LCCC ENGLISH DAILY NEWS BULLETIN
June 15/09

Bible Reading of the day
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Mark 14:12-16.22-26. On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, when they sacrificed the Passover lamb, his disciples said to him, "Where do you want us to go and prepare for you to eat the Passover?"He sent two of his disciples and said to them, "Go into the city and a man will meet you, carrying a jar of water. Follow him. Wherever he enters, say to the master of the house, 'The Teacher says, "Where is my guest room where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?"' Then he will show you a large upper room furnished and ready. Make the preparations for us there." The disciples then went off, entered the city, and found it just as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover. While they were eating, he took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, and said, "Take it; this is my body."Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, and they all drank from it. He said to them, "This is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed for many. Amen, I say to you, I shall not drink again the fruit of the vine until the day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God." Then, after singing a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

Free Opinions, Releases, letters & Special Reports
A new racism/Future News 14/06/09

Latest News Reports From Miscellaneous Sources for June 14/09
Nasrallah Congratulates Ahmadinejad on his Victory-Naharnet
Saniora: No Hizbullah Right to Veto in New Lebanon Government-Naharnet
Israel 'Perplexed' by Solana's Meeting with Hizbullah MP-Naharnet
Raad Seeking Harmony between Resistance, State Institutions-Naharnet
Nadim Gemayel: Veto Power Paralyzes Constitutional, Government Institutions-Naharnet
More than 100 Iranian reformists arrested: reformer-Reuters
Sami Gemayel receives well wishers-Future News
Dialogue is the master of all provisions…Frangieh wants the blocking third or else?-Future News
Hariri congratulates Sleiman for the elections success-Future News
Sakr: No one tampered with civil status record in Zahleh-Future News
Hariri heads for Riyadh-Future News
Preacher Fathi Yakan passes away-Future News
Khoury: Fneish criticism of Patriarch Sfeir is unjustified-iloubnan.info
Kanaan Accuses a TV Journalist of 'Political Assassination' After Exposing Him of Corruption-Naharnet
Israel 'Perplexed' by Solana's Meeting with Hizbullah MP-Naharnet
Nadim Gemayel: Veto Power Paralyzes Constitutional and Government Institutions-Naharnet
Saniora In Cairo Meets Mubarak-Naharnet
Sfeir for a Cabinet that Knows Lebanon's Interests and Forge Relations Not at its Expense-Naharnet
Hariri Continues Political Consultations-Naharnet
Hizbullah to Receive Guarantees Rather Than Veto Power-Naharnet
Pilot Samer Hanna's Killer Tells Story Behind Helicopter Incident-Naharnet
Solana Says Hizbullah Part of Lebanese Political Life, Praises Climate of Accord-Naharnet
Islamic Leader Fathi Yakan Dies-Naharnet
Franjieh: Opposition's Participation in Government Conditioned by Veto Power-Naharnet

Canadian soldier killed in Afghanistan as roadside bomb he was defusing explodes
By Colin Perkel, The Canadian Press
KANDAHAR, Afghanistan - A Canadian combat engineer, described as a great guy to be around, was killed in southern Afghanistan on Sunday when one of two roadside bombs he was trying to defuse exploded. Cpl. Martin Dube, 35, was the second Canadian soldier to die in Afghanistan in a week. The blast also killed an Afghan police officer and badly wounded an interpreter. In making the grim announcement at Kandahar Airfield, Brig.-Gen. Jonathan Vance said the "energetic" Dube was someone who believed in the Afghan mission and was eager to make a difference. "The IED that Martin was dismantling could have killed an entire family, as it was deliberately aimed at passing traffic," said Vance, the senior commander in Kandahar.
"His actions, his sacrifice, saved the lives of innocents." Vance praised Dube, who was from the 5e Regiment du Genie de Combat based at CFB Valcartier near Quebec City, as a professional who was always willing to help anyone in need - one of the main reasons he deployed to Afghanistan. The incident occurred shortly after noon in the Panjwaii district, about 20 kilometres southwest of Kandahar city. Last Monday, Pte. Alexandre Peloquin was killed in the same district when he stepped on an explosive device.
Dube's death brings to 120 the total number of Canadian soldiers who have died during the Afghan mission since it began in 2002.
Nevertheless, Vance was adamant that grief over the deaths would not get in the way of the mission.
"The loss of a soldier is not an indication of failure, nor cause for hopelessness - Martin Dube knew that, and so should you," Vance said.
"We are determined to succeed so that Afghan lives improve; but our enemies are equally determined to challenge and prevent Afghanistan from flourishing as the nation it so wants to be."
Dube is survived by his mother Marie-Paule, his father Roger, brother Vincent and girlfriend, Julie.
Vance said Dube never let himself get down when things got rough. The soldier was a skilled perfectionist who took the time to better himself not only as a human being, but also as a soldier, Vance said. "His work has saved the lives of his peers, of Afghan national security forces and Afghan civilians," Vance said
"For that, he should be remembered and celebrated." Vance also described Dube as someone who enjoyed life, was good at making others laugh, and was "one of the best guys to be around." The injured Afghan interpreter was flown to the Kandahar Airfield hospital. His condition was not immediately known.

Khoury: Fneish criticism of Patriarch Sfeir is unjustified
iloubnan.info - June 14, 2009,
BEIRUT - Maronite Federation president Sami al-Khoury said on Saturday that Labor Minister Mohammad Fneish’s comments about Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Boutros Sfeir are 'unjustified." Khoury supports the statement made by Sfeir on the eve of the Lebanese parliamentary elections that if the oppositions wins the elections, the face of Lebanon will change.
Khoury also said that Wilayat al-Faqih is inimical to Lebanon, explaining that its implementation would turn Lebanon’s Arab identity into an Iranian one.

Iranian reformists said arrested after poll clashes
By Parisa Hafezi and Dominic Evans
TEHRAN (Reuters) - More than 100 reformists were arrested on Saturday night after President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's presidential election victory led to violent street clashes in Tehran, leading reformist Mohammad Ali Abtahi said on Sunday. In a rare challenge to authorities, thousands scuffled with police on Saturday after Ahmadinejad's disputed defeat of reformist candidate Mirhossein Mousavi sparked the biggest protests in Tehran since the 1979 Islamic revolution.
Iranian and Western analysts said Ahmadinejad's re-election disappointed Western powers aiming to persuade the world's fifth-biggest oil exporting country to halt a nuclear program they suspect is aimed at making bombs which Iran denies. Tehran streets were generally quiet early on Sunday with one opposition gathering reported. Ahmadinejad was expected to make several public appearances during the day, including a victory speech to supporters.
A judiciary spokesman said the reformists had not been arrested but were summoned and "warned not to increase tension." They were later released, he told Reuters.
The arrested reformists were members of Iran's leading reformist party Mosharekat and included Mohammad Reza Khatami the brother of former President Mohammad Khatami.
Abtahi, a former vice-president, told Reuters: "They were taken from their homes last night." He said more arrests were expected.
The election result and its violent aftermath raised fresh questions about the direction of Iranian policies at a time when President Barack Obama wants to improve relations with Iran. Obama has urged the leadership to "unclench its fist."
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei told Iranians to respect Ahmadinejad's victory, which upset expectations that Mousavi might win the contest.
Interior Minister Sadeq Mahsouli, an Ahmadinejad ally, declared the president had been re-elected with 62.6 percent of the vote, against 33.7 percent for Mousavi.
Mousavi complained of violations and vote-rigging -- allegations rejected by Interior Ministry officials.
"I'm warning I will not surrender to this dangerous charade. The result of such performance by some officials will jeopardize the pillars of the Islamic Republic and will establish tyranny," Mousavi said in a statement made available to Reuters.
POLICE BEAT PROTESTERS
After the result was announced, thousands of his supporters took to the streets, some chanting, "What happened to our vote?" Others shouted anti-Ahmadinejad slogans. "We are Iranians too," and "Mousavi is our president," they shouted.
Police beat protesters with batons as they spread out across the capital. Small fires burned at roadsides.
Although the protests were small compared with the mass demonstrations that led to the 1979 Islamic revolution, they were the most widespread in the city since then.
Khamenei, Iran's top authority, told defeated candidates and their supporters to avoid "provocative behavior."
"The chosen and respected president is the president of all the Iranian nation and everyone, including yesterday's competitors, must unanimously support and help him," Khamenei said in a statement read on state television.
Ahmadinejad, in a televised address to the nation, said the election had been "free and healthy."
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said the United States was monitoring the outcome of the election closely and hoped the result reflected the will of the Iranian people.
Late on Friday, before official results emerged, Mousavi had claimed to be the "definite winner." He said many people had been unable to vote and ballot papers were lacking.
Ahmadinejad draws most of his support from rural areas and poorer big city neighborhoods. Mousavi enjoys strong backing in wealthier urban centers, especially among women and the young. (Editing by Peter Millership)

Sfeir for a Cabinet that Knows Lebanon's Interests and Forges Relations Not at its Expense
Naharnet/Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Butros Sfeir expressed his hope that those concerned with forming a new cabinet would be successful in doing so while first taking into consideration Lebanon's interests and forging relations not at the country's interests. During his Sunday sermon Sfeir said: "It is in Lebanon's interests that the country would strengthen its relations of cooperation and friendship with all states but not at the expense of Lebanon's independence, sovereignty and interests."He also hoped that a newly formed cabinet would work on gathering all citizens around their homeland in loyalty first and not to turn to other states. Sfeir thanked God that the 2009 parliamentary elections took place "without any major security incident." Beirut, 14 Jun 09, 09:47

A new racism
Date: June 14th, 2009 Future News
A new racism emerged in the Lebanese civil society, after the issue of expatriates became the only concern among all political debates of the parliamentary elections.
Racism is not a new practice; it is rooted inside the Lebanese and within their relations. Each community boasts about its peculiarity and the Lebanese general figure resembles its components. The Lebanese are racists in their relations with the Syrian, Palestinian and Sri Lankan workers.
It is weird that who constantly speaks about the right of vote for the immigrants and the necessity of granting them this right, hastened to accuse them of being the reason for his failure in the elections. He considers that these people are citizens from another country and are interfering with the Lebanese internal issues, while who breaches the Lebanese sovereignty and cites a group against another is praised and thanked for his efforts, and has no guilt in harming the country and its civil peace.
The accusations which target the immigrants are refused, form and content, for two reasons: the sharp division lead them to express their enthusiasm for participation in the elections, and the political leaders didn’t deny their massive efforts to urge the expatriates for voting.
Who reviews the lists of immigrants visiting Lebanon during the elections concludes that they were from both March 8 and March 14, and someone must explain the number of voters in certain districts and certain groups which leaped suddenly to 30-40 percent.
The biggest question is: what is the difference between a Lebanese who moves from a country to his homeland for expressing his political choices, and another who travels from one side of the country into another for the same reason, especially that in Lebanon we vote for our death not our life? Everyone votes in the land where he dies, not the land where he lives: whether in municipalities or parliamentary elections.

“Dialogue is the master of all provisions…Frangieh wants the blocking third or else?
Date: June 14th, 2009 Future News
As the Middle East witnesses a prominent international movement, hoped to pay towards achieving just and comprehensive peace, which started with the visit of George Mitchell the American envoy for the peace process in the Middle East to Lebanon and Syria, and Javier Solana the coordinator of Foreign affairs and Security of the European Union to Lebanon, the attention of the Arabs and the world turned towards the presidential elections in Iran, in light of the "controversy" raised by the victory of the outgoing President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad for a second term, as Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei described Ahmadinejad’s victory “a real celebration.”
Lebanon however, is not far from the image of the regional and international movement towards peace, especially after March 14 won the parliamentary majority which devoted a new reality that defeated Nejad’s bets to change the situation in the region if March 8 won. The victory of March 14 was a “defeat for the Iranian project in Lebanon.”
The Lebanese Unity
On the other hand, positivity controls the political climate in Lebanon, amid the conviction of all political sides on the need to approach all future issues through "quiet dialogue", starting from the position of the Parliament Speaker to the forming of the government, and taking time to take decisions in these subjects without rush, as the leader of Almustaqbal movement MP Saad Hariri called from Baabda where he met with President Michel Sleiman, announcing his openness to "dialogue with all parties," pointing out that "dialogue is the master of provisions.”
Hariri stressed on the importance of calm atmosphere, tranquil and moderation which reflects positively on the Lebanese arena, “especially that Lebanon is at the doors of tourism season,” calling to invest the regional situation because “the Lebanese gave their votes for the majority which has the responsibility of uniting the Lebanese.”
Almustaqbal leader assured that the dialogue table, which will be re-formed, is going to continue despite the disagreement, stressing that calm dialogue is requested, away from any pre-positions, and pointing that “what is important in the Lebanese-Syrian relations is that such relation would exist between two countries and for the Economic, industrial, commercial and security benefit of both countries.”
The opposition and the obsession of the “third”
The elected Deputy Sleiman Frangieh breached the “positive atmosphere” declaring that “the opposition will not participate in a government without the blocking third.” He said: “what we hear is good and very positive but does not include a blocking third,” pointing that “we agree with Hizbullah and Speaker Nabih Berry and Amal movement that without the blocking third “the opposition will not participate in the government. This is a consensual decision for the opposition and any formula for the government which does not include the obstructing third is refused by this group” Frangieh added.
Solana senses an agreement
Meanwhile, Solana was closing his visit to Lebanon, and hoped for Rafic Hariri international airport that “everyone would adhere to their responsibilities towards this country”, pointing that he senses an agreement between everyone. “My visit was parallel to George Mitchell’s, and we had a task which we both achieved. We have the willpower for change, and the international society and regional countries are committed to resolve the existing problems” Solana said, pointing that the peace process is an inclusive process, which needs effort from all sides and there is no process separate from the other.
In response to a question whether he agrees that Hizbullah is a terroristic group or not, Solana stated that “Hizbullah will be a part of the parliament and takes responsibilities”, adding that terroristic groups differ from country to another and “Hizbullah is a part of the Lebanese society and is represented in the government.”
Solana previously met with member of “loyalty to resistance” parliamentary bloc MP Hussein Haj Hassan who said that “this means more openness and communication between the European Union and Hizbullah.”

Hariri congratulates Sleiman for the elections success
Date: June 13th, 2009 Future News
MP Saad Hariri, the leader of Almustaqbal Movement, congratulated on Saturday President Michel Sleiman at the Presidential palace in Baabda for the success of the parliamentary elections last Sunday. Hariri’s movement and its allies in the March 14 coalition won the majority of the seats in these elections with 71 seats out of 128 leaving 57 to the Hizbullah-led March 8 opposition camp backed by Iran and Syria in a democratic environment ensured by the deployment 50,000 members of the Lebanese Armed Forces.
Hariri also congratulated the security services for meting their obligations under the directives of the ministry of Interior, and stressed on the necessity of keeping the consensual atmosphere.
The meeting tackled the visit of US envoy to the Middle East George Mitchell and the issue of the nationalization of the Palestinians refused by all Lebanese factions in addition to the Israeli violations to the 1701 resolution, added Hariri. He also called for the enhancement of the Lebanese-Syrian relations which is in the best interest of the country, and asserted that the dialogue table is a necessity as it resolves many problems in calm discussions between the political leaders.

Kanaan Accuses a TV Journalist of 'Political Assassination' After Exposing Him of Corruption
Naharnet/Tempers flared on live television between Free Patriotic Movement (FPM) MP Ibrahim Kanaan and the program presenter Ghada Eid, following accusations made against him by a 'key electoral fixer' of corruption. Kanaan accused the TV program presenter of committing political assassination against him.
The key electoral fixer identified as Nabil Mohammed al-Fala presented documents claiming stating that he worked hard during the 2009 parliamentary election to secure Kanaan's parliamentary victory. "Despite the fact that I have secured him with 400 votes, he failed to pay me for my work," Fala said presenting documents to prove his claim.
Kanaan telephoned the program shouting accusing the program presenter Ghada Eid of lying and fabricating the story. He went further to accuse her of committing "political assassination" against him and slander in exchange for money.
"No voice rises above mine, I expose corruption wherever it is," Eid responded. She reminded the MP of the times when he used to seek her program to attack his political foe and former ally in the Metn MP Michel Murr.
Program callers were divided between those that condemned Kanaan for his disrespect and those that defended him.
Kanaan an attorney prior to becoming a member of parliament is known for his hot temper, the daily pan Arab Asharq al-Awsat said on Sunday.
Eid told the daily her program was good enough when it attacked March 14 Forces in the past " I do not distinguish between one political line and another when it comes to corruption. Both of my guests are responsible for their accusations and counter accusations, and I wouldn't have hosted anyone in my program had they not possessed the proper documents that prove their case.""Why am I accused of being against a certain party? In past shows I exposed Murr and his twisted ways. People have the right to know and to express themselves, we don't limit our programs only to political figures and their speeches," she said. Eid added that it is up to the Lebanese judiciary to determine whether Kanaan is involved in corruption or not.
" I shall sue Kanaan for slander. He has the right to sue my guests if he wants to, but I will sue him for insulting me on air," Eid said.
Kanaan promised to expose matters further on Sunday with the FPM's own television station O TV.
FPM leader MP Michel Aoun who previously exchanged accusations with his former ally MP Michel Murr over election funding announced on Wednesday that he would legally contest Murr's election to parliament at the Constitutional Council.
Aoun previously stated to the media that someone shall pay, without indicating who that someone is pointing that his contest is related to the case of father Akari.
OTV had previously spoke of threats and pressure made against Ftaher Akari by Murr for supporting Aoun.
Murr sources responded that he would take legal action against "OTV for fabricating a film during the electoral campaign adding that Murr would contest the issue of 3 boxes from Borj Hammoud district with the Constitutional Council. Beirut, 14 Jun 09, 07:31

Israel 'Perplexed' by Solana's Meeting with Hizbullah MP
Naharnet/Israel was left "perplexed" by EU foreign policy chief Javier Solana's unprecedented meeting with an official from Lebanon's Hizbullah, a foreign ministry spokesman said on Sunday. "This meeting left us perplexed, and we dare hope that Mr. Solana took advantage of the occasion to press for a disarming of Hizbullah and for the end of the arms smuggling between Syria and Hizbullah," Yigal Palmor told Agence France Presse (AFP). Israel, which considers Hizbullah a terror group along with its main ally the United States, fought a 34-day war with the Shiite militia in July-August 2006. Solana held talks with Hizbullah MP Hussein Hajj Hassan on Saturday during a Beirut visit to reaffirm Europe's support for Lebanon after the June 7 parliamentary polls. "Lists of terrorist groups are not the same in every country," Solana told a news conference when asked about the U.S. blacklist of the Shiite militant group.
"Hizbullah is a member of the Lebanese society and it is represented in the Lebanese parliament and it will bear responsibilities," he said before leaving for Egypt at the end of a two-day visit.(AFP) Beirut, 14 Jun 09, 11:11

Nadim Gemayel: Veto Power Paralyzes Constitutional and Government Institutions
Naharnet/Newly elected Member of Parliament Nadim Gemayel rejected the idea of a veto power in cabinet because this would paralyze any constitutional and government institution in Lebanon. Gemayel who paid a visit to Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Butrous Sfeir on Sunday paid tribute to "Bkirki's leader whose stances played a great role in securing our [parliamentary] victory." He added that the people of Lebanon want peace, dialogue upon which the next cabinet would be formed. Gemayel said that the Phalange party has not settled on whom to support in presiding over parliament, adding that the party is to hold a meeting soon to discuss the matter. Beirut, 14 Jun 09, 11:05

Saniora In Cairo Meets Mubarak
Naharnet/Prime Minister Fouad Saniora began an official visit to Cairo on Sunday by meeting with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak. Discussions focused on general Lebanese and Arab affairs in addition to providing Lebanon with electric power and natural gas from Egypt. Energy Minister Alian Tabourian, Petroleum Director-General Sarkis Hleiss and Kamal Hayek, Chairman of Electricite du Liban accompanied the Prime Minister. Tabourian held bilateral talks with his Egyptian counterpart regarding the issue of supplying Lebanon with electric power and natural gas. Beirut, 14 Jun 09, 10:09

Hariri Continues Political Consultations
Naharnet/Al-Mustaqbal Movement parliamentary bloc leader MP Saad Hariri continue his political consolations on Saturday receiving United Nations Special Coordinator
for Lebanon Michael Williams, with Nader Hariri attending. Discussions focused on the latest developments, the daily al-Mustaqbal said on Sunday.
Hariri later received French ambassador to Lebanon, Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea and Phalange party leader Amin Gemayel separately.
Hariri departed to Riyadh early Sunday morning accompanied by MP Bassem al-Sabeh. Beirut, 14 Jun 09, 09:13

Hizbullah to Receive Guarantees Rather Than Veto Power
Naharnet/A deal could be reached between the president, and the expected new prime minister to give Hizbullah all the guarantees it wants concerning a number of issues that are of interest to the party prior to presenting these for discussion in cabinet. According to the daily pan-Arab al-Hayat on Sunday, the above-mentioned 'deal' eliminates the threat of veto power within cabinet and eliminates extending it to the presidency due to its unconstitutionality. Informed sources told the al-Hayat that the alternative to providing Hizbullah and its allies with veto powers would be have an 'understanding' between the president the prime minister and all major powers within cabinet to quietly discuss and agree on issues prior to cabinet voting.
Sources added that such guarantees would be confirmed at the up-coming cabinet statement upon which cabinet would receive parliament's confidence.
Other guarantees would result from a regional consensus following the Syrian-Saudi rapprochement, and the soon to be expected Egyptian-Syrian cordial relations. Sources explained that there are no specific issues that Hizbullah wishes to obtain guarantees over in exchange for abandoning the call for veto power.
Sensitive current regional circumstances could be source for concern for Hizbullah in dealing with the above developments, particularly when it pertains to the Middle East peace process and presented settlements. However, informed sources told al-Hayat Hizbullah and President Michel Suleiman continue to enjoy each other's trust, adding that Suleiman fully understands what concerns the party as do some March 14 leaders. Beirut, 14 Jun 09, 09:01

Pilot Samer Hanna's Killer Tells Story Behind Helicopter Incident
Naharnet/The Hizbullah member, who opened fire at an army helicopter killing pilot Samer Hanna last year, told the military court that he mistook the chopper for an Israeli aircraft.
Mustafa Hassan Muqdim, 23, who is a member of Hizbullah's military wing, told the court on Friday that he was in a room when he heard a chopper and gunshots in Sujud hills on August 28, 2008. Muqdim said he went outside thinking the helicopter was Israeli and fired five rounds from his Kalashnikov rifle from a distance of 250-300 meters.
"Then I saw people heading towards the helicopter and I stopped shooting," the man told the 10-minute hearing. "We were three in the room when the chopper came. My friends did not take part in the shooting because they didn't have guns." He said he didn't see the Lebanese flag on the chopper and the sun's rays possibly blurred his vision. The 23-year-old added that he was at the party's post the day before and wasn't informed about the possibility of having a Lebanese helicopter flown in the region.
"We weren't in a state of alert at the time in the area. We had instructions to shoot in case of self-defense. That is obligatory," pan-Arab daily al-Hayat quoted Muqdim as telling the court.
Beirut, 13 Jun 09, 08:10
 

LCCC ENGLISH DAILY NEWS BULLETIN
June 15/09

Bible Reading of the day
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Mark 14:12-16.22-26. On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, when they sacrificed the Passover lamb, his disciples said to him, "Where do you want us to go and prepare for you to eat the Passover?"He sent two of his disciples and said to them, "Go into the city and a man will meet you, carrying a jar of water. Follow him. Wherever he enters, say to the master of the house, 'The Teacher says, "Where is my guest room where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?"' Then he will show you a large upper room furnished and ready. Make the preparations for us there." The disciples then went off, entered the city, and found it just as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover. While they were eating, he took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, and said, "Take it; this is my body."Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, and they all drank from it. He said to them, "This is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed for many. Amen, I say to you, I shall not drink again the fruit of the vine until the day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God." Then, after singing a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

Free Opinions, Releases, letters & Special Reports
A new racism/Future News 14/06/09

Latest News Reports From Miscellaneous Sources for June 14/09
Nasrallah Congratulates Ahmadinejad on his Victory-Naharnet
Saniora: No Hizbullah Right to Veto in New Lebanon Government-Naharnet
Israel 'Perplexed' by Solana's Meeting with Hizbullah MP-Naharnet
Raad Seeking Harmony between Resistance, State Institutions-Naharnet
Nadim Gemayel: Veto Power Paralyzes Constitutional, Government Institutions-Naharnet
More than 100 Iranian reformists arrested: reformer-Reuters
Sami Gemayel receives well wishers-Future News
Dialogue is the master of all provisions…Frangieh wants the blocking third or else?-Future News
Hariri congratulates Sleiman for the elections success-Future News
Sakr: No one tampered with civil status record in Zahleh-Future News
Hariri heads for Riyadh-Future News
Preacher Fathi Yakan passes away-Future News
Khoury: Fneish criticism of Patriarch Sfeir is unjustified-iloubnan.info
Kanaan Accuses a TV Journalist of 'Political Assassination' After Exposing Him of Corruption-Naharnet
Israel 'Perplexed' by Solana's Meeting with Hizbullah MP-Naharnet
Nadim Gemayel: Veto Power Paralyzes Constitutional and Government Institutions-Naharnet
Saniora In Cairo Meets Mubarak-Naharnet
Sfeir for a Cabinet that Knows Lebanon's Interests and Forge Relations Not at its Expense-Naharnet
Hariri Continues Political Consultations-Naharnet
Hizbullah to Receive Guarantees Rather Than Veto Power-Naharnet
Pilot Samer Hanna's Killer Tells Story Behind Helicopter Incident-Naharnet
Solana Says Hizbullah Part of Lebanese Political Life, Praises Climate of Accord-Naharnet
Islamic Leader Fathi Yakan Dies-Naharnet
Franjieh: Opposition's Participation in Government Conditioned by Veto Power-Naharnet

Canadian soldier killed in Afghanistan as roadside bomb he was defusing explodes
By Colin Perkel, The Canadian Press
KANDAHAR, Afghanistan - A Canadian combat engineer, described as a great guy to be around, was killed in southern Afghanistan on Sunday when one of two roadside bombs he was trying to defuse exploded. Cpl. Martin Dube, 35, was the second Canadian soldier to die in Afghanistan in a week. The blast also killed an Afghan police officer and badly wounded an interpreter. In making the grim announcement at Kandahar Airfield, Brig.-Gen. Jonathan Vance said the "energetic" Dube was someone who believed in the Afghan mission and was eager to make a difference. "The IED that Martin was dismantling could have killed an entire family, as it was deliberately aimed at passing traffic," said Vance, the senior commander in Kandahar.
"His actions, his sacrifice, saved the lives of innocents." Vance praised Dube, who was from the 5e Regiment du Genie de Combat based at CFB Valcartier near Quebec City, as a professional who was always willing to help anyone in need - one of the main reasons he deployed to Afghanistan. The incident occurred shortly after noon in the Panjwaii district, about 20 kilometres southwest of Kandahar city. Last Monday, Pte. Alexandre Peloquin was killed in the same district when he stepped on an explosive device.
Dube's death brings to 120 the total number of Canadian soldiers who have died during the Afghan mission since it began in 2002.
Nevertheless, Vance was adamant that grief over the deaths would not get in the way of the mission.
"The loss of a soldier is not an indication of failure, nor cause for hopelessness - Martin Dube knew that, and so should you," Vance said.
"We are determined to succeed so that Afghan lives improve; but our enemies are equally determined to challenge and prevent Afghanistan from flourishing as the nation it so wants to be."
Dube is survived by his mother Marie-Paule, his father Roger, brother Vincent and girlfriend, Julie.
Vance said Dube never let himself get down when things got rough. The soldier was a skilled perfectionist who took the time to better himself not only as a human being, but also as a soldier, Vance said. "His work has saved the lives of his peers, of Afghan national security forces and Afghan civilians," Vance said
"For that, he should be remembered and celebrated." Vance also described Dube as someone who enjoyed life, was good at making others laugh, and was "one of the best guys to be around." The injured Afghan interpreter was flown to the Kandahar Airfield hospital. His condition was not immediately known.

Khoury: Fneish criticism of Patriarch Sfeir is unjustified
iloubnan.info - June 14, 2009,
BEIRUT - Maronite Federation president Sami al-Khoury said on Saturday that Labor Minister Mohammad Fneish’s comments about Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Boutros Sfeir are 'unjustified." Khoury supports the statement made by Sfeir on the eve of the Lebanese parliamentary elections that if the oppositions wins the elections, the face of Lebanon will change.
Khoury also said that Wilayat al-Faqih is inimical to Lebanon, explaining that its implementation would turn Lebanon’s Arab identity into an Iranian one.

Iranian reformists said arrested after poll clashes
By Parisa Hafezi and Dominic Evans
TEHRAN (Reuters) - More than 100 reformists were arrested on Saturday night after President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's presidential election victory led to violent street clashes in Tehran, leading reformist Mohammad Ali Abtahi said on Sunday. In a rare challenge to authorities, thousands scuffled with police on Saturday after Ahmadinejad's disputed defeat of reformist candidate Mirhossein Mousavi sparked the biggest protests in Tehran since the 1979 Islamic revolution.
Iranian and Western analysts said Ahmadinejad's re-election disappointed Western powers aiming to persuade the world's fifth-biggest oil exporting country to halt a nuclear program they suspect is aimed at making bombs which Iran denies. Tehran streets were generally quiet early on Sunday with one opposition gathering reported. Ahmadinejad was expected to make several public appearances during the day, including a victory speech to supporters.
A judiciary spokesman said the reformists had not been arrested but were summoned and "warned not to increase tension." They were later released, he told Reuters.
The arrested reformists were members of Iran's leading reformist party Mosharekat and included Mohammad Reza Khatami the brother of former President Mohammad Khatami.
Abtahi, a former vice-president, told Reuters: "They were taken from their homes last night." He said more arrests were expected.
The election result and its violent aftermath raised fresh questions about the direction of Iranian policies at a time when President Barack Obama wants to improve relations with Iran. Obama has urged the leadership to "unclench its fist."
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei told Iranians to respect Ahmadinejad's victory, which upset expectations that Mousavi might win the contest.
Interior Minister Sadeq Mahsouli, an Ahmadinejad ally, declared the president had been re-elected with 62.6 percent of the vote, against 33.7 percent for Mousavi.
Mousavi complained of violations and vote-rigging -- allegations rejected by Interior Ministry officials.
"I'm warning I will not surrender to this dangerous charade. The result of such performance by some officials will jeopardize the pillars of the Islamic Republic and will establish tyranny," Mousavi said in a statement made available to Reuters.
POLICE BEAT PROTESTERS
After the result was announced, thousands of his supporters took to the streets, some chanting, "What happened to our vote?" Others shouted anti-Ahmadinejad slogans. "We are Iranians too," and "Mousavi is our president," they shouted.
Police beat protesters with batons as they spread out across the capital. Small fires burned at roadsides.
Although the protests were small compared with the mass demonstrations that led to the 1979 Islamic revolution, they were the most widespread in the city since then.
Khamenei, Iran's top authority, told defeated candidates and their supporters to avoid "provocative behavior."
"The chosen and respected president is the president of all the Iranian nation and everyone, including yesterday's competitors, must unanimously support and help him," Khamenei said in a statement read on state television.
Ahmadinejad, in a televised address to the nation, said the election had been "free and healthy."
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said the United States was monitoring the outcome of the election closely and hoped the result reflected the will of the Iranian people.
Late on Friday, before official results emerged, Mousavi had claimed to be the "definite winner." He said many people had been unable to vote and ballot papers were lacking.
Ahmadinejad draws most of his support from rural areas and poorer big city neighborhoods. Mousavi enjoys strong backing in wealthier urban centers, especially among women and the young. (Editing by Peter Millership)

Sfeir for a Cabinet that Knows Lebanon's Interests and Forges Relations Not at its Expense
Naharnet/Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Butros Sfeir expressed his hope that those concerned with forming a new cabinet would be successful in doing so while first taking into consideration Lebanon's interests and forging relations not at the country's interests. During his Sunday sermon Sfeir said: "It is in Lebanon's interests that the country would strengthen its relations of cooperation and friendship with all states but not at the expense of Lebanon's independence, sovereignty and interests."He also hoped that a newly formed cabinet would work on gathering all citizens around their homeland in loyalty first and not to turn to other states. Sfeir thanked God that the 2009 parliamentary elections took place "without any major security incident." Beirut, 14 Jun 09, 09:47

A new racism
Date: June 14th, 2009 Future News
A new racism emerged in the Lebanese civil society, after the issue of expatriates became the only concern among all political debates of the parliamentary elections.
Racism is not a new practice; it is rooted inside the Lebanese and within their relations. Each community boasts about its peculiarity and the Lebanese general figure resembles its components. The Lebanese are racists in their relations with the Syrian, Palestinian and Sri Lankan workers.
It is weird that who constantly speaks about the right of vote for the immigrants and the necessity of granting them this right, hastened to accuse them of being the reason for his failure in the elections. He considers that these people are citizens from another country and are interfering with the Lebanese internal issues, while who breaches the Lebanese sovereignty and cites a group against another is praised and thanked for his efforts, and has no guilt in harming the country and its civil peace.
The accusations which target the immigrants are refused, form and content, for two reasons: the sharp division lead them to express their enthusiasm for participation in the elections, and the political leaders didn’t deny their massive efforts to urge the expatriates for voting.
Who reviews the lists of immigrants visiting Lebanon during the elections concludes that they were from both March 8 and March 14, and someone must explain the number of voters in certain districts and certain groups which leaped suddenly to 30-40 percent.
The biggest question is: what is the difference between a Lebanese who moves from a country to his homeland for expressing his political choices, and another who travels from one side of the country into another for the same reason, especially that in Lebanon we vote for our death not our life? Everyone votes in the land where he dies, not the land where he lives: whether in municipalities or parliamentary elections.

“Dialogue is the master of all provisions…Frangieh wants the blocking third or else?
Date: June 14th, 2009 Future News
As the Middle East witnesses a prominent international movement, hoped to pay towards achieving just and comprehensive peace, which started with the visit of George Mitchell the American envoy for the peace process in the Middle East to Lebanon and Syria, and Javier Solana the coordinator of Foreign affairs and Security of the European Union to Lebanon, the attention of the Arabs and the world turned towards the presidential elections in Iran, in light of the "controversy" raised by the victory of the outgoing President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad for a second term, as Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei described Ahmadinejad’s victory “a real celebration.”
Lebanon however, is not far from the image of the regional and international movement towards peace, especially after March 14 won the parliamentary majority which devoted a new reality that defeated Nejad’s bets to change the situation in the region if March 8 won. The victory of March 14 was a “defeat for the Iranian project in Lebanon.”
The Lebanese Unity
On the other hand, positivity controls the political climate in Lebanon, amid the conviction of all political sides on the need to approach all future issues through "quiet dialogue", starting from the position of the Parliament Speaker to the forming of the government, and taking time to take decisions in these subjects without rush, as the leader of Almustaqbal movement MP Saad Hariri called from Baabda where he met with President Michel Sleiman, announcing his openness to "dialogue with all parties," pointing out that "dialogue is the master of provisions.”
Hariri stressed on the importance of calm atmosphere, tranquil and moderation which reflects positively on the Lebanese arena, “especially that Lebanon is at the doors of tourism season,” calling to invest the regional situation because “the Lebanese gave their votes for the majority which has the responsibility of uniting the Lebanese.”
Almustaqbal leader assured that the dialogue table, which will be re-formed, is going to continue despite the disagreement, stressing that calm dialogue is requested, away from any pre-positions, and pointing that “what is important in the Lebanese-Syrian relations is that such relation would exist between two countries and for the Economic, industrial, commercial and security benefit of both countries.”
The opposition and the obsession of the “third”
The elected Deputy Sleiman Frangieh breached the “positive atmosphere” declaring that “the opposition will not participate in a government without the blocking third.” He said: “what we hear is good and very positive but does not include a blocking third,” pointing that “we agree with Hizbullah and Speaker Nabih Berry and Amal movement that without the blocking third “the opposition will not participate in the government. This is a consensual decision for the opposition and any formula for the government which does not include the obstructing third is refused by this group” Frangieh added.
Solana senses an agreement
Meanwhile, Solana was closing his visit to Lebanon, and hoped for Rafic Hariri international airport that “everyone would adhere to their responsibilities towards this country”, pointing that he senses an agreement between everyone. “My visit was parallel to George Mitchell’s, and we had a task which we both achieved. We have the willpower for change, and the international society and regional countries are committed to resolve the existing problems” Solana said, pointing that the peace process is an inclusive process, which needs effort from all sides and there is no process separate from the other.
In response to a question whether he agrees that Hizbullah is a terroristic group or not, Solana stated that “Hizbullah will be a part of the parliament and takes responsibilities”, adding that terroristic groups differ from country to another and “Hizbullah is a part of the Lebanese society and is represented in the government.”
Solana previously met with member of “loyalty to resistance” parliamentary bloc MP Hussein Haj Hassan who said that “this means more openness and communication between the European Union and Hizbullah.”

Hariri congratulates Sleiman for the elections success
Date: June 13th, 2009 Future News
MP Saad Hariri, the leader of Almustaqbal Movement, congratulated on Saturday President Michel Sleiman at the Presidential palace in Baabda for the success of the parliamentary elections last Sunday. Hariri’s movement and its allies in the March 14 coalition won the majority of the seats in these elections with 71 seats out of 128 leaving 57 to the Hizbullah-led March 8 opposition camp backed by Iran and Syria in a democratic environment ensured by the deployment 50,000 members of the Lebanese Armed Forces.
Hariri also congratulated the security services for meting their obligations under the directives of the ministry of Interior, and stressed on the necessity of keeping the consensual atmosphere.
The meeting tackled the visit of US envoy to the Middle East George Mitchell and the issue of the nationalization of the Palestinians refused by all Lebanese factions in addition to the Israeli violations to the 1701 resolution, added Hariri. He also called for the enhancement of the Lebanese-Syrian relations which is in the best interest of the country, and asserted that the dialogue table is a necessity as it resolves many problems in calm discussions between the political leaders.

Kanaan Accuses a TV Journalist of 'Political Assassination' After Exposing Him of Corruption
Naharnet/Tempers flared on live television between Free Patriotic Movement (FPM) MP Ibrahim Kanaan and the program presenter Ghada Eid, following accusations made against him by a 'key electoral fixer' of corruption. Kanaan accused the TV program presenter of committing political assassination against him.
The key electoral fixer identified as Nabil Mohammed al-Fala presented documents claiming stating that he worked hard during the 2009 parliamentary election to secure Kanaan's parliamentary victory. "Despite the fact that I have secured him with 400 votes, he failed to pay me for my work," Fala said presenting documents to prove his claim.
Kanaan telephoned the program shouting accusing the program presenter Ghada Eid of lying and fabricating the story. He went further to accuse her of committing "political assassination" against him and slander in exchange for money.
"No voice rises above mine, I expose corruption wherever it is," Eid responded. She reminded the MP of the times when he used to seek her program to attack his political foe and former ally in the Metn MP Michel Murr.
Program callers were divided between those that condemned Kanaan for his disrespect and those that defended him.
Kanaan an attorney prior to becoming a member of parliament is known for his hot temper, the daily pan Arab Asharq al-Awsat said on Sunday.
Eid told the daily her program was good enough when it attacked March 14 Forces in the past " I do not distinguish between one political line and another when it comes to corruption. Both of my guests are responsible for their accusations and counter accusations, and I wouldn't have hosted anyone in my program had they not possessed the proper documents that prove their case.""Why am I accused of being against a certain party? In past shows I exposed Murr and his twisted ways. People have the right to know and to express themselves, we don't limit our programs only to political figures and their speeches," she said. Eid added that it is up to the Lebanese judiciary to determine whether Kanaan is involved in corruption or not.
" I shall sue Kanaan for slander. He has the right to sue my guests if he wants to, but I will sue him for insulting me on air," Eid said.
Kanaan promised to expose matters further on Sunday with the FPM's own television station O TV.
FPM leader MP Michel Aoun who previously exchanged accusations with his former ally MP Michel Murr over election funding announced on Wednesday that he would legally contest Murr's election to parliament at the Constitutional Council.
Aoun previously stated to the media that someone shall pay, without indicating who that someone is pointing that his contest is related to the case of father Akari.
OTV had previously spoke of threats and pressure made against Ftaher Akari by Murr for supporting Aoun.
Murr sources responded that he would take legal action against "OTV for fabricating a film during the electoral campaign adding that Murr would contest the issue of 3 boxes from Borj Hammoud district with the Constitutional Council. Beirut, 14 Jun 09, 07:31

Israel 'Perplexed' by Solana's Meeting with Hizbullah MP
Naharnet/Israel was left "perplexed" by EU foreign policy chief Javier Solana's unprecedented meeting with an official from Lebanon's Hizbullah, a foreign ministry spokesman said on Sunday. "This meeting left us perplexed, and we dare hope that Mr. Solana took advantage of the occasion to press for a disarming of Hizbullah and for the end of the arms smuggling between Syria and Hizbullah," Yigal Palmor told Agence France Presse (AFP). Israel, which considers Hizbullah a terror group along with its main ally the United States, fought a 34-day war with the Shiite militia in July-August 2006. Solana held talks with Hizbullah MP Hussein Hajj Hassan on Saturday during a Beirut visit to reaffirm Europe's support for Lebanon after the June 7 parliamentary polls. "Lists of terrorist groups are not the same in every country," Solana told a news conference when asked about the U.S. blacklist of the Shiite militant group.
"Hizbullah is a member of the Lebanese society and it is represented in the Lebanese parliament and it will bear responsibilities," he said before leaving for Egypt at the end of a two-day visit.(AFP) Beirut, 14 Jun 09, 11:11

Nadim Gemayel: Veto Power Paralyzes Constitutional and Government Institutions
Naharnet/Newly elected Member of Parliament Nadim Gemayel rejected the idea of a veto power in cabinet because this would paralyze any constitutional and government institution in Lebanon. Gemayel who paid a visit to Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Butrous Sfeir on Sunday paid tribute to "Bkirki's leader whose stances played a great role in securing our [parliamentary] victory." He added that the people of Lebanon want peace, dialogue upon which the next cabinet would be formed. Gemayel said that the Phalange party has not settled on whom to support in presiding over parliament, adding that the party is to hold a meeting soon to discuss the matter. Beirut, 14 Jun 09, 11:05

Saniora In Cairo Meets Mubarak
Naharnet/Prime Minister Fouad Saniora began an official visit to Cairo on Sunday by meeting with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak. Discussions focused on general Lebanese and Arab affairs in addition to providing Lebanon with electric power and natural gas from Egypt. Energy Minister Alian Tabourian, Petroleum Director-General Sarkis Hleiss and Kamal Hayek, Chairman of Electricite du Liban accompanied the Prime Minister. Tabourian held bilateral talks with his Egyptian counterpart regarding the issue of supplying Lebanon with electric power and natural gas. Beirut, 14 Jun 09, 10:09

Hariri Continues Political Consultations
Naharnet/Al-Mustaqbal Movement parliamentary bloc leader MP Saad Hariri continue his political consolations on Saturday receiving United Nations Special Coordinator
for Lebanon Michael Williams, with Nader Hariri attending. Discussions focused on the latest developments, the daily al-Mustaqbal said on Sunday.
Hariri later received French ambassador to Lebanon, Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea and Phalange party leader Amin Gemayel separately.
Hariri departed to Riyadh early Sunday morning accompanied by MP Bassem al-Sabeh. Beirut, 14 Jun 09, 09:13

Hizbullah to Receive Guarantees Rather Than Veto Power
Naharnet/A deal could be reached between the president, and the expected new prime minister to give Hizbullah all the guarantees it wants concerning a number of issues that are of interest to the party prior to presenting these for discussion in cabinet. According to the daily pan-Arab al-Hayat on Sunday, the above-mentioned 'deal' eliminates the threat of veto power within cabinet and eliminates extending it to the presidency due to its unconstitutionality. Informed sources told the al-Hayat that the alternative to providing Hizbullah and its allies with veto powers would be have an 'understanding' between the president the prime minister and all major powers within cabinet to quietly discuss and agree on issues prior to cabinet voting.
Sources added that such guarantees would be confirmed at the up-coming cabinet statement upon which cabinet would receive parliament's confidence.
Other guarantees would result from a regional consensus following the Syrian-Saudi rapprochement, and the soon to be expected Egyptian-Syrian cordial relations. Sources explained that there are no specific issues that Hizbullah wishes to obtain guarantees over in exchange for abandoning the call for veto power.
Sensitive current regional circumstances could be source for concern for Hizbullah in dealing with the above developments, particularly when it pertains to the Middle East peace process and presented settlements. However, informed sources told al-Hayat Hizbullah and President Michel Suleiman continue to enjoy each other's trust, adding that Suleiman fully understands what concerns the party as do some March 14 leaders. Beirut, 14 Jun 09, 09:01

Pilot Samer Hanna's Killer Tells Story Behind Helicopter Incident
Naharnet/The Hizbullah member, who opened fire at an army helicopter killing pilot Samer Hanna last year, told the military court that he mistook the chopper for an Israeli aircraft.
Mustafa Hassan Muqdim, 23, who is a member of Hizbullah's military wing, told the court on Friday that he was in a room when he heard a chopper and gunshots in Sujud hills on August 28, 2008. Muqdim said he went outside thinking the helicopter was Israeli and fired five rounds from his Kalashnikov rifle from a distance of 250-300 meters.
"Then I saw people heading towards the helicopter and I stopped shooting," the man told the 10-minute hearing. "We were three in the room when the chopper came. My friends did not take part in the shooting because they didn't have guns." He said he didn't see the Lebanese flag on the chopper and the sun's rays possibly blurred his vision. The 23-year-old added that he was at the party's post the day before and wasn't informed about the possibility of having a Lebanese helicopter flown in the region.
"We weren't in a state of alert at the time in the area. We had instructions to shoot in case of self-defense. That is obligatory," pan-Arab daily al-Hayat quoted Muqdim as telling the court.
Beirut, 13 Jun 09, 08:10