WAFA 11-17-08
Category: News and Politics

Israeli Strike Kills Mother and Her 2 Sons

BEIT LAHIYA, January 17, 2008 (WAFA)-A mother and her two sons were, Thursday evening, killed and three other wounded when Israeli warplanes targeted a car drove near Beit Lahiya Club, north the Gaza Strip.

Hospital sources reported that the victims reached the hospital as black torn to pieces. The victims were identified as the mother Maryam Saleh and her two sons Mohammed and Mansour.

Israeli Soldiers Injure 4, Including Journalist in Hebron

HEBRON, January 17, 2008 (WAFA) - Israeli soldiers injured on Thursday four citizens, including a journalist, during an Israeli thrust into the West Bank city of Hebron.

Local witnesses said Israeli troops opened fire at a group of youths and wounded a number of them, including a journalist working for the French news agency AFP.

They added that the troops forced shops to close and imposed a curfew on several parts of the city.

Jewish Group Condemns Israeli Recent Massacres in Gaza

JERUSALEM, January 17, 2008 (WAFA) - Neturei Karta Jewish Group on Thursday condemned "the recent massacre" in Gaza.

In a press release, the group referred to Tuesday's heavy fighting, which resulted in the death of scores of citizens.

"We cannot understand why great world powers seem to give the Zionists a free hand to commit such crimes against the indigenous Palestinian people from the comfort of their F-16 fighter jets, helicopter gun ships and Merkava tanks, " reads the statement.

Abu Rdeineh Slams Israel Over Gaza Raids

RAMALLAH, January 17, 2008 (WAFA) - Presidency Spokesperson, Nabil Abu Rdeineh, on Thursday slammed Israel over its deadly raids on the Gaza Strip and called on Washington to intervene to preserve renewed peace efforts.

"The Israeli raids and military escalations aim to deliver a blow to the Palestinian-Israeli negotiations," he said.

Abu Rdeineh called on the United States to intervene immediately to prevent a further deterioration, and to preserve the historical chance for peace.

Jordan's Lower House Condemns Israel's "Massacre in Gaza"

AMMAN, January 17, 2008 (WAFA) - The Lower House of Jordanian Parliament on Thursday condemned the continued Israeli "aggression" on the Palestinian territories, saying it was a "dangerous escalation against the Palestinian people."

The lower house said in a statement that "the aggression committed by the Israeli authorities against the Palestinians contravenes principles and resolutions of international legitimacy."

The lower house urged the international community and all peace loving forces that defend right, justice and freedom, to immediately intervene to stop the Israeli massacres.

It also expressed full support to efforts exerted by Jordan under the leadership of Jordanian King Abdullah II to send food, medicine and humanitarian aid to the Palestinians and provide medical treatment to the patients.

Israeli Air Raid Kills Man, Woman in Gaza

GAZA, January 17, 2008 (WAFA) - Two citizens, including a woman, were killed on Thursday in the Gaza Strip in the latest Israeli military strike on the coastal strip, medics said.

PLO: Israel Perpetrates Organized State –Run Terrorism against Palestinian People

RAMALLAH, January 17, 2008 (WAFA)-PLO International and national Relations Department said on Thursday that the continued Israeli escalation and massacres on the Palestinian territories are organized state-run terrorism against the Palestinian people to kill negotiations started recently.

In a statement, it added that Israeli government adopts the policy of killing , escalation and seizing the lands in a step to undermine all international endeavors to revive the peace process in the region.

Israel wants to impose facts on the ground in an attempt to foil any negotiations to discuss the final status issues.

It held the Quartet, the American Administration, the EU and the UN responsible for Israel's acts, calling on these bodies to immediately intervene to stop escalation , barbaric acts and the policy of starvation and economy paralyzing perpetrated by Israel as well as to compel it abides by international accords.
Medics affirmed that two citizens, a man and a woman, were instantly killed and three others were wounded in the strike.

Erikat: Israeli Crimes Destroys Probability to Reach Compromise

RAMALLAH, January 17, 2008 (WAFA)-Head of PLO Negotiations Department, Saeb Erlkat voiced concern of the incapability of the Palestinian delegation to continue negotiations in the light of the continued Israeli aggressions on the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

Speaking to al-Sharq al-Awsat newspaper, Erikat said that the PNA could not continue negotiations alongside with the continuity of aggressions and settlements.

In response to a question the possibility of suspending negotiations, Erikat said that as a matter of fact negotiations have not actually started, adding that the last meeting only tackled the issues of negotiations and the necessity of halting the Israeli aggressions, and the meeting did not discuss any of the final status issues.

He shouldered the Quartet responsibility of the continued aggressions. " If the aggression continues, the Quartet will fail in its role".

Erikat made it clear that Israeli in its ongoing aggression would torpedo the peace process and such crimes would destroy the probability to reach a compromise.

8:10 PM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

WAFA 2-27-07

ISM: IOF Razed Lands for Apartheid Wall Establishment in Bethlehem

BETHLEHEM, February 27, 2007, (WAFA) - International Solidarity Movement (ISM) said that Israeli military bulldozers started razing the farmland of Umm Salamuna village south of Bethlehem city for the establishment of the Apartheid Wall.

In a press release issued Tuesday, ISM said that the bulldozers uprooted hundreds of grape vines and apricot trees belonging to villagers.

ISM added "When the mostly elderly farmers tried to resist by blocking the bulldozers they were beaten and attacked with concussion grenades and tear gas. Two elderly farmers were injured, one of whom was taken to hospital with a broken arm".

After bulldozers withdrew from the area, IOF soldiers detained all the villagers on the land for two hours and searched everyone, claiming they had lost some binoculars. Before leaving IOF soldiers threatened the villagers not to come to their land again or there would be 'serious consequences.

H.M (22:34 P)-(20:34 GMT)

IOF Prevents Medical Care to Asthma Sufferer

NABLUS, February 27, 2007, (WAFA) - Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) prevented on Tuesday an ambulance from reaching a citizen suffers from asthma.

WAFA correspondent revealed that the Nablus resident, Ghareb Selhab, is in a critical condition after being denied access to medical treatment by the IOF.

After tear gas was fired into his house by the IOF, the 47-year old asthma sufferer had a severe attack. An ambulance was prevented from reaching him for two hours. Selhab is now in a critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit of Watani hospital.

Many other Nablus residents have been denied medical treatment due to the ongoing siege. Sources from the Union of Palestinian Medical Relief Committees report that they have been unable to reach 8 people who needed insulin.

H.M (22:10 P)-(20:10 GMT)

Solana Expresses Concern about Israeli Excavations in Al-Aqsa

RABAT, February 27, 2007, (WAFA) - EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy, Javier Solana, expressed Tuesday concern about the excavations undertaken by the Israeli occupation forces in the vicinity of Al-Aqsa Mosque.

In a letter sent to Dr. Abdulaziz Altwaijri, Director General of the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO), Solana said "Pending the findings of such missions, I hope that all parties involved will exercise maximum restraint, in order to avoid further escalation."

ISESCO Director General had previously addressed urgent messages to the UN Secretary General, the EU High Representative for the CFSP, the Secretary General of the COE, the President of the European Commission, and UNESCO Director General, wherein he urged for an immediate action to halt the excavations conducted by the Israeli occupation forces in the precincts of the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

H.M (21:30 P)-(19:30 GMT)

MachsomWatch Publishes its Monthly Report January 2007

TEL AVIV, February 27, 2007 (WAFA) - MachsomWatch - a Human Rights organization of Israeli women who oppose the occupation- published on Tuesday its monthly report January 2007.

MachsomWatch, which is deeply involved with the infringement of freedom of movement of Palestinians within the occupied territories, said the rules at the checkpoints are concealed and each person who is involved with it is familiar only with his or her part. In attempting to cope with this massive bureaucracy, countless hours are wasted and vast sums of money are lost by those poor people who are trapped in the checkpoints.

"About 50 men and women are crowding around the gate at Rihan (Barta'a) CP, most of them laborers who work in the industrial zone of Shahak in the seamzone (the area between the Green Line and the "Security Fence" (Apartheid Wall)), and also agricultural laborers and seamstresses who work in the sewing factory in East Barta'a. The Shahak laborers say that it would be easier for them if they were permitted to go through at the Shaked (Tura) CP which is near their place of work. The seamstresses, who live in Tura, would also prefer to go through from there," said the report. MachsomWatch said people keep coming to the Palestinian parking lot. A little after 07:00 the pressure is gone. It turned out that there was a reason for the crowding in the terminal. The laborers who work at picking oranges near Hadera asked to go through at the Rihan CP, as they were allowed to do recently (that is the shortest way to their work place).

Today, two went through and the rest were not allowed to go through. At the DCO, it adds, they said that their passage at Rihan was a mistake and they had to go through either at Jalameh or at Irtach. About 20 laborers with sacks for picking fruit in their hands went back to the Palestinian parking lot to wait. At about 08:00 they left to go through at Jalameh and thus they will begin their day's work very late.

It said, to Israeli cars who want to pass Shaked CP from Tura to the seamzone are sent back. No Israelis - whether in cars or on foot - are allowed to go through at this CP. Residents of Daher el-Malek and of Umm e-Rihan are allowed to go through the Shaked CP even if their permit says that they have to go through at Rihan.

"06:55 - at this time the lot is packed with cars waiting for laborers, and with dozens of laborers waiting for their ride. They show us the magnetic cards that they were forced to replace with new ones even though the expiration date hasn't been reached. A laborer pays 130 NIS to replace the card because of the transition to identification by finger prints. But there's another problem: since these are manual workers, the skin on their fingers is gnarly, and this makes identification by the machine difficult, and then they are forced to replace the card again (and pay another 130 NIS). One man was forced to replace his card three times within a short period of time, even though its expiration date is a long way off."

A.D (14:20 P) (12:20 GMT)

Jaffa Jewish and Arab Youths Protest against Nablus Invasion

JAFFA, February 27, 2007 (WAFA) - About a hundred demonstrators marched Monday evening through the streets of Jaffa, protesting the isareli troops invasion of Nablus, the massive curfew imposed on the city's inhabitants and the killing of an unarmed inhabitant.

Jewish and Arab demonstrators, a large part of them Jaffa inhabitants, among them members of Anarchists Against Fences, Gush Shalom and the Coalition of Women for Peace marched southwards on Jaffa's Jerusalem Boulevard from which they turned to Yefet St., chanting: "Occupation is illegal, remove the siege!" , "Nablus People, don't despair, we will end the occupation yet!", "Dismantle the Border Guard, get out of the Territories Now!", "Peretz' Peretz, hey hey hey and "how many kids did you kill today?"

After passing Yehuda Hayamit St., the marchers ended two and a half hours of protest with a rally at Jaffa's Clock Tower Square, holding placards reading: "Nablus: hospitals and schools under siege", "300,000 Nablus people under curfew-shame!", "The IDF is the biggest terrorist organization in the Middle East!", and "We must put an end to the madness of Israel", as well as black-bordered signs reading "We mourn Anan a-Tibi, 50 year old Nablus inhabitant who was this morning murdered by the occupation forces while walking unarmed in the streets of his city".

Israeli police patrol cars followed the march throughout, but the police made no attempt to disperse it by force.

"This demonstration was initiated spontaneously by young people who cannot bear to remain silent accomplices in the horrible acts perpetrated in our name in the Occupied Territories, the backyard of the state of Israel. The public is being told of "fighting terror", about "The capture of wanted terrorists" and the "uncovering of explosive labs," the organizers said.

They added that the public is not told that that such a massive use of brute force is arousing hatred against us, and the wish for revenge. The public is not told that the Palestinians are not willing to live under occupation and oppression, that just like us they want to live in freedom.

"The public is not told that acts such as this provocative invasion of Nablus are building up the real 'infrastructure of terror', which is the determination of the Palestinians to maintain their struggle against the occupation We have come hear in order to tell the Israeli public that we will have neither peace nor quiet as long as we continue to oppress the Palestinians" say the organizers.

A.D (13:00 P) (11:00 GMT)

ICAHD to Hold Forum in Old City of Jerusalem

JERUSALEM, February 27, 2007 (WAFA) - The Israeli Committee against House Demolitions (ICAHD) said it will hold its next English-language monthly lecture and discussion series in the "Last Wednesday Forum" on Wednesday, 28th February in the Old City of Jerusalem.

ICAHD said in a press release that the forum is intended to strengthen the dialogue between representatives of the international community and important voices within the critical peace and human rights community in Israel - voices of Israeli NGOs, activist groups and academics seldom heard in official dialogue.

ICAHD said it will meet the veteran archaeologist, Meir Ben-Dov, field director of the Jerusalem excavations following the 1967 war and former professor at the Hebrew University, to discuss the excavations and the building of the Mugrabi bridge as well as for a field excursion followed by a question and answer session.

A.D (12:50 P) (10:50 GMT)

Al-Ahram: Fixing Mecca Agreement is Assertive Issue

CAIRO, February 26, 2007, (WAFA)-Egyptian Al-Ahram newspaper said that fixing the Mecca agreement is an assertive issue as it would lead to establishing a national unity government that lifts the political and economic siege imposed on the Palestinian people.

In its editorial on Tuesday, the paper stressed on the importance of the Summit between President Mahmoud Abbas and President Husni Mubarak to fix the agreement reached between Fateh and Hamas.

Israel endeavors to foil Mecca agreement as, to Israel, will not fulfill its dreams, hence Israeli-American persistent is exerted so as the Palestinian government meet the Quartet's conditions, mainly to recognize Israel and denounce violence, the paper said.

It added that Egypt under the leadership of President Husni Mubarak has exerted utmost efforts to revive the peace process and this is clearly observed during President Mubarak and King Abdulla talks two days ago.

The paper concluded that President Mubarak's stance is firmed, he affirmed that there is no time for temporary solutions or unilateralism for the Palestinian cause, but it is time for reaching a comprehensive peace.

M.H.(10:20 P)(08:20 GMT)

Mossa: Unified Arab Stance to be Crystallized in Riyadh's Arab Summit

CAIRO, February 27, 2007, (WAFA)- Secretary General of Arab league, Amr Mossa, said that a unified Arab stance on the peace process would be crystallized in the Arab Summit next month in Riyadh.

Mossa told reporters overnight that the Arab leaders would discuss in the forthcoming Summit the Arab stance that is based on the Arab peace Initiative adopted in Beirut in 2002, adding that taking into consideration that the Arab-Israeli conflict concerned the two parties, Arab and Israel and not only one party that enjoys all rights and the other applies all commitments.

He added that Israel did not work for peace and the good gesture offered by Arabs should be equivalent to good gesture by Israel and the Arab hand is always stretched out for peace.

M.H.(09:40 P)(07:40 GMT)

11:49 PM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

WAFA 2-27-07

ISM: IOF Razed Lands for Apartheid Wall Establishment in Bethlehem

BETHLEHEM, February 27, 2007, (WAFA) - International Solidarity Movement (ISM) said that Israeli military bulldozers started razing the farmland of Umm Salamuna village south of Bethlehem city for the establishment of the Apartheid Wall.

In a press release issued Tuesday, ISM said that the bulldozers uprooted hundreds of grape vines and apricot trees belonging to villagers.

ISM added "When the mostly elderly farmers tried to resist by blocking the bulldozers they were beaten and attacked with concussion grenades and tear gas. Two elderly farmers were injured, one of whom was taken to hospital with a broken arm".

After bulldozers withdrew from the area, IOF soldiers detained all the villagers on the land for two hours and searched everyone, claiming they had lost some binoculars. Before leaving IOF soldiers threatened the villagers not to come to their land again or there would be 'serious consequences.

H.M (22:34 P)-(20:34 GMT)

IOF Prevents Medical Care to Asthma Sufferer

NABLUS, February 27, 2007, (WAFA) - Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) prevented on Tuesday an ambulance from reaching a citizen suffers from asthma.

WAFA correspondent revealed that the Nablus resident, Ghareb Selhab, is in a critical condition after being denied access to medical treatment by the IOF.

After tear gas was fired into his house by the IOF, the 47-year old asthma sufferer had a severe attack. An ambulance was prevented from reaching him for two hours. Selhab is now in a critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit of Watani hospital.

Many other Nablus residents have been denied medical treatment due to the ongoing siege. Sources from the Union of Palestinian Medical Relief Committees report that they have been unable to reach 8 people who needed insulin.

H.M (22:10 P)-(20:10 GMT)

Solana Expresses Concern about Israeli Excavations in Al-Aqsa

RABAT, February 27, 2007, (WAFA) - EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy, Javier Solana, expressed Tuesday concern about the excavations undertaken by the Israeli occupation forces in the vicinity of Al-Aqsa Mosque.

In a letter sent to Dr. Abdulaziz Altwaijri, Director General of the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO), Solana said "Pending the findings of such missions, I hope that all parties involved will exercise maximum restraint, in order to avoid further escalation."

ISESCO Director General had previously addressed urgent messages to the UN Secretary General, the EU High Representative for the CFSP, the Secretary General of the COE, the President of the European Commission, and UNESCO Director General, wherein he urged for an immediate action to halt the excavations conducted by the Israeli occupation forces in the precincts of the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

H.M (21:30 P)-(19:30 GMT)

MachsomWatch Publishes its Monthly Report January 2007

TEL AVIV, February 27, 2007 (WAFA) - MachsomWatch - a Human Rights organization of Israeli women who oppose the occupation- published on Tuesday its monthly report January 2007.

MachsomWatch, which is deeply involved with the infringement of freedom of movement of Palestinians within the occupied territories, said the rules at the checkpoints are concealed and each person who is involved with it is familiar only with his or her part. In attempting to cope with this massive bureaucracy, countless hours are wasted and vast sums of money are lost by those poor people who are trapped in the checkpoints.

"About 50 men and women are crowding around the gate at Rihan (Barta'a) CP, most of them laborers who work in the industrial zone of Shahak in the seamzone (the area between the Green Line and the "Security Fence" (Apartheid Wall)), and also agricultural laborers and seamstresses who work in the sewing factory in East Barta'a. The Shahak laborers say that it would be easier for them if they were permitted to go through at the Shaked (Tura) CP which is near their place of work. The seamstresses, who live in Tura, would also prefer to go through from there," said the report. MachsomWatch said people keep coming to the Palestinian parking lot. A little after 07:00 the pressure is gone. It turned out that there was a reason for the crowding in the terminal. The laborers who work at picking oranges near Hadera asked to go through at the Rihan CP, as they were allowed to do recently (that is the shortest way to their work place).

Today, two went through and the rest were not allowed to go through. At the DCO, it adds, they said that their passage at Rihan was a mistake and they had to go through either at Jalameh or at Irtach. About 20 laborers with sacks for picking fruit in their hands went back to the Palestinian parking lot to wait. At about 08:00 they left to go through at Jalameh and thus they will begin their day's work very late.

It said, to Israeli cars who want to pass Shaked CP from Tura to the seamzone are sent back. No Israelis - whether in cars or on foot - are allowed to go through at this CP. Residents of Daher el-Malek and of Umm e-Rihan are allowed to go through the Shaked CP even if their permit says that they have to go through at Rihan.

"06:55 - at this time the lot is packed with cars waiting for laborers, and with dozens of laborers waiting for their ride. They show us the magnetic cards that they were forced to replace with new ones even though the expiration date hasn't been reached. A laborer pays 130 NIS to replace the card because of the transition to identification by finger prints. But there's another problem: since these are manual workers, the skin on their fingers is gnarly, and this makes identification by the machine difficult, and then they are forced to replace the card again (and pay another 130 NIS). One man was forced to replace his card three times within a short period of time, even though its expiration date is a long way off."

A.D (14:20 P) (12:20 GMT)

Jaffa Jewish and Arab Youths Protest against Nablus Invasion

JAFFA, February 27, 2007 (WAFA) - About a hundred demonstrators marched Monday evening through the streets of Jaffa, protesting the isareli troops invasion of Nablus, the massive curfew imposed on the city's inhabitants and the killing of an unarmed inhabitant.

Jewish and Arab demonstrators, a large part of them Jaffa inhabitants, among them members of Anarchists Against Fences, Gush Shalom and the Coalition of Women for Peace marched southwards on Jaffa's Jerusalem Boulevard from which they turned to Yefet St., chanting: "Occupation is illegal, remove the siege!" , "Nablus People, don't despair, we will end the occupation yet!", "Dismantle the Border Guard, get out of the Territories Now!", "Peretz' Peretz, hey hey hey and "how many kids did you kill today?"

After passing Yehuda Hayamit St., the marchers ended two and a half hours of protest with a rally at Jaffa's Clock Tower Square, holding placards reading: "Nablus: hospitals and schools under siege", "300,000 Nablus people under curfew-shame!", "The IDF is the biggest terrorist organization in the Middle East!", and "We must put an end to the madness of Israel", as well as black-bordered signs reading "We mourn Anan a-Tibi, 50 year old Nablus inhabitant who was this morning murdered by the occupation forces while walking unarmed in the streets of his city".

Israeli police patrol cars followed the march throughout, but the police made no attempt to disperse it by force.

"This demonstration was initiated spontaneously by young people who cannot bear to remain silent accomplices in the horrible acts perpetrated in our name in the Occupied Territories, the backyard of the state of Israel. The public is being told of "fighting terror", about "The capture of wanted terrorists" and the "uncovering of explosive labs," the organizers said.

They added that the public is not told that that such a massive use of brute force is arousing hatred against us, and the wish for revenge. The public is not told that the Palestinians are not willing to live under occupation and oppression, that just like us they want to live in freedom.

"The public is not told that acts such as this provocative invasion of Nablus are building up the real 'infrastructure of terror', which is the determination of the Palestinians to maintain their struggle against the occupation We have come hear in order to tell the Israeli public that we will have neither peace nor quiet as long as we continue to oppress the Palestinians" say the organizers.

A.D (13:00 P) (11:00 GMT)

ICAHD to Hold Forum in Old City of Jerusalem

JERUSALEM, February 27, 2007 (WAFA) - The Israeli Committee against House Demolitions (ICAHD) said it will hold its next English-language monthly lecture and discussion series in the "Last Wednesday Forum" on Wednesday, 28th February in the Old City of Jerusalem.

ICAHD said in a press release that the forum is intended to strengthen the dialogue between representatives of the international community and important voices within the critical peace and human rights community in Israel - voices of Israeli NGOs, activist groups and academics seldom heard in official dialogue.

ICAHD said it will meet the veteran archaeologist, Meir Ben-Dov, field director of the Jerusalem excavations following the 1967 war and former professor at the Hebrew University, to discuss the excavations and the building of the Mugrabi bridge as well as for a field excursion followed by a question and answer session.

A.D (12:50 P) (10:50 GMT)

Al-Ahram: Fixing Mecca Agreement is Assertive Issue

CAIRO, February 26, 2007, (WAFA)-Egyptian Al-Ahram newspaper said that fixing the Mecca agreement is an assertive issue as it would lead to establishing a national unity government that lifts the political and economic siege imposed on the Palestinian people.

In its editorial on Tuesday, the paper stressed on the importance of the Summit between President Mahmoud Abbas and President Husni Mubarak to fix the agreement reached between Fateh and Hamas.

Israel endeavors to foil Mecca agreement as, to Israel, will not fulfill its dreams, hence Israeli-American persistent is exerted so as the Palestinian government meet the Quartet's conditions, mainly to recognize Israel and denounce violence, the paper said.

It added that Egypt under the leadership of President Husni Mubarak has exerted utmost efforts to revive the peace process and this is clearly observed during President Mubarak and King Abdulla talks two days ago.

The paper concluded that President Mubarak's stance is firmed, he affirmed that there is no time for temporary solutions or unilateralism for the Palestinian cause, but it is time for reaching a comprehensive peace.

M.H.(10:20 P)(08:20 GMT)

Mossa: Unified Arab Stance to be Crystallized in Riyadh's Arab Summit

CAIRO, February 27, 2007, (WAFA)- Secretary General of Arab league, Amr Mossa, said that a unified Arab stance on the peace process would be crystallized in the Arab Summit next month in Riyadh.

Mossa told reporters overnight that the Arab leaders would discuss in the forthcoming Summit the Arab stance that is based on the Arab peace Initiative adopted in Beirut in 2002, adding that taking into consideration that the Arab-Israeli conflict concerned the two parties, Arab and Israel and not only one party that enjoys all rights and the other applies all commitments.

He added that Israel did not work for peace and the good gesture offered by Arabs should be equivalent to good gesture by Israel and the Arab hand is always stretched out for peace.

M.H.(09:40 P)(07:40 GMT)

11:49 PM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

WAFA 2-19-07

IOF Arrests 3 Citizens in WB

HEBRON, February 19, 2007, (WAFA)-Israeli Occupation Forces(IOF) arrested Monday morning three citizens in the West Bank(WB) cities of Hebron and Nabluse, security sources said.

They added that a physician Mahmoud Shihada 54, of Abu Kteila area, central Hebron city was arrested by Israeli soldiers and taken into an unknown spot.

In Nablus, Israeli soldiers, backed number of military vehicles, stormed at dawn the city and Balata refugee camp, conducted a search campaign into citizens' houses and arrested two citizens, leading them into an unknown destination, locals said.

In the meantime, Israeli occupation authorities have seized control on vast areas of citizens' lands in south Nablus city.

M.H.(13:18 P)(11:18 GMT)

Jewish Colonisers Storm Masque in Hebron

HEBRON, February 19, 2007, (WAFA)-Scores of Jewish colonisers broke Monday into al-Aqbat masque in the West Bank city of Hebron, sources said.

Tens of colonisers stormed al-Aqbat mosque in the Old City of Hebron and positioned themselves inside it.

Director General of Waqf , Tayseer Abu Sneinah said that colonisers attacked the mosque and ransacked its property several times during the last four years as an. attempt to expand the neighbouring outpost, Abraham.

Israeli authorities had closed the mosque since the eruption of AL-Aqsa Intifada in 2000 and panned worshipers performing their prayers.

M.H.(13:00 P)(11:00 GMT)

Jewish Colonisers Storm Masque in Hebron

HEBRON, February 19, 2007, (WAFA)-Scores of Jewish colonisers broke Monday into al-Aqbat masque in the West Bank city of Hebron, sources said.

Tens of colonisers stormed al-Aqbat mosque in the Old City of Hebron and positioned themselves inside it.

Director General of Waqf , Tayseer Abu Sneinah said that colonisers attacked the mosque and ransacked its property several times during the last four years as an. attempt to expand the neighbouring outpost, Abraham.

Israeli authorities had closed the mosque since the eruption of AL-Aqsa Intifada in 2000 and panned worshipers performing their prayers.

M.H.(13:00 P)(11:00 GMT)

Abbas, Olmert and Rice Meeting Starts in Jerusalem

JERUSALAM, February 19, 2007, (WAFA)-The trilateral meeting between President Mahmoud Abbas, Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice has started today at the David's Citadel Hotel in Jerusalem.

The President said Sunday during meeting with Dr. Rice in Ramallah that the trilateral meeting would focus on ways to push the peace process forward and explore the horizon of Palestinian- Israeli relations.

M.H. (11:15 P)(09:15 GMT)

PCBS Launches Official Dynamic Statistical Atlas of Palestine

RAMALLAH, February 19, 2007, (WAFA)-The Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) has organized Monday a workshop to announce the "Launching of the official Dynamic Statistical Atlas of Palestine."

In a press release, PCBS said that the workshop was aimed to focus on the main aims of the atlas, its objectives, the contents of the atlas, the statistical indicators which are presented in the maps, and the future plans to update the atlas. Also the workshop was aimed to discuss the possible procedures to develop the atlas in cooperation with the other stakeholders.

The Participants would discuss the presented information and provided their comments and recommendations to fulfill the national needs from the statistical atlas.

"Since the foundation of the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) in1993, it endeavors to provide recent and precise data that cover statistical indicators. PCBS had conducted many periodic surveys in addition to the population, housing and establishment census 1997 to build a comprehensive information system that represents a true and clear picture of the Palestinians political, economical, social and land situation," PCBS said.

PCBS persists to provide data on statistical indicators to all interested users in various ways and methods: publications, books, conferences, workshops, international network (Internet) or by any other available method in order to reach as many users as possible.

Using maps in general and statistical maps in specific is considered as an important tool for presenting statistical data, since it is considered a concise, easy and clear way to provide the user with the information, it added.

"Producing this Atlas is considered as an important output of PCBS as well as it is considered a developed method of statistical data dissemination. It is a distinguished and qualitative transfer in the Bureau work, as it includes computerized statistical maps using the latest technologies and programs used in GIS.The atlas site consists of statistical maps covering a wide range of the most important statistical indicators in demography, economic and land. Also the atlas site provides a summary of the concepts and definitions used in these maps, methodology of data collection and data quality," PCBS said.

M.H.(11:00 P)(09:00 GMT) .

Moussa Calls for Lifting Siege on Palestinian People

AL-KHARTOUM, February, 19, 2007, (WAFA)-Secretary General of the League of Arab States,Mr. Amr Moussa stressed the necessity to lift international siege imposed on the Palestinian people.

In a statement to Kuiati News Agency (KUNA) in al-Khartoum, Mr. Moussa said that the formation of the Palestinian national unity government is the democratic national well of the Palestinian people.

Moussa added that the Ministerial Committee to follow up the implementation of the Arab Summit's resolutions and commitments would convene today to reactivate the Arab League Council's decision to break siege imposed on the Palestinian people.

M.H.(09:37 P)(07:37 GMT)

10:13 PM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

WAFA 2-13-07

Palestine Observer to UN Hopes Int'l Sanction Lifting

NEW YORK, February 13, 2007, (WAFA) -Permanent Observer of Palestine to the United Nations, Riyad Mansour, thanked Tuesday the Saudi Arabia for its valuable effort to unify Palestinians and a form a Palestinian national unity government.

Speaking before the Security Council on the situation in the Middle East, Mansour also thanked all the other Arab leaders who have contributed to this success.

Mansour revealed that the agreement endorsed the cessation of any and all internal strife among the Palestinian people and the approval for the speedy formation of a national unity government.

"The importance of national unity was reaffirmed in order to achieve the legitimate national goals of the Palestinian people. As such, peaceful dialogue will now serve as the sole basis for solving political differences among Palestinian people", he added.

He pointed out that the leaders of the Palestinian people pledged their commitment to the agreement in letter and in spirit and pledged to devote their efforts to eliminating the Israeli occupation and regaining the national rights of the Palestinian people.

Moreover, key issues, such as occupied East Jerusalem, the Palestinian Refugees, the prisoners and detainees, and the continuation of the illegal construction and building by Israel of its Wall and settlements throughout the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, will be given top priority.

He hoped that the future formation of a national unity government based on the above-mentioned principles should provide for the lifting of the financial blockade imposed against the Palestinian people by some in the international community after democratic elections were held in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, in January last year.

H.M (23:10 P)-(21:10 GMT)

Qatar: Israeli violations in Al-Aqsa are Illegal and Invalid

NEW YORK, February 13, 2007, (WAFA) - Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations, Ambassador Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser, said that Israeli violations in Al-Aqsa are illegal and invalid.

Speaking before the Security Council on the situation in the Middle East, Al-Nasser revealed that the Palestinian territories had seen a different kind of escalation when Israeli authorities had violated the sanctity of the Al-Aqsa compound, allowing for demolitions and excavations.

He pointed out that those excavations were part of a pattern of actions by Israel to change the legal status of occupied Jerusalem and its historic and religious landmarks.

Al-Nasser also stated that the dialogue between Hamas and Fatah in Mecca had positive results, adding that the step towards a Government of national unity was basic for the resumption of the peace process.

H.M (22:05 P)-(20:05 GMT)

De Soto: Some Factors are Helpful to Restore Calm and Achieve Peace

NEW YORK, February 13, 2007, (WAFA)- UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Alvaro de Soto, said that a convergence of positive factors have the potential to help restore calm and re-energize efforts to achieve a two-State solution.

Speaking before the Security Council on the situation in the Middle East, Soto revealed factors represented by the new Palestinian unity Government and the first political talks between Israeli and Palestinian leaders in six years, adding that many immediate and longer-term challenges need to be overcome.

"While we have reason to sound more hopeful today than we have been in previous briefings, no one should under-estimate the enormity of the tasks that would face any new Palestinian Government, or the many difficulties in the way of fruitful discussions between Israel and the Palestinians," Soto added.

He also pointed to "a newly active Quartet," referring to the diplomatic of the UN, Russia, European Union (EU) and United States which met earlier this month and will again meet next week in an effort to advance its Road Map plan of two-State solution, with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace, originally slated for completion by the end of 2005.

Soto noted that members of the Quartet was now awaiting the formation of the new Palestinian Government and "have reaffirmed their support for a government committed to non-violence, recognition of Israel and acceptance of previous agreements and obligations, including the Road Map."

He also voiced "deep concern" over Israeli construction and archaeological work in the Old City of Jerusalem, which has been widely condemned by Arab and Muslim Governments.

Other challenges included the grave deterioration in the Palestinian economy, with truck crossings into Gaza representing only 11 per cent of the number laid out in an agreement on movement and access. There has also been serious degradation of Palestinian institutions such as schools, hospitals and ministries, due to strikes and a cut-off of international funds after Hamas formed a government.

A third set of challenges is posed by "the continued lack of any positive Israeli action to remove settlement outposts and the continued settlement activity and barrier on occupied Palestinian territory," Mr. de Soto declared. "It is vital that action is taken to ensure that final status issues are not further prejudiced by the creation of facts on the ground.

H.M (21:45 P)-(19:45 GMT)

IOF Arrests 16 Citizens in West Bank

WEST BANK, February 13, 2007, (WAFA)- Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) arrested on Tuesday sixteen citizens in the West Bank, security sources told WAFA.

The sources revealed that at least thirteen citizens, some of them under 18, were arrested on Tuesday morning in the city of Hebron.

Security sources, and witnesses, said that IOF stormed several houses in different parts of the city and arrested thirteen citizens.

In the mean time, IOF arrested two citizens in the city of Nablus, and one citizen in Bethlehem, the sources said.

S.A.S. (12:55 P) (10:55 GMT)

USAID Provides Gaza Hospitals with Blood Bags

GAZA, February 13, 2007, (WAFA)- The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has funded the delivery of 3,500 blood bags to be distributed to seven hospitals in Gaza.

In its press release issued Tuesday, USAID said its assistance came in response to a dangerous shortage of specialized plastic bags used to collect and store blood for transfusions.

The blood bags were delivered through CARE International on February 6, it said.

It added that this will increase the capacity of these hospitals to store blood needed for transfusions and for use in surgeries and other medical procedures.

The $14,642 procurement of blood bags is part of USAID's Emergency Medical Assistance Program that responds to urgent humanitarian needs in the West Bank and Gaza.

S.A.S. (12:20 P) (10:20 GMT)

Prisoner's Family Calls for Saving Its Son

NABLUS, February 13, 2007, (WAFA)- Family of prisoner, Ismail Aljammal 24, from Nablus, called on HR organizations to pressurize Israel to release him for his health deterioration.

The family issued a statement on Tuesday saying that Aljammal should be released to be able to receive medical treatment.

Yehia Aljammal, the brother of Ismail, said that his brother suffers diseases in blood vissles and needs critical treatment while the Israeli jailers neglect his disease.

Aljammal was arrested on January 1, 2004 and sentenced for 10 years in prison for participation in resisting the Israeli occupation.

Last Month, Jamal al-Sarahin 37, from Hebron died, on January 16, 2007, in Israeli prison because of health deterioration.

S.A.S. (12:11 P) (10:11 GMT)

Official Statistics: 10400 Palestinian Prisoners in Israeli Jails, including Women and Children

GAZA, February 13, 2007, (WAFA)- Ministry of Prisoners (MPA) said that 10400 Palestinian prisoners live inhuman circumstances in 30 Israeli prisons.

In its reports, issued Tuesday, MPA revealed that Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) arrested 600 women and 6000 children during al-Aqsa Intifada erupted in September 2000.

It added that 118 female prisoners and 330 children are still detained in Israeli jails facing daily Israeli torture and provocation. MPA mentioned that hundreds of children became more than 18 year-old inside prisons.

MPA said that most of prisoners suffer various physical and psychological diseases as a result of the inhuman circumstances of living.

It affirmed that at least 1000 prisoners suffer chronic diseases like pain of cartilage, cardiac diseases, diabetes and rheumatism, including 150 prisoners in critical case as a result of cancer, paralysis and kidney failure.

MPA mentioned that 553 prisoners are detained before al-Aqsa Intifada, including 367 who detained before Oslo Accord in 1993.

Ministry of Prisoners Affairs concluded its report by mentioning to the Israeli killing of prisoners inside prisons, recalling Jamal al-Sarahin 37, from Hebron who died because of health deterioration on January 16, 2007.

S.A.S. (11:40 P) (09:40 GMT)

Rafah Crossing Operates Today

RAFAH, February 13, 2007 (WAFA) - The Rafah border Crossing with Egypt in the southern Gaza Strip is still operating Tuesday in both ways, Wael Dahab, Spokesperson of Crossings and Presidential Guard said.

Dahab told WAFA that the Crossing would open today at 8:00 am until 5:00 pm, adding that the crossing will be freely opened for citizens entering into Gaza, when only critical patients who are transferred for treatment abroad and students who study abroad will be allowed to cross into Egypt.

He mentioned that 1200 passengers could leave the Gaza Strip and 511 could enter into Gaza Strip from the Egyptian side Yesterday.

M.H.(10:19 P)(08:19 GMT)

IOF Kills Citizen, Wounds another in East Gaza

GAZA, February 13, 2007, (WAFA)-Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) killed Tuesday morning a citizen and wounded another in the east of the Gaza Strip, local sources and witnesses said.

They added that Israeli soldiers, stationed at the borders line closed to the area of martyrs cemetery, opened fire toward citizens' houses, killing one citizen.

Medical sources reported that Mohammed al-Sa'eidi 22, was killed and another was wounded and endeavors are under way to save his life, but Israeli soldiers banned paramedics reaching the scene.

M.H.(10:11 P)(08:11 GMT)

Israeli Soldiers Wound 2 Citizens in North Gaza Strip

JABALYA, February 13, 2007, (WAFA)-Israeli Occupation Forces(IOF) shot and wounded Tuesday at pr-dawn two citizens in the north of the Gaza Strip, WAFA reporter said.

He added that Israeli soldiers, stationed at the borders line, opened fire toward a group of citizens and wounding two of them.The IOF also prevented paramedics to evacuate the wounded.

M.H.(09:00 P)(07:00 GMT)

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WAFA 2-11 & 2-12-07

PM Calls for National Reconciliation

GAZA, February 12, 2007 (WAFA) - Prime Minister, Ismail Haniya, called on Monday for an inclusive national reconciliation between Palestinians.

Haniya remarks came during a TV address in which he highlighted the Palestinian people to the results of the Makka agreement, saying that this agreement had put an end to the armed confrontation between Palestinians.

The Primer also affirmed that the Palestinian people have only the choice of reconciliation and unity so as to reach the Palestinians legitimate rights.

H.M (22:45 P)-(20:45 GMT)

President Stresses Protection for Palestinians in Iraq

AMMAN, February 12, 2007 (WAFA) - President Mahmoud Abbas affirmed Monday the necessity to provide ultimate protection for Palestinians refugees in Iraq.

During a phone call with Iraqi president, Jalal Talabani, the President described to his Iraqi counterpart the hard circumstances that the Palestinians are passing through and which pushed majority of them to flee out of Iraq, stressing the necessity to supply Palestinian refugees with accurate security.

The president also briefed Talabani on the latest developments in the Palestinian territories and the Makka agreement as well as the Israeli excavation in Al-Aqsa.

H.M (20:20 P)-(18:20 GMT)

GCMHP Condemns Diggings Near Al-Aqsa Mosque

GAZA, February 12, 2007 (WAFA) - Gaza Community Mental Health Programme (GCMHP) condemned Monday the diggings near Al-Aqsa mosque, warning of the ramifications of agitating Muslims' feelings.

In a press release, GCMHP expressed its full condemnation for this dangerous act that harms holy places and highly inflames Muslims feelings.

"The diggings and destruction to the Mosque is considered a clear provocation to Muslims worldwide and a blatant violation of the principles of the international law, particularly, the fourth Geneva Convention that prohibits the destruction of civilian properties - especially holy places," according to the press release.

"Such acts bring memories back to what Al-Aqsa was previously exposed to of incidents that violated its sacredness and led to eruption of violence in the region."

GCMHP stressed that Al-Aqsa Mosque represents a significant part of Palestinian and all Muslims' identity all over the world. As a result, says GCMHP, any damage to the mosque is considered a direct harm to the identity of all Muslims, which may result in eruption of instability in many parts of the world.

GCMHP added it views this provocative act, politically supported and covered by the Israeli government yesterday, as a way of igniting feelings of anger and congestion of all Muslims, and lead to reactions that may convert the whole region and the international community into a vicious cycle of violence and counter-violence and clashes between religions and civilizations in a manner that endangers the world peace and stability.

It called upon the world governments, the UN agencies, and legal and cultural organizations to take their legal and humanitarian responsibilities and immediately intervene to stop such dangerous practices, warning of the negative repercussions of the continuation of exposure to the holy places.

A.D (13:55 P) (11:55 GMT)

Israeli Special Units Abduct Boy, Wound another in Bethlehem

BETHLEHEM, February 12, 2007 (WAFA)- An Israeli special unit kidnapped Monday a sixty-year-old boy in the West Bank city of Bethlehem, WAFA reporter said.

He added that an Israeli special unit, embarking a ISUZU civil car, stormed al-Dheisha refugee camp of Bethlehem and abducted Hamza Hamamda, quickly leaving the area.

In the meantime, Israeli soldiers beaten up the schoolboy Mohammed Salah 17, of al-Khader town, as he was heading to school, casing him some injuries. He was taken to Beit Jala hospital and his condition is reported to be moderate.

M.H.(11:45 P)(09:45 GMT)

Grand Mufti Condemns Israel's Decision to Resume Excavations in Al-Aqsa

JERUSALEM, February 12, 2007 (WAFA) - Grand Mufti of Jerusalem and the Palestinian territories, Mohammed Hussein condemned Monday Israel's decision to resume excavation works under the holy al-Aqsa Mosque.

The Mufti called in a press release upon Arab and Muslim regimes for immediate intervention to save the Mosque.

He said that the Arab and Muslim governments should do something to protect the Mosque, asserting that a real response must be delivered to Israel for its violations against the Islamic shrine in Jerusalem.

He also called upon international community to exercise its role to protect this Islamic and human legacy before it is demolished, which may threaten the international and regional security and peace.

A.D (11:29 P) (09:29 GMT)

Prisoners Suffer Harsh Living Conditions in al-Damoun Israeli Jail

TOBAS, February 12, 2007, (WAFA)-Palestinian Prisoners Society (PPS) said Monday that Palestinian prisoners in al-Damoun Israeli jail suffered from harsh living conditions.

PPS told WAFA that Israeli occupation authorities have isolated the prisoners and cut off water for twenty-five hours as well as prevented them from following the service of channels news.

It called on HR organizations to prevent such Israeli measures which contradict international law and pacts.

M.H.(10:35 P)(08:35 GMT)

Dahab: Rafah Crossing Opened Monday

FARAH, February 12, 2007 (WAFA) - The Rafah border Crossing with Egypt in the southern Gaza Strip was opened Monday morning for travelers in both ways, Wael Dahab, Spokesperson of Crossings and Presidential Guard said.

Dahab told WAFA that the Crossing was opened at 8:00 am and will be operating until 5:00 pm. He said the crossing will be freely opened for citizens entering into Gaza, when only critical patients who are transferred for treatment abroad and students who study abroad will be allowed to cross into Egypt.

A.D (09:23 P) (07:23 GMT)

Citizen Wounded , 9 others Arrested in Nablus

NABLUS, February 12, 2007, (WAFA)-Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) wounded Monday at pre-dawn a citizen and arrested nine others in the West Bank city of Nablus, witnesses said.

They added that Israeli soldiers stormed Nablus city and opened fire toward the citizen Samer al-Dbeik, hitting him in right foot. The soldiers also conducted a search campaign into citizens' houses , destroyed furniture and arrested nine citizens. They were led into an unknown location.

M.H.(09:21 P)(07:21 GMT)

Arab Interim Parliament Hopes Unity Government be Formed Soon

CAIRO, February 12, 2007 (WAFA) - The Interim Arab Parliament expressed hopes that the national unity government would be formed soon in accordance with the Mecca Agreement.

Speaker of the Parliament Mohammed al-Saqer,said in a press release, that the international community should work for lifting the siege imposed on the Palestinian people and do the utmost of its power to implement the resolutions of the international legitimacy which call for the establishing a Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.

Al-Saqer described Mecca Agreement as a positive step, wishing that making such a deal and honoring the language of dialogue in stead of fight will prevail.

A.D (8:55 P) (06:55 GMT)

Abbas: Coming Government Qualified for Good Relations with the World

AMMAN, February 11, 2007, (WAFA) - President Mahmoud Abbas said that the agenda of the national unity government would qualify it to have good relations with the international community.

During a meeting in Amman with Jordanian Prime Minister, Marouf al-Bakhit, the President briefed al-Bakhit on the latest developments in the Palestinian territories and the results emerged from Makka agreements.

The President also revealed that the upcoming government would be able to meet its duties, adding that he tackled procedures that would be taken during his coming meeting with Israeli primer, Ehud Olmert, and the US Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice.

For his part, al-Bakhit expressed Jordan full support for procedures that would lead to firm the Palestinian national unity and strength the Palestinians ability to regain their legitimate rights.

He also hailed the Makka agreement, hoping for a swift formation of the unity government in order to end the international siege and to revitalize the peace process.

H.M (00:10 P)-(10:10 GMT)

Illegal Settlement Expansion Exposed on Bil'in Village Land

RAMALLAH, February 11, 2007, (WAFA) - International Solidarity Movement (ISM) revealed that Israeli construction companies have continued its work in a colony near Ramallah despite Supreme Court rule that settlement activity must stop.

ISM said that villagers from Bil'in today accessed their land on the other side of the Apartheid Wall in order to plant trees. The Israeli Supreme Court had previously ruled that this land, which has been built on for the expansion of the illegal Matityahu East colony, rightfully belongs to the village of Bil'in and that all settlement activity must stop.

Despite this, construction companies have continued to expand the infrastructure of the illegal settlement. Whilst digging today Bil'in villager's uncovered water pipes and phone lines under this land in violation of the Supreme Court ruling, that this land shouldn't be used as a utility right of way for the settlement.

H.M (20:56 P) (18:56 GMT)

Turkey Says Israeli Unilateral Acts in Jerusalem Cause Major Indignation in Islamic World

ANKARA, February 11, 2007, (WAFA) - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey said that Israeli unilateral acts in Jerusalem concern all Muslims and cause a major indignation in the Islamic world.

In a press release issued Sunday, the ministry revealed that excavations that were put in action by Israel in the old city of Jerusalem to build a new bridge under the justifications that the historical bridge in front of the Magharbeh Gate in Haram al- Shareef in Jerusalem has been rendered useless, have led to major massive reaction and as a result of that clashes erupted between the Palestinian protesters that marched in demonstrations and the Israeli security forces.

"Some sad events had happened in the past that were relevant to Haram al-shareef a place which is considered as one of the holist sites of the Islamic world. Hence, it is necessary to derive lessons from the past events and avoid attitudes and actions that would provide and create new tensions," the ministry added.

It also pointed out that "In a period were hopes are raised for the revitalisation of the peace process, there is a need to act with common sense and responsibility in order to maintain this constructive atmosphere."

"It is our expectation that a course of conduct that respects the holiness of the site be approached so as not to lead the current situation into a further escalation and in addition to that there is a need to adopt the tension that resulted from it. We are bringing our views to the attention of the Israeli side." the Ministry concluded.

H.M (20:37 P) (18:37 GMT)

Turkey Calls for Constructive Approach towards New Palestinian National Unity Government

ANKARA, February 11, 2007, (WAFA) - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey called on the international community to take a constructive approach towards the new Palestinian National Unity Government.

In a press release issued Sunday, the ministry hoped the new government would be formed and the public order in Palestine would be restored, Palestinian people's hardships would be alleviated, and necessary steps for the renovation of the institutions would be launched rapidly in all fields, primarily in the fields of health, education and security.

It also added that the new government would contribute in giving the priority to the revitalisation of the peace process on the basis of the relevant UN resolutions and Road Map is highly desirable.

"In the light of the previous experiences lessons that were obtained in the period after the Palestinian Legislative Council elections, and taking into consideration the expectations of Palestinian people and the recommendations of the international community into in the political program of the new national unity government we see that this would contribute a lot into solving difficulties facing the Palestinian people," the ministry added.

It regarded that the new Palestinian National Unity Government as an important opportunity to rapidly remove the tension in the Gaza Strip, and a step towards overcoming the Palestinian people's deep economic hardships, and for the revitalization of the peace process.

The ministry called the international community to act in a supportive manner in order to let the Palestinians undertake expected steps towards the removal of the social and economic hardships, and also to take into consideration the expectations of the Palestinian people.

H.M (20:31 P) (18:31 GMT)

President Holds Talks with Egypt's Mubarak

CAIRO, February 11, 2007 (WAFA)- President Mahmoud Abbas held Sunday in Cairo talks with the Egyptian President Husni Mubarak.

Talks were focused on the Mecca agreement for national reconciliation which stipulates that the Palestinian blood is redline that cannot be crossed and the principle of political partnership as well as the formation of the Palestinian national government and the reactivation of the PLO.

The two leaders discussed Israel's campaign to Judaize Jerusalem, particularly excavations in Bab al-Maghariba near al-Aqsa mosque.

M.H.(11:07 P)(09:07 GMT)

PM Calls for National Reconciliation

GAZA, February 12, 2007 (WAFA) - Prime Minister, Ismail Haniya, called on Monday for an inclusive national reconciliation between Palestinians.

Haniya remarks came during a TV address in which he highlighted the Palestinian people to the results of the Makka agreement, saying that this agreement had put an end to the armed confrontation between Palestinians.

The Primer also affirmed that the Palestinian people have only the choice of reconciliation and unity so as to reach the Palestinians legitimate rights.

H.M (22:45 P)-(20:45 GMT)

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WAFA 2-5-07

4 Citizens Killed, 65 Wounded in Last Month

GAZA, February 5, 2007, (WAFA)-Israeli Occupation Forces(IOF) killed 4 citizens and wounded 65 in the West Bank(WB) and Gaza Strip(GS) last month.

Palestinian Committee for Human Rights Culture, Hadaf, said Monday in a report that Israeli occupation flagrant violations against Palestinian people caused the death of the prisoner Jamal al-Saraheen in Negev jail and the death of the child Abeer al-A'rameen 11-year-old as well as the death of worker in Ber Sheva.

The report mentioned that Israeli soldiers arrested 259 citizens in WB, including 6 citizens in GS as well as 16 incursions in WB and GS.

The report concluded that Israeli bulldozers destroyed 1500 Donums in Bethlehem.

M.H.(14:40 P)(12:40 GMT)

Olmert Rejects Evacuating Illegal Outposts in WB

TEL AVIV, February 5, 2007, (WAFA)-Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert rejected Israeli Defense Minister Amir Peretz's proposal to evacuate several illegal West Bank(WB) outposts, Haaretz daily reported Monday.

The daily said that during a meeting between the two, Peretz suggested three or four possible outposts but Olmert replied that the timing is not right.

Sources in the Prime Minister's Office said Peretz proposed tiny outposts with just a few trailers. The sources say the premier is in favor of removing illegal outposts, but supports developing a comprehensive plan on the matter, according to the daily.

Israel is committed to former prime minister Ariel Sharon's promise to the Washington administration to dismantle illegal outposts created since 2001. The cabinet has debated the matter several times, but not a single outpost has been dismantled in practice.

In December, Haaretz reported that civil administration figures showed 200 structures were erected in late 2006 at various outposts in the West Bank.

M.H.(10:38 p)(08:38 GMT)

IOF Arrests 10 Citizens, Including Woman in Jenin

JENIN, February 5, 2007, (WAFA)-Israeli Occupation Forces(IOF) arrested Monday morning ten citizens, including a woman in the West Bank (WB) city of Jenin , security sources said.

They added that Israeli soldiers, backed by 18 military vehicles, stormed Jenin refugee camp, launched a search campaign into citizens' houses and arrested five citizens , leading them into an unknown location.

The soldiers also stormed Masliya village, north WB, conducted a house-to-house search campaign and arrested four citizens, Head of the Rural Council told WAFA.

In the meantime, the IOF stormed Arraba town, south Jenin city , besieged the house of Maha al-A'ridah 26, and arrested her. She was taken into an unknown detination, witnesses said.

M.H.(10:26 P)(08:26 GMT)

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WAFA 2-4-07

Al-Tamimi Calls on Arab and Islamic World to Stop Israeli Procedures against AL-Aqsa Mosque

RAMALLAH, February 4, 2007, (WAFA)-The Chief Palestinian Islamic Justice, Sheikh Tayssir al-Tamimi called Sunday on Arab and Islamic world to immediately move and stop Israeli procedures to judaize and demolish al-Aqsa mosque.

He affirmed that Israeli government ordered Israeli bulldozers to start today destroying the bridge connects al-Haram al-Shareef with Bab al-Magharba in Jerusalem.

Al-Tamimi called on the United Nations and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to shoulder its responsibility and protect the holy shrines in Jerusalem, affirming that Jerusalem city is exposing to "kidnap" in light of judaization and ethnic cleansing at the hand of Israeli occupation authorities.

M.H.(14:12 P)(12:12 GMT)

OIC Warns against Demolishing Bridge of Bab AL-Magharba in Al-Aqsa Mosque

JEDDA, February 4, 2007, (WAFA)-The Secretary General of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC), Prof. Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu wormed Sunday against Israel's demolishing the bridge connects al-Haram al-Shareef with Bab al-Magharba in Jerusalem.

In a statement, Ihsanoglu said this Israeli attack against Islamic shrines would lead to beyond the pale results and a flagrant violation to international law, adding that the occupying state is irreconcilable to alter the shape of religious and historical sites.

He called on international community to pressure Israel's government to stop its plans against Jerusalem and al-Aqsa mosque.

M.H.(13:52 P)(11:52 GMT)

11 Detainees Transferred into Administrative Detention in Habron

HEBRON, February 4, 2007, (WAFA)-Israeli Occupation Authorities transferred on Sunday eleven detainees to administrative detention in the West Bank city of Hebron.

Palestinian Prisoners Society (PPS) said that Israeli military court, Ofer, sentenced 6 months administratively on eleven detainees and transferred 35 others in introgation in Ashkelon and al-Maskoubiya Israeli jails.

M.H.(13:08 P)(11:08 GMT)

Israeli Authorities Bar Worshippers Approaching Al-Aqsa Yard

JERUSALAM, February 4, 2007, (WAFA)-Israeli Authorities decided on Sunday to ban Palestinian worshippers approaching the yard of al-Aqsa mosque to continue excavating beneath it, sources said.

They added that Israeli authorities allowed above 45-year-old to show up only today, on Sunday and banned those under this age.

Worth mentioning , Israel authority intends today to destroy the root leads to Bab al-Magharba in an attempt to alter its historical features.

M.H.(13:10 P)(09:10 GMT)

Fida Calls for Protecting AL-Aqsa Mosgue

RAMALLAH, February 4, 2007, (WAFA)-Palestinian Democratic Union(Fida) condemned Sunday Israeli plans to attack al-Aqsa mosque and the Islamic and Christian shrines in Jerusalem.

In a statement, Fida called on the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) and Jerusalem Committee to shoulder responsibility and stop Israeli aggressive plans against al-Aqsa mosque.

It called on the United Nations and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to immediately intervene, in accordance to international agreements, to compel Israeli government halt its provocative and planned acts target educational, religious and cultural sites in Jerusalem.

M.H.(12:54 P)(10:54 GMT)

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WAFA 2-3-07

UN Agencies Working in OPT Alarmed by Deteriorating Security Situation in Gaza

GENEVA, February 3, 2007 (WAFA) - The United Nations Agencies working in the occupied Palestinian territory said Saturday the are extremely alarmed by the deteriorating security situation in Gaza.

In a joint statement, the agencies said the upsurge of violence, which has taken the lives of innocent civilians, is also putting our workers on the ground at serious risk.

"It is becoming extremely difficult for us to fulfill our humanitarian mandates to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people," reads the statement. "The implications of this for a population already facing extreme hardship are grave. We remain determined to continue with our humanitarian work."

"We call for an immediate end to the violence, respect by all parties for the human rights of the population in Gaza and we condemn in the strongest possible terms the killing of women, children and other unarmed civilians."

They appealed to the parties to refrain from any action which endangers civilian life and which prevents us from fulfilling our humanitarian responsibilities.

A.D (23:40P) (21:40GMT)

Anarchists Against the Wall bBlock Central Tel Aviv

TEL AVIV, February 3, 2007 (WAFA) - Israeli activists have blocked on Saturday central Tel Aviv with razor wire from the Apartheid Wall International Solidarity Movement (ISM) said.

ISM said in a press release that the activists stretched the razor wire across Basel Street with a sign from the Wall that reads in Arabic, Hebrew and English: "Mortal Danger-Military Zone. Any person who passes or damages the fence endangers his life".

The twenty activists from Anarchists Against the Wall, who attend the weekly Friday demonstrations against the Apartheid Wall in Bil'in, set up the blockade at around 2pm and started handing out flyers to passers by explaining the action.

The action was taken to protest the Apartheid Wall being built through the West Bank, as well as severe travel restrictions on Palestinians.

In a replica of an action on December 28th, Israeli activists brought part of downtown Tel Aviv to a standstill this afternoon.

A.D (23:50P) (21:50GMT)

Photo Exhibition at Huwwara Checkpoint in Nablus

NABLUS, February 3, 2007 (WAFA) - Around 100 Israelis and internationals attended a photo exhibition Saturday at At Huwwara checkpoint in Nablus depicting scenes of Occupation life at checkpoints and the Wall.

The exhibition, the second event in the 30 Days Against Checkpoints campaign, is organised by Nablus group HASM (Palestinian Body for Peace, Dialogue and Equality).

Mohammed Dweikat, HASM Coordinator said "we are doing this as Nablus is the most imprisoned city in the West Bank. Since 2002 it has only been possible to enter through six checkpoints on foot."

He added that it is even more difficult to exit. Men between 16 and 45 (it varies from day to day) can only exit their city with a special permit that can be obtained only outside Nablus.

"Almost nightly its citizens are the victims of violent military raids and their lives have not been peaceful, or normal for years," he added.

In the first action at Huwwara checkpoint on January 14th Palestinian youth dressed up as Native Americans and displayed banners linking the fate of the indigenous peoples of America and Palestine.

A.D (23:30P) (21:30GMT)

PLO: IOF Kills 636 Citizens in Past Year

RAMALLAH, February 3, 2007, (WAFA)-The Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) said Saturday that Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) killed 636 citizens, including 119 children and 33 women in past year.

In a report , PLO National and International Relations Department revealed that the IOF killed 4683 citizens, including 897 children, 295 women, 360 policemen, 486 assassinations and 144 patients. While 65 citizens were killed at the hand of colonizers, 10 journalists and 220 sportsmen as well as 6 international activists and 36 paramedics during the period September 29, 2000 to January 1, 2007.

It added that 38620 citizens were wounded, including 7600 handicapped and over 50,000 citizens were arrested, of which 10700 detainees remain in Israeli jails, including 383 children and 112 women. In 2006 5671 citizens were arrested.

It concluded that the IOF completely destroyed 7767 houses and partially damaged 65700 houses.

M.H.(13:00 P)(11:00 GMT)

Israeli Soldiers Wound Citizen in WB

TOBAS, February 3, 2007, (WAFA)-Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) wounded Saturday morning a citizens in the West Bank(WB) city of Tobas , security sources said.

They added that Ahmed Bisharat 24, was hit with live bullets in his legs and left bleeding, but later an ambulance could evacuate him to hospital.

M.H.(09:38 P)(07:38 GMT)

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WAFA 2-2-07

Reporters Without Borders Condemns Today's Armed Attack

PARIS, February 2, 2007 (WAFA) - Reporters Without Borders condemned the 2 February 2007 armed attack on Al Aamal, a Gaza City-based radio station operated by the Workers Union.

"The recent clashes in the Gaza Strip between Fatah and Hamas members were already making the work of journalists very dangerous," the press freedom organisation said. "Journalists are now also the victims of targeted vandalism aimed at silencing media considered too supportive of one or other faction. President Abbas and Prime Minister Haniyeh cannot continue to turn a blind eye to these campaigns of vandalism and intimidation."

Reporters Without Borders siaid it was told that RPG-type rockets were fired at the building, forcing the station off the air. Then gunmen stormed inside, destroying equipment and putting the antennae out of service.

Fortunately, no journalist was injured in the attack.

Al Aamal was previously attacked on 12 October, when gunmen threw grenades at the entrance and ransacked the offices before fleeing.

A.D (20:20 P) (18:20 GMT)

IPI Condemns Attack on Radio Station in Gaza Strip

VIENNA, February 2, 2007 (WAFA) - The International Press Institute (IPI), the global network of editors, media executives and leading journalists in over 120 countries, strongly condemned the attack on a pro-Fatah radio station in Gaza by Hamas fighters on 2 February.

IPI said in a press release that, according to information before IPI, Hamas gunmen surrounded the Voice of Labour radio station in the town of Jebaliya in northern Gaza and fired rockets and automatic weapons at the station's offices. The Voice of Labour is operated by Fatah supporters.

The station's broadcasting equipment was damaged beyond repair.

Commenting on the events in Gaza, IPI Director Johann P. Fritz said, "The targeting of a radio station is an unwarranted violation of customary international law, which states that during conflict, attacks should be limited strictly to military objectives."

"During times of violent unrest, it is all the more important that citizens have unfettered access to information so that they can be informed of ongoing developments."

"IPI calls on all parties to the crisis to immediately cease targeting media outlets and to ensure that journalists can safely perform their function of informing the public in this time of conflict," Fritz added.

A.D (22:00 P) ( 20:00 GMT)

IOF Assaults Bil'in Weekly Demo

RAMALLAH, February 2, 2007 (WAFA) - The theme of today's weekly demonstration against the Apartheid Wall in Bil'in was the need to end the internal conflict harming the Palestinian cause, said the International Solidarity Movement.

According to a press release by the ISM, villagers constructed a scaffold with nooses and wore sheets with slogans such as 'Palestinian State', 'Palestinian Freedom', 'Palestinian independence', and 'Palestinian dream'.

The scaffold bore the sign 'internal conflict'.

According to WAFA reporter, around 100 villagers were joined by 30 Israeli and international supporters.

After reaching the gate in the Wall and chanting anti-Occupation slogans, some villagers separated from the main group to try and dismantle the razor wire forming the first barrier in the Wall. "Soldiers responded with the new type of sound bomb that explodes in the air and tear gas," according to ISM.

"One soldier approached a Palestinian and asked him to hold out his hand before throwing a sound bomb at him, which hit his chest before detonating. Altogether five people suffered light injuries from rubber bullets and beatings."

Meanwhile up by the gate soldiers beat and abducted Farhad Burnat, 26, who managed to get over the gate. He remains in captivity. They assaulted and tried to abduct other villagers but supporters managed to de-arrest them.

IOF also made liberal use of the aerial exploding sound bombs and tear gas against the peaceful protesters to make them disperse, it added.

A.D (18:20P) (16:20GMT)

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