Attack on embassy sends strong signal
AFTER THE ouster of former Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak, relations between Israel and Egypt became tense, particularly after the attack on the Israeli embassy last Friday. The images of protesters breaking into the embassy, tearing down a cement/metal barrier, trapping six staff members, dumping Hebrew documents and pulling down the Israeli flag and replacing it with the Egyptian one sent a strong signal. These should be taken into consideration while determining the type of future relations that need to be forged between the two countries and the new nature of the peace process in the Middle East.
The Arab Spring revolutions were against totalitarian regimes which caused political, economic and cultural decline in their countries. Protesters, who felt the need for change, blamed their leaders for all the problems and held resentment towards the West and Israel which, according to them, has been orchestrating the unstable and drastic situation in the Middle East since over a century.
Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
By: Labeed Abdal
http://arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/174272/reftab/36/t/Egypt-Israel-relations-in-the-post-Mubarak-era/Default.aspx
Thursday, 29 September 2011
Friday, 23 September 2011
UN role vital in bid to counter terrorism
Criminals go hi-tech
TERRORIST attacks happen every time a group of criminals want to actualize their political goals or convey certain messages to various countries. They usually break the peace in these countries, bomb public buildings and jeopardize national interests.
In the old times, the attacks were carried out within the scope of the country, so the security and intelligence units easily controlled the situation to determine the internal and external factors behind such acts.
Nowadays, the situation has gone out of control. Terrorism has become a tool for serving the interests of a few. Some countries have reached the point of ignoring terrorist acts if the target is a nation they consider an adversary.
Furthermore, the latest technological developments also changed the form of terrorism. Groups engaged in terrorist activities are now using satellite channels, blogs, social networking sites, smart phones and other advanced gadgets, which are not well-monitored by governments, to carry out their destructive plans.
Apart from this, some retired army or security personnel collaborate with their counterparts, not only in their country but also in other parts of the world, to use their vast military experience and training to establish companies specialized in illegal and undercover paid services to organize terrorist activities.
One cannot deny the fact that the first step towards countering terrorism is working together globally. This requires the active role of the United Nations (UN) to lay down the rules and regulations that will serve as a safety valve for the entire world, maintain peace and order, and protect the innocent.
Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Labeed Abdal Attorney-at-Law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/174113/reftab/73/t/UN-role-vital-in-bid-to-counter-terrorism/Default.aspx
TERRORIST attacks happen every time a group of criminals want to actualize their political goals or convey certain messages to various countries. They usually break the peace in these countries, bomb public buildings and jeopardize national interests.
In the old times, the attacks were carried out within the scope of the country, so the security and intelligence units easily controlled the situation to determine the internal and external factors behind such acts.
Nowadays, the situation has gone out of control. Terrorism has become a tool for serving the interests of a few. Some countries have reached the point of ignoring terrorist acts if the target is a nation they consider an adversary.
Furthermore, the latest technological developments also changed the form of terrorism. Groups engaged in terrorist activities are now using satellite channels, blogs, social networking sites, smart phones and other advanced gadgets, which are not well-monitored by governments, to carry out their destructive plans.
Apart from this, some retired army or security personnel collaborate with their counterparts, not only in their country but also in other parts of the world, to use their vast military experience and training to establish companies specialized in illegal and undercover paid services to organize terrorist activities.
One cannot deny the fact that the first step towards countering terrorism is working together globally. This requires the active role of the United Nations (UN) to lay down the rules and regulations that will serve as a safety valve for the entire world, maintain peace and order, and protect the innocent.
Email: labeed.abdal@gmail.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Labeed Abdal Attorney-at-Law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/174113/reftab/73/t/UN-role-vital-in-bid-to-counter-terrorism/Default.aspx
Tuesday, 13 September 2011
Turbulence in ME
Like a castle in the air
THE Middle East has been witnessing tremendous changes since December 2010. Regimes in several countries have been collapsing one after the other like domino pieces. It all started in Tunisia, followed by Egypt, Libya, Yemen and Syria. Maybe a few more will soon meet the same fate.
So far, the changes took place in large Middle Eastern countries, which are expected to be divided into two or three in the new Arab world order. Sudan is an example as it has been divided into two — the North and the South.
The support of many international powers in the military operations in Libya might not happen in the case of Syria. The latter is far from air strikes in targeted countries, as a way to form alliances with the new regime after the collapse of its predecessor and participate in the rebuilding process.
It is also a way to get some gains in these critical times when the whole world is grappling with the financial meltdown.
Moreover, the new Arab world map published on the Internet shows many small Gulf countries have remained the same, while the large ones got smaller.
Sadly, the Middle East now looks like a castle in the air and several questions linger in our minds. How much the Middle Eastern countries, including the Arabian Gulf, can do for their future? Will they be active or passive as usual, especially since the winds and waves of change are dramatically coming their way?
Email: Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Labeed Abdal
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/173713/reftab/36/t/Turbulence-in-ME/Default.aspx
THE Middle East has been witnessing tremendous changes since December 2010. Regimes in several countries have been collapsing one after the other like domino pieces. It all started in Tunisia, followed by Egypt, Libya, Yemen and Syria. Maybe a few more will soon meet the same fate.
So far, the changes took place in large Middle Eastern countries, which are expected to be divided into two or three in the new Arab world order. Sudan is an example as it has been divided into two — the North and the South.
The support of many international powers in the military operations in Libya might not happen in the case of Syria. The latter is far from air strikes in targeted countries, as a way to form alliances with the new regime after the collapse of its predecessor and participate in the rebuilding process.
It is also a way to get some gains in these critical times when the whole world is grappling with the financial meltdown.
Moreover, the new Arab world map published on the Internet shows many small Gulf countries have remained the same, while the large ones got smaller.
Sadly, the Middle East now looks like a castle in the air and several questions linger in our minds. How much the Middle Eastern countries, including the Arabian Gulf, can do for their future? Will they be active or passive as usual, especially since the winds and waves of change are dramatically coming their way?
Email: Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Labeed Abdal
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/173713/reftab/36/t/Turbulence-in-ME/Default.aspx
Sunday, 4 September 2011
Libya after the fall of Gaddafi
Democracy best solution
THE Libyan regime is on the verge of collapse and it has reached the point of no return. With the opposition gaining control of the situation, there are more prospects and priorities to usher in the new era of stability and to start the rebuilding process both economically and politically, especially since the National Transitional Council (NTC) has obtained support from many countries around the world.
The current situation in Libya is similar to that of Iraq after the fall of Saddam Hussain. Those loyal to Gaddafi might not give up easily and form new militias.
The rehabilitation process and overcoming tribal conflicts are definitely the biggest challenges the Libyans have to face after the fall of Gaddafi.Moreover, democracy is the best solution after the country suffered under dictatorship.
The next vital step is the stable transition to a new system, which is close to a federal parliament, to widen the range of the people’s representation after the legislative election and to defuse post-Gaddafi tension. Political stability is required to ensure a better and faster rebuilding process in the country.
Email: Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
By: Labeed Abdal
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/173336/reftab/36/t/Libya-after-the-fall-of-Gaddafi/Default.aspx
THE Libyan regime is on the verge of collapse and it has reached the point of no return. With the opposition gaining control of the situation, there are more prospects and priorities to usher in the new era of stability and to start the rebuilding process both economically and politically, especially since the National Transitional Council (NTC) has obtained support from many countries around the world.
The current situation in Libya is similar to that of Iraq after the fall of Saddam Hussain. Those loyal to Gaddafi might not give up easily and form new militias.
The rehabilitation process and overcoming tribal conflicts are definitely the biggest challenges the Libyans have to face after the fall of Gaddafi.Moreover, democracy is the best solution after the country suffered under dictatorship.
The next vital step is the stable transition to a new system, which is close to a federal parliament, to widen the range of the people’s representation after the legislative election and to defuse post-Gaddafi tension. Political stability is required to ensure a better and faster rebuilding process in the country.
Email: Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
By: Labeed Abdal
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/173336/reftab/36/t/Libya-after-the-fall-of-Gaddafi/Default.aspx
Sunday, 28 August 2011
Libya should not be example
Syria must avoid violence
Syria should not take Libya as a leading example because the bloodshed in the latter resulted in the killing of over 25,000 people and had led to the intervention of foreign powers which are now competing for rebuilding contracts in Libya.
Syria is bigger in size and plays a role in the peace process in the Middle East and hence, the Tunisian and Egyptian examples are far better for the country and the people. In both Tunisia and Egypt, the regimes were overthrown by the local people’s power without the intervention of any other country.
Also, the Syrian regime must avoid using violence against its people, because it is violence that forces people to seek external support to help them and free them.
There is no doubt that the killing of more Syrians and more internal destruction will give enough justification and legitimacy for international intervention, which we hope will happen with the full support and supervision of the United Nations.
Email: Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Labeed Abdal
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/173174/reftab/73/t/Libya-should-not-be-example/Default.aspx
Syria should not take Libya as a leading example because the bloodshed in the latter resulted in the killing of over 25,000 people and had led to the intervention of foreign powers which are now competing for rebuilding contracts in Libya.
Syria is bigger in size and plays a role in the peace process in the Middle East and hence, the Tunisian and Egyptian examples are far better for the country and the people. In both Tunisia and Egypt, the regimes were overthrown by the local people’s power without the intervention of any other country.
Also, the Syrian regime must avoid using violence against its people, because it is violence that forces people to seek external support to help them and free them.
There is no doubt that the killing of more Syrians and more internal destruction will give enough justification and legitimacy for international intervention, which we hope will happen with the full support and supervision of the United Nations.
Email: Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Labeed Abdal
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/173174/reftab/73/t/Libya-should-not-be-example/Default.aspx
Lessons from Arab springs
Regimes meet people halfway
QUICK actions and implementation of reforms to meet the people’s demands were the positive factors in the Arab world springs that downplayed the effects of internal pressure and prevent further unrest or total collapse of the regimes.
The regimes in Morocco, Jordan and some countries in the Gulf are among a few of those who have embarked on an effective crisis-management mechanism. Openness and flexibility were required to defuse tension. These regimes were willing to meet their people halfway, instead of leaving them on the highway with their woes.
In the Jordanian and Moroccan examples, reforms were directed towards the constitution of a monarchy. In this manner, the people got more involved in the implementation of the amendments promised by the leaders of both countries. They have now a clear idea on when and how to achieve their goals, unlike in the past when it was almost impossible to see any change for decades.
This has also allowed the people on the streets to be involved in the democratic process, particularly the transformation into a constitutional monarchy. Opening the public elections and making the candidates busy with their respective campaigns allowed the people to heave a sigh of relief that they can finally enjoy their constitutional rights and liberties.
Moreover, we can deduce from the abovementioned examples that surrendering the crown is not a must. However, the televised or radio speeches or promises should be genuine. These promises must be seen in the eyes and felt in the heart of the nation, not just an illusion towards democratization.
Email: Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney-at-Law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/172985/reftab/36/t/Lessons-from-Arab-springs/Default.aspx
QUICK actions and implementation of reforms to meet the people’s demands were the positive factors in the Arab world springs that downplayed the effects of internal pressure and prevent further unrest or total collapse of the regimes.
The regimes in Morocco, Jordan and some countries in the Gulf are among a few of those who have embarked on an effective crisis-management mechanism. Openness and flexibility were required to defuse tension. These regimes were willing to meet their people halfway, instead of leaving them on the highway with their woes.
In the Jordanian and Moroccan examples, reforms were directed towards the constitution of a monarchy. In this manner, the people got more involved in the implementation of the amendments promised by the leaders of both countries. They have now a clear idea on when and how to achieve their goals, unlike in the past when it was almost impossible to see any change for decades.
This has also allowed the people on the streets to be involved in the democratic process, particularly the transformation into a constitutional monarchy. Opening the public elections and making the candidates busy with their respective campaigns allowed the people to heave a sigh of relief that they can finally enjoy their constitutional rights and liberties.
Moreover, we can deduce from the abovementioned examples that surrendering the crown is not a must. However, the televised or radio speeches or promises should be genuine. These promises must be seen in the eyes and felt in the heart of the nation, not just an illusion towards democratization.
Email: Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Labeed Abdal - Attorney-at-Law
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/172985/reftab/36/t/Lessons-from-Arab-springs/Default.aspx
The Arab Spring in Israel
Call to solve financial crisis, ‘unemployment’
THE Arab Spring, which started on Dec 18, 2010 in Tunisia and led to street demonstrations to overthrow the regime, has spread to many other Arab countries like Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Algeria, Syria, Jordan, Oman, Lebanon and Mauritania.
For over a century, the Arab world has been known for importing everything in every sector like defense, health, security, transportation, education and finance, among several others, while it exports the least of its local products. However, the Middle Eastern countries have started exporting an important ‘product’ — the Arab Spring, which served as a model for many nations in Europe, such as Greece, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom.
Surprisingly, a neighboring country (Israel), which was not expected to be involved in such activities, has also jumped on the bandwagon. Around 300,000 people have participated in demonstrations in Tel Aviv and many cities in Israel, following the Tharir Square example, considering the demands of the protesters. They have called on the government to effectively play its role in solving the financial crisis, as well as the unemployment and housing problems. They have also demanded for better medical and social services.
The impact of the global financial meltdown on Israel is somehow different from that of the Arab world or Europe, because this country totally depends on the support of global powers affected by the crisis.
A certain indicator has emerged to split the benefits coming from those areas as was evident in the division of Sudan into two and sharing projects with new major players in different forms like oil, gas, strategic alliance, uranium, military contracts and other raw materials.
Attempts to divide and reshape the Arab world, failure to grant financial support to many areas in the world, and inability to allocate enough funds for the costly military support might have a negative impact on the position of several countries in the Middle East including Israel!
Email: Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Labeed Abdal
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/172844/reftab/96/t/The-Arab-Spring-in-Israel/Default.aspx
THE Arab Spring, which started on Dec 18, 2010 in Tunisia and led to street demonstrations to overthrow the regime, has spread to many other Arab countries like Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Algeria, Syria, Jordan, Oman, Lebanon and Mauritania.
For over a century, the Arab world has been known for importing everything in every sector like defense, health, security, transportation, education and finance, among several others, while it exports the least of its local products. However, the Middle Eastern countries have started exporting an important ‘product’ — the Arab Spring, which served as a model for many nations in Europe, such as Greece, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom.
Surprisingly, a neighboring country (Israel), which was not expected to be involved in such activities, has also jumped on the bandwagon. Around 300,000 people have participated in demonstrations in Tel Aviv and many cities in Israel, following the Tharir Square example, considering the demands of the protesters. They have called on the government to effectively play its role in solving the financial crisis, as well as the unemployment and housing problems. They have also demanded for better medical and social services.
The impact of the global financial meltdown on Israel is somehow different from that of the Arab world or Europe, because this country totally depends on the support of global powers affected by the crisis.
A certain indicator has emerged to split the benefits coming from those areas as was evident in the division of Sudan into two and sharing projects with new major players in different forms like oil, gas, strategic alliance, uranium, military contracts and other raw materials.
Attempts to divide and reshape the Arab world, failure to grant financial support to many areas in the world, and inability to allocate enough funds for the costly military support might have a negative impact on the position of several countries in the Middle East including Israel!
Email: Labeed.abdal@gmail.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By: Labeed Abdal
http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/172844/reftab/96/t/The-Arab-Spring-in-Israel/Default.aspx
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