Highlights: Iraqi Press 27 Dec
Iraq -- FBIS Report in Arabic 27 Dec 04
FBIS REPORT
Monday, December 27, 2004
Journal Code: 9023 Language: ENGLISH Record Type: FULLTEXT
Document Type: Daily Report; News
Word Count: 5,210
The following lists selected reports carried in the Iraqi press on 27 December. Further processing is indicated below. To request processing, please contact FBIS at (800) 205-8615 (in US) or (202) 338-6735 (outside US); or fax (703) 613-5735.
(FBIS Report)
Iraqi newspapers dated 27 December highlight the following issues:
I. IRAQ ELECTIONS:
Al-Manar al-Yawm publishes on the front page a 130-word editorial by Chief Editor Taha Arif confirming his newspaper's impartial policy regarding the political forces competing in the upcoming elections. The editorial urges the Arab media and satellite channels not to exploit the Iraqi election to promote the views and ideology of certain foreign parties and to leave the Iraqis to decide their future by themselves.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 2 a 200-word report citing Husayn al-Hindawi, chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq, denying earlier news reports alleging that there were financial differences with the UN.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 400-word report containing the political program of the Iraqi Unified Coalition electoral list.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 500-word article by Husayn Muhammad al-Raziqi saying: "It is unjust to limit the concept of elections to only the political aspect" because it helps in revealing the potential of the society, leading it towards dignity, sovereignty, and freedom. The article focuses on the values and principles that the elections spread in the society.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 150-word editorial commenting on the announcement of the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq that it will use permanent ink to prevent forging in the upcoming elections. A foreign news agency commented that using such ink may help the insurgents to identify the people participating in the elections. On the other hand, the government can also identify the people who oppose democracy in Iraq, comments the editorial.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 4 a 1,250-word unattributed article discussing the role of the upcoming elections in specifying the future of Iraq. The article says that "it is illogical to say that the upcoming elections, if held, will turn Iraq into a democratic state" because democracy cannot be implemented and developed in such a short time. The article says that the main problem that the transitional Iraqi Government will face is its relation with the US occupation, which will specify its popularity. The article explains that the forces opposing the elections should not be underestimated, adding although the Sunnis' fear of the Shiites' domination is understandable, their justification for their negative stance regarding the upcoming elections is unjustified. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 4 a 750-word article by Husayn al-Muzani saying that as the day of elections approaches, the nature of the fierce competition between the political forces has become rather ethnic and sectarian. The article says that these values have been the decisive factors throughout Iraq's history and are not expected to diminish soon. The article says that the political programs declared by the various political forces are only propaganda for the election and do not represent their strategic goals. For example, the Sunni and Shiite religious parties aim at establishing an Islamic state; however, there is no religious title for women. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Mu'tamar carries on the front page a 300-word unattributed report saying that the political programs of the political parties participating in the upcoming elections focus on restoring security, improving the economic situation, establishing a unified, federal, and democratic state, and calling for setting a timetable for the withdrawal of foreign forces from Iraq. The report says that although the date for the upcoming elections is approaching, the media campaigns are still weak due to the current deteriorating security situation preventing the candidates from holding meetings and festivals. The article says that so far, six candidates in various regions in Iraq have been killed by the insurgents who are targeting the electoral centers, candidates, and the workers and members of the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq.
Al-Mu'tamar carries on page 6 a 1,200-word article by Dr Shakir al-Nabulsi commenting on the escalation of terrorist attacks on the people involved in the upcoming elections as the Election Day approaches. The article says that this is the first time in history that democracy is so vigorously confronted by foreign forces, neighboring countries' regimes, and militias. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 1 a 500-word editorial by Chief Editor Isma'il Zayir, commenting on the "impossibility" of delaying the upcoming elections. The writer says that the delaying demands have created a lot of "confusion," ending up with the "loss of time and opportunity." He adds that the response to the elections will vary from one place to another because of the "inadequacy of the preparations for the elections and the complex psychological and social conditions of some places." "We should understand the reality of such conditions and develop rational and practical solutions," says Zayir.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 7 a 900-word article by Prime Minister Ayad Allawi entitled "The Historical Moment for all Iraqis," in which Allawi discusses the Iraqi Government's "efforts to pave the way for the success" of the upcoming Iraqi elections. Allawi comments on the political, security, and economic "achievements" of the government, saying that the upcoming elections will be a "historical opportunity that Iraqis will not lose." (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 7 a 500-word interview with the National Assembly member Husayn al-Sadr, commenting on the upcoming elections. Al-Sadr says that the elections are a "means to develop the country and should not be delayed." He adds that the Iraqi woman must "play a distinguished role in the political process."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 7 a 1,000-word article by Samir Shakir al-Sumayda'i, the Democratic National Coalition General Secretary, in which the writer comments on the "difficulty" that the Iraqi Government is facing regarding conducting the upcoming elections on schedule. Al-Sumyda'i suggests that there should be a "criterion for the comprehensiveness" of the upcoming elections, and if the participation of some areas in the elections is not "adequate," the drafting of the constitution should be then delayed.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 7 a 600-word article by Ibrahim Shakir Muhsin entitled "The Iraqis Wedding Ceremony is inevitably Coming," which comments on the "necessity" of conducting the upcoming elections. The writer says that these elections will "bring salvation and happiness to Iraqis."
Al-Adalah runs on page 4 an 800-word article by Adil al-Qayyar, entitled "The Philosophical Meaning of the Political Elections." The writer comments on the "theoretical balance that should be brought about by the human awareness of respecting the other." He says that elections are the best alternative, provided that they should be "moderate and characterized by concession."
Al-Adalah carries on page 4 a 500-word article by Riyad al-Husayni, discussing the right of the Iraqis abroad to vote. The author says the Iraqi Government should "enable those Iraqis to practice their right because they have been struggling against dictatorship and are still Iraqi citizens, although some of them do not have Iraqi nationality."
Al-Adalah publishes on page 4 a 500-word article by Nizar Haydar entitled "The Citizen's Freedom, Will, and Dignity to Practice the Voting Right." The writer comments on the "terrorists' efforts" to abort the democratic process in Iraq, calling on the people in the places that witness "security disorder" to "liberate" themselves from the "terrorist groups" and join the "democratic march."
Al-Adalah runs on page 5 a 600-word article by Talib al-Wahili, which criticizes Saddam's lawyers for "slighting" the Iraqi people by defending this "criminal." The writer also praises the Unified Iraqi Coalition electoral list, saying that it is the list that "satisfies the Iraqi's hopes."
Al-Mashriq carries on page 6 a 700-word article by Hadi Hasan Ulaywi entitled "Democracy for all People, without Discrimination or Exclusion." The writer discusses the practice of democracy in the "totalitarian" countries, saying that this is not "true" democracy because the people are "not given full freedom to practice their rights." He comments on the upcoming Iraqi elections, calling on the government to provide the "convenient conditions" for the Iraqi people to take an active role in the elections. He also says that all people must "be aware of the extraordinary importance of these elections, and participate willingly in them."
Al-Zaman publishes on page 2 a 200-word DBP report on a statement by Sharif Ali Bin al-Husayn, leader of the Constitutional Monarchy Movement, during an interview with Al-Iraqiyah channel noting that his list excluded any candidates affiliated with any political party. Bin al-Husayn says: "We will run in the elections that will be on 30 January on a list that includes figures from all Iraqi areas, tribal leaders, and representatives of the civil society institutions."
Al-Zaman runs on page 3 a 300-word report on a poll conducted by Karbala local radio concerning the elections. The poll says that 98 percent believe that the honesty of the electoral process and the candidates is a very important issue to avoid any troubles during the elections. Regarding what the people prefer, the poll gives 42 percent to the independents, 16 percent for the political parties, and 6 percent to the tribal leaders. Regarding the electoral education, the poll indicates that 97 percent have information, 3 percent know nothing, 83 percent know where the elections will be held, and 17 percent don't know. Concerning the participation, 96 percent said they would participate and 98 percent stressed the importance of participation. The poll covers 12,544 Iraqis in five governorates.
Al-Zaman runs on page 6 a 500-word article by Khudayir Abbas under the headline: "Iraqi Elections' Final Count Down." Khudayir says: "The real democracy is not only elections through which candidates win; it is respect for its principals represented by the sovereignty of the people and to the law, peaceful power transfer, separation of authorities, guarantee of rights, and assigning competent people to undertake the positions according to their skills but not according to private relations."
Al-Mada publishes a 200-word front-page report on a statement by a senior member of a political party, who refused to mention his name, noting that several parties have held a meeting to discuss postponing the elections. The member adds that these parties are the Iraqi Islamic Party, National Democratic Alliance, led by Malik Duhan al-Hasan, and Reconciliation and Liberations Mass, led by Misha'n al-Juburi. On the other hand, the report cites one of Grand Ayatollah Al-Sistani's representatives, who refused to mention his name, noting that Al-Sistani's representatives have held a meeting in Al-Najaf to discuss the final preparations for the elections. The representative says that the religious authority will not discuss postponing the elections, noting that list number 169 is supported by Al-Sistani.
Al-Furat publishes a 150-word front-page report on a poll (the report does not mention who conducted the pool and the sample) noting that the majority of the sample asserted that the upcoming elections will be an important step in the political process and the secular parties will win. The poll indicates that 71 percent believe that the election results will not depend on the political parties' popularity. The poll says that 17 percent asserted that the national parties have no more popularity. The poll indicates that extremist Islamic trends will have no more than 12 percent.
II. POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS AND COMMENTS:
Al-Manar al-Yawm devotes all of page 3 to the Kuwaiti newspaper Al-Qabas' interview with Al-Sharif Ali Bin-al-Husayn, leader of the Constitutional Monarchy Movement, discussing the political process in Iraq.
Al-Manar al-Yawm carries on page 4 a 750-word report citing members of the National Front for Iraqi Intellectuals explaining the history and struggle of the Al-Ku'ud family against the Uthman and British Colonization. They praised the stances of Dr Sattam Al-Ku'ud, the founder of the front who is still detained by the US forces, for his brave role in confronting "the US imperial presence in Iraq." They explained the goals of their front, which include the rejection of occupation, a larger role for Iraqi intellectuals in the next government, the rejection of all kinds of partition, the reinstating of all dissolved ministries and agencies, and the implementation of democracy.
Al-Manar al-Yawm carries on page 4 a 250-word article by Jasim Na'im al-Zubaydi criticizing Iran for its interference in Iraq's internal affairs and for exporting drugs, invalid medicines, and terrorists into the country. The article focuses on the Iranian Government's attempts and demands to expel the Mujahidin-e-Khalq Organization from Iraq, noting the role of the organization in exposing the racial nature and misconduct of the Iranian regime.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 300-word "exclusive" report citing Dr Ahmad Chalabi, leader of the Iraqi Congress, as saying that currently, the Iraqi political process is dominated by three issues: the upcoming elections, the agreement organizing the current situation and relation of the Iraqi armed forces with the multinational forces, and the drafting of the permanent constitution. Chalabi emphasized the importance of establishing "a plural and democratic Iraq" despite the current absence of security. Chalabi added that the voices currently expressing fear of the Shiites' domination and marginalization of Sunnis are the same ones that allowed former President Saddam Husayn to remain in power for so long.(FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing Mithal al-Alusi, leader of the Al-Ummah al-Iraqiyah Democratic Party, holding the aides of the Syrian intelligence agency and former Ba'thists responsible for the assassination of Muhammad Abd-al-Husayn, a command member of his party, yesterday, 26 December.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 300-word editorial urging the Iraqi people to contribute to the security and the fighting of crime in the country. The editorial comments and reacts to a kidnapping incident of a child from his mother that took place in a crowded market where nobody helped the mother in her struggle against the criminal kidnappers.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page and page 2 a 400-word report citing Vice President Ibrahim al-Ja'fari informing Al-Sharqiyah satellite channel on 22 December that the elections will boost the security situation and the participation of people in the political process.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 700-word follow-up report on the recent political and security developments in Iraq. The report cites Husayn al-Hindawi, chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq, affirming that his commission will soon declare the electoral lists competing in the upcoming elections. The report cites a spokesman for the Interior Ministry affirming that his ministry has intensified its efforts to provide protection for the elections. A statement issued by the National Guard said that 11 people suspected of involvement in terrorist acts were arrested in a raid in Al-Iskandariyah, south of Baghdad. The Defense Ministry issued a statement that the Iraqi forces foiled an attack on Al-Rashid Police Station yesterday, 26 December, killing 26 of the attackers.
Al-Mada publishes a 150-word front-page report on an initiative by Fakhri Karim, head of Peace and Solidarity Council, for national reconciliation. The report says that this initiative has created different reactions among the political forces. The report adds that Adnan Pachachi, leader of Independent Democrats Grouping, and a senior member in his grouping have met with Harith al-Dhari, secretary general of the Association of Muslim Scholars, to discuss this initiative.
Al-Mada runs a 300-word front-page report on a statement by a journalist noting that the national guards has prevented a peaceful demonstration in Diyalah Governorate organized by college students and abused the journalists who were covering the demonstration. The journalists say that hundreds of students demonstrated and called for ending the military siege on Buhruz city in Diyala Governorate.
Al-Mada carries on page 2 a 3,000-word report on an interview with Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan noting that the finance minister is implementing non-Iraqi orders and the elections without the Sunnis are just like a man with one leg. Al-Sha'lan says that Syria, Iran, and the European Community want to weaken the Americans by supporting the violent acts. Al-Sha'lan adds that the ministry gets military aid from the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, and it has new contracts with Poland and Pakistan.
Al-Nahdah carries a 300-word front-page KUNA report on a statement by the minister of higher education and scientific research, noting that the Iraqis did not support the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait and they did not believe that Kuwait is a part of Iraq. The minister says that many study materials were changed especially the materials that the former regime imposed.
Al-Nahdah publishes a 500-word front-page KUNA report on a statement by Vice President Ibrahim al-Ja'fari noting that Iraq seeks to establish strong relations based on mutual respect with the neighboring countries. Al-Ja'fari says that the government will present an official request to Syria to hand over the former regime's officials who reside there.
Al-Nahdah publishes a 300-word front-page report on the meetings of Adnan Pachachi, leader of the Independent Democrats Grouping, with local and foreign officials to discuss the political process in Iraq. The report says that Pachachi has separately met with Iranian, UN, and US officials. The report adds that Pachachi has visited the Association of Muslim Scholars and discussed with its secretary general the political process and the elections.
III. SECURITY AND MILITARY DEVELOPMENTS:
Al-Manar al-Yawm carries on page 4 a 200-word report citing a National Guard source as saying that National Guard Brigade 302 will soon receive the responsibility of maintaining security in Al-Karradah district in Baghdad.
Al-Zaman publishes a 300-word front-page report on a statement by an official at Karbala police noting that the police and the national guards have raided a garage for booby-trapped cars. The official says that the security forces have recovered explosive materials and mortar grenades used in manufacturing explosive devices and car bombs. The official says that the security forces did not arrest anyone because the raid occurred at midnight. On the other hand, the official says that the security forces have arrested a suspect who tried to smuggle 3,000 mortar grenades to Al-Fallujah.
Al-Zaman runs a 50-word front-page report by Al-Zaman correspondent in Al-Qadisiyah Governorate denying the news reports on clashes that took place in this governorate. The correspondent says that the security situation is calm and quite.
Al-Zaman publishes a 300-word front-page report on a statement by the Defense Ministry noting that the national guards have mobilized in Al-Rashid district in Baghdad after receiving information about an attack targeting a police station there. The ministry says that the national guards killed five terrorists and followed the terrorists and then killed another 21. The ministry says that another force managed to arrest 12 terrorists in the same area. On the other hand, the report says that the Iraqi police have arrested a suspect driving a car with Syrian license plates.
Al-Zaman publishes a 300-word front-page report on a statement by a source at Baghdad police noting that unidentified gunmen assassinated a major in the civil defense. On the other hand, the source says that unknown gunmen attacked the convoy of Al-Shirgat civil administrator, killing his body guards and kidnapping him. Meanwhile, the report says that the local council members of Al-Siniyah city in Samara all resigned as a protest to the killing of the council head and the assassination attempts that are targeting the members.
Al-Zaman runs on page 3 a 100-word front-page report on a statement by Mithal al-Alusi, leader of the Iraqi Nation Party, noting that unidentified gunmen assassinated a senior member of this party. Al-Alusi accused the Syrian intelligence service of carrying out this operation.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 3 a 90-word report noting that nine people were killed and a women and a child, all from one family, were injured when an explosive device went off in a house in Al-Askari district in Karbala Governorate. The report says that the police have recovered another explosive device and weapons inside the house.
IV. HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUES:
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 3 a 700-word report on the conference organized by the Maysan Health Directorate to discuss the health situation in the governorate. The report says that the scientific and field research presented in the conference warned that unless rapid measures are taken, a health disaster will occur in the governorate. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 4 a 700-word interview with Karbala Health Director Salih Mahdi al-Hasnawi, discussing the services provided by the directorate, and the requirements needed to "enhance the health sector in Karbala."
V. ECONOMIC NEWS AND PUBLIC SERVICES:
Al-Dustur publishes on page 3 a 100-word report citing Baghdad Advisory Council Chief Muhammad Baqir al-Suhayl objecting to his council's 2005 budget amounting to 84.848 billion Iraqi dinars that was approved by the Iraqi cabinet. Al-Suhayl said that the budget is not enough for the service projects required in Baghdad.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 9 a 400-word report on the meeting of Deputy Prime Minister Barham Salih with a delegation representing the private sector in Iraq to discuss the means for the development of the private sector industry and investment in Iraq. The report cites Raghib Rida Blaybil, chairman of the Iraqi Businessmen Union and member of the delegation, calling for establishing a $500 million fund for the boosting of private sector projects in the country.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 200-word report stating that Layla Abd-al-Latif, minister of labor and social affairs, headed a joint meeting attended by the representatives of the multinational forces and the competent ministries to discuss the reconstruction of Al-Sadr city. The report says that it has been coordinated with the Finance Ministry to release 57 out of the 90 billion Iraqi dinars allocated for the reconstruction of the city this year, adding that the balance will be released next year.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 4 a 1,000-word report on the situation of schools in the governorates. The report cites a number of teachers and officials explaining the problems facing education in the governorates. The report says that Al-Diwaniyah Governorate needs 50 schools and lacks text books.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 3 an 800-word interview with Communication Minister Muhammad Ali al-Hakim, discussing the ministry's efforts to provide services to people. The minister also comments on the construction process, since he is the Construction Committee chairman.
Al-Mashriq runs on page 5 a 600-word report by Hanan al-Timimi, surveying a number of Iraqi economists' comments on the Iraqi economy after the former regime's fall.
Al-Zaman publishes a 400-word front-page report on a statement by many people from Al-Fallujah city after returning back to their houses. The people say they have burried 150 bodies found among the houses. The people add that the situation there is bad and does not encourage returning back. The people criticize the government because it allocated modest funds to reimburse them.
Al-Zaman publishes a 100-word front-page report on a statement by an official at Northern Electricity Directorate noting that the electricity in Basra will witness an improvement within a few days. The official says that five stations in the southern area will be established and be ready within four months.
Al-Nahdah publishes on page 4 a 500-word report on a statement by the oil minister during his meeting with the head of a Rusian oil company noting that the ministry is looking for developing more than 30 oil fields and for enhancing the relations with the international companies. The minister says that the ministry started talks with 82 foreign oil companies to start cooperation. The minister asserts that Iraq has good relations with the Russian companies.
Al-Nahdah publishes on page 4 a 70-word report on a statement by the trade minister noting that the ministry has given 60 percent of its contracts to the private sector. The minister says that this step is to enhance the role of the private sector in Iraq.
VI. PRESS COMMENTS:
Al-Dustur carries on page 6 a 1,300-word article by Najah Muhammad Ali discussing the political process in Iraq. The article proposes the development of the political process in Iraq through a comprehensive national reconciliation that involves all factions in the process. The writer explains his views included in a previous article that he wrote and received criticism.
Al-Dustur carries on page 6 a 400-word article by Ali A'jam criticizing Al-Jazirah satellite channel for repeatedly saying that we regret to our viewers that we cannot cover the Iraqi news because Allawi's government closed Al-Jazirah office in Baghdad and showing films of Prime Minister Allawi referring to the channel together with former Information Minister Al-Sahaf criticizing it. The article says that by showing that the former regime was similar to the current rule in Iraq, Al-Jazirah channel proved its partiality and distance from the professionalism it claims.
Al-Bayan carries on page 3 a 300-word article by Zaynab al-Khafaji commenting on the sufferings of Iraqis and criticizing those who are taking advantage of the current unstable situation to make money. The article says two days ago, the transportation fees were increased not for the shortage of fuel as usual but because it was raining.
Al-Bayan carries on page 3 a 400-word article by Haydar Ghazi discussing the role of neighboring countries in the stability of Iraq. The article wonders why some of the neighboring countries are choosing Iraq as the field for settling their accounts, wagering on the failure of the political process in the country, forgetting that stability in Iraq would boost the stability in the entire region. The article criticizes the media, especially the Arab channels, for magnifying the negative aspects while neglecting the positive aspects regarding the situation in Iraq in their news broadcasting.
Al-Bayan carries on the back page a 200-word article by Adil al-Rubay'i saying that the security officials have frequently announced the arrest of a number of foreign and other terrorists responsible for the large number of terrorist attacks taking place in the country. They often promise to declare the results and details as soon as the investigations are completed, but none of these promises were fulfilled. The report says that people began to question and doubt the credibility of such statements.
Al-Mu'tamar carries on page 6 a 700-word article by Fakhriyah Salih praising the Iraqi Christians for their patriotism and adherence to Iraq and criticizing the terrorist attacks targeting the unity of the Iraqi society.
Al-Mu'tamar carries on page 6 a 600-word article by Dr Ali al-Rubay'i commenting and strongly criticizing Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan for his recent statement accusing the candidates of the Unified Iraqi Coalition List of being Iran's agents. The article says that the recent statement is different than Al-Sha'lan's previous statements in that it reminded us of the Ba'thist discourse, and it was made by a party participating in the political process and upcoming elections, it was not made in an election media campaign but before a military meeting, it came at a very critical period, and that it would negatively influence people's trust in his government's capabilities. The article urges all forces to realize the danger facing the country at this stage and the danger of such irresponsible statements.
Al-Mu'tamar carries on page 6 a 400-word article by Tayri Butris criticizing the Jordanian foreign minister for affirming his king's recent statement that there is a plan to form a Shiite triangle comprising Iran, Iraq, and Syria. The article says that perhaps, Iran has such a plan, but accusing the Iraqi Shiites of being part of it has no grounds. The article says that the goal of such statements is to force the Shiites either to surrender to the terrorists or to seek Iran's support. The article says that "Iraq would slip out of its Arabic Environment if it helped bring dictatorship back into the country."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 12 a 700-word article by Hasan al-Ani entitled "Rumors," which comments on the "inability" of the Iraqi Government to "face the rumors that are quickly spreading in Iraq." He says that the government does not have an official media output to "enable it to tell the truth to the people."
Al-Adalah runs on page 5 a 400-word article by Ghassan al-Rubay'i entitled "The Arab Countries' Policies and the Danger of Iraq's Arabic Nationality." The writer attacks the Arab leaders for their statements, which declare that the Iraqis are "ordered by the Iranians." He says that the Iraqis are "pure Arabs," and these statements have a "negative" influence on the Arabic nationality of Iraqis.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 3 a 400-word article by Hamid Abdallah, criticizing the Syrian writer Muhammad al-Magut for saying that Iraq is "heading toward democracy." Abdallah says that Iraq is "being destroyed by occupation, indiscriminate killing, revenge, assassinations, and muzzling."
Al-Mashriq carries on page 4 a 400-word article by Safi al-Yasiri entitled "Between the two Banks," in which the writer comments on the political situation in Iraq. Al-Yasiri says that there are two sides in Iraq, the government and the opposition, which are "fighting and not complementing each other, as it should be in the democratic countries." He adds that the "silent majority" are "swimming" between these two "banks."
Al-Mashriq runs on page 12 a 300-word article by Hatam Hasan, in which he criticizes the Iraqi Police and security members for "failing" to provide security for the people.
Al-Furat publishes a 400-word front-page editorial by Chief Editor Shakir al-Juburi greeting Christians during Christmas. Al-Juburi notes how strong the Iraqi unity is, where the Christians can feel that they are a brother to the Muslims.
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Highlights: Iraqi Press 26 Dec 04
Iraq -- FBIS Report in Arabic 26 Dec 04
FBIS REPORT
Sunday, December 26, 2004
Journal Code: 9023 Language: ENGLISH Record Type: FULLTEXT
Document Type: Daily Report; News
Word Count: 5,574
The following lists selected reports carried in the Iraqi press on 26 December. Further processing is indicated below. To request processing, please contact FBIS at (800) 205-8615 (in US) or (202) 338-6735 (outside US); or fax (703) 613-5735.
(FBIS Report)
Iraqi newspapers dated 26 December highlight the following issues:
I. IRAQ ELECTIONS:
Dar al-Salam on 23 December carries on page 8 a 400-word unattributed article commenting on Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan's recent statement accusing candidates of the Unified Iraqi Coalition List of being Iranian agents. The article says that as Election Day approaches, division among the various Shiite forces, who so far have been united to try and ensure the domination of Shiites, is becoming clearer. The distinctions between the secular and religious forces and between the pro and anti Iran are surfacing. The article says that if the anti Iran Shiites win the upcoming elections, Iran may notify Al-Sistani and affiliated forces not to recognize the outcome of the elections. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 200-word "exclusive" report citing Vice President Ibrahim al-Ja'fari in his meeting with Ashraf Qadi, the UN Secretary General's envoy to Iraq, affirming the importance of the UN fulfilling its promises to Iraq, including holding the elections as scheduled. Al-Ja'fari asserted that failing to do so, will endanger the entire political process and encourage the continuation of the security penetration. Qadi affirmed that the UN will spare no effort to provide the basic requirements for the elections both inside and outside Iraq.
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 90-word report on the meeting of Vice President Ibrahim al-Ja'fari with Ashraf Qadi, the UN Secretary General's envoy to Iraq, to discuss the preparations and efforts to ensure large-scale participation in the upcoming elections. The report says that Qadi held talks with a large number of Iraqi officials and political leaders to discuss the elections and the UN role in Iraq.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 240-word editorial by Chief Editor Basim al-Shaykh saying that the candidates for the upcoming elections do not have equal opportunities in promoting their political programs. The editorial says that the senior officials are enjoying the political and moral support and the resources that their posts provide in their election campaigns. This is why many candidates have recently changed their loyalties and parties looking for a better electoral list that has a better chance in the upcoming elections.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 3 a 500-word follow-up report citing a number of Sunni clerics in last Friday's prayer sermons calling for postponing the upcoming elections. The report cites Shaykh Ahmad Abd-al-Khaffur, the imam of the Umm al-Qura Mosque in Baghdad, as saying: "We are not against the elections, but we want fair elections representing the Iraqi people." Al-Samarra'i, who is also a command member of the Association of Muslim scholars, added: "Unless they are postponed, I am confident that they will not be held in this country as scheduled at the end of next month."
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 200-word editorial criticizing the posters and advertisements of the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq for frightening people and suggesting that in their way of voting, they would face danger. The editorial also criticizes the commission for its recent statement declining to provide protection for the international observers and monitors during the election process.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 4 a 350-word article by Hamzah al-Shamkhi discussing the new terms of "the rich and poor parties" that have recently surfaced in the Iraqi political arena. The article says that a number of rich parties that receive financial support from regional and neighboring countries invest their resources in launching huge media campaigns instead of educating people on their political programs. On the other hand, the poor parties are depending on their patriotic struggle and goals in attracting voters.
Al-Mu'tamar carries on page 6 a 1,400-word article by Prime Minister Allawi saying that Iraq will witness a turning point in its history next month. Allawi explains the steps taken by his government regarding the elimination of terrorism and the reconstruction of the country. Allawi details his political program for the upcoming elections. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Zaman publishes on page 2 a 200-word report on a statement by the official spokesman of the Justice and Future Coalition announcing the beginning of the coalition's election campaign. The spokesman says that the list includes 275 candidates who were carefully chosen to represent all Iraqis. It is worth mentioning that this coalition includes the Justice and Progress Party, Fayli Kurds Organization, and a group of intellectuals.
Al-Zaman carries on page 3 a 100-word report on a statement by Mansur al-Asadi, secretary general of Al-Bayan Democratic Party, noting that this party has submitted a list that includes 106 candidates representing all the Iraqi colors to run in the upcoming elections. Al-Asadi says that the political agenda will focus on enhancing national unity and progress.
Al-Mada runs on page 2 a 100-word report on a statement by Harith al-Dhari, head of the Muslim Scholars Association noting that if the Sunnis do not participate in the upcoming elections, they will not only lose, but it will deprive the Iraqi constitution of total legitimacy. Al-Dhari says: "If the Sunnis do not participate in drafting a constitution, then it will not be effective. However, the constitution would not be better than the State Administrative Law that we have rejected." Al-Dhari notes that the people have the right to review any constitution drafted under the "occupation."
Al-Mada runs on page 7 a 700-word report on a statement by the head of the Independent Electoral Commission in Basra noting that he will boycott the elections. The head of the commission reveals the mistakes and abuses of the commission there. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Mada runs on page 7 a 400-word report on a survey carried out by Al-Mada concerning the elections. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Mada runs on page 8 a full-page report giving the names of all the political entities that will run in the elections.
Al-Mada runs on page 9 a 700-word report on a statement by Al-Sayyid Husayn al-Musawi, secretary of the Shiite council and member of the Iraqi Unified Alliance, giving information about the list and the candidates. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Mada runs on page 9 a 1,000-word report on the political program of the Iraqi Independent Block. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 1 a 300-word editorial by Chief Editor Isma'il Zayir, commenting on the role of the Iraqi press in the upcoming elections. The editorial says that this press "failed to establish sound bases for organized work that protects the desired values and preserves the dignity of press workers and establishments."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 7 a 400-word article by Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan, entitled "The Double Phenomenon," in which he discusses the upcoming elections, saying that this "democratic process in Iraq will greatly influence the Arab and Muslim world, especially the neighboring countries."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 7 a 100-word report citing Labor and Social Affairs Minister Layla Abd-al-Latif saying that she joined the Independent Democrats list to run for the upcoming elections.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 7 a 200-word report citing the Independent Electoral Commission representative in Wasit saying that the commission prepared 225 polling centers distributed all over the Wasit Governorate.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 7 a 200-word report citing a source in the Independent Electoral Commission in Al-Nasiriyah saying that the commission suggested the creation of 341 polling centers, each with five polling stations, and allowing the civil society institutions to send representatives to observe the electoral process.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 7 a 200-word report citing the Independent Electoral Commission chairman in Kirkuk saying that the commission is preparing the polling centers and coordinating with the Iraqi Police and National Guard to provide security during the election process. The chairman expects the number of voters to exceed 250,000.
Al-Mashriq runs on page 6 a 350-word article by Mun'im al-Ammar, entitled "Before the Elections, a Word that Cannot be Delayed," in which the writer discusses the controversy over whether to delay the elections or conduct them on schedule. He says that this will only "increase the gap between Iraqis and benefit the enemy." The author calls on Iraqis to "be alert and unite instead of fighting each other."
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 6 an 800-word article by Majid al-Lami, entitled "Observing the Elections," which presents a historical survey of the regulations adopted by the previous Iraqi governments to define the system of observing the elections.
Al-Adalah carries on page 4 a 1,200-word article by Zuhayr Kazim Abbud, entitled "To whom will we give our vote, our trust?" The writer discusses the "characteristics" that should be present in the candidate to be worthy of being elected in the upcoming elections. He says that this candidate should have "struggled against dictatorship, be close to the people, believe in democracy and federation, and work for equality and justice among all Iraqis."
Al-Adalah runs on page 4 an 800-word article by Sa'ib Khalil, entitled "Hasty Notes on the Electoral Campaigns," in which the writer comments on the "importance" of the election campaigns in "winning votes for the candidates." He divides the means to influence voters into six categories: personal relations network, slogans, donations, polls, delivering different letters to different people, and the website.
Al-Adalah carries on page 5 a 4,500-word text of an interview conducted by Al-Manar TV channel with Abd-al-Aziz al-Hakim, the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq (SCIRI)'s leader, commenting on the Unified Iraqi Coalition electoral list and other Iraqi issues.
Al-Adalah runs on page 16 a 500-word article by Muhammad al-Abdallah, entitled "Why are they Attacking the Unified Iraqi Coalition List?" The writer comments on the "attacks" by some sides against this list, saying that the list is "purely Iraqi, and contains people of different affiliations and trends."
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 25 December publishes on page 2 a 600-word article by Zaid Abdallah, praising the Conciliation and Liberation electoral list. The writer says that despite the "wish that the upcoming elections will be delayed, the supporters of the list are resolved to participate actively in the elections."
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 25 December carries on page 3 a 1,000-word article by Chief Editor Mish'an al-Juburi, entitled "And the Elections Again," in which the writer discusses the "need to delay the upcoming elections." Al-Juburi says that conducting the upcoming elections in this "deteriorating" security situation will "prevent a great many Iraqis from participating in the democratic process and writing a fair and legitimate constitution."
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 25 December runs on page 5 a 600-word article by Husayn al-Samara'i, entitled "No for Boycotting, Yes for the Elections." The writer believes that the elections are the "best solution" for the Iraqi situation, saying that "it is better to take part in the upcoming elections rather than boycott them, even though these elections will not be completely fair and honest."
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 25 December carries on page 7 a 500-word article by Fu'ad al-Azzawi, in which he comments on the "democratic experience" that Iraq witnessed during the monarchic era, saying that the upcoming elections "will not be free and honest, because of the occupation and the deteriorating security situation."
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 25 December publishes on page 17 an 800-word article by Abd-al-Khaliq Husayn, criticizing Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan for his recent statements in which he attacked the Unified Iraqi Coalition list. The writer says that Al-Sha'lan is a "promising politician, but he committed a big mistake by attacking other politicians." Husayn suggests that l-Sha'lan "apologizes to the members of that list, to be a good example."
II. POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS AND COMMENTS:
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 300-word report stating that Abd-al-Karim al-Anzi, a command member of the Al-Da'wah Party, Iraq Organization, and the head of the Governorates Committee of the National Assembly, visited and met with the Wasit Advisory Council. The report cites Abd-al-Salam al-Saffar, chief of the governorate's council, explaining the problems that the people in the Wasit Governorate face and criticizing the governor for containing his council's role and corruption.
Dar al-Salam on 23 December carries on the front page a 250-word report on the statement issued by the Iraqi Islamic Party condemning last week's terrorist attacks in Al-Najaf and Karbala. The statement calls for national reconciliation and rejecting violence, recalling the suffering of the citizens of Al-Fallujah.
Dar al-Salam on 23 December carries on the front page a 120-word editorial calling for equal rights for all Iraqi citizens regardless of their sect, ethnic group or faction. The article calls for adopting the banner of citizenship rather than ethnic or sectarian banners in the upcoming elections as is the case in India.
Dar al-Salam on 23 December carries on the front page a 750-word report analyzing the latest political and security developments in Iraq. The report focuses on the reactions to Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan's recent statement accusing the candidates of the Unified Iraqi Coalition List of being Iranian agents, the deteriorating security situation, especially in Mosul, the current fuel and electricity crises, and the speculations of Arab and international figures regarding the possibility of holding the upcoming elections on schedule.
Dar al-Salam on 23 December carries on page 2 a 150-word report on the separate meetings of Dr Muhsin Abd-al-Hamid, leader of the Iraqi Islamic Party, with the Turkish and Iranian ambassadors in Baghdad, during which they discussed bilateral relations and the political process in Iraq.
Dar al-Salam on 23 December carries on page 2 a 170-word report on the statement issued by the Iraqi Islamic Party condemning the raids by US forces and National Guard on people's houses.
Dar al-Salam on 23 December carries on page 2 a 170-word report on the fatwa issued by a number of clerics including Dr Muhsin Abd-al-Hamid, the leader of the Iraqi Islamic Party, saying that helping the Al-Fallujah families in their current calamity is as good as performing pilgrimage for Muslims.
Dar al-Salam on 23 December carries on page 2 a 400-word report on the statement issued by the Iraqi Islamic Party, Al-Fallujah branch, explaining the role of the party in helping the citizens of the city during both the first and second attacks on the city. The statement demanded the US forces return and compensate the citizens of the city for the damage to their properties and to the city. The statement called for international condemnation of the US forces' violations against the city.
Dar al-Salam on 23 December carries on page 6 a 700-word report citing a number of citizens describing the US forces' misconduct during house raids.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page and page 2 a 200-word editorial saying that the Iraqi people are bidding farewell to aa year in which they witnessed great suffering due to the terrorist acts and the multinational forces' military operations in the various Iraqi cities. The article says the New Year will be important for Iraq because it will be the year of elections that will move the country onto the democratic path.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 70-word report citing Planning Minister Mahdi al-Hafiz denying the presence of any project to construct an oil pipeline to Israel.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 70-word report stating that a minister has withdrawn the authorities of one of his advisers after discovering that the adviser has bought a 600,000 Jordanian dinar villa in Amman. The report did not mention the names of the minister or his adviser.
Al-Zaman publishes a 200-word front-page report on a demonstration by the Turkmen in Kirkuk Governorate against killing four Kurds. The report says that the representatives of the Turkmen parties have demonstrated against the terrorist act that led to the killing of four Kurdish youths. The report adds that the demonstrations called for tolerance and peaceful coexistence among all ethnic and religious groups in Kirkuk.
Al-Zaman runs a 300-word front-page report on a statement by the Muslim Scholars Association condemning the US forces for killing one of its members during a raid on his house. The statement says that the US forces raided the house of Shaykh Muafaq al-Duri, imam of Abu Bakr al-Sidiq mosque, and killed him in an "aggressive way", according to the statement. The statement warns that these acts increase hatred and will make Iraqis believe that this is a war against religion.
Al-Zaman runs a 300-word front-page report on a statement by Al-Najaf Governor Adnan al-Zurfi noting that the police have arrested the terrorists who carried out the Al-Najaf attack. Al-Zurfi asserts that the terrorists will be shown on television. On the other hand, the report cites Al-Najaf Police Chief Ghalib al-Jaza'iri as accusing Syria of involvement in the Al-Najaf attack. Al-Jaza'iri says that the arrested persons have confessed to having links with the Syrian intelligence service.
Al-Furat publishes a 100-word front-page report on a statement by Hamid al-Kafa'i, leader of the Democratic Society Movement, noting that Bremer, former Civil Administrator of the Coalition Provisional Authority in Iraq, knew nothing about Iraq and its culture. Al-Kafa'i notes that many mistakes occurred during Bremer's time.
Al-Manarah carries a 400-word front-page article by the political editor on Rumsfeld's recent visit to Mosul and his comments that the Mosul trip was planned well in advance. It says that the recent attack on the US base in Mosul left Rumsfeld in desperate straits and that those comments aimed to fend off the questions of delinquency on his part relayed by the US media, though to no avail.
Al- Manarah carries on page 3 an 800-word interview with the secretary-general of the Arab Socialist Movement, Nuri al-Wafi, who sheds light on the movement's ideology and political stand.
III. SECURITY AND MILITARY DEVELOPMENTS:
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 70-word follow-up report stating that Diyala governor escaped an assassination attempt yesterday, 25 December.
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 200-word report citing Al-Najaf police Chief Ghalib al-Jaza'iri announcing the arrest of a Syrian national and an Iraqi national in connection with last week's bombing in Al-Najaf. Al-Jaza'iri accused the Syrian intelligence agency of backing the attack.
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 150-word unattributed report citing a high-ranking US official as saying that the US forces are considering launching limited military operations inside Syrian territory to arrest the Ba'thists responsible for the terrorist attacks in Iraq.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 100-word report stating that for the first time in Iraq, Christians held a simple midnight mass due to the deteriorating security situation in the country.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 300-word report citing a police source in Baghdad as saying that Dr Hasan al-Rubay'i, dean of the Dentistry College of Baghdad University, was killed yesterday, 25 December.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 4 a 140-word "exclusive" report citing Interior Minister Falah al-Naqib affirming that since the formation of the interim Iraqi Government, terrorism in Iraq has declined by 50 percent.
Al-Zaman publishes a 100-word front-page report on a statement by an official source at Diyalah police noting that Diyalah Governor survived an unsuccessful assassination attempt in Khan Bani Sa'd area while on his way to Baghdad. The official says that his convoy was targeted by an explosive device that led to the wounding of four of his bodyguards.
Al-Mada publishes a 30-word front-page report on a statement by Al-Najaf police chief noting that a car bomb was exploded in the Khan al-Nus area, between Al-Najaf and Karbala Governorates. The police chief adds that three Iraqis were killed during this attack.
Al-Mada publishes a 300-word front-page report stating that Al-Najaf Governor Adnan al-Zurfi has visited Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani and that police have arrested the criminals involved in the Al-Najaf attack.
Al-Mada publishes a 200-word front-page report on a statement by the Muslim Scholars Association noting that US forces have raided the headquarters of the Association in Hilla city. The statement says that the US forces broke the gates, searched the offices and left without finding anything.
Al-Mada publishes on page 2 a 150-word report on a statement by the Interior Minister refusing the participation of any armed militia in securing voting centers during the upcoming elections. The minister says: "Under no circumstances will we allow any militia to participate in security, rejecting the request of the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq, SCIRI, to provide protection.
Al-Mada runs on page 2 a 200-word report on a statement by the US Army announcing that two senior members of Al-Zarqawi's group were arrested. The statement says that the arrested members were responsible for many assassination operations against the security forces and civilians.
Al-Nahdah publishes a 300-word front-page report on the attack by a booby-trapped fuel tanker near the Jordanian and Libyan embassies in Baghdad. The report says that seven people were killed and 19 injured in the attack.
Al-Adalah carries on page 3 a 100-word report citing an Iraqi police source saying that the police arrested five gangs involved in robberies and kidnapping, and seized 24 mortar shells, in a raid carried out by the Iraqi police recently in Baghdad.
Al-Manarah carries on pages 1 and 7 a 100-word report noting the death of an unidentified man in an explosion in Basra. The police suspect that the bomb went off while the man was setting it.
IV. HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUES:
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing Layla Abd-al-Latif, minister of labor and social affairs, as saying that that it has been decided to pay $1,000 to every family living in a state building in Al-Sadr City in order to help them find another residence. Abd-al-Latif added that this decision came to speed up the rehabilitation of these buildings and the city.
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 200-word report citing Industry Minister Hajim al-Hasani, who is also the head of the committee responsible for the reconstruction of Al-Fallujah, as saying that 355 teams have been formed to assess the damage to people's properties in the city.
Dar al-Salam on 23 December devotes all of the back page to an advertisement issued by the Higher Relief Committee for Our People in Al-Fallujah of the Iraqi Islamic Party urging people to sponsor one of the 50,000 refugee families of Al-Fallujah.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 160-word report citing Health Minister Dr Ala al-Din Alwan emphasizing the importance of vaccinating Iraqi pilgrims prior to their departure to holy Mecca.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing Health Minister Dr Ala al-Din Alwan as saying that 90 percent of health institutions in Iraq require rehabilitation. In his meeting with the tribal chiefs of Al-Sadr City, Alwan asserted that his ministry lacks 400 out of 900 basic medicines.
V. ECONOMIC NEWS AND PUBLIC SERVICES:
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 3 a 100-word report citing Trade Minister Muhammad al-Juburi affirming that beginning next month; Iraqi citizens will receive the complete monthly rations. Al-Juburi also asserted that the supermarket investments file has been sent to the cabinet's privatization committee to decide their investment.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 3 a 120-word report citing Oil Minister Thamir al-Ghadban as saying that his ministry will soon begin the rehabilitation of the Al-Faw oil reservoirs in order to increase Iraq's oil export capacity.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 200-word report citing Radi al-Radi, chief of the Integrity Committee, informing the newspaper that the cabinet's investigation committee decided to dismiss the inspector general of the Health Ministry because he violated his authorities.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 4 a 100-word report citing an official source at the Shiite Waqf as saying that the Waqf opened two religious schools in Basra, one for boys and one for girls.
Al-Zaman runs a 500-word front-page report on Christmas celebrations in Iraq. The report says that Iraqi Christians held Christmas services in fear and panic due to the current wave of violence. The report notes that the ceremonies were deprived of any joyful manifestations. It adds that police provided intensive security around churches during the ceremonies.
Al-Furat publishes a 150-word front-page report on a statement by an Oil Ministry source noting that the Oil Ministry expressed disappointment with Kuwait because it has refused to supply Iraq with electricity.
Al-Manarah carries a 100-word front-page report on the Oil Ministry's denial that it had contracted the development of Khurmalah and Hamrayn oil fields with a foreign company. The report adds that the Oil Ministry has referred the case to the economic committee at the Prime Ministry and is awaiting its approval.
Al-Manarah carries on page 2 a 300-word report on the proceedings of the first conference on the revitalization of marshlands. According to the report, the conference came up with a list of recommendations on how to submerge marshlands.
Al-Manarah carries on page 2 a 200-word report noting the allocation of $41 million by FAO to the school catering program which will cover 1,700 thousand children at schools and kindergartens. The Education and Health Ministries will collaborate with FAO, says the report.
Al-Manarah carries on page 2 a 200-word report noting that South Korea has granted the Higher Education Ministry some $200,000 for the purpose of reinvigorating Iraq's higher education. The report also notes South Korea's intention to grant $260 million to Iraq over the next five years.
VI. PRESS COMMENTS:
Al-Da'wah carries on page 2 a 1,300-word article by Abbas Sarhan discussing the political process in Iraq. The article says that the political crisis in Iraq did not begin in April 2003, adding that in fact, many observers believe that this date represents the beginning of the end of Iraq's crisis. The article says that Iraq's crisis began decades before the occupation; namely, since the formation of the Iraqi state on an Uthman theory that excluded all Iraqi factions except for one. The article says this particular faction has been rebelling and attempting to block the political process in order to regain its privileges. The article says that while it is true that the dissolved Governing Council and interim government were not elected, they do represent a large proportion of the Iraqi components, as is the case with the Association of Muslim Scholars, which claims that it represents the Sunnis and Arabs. The article concludes that despite the intensity of the campaign against progress in Iraq, the process is moving in the right direction. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Bayan carries on page 3 a 400-word article by Zaynab al-Khafaji commenting on the release of the two French hostages in Iraq and the French policy toward Iraq. The article says that although France affirmed that it did not pay a ransom for their release, it may have agreed to pay "a political ransom," referring to the French stance in the Sharm al-Shaykh Conference and its calls for national reconciliation. The article urges the Iraqi President Al-Yawir to clarify relations with France in his projected visit to France.
Al-Bayan carries on page 3 a 400-word article by Inas Adil Shakir calling for fighting the infrastructure and resources of terrorism in Iraq and the region. The article calls on universities to study this phenomenon in order to identify its sources and resources.
Al-Zaman runs a 300-word front-page editorial strongly criticising US Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld's latest visit to Iraq. The editorial says Rumsfeld is not welcome in Iraq, and wonders why he came. The editorial notes that wherever this man goes, disaster follows.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 8 a 1,200-word article by Jasim al-Yas, entitled "There is no New Iraq," in which he discusses the idea of "building man in the new Iraq." The writer says that this is "wrong, because it is built on totalitarian concepts that want to create an extreme one-sided ideology." He adds that the Iraqi culture is composed of "cumulative experiences." He says change should take in the stages of development in the infrastructure, ie industry and agriculture, and the superstructures, ie the educational system.
Al-Mashriq runs on page 3 a 400-word article by Hamid Abdallah, which comments on US Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld's recent statement that the situation in Iraq is "difficult and the picture is dim." Abdallah says the situation "has always been difficult since the US occupation of Iraq, but the US officials try to polish the dim picture to cheat others by talking about false democracy."
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 4 a 300-word article by Muhammad Samarah, entitled "What is the Fate of those Detained by the Authorities?" The writer comments on the statements "frequently delivered" by government officials, saying that "a number of terrorists has been arrested." The author says that it is the "right" of any Iraqi citizen to know "what is happening to these detainees, and why they committed their crimes."
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 25 December carries on page 11 a 1,400-word article by Yasir al-Za'atrah, in which he discusses the Al-Falluajh offensive, saying that it "created a dangerous sectarian feeling between the Sunnis and Shiites." The writer adds that this "feeling" should be remedied, or all will be losers.
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 25 December runs on page 13 a 900-word article by Sa'd Mihiw, entitled "Al-Najaf, Massacres Bigger than Iraq," in which the author discusses the US "attempts to kindle a sectarian civil war in Iraq." He says that the "massacres" carried out in Shiite cities are aimed "to ignite this strife."
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 25 December publishes on page 15 a 1,500-word article by Faysal al-Qasim, which compares the "Muslim extremists" with the "new liberals." The writer says that the "new liberals" are more "dangerous, because they negate the other and hate any kind of dialogue." He adds these liberals "adopt the US military code" in their relations with others.
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 25 December carries on page 28 a 500-word article by Abd-al-Jabbar Yusif al-Siqar, which comments on the "performance" of the Iraqi Government. The writer says that the government should have "paid more attention" to the following points: accelerating reconstruction process, eliminating administrative corruption, and solving the problems of unemployment and public services.
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 25 December runs on page 31 a 1,400-word article by Fathi Ivazi, entitled "Did the United States Win the War?" The writer comments on the US recent "war against Iraq," saying that this war "enabled the United States to oblige Iraq's neighboring countries to change their policies in the US interests."Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 25 December publishes on page 33 a 600-word article by Abd-al-Wahab Jamil, entitled "The Occupation and its Results," in which the writer criticizes the "deba'thification" process, saying that it is "unfair." He also criticizes the "occupation forces" for the "abuse of Iraqi prisoners."
Al-Manarah carries on pages 1 and 7 a 600-word editorial by Khalaf al-Manshadi which comments on the lucrative business of vote buying that goes on at $200 per family despite the fatwa by the religious authority banning the practice.
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AFS Document Number: GMP20041226000188
City/Source: Iraq -- FBIS Report
FBIS Document Number: FBIS-NES-2004-1226
Geographic Names: Near East & South Asia; Near East; South Asia; Iraq; Iran; Syria; Jordan
NewsEdge Document Number: 200412271477.1_089e046ac04af3cc
Original Source Language: Arabic
Region: Near East & South Asia
WNC Document Number: 0i9dwou00pso57
WNC Insert Date: December 27, 2004
World News Connection®
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Dialog® File Number 985 Accession Number 200600231
Highlights: Iraqi Press 23 Dec
Iraq -- FBIS Report in Arabic 23 Dec 04
FBIS REPORT
Thursday, December 23, 2004
Journal Code: 9023 Language: ENGLISH Record Type: FULLTEXT
Document Type: Daily Report; News
Word Count: 5,220
The following lists selected reports carried in the Iraqi press on 23 December. Further processing is indicated below. To request processing, please contact FBIS at (800) 205-8615 (in US) or (202) 338-6735 (outside US); or fax (703) 613-5735.
(FBIS Report)
Iraqi newspapers dated 23 December highlight the following issues:
I. IRAQ ELECTIONS:
Al-Manar al-Yawm publishes on page 4 a 400-word "exclusive" interview with Mithal al-Alusi, a former command member of the Iraqi National Congress, commenting on the upcoming elections and the recent developments in Iraq. Asked about the importance of the upcoming elections, Al-Alusi said that in these elections, the Iraqi people will elect their representatives who will be responsible for drafting an Iraqi permanent constitution representing the Iraqi identity away from the Iranian, Syrian, and foreign influence. Asked about the withdrawal of the foreign forces from Iraq, Al-Alusi said: "Whoever says that the US will leave Iraq is lying; however, we will force the US to draft contracts protecting the Iraqi interests and sovereignty." Al-Alusi maintained: "The Ba'thist thieves and gangs must realize that there is no place for them in Iraq any longer, adding, those who were forced to join the party have been liberated." Al-Alusi added: "We will not allow the religious and other parties to extort those who were liberated after 9 April." (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 50-word report citing news sources as saying that Ayatollah Al-Sistani fully supports and blesses the Iraqi Unified Electoral List because "it includes figures that can be trusted in drafting the constitution."
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page and page 3 a 1,200-word report on the political program of the Iraqi Unified Electoral List. The program goals are to work for providing security and peace, fighting terrorism, building efficient and strong security forces and army, and maintaining Iraq's sovereignty. The program also pledged to develop public services such as the social security program, the health situation, and the agriculture and Industry, to boost the women's role in the society, and support the youth sector and sports. The program vowed to focus on the administrative reforms, fighting corruption, developing the education sector and economy, and to improve Iraq relations with Arab, Islamic and other countries, and activate Iraq's role in the international organizations. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Da'wah publishes on page 2 a 200-word report citing a spokesman for the US Embassy in Baghdad in a news conference on Sunday, 20 December, as saying that his country, Japan, and the European Union donated $118 million to support the upcoming elections in Iraq.
Al-Da'wah publishes on page 3 a 1,200-word report by Iyad Attiyah discussing the latest developments regarding the upcoming elections in Iraq scheduled for 30 January. The report says that as the Iraqi Government declared its determination to hold them as scheduled and as the UN, European Union, Arab League, Islamic Conference Organization, and several other international organizations declared their support, the latest doubts on holding the elections on schedule vanished and their preparations are escalating in Iraq. The report says that despite the hard work of the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq, it is still criticized for failing to sufficiently explain the mechanism and other details for the upcoming elections. The report says that monitors do not expect huge and effective election campaigns due to the elections' mechanisms that allow individuals only a minor margin to act and the deteriorating security situation in the country. Apart from the few political forces that expressed fear that the US Government may financially support certain forces in the elections, most Iraqi forces believe they will be fair and honest. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 600-word report on the National Assembly's thirty second session held yesterday, 22 December, during which Dr Husayn al-Hindawi, the chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq, and Baghdad mayor were hosted. Al-Hindawi informed the Assembly that his commission seeks international financial aid for financing the upcoming elections, adding that a number of countries have already contributed while others have promised to do so. In his replies to the members' questions, Al-Hindawi affirmed that his commission is not financially supporting any candidate, and that it has "informed US parties its protest" regarding US President Bush's statement regarding his determination to hold the upcoming elections on schedule, adding the decision was an Iraqi decision.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 50-word "exclusive" report citing Planning Minister Mahdi al-Hafiz denying earlier news reports alleging that he had withdrawn from the Independent Democrats Grouping's electoral list.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 3 a 200-word article by Ibrahim Zaydan saying that although the media campaign for the upcoming elections started a few days ago, "the picture is still fully cloudy." The article criticizes regarding Iraq as a single electoral constituent because people have no idea of the candidates they will vote for. The article calls for adopting the multi-electoral constituent system because it allows people to vote for the candidates they know and also gives them a chance to nominate themselves in their regions where people know and vote for them.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 500-word report citing the reaction of the Iraqis living in France to the upcoming elections.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 400-word follow-up report citing Vice President Ibrahim al-Ja'fari in an interview with Sawt al-Arab Radio denying the news reports regarding the interference of neighboring countries in the upcoming elections.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 200-word editorial saying that although one month is separating us from the upcoming elections, the media campaigns introducing the electoral lists and the candidates and the infrastructure for the elections, such as preparing the polling stations and providing their security, are still uncompleted. The editorial says that the security situation is witnessing escalation and liquidation in an attempt to terrify the people preventing them from participating in the elections. Accordingly, intensified work and efforts to boost the security situation and to activate the media campaign are necessary and vital in order to ensure the success of the upcoming elections.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 180-word article by Ali al-Sa'idi saying that the Iraqi arena has witnessed a large number of alliances between the various political forces in Iraq in preparation for the upcoming elections that cannot be seen in any other country in the world. The article says that this phenomenon indicates the sincere willingness and determination of the political parties to build the new Iraq.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing Kurdish leader Mas'ud Barzani criticizing the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq for its discrepancies and great mistakes in voters' registration lists in Kirkuk. The report cites Yunadim Kannu, the leader of the Assyrian Democratic Movement, affirming that unless the pending problems in Kirkuk are solved, elections are impossible to be held. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 200-word editorial criticizing the senior officials running in the upcoming elections for taking advantage of their posts in their campaigns for the elections.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 4 a 300-word article by Ali Kazim Dawud saying that the main obstacle before the establishment of the state of law in Iraq is the occupation for the following reasons; the violation and misconduct of the occupation forces, their presence is a major reason for the deteriorating security situation, and the psychological reasons. The article says that the best way to end the occupation as soon as possible is holding the elections.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 4 a 300-word article by Dr Tayysir Abd-al-Jabbar al-Alusi wondering how fair and honest elections can be under the protection of armed militias in the country. The article says that if it is still early to dissolve them under the current circumstances, they at least should be evicted from the cities two weeks before the elections. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Basa'ir on 22 December publishes on the front page a 260-word editorial entitled "Why Insisting on Elections." The editorial says that the reasons behind the various national and international forces' insistence on holding the upcoming elections on schedule regardless of providing the appropriate conditions are different. The US wants to portray before the international community that it fulfils its obligations, the parties in power follow the US instructions, some national forces seek achieving sectarian and personal benefits, while neighboring countries aim at achieving their own interests. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Basa'ir on 22 December publishes on page 5 a 1,000-word article by Abu al-Faruq criticizing the holding of elections under occupation. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Ansar al-Mahdi publishes on page 2 a 1,000-word article by Ruqayah Ibrahim, attacking the political parties and figures that are willing to run in the upcoming elections. The writer says that the elections are "designed by the United States to legitimize its occupation of Iraq."
Ansar al-Mahdi carries on page 8 a 500-word article by Hamid al-Hasnawi, which criticizes the religious authorities for "insisting" on conducting the upcoming elections while "neglecting" the religious teachings and the "killing and persecution of Iraqis."
Al-Hawza runs on page 8 a 500-word article by Haydar Habur, entitled "Your Voice is Gold," in which he satirizes the statement made by the religious authority Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani describing the "importance" of votes as "gold." Hubar says that the upcoming elections are "useless," since the elected National Assembly will be "restricted" by the State Administration Law.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 7 a 700-word interview with the Democratic National Party Central Committee member Ra'uf Abd-al-Razzaq al-Dabis, discussing the party's participation in the upcoming elections. Al-Dabis says that his party will take part in the elections to "help in creating a democratic government, and draft the future constitution."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 7 a 1,500-word article by Karim Kitafah entitled "Be Ware of Returning the Veiled People Through the Elections." The writer comments on the "destruction done to Iraq by the veiled people, who were ruling us from behind a mask and are killing us now with a veil on their faces." He adds that these people are "trying to return through the elections, since they are capable of deception."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 7 a 500-word report from Al-Najaf, surveying a number of people's opinions in the "readiness" to participate in the upcoming elections. The people interviewed say that the recent attacks in Al-Najaf will not "detract Iraqis from taking part in the elections."
Al-Mashriq carries on page 3 a 1,500-word text of an interview conducted by Al-Arabiyah satellite TV channel with the Iraqi National Unity Gathering Leader Nihru Muhammad Abd-al-Karim al-Kasanzan al-Husayni, discussing the gathering's political views and preparations for the upcoming elections.
Al-Mashriq runs on page 6 a 400-word article by Mun'im al-Ammar entitled "Necessary Step Before Conducting the Elections," in which the writer says that people should be educated on the "criteria" by which they can "decide how to choose their representatives in the upcoming elections."
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 6 a 600-word article by Hadi Hasan Ulaywi entitled "Electoral Propaganda, Between Theory and Practice." The writer discusses the regulations adopted by the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq regarding the electoral campaigns, saying that there are some "drawbacks" in these regulations, and calls on the commission to "quickly repair the gaps in these regulations to have fair, transparent, and honest elections."
Al-Adalah runs on page 3 a 200-word report citing the 103rd National Guards Battalion Commander Qahtan Adnan saying that the battalion has prepared a plan to provide protection to the election process.
Al-Adalah carries on page 4 a 600-word article by Ali Khulayf entitled "Security, Elections, and Indebtedness," in which the writer discusses these three issues, "which occupy the Iraqi people's minds." He says that these issues are interrelated, and the success of the upcoming elections and the elected government depends on "freeing Iraq from debts."
Al-Adalah runs on page 4 an 800-word report on the political program of the Unified Iraqi Coalition electoral list. (FBIS plans to process this item)
II. POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS AND COMMENTS:
Al-Da'wah publishes on page 4 a 240-word report on the news conference held by Deputy Culture Minister Jabir al-Jabiri, who explained the results of his participation in the Arab Culture Ministers Fourteenth Conference held in Yemen early this month. Al-Jabiri said that the conference decided to return the stolen Iraqi historical artifacts and to donate a million books to Iraq and to regard Baghdad as a capital for the Arabic culture in 2009.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 600-word report by Riyad al-Asal on Al-Sharqiyah channel's interview with Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan, who explained that so far, approximately 65 percent of the new Iraqi Army has been formed and anticipated that it will be completed by the end of 2005. Al-Sha'lan described the dissolving of the former army as "a great disaster."
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 60-word "exclusive" report citing president Al-Yawir congratulating the Iraqi people, particularly the Christians, on Christmas and New Year's.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing Vice President Ibrahim al-Ja'fari as saying that Kuwait donated $60 million to the Heath and Education Ministries in Iraq.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 50-word news agency report stating that Iran announced closing its borders with Iraq until further notice. The report says that this came in the wake of Iran's undertaking to stop the infiltration of terrorists into Iraq.
Al-Basa'ir on 22 December publishes on the front page a 220-word report on the statement issued by the Association of Muslim Scholars condemning the recent attacks in Al-Najaf and Karbala. The statement accused "the sinful hands following the colonizer's dictations" of trying to disintegrate the national and religious links in our society.
Al-Basa'ir on 22 December publishes on the front page a 200-word report on the statement issued by the Association of Muslim Scholars on last Sunday's massacre in Al-Najaf and Karbala, warning that a poisonous plan is underway to make a reconciliation deal between those who were allies yesterday and have become enemies today, accusing Al-Zarqawi and others while their planes and artillery are killing women and children in Al-Fallujah and Al-Najaf. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Basa'ir on 22 December publishes on the front page a 160-word report citing Shiite leader Al-Khalisi as saying that the recent terrorist attacks in Al-Najaf and Karbala are a crime paving the road for sectarian sedition that the occupation is promoting in Iraq. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Basa'ir on 22 December publishes on page 2 a 160-word report on "the Muslims and Christians in Facing Challenges Conference" held in Syria early last week. The report cites Shiite leader Al-Khalisi as saying in the conference that President Bush is using Christianity as a cover for his colonization projects.
Al-Basa'ir on 22 December publishes on page 2 a 340-word report citing Abd-al-Salam al-Kubaysi, a command member of the Association of Muslim Scholars at last Friday's prayer sermon, as saying that the only path before the Iraqis under occupation is the liberation path. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Basa'ir on 22 December devotes all of page 7 to an unattributed report comparing the tactics of the Vietnamese and those of the Iraqi resistance. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Basa'ir on 22 December publishes on page 11 a 1,200-word report by Nidal Hamad discussing the Israeli infiltration in Iraq. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Basa'ir on 22 December publishes on the back page a 1,500-word article by Dr Muhammad Ayyash al-Kubaysi criticizing those who are calling for stopping the resistance in Iraq on the grounds of unbalanced power between the occupier and the resistance. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Ansar al-Mahdi carries on page 2 a 1,500-word text of a letter delivered by Muqtada al-Sadr to the Iraqi students, commenting on the current situation in Iraq, and giving some directions to students. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Hawza runs on page 4 an 800-word report citing a number of people's opinions and comments on the "changes that took place after the US occupation of Iraq." The people interviewed say that the United States "did not fulfill its promises of freedom and democracy."
III. SECURITY AND MILITARY DEVELOPMENTS:
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 130-word report citing a National Guard officer as saying that on Tuesday, 21 December, a National Guard officer was injured in clashes between his patrol and a number of gunmen in Sab'a al-Bur district northwest of Baghdad. The source added that a gunman was injured and arrested in the attack. The report adds that 15 insurgents were arrested in Hayfa Street in Baghdad.
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing a health official as saying that the chief of the Advisory Council of Al-Siniyah district, 7 km from Bayji, was killed on Tuesday, 21 December.
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 190-word report citing Major Sabih al-Sa'idi, the chief of Karbala Police Academy, informing the newspaper that last Sunday's booby-trapped car explosion in Karbala was targeting his academy, adding that the police prevented him from approaching the academy.
Al-Da'wah publishes on page 2 a 220-word interview with Al-Diwaniyah Police Chief General Abd-al-Wahab Hadi Salih who explained the measures taken by his force for the protection of the elections and the security situation in the governorate.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 300-word report citing a police source in Baghdad informing the newspaper that the Iraqi police arrested three gangs responsible for a large number of lootings and robberies in Baghdad.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 200-word report citing Mosul governor ordering the closing of the five bridges linking the two sides of the city. The report says that this decision came in the wake of the recent huge explosion in the US forces' base in the city, in which 22 people including 19 US troops were killed.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 140-word report citing an official source at the Interior Ministry as saying that his ministry formed a joint committee to decide the fate of Arab detainees charged with attacking the Iraqi security forces and multinational forces.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 3 a 170-word report citing an official source at the Sunni Waqf criticizing the Interior and Defense Ministries for not implementing the cabinet's decision issued on 23 November stipulating the presence of a representative of the Waqf during the raiding of mosques.
Al-Basa'ir on 22 December publishes on the front page a 100-word report saying that the US forces raided the house of Shaykh Rayyan Tawfiq, the official in charge of the Association of Muslim Scholars in Mosul, on 19 December.
Al-Mashriq carries on page 4 a 100-word report citing a source in Maysan police saying that the police seized 65 kilograms of explosive materials, 25 shells, 29 grenades, and a number of rockets in Qal'at Salih district.
IV. HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUES:
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 3 a 100-word report citing a spokeswoman for the Iraqi Red Crescent as saying that her organization has signed an agreement with the Italian Red Cross, according to which the Italian Red cross will be the link between her organization and European humanitarian organizations.
V. ECONOMIC NEWS AND PUBLIC SERVICES:
Al-Dustur publishes on page 4 a 100-word report citing Oil Minister Thamir al-Ghadban as saying Baghdad and other governorates were victims of a devious military and political scheme aiming at depriving people from the energy sources in order to foil the political process in the country. The scheme included the draining of large quantities of fuels, which was boosted by the recent large number of randomly imported cars in the country.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 4 a 100-word report citing Planning Minister Mahdi al-Hafiz announcing that the inflation index in Iraq for last November was 5.4 percent higher than that of October.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 70-word report citing an official source at the Public Works and Municipalities Ministry informing the newspaper that his ministry allocated five billion Iraqi dinars for the development of water treatment plants in Kirkuk Governorate.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 120-word report stating that an Iraqi delegation comprising the representatives of five ministries left for Amman to discuss the European grant of 200 millions euros to Iraq.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 5 a 1,200-word report by Salim Rashid al-Sa'di citing Planning Minister Mahdi al-Hafiz explaining the importance and goals of the eleventh annual conference for the Arab countries, Turkey, and Iran's economic research held in Beirut a few days ago. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Adalah carries on page 3 a 150-word report citing a source in Construction and Housing Ministry saying that the Al-Mansur General Company is implementing a number of projects to construct public clinics, housing units, and reconstructing the Engineering Consultation National Center building.
VI. PRESS COMMENTS:
Al-Mu'tamar carries on page 6 a 1,000-word article by Abd-al-Khaliq Husayn commenting on the recent terrorist attacks in Al-Najaf and Karbala, in which 65 Iraqi civilians were killed. The article says that last Sunday's massacre proved that the so-called resistance is in fact a war against the people, and indicated that Arabs, who are motivated and blinded by their sectarian spite, cannot see the ongoing massacres committed in Iraq under the banner of resistance. The article holds the Ba'th Party and its allies responsible for all the crimes in Iraq, adding that it has gained great experience in criminal acts during its 35 years in power. Some detainees confessed that prior to his defeat, former President Saddam Husayn formed the Muhammad Army, adding all terrorist organizations carrying Islamic names are led by Ba'thists. The article calls for executing a terrorist for every Iraqi citizen killed in a terrorist act in Iraq.
Al-Mu'tamar carries on page 6 a 500-word article by Aziz al-Haj commenting on the recent terrorist attacks in Al-Najaf and Karbala and the recent statements made by Tariq al-Dulaymi and Ziyad al-Khasawnah, the lawyer of former President Saddam Husayn, conveying his instructions to his followers and trying to foil the political process and upcoming elections in Iraq. The article criticizes the Iraqi Government for taking so long in trying and punishing the criminals and terrorist -- a matter that encouraged the escalation of terrorism in the country. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Mu'tamar carries on page 6 a 400-word article by Dr Hamid Abdullah saying that people all over the world are looking for a better future while the Iraqis' yesterday was much better than their today as they lack the minimum level of basic services and security. The article adds that the officials blame the deteriorating and declining security on the terrorists, the wide-spread corruption in the state institution on the inheritance of the former regime, and the declining services as a cost for freedom.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 500-word article by Zaynab al-Khafaji commenting on the recent news reports describing the current acceleration in the trial of former regime leaders as advertisement for the upcoming elections. The article says that former President Saddam Husayn's trial will be a turning point in Iraq's history that will have a great impact on the Iraqis' life and will boost their trust in the ongoing political process in the country. The article says that the escalating media campaigns and terrorist attacks aim at blocking the progress in Iraq. The article says that the Iraqi Government's secrecy regarding this issue encourages rumors such as alleging that Saddam staged a hunger strike or he demanded to be tried before a US rather than Iraqi court.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 540-word article by Abd-al-Amir al-Mankushi criticizing the recent calls for national reconciliation. The article wonders how a victim can shake hands with its butcher. The article calls for reconciliation with the thousands of Iraqi graduates who were recruited by the former regime in its wars and are now unemployed rather than with the Ba'thist criminals.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 300-word article by Salim Rasul wondering how and when the fuel and electricity problems will be ended.
Ansar al-Mahdi carries on page 1 a 700-word editorial by Chief Editor Salam Salih, accusing the Iraqi Government, the "occupation forces," and Abd-al-Aziz al-Hakim, the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq's leader, of "negligence" in providing security in Al-Najaf and Karbala. The writer says that this led to the recent "bloody bombings."
Ansar al-Mahdi runs on page 1 a 400-word article by Ali al-Nasiri entitled "The Unjust Campaign Against Iran," which criticizes the "hostile statements against Iran." The writer says that the "basic drive for this campaign are Israel and the United States, which want to separate the two Muslim countries from each other."
Ansar al-Mahdi publishes on page 8 a 700-word article by Basir al-Hafi entitled "Child Deaths Because of the Occupation," in which the author says that Iraqi children are dying in great numbers because of the "weak health care and the corruption in the Iraqi Government."
Al-Hawza carries on page 1 a 1,200-word editorial criticizing a "certain religious authority" (name not mentioned) for trying to "modify" late Imam Muhammad Sadiq al-Sadr's teachings for "his own interests." The editorial says that this person is working to "cheat people by pretending that he is the inheritor of Al-Sadr's knowledge."
Al-Hawza runs on page 2 a 700-word article by Nadiyah Diya Shikarah entitled "Let Us Cut the Fingers of Those Playing on the Sectarian Strings." The writer criticizes the "fragmentation project" designed by the United States "to divide Iraq into small, weak regions to be able to control it."
Al-Hawza carries on page 2 a 500-word article by Abbas Shati al-Itafi entitled "US Policy Future," which discusses the US policy toward the other countries, especially the Muslim countries. The writer says that this policy, which is characterized by "violence and hostility," will continue and "worsen."
Al-Hawza publishes on page 2 a 1,000-word article by Abd-al-Hamid al-Mukhtar entitled "Al-Najaf is not the Vatican," in which the writer says that the United States wants to make Al-Najaf a "Vatican-like religious authority, isolated from society, to pass its plans through." (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Hawza runs on page 2 a 1,200-word article by Muthanna al-Wa'ili entitled "What is New in the Iraqi-American Theory of Terrorism." The writer says that "every true Muslim is termed terrorist by the Iraqi Government and the US forces," adding that this should be a source of "pride for the terrorist."
Al-Hawza carries on page 3 a 1,000-word article by Rida al-Sha'ir, which criticizes the "new democracy brought by the United States." The writer says that the United States is working hard through this plan to "naturalize the relations of Iraq and the countries of the region with Israel."
Al-Hawza runs on page 8 a 700-word article by Nadiyah Shikarah, commenting on the recent statements made by Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan, in which he attacked Iran and the Shiite parties that have "good relations with Iran." She also criticizes the minister for saying that Al-Sadr followers are "more dangerous than Al-Zarqawi's."
Al-Hawza publishes on page 8 a 1,000-word article attacking King Abdallah II of Jordan for his recent statements against Iran and its "possible influence to create a pro-Iranian Shiite state in Iraq." The article says that the "young king is ordered by his masters, the British and Americans."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 1 a 400-word editorial by Isma'il Zayir, commenting on the "crises" that Iraqis are witnessing. The writer says that the Iraqi Government is not providing fuel and power, and the "terrorists are providing shells and bombs."
Al-Mashriq carries on page 12 a 500-word article by Hatam Hasan entitled "Not in Defense of Allawi," which criticizes the state officials for "losing" the opportunity to "serve" the people and get "more votes" in the upcoming elections. The writer wonders: What prevents those who are "enabled" to take positions in the government from "applying the state law in order to serve people?"
Al-Adalah runs on page 1 a 300-word editorial "blaming" the cabinet for "restricting" the press release of the recent decision to return the Al-Fallujah inhabitants to their city to a number of Al-Sabah and Baghdad newspapers, and Iraq Republic and Dijlah radios. The editorial says that this is not "acceptable" and is "unfair."
Al-Adalah publishes on page 5 an 800-word article by Talib Hasan Sa'id al-Wahili entitled "Saddam's Trial, the Demand of all the Wronged." The writer says that Saddam's trial should be the "incarnation" of justice, and he should be punished for his "atrocious crimes." The author adds that any Iraqi and Arab lawyers "should not be allowed to defend him."
Al-Adalah runs on page 16 a 400-word article by Muhammad al-Abdallah, wondering how an Iraqi lawyer can defend Saddam in front of the court. The writer says that it is "strange that this Iraqi citizen volunteered to defend a most ugly criminal." He wonders about the "excuses" this lawyer will present to "prove his client innocent."
VII. MEDIA:
Al-Dustur publishes on page 7 a 500-word interview with Haydar al-Salami, the chief editor of "Afaf" magazine, who explained that Afaf is one of the few Iraqi women's magazines, which focuses on young girls.
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AFS Document Number: GMP20041223000171
City/Source: Iraq -- FBIS Report
FBIS Document Number: FBIS-NES-2004-1223
Geographic Names: Near East & South Asia; West Europe; The Americas; South Asia; Near East; North America; Iran; Iraq; United Kingdom; United States
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Original Source Language: Arabic
Region: Near East & South Asia; West Europe; The Americas
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WNC Insert Date: December 24, 2004
World News Connection®
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Dialog® File Number 985 Accession Number 200450533
Highlights: Iraqi Press 22 Dec
Iraq -- FBIS Report in Arabic 22 Dec 04
FBIS REPORT
Wednesday, December 22, 2004
Journal Code: 9023 Language: ENGLISH Record Type: FULLTEXT
Document Type: Daily Report; News
Word Count: 6,572
The following lists selected reports carried in the Iraqi press on 22 December. Further processing is indicated below. To request processing, please contact FBIS at (800) 205-8615 (in US) or (202) 338-6735 (outside US); or fax (703) 613-5735.
(FBIS Report)
Iraqi newspapers dated 22 December highlight the following issues:
I. IRAQ ELECTIONS:
Tariq al-Sha'b carries on the front page a 300-word report on the positive reaction to last Friday's "huge festival" organized by the Communist Party in Baghdad, during which the media campaign for the party's electoral list, "the People Union List," was launched.
Tariq al-Sha'b carries on the front page a 300-word report discussing the latest developments regarding the upcoming elections. The report cites President Al-Yawir predicting that international and regional parties will spend millions of dollars to influence the Iraqi elections.
Al-Manar al-Yawm publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing Dr Farid Ayar, the spokesman for the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq, as saying that the upcoming elections will begin one minute after sunrise and end 33 minutes before sunset on 30 January. Ayar criticized and denied giving any statement or dealing with Al-Jazirah satellite channel because it is "impartial and does not care about the interests of Iraq and Iraqis."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on the front page a 60-word report citing sources close to the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq informing the newspaper that a large number of candidates from the Independent Democrat Groupings' electoral list led by Adnan Pachachi, including Planning Minister Mahdi al-Hafiz, Electricity Minister Ayham al-Samarra'i, and other prominent figures in the groupings, have withdrawn and joined the Iraqi Unified Electoral List led by Prime Minister Allawi. Sources close to the groupings informed the newspaper that the main reason for the withdrawal is "the weakness of the groupings' electoral and public base."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 7 a 1,000-word report on the political program of Dr Abid Jasim Kazim al-Sa'idi, an independent candidate in the upcoming elections. The program, which was under the banner of towards "independent, freedom, and social justice," included 27 clauses such as ending the occupation, rejecting violence, supporting the Palestinian cause, admitting the Kurds' right of self-determination, fighting bribes and corruption in the state institutions, and others. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 7 a 200-word report on the news conference held by the Iraqi Independent Gathering promoting its political program in the upcoming elections. The leaders of the gathering emphasized that they are not a political party but a bridge linking all trends to stop their conflict. They emphasized the importance of considering the opinion of those calling for postponing the upcoming elections, reminding of the civil war in Kurdistan in 1992 and the three postponements of the Afghani elections until an appropriate atmosphere for their success was established.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 7 a 300-word report on the expanded conference organized by the National Turkomen Front, headed by the Front's Chief Faruq Abdullah, on 20 December. The conference, which was attended by a large number of the Turkomen parties, discussed the importance of Turkomen alliance at this stage in order for the Turkomen candidates to win in the upcoming elections. The report includes the full text of the statement issued by the Iraqi Turkomen Front's Coalition, listing the parties included and explaining the goals and reasons for forming the coalition. The statement said that the coalition's electoral list, which comprises 63 candidates, was approved by the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq under No 175. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 7 a 700-word report citing Dr Farid Ayar, the spokesman for the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq, explaining the details of the process of voting in the polling stations and the mechanism of counting votes. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 7 a 300-word report citing Diyala Police Chief General Iyad Isma'il al-Ubaydi informing the newspaper that the elections' security plans to provide the necessary protection for the 256 polling centers throughout the governorate have been completed. The newspaper learned that 13 electoral lists will compete for the 41 seats in the governorate's Advisory council.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 7 a 300-word report citing the director of the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq in Al-Diwaniyah Governorate informing the newspaper that 13 political entities and 30 electoral lists were endorsed by his commission. Sa'd Mazlum al-Abdali added that the 448,000 eligible voters will vote at 231 polling centers that are established in the governorate.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page and page 2 a 750-word news agency report focusing on Prime Minister Allawi's statement warning that the insurgents are attempting to create sectarian sedition in order to foil the upcoming elections, Al-Sistani's statement to Al-Ra'y al-Am newspaper blessing the Unified Iraqi Coalition List, and the angry reactions to Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan's recent statement accusing the candidates of the Unified Iraqi Coalition List of being Iranian agents.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 300-word article by Amir Salih al-Fatlawi discussing the media campaign for the upcoming elections. The article says that the Iraqis are not used to such large scale media campaign by the too many electoral lists. The article calls for staging a media campaign to educate people on how to follow the media campaigns of the various political forces focusing on the former dictator regime's crimes and the struggle of the political forces against dictatorship. It also calls for benefiting from the experiences of other nations in this regard.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 300-word article by Salim Rasul discussing the importance of the media campaign for the upcoming elections. The article says that most of the controversy now is focused on the electoral lists while people do not know about the candidates that they are going to vote for. The article says that so far, only a few political forces have declared their political programs through their affiliated newspapers, which is not an effective way to inform other than the party members about their programs.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 4 a 1,500-word unattributed article saying that Iraq is marching towards the upcoming elections on a road that, under the current circumstances, is planted with so many mines: the severe shortage in monitoring and experience, the people's lack of basic services, the high possibility of forging, and the interference of both the neighboring and remote countries. The article discusses the potential dangers and problems that may surface during and after the upcoming elections.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 6 a 1,000-word article by Salman al-Shammari saying that a number of the Iraqi political forces believing in democracy and participating in the political process have been deceived by the false bright banners that the Ba'thists are raising by calling for the postponing of the upcoming elections. The article says that the reinstating of Ba'thists caused the escalation of terrorism in Iraq, thus holding negotiations with some of them would not improve the security situation in the country. The article says that the Iraqis have two options: either hold the upcoming elections as scheduled or cancel them because submitting to the demand of a minority leads the majority to adopt counter measures.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 6 a 300-word article by Muhammad Kazim al-Jadiri urging the Iraqis, prior to giving their votes, to carefully scrutinize the candidates because the enemies of Iraq adopt devious plans to seize power and pass their agendas through bright banners such as freedom, socialism, and others.
Al-Adalah carries on page 4 a 300-word article by Abd-al-Basit al-Juwari entitled "Elections, Our Way of Salvation," in which the writer says that Iraqis have "struggled and sacrificed for freedom and will insist on conducting the elections to achieve the aims they have struggled for."
Al-Adalah runs on page 4 an 800-word article by Zuhayr al-Zubaydi entitled "Why do We Not Give Preference to Reason over Passion? Elections between Delay and Speedup." The author comments on the "importance" of the upcoming elections in "achieving public legitimacy for the elected government." He adds that these elections will be the "sieve" that will isolate the "sectarian-oriented people from those who love Iraq as a whole."
Al-Adalah publishes on page 4 a 700-word article by Sa'd al-Ta'i entitled "The Outlaws," in which the writer discusses the possible "dangers" that threaten the upcoming elections. Al-Ta'i says that these elections will "end the hope of those who want to drag Iraq back to the times of darkness and dictatorship," and gives a number of suggestions to provide protection for the electoral centers.
Al-Adalah carries on page 4 a 500-word article by Tariq Harb, entitled "Elections and Parties," discussing the regulations adopted by the State Administration Law and the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq that define the political entities' nature and participation in the upcoming elections.
Al-Zaman runs a 300-word front-page report on a statement by sources at the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq noting that several candidates have withdrawn from the list of the Independent Democrats Grouping led by Adnan Pachachi. The sources say that those members have joined Iyad Allawi's list. The sources say that the withdrawn members are Planning Minister Mahdi al-Hafiz and Electricity Minister Ayham al-Samarra'i. On the other hand, the report cites the Iraqi Islamic Party in Mosul as announcing its withdrawal from the elections. The statement says that the difficult situation in many Iraqi cities and to avoid being a bridge upon which the "occupation's" plans cross, the Islamic Party decided to boycott the elections.
Al-Zaman runs on page 2 a 200-word front-page report on a statement by a senior official at Baghdad Local Council suggesting distributing the electoral list through the Baghdad Council instead of through the ration card agents. The official says that this suggestion is to avoid any attempt to hinder the electoral list distribution and to ensure wide distribution. On the other hand, the report cites Abd-al-Sahib Allawn, former Iraqi minister, denying that he has joined the National Democratic Alliance's list, headed by Justice Minister Malik Duhan al-Hasan. Al-Alwan says: "I would like to clarify that I haven't joined this list or any other list because of my personal circumstances."
Al-Zaman runs on page 3 a 50-word report on a statement by Hamid al-A'lali, member at the Islamic Accord Movement, noting that this movement has announced its electoral list to run in the upcoming elections. Al-A'lali says that the list includes 65 names of Iraqi figures representing all the Iraqis.
Al-Zaman carries on page 3 a 300-word report on a denunciation campaign to correct the information on independent names included on several lists without being informed. The report says that the campaign clarified that several names have no relations with the lists on which these names appeared. On the other hand, the report cites Tahir Muhammad al-Hasun, former minister, noting that he did not submit any request to join any political entities and he did not join the Iraqi Democratic Trend, led by Aziz al-Yasiri.
Al-Zaman carries on page 4 a 300-word article by Nidhal al-Laythi under the headline: "Democracy, Parties' Leaders." Al-Laythi says that the elections are the correct time to make promises, broker deals, and spend funds to win a seat in the parliament. Al-Laythi adds: "Would you ask the parties' candidates why they did not raise the Iraqi flags, and why they are raising the parties' flags?"
Al-Zaman runs a 150-word front-page report on a statement by Sharif Ali Bin al-Husayn, leader of the Constitutional Monarchy Movement, noting that his movement will run in the elections on a list that is made up of 275 members, a third of which are women. Bin al-Husayn says that the agenda will focus on security, sovereignty, law, economy, and civil society.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 5 a 500-word article by Muthana al-Tabaqjali under the headline: "To Be or Not To Be." Al-Tabaqjali says: "Any Iraqi who gives or will give his vote to the one who deserves it must guarantee that this candidate is only loyal to Iraq and will be committed to solving the problems with the fuel, explosions, electricity, retirees' salaries, and the army of the unemployed people."
Al-Mada runs a 30-word front-page report on a statement saying in full: "A source close to the office of his eminence Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani has stated to Al-Mada that the list of the Iraqi Unified Alliance, which is list number 169, has Al-Sistani's support and satisfaction."
Al-Mada publishes a 100-word front-page report on a statement by a senior member at the Iraqi National Accord Movement noting that the Independent Democrats Grouping, led by Adnan Pachachi, started talks with his movement to join its electoral list. The member says that the negotiations were ended last Monday without any clear agreement. On the other hand, the report cites a senior member at the Independent Democrats Grouping denying this information.
Al-Mada publishes a 500-word front-page news agency report on a statement by Dr Farid Ayar, official spokesman of the Independent Electoral Commission, asserting that the commission will provide 7,000 electoral centers for the National Assembly's elections. Ayar notes that there will be intensive checks of the voters' identities during the elections.
Al-Mada runs on page 7 a 1,000-word report on a survey conducted by Al-Mada newspaper concerning the elections. The survey says that there is a strong desire to participate in the elections and there are fears of terrorist acts.
Al-Furat publishes on page 2 a 300-word article by Muhammad al-Shahmani wondering if the elections will be held. Al-Shahmani says: "It was expected that the electoral lists will announce themselves and the candidates will explain their political agendas. But nothing of what was mentioned occurred." Al-Shahmany says that there are no indications proving that the government intends to hold the elections and there are no candidates who deserve getting the people's votes.
Al-Furat publishes a 400-word back-page article by Abd-al-Zahra al-Talqani under the headline: "Elections' Train, Calls To Postpone Trip." Al-Talqani says: "No one should expect a happy end to this trip. No one should expect an improvement in the ration card or in the electricity or in the oil products. There is no political party that dares to adopt these problems in its political agendas. But we, the Iraqis, will participate in the elections for God only to avoid the US critiques that we are not democratic people and to avoid being occupied again to change our new regime as the Americans have done with Saddam's regime."
Al-Nahdah publishes a 400-word front-page report on a statement by Farid Ayar, official spokesman of the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq, on a fabricated tape released by Al-Jazirah channel on the commission. Ayar says that he did not give any statement to Al-Jazirah channel and refused to be interviewed by this channel. Ayar says that the released tape that includes a statement by Ayar is media theft because it belongs to another channel. Ayar says he will not change his attitude toward this channel, which is playing a negative role in Iraq.
Al-Nahdah publishes a 700-word front-page editorial by Planning Minister Mahdi al-Hafiz explaining the details of the political agenda of the Independent Democrats Grouping. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Manarah carries on page 5 a 2000-word article by Muhannad Natiq, which provides a public survey of the elections in Basra.
II. POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS AND COMMENTS:
Al-Manar al-Yawm publishes on the front page a 130-word report on British Prime Minister Tony Blair's third visit to Baghdad. The report says that Blair held official negotiations with Prime Minister Allawi focusing on the progress in the political process and preparations for the upcoming elections. In the joint news conference held in Baghdad, Blair replied to the newspaper's questions about the goals of his visit, saying that it aimed at supporting the Iraqi Government and the upcoming elections and to overcome the problems that they face in order to ensure larger participation by the components of Iraqi society.
Al-Manar al-Yawm publishes on the front page a 230-word unattributed report saying that despite the fact that the government has declared that beginning early next month, refugees will be able to return to their houses, news sources said that a group calling itself "the Mujahidin of Al-Fallujah" circulated flyers in their refugee camps warning them not to go back to the city. The citizens of Al-Fallujah have staged several demonstrations demanding returning to their houses in the city regardless of the fact that the city still lacks the basic services such as water and electricity. The report cites Iraqi sources and eyewitnesses as saying that the US forces have destroyed several horticultural farms around the highway linking Ba'qubah with Khanaqin in Diyala Governorate on the grounds that they were used by insurgents as bases to attack the US patrols.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on the front page a 160-word editorial commenting on the role of Iraq's neighboring countries in destabilizing the situation in Iraq. The editorial says that "two decades after its Islamic revolution, Iran has joined the other regimes that are governed by organs that are controlled by the desires of only limited factions of a giant people." The Iranian and Arab regimes will remain confused and form an obstacle before the progress of the Arabs and Muslims, preventing them from reacting with the rest of the world. These regimes are not only depriving their own people the opportunity for progress, but using all available means and tricks to block the progress in their neighboring countries as well.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on the front page a 70-word report citing President Al-Yawir condemning last Sunday's terrorist attacks in Al-Najaf and Karbala.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 70-word report citing Muhsin Abd-al-Hamid, the leader of the Iraqi Islamic Party, informing the newspaper: "The massacres of Al-Najaf and Karbala aim at creating sectarian sedition in Iraq and at dividing the Iraqi people." Abd-al-Hamid added: "There is no doubt that those committing these crimes will lose and that all of their plans will fail because the people, the national and religious parties, and the religious authorities are aware and agree that Iraq's interests are in its unity."
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing Shaykh Muhammad Abd-al-Karim al-Kasnazan al-Husayni, the chief of the Kasnazaniyah Sufi Group in the world, condemning the recent terrorist attacks in Al-Najaf and Karbala.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 300-word follow-up report stating that in its meeting yesterday, 21 December, the National Assembly voted and recommended the dismissal of Suhayl Muhammad Salih, the chairman of the Property's Disputes Settlement Committee responsible for the settlement of the ownership of the properties seized by the former regime, due to the bad performance of the committee.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing a spokesman for the Iraqi National Unity Grouping condemning the recent terrorist attacks in Al-Najaf and Karbala.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 200-word editorial saying that we are living in a state described as federal and plural according to the law. However the limits between terms are mixed such as between freedom and chaos and between federation and partition. Iraq is divided into a number of domains controlled by the various forces while the central government's role is diminishing and is limited to monitoring only. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Ishraqat al-Sadr carries on page 2 a 1,200-word text of the Friday prayer sermon speech in the Kirkuk Governorate. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Zaman publishes a 400-word front-page report on the visit by British Prime Minister Tony Blair to Iraq. The report says that Blair has arrived in Iraq and was received by Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Allawi. The report quotes observers as saying that this visit is a big support to the Iraqi Government to hold the elections.
Al-Zaman carries a 100-word front-page report on a statement by Iraqi President Ghazi Ajil al-Yawir condemning the terrorist attacks in Karbala and Al-Najaf Governorates. On the other hand, the report cites the Association of Muslim Scholars as condemning these attacks and calling on the Iraqi people to be aware of the attempts that aim to create sectarian sedition among the Iraqis.
Al-Furat publishes a 200-word front-page report on a statement by Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani calling for an urgent meeting with the religious authorities to discuss the terrorist attacks that occurred in Al-Najaf and Karbala Governorates. Al-Sistani says that these attacks indicate an intention to hurt the Iraqi people. Al-Sistani calls on the religious authorities to be responsible in facing these criminal acts.
Al-Manarah carries a 400-word front-page article by the political editor on the recent suicide attacks in Karbala and Al-Najaf. It says that all indications confirm that those attacks seek to undermine the elections, which are only a few weeks away. The approach of the elections might trigger the countdown to an escalation of violence. If the elections go ahead as planned and succeed, the Iraqis will see through the foreign hands behind the bloodshed.
III. SECURITY AND MILITARY DEVELOPMENTS:
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing oil sources and eyewitnesses as saying that a number of saboteurs set a junction of oil pipelines north of Baghdad aflame yesterday, 21 December.
Al-Mashriq runs on page 4 a 100-word report citing Mines Affairs Director Mu'ayad Sabir Majid as saying that the directorate removed 16,000 mines and 300,000 tons of unexploded shells all over Iraq. Majid adds that the directorate is still surveying other areas, especially Southern Iraq, to clean them soon. He says that a recent survey revealed that there are 25 million mines and 3 million tons of unexploded shells in Iraq.
Al-Dustur carries on page 4 a 100-word report citing a source in the Basra Crime Investigation Directorate as saying that the directorate arrested a number of "terrorists" of different nationalities. The source adds that those "terrorists" were trying to "bomb police stations in Basra Governorate."
Ishraqat al-Sadr runs on page 2 a 100-word report saying that the US forces arrested a number of Al-Sadr followers in Al-Sadr city.
Al-Zaman publishes a 250-word front-page report on the assassination of an Iraqi nuclear scientist in Diyalah Governorate. The report says that unidentified gunmen assassinated Talib Ibrahim Zafir, a nuclear scientist and professor at Al-Yarmuk University in Diyalah Governorate. The report cites an eyewitness as saying that the gunmen opened fire on the victim's car, which drove into a small river. On the other hand, the report says that the violent attacks and the kidnapping operations against doctors escalated. The report adds that many doctors have left Iraq.
Al-Zaman runs a 150-word front-page report on a statement by a US military official noting that 22 were killed and 50 were injured during an attack targeting a military camp in Mosul. The official adds that the medical teams haven't identified yet the number of US soldiers who were killed in this attack.
Al-Zaman publishes a 300-word front-page report on a statement by a security official at the Oil Ministry noting that an explosive device blew up inside an oil complex in Kirkuk Governorate. The official says that the explosion led to a huge fire. The official adds that another secondary pipeline in the same area has blown up and the fire fighting teams are still fighting the fire.
Al-Mada publishes a 250-word front-page report on a statement by General Ghalib al-Jaza'iri, chief of police of Al-Najaf Governorate, noting that the police have received information about another car bomb in Al-Najaf. Al-Jaza'iri says that the police have closed all entrances to the old city and started a huge search campaign for this car.
Al-Mada publishes a 70-word front-page report stating that the Iraqi National Guards and the multinational forces raided Hayfa Street in Baghdad looking for the terrorist who killed the three employees of the Independent Electoral Commission. The report says that these forces have arrested suspects and recovered several arsenals.
Al-Furat publishes a 200-word front-page report on a statement by the Joint Command Staff noting that there is high-level coordination between the Defense Ministry and the National Security Ministry to reestablish the Iraqi military intelligence service. The statement says this intelligence will be based on the most modern standers.
Al-Furat publishes a 100-word front-page report on a statement by the interior minister noting that the ministry lost 1,000 policemen during the clashes with gunmen allover Iraq. The minister says that crimes declined by 50 percent. The minister accuses Al-Jazirah Satellite Channel of provoking the violence in Iraq and characterized it as an anti-Iraqi channel.
Al-Nahdah publishes a 100-word report on a statement by Iraqi national guards noting they arrested a six-member terrorist cell in Diyalah Governorate. The statement says that the national guards found flyers calling for violence and for attacking the Iraqi security forces.
Al-Manarah carries on pages 1 and 6 a 100-word report by Isma'il Qattan citing a source in the Interior Ministry as saying that the ministry has prepared 100,000 policemen to secure the safety of the electorate during the elections.
Al-Manarah carries on page 3 a 100-word "exclusive" report noting the attack on a three-member gang of car-bomb makers by the Intelligence Service in Basra, which resulted in two deaths and one arrest. The confessions made by the third member linked the gang to Al-Qa'idah, the report says.
Al-Manarah carries on page 3 a 100-word "exclusive" report on the failed assassination attempt on Dr Nahad al-Baghdadi, a director general at the Ministry of Justice.
IV. HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUES:
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing a multinational forces source as saying that on Monday, 20 December, Iraqi citizens discovered a new mass grave near Kirkuk containing 50 bodies.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 2 a 250-word report citing an official source at the Industry Ministry as saying that the cabinet has agreed that the Central Commission for Standardization and Quality Control and other monitoring organs resume their work in inspecting and testing all imported items prior to their marketing in Iraq.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing an official source at the Environment Ministry as saying that his ministry has spotted eight locations contaminated with uranium in Basra.
Al-Dustur carries on page 5 a 200-word report from Basra on a survey conducted by the Radiation Prevention Directorate to check for radiation pollution. The report says that the survey came out with the result that eight areas are polluted with uranium. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Zaman runs a 200-word front-page report on a statement by a Kurdish official noting that dogs have led the people west of Kirkuk Governorate to discover a mass grave there. The official says that the people noticed that these dogs were gathering in one area. The official adds that the people have investigated the area and discovered this mass grave. The official notes that 20 bodies were found in this mass grave.
Al-Manarah carries on page 3 a 200-word report by Isma'il Qattan citing an official at the Health Ministry as saying that the ministry has published statistics on the cases of contagious diseases reported during November 2004 in all Iraqi governorates save Al-Anbar. The report gives the number of specific cases.
Al-Manarah carries on page 3 a 200-word report by Talib Almas Ilyas citing the Minister of Environment as saying that the ministry has signed many agreements with international organizations and Arab countries to develop the declining environment in Iraq. The report enumerates the organizations and the projects involved.
V. ECONOMIC NEWS AND PUBLIC SERVICES:
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 60-word report citing an official source at the Oil Ministry as saying that a ministerial decree appointed Muhammad Husayn Taqi as director general for the Gas Filling Company and Hunar Badi'a as director general for the Iraqi Drilling Company. The source said that a new mechanism for distributing gas cylinders to people through ration card agents will be implemented.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 120-word report citing Planning Minister Mahdi al-Hafiz affirming that the living standard of the Iraqi citizens is gradually and steadily improving.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 60-word report citing an official source at the Housing and Construction ministry informing the newspaper that the Housing Fund of her ministry will start giving loans to people to build their houses in the few next weeks.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 2 a 300-word report stating that in its meeting yesterday, 21 December, the cabinet decided that beginning tomorrow, the citizens of Al-Fallujah will be returned to their city during several stages. The report cites the industry minister, who also is in charge of the rehabilitation of the city, as saying that the Iraqi ministries in cooperation with the multinational forces have accomplished a great deal in the rehabilitation of the city.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 2 a 130-word report citing an official source at the Transport Ministry as saying that the Joint Iraqi-Syrian Transport Company signed a contract for buying two commercial ships.
Al-Mashriq carries on page 5 a 600-word report on the "negative influence" of the fuel and power shortage on the Iraqi economy. The report includes interviews with a number of Iraqi economists, surveying their opinions on this issue.
Al-Mashriq runs on page 5 a 150-word report citing water resources minister as saying that the irrigation sector is facing "many complex troubles, most important of which are maintaining old projects and fighting weeds." The minister adds that the ministry "lacks modern technology and spare parts," calling on local and foreign companies to provide such materials.
Ishraqat al-Sadr publishes on page 3 an 800-word report from Basra on the "deteriorating" services situation. The report includes interviews with a number of people, surveying their comments on this issue.
Al-Furat publishes a 400-word front-page report on a statement by the oil minister noting that there is a multi-facet plan to ruin the Iraqi oil fortune. The minister calls on the people to cooperate with the authorities to crush the organized-crime gangs. The minister notes that Al-Dura refinery has no crude oil after targeting the pipeline that feeds the refinery with oil.
Al-Nahdah publishes on page 4 a 200-word report on a statement by a medical source at Al-Munthiriyah border point noting that several Iranian trucks loaded with fruits were prevented from entering Iraq because the shipment is not valid for human use.VI. PRESS COMMENTS:
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 6 a 1,000-word article by Nabil Ali Salih saying that people in the Arab and Islamic countries are passing through the worst depression period in their history because of the tyrant regimes ruling them. The article compares the democratic and oppressing ruling systems.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 6 a 150-word article by Muhsin Sabah Ghazal describing the corruption in the border points, especially in the Al-Walid Border Center near the Syrian borders. The article says that by paying a $5 bribe to the Iraqi police officers at the center, anyone can enter the country.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 6 a 600-word article by Fa'iz Shamran al-Yasiri discussing federation and the Kurdish cause in Iraq. The article says that not only the Kurds have the right to get rid of the tight control of the central government, but other regions in Iraq have the same right too. The article praises the first conference for the Al-Furat al-Awsat governorates held in Al-Najaf recently because it was "the first step towards establishing a federal, decentralized rule in this important part of Iraq." (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on the back page a 400-word article by Hasan al-Ani saying that former President Saddam Husayn does not represent the Ba'th Party's ideology, which calls for nationalism as is the case with the Kurdish parties. The article says it is too difficult for the Iraqi people to differentiate between the political programs of the various Iraqi political parties running in the upcoming elections because they are almost the same.
Al-Bayan carries on page 3 a 1,000-word article by Inas Adil Shakir discussing the importance of the women's role in the political development in Iraq.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 6 a 400-word article by Sahir Uraybi saying that "the US has finally put its hands on the Iraqi bleeding wound" when General Meyers said that the real danger threatening Iraq today is the remnants of the former regime. This came to end the controversy about who the enemies of Iraq are and to foil the attempts that some Iraqi irresponsible parties were trying, in an attempt to cover for the real enemies, to blame some other parties for terrorism in Iraq. The article calls for eliminating the Ba'thists from all electoral lists that they managed to penetrate under various cover names, otherwise we expose ourselves and sons to another wave of mass graves.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 6 a 1,000-word article by Dr Abd-al-Khaliq Husayn commenting and reacting to Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan's recent statement accusing the candidates of the Unified Iraqi Coalition List of being Iranian agents. The article says although there are many politicians that share Al-Sha'lan's views, they do not publicly announce their views, adding that his statements clearly indicate his naivety and endanger his political future and his electoral list. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Adalah carries on page 16 a 400-word article by Muhammad al-Abdallah entitled "Holy Al-Najaf, and the Frightening Iraqi Patience," which comments on the "frequent attacks" that this city witnessed. The writer says that the "perpetrators" of these bombings are the same ones who "dug the mass graves, murdered the religious scholars, and committed all the atrocious crimes against the innocent Iraqi people."
Al-Mashriq runs on page 1 a 400-word article by Hamid Abdallah entitled "Reduce Pictures and Increase Actions," in which the writer criticizes the phenomenon of "hanging pictures of political and religious symbols" on the walls of public places and offices. He says that this is "worse" than the habit of the former regime, and it is better for people to "see actions more than pictures."
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 4 a 400-word article by Abbas Latif entitled "Is the Press Still the Fourth Estate?" The writer comments on the Iraqi press in the post-Saddam era, saying that it is "facing many troubles in dealing with the Iraqi current situation." He adds that there should be a positive reaction on the part of the government to what the press reflects about the obstacles and hardships facing Iraqis."
Al-Mashriq carries on page 6 a 900-word article by Hadi Hasan Ulaywi entitled "Role of Education and Religion in Restoring Original Social Values," in which the author comments on the "loss of values in the Iraqi society due to wars and sanctions." He says that it is the responsibility of the educational and religious institutions to "educate the new generations with moral and ethical values."
Al-Mashriq runs on page 6 a 1,000-word article by Atif al-Ghamri entitled "The Arab World and the New World System." The writer discusses the "Arab countries' policy" toward the "changing international relations," saying that the Arabs are "fossilized" in their outlook and transactions with a world that is "constantly changing according to mutual interests and policies."
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 12 a 400-word article by Hatam Hasan, commenting on the "disorder" that Iraq is witnessing nowadays. The writer says that things are "upside down because criminals are free to do whatever they want with no authority to punish them."
Al-Dustur carries on page 5 a 300-word article by Abd-al-Rasul Ziyarah, in which the author comments on the work of the National Integrity Committee. He says that it is not enough to "pinpoint the corrupt officials. What is more important is to punish these officials and return what they stole to the Iraqi treasury."
Ishraqat al-Sadr runs on page 1 a 200-word editorial by Chief Editor Fattah al-Shaykh, praising the late Imam Muhammad Sadiq al-Sadr, saying that he wanted to "rebuild man again and save him from the destruction done to him by the positive governments."
Al-Manarah carries on pages 1 and 6 a 600-word editorial by Khalaf al-Manshadi, which says that Sunday's attacks sent a clear message to the world at large that the next elections will be held in a pool of blood in all Iraqi cities, especially in the south for their staunch support for the elections. More importantly, the incident precipitates the sectarian antagonism aimed at igniting civil war in the country. The author criticizes the United States and the Iraqi Government for their failure to provide security in the country. He concludes that the Iraqis' great valor and their determination to get out of their predicaments, namely terrorism and occupation, are the only matters that count.
Al-Manarah carries on pages 1 and 6 a 400-word commentary by Muwaffaq al-Rifa'i which illustrates the inherent frustrations of the government's approach in tackling terrorism. The author criticizes the government's failure to name and shame the hands behind the attacks.
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AFS Document Number: GMP20041222000141
City/Source: Iraq -- FBIS Report
FBIS Document Number: FBIS-NES-2004-1222
Geographic Names: Near East & South Asia; West Europe; The Americas; Near East; North America; Iraq; United Kingdom; United States
NewsEdge Document Number: 200412231477.1_cd0506398e14bb04
Original Source Language: Arabic
Region: Near East & South Asia; West Europe; The Americas
WNC Document Number: 0i96ikm02lnx9c
WNC Insert Date: December 23, 2004
World News Connection®
Compiled and distributed by NTIS. All rights reserved.
Dialog® File Number 985 Accession Number 200400636
Highlights: Iraqi Press 21 Dec
Iraq -- FBIS Report in Arabic 21 Dec 04
FBIS REPORT
Tuesday, December 21, 2004
Journal Code: 9023 Language: ENGLISH Record Type: FULLTEXT
Document Type: Daily Report; News
Word Count: 4,329
The following lists selected reports carried in the Iraqi press on 21 December. Further processing is indicated below. To request processing, please contact FBIS at (800) 205-8615 (in US) or (202) 338-6735 (outside US); or fax (703) 613-5735.
(FBIS Report)
Iraqi newspapers dated 21 December highlight the following issues:
I. IRAQ ELECTIONS:
Al-Zawra carries on page 2 a 1,000-word report on the conference organized by the Iraqi Journalists Association in cooperation with the Iraqi Civil Society center to discuss the role of Iraqi journalists in the upcoming elections. The report says that the dean of the association and a number of intellectuals delivered lectures explaining the importance of the upcoming elections in drawing Iraq's future, the legal status of the elections, the role of women, and journalists' obligations in educating people in the conference, which was held in Baghdad on 18 and 19 December.
Al-Zawra carries on page 3 a 1,250-word interview with Shaykh Nadim Hatam al-Sultan al-Tamimi, the secretary general of the National Brotherhood Movement, who explained the history, goals, and political activities of his movement. Al-Tamimi clarified his movement's stances regarding the political developments in Iraq and affirmed that his movement's electoral list comprises prominent tribal, religious and social figures. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Zawra carries on page 3 a 1,000-word interview with Shaykh Muhannad al-Asadi, a member of Karbala Advisory Council and chairman of the council's Media Committee, explaining his committee's preparations for the upcoming elections. Al-Asadi focused on why he joined the council and the reasons behind the wide criticism by the people of Karbala. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 2 a 50-word announcement by Health Minister Dr Abd al-Sahib al-Alwan saying that "my name was included in the electoral list of Tawfiq al-Yasiri," adding: "As I was not consulted in advance, I would like to explain that I am not participating in this or other lists due to my personal and health situations."
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 500-word report citing Dr Farid Ayar, the spokesman for the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq, affirming that the upcoming elections will be held on 30 January as scheduled and that the number of electoral centers is 7,000 with 36,000 polling stations throughout the country. Ayar said that international monitors, who are not necessarily from the UN, in addition to his commission, will supervise the elections. The report cites Patriarch Amanu'il Dali as saying that his church does not support any particular electoral list. The report cites a source at the Interior Ministry as saying that the ministry will deploy 100,000 well-trained police officers for the protection of the elections.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 600-word article by Husayn Abd-al-Amir al-Mankushi emphasizing the importance of the upcoming elections in the building of the new Iraq and calling for providing their necessary requirements. The article focuses on providing the appropriate atmosphere for the participation of the components of the Iraqi society, inside and outside the country, in the elections that must be held as scheduled. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Zaman runs on page 3 a 100-word report on a statement by the Iraqi Independent Mass noting that the elections are a way to legitimize the authority and to end the violence in Iraq. The statement rejects excluding any areas from voting. The statement calls for establishing a political authority for the anti-government armed groups to take a part in any dialogue or conference for national reconciliation.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 5 a 200-word report on a statement by Abd-al-Aziz al-Hakim, leader of the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq, SCIRI, noting that the neighboring countries understand the necessity of the elections in Iraq and they will accept the results. Al-Hakim says that the government will face ethical, legal, and political problems if the elections are postponed.
Al-Zaman runs on page 5 a 400-word article by Mu'ayad Husayn al-Salihi discussing the elections. Al-Salihi says: "In time, when all papers are being mixed, the people will wonder about the mechanism of the elections and if the political entities will be able to have a plan to end the daily problems in Iraq. Some people started to doubt having honest elections, while the others believe that the elections will be the only way to end the irregular life in Iraq."
Al-Furat publishes a 200-word front-page report on a statement by Adnan Pachaci, leader of the Independent Democrats Grouping, noting he still believes that it is necessary to postpone the elections to continue the dialogue with the political entities that have reservations about the elections. Pachaci says that all Iraqis should have a role in rebuilding their country.
Al-Furat publishes a 200-word front-page report on a statement by Vice President Ruz Nuri Shawis noting that the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq should agree on postponing the elections in Kirkuk, and he supports this suggestion. Shawis says that the Kurds will have the right to react if their requests to postpone the elections are ignored.
Al-Furat runs a 300-word front-page report on a statement by Prime Minister Allawi noting that the elections will be held as scheduled and will contribute in starting new life in Iraq. Allawi says that Al-Fallujah refugees will be able to return back within the next two days. Allawi promises to solve the oil products crisis.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 7 an 800-word text of the "Watani" list electoral program. The program includes four aspects: national, constitutional, service and people's needs, and foreign affairs. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 7 a 200-word report from Al-Najaf on a meeting held by the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq (SCIRI), headed by the SCRIRI leader Abd-al-Aziz al-Hakim. The meeting discussed the preparations for the upcoming elections.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 7 a 100-word report from Al-Najaf on a conference held by the Future Iraq Gathering, led by Ibrahim Bahr-al-Ulum, discussing the gathering's political program and preparations for the upcoming elections.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 7 a 900-word article by Waddah Hasan al-Rubay'i entitled "General Elections Between the Difficult Figure," discussing the Iraqis' "experience, which resulted from their struggle against tyranny." The writer says that the Iraqis' "will" has been "strengthened," and they can "decide their fate in the upcoming elections."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 7 a 700-word article criticizing those who "slander" the electoral candidates.
The author says that "accusing this or that side of treachery without any evidence mars the democratic process."
Al-Mashriq carries on page 4 a 600-word survey of a number of people's opinions regarding the upcoming elections. The people surveyed link the elections and the "deteriorating" security and services situation, saying that there should be a certain kind of "stability" for the elections to be successful.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 12 a 300-word article by Hadi Nu'man al-Hiti entitled "Our Electoral Campaigns," in which the writer criticizes some political parties' "exaggeration" in using the "slanderous and libeling" terms in their electoral campaigns. He says that these parties "try to show that they are better than others, which they regard as their enemies."
Al-Dustur runs on page 6 a 600-word article by Ahmad Abdallh, entitled "Elections, Our Favorable Historical Opportunity," which demands that the upcoming elections should be conducted on schedule, saying that Iraqis can "create a huge force" to provide security during the election process. The writer adds that the elections will bring a "legitimate" government, which will be able to make "great achievements."
Al-Adalah publishes on page 5 a 600-word article by Na'im al-Uqayli, entitled "Words in the Elections." The author discusses the "necessity" of conducting the upcoming elections on schedule, saying that this is the "wish of the majority of Iraqis."
Al-Adalah carries on page 16 a 500-word article by Muhammad al-Abdallah entitled "Politicians, Tell us About Yourselves, not About Others," in which the writer criticizes those politicians who "slander" others, and attribute to them various "ugly" features. The writer says that this reflects the "bankruptcy" of these politicians, calling on them to "present their own political programs in stead of attacking others."
Al-Adalah runs on page 16 a 200-word report from Al-Manadhirah district in Al-Najaf Governorate on the "popular electoral committees" activities. The report says that the committees encourage people, especially women, to take an active role in the elections.
II. POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS AND COMMENTS:
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 500-word report on the reactions of a number of Iraqi political forces and leaders to the recent terrorist attacks in Al-Najaf and Karbala. The report cites Ayatollah Muhammad Sa'id al-Hakim denouncing the attacks, which aimed at creating sectarian sedition among the various Iraqi factions. Muhammad Bahr al-Ulum, a Shiite leader and former IGC member, said that these operations aim at creating chaos in order to foil the upcoming elections. Intifad Qanbar, the spokesman for the Iraqi National Congress, affirmed that the terrorists will not succeed in their attempts to stop the progress in the political process in the country. Haydar al-Abady, a command member of Al-Da'wah Party, held the Ba'thists and fundamentalists responsible for the attacks. Al-Najaf Governor Adnan al-Zarfi accused foreign hands for the attacks.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing Al-Sharif Ali Bin-al-Husayn, the leader of the Constitutional Monarchy Movement, holding the US responsible for the deteriorating security situation in Iraq.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing Prime Minister Allawi affirming that the current fuel crisis would be solved within the next 24 hours and that the citizens of Al-Fallujah will begin returning to their city in the next two days.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing Ahmad Rida Asifi, the spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, announcing that his country refuses to give up demanding reparations for the eight-year war with Iraq in 1980-1988.
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 200-word editorial condemning the recent terrorist attacks in Al-Najaf and Karbala, and holding "the enemies of Iraq" responsible because no true Muslim "dares to commit such a crime." The editorial says that these attacks targeted Iraqi civilians because there were no multinational forces or even an Iraqi state institution near the bombing sites. The editorial urges the religious leaders of other sects to condemn these crimes in order to prevent sectarian sedition in the country.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page and page 2 a 1,200-word report on the news conference held by Vice-President Ibrahim al-Ja'fari in Baghdad yesterday, 20 December. Al-Ja'fari explained the result of his recent tour to Iraq's neighboring countries, which focused on the security situation in Iraq. Al-Ja'fari also clarified his views regarding the current security situation, political development and process, and the upcoming elections. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page and page 2 a 400-word report on the reactions of a number of religious and political leaders and the statement issued by Al-Da'wah party condemning the recent terrorist attacks in Al-Najaf and Karbala.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page an editorial condemning the recent terrorist attacks in Al-Najaf and Karbala, which aim at creating sectarian sedition and to block the political process. The editorial adds that these crimes indicate the clear discrepancies in the security measures and the absence of effective plans to confront terrorism in Iraq.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 180-word editorial criticizing the Iraqi politicians because they are only concerned about seizing power and achieving personal economic gains while ignoring the Iraqi people's needs.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 4 a 1,200-word article by Ghazi al-Aridi discussing the stances of the various Iraqi factions regarding the upcoming elections and their impact on Iraq's neighboring countries. The article calls on all Iraqis to unite and establish an Iraq where all the Iraqi factions and components can live in peace. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Zaman runs a 400-word front-page report on a statement by the Iraqi Islamic Party condemning the terrorist attacks that took place in Al-Najaf and Karbala. On the other hand, the report cites Al-Najaf Governor Adnan al-Zurfi noting that the police arrested 50 suspects involved in the Al-Najaf attacks.
Al-Zaman publishes on page 3 a 400-word report on a statement by Dr Dhia al-Hadithi, head of the Sunni Waqf, condemning the terrorist attacks that targeted Al-Najaf and Karbala. Al-Hadithi says that those who are committing these crimes don't believe in Iraqi unity, calling on the Iraqi people to be unified against these attempts.
Al-Furat runs a 300-word front-page report on a statement by the head of the Iraqi Judges League, Judge Abbas al-Anbaki, noting that the Iraqi courts are not able to sue the US soldiers that are committing crimes against the Iraqis. Al-Anbaki says that the "occupation" forces have dismissed 180 Iraqi judges without any legal right and it did not allow them to defend themselves.
III. SECURITY AND MILITARY DEVELOPMENTS:
Al-Zawra publishes on the front page a 130-word report citing the trade minister calling on the thieves who stole 13 trucks carrying tea on their way to Baghdad in Al-Anbar Governorate to return them because the tea was imported for the ration card rather than for the US forces.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 400-word report citing a high-ranking official source at the Justice Ministry as saying that 58 Arabs and foreigners were arrested in Al-Fallujah to be added to the other 600 Arab and foreign terrorists, who had been detained by the multinational forces in Iraq. The source added that 5,500 Iraqis are still detained by the multinational forces. He explained that a nine-member committee comprising the representatives of the Justice, Human Rights, and Interior Ministries, in addition to three members of the multinational forces, is responsible for their fate.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing an official source at the Oil Ministry as saying that the fire on a second oil well in Kirkuk was put out, adding that the Iraqi and foreign fire fighters continue their work on the other four burning wells.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing an official source at the Trade Ministry as saying that two of the 13 stolen tea-trucks were returned.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 50-word report citing an Al-Sadr trend source as saying that the Iraqi National Guard arrested Ahmad al-Aqabi, the official in charge of Al-Sadr bureau in Karbala yesterday, 20 December.
Al-Zaman publishes a 300-word front-page report on a statement by eyewitnesses in Al-Fallujah noting that the multinational forces have attacked arsenals in Al-Fallujah. The eyewitnesses say that tanks and jet fighters participated in bombing the arsenals that were used by the insurgents in Al-Fallujah. On the other hand, the report cites an armed group called "Mujahidu al-Fallujah" as calling on the refugees not to return back to the city.
Al-Zaman runs a 400-word front-page report on a statement by eyewitnesses in Mosul city noting that unidentified gunmen have assassinated two employees working at Mosul Municipality. On the other hand, the report says that the US forces have raided the house of Shaykh Rayyan Taufiq, head of the Muslim Scholars Association in Mosul. The report says that the US forces have searched the house and left without arresting anyone.
Al-Zaman runs a 100-word front-page report on a statement by the national guards noting they arrested six suspects and recovered a car, masks, and weapons used to attack the national guards.
Al-Zaman runs on page 3 a 100-word front-page report on a statement by Al-Kut police noting they have recovered an arsenal in Zayn al-Qaus city containing all kinds of weapons. The police say that the security forces transferred the weapons to be defused later.
Al-Dustur carries on page 5 a 100-word report from Al-Samawah, on the inauguration of a "security coordination center" in the governorate to control the "activities pertaining to security and emergency."
IV. HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUES:
Al-Zawra carries on page 3 a 750-word interview with Istabraq Ibrahim al-Shuk, the director general of the State Buildings Commission of the Housing and Construction Ministry, who explained his commission's duties, achievements, and development plans.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 4 a 200-word report citing Wa'il Abd-al-Latif, the state minister for governorates affairs, anticipating that operations in the Iraqi ports will be back to normal within a year. Abd-al-Latif affirmed that the work for the rehabilitation of all Iraqi ports is continuing.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 70-word report citing an official source at the Environment Ministry as saying that a team from his ministry has located a spot highly contaminated with uranium in Al-Samawah Governorate.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 6 a 400-word report on the Radiation Protection Center of the Environment Ministry in Iraq. The report cites Bushra Ali Ahmad, the director of the center, who explained her center's duties, activities, and future development plans.
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 120-word report citing an official source at the Finance Ministry as saying that the cabinet issued a decree allocating pension to the families of the people who were executed by the former regime.
Al-Adalah carries on page 3 a 100-word report from the Maysan Governorate citing Maysan Primary Health Section director as saying that the sections started a campaign to vaccinate six-year-old children against measles.
V. ECONOMIC NEWS AND PUBLIC SERVICES:
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 160-word report citing an official source at the Electricity Ministry as saying that his ministry signed a contract with China for the training of Iraqi cadres in China.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 6 a 500-word interview with Abu-Fulus Port Director Hamid al-Jabiri, who explained the history of the construction and rehabilitation of the port, its importance to Iraq's economy, and the problems that his administration faces in operating the port. Asked about his view regarding the Transport Ministry's plans to offer Iraqi ports for foreign investment, Al-Jabiri strongly objected affirming that the Iraqi Ports State Company has the necessary experience and cadre to operate the Iraqi ports.
Al-Zaman runs on page 5 a 100-word front-page report on a statement by an official at the Governorates Issues Ministry noting that the United Arab Emirates has sent 40 service cars to Basra Governorate. The official says that this gift was handed over during a festival held in Dubai that was attended by the Basra Governor.
Al-Furat publishes a 100-word front-page report on a statement by sources at the Electricity Ministry noting that the son of a senior official at this ministry has signed an exclusive contract with the ministry to be in charge of supplying the ministry with all its needs. The sources say that this individual benefited from his father's position to control exclusively this issue.
Al-Mashriq carries on page 5 a 500-word report on the "depression" in the work of printing houses in Iraq. The report cites the opinions of a number of owners of printing houses on this issue.
Al-Dustur runs on page 5 a 150-word report citing Transportation Minister Lu'ay Hatam al-Iris as saying that a number of the ministry's officials will meet officials of Boeing next week, while the ministry is studying purchasing a number of planes from Airbus.
VI. PRESS COMMENTS:
Al-Mu'tamar carries on page 6 a 500-word article by Dr Ahmad Abdallah discussing the problems facing the higher education sector in Iraq. The article says that this sector, which inherited several problems from the former regime's erroneous policies, was subjected to further damage after the downfall of the former regime as most of the Iraqi universities were looted and destroyed. The article explains that it still suffers from the illogical religious and political interference in the universities' work, urging the religious authority in Al-Najaf, the prominent political forces, and the Iraqi Government to immediately stop this interference. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Mu'tamar carries on page 6 a 700-word article by Salman al-Shammari discussing the means used by the Ba'th Party to seize power in Iraq. The article says that the party is prepared to make alliance with the "forces of dark," especially fundamentalists and sectarian seditions, in order to achieve its goals. The article demands that Jordan King Abdallah apologize for the Iraqi people for his hostile statement, doubting their patriotism and loyalty.
Al-Furat runs a 400-word front-page editorial by Chief Editor Shakir al-Juburi on what the "occupation" has done for the Iraqis. Al-Juburi says that the "occupation" did not come to Iraq with wonderful and new ideas, but legal actions that are being adopted to sue the former officials. Al-Juburi adds that the former regime will not use the "occupation" as a way to punish the former officials, but it will use violence. Al-Juburi says that this is one of the very few good things that the "occupation" brought and it represents a step toward a real democratic and ethical way to deal with the political rivals.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 1 a 350-word editorial by Chief Editor Isma'il Zayir, commenting on the recent bombings at Al-Najaf and Karbala. Zayir says that the "murderers, who are Iraqis dressed like Afghans, will not escape punishment."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 1 a 50-word statement denying that the newspaper's chief editor made any comments on the Iraqi electoral lists to the Kuwaiti newspaper Al-Watan, which published "these alleged comments" in its issue dated 19 December 2004.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 8 a 1,500-word commentary by Hasan Nuri al-Yasiri, giving a number of suggestions on developing the private sector in Iraq.
Al-Mashriq runs on page 3 a 300-word article by Hamid Abdallah, criticizing the Iraqi Government for "not being able to provide the minimal services for the people." The writer says that the previous regime, in spite of its badness and darkness, was better than the present.
Al-Mashriq carries on page 4 a 600-word article by Fadil Abd-al-Hasn al-Hacham entitled "Away From Fear, To Be Responsible in Words and Actions," in which the writer attacks the Iraqi Government for its "inability to provide public services to Iraqis, especially fuel and electricity."
Al-Mashriq runs on page 6 a 700-word article by Hadi Hasan Ulaywi, which discusses the nature and tasks of the Iraqi National Media Board, saying that the board should "contain the elite media specialists and intellectuals, and should be based on respecting the spirit of democracy and transparency." The writer adds that the board "has yielded no results."
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 6 a 700-word article by Ahmad Abdallah entitled "An Iraqi Dream Called Reconstruction." The author criticizes the Iraqi Government and the US Administration for "being very slow in the process of reconstructing Iraq." He adds that accelerating this process will be a "slap to terrorists," and any "delay" will make the Iraqi Government and the US Administration lose their "credibility." (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Dustur carries on page 6 a 1,000-word article by Najah Muhammad Ali entitled "Denying the Opposition in Iraq Does Not Mean It Is Not Existent." The writer discusses the "importance of opposition in curbing the government from being despotic," and calls for establishing a "peaceful" opposition in Iraq.
Al-Adalah runs on page 4 an 800-word article by Ali Khulayf entitled "Wrong Doing and the Political Project," in which the writer comments on the former regime's "injustice" to the Shiites and Kurds, and its effect on the future political system in Iraq. The author says that the majority of Iraqis were "wronged" by the former regime, and now they must "unite and cooperate to establish their political program, which will guarantee the minority's rights."
Al-Adalah carries on page 4 a 500-word article by Ahmad Abdallah, which comments on Saddam and his supporters' trial, saying that this is the "trial of the age" because it will achieve "justice and reveal all the hideous crimes committed by those criminals."
Al-Adalah runs on page 5 a 300-word article by Abbas al-Husayni, in which the writer comments on the recent "terrorist" attacks in Al-Najaf and Karbala, accusing Bin Laden of "planning them by using the code of targeting oil fields in Saudi Arabia and Iraq."
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FBIS Document Number: FBIS-NES-2004-1221
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Original Source Language: Arabic
Region: Near East & South Asia; The Americas
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Dialog® File Number 985 Accession Number 200350595
Highlights: Iraqi Press 20 Dec
Iraq -- FBIS Report in Arabic 20 Dec 04
FBIS REPORT
Monday, December 20, 2004
Journal Code: 9023 Language: ENGLISH Record Type: FULLTEXT
Document Type: Daily Report; News
Word Count: 5,210
The following lists selected reports carried in the Iraqi press on 20 December. Further processing is indicated below. To request processing, please contact FBIS at (800) 205-8615 (in US) or (202) 338-6735 (outside US); or fax (703) 613-5735.
(FBIS Report)
Iraqi newspapers dated 20 December highlight the following issues:
I. IRAQ ELECTIONS:
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page and page 2 a 300-word follow-up report on the instructions issued by the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq to the Iraqi media regulating their coverage of the upcoming elections in Iraq.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 40-word report citing Foreign Minister Zebari calling for transferring the center for counting the votes of Iraqis living abroad from Jordan to UAE.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 1,500-word unattributed article explaining the electoral political program of Al-Da'wah Party. The article focuses on the party's views regarding women's role, education, and culture and arts. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 500-word article by Ali al-Sa'idi discussing and criticizing the recent calls for postponing the upcoming elections made by a number of Arab satellite channels, which coincided with the calls made by a number of Iraqi political forces and the escalation of terrorist attacks. The article says that the current sensitive and critical situation in Iraq has no space to accommodate further experimental policies and postponement calls that no one is authorized to decide on and neglecting the entire people.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 400-word article by Adil Shakir Hummadi urging all eligible Iraqis to participate in the upcoming elections. The article says that although voting is not compulsory, it is a religious duty as per the instructions of Ayatollah al-Sistani.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 300-word article by Qindil Hamid al-Fatlawi saying that due to their previous experience with the elections held under the former regime, the Iraqis may think of their voting in the next elections as useless as it used to be. The article says that they will decide the future of Iraq as the next National Assembly's main task is the drafting of the permanent constitution for the country.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 200-word report citing Prime Minister Allawi as saying that the larger the participation of Iraqis in the upcoming election the more positive they will be. In his meting with a number of journalists yesterday, 19 December, Allawi affirmed that the upcoming elections are less important than those of 2005, adding that the drafting of the constitution and the referendum are the main points at this stage. Allawi regarded Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan's recent statement as representing his personal view rather than his government's view. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 70-word report citing Dr Farid Ayar, the spokesman for the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq, as saying that today, a poll will be held to decide the sequence of the political entities' names on the ballot forms.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 5 a 300-word article by Abd-al-Rasul Zahrah praising the frankness of Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan in exposing the neighboring countries that contribute to terrorism in Iraq. The article criticizes him for his recent statement accusing the candidates of the Unified Iraqi Coalition List of being Iranian agents. The article asks if Al-Sha'lan's allegations were true, why would the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq accept an electoral list that includes Iranian nationals?
Al-Dustur publishes on page 6 a 500-word commentary by Salah al-Tukmaji discussing and commenting on former UN Envoy Brahimi's responsibility. The commentary describes his meetings with the various Iraqi leaders, who deeply differed in their views regarding the upcoming elections in the country. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Manar al-Yawm publishes on the front page a 200-word Iraq news report on the statement issued by the Arab Socialist Movement announcing boycotting the upcoming elections.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 4 a 300-word article by Hamzah al-Shamkhi emphasizing the importance of the upcoming elections and criticizing a number of political forces and figures, who are financially backed by regional and international forces, for buying the votes of poor people in the upcoming elections.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 600-word report on the recent developments regarding the upcoming elections in Iraq. The report cites Dr Farid Ayar, the spokesman for the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq, who affirmed that the upcoming elections will be held as scheduled on 30 January. Ayar added that voting at the polling centers will continue from 0800 to 1700 Baghdad local time. He expressed astonishment about Prime Minister Allawi's recent statement proposing to hold them over a period of a few days. The report cites Abd-al-Aziz al-Hakim, the leader of the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq, SCIRI, reacting to Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan's recent statement accusing the candidates of the Unified Iraqi Coalition List of being Iranian agents. After his meeting with Ayatollah Al-Sistani, al-Hakim said: "We anticipated such irresponsible and inaccurate statements; however, we do not want to rouse controversy. We trust that people will vote for the candidates who are supported by their religious leaders."
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 6 a 1,000-word article by Riyad al-Hasani discussing the chances of the various electoral lists in the upcoming elections. The article says that the 275-member electoral lists of the Iraqi Communist Party and Islamic Party would have less of chance than the other small lists in the upcoming elections because they represent specific political ideologies while the Iraqi society is influenced by tribal, religious, and social loyalties more than by political ideology. The article predicts that President Al-Yawir's list, Iraqiyun, would not be popular because it depends on tribal inclination, among which both Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan and Al-Yawir are not popular due to their recent statements criticizing religious authorities. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 6 a 400-word article by Furat al-Haddad discussing and criticizing the Syrian Government's stance regarding the Iraqi upcoming elections. The article says that the Syrian Government wants the Iraqi Embassy in Syria, which has close relations with the Syrian security agencies, to supervise the election process for the Iraqis residing in Syria rather than the International Immigration Organization; a matter that would jeopardize its legitimacy. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 6 a 700-word article by Fakhriyah Salih criticizing the German Government for not cooperating with the International Immigration Organization and the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq to facilitate the voting of Iraqis living in Germany. The article calls for establishing three polling centers rather than one to allow a larger participation in the elections.
Al-Zaman publishes a 500-word front-page report on attacks targeting the electoral centers. The report says that a severe wave of violence has targeted the electoral centers in Baghdad and the northern and western cities. The report adds that three employees working for the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq were assassinated in Hayfa Street in Baghdad. Meanwhile, the report says that a security member was killed during an attack targeting an electoral center in Al-Saydiyah district in Baghdad. In Kurkuk Governorate, a mortar attack targeted an electoral center without any information about the casualties.
Al-Zaman runs on page 2 a 500-word report on a statement by Ttaufiq al-Yasiri, secretary general of the National Democratic Coalition, led by Justice Minister Malik Duhan al-Hasan, noting that his party has started its electoral campaign. Al-Yasiri says that his party has named 200 figures representing all the Iraqis to run in the upcoming elections. Al-Yasiri adds that his party will run in the elections as an entity representing academics, independent committees and figures, artists, writers, and tribal leaders.
Al-Zaman runs on page 3 a 100-word front-page report on a statement by sources close to Ahmad al-Barak, member of the interim National Assembly, noting that Al-Barak has withdrawn from the United National Coalition and joined the Democratic Society Movement, led by Hamid al-Kafa'i. The sources say that Al-Barak was upset with the changes that were made to the list without giving him any prior notice.
Al-Nahdah publishes a 300-word front-page report on a statement by the Arab Socialism Movement noting it will boycott the elections that will be on 13 January 2004 because it realized that the security situation would not provide a platform suitable to hold the elections. The statement says that the movement was the first political entity that handed over its political agenda, but the security situation will hinder holding honest elections. Additionally, three major governorates will boycott the elections. The statement adds that the ethnic and sectarian issues are affecting the elections and the movement's calls for postponing the elections.
Al-Furat publishes a 300-word front-page report on a statement by National Assembly Deputy Speaker Jawad al-Maliki noting that the National Assembly has summoned the defense minister to attend a questioning session after his attack against the Shiite list. Al-Maliki says that no one has the right to criticize or to attack the candidates, and the minister has used the forbidden weapons against the candidates.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 7 a 700-word statement issued by the Independent Iraqi Bloc, explaining the bloc's "point of view" regarding the upcoming Iraqi elections. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 7 a 600-word report citing a press statement by the "Watani (my country) electoral list," revealing the candidates political program. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 7 a 300-word report, discussing the results of a poll conducted by Al-Sabah al-Jadid newspaper, surveying the opinion of a number of Al-Diwaniyah inhabitants regarding the upcoming elections. The report says that 80 percent of the people surveyed refuse delaying the elections.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 7 a 500-word article by Salim al-Hakim, entitled "Give your Vote to These," in which the writer discusses the "qualities," like "impartiality, belief in federation, and clarity of program," that the candidates should possess to "deserve to be elected."
Al-Mashriq runs on page 6 a 700-word article by Hadi Hasan Ulaywi entitled "Elections: the Authority's Legitimacy in the Democratic System." The author gives a historical survey of the "idea" of elections and its development, commenting on the various elections conducted in Iraq during the previous regime. He discusses the "ideal procedures," which can guarantee "fair and honest elections" in Iraq.
Al-Adalah carries on page 4 an 800-word survey of a number of people's opinions regarding the upcoming elections.
Al-Adalah runs on page 4 a 500-word article by Abd-al-Basit al-Juwari entitled "Mesopotamian People, Between Elections and Services," which comments on the "deteriorating" public services, such as the fuel and power shortage, and their "negative influence on the upcoming elections."
Al-Adalah publishes on page 5 a 900-word report from Mosul, surveying a number of people's opinions regarding the upcoming elections.
Al-Adalah carries on page 5 a 400-word article by Na'im al-Uqayli entitled "Words on the Elections," commenting on the "importance" of the upcoming Iraqi elections and the "need" to conduct them on schedule.
II. POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS AND COMMENTS:
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 130-word report stating that Foreign Minister Zebari is in Pakistan on a three-day visit to hold discussions with the Pakistani leaders regarding the security situation and reconstruction of Iraq.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 250-word editorial by Chief Editor Basim al-Shaykh saying that the Iraqi security agencies have inherited from the former regime a strange principle that "regards the citizen guilty until his innocence is proved." The article says that although no one denies the critical security situation of some political figures and state institutions, it is not the problem of the people, adding that the security forces should protect rather than oppress people on the grounds of an unstable security situation.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 120-word report citing a spokesman for the US Embassy in Iraq praising the progress in the political process achieved so far. The spokesman welcomed the submission of the Sunni electoral lists to the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 4 a 60-word report stating that Vice President Ruz Nuri Shawis visited Kirkuk and discussed with the governor and other officials the security situation, the financial and administrative support of Kurdistan Government, the postponing of the upcoming elections in Kirkuk, and other issues.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 4 a 260-word "exclusive" report on the first National conference for the Civil Society Institutions organized by the State Ministry for Civil Society Affairs in Baghdad. The report says that the conference discussed, over two days, four main topics: the economy, the political and legal situation, the social situation, and the media and education.
Al-Manar al-Yawm publishes on the front page and page 2 a 240-word report stating that a delegation headed by Al-Sharif Ali Bin-al-Husayn, the leader of the Constitutional Monarchy Movement, left for Kuwait. The report cites Bin-al-Husayn condemning yesterday's terrorist attacks in Al-Najaf and Karbala.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 130-word follow-up report citing an Iraqi diplomatic source denying earlier news reports alleging that the Iraqi Embassy in Syria was selling Iraqi passports to foreigners.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 200-word follow-up report citing sources close to the Iraqi Government as saying that Prime Minister Allawi stopped a US plan to attack Syria in retaliation for its support of terrorism in Iraq.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 230-word editorial urging the Iraqi people to help in fighting the so widely-spread corruption in the state institutions that an international report graded Iraq as one of the most corrupt countries in the world.
Al-Zaman publishes a 70-word front-page report on a demonstration organized by the Iraqi Nation Democratic Party, led by Mithal al-Alusi, former official spokesman of the Iraqi National Congress led by Ahmad Chalabi, near the Syrian Embassy in Baghdad calling for handing over the Iraqi former officials who reside in Syria. The report says that the demonstration has called for handing over the Iraqi funds in Syria and stopping the Syrian intervention in the Iraqi issues.
Al-Mada publishes a 600-word front-page report on a statement by Prime Minister Iyad Allawi noting that there is strong security cooperation with Egypt, Jordan, and United Arab Emirates. Allawi says that these countries understand the Iraqi military needs. Allawi criticizes some countries that do nothing but watch what is happening in Iraq. Allawi says that the defense minister's statement that attacked an electoral list was an individual statement and does not represent the government. Allawi adds that the government does not see what the defense minister sees.
Al-Mashriq carries on page 3 a 150-word report citing National Assembly Deputy Speaker Jawad al-Maliki as saying that the assembly will summon Iraqi Defense Minister Hazim al-Shi'lan to interrogate him about his recent "attacks on some electoral candidates."
III. SECURITY AND MILITARY DEVELOPMENTS:
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 70-word report citing official sources at the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq as saying that three of the commission's workers were killed when their car came under attack in Hayfa Street in the center of Baghdad.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing an official source at the Interior Ministry as saying that his ministry has formed three brigades comprising experienced and qualified former commandos of the dissolved Iraqi army to support the Iraqi security forces in imposing law and order in the country.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing a border guard source as saying that his forces arrested 31 Afghani nationals, including 16 men, 7 women, and 8 children, trying to infiltrate the country near Qazanyah district in Diyala Governorate.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 160-word report citing a source informing the newspaper that dozens of people were killed and more than 50 others were injured in a huge explosion that took place near a police station located 1,000 meters away from the Imam al-Husayn holy shrine in Karbala. The report said that another explosion targeted a tribal chief's funeral procession in Al-Najaf attended by Al-Najaf Governor Adnan al-Zarfi and other officials in the city.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 5 a 120-word report stating that the Iraqi police and National Guard arrested nine terrorists in Al-Nasiriyah Governorate, who admitted during interrogation, that they planned to carry out terrorist attacks on election day in the governorate. They also confessed that a National Guard major trained them in Mosul.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 5 a 120-word report stating that General Muhammad Khalaf succeeded Colonel Abu Nur al-Husayni as Dhi Qar Police chief.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 5 a 100-word report stating that Basra Governor Hasan al-Rashid warned the Al-Karafah and Al-Hallaf tribes must end their dispute and hand all their heavy weapons over to the Iraqi police within ten days.
Al-Zaman publishes a 100-word front-page report on a statement by an employee at Ibn Taymiyah mosque in Baghdad noting that four mortar grenades targeted the mosque. The employee adds that four people were injured during this attack.
Al-Zaman publishes a 200-word front-page report on a statement by Yunadim Kina Yusif, leader of the Assyrian Democratic Movement, noting that the Christians in Iraq will not celebrate Christmas this year because of the bad security situation. Yusif says that the Christian clerics decided not to celebrate this year and to be in solidarity with the victims of the attacks that targeted the churches in Iraq.
Al-Zaman publishes a 300-word front-page report on a statement by a source at Karbala police noting that a huge explosion shook Karabala yesterday due to a suicide car bomb attack that targeted a bus station there. The source says that 14 people were killed and ten cars burned during the explosion. On the other hand, the report cites a senior official at the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq, SCIRI, in Al-Najaf Governorate noting that a car bomb attack that occurred one hour after the Karbala attack killed at least 12 people. Meanwhile, the report says that the latest information indicates that 84 people were killed and 90 injured in Al-Najaf attack.
Al-Zaman publishes a 200-word front-page report stating that unidentified gunmen assassinated a tribal leader and his son in Baladruz in Diyalah Governorate. The report says that the victim was a well-known and respected figure in Baladruz and he was an independent figure.
Al-Zaman publishes a 300-word front-page report on a statement by eyewitnesses in Al-Fallujah city noting that the US jet fighters attacked three districts in Al-Fallujah. The eyewitnesses say that these air raids were carried out after severe clashes occurred between the US forces and the gunmen in these districts.
Al-Zaman runs on page 2 a 60-word front-page report on a statement by Diyalah police noting they arrested 13 foreign nationals who entered Iraq illegally through Iran. The police say they recovered drugs from those foreigners.
Al-Nahdah publishes a 100-word front-page report on a statement by the US Army noting that a hand grenade attack that was supposed to target a US vehicle in Mosul missed the target and hit a student bus. The statement says that one student was killed and six injured during this attack.
Al-Nahdah publishes a 90-word front-page report on a statement by an official source at the Interior Ministry noting that the ministry has established three new brigades from the special forces of the former army. The source says that the ministry intends to form the fourth brigade to enhance security in Iraq.
Al-Mada publishes a 100-word front-page report stating that the multinational forces launched an intensive search campaign in Zayuna district in Baghdad looking for Qusay Mahdi, the mastermind of the attacks against the US forces.
Al-Mada publishes a 100-word front-page report on a statement by three armed groups in Iraq threatening to kill ten Iraqis working with a US security company. The statement calls on the US Company to stop its activities in Iraq or the hostages will be killed.
Al-Adalah carries on page 3 a 100-word report citing a source in Al-Samawah Police as saying that the police "prevented a terrorist attack in Al-Samawah and confiscated a large amount of explosive material."
IV. HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUES:
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 340-word report citing Health Minister Dr Ala al-Din Alwan as saying that the public health services have declined in Iraq. During his meeting with the senior health officials in Baghdad, Alwan added that his ministry's stock of medicines is enough for less than three months. Alwan asserted that his ministry's strategic development plan for the next four years focuses on fighting corruption, providing basic health services, ensuring the safety of the food supplies, preparing health laboratories, and monitoring communicable diseases. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page and page 2 a 350-word report citing Health Minister Dr Ala al-Din Alwan as saying that the recent surveys indicated that 11 percent of Iraqis were extremely poor, 25 percent of the Iraqi population depend totally on the ration card, and the unemployment rate reached 50 percent. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Dustur publishes on page 4 a 150-word report citing Health Minister Dr Ala al-Din Alwan as saying that the rate of health expenditure in Iraq reached $40 per capita, which represents 5 percent of the rate that the other countries in the world subsidize their health sectors.
Al-Ufuq carries on page 2 a 75-word report citing an Iraqi health source affirming that cholera out-breaks occurred in the Al-Fallujah refugee camps. The source explained that the medical team in charge of conducting medical and laboratory tests reported several cases due to polluted drinking water.
Al-Adalah carries on page 3 a 50-word report from Al-Najaf, saying that the Al-Najaf Health Directorate has started a campaign to vaccinate children against measles.
V. ECONOMIC NEWS AND PUBLIC SERVICES:
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 120-word report citing well-informed sources at the Electricity Ministry as saying that a high-ranking official delegation will leave for Jordan today to discuss the connection of electricity networks in Iraq with Jordan and Syria. The report says that Egypt plans to supply Iraq with electricity through the Jordanian electricity network.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 120-word report citing Baghdad Mayor Ala al-Tamimi as saying that the fund that his mayoralty obtained in the last few weeks is "a drop in the bucket." Al-Tamimi estimated that the development of Baghdad, which has been neglected for decades, needs $13 billion.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 150-word report citing the representative of the Canadian oil company, OGA, in Baghdad affirming that his company was awarded a contract for the development of Himrin oil field.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 2 a 90-word report citing the British ambassador to Iraq affirming that Britain is ready to train the Oil Ministry's cadre. During his meeting with Oil Minister Thamir al-Ghadban, he affirmed that his country is willing to cooperate in developing the oil sector in Iraq.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 4 a 120-word report citing Oil Minister Thamir al-Ghadban as saying that his ministry plans to construct new gas stations and develop the existing ones in Iraq.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 4 a 120-word report citing an official source at Baghdad Advisory Council affirming that a huge reconstruction campaign in Al-Sadr City will be launched early next year.
Al-Nahdah carries on page 4 an 80-word report on a statement by an official at Baghdad Municipality noting that France has allocated $256,000 as a donation to Iraq to implement water projects in Baghdad. The source says that Baghdad Municipality has agreed with France to organize a conference on Iraq in Paris that will be funded by the French Government.
Al-Nahdah runs on page 4 a 300-word report on a statement by a source at the Electricity Ministry noting that the engineering staff managed to repair 24 high-tension carrier cables. The source says that the sabotage acts targeted 34 high-tension carrier lines and the ministry will put forth its best efforts to repair the other ten.
Al-Furat runs a 400-word front-page report on a statement by the Trade Ministry noting it intends to take legal actions against four Arab companies that receive money to provide Iraq with food stuffs. The ministry says that these companies did not supply Iraq with the material and Iraq will take legal action through Interpol. The ministry would not give the companies' names.
Al-Furat publishes a 50-word front-page report on a statement by the Justice Ministry calling on the families of 167 detainees to go to the ministry in order to start the procedures to release them.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 1 a 200-word article citing a source in Al-Samawah Agriculture Directorate as saying that the directorate has formed a team to "fight the hordes of locusts that are expected to invade the south Badiyah desert."
Al-Mashriq carries on page 4 a 100-word report citing an Environment Ministry source as saying that the ministry will use "the most modern scientific methods, including satellites, to study the environment of the marshes in Southern Iraq."
Al-Mashriq runs on page 5 a 500-word report on the "negative influences" of importing "animal products" on the "poultry projects" in Iraq. The report cites the comments of some Iraqi economists regarding this issue.
Al-Adalah publishes on page 3 a 100-word report citing a Transportation Ministry source as saying that the ministry has concluded a number of contracts with Iraqi, Arab, and foreign companies to build 200,000 housing units to be distributed by the ministry's officials.
VI. PRESS COMMENTS:
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 6 a 600-word commentary by Abd-al-Hadi al-Hakim commenting on the recent statements by Human Rights Minister Bakhtiyar Amin and Prime Minister Allawi regarding the condition of former President Saddam Husayn's current prison and the recent news reports that a number of former regime leaders staged a hunger strike protesting the mistreatment they are receiving in their prison. Al-Hakim describes the sufferings and conditions when he and dozens of his family members spent eight years in Saddam's prisons.
Al-Bayan carries on page 3 a 300-word article by Salim Rasul urging the Iraqi Government to pay attention to the embezzlement of Iraqi wealth and corruption in the UN Oil-for-Food Program and under Ambassador Bremer's rule. The article says that Iraq is badly requiring any available funds for the reconstruction of its destroyed infrastructure; thus it should not allow such waste of resources while a large number of Iraqis are below the poverty line.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 1 a 300-word editorial by Chief Editor Isma'il Zayir praising Education Minister Sami al-Muzaffar for "returning thousands of teachers and employees to their jobs and allocating huge sums of money to reconstruct school buildings." Zayir says that "if the other ministries do the same, we will eliminate unemployment completely from Iraq."
Al-Mashriq carries on page 1 a 300-word article by Hamid Abdallah, commenting on "some reports" that say that the "occupation forces" "cut out the human organs of dead Iraqis to sell them outside Iraq."
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 4 a 600-word article by Majid al-Lami, which discusses the international laws that "protect the environment from pollution and violation." The writer says that there is an "urgent need" to legislate such laws in Iraq.
Al-Mashriq runs on page 6 a 1,000-word article by Mun'im al-Ammar entitled "Iraq's Relationship with the Geographical Neighbors and the Salvation Trinity." The author comments on Iraq's relations with Turkey and Iran and the "influence" these two countries are trying to exert on Iraqi internal affairs.
Al-Mashriq carries on page 6 a 500-word article by Nasir Salih al-Sarami entitled "Terrorist Gangs, and the Comprehensive Confrontation," in which the writer presents some suggestions to "eliminate terrorism."
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 6 a 900-word article by Hamid al-Lahidan entitled "Iraq between the Armed Operations and Terrorism." The writer comments on the current "deteriorating" security situation in Iraq, saying that what is happening "has been carefully planned by Iraq's enemies, especially Israel." He adds that the "wholesale killing of innocent Iraqis by booby-trapped cars is designed by those enemies to kill Iraqis and lengthen the occupation period."
Al-Mashriq runs on page 12 a 200-word article by Hadi Nu'man al-Hiti entitled "Kirkuk, Favored by All," in which the writer comments on the "controversy over the Kirkuk Governorate identity." The author says that all nationalities and sects "love" Kirkuk, calling on all Iraqis to "live peacefully in it, as they have been doing for ages."
Al-Adalah carries on page 5 a 2,000-word article by Riyadh al-Amir entitled "When the Word Slaughters the Iraqi," in which the writer criticizes the Arab media channels, especially satellite TV channels, for "supporting the terrorists in Iraq and encouraging the killing of Iraqis."
Al-Adalah publishes on page 16 a 400-word article by Muhammad al-Abdallh, criticizing "those who repeat Saddam's policy of accusing millions of Iraqis of being agents to some neighboring countries." The writer also attacks "those Iraqi officials who allow the former Saddam supporters, who were his tools in persecuting Iraqis, to return to their posts and perform the same acts."
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AFS Document Number: GMP20041220000214
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Geographic Names: Near East & South Asia; West Europe; The Americas; South Asia; Near East; North America; Iran; Iraq; Syria; United Kingdom; United States
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Original Source Language: Arabic
Region: Near East & South Asia; West Europe; The Americas
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WNC Insert Date: December 21, 2004
World News Connection®
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Dialog® File Number 985 Accession Number 200300563
Highlights: Iraqi Press 19 Dec 04
Iraq -- FBIS Report in Arabic 19 Dec 04
FBIS REPORT
Sunday, December 19, 2004
Journal Code: 9023 Language: ENGLISH Record Type: FULLTEXT
Document Type: Daily Report; News
Word Count: 5,998
The following lists selected reports carried in the Iraqi press on 19 December. Further processing is indicated below. To request processing, please contact FBIS at (800) 205-8615 (in US) or (202) 338-6735 (outside US); or fax (703) 613-5735.
(FBIS Report)
Iraqi newspapers dated 19 December highlight the following issues:
I. IRAQ ELECTIONS:
Tariq al-Sha'b on 18 December devotes all of its front page to a report on the announcement of the Communist Party's electoral list, the People Union List," last week. The report says that the list comprises all components of Iraqi society and aims at achieving national unity and restoring Iraq's full independence and sovereignty. The report includes the full text of the electoral program of the list, which focuses on the development of the political, economic, social, education and culture sectors in Iraq. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Tariq al-Sha'b on 18 December publishes on page 2 a 100-word report stating that "some terrorist parties" are buying and destroying the electoral registration forms of people for a tempting amount of money, taking advantage of their poverty in order to prevent them from participating in the upcoming elections in the central and southern governorates. The report says that they pay between 300,000 to a million Iraqi dinars for each form.
Tariq al-Sha'b on 18 December publishes on page 10 a 1,000-word article by Dr Falah Isma'il Hajim praising Ambassador Bremer's Decree No. 92 regarding the formation of the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq. The article says that the decree ensured the complete independence of the commission, and by granting the UN secretary general the right to appoint one of its seven members, bolstered its legitimacy.
Tariq al-Sha'b on 18 December publishes on page 10 a 1,000-word article by Ahmad Hamid discussing the credibility of the Election Law, and the difficulties and discrepancies that accompanied the election of the Kurdistan Parliament in 1991. The article says that the law stipulated that the electoral list obtain 7 percent of the total votes to be represented in the parliament, a matter that allowed control by the two prominent Kurdish parties.
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 140-word report on the statement issued by a number of religious authorities in Al-Najaf strongly criticizing Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan for his recent statement accusing the candidates of the Unified Iraqi Coalition List of being Iranian agents. The statement added that "a large number of Iraqis doubted Al-Sha'lan's credibility to continue performing his duty as defense minister in a ministry responsible for the protection of ballots and the safety of both candidates and voters, especially when he is so biased and clearly opposed to a particular electoral list and its candidates."
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 240-word report on the Government's security plan for the protection of the upcoming elections. The report cites a source close to Prime Minister Allawi's office as saying that the government rejected a proposal by a number of political parties to involve their militias in providing security for the polling centers. The report cites Baghdad Council's Chief Shaykh Muhammad Baqir al-Suhayl as saying that providing security is the task of the government and multinational forces, adding that no other party has the right to intervene.
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 240-word editorial strongly criticizing Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan for his recent statement accusing the candidates of the Unified Iraqi Coalition List of being Iranian agents. The editorial says that such statements will not harm the leaders included in the list, because our people recognize their patriotism and sacrifice. The article urges the government to control the statements of its officials in order to maintain the Iraqi unity that we are all keen to preserve, away from the exchanged accusations and charges.
Al-Da'wah publishes on page 2 a 400-word interview with the spokesman for the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq in the Karbala Governorate, who talks about the role of his commission in the upcoming elections, the extent of people's cooperation with the commission, the negative aspects that have appeared, polling centers in the governorate, and the importance of elections in restoring law and orderin Iraq.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 400-word report focusing on the reaction of Ayatollah al-Sistani to Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan's recent statement accusing the candidates of the Unified Iraqi Coalition List of being Iranian agents and on the government's security plan during the upcoming elections. The report cites Al-Sistani aide in Karbala Ahmad al-Safi, who described Al-Sha'lan as "a dwarf politician," adding that "two days ago, he announced that he would prevent a prominent scientist with a long and distinguished history (Dr Husayn al-Shahrastani) from becoming prime minister through elections." We say: "If you have such power, why you do you not use this power to control security," commented Al-Safi.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 120-word report citing Mosul Governor Durayd Muhammad Khashmulah as saying that 55 polling stations will be set up in his governorate. He added that the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq in the governorate received four electoral lists running for the governorate advisory council.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 6 a 1,000-word article by Dr Mu'ayad Abd-al-Sattar criticizing Iraq's neighboring countries for helping the former regime and for their attempts to foil the upcoming elections in Iraq.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 1,500-word unattributed article explaining the electoral political program of Al-Da'wah Party. The article focuses on the party's views regarding the sectarian challenges and the means to unify the various Iraqi factions. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 400-word article by Amir Salih al-Fatlawi wondering why some forces are wagering on the failure of the Iraqi election process only but not on the upcoming Palestinian elections that are also being held under occupation.
Al-Mashriq runs on page 1 a 400-word article by Hamid Abdallah, entitled "Do not Hang the Washing, may God Cover You!" The writer comments on the electoral campaigns, criticizing those that "try to discredit their opponents by airing their dirty laundry."
Al-Mashriq carries on page 4 a 300-word article by Mun'im al-Ammar, entitled "We have an Appointment with the Coming Spring of Life," in which the writer says that while Iraqis are "clever enough to understand the dangers threatening their existence and the aims that can preserve that existence, they are not able to unify their efforts to approach these aims." The author adds that the upcoming elections "represent the coming spring, and we should seize this opportunity by ourselves."
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 6 a 700-word article by Tariq Harb, discussing the electoral regulation adopted by the State Administration Law which makes it a condition that the candidates for the upcoming elections "must not be former Ba'th Party members nor members of the former suppressive machinery of government."
Al-Dustur runs on page 6 a 2,000-word article by Nizar Haydar, entitled "Elections, the Road to Stability in Iraq." The writer says that the Iraqi Government must "stick to the elections schedule because it is the only way out of the current crisis."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 7 a 700-word article by Hana al-Shaykhli, in which the author discusses the role of the electoral campaigns in "shaping public opinion about the candidates for the upcoming elections."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 7 a 600-word report from the Al-Diwaniyah Governorate covering the press conference held by the Independent Electoral Commission office in the governorate. The conference included speeches by the office director and other participants explaining the electoral regulations and procedures.
Al-Adalah carries on page 4 a 400-word article by Ali Khulayf, entitled "The Beginning of the Electoral Campaigns, the First Step in Building the New Iraq," in which the writer discusses the "importance of the upcoming elections in Iraq's history and the role of campaigns in educating people to choose the best candidates."
Al-Adalah runs on page 4 a 400-word article by Tariq Harb, discussing the regulations of the governorates councils' elections.
Al-Adalah publishes on page 4 a 400-word article by Ali Kazim Dawud, entitled "Elections and the Iraqi State Law." The author comments on the "urgent need" to draft a permanent constitution for Iraq and says this can be achieved only through the upcoming elections.
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 18 December carries on page 3 a 700-word report on a number of "popular meetings" held by the Conciliation and Liberation Movement in the Kirkuk Governorate to discuss the movement's policy and aims.
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 18 December runs on page 29 an 800-word text of an "open letter" directed to the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq by Tariq al-Adili, the National Organization for Human Rights in Iraq general secretary, presenting a "solution to overcome the obstacles facing the upcoming elections."
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 18 December publishes a 500-word article by Ali al-Ta'i discussing the "need" to delay the upcoming elections in order to "guarantee the participation of all Iraqis ."
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 18 December carries on page 35 a 400-word article by Hamza al-Shamkhi, entitled "Iraq Elections and the Phenomenon of Buying the Vote," in which the writer criticizes some "sides" for trying to "use their financial power to guarantee their success in the upcoming elections by buying votes."
Al-Manarah carries on its front-page a 100-word "exclusive" report noting the commencement of "The Brotherhood Ticket" election campaign in Basra. Al-Manarah will publish the names and policies behind that ticket, which is running for the Basra municipal elections, at a later stage.
Al-Manarah carries on its front-page a 100-word "exclusive" report noting the commencement of "The People's Grouping Ticket" election campaign for the National Assembly as well as the Misan and Dhiqar municipal elections. Al-Manarah will publish the names and policies behind that ticket at a later stage.
Al-Manarah carries a 250-word front-page report publishing the final list of political entities running for the national and municipal elections as well as the Kurdistan Council elections scheduled for January 30, 2005. The report cites the spokesman of the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq (IECI), Dr Farid Ayar, as saying that 73 political bodies and 25 independent candidates submitted their tickets for the National Assembly elections to the IECI adding that four independent candidates withdrew their applications and three others joined the coalitions, which numbered nine in all.
Al-Manarah carries on page 2 a 300-word "exclusive" report on statements by the Education Minister, Dr Sami al-Muzaffar, rejecting schools becoming the scene of "political gravitation" adding that the Education Ministry bans unauthorized visits to schools and colleges. He pointed out that schools were responsible for the education of the next generation not the implementation of the political or security agenda of specific parties.
Al-Zaman publishes a 400-word front-page report on a statement by a source at the Bail local council noting that some political parties have started to pressure people in order to get votes. The source says that different political parties have met with tribal leaders and have promised to give positions to the men of these tribes if they vote for specific lists. The source adds that some individuals have started to distribute money and aid to students and hospital patients and are reminding them that the elections will be soon.
Al-Zaman runs on page 4 a 300-word AFP report on a statement by Abd-al-Aziz al-Hakim, leader of the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq (SCIRI), after his meeting with Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, criticizing the defense minister for his severe statements against the Shiite list. Al-Hakim says he refuses to argue with the defense minister and the people will choose during the upcoming elections.
Al-Mada runs on page 5 a full page report giving the details of the political agenda of the Watani (my homeland) list. The agenda calls for "Establishing the state of law, relying on national skills, settling a schedule for the foreign forces withdrawal, and supporting the Palestinian people in establishing an independent state." The agenda adds that the list members are Iraqis of all ethnicities, religions, and sects.
Al-Nahdah publishes a 500-word front-page report on a statement by Adnan Pachachi, leader of the Independent Democrats Grouping, noting that there is enough time to decide on postponing the elections and warning of negative results if some insist on holding the elections as scheduled. Pachachi says that he and other political forces wish to postpone the elections to guarantee more participation. Pachachi says that the participation in some areas in Iraq will be less than expected.
II. POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS AND COMMENTS:
Al-Manar al-Yawm publishes on the front page a 130-word editorial by Chief Editor Taha Arif affirming his newspaper's independent policy and urging all Iraqi political forces to work for unity and mutual respect. The editorial asserted that the newspaper will deal impartially regarding the political forces' political programs for the upcoming elections.
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 40-word report stating that Musafir Fahad was elected as the new deputy of Al-Muthanna governorate Advisory Council.
Al-Da'wah publishes on page 2 a 400-word report discussing the status of the Mujahidin-e-Khalq Organization in Iraq. The report says that the interim Iraqi Government maintained the organization's presence in Iraq despite the decree issued by the dissolved Governing Council expelling it from the country. Interior Minister Falah al-Naqib attributed his government's stance on maintaining the organization in Iraq to humanitarian reasons. The report adds that the presence of approximately 4,000 elements of the Mujahidin-e-Khalq Organization based in the Ashraf camp has increased tension between Iraq and Iran, adding that urgent action to expel or diminish their role is important to normalize relations between the two neighboring countries.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 140-word follow-up report citing well-informed Arab and French sources as saying that President Ghazi Ajil al-Yawir will pay a 24-hour visit to France on 12 January.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 100-word follow-up report citing Iraqi and western diplomatic sources as saying that if Prime Minister Allawi wins a seat in the next National Assembly, he may be reappointed as Iraq's next prime minister, with the US blessing, even if his electoral list fails to achieve a decisive victory in the upcoming elections.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 40-word report citing an official source at the Communications Ministry as saying that his ministry demanded that Orascom mobile telephone company restore its services to Al-Fallujah within five days.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 180-word editorial condemning the recent escalation in terrorist attacks against the Iraqi police and other security forces. The editorial says that such acts will boost the role of armed militias in the country.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 300-word report on the statement issued by Vice President Ibrahim al-Ja'fari commemorating the fifth anniversary of the late Ayatollah Muhammad Muhammad Sadiq al-Sadr's martyrdom.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 140-word editorial criticizing Iraqi political forces calling for postponing or boycotting the elections and for trying to marginalize and impose their views on the majority of Iraqis. The editorial also criticizes the recent statements by Iraqi officials (in reference to Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan's recent statement) doubting the integrity of the upcoming elections, creating conflict among the various components of the Iraqi society, and harming Iraq's relations with its neighbors.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 2 a 240-word report citing Dr Salah Abd-al-Razzaq, chairman of the Shiite Waqf, on the opening of branches of the Imam Al-Sadiq University in the governorates.
Al-Dustur carries on page 4 a 100-word report saying that a new Civil Gathering for Dhi Qar (Al-Nasiriayh) Women was recently formed in the Dhi Qar Governorate. The report cites the Gathering's chairman explaining the group's goals.
Al-Manarah carries on pages 1 and 6 a 300-word report citing the head of the Commission on Public Integrity, Judge Radi Hamzah al-Radi, as saying that corruption is running rampant in the Iraqi Government. He also accused the multinational forces of misusing public funds, the report notes.
Al-Manarah carries on pages 1 and 6 a 400-word article by the political editor who says that the United States still blames the former Iraqi officials for the armed insurgency in Iraq amid speculations, fueled by political analysts, over the possible involvement of some government bodies, which benefit politically from this insurgency. He adds that after a short pause during and following the invasion of Al-Fallujah, the insurgency resumed. This time the United States escalated the accusations against those former officials to inculpate Iran and Syria. This forces observers to believe that those accusations are merely a precursor to a more "dramatic" course.
Al-Zaman carries on page 2 a 100-word report on a statement by the Foreign Ministry denying the statement by an Iraqi security source that claims the Iraqi Embassy in Syria is issuing official documents and passports to non-Iraqi nationals. The Ministry says that these reports have no credibility.
Al-Furat runs a 300-word front-page report on a statement by press sources that note there are medical groups operating with US forces whose mission is to steal organs of dead Iraqis for sale in the United States. The sources say that this team quickly removes the organs for storage in special places and then sends them to the United States.
Al-Furat runs a 70-word front-page report on a statement by the head judge of the criminal court that will try members of the former regime noting he has questioned Chemical Ali and Sultan Hashim, former defense minister. The judge says that it is a regular process to collect evidence from the accused.
III. SECURITY AND MILITARY DEVELOPMENTS:
Al-Manar al-Yawm publishes on the front page a 130-word report citing Huda Jasim, official in charge of Al-Sharq al-Awsat newspaper office in Baghdad, as saying that her newspaper decided to close its office in Baghdad in the wake of the threats it received for not publishing a news report on Al-Zarqawi's close aide Umar Hadid. Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 40-word report citing eyewitnesses as saying that two women were killed and three other people were wounded when the polling center in the Al-Dujayl District came under mortar attack yesterday, 18 December.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 3 a 260-word follow-up report citing an official source at the State Land Transportation Company, who requested anonymity, as saying that his company's fleet comprising 45 trucks transporting sulfur to Jordan came under attack north of Baghdad four days ago. The source added that eight trucks were destroyed and burned, 31 others were stolen and 6 others managed to escape.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 3 a 120-word report citing an official source at the Culture Ministry as saying that the newly formed historical artifacts protection force responsible for guarding the historical sites in Iraq has started its work.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 1 a 100-word report citing a source in the Third Border Guards Division as saying that the force detained 31 Afghan infiltrators in Qazaniyah, east of the Diyala Governorate, on the Iranian border.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 3 a 400-word report citing a source in the Al-Diwaniyah Emergency Squad as saying that the squad arrested a number of "dangerous criminals and robbers in the Al-Diwaniyah Governorate."
Al-Zaman runs a 400-word front-page report on a statement by Iraqi Chief of Staff Babakr Zebari noting that the Defense Ministry is ready to receive newly recruited soldiers. Zebari says that the United States has given Iraq four C-130 aircraft, which the ministry is training its staff to use. Zebari says that the Iraqi army needs armor and aircraft to transfer soldiers to the hot zones.
Al-Zaman publishes a 200-word front-page report on a statement by an official source at the Oil Ministry noting that unidentified gunmen have blown up two pipelines. The source says that the attack led to a fire and stopped the oil flow to Al-Dura refinery in Baghdad.
Al-Zaman runs a 100-word front-page report on a statement by eyewitnesses noting that unidentified gunmen assassinated two students in Mosul University.
Al-Zaman runs a 250-word front-page report on a statement by a Basra police official noting that they have arrested two Yemeni nationals who were gathering military information in Basra Governorate.
Al-Mada publishes a 300-word front-page AFP report on a statement by Robert Callahan, official spokesman of the US Embassy in Baghdad, saying that a US national was kidnapped six weeks ago and calling for his immediate release.
Al-Mada publishes a 100-word front-page report on a statement by a source at the Interior Minister noting that the Iraqi police arrested 13 terrorists during a raid in Hayfa Street in Baghdad. The source says that the police recovered weapons of all kinds.
Al-Furat runs a 200-word front-page report on a statement by sources at the cabinet noting that the former has given the red light to the Justice Ministry to allow the criminal courts to carry out the death penalty. The sources say that the death penalty is valid and the Justice Minister will issue this penalty against criminals.
Al-Nahdah runs a 300-word front-page report on a statement by a medical source at Mosul Hospital noting that one Iraqi was killed and nine were injured by an explosive device that was targeting a US convoy.In addition, the report cites Mosul police as noting that five unidentified cadavers were found in Mosul. The police believe that these cadavers are national guard members who were kidnapped and killed by the insurgents.
Al-Nahdah publishes a 70-word front-page report on a statement by Baghdad police noting that unidentified gunmen have assassinated the daughter of Abd-al-Salam Arif, former Iraqi president from 1963 to 1966, and have kidnapped his grandson. The police say that the gunmen wrote on the house wall "death for traitors and agents."
Al-Nahdah publishes a 70-word front-page report on a statement by Samarra police noting that a mortar attack against an electoral center in Al-Dijayl killed two people and injured eight.
IV. HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUES:
Al-Manar al-Yawm publishes on the front page a 180-word "exclusive" report stating that the newspaper learned that beginning early next year, pensioners will receive their pension on a monthly basis, and that the Investment Bank for Pensioners will start its services. The report adds that according to the recent regulation decreed by the cabinet, which will be implemented next year, the range of the monthly pension will be between 270,000 and 600,000 Iraqi dinars.
Tariq al-Sha'b on 18 December carries on page 5 a 750-word interview with Karbala Health Director Dr Salih Mahdi al-Hasnawi, who explains the health situation in the governorate, problems faced by health officials, the ongoing and future health development projects in the governorate and the corruption in the health institutions.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing official sources as saying that the Iraqi government has given the Iraqi courts of law the green light to implement the death sentence according to the Iraqi criminal law.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 3 a 200-word follow-up report citing an official source at the Health Ministry as saying that a survey last month showed that 5,275 cases of various infectious diseases were recorded in Iraq, excluding the Al-Anbar Governorate.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 3 a 100-word follow-up report citing Dr Jamal Nasir al-Karbuli, chairman of the Iraqi Red Crescent, informing the newspaper that his association has obtained the necessary approval to enter Al-Fallujah. Al-Karbuli urged the Oil Ministry to provide fuel for the city.
Al-Mashriq carries on page 4 a 100-word report saying that anthrax cases among animals in the Al-Badiyah desert in Al-Muthanna Governorate were recently discovered. The report adds that this "might have been caused by the radiation resulting from the use of internationally forbidden weapons in the recent wars." (No further details are provided)
Al-Dustur runs on page 5 a 100-word report citing a source in the Radiation Prevention Team in the Environment Ministry as saying that Al-Muthanna Governorate's "old slaughter house" is polluted with uranium.
Al-Manarah carries on page 2 a 100-word report by Isma'il al-Qattan noting that the Health Ministry has earmarked 33 million Iraqi dinars for the fight against tuberculosis. The report quotes the program manager, Dr Zafir Salman Hashim, as saying that 11,000 cases of TB were reported last year.
Al-Manarah carries on page 2 a 300-word report by Salam Muhammad al-Bannay and Allawi Kazim Kashish on the proceedings of a symposium on measles which was organized by the Karbala Health Department. The report also notes the campaign launched by the Karbala Health Department aimed at eradicating measles. It is expected that 26,863 schoolchildren will be vaccinated against the disease.
Al-Manarah carries on page 3 a 200-word report by Ali al-Najdi on the launch of a vaccination campaign by the Health Ministry against measles in the Basra Governorate, which will see the vaccination of 61,300 children by 122 teams in eight districts including Al-Zubayr, Al-Quranah, Al-Mudaynah, Abu-al-Khasib, and the first and second central districts in Basra.
Al-Zaman runs a 300-word front-page report on a demonstration calling for the return of Al-Fallujah refugees. The report says that tens of supporters of the Muslim Scholars Association demonstrated in Baghdad and called for the end of suffering of the refugees in Al-Fallujah. The report notes that the demonstration called for the end of military operations in Al-Fallujah. The report says that the demonstration criticized holding the elections under the "occupation."
V. ECONOMIC NEWS AND PUBLIC SERVICES:
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 160-word report citing Baghdad Mayor Ala al-Tamimi as saying that the French Embassy in Baghdad has allocated $256,000 dollars for a number of developments projects in Baghdad and another allocation for holding an international conference for the reconstruction of Baghdad that will be held in Paris next June.
Al-Da'wah publishes on the front page a 40-word report citing official sources at the Finance Ministry as saying that beginning next year, jobs in state institutions will be provided for new graduates.
Tariq al-Sha'b on 18 December devotes all of page 4 to a report describing the suffering of people traveling to Jordan at the Iraqi-Jordanian border points and the extent of corruption of officials on both sides.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 3 a 120-word report citing Water Resources Minister Dr Abd-al-Latif Jamal Rashid as saying that the World Bank allocated $20 million for the construction of Basra canal and other projects.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 130-word report citing Al-Najaf governor Adnan al-Zarfi complaining that the ministries responsible for the reconstruction of Al-Najaf have only invested small amounts of the allocations for this purpose. Al-Zarfi informed the newspaper that in coordination with the cabinet, his office has distributed approximately $6 million and will distribute another $7 million in reparations to families harmed during the military operations in the city.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 150-word report citing a US Army source as saying that Basra international airport will be officially opened next June.
Al-Dustur carries on page 5 a 400-word interview with Baghdad Mayor Ala al-Timimi, discussing the Baghdad Governorate "needs," and the projects that the Baghdad Municipality will implement to improve the "design and services in this governorate."
Al-Zaman publishes a 300-word front-page report on a statement by the Trade Minister noting that many employees in the ministry are involved in stealing ration card items. The Minister complains of the continuous attacks targeting the food trucks and notes that 13 trucks loaded with tea disappeared near Kilo 160 area.
Al-Mada runs a 90-word front-page report on a statement by an official at the Electricity Ministry noting that the engineering staff repaired 24 electrical carrier lines. The official says that 400 megawatts were added to the power and the programmed outage will be three hours by three hours.
VI. PRESS COMMENTS:
Al-Manar al-Yawm publishes on the back page a 230-word commentary by Mahdi Abbas appreciating those parties and politicians who are running in the upcoming elections in order to serve the best interests of the Iraqi people rather than themselves; a minister, who is not stealing or using his post to benefit himself and his relatives; a Shiite or Sunni religious cleric calling for unity; people who have not been involved in lootings even though they may have had the opportunity to do so; workers in gas stations who are not involved in the fuel black market; and those who opposed the dissolving of the former Defense and Information Ministries.
Tariq al-Sha'b on 18 December carries on page 9 a 1,200-word article by Rida al-Zahir discussing the failure of the attack on Al-Fallujah in eliminating terrorism in Iraq and the impact of the erroneous US policies on the Iraqi people. The article says that the US officials in the Pentagon, who used to hold foreign insurgents responsible for terrorism in Iraq, announced recently that the followers of the former regime are responsible for most of terrorism in Iraq. Al-Zahir says: "It is natural that the victims of these strategic findings are the Iraqi people." Unless the occupation gives up its erroneous policies, the Iraqi Government achieves the Iraqi people's just demands, and the political forces and parties play their role in mobilizing the people, terrorism cannot be eliminated from the country.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 4 a 600-word unattributed article discussing the recent accusations by a number of Iraqi and US officials that Iran and Syria are still contributing to terrorism in Iraq. The article cites Syrian analyst Fayiz Izz al-Din as saying that holding others responsible for what is happening in Iraq indicates the US failure in planning for the post-war stage in Iraq.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 4 a 1,000-word article by Mustafa al-Qaradaghi discussing which is more important to the Iraqi citizen,providing the necessary services or holding the upcoming elections. The article wonders how Iraqis would go to polling centers to vote when insurgents have threatened to attack them.
Al-Mashriq runs on page 6 a 2,000-word article by Irfan Nizam-al-Din, entitled "From a Bloody Year, to a Cloudy One," commenting on the "upheavals and crises that Arabs witnessed in 2004."
Al-Mashriq carries on page 12 a 300-word article by Hatam Hasan, which criticizes the Iraqi Government for "failing to solve the fuel shortage crisis."
Al-Dustur publishes on page 1 a 400-word editorial by Basim al-Shaykh, praising Education Minister Sami al-Muzaffar for "his brave precedent in allowing 10,000 teachers and other employees, some of whom had quit and others who had been dismissed for political reasons, to return to their jobs."Al-Dustur runs on page 6 an 800-word article by Fadil al-Juwaybir, attacking those who call for a "national reconciliation." The writer says that reconciliation should not be made with the former regime "tools, who persecuted Iraqis for a long time." He adds that such people "owe the Iraqis sincere apologies and should be tried for their crimes."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 1 a 300-word editorial by Chief Editor Isma'il Zayir, eulogizing the late Imam Muhammad Sadiq al-Sadr, and attacking Saddam's former regime for "the atrocious crime of murdering Al-Sadr."
Al-Adalah runs on page 5 a 400-word article by Abd-al-Karim al-Hasani, entitled "Imported Violence and Exported Terrorism," in which the writer divides "terrorists" in Iraq into two kinds: the former regime remnants and those "hiding under a religious cloak." The author says that this "terrorism did not originate in Iraq, but has been brought to it from other countries."
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 18 December publishes on page 2 a 300-word article by Zayd Abdallah, entitled "Strange Positions," criticizing some Iraqi government officials, especially President Ghazi al-Yawir, who state that the United States and the United Kingdom "committed mistakes by dissolving the former Iraqi Army and other security bodies." The writer says that these Iraqi officials are "responsible in one way or another for these mistakes, and they should correct this fault now." (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 18 December runs on page 3 a 500-word editorial by Chief Editor Mish'an al-Juburi, eulogizing a member of the Country Party who was recently murdered.
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 18 December carries on page 5 a 600-word article by Husayn al-Samar'i, which criticizes the "corruption that has spread in all government offices and is sapping Iraqi money and values."
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 18 December publishes on page 7 a 500-word article by Fu'ad al-Azzawi, attacking the Iraqi Government, especially the Trade Ministry, for "telling lies about improving ration card items." The writer says that what Iraqis get are "only promises, and the quality and quantity of the items is getting worse and worse."
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 18 December runs on page 11 a 300-word article by Hamid Abdallah, entitled "How does the Media become a Terrorist?" The writer criticizes the "US policy of attacking media that show the ugly face of the United States and encouraging those that comply with US views."
Al-Ittijah al-Akhar on 18 December carries on page 17 a 500-word article by Khudayir Tahir, entitled "Who Saves the Iraq Shiites from Themselves?" The author says that the Shiites in Iraq "follow blindly the Iranian lobby, which has always dominated Iraqi Shiite decisions." The writer believes that the best government to lead Iraq successfully is the "liberal secular government." (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Furat runs a 400-word front-page editorial by Chief Editor Shakir al-Juburi on the chaos that dominates all the details of Iraqi life. Al-Juburi says that the chaos in Iraq is due to the absence of the law and accuses the "occupation" of this negative situation in Iraq. Al-Juburi calls on the Iraqis to be more responsible and to work hard to live just like any civilized nation.
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AFS Document Number: GMP20041219000220
City/Source: Iraq -- FBIS Report
FBIS Document Number: FBIS-NES-2004-1219
Geographic Names: Near East & South Asia; The Americas; Near East; South Asia; North America; Iraq; Iran; Syria; United States
NewsEdge Document Number: 200412201477.1_6fbe053828549113
Original Source Language: Arabic
Region: Near East & South Asia; The Americas
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WNC Insert Date: December 20, 2004
World News Connection®
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Dialog® File Number 985 Accession Number 200250236
Highlights: Iraqi Press 18 Dec 04
Iraq -- FBIS Report in Arabic 18 Dec 04
FBIS REPORT
Saturday, December 18, 2004
Journal Code: 9023 Language: ENGLISH Record Type: FULLTEXT
Document Type: Daily Report; News
Word Count: 5,523
The following lists selected reports carried in the Iraqi press on 18 December. Further processing is indicated below. To request processing, please contact FBIS at (800) 205-8615 (in US) or (202) 338-6735 (outside US); or fax (703) 613-5735.
(FBIS Report)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Iraqi newspapers dated 18 December highlight the following issues:
I. IRAQ ELECTIONS:
Al-Mashriq runs on page 6 a 900-word article by Mun'im al-Ammar, entitled "Elections and the Proportional Representation System," in which the writer discusses the electoral regulations approved by the State Administration Law which adopt the "proportional representation system" for the upcoming Iraqi elections. The writer says that this system "guarantees the rights of all minorities."
Al-Bayan carries on page 3 a 200-word article by Abbas Radi Abbas, discussing the features that should be available in the candidate "to deserve to be elected." The writer mentions such attributes as "truthfulness, closeness to people, honorable history of struggle against dictatorship, and sharp insight."
Al-Bayan publishes on page 4 a 400-word article by Muhammad al-Asadi, criticizing those satellite TV channels that "exercise a negative influence on the standing of some Iraqi political parties with the beginning of the electoral campaign."
Al-Bayyinah runs on page 4 a 300-word statement issued by a number of Fayli Kurds parties saying that these parties refuse to delay the upcoming elections, and that they did not withdraw from "Al-Sistani's list."
Al-Adalah carries on page 4 a 500-word article by Talib Sa'id al-Wahili, entitled "The Single Constituency and the Lists System," in which the writer comments on the "features" of the electoral regulations regarding making Iraq a single electoral constituency and the right of parties to run for the elections by lists.
Al-Adalah runs on page 4 a 900-word article by Ali Abd-al-Al, commenting on the "difficulties" facing the voting of Iraqis abroad. The writer suggests some points to facilitate this process "before it is too late."
Al-Adalah publishes on page 4 a 500-word article by Hamzah al-Shamkhi, entitled "Iraq Elections and Votes Buying Phenomenon," which discusses the "destructive role that money may play in the upcoming elections." The author says that this "makes the financially supported parties dominate the coming National Assembly through dishonest means."
Al-Adalah carries on page 5 a 1,000-word report on the "starting of electoral campaigns in Iraq."
Al-Adalah runs on page 5 the lists of independent and coalition candidates for the upcoming elections, both for the National Assembly and the Kurdistan National Assembly. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 250-word "exclusive" report citing Dr Farid Ayar, the spokesman for the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq, announcing that 73 political entities representing various political parties, movements, groupings, associations, and organizations in addition to 25 individuals, have submitted their electoral lists to his commission. Ayar added that four individual entities have withdrawn for different reasons and three others have joined other electoral lists, adding that 98 entities will compete in the upcoming elections scheduled for 30 January. Dr Ayar explained that the number of coalitions is nine comprising 49 political organizations. Regarding the election of Kurdistan National Assembly, Ayar maintained that 14 electoral lists, including one coalition, will run for the Kurdistan Assembly's seats. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 250-word report on the news conference held by President Ghazi Ajil al-Yawir in Baghdad, during which he declared his electoral list, Iraqiyun. Al-Yawir declined to identify the number of candidates included in the list, which, according to him, comprises a number of ministers, tribal chiefs, governors, and religious clerics. Al-Yawir outlined his grouping's political program emphasizing on the national dialogue, which he refused to refer to as "national reconciliation," among all of the factions of the Iraqi society. Asked by the newspaper why he has not improved the security and economic situation during the interim period while in power and how would he accomplish that in the next interim period, Al-Yawir replied: "We do not have a magic stick to fix the matters. We received a destroyed country and need time to solve these problems. We are committed to build a unified Iraq, in which Islam and other religions are respected." (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 250-word "exclusive" report citing a spokesman for the British Embassy in Baghdad as saying that Britain will support the election process in Iraq, "which represents a positive step" for the Iraqis. In a news statement in Baghdad yesterday, 17 December, she said that her embassy held training courses for Iraqi journalists in Amman and that the British forces in cooperation with the multinational forces and Iraqi security forces will help providing security for the upcoming elections.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 200-word editorial by Chief Editor Basim al-Shaykh commenting on the media campaign during the upcoming elections. The editorial says that as Iraq is a single electoral constituent, candidates need to travel and stage their media campaigns all over the country. Accordingly, the parties which have good financing sources will have a better chance to promote their candidates. However, the candidates who are in power now may use their official status to their advantage in the upcoming elections; others may be forced to rely on foreign aid thus endangering Iraq's national interests in the future. The editorial proposes that a special media arrangement should be set up to help all candidates get equal advertisement opportunities.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 400-word report stating that the beginning of the elections campaign in Iraq is marked by an exchange of accusations between candidates. The report adds that Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan's recent statement accusing the candidates of the Unified Iraqi Coalition List of being Iran's agents has stirred angry reactions among people and political figures. The report cites a command member in Al-Da'wah Party, who requested anonymity, criticizing Al-Sha'lan and describing his statement as "irresponsible." Sa'd Qindil, a command member of the Supreme Council for the Islamic revolution in Iraq, SCIRI, described the statement as "aggressive," and exceeding legal and ethical limits. Ali al-Adib, chief of the National Committee in the National Assembly, feared that the pressure by a number of local forces adopting terrorist means and the political pressure by certain foreign forces may cause to forge the final results of the upcoming elections.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 400-word report citing Dr Na'im Kazim, official in charge of the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq in the Maysan Governorate, as saying that the number of eligible voters in his governorate is more than 400,000, who will vote through the 184 poll centers. Kazim explained that 16 electoral lists comprising 41 candidates will compete for the local council's 41 seats.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 6 a 1,000-word article by Hamid al-Hamdani criticizing the Iraqi political forces for not declaring their political programs thus far. The article says that a large number of parties have entered into alliance with others, adding that they must have agreed on certain compromise programs because it is illogical that they have the same views on all issues. The article lists a number of demands that Al-Hamdani believes the Iraqi people desire their next leaders fulfill. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 6 a 250-word article by Dr Ahmad Abdallah strongly criticizing those (Sunnis) trying to foil the upcoming elections. The article wonders "why no one described the elections held in Iraq under the British occupation prior to 1958, in which your grandfathers, who changed their loyalty from the Turks to the British, played a major role, as illegitimate."
Al-Mu'tamar devotes all of page 7 to reports listing the names of the political entities and coalitions running in the upcoming election of the National Assembly and the Kurdistan National Assembly scheduled for next January. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 600-word follow-up report on the latest developments regarding the upcoming elections in Iraq. The report says that approximately 1,500 Kurds staged a demonstration demanding the postponement of elections in Kirkuk. The report cites Mubdir al-Wayyis, the secretary general of the Wihdah Party, criticizing the coalitions between the political forces and saying that in the democratic countries, alliances between parties usually take place after not before the elections.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 100-word follow-up report stating that the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq in Kirkuk refused to register 70,000 Kurds, who have recently moved into the city. The report cites Ahmad Askari, a member of the Kurdish group in the Governorate Council, accusing the commission in Kirkuk of being impartial arguing that its chief is a former Ba'thist.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 200-word follow-up report citing National Assembly Deputy Speaker Jawad al-Maliki, who is also a command member of the Al-Da'wah party, as saying that the assembly will question Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan's for his recent statement accusing the candidates of the Unified Iraqi Coalition List of being agents for Iran.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 200-word editorial criticizing the Iraqi politicians who are calling for democracy but are acting as dictators refusing to hold elections inside their own parties, on which they have been imposing themselves for "very long time."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on the front page a 70-word report stating that the newspaper learned that President Al-Yawir's Iraqiyun Electoral List includes defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan, Industry Minister Hashim al-Hasani, Trade Minister Muhammad al-Juburi, Transport Minister Lu'ay Hatam al-Iris, and a number of tribal chiefs and political figures.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 7 a 400-word interview with Shaykh Muhammad Ali Khattab al-Abadi, secretary general of the Free Democratic Front for the Iraqi Tribal Chiefs and Notables, who explained the history, activities, and goals of his front. Al-Abadi said that the success of the upcoming elections depends on the Iraqi people who should "foil the enemies'" plans.
Dar al-Salam on 16 December publishes on the front page a 300-word report citing Dr Ammar Wajih Zayn al-Abidin, a command member of the Iraqi Islamic Party, informing the newspaper that the reason behind submitting the party's electoral list was to legitimize the demand for postponing the upcoming elections. The report includes the full text of the news statement issued by the party denying earlier LBC news report that the party will participate in the elections as scheduled for 30 January.
Al-Zaman publishes a 300-word front-page report on the onset of the electoral campaign of the Iraqi Communist Party at the Baghdad sports complex. In other developments, the report cites Aziz al-Yasiri, leader of the Iraqi Democratic Trend, noting that his party announced its list for the upcoming elections. Al-Yasiri explains that his list includes 25 percent women and his political agenda is not based on sectarianism or any other form of ethnic criteria.
Al-Zaman runs on page 4 a 400-word report on a statement by Iraqi President Ghazi Ajil al-Yawir saying, during a press conference, that he has submitted a list entitled "Iraqiyun" to the upcoming elections, comprising candidates from all ethnic and religious groups. Al-Yawir says that his political agenda will focuses on fighting insecurity and unemployment, and enhancing the role of the private sector to develop the Iraqi economy.
Al-Mada publishes a 600-word front-page report citing Hana Edward, member of the Watani (My Homeland) electoral list, noting the optimism prevailing among the members of his list "because this list contains people from all over Iraq." Edwards adds that the list includes a number of well-known women who have been selected to candidacy in order to give them a role of responsibility in the new political process in Iraq.
Al-Nahdah publishes a 200-word front-page report on a statement by the Independent Electoral Commission noting that more than 100 electoral lists will run in the elections that will take place in January. The Commission says that there are 73 lists, nine alliances, and 25 independent candidates registered to compete in the elections. (Al-Nahdah publishes the names of all the political entities and candidates participating in the elections on page 4) (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Nahdah runs on page 5 a 100-word report on a statement by an official at the Education Ministry saying that the Ministry will start an electoral education campaign for the Iraqi students. The official adds that the Ministry will distribute brochures explaining the electoral process.
II. POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS AND COMMENTS:
Al-Mashriq runs on page 4 a 60-word report on a symposium held by the Iraqi Movement for Direct Democracy, discussing the current political situation in Iraq and the role of political movements and university professors in this situation.
Al-Bayan carries on page 1 an 80-word report saying that the Civil Society Affairs Ministry will hold the "first national conference for civil society organizations" on 19-20 December, 10 pm. The report adds that the conference aims at activating the role of civil society organizations in the political process and the upcoming elections. The conference will be transmitted live on Al-Iraqiyyah satellite TV channel.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 1,400-word text of Al-Da'wah Party political program. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Bayyinah runs on page 1 a 100-word report citing "trusted sources" as saying that Syria is "ordered by the United States to hand over some former Ba'thists, including Izzat al-Duri and Yunis al-Ahmad, to the Iraqi Government."
Al-Bayyinah carries on page 2 a 400-word interview with Hizballah Movement in Iraq Political Office Manager Isa al-Sayyid Ja'far, discussing the current situation in Iraq. Ja'far is cited as saying that the visit recently made by Abd-al-Aziz al-Hakim, Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq (SCIRI) leader, to a number of neighboring countries is "a cry for those countries to help the Iraqi people eliminate terrorism." Ja'far also comments on King Abdallah II of Jordan and the Iraqi defense minister's statements regarding the "Iranian influence on Iraqis."
Al-Bayyinah publishes on page 11 an 800-word interview with Jalil al-Din al-Saghir, a prominent Shiite religious figure and Buratha Mosque Imam, discussing the current situation in Iraq.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 120-word follow-up report citing Integrity Commission Chairman, Judge Radi Hamzah, warning that corruption is widely spread, reaching 70 percent of all the state institutions, especially at the Interior, the Housing and Construction, and the Electricity Ministries, in addition to Baghdad Mayoralty. Radi accuses Iraqi government offices and the US forces of being involved in the corruption.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on the front page a 140-word editorial saying that the former regime followers, who used to have greater privileges, and oppressed our people under the former regime, are continue to enjoy freedom and to create problems for the Iraqis.
Dar al-Salam on 16 December publishes on the front page and page 2 a 1,200-word report analyzing the recent political developments in Iraq. The report focuses on three issues: the Iranian role in Iraq and its international and regional impact, the recent US "pessimistic reports" regarding the future of Iraq, and the new strategies of the Iraqi "resistance" and their activities in Baghdad and Mosul.
Dar al-Salam on 16 December publishes on the front page a 500-word editorial criticizing certain units of the National Guard for raiding mosques, provoking the Sunnis, "stealing" people's properties, in addition to other misconducts. The editorial urges the government to stop these "violations" against the Iraqi people.
Al-Zaman runs on page 3 a 200-word report on a joint statement by the Muslim Scholars Association and the sect of the Sabaeans sect during a meeting held in Um al-Qura mosque in Baghdad. The statement rejects sectarian sedition and calls for loyalty to the homeland. The statement condemns that attacks that are targeting worship edifices in Iraq.
Al-Furat publishes a 100-word front-page report on a statement by Shaykh Ahmad al-Safi, representative of Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani in the Karbala Governorate, holding the government responsible for the assassination attempt that targeted Shaykh Abd-al-Mahdi al-Karbala'i. Al-Safi accuses the government of failing to provide security, and calls on the Iraqis to observe solidarity during the elections.
III. SECURITY AND MILITARY DEVELOPMENTS:
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 130-word report stating that as the date of the elections approaches, the clashes between the insurgents calling themselves "the Mujahidin Brigades in Mosul" and the Iraqi security forces have increased in Mosul. The report says that the insurgents "vowed to slaughter" every citizen who receives or distributes the election registration forms. The report cites eyewitnesses as saying that a group of veiled insurgents executed, in public, five people in the city.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 150-word report citing General Metz, deputy-commander of the multinational forces in Iraq, as saying that the reason behind increasing the number of US forces in Iraq is because "we anticipate that the number of terrorist attacks will increase in the near future because of the upcoming elections."
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 200-word news agency report citing an official source at Orascom mobile telephone company informing the newspaper that US forces and Iraqi National Guard raided the bureaus of the company in Al-Mansur district, in Baghdad, and arrested two workers, accused of financing terrorist groups in Iraq.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 5 a 650-word report describing the work and life in a National Guard unit. The report cites the commander of the unit explaining the nature of its duties and the qualifications required to join the National Guard.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 5 a 1,750-word report on the reactions of Iraqis to imposing the National Security Law and declaring the state of emergency. A number of citizens expressed doubt that implementing the law and the state of emergency would achieve the goals they were set for in restoring stability and security in the country.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 3 a 170-word report on the conference organized by Karbala police, which was attended by police chiefs among others in the Al-Furat al-Awsat governorates to discuss the security in the region.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 3 a 120-word report on the statement issued by religious authority Ayatollah Muhammad Taqiy al-Mudarrisi's bureau condemning the recent "terrorist" attack on Al-Sistani aide Abd-al-Mahdi al-Karbala'i.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 3 a 120-word report citing a National Guard source in Basra as saying that his forces arrested a gang trying to smuggle 350 kilograms of drugs from Iran into Iraq.
Al-Zaman publishes a 100-word front-page report on a statement by a security source in the Salah al-Din Governorate noting that a terrorist called Ibn Nahiyah, who is believed to be responsible for the acts of violence in Hayfa Street, in Baghdad, and whose real name is Hamadah, has headed to the city of Mosul with six other wanted individuals to carry out attacks. The source says that the suspects are using stolen cars and forget identity documents that belong to a humanitarian organization.
Al-Zaman publishes a 200-word front-page report on a statement by an unidentified Iraqi security source saying that Prime Minister Allawi has ordered the Iraqi embassy in Syria to stop issuing passports to non Iraqi nationals. The official says that some employees in this embassy are issuing passports and other official documents to Iranians, Syrians, Afghanis, and Palestinians for 4,000 Syrian Pounds.
Al-Zaman publishes a 200-word front-page report quoting a security official revealing information on a car bomb attacks against Iraqi government buildings inside the green zone. The official says that the Iraqi security forces have closed all the entries leading to the green zone.
Al-Zaman publishes a 400-word front-page report on a statement by sources closed to Prime Minister Allawi saying that he is studying with the Iraqi military officials carrying out a major military operation against the insurgents in the city of Mosul.
Al-Zaman publishes a 100-word front-page report on a statement by Turhan Abd-al-Rahman, police chief in the Kirkuk Governorate, saying that three people were killed and one injured during a rocket attack that targeted a camp used by the Kurdish families in the governorate.
Al-Zaman carries on page 4 a 300-word report on a statement by the Interior Ministry saying that the Iraqi police have recovered rocket platforms in Al-Ghazaliyah district in Baghdad following tips provided by citizens.
Al-Mada runs a 60-word front-page report on a statement by an official at the Interior Ministry noting that the police have arrested four Afghanis who entered to Iraq via Iran.
Al-Mada publishes a 100-word front-page report stating that unidentified gunmen have attacked the building of Al-Nasiriyah television and battled with the security guards. No casualties were reported.
Al-Mada publishes a 200-word front-page report on a statement by an official at the Border Guards force saying that it has arrested a gang carrying 100 kilograms of hashish after intense clashes near the Saudi border point.
Al-Nahdah publishes on page 5 a 100-word report quoting the Oil Minister saying that his Ministry has adopted new measures to protect oil installations and pipelines, and in process of increasing production.
IV. HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUES:
Al-Mashriq carries on page 4 a 100-word report citing Health Ministry spokesman as saying that the ministry has signed a contract with an international medical company to provide Iraqi hospitals with a number of medical equipment for 28 billion Iraqi Dinars.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 4 a 70-word "exclusive" report stating that the US forces donated a number of medical equipment to the Kirkuk Hospital.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 260-word report citing Education Minister Dr Sami al-Muzaffar as saying that his ministry, in cooperation with the Iraqi Students' Friends Association, will launch a health education program targeting Iraqi students. Al-Muzaffar added that a number of teachers will be trained abroad on the program.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on the front page a 250-word report citing an official source at the Al-Anbar governor's office informing the newspaper that beginning today, 18 December, the citizens of Al-Fallujah will start returning to their homes.
V. ECONOMIC NEWS AND PUBLIC SERVICES:
Al-Mashriq runs on page 5 a 100-word report citing Basra Reconstruction Committee director as saying that 50 projects will be implemented in the Basra Governorate. "The aim behind such projects is to provide labor vacancies and boost the economic process," says the director.
Al-Bayan carries on page 2 a 100-word report citing a source in the Planning and Developmental Cooperation Ministry as saying that the ministry is "seeking to support the private sector and improving the infrastructures through implementing a number of big projects in the Basra and Arbil governorates." The source adds that these projects include constructing large economic complexes in these tow governorates, and a modern system of communication to cover all Iraq.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 260-word report citing Education Minister Dr Sami al-Muzaffar informing the newspaper that his ministry has appointed 1589 newly graduated teachers for primary and secondary schools in Al-Najaf and Wasit Governorates.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 6 a 2,600-word "exclusive" interview with Agriculture Minister Dr Sawsan Ali Majid, who explained the problems that the agricultural sector and the Iraqi farmers are facing. The minister commented on her ministry's budget and future development plans. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Dustur publishes on page 6 a 600-word report on the impact of the current severe fuel crisis on life in Baghdad. The report says that the price of a liter of gasoline reached 1,000 Iraqi Dinars in the black market, 20 times its official price.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 90-word report citing an official source at the Health Ministry as saying that his ministry agreed to create 8,000 new jobs in the Health Ministry, urging "qualified" people to apply for them.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 70-word report citing the director of Babil Municipality as saying that the Public Works and Municipalities Ministry has allocated 6.5 billion Iraqi Dinars for the implementation of a number of projects in the Babil Governorate, next year.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing an official source in Al-Diwaniyah as saying that the Ministry of Housing and construction signed a 25-billion Iraqi Dinar contract with a company for the construction of a 504-apartment residential complex in the governorate.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 5 a 300-word report on the news conference held by Education Minister Dr Sami al-Muzaffar, who explained his ministry's development plans and educational program. The report cites Al-Muzaffar as saying that 20,000 teachers will be hired in the next few days and that 16,660 others have been reinstated in their pre-war posts.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 6 a 1,600-word "exclusive" interview with Water Resources Minister Dr Abd-al-Latif Jamal Rashid, who explained his ministry's future development plans and the impact of the current "deteriorating" security situation on their implementation. Rashid denied that US companies are monopolizing the contracts of his ministry. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on the front page a 100-word report citing Oil Minister Thamir al-Ghadban affirming that a terrorist attempt against Bayji Refinery was foiled. Al-Ghadban added that the staff of his ministry, in cooperation with foreign experts, managed to put off one of the six oil wells on fire in Kirkuk.
Al-Zaman publishes a 400-word front-page report on a statement by Muhammad Ibrahim, civil administrator of the city of Al-Fallujah saying that the people at Al-Andalus district in are allowed to return back to their homes.
Al-Zaman publishes a 200-word front-page report on a statement by a US military engineer noting that Basra Airport will be officially inaugurated next July. The US engineer indicates that $4.9 million were allocated to rehabilitate the airport.
Al-Nahdah publishes a 100-word front-page report stating that the Iraqi-Jordanian borders were opened to travelers after being closed for 72 hours as a result of clashes between US forces and gunmen.
Al-Furat publishes a 200-word front-page report citing an Iraqi official at the Oil Ministry noting that his Ministry has signed contracts with Turkish and Canadian companies to develop oil wells in Iraq.
VI. PRESS COMMENTS:
Al-Mashriq runs on page 3 a 300-word article by Hamid Abdallah, entitled "Twenty Months and Iraq is Running Backward." The writer comments on the "deterioration" Iraq is witnessing, saying that "what is happening in Iraq is a carefully planned scenario." He adds that instead of "progressing forward, Iraq is going backward."
Al-Mashriq carries on page 4 a 600-word article by Abd-al-Karim Abd-al-Jalil, discussing the "children's rights." The author says that many children all over the world are "exploited and wronged, and nothing is done to do them justice." He concentrates on the Iraqi children's case as "an extreme example of injustice."
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 6 a 300-word article entitled "Let's Turn our Sight to the Iraqi Personality," which says that Iraqis "prefer their country's higher interest to their personal needs." The article stresses the fact that the "deterioration in Iraq results from neglecting the Iraqi personality, which is able to administer the country's issues."
Al-Mashriq runs on page 6 a 400-word article by Safi al-Yasiri, entitled "Good Intentions Bridge, and the Neighbor Iran," in which the writer criticizes Iran for "interfering in Iraq's internal affairs by creating problems under the pretext of fighting the occupation." The author calls on Iran to play a "positive role in creating a peaceful and democratic Iraq." (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Mashriq carries on page 12 a 200-word article by Hatim Hasan, entitled "Disparagement," which criticizes the "civilized troops" (US troops) for "ridiculing our minds by the nominal trials of some of their soldiers, while killing many Iraqis and evacuating whole cities."
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 400-word article by Qindil Hamid al-Fatlawi, entitled "Satellite TV Channels Positions toward Iraqi People's Issues," attacking the Arab satellite TV channels, pressmen, and intellectuals for "backing the former dictator regime before and after his fall."
Al-Bayyinah runs on page 1 a 400-word editorial attacking King Abdallah II of Jordan for "giving anti-Shiite statements." The editorial says that the "young king was ill-advised by his councilors to deliver such statements, and he should apologize to the Shiites and Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani."
Al-Bayyinah carries on page 1 a 300-word article criticizing Syria for "backing the terrorists in Iraq," and threatening to reveal "documents that prove the Syrian complicity in training and financing these terrorists."
Al-Bayyinah carries on page 3 an 800-word article by Sattar Jabbar, discussing the Arab leaders' opinion in "emerging a Shiite state in Iraq." The writer says that the United States "presented a scheme to the Gulf countries drafting the features of the future Shiite government in Iraq."
Al-Bayyinah runs on page 4 a 400-word article by Abd-al-Zahra al-Bayyati, criticizing "those who call for fragmenting Iraq." The writer calls for national unity to "abort the vile scheme which aims at dividing Iraq."
Al-Bayyinah publishes on page 13 an 800-word article by Khaz'al Laftah Lu'aybi, praising the Iraqi Police and National Guards members for their "bravery," saying that they are "building the future democratic Iraq."
Al-Bayyinah carries on page 14 a 600-word article by the Political Editor, commenting on the "Arab attacks against the Shiites in Iraq." The writer says that most Arab countries "have US military bases, which have never been attacked, whereas those in Iraq are hit because the aim is to abort the would-be Shiite state."
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 6 a 400-word article by Abd-al-Rahim Muhammad Husayn saying that Iraq suffered a massive damage and huge loses in its human and economic resources, and missed great progress and development opportunities during the "dark period" under the former regime. The article calls for an effective monitoring system of Iraq's wealth in order to maintain pace with the progress in the world.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 6 a 700-word article by Nabil Yunis Damman criticizing the "growing terrorist attacks" on Christians and churches in Iraq. The article predicts that unless terrorism is contained, it would expand to other factions and countries.Al-Ufuq publishes on page 4 a 1,000-word article by Salah al-Din Hafiz, the secretary general of the Arab Journalists' Union, calling for national reconciliation in order to prevent any possible sectarian sedition in Iraq.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 4 a 1,000-word article by Muhammad Ibrahim al-Dusuqi discussing the reasons behind Japan's "interference" in Iraq and the role of its forces in the country. The article criticizes Japan for its little contribution to the reconstruction of Al-Samawah Governorate despite Japan's "recognized" capabilities and the relative stability in the governorate.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 4 a 1,500-word article by Dr Misbahallah Abd-al-Baqi discussing the legitimacy of the recent Afghani elections and the challenges that President Karazi faces.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 4 a 400-word article by Salman al-Shami criticizing the late Palestinian Leader Arafat for supporting former President Saddam Husayn.
V. PRESS COMMENTS:
Al-Furat publishes a 300-word front-page editorial by Chief Editor Shakir al-Juburi attacking the Arab satellite channels for their efforts to distort the image of the Iraqis. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(file "CLICK HERE TO VIEW LIST OF IRAQI DAILIES AND WEEKLIES ON REGULAR FBIS COVERAGE" iraqipress.htm)Attachments: iraqipress.htm THIS REPORT MAY CONTAIN COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL. COPYING AND DISSEMINATION IS PROHIBITED WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE COPYRIGHT OWNERS. Inquiries regarding use may be directed to NTIS, US Dept. of Commerce.
Compiled and distributed by NTIS, US Dept. of Commerce. All rights reserved.
AFS Document Number: GMP20041218000241
City/Source: Iraq -- FBIS Report
FBIS Document Number: FBIS-NES-2004-1218
Geographic Names: Near East & South Asia; The Americas; South Asia; Near East; North America; Iran; Iraq; Syria; United States
NewsEdge Document Number: 200412201477.1_5be0049e61c0c278
Original Source Language: Arabic
Region: Near East & South Asia; The Americas
WNC Document Number: 0i90za801nwqqy
WNC Insert Date: December 20, 2004
World News Connection®
Compiled and distributed by NTIS. All rights reserved.
Dialog® File Number 985 Accession Number 200200289
Highlights: Iraqi Press 17 Dec 04
Iraq -- FBIS Report in Arabic 17 Dec 04
FBIS REPORT
Friday, December 17, 2004
Journal Code: 9023 Language: ENGLISH Record Type: FULLTEXT
Document Type: Daily Report; News
Word Count: 1,317
(FBIS Report)
Iraqi newspapers dated 17 December highlight the following issues:
I. IRAQ ELECTIONS:
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on the front page a 160-word report on the meeting of Dr Harith Al-Dari, the secretary general of the Association of Muslim Scholars, with a tribal delegation representing the Diyala Governorate. The meeting focused on the recent political developments in Iraq and the Association's stance regarding the upcoming elections. The report says that the delegation expressed its support for the stances of the Association.
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on page 2 a 200-word report citing Abd-al-Salam al-Kubaysi, the spokesman for the Association of Muslim Scholars in last Friday prayer sermon, criticizing those insisting on holding the upcoming elections as scheduled. Al-Kubaysi said that the participation in the elections under the occupation is "a historic crime." The report cites Al-Sadr aide Abd-al-Zahrah al-Suway'idi saying, during last Friday prayer sermon, that they claim that the elections would bring security while the US is shelling the Iraqi cities for the elections.
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on page 2 a 500-word article by Wisam al-Kubaysi criticizing those "insisting" on holding the upcoming elections as scheduled. The article says holding the elections under occupation will help achieve the occupation's goals and prolong its presence in the country.
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on the back page a 1,300-word un-attributed report citing Dr Muthanna Harith al-Dari, the media official of the Association of Muslim Scholars, speaking in detail about his association's stance regarding the upcoming elections. Al-Dari anticipated that the elections would be postponed.
II. POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS AND COMMENTS:
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on the front page a 160-word report on the statement issued by the Association of Muslim Scholars condemning the recent attack on churches in Mosul and any other act targeting "the innocent Iraqis, or their properties, or their worshiping houses based on religious, sectarian or ethnic motivations."
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on the front page a 120-word report on the statement issued by the Association of Muslim Scholars condemning the recent acts against the Sabaeans in Iraq. The statement says that the Association learned that flyers saying "Become a Muslim to be safe" have been circulated among our fellow Sabaean citizens. These threats contradict with the teachings of Islam and harm the national unity. The statement holds either "an illiterate person or a paid off agent" responsible for such act.
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on the front page a 160-word report on the meeting of Dr Harith Al-Dari, the secretary general of the Association of Muslim Scholars, with Iran's Ambassador to Iraq Hasan Kazimi Qumi, in Baghdad, on Tuesday, 14 December. The report says that both parties discussed the current Iraqi situation and the association's fundamental stance regarding the upcoming elections in Iraq. The report says that Al-Dari received on Saturday, 11 December the ambassador of the Philippines in Baghdad and praised his government's decision to withdraw its forces from Iraq.
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on the front page a 120-word editorial saying that although the US forces, which announced that they will settle the battle of Al-Fallujah in 48 hours, used all kind of weapons, the citizens of Al-Fallujah are still fighting and will remain "a horrifying nightmare for the occupation forces." The editorial criticizes and describes those who remain silent towards what is happening in Al-Fallujah as accomplices.
III. SECURITY AND MILITARY DEVELOPMENTS:
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on the front page a 100-word report stating that Shaykh Ma'an Hasan Khamis al-Janabi, member of the Association of Muslim Scholars, escaped an assassination attempt when a group of unidentified gunmen attacked him in Al-Baladiyat district in Baghdad. The report adds that another member Shaykh Mahmud Jasim al-Samarra'i and a number of his relatives were arrested by an "occupation" forces' unit backed by Iraqi National Guard in his house in Baghdad. The report adds that jewelry and money were stolen during the raid. No dates were given.
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on page 2 a 100-word report stating that the National Guard backed by the occupation forces raided the house of Diy'a Husayn al-Zawba'i, member of the Association of Muslim Scholars, in Al-Ghazaliyah district in Baghdad on 8 December.
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on page 2 a 120-word report stating that the Iraqi police raided Al-Shaf'i Mosque in Ba'qubah on 10 December.
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on page 2 a 120-word report stating that the "occupation" forces killed four people and injured six others in Al-Muqdadiyah district, in Diyala Governorate, last Friday, 10 December.
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on page 2 a 120-word report criticizing the Iraqi Government for not complying with its decision to accompany a member of the Sunni Waqf during raids on mosques issued after the raiding of the Abu-Hanifah Mosque on 17 November. The report says several mosques have been raided without the presence of the Sunni Waqf representatives.
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on page 6 a 500-word report on the statement issued by the Muslim Clerics League in Somalia criticizing the US forces attack on al-Fallujah.
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December devotes all of page 7 to a report by Zakaria Shahin discussing the "real" reasons behind the US forces attack on Al-Fallujah. The report says that on a wall in Al-Fallujah, a US soldier wrote a sentence saying: "We destroyed Al-Fallujah in revenge for the killing of four US contractors," "summarizing his government's policy."
IV. HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUES:
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December devotes all of page 8 to a report describing the sufferings of the Al-Fallujah families, which fled the clashes in the city and are currently living in a residential camp in Baghdad.
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December devotes all of page 9 to reports describing the role of the Association of Muslim Scholars and a number of affiliated humanitarian associations in providing aid to the citizens of Al-Fallujah.
V. PRESS COMMENTS:
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on page 4 a 1,000-word article by Mahmud Sultan commenting on the Sharm al-Shaykh conference. The article criticizes Dr Abd-al-Mun'im Sa'id, the director of the Al-Ahram Strategic Studies Center, for praising the conference. The article says that although Egypt desires the failure of the US project in Iraq, it also does not want the success of the Iraqi Islamic resistance fearing the strengthening of Egyptian Islamic trend. The article claims that the resistance legitimacy is enhanced by its continuous victories. The article pretends that a growing number of cities are out of the US "occupation" forces' control, several countries have escaped from the evil alliance in Iraq, and a large number of collaborating companies have walked out of Iraq.
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on page 5 a 1,300-word part one of an article by Dr Sa'd al-Hadithi discussing the impact of Iraq's "occupation" on neighboring countries. The article focuses on the impact of the developments in Iraq on the US future relations with Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on page 5 a 1,000-word article by Abu al-Faruq criticizing the Al-Hurrah television channel and BBC.
Al-Basa'ir on 15 December publishes on page 5 a 1,200-word article by Professor Ala Jasim Muhammad al-Harbi strongly criticizing the US for its "crimes in Vietnam, Palestine, and Iraq." THIS REPORT MAY CONTAIN COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL. COPYING AND DISSEMINATION IS PROHIBITED WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE COPYRIGHT OWNERS. Inquiries regarding use may be directed to NTIS, US Dept. of Commerce.
Compiled and distributed by NTIS, US Dept. of Commerce. All rights reserved.
AFS Document Number: GMP20041217000168
City/Source: Iraq -- FBIS Report
FBIS Document Number: FBIS-NES-2004-1217
Geographic Names: Near East & South Asia; East Asia; The Americas; Arab Africa; South Asia; Near East; Southeast Asia; North America; Egypt; Iran; Iraq; Philippines; United States
NewsEdge Document Number: 200412201477.1_1fa800488a0a2bae
Original Source Language: Arabic
Region: Near East & South Asia; East Asia; The Americas
WNC Document Number: 0i90z8e02i5vlf
WNC Insert Date: December 20, 2004
World News Connection®
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Dialog® File Number 985 Accession Number 200150689
Highlights: Iraqi Press 16 Dec
Iraq -- FBIS Report in Arabic 16 Dec 04
FBIS REPORT
Thursday, December 16, 2004
Journal Code: 9023 Language: ENGLISH Record Type: FULLTEXT
Document Type: Daily Report; News
Word Count: 4,032
The following lists selected reports carried in the Iraqi press on 16 December. Further processing is indicated below. To request processing, please contact FBIS at (800) 205-8615 (in US) or (202) 338-6735 (outside US); or fax (703) 613-5735.
(FBIS Report)
Iraqi newspapers dated 16 December highlight the following issues:
I. IRAQ ELECTIONS:
Al-Zawra publishes on the front page a 100-word Karbala news report on the statement issued by Al-Sadr Bureau in Al-Najaf linking Al-Sadr trend's participation in the upcoming elections with the departure of the occupation forces from the country.
Al-Zawra publishes on the front page a 200-word report citing Iraqi Turkomen Leader San'an Ahmad Agha informing the newspaper that the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq is adhering to 20 December for endorsing the electoral candidates' lists of the political entities participating in the upcoming elections. He added that the commission is still negotiating with the international community a settlement to persuade some countries, especially Syria and Germany, which refused to allow Iraqis living in their countries to participate in the upcoming elections.
Al-Zawra publishes on page 5 a 1,200-word interview with Religious Authority Ayatollah Muhammad Taqi al-Mudarrisi, who explained his view regarding the upcoming elections and the future of Iraq. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Zawra publishes on page 5 a 1,000-word interview with Dr Nihru Muhammad Abd-al-Karim al-Kasnazan al-Husayni, the secretary general of the Iraqi National Unity Grouping, who explained his views regarding the current political and security situation and the upcoming elections in Iraq. Al-Husayni said that national reconciliation and unity is more important than the date of elections. He added that his grouping has called for a comprehensive national conference, hoping that it will be held in mid December. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 600-word follow-up report on the latest developments regarding the upcoming elections. The report cites a spokesman for Prime Minister Allawi as saying that the National Accord Movement submitted its electoral list, the Iraqi List, led by Allawi, and includes President Al-Yawir and a number of ministers. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 200-word editorial criticizing the candidates and political forces for taking advantage of the religion and alleging the support of the religious authorities for their electoral lists in order to gain votes in the upcoming elections. The editorial says that although they have repeatedly declared, through their legal representative fronts, that they neither support a particular list nor favor a certain candidate, but certain forces still claim that they are sponsored by the religious authorities.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 4 a 1,200-word article by Dr Khalil Ibrahim al-Issa saying that the downfall of the dictatorship on 9 April 2003 was a strategic turning point in the Middle East Region in general and in Iraq in particular. The article says that the election of the people's legitimate representatives responsible for deciding the state's path and decreeing a national constitution is the most difficult step in the democratic process, especially in Iraq, which was under a culture of tyranny and dictatorship for decades. The article wonders why the political forces did not declare their political programs prior to 15 December. The article criticizes the Iraqi political forces for not holding debates to educate people on their programs. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 4 a 700-word article by Dr Bashir al-Samarra'i saying that the Iraqis are currently divided into two camps: the first insists on holding the upcoming elections on schedule while the other tries to postpone them for six months. The differences are in fact much deeper, which require a brave confrontation. The political forces competing to seize power will have to face the following challenges: the Kirkuk issue, the power sharing system because by calling for postponing the elections, the minorities are in fact fearing the control of the majority while the majority fear that the postponement would deprive them of their right to power, and the political sectarian alternative as is the case in Lebanon. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 1,500-word unattributed article discussing and praising the electoral political program of Al-Da'wah Party. The article focuses on the WMD issue, the crimes of the Ba'th Party, the occupation, the Palestinian cause, and the party's relations with other Islamic and political forces. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 250-word report citing Abd-al-Husayn al-Hindawi, the chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq, in a news conference yesterday, 15 December, as saying that the number of voters appearing at registration centers in most regions in Iraq is high. He added that his commission is taking the necessary measures so that the people in the regions witnessing turmoil get their right to vote, reminding that "we are in an interim phase."
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 90-word report citing a source close to Farid Ayar, the spokesman for the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq, as saying that several political entities submitted their electoral lists only a few hours before the close time. The source said that lists led by prominent Iraqi political figures such as Prime Minister Allawi, Adnan Pachachi, President Al-Yawir, and Muhsin Abd-al-Hamid were submitted.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 3 a 1,700-word "exclusive" interview with Dr Nihru Muhammad Abd-al-Karim al-Kasnazan al-Husayni, the secretary general of the Iraqi National Unity Grouping, who explained that his grouping is not an ethnic or a sectarian party but a democratic party that believes that the true democracy represents the best solutions for Iraq's problems. The interview is also published by Al-Ufuq. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 500-word unattributed report on the latest developments regarding the upcoming elections in Iraq. The report focuses on the statement made by Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan criticizing and describing the Iraqi Unified Coalition Electoral List as Iran's list. The report also focuses on Prime Ministry Allawi's electoral list.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 400-word unattributed report citing a source in the Iraqi cabinet as saying that the Iraqi Government plans to take a number of precautionary security measures in the next few weeks. The source added that these measures include, beginning 4 January, the closing of mobile service and reducing the work week to three days per week. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Adalah carries on page 4 a 400-word article by Abd-al-Basit al-Juwari entitled "Iraqi Elections Will Be the Herald of Welfare, Love, and Unity." The writer says that the upcoming Iraqi elections are "decisive" because they will be a "cry in the face of terrorists, and will unite the Iraqis to be a model for the whole world."
Al-Adalah runs on page 4 a 600-word article by Talib Murad, commenting on the regulations issued by the Independent Electoral Commission of Iraq, which allow Iraqis abroad to vote in the upcoming elections. The writer calls on the commission to "open more electoral centers in Africa and Asia to enable Iraqis to vote."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 1 a 200-word text of a statement issued by the Nation Party and the Gathering for Iraq, in which the two parties declared their "withdrawal from the upcoming elections." The statement gives the "reasons that led the two parties to withdraw." (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 7 a 500-word interview with the Democratic Liberal Party General Supervisor Shaykh Muhammad Baqir al-Suhayl, who comments on his party's participation in the upcoming elections and the "role of minorities in building the new Iraq."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 7 an 80-word report citing a security official in Basra Police as saying that a "joint force of the Basra Police and the multinational forces was formed to provide protection in the upcoming elections."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 8 a 700-word article by Fa'iz Shimran al-Yasiri entitled "Iraqi Elections and the Fluctuation of Political Elites." The writer comments on the "ideological contradiction of the Iraqi political parties," saying that these parties cannot "mix with people, and do not work and express their ideologies freely." He also criticizes the parties that call for delaying the upcoming elections.
II. POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS AND COMMENTS:
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page and page 2 a 300-word follow-up report citing Prime Minister Allawi informing the National Assembly that he anticipates that violence in Iraq will escalate even after the upcoming elections. Allawi held the former regime's followers responsible and warned Syria that unless it takes effective measures to control the border, the relations between the two countries will be harmed.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 300-word report on Defense Minister Hazim al-Sha'lan's speech delivered yesterday before the National Guard conference in Baghdad, in which he strongly criticized Iran and the Iraqi Shiite political forces.
Al-Dustur publishes on page 3 a 500-word report on the reactions of a number of Iraqi officials and politicians to Jordan King Abdallah's recent statement regarding the formation of a Shiite pro-Iran regime in Iraq. The report cites Deputy Foreign Minister Labid Abawi describing the statement as interference in Iraq's internal affairs. The report cites officials of a number of Shiite parties strongly criticizing King Abdallah and denying that Iranian people would participate in the upcoming elections. Mithal al-Alusi, the leader of the Al-Ummah Party, affirmed the Iranian interference but to support terrorism rather than to interfere in the elections.
Al-Dustur publishes on the front page a 200-word editorial by Chief Editor Basim al-Shaykh urging the government to change its current "useless" security plans in order to solve the deteriorating security and living conditions in Iraq. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Ansar al-Mahdi carries on page 2 a 600-word report citing "sources close" to Shaykh Ali Smaysim, the Al-Sadr Trend Supreme Political Council director, as "expressing his deep discomfort" because the Iraqi Government has not "fulfilled its promises" in releasing the Al-Sadr Trend detainees.
III. SECURITY AND MILITARY DEVELOPMENTS:
Al-Dustur publishes on page 4 a 100-word report citing security officials in Basra as saying that two people trying to sabotage the strategic oil pipeline in Basra were arrested. The sources added that they were helped by the Salafiyah groups in Kuwait.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 70-word follow-up report citing a police source in Karbala Governorate as saying that unidentified gunmen killed the tax director in the governorate yesterday morning, 15 December.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 70-word follow-up report citing a police source in Al-Najaf as saying that the Iraqi police seized a large quantity of weapons in the city's cemetery, the largest in the world.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 250-word follow-up report on the conflicting reports regarding the casualties of the Basmayah massacre, in which 50 police trainees were killed, according to police sources in Basra. However, other sources in Baghdad claimed that only four police officers were killed and 20 others were injured. The report says that 85 newly recruited police officers from Basra on their way to Basmayah district, south of Baghdad, for training came under attack and that the fate of dozens is still unknown. The report did not mention the date of the incident.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 70-word follow-up report citing a police source in Al-Najaf as saying that the Iraqi police arrested a gang responsible for a number of lootings, kidnappings, and murder crimes. The source said that the gangsters took responsibility for the kidnapping and killing of Iranian diplomat Labib Jawad Rida.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 70-word report citing a police source in Baghdad as saying that the Iraqi police arrested an Iraqi citizen responsible for collecting information for the insurgents. The source added that the detainee admitted that he provided intelligence information to the insurgents in Al-Fallujah for $1,400. No dates or names were given.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 70-word report stating that the Tanzim al-Qa'ida fi Wadi al-Rafidayn, Al-Qa'ida Organization in the Land of Two Rivers, apologized for mistakenly killing a citizen in Mosul. The report says that in a statement placed near the victim's house, the terrorist group said that the error occurred due to resemblance in names, offering to pay blood money to the victim's family.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 1 a 50-word report citing a source in the South Border Forces as saying that the forces seized a "big ship and five launches loaded with oil, prepared to be smuggled to the neighboring countries."
IV. HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUES:
Al-Zawra publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing an official source at the Trade Ministry as saying that 35 trucks carrying 652 tons of food items were sent to Al-Fallujah.
Al-Zawra publishes on the front and back pages a 750-word interview with Muhammad Aziz al-Hilali, the secretary general of the Al-Amin Humanitarian Organization, who explained his organization's activities and aid to poor families.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on the front page a 300-word report citing Health Minister Dr Ala al-Din Alwan informing the national conference regarding the principle development requirements in the ministry that development plans should focus on the health and education sectors because they are the key for increasing the individuals' economic production.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing an official source at the Education Ministry informing the newspaper that his ministry has formed a department responsible for bolstering the human rights curricula.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 2 a 70-word report citing an official source at the Culture Ministry as saying that Culture Minister Mufid al-Jaza'iri will hold a news conference next Saturday, 18 December, which will focus on the problem of the dissolved Information Ministry employees.
V. ECONOMIC NEWS AND PUBLIC SERVICES:
Al-Zawra publishes on the front page a 60-word report citing the director of Al-Taji Power Plant as saying that the reasons behind the current shortage in electricity supply are the lack of spare parts, the inefficient old power plants, and the deteriorating security situation in the country.
Al-Zawra publishes on the front page a 60-word report citing the director of Al-Quds Power Plant as saying that a foreign company is installing four generating units that will be operating in his plant soon.
Al-Zawra publishes on page 3 a 700-word interview with the director general of the Electricity Generating Directorate, the Middle Region, who explained his directorate's responsibilities, achievements, and the problems it faces.
Al-Zawra publishes on page 7 a 500-word interview with the director general of the Roads and Bridges Committee of the Housing and Construction Ministry, who explained the recent achievements of his committee.
Al-Ufuq publishes on the front page a 70-word follow-up report stating that Oil Minister Thamir al-Ghadban ordered that fuel stations open before 0700 local time in the morning in order to ease the severe fuel crisis in the country.
Al-Ufuq publishes on page 5 a 2,000-word part 2 of an unattributed report discussing and detailing the ongoing controversy in the international community regarding the corruption of the UN Oil-for-Food Program.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing an official source at the Women's Affairs Ministry as saying that Minister Narmin Uthman Husayn has participated in a conference held in Lebanon organized by ERF and FORUM Organizations, which discussed a number of economic studies regarding the development and reconstruction of Iraq.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing an official source at the Finance Ministry informing the newspaper that his ministry has formed an international department to facilitate the opening of letter of credits and the reimbursement to foreign banks. He added that the department will facilitate the work of the Iraqi and foreign investors in Iraq.
Al-Bayan publishes on the front page a 100-word report citing an official source at the Baghdad Mayoralty informing the newspaper that his mayoralty is negotiating with a number of international companies a new principal design for Baghdad city.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 2 a 300-word editorial criticizing the Communication Ministry for charging people with high telephone bills for using home internet services.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 3 a 250-word report stating that the workers of the Al-Nasiriyah Power plant, the largest in Iraq, staged a three-day strike protesting the bureaucratic behavior of their administration.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 4 a 500-word report on the current fuel crisis in Iraq. The report says that the crisis is gradually declining but its impact on people's lives continues.
Al-Mashriq publishes on page 4 a 160-word report citing Water Resources Minister Abd-al-Latif Jamal Rashid as saying that his ministry's budget for 2005 was raised from $337 to $352 million. In a news conference yesterday, Rashid explained the projects that his ministry plans to implement next year.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid carries on page 4 a 300-word report citing a statement issued by the Planning and Developmental Cooperation, which says that the money allocated by the donor countries was spent as follows: $1.7 billion dollars, donated by the United States, were dedicated to 11 sectors, and $200 million, donated by the International Bank, were devoted to electricity, health, and drinking water sectors, as well as projects implemented in building and reconstructing schools and printing textbooks.
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 6 a 700-word interview with Iraqi Industries Union deputy chairman discussing the "union's efforts to improve the local industries."
VI. PRESS COMMENTS:
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 6 a 400-word article by Fadil Al-Juwaybr criticizing the recent calls for national reconciliation with the criminals responsible for the mass graves.
Al-Mu'tamar publishes on page 6 a 600-word article by Dr Sadiq al-Sarraf discussing who will benefit from the immediate foreign forces' departure from Iraq now. The article says that the forces calling for the withdrawal or for the setting up of a time table for the withdrawal of the multinational forces are the Ba'thists who dream of restoring power, the Arabs who used to support the former regime and fear the democratic process and implementation in the region, the regional forces, which fear the presence of the US forces near their borders, the sectarian forces fearing the control of the majority, and the terrorist groups, which want to settle their account with the US in Iraq.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 250-word article by Zaynab al-Khafaji discussing the role of Iraq's neighboring countries on the security situation in Iraq. The article says that despite their vows in the Sharm al-Shaykh Conference, some of Iraq's neighboring countries still insist on transferring their conflicts with the US into Iraq. The article says that although all terrorist groups working in the country agree on a joint goal of destroying Iraq, they have different goals. (FBIS plans to process this item)
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 500-word article by Karim al-Baydani saying that the Afghani people have finally succeeded in holding their elections, moving into a new democratic stage and silencing all the doubting voices in the media. The article wonders whether the Arab media will submit to the democratic process in Iraq as it did in Afghanistan.
Al-Bayan publishes on page 3 a 300-word commentary by Salim Rasul commenting on the arrest of former President Saddam Husayn's cousin Izz al-Din al-Majid. The commentary says that Al-Majid, who seized billions that his cousin Husayn Kamil had stolen from Iraq, used to finance terrorism in Iraq.
Al-Adalah carries on page 4 a 300-word report entitled "Yes for the State of Law," in which the writer comments on the "need to apply law in the new Iraq to achieve equality and guarantee the people's rights."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid runs on page 1 a 200-word editorial by Chief Editor Isma'il Zayir, in which he attacks the Arabs, saying that "they hate Iraqis and want to humiliate Iraq."
Al-Sabah al-Jadid publishes on page 8 a 600-word article by Salim al-Hakim entitled "Corrupt Officials' Place Is the Pavement," which comments on the "Integrity Committee." The author criticizes this committee for not "punishing the corrupt officials in Iraqi ministries and state offices." He also criticizes the press for "not revealing corruption to people so that it will be attacked and eliminated."
Al-Hawza carries on page 2 an 800-word article by Shamkhi Jabur, criticizing the calls for "creating a federation in the mid-Euphrates region." The writer says that this is an "American project" to divide Iraq.
Al-Hawza runs on page 2 a 700-word article by Dr Nadiah Dhiya Shikarah entitled "The Conspiracy," in which the author says that the United States "has been planning for a long time to invade and control Iraq." The writer says that the "major key" in this "conspiracy" is to eliminate the Al-Sadr Trend. She gives a number of "reasons" that led the United States "to work toward attacking this trend."
Al-Hawza publishes on page 2 a 700-word article by Ali Abd-al-Sahib entitled "Al-Zurfi's Federation," attacking Al-Najaf Governor Adnan al-Zurfi for calling to establish a federation in the Southern Iraq. The writer says that this will "fragment and weaken" Iraq.
Al-Hawza carries on page 2 of an attached appendix a 1,500-word article by Taha Hamzah al-Wa'ili entitled "The Islamic Government Project in Iraq between Reality and Occupation." The writer discusses the "possibility" of a Shiite-Sunni state in Iraq, concluding that "this is impossible." He attributes this to various reasons, the most important one being the "US scheme to divide Muslims and weaken Iraq."
Ansar al-Mahdi runs on page 1 a 600-word article by Chief Editor Salam Salih, in which he eulogizes the late Imam Muhammad al-Sadr, saying that his followers are ready to "sacrifice themselves to liberate and build Iraq."
Ansar al-Mahdi carries on page 2 a 600-word article by Ruqayah Ibrahim entitled "The Light of Truth." The writer attacks "those who publicized for the occupier and described him as a savior." She says that these people, especially Prime Minister Ayad Allawi, "lost their popularity in Iraq."
Ansar al-Mahdi publishes on page 2 a 500-word article by Azhar Qasim entitled "The Plan of Imam al-Mahdi Enemies," in which the writer discusses the "schemes devised by Imam al-Mahdi enemies, especially the Israelis, to fight the Imam before his appearance." The author says that these "enemies know for sure that when the Imam appears, he will defeat and humiliate them, that is why they follow various methods to prevent the formation of a righteous basis for the Imam." He calls on all "believers in the Imam to look at the occupation as the first and foremost enemy of the Imam al-Mahdi."
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