LCCC ENGLISH DAILY NEWS BULLETIN
May 21/17

Compiled & Prepared by: Elias Bejjani

The Bulletin's Link on the lccc Site
http://data.eliasbejjaninews.com/newselias/english.may21.17.htm

 News Bulletin Achieves Since 2006
Click Here to go to the LCCC Daily English/Arabic News Buletins Archieves Since 2016

Bible Quotations For Today
Take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, you will find a coin; take that and give it to them for you and me

Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 17/24-27/:"When they reached Capernaum, the collectors of the temple tax came to Peter and said, ‘Does your teacher not pay the temple tax?’He said, ‘Yes, he does.’ And when he came home, Jesus spoke of it first, asking, ‘What do you think, Simon? From whom do kings of the earth take toll or tribute? From their children or from others?’When Peter said, ‘From others’, Jesus said to him, ‘Then the children are free. However, so that we do not give offence to them, go to the lake and cast a hook; take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, you will find a coin; take that and give it to them for you and me.’".

All of them are seeking their own interests, not those of Jesus
Letter to the Philippians 02/19-30./:"I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I may be cheered by news of you. I have no one like him who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare. All of them are seeking their own interests, not those of Jesus But Timothy’s worth you know, how like a son with a father he has served with me in the work of the gospel. I hope therefore to send him as soon as I see how things go with me; and I trust in the Lord that I will also come soon. Still, I think it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus my brother and co-worker and fellow-soldier, your messenger and minister to my need; for he has been longing for all of you, and has been distressed because you heard that he was ill. He was indeed so ill that he nearly died. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, so that I would not have one sorrow after another. I am the more eager to send him, therefore, in order that you may rejoice at seeing him again, and that I may be less anxious. Welcome him then in the Lord with all joy, and honour such people, because he came close to death for the work of Christ, risking his life to make up for those services that you could not give me.

Question: "Why did Jesus speak so strongly against lukewarm faith?"
http://eliasbejjaninews.com/?p=55457
GotQuestions.org/Answer: In Revelation 3:14–21, the Lord is describing the “lukewarm” heart attitude of those in the Laodicean church, an attitude manifested by their deeds. The Laodiceans were neither cold nor hot in relation to God, just lukewarm. Hot water can cleanse and purify; cold water can refresh and enliven. But lukewarm water carries no similar value. The Laodiceans understood the Lord’s analogy because their city drinking water came over an aqueduct from a spring six miles to the south, and it arrived disgustingly lukewarm. Laodicean water was not hot like the nearby hot springs that people bathed in, nor was it refreshingly cold for drinking. It was lukewarm, good for nothing. In fact, it was nauseating, and that was the Lord’s response to the Laodiceans—they sickened Him, and He said, “I am about to spit you out of my mouth” (verse 16).
The letter to the church at Laodicea is the harshest of the seven letters to the churches in Asia Minor. By His indictment of their “deeds” (Revelation 3:15), Jesus makes it clear that this is a dead church. The members of this church see themselves as “rich” and self-sufficient, but the Lord sees them as “wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked” (verse 17). Their lukewarm faith was hypocritical; their church was full of unconverted, pretend Christians.
Jesus frequently equates deeds with a person’s true spiritual state: “By their fruit you will recognize them,” and “Every good tree bears good fruit” (Matthew 7:16–17). Clearly, the lukewarm deeds of the Laodiceans were not in keeping with true salvation. The deeds of the true believer will be “hot” or “cold”—that is, they will benefit the world in some way and reflect the spiritual passion of a life transformed. Lukewarm deeds, however—those done without joy, without love, and without the fire of the Spirit—do harm to the watching world. The lukewarm are those who claim to know God but live as though He doesn’t exist. They may go to church and practice a form of religion, but their inner state is one of self-righteous complacency. They claim to be Christians, but their hearts are unchanged, and their hypocrisy is sickening to God.
The fact that the lukewarm individuals to whom Christ speaks are not saved is seen in the picture of Jesus standing outside of the church (Revelation 3:20). He has not yet been welcomed into their midst. In love, the Lord rebukes and disciplines them, commanding them to repent (verse 19). He sees their lukewarm attitudes as “shameful nakedness” that needs to be clothed in the white garments of true righteousness (verse 18). He urges them to be earnest, or zealous, and commit themselves totally to Him. Our Lord is gracious and long-suffering and gives the lukewarm time to repent.
The Laodiceans enjoyed material prosperity that, coupled with a semblance of true religion, led them to a false sense of security and independence (see Mark 10:23). The expression “I am rich; I have acquired wealth” (Revelation 3:17) stresses that the wealth attained came though self-exertion. Spiritually, they had great needs. A self-sufficient attitude and lukewarm faith are constant dangers when people live lives of ease and prosperity.


Titles For Latest LCCC Bulletin analysis & editorials from miscellaneous sources published on May 20-21/17
Protesters gear up as politicians' clock winds down in Lebanon/Josephine Deeb/Pascale el-Khoury/Al Monitor/May 20/17
The Gender Obsessed West Sets Itself Up for the Rise of Islam/Giulio Meotti/Gatestone Institute/May 20/17
Who Will Stand up for Civil Liberties/Alan M. Dershowitz//Gatestone Institute/May 20/17
Saudi Arabia Found in America the Appropriate Partner/John Sfakianakis/Bloomberg/May 20/17
Trump… a Chance to Put a New Long-term Vision/Michael Doran/The New York Times/May 20/17
Trump in Riyadh: Obama’s Advice/Abdulrahman Al-Rashed/Asharq Al Awsat/May 20/17
Saudi-US Bridge/Ghassan Charbel/Asharq Al Awsat/May 20/17

Titles For Latest Lebanese Related News published on May May 20-21/17
Aoun, Hariri to open extraordinary parliamentary cycle: Machnouk
Protesters gear up as politicians' clock winds down in Lebanon
Lebanese ‘Terrorism’ Inmates Suspend Hunger Strike
Report: Aoun May Sign Decree Launching Preparations for Elections
General Security Arrests Iraqi Spying for Israel
U.S., Saudi Jointly Blacklist Hizbullah Official on Eve of Trump Visit
INTERPOL to Strengthen Counter-Terrorism Efforts and Programs
Bomb Explodes in Ain el-Hilweh Camp
Riachi: LF-FPM Coordinating Efforts, Elections Likely in Sept. under Proportional System
Bou Assi calls for boosting Lebanon's potential in confronting Syrian crisis repercussions
Hariri arrives in Saudi Arabia to partake in Riyadh Summit
Tueni: Public funds belong to citizens
Aoun congratulates Rouhani on his reelection
Berri congratulates Rouhani on his election victory
Nasrallah congratulates Rouhani on his reelection
Hariri: Today's environment is better for investment, Lebanon will be a center of technology
Army Commander inspects Marine Ranger Barracks in Amchit
Majdalani refers to difficulty in reaching new electoral law

Titles For Latest LCCC Bulletin For Miscellaneous Reports And News published on May 20-21/17
Iran's Rouhani Wins Re-Election
Leaders Begin Arriving in Riyadh for Arab-Islamic-US Summit
Saudi-US Summit Kicks Off at Riyadh’s Yamama Palace
Saudi Monarch Decorates Trump with King Abdulaziz Medal
Saudi Arabia doesn’t Request Headscarf for Diplomats or Presidents’ Wives
Trump Instructs Pentagon to ‘Annihilate’ ISIS Jihadists
Foreign, Arab Media: Trump’s Visit to Saudi Arabia a New Page
Deputy Crown Prince Meets Top US Defense Security Official
Riyadh Hosts 3rd Workshop on ‘Saudi-US Relations’
US Commerce Secretary Highlights Saudi Administrative Abilities in Implementing Vision 2030
Death Toll in Southern Libya Attack Rises to 141
Syrian Opposition Documents ‘Iranian Threat’ in ‘Geneva’


Latest Lebanese Related News published on May 20-21/17
Aoun, Hariri to open extraordinary parliamentary cycle: Machnouk
The Daily Star/May 20/17/BEIRUT: President Michel Aoun and Prime Minister Saad Hariri will sign a decree to open an extraordinary parliamentary cycle, Interior Minister Nouhad Machnouk said on Friday. Machnouk said during a tour in north Lebanon that the decision aims at "paving way for more dialogue and stability" in Lebanon regarding the electoral law debate. He affirmed that the elections will be staged ahead of the new year. In January Aoun signed a decree to open an extraordinary parliamentary cycle to discuss urgent draft laws, including the country's budget. The Lebanese Parliament normally convenes in two ordinary cycles from mid-March till the end of May and from mid-Oct. through the end of December. Machnouk's remarks were made as negotiations to forge a new electoral law have been thrown into limbo as a result of lingering differences among rival factions over what voting legislation to adopt to govern the upcoming parliamentary elections.Political adversaries refused to budge on their conflicting positions to facilitate the endorsement of a new vote law to replace the 1960 majoritarian system used in the last parliamentary elections in 2009. The lack of any tangible progress in the latest intensified flurry of activity has brought the months-long deadlock over a new vote law back to square one. This has heightened fears of either a new extension of Parliament’s term, which expires on June 20, or a return to the 1960 system to which all the parties have been averse – at least in public.Lebanese officials are struggling to draft a new electoral law to replace the controversial 1960 majoritarian system and set the stage for parliamentary elections, the first since 2009.The Parliament’s term expires on June 20.
Machnouk urged Akkar residents to "stay patient", expecting a turnaround for their socioeconomic and security woes. He added that development projects in the region are within the government's priorities. Prior to his arrival, the minister had requested that banners and posters welcoming him in north Lebanon be removed. In a post on Twitter displaying a large banner draped over a bridge welcoming Machnouk, he asked north Lebanon Governor Ramzi Nohra to have them taken down "prior to his arrival." The interior minister's convoy, alongside a delegation of north Lebanon MPs, was greeted with cheering crowds upon his arrival in Beddawi.They threw rice and slaughtered sheep in celebration of his arrival. The delegation first met with businessman Jamal Othman in his Beddawi residence. Machnouk continued to Akkar where he visited the town of Bibnine-Abdeh. Addressing supporters, the interior minister discussed security problems in Akkar that have persisted for some time. "You know more about the dangers that Lebanon faces because of your proximity to Syria," he said. "We are entrusted with the legacy of Rafik Hariri...The development of Akkar will be a priority for Prime Minister Saad Hariri's Cabinet.""Moderation will save the region," he said, adding that the Arab coalition in Yemen led by Saudi Arabia is an example of how it combats "and defeats" extremism. "[Prime Minister] Saad Hariri is the protector of moderation against extremism in Lebanon.""Tomorrow in Saudi Arabia, King Salman bin Abdulaziz [will hold] a summit with the American President [Donald Trump] to maintain the foundations of moderation."The interior minister urged Akkar's residents to remain patient ahead of their security and socioeconomic woes. "We believe in the future and we are planning for it," Machnouk added. "There will be huge reconstruction projects in Syria that Hariri has been notified of and which will provide great economic opportunities for you." He also praised Akkar's residents for their patience in the face of poverty and security crises. The interior minister also visited Lebanon's second largest city of Tripoli. Upon his arrival, relatives of prisoners on hunger strike blocked the road by al-Nour Square, which resulted in heavy traffic.

Protesters gear up as politicians' clock winds down in Lebanon
Josephine Deeb/Pascale el-Khoury/Al Monitor/May 20/17
Protesters in Lebanon are planning a two-for-one call to action: rallying against a possible third extension of parliament's term, and promoting a law mandating proportional elections rather than the current majoritarian, or "winner-take-all," approach. Activists in Lebanon have organized to oppose a third extension of parliament and demand a modern electoral law that would bring in new political candidates. President Michel Aoun wants to hold off on parliamentary elections until the contested 1960 Electoral Law can be replaced. Aoun, along with Hezbollah and the Amal Movement, insists on a "total proportionality" system, while others want either a hybrid law or the majoritarian system. Aoun has been trying to get legislators to pass the proportionality proposal before parliament's term expires June 21. If they can't come to an agreement before then, the politicians are likely to grant themselves another term without holding elections. Either that, or the country could be left without a parliament at all. Aoun already fended off one term extension by postponing the April 13 parliamentary session for a month, until May 15, which he is allowed to do one time under the constitution. After a May 3 meeting, parliamentary speaker Nabih Berri said he ruled out extending parliament's term. He also proposed a proportional voting law in medium-sized districts linked to forming Lebanon's first Senate.
But when no agreement was reached by May 14, Berri moved the session to May 29. The protesters are growing restless.
The 1960 law allows Muslim leaders to select Christian parliament members in some constituencies. Aoun is a Maronite Christian. His Free Patriotic Movement and the Lebanese Forces bloc are the country's largest Christian parties. The parties stood ready to derail the meeting scheduled in April, threatening to block the roads to prevent legislators from even reaching parliament. Aoun kept the peace when he postponed the session. The tension has been building for years. In May 2013, the parliament extended its own term — which was set to end the following month — for 17 more months, citing security concerns and the inability of the Lebanese state to hold parliamentary elections. In November 2014, that same parliament passed a law extending its term another 31 months, to this June. The Free Patriotic Movement, the party then headed by Aoun, and civil activists protested those extensions. In 2014, protesters gathered outside parliament forming a human shield to stop the vehicles carrying parliament members from reaching parliament, pelting their cars with tomatoes and eggs.
Today, in 2017 — amid the political rift over the voting law — the scene could be repeated.
But the civil movement today has grown. It has amplified its activity and formed coalitions, backing numerous protests and proving the Lebanese people can be mobilized to thwart state plans that citizens deem inappropriate. Today, these coalitions are organizing their ranks in preparation for a major move. Several groups have started their campaigns on the Lebanese street. On May 6, the You Stink movement formed a human chain around parliament in protest. The We Want Accountability movement is taking action in northern and southern cities. It organized protests and sit-ins against the extension and the sectarian Election Law April 21 in Sidon, the capital of the Lebanese south, as well as April 30 in the northern Bekaa district of Hermel. Civil activist Alaa Sayegh, representing the Mount Lebanon Movement, told Al-Monitor her group has begun organizing in various regions so it won't be limited to a central demonstration. In Mount Lebanon, Sayegh said, “We will be going door to door to call on people to take to the streets and participate in the rallies and protests."Activist Nihmat Bader al-Din, a member of the We Want Accountability movement — which is part of the large Parliament for the Whole Country coalition — told Al-Monitor, “The battle of the civil movement is not only against the extension but also against any new electoral law with sectarian aspects or that has the same effect as the default 1960 Electoral Law. This is the law approved by the majority of politicians; however, it does not secure the right representation of the Lebanese people and eventually [will result in] the same people [being] in power.”
She said postponing the parliamentary session, or even an agreement in parliament against the term extension, will not affect the escalation in the street. “Civil movements held meetings on May 12 and agreed to escalate based on three main principles. We refuse any term extension. We want a proportional voting law with the adoption of large electoral districts. [Also,] civil movements will be running in the upcoming legislative elections.”Bader al-Din added that the Parliament for the Whole Country coalition will be organizing a sit-in every Sunday in front of parliament. "These sit-ins will be held until [June, when] we will be organizing an open-ended sit-in and setting up tents in front of parliament," she said. The For the Republic movement differs from the other civil movements in that it is not calling for any specific electoral law to be passed that would come at the expense of holding parliamentary elections. Movement member Marwan Maalouf told Al-Monitor, “Even if there was no agreement on a new electoral law, the elections should be held according to the law in force, although we are in principle against this current law.”He added, “As per the constitution, what applies in the case of the dissolution of parliament [also] applies to the expiry of parliament’s term. This means, upon the expiry of the parliament term, the office of the Parliament (Bureau) would manage the day-to-day state affairs until the election of a new parliament within three months or until holding the parliamentary elections in accordance with the law in force."

Lebanese ‘Terrorism’ Inmates Suspend Hunger Strike
Youssef Diab/Asharq Al-Awsat/May 20/17/Beirut – Lebanese extremist prisoners accused of terrorism suspended their hunger strike till after Ramadan month after a week of “empty stomachs” battle which was launched by 900 prisoners demanding general amnesty. Health conditions of dozens of inmates suffering from chronic diseases have deteriorated and they refused to take their medications.Prisoners across Lebanon have been on hunger strike for six days. The strike was suspended after Minister of Interior Nohad Machnuok announced he was tasked by Prime Minister Saad Hariri and Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdel-Latif Derian to form a committee to oversee prisoners’ demands. Security sources informed Asharq al-Awsat newspaper that the efforts were successful following a series of meetings held between inmates’ representatives and Machnouk’s adviser. The sources added that the prisoners received confirmations that their case will be reviewed after a new electoral law has been set. “The prisoners were comforted by the interior ministry’s efforts and Interior Minister Nouhad Machnouk’s remarks at Dar al-Fatwa,” Adviser to the Interior Minister for Prison Affairs Brig. Gen. Munir Chaaban stated.
There are over 1500 detainees of the “Islamist inmates” in all Lebanese prisons, several of which have been held without a trial and others remain in detention for years exceeding their sentences. The committee that the interior minister was tasked with forming includes members from Dar al-Fatwa and lawyers to follow up on the prisoners’ cases. Minister Machnouk stated that both PM Hariri and Mufti Derian asked him to inform families they are trying to reach general amnesty that achieves justice to all prisoners, which will relieve all families whether in Saida, Beirut, or Tripoli. He stated that Grand Mufti Derian met with President Michel Aoun and discussed inmates’ issue, adding that the meeting was positive. Days before Islamist prisoners began their strike, other prisoners also demanded general amnesty and began a sort of riot which was suspended later and none joined the “empty stomachs” campaign. Minister Machnouk confirmed that a committee will be formed within days, but he explained that general amnesty demands a certain political atmosphere which is not currently available since the priority is to agree on an electoral law. A source at the committee of inmates’ families told Asharq Al-Awsat that the Minister’s statement wasn’t comforting because he spoke in general. The source expressed his concerns that forming a legal committee to examine the amnesty demands would take years and some information stated that certain cases will not be included within the pardon. Earlier, Mufti Derian and a representative from the ministry of interior visited Roumieh Prison. A general amnesty request must be put forward by the interior and justice ministers and would also require approval by President Aoun.

Report: Aoun May Sign Decree Launching Preparations for Elections
Naharnet/May 20/17/President Michel Aoun may sign a decree at the end of the parliament's term giving the green light to start preparations for Lebanon's parliamentary polls, al-Akhbar daily reported on Saturday. Reports circulating said that Aoun might sign the decree on June 18, one day before the parliament's term officially ends, signaling the launch of preparations for the May parliamentary polls, the daily said. Unnamed sources who spoke on condition of anonymity said the President plans to work in accordance with Article 25 of the constitution which stipulates that “ a decision to dissolute the parliament must include a call to stage new elections within a period of three month.” The elections would then be held under the 1960 law in force.Parliamentary elections are supposed to be held in May, and political parties are still bickering over amending the current 1960 majoritarian election law which divides seats among the different religious sects. Several law formats have been suggested to replace the law in force and they include a proportional representation system, the qualification law, the Orthodox law, several forms of hybrid laws and many other but none garnered approval of all parties. The country has not organized parliamentary elections since 2009 and the legislature has instead twice extended its own mandate. The last polls were held under an amended version of the 1960 electoral law. The parliament's term ends on June 20.

General Security Arrests Iraqi Spying for Israel
Naharnet/May 20/17/The General Directorate of General Security arrested an Iraqi national over his involvement in spying operations in favor of the Israeli enemy, the State-run National News Agency reported on Saturday. As part of its efforts to counter espionage and dismantle linked cells inside Lebanon, the General Security arrested Iraqi M.Y. for collecting data in favor of Israel, NNA said. The suspect admitted during interrogations that he was recruited by one of the Israeli officers, active in foreign operations in the Arab countries, executing assassinations and training fighters.He was tasked with collecting security data about the Lebanese army and Lebanese officials. Moreover he was requested to recruit individuals to form a sabotage ring. The man has also linked his Israeli operator to his brother in Iraq in order to gather information about the activities of the Iraqi authorities, it added. The suspect was referred to related authorities and efforts are ongoing to arrest the rest of network.

U.S., Saudi Jointly Blacklist Hizbullah Official on Eve of Trump Visit
Naharnet/Agence France Presse/May 20/17/As U.S. President Donald Trump prepared to head to Saudi Arabia on Friday, Washington and Riyadh issued their first "joint terrorist designation" -- blacklisting a Hizbullah leader. Sayyed Hashem Safieddine is head of the executive council of Hizbullah, an Iranian-backed Lebanese armed movement which Washington has branded a "foreign terrorist organization." "The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia joined the United States in designating Hashem Safieddine," the U.S. State Department said in a statement."As a result, any of his assets held in Saudi Arabia are frozen, and transfers through the Kingdom's financial sector, are prohibited." Separately, the department's Bureau of Counterterrorism tweeted that this marked the "first-ever" State Department and foreign nation "joint terrorist designation", underlining the close cooperation between U.S. and Saudi officials. "The action against Safieddine is the latest example of the strong partnership between the United States and Saudi Arabia in combating the financing of terrorism," the State Department said. The official Saudi news agency SPA confirmed Safieddine's listing, and alleged he had given his organization advice on carrying out “terrorist acts” and on supplying support to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime. “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will continue to combat the terrorist activities of Hizbullah and those who offer consultation on their implementation through the available legal tools, and it will also maintain its cooperation with its partners across the world to effectively curb Hizbullah's extremist actions, seeing as no state should stand idly by in the face of Hizbullah's militias and its extremist activities,” a statement carried by SPA said. “As long as Hizbullah continues to spread chaos and instability, wage terrorist attacks, and practice criminal and illegal activities across the globe, KSA will continue to designate and impose sanctions on Hizbullah militants, leaders and entities,” the statement warned. Trump has chosen the kingdom as the venue of his first foreign presidential visit, and this weekend he will meet King Salman and address an audience of up to 50 leaders from across the Muslim world on the threat of extremism. Safieddine, who is in his 50s, is the head of Hizbullah's executive council, which runs the group's political affairs and social and economic programs in Lebanon's Shiite community. He is a cousin of Hizbullah's overall leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, and is spoken of a potential candidate to succeed him and take charge of perhaps the most powerful non-state movement in an unstable region. The U.S. designation order did not link him to any recent Hizbullah attacks, but noted the group's historical involvement in the 1983 bombing of a U.S. Marines barracks in Beirut, a U.S. embassy bombing in 1984 and a passenger jet hijacking in 1985. In the same statement, the State Department also added Muhammad al-Isawi -- whom it said had taken over the leadership of the Islamic State group franchise in Egypt's Sinai peninsula in August 2016 -- to the sanctions list. As "specially designated global terrorists," Safieddine and al-Isawi will see any assets they hold in areas under U.S. jurisdiction frozen, and U.S. citizens will be forbidden from any dealings with them.Separately but simultaneously, the U.S. Treasury added two Yemeni tribal leaders, Hashim Muhsin Aydarus al-Hamid and Khalid Ali Mabkhut al-Aradah, to its own sanctions list, branding them leaders of Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula.

INTERPOL to Strengthen Counter-Terrorism Efforts and Programs
Naharnet/May 20/17/President of the INTERPOL Foundation for a Safer World Elias Murr, met on Friday with senior INTERPOL officials in Paris, where talks focused on the organization's future programs and plans to face the dangers of terrorism, al-Joumhouria daily reported on Saturday. Murr, a former deputy Prime Minister and ex-Minister, met in Lyon with Secretary-General of the International Criminal Police Organization, Jürgen Stock. Discussions focused on the future steps to follow up on security programs and strengthen efforts to combat terrorism and organized crime, said the daily. Murr also held a series of meetings with INTERPOL senior staff, unit managers and programs to discuss a plan to modernize the data base and address terrorist threats using biological, radiological and chemical weapons, added the daily. The latest security programs for borders, airports and ports were also discussed. The implementation mechanism of a UAE contribution to support seven projects to make the world a safer place for communities around the world, was also discussed.The money supports projects which are designed to combat global crimes, terrorism, cyber crime, cultural heritage looting, migrant smuggling, human trafficking and online child exploitation.

Bomb Explodes in Ain el-Hilweh Camp
Naharnet/May 20/17/Assailants tossed Saturday morning a hand grenade near a Palestinian National Security Forces checkpoint in the southern Palestinian refugee camp of Ain el-Hilweh, the National News Agency reported. NNA said, an unidentified suspect threw a bomb near the PNS forces checkpoint in Darb al-Sim at the southern end of camp. The explosion did not lead to any causalities, it added. Sheikh Hussam al-Aylani, Imam of al-Ghofran mosque in the city of Sidon, urged the Palestinian factions to exert “all efforts needed to thwart the extremist groups' terror attempts, and to prevent al-Nusra Front from controlling the camp. “Their presence endangers the camp and its surroundings,” he said.

Riachi: LF-FPM Coordinating Efforts, Elections Likely in Sept. under Proportional System
Naharnet/May 20/17/Information Minister Melhem Riachi assured that coordination continues between the Lebanese Forces and the Free Patriotic Movement to find common ground on a new electoral law, pointing out that elections will probably be held under a proportional representation system with as many as ten electoral districts. “Coordination is taking place on a daily basis between MP George Adwan and (Foreign) Minister Jebran Bassil with regard to an electoral law,” he said, stressing that discussion are weighing all the details, taking into consideration the need for “well representation.”
“I believe the elections will be held either in September or October based on a proportional representation system dividing the country into electoral districts as many as ten or more. Efforts will continue relentlessly until till the last breath” remarked Riachi in an interview to Free Lebanon radio.The Minister stressed: “Christians are united and no one is capable to produce an electoral law that works against them anymore.”

Bou Assi calls for boosting Lebanon's potential in confronting Syrian crisis repercussions
Sat 20 May 2017/NNA - Social Affairs Minister, Pierre Bou Assi, called Saturday for "strengthening Lebanon's capabilities in facing the Syrian crisis implications.""Lebanon has endured huge burdens as a result of the Syrian crisis ramifications, and has fulfilled its humanitarian duties towards the Syrian refugees to its utmost," said Bou Assi. However, he indicated that "this has reflected negatively on the country's economy and infrastructure," while expressing fear that such huge challenges might turn into destabilizing factors threatening Lebanon's stability and social security. Bou Assi's words came during his participation in the works of the "Committee on the Rights of the Child at the United Nations" in its 75th session held in Geneva. Bou Assi stressed that "the issue of child protection is a priority for the State, both government and people," adding that "it is committed to providing a safe and well-protected environment that allows for the development of the child's abilities and talents through ensuring his psychological, social and cultural needs." "Lebanon has always been dedicated to human values and will never fail in any of its commitments, exerting more efforts to improve the situation of children by ensuring what is best for their happiness and future, which is their natural and well-deserved right," vowed Bou Assi. However, he emphasized that "this ought to be combined with the ability and potential to achieve the desired outcome." Bou Assi appealed to the international community "to lend a helping hand and unite efforts to enhance Lebanon's capabilities in pursuing its role towards thousands of children."

Hariri arrives in Saudi Arabia to partake in Riyadh Summit
Sat 20 May 2017/NNA - Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri arrived Saturday in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, heading Lebanon's delegation to the Arab-Islamic Summit that will take place tomorrow at King Abdul-Aziz International Conference Center. Hariri and his accompanying delegation were greeted at King Salman's Air Base Airport by Deputy Governor of Riyadh, Prince Mohammed bin Abdul-Rahman bin Abdul-Aziz, as well as Lebanon's Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Abdul-Sattar Issa, and Saudi Charge d'Affaires in Lebanon Walid al-Bukhari. The Lebanese official delegation to the Riyadh Summit includes: Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Minister Gebran Bassil; Interior and Municipalities Minister Nuhad al-Mashnouq; Information Minister Melhem Riachi; former Minister Bassem al-Sabaa and Prime Minister Hariri's Bureau Director Nader Hariri.

Tueni: Public funds belong to citizens
Sat 20 May 2017/NNA - State Minister for Combating Corruption, Nicola Tueni, said in a tweet Saturday that "public funds belong to citizens, and they have the right to know how they are being allocated."He added: "I, as an anti-corruption minister, am biased to them and to the duty of referring violators to the concerned judiciary." "Access to information is the right of every Lebanese," stressed Tueni, pointing out that this right is enshrined under Law No. 28 of the Parliament Council. "Under this law, all public administrations and municipal councils, as well as contractors with ministries, are obliged to disclose information and contracts to citizens," explained Tueni.

Aoun congratulates Rouhani on his reelection

Sat 20 May 2017/NNA - President of the Republic, General Michel Aoun, congratulated on Saturday Iranian President, Sheikh Hassan Rouhani, on his re-election. In his congratulatory cable, Aoun wished Rouhani success in his renewed presidential mandate, stressing that the world looks forward to continuing Rouhani's called-for approach of openness and dialogue, in order to fortify the region from the dangers that beset it.

Berri congratulates Rouhani on his election victory
Sat 20 May 2017.NNA - House Speaker Nabih Berri cabled on Saturday Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, congratulating him on his re-election for a second presidential mandate. Berri described Rouhani's election victory as a "great celebration of democracy," hoping that it "will achieve stability and prevent discord in the region." He also wished Rouhani success in rebuilding Iran's trust with the Arab and Islamic world, as well as reactivating its higher diplomacy which has enabled it to reach an agreement with the "five plus one" states, guaranteeing the interests and security of our people and nations.

Nasrallah congratulates Rouhani on his reelection
Sat 20 May 2017/NNA - Hezbollah Secretary General, Sayyid Hassan Nasrallah, congratulated Saturday Iranian President, Sheikh Hassan Rouhani, on his re-election. In his congratulatory message, Nasrallah wished Rouhani success in his renewed term, and in achieving the great hopes of the Iranian people and the world's weak, oppressed and liberal honorable people. "The impressive popular participation in the elections proved, once again, to the whole world the greatness of these people and this Islamic system, and the extent to which they enjoy freedom, awareness and sovereignty within an environment of dictatorships and confiscation of people's liberties," stated Nasrallah.

Hariri: Today's environment is better for investment, Lebanon will be a center of technology
Sat 20 May 2017/NNA - Prime Minister Saad Hariri deemed, on Saturday, that the environment today is better for investments, considering that we need to build more confidence in order to attract investors to Lebanon, while anticipating that it would be a center of technology in the future.
In an open dialogue at the Grand Serail with a group of young entrepreneurs and innovators, in the presence of Culture Minister Ghattas Khoury and a number of advisors, Hariri stressed on the government's interest in encouraging and assisting young innovators in the development of their technology projects and start-up companies, which cater to various areas of citizens' daily life. "The government wants to help the youth solve the problems facing them and facilitate the marketing of their projects which would improve the country's economy and investments," said Hariri. He added: "The government is trying to reduce internet prices and increase its speed. I think that Lebanon will be in the future a hub for all kinds of technology, although politics interfere in everything. But I want you to submit practical suggestions and I am ready to study and approve them in cabinet."Hariri referred to the importance of establishing an e-government to fight corruption, adding that efforts are underway for ensuring full computerization of the Premiership and Interior Ministry. "Most investors want stability and infrastructure. Six months ago, we had a problem in this respect, but today the environment is better for investments. We need to build more confidence to attract investors to Lebanon. I will do my best to encourage businessmen to come to our country in order to benefit from the projects presented today," Hariri concluded.

Army Commander inspects Marine Ranger Barracks in Amchit
Sat 20 May 2017/NNA - Lebanese Army Commander, General Joseph Aoun, inspected on Saturday the Marine Commandos Regiment barracks in Amchit, where he was briefed on their activities and missions. General Aoun praised the army's efforts in developing special training within the regiment, thus raising its level of readiness. Aoun noted that ongoing cooperation with friendly armies is underway to equip and supply the Marine Rangers with modern weapons. He also pointed to continuous efforts in launching preemptive operations against terrorist organizations, in order to paralyze their capabilities and dismantle their structure. Aoun considered that the expansion of army deployment along the eastern borders requires more readiness for field control, in parallel with intensifying efforts to boost internal security and stability.

Majdalani refers to difficulty in reaching new electoral law
Sat 20 May 2017/NNA - "There is a difficulty in reaching a new electoral law," MP Atef Majdalani said on Saturday, considering that the current events seem to reveal the need for external tutelage to end this crisis. MP Majdalani noted that the Future Movement is supportive of reaching concensus over any vote law proposal the soonest possible. He added that most of the political forces have agreed on holding the elections based on proportionality; however, the problem remained in the number of constituencies. Majdalani considered that underway preparations for said elections based on proportionality might entail an extension that could last till next Spring. He also warned against political vacuum in case of failing to reach an agreement over a new electoral law before the current parliament's mandate expires. The Deputy reiterated PM Saad Hariri's position in rejecting the 60's law, saying that "PM Hariri is not looking for his interest but rather the interest of the country."

Latest LCCC Bulletin For Miscellaneous Reports And News published on May 20-21/17
Iran's Rouhani Wins Re-Election
Associated Press/Agence France Presse/Naharnet/May 20/17/Iranian President Hassan Rouhani won a resounding re-election victory on Saturday as voters backed his efforts to rebuild foreign ties and kickstart the struggling economy. Interior Minister Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli confirmed the result on state television, saying Rouhani had won 23.5 million votes -- 57 percent -- compared to 15.8 million -- 38.3 percent -- for hardline challenger Ebrahim Raisi. It followed a huge 73 percent turnout on Friday which forced authorities to extend polling by several hours. "I congratulate the great victory of the Iranian nation in creating a huge and memorable epic in the continuation of the path of 'wisdom and hope'," tweeted Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri, referring to the government's slogan. Rouhani, a 68-year-old moderate cleric who spearheaded a 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, framed the election as a choice between greater civil liberties and "extremism". Hardline cleric Raisi, 56, had positioned himself as a defender of the poor and called for a much tougher line with the West. But his revolutionary rhetoric and efforts to win over working class voters with promises of increased handouts gained limited traction.
"Rouhani's vote, particularly in rural areas, shows that Iranian people no longer believe in economic populism and radical change," said Ali Vaez, Iran analyst for the International Crisis Group, a think tank. "They have the maturity to understand that the solution to their country's predicaments are in competent management of the economy and moderation in international relations," Vaez told AFP. Rouhani's central first-term achievement was a deal with six powers led by the United States that eased crippling economic sanctions in exchange for curbs on Iran's nuclear programme. He gained a reprieve this week when Washington agreed to continue waiving nuclear-related sanctions, keeping the deal on track for now. But the election comes at a tense moment in relations with the United States, with President Donald Trump still threatening to abandon the accord and visiting Iran's bitter regional rival Saudi Arabia this weekend.
- 'Voting to keep that' -Although Rouhani has been deeply entrenched in Iran's security establishment since the early days of the revolution, he has emerged as the standard-bearer for reformists after their movement was decimated in the wake of mass protests in 2009. "We've entered this election to tell those practising violence and extremism that your era is over," he said during the campaign. At recent rallies, his supporters chanted the names of reformist leaders under house arrest since 2011 for their part in the protests. International affairs researcher Foad Izadi, of Tehran University, said Rouhani may now have the leverage to push for more freedoms, despite opposition from the conservative-dominated judiciary and security services. "A number of years have passed (since the 2009 protests) and the country is demonstrating a high level of stability -- this gives the system confidence, which means more room for change," Izadi said. But the economy remains the number one challenge. Although Rouhani brought inflation down from around 40 percent when he took office in 2013, prices are still rising at nine percent a year. Oil sales have rebounded since the nuclear deal took effect in January last year, but growth in the rest of the economy has been limited, leaving unemployment at 12.5 percent overall, and at almost 30 percent among young people. "We are still not pleased with the situation, but in the four years of Rouhani there has been a relative improvement and I'm voting to keep that," said Alireza Nikpour, a 40-year-old photographer in Tehran, as he queued to cast his ballot on Friday. Last month, the Guardian Council excluded all but six candidates for the election but still left a stark choice between moderate-reformists and hardliners. Two dropped out to back Raisi and Rouhani, respectively, while the remaining candidates -- reformist Mostafa Hashemitaba and conservative Mostafa Mirsalim -- won only a marginal percentage of the votes.

Leaders Begin Arriving in Riyadh for Arab-Islamic-US Summit
Asharq Al-Awsat/May 20/17/The leaders and heads of delegations of Arab and Islamic countries began arriving in Riyadh on Saturday to attend the Arab-Islamic-US summit that will be held in the Saudi capital the next day during US President Donald Trump’s visit. Trump and the Arab and Muslim leaders will meet on Sunday to address ways of building more robust and effective security partnerships to counter and prevent the growing threat of terrorism and violent extremism around the globe through promoting tolerance and moderation. Among those who arrived were Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, President Adama Barrow of Gambia, President Roch Marc Christian Kabore of Burkina Faso, the head of the Libyan National Accord, Fayez al-Sarraj, President Alpha Conde of Guinea, President Ernest Bai Koroma of Sierra Leone, President Alassane Ouattara of the Republic of Cote d’Ivoire, Prime Minister Najib Razak of Malaysia, Omani Deputy Prime Minister Fahd bin Mahmud Al Said, President David Arthur Granger of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, President Patrice Talon of the Republic of Benin, President Macky Sall of the Republic of Senegal, Suriname’s Foreign Minister Yildiz Pollack, and President Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan.Trump and First Lady Melania arrived in Riyadh earlier Saturday. The Custodian of the two Holy Mosques welcomed the US president at the King Khalid International Airport.

Saudi-US Summit Kicks Off at Riyadh’s Yamama Palace
Asharq Al-Awsat /Asharq Al-Awsat/May 20/17/The Saudi-US summit between Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz and US President Donald Trump got underway on Saturday at al-Yamama Palace in the Saudi capital Riyadh. The summit is expected to witness the signing of a number of agreements between Riyadh and Washington on a number of issues.The White House announced earlier that military agreements worth $110 billion will be signed. They are aimed at bolstering Saudi Arabia’s defense capabilities. A White House official added that the agreements, which demonstrate American commitment towards the Gulf, will also help support the region’s security against terrorism and Iranian threats. The Yamama summit was preceded by a luncheon banquet thrown by King Salman in honor of Trump and the accompanying delegation. The dignitaries then toured the Saudi Contemporary Art Exhibition, which displays samples of the works of Saudi artists taking part of the Bridges Program. These artists also participated in exhibitions in the US in order to promote coexistence among different cultures and highlight Saudi artistic skills. The Bridges Program is an initiative from the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture. The banquet was attended by Prince Muqren bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, governor of Riyadh region, Prince Turki bin Abdullah bin Mohammed, advisor to the King, Prince Dr. Turki bin Saud bin Mohammed, president of King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, and a number of princes, ministers and senior officials.

Saudi Monarch Decorates Trump with King Abdulaziz Medal
Asharq Al-Awsat /Asharq Al-Awsat/May 20/17/Riyadh- The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz on Saturday received United States President Donald Trump upon his arrival at Al Yamama Palace in Riyadh. The Saudi royal court witnessed the official reception of Trump. At the reception, King Salman decorated Trump with King Abdulaziz Medal. In honor of Trump’s arrival, a ceremony was held at which both national anthems were played. The US President was also received by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Premier and Minister of Interior and Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Second Deputy Premier and Minister of Defense. The US President shook hands with Prince Saud bin Abdul-Mohsen bin Abdulaziz, Advisor to the King; Prince Dr. Turki bin Mohammed bin Saud Al-Kabeer, Advisor to the King; Prince Khalid bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, Advisor to the King; a number of princes, ministers, and officials. On his part, the King shook hands with the official delegation accompanying the US President. Earlier, King Salman said Trump’s visit would strengthen cooperation between the two countries and help enhance global security. “Mr. President, your visit will strengthen our strategic cooperation, lead to global security and stability,” King Salman tweeted on his official Twitter account in both Arabic and English. For his part, Trump tweeted that it was “Great to be in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Looking forward to the afternoon and evening ahead.”The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is welcoming Trump and a number of leaders from across the Arab and Islamic world for a historic meeting on May 20-21. United under a single vision – Together We Prevail – this highly anticipated event, the first of its kind in history, will renew mutual commitment to global security and further strengthen already deep business, cultural and political ties. The summits held on May 20-21 are the first of a kind in history, and will renew mutual commitment to global security and further strengthen already deep business, cultural and political ties.

Saudi Arabia doesn’t Request Headscarf for Diplomats or Presidents’ Wives
Asharq Al-Awsat /Asharq Al-Awsat/May 20/17/Riyadh – Since the formation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, female politicians and presidents’ wives have never been requested to cover their head. Foreign visitors are not forced to follow the regulations and are entitled to wear any appropriate outfit.
Like other recent female Western visitors, US First Lady Melania Trump did not cover her hair upon arrival in the kingdom. Yet, since British Prime Minister Theresa May’s visit two months ago, Western media had been controversial about the head scarf. They debated whether she will wear the veil or not. Back then, observers saw this as an attempt to shift focus from the actual purpose of the visit. A brief review of history shows that prominent female politicians who previously visited Saudi Arabia didn’t have to cover their head. Late Princess of Wales Diana Spencer visited the Kingdom in 1986 with her husband Prince Charles and didn’t wear the veil. A series of diplomats and politicians visited Saudi Arabia after that, like former US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, Former First Lady Laura Bush, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Obama’s Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel all opted not to do so. Observers believe this is Western Media’s effort to diminish the importance of the visit to the region. Western media would rather discuss such a small subject rather than seriously talking about the major political event. Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Adel bin Ahmed al-Jubeir was quoted as telling media Thursday that America’s First Lady won’t be required to dress conservatively or tone down her usual high-fashion look, which often includes bold colors, stiletto heels and the occasional low neckline.

Trump Instructs Pentagon to ‘Annihilate’ ISIS Jihadists

Asharq Al-Awsat/May 20/17/US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis revealed on Friday that President Donald Trump has instructed the Pentagon to “annihilate” ISIS in Syria in a bid to prevent escaped foreign jihaditss from returning to their home countries. The president has “directed a tactical shift from shoving ISIS out of safe locations in an attrition fight to surrounding the enemy in their strongholds so we can annihilate ISIS,” Mattis said. “The intent is to prevent the return home of escaped foreign fighters.”The move to encircle then kill as many jihadists in place as possible — rather than letting them exit a city and targeting them as they flee — reflects an increased urgency to stop battle-hardened jihadists bringing their military expertise and ideology back to European capitals and other areas. Trump, who campaigned on a pledge to quickly defeat ISIS, signed an executive order soon after taking office giving his generals 30 days to come up with a revised plan to wipe the jihadists out. The review resulted in the new “annihilation campaign” and saw commanders gain greater autonomy to make battlefield decisions. Critics of Barack Obama’s administration frequently complained of White House micromanagement and a lengthy approval process causing delays on the ground. Mattis called foreign militants a “strategic threat” should they return home and said the annihilation effort would prevent the problem from being transplanted from one location to another. “By taking the time up front to surround these locations, instead of simply shoving them from one to another and actually reinforcing them as they fall back … we now take the time to surround them,” Mattis said. “And why do we do it? Because the foreign fighters are the strategic threat should they return home to Tunis, to Kuala Lumpur, to Paris, to Detroit, wherever. Those foreign fighters are a threat. So by taking the time to de-conflict, to surround and then attack, we carry out the annihilation campaign so we don’t simply transplant this problem from one location to another.”

Foreign, Arab Media: Trump’s Visit to Saudi Arabia a New Page

Asharq Al-Awsat/May 20/17/Beirut – Arab and international newspapers and media Saturday shed light on US president Donald Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia, in his first foreign visit since taking over his post.The Guardian pointed out the symbolism of Trump’s dedicating his first foreign visit to Riyadh while BBC stated that foreign media focused on Saudi-US ties during Obama’s term that witnessed the signing of the well-known nuclear agreement with Iran, especially that Trump is a tough critic of the deal and the policy of easing sanctions on Iran. The Independent newspaper said that this visit comes years after Obama’s term, although Obama was too soft on Iran and this led to cold relations between Washington and Riyadh.
Sunday’s Speech
Washington Post expected that Trump’s speech on Sunday will be the most prominent stance by him in Riyadh, in the presence of 50 Muslim states. “Trump campaigned against Muslims, but will preach tolerance in Saudi speech,” reported the newspaper.
Success of Deputy Crown Prince. Trump’s decision to stop in Saudi Arabia is a “huge success for Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman,” reported CNBC. “The deputy crown prince orchestrated, arranged and agreed to all of this during his latest visit to the White House in March,” Bernard Haykel, a professor at Princeton University, said to CNBC.
Arab Newspapers
Arab newspapers focused on the “historic” event and agreed on the importance and symbolism of this visit. Ahram – Egyptian newspaper – saw that the visit gains its importance from being Trump’s first visit since taking over his post and it aims to reinforce strategic relations on the regional and international arenas.
Dr. Walid Ayoubi told Lebanese newspaper Al Joumhouria that the “visit expresses the new approach of the US foreign policy.”

Deputy Crown Prince Meets Top US Defense Security Official
Asharq Al-Awsat/May 20/17/Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Second Deputy Premier and Minister of Defense, has received Vice Admiral Joseph Rixey, Director of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, Saudi Press Agency reported. During the meeting on Friday, they discussed bilateral relations and means to promote them, especially, in the security and defense fields, in addition to other issues of mutual interest, SPA said. The meeting was attended by the Saudi Ambassador to the United States Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz and other senior civil and military officials, SPA added.

Riyadh Hosts 3rd Workshop on ‘Saudi-US Relations’
Asharq Al-Awsat/May 20/17/The third workshop on “Saudi-US Relations”, organized by Prince Saud Al-Faisal Institute for Diplomatic Studies’ Center for American Studies, was held in Riyadh on Saturday, in the presence of a number of officials, researchers and academics, reported the Saudi News Agency.The workshop was opened by the Institute’s Director General Dr. Abdul-Karim Hamoud Al-Dakhil, who welcomed the workshop’s American guests and participants from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Shura Council, a number of government agencies and the Prince Saud Al-Faisal Institute for Diplomatic Studies and Saudi Universities. Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Middle East Policy Council in Washington, Ambassador Richard Schmierer, delivered a speech in which he described the workshop as a sign of friendly and deep-rooted relations between the Kingdom and the US.
The workshop included four sessions that addressed Saudi-US ties, economic and trade ties and Vision 2030 and Saudi-US partnership, geostrategic changes in the Middle East focusing on the Syrian crisis and Palestinian cause, and regional developments and the security of the Arab Gulf.

US Commerce Secretary Highlights Saudi Administrative Abilities in Implementing Vision 2030
Asharq Al-Awsat/May 20/17/United States Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross discussed on Saturday US President Donald Trump’s first foreign trip since taking office with reporters upon leaving the Saudi-US CEO Forum in Riyadh. Ross told Bloomberg that no ulterior factors will be affecting Trump’s historic trip to the Kingdom, saying it is the US best business day so far. I can’t imagine another business day that’s been as good for the United States or for the kingdom,” Ross said. Furthermore, Ross said that Saudi strong administrative capacities are elemental to achieving the Kingdom’s vision for transformation 2030. In his speech during Saudi-US CEO Forum held in Riyadh, the US Secretary of Commerce stressed that the preparations made by the Kingdom in a short time in presence of many companies and figures reflect the Kingdom’s administrative capabilities. The slogan “Together We Prevail” embodies this great event in the Kingdom, he said. Secretary Ross stressed identical views between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States of America in various fields at governmental and private sectors in order to constitute long-standing relations between the two sides. Ross is accompanying Trump along with a well-established group of advisers, including Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster, chief of staff Reince Priebus, chief strategist Steve Bannon, senior advisers Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner, Press Secretary Sean Spicer, and Trump’s former bodyguard, Keith Schiller. Trump held talks with King Salman in Riyadh on Saturday, the first stop on his inaugural foreign trip. Trump’s visit resulted in billions of dollars in agreements between the two countries.

Death Toll in Southern Libya Attack Rises to 141
Asharq Al-Awsat/May 20/17/Around 141 people have been killed in an attack on a southern air base in Libya, a spokesman for the east Libyan armed forces announced on Friday. The head of Libya’s United Nations-backed government suspended his defense minister pending an investigation into the incident. The attack at Brak Al-Shati air base shattered a truce in the area, which in recent months had become a flashpoint between military alliances based in eastern and western Libya. It risks a major escalation in a stop-start conflict between eastern-based factions and rivals loosely aligned with current and former governments in the capital, Tripoli.Ahmed al-Mismari, a spokesman for the eastern-based Libyan National Army (LNA), said 103 of those killed in the attack at the air base were LNA troops, most of them from the 12th Brigade stationed there. They were attacked by a brigade from the western city of Misrata known as the Third Force, which previously controlled the base and is nominally aligned with the UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) in Tripoli. Earlier on Friday, the mayor of Brak Al-Shati and a medical source in the town put the death toll at 89, though the medical official said some bodies had not been brought to the hospital. Mismari said some of the bodies were only collected on Friday. It was not possible to independently verify the number of casualties. Local officials have said some of those killed were civilians who appeared to have been summarily executed. Mohamed Gliwan, a spokesman for the Third Force, told local TV that LNA troops who were killed inside the base were armed. Human Rights Watch cited a medical official, an eyewitness, and photo and video footage to say that attacking forces had killed “scores of LNA fighters, some with bullets to the head, in apparent acts of summary execution.” UN Libya envoy Martin Kobler called the attack unprovoked and vicious, saying it “must not push (Libya) into further, serious conflict.”GNA Prime Minister Fayez Seraj announced that he was suspending both Defense Minister Mahdi Al-Barghathi and Third Force commander Jamal Traiki, “until it is determined who was responsible for violating the ceasefire”. He condemned the escalation at Brak Al-Shati “in the strongest terms” and called for an immediate ceasefire. He denied issuing any instructions to the ministry of defense. Barghathi is a former LNA commander turned opponent of LNA chief Khalifa Haftar. He is widely reported to have played a role in plotting past military operations against the LNA, though his ministry denied ordering Thursday’s attack. The LNA has said extremist militants and the Benghazi Defense Brigades (BDB), whose members previously fought the LNA in Benghazi, also took part in the attack. Mismari said the LNA had carried out air strikes in the Sabha and Jufra regions in response to the attack. Also on Friday, a car bomb south of Benghazi killed a prominent tribal leader linked to the LNA along with five other people. The blast in Suluq, 31 miles (50 km) south of Benghazi, also wounded 26 people, a medical source said. The LNA has been fighting a three-year campaign against extremist militants and other opponents in Benghazi and other parts of eastern Libya.

Syrian Opposition Documents ‘Iranian Threat’ in ‘Geneva’
Caroline Akoum/Asharq Al-Awsat/May 20/17/Beirut- As expected, the sixth round of the intra-Syrian talks in Geneva ended on Friday without any breakthrough, while the opposition uncovered it has warned UN Special Envoy Staffan de Mistura from the “Iranian danger.”Opposition leader Colonel Fateh Hassoun told Asharq Al-Awsat on Friday that his group presented to de Mistura several memos on the Syrian regime’s possession of chemical weapons, on the Iranian Revolutionary Guards and the sectarian militias, in addition to the operations on the demographic changes carried out by the regime in Syria, the forced deportation of people and the file of refugees.Also, in Geneva, the fourth day of the talks registered the return of the delegation of the armed factions to the ranks of the High Negotiations Committee (HNC) after they had announced freezing their participation due to “the committee’s unclear vision.”The two sides would later hold meetings in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, to solve their disputes, sources from the HNC told Asharq Al-Awsat. Meanwhile, the current round of talks was expected to cover four separate topics: the constitution, governance, elections, and combatting “terrorism.” But, de Mistura was more focused on issues pertaining to the constitution. A western diplomat in Geneva told AFP the UN’s initiative on constitutional meetings was an effort to “get people into substance.”“This is about the special envoy keeping the Geneva process warm and relevant. There’s been a lot of talk about Astana lately, but this is actually the main show for solving the Syrian conflict,” the diplomat said. Meanwhile, with the exit of the last batch of refugees form al-Waer neighborhood in Homs on Saturday, the city would fall under the regime’s full control. The Russian military police already began on Friday to deploy in several parts of the neighborhood. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the exit of refugees will be organized in two rounds, the first expected to head towards Idlib while the other will leave towards Jarablous, in the northern countryside of Aleppo.

Latest LCCC Bulletin analysis & editorials from miscellaneous sources published on May 20-21/17
The Gender Obsessed West Sets Itself Up for the Rise of Islam
Giulio Meotti/Gatestone Institute/May 20/17
https://www.gatestoneinstitute.org/10347/gender-culture-decline
French authorities imposed on students ridiculous books such as Daddy Wears a Dress. It would have been comical if the following years would not have been so tragic. What, in fact, wrecked these French illusions was Islamic terrorism.
The only enemy these French élites knew were patriarchal privileges, since for them "domination" comes only from the white male Europeans.
Obsession with gender is a convenient distraction to avoid facing matters that are more difficult and less pleasant. If the West will not commit itself to preserving Western societies and values, it will fall. And its extraordinary progress will be blanketed over by darkness, along with all those gender rights.
Welcome to the progressive "next frontier of 'liberation'", where the most urgent question in Western democracies is "genderism".
North Carolina was subjected to a year of being boycotted, until it withdrew its transgender bathroom law. Last month, the National Union of Teachers in Great Britain asked the government to teach children as young as two new transgender theories. New York recently presented the first "trans-doll". American universities are wracked with hysteria over the correct use of neutral pronouns. Even National Geographic, instead of writing about lions and elephants, started covering the "Gender Revolution". One of the first announcements of Emmanuel Macron, as the French President-elect, was that he would appoint officials from a "gender equal" list.
What does it mean that this gender mania is permeating every corner of Western societies and culture? According to Camille Paglia, the contrarian feminist, it is a sign of the decline of Western civilization. In her new book, Free Women, Free Men, she writes:
"Civilizations have gone through recurrent cycles. Extravaganzas of gender experimentation sometimes precede cultural collapse, as they certainly did in Weimar Germany. Now as then, there are forces aligning outside the borders, scattered fanatical hordes where the cult of heroic masculinity still has tremendous force".
She then asks:
"How has it happened that so many of today's most daring and radical young people now define themselves by sexual identity alone? There has been a collapse of perspective here that will surely have mixed consequences for our art and culture and that may perhaps undermine the ability of Western societies to understand or react to the vehemently contrary beliefs of others who do not wish us well. Transgender phenomena multiply and spread in 'late' phases of culture, as religious, political, and family traditions weaken and civilizations begin to decline".
It is not a coincidence that this obsession with gender grew out of Western culture during the 1990s, the decade of peace and prosperity before 9/11. The decade was free of any existential angst, consumed by the Monica Lewinski scandal and dominated by Francis Fukuyama's "End of History". According to Rusty Reno, editor of First Things, gender ideology is a symbol of our epoch of "weakening", pointing to a globalized future "governed by the hearth gods of health, wealth, and pleasure". The high priests of this ideology, however, did not take into account the rise of radical Islam.
Before the French cities of Paris, Nice and Rouen came under the assault of jihadist groups, the French Socialist government had just one cultural priority: the "ABC of gender equality". The name came from a controversial program that France's women's rights minister, Najat Vallaud-Belkacem, had launched in 500 schools.
After approving same-sex marriage, the French government apparently thought it also had to promote a cultural revolution. According to Education Minister Benoît Hamon, who failed miserably in the recent presidential elections, schools are "a battlefield". Half the pupils boycotted "gender theory" lessons. Then French authorities imposed on students ridiculous books such as Daddy Wears a Dress. It would have been comical if the following years would not have been so tragic. What, in fact, wrecked these French illusions was Islamic terrorism.
The effect on Western culture of this gender ideology is the rejection of the critical spirit combined with a kitsch appeal to sentiment against reason. The same gender-obsessed culture refuses to see the burkini as an Islamist tool, and instead turns it into a symbol of human rights. The consequence is that the jihadist threat is perceived merely as an unacceptable disruption of Western lifestyles. Europe risks to losing all its historic gifts: human dignity, freedom of conscience, freedom of religion, freedom of expression and its colossal culture.
The erotocratic French élites were not prepared for what turned out to be the most severe terror assault since 9/11. France, obsessed with the "ABC of equality", was caught off-guard and ready to be disarmed when terrorists attacked it during the day that celebrates equality. In France, there was simply no public resistance to sharia law and jihadist ideology. Intoxicated with the obsolescence of identity, the only enemy these French élites knew were patriarchal privileges, since for them "domination" comes only from the white male Europeans.
The presidency of Emmanuel Macron has already been hailed by gender activists. "Macron is like a breath of fresh air in this country," said Natacha Henry, a writer on gender issues, at the New York Times. "I think he won because he didn't do any kind of macho performance, and that's what we need."
Anesthetization by an obsession with gender rights further seems to have become a fixture of countries after terror attacks. Soon after jihadists targeted Spain in 2004 and forced it to withdraw troops from Iraq, the Socialist government of Jorge Louis Zapatero embraced the titillation of gender ideology, including gay-friendly "diversity" training at elementary schools. The "Zapatero Project" was based on the "scorn of nature, reinvention of what is human, exaltation of desire". Former U.S. President Barack Obama's years were also marked by an "obsession" with transgender rights. Obsession with gender is a convenient distraction to avoid facing matters that are more difficult and less pleasant.
There is a saying that civilizations can be destroyed from within, rather than by armies from without. If the West will not commit itself to preserving Western societies and values, it will fall. And its extraordinary progress will be blanketed over by darkness, along with all those gender rights.
According to Camille Paglia, "a purely secular culture risks hollowness and, paradoxically, sets itself up for the rise of fundamentalist movements that ominously promise to purify and discipline". Such as -- name it -- radical Islam.
**Giulio Meotti, Cultural Editor for Il Foglio, is an Italian journalist and author.
© 2017 Gatestone Institute. All rights reserved. The articles printed here do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editors or of Gatestone Institute. No part of the Gatestone website or any of its contents may be reproduced, copied or modified, without the prior written consent of Gatestone Institute.

Who Will Stand up for Civil Liberties?
Alan M. Dershowitz//Gatestone Institute/May 20/17
https://www.gatestoneinstitute.org/10386/who-will-stand-up-for-civil-liberties
At a moment in history when the ACLU is quickly becoming a partisan left wing advocacy group that cares more about getting President Trump than protecting due process (see my recent op-ed in the Wall Street Journal,) who is standing up for civil liberties?
The short answer is no one. Not the Democrats, who see an opportunity to reap partisan benefit from the appointment of a special counsel to investigate any ties between the Trump campaign/ administration and Russia. Not Republican elected officials who view the appointment as giving them cover. Certainly not the media who are revelling in 24/7 "bombshells." Not even the White House, which is too busy denying everything to focus on "legal technicalities" that may sound like "guilty man arguments." Legal technicalities are of course the difference between the rule of law and the iron fist of tyranny. Civil liberties protect us all. As H.L. Mencken used to say: "The trouble about fighting for human freedom is that you have to spend much of your life defending sons of bitches: for oppressive laws are always aimed at them originally, and oppression must be stopped in the beginning if it is to be stopped at all." History demonstrates that the first casualty of hyper-partisan politics is often civil liberties.
Consider the appointment of the special counsel to investigate "any links and/or coordination between the Russian government and individuals associated with the campaign of President Donald Trump." Even if there were such direct links that would not constitute a crime under current federal law. Maybe it should, but prosecutors have no right to investigate matters that should be criminal but are not.
This investigation will be conducted in secret behind closed doors; witnesses will be denied the right to have counsel present during grand jury questioning; they will have no right to offer exculpatory testimony or evidence to the grand jury; inculpatory hearsay evidence will be presented and considered by the grand jury; there will be no presumption of innocence; no requirement of proof beyond a reasonable doubt, only proof sufficient to establish the minimal standard of probable cause. The prosecutor alone will tell the jury what the law is and why they should indict; and the grand jury will do his bidding. As lawyers quip: they will indict a ham sandwich if the prosecutor tells them to. This sounds more like Star Chamber injustice than American justice.
And there is nothing in the constitution that mandates such a kangaroo proceeding. All the Fifth Amendment says is: "no person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury." The denials of due process come from prosecutorially advocated legislative actions. The founding fathers would be turning over in their graves if they saw what they intended as a shield to protect defendants, turned into a rusty sword designed to place the heavy thumb of the law on the prosecution side of the scale.
Advocates of the current grand jury system correctly point out that a grand jury indictment is not a conviction. The defendant has the right to a fair jury trial, with
all the safeguards provided in the constitution. But this ignores the real impact of an indictment on the defendant. Based on a one-sided indictment alone, the "ham sandwich" can be fired from his or her job or suspended from university. Consider what happened to the Arthur Andersen company and its thousands of employees when it was indicted for obstructing an official proceeding by destroying records relating to one of its clients. Although Andersen was ultimately vindicated, the indictment itself forced it into bankruptcy causing a loss of thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in shareholder values. Many individual have been indicted on the basis of one sided grand jury prosecutions and subsequently acquitted after a fair trial. Many of these individuals also suffered grievously as the result of being unfairly indicted.
Consider the consequences of an indictment by the special counsel's grand jury in this matter. Not a conviction – just an indictment handed down by a grand jury that heard only one side in secret. It depends, of course on who the indictment named. In the Nixon case, for example, the president was named as an unindicted co- conspirator by the Watergate grand jury. This meant that he could not even defend himself at a trial. I was on the national board of the ACLU at the time. And although I despised Nixon and campaigned for his opponent, I wanted the ACLU to object to the unfairness of a one sided grand jury naming him as an unindicted co conspirator.
So I will be standing up for civil liberties during the duration of this investigation. As a civil libertarian, I care more about due process and the rule of law than I do about politics. But many people conflate my advocacy for civil liberties with support for President Trump. I have been bombarded with tweets such as: "Alan loves Donald. He's throwing him lifelines;" "Has he been hired by Trump? Time to come clean;" "@AlanDersh I thought you were a smart guy. After hearing you support Trumpie, guess not;" "Has Trump already hired @AlanDersh to defend him? Clearly sounds that way;" and "No matter the subject, he inserts himself in the conversation with a full-throated and nonsensical defense of Trump."
Let me be clear: I voted for Hillary Clinton and oppose many of President Trump's policies. I would be taking the same position if the shoe were on the other foot – if Hillary Clinton had been elected and she were being subjected to an unfair process. Indeed I did do precisely that when she was threatened with prosecution. Remember the chants of "lock her up" during the campaign?
I will continue to monitor the current investigations into President Trump and his associated for any violation of civil liberties. I will call them as I see them, without regard to which side benefits.
© 2017 Gatestone Institute. All rights reserved. The articles printed here do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editors or of Gatestone Institute. No part of the Gatestone website or any of its contents may be reproduced, copied or modified, without the prior written consent of Gatestone Institute.

Saudi Arabia Found in America the Appropriate Partner
John Sfakianakis/Bloomberg/May 20/17
Saudi-US ties have never been better. Saudi Arabia will be President Donald Trump’s first stop in his first overseas tour. The Saudis have laid out a massive red carpet for Trump and his business delegation with multiple events. It’s emblematic of the importance the Saudis have bestowed on Trump and the rebirth of its relationship with the US. It’s not unusual for a US president to visit Saudi Arabia — President Barack Obama, who was viewed cautiously by Riyadh, came more times than any of his predecessors. It is, however, a first for a US president to be visiting the kingdom on his maiden trip. Business comes first.
Bilateral trade between the two nations is strong, amounting to almost $40 billion in 2016, according to the US Census Bureau. In fact, last year was the first time in 21 years the US sustained a trade surplus with Saudi Arabia, mainly due to lower oil prices.
For Trump, Saudi Arabia is a long-term business partner offering enormous potential for US companies as the Middle East nation prepares for its post-oil future. Attracting US investment is vital for its foreign-direct investment programs and successful implementation of Saudi Vision 2030. Taking a leading position in Saudi Arabia’s business opportunities is on the table with officials planning to privatize four sectors this year, including Saline Water Conversion Corp., a power generation company under Saudi Electricity Co., grain silos and sports clubs.
During Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s March visit to the US, Trump supported the development of a new US-Saudi program in energy, industry, infrastructure and technology valued at more than $200 billion in direct and indirect investment over the next four years. Trump, in turn, has said he intends to push for $1 trillion in US infrastructure investments over the next decade, with $200 billion coming from taxpayers and the rest from the private sector. Saudi Arabia, through its Public Investment Fund invested $3.5 billion in the US ride-share company Uber Technologies Inc. in 2016. Assisting Saudi Arabia in the successful transitioning of its economy beyond oil is a boon for all.
Saudi Arabia’s economic direction is clear: rid itself of oil dependency, while becoming a logistics hub, develop upstream and downstream mining capacity, deepen the tourism sector, build up the indigenous entertainment sector and increase local military manufacturing capacity. Officials and ministries are far more accountable via several new institutional mechanisms than at any time in the past. There is a sense of hope among young people that the country is changing and is addressing issues such as labor and female participation.
The Saudi Aramco initial public offering is another opportunity. It showcases the importance of US financial services in what would be the largest IPO thus far, expected to reach $100 billion. There is much to like, as a possible dual listing in Riyadh and on the New York Stock Exchange will only help to deepen the solid business relations of the two countries. The NYSE is the world’s largest stock market and includes oil majors such as Chevron and Exxon Mobil among its listings. Saudi Arabia has provided ample business to US investment banks and financial advisers working on the Saudi Aramco IPO. Two of the three leading underwriters are US firms — JPMorgan Chase and Morgan Stanley — the third is HSBC. A New York listing will bolster Trump’s business first motto.
For the Saudis, there is much to like in Trump. In Riyadh, the Obama administration was seen as being too pro-Iranian, confusing, and raised doubts about the wider role of the US in the Middle East. Trump represents the opposite.
The strategic-military relationship is central to the Saudi-US partnership. For decades the US has been a crucial supplier of land and aerial equipment. Saudi Arabia wants more sophisticated equipment and Trump has promised to stimulate the US economy by generating more manufacturing jobs.
Saudi Arabia is looking for partners as it constructs its post-oil economy and it’s almost certain that it found it in America’s Trump.

Trump… a Chance to Put a New Long-term Vision
Michael Doran/The New York Times/May 20/17
http://eliasbejjaninews.com/?p=55459
During his campaign, Donald Trump’s Middle East policy seemed to begin and end with his vow to “bomb the hell” out of ISIS — a pledge that played well with his base but unsettled establishment foreign policy experts, who worried that the collateral damage would include everything else America has been trying to build in the region. The establishment was giving itself too much credit: Our policies in the Middle East have been blowing themselves up for a good while. As Mr. Trump embarked on his first foreign trip, the first stop being Saudi Arabia, he has a chance to put in place a new long-term vision. In fact, the outlines of one are already in place. Despite the controversies at home, Mr. Trump may come away with a legacy-cementing achievement: a Trump Doctrine for the Middle East. The Middle East is complex, but Mr. Trump’s predecessors stumbled for a singular reason: the rise of Iran. As a senior official in the George W. Bush administration, I saw firsthand how President Bush’s democracy project in Iraq diverted attention from countering Iran and its proxies. Mr. Bush seems to have believed that a robust democracy in Iraq would serve simultaneously as a bulwark against extremism and Iranian power. In the end, Iran slipped into Iraq under Mr. Bush’s nose, subverted the project, and recruited proxy militias to promote its interests.
Mr. Bush let Iran in by miscalculation. President Barack Obama, by contrast, embraced Iranian ascendancy with open arms — and not just in Iraq, but in Syria as well. Mr. Obama dropped efforts to contain Iran and sought a nuclear accord that would allow the West to normalize relations because he was convinced that recognition of an Iranian sphere of influence would persuade Tehran to function as a partner in stabilizing Iraq and Syria. This was another miscalculation, and it led directly to the Russian-Iranian military alliance in Syria. Mr. Obama, like Mr. Bush before him, put a lot of effort into resolving the Palestinian-Israeli conflict — a worthy but useless undertaking that diverted them further from addressing Iran’s regional ascent and, later, Russia’s. We still don’t know the full details of Mr. Trump’s approach to the Middle East, but his hard-nosed ethos and willingness to question foreign policy dogmas offer an opportunity, in principle, to dispel several fallacies that led to these strategic blunders.
First, it is false that American “soft power” is the key to stabilizing the region. Our ideals, such as promoting democracy, will work to our advantage only if we first restore order — a project that rests on American hard power. What’s more, the use of force is not inherently counterproductive. Look at Russia’s campaign in Syria, which shows that in the hands of a good tactician like President Vladimir Putin, military superiority produces results.
Next, It’s a fallacy to imagine that we can create a Middle East without enemies. And it’s just as wrong to assume we can cleverly pull Russia away from Iran in Syria. The tensions between them are insignificant compared with their shared interest in propping up the Bashar al-Assad regime and eroding American influence.
Finally, the Palestinian-Israeli conflict is not the center of gravity in the Middle East, nor is it ripe for solution. It is not clear that Mr. Trump recognizes all of these fallacies. If he does, he will be far ahead of the game. But recognizing mistakes is just the first step. Step 2 requires rejecting the temptation, to which Mr. Obama succumbed, of defining the defeat of ISIS as the pre-eminent strategic goal. If Mr. Trump destroys the group, but fails at the same time to build a stabilizing regional coalition, his victory will be very short-lived. The next ISIS will rise from the rubble, and Russia and Iran will exploit the ensuing chaos. The third step is to build that coalition. Jordan, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates can help, but only American allies, mainly Saudi Arabia, can project power.
By embarking for the region Mr. Trump is clearly signaling an appreciation of this elemental fact. He must now build on that fact to develop a Trump Doctrine, based on shoring up traditional allies against Iran. Such a plan, built on painstaking coalition building and maintenance, isn’t glamorous or inspiring. But good statesmanship requires recognizing the limits of what is possible. The choices in the Middle East are between very bad and much worse. Mr. Trump promised us steely-eyed realism. Here’s hoping he delivers on that pledge.

Trump in Riyadh: Obama’s Advice

Abdulrahman Al-Rashed/Asharq Al Awsat/May 20/17
http://eliasbejjaninews.com/?p=55462
US President Donald Trump’s visit to Riyadh today, which marks the beginning of his foreign international activity, has caused great concern for Iran and all those associated with it.In this regard, nine senior officials from former US President Barack Obama’s administration wrote an article that was published on Politico’s website and addressed to Trump before his Riyadh visit.
The nine officials warned that his visit to Saudi Arabia and its consequences would harm the nuclear deal (JCPOA) or the US involvement in Yemen, to satisfy the Saudis and Emiratis.
We are all aware that this visit is important and it sends political messages to a number of parties in the region and beyond.
President Trump has also taken many steps that confirmed his seriousness and the political course he has set for the United States, which differs a lot from Obama’s.
His latest action was the aerial bombing of Syrian forces and Iranian militias in the area near Jordan, limiting the movement on the borders and explicitly threatening the Syrian regime and Iran not to interfere in Jordan’s affairs.
Before that, he has bombed al-Shayrat air base in an important message against the Syrian regime’s transgressions in using chemical weapons.
The US side also corrected its policy in Yemen and started supporting Saudi Arabia and the coalition fighting the militias there.
It carried out maritime inspections and resumed sending ammunitions. It also reorganized military intelligence cooperation in Yemen, which is very important to the coalition.
However, this does not mean that the Gulf countries wanted to open a war against Iran or wanted the Western nuclear deal with it to be canceled, for one reason, which is that it is not in their interests, and they have already officially announced their stance.
The problem that the nine officials know is that Iran took the United States hostage during Obama’s second presidential term, when Washington was keen on not angering the regime in Tehran so that it signs the nuclear deal.
The result was that Iran spread militarily in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen. The Obama administration lavished Iran with gifts for the sake of this agreement and at the expense of the security of the countries in the region. It has caused serious chaos and horrible tragedy, the worst in the region’s history.
The writers warned Trump from angering Iran, especially that his visit to Riyadh coincides with the presidential elections there that could lead to the defeat of the “moderate” President Hassan Rouhani and the victory of his extremist rival Ebrahim Raisi.
Although these former US officials contradicted themselves in the article by acknowledging that the elections may be rigged in favor of the extremist candidate, they are, at the same time, worried about Iran’s reaction from Trump’s visit to Riyadh.
Iran is ruled by the Supreme Leader and the Revolutionary Guard and, therefore, it does not matter who wins the presidency.
Remember that all the Iranian military deployment you witness and the unprecedented Iranian wars in the region have occurred in the era of the “moderate” Rouhani and under the supervision of the former US administration.
Therefore, where is the presidential moderation in Tehran and what is the value of the many compromises Washington has done at the time?
I believe that the current US administration can let Iran face the new reality. It can let it stop spreading chaos and violence in the region and the world. It should inform Iran that this will not only be positively met by the United States and the West, but also by the countries of the region and Iran’s neighbors.
Without sending a clear message, Tehran will keep on spreading turmoil in the world, creating crises, supporting terrorist groups and attacking US allies.
Iran has taken the region hostage and has blackmailed Washington for many years. It was rewarded in the end, but it did not stop its activities even after the hundred billion dollars, Boeing aircraft and the lifting of economic sanctions.

Saudi-US Bridge
Ghassan Charbel/Asharq Al Awsat/May 20/17
http://eliasbejjaninews.com/?p=55465
Something else could have happened on Saturday and Sunday. US President Donald Trump could have followed the example of previous presidents through making his first foreign visit to a close country in the American continent or to an Atlantic country.
The impression left by the first days of Trump in the White House could have become a permanent misunderstanding with Arabs and Muslims. If things went in this direction, we would have paid double the price of past years. The Middle East is sick with terrorism, extremism, shaking-stability policies, violation of international borders and dissolving armies for the interest of militias. It is sick with fear, unemployment, poverty and narrow dimensions. We have seen its sons grab the boats of death to escape the hell of their countries. Luckily, the chance was not missed. Saudi Arabia chose two years ago to abandon the wait-and-see policy. The current Saudi leadership apprehended that change is one of the conditions to protect stability and build prosperity.
The way of tackling topics discussed internally has changed – the Saudi diplomatic language abroad also changed. Initiative has become the foundation, based on ambitious perceptions that stand on mutual interest, partnerships and division of responsibilities. In March, Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Second Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, carried the Saudi perception to the White House – a perception that ensures a high possibility to build strategic partnerships that serve the interest of both countries in economy, politics and security and open the window of hope in the Middle East – that was about to be announced a devastated region.
Digits have a power that traditional slogans and general statements lack. In Saudi Vision 2030, there is a huge change in Saudi Arabia, mammoth investment opportunities and mutual interests that can build a bridge for future relations. In parallel with digits, there was a Saudi decision to lead a comprehensive confrontation against terrorism and extremism as well as another decision to play a major role in restoring security and stability in the devastated region. Consequences of this role will be endured in partnership with allies. Trump’s administration became aware of the importance of restoring good relations with Riyadh and the importance of Saudi portal in crossing to the Arab and Islamic worlds since Saudi Arabia has legality, ability, relations and the credit. Crossing this portal grants the US an opportunity to restore the leading role in the region after years of hesitation and withdrawal policies – a crossing that provides the kingdom with a chance to grant Arabs again their role in protecting their stability and countries, years after the Arab world changing into a scene for other components’ greed in the region.
Saudi-US ties witnessed a series of summits throughout the seven decades and overcame several difficulties and tests. However, getting informed of Trump’s visit to the kingdom program makes us assume that we are before a first of its kind event in the history of both countries relations. This appears clearly from the preparations, agreements and messages.
What Riyadh will witness on Saturday and Sunday is a brave attempt to build a Saudi-US bridge from which relations between the two countries and nations would pass – ties that include fields of defense, politics, economy and benefiting from the US academic and technological progress.
Through this bridge, a partnership will pass to confront not only terrorism but also extremism that refuses to acknowledge the other, coexistence and cooperation. Saudi Arabia has transformed extremism confrontation into a program adopted by institutes aware of the danger of clashing with the world.
In Riyadh’s date there is an opportunity to correct two images. Saudi image infront of part of western and US public opinion and the US image infront of part of the Arab Islamic public opinion. The Saudi youth nowadays aspires to live in a stable and prosperous country, to get a developed education, to enroll in a modern university and to acquire a job opportunity in a dynamic economy that copes with consecutive technology revolutions, and to have country that defends its interest and holds responsibility in peace and stability affairs.
The kingdom has succeeded in trimming ideas that call for facing the other because he is different. When the Saudi youth has these ambitions then he can easily meet on the bridge with the western and US youth. It is clear that the Saudi change in this field has left its impact on the Arab and Islamic worlds whose heads will meet Trump in Riyadh. Saudi-US Summit represents a decisive and big response to the dangerous challenges in the region – it is a response to Sept. 11 attacks that targeted troubling US-Saudi relations and a response to the policy of exporting Iranian revolution, especially after what Iranian violations caused in pushing some Sunnites towards extremism. The summit is also a response to the phase of US withdrawal from the region and the diminution of the Arab world role in it. Riyadh dates are an opportunity for all parties – a US and Saudi opportunity that will transform on Sunday to an Arab and Islamic opportunity. If implementation was as serious in the coming period as the determining of dates, then the game rules will be changed in the region. The Saudi-US bridge success paves the way to a fixed US bridge with the Arab and Islamic worlds and this would restructure the international scene.