LCCC ENGLISH DAILY NEWS BULLETIN
September 01/17
Compiled & Prepared by: Elias Bejjani

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Bible Quotations For Today
For I tell you, none of those who were invited will taste my dinner
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Luke 14/16-24/:"Then Jesus said to him, ‘Someone gave a great dinner and invited many. At the time for the dinner he sent his slave to say to those who had been invited, "Come; for everything is ready now." But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, "I have bought a piece of land, and I must go out and see it; please accept my apologies." Another said, "I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am going to try them out; please accept my apologies."Another said, "I have just been married, and therefore I cannot come." So the slave returned and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and said to his slave, "Go out at once into the streets and lanes of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame." And the slave said, "Sir, what you ordered has been done, and there is still room." Then the master said to the slave, "Go out into the roads and lanes, and compel people to come in, so that my house may be filled.
For I tell you, none of those who were invited will taste my dinner." ’

See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are
First Letter of John 03/01-10/:"See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God’s children now; what we will be has not yet been revealed. What we do know is this: when he is revealed, we will be like him, for we will see him as he is. And all who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure. Everyone who commits sin is guilty of lawlessness; sin is lawlessness. You know that he was revealed to take away sins, and in him there is no sin. No one who abides in him sins; no one who sins has either seen him or known him. Little children, let no one deceive you. Everyone who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. Everyone who commits sin is a child of the devil; for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The Son of God was revealed for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil. Those who have been born of God do not sin, because God’s seed abides in them; they cannot sin, because they have been born of God. The children of God and the children of the devil are revealed in this way: all who do not do what is right are not from God, nor are those who do not love their brothers and sisters."

Titles For Latest LCCC Bulletin analysis & editorials from miscellaneous sources published on September 01/17
US Ambassador To Israel David Friedman': US, Israel, Of The Same Mind On Stopping Iran In Syria/Jerusalem Post/August 31/17
Security Council Extends Mandate of United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, Unanimously Adopting Resolution 2373 (2017)/August 31/17
Iran’s increasing violations of international law/Dr. Majid Rafizadeh/ArabNews/August 31/17
Who Killed Naji al-Ali/Abdulrahman Al-Rashed/Asharq Al-Awsat/August 31/17
GCC and Qatar’s Withdrawal/Salman Al-dossary/Asharq Al-Awsat/August 31/17
ISIS Members from Iraq, Syria Tell their Stories/Ghassan Charbel/Asharq Al-Awsat/August 31/17
Has France Been Bought by a State Sponsor of Islamic Terrorism?/Drieu Godefridi/Gatestone Institute/August 31/17
Victims of Turkey's Islamization: Women/Burak Bekdil/Gatestone Institute/August 31/17
Aung San Suu Kyi has just run out of excuses/Dr. Azeem Ibrahim/Al Arabiya/August 31/17
ISIS crisis: Setbacks bring change to media strategy/Dr. Halla Diyab/Al Arabiya/August 31/17

Titles For Latest LCCC Lebanese Related News published on September 01/17
Aoun in address to Lebanese: For compulsory investigations to determine responsibilities in armed forces' case
A group of Lebanese students visit the STL and watch live testimony of victims
Hamadeh launches 'Back to School' campaign: More than 400 thousand of all nationalities will receive free education
Hariri from Matignon: We are very proud of the victories of the Lebanese army
UNIFIL Mandate Extended with Small Changes
US Ambassador Haley Says Iran Shown ‘True Colors’ by Rapprochement with Hamas
US disrupts evacuation of IS militants in Syria
Army Commander: Lebanon is Daesh free
ICRC: Authorities Must Act Now to Give Answers to Families of Missing Persons
Nasrallah Hails Aoun's Border Op Decision, Says 'Golden Equation' Vital Even if Army Gets Stronger
Aoun Calls for Probe into 2014 Kidnap of Soldiers
UK Vows Continued Support for Army, Regrets IS 'were Able to Retreat across Syria'
U.S. Says Support for Army to Continue as Military Sources Deny Aid Halt
IS Hands Over to Hizbullah Body of Slain Iranian Soldier
Constitutional Council Suspends Tax Law after Gemayel-Led Appeal
Hariri Begins Paris Visit, Urges Lebanese to 'Turn Page of Discord'
Two Blasts Rock Chemical Plant in Storm-Hit Texas
Algeria Policeman Killed Stopping Suicide Bombing
US Ambassador To Israel David Friedman': US, Israel, Of The Same Mind On Stopping Iran In Syria
Lebanese President, Army Commander Declare Victory over Terrorism
Lebanese army buses hundreds of jihadists out of combat zone in return for info on missing soldiers
Security Council Extends Mandate of United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, Unanimously Adopting Resolution 2373 (2017)

Titles For Latest LCCC Bulletin For Miscellaneous Reports And News published on September 01/17
Russia’s Lavrov Backs Kuwait’s Mediation, Says No ‘New Ideas’ on Qatar Crisis
Lavrov: Gulf States’ cooperation is the most appropriate solution to Qatar crisis
Major London conference to discuss Qatar democracy, press freedom and counter-terrorism
Trump says solution to Qatar crisis should be based on Riyadh Summit pledges
Kuwait emir announces state visit to Washington, talks with Trump
Yemen: Saleh Claims ‘Sedition’ as Coup Ranks Descend into Armed Conflict
After Harvey, Aramco Shuts Down Biggest Refinery in US
Several Wounded in Turkey Blast, Authorities Probe Possible Terrorist Attack
UN Rights Chief Says Democracy in Venezuela ‘Barely Alive’
2 Policemen Killed in Algeria Suicide Attack
Hamas Releases Prisoners Accused of Plotting to Assassinate Haniyeh

Latest Lebanese Related News published on September 01/17
Aoun in address to Lebanese: For compulsory investigations to determine responsibilities in armed forces' case
Thu 31 Aug 2017/NNA - President of the Republic, General Michel Aoun, on Thursday asked the relevant authorities to conduct the necessary investigations to determine the responsibilities in the case of the Lebanese armed forces, in order to uncover "the ambiguity and confusion that has existed for three years.""This comes in respect for the truth as an absolute humanitarian value and in respect for the army soldiers' martyrdom and the suffering of their families," President Aoun said on Thursday evening in his address to the Lebanese, marking Adha Eid, Lebanon's victory over terrorism and the 79th anniversary of the Declaration of Greater Lebanon. Aoun congratulated all the Lebanese on Al Adha Eid, summing up the absolute values and sacred meaning of the holy Adha. On Lebanon's victory over terrorism, Aoun said that such victory over the most heinous and ugly plague of this era would not have been possible without the sacrifices of our great heroes and martyrs, who defended our existence, our lives and our freedom. Aoun paid high respect and tribute for all the fallen martyrs.

A group of Lebanese students visit the STL and watch live testimony of victims
Thu 31 Aug 2017/NNA - A group of 17 students who obtained the highest grades in the Inter-University Programme on International Criminal Law and Procedure (IUP-ICLP) concluded a three-day study visit to The Hague this week. The visit coincided with the start of the victims’ case in the Ayyash et al. trial. The students were able to attend the hearings and watch victims testifying on the 14 February 2005 attack and how it irreversibly impacted their lives. "Being able to hear what the victims had to say gave this trial a more human face, and made this course a more practical experience" said Yasmin Al Ameen, an alumna of the IUP-ICLP and a student at L’Université Libanaise. The study visit included briefings by representatives of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon’s four organs – Chambers, Registry, the Office of the Prosecutor and the Defence Office -- as well as a courtroom tour. The students also got the opportunity to visit the International Court of Justice, the International Criminal Court, the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, and the T.M.C Asser Institute, where they were able to meet some of their lecturers in person. They were also briefed by representatives of the Kosovo Specialist Chambers. "It was a great opportunity to see the actual application of all the lectures given during the programme. The visit gave a practical experience to the theoretical knowledge" said Caroline Molaeb, an alumna of the IUP-ICLP and a student at the Lebanese American University.
One hundred and forty-seven (147) Lebanese students successfully completed the IUP-ICLP this year, joining the ranks of over 700 students who have completed the unique programme since 2011. -- STL

Hamadeh launches 'Back to School' campaign: More than 400 thousand of all nationalities will receive free education
Thu 31 Aug 2017/NNA - Minister of Education and Higher Learning, Marwan Hamadeh, launched the "Back to School" campaign at a press conference held at the ministry, with the participation of UNICEF Representative in Lebanon, Tania Chapuisat, UNHCR Representative, Mireille Girard, and the UNESCO regional office Director, in the presence of Australian Ambassador to Lebanon, Glenn Miles, and ranking dignitaries. "It is a year of hope, but it is also fraught with challenges and commitments. We are here to overcome any obstacle that may arise. The Special Emergency Committee which brings together the ministry, private educational institutions, parents' committees and the teachers' unions, will work hard to maintain the school balance until we reach common standards for tuitions, based on the law," said Hamadeh. "Registration in Lebanese public schools begins on September 5 for Lebanese students, and on September 18 for non-Lebanese students," he added. "Lebanon was victorious in its war against terror. It has shed innocent blood, the blood of its heroic martyrs, and despite all the dangers it has been able to send a message to the world that it bears the burdens of the existence of massive numbers of displaced people on its territory; numbers equivalent to a third of its population. Public schools in Lebanon embrace 260 thousand Lebanese student, and 195 thousand displaced students aged between 3 and 18," Hamadeh noted. "Our aspirations for the new school year revolve around planning to receive 265 thousand Lebanese students and 220 thousand displaced in our public schools," he went on. "Until solutions are found and stability is restored, we pledge to provide education to as many displaced students as possible in our public schools, and to provide books and stationery to over 430 thousand learners in public schools. On this occasion, we would also like to invite all the Lebanese to register their children in public kindergartens that have been rehabilitated and equipped, with international support, thus becoming equivalent to the highest international standards," he concluded. On a different note, the minister received a message from French President, Emmanuel Macaron, in response to the congratulatory message Hamadeh addressed to him on the occasion of his election. Macron underlined the deep-rooted French-Lebanese friendship and (...) the will to preserve the universal values that unite the two peoples, basically the values of freedom, humanity and openness." The French president stressed that "the Lebanese people have faced with all courage terrorism the terrorism that came as a result of the war in Syria," assuring that "Lebanon can rely on French support to preserve its sovereignty, unity, security and stability."
"France will continue to cooperate closely with the Lebanese Army and the Lebanese security forces, and will maintain its presence through the international emergency forces in order to monitor the decisions of the international community over Lebanon, the country that bears the burden of receiving more than one million Syrian refugees and provides them with education, which is a key weapon against fundamentalism and intolerance," Macron said in his letter.

Hariri from Matignon: We are very proud of the victories of the Lebanese army
Thu 31 Aug 2017/NNA - The President of the council of ministers Saad Hariri met today with the French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe at Matignon Palace and they discussed developments in Lebanon and the region. Prime minister Hariri arrived at the Matignon Palace at 2 pm, where he was received by his French counterpart. They held an extended meeting attended by: Chargé d'Affaires of the Lebanese Embassy in Paris Ghadi Khoury, Hariri's advisor for European affairs Bassil Yared and his chief of staff Nader Hariri, and on the French side, the French ambassador to Lebanon Bruno Foucher, the diplomatic adviser to Prime Minister Emmanuel Lenain, the director of North Africa and the Middle East at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Jérôme Bonnafont and the Head of the Prime Minister's Office for military affairs General Benoit Durieux.
Prime ministers Hariri and Philippe then held a closed meeting.
At the end of the meeting, President Hariri said: "I came to France to explain the situation in Lebanon. We are very proud of the victories of the Lebanese army in the Bekaa. This helps Lebanon show that the state and the government fulfill their duty. I also came to explain the situation of the displaced Syrians and how to deal with this in a way that is useful to Lebanon and the displaced. For us, the solution is their safe return to Syria. This is very important and I explained our position to my French counterpart. We also talked about the economic situation in Lebanon. Tomorrow I will meet the President of the Republic Emmanuel Macron and we will discuss these files".
Question: Is there any new assistance for the army? Have you received any promises on that?
Hariri: We are working on that.
Question: What do you wish Lebanon for Eid al-Adha?
Hariri: I wish it to be a celebration for all Lebanese. Lebanon has gone through a very difficult period in recent weeks. We have soldiers who fell in this war against Daesh and the important thing is that the Lebanese army came out victorious of this war and I believe that all the Lebanese are very proud of their army. As Lebanese, we must always work to strengthen the Lebanese state, and I think we have done a lot so far, but we still have a lot of work to do.
Question: Opinions differ in Lebanon on the results of the battles of the jurds and the announcement by (Hezbollah Secretary General) Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah of the victory of Hezbollah and not of the State. What is your position and is it true that President Michel Aoun asked you to leave this question to Hezbollah?
Hariri: My position is clear. The state achieved a victory. The Lebanese army had victims. It found the kidnapped soldiers, who suffered a fate that is tragic for their families and all the Lebanese. The Lebanese are not divided on this subject. Some are trying to take advantage of this victory, but as my father used to say, no one is bigger than his country. Lebanon, the Lebanese people and the Lebanese army achieved a victory. And when Lebanon wins, all Lebanese are victorious.
Question: Is the displaced case dealt with at the economic level only, without accelerating their return home?
Hariri: This is the first thing I said. The solution is their safe return. In countries that have relations with the Syrian regime, such as Iraq, have the displaced returned to Syria? No, so the solution is to ensure their safe return to a place where they feel safe.

UNIFIL Mandate Extended with Small Changes
Asharq Al-Awsat/August 31/17/The UN peacekeeping operation in Lebanon, UNIFIL, was extended Wednesday with new directions to conduct more patrols with the Lebanese army and report when peacekeepers run into roadblocks in “Hezbollah” strongholds in the South. The Security Council unanimously approved the plan for the mission, extending it another year after a flurry of negotiations over US and Israeli desires to do more to keep Hezbollah from gathering illegitimate weapons. The resolution will see UNIFIL continue in its current mandate but spells out that the peacekeeping operation is authorized to “take all necessary action in areas of deployment of its forces … to ensure that its area of operations is not utilized for hostile activities.”The resolution also asks UN chief Antonio Guterres to look at ways the peacekeeping mission can increase its visible presence, including through patrols and inspections.
US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley has been calling for UNIFIL to take a stronger stance on Hezbollah in south Lebanon and told reporters ahead of the vote that she was “very happy” with the final draft of the resolution. “The status quo for UNIFIL was not acceptable, and we did not accept it,” the diplomat said, adding the changes will help ensure UNIFIL “has the power and the will to do its job.” UNIFIL was originally created to oversee the withdrawal of Israeli troops after a 1978 invasion. The mission was expanded after the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah so that peacekeepers could deploy along the Lebanon-Israel border, to help Lebanese troops extend their authority into their country’s south for the first time in decades.
But this year, the annual exercise of renewing UNIFIL became unusually fraught.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu raised his criticisms of the mission personally — and publicly —with Guterres during a joint news conference Monday, and Haley and UNIFIL’s commander openly clashed last week. The commander, Maj. Gen. Michael Beary, told The Associated Press there was no evidence of the arms traffic and stockpiling that the US and Israel describe in Hezbollah strongholds in southern Lebanon. Haley said his remarks show Beary is blind to a “massive flow of illegal weapons.” Council members largely wanted to keep UNIFIL as-is, said French Deputy Ambassador Anne Gueguen, whose country was in charge of drafting the renewal resolution. France didn’t want to put “the delicate balance” of southern Lebanon into question, Gueguen said. “UNIFIL, of course, can do better and can do more, but no one within this council can imagine, for one second, the environment (of stability) existing there without UNIFIL,” she said. Italian Ambassador Sebastiano Cardi, whose country is among the biggest contributors of troops to UNIFIL, said it was important not to blur lines between peacekeepers’ duties and those of Lebanese forces. “Promoting confusion in that regard undermines UNIFIL’s operation and strips the Lebanese authorities of their own sovereign prerogatives,” Cardi said. He said his nation was concerned about the changes but accepted them for the sake of Security Council unity. The secretary-general has stressed that under UNIFIL’s mandate, it is primarily the Lebanese military’s responsibility to ensure the south is free of unauthorized weapons.

US Ambassador Haley Says Iran Shown ‘True Colors’ by Rapprochement with Hamas
Asharq Al-Awsat/August 31/17/United States ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley said on Thursday Iran had shown its “true colors” by restoring ties with Palestinian militant group Hamas and must be held to account by the international community. According to Reuters, the new leader of Hamas in Gaza said on Monday that Tehran was again its biggest provider of money and arms after years of tension over the civil war in Syria. Hamas had angered Iran by refusing to support its ally, Syrian regime head Bashar al-Assad, in the six-year-old civil war. “Iran is showing its true colors. Iran must decide whether it wants to be a member of the community of nations that can be expected to take its international obligations seriously or whether it wants to be the leader of a ultra-hardline terrorist movement. It cannot be both,” Haley said in a statement.
“It’s long past time for the international community to hold Iran to the same standard that all countries who actually value peace and security are held to,” she added. Haley described the Hamas leader’s statement as a “stunning admission.” Iran is subject to an arms embargo – with exceptions granted only in cases when it has received UN Security Council approval for imports or exports. Neither Hamas nor Iran have disclosed the full scale of Tehran’s backing. But regional diplomats have said Iran’s financial aid for the Islamist movement was dramatically reduced in recent years and directed to the Qassam Brigades rather than to Hamas’ political institutions. Hamas seeks Israel’s destruction. It has fought three wars with Israel since seizing the Gaza Strip from forces loyal to Western-backed Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in 2007. Hamas and Abbas’s Palestinian Authority, which exercises limited self-rule in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, are locked in a political dispute over the issue of Palestinian unity.

US disrupts evacuation of IS militants in Syria
Wednesday, August 30, 2017/BEIRUT (AP)Daily News — The U.S.-led coalition said Wednesday it carried out airstrikes to disrupt a convoy of Islamic State militants being evacuated from the Lebanon-Syria border to an IS-held area in eastern Syria near Iraq, without targeting the evacuees themselves. Coalition aircraft struck a small bridge and cratered a road to hinder the convoy's progress. The coalition also struck a separate group of IS militants traveling to meet the convoy, according to Col. Ryan Dillon, a coalition spokesman. U.S. officials have criticized the transfer of hundreds of militants and civilians who are bound for an IS-held area near the Iraqi border, saying the extremists should be killed on the battlefield. The evacuation came as part of a controversial deal brokered by the Lebanese Hezbollah group to clear IS from an area along the Lebanon-Syria border.
The coalition is reluctant to strike the actual convoy of evacuees because the fighters have wives and children traveling with them, said a U.S. official, who wasn't authorized to discuss military details and requested anonymity. Although Hezbollah members are believed to be the ones escorting the convoy, the Syrian government's involvement creates further risk for the U.S. if the coalition were to hit it. The coalition nevertheless said in a statement that it is not bound by the evacuation agreement. There are about 300 militants and almost as many family members on buses being evacuated under the deal.
"We are monitoring their location in real time," Dillon said, adding that the coalition "will not rule out strikes against IS fighters being moved." He added that any strike will be in accordance with "the law of armed conflict and if we are able to do so and can discriminate and discern the difference between fighters and civilians."Syrian opposition activists said the convoy, which left the Lebanon-Syria border on Tuesday, is still in government-held territory in eastern Syria.
The evacuation agreement, the first such publicized deal, had already angered many Iraqis, who accused Syria and Lebanon's Hezbollah of dumping the militants on the Iraqi border rather than eradicating them.
The top U.S. envoy for the international coalition against IS, Brett McGurk, tweeted Wednesday that IS "terrorists should be killed on the battlefield, not bused across #Syria to the Iraqi border without #Iraq's consent." McGurk added that the anti-IS coalition will help ensure that "these terrorists can never" enter Iraq. Lebanese troops launched an attack against IS on Aug. 18, while Syrian troops and Hezbollah fighters launched a simultaneous offensive from the Syrian side of the border. The militants agreed to a cease-fire over the weekend once they had been squeezed into a small area along the frontier.
Lebanon has defended the agreement, in which the militants are said to have revealed the location of the remains of nine Lebanese soldiers who were captured in 2014. The remains of several people have been uncovered in the border area, and DNA tests are underway to determine whether they belong to the missing soldiers. Lebanese officials say they are almost sure the remains are of the soldiers. Lebanese President Michel Aoun declared victory against IS on Wednesday and praised the Lebanese army for carrying out the operation. "Our only consolation is that we knew the fate of the soldiers," he said. "We wish they were celebrating with us." Army commander Gen. Joseph Aoun, who is not related to the president, told reporters Wednesday that as the offensive against IS was underway, the Lebanese mediator called him to say that the extremists accepted a cease-fire in return for information about the fate of the soldiers."I had one of two choices. Either to go on with the battle and not know the fate of the soldiers or give in and know the fate of the soldiers," Aoun said. The Lebanese commander added that he cares most about the lives of his soldiers, and that one of the main achievements was to win the battle without taking further casualties. In a separate incident, mines laid by the extremists killed at least nine people and wounded dozens who were fleeing IS-held areas in Syria's eastern Deir el-Zour province, according to an opposition monitoring group and state media.
State news agency SANA said 10 people were killed and 28 wounded when the vehicles they were traveling in drove over mines. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said nine people were killed and many others wounded in the Abu Khashab area on the northern edge of Deir el-Zour province, a main stronghold for IS. In Syria, meanwhile, President Bashar Assad received Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Hossein Jaberi Ansari. State media gave no further details. Iran has been one of Assad's main backers since Syria's conflict began in March 2011.
*Associated Press writer Josh Lederman in Washington contributed to this report.
Copyright 2017 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not

Army Commander: Lebanon is Daesh free
Middle East Minitor/August 31/17/Lebanon today announced the end of its military operation to oust Daesh from along its border with Syria. Lebanese Armed Forces Commander General Joseph Aoun officially declared the end of the “Dawn of the Outskirts” operation which began ten days ago. “After you completed the Dawn of the Outskirts operation, in which you have achieved a decisive victory on terrorism by expelling it from the towns of Ras Baalbek and Qaa, this dear region belongs to the nation, which has been washed with the blood of your comrades, the martyrs who were killed, and those wounded, and with the sweat which fell from your foreheads.”“In your name, I extend my deepest condolences to the members of their families and to these heroes: You were present in our conscience and will remain, we will never forget you,” General Aoun said.

ICRC: Authorities Must Act Now to Give Answers to Families of Missing Persons
Naharnet/August 31/31/On the International Day of the Disappeared, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) called on Lebanese authorities to “fulfill their obligations to uncover the fate of those who went missing during conflicts in Lebanon and to provide answers to their families.”“We have been constantly reminding authorities of their role towards this cause. It is about time the pain of the families becomes a priority,” said the head of the ICRC delegation in Lebanon, Christophe Martin, on Wednesday. More than 40 years after the beginning of the Lebanese civil war, families are still waiting for answers. “The ICRC is reminding authorities and the Lebanese society as a whole of the long lasting suffering of the families of missing persons and of their right for assistance and information on their whereabouts,” an ICRC statement said. “Families have the right to know what happened to their loved ones and we cannot continue to ignore their pain. A few weeks ago, we lost Um Ahmed who died heartbroken not knowing the fate of her son Ahmed, a 23 year-old tailor who disappeared 30 years ago, on his way to work. There are thousands of tragic stories like Um Ahmed’s, of not only mothers, but also fathers, sisters and brothers who need answers. This has to stop,” said Martin. Since 2012, the ICRC has been carrying out interviews with families to collect ante-disappearance data about their relatives who went missing during the war, in a bid to support future efforts aimed at clarifying the fate of missing people. Since 2015, the organization has been collecting and storing biological reference samples from relatives of missing persons, for future DNA analysis.“We reiterate our call upon Lebanese authorities to create a mechanism to clarify the fate of the missing in Lebanon and to take over the collection and storage of biological reference samples from the ICRC,” said Martin. This year on the occasion of the International Day of the Disappeared, the ICRC held a two-day retreat for families of missing persons to support them in their efforts to raise awareness about their cause. This event was part of ICRC’s accompaniment program, launched in 2015, which seeks to support families by helping them cope with the absence of their missing relatives. On Wednesday, the ICRC was present in Ain el-Mraisseh and at Beirut Souks to “raise awareness among Lebanese people and to encourage the society to stand in solidarity with families of missing persons,” the ICRC statement said. The ICRC is an independent humanitarian organization that has been present in Lebanon since 1967. The organization provides protection and assistance to people affected by armed conflicts and other situations of violence.

Nasrallah Hails Aoun's Border Op Decision, Says 'Golden Equation' Vital Even if Army Gets Stronger
Naharnet/August 31/31/Hizbullah Secretary-General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah on Thursday hailed President Michel Aoun over the Lebanese state's decision to launch Operation Dawn of the Outskirts, as he noted that the controversial “army-people-resistance equation” will remain needed even if the army gets stronger.“The state's decision to launch Operation Dawn of the Outskirts was a very significant development and represented a form of practicing a sovereign political decision,” Nasrallah told via video link a Hizbullah rally in Baalbek celebrating what Nasrallah has dubbed Lebanon's “Second Liberation Day”.
“This is one of the achievements of the new presidential term represented by President Michel Aoun, the man whom I always described as a brave, independent leader who does not bow or submit to any state, embassy, pressures or intimidation,” Nasrallah added. “When the victory was achieved in Arsal's outskirts (against al-Nusra Front militants), the Americans told the Lebanese that they were dismayed, and when the Lebanese state decided that the gallant Lebanese army should liberate the rest of the Lebanese land, the Americans once again asked Lebanese officials not to carry out this military operation, threatening to halt aid to the Lebanese army,” Nasrallah explained. He pointed out that Aoun “preserved the state's prestige through taking a sovereign Lebanese decision to launch the border operation” against the Islamic State group in the outskirts of the eastern border towns of al-Qaa and Ras Baalbek. Praising the Lebanese army's ouster of IS militants from the area, Nasrallah said the army and its command “did a great job that should be lauded.”confidence in the Lebanese army's ability to perform significant operations must be boosted... Strengthening the Lebanese army has long been our demand and it reinforces Lebanon's ability to face all threats,” Nasrallah noted. But he pointed out that strengthening the army “does not render the army-people-resistance golden equation useless, but rather reinforces it.”“No matter how much the army gets stronger and the Resistance gets stronger, we will always need more strength when we speak of Israel's ambitions. Speaker Nabih Berri has warned that they are seeking to steal our water, oil, gas and borders,” Nasrallah warned. Turning to the controversial ceasefire agreement that involved the evacuation of dozens of IS militants from the Lebanon-Syria border region to eastern Syria, Nasrallah -- who has lived in hiding for a decade -- said he had traveled to Damascus to seek the Syrian president's approval of the deal. "I personally went to Damascus" to see President Bashar al-Assad, Nasrallah revealed, noting that the Syrian leader accepted to be "embarrassed" by the deal for the sake of Lebanon and the case of its IS-held troops. Hundreds of IS fighters and and their families were evacuated Monday from the border region between Lebanon and Syria under the ceasefire deal that followed separate but simultaneous offensives by the Lebanese army and Hizbullah and the Syrian army on both sides of the border. In return, the IS group gave Hizbullah coordinates that helped Lebanese authorities recover the bodies of nine Lebanese troops abducted by the jihadists in 2014 and eventually killed while Hizbullah was handed over a captive fighter, the bodies of five slain members and the corpse of an Iranian soldier.

Aoun Calls for Probe into 2014 Kidnap of Soldiers
Naharnet/August 31/31/President Michel Aoun on Thursday called on authorities to probe the 2014 abduction of around 30 troops and policemen at the hands of jihadist groups during deadly clashes in and around the eastern border town of Arsal.
“Out of respect for truth as a human value, for the martyrdom of the martyrs and for the plight of their families, and to prevent accusations against any innocent person over major national issues that targeted our armed forces and bloodied the hearts of the Lebanese, I call on authorities to conduct the necessary investigations to determine responsibilities,” Aoun said in an address to the nation marking Eid al-Adha and the 97th anniversary of the declaration of the State of Greater Lebanon.
“Only the truth can liberate,” the president added. And congratulating the Lebanese on “Lebanon's victory against terrorism,” Aoun noted that “the triumph over the ugliest plague would not have been possible had it not been for the sacrifices of our great heroes – the martyrs, the wounded and those guarding the country's border to defend our existence.” The president's remarks come after Lebanon recovered the bodies of nine troops who were kidnapped by the jihadist Islamic State group in 2014 before being eventually executed. The fate of the soldiers was unveiled as part of a Hizbullah-led ceasefire agreement with IS that followed separate but simultaneous offensives by the Lebanese army and Hizbullah and the Syrian army on both sides of the Lebanon-Syria border. Hizbullah, the Free Patriotic Movement and some of their allies pinned the blame for the abduction of the servicemen on Tammam Salam's 2014 government, former army chief General Jean Qahwaji and al-Mustaqbal Movement, accusing them of preventing the army from continuing a military operation against IS and the jihadist al-Nusra Front group. Hizbullah, meanwhile, has been accused of facilitating a smooth withdrawal “in air-conditioned buses” for the IS militants who have surrendered in this month's border battles. Hizbullah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah has defended the withdrawal deal, arguing that it was the “only way” to unveil the fate of the captive troops.

UK Vows Continued Support for Army, Regrets IS 'were Able to Retreat across Syria'
Naharnet/August 31/31/Chargé d’Affaires Ben Wastnage of the British embassy in Lebanon on Thursday congratulated the Lebanese Army on its successful border operation against the Islamic State group and announced that the UK remains committed to “supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces.”
“I congratulate the Lebanese Army on the military success of the operation. This was a complex, dangerous, but successful operation whereby the Lebanese Army demonstrated yet again that it is the sole legitimate, effective and capable defender of Lebanese security,” Wastnage said in a press statement.
“I offer my sincere condolences for those Lebanese Army soldiers who were killed and injured in this operation, as well as to the families and friends of those soldiers who were abducted in 2014,” he added. Wastnage underlined that the UK “remains committed to Lebanon’s stability and to supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces as the cornerstone of Lebanese sovereignty.”Referring to the controversial evacuation of IS militants and their families from the Lebanese-Syrian border region to an eastern Syria area near Iraq's border, Wastnage said “it is also important to stress that Daesh (IS) is a global threat to people everywhere.”“As such, I regret that Daesh were able to retreat across Syria, and welcome the Global Coalition’s action seeking to prevent this,” he added, referring to Wednesday's U.S.-led coalition airstrikes in Syria that were aimed at blocking IS fighters evacuated from Lebanon from reaching eastern Syria. The militants were evacuated in buses to Syria as part of a Hizbullah-led agreement that also involved the recovery of nine bodies belonging to Lebanese troops abducted in 2014 and the handover of a Hizbullah captive and several corpses to the Iran-backed group.

U.S. Says Support for Army to Continue as Military Sources Deny Aid Halt
Naharnet/August 31/31/A senior U.S. general and Lebanese military sources have stressed that U.S. support for the Lebanese army will continue, after media reports claimed that Washington intends to halt its assistance in connection with Hizbullah's role in the latest developments on the eastern border.U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander General Joseph L. Votel has held phone talks with Lebanese Army Commander General Joseph Aoun to congratulate him on “the success of Operation Dawn of the Outskirts,” the Army Command said in a statement.
Votel lauded “the performance of the participating units and assured that U.S. support for the Lebanese army with arms and equipment will continue in order to develop its capabilities and reinforce its missions,” the statement said.
Aoun for his part thanked the U.S. general for his call and emphasized to him that “the U.S. aid for the army played an effective and essential role in the success of this operation.”A Lebanese military source meanwhile told al-Hayat newspaper in remarks published Thursday that “U.S. assistance for the army will continue and it will soon receive three Super Tucano planes and a number of tanks from the U.S. army.”Another senior Lebanese military source told al-Joumhouria daily that “international support for the army is still ongoing and nothing changed after the end of the battle” against Islamic State militants in the outskirts of the border towns of al-Qaa and Ras Baalbek. “The Americans will carry on with the arming program that had started years ago and they have informed the Army Command of this. Reports that they have halted military aid and withdrawn military equipment are totally baseless,” the source underlined.
The source also noted that “U.S. military delegations will soon visit the Army Command, which refutes all rumors that are being circulated with the aim of undermining the morale of the military institution.”“New batches of U.S. arms will soon be delivered to the army, including Super Tucano planes, Bradley Fighting Vehicles and other types of weapons,” the source revealed.
An Nahar newspaper had reported Wednesday that the U.S. administration has been dismayed by “Lebanon's submission to an agreement led by the Syrian regime and Hizbullah” that resulted in the evacuation of IS militants from the eastern border region. “Washington has decided to cease military support to Lebanon and retrieve around 50 modern tanks that it had convinced Riyadh to pay for and supply to the Lebanese army to support it in its battle against terrorism,” An Nahar said. The army had launched an unprecedented military offensive to oust IS militants from the eastern border region on August 19. Separately but simultaneously, Hizbullah and the Syrian army began an assault to remove IS from the Syrian side of the border. Simultaneous ceasefires were announced on both sides of the border on Sunday morning to allow for negotiations over the fate of nine Lebanese troops abducted by IS militants in 2014. The Lebanese army has insisted that it has not coordinated any move with Hizbullah or the Syrian army. The Hizbullah-led agreement resulted in the recovery of nine bodies likely belonging to the captive troops, the evacuation of hundreds of IS militants and their families from the Lebanese-Syrian border to eastern Syria, and the handover of a Hizbullah captive and several corpses to the Iran-backed group. President Michel Aoun and Army Commander General Joseph Aoun declared victory over IS on Wednesday morning, two days after Hizbullah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah described the removal of IS' militants as Lebanon's "Second Liberation Day."

IS Hands Over to Hizbullah Body of Slain Iranian Soldier
Associated Press/Naharnet/August 31/31/The media arm of Hizbullah said Thursday the group has received the body of an Iranian Revolutionary Guard member recently captured and killed by the Islamic State group in Syria. The handover of Mohsen Haji's body is part of a controversial deal brokered by Hizbullah to clear IS fighters from an area along the Lebanon-Syria border. Hizbullah's al-Manar TV said Thursday that Haji's body was received by the group and is now awaiting a DNA test before being sent to Iran. U.S. airstrikes blocked the advance of an IS convoy carrying militants toward Iraq on Wednesday, derailing the Hizbullah-negotiated deal that removed some 600 extremists and civilians from the Lebanon-Syria border.The evacuation agreement had angered many Iraqis, who accused Syria and Hizbullah of dumping the militants on the Iraqi border.

Constitutional Council Suspends Tax Law after Gemayel-Led Appeal
Naharnet/August 31/31/The Constitutional Council on Thursday ordered a suspension of the implementation of the new tax law that was approved the fund a new wage scale for civil servants and the armed forces, a day after ten MPs led by Kataeb Party chief Sami Genayel filed an appeal against it. The suspension is aimed at “studying the appeal in form and content,” the Council said. The Council, Lebanon's highest constitutional court, also decided to hold a September 15 session to “discuss the appeal” and “an open-ended session on September 18 to issue a ruling should the appeal be accepted.”
In addition to Kataeb's five MPs Sami Gemayel, Nadim Gemayel, Samer Saade, Elie Marouni and Fadi al-Haber, the appeal was signed by National Liberal Party chief MP Dori Chamoun, Marada bloc MP Salim Karam, Democratic Gathering MP Fouad al-Saad and independent MPs Khaled al-Daher and Butros Harb. Sami Gemayel was among the first MPs to slam the new tax law and he had urged President Michel Aoun not to sign the bill. “I stress that the appeal will not harm the wage scale, because the Lebanese state is capable of securing funds for it without taking them from the pockets of citizens,” Gemayel told reporters Wednesday outside the Constitutional Council. Gemayel had warned that the taxes that have been approved would lower citizens' purchasing power “by 10 to 20%” and would also push “more than 100,000 citizens below the poverty line,” citing studies by the American University of Beirut.
Gemayel also quoted Father Butros Azar, the secretary general of Catholic schools, as saying that school tuitions would rise an average of 27%. “The prices of apartments will also rise and our youths will suffer,” the young MP cautioned. “An economic disaster has been created without any economic feasibility study for the taxes to rely on,” Gemayel lamented. The new taxes involve hiking the VAT tax from 10% to 11%, fines on seaside violations, and taxes on cement, administrative transactions, sea imports, lottery prizes, tobacco, alcohol, travel tickets, financial firms and banks.Authorities have argued that the new taxes are necessary to fund the new wage scale but opponents of such a move have called for finding new revenues through putting an end to corruption and the waste of public money.

Hariri Begins Paris Visit, Urges Lebanese to 'Turn Page of Discord'
Naharnet/August 31/31/Prime Minister Saad Hariri on Thursday met with French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe and Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian in Paris, beginning an official visit to France that also involves talks with President Emmanuel Macron. Hariri and Philippe discussed "developments in Lebanon and the region," Hariri's office said in a statement. “I came to France to explain the situation in Lebanon. We are very proud of the victories of the Lebanese army in the Bekaa. This helps Lebanon show that the state and the government are fulfilling their duties,” Hariri told reporters after the meeting.
“I also came to explain the situation of the displaced Syrians and how to deal with this in a way that is useful to Lebanon and the displaced. For us, the solution is their safe return to Syria. This is very important and I explained our position to my French counterpart. We also talked about the economic situation in Lebanon. Tomorrow I will meet the President of the Republic Emmanuel Macron and we will discuss these files,” Hariri added. Asked about the controversy that has accompanied anti-Islamic State offensives by the Lebanese army and Hizbullah on both sides of the Lebanese-Syrian border, Hariri said: “The state achieved a victory. The Lebanese army offered martyrs and found the bodies of the kidnapped soldiers... The Lebanese are not divided on this subject. Some are trying to take advantage of this victory, but as my father used to say, no one is bigger than their country.”“Lebanon, the Lebanese people and the Lebanese army achieved a victory. And when Lebanon wins, all Lebanese are victorious,” Hariri added. In a statement issued earlier in the day marking Eid al-Adha, Hariri hoped the “black cloud” surrounding many Arab countries will vanish and called on Lebanese to “turn the page of discord and conflict.”Hariri's remarks come in the wake of a war of words over the military developments on the eastern border region. “The joy of holidays would have been almost complete this year with the victory of the Lebanese army over the terrorist organizations and its success in expelling their remnants from the Bekaa, had it not been accompanied by the atmosphere of sadness that engulfed our country after the announcement of the martyrdom of the kidnapped soldiers, who protected with their lives and the lives of their fellow martyrs Lebanon’s dignity and the safety of its people,” Hariri said. He added: “We hope Eid al-Adha will represent an opportunity to turn the page of discord and conflict in our country and serve as a lesson for all of us to avoid the factors of division and divergence, and work to achieve the aspirations of the Lebanese for a better future.”
Hariri also apologized for not accepting Adha greetings this year due to the present situation, hoping Eid will bring “peace and stability to Lebanese and Arabs.”

Two Blasts Rock Chemical Plant in Storm-Hit Texas
Agence France Presse/Naharnet/August 31/31/Local emergency officials on Thursday reported two explosions at a flooded chemical plant in the Texas town of Crosby, its operators Arkema Inc said."At approximately 2 am CDT (0700 GMT), we were notified by the Harris County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) of two explosions and black smoke coming from the Arkema Inc plant in Crosby, Texas," the company statement said. As a precautionary measure officials had already ordered the evacuation of an area within 1.5 miles (three kilometers) of the organic peroxides plant, which operators had said was at risk of exploding due to a "critical issue" triggered by monster storm Harvey's torrential rains.

Algeria Policeman Killed Stopping Suicide Bombing
Agence France Presse/Naharnet/August 31/31/An Algerian policeman was killed Thursday when he threw himself on a suicide bomber before the attacker's explosives belt detonated, state media said, citing the police department. The officer had intervened when the attacker tried to enter the police headquarters in the region of Tiaret, about 350 kilometers (220 miles) southwest of the capital Algiers, the official APS news agency reported.

US Ambassador To Israel David Friedman': US, Israel, Of The Same Mind On Stopping Iran In Syria
Jerusalem Post/August 31/17
The US and Israel are “of the same mind” when it comes to opposition to any Iranian military presence in Syria, US Ambassador David Friedman told The Jerusalem Post in an exclusive interview this week.
Friedman, in his first wide-ranging interview with the Israeli media since taking up his position in mid- May, said the US was “extraordinarily receptive” to Israel’s concerns about Iranian penetration into Syria when a high-level security delegation led by Mossad head Yossi Cohen went to Washington to discuss the issue two weeks ago. “They’re obviously unanimously of the view that the vacuum created by the defeat of ISIS cannot result in the presence of Iranian military bases,” Friedman said, adding that the issue of how to get ”the right result” was still a work in progress that involves a number of other players, including the Russians, Jordanians and Syrian President Bashar Assad.
“I think that the Americans fully support the Israeli objectives,” he said, unwilling to discuss, however, how this objective of keeping Iran out of a post-civil war Syria can be reached. “But at least from a macro perspective, the Americans and Israelis are of the same mind.” Regarding the Israeli-Palestinian diplomatic process, Friedman said that the Trump administration was “trying very hard not to repeat the mistakes of the past.”Rather, Friedman said that the Trump administration was trying to approach the issue “from a forward- looking perspective, and we’re just trying to create something that would be a win-win for Israel and the Palestinians. “If it is not good for both, it’s not going to get done, so we’re trying to find ways to make sure that each side looks at the opportunity versus the present and concludes that the opportunity is better than the present,” he said. “We’re very sensitive to all the things that go into the calculus, and we’re trying to find the right place where both sides can say, ‘We’re better off jumping into this pool than staying where we are.’”
Asked about the regional dimension that could be in play in reigniting a diplomatic process, Friedman said Trump’s senior adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner “has established extraordinary relationships among the Gulf states and other Sunni countries. I think those relationships are extremely important to this process.” He would not, however, delve into any more detail. Friedman had harsh words for the Obama administration, saying that its enabling of the passage of anti-settlement UN Security Resolution 2334 last December was an “absolute betrayal of Israel,” and as “sharp a betrayal” as any US president has ever inflicted on the Jewish state. He said that President Donald Trump’s decision to name him ambassador to Israel was a signal that “America is going to be a better friend to Israel than it had been over the past eight years.”
Part of this friendship starts at the top, and Friedman characterized as “phenomenal” the relationship between Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The chemistry between the two men “is just excellent,” said Friedman, who has sat in on a number of meetings between them.
“It’s fun to be with them,” he said. “It’s not a formal meeting. They’re not on edge. They’re not sitting back in their chairs in a formal way. They’re kind of talking like a couple of friends, and it’s fun to be in the room with them, because the conversations are really pleasant. They’re funny. They’re cordial. As someone who cares so much about both countries, it’s great to see the leaders of both countries getting along so well.” The two leaders are expected to meet in late September in New York when they travel there to address the UN General Assembly.
Asked about the recent events in Charlottesville and Trump’s response to them, Friedman said the president has condemned the neo-Nazis, the Ku Klux Klan and other hate groups “in the strongest terms on numerous occasions, and anyone who thinks the president is racist is either not paying attention or is willfully blind to the facts.”According to Friedman, the real “takeaway” from Charlottesville is that a few hundred neo-Nazis and white supremacist hit a jackpot they could never have dreamed of, “because the left-wing media is so obsessed with destroying the president that they are willing to elevate these fringe groups onto the front page day after day after day just to hurt the president. That to me is astonishing.”
**The full interview will appear in Friday’s Jerusalem Post.

Lebanese President, Army Commander Declare Victory over Terrorism
Asharq Al-Awsat/August 31.17/Beirut- Lebanese President Michel Aoun declared Lebanon’s victory over terrorism, calling on the Lebanese to be proud of their army and security forces.He underlined the need “to take advantage of the victory to consolidate rapprochement and prevent political strife.”
His remarks came during a news conference held at the Baabda Palace on Wednesday, in the presence of Army Commander General Joseph Aoun. “When I met the Army Chief in Yarzeh, I told the military that we expect them to win over terrorism and, today, we declare this victory,” Aoun said.
“We congratulate the Army Command and all the military personnel who made this victory possible. We bow before the martyrs who fell,” he added. The Lebanese president stressed that revealing the fate of the abducted military men was among the main goals of the battle. “This goal has been achieved. However, we wish we were celebrating their liberation alive,” he stated. For his part, the Army commander said that the battle was launched to achieve two objectives. “The first is to expel terrorists from the areas in which they were located, specifically in Jroud Ras Baalbek, Al-Qaa and Al-Fakiha, and the second is to reveal the fate of the Lebanese soldiers,” he explained. On Wednesday, the head of the Lebanese Army received a phone call from the Commander of the United States Central Command, General Joseph Votel, who congratulated Aoun on the success of the Fajr al-Jouroud (Dawn of al-Juroud) Operation. He also stressed his country’s continuous support for the Lebanese army by developing its capabilities and strengthening its missions. Aoun, for his part, thanked the General for the US support, noting that the American assistance provided to the army played an effective and crucial role in the success of this operation.

Lebanese army buses hundreds of jihadists out of combat zone in return for info on missing soldiers
The Times Of Israel/AP/August 31/17/A US official on Wednesday blasted a deal that led to the evacuation of hundreds of Islamic State group fighters and civilians from the Lebanon-Syria border to areas close to Iraq, saying the extremists should be killed on the battlefield.
The evacuation agreement, the first such publicized deal, had already angered many Iraqis who accused Syria and Lebanon’s Hezbollah of dumping the militants on the Iraqi border rather than eradicating them. The top US envoy for the international coalition against IS, Brett McGurk, tweeted on Wednesday that IS “terrorists should be killed on the battlefield, not bused across #Syria to the Iraqi border without #Iraq’s consent.” McGurk added that the anti-IS coalition will help ensure that “these terrorists can never” enter Iraq. Lebanese troops launched an attack against IS on August 18 while Syrian troops and Hezbollah fighters launched a simultaneous offensive from the Syrian side of the border. Once IS extremists were squeezed over the weekend in a small part of the border area they agreed to a ceasefire. Lebanon has defended its stance of not totally crushing IS saying that the evacuation of IS militants from the area helped in revealing the fate of nine soldiers that the extremists kidnapped in 2014. Lebanese President Michel Aoun declared victory against IS Wednesday in a live statement from the presidential palace. Aoun praised the Lebanese army for carrying out the operation that ended with the deal to evacuate IS fighters and their families in return for information about nine troops who were kidnapped by IS in August 2014. The remains of several people have been uncovered in the border area where IS had a presence and DNA tests are underway to identify whether they belong to the missing soldiers. Lebanese officials say they are almost sure the remains are of the soldiers. “Our only consolation is that we knew the fate of the soldiers,” the president said. “We wish they were celebrating with us.” Army commander Gen. Joseph Aoun told reporters later Wednesday that as the army offensive against IS was ongoing, the Lebanese mediator called him to say that the extremists accepted a cease-fire in return for information about the fate of the soldiers. “I had one of two choices. Either to go on with the battle and not know the fate of the soldiers or succumb and know the fate of the soldiers,” Aoun said.
The Lebanese army commander added that he cares most about the life of his soldiers and that one of the main achievements was to win the battle without going on with it till the end. In the Syrian capital Damascus, President Bashar Assad received Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Hossein Jaberi Ansari who is on a visit to Syria. State media gave no further details. Iran has been one of Assad’s main backers since Syria’s crisis began in March 2011.

Security Council Extends Mandate of United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, Unanimously Adopting Resolution 2373 (2017)مجلس الأمن يجدد للقوات الدولية في جنوب لبنان
UN Website/August 31/17
http://eliasbejjaninews.com/?p=58319
The Security Council decided this afternoon to extend the mandate of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) for one year, authorizing it to take all necessary action to ensure that southern Lebanon was not used for hostile activities.
Unanimously adopting resolution 2373 (2017), the Council, calling for full implementation of resolution 1701 (2006), commended the Force’s positive role for having helped to establish, together with the Lebanese Armed Forces, a new strategic environment in southern Lebanon.
Through the text, extending the Force until 31 August 2018, the 15-nation body welcomed the expansion of coordinated activities between UNIFIL and the Lebanese Armed Forces and called for further enhancement of that cooperation. It also reiterated its call for Israel and Lebanon to support a permanent ceasefire and a long-term solution based on the principles and elements set out in paragraph 8 of resolution 1701 (2006).
It went on to welcome the Government of Lebanon’s intention to deploy a model regiment and an offshore patrol vessel in UNIFIL’s area of operations, and urged further international support for the country’s Armed Forces, particularly in the areas of counter-terrorism and border protection.
Also through the resolution, the Council recalled its authorization to UNIFIL to take all necessary action to ensure that its area of operations was not utilized for hostile activities of any kind; to resist attempts by forceful means to prevent it from discharging its duties and to protect United Nations personnel, facilities, installations and equipment; to ensure the security and freedom of movement of United Nations personnel and humanitarian workers; and — without prejudice to the Government of Lebanon’s responsibility — to protect civilians under imminent threat of physical violence.
Anne Gueguen (France), recalling her country’s role as UNIFIL penholder, thanked Council members for a cooperative and constructive attitude during a difficult negotiation. UNIFIL provided a regional public good, she said, contrasting its efforts to the deteriorating security situation elsewhere in the Middle East. The Force could do better and do more, but no one on the Council could imagine what the environment would be like without UNIFIL. As a UNIFIL troop contributor, France was aware of the situation in southern Lebanon and it did not want to bring into question the delicate balance there.
Nikki Haley (United States) said she appreciated France’s willingness to make significant improvements to UNIFIL’s mandate. War clouds were gathering over southern Lebanon, but it was baffling that the Force’s commander did not understand the threat posed by Hizbullah which, with Iran’s support, was building up an offensive arsenal. That group was preparing for war, using years of relative quiet to rearm itself in violation of Council resolutions, she said. Describing the status quo for UNIFIL as unacceptable, she said the resolution called on the Force to step up patrols and inspections to disrupt Hizbullah’s illicit activities. It also emphasized that UNIFIL could assist the Lebanese Armed Forces to secure the border and halt the flow of weapons, and required it to report where, when and why it could not see behind roadblocks. The resolution demanded that UNIFIL step up its efforts at a moment when Hizbullah was stepping up theirs, she said, describing today’s adoption as a step forward.
Matthew Rycroft (United Kingdom) expressed his delegation’s concern over violations of resolution 1701 (2006) on both sides of the Blue Line. UNIFIL must be more confident and assertive in carrying out its mandate, he said, adding that the resolution adopted today provided the Force with the mandate it needed to do its job properly.
Vassily A. Nebenzia (Russian Federation) said the mandate extension would allow UNIFIL to continue playing its important stabilizing role. Valuing the tripartite mechanism’s work in addressing areas of concern, he said all issues on the national agenda must be resolved within a legal platform by Lebanon and without external interference.
Cheng Lie (China) said the draft’s unanimous adoption reflected the Council’s support for Lebanon. Recognizing the success of the Force, he said the Government of Lebanon’s cooperation had had a beneficial impact, with the mandate’s extension making the situation conducive to the maintenance of security and further supporting resolution 1701 (2006).
Sebastiano Cardi (Italy) said UNIFIL had contributed to maintaining calm for Lebanon and Israel. Aware of concerns of illicit weapons, he cautioned against blurring the lines of responsibilities of the Force and the Government of Lebanon. Promoting confusion in that regard stripped the Lebanese authorities of their position, he said, noting that operative paragraph 15 did not change the mandate of UNIFIL. Turning to working methods, he said the Council must give due consideration to the views of troop-contributing countries whose men and women were risking their lives on the ground. More should be done to reach working methods that could better serve the Council’s common purpose.
Elbio Rosselli (Uruguay) said that from the perspective of a troop-contributing country, efforts were made to ensure the Force had adequate resources to fulfil its mandate, which included responsibilities in a complex environment. He also supported his counterpart from Italy in his statement on the Council’s working methods.
The meeting began at 3:34 p.m. and ended at 3:55 p.m.
Resolution
The full text of resolution 2373 (2017) reads as follows:
“The Security Council,
“Recalling all its previous resolutions on Lebanon, in particular resolutions 425 (1978), 426 (1978), 1559 (2004), 1680 (2006), 1701 (2006), 1773 (2007), 1832 (2008), 1884 (2009), 1937 (2010) and 2004 (2011), 2064 (2012), 2115 (2013), 2172 (2014) and 2236 (2015) as well as the statements of its President on the situation in Lebanon and the Press statement dated 19 December 2016,
“Welcoming the continued progress towards genuine reactivation of the Lebanese state institutions: the election of a President of the Republic of Lebanon, the nomination of a President of the Council of Ministers, the formation of a national unity government and the adoption of a new electoral law as well as the announcement of the upcoming legislative elections in Lebanon,
“Responding to the request of the Government of Lebanon to extend the mandate of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) for a period of one year without amendment presented in a letter from the Lebanese Foreign Minister to the Secretary-General of 1st of August 2017 and welcoming the letter from the Secretary-General to its President of 4 August 2017 (S/2017/680) recommending this extension,
“Reiterating its strong support for the territorial integrity, sovereignty and political independence of Lebanon,
“Reaffirming its commitment to the full implementation of all provisions of resolution 1701 (2006), and aware of its responsibilities to help secure a permanent ceasefire and a long-term solution as envisioned in the resolution,
“Expressing concern at the limited progress made towards the establishment of a permanent ceasefire and other key provisions of resolution 1701 (2006) more than ten years after its adoption,
“Calling upon all concerned parties to strengthen their efforts, including by exploring concrete solutions with the Special Coordinator of the Secretary-General and the UNIFIL Force Commander, to fully implement all provisions of resolution 1701 (2006) without delay,
“Expressing deep concern at all violations in connection with resolution 1701 (2006) in particular the incidents which occurred on 20 April 2017 as underlined by the Secretary General in his report, commending the immediate reaction of the Lebanese authorities and recalling the importance of control of the Government of Lebanon over all Lebanese territory,
“Underlining the risk that violations of the cessation of hostilities could lead to a new conflict that none of the parties or the region can afford,
“Urging all parties to make every effort to ensure that the cessation of hostilities is sustained, exercise maximum calm and restraint and refrain from any action or rhetoric that could jeopardize the cessation of hostilities or destabilize the region,
“Emphasizing to all parties the importance of full compliance with the prohibition on sales and supply of arms and related materiel established by resolution 1701 (2006),
“Recalling the utmost importance that all parties concerned respect the Blue Line in its entirety, welcoming the continued progress in the marking of the Blue Line, and encouraging the parties to accelerate their efforts in coordination with UNIFIL, including through the tripartite mechanism, to continue working in the ongoing process to delineate and visibly mark the Blue Line in its entirety, as well as to move forward on the marking of its points of contention, as recommended by the Strategic Review,
“Condemning in the strongest terms all attempts to threaten the security and stability of Lebanon,
“Reaffirming its determination to ensure that no such acts of intimidation prevent UNIFIL from implementing its mandate in accordance with Security Council resolution 1701 (2006), and recalling the necessity for all parties to ensure that UNIFIL personnel are secure and their freedom of movement is fully respected and unimpeded,
“Recalling the relevant principles contained in the Convention on the Safety of United Nations and Associated Personnel,
“Commending the active role and dedication of the personnel of UNIFIL and expressing its strong appreciation to Member States that contribute to UNIFIL and underlining the necessity that UNIFIL has at its disposal all necessary means and equipment to carry out its mandate,
“Recalling the request from the Government of Lebanon to deploy an international force to assist it to exercise its authority throughout the territory, and reaffirming UNIFIL’s authority to take all necessary action in areas of operations of its forces and as it deems within its capabilities, to ensure that its area of operations is not utilized for hostile activities of any kind and to resist attempts by forceful means to prevent it from discharging its mandate,
“Welcoming the crucial role played by the Lebanese Armed Forces and security forces in extending and sustaining the authority of the Government of Lebanon, in particular in southern Lebanon, and responding to other security challenges, including the threat of terrorism, and the strong international commitment to support the Lebanese Armed Forces, which has helped strengthen the capability of the Lebanese Armed Forces to provide security for Lebanon,
“Welcoming the efforts of the Secretary-General to keep all peacekeeping operations, including UNIFIL, under close review, and stressing the need for the Council to pursue a rigorous, strategic approach to peacekeeping deployments,
“Recognizing the need to regularly review all peacekeeping operations to ensure efficiency and effectiveness, including reviews of UNIFIL when appropriate, taking into account developments on the ground,
“Bearing in mind the strategic priorities and recommendations identified by the Secretary-General in his letter of 12 March 2012 (S/2012/151) as a result of the Strategic Review of UNIFIL, taking note of his letter of 8 March 2017 (S/2017/202) as a result of the most recent Strategic Review of UNIFIL, and expressing the need for a follow-up and update,
“Calling upon Member States to assist the Lebanese Armed Forces as needed to enable it to perform its duties in line with resolution 1701 (2006),
“Determining that the situation in Lebanon continues to constitute a threat to international peace and security,
“1. Decides to extend the present mandate of UNIFIL until 31 August 2018;
“2. Commends the positive role of UNIFIL, whose deployment together with the Lebanese Armed Forces has helped to establish a new strategic environment in southern Lebanon, welcomes the expansion of coordinated activities between UNIFIL and the Lebanese Armed Forces, and calls for further enhancement of this cooperation;
“3. Affirms its strong continuing commitment to the existing UNIFIL mandate and calls for the full implementation of resolution 1701 (2006);
“4. Reiterates its call for Israel and Lebanon to support a permanent ceasefire and a long-term solution based on the principles and elements set out in paragraph 8 of resolution 1701 (2006);
“5. Reaffirms the necessity of an effective and durable deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces in southern Lebanon and the territorial waters of Lebanon at an accelerated pace to fully implement the provisions of resolution 1701 (2006) and requests the Secretary-General to include in his future reports assessments of progress made in this regard and calls for renewed engagement of UNIFIL and the Lebanese Armed Forces in the Strategic Dialogue, which aims at carrying out analysis of ground forces and maritime assets and setting a series of benchmarks reflecting the correlation between the capacities and responsibilities of UNIFIL vis-à-vis those of the Lebanese Armed Forces, with precise timelines to be jointly and promptly elaborated by the Lebanese Armed Forces and the Secretary-General, with a view to identifying Lebanese Armed Forces progress in implementing tasks mandated in resolution 1701 (2006)
“6. Welcomes in this regard the intention of the Government of Lebanon to deploy a model regiment and of an offshore patrol vessel in UNIFIL’s area of operations to advance the implementation of resolution 1701 (2006) and the authority of the Lebanese State as noted in the 2016-2017 Strategic Review;
“7. Urges further international support for the Lebanese Armed Forces, in response to the capabilities development plan of the Lebanese Armed Forces, as well as in the framework of the International Support Group for Lebanon, through additional and expedited assistance in areas where the Lebanese Armed Forces are most critically in need of support, including counter-terrorism and border protection;
“8. Strongly calls upon all parties to respect the cessation of hostilities, to prevent any violation of the Blue Line and to respect it in its entirety and to cooperate fully with the United Nations and UNIFIL;
“9. Welcomes the constructive role played by the Tripartite Mechanism in facilitating coordination and in de-escalating tensions, which has helped to further stabilize the situation along the Blue Line and build trust between the parties, and expresses in this regard strong support for the efforts of UNIFIL to engage with both parties to facilitate liaison, coordination, and practical arrangements on the ground and to continue to ensure that the Tripartite Mechanism enables the parties to discuss a wider range of issues;
“10. Urges all parties to abide scrupulously by their obligation to respect the safety of UNIFIL and other United Nations personnel and to ensure that the freedom of movement of UNIFIL is fully respected and unimpeded, in conformity with its mandate and its rules of engagement including by avoiding any course of action which endangers United Nations personnel, and in this regard, calls for further cooperation between UNIFIL and the Lebanese Armed Forces in particular regarding coordinated and adjacent patrols, welcomes the commitment of the Lebanese authorities to protect UNIFIL movements and reiterates its call for the rapid finalization of the investigation launched by Lebanon regarding the 27 May, 26 July and 9 December 2011 attacks in order to bring to justice the perpetrators of these attacks;
“11. Urges all parties to cooperate fully with the Security Council and the Secretary-General to make tangible progress towards a permanent ceasefire and a long-term solution as envisioned in resolution 1701 (2006) and on all outstanding issues in the implementation of Security Council resolutions 1701 (2006), 1680 (2006) and 1559 (2004), and other relevant Security Council resolutions;
“12. Urges the Government of Israel to expedite the withdrawal of its army from northern Ghajar without further delay in coordination with UNIFIL, which has actively engaged Israel and Lebanon to facilitate such a withdrawal;
“13. Reaffirms its call on all States to fully support and respect the establishment between the Blue Line and the Litani River of an area free of any armed personnel, assets and weapons other than those of the Government of Lebanon and UNIFIL;
“14. Acting in support of a request from the Government of Lebanon to deploy an international force to assist it to exercise its authority throughout the territory, recalls its authorization to UNIFIL to take all necessary action in areas of deployment of its forces and as it deems within its capabilities, to ensure that its area of operations is not utilized for hostile activities of any kind, to resist attempts by forceful means to prevent it from discharging its duties under the mandate of the Security Council, and to protect United Nations personnel, facilities, installations and equipment, ensure the security and freedom of movement of United Nations personnel, humanitarian workers and, without prejudice to the responsibility of the Government of Lebanon, to protect civilians under imminent threat of physical violence;
“15. Requests the Secretary General to look at ways to enhance UNIFIL’s efforts as regards paragraph 12 of resolution 1701 (2006) and paragraph 14 of this resolution, including ways to increase UNIFIL’s visible presence, including through patrols and inspections, within its existing mandate and capabilities;
“16. Recalls the decision that UNIFIL shall assist the government of Lebanon, at its request, as set out in paragraph 14 of resolution 1701 (2006) and within its capabilities, to implement resolution 1701 (2006);
“17. Welcomes the efforts being undertaken by UNIFIL to implement the Secretary-General’s zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse and to ensure full compliance of its personnel with the United Nations code of conduct, requests the Secretary-General to continue to take all necessary action in this regard and to keep the Security Council informed, and urges troop-contributing countries to take preventive and disciplinary action to ensure that such acts are properly investigated and punished in cases involving their personnel;
“18. Requests the Secretary-General to continue to report to the Council on the implementation of resolution 1701 (2006), every four months, or at any time as he deems appropriate, and to include in his reporting a prompt and detailed breakdown of all resolution 1701 (2006) violations, prompt and detailed reports on violations of the sovereignty of Lebanon, prompt and detailed reports on the restrictions to UNIFIL’s freedom of movement, reports on specific areas where UNIFIL does not access and on the reasons behind these restrictions, potential risks to the cessation of hostilities and UNIFIL’s response as well as reports on the implementation of the recommendations of the 2016-2017 Strategic review and on additional identified efficiencies to most appropriately fulfil its mandated tasks; requests the Secretary-General to further develop a reporting mechanism in order to provide concrete and detailed information on the aforementioned issues to the Council;
“19. Stresses the importance of, and the need to achieve, a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East, based on all its relevant resolutions including its resolutions 242 (1967) of 22 November 1967, 338 (1973) of 22 October 1973, 1515 (2003) of 19 November 2003 and 1850 (2008) of 16 December 2008;
“20. Decides to remain actively seized of the matter.”

Latest LCCC Bulletin For Miscellaneous Reports And News published on September 01/17
Russia’s Lavrov Backs Kuwait’s Mediation, Says No ‘New Ideas’ on Qatar Crisis
Asharq Al-Awsat/August 31/17/Dubai- Russia reiterated on Thursday its support for Kuwaiti mediation efforts concerning the Qatar crisis but said it had not made any specific proposals “different” from the proposals currently being put forward, particularly initiatives presented by Kuwait and the United States.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said during his visit to Doha that the strength of the Gulf Cooperation Council is necessary to deal with the many regional problems. The Russian Foreign Minister, speaking at a joint presser with Doha’s Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani, stressed the need to find solutions to the Gulf crisis on the basis of reaching consensus and positions acceptable to all and rejecting the offensive and useless speeches. He emphasized Russia’s support for the Kuwaiti mediation and its readiness to contribute to any effort in this regard. “Russia is keen on preserving the unity and strength of the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) to be able to find solutions to other problems in the region that are already aggravated,” he said. Lavrov stressed that Russia is not raising any new ideas different from the Kuwaiti mediation and the US efforts in this regard. Russia will continue its contact with all parties in the framework of coordination, he said noting that he will visit Saudi Arabia and Jordan early next month. The Russian Foreign Minister said his talks in Doha touched on pressing regional issues, including Syria, Libya and Iraq. The Qatari and Russian sides have a common position on all these issues, which calls for resolving these crises on the basis of dialogue only. On the Iranian and Syrian cooperation, he explained that any bilateral cooperation that does not violate the principles of the international law should not be a subject of question. Lavrov said Russia is concerned about the impasse in the Palestinian-Israeli settlement, and stressed the need to find solutions through direct dialogue and on the basis of the Arab peace initiative.

Lavrov: Gulf States’ cooperation is the most appropriate solution to Qatar crisis
Staff writer, Al Arabiya EnglishThursday, 31 August 2017/Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Wednesday that his country does not play the role of the mediator between Qatar and the four boycotting countries (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Egypt), and that the solution of the crisis must be sought within the GCC. He explained that the most appropriate way is to settle the crisis within the framework of the Gulf Cooperation Council, saying that Russia is not part of the mediation, as there is the Kuwaiti one. Lavrov also stressed the need to find a resolution based on compromises acceptable to all. He said that Russia affirmed its support for the mediation mission of the Emir of Kuwait, and is ready to contribute to these efforts if the parties demanded it.Lavrov arrived in Doha from the United Arab Emirates where he met with the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi after having earlier held talks with officials of Kuwait, the Gulf state handling the mediation efforts between Doha and the boycotting countries.

Major London conference to discuss Qatar democracy, press freedom and counter-terrorism
Staff writer, Al Arabiya EnglishThursday, 31 August 2017/Hundreds of political figures, policy makers, academics, commentators and Qataris are to convene on the September 14 in London to discuss democracy, human rights, press freedom and counter-terrorism in Qatar. The Qatar, Global Security & Stability Conference takes place three months into the Qatar crisis in the Middle East, with Qatar facing a boycott by members of the Gulf Cooperation Council, creating considerable political and economic implications in the Arabian Gulf region, Middle East and the world. The conference is the first of its kind and is being organized by the Qatari businessman and reformist, Khalid al-Hail, along with a number of exiled Qataris, who are seeking a resolution to the regional crisis and a more stable future for Qatar.
Daniel Kawczynski MP, member of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the UK House of Commons and expert of Gulf affairs said that given the severity of the allegations against Qatar, it is imperative for British politicians and media to call on Qatar to make the reforms and change its policy. “I welcome the efforts of the organizers, and it is an opportunity to hear more about the crisis, given the huge Qatari investment in Britain. We need to be able to have confidence in the Qatari government. This is a unique initiative and a chance to hear from Qatari reformists such as Mr. Khalid Al-Hail’,” Kawczynski said.
Al-Hail, Official Spokesperson of the Qatari Opposition, said: “The world has to listen to us, as the government of Qatar persistently refuses to allow anyone to discuss its policies or activities in the region. “There is escalating regional consensus and increasingly international concern of the Qatari government policies that pose a threat to international security and stability. If the world honestly wants to put an end to violence, terrorism and chaos, then it must end to Qatari policies that fund, nurture and instigate them,” al-Hail said.
The organizers of the conference are also publishing a number of exclusive research papers into the situation within Qatar.

Trump says solution to Qatar crisis should be based on Riyadh Summit pledges
Staff writer, Al Arabiya EnglishThursday, 31 August 2017/King Salman Bin Abdulaziz and US President Donald Trump discussed the need to defeat terrorism, cut off terrorist funding, and combat extremist ideology in a phone call on Wednesday. The US President urged a diplomatic resolution to the Qatar crisis that follows through on their commitments made at the Riyadh Summit, to maintain unity while fighting terrorism. The two leaders also addressed the threat Iran poses to the region. King Salman offered his condolences President Trump after hurricane Harvey struck Texas and caused a number of casualties.
King Salman and President Trump praised the resilience of the communities affected by Hurricane Harvey, the White House said in a statement.

Kuwait emir announces state visit to Washington, talks with Trump
Reuters, RiyadhThursday, 31 August 2017/Kuwait’s ruler will travel to Washington on Friday and hold talks with US President Donald Trump, the state news agency KUNA announced on Thursday. Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah will meet Trump on Sept. 7, according to the KUNA statement. The announcement comes a day after Trump spoke with Saudi King Salman and urged a diplomatic resolution to the Qatar crisis that follows through on their commitments made at the Riyadh Summit, to maintain unity while fighting terrorism. Sheikh Sabah has led mediation efforts to resolve the row, which began in early June when Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt cut political and trade ties with Qatar.

Yemen: Saleh Claims ‘Sedition’ as Coup Ranks Descend into Armed Conflict
Asharq Al-Awsat/August 31/17/London- Former Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh on Wednesday described infighting and widening rift among coup ranks in Sana’a an act of “sedition.”Saleh, leading a party of armed loyalists partaking in a nation-wide insurgency, demanded that investigations be conducted over the killing of Officer Khaled Rida in clashes with Houthi militias last week. Iran-allied Houthis are leading the coup against the internationally-backed government which relocated to the temporary capital, Aden. In his first appearance after the skirmishes, Saleh said in a brief speech when he attended Radi’s funeral in Sana’a on Wednesday that he holds the self-declared political council and government of the coup responsible for the incident, reported the Popular Congress Party on its official website. “Saleh’s speech was a covert reconciliation outreach to Houthi militias by urging the presidential council to intervene and contain the crisis that emerged after Radi’s death,” Bahraini political analyst Abdullah al-Junaid told Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper. At the same time, Saleh relayed Houthis another message by sending a shout out for vengeance, showing that a great tribal extension stands in favor of his party, Junaid added. Sana’a now witnesses the calm before the storm, with the prospect of armed confrontations between Saleh loyalists and Houthis increasing—such an outbreak could lead to a series of kidnapping and assassinations taking place as the two major coup factions attempt to excommunicate each other. A security expert said Houthis were seeking to take over southern Sana’a gates in a power grab against the insurgency-held capital, thereon removing Saleh supporters from power. On differences emerging between coup parties in Yemen, security and political expert Muhammad al-Walas said that Houthis “are now controlling Sana’a and have laid siege to some 70 percent of its territory, while restricting control of pro-Saleh fighters to the southern gates only.”

After Harvey, Aramco Shuts Down Biggest Refinery in US
Asharq Al-Awsat/August 31/17/Kuwait- Damages resulting from Harvey storm on the US refining sector mounted as Motiva Enterprises – owned by Aramco – announced that it would completely halt operating in Port Arthur refinery because of the flood. “At 5 a.m. on Wednesday, Motiva began a controlled shutdown of the Port Arthur refinery in response to increasing local flood conditions,” the company said – it added that restarting the refinery would depend on flood waters receding. Barclays clarified in a research memorandum that the US stocks data this week and the next one won’t be accurate, which means that the data won’t be clear for a period of time. This would affect oil prices that are influenced by stocks’ data. Goldman Sachs estimated in its statement issued on Monday that the storm would increase domestic crude oil availability by about 1.4 million barrels a day if the case remained the same. The bank added that until August 27, refineries of 3 million barrels per day capacity were shut down, knowing that they represent 16.5 percent of the overall refining capacity in the US. Bloomberg revealed on Tuesday that the capacity of refineries that shut down is 2.35 million barrels a day. Some refineries haven’t been shut down yet (by the time Bloomberg published its report) but some units were and refining was curbed. Among them is the 605,000 barrel-per-day (bpd) Port Arthur, Texas, plant, Motiva Enterprises. Goldman Sachs stated that 4.4 million barrels of US refining capacity has been shut by Harvey on Tuesday, that represents nearly 23 percent of US refining production. Restarting plants under even the best conditions can take a week or more. The Energy Information Administration in US issued a report on Wednesday, revealing a sharp drop in crude stocks in the US last week despite the increase of refineries’ product.

Several Wounded in Turkey Blast, Authorities Probe Possible Terrorist Attack
Asharq Al-Awsat/August 31/17/Seven people were wounded when an explosion targeted a bus carrying prison personnel in the Turkish coastal province of Izmir on Thursday, and authorities were investigating a possible terrorist attack, the local mayor said.The bus was hit as it passed a garbage container at around 7:40 a.m, Levent Piristina, the mayor of Izmir’s
Buca district, said on Twitter.
Photographs he posted on social media showed its windows blown out and its windscreen shattered. The force of the blast appeared to have blown out some of the bus’ panels, and the nearby street was littered with debris.
“We are getting information from police sources and they are focusing on the possibility of a terrorist attack,” he said. Izmir governor Erol Ayyildiz said one person was hospitalized but none of the injuries were life threatening,
Both state-run TRT Haber and private broadcaster Dogan news agency said the explosion was caused by a bomb placed in the garbage container that exploded when the shuttle bus passed. No one immediately claimed responsibility. Both Kurdish and ISIS militants have carried out suicide and bomb attacks in major Turkish cities in recent years.

UN Rights Chief Says Democracy in Venezuela ‘Barely Alive’
Asharq Al-Awsat/August 31/17/Geneva, Caracas- The UN human rights office of the high commissioner accused on Wednesday Venezuela of extensive human rights violations and abuses in the context of anti-Government protests, questioning whether democracy was still functioning at all in the crisis-torn country. President Nicolas Maduro “was elected by the people,” UN human rights chief Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein told reporters in Geneva, but added that the government’s recent actions “support the feeling that what is left of democratic life in Venezuela is being squeezed”. Asked about French President Emmanuel Macron’s accusation Tuesday that Maduro was creating a “dictatorship”, Zeid was quoted by AFP as saying that there had been “an erosion of democratic life”.“It must be barely alive, if still alive.”His comments came as his office released a fresh report accusing Venezuelan authorities of implementing a policy of repression to crack down on months of street protests against Maduro. “The generalized and systematic use of excessive force during demonstrations and the arbitrary detention of protesters and perceived political opponents indicate that these were not the illegal or rogue acts of isolated officials,” the report said.The extent of the violations “points to the existence of a policy to repress political dissent and instill fear in the population to curb demonstrations at the cost of Venezuelans’ rights and freedoms”, it added. Venezuela, which is suffering from an acute economic crisis marked by shortages of basic goods, has experienced months of street demonstrations against Maduro that have left 125 people dead, according to prosecutors. “The government must ensure there are prompt, independent and effective investigations of the human rights violations allegedly committed by the security forces,” as well as by pro-government groups and armed protesters, Zeid said.

2 Policemen Killed in Algeria Suicide Attack
Asharq Al-Awsat/August 31/17/Two security members were killed in a suicide attack on a police station in western Algeria after one officer jumped on the attacker to protect his colleagues from the blast, state news agency APS and police said on Thursday. In the attack early on Thursday morning, an armed militant wearing a suicide belt tried to enter a police post in Tiaret, around 300 kilometers southwest of the capital Algiers. “One of the officers in an act of bravery, threw himself on the attacker to protect the others in the entrance of the police station,” APS said. Another officer later succumbed to his wounds, the national police said in a statement. It was the first suicide attack in months in Algeria. A militant tried to blow himself up at a police station in Constantine in April and another was shot dead in an attempted bombing in the same city in February.

Hamas Releases Prisoners Accused of Plotting to Assassinate Haniyeh
Asharq Al-Awsat/August 31/17Gaza- Hamas security services in the Gaza Strip released three Fatah Movement supporters within the framework of an agreement with the faction of Mohammed Dahlan, a leader dismissed from Fatah, in a sign of consolidated alliance between the two parties. Well-informed sources told Asharq Al-Awsat that the release was carried out with the approval of Hamas’ politburo and security bodies, although the detainees were arrested and convicted of planning explosions and attacks, including the assassination attempt on Ismail Haniyeh, head of the Hamas politburo, who was then prime minister. Hamas released Hassan Mohammed al-Zant, Aahed Mohammed Abu Qamar and Subhi Ahmed Abu Dahi, all members of Fatah security services loyal to Dahlan. “The three detainees have been released as part of the ongoing quest for reconciliation and national consensus, and under the agreements of the Commission on Community Reconciliation,” said Iyad al-Bazm, the Interior Ministry spokesman. “The Ministry of Interior and National Security always supports every effort aimed at achieving national unity and the interests of our people; we hope that all causes of division will disappear”, he added. Hamas arrested al-Zant, a resident of al-Shati refugee camp, west of Gaza City, in January 2008. Hamas Government former Interior Minister Said Siam, who was assassinated by Israel in 2009 in the first Gaza war, revealed the confessions of al-Zant and a group of Fatah elements, and said they planned to kill Haniyeh, noting that al-Zant has received direct orders from Palestinian security leaders in the West Bank.Aahed Abu Qamar, a resident of the northern Gaza Strip, was detained with a group of Preventive Security forces in February 2015. Hamas said he was planning to carry out bombings in Gaza under the instructions of security leaders in Ramallah. As for Subhi Abu Dahi, he was arrested in 2016 on charges of forming cells and collaborating with Ramallah. He was a senior lieutenant in the Palestinian Authority. “The release of the three detainees will be followed by further steps by Hamas, which will allow the return of 90 percent of the people who left Gaza after the events of 2006-2007,” Fatah MP Majed Abu Shamala, a member of the Dahlan faction, said. This new measure is the second step within community reconciliation efforts launched by Hamas with the Dahlan movement, which started with settling financial dues to the families of victims of Fatah members killed during the violent clashes in 2006-2007.

Latest LCCC Bulletin analysis & editorials from miscellaneous sources published on September 01/17
Iran’s increasing violations of international law
Dr. Majid Rafizadeh/ArabNews/August 31/17
Under international law, commercial airliners should not be used for military purposes or to transfer weapons and illegal materials. Yet Iran routinely does so, in violation of the nuclear deal. It sends militants to Syria aboard commercial aircraft from four major Iranian cities: Abadan, Esfahan, Yazd and Tehran.
This is occurring while Iran is striking deals with some of the world’s largest aircraft companies in order to buy a new, modern fleet for “commercial” purposes. The deals come with modernization packages, including technology and education, that allow Iran to participate in producing aircraft parts and equipment, as Maghsoud Asadi Samani, secretary of Iran’s Aviation Companies Association, has told state-owned media.
Tehran’s advocates say there is no evidence that it is violating international law and its commitments to the nuclear deal. But Iran has a history of using its commercial airlines for military purposes. Most recently, it was caught red-handed transporting military personnel to Syria. These soldiers join Syrian regime forces in committing atrocities and crimes against humanity, and promoting a sectarian agenda.
Iran’s commercial airlines, specifically Iran Air and Mahan, are the primary tools used for the illicit transport of weapons and military staff, including members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), its elite Quds Force and the Basij militia. These airlines do not fly to Syria on pre-announced scheduled days, as other commercial airlines do. They choose random days and destinations in Syria.
This week, several US congressional leaders wrote in a letter: “Iran’s use of commercial aircraft for military purposes violates international agreements as well as Iranian commitments under the JCPOA (nuclear deal).
“We believe these photos mandate a thorough investigation of these practices and a comprehensive review of Iran’s illicit use of commercial aircraft… During this investigation, the United States should suspend current and future licenses for aircraft sales to Iran.”
Iran’s commercial airlines are the primary tools used for the illicit transport of weapons and military staff, including members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), its elite Quds Force and the Basij militia to Syria.
The lawmakers added: “These photos seem to display militiamen sitting on seats clearly labeled with the Iran Air logo. These individuals… are believed to be members of an Iranian-backed militia, trained and funded by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), actively fighting for the Assad regime in Syria.”
Before the nuclear deal, Mahan was under international sanctions for shipping weapons to the Syrian regime and Hezbollah. The sanctions were lifted after the agreement. It is deceitful for Iran to buy Western aircraft, only to use them against Western interests and foreign policy objectives in the region.
Western airlines should not facilitate Iran’s enhancement of its military capabilities. Iran is the world’s top state sponsor of terrorism, according to several governmental and intelligence reports, and is top of the 2016 Basel Anti-Money Laundering Index Report.
Since 1979, Tehran has acquired the skills to easily convert modern commercial aircraft into military ones. The US cannot by itself prevent Tehran from doing so; more countries should join the cause. It is incumbent on the international community to hold Iranian leaders accountable for violating international law and the terms of the nuclear deal.
Corporations that sell modern aircraft and technology to Iran should realize that they are facilitating Tehran’s support for terrorist groups, crimes against humanity and the Assad regime’s atrocities against innocent civilians.
• Dr. Majid Rafizadeh is a Harvard-educated Iranian-American political scientist. He is a leading expert on Iran and US foreign policy, a businessman and president of the International American Council. He serves on the boards of the Harvard International Review, the Harvard International Relations Council and the US-Middle East Chamber for Commerce and Business. Twitter: @Dr_Rafizadeh

Who Killed Naji al-Ali?
Abdulrahman Al-Rashed/Asharq Al-Awsat/August 31/17
The last time I saw Naji al-Ali, the well-known Palestinian cartoonist, was at a dinner at his place. This was a short while before he was assassinated.
Adib Abu Alwan, other mutual friends and I all were at the dinner. We did not necessarily come together politically, but we appreciated Naji for the creative artist he was. It never crossed our minds that someone may consider killing an artist, no matter how grand the differences were.
The cartoonist was shot on July 22, 1987. He died in a hospital one month later at the age of 51. London media groups were all left in shock by this unprecedented terrible crime. Although denunciation took place, many took an unbiased position for they mostly avoided engaging in the mud of politics.
British police decided on reopening the case some three decades later. Perhaps they have new leads and perhaps they are hoping for sleeping consciences to awaken as even if the perpetrator is not arrested or if the masterminds are not exposed, it’ll reboot the public’s memory which forgot about this crime.
Whoever shot Naji dead is one criminal, but those who joined by silencing the truth are actually many or rather an entire society. They kept silent and followed a culture of overstepping values.
Naji as a political caricaturist had his opinions against peace and against the Palestinian Liberation Organization and its leader Yasser Arafat. The crime was a personal vendetta for regardless of how expressive cartoons and articles are, they do not have the power for change.
It was not even easy to voice suspicions but we know that the PLO, like all ideological military institutions such as Hezbollah and Hamas, resort to distortion in the name of higher interest and license murder for its causes.
When Arafat was told that he was accused of lying and equivocation, he said: “If I kill for Palestine, I will most certainly lie for it.” Truth be told, the late president, despite his love for conspiracies and enthusiastic speeches, was not known for violence or for ordering off the heads of rivals – though there are doubts that his organization is behind killing Naji in London 30 years ago.Was it Arafat? Or was it one of his intelligence apparatuses? Or was it a party that was pro- Arafat or a party against both the PLO and Naji altogether? This is something that only police forces and time can reveal.
Arafat’s anger towards Naji was no secret. The late PLO leader had asked Kuwait to reign Naji in—but instead of doing so, the cartoonist resettled in London. Everyone colluded with whoever committed the crime either through silence or through denial.
To avoid embarrassment, Israel was accused because it is the usual suspect and it’s easy to accuse it of killing heroes, good men and even bad men. In Arab media, Israel was accused because it killed Ghassan Kanfani and Kamal Nasser before. However, evidence which surfaced during the trial of suspects involved in Naji’s assassination suggested otherwise. It turned out that there were Israeli spies who had known about the weapon and about one of the suspects and that they were tracking him down in case the target was Israeli. It seems the Israelis were aware of the plot but they let the criminal kill Naji. They did not order the hit and it did not harm them – or at least this is what the investigation showed at the time. Reopening the case of Naji’s murder is a historical and moral duty, and by no means aims at fueling differences.

GCC and Qatar’s Withdrawal
Salman Al-dossary/Asharq Al-Awsat/August 31/17
This time former Iranian Ambassador to Qatar Abdullah Sehrabi spoke on behalf of the Qatari government, saying Qatar’s emir is willing to withdraw from the Gulf Cooperation Council. The Iranian official didn’t express a point of view or make an analysis but he conveyed a specific information.
While the Iranian information goes in tandem with the fierce attack of the Qatari media on the GCC, it seems that Doha wishes to add the council to its rivals’ list in the region or to – at least – sabotage this successful experience. It is illogical to deny that the council is going through a real crisis as a result of a founding member’s decision to distance itself from the main purposes for which the council was established in Abu Dhabi on May 25, 1981. However, the regime in Doha missed the fact that the GCC is stronger than any failure. Doha can withdraw or suspend its membership – it can replace Turkey and Iran with its interests in the council – but it can’t prevent other states from implementing its successful project. Neither the region nor the world are in a condition that would tolerate the collapse of a rare and successful experience in the Arab world. It should be recalled that the council throughout history – almost four decades – has gone through dangerous political crises, mainly the eight-year Iran-Iraq war, then the Iraqi Invasion of Kuwait in August 1990.
Fortunately, these two dangerous crises occurred before the coup led by Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa against his father. That’s why the council managed to confront them in as much solidarity as possible. Had Hamad bin Khalifa been the emir at the time, then, the council’s internal crisis would have been much worse than the external one.It is normal that during Qatar’s current crisis, Doha would use any means to exploit the council’s unity to help itself out of the crisis. If we consider the keenness expressed by several capitals, including Washington, Paris, London and Berlin, on GCC’s continuity, then Doha’s opportunism won’t be surprising since this is part of its strategy. Actually, it would be a surprise if Qatar acted otherwise and distanced the council from the current crisis although Doha is the one that has struck the mortal blow due to the announced and discreet violations of its authorities during the past years in the aim of causing rifts internally, inciting the violation of state sovereignty and hosting terrorist and sectarian groups that aim to destabalize the region. All eyes are on the GCC annual summit to be hosted by Kuwait in December. In my opinion, if the crisis continues along with Qatar’s intransigence then it is better to postpone it. This way the continuity of the council would be preserved. The council will be stronger when Qatar returns to be a Gulf country of equal rights and duties. If Doha is hinting on withdrawing from the council then this is its decision. But the decision of the council’s continuity isn’t linked to it. The dispute with Qatar didn’t and won’t affect the Gulf countries’ interests and their moving forward whether with or without Qatar.

ISIS Members from Iraq, Syria Tell their Stories
Ghassan Charbel/Asharq Al-Awsat/August 31/17
Erbil- I had a strange sensation while I was sitting in the counter-terrorism headquarters in Erbil, amidst hundreds of ISIS men distributed in the prison chambers and cells. In the morning I discussed with Kurdistan Democratic Party leader Masoud Barzani the future of Kurds, Iraq and regional affiliates, and in the evening I interviewed detainees over their motives to join ISIS. In the headquarters, there are hundreds of detainees from Syrian, Iraqi and other nationalities. There were French and Swedish citizens who were handed over to their governments and there are still three American ISIS members with wide knowledge in the electronic field. The detainees are questioned then sent to their countries when possible. However, if they have committed crimes on the territory, then they are referred to trial. Regular visits from the International Committee of the Red Cross and humanitarian organizations are made to provide them with medical care. The detainees’ confessions contributed in revealing several matters on the way ISIS works, mobilizes, intimidates and executes rules. They also unveiled plans for several groups to act in case the ISIS strongholds collapsed. Therefore, some expect that the group will continue to carry out terrorist attacks in the region and the world.
In the headquarters, I interviewed two ISIS men, a Syrian and an Iraqi, in the presence of two guards. N.A., born in 1990, received his education in Raqqa and enrolled in a technical institution after acquiring his baccalaureate. “I have four brothers and four sisters. At the onset of the revolution I stopped my studies and participated in peaceful protests in the hope that the regime would change,” he said. He fought in Raqqa with the Free Syrian Army when the confrontation turned into military action. “My uncle was my supervisor. Then the FSA was forced out of the region so I joined ISIS. I did so because I wanted to fight the regime and because ISIS presented itself as the Sunni defender against the regime’s barbarism. My monthly salary was USD50,” he added.  N.A. continued that, “last year, me and four others were asked to sneak to Iraqi Kurdistan in a security mission. My role was to build ties with Peshmerga forces, gain their confidence and promise them to provide information about Raqqa so that I become a double agent … We were ambushed at a border region and were arrested in August 2016.”
Before leaving, he said: “Neither ISIS nor the regime have mercy.”
The ISIS Member from Tal Afar
J.W entered the office with a surprised look on his face. “I live in Baghdad but am originally from Tal Afar. I was born in 1986. I received my intermediate studies, then worked with my father in an electronic devices company. We witnessed the discrimination, assassination and marginalization that the Sunnis were facing in Baghdad especially during the term of Nuri al-Maliki.”He joined ISIS in 2015 and was a soldier before becoming an administrator in a battalion. “I feel the regret because like many others I was deceived. We considered that the Sunnis are being threatened and ISIS will defend them … Later on, we discovered that ISIS is the most dangerous method to destroy the Sunnis,” he added. He handed himself over to the authorities 50 days ago, revealing that his mother visited him and conveyed a threat from his uncle – who belongs to ISIS – that he will kill him at the first opportunity.

Has France Been Bought by a State Sponsor of Islamic Terrorism?
Drieu Godefridi/Gatestone Institute/August 31/17
https://www.gatestoneinstitute.org/10911/france-qatar
It is through these tax breaks that the Qataris are buying the "jewels" of France. The U.S. is not selling its defense companies to Qatar.
Thanks to its huge gas and oil reserves, Qatar has the highest per capita income in the world and huge reserves of cash to invest everywhere, whereas France, thanks to 40 years of socialism, is in dire need of cash.
The state of Qatar has been officially labelled as a "state sponsor of terrorism", and an active supporter of Islamic terrorist organizations such as the Muslim Brotherhood, al-Qaeda and the Islamic State -- not by Western governments, but by Saudi Arabia, the cradle of Islamic faith, and the other Islamic regimes of the region.
Knowing the facts of Qatar -- 11000km2, one-third the size of Belgium, population 2.5 million -- the question may seem far-fetched: How could France, the great France, possibly be bought by a tiny state such as Qatar?
For the single reason that, thanks to its huge gas and oil reserves, Qatar has the highest per capita income in the world and huge reserves of cash to invest everywhere, whereas France, thanks to 40 years of socialism, is in dire need of cash and has a tradition of corruptible officials, to say nothing of a propensity for "collaboration".
On August 4, the English press -- not the French press -- revealed that French prosecutors are actively investigating two events: the awarding the 2022 World Cup of football (soccer) to Qatar, and the purchase by "Qatari Diar", a state-owned investment company, of a stake in the French utility firm Veolia.
At the center of the investigation is former French President Nicolas Sarkozy. To be sure, Sarkozy has not been formally indicted (and he may never be), but the evidence is overwhelming.
First, the World Cup. That the State of Qatar, known for decades for its active support of Islamic terror organizations, and with a temperature among the highest in the world -- in addition to zero tradition in the world of football -- was awarded the 2022 World Cup is, of course, a source of wonder ever since the award was announced by FIFA, the international governing body of football.
French investigators are now looking into a meeting that took place between then-President Sarkozy, Michel Platini -- the French former president of the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), who sat on the FIFA committee that chose Qatar -- and Qatari officials on November 23, 2010 (10 days before the vote). It is alleged that Platini was dead-set against Qatar and that Sarkozy urged him to change his mind: "They're good people."
The "deal" is said to have been sealed when Qatar agreed to buy the biggest French soccer team, the Paris-Saint-Germain (PSG). It is alleged that huge bribes were paid by Qatar to high-ranking French officials, to secure these two deals: the World Cup and the Veolia investment. Although no evidence has yet been presented, the case would not have been opened by French prosecutors without it. In addition, no one has ever denied the meeting of November 23, 2010.
In April 2010, the "Qatari Diar" fund bought a 5% stake in Veolia. Investigators are tracking 182 million euros suspected of having been used to bribe French officials. Investigators are also looking into a possible link between these two operations: Qatar investing in Veolia as a favor to France, possibly in exchange for France's support for Qatar to host the 2022 World Cup.
France's then-President Nicolas Sarkozy (left) greets Qatar's then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jabor al-Thani (right) on March 19, 2011 in Paris, France. (Photo by Franck Prevel/Getty Images)
It is doubtful if the French investigators will ever get to the bottom of these two cases. The judiciary in France has a long tradition of submitting to the government. Since 1789, the French judiciary has not even been an independent power -- as are the Legislative and the Executive -- but a mere authority with a more limited scope.
It is revealing that these two investigations were exposed, not by the French press, but by the English press.
What we already know for sure is the following:
A state sponsor of terrorism, Qatar, was allowed to buy France's leading soccer team, Paris-Saint-Germain, with the help of then-president Nicolas Sarkozy. The former owner of the PSG was a private fund controlled in Europe by one of Sarkozy's close friends. There would have been no deal without the direct consent of Sarkozy -- that is the way France functions.
A state sponsor of terrorism, Qatar, was not only allowed, but actively courted, by French officials to invest in some of France's largest companies, including defense companies, such as Veolia, as well as the Airbus parent company, European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS); the energy group EDF; the construction firm, Vinci; and the media and defense group Lagardère.
A state sponsor of terrorism, Qatar, was actively supported in its 2022 bid for the World Cup by the government of France and Nicolas Sarkozy, who declared after the FIFA vote in 2010: "Sport does not belong to a few countries. It belongs to the world... I don't understand those who say that events should always be held in the same countries and the same continents."
There is a significant part of the French political class that seems to consider the Embassy of Qatar in Paris some sort of automatic teller machine (ATM), as has been showed by renowned journalists Christian Chesnot and Georges Malbrunot in their book, Nos très chers émirs (Our Very Dear Emirs) and deplored by the new ambassador of Qatar in France, Meshaal al-Thani.
Since 2008, a state sponsor of terrorism, Qatar, has benefited from a huge tax break in France: the exemption of profits on property sales. In France, profits on property sales are not only taxed at 19%, they are subject to a further CSG/CRDS and social tax (15.5%), resulting in a combined total minimum tax rate of 34.5%. The rule is the same for everyone, whether a person or a corporation. Everyone, that is, but the State of Qatar, when the administration of Nicolas Sarkozy decided to exempt it from the tax. As a result, Qatar's royal family and sovereign fund have since built up a huge portfolio of assets in France, one that dwarfs the portfolio of a state such as Saudi Arabia. Qatar's portfolio ranges from a Champs-Élysées mall to the Lido Cabaret. "Our deficit has destroyed our freedom," said Nathalie Goulet, a centrist senator from Lower Normandy, in 2013. "The Qataris are here to buy, while we are selling our family jewels." Which they did. [1]
Qatar and other Gulf states try to benefit from tax exemptions everywhere in the world, but this convergence of facts -- the selling of assets, sports clubs, defense companies and governmental representatives -- is unique to France. It is through these tax breaks -- this is only one of them -- that the Qataris are buying the "jewels" of France. Of course, the U.S. is also selling arms to the Qataris -- the U.S. has a military base in Al Udeid -- but the U.S. is not selling its defense companies to Qatar.
We therefore probably do not even have to wait for the results of the latest investigations to note that France, particularly but not exclusively under the auspices of Nicolas Sarkozy, has literally been bought by a state sponsor of terrorism, Qatar.
At the same time, Islam in France has been spreading. France has been deeply infiltrated by the Muslim Brotherhood terror organization, which is not categorized in France -- unlike the UK -- as a sponsor of terror. This organization, since it was overthrown by Egypt's current president, Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, is now the darling of Qatar. Without Qatar, the Muslim Brotherhood would be without a home-base. Given its huge financial, corporate and political dependence on Qatar, it is clear that France -- in the name of "stability" -- would not do anything to displease its darling.
Although France is a member of NATO and a nuclear power, nowhere else in the West is Islamism so deeply embedded in the fabric of the institutions, mind and zeitgeist of a country as it is there. Even in the UK, you still find very powerful counter-powers (see the governmental report on the Muslim Brotherhood). Not in France.
Consider the case of the Palestinian official Jabril Rajoub -- sentenced to life in prison in 1970 for throwing a grenade at an Israeli army vehicle, but released, along with others, in exchange for three Israeli soldiers taken hostage by the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP). Rajoub is now chairman of the Palestinian Football Association -- another illustration of the deep infiltration of FIFA by Islamists and Jew-haters sponsored by Gulf States, beginning with Qatar. Would that position even be thinkable without France's sponsorship of Qatar in FIFA? Probably not.
It is true that Qatar is buying assets from around the world, including politicians, not only in France. And it is true that the U.S. is also selling arms to the Qataris, as are many other countries. It is one thing, however, to sell arms, but another to sell your defense companies. It is one thing to be open to foreign investment, but another to give huge tax breaks to a state sponsor of terror so it can acquire the "jewels" of your country.
It is also not an accident that the main face of Islamism in Europe, the Muslim Brother Tariq Ramadan (from his base in Oxford, England) now sees France as the future of Islam in Europe, and not the UK (still number 2 on the list).
The U.S. and other countries may be selling things, but France is selling herself.
**Drieu Godefridi, a classical-liberal Belgian author, is the founder of the l'Institut Hayek in Brussels. He has a PhD in Philosophy from the Sorbonne in Paris and also heads investments in European companies.
[1] The 6th of December 2014, Nicolas Sarkozy was invited and paid by the "Qatar National Bank" to give a lecture in Doha. Subject? Investment opportunities in France.
© 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.

Victims of Turkey's Islamization: Women
Burak Bekdil/Gatestone Institute/August 31/17
https://www.gatestoneinstitute.org/10900/turkey-islamization-women
"Women should know their place.... Gender equality is against human nature." — Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
According to the ministry's findings, physical violence is the most common form of abuse: 70% of women reported they have been physically assaulted.
One of the suspects made a deal with K.C.'s family: he paid a sum of about $5,700 to the family and agreed to marry K.C. The family arranged a bogus wedding ceremony, took pictures and presented them to the court to save the man. Under pressure from her family, the rapist had suddenly become her fiancé.
On Feb. 6, 1935, Turkish women were allowed to vote in national elections for the first time, and eighteen female candidates were elected to parliament – a decade or more before women even in Western countries such as France, Italy and Belgium. Eight decades later, Turkish women look like unwilling passengers on H.G. Wells' Time Machine traveling back to their great-grandmothers' Ottoman lives.
Turkey's strongman, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, once proudly said that "Women should know their place," and that "Gender equality is against human nature". His deputy prime minister said that women not to laugh in public. It was not shocking to anyone when Turkey's Ministry of Family and Social Policies found in 2016 that no fewer than 86% of Turkish women have suffered physical or psychological violence at the hands of their partners or family. According to the ministry's findings, physical violence is the most common form of abuse: 70% of women reported they have been physically assaulted.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan once proudly said that "Women should know their place," and that "Gender equality is against human nature". (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)
More recently, Kadin Cinayetlerini Durduracagiz Platformu, a women's rights organization, reported that 28 women were murdered by men in July 2017 alone. The same month, eight other -- luckier -- women were physically assaulted for "wearing shorts or 'indecent' outfits or smoking in public." The report concluded by saying, "The state remains silent."
Turkey increasingly features all possible social and political reflections of Islamism: authoritarianism, majoritarianism and officially-tolerated intolerance to everything Islamists may deem "un-Islamic." Women are often the target group, and might not avoid intimidation even if they dress in line with the Islamic code. Hayrettin Karaman, an Islamic scholar and the darling of Turkey's pro-Erdogan Islamists, recently argued that smoking cigarettes sends signals about women's morals. He wrote in his Aug. 3 column:
"When I see a woman who wears a headscarf but also smokes in public, I get the impression that she's saying: 'Don't mind the fact that I am covering my head. Don't give up on me, I have a lot more to share with you.'"
Naturally, many Turkish men took the cleric's words as a message of sexual availability. This kind of thinking is common in conservative Muslim societies. It did not used to be that way in secular Turkey. It is simply an outcome of Turkey's top-down government-induced social Islamization. That has two disturbing aspects: willing social participation of people who comply, and inequality before law.
In 2014, 17-year-old K.C. was raped and beaten by two men. She filed a complaint with the police, and the two suspects were detained. All normal, up to this point. One of the suspects made a deal with K.C.'s family: he paid a sum of about $5,700 to the family and agreed to marry K.C. The family arranged a bogus wedding ceremony, took pictures and presented them to the court to save the man. Under pressure from her family, K.C. changed her testimony and said she was not raped. The rapist had suddenly become her fiancé. Both suspects were released, an Islamic religious ceremony was arranged and the rapists were acquitted. Not really a happy ending. K.C.'s "husband" started to beat her regularly and the girl once again went to the police and told her real story. Her husband was her rapist and she had been forced to marry him.
Not every woman, however, who seeks protection from law enforcement authorities is so lucky.
On August 10, two women, Derya Kilic, 19, and Seray Gurer, 22, were sexually harassed by two unidentified men. According to their testimonies, the women then asked for help from two police officers in the street. Security footage shows a police officer starting to beat one of the women. In her later testimony, filing a complaint against the police, Kilic said the officer who hit her tried to "justify" the sexual harassment by saying they were "dressed inappropriately." She said:
"We wanted help from them because we could not see the license plates of the motorbikes that harassed us. But one of the police officers said the harassers were right because we were 'dressed inappropriately'".
This is where creeping Islamization has brought us. Better days are not ahead.
**Burak Bekdil, one of Turkey's leading journalists, was recently fired from Turkey's leading newspaper after 29 years, for writing what was taking place in Turkey for Gatestone. He is a Fellow at the Middle East Forum.
© 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

Aung San Suu Kyi has just run out of excuses
Dr. Azeem Ibrahim/Al Arabiya/August 31/17
The Final Report of UN Commission to Rakhine State led by Kofi Annan has just been published and its recommendations are clear:
•Myanmar must use its existing nominal citizenship pathway processes to actually extend citizenship to over one million Rohingya who are entitled to it.
•It must overhaul the 1982 Citizenship Law which the Myanmar authorities have used to render almost the entire Rohingya population stateless in the land of their birth, against the prescriptions of international law.
•It must lift restrictions against the freedom of movment of Rohingya in the state.
•It must close the internally displaced people’s (IDP) camps and allow the Rohingya interred there to return to their properties.
•It must allow full humanitarian access to UN agencies and international NGOs.
•It must allow full access to both local and international media to document the situation in the State.
•It must allow the Rohingya and any other minority group equal access to healthcare and education to every other citizen of the country.
•It must allow and facilitate representation of the Rohingya and any other minority groups in local and central government.
•Myanmar’s judiciary must practice the rule of law and abide by international standards of impartiality and transparency.
All perfectly sensible recommendations which those of us in the international community who have been following the plight of the Rohingya have been calling for years.
In the past, the Myanmar government used to deflect such recommendations, whether they were put forward by UN humanitiarian officials, or NGOs such as Médecins Sans Frontières, on the grounds that they were put forward by ‘international pressure groups’ who were politically hostile to the government. Even after the 2015 election which brought Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi to power, the same line was taken: Suu Kyi has always said that the situation in Rakhine state is complicated, and nobody should rush to specific solutions.
Is she a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, or just another craven politician who will abide by ‘ethnic cleansing’ to not rock the boat, and allow her to stay in power unchallenged?
It was in fact in this context that she commissioned Kofi Annan to investigate and produce a report on the matter. The Annan Commission was a political ploy to demonstrate to the world that she is doing what she can, getting to the bottom of the problem with the help of one of the world’s most respected diplomats. It is on the back of this approach that she even managed to get sanctions lifted from Myanmar by convincing former US President Obama that things were moving towards resolution in Rakhine state at reasonable speed. All the while, she was playing to the domestic crowd and to the Army, by dragging things out and taking no action on the ground against either the ultra-nationalist civilian groups, the Rakhine State authorities, or the segments of the federal security forces who were carying out the abuses against the Rohingya.
But now matters have come to a head. Despite the artificially restricted remit Annan was given for his investigations, the findings are much the same as those of the previous humanitarian observers – if couched in somewhat more placid language to mollify the Myanmar government. And the recommendations are what we knew was needed and what we have called for all along. Suu Kyi asked for neutral recommendations from a globally respected international diplomat and she got them. What happens next?
This is where the politics of the matter become difficult for Suu Kyi. She can no longer tow the neutral line in the middle and pretend to be all things to all people. She must now choose a side. Is she on the side human rights and international humanitarian and ethical standards, or is she on the side of the ultra-nationalists and the Army hardliners in her country? Is she a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, or just another craven politician who will abide by ‘ethnic cleansing’ to not rock the boat, and allow her to stay in power unchallenged.

ISIS crisis: Setbacks bring change to media strategy
Dr. Halla Diyab/Al Arabiya/August 31/17
Notwithstanding the steady increase in number of Muslims joining the terrorist group ISIS from around the world, the group has started to lose territories on a daily basis. Currently, all its routes are closed and it is unable to stem the heavy loss of life, particularly of its militants currently besieged in Raqqa. This has raised the question whether the group will be forced to change its military strategy, replacing its pattern of offensive warfare with defensive tactics to pick up the pieces of its shattered legacy.
Video in Spanish
Following the surfeit of international media reports on the Barcelona attack, ISIS released a bizarre video, titled ‘The Conquest of Barcelona’ that featured the Spanish-speaking militant Abu Layth al Qurtubi. Wearing battle fatigues and feigning a Che Guevara look, al Qurtubi speaks softly with his lithe frame shown to the waist only. The video shows how the group is reshaping its war rhetoric and its media campaign. With a ‘nasheed’ playing in the background, a Marxist revolutionary look-alike speaks in Spanish to woo new recruits to his cause. This new style of inveigling the impressionable reflects the desperation in the group to regain its popularity among the youth.
Unlike the earlier slick videos, which featured the decapitation of foreign hostages, where the camera used wide angle to then pan a vast horizontal and vertical stretch, this new video restricts itself to just a close-up of the militant and has minimal background music and no graphics. The group seems to be directing the viewer’s attention only to the message being delivered and not to any visuals. Raising a threatening finger, al-Qurtubi seeks to exploit the historical bitterness between the Spanish population and Arabs by invoking the history of the Spanish Inquisition, and its brutality against Muslims. Thus, it introduces a new dimension to the group’s militant discourse. What sets this video apart from its predecessors is the lack of bluster about the group’s globalist outreach and the alternating discourse from issuance of threat to denunciation of so-called tyranny.
The rapid loss of territory for the group has dealt a knockout blow to its propaganda machinery that was once highly effective in garnering global recruits for it.
From ‘hijirah’ to lone wolf
The rapid loss of territory for the group has dealt a knockout blow to its propaganda machinery that was once highly effective in garnering global recruits for it. But with proliferation of stories regarding the lack of security provided to militants from the group and rise in number of deserters, who are now joining rival forces in Syria and Iraq, ISIS is losing its credibility and popularity at a rapid clip. This situation has brought about a change in the group’s rhetoric as the mission of foreign recruits is now not linked to the performance of the so-called ‘hijra’, but to carrying out terrorist attacks wherever the group’s sympathizers may be. This implies that the group’s legacy and existence is neither connected to fighting on the front-line in Syria or Iraq, nor conditioned with their territorial expansion or loss as al-Qurtabi put it in the video: “The jihadists (sic) can perform jihad (sic) wherever they are and it will be accepted and they will triumph”.
Another change in the group’s strategy lies in its bid to make “new enemies” so that ISIS could create a facade of waging a so-called defensive jihad (i.e. we kill them because they kill and fight us). ‘The Conquest of Barcelona’ video threatens the people of Spain and states that ISIS is now going to attack them to reclaim that country back from the Crusader, even though Spain has never been in any fight with the ISIS. However such rhetoric feeds their mentality of victimization and their refrain is “we will take revenge for your massacre, the one you are carrying out now against the Islamic State.”
Playing the victim card
This marks a departure in the group’s propaganda in that its belligerent rhetoric has now changed to a more sympathy evoking message, highlighting the so-called atrocities and injustices to which Muslims are supposedly being subjected, in order to present the fight for justified and noble reasons.
The use of the indigenous language and local vernacular is another addition to the new radicalisation tactic. Militants featuring in the group’s current crop of videos speak the language of their target audience, not only to attract more foreign recruits but to demonstrate that the group has grown globally in its militant outlook. Loss of territory in the so-called bastion of the Islamic Caliphate has forced the group to redirect its fight to the territory of its foes. Although their videos have become more acerbic and vitriolic in tone, replacing the earlier poetic expressions of nostalgia, ISIS narrative is now replete with symbolism like their seven-minute film “This Fertile Nation” which features two children (Yusef and Abdullah), wherein a 10-year-old American boy threatens Trump that their battle will conclude in his land (the USA).
Nearly destroyed, but not defeated
Although ISIS has failed to prove itself a formidable opponent, its ability to change its tactics, where designated roles and methods of its personnel are not fixed or conventional, but continuously morph and change shape suggests that the ISIS threat is not going to end with the dissolution of its “territory of terror”, but the outreach of its divisive and violent rhetoric will continue to threaten the world.