southfront--2020-09-25--SDF, U.S.-led Coalition Kicked Off Large-Scare Operation In Deir Ezzor

On September 25 , the Syrian Democratic Forces , backed by the U.S.-led coalition , kicked off a large-scale operation against ISIS remnants in the eastern Deir Ezzor countryside .
According to the Hawar News Agency ( ANHA ) , the operation is taking place in the al-A ’ jij Valley , which is located on the Syrian-Iraqi border .
The SDF ’ s operation will also target a series of roads used by ISIS cells to move terrorists and weapons in northeastern Syria .
Earlier this year , the SDF and the U.S.-led coalition launched “ Operation Deterring Terrorists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Deir Ezzor .
The first stage of the operation took place between June 4 and 10 .
The second stage started on July 17 and ended on July 20 .
Dozens of terrorists were apprehended during Operation Deterring Terrorism .
However , ISIS cells resumed their attacks in Deir Ezzor soon after the end of the operation .
The SDF ’ s new operation will likely improve security in northeast Syria on the short term .
ISIS will , however , continue to pose a serious threat to the region .
MORE ON @ @ @

Support SouthFront
On September 25, the Syrian Democratic Forces, backed by the U.S.-led coalition, kicked off a large-scale operation against ISIS remnants in the eastern Deir Ezzor countryside.
According to the Hawar News Agency (ANHA), the operation is taking place in the al-A’jij Valley, which is located on the Syrian-Iraqi border.
“The SDF, with the participation of the International Coalition, targeted the tunnels used by ISIS mercenaries’ cells in Deir Ezzor to hide and store weapons,” a source familiar with the operation told the ANHA.
The SDF’s operation will also target a series of roads used by ISIS cells to move terrorists and weapons in northeastern Syria.
Earlier this year, the SDF and the U.S.-led coalition launched “Operation Deterring Terrorists” against ISIS terrorists in al-Hasakah and Deir Ezzor. The first stage of the operation took place between June 4 and 10. The second stage started on July 17 and ended on July 20.
Dozens of terrorists were apprehended during Operation Deterring Terrorism. However, ISIS cells resumed their attacks in Deir Ezzor soon after the end of the operation.
The SDF’s new operation will likely improve security in northeast Syria on the short term. ISIS will, however, continue to pose a serious threat to the region.
MORE ON THIS TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-25--Taliban Increasingly Uses Night Vision Equipment To Gain Upper Hand In Clashes

On September 24th , a video was shared showing a fight between the Taliban and the Afghan Security Forces , recorded with thermal imaging equipment .
Until about 2019 , the US military , as well the Afghan Security Forces could effectively damage the Taliban during their night raids , however the group has increasingly been using night vision in its defense and attacks .
The Afghan Security Forces ( and if the US doesn ’ t really withdraw ) are practically losing a very important advantage over the militants .
Although , on the other hand , it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ night vision devices and thermal imagers in Taliban possession , it ’ s possible that only the most elite units have such equipment .
And these “ special forces ” are extremely rare on the battlefield .
The initial reports of Taliban with night vision equipment surfaced exactly a year ago in a UN report .
Afghan officials cited in the report said the Taliban had at least one night vision device and sniper rifle “ for each unit of 10 to 16 Taliban fighters , ” the UN report reads .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ varies and suggests that a number of commercial and military stock items are being supplied in increasing numbers , ” according to the report .
“ The Taliban enjoy robust supplies of weapons , ammunition , funding and manpower , with 60,000 to 65,000 fighters and half that number or more of facilitators and other non-combatant members , ” the report reads .
The night vision devices allow the Taliban to “ effectively harass isolated Afghan National Defence and Security Forces checkpoints ” and “ has proven to be a successful tactic in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as being a catalyst for demoralizing the Afghan Forces at such checkpoints , ” the report detailed .
The monitoring team said it had also seen Soviet military 1PN night vision scopes .
Taliban fighters have also been known to acquire night vision goggles through attacks against Afghan commandos and special operations units supplied with U.S. night vision tech .
It is unlikely that the numbers of night vision equipment had gone down since 2019 , rather it has most likely gone up .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • U.S. To @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If Taliban Fulfills Their End Of The Deal

Support SouthFront
On September 24th, a video was shared showing a fight between the Taliban and the Afghan Security Forces, recorded with thermal imaging equipment.
Until about 2019, the US military, as well the Afghan Security Forces could effectively damage the Taliban during their night raids, however the group has increasingly been using night vision in its defense and attacks.
The Afghan Security Forces (and if the US doesn’t really withdraw) are practically losing a very important advantage over the militants.
Although, on the other hand, it is extremely difficult to estimate the number of night vision devices and thermal imagers in Taliban possession, it’s possible that only the most elite units have such equipment.
And these “special forces” are extremely rare on the battlefield.
The initial reports of Taliban with night vision equipment surfaced exactly a year ago in a UN report.
Taliban Fighter with AN/PVS-7 Night Vision Goggles, and M16A4 equipped with ATN ThOR-HD 384 4.5-18x/640 2.5x-25x thermal optic. Taliban are utilising both Ghanimah and Smuggled Optics to deadly effect. This isn't just propaganda either. pic.twitter.com/VdktRlAIXo — Cᴀʟɪʙʀᴇ Oʙsᴄᴜʀᴀ (@CalibreObscura) February 22, 2019
Afghan officials cited in the report said the Taliban had at least one night vision device and sniper rifle “for each unit of 10 to 16 Taliban fighters,” the UN report reads.
“The type and origin of such equipment varies and suggests that a number of commercial and military stock items are being supplied in increasing numbers,” according to the report. “The Taliban enjoy robust supplies of weapons, ammunition, funding and manpower, with 60,000 to 65,000 fighters and half that number or more of facilitators and other non-combatant members,” the report reads.
The night vision devices allow the Taliban to “effectively harass isolated Afghan National Defence and Security Forces checkpoints” and “has proven to be a successful tactic in both gaining and holding territory, as well as being a catalyst for demoralizing the Afghan Forces at such checkpoints,” the report detailed.
The monitoring team said it had also seen Soviet military 1PN night vision scopes.
“Equipment is normally rail mounted onto rifles and becomes most effective in combination with the Taliban’s use of Dragunov 7.62 x 54 mm sniper rifles, which allow effective targeting at up to or even above 800 meters,” the report reads.
Taliban fighters have also been known to acquire night vision goggles through attacks against Afghan commandos and special operations units supplied with U.S. night vision tech.
It is unlikely that the numbers of night vision equipment had gone down since 2019, rather it has most likely gone up.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-25--Bahrain Group Announces Separate Unit To Hinder Israeli Interests, Following Normalization Deal

In Bahrain , a reportedly Iranian-backed group operating in the country has announced its opposition to the Israel-Bahrain normalization deal .
Saraya Wa ’ ad Allah [ God ’ s Promise Companies ] it has vowed to target Israeli interests with a new specialized unit formed just for the purpose .
In the message , the group states that “ this false normalization with the Zionist enemy is nothing but an update to the enabling of this cancerous gland on the body of the Ummah [ worldwide Islamic community ] and the rotten fruit of years of betrayal by Zionist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as well as other Bahraini militia groups , “ have long considered Bahrain and other Gulf monarchies to be clients of Israel and have called them ‘ Zionist ’ as a response.
” In the statement , it further says that “ what is being woven between puppet regimes of arrogance with the Zionist enemy is rejected by reason , Sharia law , and the people.
” In denouncing the ruling Al-Khalifa family , Saraya Wa ’ ad Allah says that the peace deal is “ nothing but a mirage ” and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taste his pursuit.
” The group claimed that its men , as well as the people of Bahrain , “ are passionate about fighting the Zionist enemy ” and that it will continue to resist “ all of the arrogant policies that are intended to be imposed on our people and our Ummah.
” As a result , the group said it will be creating a new sub-group , the “ Martyrs of Jerusalem Company , ” to specifically target Israeli interests on the island , and that it has now “ opened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ specialized unit .
Formed in July 2015 , Saraya Wa ’ ad Allah has been behind some of the deadlier attacks inside Bahrain .
One example is the November 2017 bombing of a bus near Manama that killed one police officer and injured eight others .
Much like other other militias on the island , Saraya Wa ’ ad Allah brands itself within the so-called “ Islamic Resistance , ” a pro-Iran moniker .
The Long War Journal reported that threats such as this from this same group are somewhat commonplace , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ON THE TOPIC : • Israel Normalization Appears To Be A Way To Pressure Palestinians , Houthis and Iran • Saudis To Continue ‘ Alternative Normalization ’ For The Moment , Despite Intense US Pressure

Support SouthFront
In Bahrain, a reportedly Iranian-backed group operating in the country has announced its opposition to the Israel-Bahrain normalization deal.
Saraya Wa’ad Allah [God’s Promise Companies] it has vowed to target Israeli interests with a new specialized unit formed just for the purpose.
The group released a statement [pdf] on September 16th.
In the message, the group states that “this false normalization with the Zionist enemy is nothing but an update to the enabling of this cancerous gland on the body of the Ummah [worldwide Islamic community] and the rotten fruit of years of betrayal by Zionist governments.”
Saraya Wa’ad Allah, as well as other Bahraini militia groups, “have long considered Bahrain and other Gulf monarchies to be clients of Israel and have called them ‘Zionist’ as a response.”
In the statement, it further says that “what is being woven between puppet regimes of arrogance with the Zionist enemy is rejected by reason, Sharia law, and the people.” In denouncing the ruling Al-Khalifa family, Saraya Wa’ad Allah says that the peace deal is “nothing but a mirage” and that King Hamad al-Khalifa will soon “taste his pursuit.”
The group claimed that its men, as well as the people of Bahrain, “are passionate about fighting the Zionist enemy” and that it will continue to resist “all of the arrogant policies that are intended to be imposed on our people and our Ummah.”
As a result, the group said it will be creating a new sub-group, the “Martyrs of Jerusalem Company,” to specifically target Israeli interests on the island, and that it has now “opened the door” for recruitment into the specialized unit.
Formed in July 2015, Saraya Wa’ad Allah has been behind some of the deadlier attacks inside Bahrain. One example is the November 2017 bombing of a bus near Manama that killed one police officer and injured eight others.
Much like other other militias on the island, Saraya Wa’ad Allah brands itself within the so-called “Islamic Resistance,” a pro-Iran moniker.
The Long War Journal reported that threats such as this from this same group are somewhat commonplace, but very little results from them.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-25--A Few Days Left To Keep SouthFront Alive In October

5 DAYS UNTIL THE END OF SEPTEMBER Since September 1 , we ’ ve collected 2920 USD .
This is @ @ @ @ @ monthly budget needed to continue SouthFront work and further .
Unlike propaganda structures funded by @ @ @ @ @ operates thanks to the audience ’ s donations .
We will not be able to @ @ @ @ @ Donate via VISA , PayPal , Paysafecard , Bitcoin and other options .
This systems @ @ @ @ @ , PayPal , Amazon Payments , bitcoin ( FAQ is under the main text , @ @ @ @ @ can subscribe for a monthly donation of $ 15 ( or any another amount ) @ @ @ @ @ by clicking buttons below

Support SouthFront
5 DAYS UNTIL THE END OF SEPTEMBER
Since September 1, we’ve collected 2920 USD. This is about 58% of the monthly budget needed to continue SouthFront work and further.
Unlike propaganda structures funded by the Euro-Atlantic establishment, SouthFront operates thanks to the audience’s donations. We will not be able to survive without your help.
SUPPORT SOUTHFRONT WORK:
PayPal
Account: southfront@list.ru
DonationAlerts
Donate via VISA, PayPal, Paysafecard, Bitcoin and other options.
Tinypass (Piano)
This systems accepts all types of cards, PayPal, Amazon Payments, bitcoin (FAQ is under the main text, in P.S.)
You can subscribe for a monthly donation of $15 (or any another amount) OR make one time donation by clicking buttons below
Patreon
Donate via SouthFront’s Patreon account (click here)
SouthFront: Analysis & Intelligence Team
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-25--Assange’s Thirteenth Day at the Old Bailey: Mental Health, Managed Risk and Publication Chronologies

The lion ’ s share of today ’ s Old Bailey proceedings in Julian Assange ’ s extradition trial was spent on battles over mental health and dire risk .
The prosecution continued its attempt to minimise the dangers facing Assange were he to be extradited to the United States for 17 charges under the US Espionage Act and one under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act .
While the defence has its case on Assange ’ s fragile mental health well plotted , the prosecution is hoping that witnesses such as Dr Nigel Blackwood , consultant psychiatrist with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the argument .
They will certainly hope for better efforts than those made by their own witnesses , Seena Fazel , a psychiatry professor who seemed too professionally tentative to land firm blows against Assange ’ s diagnosis for Asperger ’ s syndrome , or dismiss the health risks facing him in the US prisons system .
Blackwood had conducted his own psychiatric evaluation of Assange ’ s condition via phone in July 2020 .
What he gave the court was a show of qualified hypotheticals .
He found the publisher to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was undoubtedly “ some risk of suicide attempt in the event of extradition ” .
He did not feel this risk to be a “ high ” one .
It had been “ carefully managed in Belmarsh and the risk factors are modifiable.
” Assange “ engages with treatments to manage that risk.
” Reliance was placed upon the capacity for self-control in the face of such risk .
If the person facing extradition could self-manage or be “ capable of controlling ” their own risk of suicide , the extradition should be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finding Assange “ resourceful ” and “ very resilient ” .
He believed Assange “ retains the capacity to resist suicide.
” An unstinting faith in the prison authorities was shown by the witness .
They would have sent Assange for outside treatment had he suffered from severe depression .
The release of a video of Assange in prison , made public in June 2019 , prompted the authorities to send him to the medical ward .
Edward Fitzgerald QC for the defence was unimpressed by Blackwood ’ s reading of this incident @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had been for reasons of “ reputational damage ” to prison officials .
A prison document of that day ’ s incident noted that Assange had been sent to the ward for being at risk of self-harm .
Why had Blackwood failed to mention it in his report ?
The prosecution witness was moved to admit that , while multiple factors were present in the decision to send Assange to the medical ward , Assange ’ s considerations of self-harm was one of them .
This was a fact Blackwood omitted .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prison conditions Assange would face in the US would be broadly on par with those in the United Kingdom .
The point is significant as previous legal authority – notably the UK High Court decision in the Lauri Love case – found much to be worried about in the assurances made by the US Bureau of Prisons , notably on their poor provision of mental health facilities and safeguards against suicide .
Blackwood conceded that his assessment drew heavily upon US Assistant Attorney Gordon Kromberg ’ s affidavit , which claimed that there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Alexandria Detention Center ( ADC ) , where Assange will be initially held .
“ I relied on Kromberg and the academic literature on what happens in US prisons .
There may be stuff that isn ’ t covered , but there is broad equivalence.
” An all too confident assessment , given the revelations of Eric Lewis , board president of Reprieve , who had previously testified to the court about his own clients ’ experiences of solitary confinement and Special Administrative Measures ( SAMs ) deployed at ADC .
They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consult .
When Fitzgerald asked Lewis , in re-direct examination , whether Kromberg was “ more qualified than you are on prison conditions ” , the defence witness suggested that the assistant attorney would rarely have stepped into a prison .
Lewis , in contrast , was well acquainted with a range of prison conditions ranging from Guantánamo to the United Kingdom .
Blackwood was also taken to task by the defence for being green about the US prison system : he had never visited the ADC or any US federal facility .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ state prison in Connecticut , and a Newport , Rhode Island jail .
The prosecution witness was duly attacked for his presumptuousness in a report marked by vital subtractions and unnecessary additions .
Having failed to note the presence of solitary confinement in the ADC , he had also concluded that it would not be unjust to extradite Assange , given his mental health condition .
The defence proved stormy on this point .
“ It ’ s not your business to decide that , whether extradition is just or unjust , that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was a point Blackwood was left to accept .
Testimony for the defence was then provided by Dr Sondra Crosby of Boston University , an authority on the physical and psychological effects of torture .
Crosby ’ s expertise in the area is extensive : as of March 2019 , she had evaluated a touch under 1,000 survivors of torture .
She runs a clinic specialising in the care of refugees and asylum seekers , “ most of whom have experienced torture.
” She had visited Assange in the London Ecuadorean embassy in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left unnamed ) organised an “ academic evaluation of the effects of living in the embassy ” .
Assange then described “ symptoms of depression , symptoms of post-traumatic disorder.
” While capable of conversation and not seemingly in a “ horrible state ” , his physical symptoms were “ worrisome ” .
But mental decline was evident , marked by an inability to concentrate , depression , nightmares , disturbances to sleep .
Thoughts of suicide were first described to Crosby in 2018 .
The dramatic suicide of the convicted Bosnian Croatian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drunk before the judges of the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia , left a deep impression .
In her February 23 , 2019 session with Assange , her notes evaluating his state were taken from her by embassy staff , thereby violating doctor-patient confidentiality .
She noted the presence of cameras .
A copy of her medical license was demanded .
Her credentials had to be verified by an embassy security guard .
The incident might have formed part of the defence testimony on showing the operation of a US-backed surveillance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was also alarmed during that visit by Assange ’ s marked deterioration , physically and psychologically .
“ I was very concerned about a very advanced tooth infection that was causing him excruciating pain , requiring him to take narcotics.
” Visits to Assange at Belmarsh in October 2019 and January 2020 were also made .
Crosby ’ s December 2019 report was even more unequivocal .
Assange had “ met all the criteria for major depression ” ; he was “ essentially dead ” , “ tearful ” , pleading .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
She also found physical symptoms indicative of anxiety or cardiac arrest , and the possibility of chronic respiratory infection .
Assange , she concluded , was “ at high risk of completing suicide if he were to be extradited.
” The risk was compounded by an incomplete picture on Assange ’ s intentions .
He had concealed the “ full extent of his depression and suicide plans ” in meetings with mental health specialists and prison doctors .
He feared being subjected to “ more surveillance ” or further isolation if he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ suicidal ideations ” .
In cross-examination , Lewis dished up some common , misguided fare .
Any assessment of Assange ’ s health would surely have to be qualified by the fact that he could leave the embassy at any time .
Such a question , replied Crosby , was “ complex ” ; Assange found himself in a position similar to one “ who is being chased with an axe or a gun and locks himself in a room for safety.
” What faced Assange , were he to leave the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the police and the prospects of extradition , made concrete by the current proceedings .
Lewis also returned to what is becoming a favourite animus of his : the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Torture , Nils Melzer , whose widely publicised views of Assange ’ s treatment are known .
“ You rely on your report [ to the court ] on Nils Melzer , ” he coldly observed .
“ I think you got him involved.
” He also posed a rhetorical question verging on the inane : “ Are you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the US from the UK has committed suicide ?
” A man of true venal faith .
The last instalment of the day came with the reading out by the defence of a witness statement by John Young , host of cryptome.org .
The role of this testimony goes to corroborating other accounts on the chronology of publication .
Cryptome , which Young founded in 1996 , published the entire set of unredacted US State Department cables on September 1 , 2011 .
WikiLeaks followed suit the next day .
The publication , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remains available at present.
” Since “ publication on Cryptome.org of the unredacted diplomatic cables , no US law enforcement authority has notified me that this publication of the cables is illegal , consists or contributes to a crime in any way , nor have they asked for them to be removed.
” Other sites , and their operators , have also been spared the stern and intrusive gaze of the US Justice Department .
Assange ’ s defence had at hand a statement from Christopher Butler of the Internet Archive .
Butler @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Internet Archive still hosts records of WikiLeaks ’ publications .
Both he and his data have been left undisturbed .
Yet another instance showing this prosecution effort to be political , singular and selective .
Dr. Binoy Kampmark was a Commonwealth Scholar at Selwyn College , Cambridge .
He lectures at RMIT University , Melbourne .
Email : bkampmark @ gmail.com MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Assange ’ s Twelfth Day at the Old Bailey : Autism , Suicide and Prisons • Assange ’ s Eleventh Day at the Old Bailey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Assange ’ s Tenth Day at the Old Bailey : Bolting Horses , Death Penalties and Plots of Eviction • Assange ’ s Ninth Day at the Old Bailey : Torture Testimonies , Offers of Pardon and Truth Telling • Assange ’ s Eighth Day at the Old Bailey : Software Redactions , the Iraq Logs and the Extradition Act • Assange ’ s Seventh Day at the Old Bailey : Diligent Redactions and Avoiding Harm • Assange ’ s Sixth Day at the Old Bailey : US Prison Conditions and Politicised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the Old Bailey : COVID in the Courtroom • Assange ’ s Third Day at the Old Bailey : Bias , Politics and Wars on Journalism • Assange ’ s Second Day at the Old Bailey : Torture , Drone Strikes and Journalism

Support SouthFront
Submitted by Dr. Binoy Kampmark
September 24. Central Criminal Court, London.
The lion’s share of today’s Old Bailey proceedings in Julian Assange’s extradition trial was spent on battles over mental health and dire risk. The prosecution continued its attempt to minimise the dangers facing Assange were he to be extradited to the United States for 17 charges under the US Espionage Act and one under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act. While the defence has its case on Assange’s fragile mental health well plotted, the prosecution is hoping that witnesses such as Dr Nigel Blackwood, consultant psychiatrist with the National Health Service, will punch holes in the argument. They will certainly hope for better efforts than those made by their own witnesses, Seena Fazel, a psychiatry professor who seemed too professionally tentative to land firm blows against Assange’s diagnosis for Asperger’s syndrome, or dismiss the health risks facing him in the US prisons system.
Blackwood and managed risk
Blackwood had conducted his own psychiatric evaluation of Assange’s condition via phone in July 2020. What he gave the court was a show of qualified hypotheticals. He found the publisher to be “moderately depressed”; there was undoubtedly “some risk of suicide attempt in the event of extradition”. He did not feel this risk to be a “high” one. It had been “carefully managed in Belmarsh and the risk factors are modifiable.” Assange “engages with treatments to manage that risk.”
Reliance was placed upon the capacity for self-control in the face of such risk. If the person facing extradition could self-manage or be “capable of controlling” their own risk of suicide, the extradition should be made. Blackwood was excruciatingly selective, finding Assange “resourceful” and “very resilient”. He believed Assange “retains the capacity to resist suicide.”
An unstinting faith in the prison authorities was shown by the witness. They would have sent Assange for outside treatment had he suffered from severe depression. The release of a video of Assange in prison, made public in June 2019, prompted the authorities to send him to the medical ward. Edward Fitzgerald QC for the defence was unimpressed by Blackwood’s reading of this incident: confining Assange to the medical ward had been for reasons of “reputational damage” to prison officials. A prison document of that day’s incident noted that Assange had been sent to the ward for being at risk of self-harm. Why had Blackwood failed to mention it in his report? The prosecution witness was moved to admit that, while multiple factors were present in the decision to send Assange to the medical ward, Assange’s considerations of self-harm was one of them. This was a fact Blackwood omitted.
The defence turned on the issue of whether prison conditions Assange would face in the US would be broadly on par with those in the United Kingdom. The point is significant as previous legal authority – notably the UK High Court decision in the Lauri Love case – found much to be worried about in the assurances made by the US Bureau of Prisons, notably on their poor provision of mental health facilities and safeguards against suicide. Blackwood conceded that his assessment drew heavily upon US Assistant Attorney Gordon Kromberg’s affidavit, which claimed that there was no “solitary confinement” in the Alexandria Detention Center (ADC), where Assange will be initially held. “I relied on Kromberg and the academic literature on what happens in US prisons. There may be stuff that isn’t covered, but there is broad equivalence.”
An all too confident assessment, given the revelations of Eric Lewis, board president of Reprieve, who had previously testified to the court about his own clients’ experiences of solitary confinement and Special Administrative Measures (SAMs) deployed at ADC. They were not findings Blackwood had cared to consult. When Fitzgerald asked Lewis, in re-direct examination, whether Kromberg was “more qualified than you are on prison conditions”, the defence witness suggested that the assistant attorney would rarely have stepped into a prison. Lewis, in contrast, was well acquainted with a range of prison conditions ranging from Guantánamo to the United Kingdom.
Blackwood was also taken to task by the defence for being green about the US prison system: he had never visited the ADC or any US federal facility. His modest haul included visits to a state prison in Connecticut, and a Newport, Rhode Island jail.
The prosecution witness was duly attacked for his presumptuousness in a report marked by vital subtractions and unnecessary additions. Having failed to note the presence of solitary confinement in the ADC, he had also concluded that it would not be unjust to extradite Assange, given his mental health condition. The defence proved stormy on this point. “It’s not your business to decide that, whether extradition is just or unjust, that is up to the judge.” This was a point Blackwood was left to accept.
Crosby and very high risks
Testimony for the defence was then provided by Dr Sondra Crosby of Boston University, an authority on the physical and psychological effects of torture. Crosby’s expertise in the area is extensive: as of March 2019, she had evaluated a touch under 1,000 survivors of torture. She runs a clinic specialising in the care of refugees and asylum seekers, “most of whom have experienced torture.”
She had visited Assange in the London Ecuadorean embassy in October 2017 after an American doctor (left unnamed) organised an “academic evaluation of the effects of living in the embassy”. Assange then described “symptoms of depression, symptoms of post-traumatic disorder.” While capable of conversation and not seemingly in a “horrible state”, his physical symptoms were “worrisome”. But mental decline was evident, marked by an inability to concentrate, depression, nightmares, disturbances to sleep.
Thoughts of suicide were first described to Crosby in 2018. The dramatic suicide of the convicted Bosnian Croatian general Slobodan Praljak by potassium cyanide, drunk before the judges of the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, left a deep impression.
In her February 23, 2019 session with Assange, her notes evaluating his state were taken from her by embassy staff, thereby violating doctor-patient confidentiality. She noted the presence of cameras. A copy of her medical license was demanded. Her credentials had to be verified by an embassy security guard. The incident might have formed part of the defence testimony on showing the operation of a US-backed surveillance operation, but did not.
She was also alarmed during that visit by Assange’s marked deterioration, physically and psychologically. “I was very concerned about a very advanced tooth infection that was causing him excruciating pain, requiring him to take narcotics.”
Visits to Assange at Belmarsh in October 2019 and January 2020 were also made. Crosby’s December 2019 report was even more unequivocal. Assange had “met all the criteria for major depression”; he was “essentially dead”, “tearful”, pleading. He had called the anonymous suicide hotline Samaritans. She also found physical symptoms indicative of anxiety or cardiac arrest, and the possibility of chronic respiratory infection. Assange, she concluded, was “at high risk of completing suicide if he were to be extradited.”
The risk was compounded by an incomplete picture on Assange’s intentions. He had concealed the “full extent of his depression and suicide plans” in meetings with mental health specialists and prison doctors. He feared being subjected to “more surveillance” or further isolation if he confessed to the full scope of his “suicidal ideations”.
In cross-examination, Lewis dished up some common, misguided fare. Any assessment of Assange’s health would surely have to be qualified by the fact that he could leave the embassy at any time. Such a question, replied Crosby, was “complex”; Assange found himself in a position similar to one “who is being chased with an axe or a gun and locks himself in a room for safety.” What faced Assange, were he to leave the embassy environs, were the arms of the police and the prospects of extradition, made concrete by the current proceedings.
Lewis also returned to what is becoming a favourite animus of his: the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Torture, Nils Melzer, whose widely publicised views of Assange’s treatment are known. “You rely on your report [to the court] on Nils Melzer,” he coldly observed. “I think you got him involved.” He also posed a rhetorical question verging on the inane: “Are you aware that no one ever extradited to the US from the UK has committed suicide?” A man of true venal faith.
Cryptome: published and unpunished
The last instalment of the day came with the reading out by the defence of a witness statement by John Young, host of cryptome.org. The role of this testimony goes to corroborating other accounts on the chronology of publication. Cryptome, which Young founded in 1996, published the entire set of unredacted US State Department cables on September 1, 2011. WikiLeaks followed suit the next day.
The publication, Young’s statement reads, “remains available at present.” Since “publication on Cryptome.org of the unredacted diplomatic cables, no US law enforcement authority has notified me that this publication of the cables is illegal, consists or contributes to a crime in any way, nor have they asked for them to be removed.”
Other sites, and their operators, have also been spared the stern and intrusive gaze of the US Justice Department. Assange’s defence had at hand a statement from Christopher Butler of the Internet Archive. Butler confirmed that, to this day, the Internet Archive still hosts records of WikiLeaks’ publications. Both he and his data have been left undisturbed. Yet another instance showing this prosecution effort to be political, singular and selective.
Dr. Binoy Kampmark was a Commonwealth Scholar at Selwyn College, Cambridge. He lectures at RMIT University, Melbourne. Email: bkampmark@gmail.com
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-25--New Ukrainian School Book Teaches Of The Struggle For ‘Independent’ Church

In order to reinforce the notion that the values of ‘ democracy and religious freedom ’ in Ukraine are intact , it appears that openly promotes religious discrimination in a History textbook for Grade 11 .
A photo of one of the pages of a history textbook for grade 11 was published online , paragraph 28 of which tells the story of the “ struggle for the Ukrainian autocephalous church ” by the Ukrainian state .
The authors of the textbook , which was published in April 2019 and was recommended by the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The school curriculum of the history course in their edition says that the “ struggle for autocephaly ” , which began in 1992 , thanks to presidents Kravchuk , Kuchma , Yushchenko and Poroshenko “ ended in victory.
” The new program notes that the creation of the OCU and its receipt of the Tomos from the head of the Patriarchate of Constantinople “ consolidated and united the patriotic forces ” of the country .
At the same time , the authors consider the main victory to be “ limiting the influence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) on the internal life ” of Ukrainians .
The Ukrainian Orthodox Church in the textbook is called either the UOC-MP ( Ukrainian Orthodox Church – Moscow Patriarchate ) , or the ROC .
The text is replete with the dates of the stages of the formation of the OCU and patriotic quotes from Poroshenko , the head of the Phanar – Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew , Filaret and the head of the OCU Epiphany Dumenko .
The paragraph ends with the statement of Pyotr Alekseevich that “ Tomos for us is actually another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” To make sure that the students have learned the lesson well , the teacher should ask the senior pupils the following questions : • Why did the UOC-MP obstruct the receipt of the Tomos of autocephaly of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church ?
• How did they manifest themselves ?
• What ideologemes did the opponents use to substantiate their position ?
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • On The Freedom Of Ukrainain Church

Support SouthFront
In order to reinforce the notion that the values of ‘democracy and religious freedom’ in Ukraine are intact, it appears that openly promotes religious discrimination in a History textbook for Grade 11.
A photo of one of the pages of a history textbook for grade 11 was published online, paragraph 28 of which tells the story of the “struggle for the Ukrainian autocephalous church” by the Ukrainian state.
The authors of the textbook, which was published in April 2019 and was recommended by the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, are Vitaly Vlasov and Stanislav Kulchitsky.
The school curriculum of the history course in their edition says that the “struggle for autocephaly”, which began in 1992, thanks to presidents Kravchuk, Kuchma, Yushchenko and Poroshenko “ended in victory.”
The new program notes that the creation of the OCU and its receipt of the Tomos from the head of the Patriarchate of Constantinople “consolidated and united the patriotic forces” of the country.
At the same time, the authors consider the main victory to be “limiting the influence of the ROC (Russian Orthodox Church) on the internal life” of Ukrainians.
The Ukrainian Orthodox Church in the textbook is called either the UOC-MP (Ukrainian Orthodox Church – Moscow Patriarchate), or the ROC.
The text is replete with the dates of the stages of the formation of the OCU and patriotic quotes from Poroshenko, the head of the Phanar – Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, Filaret and the head of the OCU Epiphany Dumenko.
The paragraph ends with the statement of Pyotr Alekseevich that “Tomos for us is actually another act of declaring Ukraine’s independence.”
To make sure that the students have learned the lesson well, the teacher should ask the senior pupils the following questions:
Why did the UOC-MP obstruct the receipt of the Tomos of autocephaly of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church? How did they manifest themselves? What ideologemes did the opponents use to substantiate their position?
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-25--China’s PLZ-07 Self-Propelled Howitzer

China’s PLZ-07 Self-Propelled Howitzer

The PLZ-07 is a Chinese tracked self-propelled howitzer armoured vehicle designed and manufactured by the China North Industries Group Corporation ( NORINCO ) .
The PLZ-07 self-propelled howitzer was presented for the first time to the public during the military parade in Beijing for the 60th anniversary of the Chinese army ( PLA ) , on October 1st , 2009 .
The PLZ-07 has been in service with PLA ( People ’ s Liberation Army ) , the Chinese Army .
The PLZ-07 has been developed to replace the older 122 mm self-propelled howitzers in service with the People ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Type 89 , Type 85 and Type 70/70-1 systems .
The Chinese army operates a large number of these artillery systems .
The PLZ-07 has greater mobility , improved fire control system and delivers greater firepower than its predecessors .
The PLZ-07 is armed with a variant of the PL-96 122 mm/L32 howitzer , which in turn is a copy of the Soviet D-30 towed howitzer .
It is a proven design , used on a number of Chinese self-propelled howitzers .
It is equipped with a semi-automatic loader .
This artillery system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 122 mm ammunition .
It fires separate-loaded ammunition .
NORINCO developed a whole family of 122 mm ammunition to be used by the PLZ-07 .
Maximum range of fire is 18 km with a standard High-Explosive ( HE ) projectile , 22 km with extended-range projectile and 27 km with rocket assisted projectile .
This artillery system is also capable of firing 122 mm laser-guided projectiles .
These are based on Russian Kitolov projectile technology .
The secondary armament consists of a roof mounted 12.7 mm machine gun .
The PLZ-07 is fitted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PLZ-07 , in a way , is a Chinese copy of the Russian D30 howitzer .
Besides the QJC-88 12.7 x 108mm heavy machine gun mounted on the turret roof there are two triple banks of 76mm smoke grenade dischargers on either side of the turret .
The gun has an elevation from 0° to +70° and a maximum rate of fire of 6 – 8 rounds per minute .
The armor of the PLZ-07 provides protection against small arms fire and artillery shell splinters .
NBC protection and automatic suppression systems are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is operated by a crew of 5 .
Due to new chassis the PLZ-07 has greater mobility than the previous Type 89 .
It uses a modified chassis of the Type 97 infantry fighting vehicle , which is powered by a BF8M1015CP turbocharged diesel engine , developing 590 hp .
This artillery system is not amphibious , however it seems that it might be fitted with floatation kit in order to ford inland rivers and lakes .
Chinese marine corps uses a similar PLZ-07B self-propelled howitzer which is fully amphibious .
MORE ON @ @ @

Support SouthFront
The PLZ-07 is a Chinese tracked self-propelled howitzer armoured vehicle designed and manufactured by the China North Industries Group Corporation (NORINCO).
The PLZ-07 self-propelled howitzer was presented for the first time to the public during the military parade in Beijing for the 60th anniversary of the Chinese army (PLA), on October 1st, 2009.
The PLZ-07 has been in service with PLA (People’s Liberation Army), the Chinese Army. The PLZ-07 has been developed to replace the older 122 mm self-propelled howitzers in service with the People’s Liberation Army, which includes the Type 89, Type 85 and Type 70/70-1 systems.
The Chinese army operates a large number of these artillery systems. The PLZ-07 has greater mobility, improved fire control system and delivers greater firepower than its predecessors.
The PLZ-07 is armed with a variant of the PL-96 122 mm/L32 howitzer, which in turn is a copy of the Soviet D-30 towed howitzer. It is a proven design, used on a number of Chinese self-propelled howitzers.
It is equipped with a semi-automatic loader. This artillery system is compatible with standard Chinese and Russian 122 mm ammunition. It fires separate-loaded ammunition.
NORINCO developed a whole family of 122 mm ammunition to be used by the PLZ-07.
Maximum range of fire is 18 km with a standard High-Explosive (HE) projectile, 22 km with extended-range projectile and 27 km with rocket assisted projectile.
This artillery system is also capable of firing 122 mm laser-guided projectiles. These are based on Russian Kitolov projectile technology.
The secondary armament consists of a roof mounted 12.7 mm machine gun. The PLZ-07 is fitted with improved fire control system.
The PLZ-07, in a way, is a Chinese copy of the Russian D30 howitzer. Besides the QJC-88 12.7 x 108mm heavy machine gun mounted on the turret roof there are two triple banks of 76mm smoke grenade dischargers on either side of the turret. The gun has an elevation from 0° to +70° and a maximum rate of fire of 6 – 8 rounds per minute.
The armor of the PLZ-07 provides protection against small arms fire and artillery shell splinters. NBC protection and automatic suppression systems are fitted as standard.
This artillery system is operated by a crew of 5.
Due to new chassis the PLZ-07 has greater mobility than the previous Type 89.
It uses a modified chassis of the Type 97 infantry fighting vehicle, which is powered by a BF8M1015CP turbocharged diesel engine, developing 590 hp.
This artillery system is not amphibious, however it seems that it might be fitted with floatation kit in order to ford inland rivers and lakes. Chinese marine corps uses a similar PLZ-07B self-propelled howitzer which is fully amphibious.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-25--Former Poroshenko Ally David Zhvania Continues Revelations Of Ukraine’s Looting

On September 24th , former Ukrainian member of parliament David Zhvania continued releasing revelations into what transpired in Ukraine leading up to the 2014 Maidan .
This is in continuation of his videos published in July 2020 .
According to Zhvania , authorities should investigate crimes under three articles : creation and participation in a criminal organization ( Article 255 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine ) ; actions committed with the aim of seizing state power ( part 1 of article 109 ) ; abuse of power ( part 1 of article 364 ) .
The group in question @ @ @ @ @ @ @ acting President Alexander Turchynov , Kiev Mayor Vitali Klitschko , as well as Arseniy Yatsenyuk and Oleg Tyagnibok .
Zhvania was an active participant in the Euromaidan and a former associate of Poroshenko , with whom they had a falling out .
In the first round of videos he talked about the creation of an organized criminal group to overthrow the Yanukovych government , that the Maidan was a coup , and Crimea was surrendered at the request of the United States .
There was no reaction to Zhvania ’ s revelations from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his revelations either remained silent or denied the accusations .
Since the latest round of revelations , Zhvania has revealed the following , with dates : • July 30th : Zhvania said that the source of funding for the seizure of power during the Maidan was , among other things , the Lithuanian embassy and the “ Diamantbank ” , which he himself owned together with ex-people ’ s deputy Martynenko .
• August 4th : According to Zhvania , Poroshenko , in exchange for support during the 2014 presidential elections , organized @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and some of them openly included in power .
Former adviser Poroshenko names specific names of people who continue to work in the interests of other states , undermining the national sovereignty of Ukraine .
However , according to him , there are also direct agents of foreign intelligence services : the head of the foreign station is the former Prime Minister and ex-Minister of Internal Affairs of Georgia Vano Merabishvili , who heads the general director of Ukroboronprom Aivaras Abromavichius .
The name of Mikheil Saakashvili was also mentioned , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Council of Reforms for the sake of elections in Georgia .
It was Poroshenko , as Zhvania assures , who opened this “ Pandora ’ s box ” in exchange for the support of the US Democratic Party , but President Zelensky has not yet been able to end this shame .
• August 21st : Zhvania recorded an open appeal to Zelensky , stating that , together with Poroshenko and Turchynov , he organized a series of abductions and beatings of activists on the Maidan .
“ Mr .
President , your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of working for the Kremlin .
Now all the gunmen – and I know these people , I myself financed them at Poroshenko ’ s request for some time – accuse your team of treason .
Then they will call people into the streets , and you you will no longer know what to do .
Petro Poroshenko is a master of creating crises and provocations , he is the best specialist in Ukraine .
I have already told how he very skillfully directed different situations during the Maidan , ” Zhvania said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to achieve his goal , Poroshenko stopped at nothing : it was Poroshenko and Turchynov who organized a series of beatings and abductions of activists in order to stir up people ’ s hatred of Yanukovych , and these actions were coordinated by Vitaly Yarema .
• August 31st : Zhvania said that despite his statements , he was never summoned for questioning .
Allegedly , the ex-president of Georgia “ masturbated , looking at the torture ” of his political opponents in prison .
• September 21st : during his appeal , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guilty of the loss of the territory of Crimea .
According to Zhvania , the former acting President of Ukraine Oleksandr Turchynov ordered the Ukrainian military to be inactive when Russia seized the peninsula , so ex-President Petro Poroshenko and former Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk should bear responsibility for the annexation .
He also added that “ the United States has forbidden ” politicians to send “ an army and armed nationalists ” to the defense of Crimea .
“ The Obama administration played some of its own games with Putin , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Crimea was surrendered to Russia for some purpose .
Nobody in Ukraine knows why – they did not tell us .
They just let the command “ do not twitch , ” do nothing .
And Turchynov carried out this command .
It is absolutely no secret – dozens of people know about it besides me .
Nobody hid then that Ukraine was carrying out commands from the USA .
They were even proud of it , ” Zhvania said .
• September 24th : Zhvania announced the seizure of state power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Ukraine in parliament and early termination of parliament ’ s powers .
David Zhvania claims that , on the instructions of his associate Poroshenko and other members of the group , he personally pressured then-Prime Minister Mykola Azarov to force him to resign .
After that , the “ grouping ” was able to implement a plan to transfer power to Alexander Turchinov , as acting .
President , and Arseniy Yatsenyuk , as head of government .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Former Poroshenko Ally Admits Euromaidan In 2014 Was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” • Leaked Recordings Confirm The West ’ s Concealment Of Ukrain ’ s Terrorist Policy In Crimea

Support SouthFront
On September 24th, former Ukrainian member of parliament David Zhvania continued releasing revelations into what transpired in Ukraine leading up to the 2014 Maidan.
This is in continuation of his videos published in July 2020.
According to Zhvania, authorities should investigate crimes under three articles: creation and participation in a criminal organization (Article 255 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine); actions committed with the aim of seizing state power (part 1 of article 109); abuse of power (part 1 of article 364).
The group in question is comprised of Petro Poroshenko, former acting President Alexander Turchynov, Kiev Mayor Vitali Klitschko, as well as Arseniy Yatsenyuk and Oleg Tyagnibok.
Zhvania was an active participant in the Euromaidan and a former associate of Poroshenko, with whom they had a falling out.
In the first round of videos he talked about the creation of an organized criminal group to overthrow the Yanukovych government, that the Maidan was a coup, and Crimea was surrendered at the request of the United States.
There was no reaction to Zhvania’s revelations from government agencies. And the defendants in his revelations either remained silent or denied the accusations.
Since the latest round of revelations, Zhvania has revealed the following, with dates:
July 30th: Zhvania said that the source of funding for the seizure of power during the Maidan was, among other things, the Lithuanian embassy and the “Diamantbank”, which he himself owned together with ex-people’s deputy Martynenko.
“Funding for the seizure of power was carried out in several ways. One of the external sources was the Lithuanian embassy, through which money and weapons were transferred. And the internal channel was Diamantbank. I have documentary evidence confirming my words … Ukrainians must finally find out the truth about what happened then,” said Davil Zhvania.
August 4th: According to Zhvania, Poroshenko, in exchange for support during the 2014 presidential elections, organized a network of foreign agents in Ukraine, and some of them openly included in power. Former adviser Poroshenko names specific names of people who continue to work in the interests of other states, undermining the national sovereignty of Ukraine.
However, according to him, there are also direct agents of foreign intelligence services: the head of the foreign station is the former Prime Minister and ex-Minister of Internal Affairs of Georgia Vano Merabishvili, who heads the general director of Ukroboronprom Aivaras Abromavichius. The name of Mikheil Saakashvili was also mentioned, who left the leading position in the National Council of Reforms for the sake of elections in Georgia.
It was Poroshenko, as Zhvania assures, who opened this “Pandora’s box” in exchange for the support of the US Democratic Party, but President Zelensky has not yet been able to end this shame.
“Poroshenko committed a grave crime – betrayal of the Motherland. I have information about how and with whom he negotiated the legalization of foreign agents in Ukraine, how he pressured people in Ukraine who opposed it. I am ready to testify on these and other episodes.”, said Zhvania.
August 21st: Zhvania recorded an open appeal to Zelensky, stating that, together with Poroshenko and Turchynov, he organized a series of abductions and beatings of activists on the Maidan.
“Mr. President, your inner circle has already been openly accused of working for the Kremlin. Now all the gunmen – and I know these people, I myself financed them at Poroshenko’s request for some time – accuse your team of treason. Then they will call people into the streets, and you you will no longer know what to do. Petro Poroshenko is a master of creating crises and provocations, he is the best specialist in Ukraine. I have already told how he very skillfully directed different situations during the Maidan,” Zhvania said.
According to Zhvania, in order to achieve his goal, Poroshenko stopped at nothing: it was Poroshenko and Turchynov who organized a series of beatings and abductions of activists in order to stir up people’s hatred of Yanukovych, and these actions were coordinated by Vitaly Yarema.
“They organized the beating of Tatiana Chornovol on December 25, 2013. This was done simply in order to prevent the Maidan from quieting down, so that people would not start to disperse,” David Zhvania said.
August 31st: Zhvania said that despite his statements, he was never summoned for questioning.
“Apparently, the new and old authorities have agreements that do not provide for the imprisonment of such criminals as Poroshenko or Turchynov,” he said in his video blog, where he also talked about the compromising material on Mikhail Saakashvili that Poroshenko has.
Allegedly, the ex-president of Georgia “masturbated, looking at the torture” of his political opponents in prison.
September 21st: during his appeal, Zhvania called Turchynov, Yatsenyuk and Poroshenko guilty of the loss of the territory of Crimea.
According to Zhvania, the former acting President of Ukraine Oleksandr Turchynov ordered the Ukrainian military to be inactive when Russia seized the peninsula, so ex-President Petro Poroshenko and former Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk should bear responsibility for the annexation.
“It was they who did everything to make the population of Crimea hate the new Ukrainian government. It was they who made the decision to disconnect Crimea from electricity and water supply, their people threatened to send troops of nationalists to Crimea and banned the Russian language,” the politician said.
He also added that “the United States has forbidden” politicians to send “an army and armed nationalists” to the defense of Crimea.
“The Obama administration played some of its own games with Putin, and Crimea became a pawn on the chessboard. Crimea was surrendered to Russia for some purpose. Nobody in Ukraine knows why – they did not tell us. They just let the command “do not twitch,” do nothing. And Turchynov carried out this command. It is absolutely no secret – dozens of people know about it besides me. Nobody hid then that Ukraine was carrying out commands from the USA. They were even proud of it,” Zhvania said.
September 24th: Zhvania announced the seizure of state power in 2014 by appointing an acting president of Ukraine in parliament and early termination of parliament’s powers.
David Zhvania claims that, on the instructions of his associate Poroshenko and other members of the group, he personally pressured then-Prime Minister Mykola Azarov to force him to resign. After that, the “grouping” was able to implement a plan to transfer power to Alexander Turchinov, as acting. President, and Arseniy Yatsenyuk, as head of government.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-25--US Regime Change Propaganda Against Venezuela Takes Environmentally Friendly Twist

The Washington Post reports that many are increasingly concerned that the US ’ unilateral punitive sanctions on Venezuela are aggravating the possibility of a major “ ecological disaster in this failing socialist state.
” Notwithstanding its apparent concern for the environment , it doesn ’ t however go so far as to suggest that the ‘ failing capitalist state ’ to the north should relent in its efforts to overthrow the Venezuelan government and punish the Venezuelan people for not collaborating with its schemes .
The article by the Washington Post states that : “ Venezuela ’ s once powerful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with years of mismanagement , corruption , falling prices and a U.S. embargo imposed last year bringing aging infrastructure to the brink of collapse… ( A ) spate of oil industry troubles … have alarmed environmentalists here .
They include a recent oil spill that has jeopardized corals and rare marine life off sensitive Morrocoy National Park , and a rusting vessel in the Gulf of Paria that observers call a ticking ecological time bomb .
Analysts see a growing risk of more and larger spills in a country that has already suffered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abandoned oil fields… Particularly in recent years , a lack of spare parts , a brain drain of technicians and widespread corruption have crippled oil production and fuel refineries , making environmental accidents more common .
Between 2010 and 2016 , the state oil giant PDVSA was responsible for more than 46,000 spills of crude and other pollutants , according to the Caracas-based human rights group Provea… ” The Venezuelan media could make many similar observations about the many ecological catastrophes caused by the disaster capitalism fracking industry in the failed State to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the US has exported thousands of ecological disasters all around the world with its imperial wars and global network of military bases .
Meanwhile , the US Embassy in Georgia has published another hit piece in the propaganda war on ‘ How Maduro has destroyed Venezuela ’ .
The notice refers to a study conducted by a Catholic University in Venezuela ’ s capital that describes rampant poverty , unemployment and lack of essential goods and services : “ The 2019–2020 National Survey of Living Conditions ( ENCOVI , for Encuesta Nacional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by researchers at Andrés Bello Catholic University in Caracas — details how basic infrastructure , the labor market and education have deteriorated since 2014 .
The United Nations estimates that 7 million Venezuelans — 25 percent of the population — are in need of humanitarian assistance , while an astonishing 96 percent of Venezuelans live in poverty , according to ENCOVI .
Daily water and electricity are increasingly unavailable , according to the report… ” The deluge of similar reports by corporate and government media outlets suggest that SouthCom ’ s ‘ Masterstroke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ throttle .
A ‘ top secret ’ document entitled “ Plan to Overthrow the Venezuelan Dictatorship ‘ Masterstroke ’ ” received substantial coverage by the ‘ alternative ’ press in Latin America in 2018 .
The document is dated the 23rd of February 2018 and apparently was edited and approved by Kurt Tidd , commander of United States Southern Command ( ‘ SouthCom ’ ) .
The report describes the full scope and ruthlessness of the United States ’ disruptive economic , social and political actions to destabilize and overthrow the Venezuelan government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more dramatic escalation in intensity and scale .
For instance , in order to undermine “ the decadent popular support to Government ” : In the section on ‘ Information Strategy ’ the report emphasizes the importance of “ keeping the harassment to the Dictator as the only responsible of the crisis in which he has submerged the nation ” ( p.9 ) , and in another section states the intention to “ expose him as a puppet of Cuba ” ( p.3 ) .
The unlikely spectre of the small Caribbean island @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by piece as conquered dominions still has a surprising amount of currency in the mainstream press and among right wing sectors .
Also reflecting the regional significance and implications of related developments , the report includes as part of the ‘ Information Strategy ’ proclaiming the failure of regional “ mechanisms of integration created by the regimens of Cuba and Venezuela , specially the ALBA and PETROCARIBE ” , along with “ strengthening the image of the OAS ” and other multilateral institutions and agreements in the region that are compatible with and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ objectives ( p.10 ) .
In terms of the international dimensions of the strategy , the report declares that other components include : “ Fully obstructing imports… Appealing to domestic allies as well as other people inserted from abroad in the national scenario in order to generate protests , riots and insecurity , plunders , thefts , assaults and highjacking of vessels as well as other means of transportation with the intention of deserting this country in crisis through all borderlands and other possible ways , jeopardizing in such a way the National @ @ @ @ @ @ @ victims and holding the Government responsible for them .
Magnifying , in front of the world , the humanitarian crisis in which the country has been submitted to… ” ( pp.4-5 ) The various methods and tactics outlined in the strategic document still correspond exactly with the tone and content of the latest flood of corporate and State media and statements denouncing the Venezuelan government .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • As Showdown Looms Over Iran ’ s Oil Shipments To Venezuela US Nato Forces Poised For Possible Interception • Preparations for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Venezuela • More axis of resistance sanctions busting Iranian fuel shipments keep arriving to Venezuela

Support SouthFront
The Washington Post reports that many are increasingly concerned that the US’ unilateral punitive sanctions on Venezuela are aggravating the possibility of a major “ecological disaster in this failing socialist state.” Notwithstanding its apparent concern for the environment, it doesn’t however go so far as to suggest that the ‘failing capitalist state’ to the north should relent in its efforts to overthrow the Venezuelan government and punish the Venezuelan people for not collaborating with its schemes.
The article by the Washington Post states that:
“Venezuela’s once powerful oil industry is literally falling apart, with years of mismanagement, corruption, falling prices and a U.S. embargo imposed last year bringing aging infrastructure to the brink of collapse… (A) spate of oil industry troubles … have alarmed environmentalists here. They include a recent oil spill that has jeopardized corals and rare marine life off sensitive Morrocoy National Park, and a rusting vessel in the Gulf of Paria that observers call a ticking ecological time bomb. Analysts see a growing risk of more and larger spills in a country that has already suffered years of damage from broken wells and abandoned oil fields… Particularly in recent years, a lack of spare parts, a brain drain of technicians and widespread corruption have crippled oil production and fuel refineries, making environmental accidents more common. Between 2010 and 2016, the state oil giant PDVSA was responsible for more than 46,000 spills of crude and other pollutants, according to the Caracas-based human rights group Provea…”
The Venezuelan media could make many similar observations about the many ecological catastrophes caused by the disaster capitalism fracking industry in the failed State to the north. They might even note that the US has exported thousands of ecological disasters all around the world with its imperial wars and global network of military bases.
Meanwhile, the US Embassy in Georgia has published another hit piece in the propaganda war on ‘How Maduro has destroyed Venezuela’. The notice refers to a study conducted by a Catholic University in Venezuela’s capital that describes rampant poverty, unemployment and lack of essential goods and services:
“The 2019–2020 National Survey of Living Conditions (ENCOVI, for Encuesta Nacional de Condiciones de Vida) — published by researchers at Andrés Bello Catholic University in Caracas — details how basic infrastructure, the labor market and education have deteriorated since 2014. The United Nations estimates that 7 million Venezuelans — 25 percent of the population — are in need of humanitarian assistance, while an astonishing 96 percent of Venezuelans live in poverty, according to ENCOVI. Daily water and electricity are increasingly unavailable, according to the report…”
The deluge of similar reports by corporate and government media outlets suggest that SouthCom’s ‘Masterstroke’ plan is still operating at full throttle.
A ‘top secret’ document entitled “Plan to Overthrow the Venezuelan Dictatorship ‘Masterstroke’” received substantial coverage by the ‘alternative’ press in Latin America in 2018. The document is dated the 23rd of February 2018 and apparently was edited and approved by Kurt Tidd, commander of United States Southern Command (‘SouthCom’).
The report describes the full scope and ruthlessness of the United States’ disruptive economic, social and political actions to destabilize and overthrow the Venezuelan government and anticipates the possibility of an even more dramatic escalation in intensity and scale. For instance, in order to undermine “the decadent popular support to Government”:
“Encouraging popular dissatisfaction by increasing scarcity and rise in price of the foodstuffs, medicines and other essential goods for the inhabitants. Making more harrowing and painful the scarcities of the main basic merchandises…” (pp.2-3)
In the section on ‘Information Strategy’ the report emphasizes the importance of “keeping the harassment to the Dictator as the only responsible of the crisis in which he has submerged the nation” (p.9), and in another section states the intention to “expose him as a puppet of Cuba” (p.3). The unlikely spectre of the small Caribbean island taking over the Latin American continent piece by piece as conquered dominions still has a surprising amount of currency in the mainstream press and among right wing sectors.
Also reflecting the regional significance and implications of related developments, the report includes as part of the ‘Information Strategy’ proclaiming the failure of regional “mechanisms of integration created by the regimens of Cuba and Venezuela, specially the ALBA and PETROCARIBE”, along with “strengthening the image of the OAS” and other multilateral institutions and agreements in the region that are compatible with and subservient to the US’ interests and objectives (p.10).
In terms of the international dimensions of the strategy, the report declares that other components include:
“Fully obstructing imports… Appealing to domestic allies as well as other people inserted from abroad in the national scenario in order to generate protests, riots and insecurity, plunders, thefts, assaults and highjacking of vessels as well as other means of transportation with the intention of deserting this country in crisis through all borderlands and other possible ways, jeopardizing in such a way the National Security of neighbouring frontier nations. Causing victims and holding the Government responsible for them. Magnifying, in front of the world, the humanitarian crisis in which the country has been submitted to…” (pp.4-5)
The various methods and tactics outlined in the strategic document still correspond exactly with the tone and content of the latest flood of corporate and State media and statements denouncing the Venezuelan government.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-25--Iraq’s Muqtata al-Sadr Speaks Out Against Alleged PMU Attacks On Foreign Missions

On September 23th , influential Iraqi Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr condemned recent activities by some groups that are part of the Hashd al-Shaabi ( Popular Mobilization Units ( PMU ) ) .
In a tweet late on the day , Sadr said : “ What some armed groups affiliated with the Hashd al-Shaabi [ PMF ] are doing is weakening Iraq , its people and country , and weakening these three aspects means strengthening the external forces , on top of the list is the great evil America.
” He added , “ It is necessary to seek wisely and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the struggle of others and to strive together for the independence , sovereignty , peace , security of Iraq , or Iraq will be shifted away from our hands.
” In addition , al-Sadr accused the militants of political killings at the behest of another state .
The statement was made immediately after one of the Hashd Shaabi gangs took responsibility for the explosion of an IED , the purpose of which was to destroy a convoy of an Iraqi company carrying out an order from the British military .
The statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an increase in the number of attacks on foreign military targets in Iraq in recent months .
In addition to Al-Sadr , the President and Prime Minister of Iraq also condemned Hashd Shaabi .
The PMU are mostly composed of armed Shiite factions that were trained to fight ISIS in 2014 and formally affiliated with the Iraqi armed forces .
Some PMU factions , however , respond only to the orders of leaders close to Iran , according to media .
The PMU have denied allegations of attacks on foreign military personnel , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and killing of activists .
Also , a representative said that the PMU receives no support from abroad .
Sadr ’ s statements also appear to accuse some PMU factions of being behind the assassination of activists who participated in protests against political elite that are accused of corruption and collaboration with foreign countries , particularly Iran .
The Shia cleric expressed on September 18 his rejection of the operations targeting foreign missions in the country , following their escalation during the past weeks .
He said in a tweet at the time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iraq ’ s interest to drag the country into a dark tunnel and into the furnace of violence.
” Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi promised to hold the killers of demonstrators accountable and made surprise visits to numerous prisons to find out whether they included detainees from the protest movement .
MORE ON THE TOPIC :

Support SouthFront
On September 23th, influential Iraqi Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr condemned recent activities by some groups that are part of the Hashd al-Shaabi (Popular Mobilization Units (PMU)).
In a tweet late on the day, Sadr said:
“What some armed groups affiliated with the Hashd al-Shaabi [PMF] are doing is weakening Iraq, its people and country, and weakening these three aspects means strengthening the external forces, on top of the list is the great evil America.” He added, “It is necessary to seek wisely and deliberately to end making Iraq an arena for the struggle of others and to strive together for the independence, sovereignty, peace, security of Iraq, or Iraq will be shifted away from our hands.”
In addition, al-Sadr accused the militants of political killings at the behest of another state.
The statement was made immediately after one of the Hashd Shaabi gangs took responsibility for the explosion of an IED, the purpose of which was to destroy a convoy of an Iraqi company carrying out an order from the British military.
The statement was also made against the background of an increase in the number of attacks on foreign military targets in Iraq in recent months.
In addition to Al-Sadr, the President and Prime Minister of Iraq also condemned Hashd Shaabi.
The PMU are mostly composed of armed Shiite factions that were trained to fight ISIS in 2014 and formally affiliated with the Iraqi armed forces.
Some PMU factions, however, respond only to the orders of leaders close to Iran, according to media.
The PMU have denied allegations of attacks on foreign military personnel, shelling of Baghdad’s Green Zone and killing of activists. Also, a representative said that the PMU receives no support from abroad.
Sadr’s statements also appear to accuse some PMU factions of being behind the assassination of activists who participated in protests against political elite that are accused of corruption and collaboration with foreign countries, particularly Iran.
“We, in turn, renew the demand for non-interference in Iraq’s internal affairs from all parties. We also emphasise peace in all dealings, as Iraq can no longer endure more violence, wars, clashes, political conflicts and riots,” Sadr said.
The Shia cleric expressed on September 18 his rejection of the operations targeting foreign missions in the country, following their escalation during the past weeks.
He said in a tweet at the time, “It’s not for Iraq’s interest to drag the country into a dark tunnel and into the furnace of violence.”
“It’s not for Iraq’s interest to target cultural and diplomatic headquarters, “he said, adding that “political and parliamentary means can be followed to end the occupation and prevent their interference, and those who attack the headquarters are exposing Iraq and its people to the imminent danger.”
Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi promised to hold the killers of demonstrators accountable and made surprise visits to numerous prisons to find out whether they included detainees from the protest movement.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-25--Iran’s IRGC Takes Lead Role In Construction Of First ‘All Iranian’ Petroleum Refinery

Iran ’ s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps ( IRGC ) has begun constructing the first all-Iranian petroleum refinery in the southern Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas , reiterating that Iran will not allow US sanctions to halt the country ’ s economic and technological progress .
The ground-breaking ceremony for the new refinery , which is to be constructed near the Persian Gulf Star Oil Refinery , was attended by IRGC Chief Commander Major General Hossein Salami on Thursday .
The IRGC ’ s Khatam al-Anbia Construction Headquarters , an Iranian engineering firm and one of the main contractors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , will take the lead role in construction of the project while also cooperating with companies from the private sector .
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony , Salami said the construction of the Persian Gulf Star oil refinery , which made the country self-sufficient in the production of gasoline and other gas condensate , was also carried out by Khatam al-Anbia Construction Headquarters .
In an acknowledgement of the importance of the nation ’ s economic and technological capacities to making national independence and sovereignty a reality , the IRGC ’ s commander @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in its power to help the country move on the path of progress despite the US sanctions .
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony , Salami stated : “ This oil refinery will be another valuable achievement in the path of self-sufficiency and independence of our Islamic homeland… The IRGC would use all its capacities to help the Islamic Republic continue to make progress.
” The IRGC has also helped build over 1,000 kilometres of roads across Iran in recent years .
The Iranian general said that the IRGC would never allow any of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be disrupted by the US sanctions , and emphasized that the enemies ’ plots against Iran will be defeated by the Iranian nation ’ s resolve and determination .
The refinery will be built at an estimated cost of $ 460 million and is scheduled to be constructed within 24 months .
The IRGC , a military force tasked with major missions inside and outside Iran , has expanded its development and construction activities over the past years .
It ’ s successes in these tasks have prompted the United States to pile @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accuse it of involvement in illegal activities , with the Trump administ6ration also designating the IRGC as a terrorist organization earlier this year .
The Guards have also played a major role in reconstruction activities following the devastating floods that swept through areas in the south , west and north of Iran in March , leaving tens of thousands of people homeless .
LINK MORE ON THE TOPIC : • As Showdown Looms Over Iran ’ s Oil Shipments To Venezuela US Nato Forces Poised For Possible Interception • Iranian drone makes a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Persian Gulf • More axis of resistance sanctions busting Iranian fuel shipments keep arriving to Venezuela

Support SouthFront
Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has begun constructing the first all-Iranian petroleum refinery in the southern Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas, reiterating that Iran will not allow US sanctions to halt the country’s economic and technological progress.
The ground-breaking ceremony for the new refinery, which is to be constructed near the Persian Gulf Star Oil Refinery, was attended by IRGC Chief Commander Major General Hossein Salami on Thursday.
The IRGC’s Khatam al-Anbia Construction Headquarters, an Iranian engineering firm and one of the main contractors involved in the refinery’s construction, will take the lead role in construction of the project while also cooperating with companies from the private sector.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Salami said the construction of the Persian Gulf Star oil refinery, which made the country self-sufficient in the production of gasoline and other gas condensate, was also carried out by Khatam al-Anbia Construction Headquarters.
In an acknowledgement of the importance of the nation’s economic and technological capacities to making national independence and sovereignty a reality, the IRGC’s commander reaffirmed that the IRGC would do all in its power to help the country move on the path of progress despite the US sanctions.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Salami stated: “This oil refinery will be another valuable achievement in the path of self-sufficiency and independence of our Islamic homeland… The IRGC would use all its capacities to help the Islamic Republic continue to make progress.”
The IRGC has also helped build over 1,000 kilometres of roads across Iran in recent years.
The Iranian general said that the IRGC would never allow any of the country’s development projects to be disrupted by the US sanctions, and emphasized that the enemies’ plots against Iran will be defeated by the Iranian nation’s resolve and determination.
Also addressing the ceremony Saeed Mohammad, director of the Khatam al-Anbia Construction Headquarters, said all stages of designing and constructing the all-Iranian oil refinery had been carried out in coordination with the government “so that we can use our full national capacities to strengthen our country’s economy and independence.”
The refinery will be built at an estimated cost of $460 million and is scheduled to be constructed within 24 months.
The IRGC, a military force tasked with major missions inside and outside Iran, has expanded its development and construction activities over the past years. It’s successes in these tasks have prompted the United States to pile more pressure on the elite force and accuse it of involvement in illegal activities, with the Trump administ6ration also designating the IRGC as a terrorist organization earlier this year.
The Guards have also played a major role in reconstruction activities following the devastating floods that swept through areas in the south, west and north of Iran in March, leaving tens of thousands of people homeless. LINK
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-25--The New Normal: UAE And Israel Publicize Their Intelligence Cooperation, Some Aspects At Least

As the ‘ normalization ’ deal between the United Arab Emirates and Israel takes effect , the two countries are busy promoting the benefits of their new relationship , with particular emphasis on commercial and security benefits .
The ‘ new normal ’ is now permitting the disclosure of relations and areas of cooperation that have in fact existed for many years in some cases .
Other areas of ongoing cooperation continue to receive much less attention in the official discourses .
The Jerusalem Post has highlighted the burgeoning UAE-Israeli intelligence cooperation relationship under the heading “ UAE cyber head @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hacking attempts ” .
In a first for UAE and Israeli cyber intelligence and security agencies , their respective directors ( Muhammad al-Kuwaiti and Chief Yigal Unna respectively ) participated openly at the same event , in a Tel Aviv University virtual conference on Thursday .
Both sides were effusive in their praise for their counterparts and the benefits of the normalization agreement .
Responding to questions about the impact of the normalization deal on Israeli-UAE cyber security cooperation , al-Kuwaiti said that “ it has been really a positive and added value @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defending the UAE from hacking .
“ It ’ s a plus… that will help us on many collaborations and with digital transformation .
Israel is very well known for technology… and cyber security… In less than a month , many of the emergency response teams are sharing information.
” Al-Kuwaiti said this sharing , “ will help us in deterring [ hackers ] jointly and together and to allow all of these [ new ] business [ ventures to ] easily work together.
” In his opening remarks , Unna greeted al-Kuwaiti @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brother , I am happy for this great opportunity and for the start of fruitful and successful cooperation between each of us , with god ’ s help… We are threatened by the same threats , maybe even a little more than the rest of the world because of the nature of the region because of the new relationship and because of who we are – strong economically and technologically.
” Unna added , “ If we are more threatened , we should join hands and work together .
The UAE has a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has a lot to offer the UAE.
” He said cyber professionals in both countries were “ just waiting to begin .
The natural thing was finally our leaders paved the way to work [ together ] .
As we see…from the first meeting in Abu Dhabi , things are [ moving with ] fast progress.
” The event was also attended by another heavyweight in Israel ’ s cyber-security efforts , Major-General ( ret . )
Yitzhak Ben Israel , who currently directs the cyber program at Tel Aviv University and heads @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who commented on the importance of that field in changing the future of encryption methods .
Aspects of UAE – Israeli cyber intelligence cooperation that remain in the ‘ strictly covert , neither confirm nor deny ’ category include programs that enable the UAE to track , intercept and disrupt the communications of dissidents and critics of the regime , and the establishment or expansion of Israeli intelligence facilities at UAE military and intelligence installations at its military outposts in other countries and occupied areas , such as Socotra Island in Yemen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Transition Council , which receives substantial financial , military and technical support from the UAE and grants access to Yemeni territory and infrastructure in return .
In August noted that the UAE and Israel already had extensive cooperative relations in cyber security .
Once again , media outlets reported on the Israeli enemy cooperation with Gulf countries in the field of espionage and the sale of special capabilities and expertise that will help Gulf governments track down dissidents .
The Israeli NSO company is also mentioned in a very important and sensitive topic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pegasus ” , which enables penetration of mobile phones .
This time , the Hebrew newspaper , Haaretz , discussed the issue of Israeli-Gulf cooperation in terms of espionage , stating that the NSO company recently sold programs to opponents like the United Arab Emirates and other Gulf countries .
According to what the newspaper on Sunday , deals , worth hundreds of millions of dollars , were carried out through official mediation .
The article states of NSO , the electronic technology and intelligence company at the centre of the deal : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to spy on and penetrate mobile phones , and to steal their data .
It is founded in 2010 by Neve Carmi , Omri Lavie and Shalev Hulio , and has about 500 employees at its headquarters in “ Herzliya ” near Tel Aviv .
Its annual revenue reached about $ 40 million in 2013 and increased to $ 150 million by 2015 .
In June 2017 , its owner , Francisco Partners Management , put it for sale for one billion dollars and the deal was completed in 2019 .
Its services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with many governments , but its name has been associated with countries accused of widespread human rights violations , such as the UAE , Saudi Arabia and Bahrain… New York Times reported that UAE bought programs that helped it eavesdrop on the leaders of neighboring countries and the editor of an Arab newspaper in the British capital .
The Israeli government treats its products like any arms exporting company .
It requires it to obtain a permit from the Ministry of Defence ( the Ministry of War ) to export any of its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provide technology support to the world ’ s governments in order to help them fight terrorism and crime .
However , international human rights organizations accuse it of designing and developing programs used in hacking and espionage operations against human rights activists and journalists in many countries .
The Saudis have also been reported to be benefitting from Israeli ‘ cyber-security ’ expertise under their ‘ alternative normalization ’ strategy , maintaining cooperation at different levels of military , intelligence and commercial activities whilst categorically denying that this is happening .
As early @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reports that the Saudis had purchased a $ 250 million package of ‘ cyber-security ’ espionage software and equipment .
Saudi Arabia has inked a deal worth $ 250 million in advanced espionage technologies with Israel after a series of backroom meetings , according to a recent report from Emirati outlet .
This revelation highlights the Kingdom ’ s increasingly aggressive spy apparatus under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ( MBS ) — used to heighten attacks on journalists and dissidents living abroad , as evidenced by the recent killing of Saudi journalist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ obtained by the , claims that Saudi and Israeli officials held a series of secret meetings in Washington and London with the assistance of a European mediator .
The tech package includes the “ most sophisticated systems ” Israel has ever sold to any Arab country .
The purchase also includes Israeli-led training for Saudi technicians operating the new systems .
Saudi Arabia has already put most of the new espionage technology into use .
The report states that the two countries also exchanged strategic military information and plan to expand their military @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between Riyadh and Tel Aviv has blossomed over the past year as the two countries have openly joined forces against a shared enemy , Iran .
It is unlikely that the Saudis or Israel will acknowledge much less actively publicize and promote such areas of cooperation , even if they should take the step of normalizing their relations with a formal deal .
MORE ON THE TOPIC :

Support SouthFront
As the ‘normalization’ deal between the United Arab Emirates and Israel takes effect, the two countries are busy promoting the benefits of their new relationship, with particular emphasis on commercial and security benefits. The ‘new normal’ is now permitting the disclosure of relations and areas of cooperation that have in fact existed for many years in some cases. Other areas of ongoing cooperation continue to receive much less attention in the official discourses.
The Jerusalem Post has highlighted the burgeoning UAE-Israeli intelligence cooperation relationship under the heading “UAE cyber head: Israeli intel. sharing helps deter hacking attempts”.
In a first for UAE and Israeli cyber intelligence and security agencies, their respective directors (Muhammad al-Kuwaiti and Chief Yigal Unna respectively) participated openly at the same event, in a Tel Aviv University virtual conference on Thursday. Both sides were effusive in their praise for their counterparts and the benefits of the normalization agreement.
Responding to questions about the impact of the normalization deal on Israeli-UAE cyber security cooperation, al-Kuwaiti said that “it has been really a positive and added value to many sectors and aspects” of defending the UAE from hacking. “It’s a plus… that will help us on many collaborations and with digital transformation. Israel is very well known for technology… and cyber security… In less than a month, many of the emergency response teams are sharing information.” Al-Kuwaiti said this sharing, “will help us in deterring [hackers] jointly and together and to allow all of these [new] business [ventures to] easily work together.” In his opening remarks, Unna greeted al-Kuwaiti in Arabic, saying, “My brother, I am happy for this great opportunity and for the start of fruitful and successful cooperation between each of us, with god’s help… We are threatened by the same threats, maybe even a little more than the rest of the world because of the nature of the region because of the new relationship and because of who we are – strong economically and technologically.” Unna added, “If we are more threatened, we should join hands and work together. The UAE has a lot to offer to Israel and Israel has a lot to offer the UAE.” He said cyber professionals in both countries were “just waiting to begin. The natural thing was finally our leaders paved the way to work [together]. As we see…from the first meeting in Abu Dhabi, things are [moving with] fast progress.”
The event was also attended by another heavyweight in Israel’s cyber-security efforts, Major-General (ret.) Yitzhak Ben Israel, who currently directs the cyber program at Tel Aviv University and heads a task force dealing with quantum computing, who commented on the importance of that field in changing the future of encryption methods.
Aspects of UAE – Israeli cyber intelligence cooperation that remain in the ‘strictly covert, neither confirm nor deny’ category include programs that enable the UAE to track, intercept and disrupt the communications of dissidents and critics of the regime, and the establishment or expansion of Israeli intelligence facilities at UAE military and intelligence installations at its military outposts in other countries and occupied areas, such as Socotra Island in Yemen and other areas controlled by the Southern Transition Council, which receives substantial financial, military and technical support from the UAE and grants access to Yemeni territory and infrastructure in return.
In August Almasirah noted that the UAE and Israel already had extensive cooperative relations in cyber security.
Once again, media outlets reported on the Israeli enemy cooperation with Gulf countries in the field of espionage and the sale of special capabilities and expertise that will help Gulf governments track down dissidents. The Israeli NSO company is also mentioned in a very important and sensitive topic related to its advanced spyware, “Pegasus”, which enables penetration of mobile phones. This time, the Hebrew newspaper, Haaretz, discussed the issue of Israeli-Gulf cooperation in terms of espionage, stating that the NSO company recently sold programs to opponents like the United Arab Emirates and other Gulf countries. According to what the newspaper on Sunday, deals, worth hundreds of millions of dollars, were carried out through official mediation.
The article states of NSO, the electronic technology and intelligence company at the centre of the deal:
At the top of its services are to spy on and penetrate mobile phones, and to steal their data. It is founded in 2010 by Neve Carmi, Omri Lavie and Shalev Hulio, and has about 500 employees at its headquarters in “Herzliya” near Tel Aviv. Its annual revenue reached about $ 40 million in 2013 and increased to $ 150 million by 2015. In June 2017, its owner, Francisco Partners Management, put it for sale for one billion dollars and the deal was completed in 2019. Its services are all over the world and deals with many governments, but its name has been associated with countries accused of widespread human rights violations, such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain… New York Times reported that UAE bought programs that helped it eavesdrop on the leaders of neighboring countries and the editor of an Arab newspaper in the British capital. The Israeli government treats its products like any arms exporting company. It requires it to obtain a permit from the Ministry of Defence (the Ministry of War) to export any of its products abroad. The company claims to provide technology support to the world’s governments in order to help them fight terrorism and crime. However, international human rights organizations accuse it of designing and developing programs used in hacking and espionage operations against human rights activists and journalists in many countries.
The Saudis have also been reported to be benefitting from Israeli ‘cyber-security’ expertise under their ‘alternative normalization’ strategy, maintaining cooperation at different levels of military, intelligence and commercial activities whilst categorically denying that this is happening. As early as 2018 Mintpress News cited numerous news reports that the Saudis had purchased a $250 million package of ‘cyber-security’ espionage software and equipment.
Saudi Arabia has inked a deal worth $250 million in advanced espionage technologies with Israel after a series of backroom meetings, according to a recent report from Emirati outlet Al-Khaleej. This revelation highlights the Kingdom’s increasingly aggressive spy apparatus under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) — used to heighten attacks on journalists and dissidents living abroad, as evidenced by the recent killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The exclusive report, obtained by the Jerusalem Post, claims that Saudi and Israeli officials held a series of secret meetings in Washington and London with the assistance of a European mediator. The tech package includes the “most sophisticated systems” Israel has ever sold to any Arab country. The purchase also includes Israeli-led training for Saudi technicians operating the new systems. Saudi Arabia has already put most of the new espionage technology into use. The report states that the two countries also exchanged strategic military information and plan to expand their military cooperation in the future. The relationship between Riyadh and Tel Aviv has blossomed over the past year as the two countries have openly joined forces against a shared enemy, Iran.
It is unlikely that the Saudis or Israel will acknowledge much less actively publicize and promote such areas of cooperation, even if they should take the step of normalizing their relations with a formal deal.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-25--An-26 Military Transport Aircraft Crashed In Northeastern Ukraine. At Least 22 Killed (Video)

An An-26 military transport plane of the Ukrainian Armed Forces crashed Kharkov region .
At least 22 onboard were killed @ @ @ @ @ and 4 others are still missing .
The military plane crashed late on September 25 @ @ @ @ @ land at an airfield outside the town of Chuguev .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : @ @ @ @ @ To Work In Demonstration In Front Of Ukrainian President Zelensky • New Ukrainian School Book @ @ @ @ @ ‘ Independent ’ Church

Support SouthFront
UPDATE (26.09.2020): 25 people died in the incident. 2 people received injures. According to the most recent reports, the total number of people onboard was 27.
***
An An-26 military transport plane of the Ukrainian Armed Forces crashed Kharkov region. At least 22 onboard were killed, 2 people received injures and 4 others are still missing.
The military plane crashed late on September 25 as it was about to land at an airfield outside the town of Chuguev.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront