eating shit with beans (051407f)

Thousands simply disappear in Iraq. Providing a portrait of one is a way of understanding the magnitude. (051407d)

Then too we make enemies as we go, just to make it interesting? Who knows but it works and that's the US Army talking (051407e)

The refugee problem that no one want to solve, can solve and so it continues to deteriorate and may help destabilize Iraq's neighbors. Syria has the greatest burden. (051307c)

Pakistan:

Blood, there is the scent of blood in the air. General strikes and mobs let to attack each other, so this is still the country to watch. (051405j)

A multifaceted problem for Mr. M? Daily reports of more troubles and different ones spreading? Well, well well? (051507a)

And more street battles, bombs and attacks (051607a)

China

I guess the advantage of be a post colonial exploiter of less fortunate regions, China is in a position to avoid the kind of mistakes that the west made when it did the same thing in Africa, oh well, NOT (051407a)

Algeria, rarely in the news, has had an election and is continuing a struggle against their own homegrown insurgency,which if it currently lacks potency, has not been a slacker with some 200,000 dead over the last 15 years (051807a)

The least get the most, paraphrasing a biblical saying. Africa the continent with the least greenhouse gas emissions may well suffer the most, (051407b) another lesson the Chinese might keep in mind when developing the place willy-nilly NOT

Global warming's side effects include those which will impact migratory patterns of many bird species many may well be tested beyond their ability to adapt. (051037b)

Global Warming-right? Got that? So why are we still building coal plants? (051407i) Yes it is legacy legislation but reality changes in the course of 70 years or so.

Alberto Gonzales comes up for a vote of no confidence by the US senate? Impeachment is a word other articles use too. (051807d) Before I posted this story, he'd quit. Maybe they'll clean up his mess before the 2008 election and then, maybe not. Whose watching, our news crews? Hahahahahahaha

I wish I had a good nickname for Mr. Bolton. I mean Jackass is taken and so is dumbbell Maybe I could use limp Dick but Cheney's got that one. I'd like to use crazy ass M- - - - - F - - - er not only because it is sooooo satisfying but because it might rile the fat-headed old gutless wonder. He says the refugee problem in Iraq is not a crisis and has nothing to do with our operations in that forlorn state.(051407c)

The status of the 90 million poor in this nation of ours. It is no surprise that solutions exist, indeed, are waiting to be used, but the US government does nada, nil, nothing, or worse than nothing. (051307d)

How our would be royal "fly up his father's ass", the "decider" in Chief, supports our troops, NOT. (051807e)

A few years back I read about "scandal fatigue" back then it was in reference to those who knew about the corrupt politics of the "Curious George" administration but could not do much more than watch in fascinated horror. Now, I think, it applies to our Royal Dimbulb himself, here is an overview (051707h)

Our media's echo chamber repeats lies and idiocy and the US citizens just lap it up (051707e) like a nearly dead cat

From the land of "No news is the best news" If the war was covered fairly, or the "run up to it", I still "love" that phrase, we'd be disgusted with it by now and going home or, better still, we'd never have gone in, thanks to a wonderful "press corps" (051707b)

George Tenet's near admission to torture (051507d) and that it was OK'ed from "on high" is an issue that should be pursued, but it is not, it seems like the hot potato is dropped. Nice work, if you can still call it that.

The attorney scandal, the basic question remains: Who drew up the list in the first place? (051707f)

The attorney scandal, it seems, has to do with voting rights, as they might be effected by someone interested in making voting fraud an issue which has to be solved, "correctly" (051407h) Now that the #2 person has resigned, it seems the WH and Rov -ee. the four eyed fat boy, both figure that he'll take the blame for the whole mess, I mean he's a quitter ain't he? (051507b)

And re this ongoing political farce, yeah, the wire tapping scandal, who could forget that? I bet our Jackass in Chief wishes everyone else would (051707g)

Putting the "crazies back in the box" is how Fallon describes the Neo-Cons dream of trashing Iran (052107a) BAD intelligence on Iran/Iraq? No! Not our government, we'd never base decisions on that! Read on to see just how well we have not learned (05250)

Details about the uncovered air war in Iraq. (052507e) Like its predecessor in Vietnam accounting is a difficult thing, still we can glean fascinating data from public documents, statements and company inventories or budget items.

Judging by this report we have a whole West Point class sympathetic with Cheney's views on the world and our role in it. What a shame.(052607a)

The Central Theater: Israel ... Palestine ... Gaza .... Lebanon

Gaza: is lookin' bad, real bad, the war with Israel continues, (052507j) albeit on a small scale, the Israelis leave a Sederot because of annoying volleys of rockets.

Lebanon:

Battles break out here and there (051907a) while the stalemate in Beirut continues (051907b)

Now, I don't know if this is the onset of another round of what has become typical Middle Eastern chaotic combat (052207a) or a spark that will fade over the next few news cycles.

It has to be described as a battle scene, nothing else fits (052107g) And then there is the whole "odd bed - fellows aspect of this as Hezbollah and the US nominally are on the same side (052207b)

The recent fighting in Lebanon has a root cause, it seems, the US and its allies want to push back the Shia (052507h) influence in the region using proxies, who cares if there is blow back? It is not in OUR back yard is it?

Here is more the "skinny" as it were, on the Lebanon and Shia-Sunni schism (052507i) the US and its allies are taking or making sides of/in/with, whatever…

The continuing build up in Lebanon continues. The US and its allies pit planeloads of military supplies against a band of militants in a refugee camp. Is this another chance to spark a wider war in Lebanon and elsewhere? Who knows? Stay tuned. (052607b)

The "greater" Muddle Eastern Theater: Egypt, ... Jordan ... Syria ... Turkey

Turkey: Slowly does the conflict spread. One wonders, if you were to take a look at a map depicting the ancient Islamic Caliphate in its hey day, one would see that the whole of it is in an uproar these days, (052507a) one way or another.

The Greater Islamic regions, Eastern Theater: Iraq ... Iran ... Pakistan ... Afghanistan ... Saudi Arabia ...

Iraq:

Some evidence that the "effect of the surge" is being tempered by reality's bite. (052407d) Many articles talk about September being the month that we will see the proof in the pudding, so to speak, but here you can read this article and find out what they'll be saying even now because the lie is being prepared even now.(052507g)

Battling in Baghdad, the "Texas Militia" make some kind of peace with their very violent situation. (052307b) They do hope for hope, it seems.

Iran:

Iran's nuclear program gets a real boost, many more centrifuges that we know of, one wonders what else it is we do NOT know. (052407a) So we send our navy for "unscheduled practice" (052407b) and old "potty mouth" Cheney the gutless wonder to "strut on the deck of a warship to make a pluck headed fool out of himself-something with which he's had lots of practice and Part two the Royal Jackanapes "muddles through" (052507c)

A covert "black" operation against Iran is in the works, (052397c) but does this mean we're not thinking "military solutions" or what

The risks for a US-Iranian conflict increase. The US troop levels are proceeding to their highest level in both Iraq and Afghanistan while the US navy does a build up in the gulf and practices its deadly arts. (052507g)

Hey nonny nonny no, let us return to those thrilling days of yesteryear when our current Debacle in Chief was given the word on Iraq but chose to pogo to the bead of a different drummer (052607e)

China:

The larger financial picture showing how China's banking system and that of the US are tied up, tangled really, and that these two big systems are not really manageable, in terms of keeping unsustainable practices going (052507d)

Myanmar:

I'll bet GW, who is soooo anti nuke proliferation is wondering what he'll do about Myanmar's announced plans to go for the nuke? (052307d)

Africa suffers already and seriously so, from Global Warming (052107d)

Hey, it's a triple header, a cold war, an oil war, and racism, neo colonialism, fascism, corruption, boondoggles, and proxy armies! Oh, my bad, its more than a triple, it's Darfur

It's the oil stupid" to paraphrase Clinton. Darfur is about oil and access to resources. It is the new cold war being fought in Africa between China and the US. and the US is being outplayed. (052507b) Part two: the confusing details about armies for hire, politics, backslapping and bartering, and all sorts of crap. (052507c)

An update on the global picture for glacial melting. (052107e) Short term it has its bonuses, long term, well, it may not be all that we'd want.

Big things in small packages? A less dangerous form of bird flu may have been transmitted between humans. Serious? Well, possibly, but time will tell. (052607c)

The nuclear genie is clearly out of the bottle. The role of the US in this is subtle but still, in my mind, impressive. We have mismanaged our policies on such a grand scale that there is now a free for all going on as Arab nations go for the power (052607d)

Ya know just when you think nothing new could go down the toilet, a new presidential directive gives our Royal Idiot in Chief control over all aspects of the government, completely, Fed to local, in the event of an emergency.

This directive establishes a comprehensive national policy on the continuity of Federal Government structures and operations and a single National Continuity Coordinator responsible for coordinating the development and implementation of Federal continuity policies.

"Enduring Constitutional Government," or "ECG," means a cooperative effort among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the Federal Government, coordinated by the President (052507h)

Or you can read this article to get the "skinny" on it. (052507i) It spells trouble with a capital T and that rhymes with P and that stands for Piss poor preparation precedes presidential puffery.

Here is someone who tells the Democraps just where to get off, and in no uncertain terms. They have compromised everything and gotten nothing back, they are spineless jackasses (052407e) and, at this point, not worth shitting on!

Democraps at it again, - letting go of fighting for some control over the funding of the war they opt for giving Bush everything (052307a) he wants in exchange for nothing at all, sounds good to me

What the hell is wrong with our country and what role does the media have on that? (052107c) Read what Al Gore has to say, provocative and insightful, of course.

And here are the media myths regarding Global Warming (052107f) get ready for the sh - - to hit the fan on this one.

The US attorney story: Dumb and Dumberer… Lawlessness in action James B. Comey's story of midnight intrigues and lying liars who lie (052107b)

06/02/07

Just the first page of this story is enough, I mean who is going to read the rest anyway? We now have another terrorist plot, just when needed, and these guys were SERIOUS, not. Well, maybe they were, but the point is the headline has a heyday and we have all the more reason to believe what our dear leader has said, that he's keeping us safe. Right! And this case, as with all the others, there is no real plot underway, no explosives bought, no real manifestation of the intent. Anyone? (060207c)

A precious glimpse in to the "rationale" behind our DimBulb in Chief's overarching strategy i(060107e) n Iraq … no, wait, it makes a "crazy kind" of sense.

How effective is our "front line" against terrorist getting into this country? (052907e) Well you read the stats and let me know, 12 out of 800,000? I guess that's good enough.

Iraq used to be the destination for those willing to fight the West. However, the evidence mounts that Iraq is now exporting those willing to die for their cause, (052807b) as long as they take some infidels with them, I assume.

The Central Muddle Eastern Theater: Israel ... Palestine ... Gaza .... Lebanon

Gaza:

Gaza and Israel, as well as the West Bank, the erstwhile Palestinian State, what is the use of reporting peace initiatives when the war drags on for a third generation? (052607c) What is the use of wondering when peace will reign? I fear worse is to come, but what form that will be is anyone's guess

Israel losing ground? Hamas rocket attacks have led an Israeli town to loose population. (052807a) Is this the "new strategy" for Hamas and others? Time will tell.

Lebanon:

The Lebanese army gets ready and steadies for a knock down drag out fight with militants in a refugee camp. (052907f) There is not hint that negotiations are going on, just a build up and talk of arms. A bout of heavy fighting: a few hundred militants in a crowded camp, (053107a) holed up in a small town of narrow streets versus 50 armored vehicles, including tanks. I guess it is a wait and see, no?

The "greater" Muddle Eastern Theater: Egypt, ... Jordan ... Syria ... Turkey

Turkey:

From a town on the border between Iraq and Turkey people discuss what an incursion by Turkey could mean to them, a general says his troops are ready.(060107c)

Kurdish rhetoric aside, both sides say the are "ready"; so the Turks will see some action soon enough, how wonderful, another little war (060207b)

The Greater Islamic Regions: Eastern Theater: Iraq ... Iran ... Pakistan ... Afghanistan ... Saudi Arabia ...

Iraq:

Will the Kurds get dragged into the sectarian mix of Baghdad, (053007c) lots of opinions on that and other events, even Sadr's reappearance.

Memorial Day, killings abound as talks begin. Civilian murder levels have again reached the kind of high they had before the surge (052907a)

We have given the gift of freedom. Freedom from Iraqi's that is, we cannot seem to find room for many of those who decided to fight for us and now wander about with bulls eyes pasted to their backs. (052707a) The details of how badly we've mismanaged in a brief and depressing bit of writing.

Iran:

Pakistan

Musharaff moves to put a lid on protests in the capital, (060107d) says the army is with him and that no one should be concerned

The phrase "mission definition" comes to mind when talking about Afghanistan. (060107g) Clearly it needs to change, clearly it is and just as clearly many are not sure what it was, is or should be. A recipe for problems if ever I saw one.

The Greater Islamic Western Theater:

Russia, ... China ... India ...The Korean Zone:

Russia: Something of a new arms race seems to be on, in case anyone noticed. Stories have been around for a while, this is the latest: from Russia with love, baby…(052907g)

Myanmar:

The Greater Islamic Southern Theater: Sudan, ... Ethiopia ... Somalia, etc.:

Somalia, maybe going for the bad guys one at a time (060107h) is the way to "do it" even if you have to send a US Navy destroyer to make the "personal call."

This story has my "paranoia" bells going, does it show how vulnerable we are to a biological suicide bomber? Does it show a "need for more control of how people move about" Was the guy trying to prove something? To me, I cannot help but look at this "crazy" episode and wonder if someone was setting up something somehow, that it is not what it seems (060207a)-I mean, since no one's listening anyhow, I CAN speculate …

Read a bit of an discussion about Global Warming, nuclear power and how, despite its hype, is not "carbon neutral" (060107a)

Water, water everywhere and none of it in the sink-(052807c) demand outstrips supply, as it exists now, at least. China's Yangtze or Yellow rivers are examples of overuse, abuse and waste

India has similar problems, at least in the distribution aspect of water use/ And in the Middle East one recent war was sparked, in part, by water rights while the Palestinians and Israelis still have no common ground on this matter

Global warming, dissolving ozone, politics as usual and Australia's drought continue (052707e) on without real solutions despite the people being waaaaaay ahead of their government and media mogul, Rupert, the jackass, Murdoch

Iraq? Now they are saying that they'd like to have US forces in Iraq to have a mission similar to the Us forces in Korea? (053107b) A 50 year long-on going occupation? You can have Mr. Snow's word on it that that's what the Prez sez

What does the cold ear look like today? The unipolar world is gone. (053007a) In its place are competitors both clever and large who are pushing back enough to make anyone sit up and take notice. Part two: Emerging from the shadows a new "cold war" a neo-cold war if you will. Pitting the West against the giants of Asia (053007b)

Speaking of Russia and a neo-cold war, we have this story from Afghanistan: bloodlines, tribal rivals, century old manipulations mingle now for a chaos that is rich and savory (053007d) Part two, here is the good part, Russia is snuffling about the afghan skirt, hmmmm (053007e)

Upgrading the nation's nukes? More uses and more sophisticated weapons? Why not? That the Bush way, after all, spend on killing as if your life depended upon it, or your profits do. (052707c) Never mind the hypocrisy that crops up when we tell other nations to "abstain" while we are fucking everything in sight

Caging votes? What is it and why should we care? Why should one of "Rove's Best" resign when Conyers asked the BBC for records regarding emails and other such things? (060107b)

Survey Says: Bush and the media are way off base. Most people do not think we are on the right course only one in four think that, and a smaller subset think we should be more aggressive. (053107c)

Mythological budget numbers and why the JumboDumbass doesn't know his fecal matter from refried beans. (053107d)

How does one become a "top tier" candidate? The answer lies in, well, lies! No, I mean really. (052907d)Well, it's no surprise that money is the magic factor Max, simple as pie and maybe just as American. This article features Democrap details but does not leave Repuglicans unscathed

They call it "immigration reform" but much of the fuss is about how we can best allow foreign workers into the US and not have to "deal" with them other than giving them a small check and a chance to pay their own bills.(052707b) and then give them the boot as for the road to citizenship, if it is hard enough we'll always have an underclass driving down the wage scales and bumping off unions.

Expanding the underclass? That could be the "golden key" to understanding who takes which side of the "immigration bill" debate. (052707f)

You know I didn't know that a mentally deficient bovine could type, yet here is the proof from the WSJ, this feces eating descendant of an outhouse maggot, NORMAN PODHORETZ, doesn't have the brains God gave a goose, just read his asininity (060107f)

Cindy Sheehan's farewell letter. It will not be read during the "dinner hour" news, nor get front page coverage in any newspaper. It is a thoughtful piece and one that bears reading if you have a stout heart and a caring soul (052907b)

Do we have "the goods" on Gonzales, Rove and other GOP idiots? Did Goodling's inquisitors miss the point? Do we have the missing emails that Congress seeks? Yes. Are these rat bastards guilty as sin? Yes! Do we hear about it in OUR press? NO..... (052707d) Hmmmmmmm.

Sooooo We DO have secret prisons in Europe, we DO do torture and we HAVE lied about it as have Poland and Romania…..are you fed up yet? (060809k)

Men, women and children all in detention together. I guess this might be a "family based program" (060807h) And I guess that is why the facility was in Poland. And maybe that's what all those flights over Europe were about, we just wanted the terrorist's family to feel more comfortable and cared for while the "bread winner" was incarcerated. Did they allow conjugal visits? Inquiring minds want to know

Typical, the "horrific" plot against JFK airport, winds down to a handful of braggarts with no skills, no materials, no workable plan, no real access and are "turned in" by a druggie whose sentencing was being considered even as his cooperation was. (060507e) However, If Al Qaida launches an attack on the US and we feel Iran was a part of it, in any way, we, meaning Dick,, "Jackass Face" Cheney will get the US to attack Iran. Cheney is gumming for it and his "courage" is burgeoning, as it were. (060807a)

Hey, GW Jackass the second may be a horrifically corrupt puppet sucking everyone off, but I have to hand it to the Brit's Tony "buff them with your tongue" Blair. This guy has money sloshing around so he uses it, illegally, so that "real money" has to be budgeted to solve the problem it creates, he gets it "going on" both ways (060807f) at once-quite a slick trick. And the jig being up, well, they circle the assholes and start farting gas, thanks Bandar!

Pretty boy Putin has a nice smirk. He complains about our radar but does so like a jerk. (060307a) OK ok, just trying to be funny.

Israel and the 1967 Six Day War. What was won, lost and how this relates to where we are now. (060307l) The discussion points are interesting too, after the article is read. The thrilling days of yesteryear when the Six Day War was all the rage and everyone thought it was "all over". (060707d)

The Central Muddle Eastern Theater: Israel ... Palestine ... Gaza .... Lebanon

Lebanon:

Sporadic attacks and clashes in Lebanon while a battle continues in a refuge camp (060807j)

Israel:

Well he DID say he wouldn't negotiate with Palestinians who launched rockets (060307b) so will he talk to these fellows who shot mortars? I'M JUST ASKING, jeez!

Gaza:

Lebanon: The fighting continues in a seaside camp, neither side considers giving in or up. The only certainty is that the death toll will rise (060307d) Fighting spreads in Lebanon? A second camp has a gun battle and troops are sent in (060307g)

The "greater" Muddle Eastern Theater: Egypt, ... Jordan ... Syria ... Turkey

Turkey:

Turkish military units cross into Northern Iraq. (060607a) Information is sketchy on the first day but one wonders about the "temperature" this summer.

A Turkish threat to Iraq? Iraq's al Maliki says he backs the Kurds right to be free of incursions by Turkey. (060407d) And the rest of the article outlines the machinations of arcane Iraqi politicians as they scramble for whatever there is to scramble for.

And what of the Turks? Their position is analyzed but few surprises result. (060407e) They do few choices and even the best is only slightly less worse than the worst, it seems tensions rise and short fuses, defused not so long ago, may be ignited. All it takes is an "incident."

The Greater Islamic Regions: Eastern Theater: Iraq ... Iran ... Pakistan ... Afghanistan ... Saudi Arabia ...

Afghanistan:

How do we know where the "front" is in Afghanistan? (060607b) Just look for the highjacked trucks.

Iraq:

We have not heard from "Riverbend" for a few months. April 26th to be exact. A blogger from Baghdad we can only wonder and worry if she'll show up at some point. Her descriptions of day to day life are brief and well worth the reading. (060807l)

Now that it is June, we can see what college graduates in Iraq are thinking about. I'll bet you can guess. (060507d)

There are tens of thousands of mercenaries in Iraq. They have no limits on what they can do. There is no regulation, no oversight and they "make enemies everywhere." But there is a more subtle and grave issue, "buying armies" costs a lot more than our democracy can bear. (060507c)

The Brits toy with withdrawing their forces-by the end of this year, possibly. (060407c

That "September" thing, the so-called time when we'd have enough data to know if "The Surge" is working. Well, now it's not - (060407b) we may see some REAL results by December and some troop reductions some time in 2008-my how time does fly when it hasn't even gone by yet!

A deadly month, May was. The measured success of "The Surge" weakens with an uptick in the number of bodies found on Baghdad's streets; also attacks on US troops become complex (060307e) and more deadly. Part two, some further examples of a complex attack and a prediction of a long hot summer, (060307f) I'd bet on that.

If "The Surge" was supposed to suppress civilian on civilian violence and it seemed to do so for some three months, May however has proved to be exceptional and such killing is on the rise again. (060307m)

A simple portrayal of life as it is now in Baghdad. (060407a) Only a flock of pigeons have the freedom to move about, it seems. Each day one risks death.

Asia and The Greater Islamic Western Theater:

Russia, ... China ... India ...The Korean Zone:

Russia: Growing tension, a "cold war" of words between the US and Russia? Seems like. (060507a)

Thailand: bombings and attacks have made the headlines. (060307h) Why do I put this story in here? Because it is all part of the great war which our Jackass in Chief ignited. Slowly the contagion spreads

The Greater Islamic Southern Theater: Sudan, ... Ethiopia ... Somalia, etc.:

Somalia:

Remarkable how the story changes,. It wasn't just one person they were after but lots of people. (060307c) However, fighting spreads and continues on in the capital Yes, car bombs for the nations "president" which penetrate the security. (060307i) Sound like any other capital city you know?

Greenland well may live up to its name. The ice is melting about 10 times as fast as it did only seven years ago. (060307j) Amazing! Another report says that carbon dioxide emission rates have tripled what they were in the 1990's. (060307k) Because of this the worst case scenarios from the research done then, compiled into recent reports are now outdated and we should see worse than those worst case scenarios.

How the conservative movement has been funded over the last 40 years, this is a glimpse into the "silent majority" was made to parent the "moral majority" which has now given birth to the neo con's "power base". See how philanthropic foundations fund front groups (050807c) to move the US "rightward".

How the conservatives "machinations of joy" get their kicks, where do "all those fat old white mens be cummin' from anyways? "I hav t' say mah inquirsin' mahnd wawnts t' know!"(060807d)

Once you know the who of it all then you have to know their mind, what do these snot gobbling college educated jackasses want anyway, what is their agenda, (060807e) as it were, so here it is, sorry, no surprises, really

Here is an argument against impeachment and for repudiation. (060307o) A good article well written and substantive in discussing Constitutional Issues

GW at his lowest in the polls. Gawrsh, how do he dies it? Well either 1/3 of the nation is absolutely nutso, a perfect possibility, given the brainwashing that has been going on for 40 years, the fact that just about as many Americans believe in creationism, think science and theology should be equals in policy, debate and deny the need for a separation between church and state, think we're in the end times, believe Saddam helped "do 9/11", think Iraq policy is "going fine" think that global warming is a "ghost issue" that abortion is absolutely wrong, that abstinence education works, that corporations are good and that unions are not The other possibility is that the polling companies could be bought off and so slant things as favorably as possible, who knows, you decide, what's your Dark Fantasy? (060807i)

Look at what's running for GOP office? OMG! (060607c)

How are presidents remembered? By words they never said or things that they did not do? Yes, it is the way it seems, Nixon is given as an example and compared to our Great Dumbell the decider. (060507b)

The attorney scandal reaches to Dick "in the head" Cheney. . (060807b) It has been stated, in writing that he blocked the promotion of a top justice lawyer after that person called into question the White House domestic spying program

A sad and unfortunate tale: Asked to Serve Again, a Soldier Goes Down Fighting is the headline for the article.(060307n)

Under the good news category, an old friend is back after a brief vacation meet the famed and renown, habeas corpus, I'm sure you all know what I mean (060807g)

So many issues surround the "issue of kikurk" that books could be written, now it seems deals are being made (061607i) and, probably, no matter what is done some large portion of the interested parties will be very unhappy. Part two; what looks like s _ _ _ may be hitting the fan already (061607j)

Blackwater gets caught red handed on a flight out of the blue transporting prisoners across European territory. (061107g)

We seem to have different view on the news, each country looked at the "big 8" conference through their own lenses. And it seems that "terrorism" may be slipping of the radar? (061307b)

The Central Muddle Eastern Theater: Israel ... Palestine ... Gaza .... Lebanon

Israel

A tasty article titled " Welcome to Palestine" Gives some pepper to the middle east equation and has one wondering what will come next? (061607l)

Gaza:

You may not believe it but the US IS capable of creating another disaster in the middle east - and you thought it wasn't possible. Hamas has garnered Gaza as its own and the US policy of 'undoing" Hamas and the previous election has fallen to shit. (061407i)

Gaza under Hamas control, the West Bank now under Fatah, (061607d) but we wonder for how long?

Hamas scores a bit win in Gaza. (061407e) One wonders what this portends, but it does not take a genius to guess that escalation is in the offing

Here is more details on that, apparently we'll have Gaza/Hamas and the West Bank/Fatah-a two state solution? (061407f)

Small stories all of these but they show the crumbling of what may remain of civil society in Gaza. Israel keeps up the pressure and hope is hardly visible. (061007a)

Lebanon:

Why don't I just call it what it is: The Battle for Lebanon. Instability and assassinations are the color of the day." (061607c)

The fourth week of fighting at Nahr Al-Bared (061007d) Part two; the reports of sporadic fighting, bombs being set usw. (061007e)

The "greater" Muddle Eastern Theater: Egypt, ... Jordan ... Syria ... Turkey

Turkey:

Free fire zones, really? It may be, but some areas of Turkey's border with Iraq are militarized zones as fighting continues. (061607b)

The Greater Islamic Regions: Eastern Theater: Iraq ... Iran ... Pakistan ... Afghanistan ... Saudi Arabia ...

Bad boy Bandar keeps in the news. (061007f) The corruption in England is confusing, but if you follow the money it leads to fat cats getting all the fatter while the truth is stomped out officially that is

Afghanistan:

The Taliban have taken notes from the Iraqi resistance (061607e) and have begun implementing their tactics, car bombs and suicide bombers as fighting spreads to previously safe areas of the country

To die under the wings of a B-52, a reporter returns to the "wilds of Pakistan" after five years to see enthusiasm for attacks against the US led forces in Afghanistan (061607g) Part Two: the perception is that the US and Pakistan have created the "jihadi problem" and it won't be going away any time soon (061607h)

Iraq:

Another Mosque bombing and locals say that the forces guarding it were removed by a commando force after a gun battle. (061407c) Who were they and all sorts of other questions should be answered but probably will not be, more fuel for the sectarian fire.

This is how the man in charge in Iraq views "startling progress" (061407a) Then others weigh in on this topic: Who do you believe the leader of Iraq or the New York Times, I know, I know, tough call, but someone has got to make it, why not you? (061307c) Or maybe you'd believe the DOD? It has stats which say the "oops" mostly. Oh well, back to the drawing board! Oh, wait-we don't have A plan B, do we! (061407b)

Luckily, there is a way to measure progress in Iraq, at least indirectly, and CounterPunch tells us how to do it (061307d)

The misapplication of historical "victories" makes the latest strategy or tactic in Iraq look quite suspicious, luckily for our military and politicos, no one is checking facts (061307e)

So, here's the deal McNiel, you Kurds get Kikurk and in exchange for that you let the "national" government do what it wants elsewhere-(061107h) so it was written so it was done.

A strategy of the US arming Sunni groups who give assurances that they'll hunt down Al Qaida in their parts of Iraq. I guess they'll also promise not to use the weapons against Shia groups or the US and allied forces as well. Maybe we "double dog dare them" to keep their word? (061107a)

How the idea started, with a bunch of Iraqi's who were fed up of no real progress and decided to blame Al Qaida, it seems. US forces took them up on it (061107b)

Despite the fact that Al Qaida is only one of many players, and not the largest or most threatening of them (061107c)

Iran:

The US has a plan for Iran, in place and some "big brass" to go along with it (061107d) And then there is the cheering section for this "historical call to action" and it reads like a who's who of the largest assholes ever ASSembled, no kidding (0621107e) more below:

Neo cons in the news: Neo Con International targets its favorite whipping boy, Iran. Some interesting details on a recent "meeting" (061407k)

"Dumbell" Joe, the Jackass" Lieberman goes out front calling for a war against Iran. He knows nothing of what he speaks (061307g) And here is some background to the Dimbulb's opinions (061307h)

Asia and The Greater Islamic Western Theater:

Russia, ... China ... India ...The Korean Zone:

China:

Japan, India and the US all have things in common, one of them is a concern for a more powerful China. So plans are afoot to defend against this new giant. (061007c)

Russia:

I guess our relationship with Russia is, well, not as important as making Kosovo independent. Regardless of what I think of that country or its aspirations the manner in which our Dear Dumbell in Chief is prodding Russia, I guess the White House is still in "short term thinking" mode. (061007b

The Greater Islamic Southern Theater: Sudan, ... Ethiopia ... Somalia, etc.:

Somalia:

Talks and fighting continue in Mogadishu, (061607k) how bad it is the article does not say, but it is not good.

An update on the Peak Oil phenomenon. It may happen sooner than is thought, however, the "official word" is that we have enough oil for the next 40 years or so. (061407j) One wonders.

Update on the die off of bees, some keepers struggle, some are recovering and there is suspicion of some new pesticides how they are used (061607a)

A majority of repugllicans find evolution "controversial" (061307a) What is happening to this new generation of veterans? Many "fail" to transition back into society-many are homeless and "ruined" (061307f)

Famed and villainous for making hamburger out of the amendments the Dork in Chief is not satisfied and has determined to turn the first on on its head. (061407g)

They argue over whether or not to bomb Iran, (061607f) Cheney leading the "go for it" group and Rice leading the "talk it over" group.

Two issues that deal with our future, a Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal in the Al-Marri case decides to allow a suspension of various portions of our Bill of Rights, (061407l) and then, Lieberman is taken to task for his idiotic mumblings regarding bombing Iran and it is Wesley Clark who does the paddling

Knock knock knocin' on the White House door, is it subpoena time yet? (061407h)

What the hell is wrong with the US left? Well, it has a name, the problem that is and no it is not being a "gutless wonder" it is called "Partisan War Syndrome" (061407d)

Well, it's good to know that our press is still free. I mean, for example, they are free to rate the Paris Hilton Saga as more important than the entire Iraq/Afghanistan/GWOT thing and that shows "real guts" doesn't it? (061307i)

Did anyone try to get this information? Had two other reports been released as was the report on WMD's in prewar Iraq, it is not likely that we would have invaded and taken up what is called a "fool's mission" Oh, my God what a mess and we'll be paying for it for some long time to come (061107i)

Our Turd in Chief has spoken about how efforts to end or limit the war "sends the wrong message to the troops" Senator Levin recently chimed in with that. This is a letter that fries that Jackanapes buttocks to the third degree, right on, read it now. (062207d)

I don't know if this will always be considered the "mother of all Scandals, for we don't have a full and accurate accounting for 9/11, but for now Bandar's billions are giving Saudi English relations a bad name, and the west gets a black eye, in the public relations game, neat! (062107b)

Bin Laden gets a title as Rushdie is knighted. This is national or international behavior reminiscent of "playground behavior" (062107c) Here is more on the widespread protests vis a vis Rushdie (062107g)

Finishing the US Military? Robert Gates believed he had finished his job in refashioning the US national-security establishment, (062007c) what does this forebode for the military in Iraq and elsewhere?

An overview of the greater middle eastern region shows that US policies are not faring well at all and we're loosing diplomatic clout even as other tools in our toolbox are proving inadequate for the job (061807g)

Let's go back to the start of the Iraq war, no, one better, let's go back to a year or so BEFORE when planning was under way, when the Dork in Chief told us we were not preparing for war, remember? (061707g) Tony B. says the planning was bad, back then it was "all good"

The Central Muddle Eastern Theater: Israel ... Palestine ... Gaza .... Lebanon

Israel

Another group comes into existence and claims responsibility for the weekend rocket attacks. (061807a) If these simple facts are true it does not bode well for a stable future, especially if they do continue their attacks

Israel's economy is booming like it's 1999. Why? Well it is simply they have struck something better, far better, than oil or gold for that matter Check it out (061907i)

West Bank:

Do we have a "lull before the storm"? Hamas makes noises and threatens action; no one really knows how capable they are at this point, but certainly more conflict is in the immediate future for the West Bank. (061907a)

Gaza:

This is the upshot of it all; the main outline and details of the Palestinian situations in Gaza and the West Bank, the meddling of the US, Israel, the EU, Iran Syria and a host of others. (062007d)

Politics and skirmishes in Gaza, people talk and god knows what will come of anything, more violence like as not, same 0h same Oh (062007e)

In a move seen as one which will turn on the tap of foreign aid, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas dissolved the unity government and thus ousted Hamas from the West Bank government. (061707a) Part two, so far the Hamas response has been moderate (061707b) and there is a notion that pragmatics may be playing a part in this initial response.

However, maybe it is or will not be as peaceful as first it seems, Hamas issues a warning to Fatah regarding disappearances. (061707e)

Abbas illegalities the Hamas militia-one wonders how this will be enforced without some form of civil resistance (061707f) However, some unease in Gaza regarding who is really the boss? (061707c)

If Fatah was corrupt and this led to the Hamas election victory what makes the US think that by giving them millions upon millions of dollars they will spend it wisely? 061907f) Are we backing a winner or a whiner? (

Lebanon

Fighting in Lebanon may well be between US backed to form a counterweight to Hezbollah? (061707h) Such a speculation fits with other stories and so we may see more fighting in that forlorn nation before this summer is out.

Lebanese battles loosing steam? Some talk of talk and promises of an agreement which may allow both sides to step back from fighting. (061907c)

Lebanon declares victory in the battle the was waged at a refugee camp, but reading the article it seems a truce was brokered by Saudis, and the militants did not surrender. Disagreements abound as to "who started it" and so it ends with what may be a pause, who knows (062107h) Part two: the people speak and a bit of a gruesome toll. (062107i)

The "greater" Muddle Eastern Theater: Egypt, ... Jordan ... Syria ... Turkey

Turkey:

The Greater Islamic Regions: Eastern Theater: Iraq ... Iran ... Pakistan ... Afghanistan ... Saudi Arabia ...

Afghanistan:

Women in Afghanistan have rights enshrined in their constitution, something our Greatest Dumbbell touted, however the grim reality is quite a bit different, does the term self immolation mean anything to you? (062207e)

Iraq:

Apparently there are many ways to "measure success in Iraq, but the number of attacks on US forces is "only one of them" (062207c)

Diwaniya, another place where the chaos that is Iraq morphs into another wrinkle or something like that. (062107d) The usual response to a major US foray, the "meltaway" strategy is tried and true in Baqubah. (062107e)

Mortal rounds fall in the Green Zone (061907b) Much of what is wrong in Iraq is reflected in the problems that exist in the gigantic US embassy, (061907d) still under construction, but they say that the security plan was working, so they say, and here is the daily round up (062107f)

This is what you need to know about Iraq. (061907k) It is not a primer on the current debacle but it is a nice summary of the issues, short comings, and problems we face-and a bit of history, the lies we were told and so forth, the "questionable narrative"

An previously unheard of aspect of Iraqi culture, the reemergence of unions. The oil workers are the largest union and they have issues with the government and the occupation forces when it comes to enforcing the "Oil Law". (061907l) Will we be opening up yet another front when labor issues come to the fore?

Iran:

McCain may sing, "Bomb, bomb bomb-bomb Iran" to the tune of "Barbara Ann" and the debate might only be "will they or won't they" "do it". Here is a look at what may be reasonable to expect afterwards. And the final point for consideration, in my mind anyway, is what will WE the PEOPLE do about it? (061907h)

Pakistan:

Pakistan IS the place to watch and Cheney is doing a lot of watching, actually more than watching, he is a "leader of the band" (062207h) and Part two, the details and a naming of names (062207i)

Some say Mr. M. is on his way out. While that could be the article says that followers of Bhutto would likely form the next government for a same o-same o transition, but it could be that others, more volatile would be "up for making a grab" (062207j)

The Greater Islamic Southern Theater: Sudan, ... Ethiopia ... Somalia, etc.:

Somalia:

Mogadishu = car bombs and other chaos, (061707i) the most recent attempts have not resulted in casualties. In another parallel with Baghdad, arms caches are being found and destroyed (061707j)&endash; just going from good to better is it not?

Nigeria:

In Nigeria oil production operations are still vulnerable (061707d) but there seems to be some talking going on.

The disputed election in Mexico is still unsettled in the minds of many. Now they want to burn the ballots while others want to look at them all, each and every one (061807e)

In unrelated news we hear about Mexico's "Iraq". That is what the drug war down there is looking like, with beheadings, RPG attacks and gun battles involving dozens (061807d)

More carbon emissions from more places have "consequences for climate change" says the abstract of this study (061707k) This report also shows that the arctic ice is melting as a rate faster than the "worst case scenarios" used in a 2007 compilation of previous studies (061707l)

Perhaps the centerpiece of the global community's response to global warming, the trading of carbon credits, has some serious flaws, corruption has played its ugly hand, amazingly enough.(061707m)

The Supremos, yes wonderful, they seem to be interested in the business of business and, it seems, constancy is their hallmark in this regard (062207g)

When September rolls around you'll be ahead of the game, you will already know what they spinmeisters are going to be saying about the surge, (061807f) I know I've posted about this before but this is a NEW version and I like it!

The Democraps slow slog through subpoena land dog the administration who acts as if they are above such concerns but a test of powers is brewing and it will be a shame if The Great Anus wins this one as well. (062207f)

Who or what is Paul "the vulture" Singer, (062007a) why is he called that and why is he such GOOD friends with 9/11 "hero" Jackass "the Gigolo " Giuliani?

Bush and Co. grab even more powers and the media seems to be ignorant (061907e) While those resisting and providing alternatives to the "legislation" are having a hard time being heard.

What I like about this article is that it seems the law has been broken by dozens of White House staffers and, in all likelihood, nothing will be done about it. (061807b) It just so happens that the emails lost are vital to ongoing investigations. Part two, more smarmy, weaseling, conniving bastards get away with skirting the law (061807c)

OK,get your basic civic text book out and look up and see if the vice president is in fact part of the executive branch of the US government. Then fax a copy of that page to Mr. Dick, the arm wrestler" Cheney because he's apparently forgotten that bit of factual knowledge-he denies it anyway (062207a)

And in the "too good/bizarre to be true category we have this: a 1200 dollar a weekend male prostitute spending many many nights at the White House-whassup wid dat? (062007b)

Sometimes is is the small bit player that should get attention, and in this one case we do, what do we learn about Jim Wilkinson? His minute of fame was when he handed the acting prez a bullhorn on 9/14, guess where (062107a)

And now, in the too little to late category, a probe into voter fraud on the federal level yet already-woooowhoooooo! But let me wonder where are the investigations into the 2000, 2002, 2004 and 2006 election? (061907g) Sorry but slapping some hands doesn't cut it … what does? Good question, imagine the answer

The president's approval rating definitely heading south (062207b)

I guess this is important only because Blah Blah Blair is STILL going to have a role in the Muddle East. An envoy of all things and so I must as of what and to what? (062907f) I guess he drew "clean up" duty from de bossman bush.

Car bombs come to London, luckily, read by accident, they are found, disarmed and so a "very bad day" is avoided (062907c) After a car bomb plot was foiled in London another goes awry in Glasgow. (063007a) The London car bombs were discovered by chance it seems, one of the vehicles was actually towed away (063007e)

Relevant because this agency is supposed to be "on our side" in the GWOT so the long ago stories about the CIA getting gangsters to kill Castro being laughably true should be sobering, nicht whar?.(062607a) OK, OK, enough teasing here are some details about the CIA's released data … (062707i) And some of the "dirty tricks" were deadly, innocents did die (062707j)

Lots of ways to read this story, one is that Guantanamo is processing terrorists, another is that it has let terrorists go. (062707a)

Well, Lugar blasts Bush and his "Iraq Policy". Does this seminal, ground breaking and "sea change" kind of speech get coverage? Well, it could if others follow suit. (062707d)

The Central Muddle Eastern Theater: Israel ... Palestine ... Gaza .... Lebanon

Gaza:

According to this article Israel and Gaza might as well be in a state of war. (062407c) That is the gist of it, it seems to me.

History and Hamas, for those who do not recall it, Israel, way back when, was searching for a group to contest with Fatah, well they found one (062907a) and now, now, their "master plan" has blown back. I guess they ARE taking lessons from the US.

A devolving situation in Palestine, division and doubts grind peace prospects down. (063007b) Part two, current thinking has some Israelis giving up on a Palestinian nation and handing over what's left of the West Bank to Jordan and Gaza to Egypt (063007c) The Gazans and Hamas get played and have little choice, it seems in what their fate is. There is enough blame to go around but no one is taking stock of that fact, or addressing it (063007d)

Israel:

Bedouin's made homeless in 1948 and placed in the Negev are now criminally rousted and bulldozed and left with near nothing. (062707c) Is this the way Israel wants to appear "kinder and gentler"?

Lebanon:

An attack on Unifil troops in Lebanon, a car bomb. The article makes it seem that there is a relationship between Lebanese forces battling insurgents in a refugee camp where the Lebanese army had declared victory and a settlement had been reached. (062407b)

The "greater" Muddle Eastern Theater: Egypt, ... Turkey ... Syria ... Jordan ... Egypt

Jordan:

What kind of balancing act must Jordan do to keep "out of the Middle East Muddle"? It's a tightrope kind of thing, really (062707b)

Turkey:

Like most threats this too is a plea for help. The Turks want to put an end to cross border activity by Kurdish militants (062907e) there are other ways to handle that than by "an incursion"

The Greater Islamic Regions: Western Theater: Saudi Arabia ... Iraq ... Iran ... Pakistan ... Afghanistan

Afghanistan:

Reports show a low but steadily increasing influx of insurgents into Afghanistan. (062407a) They have high morale and expectations, attacks are up and so are casualties Afghanistan's drug empire provides 90% of the world's opium, a success story of a sort … after all who is cheering? (062507f)

Iraq:

Iraq by the numbers, these data speak volumes and they all add up to one thing: Iraq is not working, the surge will not "do it" and there is nothing left but to "muddle on through" because Bush the would be royal jackass will not alter his blinkered thinking. A great set of numbers (062707g)

The US says half of Baghdad is "under control" and they define what they mean by control-(06907d) question: why wasn't this done when we first entered the city?

For those of you who are thoroughly disgusted with the "Great Dumbell"s Farting Mouth" you will be interested to know that the supposed "September Showing" of "the surge' has already been mitigated. We are now in a "do whatever, say whatever" period which, I guess, our pumphead in chief will flap his yap about until the end of his term. Sound like a play to you? I know, I know (062407h)

Three illustrative stories about Iraq, the danger of working with the US is demonstrated when a suicide bomber kills several tribal leaders at a meeting for that purpose. (062507h)

Kurdistan is what Iraq was supposed to look like after the war. Take a glimpse at the continuing progress of this interesting "sub state" there is no comparison. (062707e)

Trials of Iraqi leaders are missing some vital portions, not only is Hussein dead, but the many witnesses, US officials included, that any defense counsel might want to call are "not available". (062707f)

Pakistan:

Chitral, a new portion of Pakistan becoming involved with the insurgency next door, where, in this particular case, the US has some 'blowback" from the operations in its struggle with the Russians some years ago (062707l)

Asia and the Greater Islamic Eastern Theater:

India ... Russia ... China ... South East Asia

Russia:

The row over radar and missiles continues, but what does it mean, impend or portend? (062507a) My how things do change, especially over time. Russia and Iran both reassess their relationship with each other and in other areas of "mutual concern" (062507d) As the US policies, regarding them, and their regions of interest, also morph, pragmatically speaking

Stories about arms dealing Russians surface, fighter jets for Syria and or Iran and submarines for Venezuela. As the article says these may just be "purposeful rumors" meant to put some nagging doubt in the mind of the US participants to an upcoming meeting with their Russian counterparts … who knows (062507e)

The "missile threat" from Iran and North Korea is getting play. It is another "wedge issue" that may separate Russia from the US, Russia from the EU and the US "go it alone" attitude is the guiding light (062807b)

China:

China enacts some labor laws, collective bargaining, contracts and so forth over the objections of foreign companies, oh well. (063007e) I guess it was the slave labor in the brick works that had the powers that be take a second glance Part two, more details and such like and so on (063007g)

And the Greater Islamic Southern Theater: Sudan, ... Ethiopia ... Somalia, etc.:

US makes a move into Africa and meets, well, a wall. There are lots of reasons for our involvement but no one is surprised that oil is in the list and near the top. (062607b)

Ethiopia

Our "client" builds up its military force, it is currently fighting two insurgencies, "helping out" in Somalia and there are rumblings along its border with Eritrea.. (062807a)

Oil, gas and the politics that follow have lessons that the US is "reeling" from. Russia has outmaneuvered them and redrawn the "energy map" of Europe, to the disadvantage of US efforts (062907b)

World opinion of the US sinks (062807f)

Unheard of even a few years ago, now Germany wants to extradite CIA agents, while Italy puts their case "on ice" (062507b) Part two: they can name names who boy (062507c) Part two: they can name names who boy (062507c)

White House vs Congress, it will soon be "show time"! (062807c)

A "pushy" view on the housing market bubble. In sum, who really knows how seriously endangered this market is-until it collapses. (063007i)

It is a sad article. It is one that brings out your "inner anger" and one which details "How to destroy an African American City." It is a god read, actually, and unfortunately exactly what happened to New Orleans after Katrina (062807e)

A bit of a reminder that there HAS been some resistance to Der Fuhrer, uh, I mean "da massa Bushman". The court has made some decisions but the direction of the nation is still way off kilter, not that I am not thankful-I mean it could be worse, imagine that! (062407e)

The Supreme Kangaroo Court takes us back in time to those thrilling days of yesteryear before the "Brown Decision" and before desegregation was an issue (062807d)

 China continues on course, making its moves everywhere, this story talks about South America (062707k)

An interesting story, for the perspectives offered and the facts it contains. First it goes over the drought conditions is S Cal., but it goes on, in a light hearted way, to end up talking about how the climate change has made a certain wine much cheaper. (062407d) Part two, here is an example of one case where a quite conservative portion of the court system whupped georgie boy upside his stupid lookin' face (062407f)

Going back to Kennedy, the company that made the weapon used to assassinate JFK tested an identical model to see if Oswald's firing could be duplicated, it could not be and there was more, but that was enough (063007h)

Here is a real person's visit to a Media Fantasy World, Fox's weekend business show, the brief article makes it clear that this show is "off base" really out of this world. (062707h)

Lest we forget the US attorney scandal is/was at least in part about voter rights and selective actions of repression. Here is a bit on that scandal that should be (062407g) Another example of how the US attorney scandal has connected with voter's being "challenged" with bias against minority, read democratic, voters in Ohio in 2004 … hmmm (062507g)

Bandar's Billions and the BAE, its corruption may reach into our own Beltwayistan (062706m)

" old Fat F - - - " Cheney gets a subpoena as does the White House, maybe we ARE seeing that congress has some balls. (062707n)