Gates of Vienna News Feed 7/1/2014

A referee in an adult soccer game in Michigan was allegedly punched by a culturally enriched player from Dearborn when the ref said he was going to eject the player from the game. The injured ref went into a coma and died. The alleged perp has been arrested and will be charged. His lawyer says he did not do it.

In other news, a group of angry Christians in Uganda burned down a mosque because they believed it was being used by Muslim terrorists who attacked their church and killed two worshippers.

To see the headlines and the articles, click “Continue reading” below.

Thanks to C. Cantoni, Fjordman, Insubria, JP, MC, Srdja Trifkovic, Vlad Tepes, and all the other tipsters who sent these in.

Notice to tipsters: Please don’t submit extensive excerpts from articles that have been posted behind a subscription firewall, or are otherwise under copyright protection.

Caveat: Articles in the news feed are posted “as is”. Gates of Vienna cannot vouch for the authenticity or accuracy of the contents of any individual item posted here. We check each entry to make sure it is relatively interesting, not patently offensive, and at least superficially plausible. The link to the original is included with each item’s title. Further research and verification are left to the reader.

USA
» For the First Time, The National Organization for Women Considers Sharia Law
» Historic 127-Year-Old Catholic Church is Now a Mosque
» Knapp Street Burger King Converted to Temporary Mosque for Ramadan
» Michigan Soccer Ref Dies After Being Punched During Game
» Obama to Muslims: ‘Ramadan Kareem’
» Referee Dies After Being Punched During Adult-Soccer League in Michigan
 
Europe and the EU
» Denmark: Police Warn of Organised Romanian Burglars
» Dutch Islamist Radicals Becoming Elusive ‘Swarm’: Spy Service
» EP: Five-Star Movement Candidate Fails to Get Elected
» European Court of Human Rights Upholds French Burka Ban
» Ex-French President Sarkozy Detained in Corruption Probe
» Geert Wilders: “Tackle the Islamic Terrorists and Their Sponsors, Now!”
» Greece: Council of State Allows for Mosque in Athens
» Grillo Says EU Funding to Italy ‘Goes to Mafia’
» Human Rights Court Upholds French Ban on Full-Face Veils
» Italy: Sarkozy Held Over ‘Abuse of Office’
» Police Hunt Lampedusa Suspect in Sweden
» Polish Muslims Condemn ‘Hooliganism’ After Mosque Attack
» Schulz Elected EP President Again, Promises to Fight for More Powers
» Sweden: ‘Kim-Jong Sexy Beast’: World’s Longest Name?
» The EU’s Militaristic ‘Nationalism’ on Display in Strasbourg
» UK: Foreign Languages to be Banned at Tower Hamlets Vote Counts
» UK: Lincoln Mosque ‘Will Prevent Religious Extremism’
» UK: Who Would Join the Iran Lobby? MPs and Lords, It Turns Out
» UKIP’s Farage: Deputies Cold Shoulder EU Parliament Opening
 
Balkans
» Austria and the Bosnian-Syrian Jihad Connection
» Five Western Balkan Countries, Moldova to Join EU’s Horizon 2020
 
North Africa
» Egypt: Sisi — I Pledge to You I Will Retaliate for Martyrs of Black Terrorism
» Tunisia: Fight Against Terrorism — Ben Jaafar Commends Sacrifices of Army and National Guard
 
Israel and the Palestinians
» 3 Rockets Launched at Israel
» BBC’s ‘Newsnight’ Facilitates Barghouti Claim of ‘International Law’ As Excuse for Murders of Teens
» Israel Strikes Gaza in Retaliation to Rocket Fire
» Israel Buries Its Three Kidnapped Teenagers Amid Tears and Anger
 
Middle East
» Erdogan Nominated for Turkey Presidency
» Iraq Fighting to Reach Baghdad Soon
» Iraq Fails to Form New Government
» ISIL Leader Urges Jihad to Right Wrongs Against Muslims
» ISIL Seizes Syrian Border Town Near Iraq
» ISIS Declaration of Islamic Caliphate Means All of Europe is Now Vulnerable to Terrorist Attack
» ISIS Releases Map of 5-Year Plan to Spread From Spain to China
» Mortars Fired at Samarra Mosque Stoke Fears of Renewed Iraq Civil War
» Mosul Archbishop: The Christian Presence in Iraq is “In Danger”, Help is Needed
» Rome Will be Conquered Next, Says Leader of Islamic State
» Syria: Mosaic Template Adorning Umayyad Mosque Restored
» The British Muslims Taking Aid to Syria: ‘I Can’t Imagine Anyone Getting Radicalised by Going to a Refugee Camp’
» The ISIS Caliphate: A Viable Project
» Thousands Killed in Iraq’s Violence in June: UN
 
Russia
» Russia Warns Ukraine Over “Crimes Against Civilians”
» Russia: US Pressure on France Over Mistral Deal Reeks of Blackmail — Putin
 
South Asia
» 90 Killed, 115 Injured in 24 Bomb Attacks in Pakistan in June
 
Far East
» More Than 200,000 People in Hong Kong Streets for Democracy and Universal Suffrage
 
Australia — Pacific
» Mosque Permit in Line
» Vic Pollies Stand by Bendigo Mosque Plans
 
Sub-Saharan Africa
» Kenya’s Infighting is Good for No-One, Except Al-Shabaab
» Nigeria: Military Busts Boko Haram Cell Responsible for Chibok Schoolgirls, Gwoza Emir’s Murder — DHQ
» Nigeria: Explosion Kills 10, Injures 27 at Maiduguri Market
» Nigeria: Bomb Blast Rocks Maiduguri Market
» Uganda: Christians Burn Mosque in Retaliation to Attacks by Suspected Muslim Terrorists
 
Latin America
» Belgium Eliminates the United States From the World Cup, 2-1, In Extra Time
 
Immigration
» Greece: Coast Guard Rescues 50 Migrants Off Lesvos
» Italian Right Wants to Drop Rescues After 30 Migrant Deaths
» Medical Staff Warned: Keep Your Mouths Shut About Illegal Immigrants or Face Arrest
» Young Turks Stranded in Denmark
 

For the First Time, The National Organization for Women Considers Sharia Law

by Phyllis Chesler

I just realized that, with one or two exceptions, none of my left-liberal feminist compatriots of nearly fifty years have said a word to me about Hamas’s kidnapping-murder of three Israeli teenagers. Not a word in the 18 days they were missing. Silence since their bodies were found.

No one has sent me an email, or made a whispered phone call, something—anything—something private, that would not get them in trouble with the Democratic Party or the mainstream media. I no longer expect them to take public stands that would put them at any reputational risk.

This silence was not a surprise after a career observing American feminists’ relationship to the Middle East. Very few American feminists, for example, have supported my work on honor based crimes, including honor killing, a form of human sacrifice and femicide, a phenomenon which I increasingly refer to as “horror” killings. Of course, Muslim and ex-Muslim feminists and dissidents, North American and European prosecutors, detectives, and conservative intellectuals rely upon this work. But not feminists. Not yet.

So what are some American feminists doing right now?

This past weekend, the National Organization for Women (NOW) held a Strategy Summit in New Mexico. Please understand: I am more than sympathetic to many items on the women’s rights agenda ranging from reproductive freedom to equal pay to the criminalization of violence against women. Actually, I go further. I am also opposed to surrogacy, pornography, and prostitution; these issues are hotly contested among feminists today. I am also in favor of all the motherhood and parenting issues that usually get short shrift in these precincts…

[Return to headlines]
 

Historic 127-Year-Old Catholic Church is Now a Mosque

A Catholic church in St. Paul, Minnesota, that closed last year has reopened its doors as a mosque. The 127-year-old Church of St. John closed in 2013 when it merged with another church due to declining membership. Last Friday the building reopened as Darul-Uloom Islamic Center.

“There are a lot of East Africans in the area, and we want to give them a place to worship, a place to be educated, a community space,” center spokesman Feisal M. Elmi told The Associated Press…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Knapp Street Burger King Converted to Temporary Mosque for Ramadan

Shuttered for more than two years, the former Burger King location at 2481 Knapp Street has been converted into a temporary prayer space for local Muslims to observe Ramadan.

The Muslim American Society has taken over the space with a one-month lease, allowing them to celebrate one of the religion’s most important holidays near their homes. The group sought out a temporary place of worship while their permanent location, 2812 Voorhies Avenue, nears completion…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Michigan Soccer Ref Dies After Being Punched During Game

The Michigan soccer referee critically injured this weekend after he was sucker-punched during an adult-league game died Tuesday in an area hospital.

John Bieniewicz, 44, was left in critical condition Saturday in Livonia after witnesses say he was punched in the head as he reached down for a red card.

Police said Baseel Abdul-Amir Saad punched Bieniewicz after he indicated that the 36-year-old Dearborn resident was going to be ejected. Livonia police and the Wayne County prosecutor’s office have not named the referee, whom Jim Acho, a childhood friend, identified as Bieniewicz…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Obama to Muslims: ‘Ramadan Kareem’

U.S. President Barack Obama greets Muslims across the world on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan, describing it as the time for self-reflection and devotion through prayer and fasting.

“On behalf of the American people … I want to extend best wishes to Muslims in America and around the world. Ramadan Kareem,” the president said in a statement…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Referee Dies After Being Punched During Adult-Soccer League in Michigan

Baseel Abdul-Amir Saad surrendered to authorities and was arraigned in Livonia District Court on Monday.

DETROIT — A man who was punched while refereeing an adult-league soccer match died Tuesday, a hospital spokesman and the referee’s longtime friend said.

Detroit Receiving Hospital spokesman Alton Gunn, and friend and attorney Jim Acho confirmed then death of John Bieniewicz, who was attacked Sunday at a park in Livonia.

Baseel Abdul-Amir Saad was arraigned Monday in Livonia District Court a charge of assault with intent to do great bodily harm. Bond was set at $500,000, and a probable-cause hearing was set for July 10.

Defense lawyer Brian Berry tells The Associated Press that his client cooperated with police and isn’t guilty of the charge. He says he and Saad send “prayers out to the referee and his family.” Police say Saad punched the Bieniewicz in the head after the referee indicated he planned to eject the 36-year-old Dearborn resident from a game Sunday.

Bieniewicz was a dialysis technician at Mott Children’s Hospital who lived in Westland with his wife and two sons, said Acho, who was a classmate of Bieniewicz’s at Catholic Central High School. “His friends love him. He lives life to the fullest. Never has a bad day. Ever,” Acho said.

A fund is being set up to help pay for his friend’s funeral and burial expenses as well as his children’s futures, Acho added. Bieniewicz was a soccer referee for two decades…

[Return to headlines]
 

Denmark: Police Warn of Organised Romanian Burglars

Police report that several of the burglars they have arrested at different locations around Denmark come from the same town in Romania and know each other, according to police inspector Karl Erik Agerbo.

“From our perspective, it all looks really well organised,” he told Jyllands-Posten.

Two men will stand trial today in Lyngby after being charged with more than 40 break-ins over the course of eleven days. They had planned to carry the stolen goods on a bus to Romania.

When the police tapped the Romanians and found out they were about to leave the country, they raided the bus and confiscated 14 suitcases packed with stolen laptops, iPads, iPods, cameras, perfume, silverware and jewellery.

           — Hat tip: Fjordman [Return to headlines]
 

Dutch Islamist Radicals Becoming Elusive ‘Swarm’: Spy Service

(Reuters) — Radical Islamist groups in the Netherlands have become a decentralized and elusive “swarm” that may broaden their focus from the conflict in Syria to the wider Middle East, the Dutch intelligence service warned on Monday.

Its report reflects widespread concern in Europe at the threat posed by European citizens — mainly from Islamic immigrant milieus — leaving to fight in Middle East conflicts, then returning battle-hardened and posing security threats.

Dutch authorities estimate that 120 Dutch citizens have fought in Syria’s civil war, with 14 having died in combat, and that there are hundreds of jihadi militants in the country eyeing missions abroad, with thousands more sympathizers.

           — Hat tip: Fjordman [Return to headlines]
 

EP: Five-Star Movement Candidate Fails to Get Elected

(AGI) Strasbourg, July 1 — The European Parliament has just finished electing its 14 vice presidents and anti-establishment Five-Star Movement member Fabio Massimo Castaldo was the only one of the 15 candidates not to be elected, said President Martin Schulz. The Eurosceptic EFDD group, of which the Five-Star Movement is a member, is the only group in the new parliament not to be represented by a vice president.

           — Hat tip: C. Cantoni [Return to headlines]
 

European Court of Human Rights Upholds French Burka Ban

France’s controversial ban on face coverings does not infringe Muslim women’s rights and is justified in interests of social cohesion, Strasbourg court finds

The European Court of Human Rights has upheld France’s ban on wearing a burka or a niqab in public, ruling that the 2010 law on religious headgear does not breach Muslim women’s human rights.

The Strasbourg court ruled in the case brought by a devout French Muslim that there had been no violation of her right to respect for private and family life, no breach of her right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, and no breach of the prohibition of discrimination…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Ex-French President Sarkozy Detained in Corruption Probe

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy was detained Tuesday and reportedly questioned by financial investigators in a corruption probe that could cloud his chances of a political comeback.

The detention — a very unusual move for such a high-level figure — dominated French news broadcasts. The investigation is the latest in a string of probes to target the former leader.

Yet Sarkozy has not been convicted of anything, remains well-known on the international stage — and may be his troubled conservative party’s best chance to regain the presidency in 2017.

           — Hat tip: Fjordman [Return to headlines]
 

Geert Wilders: “Tackle the Islamic Terrorists and Their Sponsors, Now!”

Today, De Volkskrant, one of the leading newspapers in the Netherlands, published an op-ed article by Geert Wilders. The original article (in Dutch) can be read via this link

Below is a translation in English:

Tackle the Islamic terrorists and their sponsors, now!

On Monday, the Dutch secret service AIVD announced that it takes the possibility of a major terrorist attack in our country very seriously. For over ten years, the establishment closed its eyes to the Islamic threat. On September 11, 2001, al-Qaeda terrorists assassinated thousands of people in New York and Washington. The alarm bells sounded for the entire free world. Also for us. 9/11 made ??it clear that any country could fall victim to a major attack if Islam would not be radically confronted.

But the Dutch political establishment did nothing. For 13 years, they put their politically-correct heads in the sand. Pim Fortuyn was murdered. Theo van Gogh was murdered. There were Islamic terror attacks in London, Madrid, Mumbai, Moscow, Nairobi, but the cowardly policies continued. The regents in The Hague closed their eyes to the barbaric ideology that currently feeds terror worldwide: Islam.

Today, parties, such parties as VVD and D66, hypocritically argue that they, too, like the AIVD, worry very seriously about the risk posed by returning Syria fighters. Why do they not close the borders? Why do they not advocate, like the PVV, that whoever goes to Syria to fight for Islam will simply not be allowed to enter the Netherlands again? By doing nothing, they make themselves complicit in the calamities and the attacks that may befall us.

Last week, a poll by the opinion research bureau of Maurice De Hond revealed that three quarters of the Dutch are of the opinion that those who have left to wage jihad should lose their Dutch nationality and not be allowed into the country again. Why does the government not close the border? A majority of voters of all parties, except D66, thinks that the Islamic culture does not belong to the Netherlands. Why, apart from the PVV, does no-one dare to say so?

For ten years already, I have lost my freedom as a result of Islamic threats because I speak the truth. Ten years ago, Ayaan Hirsi Ali and I already warned that Saudi Arabia was financing extremist organizations, mosques and schools. We warned that hundreds of Islamic fighters in Europe were ready to commit terrorist actions. We warned against the naiveté and cowardice, the refusal respond adequately. We only received scorn and disgust.

We wrote that there had to be a strong response to the threat, if necessary by setting aside basic rights for terrorists. We advocated to close down the institutions which propagate hatred and intolerance. We advocated a ban on associations which incite jihad or condone it. Nothing happened.

Today we are reaping the fruits of this cowardly policy. The potential threat is “greater than ever before,” writes the AIVD. But the Dutch political establishment is complicit to this situation. The Secret Service says literally: “The Dutch law seems to offer the police and judiciary little space to intervene.” For thirteen years, nothing was done to remedy this situation. The Islamic extremists mock us. They take advantage of the cultural relativism that is the breeding ground for the flourishing of jihad on our soil. This cultural relativism has facilitated the deadly threat which we are facing today.

The AIVD advocates a “Delta Plan against Jihadism.” However, this “Delta Plan” should already have been in place for a very long time. The Delta Works in Zeeland began after the flood of 1953. If we do not immediately put a tough action plan into practice in order to protect our citizens against the rising tide of Islamic terrorism, we are in danger of coming too late this time, too. Tackle the terrorists and their sponsors, now!

[Return to headlines]
 

Greece: Council of State Allows for Mosque in Athens

The Council of State gave the green light to the construction of a mosque in Athens, Greece.

The general assembly of the state council has rejected an appeal to prevent the construction of a mosque in the region of Votanikos as well as the financing of its construction by the Greek state. It approved a state funding of 1.1 million euros for the mosque’s construction on land belonging to the Hellenic Navy in Votanikos…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Grillo Says EU Funding to Italy ‘Goes to Mafia’

Don’t give Rome money, says M5S leader

(ANSA) — Rome, July 1 — Beppe Grillo, the leader of the Euroskeptic, anti-establishment 5-Star Movement (M5S), said Tuesday that the European Union should stop giving money to the Italy because it goes to the mafia. “I’m here to say don’t give funding to Italy,” Grillo told a news conference at the European Parliament. “The funding disappears in three regions, Calabria, Sicily and Campania and therefore goes to the Mafia, ‘Ndrangheta and Camorra (crime syndicates)”.

Grillo was at the parliament after the M5S won 17 seats by capturing around 20% of the vote at last month’s European elections.

The M5S has formed an alliance in the parliament with Britain’s UKIP, which wants the United Kingdom to leave the EU.

           — Hat tip: Insubria [Return to headlines]
 

Human Rights Court Upholds French Ban on Full-Face Veils

Amnesty International criticises ruling

(ANSA) — Rome, July 1 — The European Court of Human Rights on Tuesday upheld France’s controversial ban on the wearing of Muslim full-face veils in public.

French law says nobody can wear clothing intended to conceal the face in a public space . The penalty for doing is a 150-euro fine or obligatory citizenship instruction.

The Strasbourg court upheld the ban by rejecting a case brought by 24-year-old French woman, who argued it violated her freedom of religion and expression.

Around five million Muslims live in France although only a tiny minority of women there wear full veils.

Human rights organization Amnesty International criticised the decision. “This ruling will end up forcing a small minority to live apart, as it effectively obliges women to choose between the expressing their religious beliefs and being in public,” said John Dalhuisen, Europe and Central Asia Programme Director at Amnesty International.

           — Hat tip: Insubria [Return to headlines]
 

Italy: Sarkozy Held Over ‘Abuse of Office’

Linked to Gaddafi funding probe

(ANSAmed) — Rome, July 1 — Nicolas Sarkozy was detained Tuesday for possible abuse of office in allegedly promising favours in exchange for information about a probe into suspected illicit funding of his 2007 election campaign by late Libyan leader Maummar Gaddafi.

It was the first time such action had been taken against a former French head of State.

A French government spokesman said: “justice must run its course”.

           — Hat tip: Insubria [Return to headlines]
 

Police Hunt Lampedusa Suspect in Sweden

A gang member involved in the Lampedusa migrant boat shipwreck is thought to be on the run in Sweden, with police reportedly on his heels after multiple other arrests on Tuesday.

Five people have been arrested in connection with the migrant boat shipwreck on October 3rd, after 366 migrants died when the overcrowded boat sank. Italian police are still looking for a few others, including one man thought to be in Sweden, Italian media reported on Tuesday.

The man, along with the rest of the gang, is accused of not only planning the dangerous journeys but also of abusing migrants. Survivors of the October shipwreck have testified to rape and torture at the hands of the people-smugglers.

The group is thought by the anti-mafia authority (DDA) in Palermo to be part of a transnational criminal organization trafficking people across the Mediterranean, The Local Italy reported. The gang members are from Sudan, Ethiopia, and Eritrea.

           — Hat tip: Fjordman [Return to headlines]
 

Polish Muslims Condemn ‘Hooliganism’ After Mosque Attack

The Muslim Religious Association (MZR) of Poland has condemned the vandalism of an 18th century mosque in north east Poland over the weekend.

In an official statement released by Musa Czachorowski, press spokesman for the MZR, the association stressed that the wooden mosque in Kruszyniany “is both the heritage of us Tatars, and also of all citizens of the republic.”…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Schulz Elected EP President Again, Promises to Fight for More Powers

Martin Schulz was elected European Parliament president on Tuesday (1 July) becoming the first ever to hold the post for two consecutive terms, but his election was not without controversy. The German Socialist was elected in the first round, getting 409 of the 621 valid votes cast.

           — Hat tip: Fjordman [Return to headlines]
 

Sweden: ‘Kim-Jong Sexy Beast’: World’s Longest Name?

A young Swede may have the world’s longest name — or make that names, really. He’s got 63 of them.

Kim-Jong Sexy Glorious Beast Divine Dick Father Lovely Iron Man Even Unique Poh Un Winn Charlie Ghora Khaos Mehan Hansa Kimmy Humbero Uno Master Over Dance Shake Bouti Bepop Rocksteady Shredder Kung Ulf Road House Gilgamesh Flap Guy Theo A*** Hole Im Yoda Funky Boy Slam Duck Chuck Jorma Jukka Pekka Ryan Super Air Ooy Rusell Salvador Alfons Molgan Akta Papa Long Nameh Ek.

Sound like the illiterate scrawlings of a madman? It’s actually the first name of a 25-year-old Swede.

           — Hat tip: Fjordman [Return to headlines]
 

The EU’s Militaristic ‘Nationalism’ on Display in Strasbourg

In a grotesque parody of a ceremony of a nation state, yesterday the European Parliament opened the new session of the assembly with a flag-raising carried out by soldiers of the Eurocorps — sometimes known as the Eurokorps — a 1,000-strong embryo EU army…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

UK: Foreign Languages to be Banned at Tower Hamlets Vote Counts

Foreign languages are to be banned at vote counts in Tower Hamlets amid fears that the use of Bengali is impeding the democratic process there.

Recommendations published by the Electoral Commission include stepping up the police presence at polling stations in the wake of the fallout over the re-election of the borough’s controversial mayor, Lutfur Rahman.

A High Court petition is already challenging that result, which came after the May 22 local elections were marred by allegations of voter intimidation and electoral fraud…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

UK: Lincoln Mosque ‘Will Prevent Religious Extremism’

Muslim leaders say Lincoln’s first purpose-built mosque will help turn people away from religious extremism.

Construction of the mosque on Boultham Park Road is expected to start in the next few months. Radicalisation experts have warned that social media is being used to recruit potential jihadists in the UK…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

UK: Who Would Join the Iran Lobby? MPs and Lords, It Turns Out

by Douglas Murray

Who on earth would argue for a regime which hangs homosexuals, stones rape victims and sponsors terrorism across three continents? Who would act as a spokesperson or advocate of such a dictatorship? Well one answer appears to be ‘certain British Parliamentarians.’…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

UKIP’s Farage: Deputies Cold Shoulder EU Parliament Opening

Italy’s 5-Star Movement doesn’t follow caucus mates

(ANSA) — Strasbourg, July 1- United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP) leader Nigel Farage and his MEPs started the 8th European Parliament session with a theatrical protest on Tuesday morning in Strasbourg by turning their backs while the European Union’s anthem played.

Italy’s 5-Star Movement did not follow along with its fellow Europe of Freedom and Direct Democracy EFDD member when Farage and his group turned around as Beethoven’s Ode to Joy played to open the parliament session led by newly re-elected Speaker Martin Schulz.

           — Hat tip: Insubria [Return to headlines]
 

Austria and the Bosnian-Syrian Jihad Connection

For years, the most important center for Salafi radicalism and terrorism in Southeastern Europe has been Austria’s capital Vienna, which is not actually in the Balkans. Thanks to liberal asylum laws and a generally permissive attitude about radicalism — as long as the terrorism is directed elsewhere — the picturesque city of the waltz and the Blue Danube has become a preeminent hub for the Salafi jihad.

Austrian officials have tried to keep this story quiet, since it hardly helps the country’s image, but security officials have long been aware of the extent of the problem, and that it is growing. Indeed it’s hiding in plain sight. The country’s most notorious Salafi mosque sits directly across the street from a major Defense Ministry facility in downtown Vienna.

           — Hat tip: Fjordman [Return to headlines]
 

Five Western Balkan Countries, Moldova to Join EU’s Horizon 2020

BRUSSELS, July 1 (Xinhua) — Five Western Balkan countries, namely Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia, and the Republic of Moldova on Tuesday signed up to join Horizon 2020, the European Union’s (EU) new seven-year research and innovation program…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Egypt: Sisi — I Pledge to You I Will Retaliate for Martyrs of Black Terrorism

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi pledged on 30/6/2014 to fairly and expeditiously retaliate for the martyrs of the black terrorism, asserting that Egypt will never forget the men who have sacrificed their lives for the sake of their homeland.

“We shall work to demonstrate that their lives were not sacrificed in vain” the President stressed, adding black terrorism is standing against the will of the Egyptian people and terrorism is treacherous and does not hesitate to spill the blood of those who are fasting and the children alike…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Tunisia: Fight Against Terrorism — Ben Jaafar Commends Sacrifices of Army and National Guard

Bardo — President of the National Constituent Assembly (NCA) Mustapha Ben Jaafar commended, on Tuesday, the sacrifices made by the different units of the army and the national guard in matters of fight against terrorism.

He hailed their permanent availability to fight this scourge, protect the homeland and ward off all the dangers that lie in wait, reasserting the solidarity of the Tunisian society, all components included, in front of all what could threaten stability and security of the homeland.

According to the statement of the National Constituent Assembly, Ben Jaafar also said he is affected by the explosion of a mine during a combing operation in Ouergha Mount(El Kef), wounding six, four soldiers and two national guards.

He lauded the combing campaigns led by the army units and the national guard to track down the terrorists and destroy their shelters.

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

3 Rockets Launched at Israel

Terrorists in Gaza launched three rockets at Israel on Tuesday morning..

One touched down in an open area of a community in the Ashkelon Coast Council region. The second landed close to the Gaza security fence and the third touched down in Gaza. No injuries or damage were reported…

[So only Israel must exercise restraint — Hamas can commit acts of war with impunity — Get real, Mr. POTUS. — MC]

           — Hat tip: MC [Return to headlines]
 

BBC’s ‘Newsnight’ Facilitates Barghouti Claim of ‘International Law’ As Excuse for Murders of Teens

On the evening of June 30th, as news broke of the discovery of the bodies of the three kidnapped and murdered Israeli teenagers Eyal Yifrach, Naftali Frenkel and Gil-ad Sha’ar, one interviewee the BBC deemed appropriate for the circumstances was — once again — Mustafa Barghouti.

The BBC Two ‘Newsnight’ interview with Barghouti was also promoted on the BBC News website under the title “‘Israel responsible for deaths’ — Dr Mustafa Barghouti”…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Israel Strikes Gaza in Retaliation to Rocket Fire

JERUSALEM, July 1 (Xinhua) — The Israeli military launched massive airstrikes in the Gaza Strip overnight Monday, hitting dozens of Hamas and Islamic Jihad targets in response to increased rocket firing from the coastal enclave in recent weeks.

Among the 34 targets were a Hamas complex in Rafah that hosted a weapon storage facility and residents, Israel’s Army Radio said. The Palestinians reported four people wounded and one missing in an attack near Khan Yunis that targeted a site belonging to a Hamas’ military wing…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Israel Buries Its Three Kidnapped Teenagers Amid Tears and Anger

Thousands attend the funeral of the three young men who were abducted and shot in the West Bank

Through the trees and over the valleys the mourners came in a display of national unity that expressed Israel’s revulsion at the murders of three teenagers.

Thousands of Israelis — young and old, many of them religiously devout — defied 90 degree temperatures to pay their last respects on Tuesday to Gilad Shaer, Naftali Fraenkel, both 16, and Eyal Yifrah, 19, whose deaths have sent shock waves through the Jewish state…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Erdogan Nominated for Turkey Presidency

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan was Tuesday nominated by the ruling AK Party to become Turkey’s first directly elected president in the August vote. Erdogan, 60 has been in power since 2003 and is barred by internal party rules from running as prime minister again.

           — Hat tip: Fjordman [Return to headlines]
 

Iraq Fighting to Reach Baghdad Soon

by Hemin Salih

Following clashes between the Islamic State of Iraq and Sham (ISIS) and the Iraqi Army in Tikrit and Mosul, Iraq’s Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and his allies appear to have resigned themselves to defending Baghdad, instead of attempting to control Tikrit and Mosul.

Military sources have stressed that over the last few days, Baghdad — aided by Iran — have attempted to control Tikrit and Mosul. However, as a result of their failure in those areas, they now plan to concentrate on protecting Baghdad instead.

Local media have largely taken the relocation of UN and diplomatic personnel from Baghdad to Erbil as a sign of an imminent attack on Baghdad.

Maliki’s failure to control Sunni areas may push Baghdad to have to turn to the Kurds for help, given that the nearest border crossing between Baghdad and Iran is located in the Kurdish-majority areas of Khanaqin, Jalawla and Mandali.

“If Baghdad doesn’t receive help from the Kurdish borders, the province will be weak and ultimately the Iraqi Army will surrender,” said Security and Military Expert Mhiyadin Mohammed Younis to BasNews.

Younis noted that ISIS insurgents have allegedly stressed that their aim is to control Baghdad because by doing so they will increase their control over other areas too.

“The point is not only linked to ISIS, it is also related to Sunni and Shiite and the external powers that support them. What Iran is doing is clear, and that is protecting Baghdad as much as they can in order not to lose the power,” added Younis.

He also mentioned that if Shiites lose power in Baghdad, Iran would lose power there too.

Following the collapse of the Ba’athist regime in 2003, there has been a huge demographic shift whereby the number of Sunni civilians in Baghdad largely decreased while the number of Shiites increased, he said.

“Iran wants to do its best to protect Shiites in the Middle East,” said Political Analyst Aso Ali.

“ISIS has taken advantage of the marginalized Sunnis of Iraq so as to move towards the areas that they aim for. But Iran wants to do what is necessary to protect its power in the area, the risk is now Baghdad and once Baghdad is controlled by ISIS, Iran’s power will be at risk,” added Ali.

           — Hat tip: C. Cantoni [Return to headlines]
 

Iraq Fails to Form New Government

Sunnis refuse to nominate the Speaker of the House from their bloc unless the Shia bloc ousts Maliki

Iraq’s squabbling political factions failed to start the process of forming a new government on Tuesday, further raising the spectre of the country’s partition under the strain of the raging insurgency…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

ISIL Leader Urges Jihad to Right Wrongs Against Muslims

(Reuters) — The leader of the al Qaeda offshoot that has taken control of parts of Iraq and Syria has urged Muslims around the world to fight to avenge wrongs committed against their religion.

Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, head of the group that now calls itself the Islamic State, issued the call to jihad — holy war — in an audio message lasting nearly 20 minutes that was posted online on Tuesday…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

ISIL Seizes Syrian Border Town Near Iraq

DAMASCUS, July 1 (Xinhua) — The Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), now calling itself Islamic State, captured on Tuesday an eastern Syrian town, bordering Iraq, after days of intense clashes with rival jihadist groups in that oil-rich region, activists reported.

The ISIL, an al-Qaida splinter group, on Tuesday captured the Bukamal town in Syria’s eastern province of Deir al-Zour on the borders with Iraq after “intense” battles with the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a London- based watchdog group, reported…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

ISIS Declaration of Islamic Caliphate Means All of Europe is Now Vulnerable to Terrorist Attack

Hayder al-Khoei, North Africa and Middle East expert, says the most violent of jihadist groups has now gained legitimacy and prestige in the eyes of extremists

The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, the most extremist and violent jihadist group in the Middle East — too extreme even for Al-Qaeda — officially declared the establishment of an Islamic Caliphate on Sunday.

The Caliphate has been the end goal for these jihadists for many years and this formal declaration will be seen as the logical and natural outcome of their struggle. It will also add weight to their legitimacy and prestige for many extremists across the world. They will be able to pull more radicalised youth to their ranks who will believe this is now the time to live out their dream of having an Islamic State in the heart of the Middle East…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

ISIS Releases Map of 5-Year Plan to Spread From Spain to China

The jihadists terrorists of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) — now trying to rebrand as simply the “Islamic State” — have released a new map that outlines the territory they aspire to conquer within the next five years. That territory spans from Morocco and Spain out to Sri Lanka and the border of China…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Mortars Fired at Samarra Mosque Stoke Fears of Renewed Iraq Civil War

by Cassandra Vinograd

The enemy is now at the gates. Not the gates of Baghdad — which militants from the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) — have vowed to overrun — but the gates of one of Shiite Islam’s holiest sites, and a potential trigger for all-out civil war…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Mosul Archbishop: The Christian Presence in Iraq is “In Danger”, Help is Needed

Bishop Nona confirms that ISIS militants have occupied the archdiocese’s building, sending a “negative signal for everyone.” According to the prelate, there are no new reports about the fate of two abducted nuns and three children. He makes an appeal to the country and the Christian community. In Baghdad, the country’s new Parliament holds its first session. June had the highest number of casualties in 2014.

Mosul (AsiaNews) — The Christian presence in Iraq, especially in the Mosul area, is “in danger”. Pope Francis’ latest appeal “is important for the closeness and support shown by the pope,” but it is also a “clear signal the extent of the crisis and the risk of death” that hangs over the Christian minority in Iraq, said Mgr Shimoun Emil Nona, Chaldean archbishop of Mosul, northern Iraq.

Since the crisis broke out, about 500,000 people, Christians and Muslims, fled last month, causing a humanitarian, economic and political crisis. Back in May, well before the al-Qaeda linked Sunni jihadist Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIS) made its quick move, Mgr Nona had raised the alarm about the “tragedy” experienced by Iraq and its people.

“We knew how the serious the situation was but nobody talked about this part of the world, no one spoke about Mosul, and these are the results,” said the archbishop.

Recently, ISIS militants seized the see of Chaldean archdiocese in Mosul, sacking the building and destroying every Christian symbol. They did the same to Mosul’s Church of St Ephrem, home to the Syriac Orthodox archbishopric.

They did so despite a call by the imam from the nearby mosque to respect places of worship. Local sources told Ankawa.com said that Islamists responded to the appeal by the local Muslim leader by saying that “there is no bishop nor church in the Islamic state.”

Two days ago, “they came and planted the flag in the archbishop’s building,” Mgr Nona told AsiaNews, and “now occupy it. The situation has not changed.” There have been no more news since then, he added. “If this is their attitude and behavior towards minorities, toward other groups, it is an extremely negative signal for everyone,” he said.

If some families were able to return Qaraqosh and other villages, the situation is very different in Mosul, which remains under Islamist control. “The reality is serious,” the prelate warned, “especially for families who have less and less resources to survive, relying on nothing.”

The archbishop of Mosul also warned that nothing is known about the fate of two nuns and three children seized in recent days. “We are doing everything we can” for them, “but there is no clear information about their whereabouts.”

The nuns and the three children, from an orphanage, were on their way to Mosul when they were stopped by ISIS militia.

“I would like to launch an appeal to all political leaders to find a way out of this serious situation as well as a common path towards dialogue in order to save the country from the danger of division,” said the prelate, who is just back from last week’s Synod of Chaldean bishops. “I pray that Christians may find support and help; we need a hand from everyone in this difficult situation.”

Meanwhile, in Baghdad Iraq’s new Parliament meets today for the first time since last April’s election. The crisis caused by the ISIS offensive is at the top of its agenda. Many are trying to set up a government of national unity as a way to provide concrete action for the country and its people.

The focus will be on whether or not to replace Prime Minister Nouri Maliki, whom critics blame for stoking sectarian tensions during his eight years in power.

Masoud Barzani, the leader of the autonomous region of Iraqi Kurdistan, said that Iraq was in effect already partitioned, and that he intends to hold a referendum on independence within months. He added that whilst Kurds would play a part in a political solution to the country’s crisis, independence was what he described as their natural right.

The crisis is the worst since US troops pulled out in December 2011.

Violence has claimed the lives of 2,417 people in June, making it the deadliest month so far this year, the United Nations said on Tuesday. The figure exclude however deaths in embattled Anbar province, which is largely controlled by Sunni militants. (DS)

           — Hat tip: C. Cantoni [Return to headlines]
 

Rome Will be Conquered Next, Says Leader of Islamic State

Muslims have been called to flock to the Islamic State to gather for a battle against non-believers throughout the world

Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the self-proclaimed leader of the Islamic State stretching across Iraq and Syria, has vowed to lead the conquest of Rome as he called on Muslims to immigrate to his new land to fight under its banner around the globe.

Baghdadi, who holds a PhD in Islamic studies, said Muslims were being targetted and killed from China to Indonesia. Speaking as the first Caliph, or commander of the Islamic faithful since the dissolution of the Ottoman empire, he called on Muslims to rally to his pan-Islamic state…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Syria: Mosaic Template Adorning Umayyad Mosque Restored

Mosaic template making up the main façade of the Umayyad Mosque has been restored after sustaining damage in a terrorist mortar attack last November. Some parts of the mosaic template dates back to the 11th century, while other parts are dated between the 12th and 13th centuries.

The restoration works for the damaged parts of the template were carried out by national cadres from the General Directorate of Archeology and Museums…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

The British Muslims Taking Aid to Syria: ‘I Can’t Imagine Anyone Getting Radicalised by Going to a Refugee Camp’

Hundreds of people from Britain have joined aid convoys to Syria, despite legal threats from the UK government, and concerns they could be radicalised by the experience. Why do they do it?

Outside his office, near Manchester, Kasim Jameel, known to his friends as Kas, packs a second-hand ambulance with baby milk and nappies. Bold letters along the side of the vehicle read: “BOLTON 2 SYRIA. SYRIA IS CALLING. WE WILL ANSWER.” Jameel supplies cars to taxi firms for a living, though he doesn’t spend much time at work any more.

Jameel is British Pakistani, with a broad Bolton accent, but he says Syria feels more like home.

This will be his 11th trip to Syria since the conflict began in 2011. He is one of hundreds of Muslims who have made the seven-day, 3,000-mile road trip to provide aid. To make a small dent in the situation there; to “do what he can”, as he puts it…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

The ISIS Caliphate: A Viable Project

By Srdja Trifkovic

Large-scale fighting raged in Iraq on Monday, following Sunday’s proclamation of an Islamic caliphate over large areas of Syria and Iraq by the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS). The jihadist group declared its leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi as leader of the new entity and its caliph, theoretically combining religious and state authority in the tradition of Muhammad’s early successors, across Iraq and Syria and beyond.

This development should not be dismissed as mere propaganda. For the first time since the abolition of the Ottoman Caliphate in the aftermath of the Great War, there is a substantial state-like entity presuming to revive the mantle of Sunni Islamic universalism.

First of all, it is worth examining what exactly makes a state a “state.” Traditional international law postulates the possession of population, of territory, and the existence of a government which exercises effective control over that population and territory. To put it more technically, a state exists if it enjoys the monopoly of coercive mechanisms within its domain.

Some authors also postulate the prevalent loyalty of the population to the government, but recent legal practice does not support the assertion. In April 1992 the U.S. recognized “Bosnia and Herzegovina” in its Yugoslav federal boundaries, although its nominal government — led by the dedicated jihadist Alija Izetbegovic — commanded the loyalty of only two-fifths of its citizens who happened to be Muslims, and controlled at most a third of the territory. On the other hand, unrecognized state entities such as Transnistria, Abkazia, Northern Cyprus, South Ossetia and Nagorno-Karabakh (like them or hate them) command their denizens’ overwhelming loyalty and exercise effectively undisputed control over their entire territory.

Finally, there are international jurists who cite the ability of the self-proclaimed state’s authority to engage in international discourse, but that is a moot point. The capacity to control a putative state’s territory and population almost invariably leads to such ability, regardless of the circumstances of that state’s inception: South Sudan is a recent case in point, and the creation of Israel in 1947 also comes to mind…

           — Hat tip: Srdja Trifkovic [Return to headlines]
 

Thousands Killed in Iraq’s Violence in June: UN

BAGHDAD, June 1 (Xinhua) — A total of 2,417 Iraqis were killed and another 2,287 injured in terrorist attacks and violence in June, most civilians, according to a statement released on Tuesday by the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI).

The statement said that 1,531 civilians, including civilian police personnel, and 886 members of the security forces were killed, while 1,763 civilians were wounded, in addition to 524 security members in terrorist and violent acts last month…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Russia Warns Ukraine Over “Crimes Against Civilians”

(AGI) Moscow, July 1 — Russia warned the Ukrainian government that it “will have to answer for crimes against peaceful civilians” as Kiev’s troops have renewed their offensive against separatists in eastern Ukraine. “We demand that Ukrainian authorities stop shooting at their own country’s peaceful cities and villages and return to the real and not pretend ceasefire to save people’s lives”.

           — Hat tip: C. Cantoni [Return to headlines]
 

Russia: US Pressure on France Over Mistral Deal Reeks of Blackmail — Putin

MOSCOW, July 1 (RIA Novosti) — Russian President Vladimir Putin said Tuesday Russia was aware the United States is pressuring France over a deal to build Mistral warships for Russia, and views it as blackmail.

“What is being done now with the French banks causes nothing but outrage in Europe and in our [country] as well,” Putin said at a meeting with Russian ambassadors and permanent envoys.

“We are aware of the pressure that our American partners exert on France with a purpose of not to deliver the Mistral warships to Russia. And we know even that the United States hinted that if the French do not deliver the Mistrals, then sanctions will gradually be lifted from the banks, or at least be reduced to minimum. If this is not blackmail, then what is it?” Putin said.

French banking giant BNP Paribas earlier agreed to pay US authorities $8.97 billion in settlements for violating sanctions against Cuba, Iran and Sudan. Two other major French banks, Societe Generale and Credit Agricole are currently being investigating for similar violations.

The US has been opposing the sale of Mistral warships to Russia, saying it would boost Russia’s military power, and has repeatedly urged France to back out of the deal.

In June, however, the French authorities confirmed France would meet its obligations under the contract with Russia despite pressure from the US and other EU countries.

Following the announcement US President Barack Obama expressed concern about France’s decision.

Russia and France signed a contract for two Mistral-class helicopter carriers for $1.6 billion in June 2011.

Under the contract, the first French Mistral-class amphibious assault ship, the Vladivostok, is to be delivered to Russia by the end of the year, while the second ship, the Sevastopol, is due to arrive next year.

The ships are capable of carrying 16 helicopters, four landing craft, 70 armored vehicles and 450 soldiers, and are expected to be deployed with Russia’s Pacific Fleet.

           — Hat tip: C. Cantoni [Return to headlines]
 

90 Killed, 115 Injured in 24 Bomb Attacks in Pakistan in June

ISLAMABAD, July 1 (Xinhua) — At least 90 people were killed and 115 others injured in 24 bomb blasts across Pakistan in June as the militants increased attacks on the security forces in the country, according to official statistics.

Out of total 24 bomb attacks, four attacks were of suicide nature that killed 21 people and injured eight others in different areas of the country…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

More Than 200,000 People in Hong Kong Streets for Democracy and Universal Suffrage

The traditional 1 July march, which has taken place every year since 1997 to mark the return of the territory to Chinese control, brought hundreds of thousands of people into the streets to challenge the local government to implement a real democratic system by the elections of 2017. By police account, 92,000 people took part in the event monitored by 4,000 agents in riot gear. Chief Executive Leung appealed for stability as the only guarantee for economic success.

Hong Kong (AsiaNews) — Almost 200,000 people (according to early results) took part in today’s rally for freedom and democracy in Hong Kong, shouting slogans in favour of universal suffrage and demanding the resignation of the Chief Executive CY Leung, accused by many of being “too close” to the government of mainland China.

According to police, who deployed 4,000 agents in riot gear along the route of the march, some 92,000 people took part in the event. Organisers counted instead half a million.

The 1 July march traditionally sets off from Victoria Park and runs to Beijing’s Liaison Office in the autonomous region. The event has become a tradition after Britain handed over Hong Kong to mainland China on 1 July 1997, as pro-democracy activists began to take action to show their dissatisfaction with regards to local social and political issues.

In 2003, more than 500,000 people joined the march in order to stop a proposed security law under Article 23 of Hong Kong’s Basic Law, and demand the resignation of certain senior public officials.

Since then, turnout has declined but never dipped below 150,000. Yet, for Beijing, the march is even more worrisome than the anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre because it traditionally comes with demands to change the territory along democratic lines.

Organised by the Civil Human Rights Front, a coalition of various groups that include Catholic organisations, the march has sought greater independence from the mainland as well as an end to functional constituencies, which have led to a widening socioeconomic gap, in favour of the direct election of the territory’s legislative council and chief executive.

This year’s rally comes two days after an unofficial vote was held among Hong Kongers on universal suffrage. Almost 800,000 people voted in what for organisers was a way to vet what people think.

The referendum was supposed to be held on 20-22 June, but the most sophisticated and powerful hacker attack according to the authorities against Occupy Central’s server forced organisers to extend voting to 29 June.

Hong Kong’s Bishop Emeritus Card Joseph Zen on 20 June ended an 84-km march across Hong Kong to encourage citizens to participate in the referendum. Card John Tong, the current bishop, also expressed his support for the right of the people to give their views on democracy.

All the groups that have come forward have embraced universal suffrage for the election of the Chief Executive, an idea that Beijing defines as “inconsistent” and “contrary to the Basic Law,” Hong Kong’s British-made constitution.

The most voted proposal was presented by the Alliance for Real Democracy. Under its three-track plan the public, the nominating committee, as well as political parties, would be allowed to put forward candidates.

Speaking to the huge crowd gathered at Victoria Park, organisers challenged the government to try to ignore even this cry for democracy, floating the idea that new, more impressive rallies might take place if the governments of Hong Kong and mainland China do not allow the introduction of universal suffrage before the deadline.

Hong Kong leader CY Leung spoke earlier at a ceremony to mark the 17th anniversary of the former British colony’s return to China.

“Only by maintaining Hong Kong’s stability can we sustain our economic prosperity. Only by sustaining Hong Kong’s prosperity can we improve people’s livelihood,” Mr Leung said.

           — Hat tip: C. Cantoni [Return to headlines]
 

Mosque Permit in Line

Planning issue taken to VCAT

A GROUP protesting the Bendigo mosque has confirmed it will take the matter to Victoria’s planning tribunal, following serious concerns over the proposal. Councillors last month approved the region’s first mosque in a seven-two vote.

The project, funded by the Australian Islamic Mission, attracted 254 objections and 40 submissions in support…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Vic Pollies Stand by Bendigo Mosque Plans

Victoria’s two major political parties have thrown their support behind the construction of a controversial mosque that has divided a regional community. The Bendigo City Council last month approved plans for a $3 million mosque despite vocal protests and a social media campaign from opponents…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Kenya’s Infighting is Good for No-One, Except Al-Shabaab

By Tomas Zak

Unlike after the Westgate siege, the attack on Mpeketoni has left Kenya more divided and therefore more vulnerable.

The response to the attacks in and around Mpeketoni earlier this month, in which over 60 people were killed, could not have been more different to the reaction prompted by the attack on the Westgate shopping mall in September 2013, when 67 were murdered…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Nigeria: Military Busts Boko Haram Cell Responsible for Chibok Schoolgirls, Gwoza Emir’s Murder — DHQ

The cell, the military said, played a major role in the kidnap of over 250 girls in Chibok on April 14 and the murder of the Emir of Gwoza on May 30. In a statement by the spokesperson of the Defense Headquarters, Chris Olukolade, the military said it arrested Babuji Ya’ari, a man whom it said participated in both attacks…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Nigeria: Explosion Kills 10, Injures 27 at Maiduguri Market

An explosion at the popular Maiduguri Monday market Tuesday killed 10 persons and injured 27 others, according to a security source.

The source who was involved in the evacuation of the corpses and rescuing of the injured victims, said the explosion occurred at about 8:30am when people have started coming to the market…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Nigeria: Bomb Blast Rocks Maiduguri Market

An explosion has occurred at the Maiduguri market near the Power Holding Company (NEPA) building. The explosion was heard at about 8:20 a.m. Many casualties may be recorded as the area is usually a crowded commercial centre…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Uganda: Christians Burn Mosque in Retaliation to Attacks by Suspected Muslim Terrorists

A group of Christians in Uganda set fire to a mosque which they suspected was being used by Islamist extremist as a base to attack their church, leading to clashes that have seen more than 200 people fleeing their homes.

Two worshipers attending a night church service at a Pentecostal church in Kyegegwa district, 250km west of the capital Kampala, were killed on Friday in what police say is a suspected terrorist attack…

           — Hat tip: JP [Return to headlines]
 

Belgium Eliminates the United States From the World Cup, 2-1, In Extra Time

The United States men’s soccer team was ousted from the World Cup on Monday in a 2-1 overtime loss to Belgium in the Round of 16 in Salvador, Brazil.

The U.S. withstood an onslaught of offense by Belgium in regulation time, which dominated play and peppered Tim Howard, the American goalie, with 31 shots to only seven by the U.S. in the first 90 minutes.

Howard turned back chance after chance by Belgium in keeping the U.S. alive until early in the first overtime period.

[Return to headlines]
 

Greece: Coast Guard Rescues 50 Migrants Off Lesvos

Coast guard patrols off the eastern Aegean island of Lesvos managed to rescue a total of 50 undocumented migrants in two separate incidents in the early hours of Tuesday.

Both concerned rubber dinghies that started taking on water. The first was off the Cape of Korakas and the dinghy was carrying 20 passengers and the second was near Tsonia and the dinghy was carrying 30 foreign migrants trying to make their way into Greece.

All 50 were transported to the port of Mytilini, Losvos’s main town, and will be detained. Their nationalities were not made public.

           — Hat tip: Fjordman [Return to headlines]
 

Italian Right Wants to Drop Rescues After 30 Migrant Deaths

‘This is Europe’s problem’ says Forza Italia, Northern League

(see related) (ANSA) — Milan, June 30 — Italy’s right-wing parties upped pressure to either reform or abandon the government’s migrant search-and-rescue program on Monday after 30 people were found dead aboard the latest migrant ship landing off Sicily. “Stop crossings, help them at home now!” said Matteo Salvini, the head of the anti-immigrant Northern League on Facebook. “The shirts of (Premier Matteo) Renzi and (Interior Minister Angelino) Alfano are stained with blood”. Nearly 600 passengers were aboard the boat intercepted by the navy, officials said, adding the dead victims on board likely asphyxiated.

Figures released Monday showed Italy has rescued some 65,000 migrants off its coasts since the start of the year — more than the total of 2011 when a record 63,000 were retrieved from the sea. The government has boosted its operations under an initiative called Mare Nostrum, launched after roughly 400 migrants died in shipwrecks last October off the coast of Lampedusa, a tiny island off the coast of Sicily. It has come under increasing fire from the Northern League and the center-right Forza Italia party of Silvio Berlusconi for its cost and for allegedly facilitating human trafficking. “With Mare Nostrum we’ve incentivized, with grave consequences, an influx of illegal migrants that seems unstoppable. Our country must put an end to the operation and force the EU to confront this problem which is a European one rather than an Italian one,” said FI Senator Vincenzo Gibiino from Sicily. Italy has been imploring the EU for more help, but reciprocity on asylum seekers and migrants was scratched from EU summit conclusions last week under strong pressure from northern European members.

EU Home Affairs Commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom said Monday that the EU is looking for ways “to contribute more” financially to migrant rescues off Italy, but only “with respect to existing resources,” thus ruling out new funds. German President Joachim Gauck urged greater help for Italy earlier. Shortly after, a spokesman for Chancellor Angela Merkel said Germany already assumes its responsibilities with regard to refugees.

The staff of Jean-Claude Juncker, president designate of the EU Commission, is considering the creation of a new ad hoc commissioner for immigration and mobility, sources said Monday, stressing that the question of a new commissioner would not be discussed until after the next European Council on July 16. “I hear a lot of talk but the Commission isn’t doing a thing. It’s dumping the problem on Italy,” said Lombardy Governor Roberto Maroni of the Northern League. “Real measures must be put in place, something loud, otherwise we run the risk of only talking about it”. Meanwhile members of Italy’s left also upped pressure on the EU to help it on the front lines of the growing immigration problem, as migration centers across the country are stretched beyond capacity. “We’re truly at the limit,” said Milan Mayor Giuliano Pisapia, adding that Milan accepts on average 1,000 refugees per day. “This is Europe’s real responsibility. It’s leaving Italy all by itself”.

           — Hat tip: Insubria [Return to headlines]
 

Medical Staff Warned: Keep Your Mouths Shut About Illegal Immigrants or Face Arrest

by Todd Starnes

A government-contracted security force threatened to arrest doctors and nurses if they divulged any information about the contagion threat at a refugee camp housing illegal alien children at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, sources say.

In spite of the threat, several former camp workers broke their confidentiality agreements and shared exclusive details with me about the dangerous conditions at the camp. They said taxpayers deserve to know about the contagious diseases and the risks the children pose to Americans. I have agreed to not to disclose their identities because they fear retaliation and prosecution.

“There were several of us who wanted to talk about the camps, but the agents made it clear we would be arrested,” a psychiatric counselor told me. “We were under orders not to say anything.”

The sources said workers were guarded by a security force from the Baptist Family & Children’s Services, which the Department of Health and Human Services hired to run the Lackland Camp.

The sources say security forces called themselves the “Brown Shirts.”

“It was a very submissive atmosphere,” the counselor said. “Once you stepped onto the grounds, you abided by their laws — the Brown Shirt laws.”

She said the workers were stripped of their cellphones and other communication devices. Anyone caught with a phone was immediately fired.

“Everyone was paranoid,” she said. “The children had more rights than the workers.”

She said children in the camp had measles, scabies, chicken pox and strep throat as well as mental and emotional issues.

“It was not a good atmosphere in terms of health,” she said. “I would be talking to children and lice would just be climbing down their hair.”

A former nurse at the camp told me she was horrified by what she saw…

           — Hat tip: Vlad Tepes [Return to headlines]
 

Young Turks Stranded in Denmark

A group of young Turkish citizens — the exact number and their ages remain unspecified — are caught in a limbo between Denmark and their homeland.

Peter Starup, an associate professor of immigration law, called the case unusual.

“If Turkey delays the repatriation process after the Danish authorities have made their decision, it’s a highly problematic situation. That way, Turkey thrusts its own citizens upon Denmark and interferes with Danish domestic affairs,” he told Politiken.

           — Hat tip: Fjordman [Return to headlines]
 

5 thoughts on “Gates of Vienna News Feed 7/1/2014

  1. A referee in an adult soccer game in Michigan was allegedly punched by a culturally enriched player from Dearborn when the ref said he was going to eject the player from the game. The injured ref went into a coma and died. The alleged perp has been arrested and will be charged. His lawyer says he did not do it.

    Wasn’t there a similar incident in Holland a while back?

    • Dutch assistant referee dies after attack by teenage players

      Three boys aged 15 to 16 held after attack on Richard Nieuwenhuizen while he was officiating at son’s football match

      The Guardian, 4 December 2012

      http://bit.ly/1iUjOl6

      and Fjordman at GoV: Do whites deserve to be attacked?

      http://bit.ly/VEsDFB

      5 November 2013

      “a white native Dutch linesman, Richard Nieuwenhuizen, had been kicked and beaten to death on the football field in Almere in front of his son. The fact that the perpetrators were non-European immigrants was systematically downplayed by most Western mass media. This was a case of North African Muslims killing a native European man.”

  2. Ref: The ISIS Caliphate: A Viable Project by Srdja Trifkovic

    I wonder if The Silence of the Lambs is a useful analogy for this state of affairs – al Qaeda as the larval form pupating in caves and underground chambers to produce the Death’s Head Hawkmoth Acherontia atropos spreading its wings with gory splendour on the world’s stage. Jodie Foster stumbling around in the darkened chamber of the serial killer’s lair is perhaps best represented by the West’s populace lied to by its lethal politicians who have carefully nurtured these hellish creations.

    • JP, I agree with your comment, but the political class are simply the tools of a behind the scenes unelected group who have been planning what we now see unfolding for some time.

      I would the political class as Aiders and Abettors.

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