World News Bits for Friday, August 28, 2009

August has proved the most fatal month for United States troops in Afghanistan. Thursday's reports stated that this August, the United States lost 44 troops. Forty-four troops were also lost in July. Friday, the U.S. troops experienced one more loss, making August the most deadly month for troops in Afghanistan.

Iran: Over 100 Opposition Leaders on Trial after Controversial June 12 Election

In an effort to quiet those opposing Iran's election results, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, is encouraging the punishment of the opposition. At this time over 100 opposition leaders are on trial under charges that they intended to overthrow the government. The controversial June 12 election culminated in two presidential candidates claiming to have won. Mir Hossein Mousavi, who ran against Ahmadinejad, has stood by his claim that he is the true winner of the election. Former president Khatami has supported Mousavi. Neither Mousavi, nor Khatami have been harmed or prosecuted for trying to overthrow the government.

Pakistan's Plan to Fight Taliban Doesn't Bode Well for US Afghanistan Mission

The Pakistani government has decided that it is unable to launch a ground offensive against the Taliban. The Pakistani military plans to utilize air attacks and to block major roads around South Waziristan. The United States is displeased with this planned course of action and would prefer to see a more direct attack on the growing Taliban force. Early this month the Taliban lost leader, Baitullah Mehsud, who was replaced by Hakimullah Mehsud. Since Baitullah Mehsud's death the group has been disorganized, but will most likely be reorganized under its new leader. Pakistan's unwillingness to attack the Taliban on the ground could prove detrimental to the United States mission in Afghanistan against the Taliban insurgents.

Colombian President Defends Military Deal with United States

When Colombian President Uribe requested aid in dealing with drug trafficking problems, the United States offered help. What resulted was a military deal between the United States and Colombia. Uribe has come under fire, however, from individuals believing that the military deal was an unwise political move as it allows the United States to have more freedom on Colombian military bases. Uribe stands by the military deal, claiming that the United States was the only one who responded to his request for help in fighting drug trafficking.

Zuma Calls International Community to Aid Zimbabwe

The Zimbabwe economy is experiencing a major fall and the South African President Jacob Zuma is requesting aid for the country. Also, Zuma is encouraging unity amongst Zimbabwe leadership. Since Zimbabwe President Mugabe and Prime Minister Tsvangirai joined together, they have experienced disagreements over political appointments. Zuma encourages Zimbabwe's government to focus on making agreements with benefactors and eliminating sanctions a priority so that the country's damaged economy can begin recovering.

North Korea Weapons Bound for Iran Intercepted by UAE

North Korean weapons bound for Iran were intercepted by the United Arab Emirates. This transfer of weapons is contrary to United Nations Sanctions. The weapons were intercepted several weeks ago and the shipment was reported to the United Nations.

Ancient Grecian Burial Site Unearthed by Archaeologists

A 2,300 year old Grecian burial site in the ruins of Aigai has been discovered by Archaeologists. The human bones discovered at the site are said to have been buried at this site after being moved from a former, mysterious burial place. Chrysoula Saatsoglou-Paliadeli, site excavator, speculates that the remains belong to ancient Macedonian royalty.

Resources

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