jerusalempost--2020-08-14--Iran says UAE-Israel deal is dangerous and illegitimate

Israel and the UAE agreed to full normalization of relations in a phone call with US President Donald Trump on Thursday, marking the first peace treaty between Israel and an Arab country in 25 years.Israel agreed to suspend its planned extension of sovereignty over parts of Judea and Samaria to facilitate relations with the UAE and potentially other Arab and Muslim countries.The agreement will include establishing embassies and exchanging ambassadors, investments into the Israeli economy, trade, direct flights between Tel Aviv and Abu Dhabi, an investment in Israeli efforts to develop a coronavirus vaccine – as first reported in The Jerusalem Post last month – and cooperation in matters of energy and water. An important element of the deal for the UAE is the expectation that its citizens would be able to visit the Al-Aksa mosque in Jerusalem.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the deal “full, formal peace” with “one of the strongest countries in the world.”“Together we can bring a wonderful future. It is an incomparably exciting moment,” Netanyahu said. “I have the great privilege to make the third peace treaty between Israel and an Arab country, the UAE.”Netanyahu wished Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Mohamed bin Zayed “Salam Aleykum v’Shalom Aleynu – peace unto you and peace unto us.”Trump said in a statement posted to his twitter account: “Opening direct ties between two of the Middle East’s most dynamic societies and advanced economies will transform the region by spurring economic growth, enhancing technological innovation, and forging closer people-to-people relations.”In subsequent remarks in the Oval Office, Trump alluded to “many more countries” in the region normalizing ties with Israel, and “some very exciting things including, ultimately with the Palestinians.”Netanyahu said he has “reason to be very optimistic that today’s announcement w the UAE will be joined by more countries in this expanding circle of peace.”The agreement “ushers in a new era of peace between Israel and the Arab world,” he said.Netanyahu thanked the leaders of the Arab world for supporting the agreement on Friday, writing on his Twitter account, "I thank Egyptian President al-Sisi, and the governments of Oman and Bahrain for their support of the historic peace agreement between Israel and the United Arab Emirates.""The agreement expands the circle of peace and benefits the entire region," Netanyahu wrote.
אני מודה לנשיא מצרים א-סיסי, ולממשלות עומאן ובחריין על תמיכתם בהסכם השלום ההיסטורי בין ישראל לאיחוד האמירויות, שמרחיב את מעגל השלום ויטיב עם האזור כולו. — Benjamin Netanyahu (@netanyahu) August 14, 2020
Sources in Washington and Jerusalem said the Trump administration is in talks with other Gulf States to reach normalization agreements with Israel. Bahrain is likely to be next, to the extent that there was a chance they would have announced normalization before the UAE.The US president also mentioned Iran, about which the UAE and other Gulf States share concerns with Israel, saying that he will make a deal with them “within 30 days” if he wins the election. Trump said the Iranians are “dying to make a deal,” but would prefer that it be with the Democratic candidate for president, Joe Biden, “because that would be like a dream” for them. Trump's Special Adviser Jared Kushner clarified that the deal would not allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons.Netanyahu remarked that the moves towards normalization were kept tightly under wraps because Iran would have liked to sabotage them.Iran has played a major role in the closer ties between Israel and Gulf States since the previous US government and other world powers signed the nuclear deal with Tehran in 2015. The countries began cooperating on national security and that moved to other issues after trust was built between them, to the point that an American source said normalization seemed inevitable.As a reaction, Iran's Foreign Minister declared to the state news agency IRNA that the deal was "dangerous and illegitimate." He said that "this is stabbing the Palestinians in the back and will strengthen the regional unity against the Zionist regime.""The shameful measure of Abu Dhabi to reach an agreement with the fake Zionist regime (Israel) is a dangerous move and the UAE and other states that backed it will be responsible for its consequences," the statement added, according to IRNA.Netanyahu touted a formula of “peace for peace,” based on shared interests, emphasizing economic cooperation, and peace that comes from a position of strength, rather than peace in exchange for concessions.However, bin Zayed presented the matter as though he had exacted concessions from Israel, emphasizing the suspension of sovereignty plans over normalization. He tweeted that “an agreement was reached to stop further Israeli annexation of Palestinian territories. The UAE and Israel also agreed to cooperation and setting a roadmap towards establishing a bilateral relationship.”Egyptian President Abdel-Fatah a-Sisi similarly called it “the agreement to stop Israel’s annexation of the Palestinian Territories and taking steps to bring Peace to the Middle East.” He said in a tweet that he “values the efforts... in order to achieve prosperity and stability for our region.”The Trump administration’s “Vision for Peace” would allow Israel to apply its law to 30% of Judea and Samaria, including all settlements and the Jordan Valley.The rest of the West Bank would be designated for an eventual Palestinian state, which would receive recognition and a $50 billion aid package from the US if it meets a list of pre-conditions, including demilitarization and stopping incitement and salaries for terrorists.Netanyahu said that he still plans to apply Israeli sovereignty in Judea and Samaria.“I’m not giving up on it. It’s on the table because of me. Trump put sovereignty into his peace plan because I asked for it,” Netanyahu said. “But in the first place I said again and again that we would only implement sovereignty in coordination with the US. Without support from the US, in the best case it would be worthless, and in the worst case, it would hurt ties very much.”Netanyahu emphasized that he “did not and will not remove sovereignty from the agenda... I will never give up on our right to our land.”Diplomatic sources in Jerusalem and Washington pointed to the use of the word “suspend,” which implies that the pause is only temporary. The wording was agreed upon by all three sides.It is unclear for how long annexation would remain suspended, but it is unlikely that anything would happen before the end of this year, the Washington source said.The Trump peace team’s efforts gained steam in July and led to Israel’s decision to skip the original July 1 date that Netanyahu had discussed for sovereignty moves. The administration felt that the opportunity for Israel to normalize ties with the UAE was a “better choice.”“In the long term, this will solidify security,” one American official said. Peace between Israel and the UAE presented an opportunity for “real peace” unlike the cold peace it has with Egypt and Jordan, since Israel and the UAE were never enemies that fought a war against each other.Sovereignty moves would have stopped the momentum towards normalization with Gulf States, another source said.The American source said: “Israel was presented with two opportunities and chose one. They’re aggressively pursuing [normalization] and not complicating it by doing sovereignty.”Trump called the diplomatic breakthrough a “labor of love for a lot of people in the room,” speaking to how it is also an achievement for Special Adviser to the President Jared Kushner, who heads the Middle East peace team, and Special Representative for International Negotiations Avi Berkowitz, who worked behind the scenes in recent months to promote normalization between Israel and the Arab world, and US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman.Friedman said “the normalization of relations between Israel and the UAE will make Israel stronger and safer and will likely lead to additional exciting opportunities and incremental prosperity for Israel, its neighbors and the entire region.”A senior Likud source remarked that “the Israeli and international Left always said we can’t bring peace with Arab states without peace with the Palestinians, that there is no other way than withdrawing to ‘67 lines, evacuating settlements, dividing Jerusalem and establishing a Palestinian state. For the first time in history Prime Minister Netanyahu broke the paradigm of ‘land for peace’ and brought ‘peace for peace.’”Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi praised the agreement, saying “the good news of normalization with the UAE is important and an opening to more agreements.”Ashkenazi also praised “avoiding the one-sided annexation plan,” and called for the complete Trump peace plan to be implemented.Yamina leader Naftali Bennett praised the normalization, saying “relations between the countries are no longer held hostage by Palestinian recalcitrance,” but slammed Netanyahu for suspending sovereignty plans.“It’s unfortunate that Netanyahu gave up a once-in-a-century chance to apply sovereignty to the Jordan Valley, Ma’aleh Adumim, Bet El and the rest of Israeli settlements,” he said. “It is tragic that Netanyahu did not seize the moment and didn’t have the courage to apply sovereignty to a centimeter of the Land of Israel, but sovereignty over the parts of our homeland will come from somewhere else.”Joint List MK Mtanes Shihadeh accused the UAE of a “betrayal... no less than a knife in the back of the Palestinian people and the Arab nations.”Shehadeh posited that “Netanyahu and Israel never really meant to annex, but in order for him to abandon the plan, the UAE agreed to make its secret relations open. Nothing will change and anyone who thinks the Palestinians will disappear are mistaken.”Democratic candidate for president Joe Biden said “the UAE’s offer to publicly recognize the State of Israel is a welcome, brave and badly-needed act of statesmanship. Annexation would be a bloody blow to the course of peace, which is why I oppose it now and would oppose it as president.”The Gulf state of Oman said on Friday it supported the United Arab Emirates' decision to normalize ties with Israel, saying it hoped the accord would contribute to a comprehensive, just and sustainable peace in the Middle East.The statement by a foreign ministry spokesman, carried by state news agency ONA, called the UAE-Israel agreement "historic."


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--New Zealand reports 12 new confirmed coronavirus cases

The country 's biggest city of Auckland , home to 1.7 million people , was put into lockdown on Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 cases were discovered in a family living there .
Thirty eight people linked to @ @ @ @ @ been moved into quarantine facilities , Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield said in a media @ @ @ @

New Zealand on Friday reported 12 new confirmed cases of coronavirus for the last 24 hours as the country awaits an announcement from Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on whether a lockdown in its biggest city will be eased or extended.
The country's biggest city of Auckland, home to 1.7 million people, was put into lockdown on Wednesday, hours after four new COVID-19 cases were discovered in a family living there.
Thirty eight people linked to the virus cluster have already been moved into quarantine facilities, Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield said in a media briefing in Wellington.
The country reported 13 confirmed cases of COVID-19 a day earlier.


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--South Korea reports 103 new coronavirus cases, most local cases in months

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South Korea on Friday reported 103 new coronavirus cases, of which 85 were domestic, the most locally transmitted cases since the end of March, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) said.The new cases bring the country's tally to 14,873 infections, with 305 deaths, as of Thursday midnight.


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--US Coronavirus cases rise by at least 53,276 on Thursday

US coronavirus cases rise by at least 53,276 on Thursday to 5.27 million total versus 5.22 million on the previous @ @ @ @ @ at least 1,185 to 167,248 total versus 166,063 on the previous day .

US coronavirus cases rise by at least 53,276 on Thursday to 5.27 million total versus 5.22 million on the previous day.
US coronavirus deaths rise by at least 1,185 to 167,248 total versus 166,063 on the previous day.


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--Ship owners sailing four Iranian fuel cargoes to US for seizure

U.S. prosecutors filed a lawsuit in July to seize the gasoline aboard the four tankers that Iran was trying to @ @ @ @ @ lawsuit was the latest move in efforts by the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump @ @ @ @ @ Iran and Venezuela .
Iranian action against another ship on Wednesday was in retaliation against @ @ @ @ @ of the vessels carrying the Iranian cargoes to the United States , the government source @ @ @ @ @ .
The United States military on Wednesday said that Iranian forces had boarded a civilian @ @ @ @ @ the Gulf .

Four ships containing Iranian fuel cargoes covered by a U.S. warrant for seizure are sailing to the United States after talks between the U.S. government and the vessel owners, a U.S. government source and a shipping source said on Thursday.
U.S. prosecutors filed a lawsuit in July to seize the gasoline aboard the four tankers that Iran was trying to ship to Venezuela. The lawsuit was the latest move in efforts by the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump to increase economic pressure on Iran and Venezuela.
Iranian action against another ship on Wednesday was in retaliation against the Greek owner of some of the vessels carrying the Iranian cargoes to the United States, the government source and two shipping sources said.
The United States military on Wednesday said that Iranian forces had boarded a civilian vessel in international waters in the Gulf.


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--Mexico, nearing 500,000 coronavirus cases, to help with vaccine

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has said the pandemic is losing force in Mexico , though the death toll of @ @ @ @ @ 's third highest , behind the United States and Brazil .
In partnership with the @ @ @ @ @ pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca Plc said it plans to initially produce 150 million doses of a @ @ @ @ @ and eventually make at least 400 million for distribution throughout the region .
Lopez Obrador @ @ @ @ @ good news '' for Mexico and said he expected the country to still be suffering @ @ @ @ @ time the vaccine goes into production .
Supporting Lopez Obrador 's argument that COVID-19 is @ @ @ @ @ government 's head of epidemiology , Jose Luis Alomia , said on Wednesday that fewer @ @ @ @ @ .

Mexico, on the cusp of half a million official coronavirus cases and 55,000 deaths as the pandemic rages across Latin America, will help produce a vaccine that could be distributed in the region next year, authorities said on Thursday.
President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has said the pandemic is losing force in Mexico, though the death toll of 54,666 stands as the world's third highest, behind the United States and Brazil.
In partnership with the Mexican and Argentine governments, pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca Plc said it plans to initially produce 150 million doses of a coronavirus vaccine in early 2021 and eventually make at least 400 million for distribution throughout the region.
Lopez Obrador hailed the agreement as "good news" for Mexico and said he expected the country to still be suffering from the pandemic by the time the vaccine goes into production.
Supporting Lopez Obrador's argument that COVID-19 is waning in Mexico, the government's head of epidemiology, Jose Luis Alomia, said on Wednesday that fewer tests were coming back positive.
"It's congruent with the decrease in overall cases we've seen in recent weeks" as some 47% of tests were coming back positive this week, compared to 53% to 54% three to four weeks ago, Alomia said.


jerusalempost--2020-08-15--Mexico's registers 511,369 coronavirus cases, 55,908 deaths

MEXICO CITY, - Mexico's health ministry on Friday reported 5,618 new confirmed cases of coronavirus and 615 additional fatalities, bringing the total in the country to 511,369 cases and 55,908 deaths.The government has said the real number of infected people is likely significantly higher than the confirmed cases.


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--Trump, Macron voice concern about Greece-Turkey tensions -White House

US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron "expressed concern over increased tension between NATO Allies Greece and Turkey" during a call on Friday, a White House spokesman said.NATO allies Turkey and Greece are embroiled in a dispute over Turkish oil and gas exploration in disputed eastern Mediterranean waters. Turkey said on Friday France should refrain from steps that escalate tensions after the French military conducted training exercises with Greek forces in the region on Thursday.


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--Brazil registers 50,644 new coronavirus cases and 1,060 new deaths

SAO PAULO - Brazil on Friday reported 50,644 new cases of coronavirus and 1,060 new deaths, the health ministry said.Overall, Brazil has reported 3,275,520 confirmed cases and 106,523 deaths.


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--UAE-Israel deal creates momentum for Israel-Palestine talks - Spain

MADRID - A deal making the United Arab Emirates the third Arab state to forge ties with Israel should provide @ @ @ @ @ solution for Israel and Palestine , Spain 's foreign minister said on Friday .
Welcoming @ @ @ @ @ the role played by the United States , and the temporary suspension of further annexation @ @ @ @ @ Gonzalez Laya said it provided a new opportunity to seek peace .

MADRID - A deal making the United Arab Emirates the third Arab state to forge ties with Israel should provide momentum to seek a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, Spain's foreign minister said on Friday.
Welcoming the normalization of relations, the role played by the United States, and the temporary suspension of further annexation of Palestinian territories, Arancha Gonzalez Laya said it provided a new opportunity to seek peace.
"What we think is important now is to use this context to give an impulse to the negotiations between Israel and Palestine, in accordance with the U.N. resolutions seeking a two-state solution, two states living in peace in security next to each other," she told Reuters in an interview.


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--Belarus hands over alleged mercenaries to Russia

MOSCOW - Belarus has returned a group of 32 Russian nationals to Russia after detaining them and accusing them of @ @ @ @ @ General Prosecutor 's Office said in a statement on Friday .
Belarus arrested the men @ @ @ @ @ had sought to destabilize the country prior to Sunday 's presidential election .
Russia dismissed @ @ @ @ @ men as employees of a private security firm .
Moscow said the men were only @ @ @ @ @ of Minsk on their way to other countries and that they had been wrongly detained @ @ @ @ @ extradition of 28 of the alleged mercenaries whom it suspects of fighting alongside Russian-backed separatists @ @ @ @

MOSCOW - Belarus has returned a group of 32 Russian nationals to Russia after detaining them and accusing them of being mercenaries, the Russian General Prosecutor's Office said in a statement on Friday.
Belarus arrested the men last month and said they had sought to destabilize the country prior to Sunday's presidential election.
Russia dismissed that accusation and described the men as employees of a private security firm. Moscow said the men were only passing through the Belarusian capital of Minsk on their way to other countries and that they had been wrongly detained.
Ukraine had sought the extradition of 28 of the alleged mercenaries whom it suspects of fighting alongside Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine.
Belarus had said it would cooperate with Ukraine in the case.


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--Greek foreign minister optimistic to avoid conflict in eastern Med. Sea

VIENNA - Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias said on Friday he hoped that all parties involved in the dispute in @ @ @ @ @ act according to international law and that there will be no conflict .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ conflict if everybody keeps his mind and everybody acts according to international law , international @ @ @ @ @ '' he told reporters after discussing Greece 's dispute with Turkey over energy exploration in @ @ @ @ @ State Secretary Mike Pompeo in Vienna .

VIENNA - Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias said on Friday he hoped that all parties involved in the dispute in the eastern Mediterranean Sea will act according to international law and that there will be no conflict.
"I hope there will be no conflict if everybody keeps his mind and everybody acts according to international law, international law of the sea," he told reporters after discussing Greece's dispute with Turkey over energy exploration in the eastern Mediterranean with US State Secretary Mike Pompeo in Vienna.
"Everything can be resolved, but this is a question that you have to put to the Turks."


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--Parents of ‘daycare of horrors' victims protest outside owner's home

Dozens of parents whose children were allegedly abused in the “ daycare of horrors '' protested outside the building where @ @ @ @ @ Barsi , is being held on house arrest , according to Ynet .
The demonstrators @ @ @ @ @ residents .
`` You will pay dearly , Lital , ” the protesters said , @ @ @ @ @ Come out if you have the courage ! ''
The parents and residents reportedly said @ @ @ @ @ until the owner leaves the area .

Dozens of parents whose children were allegedly abused in the “daycare of horrors" protested outside the building where the daycare owner, Lital Barsi, is being held on house arrest, according to Ynet.
The demonstrators were reportedly joined by local residents. "You will pay dearly, Lital,” the protesters said, according to Ynet. “Come out if you have the courage!"


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--Putin proposes online UN Security Council summit with Germany, Iran

MOSCOW - Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday proposed holding an online summit for the five permanent members of the @ @ @ @ @ well as Germany and Iran , to discuss the Iran arms embargo .

MOSCOW - Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday proposed holding an online summit for the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, as well as Germany and Iran, to discuss the Iran arms embargo.
In a Kremlin statement, Putin added that Russia remained fully committed to the Iran nuclear deal.


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--IDF reports 295 active coronavirus cases

The IDF on Friday announced that 295 soldiers and IDF civilian employees were diagnosed with coronavirus, all of whom are in light condition, except for one who is in moderate condition.Some 3,798 additional soldiers are currently in home isolation.


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--Netanyahu appoints NSC head Ben-Shabbat to coordinate Israel-UAE talks

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed National Security Council Head Meir Ben-Shabbat to coordinate the preparation for Israel 's talks with @ @ @ @ @ appointment followed Netanyahu 's Thursday announcement of a peace deal between Israel and the UAE @

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed National Security Council Head Meir Ben-Shabbat to coordinate the preparation for Israel's talks with the UAE.
Ben-Shabbat's appointment followed Netanyahu's Thursday announcement of a peace deal between Israel and the UAE.


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--EU foreign affairs chief praises Israel-UAE deal, suspended annexation

I welcome Israel-UAE normalisation ; benefits both & is important for regional stability .
Suspending annexation is positive step , @ @ @ @ @ altogether .
EU hopes for resumed Israeli-Palestinian negotiations on 2-state solution based on intl ' @ @ @

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Josep Borrell Fontelles on Friday praised the Israel-UAE normalization deal that was reached on Thursday and stressed its importance in resuming the Israeli-Palestinian negotiations."I welcome Israel-UAE normalisation; benefits both & is important for regional stability. Suspending annexation is positive step, plans should now be abandoned altogether. EU hopes for resumed Israeli-Palestinian negotiations on 2-state solution based on intl' agreed parameters," Borrell tweeted.
I welcome Israel-UAE normalisation; benefits both & is important for regional stability.Suspending annexation is positive step, plans should now be abandoned altogether. EU hopes for resumed Israeli-Palestinian negotiations on 2-state solution based on intl' agreed parameters. — Josep Borrell Fontelles (@JosepBorrellF) August 14, 2020


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--Mountain village landslides kill 16 in Nepal, sweep away homes

KATHMANDU - Landslides triggered by heavy rain swept away dozens of houses and killed at least 16 people in mountainous @ @ @ @ @ and many people were missing , a home ministry official said .
Nepal suffers flash @ @ @ @ @ June-September rainy season , resulting in loss of life and property every year .
A @ @ @ @ @ of houses , killing at least 10 people , early on Friday in Sindhupalshowk , @ @ @ @ @ ministry official Murari Wasti said .
He said 28 people were missing .
“ Rescue @ @ @ @ @ continuous rain and mud still falling from the hills , ” Wasti told Reuters .
@ @ @ @ @ 10 and 19 , were killed in remote Kalikot in far west Nepal - four @ @ @ @ @ family .
Floods and landslides have so far killed 215 people this year , while @ @ @ @ @ to official data .

KATHMANDU - Landslides triggered by heavy rain swept away dozens of houses and killed at least 16 people in mountainous villages of Nepal on Friday and many people were missing, a home ministry official said.
Nepal suffers flash floods and landslides during the June-September rainy season, resulting in loss of life and property every year.
A massive landslide swept away dozens of houses, killing at least 10 people, early on Friday in Sindhupalshowk, near the capital Kathmandu, ministry official Murari Wasti said.
He said 28 people were missing.
“Rescue work has been hampered by continuous rain and mud still falling from the hills,” Wasti told Reuters.
Six people, aged between 10 and 19, were killed in remote Kalikot in far west Nepal - four of them from the same family.
Floods and landslides have so far killed 215 people this year, while 85 are missing, according to official data.
Dibya Raj Poudel, of the Nepal Red Cross Society, said 40,000 people had been housed in temporary huts or were staying with relatives or friends.


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--Belarus opposition leader calls for intl. help in talks with authorities

MOSCOW - Belarusian opposition presidential candidate Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on Friday called on the international community to help organize dialog with @ @ @ @ @ , the RIA news agency quoted her as saying .
Tsikhanouskaya said she would begin @ @ @ @ @ to ensure the transfer of power .

MOSCOW - Belarusian opposition presidential candidate Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on Friday called on the international community to help organize dialog with Belarusian authorities following contested elections, the RIA news agency quoted her as saying.
Tsikhanouskaya said she would begin creating a council in Belarus to ensure the transfer of power.
She earlier urged her supporters to continue peaceful protests and sign an online petition demanding a recount of the presidential election, in which she believes she was cheated out of victory.


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--US will do utmost to extend Iran arms embargo - Pompeo

VIENNA - The United States will do everything in its power to extend the international arms embargo on Iran under @ @ @ @ @ , Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Friday .
The UN Security Council has @ @ @ @ @ bid to extend the embargo on Iran , which is opposed by veto-powers Russia and @ @ @ @ @ on Friday .
Pompeo , on a visit to Austria , said Iran must also @ @ @ @ @ with the International Atomic Energy Agency nuclear watchdog , whose head he was meeting in @ @ @ @ @ the attempt to extend the ban is bound to fail and put an already fragile @ @ @ @ @ world powers further at risk .
`` It makes no sense to permit the world @ @ @ @ @ terrorism to purchase and sell weapons systems , '' Pompeo told a news conference .
@ @ @ @ @ 's just nuts . ''

VIENNA - The United States will do everything in its power to extend the international arms embargo on Iran under discussion at the United Nations, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Friday.
The UN Security Council has started voting on a US bid to extend the embargo on Iran, which is opposed by veto-powers Russia and China, with results due on Friday.
Pompeo, on a visit to Austria, said Iran must also provide full and immediate cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency nuclear watchdog, whose head he was meeting in Vienna.
Some diplomats say the attempt to extend the ban is bound to fail and put an already fragile nuclear deal between Tehran and world powers further at risk.
"It makes no sense to permit the world's largest state sponsor of terrorism to purchase and sell weapons systems," Pompeo told a news conference. "I mean, that's just nuts."


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--Belarus opposition leader urges new protests, pressure on Lukashenko grows

MINSK - Belarus opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on Friday called for new protests and an election recount , piling pressure @ @ @ @ @ as he faces the biggest challenge in his 26 years in power .
In a @ @ @ @ @ self-imposed exile in Lithuania , Tsikhanouskaya asked supporters to demand an official investigation into allegations @ @ @ @ @ Sunday 's presidential election .
At least two protesters were killed and thousands detained in @ @ @ @ @ , prompting the European Union to consider new sanctions on Belarus , which is seen @ @ @ @ @ buffer against NATO and the EU .
`` Belarusians will never again want to live @ @ @ @ @ '' Tsikhanouskaya said .
`` Let 's defend our choice .
Do n't stay on @ @ @ @ @ need to be heard . ''
Tens of thousands of people took to the streets @ @ @ @ @ demanding that Lukashenko step down , joined by workers at some of the state-owned industrial @ @ @ @ @ of his Soviet-style economic model .

MINSK - Belarus opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on Friday called for new protests and an election recount, piling pressure on strongman president Alexander Lukashenko as he faces the biggest challenge in his 26 years in power.
In a video posted on YouTube from self-imposed exile in Lithuania, Tsikhanouskaya asked supporters to demand an official investigation into allegations that Lukashenko had rigged last Sunday's presidential election.
At least two protesters were killed and thousands detained in a violent crackdown this week, prompting the European Union to consider new sanctions on Belarus, which is seen by Russia as a strategic buffer against NATO and the EU.
"Belarusians will never again want to live with the old authorities," Tsikhanouskaya said. "Let's defend our choice. Don't stay on the sidelines. Our voices need to be heard."
Tens of thousands of people took to the streets for a sixth consecutive day demanding that Lukashenko step down, joined by workers at some of the state-owned industrial plants that are the centerpiece of his Soviet-style economic model.


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--Russia, Turkey halt patrols in Syria's Idlib over militant attacks

MOSCOW/ANKARA - Russia and Turkey have suspended joint military patrols carried out along the M4 highway in Syria 's northwestern @ @ @ @ @ militant attacks in the area , the Russian foreign ministry said .
Russia and Turkey @ @ @ @ @ after they agreed a ceasefire in the region following weeks of clashes that brought Ankara @ @ @ @ @ confrontation , and displaced nearly a million people .
Recent attacks by `` radicals '' @ @ @ @ @ the patrols , the ministry 's spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said .
`` Terrorists have stepped @ @ @ @ @ on government troops and nearby settlements , not ceasing their provocations in the 'security corridor @ @ @ @ @ .
Thus , the joint patrols have been suspended , '' she told a news @ @ @ @ @ two militaries had carried out 24 joint patrols along the key M4 highway that links @ @ @ @ @ , with the latest along the Trumbah and Ayn Al Havron road on Wednesday , @ @ @ @ @ .
Two patrols had previously been cut short over security concerns .

MOSCOW/ANKARA - Russia and Turkey have suspended joint military patrols carried out along the M4 highway in Syria's northwestern region of Idlib over increasing militant attacks in the area, the Russian foreign ministry said.
Russia and Turkey began the patrols in March after they agreed a ceasefire in the region following weeks of clashes that brought Ankara and Moscow close to direct confrontation, and displaced nearly a million people.
Recent attacks by "radicals" have prompted a suspension of the patrols, the ministry's spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said.
"Terrorists have stepped up the amount of shelling on government troops and nearby settlements, not ceasing their provocations in the 'security corridor' along the M4 highway. Thus, the joint patrols have been suspended," she told a news conference on Thursday.
The two militaries had carried out 24 joint patrols along the key M4 highway that links Syria's east and west, with the latest along the Trumbah and Ayn Al Havron road on Wednesday, Turkey's defense ministry said. Two patrols had previously been cut short over security concerns.
The ceasefire reached by Ankara and Moscow on March 5 has largely held, with both sides saying there have only been minor violations.


jerusalempost--2020-08-14--Aviv Kochavi: Explosive balloon launches will stop in coming days

Incendiary and explosive balloon launches will end in the following days , IDF Chief of General Staff Lt.-Gen. Aviv Kochavi @ @ @ @ @ , Walla reported on Friday .
Kochavi reportedly said the arson attacks will end due @ @ @ @ @ out by the IDF .
Several fires broke out throughout the day in the Gaza @ @ @ @ @ balloon launches , the Israel Fire and Rescue Services ( IFRS ) said earlier on @ @

Incendiary and explosive balloon launches will end in the following days, IDF Chief of General Staff Lt.-Gen. Aviv Kochavi told Gaza Border Community heads, Walla reported on Friday.
Kochavi reportedly said the arson attacks will end due to measures that being carried out by the IDF.


jerusalempost--2020-08-15--Incendiary balloon discovered near Gaza border communities

Police sappers arrived at the scene to inspect the balloon .
There were no injuries or damage to land and @ @

Police sappers arrived at the scene to inspect the balloon. There were no injuries or damage to land and property.
An incendiary balloon was discovered in the locality of the Sdot Negev Regional Council, adjacent to the Gaza Strip, according to the police spokesperson.


jerusalempost--2020-08-15--Pompeo meets Polish leaders, signs defense pact, discusses Belarus

Pompeo and Morawiecki also discussed the COVID-19 pandemic , securing 5G networks and a new bilateral agreement to cooperate in the development of Poland 's civil nuclear power program , a State Department spokeswoman said .
The defense pact , agreed last month , will see the number of US troops in Poland rise to at least 5,500 .
It will cost Poland around 500 million zlotys ( $ 134.79 million ) more per year .
The deal also involves the development of expertise for Polish forces in the areas of reconnaissance and command , with the possibility of more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of an increased threat .
Poland 's Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak was quoted by state news agency PAP as saying the country would be able to quickly increase the number of US troops to 20,000 if needed .
Pompeo 's visit to Warsaw comes after stops in the Czech Republic , Austria and Slovenia as part of a regional trip focused on cyber and energy security .
Pompeo also discussed the situation in Belarus , which faces new EU sanctions over a disputed election last Sunday .
Tens of thousands of people took @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sixth consecutive day on Friday demanding that Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko step down .

Pompeo and Morawiecki also discussed the COVID-19 pandemic, securing 5G networks and a new bilateral agreement to cooperate in the development of Poland's civil nuclear power program, a State Department spokeswoman said.
The defense pact, agreed last month, will see the number of US troops in Poland rise to at least 5,500. It will cost Poland around 500 million zlotys ($134.79 million) more per year.
The deal also involves the development of expertise for Polish forces in the areas of reconnaissance and command, with the possibility of more U.S. forces coming to Poland in case of an increased threat.
Poland's Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak was quoted by state news agency PAP as saying the country would be able to quickly increase the number of US troops to 20,000 if needed.
Pompeo's visit to Warsaw comes after stops in the Czech Republic, Austria and Slovenia as part of a regional trip focused on cyber and energy security.
Pompeo also discussed the situation in Belarus, which faces new EU sanctions over a disputed election last Sunday.
Tens of thousands of people took to the streets in Belarus for a sixth consecutive day on Friday demanding that Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko step down.
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki in Warsaw on Saturday where the two discussed a new defense agreement and their support for the people of Belarus.


jerusalempost--2020-08-15--Lukashenko and Putin discuss Belarus situation - media

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed the situation inside and around Belarus during a phone call @ @ @ @ @ on Saturday , citing Belarusian local media .

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed the situation inside and around Belarus during a phone call, Interfax news agency reported on Saturday, citing Belarusian local media.
Lukashenko had said earlier on Saturday he wanted to speak to Putin, warning that street protests in Minsk were not just a threat to his country.


jerusalempost--2020-08-15--Toddler injured in car accident succumbs to her injuries

A one-year-old baby girl who was injured in a car accident in the Galilee region on Friday night succumbed to @ @ @ @ @ a Ynet report early Saturday .
Two children were also seriously injured in the accident @ @ @ @ @ moderate injuries .

A one-year-old baby girl who was injured in a car accident in the Galilee region on Friday night succumbed to her injuries, according to a Ynet report early Saturday.
Two children were also seriously injured in the accident, while the parents sustained moderate injuries.


jerusalempost--2020-08-15--Russia starts production of COVID-19 vaccine - Interfax

Russia has started manufacturing its new vaccine for COVID-19 , the Interfax news agency reported on Saturday , citing the @ @ @

Russia has started manufacturing its new vaccine for COVID-19, the Interfax news agency reported on Saturday, citing the health ministry.
Russia has said the vaccine, developed by Moscow's Gamaleya Institute and the first for the coronavirus to go into production, will be rolled out by the end of this month. Some scientists said they fear Moscow may be putting national prestige before safety.


jerusalempost--2020-08-15--Baltic PMs urge Belarus to hold 'free and fair' elections

The prime ministers of Estonia , Latvia and Lithuania on Saturday called on Belarus to conduct new `` free and @ @ @ @ @ swelled against President Alexander Lukashenko 's disputed poll victory .
A new vote should be @ @ @ @ @ way with the participation of international observers , '' the leaders said in a joint @ @ @ @ @ .

The prime ministers of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania on Saturday called on Belarus to conduct new "free and fair" elections as protests swelled against President Alexander Lukashenko's disputed poll victory.
A new vote should be held "in a transparent way with the participation of international observers," the leaders said in a joint statement after meeting in Estonia.
They urged Belarus to refrain from violence and release political prisoners and detained protesters. They also called for European Union sanctions on those responsible for violence.


jerusalempost--2020-08-15--Ukraine sees new record daily high of 1,847 coronavirus cases

Ukraine registered 1,847 new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours , officials said on Saturday , a new daily @ @ @ @ @ country - which is seeing cases increase sharply following the easing of some COVID-19 restrictions @ @ @ @ @ the national council of security and defense surpassed the previous single-day record of 1,732 reported @ @ @ @ @ reached 89,719 , including 2,044 deaths .
Infections have risen since June as authorities have @ @ @ @ @ cafes , churches and public transport to reopen .

Ukraine registered 1,847 new coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours, officials said on Saturday, a new daily record for infections in the country - which is seeing cases increase sharply following the easing of some COVID-19 restrictions.
The figure given by the national council of security and defense surpassed the previous single-day record of 1,732 reported on Friday. Total cases reached 89,719, including 2,044 deaths.
Infections have risen since June as authorities have eased some restrictions, allowing cafes, churches and public transport to reopen.


jerusalempost--2020-08-15--S.Korea capital returns to social distancing rules as virus cases spike

South Korea used invasive tracing and widespread testing to contain its first outbreak of the novel coronavirus , but Asia ’ s fourth-largest economy has experienced persistent outbreaks in recent weeks , mostly in the densely populated capital area .
For the second day in a row in over four months , the country has reported a sudden jump in locally transmitted cases , the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( KCDC ) said .
The new cases took South Korea ’ s tally to 15,039 with 305 deaths by Friday midnight .
The recent spike in infections @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The authorities decided to upgrade the social distancing guidelines to second stage for Seoul and nearby Gyeonggi province , Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun told a meeting on Saturday .
`` We are facing a desperately dangerous situation that could lead to another wave of epidemics if we can not overcome this crisis , '' said Chung .
Health authorities had categorized social distancing rules in three stages - stage 1 being the least intense and stage 3 the toughest , where schools and businesses are urged to close .
Second stage limits indoor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to below 100 , and bans spectators in sports matches , disappointing fans who had just gone back into baseball and soccer stadiums after a five-week delay to the season .

South Korea used invasive tracing and widespread testing to contain its first outbreak of the novel coronavirus, but Asia’s fourth-largest economy has experienced persistent outbreaks in recent weeks, mostly in the densely populated capital area.
For the second day in a row in over four months, the country has reported a sudden jump in locally transmitted cases, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) said.
The new cases took South Korea’s tally to 15,039 with 305 deaths by Friday midnight. The recent spike in infections are emerging in multiple church gatherings.
The authorities decided to upgrade the social distancing guidelines to second stage for Seoul and nearby Gyeonggi province, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun told a meeting on Saturday.
"We are facing a desperately dangerous situation that could lead to another wave of epidemics if we cannot overcome this crisis," said Chung.
Health authorities had categorized social distancing rules in three stages - stage 1 being the least intense and stage 3 the toughest, where schools and businesses are urged to close.
Second stage limits indoor gatherings to below 50 and outdoor gatherings to below 100, and bans spectators in sports matches, disappointing fans who had just gone back into baseball and soccer stadiums after a five-week delay to the season.
South Korea reported 166 new coronavirus cases as of Friday, of which 155 were domestic, prompting the reimposition of tighter social distancing curbs in Seoul area as authorities worried about the spectre of a fresh wave of the disease.


jerusalempost--2020-08-15--40-year-old man found lifeless at beach in Netanya

A 40-year-old man was found unconscious close to the shoreline at Sironit beach in Netanya early Saturday .
MDA paramedics @ @ @ @ @ where they pronounced his death .

A 40-year-old man was found unconscious close to the shoreline at Sironit beach in Netanya early Saturday. MDA paramedics arrived at the scene, where they pronounced his death.
Simon Boirat, a MDA paramedic at the scene, said "When we reached the beach, we saw at the shoreline a man in his forties lying unconscious, without a pulse and not breathing."


jerusalempost--2020-08-15--Germany's confirmed coronavirus cases rise by 1,415 to 222,828 - RKI

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BERLIN - The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Germany increased by 1,415 to 222,828, data from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases showed on Saturday.The reported death toll rose by 6 to 9,231, the tally showed.


jerusalempost--2020-08-15--New Zealand reports seven new confirmed coronavirus cases

New Zealand on Saturday reported seven cases of the new coronavirus for the last 24 hours as a lockdown in the country's biggest city, Auckland, was extended on Friday in response to the country's first coronavirus outbreak in months.Six of the seven new cases have been linked to the cluster responsible for all the previous community cases, Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield told a media briefing in Wellington.The lockdown in Auckland, home to 1.7 million people, was extended for nearly two weeks, after New Zealand reported 12 confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Friday.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Trump 'looking into' pressuring, banning Chinese companies such as Alibaba

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday he could exert pressure on more Chinese companies such as technology giant Alibaba after he moved to ban TikTok.Asked at a news conference whether there were other particular China-owned companies he was considering a ban on, such as Alibaba, Trump replied: “Well, we’re looking at other things, yes.”Trump has been piling pressure on Chinese-owned companies, such as by vowing to ban short-video app TikTok from the United States. The United States ordered its Chinese owner ByteDance on Friday to divest the US operations of TikTok within 90 days, the latest effort to ramp up pressure over concerns about the safety of the personal data it handles.Trump, who has made changing the US-China trade relationship a central theme of his presidency, has been sharply critical of China while also praising its purchases of agriculture products such as soybeans and corn as part of a trade agreement reached late last year.


jerusalempost--2020-08-15--Coronavirus in Israel: 1,386 people diagnosed on Friday

The coronavirus cabinet on Thursday concluded decided that Israelis will be able to fly to Bulgaria , Croatia and certain locations in Greece , and when they return home , they will not be required to enter isolation .
The decision is expected to go into effect on August 16 .
The cabinet is still reviewing allowing Israelis to fly to Cyprus and Bulgaria .
On Wednesday , Transportation Ministry director-general Ofer Malka told the Knesset Economic Affairs Committee his ministry has submitted an updated list of countries to the Health Ministry from which to allow Israelis to return without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approved or finalized .
Most of the countries were green , though some were red with lower levels of morbidity , he said .
Among the countries that were expected to be on the list but were not approved on Thursday : Austria , Denmark , Finland , Georgia , Germany , Hungary , Jordan , Latvia and Lithuania .
The full terms of the conditions for Israelis flying to those countries have not yet been determined .
However , a joint statement by the Health , Transportation , Foreign and Tourism ministries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said that people traveling to Bulgaria will be asked to take a test 72 hours before traveling .
So long as it is negative , travelers will not need to be re-screened or isolated .
A similar process will occur for those wishing to travel to Croatia , but the screening will need to be 48 hours in advance .
Earlier in the day , Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias said that he had agreed to allow some Israelis to tour his country , despite Israel ’ s high rate of coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relationship between the countries and the common desire to return to normal life in the coronavirus era , ” said Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi .
He said that he hopes more European countries will follow suit .
As of now , most European countries still refuse to admit Israelis because of its high rate of infection .
The agreement will allow some 600 Israeli tourists to travel to four locations : Athens , Crete , Thessaloniki and Corfu .
Tourists entering Greece will be required to be screened for the virus before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Until receiving the second test result , they will be required to stay in isolation .
The foreign ministers met at Ashkenazi ’ s office in Jerusalem .
During the meeting , they discussed the “ warm and friendly ” relations between the two countries , a release from the Foreign Ministry said , and the importance of opening Greece to Israeli tourism in the coronavirus era .
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had spoken with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis earlier in the summer regarding the opening of borders between the two countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hold as Israel entered its second wave of coronavirus , causing the original August 1 deadline to be delayed .
Earlier in the day , the coronavirus cabinet convened to discuss how Ben-Gurion Airport will handle opening the skies .
Among the directives that are expected to be established at the airport : Travelers can only enter the airport with a ticket and the results of a negative coronavirus test in hand , four hours before their flight ; they will have their temperature taken and be forbidden from entering if it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can enter terminals will be demarcated with a badge ; and all airplanes will be disinfected before , during and after flights .
At the coronavirus cabinet meeting , which Netanyahu had to leave in anticipation of the historic announcement of a new peace deal between Israel and the United Arab Emirates , new coronavirus commissioner Prof. Ronni Gamzu discussed options for how to handle the growing coronavirus crisis in the country .
He presented three plans , which he said could be rolled out as early as next week if Israel does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or soon after schools open and the High Holidays commence if there is a spike .
On Thursday , the Health Ministry reported that 1,614 people were diagnosed with coronavirus the day before , and another 1,069 between midnight and press time .
Some 371 people were in serious condition , including 110 who were intubated .
At press time , the death toll was 651 .
Plan one would be continuing status quo efforts of cutting off infection chains , targeting red cities , etc .
Plan two would be running @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This could include closing restaurants , hotels , malls and markets and other non-essential workplaces and reducing the number of passengers allowed on public transportation to 40 % capacity .
This plan would be maintained until the country has only 400 patients per day and then the economy could fully reopen .
A final option would be putting total lockdown on red zones alongside operating the standard restrictions among the general public .
No final decision was made .
“ We must prepare for the possibility of a worsening situation , ” Gamzu @ @

The updated restrictions would apply to all gatherings, including cultural events that are not approved for larger crowds by the Health Ministry, except synagogues and restaurants.
Late Saturday night, after receiving pressure from the haredi (ultra-Orthodox) communities and the Restaurant Association, Health Minister Yuli Edelstein said that on Sunday the cabinet would vote on an updated directive allowing synagogues and restaurants to have 20 people in closed spaces regardless of their size, so long as visitors could maintain a distance of two meters between them.
The skies are opening, and gatherings are expanding, despite the pandemic continuing to plague the State of Israel.On Sunday, Israelis can fly from Tel Aviv to Bulgaria, Croatia and certain locations in Greece, and when they return home, they will not be required to enter isolation.In addition, Israelis could return from another several states without entering quarantine: Austria, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, England, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Georgia, Hungary, Hong Kong, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, New Zealand, Rwanda and Slovenia - but those states have made no agreement to take Israelis as of yet.Already, there is a flight from Israel to Bulgaria on Sunday and at least two flights to Greece on Monday. Travelers need to remember to register at least 24 hours in advance with the Health Ministry and to take a coronavirus test that comes out negative before leaving the country.At the same time, gatherings should expand by afternoon, after the coronavirus cabinet meeting that was cut short Thursday due to the announcement of an impending peace agreement between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, reconvened Friday morning and established a set of new and uniform rules for gathering.Going forward, up to 30 people can gather in an open space. In places of up to 80 square meters, 10 people can gather. In place over 80 square meters, 20.Occupancy in places of business remains at one person per every seven square meters. Public places of business include malls, museums, shops, pools and gyms, for example.Other rule changes the cabinet approved: Aides for people with disabilities can be considered “family members” and escort them. Also, delivery people can bring in deliveries to the homes of people with physician handicaps.The approval of these decisions will be submitted to the Knesset Constitution, Law and Justice Committee. Unless the committee votes otherwise, the regulations will go into force on Sunday at 2 p.m.The decision comes against the backdrop of continual increasing coronavirus in Israel.On Saturday night, the Health Ministry reported that 1,386 people were infected with corona on Friday and another 665 between midnight and press time on Saturday. Israel crossed a coronavirus threshold, announcing that more than 90,000 people have had the virus since the start of the pandemic.On Saturday night, there were 387 people in serious condition, including 116 who were intubated. Some nine people died over Shabbat, bringing the death toll to 674.While Jerusalem has already been the city with the highest number of people infected, the situation is becoming acute in the eastern sector. Of the 3,835 people in Jerusalem with the virus, around 46% are residents of east Jerusalem. Moreover, of those tested last Thursday in east Jerusalem, some 43% tested positive.N12 explained the phenomenon on its Saturday night newscast, saying that many people got sick two weeks ago during Eid al-Adha celebrations and the results are now surfacing. Plus, Friday prayers on the Temple Mount are spreading infection. A coronavirus testing center will open on Sunday in the Jabel Mukaber neighborhood to help get a better handle on the situation.Another village became the focal point of infection over the weekend: Yarka. The Health Ministry named the village an orange zone and requested that the public not visit there.There are 282 sick people in Yarka - some 126 who were diagnosed in the last week.The IDF Home Front Command set up a drive-in testing center there over the weekend, screening some 600 people, the IDF said.The Home Front Command also helped evacuate sick residents to coronavirus hotels and hospitals and provided information about the virus and the need to stay safe to the public. Soldiers likewise met with clerics to help spread the message, the IDF added.The Health Ministry reported Friday that there was also a coronavirus outbreak in the outskirts of Petah Tikva, in the city’s industrial zone, where about 150 foreign workers live.The city’s mayor instructed authorities to cordon off the area and operate an outpatient clinic there instead. The residents will be tested over the weekend, the mayor said. The city is working in conjunction with the Health Ministry and Homefront Command.


jerusalempost--2020-08-15--Israel condemns UN decision not to extend Iran arms embargo

The @ UN Security Council failed today to hold Iran accountable .
It enabled the world ’ s top state @ @ @ @ @ and sell deadly weapons and ignored the demands of countries in the Middle East .
@ @ @ @ @ to correct this mistake .

The United States lost a bid to extend a UN arms embargo on Iran on Friday as Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a summit of world leaders to avoid a “confrontation” over a US threat to trigger a return of all UN sanctions on Tehran.Russia and China opposed extending the weapons ban, which is due to expire in October under the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers. Eleven members of the Security Council abstained, including France, Germany and Britain, while Washington and the Dominican Republic were the only “yes” votes, as expected.“The Security Council’s failure to act decisively in defense of international peace and security is inexcusable,” US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement. “The Security Council rejected direct appeals to extend the arms embargo from numerous countries in the Middle East endangered by Iran’s violence.”“Security Council failed to hold Iran accountable today. It enabled the world’s top state sponsor of terrorism to buy and sell deadly weapons and ignored the demands of countries in the Middle East. America will continue to work to correct this mistake.” Pompeo tweeted.
The @UN Security Council failed today to hold Iran accountable. It enabled the world’s top state sponsor of terrorism to buy and sell deadly weapons and ignored the demands of countries in the Middle East. America will continue to work to correct this mistake. — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) August 14, 2020
Pompeo vowed that the US will continue working to ensure that Iran’s “theocratic terror regime” is not free to buy and sell weapons.A US diplomatic source said American officials are working on the actual mechanism that will stop Iran from making arms deals.One option is to trigger a return of all UN sanctions on Iran using a provision in the nuclear deal, known as “snapback sanctions,” even though US President Donald Trump abandoned the world powers’ 2015 agreement with Iran, called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), in 2018. Diplomats have said that Washington could do this as early as next week, but would face a messy legal battle.Diplomats have said several countries would argue that the US legally could not activate a return of sanctions and therefore simply would not reimpose the measures on Iran themselves.The move could put the fragile nuclear deal further at risk because Iran would lose a major incentive for limiting its nuclear activities, diplomatic sources said. Iran already has breached parts of the nuclear deal in response to the US withdrawal from the pact and unilateral sanctions.The US has argued that it can trigger a sanctions snapback, because a UN Security Council resolution enshrining the nuclear deal named Washington as a participant. But the remaining parties to the deal are opposed to the move.Another path for the US is to convince parties to the agreement that did not leave the JCPOA to trigger the snapback sanctions. Any single country or party to the agreement can bring back the sanctions. A diplomatic source said the US is trying persuade one or all of the E3 countries – France, Germany and the United Kingdom – to take action.Putin proposed a video summit with the US and the remaining parties to the nuclear deal – Britain, France, China, Germany, the EU and Iran – to try to avoid further “confrontation and escalation” at the UN over Iran.“The issue is urgent,” Putin said in a statement, adding that the alternative was “only further escalation of tensions, increasing risk of conflict – such a scenario must be avoided.”Putin said Russia, an ally of Iran in the Syrian civil war, remained fully committed to the nuclear deal.Asked if he would take part, Trump told reporters, “I hear there’s something, but I haven’t been told of it yet.” French President Emmanuel Macron is open to taking part in a video summit, the Elysée said.Trump has said he wants to negotiate a new deal with Iran that would prevent it from developing nuclear weapons and also curb its activities in the region and elsewhere. Trump, who has walked away from a series of international agreements, has dubbed the 2015 nuclear deal – reached under his predecessor Barack Obama – “the worst deal ever.”Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the UNSC decision “outrageous.”“Iranian aggression and terror threaten regional peace and the whole world,” Netanyahu said on Saturday. “Instead of opposing arms sales, the Security Council is encouraging it. We will continue to act in close cooperation with the US and countries in the region to block Iranian aggression.”Israel’s new Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan said that “the Security Council’s decision to reject the US initiative to extend the arms embargo on Iran is a disgrace. Instead of allowing the terrorist regime in Tehran to acquire deadly weapons, the council should impose crippling sanctions on Iran. The Council has utterly failed in its responsibility of maintaining international peace and security. This decision will further destabilize the Middle East, and increase the spread of violence around the world.”US Ambassador to the UN Kelly Craft said her country is “sickened but not surprised” at the result of the vote.“The council’s failure to step up to this moral challenge serves to validate the world’s number one state sponsor of terror, just to save face and protect a failed political deal made outside the council. To those members who opposed or stood silently by on this resolution, I suggest they take their excuses and explanations to those most affected: the starving in Yemen, the displaced in Syria, the heartbroken in Lebanon,” she continued.The Chinese Mission to the UN released a statement as well, saying that “the overwhelming majority of Security Council members hold that the JCPOA and Security Council resolution 2231 must be defended and implemented. The US, not a participant to the JCPOA any more, has no right to demand the Security Council invoke a snap-back. Should the US insist, it is doomed to fail.”Defense Minister Benny Gantz said that “in its continual work towards a nuclear bomb and efforts to spread terror and violence, Iran is destabilizing peace in the region and in the entire world.“The choice made by the Security Council not to extend the arms embargo against Iran promoted by the US is the wrong decision and hurts regional stability and world security. Israel will continue to work with all of her partners in the world and in the Middle East to curb Iranian aggression,” he added.Eve Young contributed to this report.


jerusalempost--2020-08-15--Israel Katz: Fear of new elections is over

Finance Minister Israel Katz said on Saturday that "fear of new elections is over" and that "it's all about agreements," according to N12 news.


jerusalempost--2020-08-15--Bereaved mothers protesters block Tel-Aviv Jerusalem Highway

Dozens blocked the Tel Aviv-Jerusalem Highway near Sha'ar HaGai , towards the road leading to Jerusalem , as part of @ @ @ @ @ Life .
The march was organized following increasing violence in the Arab society , according @ @ @ @ @ bereaved mothers and the head of the Joint List Ayman Odeh , are expected to @ @ @ @ @ in order to promote a plan to fight crime and collect tens of thousands of @ @ @ @ @ sector .

Dozens blocked the Tel Aviv-Jerusalem Highway near Sha'ar HaGai, towards the road leading to Jerusalem, as part of a Bereaved Mothers March for Life. The march was organized following increasing violence in the Arab society, according to Walla News.
The bereaved mothers and the head of the Joint List Ayman Odeh, are expected to meet with President Reuven Rivlin in order to promote a plan to fight crime and collect tens of thousands of illegal weapons from the Arab sector.


jerusalempost--2020-08-15--US monitoring Belarus closely, says Pompeo

`` We follow the situation closely , '' he told a press conference during a visit to Warsaw after stops @ @ @ @ @ Austria and Slovenia during a regional trip focused on cyber and energy security .

The United States is tracking the situation in Belarus after last weekend's disputed election then a crackdown on protests, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Saturday.
"We follow the situation closely," he told a press conference during a visit to Warsaw after stops in the Czech Republic, Austria and Slovenia during a regional trip focused on cyber and energy security.
Also at the press conference, Poland's Foreign Minister Jacek Czaputowicz said potential sanctions on Belarus should only apply to top officials.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Belarusian leader says no to new election, accuses NATO of build-up

Belarus has been rocked by a week of street protests after protesters accused Lukashenko of rigging a presidential election last @ @ @ @ @ .

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, speaking at a rally of his supporters in Minsk on Sunday, rejected calls to hold a new presidential election and accused NATO of massing on his country's western border.
Belarus has been rocked by a week of street protests after protesters accused Lukashenko of rigging a presidential election last Sunday, something he denies.
Lukashenko earlier spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin who told the Belarusian leader that Moscow stood ready to provide help in accordance with a collective military pact if necessary, the Kremlin said in a statement.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--11 fires reported in southern Israel, incendiary balloons suspected

Some 11 fires were reported in southern Israel on Sunday. It is still unclear whether or not the fires were caused by incendiary balloons.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--UAE phone lines to Israel open after accord to normalize relations

It was not clear when exactly a block on telephone calls made from the UAE to Israel was lifted , @ @ @ @ @ possible .
The UAE 's Telecoms Regulatory Authority did not immediately respond to a request @ @ @ @ @ news websites that were previously blocked in the UAE were also now able to be @ @ @ @ @ on Sunday .
Israel and the UAE on Thursday announced an agreement that will lead @ @ @ @ @ diplomatic relations between the two states .
An official in Israel 's Communication Ministry told @ @ @ @ @ on calls between the two countries had come from the UAE side .
`` Now @ @ @ @ @ going through , '' the official said .

Telephone lines between the United Arab Emirates and Israel were open on Sunday, calls made by Reuters reporters showed, after the two countries moved to normalize diplomatic relations last week.
It was not clear when exactly a block on telephone calls made from the UAE to Israel was lifted, but historically calls were not possible.
The UAE's Telecoms Regulatory Authority did not immediately respond to a request to comment.
More Israeli news websites that were previously blocked in the UAE were also now able to be viewed on UAE internet connections on Sunday.
Israel and the UAE on Thursday announced an agreement that will lead to a full normalization of diplomatic relations between the two states.
An official in Israel's Communication Ministry told Reuters that any previous block on calls between the two countries had come from the UAE side.
"Now I understand that calls are going through," the official said.
The UAE's two main telecoms operators Du and Etisalat did not immediately respond to requests for comment.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Iranian commander says approach to UAE will change after Israel deal

Iran's approach to the United Arab Emirates will change, the country's armed forces chief of staff Major General Mohammad Bagheri was quoted as saying on Sunday, after a deal between the Arab state and Tehran's arch foe Israel on normalizing ties."Tehran's approach to the UAE will change... If something happens in the Persian Gulf region and if our national security is damaged, however small, we will hold the UAE responsible for that, and we will not tolerate it," Bagheri said.The UAE-Israel agreement announced last week, which US President Donald Trump helped to broker, is seen as aimed at bolstering opposition to regional power Iran.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Philippine reports 3,420 new coronavirus cases, 65 deaths

The Philippines has recorded 3,420 new cases of the coronavirus and 65 additional deaths, the health ministry said on Sunday.The country has so far registered a total of 161,253 infections and the death toll from COVID-19 has risen to 2,665 according to ministry data.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Palestinian workers prevented from entering Israel - report

Images reportedly from checkpoints near Hebron showed long lines waiting to be allowed entry .
Even those with permits were @ @ @ @ @ the reports .

Images reportedly from checkpoints near Hebron showed long lines waiting to be allowed entry. Even those with permits were denied entry, according to the reports.
Checkpoints were set up at multiple sites in the West Bank and Palestinian workers were preventing from crossing into Israel through multiple checkpoints on Sunday, according to Palestinian reports.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Indonesia reports 2,081 new coronavirus infections, 79 deaths

Indonesia on Sunday reported 2,081 cases of the new coronavirus and 79 COVID-19 deaths, according to data from Indonesia's COVID-19 governmental task force.The data takes the total number of infections in the world's fourth-most populous country at least to 139,549 cases.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Russia reports nearly 5,000 new coronavirus cases

Russia reported 4,969 new cases of the novel coronavirus on Sunday, bringing its nationwide tally to 922,853, the fourth highest caseload in the world.Russia's coronavirus crisis response center said that 68 people had died over the past 24 hours, pushing its official coronavirus death toll to 15,685, adding that 732,968 people have recovered.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Belarus ambassador declares solidarity with protesters

The Belarus ambassador to Slovakia declared solidarity with protesters in Belarus, in an undated video posted by Nasha Niva media on Saturday, following a disputed election in his homeland."I stand in solidarity with those who came out on the streets of Belarusian cities with peaceful marches so that their voice could be heard. The Belarusians have achieved this right through suffering," Igor Leshchenya, the envoy, said in the video.


jerusalempost--2020-08-17--New Zealand's Ardern postpones election as coronavirus flares up

WELLINGTON , Aug 17 - New Zealand 's prime minister postponed the country 's general election on Monday by a month to Oct. 17 as the city of Auckland remains in lockdown due to a new outbreak of the coronavirus .
Jacinda Ardern has been under pressure to put off the polls as political parties said it was impossible to campaign in a way that would ensure a free and fair election .
`` Ultimately , the 17th of October ... provides sufficient time for parties to plan around the range of circumstances we will be campaigning under , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She ruled out delaying the polls any further , as her Labour Party maintains a strong lead over the conservative National Party in opinion polls .
`` We are all in the same boat .
We are all campaigning in the same environment , '' Ardern said .
An early election works in Ardern 's favour , as her success in stifling COVID-19 and keeping the country virus-free for 102 days until the latest outbreak has boosted her popularity .
The election was scheduled for Sept. 19 and New Zealand law requires it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Advance voting will now start on Oct. 3 .

WELLINGTON, Aug 17 - New Zealand's prime minister postponed the country's general election on Monday by a month to Oct. 17 as the city of Auckland remains in lockdown due to a new outbreak of the coronavirus.
Jacinda Ardern has been under pressure to put off the polls as political parties said it was impossible to campaign in a way that would ensure a free and fair election.
"Ultimately, the 17th of October ... provides sufficient time for parties to plan around the range of circumstances we will be campaigning under," Ardern said at a news conference.
She ruled out delaying the polls any further, as her Labour Party maintains a strong lead over the conservative National Party in opinion polls.
"We are all in the same boat. We are all campaigning in the same environment," Ardern said.
An early election works in Ardern's favour, as her success in stifling COVID-19 and keeping the country virus-free for 102 days until the latest outbreak has boosted her popularity.
The election was scheduled for Sept. 19 and New Zealand law requires it to be held by Nov. 21. Advance voting will now start on Oct. 3.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--US coronavirus death toll hits 170,000 ahead of fall flu season

Aug 16 - The United States surpassed 170,000 coronavirus deaths on Sunday , according to a Reuters tally , as health officials express concerns over COVID-19 complicating the fall flu season .
Deaths rose by 483 on Sunday , with Florida , Texas and Louisiana , leading the rise in fatalities .
The United States has at least 5.4 million confirmed cases in total of the novel coronavirus , the highest in the world and likely an undercount as the country still has not ramped up testing to the recommended levels .
Cases are falling in most states except for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Public health officials and authorities are concerned about a possible fall resurgence in cases amid the start of the flu season , which will likely exacerbate efforts to treat the coronavirus .
Centers for Disease Control Director Robert Redfield warned the United States may be in for its `` worst fall '' if the public does not follow health guidelines in an interview with Web MD .
Months into the pandemic , the US economic recovery from the recession triggered by the outbreak is still staggered , with some hot spots slowing their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation is anticipating an uptick in COVID-19 cases in the coming months , resulting in around 300,000 total deaths by December , and a nearly 75 % increase in hospitalizations .

Aug 16 - The United States surpassed 170,000 coronavirus deaths on Sunday, according to a Reuters tally, as health officials express concerns over COVID-19 complicating the fall flu season.
Deaths rose by 483 on Sunday, with Florida, Texas and Louisiana, leading the rise in fatalities.
The United States has at least 5.4 million confirmed cases in total of the novel coronavirus, the highest in the world and likely an undercount as the country still has not ramped up testing to the recommended levels. Cases are falling in most states except for Hawaii, South Dakota and Illinois.
Public health officials and authorities are concerned about a possible fall resurgence in cases amid the start of the flu season, which will likely exacerbate efforts to treat the coronavirus.
Centers for Disease Control Director Robert Redfield warned the United States may be in for its "worst fall" if the public does not follow health guidelines in an interview with Web MD.
Months into the pandemic, the US economic recovery from the recession triggered by the outbreak is still staggered, with some hot spots slowing their reopenings and others shutting down businesses.
The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation is anticipating an uptick in COVID-19 cases in the coming months, resulting in around 300,000 total deaths by December, and a nearly 75% increase in hospitalizations.
Worldwide there are at least 21.5 million coronavirus cases and over 765,000 confirmed deaths. The United States remains the global epicenter of the virus, with around a quarter of the cases and deaths.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Pelosi calling back chamber to work on postal service legislation

WASHINGTON - US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said on Sunday that she is recalling the chamber later this week to @ @ @ @ @ the Postal Service .
A senior Democratic aide said the likely plan is for the @ @ @ @ @ .
In a letter to lawmakers , Pelosi said the House would vote on legislation @ @ @ @ @ from implementing any changes to services it had in place on Jan. 1 , 2020 @ @ @ @ @ Donald Trump of trying to hamstring the cash-strapped Postal Service to suppress mail-in voting .

WASHINGTON - US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said on Sunday that she is recalling the chamber later this week to vote on legislation to protect the Postal Service. A senior Democratic aide said the likely plan is for the House to return on Saturday.
In a letter to lawmakers, Pelosi said the House would vote on legislation to prohibit the Postal Service from implementing any changes to services it had in place on Jan. 1, 2020. Democrats have accused President Donald Trump of trying to hamstring the cash-strapped Postal Service to suppress mail-in voting.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--IDF thwarts attempted attack near Rachel's Tomb

IDF soldiers thwarted an attempt to throw Molotov cocktail towards worshipers near Rachel's Tomb in the West Bank, according to YNET.The attacker was shot by the soldiers.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Coronavirus cabinet confirmed changes to restrictions

In restaurants, public places, business and places of worship, the number of people that are allowed to remain in a closed space at the same time regardless of its size will be raised to twenty and in open spaces the maximum number will be raised to thirty. In either case, individuals are still requested to keep two meters apart from each other, according to a joint statement by the Prime Minister Office and Health Ministry.The new restrictions will come into effect on Monday at 19:00.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--EU must support peaceful Belarus protesters, France's Macron says

PARIS - The European Union should support demonstrations in Belarus following the country 's presidential election , French President Emmanuel @ @ @ @ @ `` The European Union must continue to be mobilized in support of the hundreds of @ @ @ @ @ protesting peacefully for the respect of their rights , liberty and sovereignty , '' Macron @ @ @ @ @ .

PARIS - The European Union should support demonstrations in Belarus following the country's presidential election, French President Emmanuel Macron said on Sunday.
"The European Union must continue to be mobilized in support of the hundreds of thousands of Belarusians who are protesting peacefully for the respect of their rights, liberty and sovereignty," Macron said on his Twitter feed.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Gulf Cooperation Council secretary gen. condemns Iran's 'threats' to UAE

DUBAI - The secretary general of the six-member Gulf Cooperation Council on Sunday condemned `` threats '' by Iran 's @ @ @ @ @ towards the United Arab Emirates over its agreement with Israel to normalize relations , the @ @ @ @ @ .
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday the UAE has made a `` huge @ @ @ @ @ deal with Israel , condemning what he called a betrayal by the Gulf state .

DUBAI - The secretary general of the six-member Gulf Cooperation Council on Sunday condemned "threats" by Iran's president and other Iranian officials towards the United Arab Emirates over its agreement with Israel to normalize relations, the GCC said in a statement.
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday the UAE has made a "huge mistake" in reaching the deal with Israel, condemning what he called a betrayal by the Gulf state.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Some 200 Palestinians protested near Gaza border fence

Some 200 Palestinians protested near the Gaza border fence on Sunday night. Israeli security forces employed riot control measures to disperse them, according to YNET.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--IDF reports 233 new cases of coronavirus, most in light condition

Nearly all the patients are in a light condition , with one in a moderate condition .

3,798 in home isolation on Sunday.
Nearly all the patients are in a light condition, with one in a moderate condition.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--One demonstrator shot near Gaza border fence with live ammunition

Palestinian media reported on Sunday night that one demonstrator was shot near the border fence of the Gaza Strip.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Rocket falls near Baghdad's US embassy, no casualties

Security forces found a missile base and dismantled two other rockets at the launch site , the statement added .
@ @ @ @ @ the ninth within a week apparently aimed at US interests , according to a Reuters @ @ @ @ @ and security sources

A Katyusha rocket fell inside the Green Zone of Iraq's capital Baghdad, which houses government buildings and foreign missions, but caused no casualties, a military statement said.
Security forces found a missile base and dismantled two other rockets at the launch site, the statement added.
The attack was at least the ninth within a week apparently aimed at US interests, according to a Reuters tally based on official statements and security sources


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Egypt disposing of dangerous materials at ports

Egypt has started disposing of abandoned and dangerous materials at ports after the massive explosion in Beirut's port this month, the finance minister said on Sunday."What happened in Beirut made us examine our own situation and we actually got rid of large quantities of abandoned and neglected and dangerous materials that were in the ports," Mohamed Mait told parliament."There are materials that have been delivered to multiple ministries including oil and defense and interior, and by next December Egyptian ports will be completely cleaned."New customs procedures at would also improve controls at ports, Mait said.A few days after the Beirut explosion, Egypt's civil aviation ministry said it had ordered a review of materials at airports and the transfer of any hazardous goods to safe storage.The Aug. 4 blast in Beirut, caused by the detonation of more than 2,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate stored at its port, killed more than 170 people and wreaked destruction over swathes of the Lebanese capital.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Incendiary balloon found at private residence in Beersheba

An incendiary balloon was found Sunday evening in the yard of a private house in Beersheba, according to the police spokesperson.Police investigators and sappers arrived to the scene to remove the balloon. No damage or injuries were reported.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Over 20 fires break out due to incendiary balloons

Some 28 fires have broken out since Sunday morning due to incendiary balloons, according to the Southern District Fire and Rescue Spokesperson.Since the onset of escalations between Israel and Hamas, 149 fires have been identified as being caused by incendiary balloons.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Turkey draws another EU rebuke for latest plans at sea

Yavuz will be accompanied by three other Turkish ships according to a maritime notice that added `` all vessels are @ @ @ @ @ '' the area .
A standoff has intensified in recent weeks between Turkey and EU-member @ @ @ @ @ exploration rights at sea , and even involved a minor collision between their frigates last @ @ @ @ @ drilling plan covers a zone delineated by Cyprus and Egypt and raises tensions , said @ @ @ @ @ Borrell , who called for an immediate halt to Turkey 's activities and the beginning @ @ @ @ @ action runs counter and undermines efforts to resume dialogue and negotiations , and to pursue @ @ @ @ @ said in a statement .
Cairo and Athens signed a territorial zoning deal earlier this @ @ @ @ @ stepped in to criticize what it calls Turkey 's provocations , Ankara says it will @ @ @ @ @ its legal rights .
President Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday `` the language of sanctions @ @ @ @ @ deter Turkey .

Turkey drew another rebuke from the European Union on Sunday when it said its Yavuz energy drill ship would extend operations in disputed Mediterranean waters off Cyprus until mid-September.
Yavuz will be accompanied by three other Turkish ships according to a maritime notice that added "all vessels are strongly advised not to enter" the area.
A standoff has intensified in recent weeks between Turkey and EU-member Greece over oil and gas exploration rights at sea, and even involved a minor collision between their frigates last week.
Turkey's renewed drilling plan covers a zone delineated by Cyprus and Egypt and raises tensions, said EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, who called for an immediate halt to Turkey's activities and the beginning of dialogue.
"This action runs counter and undermines efforts to resume dialogue and negotiations, and to pursue immediate de-escalation," he said in a statement.
Cairo and Athens signed a territorial zoning deal earlier this month. While Paris has stepped in to criticize what it calls Turkey's provocations, Ankara says it will not back down from defending its legal rights.
President Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday "the language of sanctions and threats" will not deter Turkey.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Coronavirus: Death toll rises to 685

Coronavirus: Death toll rises to 685

Israel’s new coronavirus czar, Prof. Ronni Gamzu, accused the Arab sector of “almost carrying out a terror attack” in an interview Sunday morning with the Hebrew website Ynet.Gamzu said, “The Arab sector in the last two weeks, after the Eid al-Adha holiday, almost carried out an attack that would have resulted in hundreds of patients. Gatherings, riots, parties, complacency, apathy – thinking coronavirus would not hurt them .”The commissioner’s comments came against the backdrop of reports of a high rate of infection in east Jerusalem and several Arab villages.Of the 3,721 people in Jerusalem with the virus as of Sunday evening, around 50% are residents of east Jerusalem, the Health Ministry reported.Moreover, more than 40% of east Jerusalem residents screened for the virus in recent days have been diagnosed as positive.Israeli and Palestinian health officials said that the high rate of infections in east Jerusalem was the result of the residents’ flouting of regulations to curb the spread of the disease. They said that more than 100 cases have been recorded almost every day in east Jerusalem since Eid al-Adha two weeks ago.According to the officials, many residents of east Jerusalem have also been ignoring the regulations by attending weddings and other celebrations in a number of West Bank villages and towns located near Jerusalem. Moreover, gathering for Friday prayers on the Temple Mount has increased infection.A coronavirus testing center was opened Sunday in the Jebl Mukaber neighborhood to help get a better handle on the situation, and another is expected to open in Sheikh Jarrah in the coming days, according to Mayor Moshe Lion.“In light of the growing morbidity, the treatment of the residents of east Jerusalem is of paramount importance,” the mayor said. “I congratulate and thank Health Minister Yuli Edelstein, director-general of the Health Ministry Prof. Chezy Levy, and Prof. Ronni Gamzo for their efforts and attention.”“I say to the Arab community, to their leaders and local authorities – you have the power,” Gamzu said. “Do not wait for the government. Get help from the Home Front Command, from [the Health Ministry].”Gamzu made his comments on a day that the infection rate was at among its highest in recent weeks : 8.2% of people tested over the weekend were found to be positive for the virus.The Health Ministry reported that 760 new patients were diagnosed with the virus on Saturday and another 383 between midnight and press time. Some 382 people are in serious condition, including 112 who are intubated.Ten people died Sunday, bringing the death toll to 685.In response to Gamzu’s comments, MK Aida Touma-Sliman (Joint List) called the commissioner “racist” and said that he related to the Arab community as if its intention was to commit harm.She added that “nobody has used such a term to refer to all the people gathering on the beachfront, in cafes in Jaffa and Tel Aviv – no one has called them perpetrators,” and that “Gamzu should focus on his work and examine what can be done in particular in the Arab sector.”MK Ayman Odeh, head of the Joint List, also criticized Gamzu over his remarks.“It is a pity that while Arab doctors are at the forefront of the struggle against the coronavirus, the commissioner comes out with a statement that harms an entire society,” Odeh said. “Instead of making such unfortunate statements, I invite him to work together to defeat the plague.”MK Mansour Abbas (Joint List) accused Gamzu of offending the entire Arab public. “Prof. Gamzu has forgotten or ignored the fact that the healthcare system consists of sons and daughters of the Arab sector,” Abbas said.
ראשית, מתנצל. בחירת המילים שלי הייתה שגויה ולא רגישה. רבים מחבריי ערבים והמאכל האהוב עליי הוא חומוס.. — פרופ רוני גמזו (@ronnigamzu) August 16, 2020
Gamzu apologized for the way he came across during the Ynet interview. He later tweeted that he has a lot of close Arab friends and his favorite food is humus.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Incendiary balloon found in yard of house in Netivot

An incendiary balloon was found in a yard of a private residence in Netivot, the Israel police spokesperson said on Sunday evening.Police investigators and sappers arrived at the scene to remove the balloon. No damage or injuries were reported.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Netanyahu offers condolences to Trump on loss of brother

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu offered his condolences to US President Donald Trump after the latter's brother passed away on Sunday.Netanyahu said in a tweet: "Dear Mr. President, my dear friend Donald, having lost a brother myself I know the depth of your grief at the loss of your beloved brother Robert. Sara and I send you, Melania and the rest of your family our deepest condolences."


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Blast heard at hotel in Somalia capital Mogadishu - witness

State news agency SONNA reported that Islamist group al Shabaab had attacked with a car bomb at the hotel entrance and armed militants .
It said gunfire was coming from inside the hotel and that government security forces had been deployed .
`` There are deaths and injuries of civilians who were passing near the hotel and others who were inside the hotel .
Among the dead is one director of the information ministry , '' SONNA said , citing information ministry spokesman Ismail Mukhtar Omar .
A witness , Ahmed Ali , told Reuters : `` I heard a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ followed , and then clouds of smoke . ''
A police spokesman , Sadik Ali , confirmed there had been an explosion , adding : `` We shall update you later . ''
Aamin ambulance service head Abdikadir Abdirahman said at least 28 people had been hurt .
The hotel is frequented by many government officials , government workers and people from the Somali diaspora .
`` So far we know 28 people are injured , we transported them before exchange of gunfire begun , '' he told Reuters .
Mohamed Nur , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beach said the government had deployed security forces in the area .
`` The exchange of gunfire is terrible and stray bullets reached us near the beach , '' he added .
Somalia has been embroiled in deadly violence since 1991 , when clan warlords overthrew leader Siad Barre and then turned on each other .

At least 28 people were injured in an explosion on Sunday at a hotel in Somalia's capital Mogadishu, the head of a local ambulance service said, while a witness said he heard gunfire after the blast at the Elite Hotel in Lido beach.
State news agency SONNA reported that Islamist group al Shabaab had attacked with a car bomb at the hotel entrance and armed militants. It said gunfire was coming from inside the hotel and that government security forces had been deployed.
"There are deaths and injuries of civilians who were passing near the hotel and others who were inside the hotel. Among the dead is one director of the information ministry," SONNA said, citing information ministry spokesman Ismail Mukhtar Omar.
A witness, Ahmed Ali, told Reuters: "I heard a huge blast at the hotel, gunfire followed, and then clouds of smoke."
A police spokesman, Sadik Ali, confirmed there had been an explosion, adding: "We shall update you later."
Aamin ambulance service head Abdikadir Abdirahman said at least 28 people had been hurt. The hotel is frequented by many government officials, government workers and people from the Somali diaspora.
"So far we know 28 people are injured, we transported them before exchange of gunfire begun," he told Reuters.
Mohamed Nur, a government worker who lives near Lido beach said the government had deployed security forces in the area.
"The exchange of gunfire is terrible and stray bullets reached us near the beach," he added.
Somalia has been embroiled in deadly violence since 1991, when clan warlords overthrew leader Siad Barre and then turned on each other.
Since 2008, al Shabaab has been fighting to overthrow the internationally-recognized central government and establish its rule based on its own interpretation of Islamic Sharia law.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Coronavirus cabinet approved allowing 20 people into small restaurants

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The coronavirus cabinet approved a new allowance of 20 people entering small restaurants on Sunday evening.The Health Ministry announced the proposed change on Saturday night and emphasized that this would only be permitted if it were possible that people keep a distance of two meters from one another at all times.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Netanyahu: Coronavirus prevented elections

"If not for the fight against the coronavirus, the governing coalition would have already broken up," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in an interview with Army Radio on Sunday evening.Netanyahu said the current political crisis was "not difficult" and solvable, if there is a desire in Blue and White to resolve it.Asked if he is trying to influence key appointments like the police inspector-general, he did not answer but criticized Attorney-General Avichai Mandelblit for trying to prevent him from being involved in the decisions."The very notion that in a democracy anyone is above the law is above criticism or above the law is absurd," he said. "Neither the prime minister nor the attorney-general is above the law. We know which countries that is different."


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Israir CEO submits request to fly to UAE

Israir CEO Uri Sirkis said on Sunday that the airline submitted requests to "relevant officials" to fly to the UAE in an interview with Reshet Bet radio show (Kan).


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Top Russian, US diplomats discuss UN meeting on Iran

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke on the phone on Sunday about Russia's proposal to hold a video summit at the United Nations to discuss Iran, the Russian foreign ministry said.Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a video summit with the United States and the remaining parties to a 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers – Britain, France, China, Germany and Iran – to try to avoid further "confrontation and escalation" over Iran at the United Nations.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Saudi-led coalition downs Houthi ballistic missile aimed at kingdom

Cross-border attacks by Iran-aligned Houthi forces have escalated since late May , when a truce prompted by the coronavirus pandemic @ @ @ @ @ , missiles reached the Saudi capital Riyadh .
The coalition has retaliated with air strikes @ @ @ @ @ run by the Iran-aligned Houthis , said on Sunday that Saudi-led coalition air strikes had @ @ @ @ @ factory in Houthi-held territory .
On Thursday the coalition said it had intercepted and downed @ @ @ @ @ ballistic missiles launched towards southern Saudi Arabia .

The Saudi-led coalition fighting the Houthi movement in Yemen said on Sunday in a statement carried by state news agency SPA that it had intercepted and downed a ballistic missile launched towards civilian targets in southern Saudi Arabia.
Cross-border attacks by Iran-aligned Houthi forces have escalated since late May, when a truce prompted by the coronavirus pandemic expired. In late June, missiles reached the Saudi capital Riyadh. The coalition has retaliated with air strikes.
Al Masirah TV, run by the Iran-aligned Houthis, said on Sunday that Saudi-led coalition air strikes had damaged fuel tanks in a factory in Houthi-held territory.
On Thursday the coalition said it had intercepted and downed an armed drone and two ballistic missiles launched towards southern Saudi Arabia.
Yemen has been mired in conflict since the Saudi-led coalition intervened in March 2015 to restore the Yemeni government ousted from power in the capital Sanaa by Houthi forces. The Houthis say they are fighting a corrupt system.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--After call with Abbas, Macron says Middle East peace talks still priority

Macron said he had spoken with Mahmoud Abbas , president of the Palestinian Authority .
`` I told him of @ @ @ @ @ peace in the Middle East , '' Macron said .

The resumption of peace negotiations remain a priority to reach a just solution in the Middle East, French President Emmanuel Macron said on Twitter on Sunday.
Macron said he had spoken with Mahmoud Abbas, president of the Palestinian Authority. "I told him of my determination to work for peace in the Middle East," Macron said.


jerusalempost--2020-08-16--Half a million entitled to unemployment haven't returned to labor mark

Over half a million Israelis who are eligible for unemployment have not returned to the labor market since the onset of lockdown aimed at combating the spread of coronavirus.Since the beginning of the crisis, 982,070 applications for unemployment benefits have been submitted.