Kerman shortlisted as candidate for D-8 tourism capital

TEHRAN - The city of Kerman, representing Iran, has been shortlisted as a candidate for the title of the tourism capital of the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation, a group of eight developing Islamic countries.

Kerman has submitted a comprehensive written proposal to be considered for the prestigious title, competing against other prominent cities such as Antalya in Turkey and Lahore in Pakistan, Kerman province’s tourism chief said on Friday.

“Kerman has all the necessary attributes to represent Iran in this competition,” Saeed Shahrokhi stated.

“With its robust tourism infrastructure, dedication to preserving cultural heritage, innovation in technology, emphasis on the safety and security of tourists, and its commitment to promoting and marketing tourism, Kerman is well-positioned to be the D-8 Tourism Capital.”

The D-8 Organization, also known as the Developing-8, includes Iran, Turkey, Egypt, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Pakistan.

The official further emphasized that the accurate, credible, and creative presentation of Kerman’s abilities could significantly increase the city’s chances of being selected. Shahrokhi also highlighted the importance of national, provincial, and private sector collaboration in achieving this recognition, expressing gratitude to the Kerman Chamber of Commerce for its support in the process.

The final decision on the selection of the D-8 Tourism Capital is expected to be announced later this year.

Kerman is a vibrant testament to centuries of cultural fusion and heritage. Nestled in the country's southeastern part, Kerman has been a cultural melting pot since antiquity, blending Persians with subcontinental tribal inhabitants. This confluence of cultures has enriched the city with diverse traditions, architectural marvels, and a unique way of life that continues to captivate visitors today.

The city is home to numerous historical sites and scenic landscapes that offer an unforgettable journey through time. The Bazaar-e Sartasari, one of Iran's oldest and longest covered bazaars, is a bustling hub of commerce and culture where travelers can experience local crafts, textiles, and spices. The ancient Jabalieh Dome, a mysterious octagonal structure made of stone and gypsum, showcases the city’s architectural ingenuity. Additionally, the Ganjali Khan Bathhouse, an exquisite example of Persian bathhouse architecture, reflects the artistic heritage and sophisticated urban planning of the Safavid era.

Moreover, Kerman’s appeal extends beyond its architectural wonders to its natural beauty, which includes the stark and captivating landscapes of the Shahdad Desert. Known for its stunning Kaluts—geological formations shaped by wind erosion—the desert provides an otherworldly experience that attracts adventurers, photographers, and nature lovers alike. The surrounding mountains and oases add to the city’s diverse topography, making Kerman a unique destination where history, culture, and nature converge.

Kerman’s cultural heritage is not only preserved in its monuments and natural landscapes but also in its vibrant traditions, including music, crafts, and cuisine. From traditional carpet weaving to the preparation of unique local dishes, the city offers a deep dive into the rich Persian culture that has been shaped by its historical crossroads. As a candidate for the D-8 Tourism Capital, Kerman showcases its potential to attract global attention by offering an authentic and multifaceted travel experience that celebrates both its past and its dynamic present.

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Iran Urges OIC’s Decisive Action against Israeli War Crimes

TEHRAN (Tasnim) – An Iranian Foreign Ministry official called on the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to take decisive measures to put an end to the Israeli regime’s war crimes and genocidal atrocities against the Palestinian people.

 Addressing the 50th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the OIC in Cameroon, the Iranian Foreign Ministry’s director general for international peace and security department strongly condemned and expressed Tehran’s grave concern about the Zionist regime’s crimes that have killed over 40,000 Palestinians in Gaza during the past 11 months.

Asadollah Eshraq Jahromi called on the international community, including the OIC, to take decisive measures to put an immediate end to the Israeli atrocities, which he said amount to a clear example of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide.

The Iranian diplomat stressed that the OIC should hold the Zionist regime accountable for its countless crimes.

Denouncing Israel as the main obstacle to sustainable development and stability in the Muslim world and the region, he said the Zionist regime’s destabilizing policies have obstructed cooperation among the Islamic countries and impeded the creation of economic convergence among the OIC member states.

The OIC meeting kicked off in Cameroon’s capital Yaoundé on Thursday under the theme “Development of Transport and Communications Infrastructure within the OIC Framework: A Key Tool in the Fight against Poverty and Insecurity.”

In an address to the opening of the meeting, the prime minister of Cameroon emphasized the centrality of the Palestinian issue, the necessity of implementing the two-state solution, and halting the Israeli regime's aggression against the Palestinian people.

At least 40,602 Palestinians have been killed and 93,855 wounded in Israel’s war on Gaza since October 2023.

Pezeshkian: Iran’s policy is peace, interaction with world

President Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran condemns any aggression in the world, stressing that the Islamic Republic’s principled policy is to foster peace and friendship, prevent tensions and interact with world countries.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran has always tried to spread peace and friendship, condemned aggression anywhere in the world, and is ready to cooperate to stop wars, violence and insecurity in the world,” Pezeshkian told Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre over phone, Press TV reported. 
The Iranian president criticized the US for violating the 2015 nuclear deal, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), and complained about the European parties’ failure to fulfill their obligations under the accord.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran fulfilled all its obligations under the JCPOA, but it was the United States that, in addition to breaking the agreement and unilateral withdrawal from it resorted to increasing pressure and sanctions against our country and nation and the European countries unfortunately did not implement even one clause of their commitments, contrary to expectations,” Pezeshkian noted.
“Our policy is peace and friendship, avoiding tension and conflict, and interacting and expanding relations with all the countries of the world, but if our country is forced to do something under sanctions and pressure, then our approach and behavior will definitely move in another direction,” he added.
He denounced the double standards of the US and certain Western countries vis-à-vis human rights and democracy. 
“America and some Western countries accuse other countries of violating human rights because of the mistreatment of one person, but they are not only silent toward the bloodshed against tens of thousands of innocent women, children, young and old in Gaza and the bombing of civilian areas, schools and hospitals by the Zionist regime, they also provide financial support and weapons to this regime. Which criterion and logic is this compatible with?”
Pezeshkian appreciated the positions of the Norwegian government in support of the Palestinian nation, calling on the Norwegian prime minister to work more closely with other European countries to immediately stop Israeli atrocities against oppressed Palestinians in Gaza.
For his part, the Norwegian prime minister described relations between Oslo and Tehran as friendly and historical, stating that Norway has always considered Iran as a friend and wished for the development and prosperity of the Iranian nation and will continue to do so.
Støre also expressed concern about the uptick in tensions in the West Asia region, especially Israeli offensives against the residents of the besieged Gaza Strip.
“We have condemned Israel’s war against Gaza and its disastrous consequences. Norway, along with Ireland and Spain, was among the first European countries to have recognized the Palestinian people’s right to establish an independent state. We hope these bitter and unfortunate developments will come to an end as soon as possible,” he noted.

Israel-Europe conflicts: Exploring roots of their diverging interests

By Mohammad Mahdi Mohammadi

International security researcher

As the conflict in the Middle East lingers on and the war between Israel and Palestine persists, the tensions between Israel and Europe have become a significant issue that warrants examination. This raises the question: Why do these two sides have conflicting interests? The conflict between Israel and Europe in international relations stems from complex and intertwined issues, each contributing to broader tensions. These points of contention highlight the challenges in aligning the differing views and interests of the two sides.

Israel-Palestine conflict

The primary point of contention is the Israel-Palestine conflict. Historically, Europe has supported a two-state solution and has repeatedly criticized Israeli policies that appear to obstruct the peace process. European countries have consistently condemned Israel’s expansion of settlements in the occupied West Bank, viewing them as illegal under international law and a significant obstacle to peace. The European Union (EU) has sometimes taken measures to address this issue. In 2016, the EU issued a statement emphasizing that “all Israeli settlement activities in occupied Palestinian territory, including East al-Quds, are illegal under international law and constitute a serious threat to the two-state solution.” 

As the conflict in the Middle East lingers on and the war between Israel and Palestine persists, the tensions between Israel and Europe have become a significant issue that warrants examination. This raises the question: Why do these two sides have conflicting interests? The conflict between Israel and Europe in international relations stems from complex and intertwined issues, each contributing to broader tensions. These points of contention highlight the challenges in aligning the differing views and interests of the two sides.

Israel-Palestine conflict

The primary point of contention is the Israel-Palestine conflict. Historically, Europe has supported a two-state solution and has repeatedly criticized Israeli policies that appear to obstruct the peace process. European countries have consistently condemned Israel’s expansion of settlements in the occupied West Bank, viewing them as illegal under international law and a significant obstacle to peace. The European Union (EU) has sometimes taken measures to address this issue. In 2016, the EU issued a statement emphasizing that “all Israeli settlement activities in occupied Palestinian territory, including East al-Quds, are illegal under international law and constitute a serious threat to the two-state solution.” 

In separate statements in November 2023, Germany and France condemned Israel’s continued settlement expansion in the West Bank, stressing that these actions seriously undermine efforts to resolve the conflict and achieve a two-state solution. European countries are often concerned about the scale and impact of Israel’s military operations in besieged Gaza Strip and the West Bank. European criticism typically focuses on civilian casualties and humanitarian issues, calling for proportionality and caution. During the Gaza war in 2021, the EU formally urged Israel to exercise greater caution in its military offensives in Gaza and to respect international law to prevent civilian casualties. European countries generally support Palestinian independence and push for international recognition of Palestine, which Israel opposes. This difference affects diplomatic relations and the EU’s policies towards the Middle East.

Human rights and international law

European countries repeatedly emphasize the importance of human rights and international law and criticize actions they believe violate these principles. European governments and organizations often express concern about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the West Bank, accusing Israel of disproportionate responses that exacerbate civilian suffering. Following the October 7, 2023 retaliatory attack by Palestinians, France criticized the scale and intensity of Israel’s military response in Gaza, expressing concern over civilian casualties. After Israeli airstrikes in Gaza led to widespread civilian deaths, French officials criticized Israel’s conduct and called for adherence to international humanitarian law, urging measures to reduce civilian casualties. Several other European countries, including Ireland and Belgium, also expressed concern over the scale of Israel’s aggression and civilian casualties in Gaza. They called on Israel to observe proportionality in its military responses and respect international humanitarian law. In November 2023, Sweden and Norway also voiced their concerns about the humanitarian conditions in Gaza and the West Bank, urging Israel to respect human rights and international humanitarian law. These countries also called for an immediate end to the blockade of Gaza and the provision of access to humanitarian aid. Europe typically supports international institutions and resolutions that criticize Israeli policies. This includes backing the United Nations and various human rights organizations that frequently issue reports and resolutions condemning specific Israeli actions.

Diplomatic relations and EU policies

Despite political differences, Israel and Europe have significant economic relations, including trade agreements and scientific cooperation. However, tensions can affect these relations, and there are sometimes discussions about limiting collaboration in response to specific policies or actions. In 2015, the EU decided that products produced in Israeli settlements in the West Bank must be labeled so that European consumers can identify them. This move was interpreted as a form of soft sanctions against Israel’s settlement policies. After the October 7, some European countries sought to increase diplomatic pressure on Israel, with some even proposing economic sanctions. Back then, members of the European Parliament called on the EU to exert greater diplomatic pressure on Israel to ensure it adheres to international law. Some countries, like Spain, suggested that sanctions should be imposed on Israel if it continues the violation of human rights.

The conflicts between Israel and Europe are multifaceted, and the issues mentioned above illustrate the broad disagreements that have intensified between Israel and European countries, especially following the October 7, 2023 attack. These conflicts are evident not only at the political and diplomatic levels but also in public opinion and civil society. These tensions are unlikely to subside as long as Israel continues its actions, which are perceived as contrary to humanitarian
principles.

Stunning architecture of Baghcheh Juq Palace Museum in Maku

The Baghcheh Juq Palace Museum in Maku is a historical site and tourist attraction in West Azarbaijan Province, dating back to the Qajar era. This palace museum, which includes the palace building and an 11-hectare garden, houses the personal belongings of the commander of Maku. It was officially registered as a national heritage site in Iran on July 1, 1996. Baghcheh Juq is the name of a village located seven kilometers west of the city of Maku. Construction of the Baghcheh Juq Palace Museum began during the Qajar period under the rule of Timur Pasha Khan and was completed after 30 years under Iqbal al-Saltaneh’s rule. This palace, known as one of the key attractions of Maku, served as the seat of governance for its commander. Notably, the name baghcheh translates to ‘garden’ in Persian, signifying its lush historical context. The family of the commander of Maku resided at this location until 1974, after which the government purchased the complex. Subsequently, restorations and renovations were carried out in the palace and its surroundings, and since 1979, it has been open to the public. Since 1987, the palace museum has been managed by the provincial Cultural Heritage and Tourism Organization. The Baghcheh Juq Palace Museum is considered one of the most valuable and magnificent historical sites remaining in West Azarbaijan Province.

Architecture

The Baghcheh Juq Palace Museum features a large 2,500-square-meter building set within an expansive 11-hectare garden. The construction of this building represents a collaborative effort between Iranian architects and Russian design engineers, heavily influenced by Russian architectural styles due to the close relations the commander of Maku maintained with the Russians.
Upon entering the palace, visitors are greeted by a dusty carriage that belonged to the commander, along with his speaking platform. This platform includes a plastered terrace adorned with colorful bricks and a staircase.
The palace is magnificently designed with a symmetrical layout. Its architecture is a unique fusion of Iranian and foreign styles. The Iranian section is elegantly decorated with floral motifs and figures from the Qajar era, while the foreign section features wallpaper reminiscent of 19th-century Russian homes and exquisite European designs. The building’s exterior is adorned with plaster statues that embellish the entrances and the plaster railings along the roof edge.

Surrounding the palace, part of the garden is enclosed by cast-iron fences and is home to a variety of trees, including mulberry, fig, walnut, cherry, almond, apple, and apricot.

In the western part of the palace, an oval-shaped pond can be found, and remnants of stone paving are visible in some areas. Additionally, a large pool in the garden serves as the source of a water channel that flows through various sections, creating a picturesque landscape.
On the first floor of the palace museum, there is a dining hall known as the Green Room. An interesting feature of this hall is its ceiling, which showcases paintings depicting the Persian table and Iranian men on one side, while the other side beautifully illustrates European dishes and foreign men and women.
Adjacent to the dining hall is a section that served as a waiting area and venue for official meetings. Undoubtedly, one of the most stunning interior spaces of this palace is the howzkhaneh, or Hall of Mirrors, which has hosted various events and celebrations. This area features exquisite mirror work on the walls and a water fountain in the center, creating a captivating atmosphere with the soothing sound of flowing water.

Access to other parts of the palace, such as the bedrooms, office, and royal sitting rooms, can be gained through staircases located on either side of the building. These staircases are adorned with beautiful stone statues. Throughout the second floor, visitors can find sofas, tables, and cabinets crafted by various foreign artists.
A notable aspect of this building is the presence of unique double-glazed windows, whose colored glass possesses insect-repelling properties and converts sunlight into ultraviolet light, helping to keep insects away. These glasses were handcrafted by Iranian artisans during the Qajar era.
The palace features elegantly designed wall fireplaces, some adorned with floral motifs, while others showcase intricate stone carvings and plasterwork. These fireplaces were utilized for ventilation in the summer and as heaters in the winter.
If you pay attention to the walls on the second floor of the palace museum, you will notice dried natural flowers placed within the walls in glass compartments. The age of these flowers is as old as the palace itself.

Each room in the building is named according to its color. For instance, the White Room served as the public hall, while the Green Room is the dining area. The bedrooms have retained some decorations from that era, featuring Polish furniture, Austrian carved cabinets, French steel furniture, and bronze and crystal chandeliers. Even the vanity table of Anali, the commander’s wife, remains in this location.
The Baghcheh Juq Palace currently functions as a museum. The majority of the artifacts on display include the personal belongings of the commander of Maku, which were sent to him by various foreign courts.
These items can be found on both the first and second floors of the building. The most significant artifacts in this museum include luxurious sofas and chairs made from reeds and rattan, adorned with bronze decorations and velvet upholstery, crafted by countries such as Poland, France, Austria, and Russia.

Restoration

The restoration and renovation of the Baghcheh Juq Palace Museum in Maku took four years, during which the doors were closed to tourists. All costs for this restoration were covered by the Maku Free Zone Organization.
The restoration efforts encompassed the buildings, facilities, and ceiling, with the most significant work focused on the ceiling. In the facilities section, the construction of a boiler room was prioritized. Additionally, in the decoration section, which is the most crucial part of the complex, various paintings at the entrance, the exterior, and the plasterwork on the eastern and southern sides were restored. Simultaneously, the adjacent stone structure, known as the Kolah Farangi Building, was also renovated.

Maku

Maku is a city located near the border with Turkey. It has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, serving as a significant trade route and cultural exchange point due to its strategic location. Historically, Maku was part of various empires, including the Achaemenid and Sassanid empires, and later became a vital center during the Islamic period.

The city is known for its historical sites, including ancient castles, churches, and mosques, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage. One of the notable landmarks is the Maku Castle which offers insights into the region’s architectural history.

In addition to its historical significance, Maku is renowned for its natural beauty, surrounded by mountains and lush landscapes, making it a popular destination for tourists. The city also plays a role in contemporary trade and commerce, benefiting from its proximity to the border and the establishment of free trade zones. Overall, Maku is a city that beautifully blends history, culture, and natural beauty.

Kayhan Kalhor to perform at ACC World Music Festival in Gwangju

TEHRAN-Renowned Iranian musician Kayhan Kalhor is to take the stage in Gwangju, South Korea, along with Kiya Tabassian and Navid Afghah.

Their performance is scheduled for August 31, as part of the 15th Asian Cultural Center (ACC) World Music Festival, ISNA reported.

The festival, held from August 30 to September 1, is a prestigious global event celebrating a diverse array of musical genres and traditions. This year, it will feature performances ranging from the renowned Korean pop group Kim Chang-Wan to an ensemble of Iranian music led by Kalhor.

Kalhor, a master of kamancheh (a traditional Iranian string instrument), and Tabassian, a virtuoso of setar (another Iranian string instrument), will be performing alongside Afghah, who plays the tombak (traditional Persian drum). The trio has previously performed together in Germany, the Netherlands, and Canada.

The festival promises a mesmerizing array of performances, including soundscapes that paint vivid landscapes, spontaneous traditional instrumentals, fusions of electronic and traditional music, and a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western music.

The other international artists and bands performing at the event include Yosi Horikawa from Japan, IBERI from Georgia, Elements of Baraka from Morocco, Khusugtun Band from Mongolia, and OMNION from Czech Republic.

“This year’s World Music Festival aims to establish itself as a premier festival representing Gwangju and Asia. We’ve curated a lineup of top artists to reflect contemporary art and music. We hope families and friends will enjoy this unique opportunity to experience diverse global music,” ACC Foundation President Kim Sun-ok stated.

Asian Culture Center is an international arts and cultural exchange organization that produces new, future-oriented results through the convergence of Asia’s past and present arts and culture with innovative ideas and beliefs.

The ACC plays the role of an integrated platform for participants from Asia and the rest of the world to freely unite and exchange their ideas while transcending boundaries in carrying out the steps of research, creation, and production. At the ACC, diverse and dynamic programs (exhibitions, performances, education, festivals, and other events) using collected research data, resources, etc., are held year-round with the creative output of experts from various fields who have exchanged their creativity and ingenuity with one another.

Kalhor, 60, was born in Tehran to a musically inclined Kurdish family. He began his music journey informally at the age of five. By twelve, he had embarked on a professional music career, collaborating with the Kermanshah Radio and Television Orchestra.

He briefly worked with the Sheida group at the Chavosh Art Center before relocating to Italy at seventeen. After studying music in Rome, he moved to Canada, where he graduated from the music program at Carleton University in Ottawa.

A master of the kamancheh, he is widely known for his stirring improvisations, exquisite compositions, and extensive collaboration with international artists including Chinese American cellist Yo-Yo Ma, New York-based string quartet Brooklyn Rider, American string band Kronos Quartet, Argentinean composer Osvaldo Golijov, Turkish musician and singer Erdal Erzincan, and many other orchestras around the world.

Kalhor has composed works for and played alongside the famous Iranian traditional vocalists Mohammad Reza Shajarian and Shahram Nazeri. He has also composed and performed with the Indian sitar player Shujaat Husain Khan and Indian tabla player Swapan Chaudhuri in the group Ghazal.

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• Asian Cultural Center
 
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Germany’s 'historical responsibility' is not an excuse to support 'Israel’s' genocide

Timo Al-Farooq 

Source: Al Mayadeen English

If Germany truly felt responsible for its past, it would immediately end its shameful support for "Israel’s" genocide in the present.

One of the most apt characterisations of Germany’s unholy alliance with the Israeli regime I have come across in a book on climate change: In David Wallace Wells’s 2019 bestseller The Uninhabitable Earth, the author uses the phrase "carceral model of history", which he explains as "progress arrested by the consequences of past behavior."

Though written in the context of global warming and meant to illustrate how climate change has made us "prisoners of the Industrial Revolution", this formulation can also be applied to Germany’s Vergangenheitsbewältigung (the work of dealing with the past): Many argue that Germany’s blind fealty to "Israel" has rendered the nation a "prisoner" of its Nazi history, much to the detriment of Palestinians who continue to pay the price for the Jewish holocaust almost eighty years after it occurred as Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza continues unabated.

Steadfast support for the self-professed "Jewish state" as a means to offset Nazi Germany's anti- Semitic footprint is one of the guiding principles of these self-imposed and singularly German processes of atonement. Yet with the official Palestinian death toll in Gaza having surpassed 40,000, it has become painstakingly clear that Germany’s uncompromising adherence to this "carceral model of history" has proven to be equally calamitous as anthropogenic climate change, as Berlin continues to aid and abet the colonial slaughter of Palestine’s native inhabitants under the guise of penance.

Germany remains a vociferous pro-genocide outlier even among reliably pro-Zionist European nations such as Britain or France. When even Western governments condemned Tel Aviv’s heinous attack on Gaza’s al-Tabieen school this month, which killed over 100 displaced Palestinians who had sought shelter there, Berlin again went against the grain of universalist decency when its government deputy spokesman blindly recited the banal mantra of "Israel’s" "right to defend itself."

Apart from being its second largest weapons supplier, Germany has routinely come to "Israel’s" defence at international courts as they try to hold the latter accountable for its indefensible war crimes, crimes against humanity and full-blown genocide.

The country that is home to the largest Palestinian community in Europe also boasts the most vicious anti-Palestinian state apparatus in Europe, as the brutal police crackdowns on anti-genocide protests continue to show week after week. Not to mention the numerous cases of weaponised lawfare against protagonists of the Free Palestine movement and a slew of repressive legislative measures designed to silence and punish voices critical of "Israel’s" genocidal conduct and (expanding) settler colonialism.

All these behaviours are predicated on the misguided belief that the security of what is effectively a Euro-Western colony violently erected and expanded on stolen Arab land is an integral part of Germany’s Staatsräson (raison d’état), as former chancellor Angela Merkel (in)famously proclaimed in front of the Knesset in 2008. 16 years later, her successor, Olaf Scholz, and other cabinet members are using this warped, foreign policy manifestation of Vergangenheitsbewältigung to justify full German support for a war that is increasingly being described in holocaust analogies.

Misappropriating the concept of Germany’s "historical responsibility" as a crude excuse to lend proactive support to a settler colonial project’s crusade to violently drive an indigenous population from its homeland well predates the events of October 7: Months before the Hamas-led attack on "Israel", Berlin-based advocacy group Palestine Speaks voiced the long overdue need for a paradigm shift in relation to Germany’s flawed Erinnerungskultur, or culture of remembrance, and concomitant loyalty to the apartheid regime when it posted a graphic on social media featuring the slogan "Free Palestine from German guilt" on the occasion of Nakba Day actions.

However, as the last 10 and a half months of unbridled support for "Israel’s" war and intense state crackdowns on Palestine solidarity have shown, Germany still vehemently refuses to universalise its exclusivistic, post-Shoah responsibility and apply the rallying cry of "Never Again" (ironically popularised in the West by Meir Kahane, founder of the Jewish extremist Kahanist movement, of which Itmar Ben-Gvir, "Israel’s" right-wing police minister, is a devoted follower) to Palestinians.

Instead, the notoriously anti-Palestinian German Bundestag is set to pass a controversial resolution with the working title, "Never again is now: protecting, preserving and strengthening Jewish life in Germany" in its latest attempt to obfuscate who is really under threat in these times of "hyper- criminalisation of Palestine solidarity in Germany", as abolitionist academic Vanessa E. Thomson puts it.

Jerzy Montag, a German politician and honorary constitutional court judge who lost several family members in the Auschwitz-Birkenau extermination camp, views this revamped version of an earlier draft as "damaging" to Germany’s "liberal-democratic basic order" and having "hints of racism" against immigrants from the Muslim-majority world, while classical musician Michael Barenboim, who has been vocal in his condemnations of both "Israel’s" war on Gaza and Germany’s crackdown on Palestine solidarity, voiced similar concerns, criticising the "repression of Palestinian voices" under the guise of fighting anti-Semitism.

Needless to say, the German government is doing absolutely nothing to protect, preserve, and strengthen Palestinian life in the country, or Arab or Muslim life, for that matter. Alas, what can one expect from a nation which in the 20th century committed two white supremacist genocides in the space of four decades and has been described as an "active participant" in the ongoing racially motivated extermination campaign in Gaza, one that bears striking resemblance to both the execution of Lothar von Throta’s infamous Vernichtungsbefehl (order to annihilate) against the Herero and Nama and Nazi Germany’s Final Solution to the Jewish Question?

If Germany truly felt responsible for its past, it would immediately end its shameful support for "Israel’s" genocide in the present. As the self-acclaimed "most moral army in the world" continues to rain down hellfire on the civilian population of Gaza and launches its largest offensive on the Occupied West Bank since the Second Intifada, that would go a long way in proving that Germany has actually learned something from its pitch-dark history.

GCC chief: Council keen on consulting with Iran on regional challenges

Secretary-General of the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jassim Mohammed al-Budaiwi said the council is interested in consulting with Iran on the major challenges facing West Asia.

Budaiwi made the remarks in a phone call with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, during which Budaiwi congratulated Araghchi on his appointment as the new Iranian foreign minister.
Stressing that Iran plays an important role in enhancing peace and stability of the region, Budaiwi said GCC states are interested in consulting with Iran on the major challenges that face the region.
Abbas Araghchi called for a “new phase” of mutual understanding and cooperation between Iran and the GCC.
Araghchi stressed that Iran is keen to promote its “friendly and brotherly” ties with the council and its member states.
Relations between Iran and the GCC should enter a “new phase of mutual understanding and cooperation,” Iran’s foreign minister said.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has pledged that his administration would prioritize bolstering ties with neighbors.
“Under my administration, we will prioritize strengthening relations with our neighbors,” Pezeshkian wrote in an article on July 12.
“We will champion the establishment of a ‘strong region’ rather than one where a single country pursues hegemony and dominance over the others,” he added.

Taliban-ruled Afghanistan still in tatters on 3rd anniv. of US pullout

By Mehdi Ebrahim

Staff writer

The withdrawal of US troops from crisis-ridden Afghanistan on August 30, 2021 after more than two decades of devastating American occupation and the commencement of the Taliban rule brought an abundance of hope, not to say chimera, to the Afghan men, women and children. However, as the clock ticked by, things started to take a different tack.

Almost three years ago, the news hit the headlines so shockingly that the Afghans came to believe they had been thoroughly extricated from the manacles of modern colonialism whose tentacles stretched all the way from the Oval Office to the heart of Kabul.

Upon withdrawal, ordered by then US President Joe Biden, the American occupation forces left a legacy of destruction, destitute, famine, starvation and misery, deteriorating the already-precarious humanitarian situation across the war-ravaged country.

Nearly 50,000 Afghan men, women and children lost their lives in the 20-year war, in addition to tens of thousands of casualties among civilians, the Afghan military and national police, insurgents and others, according to the Costs of War Project at Brown University.

The abrupt pullout was accompanied by the Taliban military offensive overrunning the Afghan provinces one after the other and the eventual seizure of the capital, which caused the central government to collapse and President Ashraf Ghani to flee the country.

The fall of the Afghan government gave the Taliban access to more than $7 billion worth of American military equipment, as stated in reports submitted to US lawmakers and confirmed by the Pentagon.

Facing an uphill battle, the Taliban announced an interim government in early September 2021.

The group had ruled Afghanistan between 1996 and 2001, imposing a self-proclaimed and apocryphal interpretation of Islam that deprived women of most of their rights by the deployment of cruel punishments, including public executions and amputations.

In the group’s first official press conference, Zabihullah Mujahid, a Taliban spokesperson, sought to strike a moderate tone and said women would be permitted to work and study and “will be very active in society but within the framework of Islam.”

Prior to the Taliban takeover, women and girls continued to experience gender-based discrimination and violence and after the group took office, they lost many of their fundamental human rights despite reassurances from the Taliban that women’s rights would be respected.

“Women employed in government ministries were told to stay at home while their male colleagues resumed work,” Amnesty International said in a report following the Taliban’s ascent to power. “There were reports of women being barred from their workplaces or sent home in different parts of the country… In some cases, women were reportedly escorted home from work by Taliban fighters and told that they would be replaced by their male relatives.”

There used to be more than 20,000 women police officers in Afghanistan but most of them were discharged by the Taliban and only a fraction was retained to manage women’s prisons.

As for the education sector, Taliban leaders announced that a “safe learning environment” was required before women and girls could return to education but boys were only permitted to resume school.

The UN Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) described in a new report last month the erosion of women’s rights as one of the most notable aspects of the Taliban rule, stressing that the Taliban issued a series of decrees that have systematically removed women from public life and decision-making positions in almost all sectors, and banned them from pursuing secondary and high-level education. 

The report also stressed that the Taliban government bears responsibility for a high rate of extrajudicial killings, torture, arbitrary arrests and detentions, and violations of fundamental freedoms.

As per the rules on women’s behavior in public, except for the capital and other urban areas, Taliban decreed in more conservative Afghan regions located in the south and east that all women should have a male chaperone when they travel more than 78 kilometers.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) said in a report on August 15 that at least 1.4 million girls have been deliberately denied access to secondary education since the Taliban takeover, an increase of 300,000 since its previous count in April 2023, with more girls reaching the age limit of 12 every year.

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay underlined that UNESCO is “alarmed by the harmful consequences of this increasingly massive drop-out rate, which could lead to a rise in child labor and early marriage.”

In the realm of food insecurity, UNICEF said 10 percent of children under five in Afghanistan are malnourished and 45 percent are stunted, meaning they are small for their age in part due to poor nutrition.

Nearly 80 percent of people in Afghanistan were also reported to lack sufficient access to clean water.

Such cases of mismanagement alongside flagrant rights violations and curbs on personal freedoms have caused the international community to take what the Taliban say and promise with a pinch of salt. 

The majority of Afghanistan’s 45 embassies and 20 consulates across the world are still run by diplomats appointed by the country’s former democratic government, remaining in a state of limbo and declining to work with the Taliban government. 

The Taliban have severed ties with many of Afghan embassies in Western countries, accusing them of being “loyal” to the country’s former government. Cut off from Kabul financially, these embassies have struggled in recent years to pay staff and their bills.

The country’s seat at the United Nations is still held by the former government, which was led by Ashraf Ghani, though the Taliban administration is seeking to claim that seat as well.
Still unrecognized by the international community, the Taliban are grappling to beat isolation by launching diplomatic ties with neighboring countries as part of attempts to garner formal recognition.

The Taliban have received informal recognition through establishing bilateral ties with countries such as Russia, China, Iran and Pakistan, and holding high-level meetings with officials from those countries.

Less than a month away from the 3rd anniversary of a government formation by the Taliban, it has yet to be seen whether the former militants show a penchant for advocating civil rights as well as leadership roles for women in public and political life.

The Mirage of Ceasefire in Gaza, and the Cudgel of Resistance

Jamal Kanj 

Source: Al Mayadeen English

While Netanyahu delays peace with endless conditions, Biden’s hasty ceasefire push only buys "Israel" more time to evade inevitable retaliation.

"Israel" escaped a certain military retaliation last week when Joe Biden hastily called to start a new round of ceasefire negotiations —a ploy aimed at forestalling potential reprisals for Israeli attacks in Tehran, Yemen, and Beirut.

The Palestinians have agreed previously to multiple revised American ceasefire proposals. Each time, however, Benjamin Netanyahu added new conditions forcing the negotiations to go back to the starting point.

On May 31st, the US President announced what he called a comprehensive Israeli proposal, promising a “roadmap to a lasting cease-fire and the release of all hostages.” Yet, in less than 24 hours, Netanyahu dismissed Biden’s proposal as a “nonstarter,” insisting that his terms for ending the war remain unchanged.

Throughout its history, "Israel" has used the never-ending negotiations as a Sisyphean amaranthine. In 1992, Yitzhak Shamir told the Israeli newspaper Maariv that his strategy during the Madrid talks was to negotiate "for 10 years, and in the meantime, we would have reached half a million people (illegal Israeli settlers) in the West Bank."

Three decades later, "Israel" has increased the population in the Jewish-only colonies in the West Bank far more than the half-million mark and still haggling with no end in sight, over the 1993 Oslo Framework. Today, there could be another 40,000 murdered Palestinian children while "Israel" negotiates Biden’s Framework on the ceasefire in Gaza.

This is not the perspective of a critic of "Israel" but rather the opinion of Netanyahu’s own Security Minister. Yoav Gallant has reportedly told Israeli lawmakers in a private briefing that Netanyahu’s assertions of “absolute victory” in Gaza are “gibberish.”

Former member of Netanyahu’s war cabinet, Benny Gantz, criticized the Prime Minister’s indecision regarding the ceasefire and exchange of captives, urging him to "be brave, for once."  The head of his Shin Bet (Israeli equivalent to American FBI) questioned Netanyahu’s commitment to the ceasefire negotiation. 

Netanyahu’s own negotiating team has accused him of undermining the ceasefire talks. According to "Israel's" Channel 12, a recent meeting between Netanyahu and his team escalated into a shouting match, with Netanyahu accusing them of being "weaklings" serving the interests of the Palestinian resistance.

The Biden Administration, therefore, should focus on mediating between Israelis to establish a definitive Israeli position, rather than allowing Netanyahu to continually waste time introducing new conditions after the Palestinians have agreed to a proposal. As an Israeli official told AXIOS, “Netanyahu wants a deal that is impossible to get.”

Zionist leader Nahum Goldman once remarked, “Diplomacy in the Middle East is the art of delaying the inevitable as long as possible.” The outcome of last week’s meetings in Doha has demonstrated, once again, how "Israel" has mastered this art. For "Israel", negotiation is an end in itself—each meeting becomes a new opportunity to dawdle and haggle to delay an agreement.

Following the (failure) conclusion of the Doha talks, the White House announced that another meeting would take place in Cairo before the end of next week. Biden’s office claimed that “the path is now set (for) de-escalating regional tensions.” In a move likely engineered by Washington, the Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs held a phone call with Iran’s Acting Foreign Minister to discuss “the need for calm and de-escalation in the region.”

Since early this year, Qatar has been involved in over eight rounds of ceasefire discussions in Doha, Rome, Paris, and Cairo. However, this was the first time the Qatari official found it necessary to brief Iran’s acting foreign minister on the talks, raising questions about the timing.

But why now?

Possibly because Washington wants to convey a message —albeit a misleading one—to Iran about supposed progress in the talks, dangling the proposed round of ceasefire negotiations to delay a potential Iranian retaliation, one more week.

As for the retaliation, the threat against "Israel" could serve as a cudgel to improve the Palestinian negotiating position. In reality, however, attempting to apply logic in this situation only emboldens an irrational person, like Netanyahu. He is probably boasting to his government partners about how he outsmarted the US and others while flaunting his ability to “Move America Very Easily” for the service of "Israel".

Frankly, the Biden Administration’s position on the ceasefire seems even more submissive to Netanyahu than that of Israeli government officials. A case in point is the statement by Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, following his meeting with Netanyahu on Monday, claiming that "Israel" accepted a "bridging proposal," which is false, misleading, and unbecoming of an "honest" mediator. The truth, it was more like the US acceded to Netanyahu's conditions on the ceasefire proposal.

Netanyahu has been able to drag the ceasefire negotiations because Biden appears to suffer from a form of abused victim syndrome, consistently prepared to adopt Netanyahu’s position even when displeased with it. Despite reportedly being unhappy with Israeli actions in Tehran and Beirut fearing that could lead to a larger conflict, yet, he rewarded Netanyahu’s government with a $20 billion military package and rushed U.S. warships, fighter jets, air defense systems, and submarines into position to defend "Israel" against possible Iranian retaliation. This came on top of the $14 billion in aid earlier this year to bolster "Israel’s" defense in a “multi-front war.”

Following the failed Doha talks, Biden’s claim that the ceasefire is “closer than we’ve ever been,” is red herrings intended only to undercut potential Iranian reprisals against "Israel". Biden’s primary concern is avoiding a broader war to protect "Israel", not a Gaza ceasefire.

The ceasefire negotiations have stalled for eleven months because Biden’s approach is fundamentally biased by prioritizing the roughly 100 Israeli captives (including US citizens who became Israelis), over the life of millions of Palestinians. It is when America wages a proxy war against Yemen for blockading shipping to one Israeli port on the Red Sea, but allows "Israel" to starve 2.3 million Palestinians by imposing a barricade cutting off all sea, land. and air access to Gaza.

As long as the welfare of 100 Israeli individuals is placed above that of 2.3 million Palestinians, Netanyahu will continue to exploit the ceasefire negotiations as a cover for war. Meanwhile, Biden’s diplomacy serves as Netanyahu’s useful idiot constructing, alongside Arab vassal states, a mirage of hope to deter the past due retaliation against "Israel".