Israeli Palestinian peace talks have come to a grinding halt following the moratorium expiration on Jewish settlements in West Bank and East Jerusalem last September.

The Palestinian casualties in early January 2011 involving a man and a woman in the northern West Bank checkpoint and the barrier is a setback for the long anticipated peace resolution between Israel and Palestinian authorities.

Additionally the recent tension in beleaguered Gaza with Israel reporting on the rocket firing by Hamas across the southern border resets the status quo after a prolonged ceasefire promoting hope for exports from Gaza to Israel.

Subsequently Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s invitation to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas for direct dialogue is praiseworthy.

However, the Israeli Prime Minister’s terms on negotiations without preconditions in the backdrop of ongoing settlement expansion is a dilemma for the Palestinian President considering the political challenges in their domain.

Any agreement would be feasible upon instantaneous settlement freeze that has long been contentious in the crucial interaction between the two heads of the states.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu having previously proved Israel’s commitment to two states solution through temporary settlement containment could perhaps persuade opposition within Israeli coalition in this matter rather than expecting Palestinian approval of the continuing occupation.

The two states recognition could be easily achieved with natural understanding and acknowledgment of 1967 lines for an Independent Palestinian State concurrently suspending settlement activities in Palestinian territories viz. West Bank and East Jerusalem.

As mentioned earlier Israel’s security will be strengthened by expediting the peace treaty that would enable free Palestine to focus on nation building beginning with infrastructure, economic growth, education and health care…guaranteed to promote social progress transforming existing mistrust and discord into a reliable trading partnership fostering bilateral relationship with their neighbor, Israel.

Further the Arab world would widely accept Israel’s sovereignty when peace protocol per 1967 territory is honored ceasing claim on Palestinian meager land with exponential rise in the local population.

Again reiterating requests made to both parties per post titled “Peace Dawns on Palestine and Israel – Two States Solution,” published 9/2/2010 under International Politics on this website,

Both states could reach common destination by removing roadblocks such as occupation, settlement, troop presence with checkpoints and barriers from the Israeli side and,

Palestinian efforts in maintaining solidarity within political factions while pursuing their goals through non-violent means is the pragmatic course to prevail in the decades old conflict.

Peace deal is not attainable with demolition in East Jerusalem, skirmishes in Gaza and West bank under siege. The Palestinian preparation to approach United Nations Security Council for international endorsement of liberated Palestine along the 1967 lines reveals the peace brokers’ lack of influential power and interest in resolving the Mideast crisis.

Therefore the international society could intervene in ending the Palestinian plight and Israeli political gridlock over settlements and troop withdrawal by reviewing the reality and the impact of ignoring the humanitarian suffering currently benefiting terror recruitments serving as the reason for perpetual warfare.

By addressing the Palestinian political struggle and Israeli desire for national security, the international community would effectively contribute to the success of the Israeli Palestinian peace process.

On that optimistic note, the Palestinian and Israeli leaders are urged to set their differences aside and cooperate in signing the peace accord with international blessings.

Good Luck and Best Wishes to Palestinian, Israeli and world leaders in finalizing the amicable Mideast peace doctrine.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

New Year Greetings to all!

Amid great many challenges ahead the world welcomes the year 2011 with hope and joy.

Human beings have consistently proved that they have the ability to overcome hardships and achieve their goals.

Reflection on the 2010 domestic and global events leads to specific issues that require public attention.

The 2010 legislative actions would clarify the impact on the economy and the ordinary citizens struggling to make ends meet in the difficult situation.

In the economic front, the job market recovery is much anticipated among the long term unemployed and underemployed citizens forced to survive on jobless benefits gained after a huge compromise on the tax cuts for the wealthiest – offering the average Americans temporary relief in exchange for a permanent tax burden.

Winning the Bush tax cuts extension to billionaires is motivating the legislators to risk baby boomers and seniors’ lifeline – Social Security.

The strong initiative to privatize Social security and increase retirement age to relieve the super-rich from tax payments is no surprise given the precedence in France pension bill incorporating the agenda.

Financial institutions on their part ensured that business is conducted as usual with little or no regard for the regulations introduced in 2010 Financial Reform due to their victory from the $19 billion tax exemption in legislation despite their major role in the global economic recession.

Their commitment to revive the economy through lending was expected to meltdown the liquidity freeze in the credit market which is yet to be fulfilled based on the prevalent facts.

Health care law passed last year mandated that the health insurance industry provide coverage to patients with pre-existing conditions.

However, the absence of premium caps on the coverage enables industry set arbitrary pricing currently hurting the subscribers in the health care for minors, since the adults will not be eligible until the health care law is effective in 2014.

Moreover the mandatory insurance subscription in the health care rule leaves the vulnerable patients i.e. the individuals with pre-existing illnesses no choice but comply with the health insurance industry policy facilitating industry dominance likely to be worsened upon becoming the law with substantial subscribers joining the insurance pool per legislative requirement.

The people are confronted with three vital issues – employment, credit needed for job creation subsequently stimulating consumer spending along with health care costs – quintessential for economic rebound in the year 2011 and beyond.

As bizarre it might be those responsible for the burgeoning crises are the beneficiaries in the deals with enormous tax liability transferred to the victims.

Defense spending on wars in Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iraq is prolonged until 2014 with greater ambivalence on exit strategy alongside mounting casualties and the exhausted armed personnel spread thin across the combat zones.

The Senate ratification of U.S. and Russia START treaty is a preliminary step towards non-proliferation,

Juxtaposed to the White House nuclear agreement with Vietnam and offer to Iran offset the efforts in strategic arms control.

With respect to climate change – The energy sector pressure reportedly prompted the White House decision on Environment Protection Agency postponement of rigorous emission standards to curtail smog and toxic pollution in the atmosphere.

Furthermore, the federal agency plan to permit Shell Oil offshore drilling in the Arctic makes the U.S consent disingenuous at the climate summit.

The intriguing factors in all of the above mentioned issues are – net gain for Wall Street and military industrial complex is phenomenal in the White House negotiated legislation considering the democrats controlled Congress until 2010.

Again as for the political party representation – The Democratic White House had Democrat majority in the House and the Senate until December 2010.

Industries prevailing in all legislation confirm the special interests influence in Washington – notably in the lucrative health care, finance reform and Bush tax cuts for wealthy.

The democratic Congressional leaderships and the progressive members were dedicated to the American electorate and national interests.

Their hard work and determination made legislation on certain social issues such as Repealing Don’t Ask Don’t Tell and Health care for 911 rescue workers possible surviving the routine gridlock in Capitol Hill.

Similarly the moderate Republican members like Senators Susan Collins, Olympia Snowe, Lisa Murkowski and few others cooperation helped in avoiding impasse on these crucial legislation.

The 112th Congress with Republican majority in the House and Senate expansion is pledged to deficit reduction by slashing life dependent services to the population at the bottom after contributing to the problem through extravagant tax exemptions to Wall Street and billionaires.

Global economic review bear semblance to Washington setbacks emanating from fiscal mismanagement.

European austerity to address respective national debt was overwhelmingly opposed by the main street as seen in France, United Kingdom, Greece, Spain, Portugal and Ireland.

Nonetheless the legislation passed against public protest is suggestive of the minority will exerted on the world population.

The U.S. State department and National Security under the incumbent administration handling of political quagmire in Afghanistan and Iraq shared identical solutions with the power entrusted to unpopular leaderships against electoral mandate.

Likewise the U.S State department’s behind the scenes preparation to reinstate deposed leadership in Pakistan revealed during the cable leaks poses the questions on legitimacy behind extended military operation and Osama Bin Laden whereabouts since he is claimed to be alive?

The failed coup d’état in Ecuador last year is a compelling evidence for national vigilance against foreign power intervention undermining democracy. The reports cited the CIA and U.S. State department’s involvement in the attempt.

Mid-East peace talks stalled with the U.S stance on letting settlements growth in Palestinian territories.

It is clear from the synopsis that the concentrated power among the nexus group successfully depriving the significant rest of political, social and economic prospects.

The republic voice in a democracy – press, news media and the elected officials’ complacency with the exception of selective honorable figures has exacerbated the status quo.

Those executing these fundamentally destructive policies for pure self-interest are not even subject to due explanation or accountability.

Instead they are granted impunity to abuse power and exercise authority in advancing the conglomerate scheme with ulterior motives.

Hence it is obligatory on the people from all walks of life across the globe to rise to the occasion and decline the oligarchy supremacy devastating lives to the point of no return.

History is testimony to the fact that change has been brought upon by the ordinary people standing up against those with extraordinary power.

It is often forgotten that the ultimate power lies with the people as the workers, employees, consumers, taxpayers and potently the electorate.

Any damages to the source inevitably affects the top of the hierarchy. When the foundation in the society is weakened the structure crumbles as a result.

It is never too late to reverse course and deliver the people’s right to individual freedom with equal access to political, social and economic opportunities.

Politics espousing democratic principles exemplified in public service produce desirable outcome benefitting all rather than the privileged few.

People power is best utilized in major transformation desperately needed at the present time.

Happy New year to all for a productive and peaceful beginning!

Thank you.

In the last couple of days there have been many perspectives about India – predominantly expressing regrets, concerns and subliminal to scathing attacks for not embracing Gandhian principles in austerity and non-violence.

The specific reference was made against the rising Indian middle class and implied the Indian leaderships’ aspirations to be the leading economic and military power in the region.

The criticisms were largely directed at the hypothetical Indian Cold Talk and the alleged defense disposition presumably contributing to the nuclear neighbor Pakistan’s reluctance to withdraw troops from the Indian border for redeployment in the northwestern Pakistani territory to fight against the militancy.

Simultaneous statements supporting the critical assertions were issued by the U.S. military high command and the Pakistan-Afghanistan special envoy characterizing the non-existent Cold Talk as;

“A major threat undermining the US war in Afghanistan.”

These bizarre allegations deserve attention to dispel myths and widespread rumors intended to serve the divisive foreign policies facilitating the relentless war and arms race in the volatile region.

It is imperative to highlight the protocol ahead of the Presidential visit to India comprising two provocative US initiatives –

According to the reports:

Pakistani Army Chief Ashfaq Parvez Kayani was summoned to Washington D.C. by the White House and offered a magnanimous $2 billion military aid on 10/30/10, a week before the international voyage and subsequently,

The Pakistan’s army chief, Gen. Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, has been quoted as saying his defense posture is “India centric.”

Meanwhile, the US ambassador to India Timothy Roemer was delegated to push the American jet fighters and currently the proposal entails sensor-fused weapons or Cluster bombs and billions of dollars worth military hardware for potential use in the propaganda driven Pakistan-India confrontation.

Unequivocally, the United States recent decisions in the conventional and nuclear proliferation could be more devastating than India’s alleged militaristic ambition with the tremendous U.S. military pressure on India through the office of Presidency as the executive sales division to invest in defense weapons when the significant population in both democracies could benefit from investments in life sustenance than destruction deals.

Similarly, allowing the Retail giant Wal-Mart access to the Indian market is a political suicide given its deadly impact on small business economy. India’s vast majority survival is dependent upon entrepreneurship from street vendors to licensed small traders and family run business.

Wal-Mart arrival in India with its poor track record in the US employee’s exploitation and the Indian small businesses inevitable termination would lead to widening the gap between the haves and the have-nots ultimately backfiring against the incumbent Indian government.

With respect to India lacking in austerity – objectivity is a misnomer with the critics’ eagerness to appease the political establishment considering the domestic events such as the controversial US taxpayers funded unofficial London, Madrid trip…

Or

For that matter the three day Indian visit alone costing the US tax payers over $200 million a day.

As for India never inheriting Gandhian non-violence and evolving into an ambitious military power supposedly affecting the no-exit perpetual US war plan in Afghanistan and Pakistan;

How is it rational to offer Pakistan a $2 billion military aid rather than the desperately needed economic aid especially in the aftermath of the ravaging floods and the persistent drone attacks until now that has claimed thousands of innocent Pakistani lives under US operation?

Then on the other side, the Indian leadership arms twisted for defense contracts viz. the transportation items stripped of critical high end technology dumped on the Indian defense force draining the Indian capital reserves in billions of dollars that could otherwise be invested to save and protect millions of lives living in abject poverty.

The burden is now on the prodded Indian middle class to bear the life threatening defense and commercial ventures.

These symbolic detrimental actions by no measure conform to Gandhian or Dr. King doctrine.

Moving across to other International frontiers –

‘Obama Set to Offer Stricter Nuclear Deal to Iran’ is yet another seismic shift leaving the vulnerable Israel on the edge. Again this position by no means in adherence to Gandhi or Dr. King peace pledge alternatively the much touted nuclear disarmament during the political campaign.

The U.S. demand on India to appreciate Pakistan’s efforts on terrorism and declining to urge Pakistan to meet its end of the bargain in extraditing Mumbai terror masterminds,

Notwithstanding US default to handover the American terrorist David Headley represents the double standards that has long jeopardized US credibility in resolving international crisis.

Despite numerous terrorist activities against India originating from Pakistan, there were no military retaliation from the Indian side as falsely propagated in the so-called ‘Cold Talk’ unlike the Afghanistan war or the proxy war against Yemen in 2009 covertly conducted till date.

As stated earlier in the 10/21/10 article – India-U.S. Relationship and the Nuclear Deal published under International Politics on this website,

U.S. seeking business partnership with India is primarily focused on militarizing and nuclearizing the nation instead of reversing the trend to achieve the universal nuclear non-proliferation, the only pragmatic course to global peace and security.

In the same breath, accusing India as the growing military power in the region is political connivance misleading and instigating both India and Pakistan against one another in the same manner as Israel and Palestine are approached in the Middle East conflict.

Also explicitly denying India with the UN Security Council permanent membership is suggestive of political convenience and hypocrisy given the continuous MFN status renewal and ITO privileges to China that has been largely misused against none other than the United States.

India and the United States could forge better trade relations through civilian projects in other areas of economic benefit.

There are great opportunities in exchanging new wave technology, green sector orientation, and educational programs among many economic aspects.

It would contribute to the urgently required job growth in the U.S. with India benefiting from the advanced high end commercial agreements in non-defense aviation, heavy machinery and equipment to modernize the manufacturing sector.

Besides the multitude prospects in infrastructure improvement and construction are guaranteed to provide mutual gains.

The U.S. and India being the democratic societies could exemplify the common goal for peace and social-economic progress beginning with;

A commitment towards robust environmental policy,

Ratifying the CTBT, NPT and FMCT in concurrence with other nations,

Not barring the ICBL – the international campaign to ban land mines and,

Cultural exchange programs fostering respect and appreciation for one another.

India and Pakistan on their part could come together by setting the manifested mistrust and political differences aside to resume bilateral talks focused on strengthening economic ties through trade, transportation and most importantly signing a peace treaty involving the nuclear renunciation for a peaceful Indian sub-continent.

Both nations share rich cultural heritage and the people across the border belong to one family with adopted identities separated by external political interference.

Therefore it’s essential for the nuclear neighbors to set precedence in becoming non-nuclear and accept one another as allies not adversaries.

Pakistan and Afghanistan population have shed enough blood from the violence with no end in sight.

The vibrant middle class in Pakistan could shape the nation’s destiny by participating in political process and prioritizing nation building. The Pakistani citizens across the religious, social and economic spectrum possess the key to Pakistan’s bright future.

Pakistan and Afghanistan progress is stalled due to foreign occupation and political meddling by sources not particularly interested in the regional advancement.

Certain Pakistan military and intelligence personnel have been instrumental in derailing the democratically elected governments albeit on corruption scandals,

Nevertheless the political instability has exacerbated the fragile economic conditions with unemployed youth and under educated mass in the rural-urban areas becoming the likely recruits for terror networks attributed to the foreign Para-military troops’ infiltration and unmanned drones producing many civilian casualties.

Pakistan could end the unmitigated violence through co-operation with India and Afghanistan working in harmony instead of acrimony towards each other.

There is tremendous hope for optimistic tri-lateral relations between the three neighbors – Pakistan, India and Afghanistan.

The people in all three nations look forward to unity and tranquility in the war and terror dominant South East and Central Asia.

People power is resilient and resourceful to overcome challenges confronting the nation.

Peace to the Indian sub-continent and the rest of the world.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

The Israeli-Palestinian peace process had tremendous potential for development and the recent impasse is primarily due to the lack of political will in leading the authorities to the desirable outcome.

Although the moratorium expiry on settlement expansion has contributed to the friction with the building permit issued for an estimated 534 homes in the Palestinian territory – West Bank, the United States less enthusiastic efforts to dissuade the controversial incursion predominantly derailed the progress.

Lately, the legitimate questions were raised through the panel on Israeli-Palestinian peace process:

QUESTIONS From:

Sara Roy, Senior Research Scholar – Harvard Center for Middle Eastern Studies – Thank you.

In the continued absence of a political resolution to the conflict,

1. Why must occupation be the default position?

Response – Occupation will no longer be the default position. The Israeli authorities are being misguided by the real forces behind the Middle-Eastern quagmire.

As long as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains unresolved the profiteering from the prolific arms trade continues debilitating the peace prospects and thereby exacerbating the Palestinian plight.

However, this situation will change in semblance to the historical facts that all illegal occupations and invasions eventually cease contrary to the false assumptions.

Moreover, the Palestinian and other oppressed states freedom are a top priority among the inevitable Change in the immediate future.

2. Why must Gaza be pauperized and the West Bank cantonized?

Response: Again, there is absolutely no reason for the status quo. If the strongest ally United States could influence Israel in every U.N vote on minor to major international issues,

It is incomprehensible that U.S. is unable to achieve similar consent from Israel on the settlements, territorial disputes, economic embargo on Gaza, East Jerusalem and West Bank militarization.

Israel is misled by the factions not necessarily pledged to its sovereignty or peace in the region. The coalition with the orthodox groups relying on self-determined course in promoting unlawful settlements are yet another impediment in the Israeli – Palestinian peace agreement.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared hopeful at the last month’s preliminary peace talks and even disassociated from the Israeli foreign minister Avigdor Lieberman’s views delivered at the U.N. General Assembly in September 2010.

Therefore, the subsequent setback conspicuously leads to the internal and external political pressure on Israeli leadership to procrastinate until the Palestinian conditions deteriorate to the point of no return forcing the beleaguered Palestinian residents in Gaza and other occupied territories to become the Israeli subjects on Palestinian homeland.

Imperialism in the twenty first century is a far-fetched aspiration for a democratic nation unnecessarily projecting the provocateur image to the international community.

Further, the provocation generates the requirement to stockpile weaponry not excluding nuclear arsenal pervading across the globe.

It would be fair to point out that Israeli leadership might not be overtly pursuing the agenda but the current occupation confirms the reality much to the global disappointment.

Israel must realize that with the rocket firing cessation and relatively isolated violence from Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem construction and series of human rights violation through unilateral economic sanctions against Gaza combined with the military deployment in the Palestinian territories are counterproductive placing the democratic nation in spotlight as the belligerent authority.

As a result, Israel is isolated from the rest of the world and made vulnerable with United States and the remnant Western nations as the few allies for normal relationship.

Additionally, the U.S. threat not ruling out the nuclear options against Israel’s adversary undermines the sovereignty and capability to defend itself despite Israel’s nuclear empowerment.

Israel is a free nation but has not demonstrated in the U.N. voting or Palestinian issue thus far.

Accordingly Israel is perceived as the United States Union territory rather than an independent state maintaining cordial relations with Arab and other nations around the world.

3. Why are Palestinians treated as a humanitarian problem rather than as people with political and national rights entitled to self-determination?

Response: The Palestinians have endured enormous pain and misery in the prolonged political stalemate.

Palestinians as people are entitled to political and national rights in every aspect.

Under the imminent free Palestine – the territories clearly demarcated prior to 1967 Israeli conquest would constitute the integral part of the liberated Palestine particularly the entire West Bank and Gaza comprising East Jerusalem as the Palestinian capital.

With respect to the refugee population spread across Jordan, Syria, Lebanon and Gaza – the new treaty enacting the right of return to the Palestinian expatriates would grant naturalization to the emigrants.

4. Why should Palestinians be forced to accept their own decay?

Response: Palestinians will not decay any more.

There is unanimous consensus among the majority in the global society to expedite the two states solution with independent Palestine co-existing alongside democratic Israel confined to the internationally recognized pre-1967 boundaries.

Jerusalem being the holy city for all three religions – Judaism, Christianity and Islam,

It is imperative that the leaderships establish peace and harmony between Palestinian and Israeli citizens for mutual social and economic benefits.

5. Why must they be punished for resisting?

All are born to be free with equal rights. Palestinian and fellow citizens around the world seeking independence are not deprived from it.

Unfortunately quelling dissent is increasingly accepted as the norm even in a democratic society let alone any other form of government.

History is testimony to the fact that one voice ultimately transforms into the universal representation prevailing against undemocratic rule and social injustice.

Since time immemorial, the unjust annexation or in the other extreme the unruly secessionism defying historical evidence is narcissism than serving the humanitarian cause.

Palestine and similar states liberation is not a hypothesis but a definitive reality.

If Israeli coalition partner is the obstacle in the Palestinian political resolution, then the Israeli authority could forge alliance with the party prioritizing Israel’s peaceful existence over personal ideology.

Hence, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas could seize the opportunity and proceed with the meaningful dialogue beginning upon settlement termination.

Settlement issue is not a pre-condition but rather a reasonable request to facilitate negotiations leading to the diplomacy success.

Two states solution is paramount to both Israel and Palestine for a long lasting relationship extending to other Arab neighbors as seen in Syria’s overture towards Israel at the 65th U.N. General Assembly session in September 2010.

Finally, regarding the two chilling responses from Palestinian Children during the survey on their wish list – “Get out of Gaza or Die,”

NO child in any part of the world should experience the frustration to leave their homeland or desire to end their precious life.

Palestine needs these brave and intelligent architects to build their nation with strong democratic principles vowed to peace, non-violence and solidarity within and outside the territory.

It is important for the Palestinians in Gaza, West Bank and East Jerusalem to come together as one nation in moving their country forward.

Likewise, setting the differences aside for a new partnership with their Israeli friend and neighbor is equally essential to sustain permanent peace.

It would ensure security, political stability and economic prosperity for the two states permeating to the entire region.

Palestinian liberty and Israeli security means a bright future for their people.

Peace to Palestine, Israel and throughout Middle East.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

In the twenty first century, the war is interestingly waged in Islamic nations around the world.

Beginning with Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Palestinian Gaza, West Bank and East Jerusalem, Yemen, Chechnya, Somalia and Sudan with skirmishes in Central Asia as seen in the recent Kyrgyzstan with Uzbek Muslims largely massacred in ethnic violence –

Terrorism and insurgencies are the by-product of relentless warfare and foreign policies fostering political instability in turn exacerbating economic and social development.

The trend is prevalent to date.

Afghanistan – The former President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney started the war in 2001 declaring the terror mastermind Osama Bin Laden will be captured “dead or alive.”

Even the message resonated in the 2008 Presidential campaign with Senator John McCain as the Republican Presidential candidate pledging –

“I will follow Osama Bin Laden to the gates of hell.”

The Democratic Presidential candidate, the then Senator Barack Obama essentially repeated his predecessor’s rhetoric –

“Bush had earlier vowed to catch bin Laden “Dead or Alive,” and … “My preference obviously would be to capture or kill him. …”

We are in 2010 and the war is a decade old with tremendous loss of lives on all sides.

U.S and allies economy drained with the superfluous troops and financial investment, the troops’ low morale after continuous deployment and the public war fatigue at its peak,

Afghanistan today is still in the medieval age under the U.S. and NATO appointed Karzai administration that has been unanimously criticized for massive corruption and lack of direction in governance.

Meanwhile, Taliban leaders in Afghanistan are reportedly held hostage by the Pakistani military and ISI prohibiting them from initiating negotiations with the Afghan government to demonstrate Pakistani officials’ clout in the crisis.

Superseding these issues is the Al-Qaeda ring leader; Osama Bin Laden neither captured alive nor pronounced dead, a convenient situation to prolong the unsustainable war strategy.

If Osama Bin Laden is alive as it is claimed by the authorities, it raises the following questions:

Given the formidable U.S. and NATO forces in operation and the significant troops involvement since the war began in 2001, the severely incapacitated Osama Bin Laden remains at large according to the political and military high command.

Further, the White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel prior to his departure last week is quoted to have questioned the administration on this issue with a statement in sheer amazement.

“We are spending about $50 billion on intelligence and we still don’t know where Osama Bin Laden is?”

Despite CIA overt operation through para-military in Pakistan and the Pakistani intelligence provided with U.S. intelligence assistance, the mastermind Osama Bin Laden cannot be found in the all too familiar territories Afghanistan where the U.S. trained the Mujahedeen, prominently Osama Bin Laden who later created the terror network ‘Al-Qaeda,’ is;

Remarkably similar to the Weapons of Mass Destruction in Iraq that could never be found because it did not exist.

Any re-creation or resurrection accentuates the flaws due to the unauthentic replay leading to the fact that the scenario is ‘weapons of mass deception’ in the public eye.

Besides the former President George W. Bush family’s close ties with Osama Bin Laden’s immediate family is common knowledge and such relation enabled the Bin Laden family departure from the United States when all flights were grounded soon after 9/11.

Another compelling factor being Osama Bin Laden was not apprehended in Tora Bora even though the armed personnel requested for the former President George W. Bush, the Supreme Commander- in- Chief’s order for action.

These events were legitimized by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, the terror experts, the media reports and cited by Senator John McCain during his Presidential bid.

The strange predicament being Osama Bin Laden is wanted “dead or alive,” and when there were opportunities to capture the terror leader, the executive order was not delivered to the armed forces to attain the goal.

Terror warnings are being issued claiming that Osama Bin Laden is preparing to wreak havoc in Europe like he did in Mumbai that took place on November 26, 2008, even though this particular terror activity was directly linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba and acknowledged by the assassin;

“Ajmal Kasab, the only attacker who was captured alive, disclosed that the attackers were members of Lashkar-e-Taiba, the Pakistan-based militant organization. He said the attackers came from Pakistan, and their controllers were in Pakistan.”

Osama Bin Laden is continually used in the possible terror attacks and claimed as the primary target in the war on terror with no news regarding his whereabouts and sources except during the terror alerts surfacing upon Osama Bin Laden reference by the peace activists.

It’s crucial to resolve this issue once and for all considering the brave young men and women in uniform are deployed to supposedly eliminate Al-Qaeda and find Osama Bin Laden in the mission that began in 2001.

Many service men and women are serving for nearly a decade with some redeployed after having been in Iraq for four to five years. Most of these courageous frontline soldiers sacrificed in the on-going war are in the age group between 19 – 21 years old and have barely experienced life.

If a 29 year old private sergeant is killed in action after serving in Iraq and Afghanistan for twelve straight years and survived by his young pregnant spouse and a toddler and the war agenda is still a mystery then it becomes necessary to find out,

What exactly are we doing in these battle grounds?

As per the latest CIA report, along the Pakistan-Afghan border – Waziristan, there are fewer than one hundred Al-Qaeda members and negligible Taliban forces compared to U.S representation around 120,000 troops with NATO alliance.

Regardless the world’s most powerful by far the sophisticated U.S. and NATO contingency with all the imaginable resources at their disposal are experiencing difficulty over nine years in seizing the fractional terror members with inferior ammunition is astonishing for it defies logic.

Therefore, if the military commanders in the best interest of the troops, the nation and the international community could unequivocally clarify on the precise mission in Afghanistan and particularly, present the facts on Osama Bin Laden it would be enormously helpful in the decisions related to ongoing wars and defense spending during legislation and election.

Above all, the Afghan population deserves the truth for they are severely dispensed with their family generations wiped out in the ceaseless conflict.

If the Al-Qaeda leader is alive, it shouldn’t be harder to locate with the intelligence dragnet across the globe perhaps within twenty four to forty eight hours and brought to justice.

Alternatively, it would be honorable to declassify the classified public information and submit the verifiable facts on the Al-Qaeda leaders’ death.

As for all issues concerning the military operation, the President of the United States being the Supreme Commander-in-Chief bears complete responsibility.

The defense and the national security team are accountable to the President – responsible for the troop level authorization, withdrawal timeline and final approval on war strategies.

In the Afghan war, the information on the ultimate authority in the decision-making process is not clear.

While it is being maintained that there is disconnect and discord between the military and the civilian exchange on operational matter and that the President is not briefed on vital military positions such as the actual troop numbers by the top security adviser and military command,

It is suggested that any dissatisfaction in the Afghan war status quo should be attributed to the military command and not the civilian authority, the President of the United States who is also incidentally, the Commander-in-Chief.

This is contradictory to the latest occurrence that involved the military’s top ranking official
Gen. Stanley McChrystal, removed by the President of the United States for ‘off-the’ record comment about the administration,revealing the authority in control.

Now in the expansive military role especially in Afghanistan and Pakistan taking horrendous toll on human lives and economic costs, the ambiguity in management as to,

“Who is calling the shots,” is rather disturbing and,

Require clarification to the armed forces and their families including the taxpayers footing the expense for the extravagant and uncertain adventure.

In that context, the exclusive secret meetings held for the selective members belonging to nexus organization apparently to discuss global economic health and the general humanitarian issues with the press and public debarred from participation is unsettling based on the discussions being related to the world population and not any private individual matter.

In fact, the nature of such gathering by the privileged members – selective heads of the state, corporate leaders and military command, a majority representing democratic societies alienating the voice of democracy – the communication media and the public is undemocratic not to mention the forum failing to meet transparency and accountability.

These meetings where the Presidential candidates as the future leader of the ‘free world’ prior to being approved by the electorate are summoned inconspicuously defying the press and denying access to the democratic process in itself is a serious credibility factor and beckons legitimate reasons on the definitive purpose.

It’s imperative to highlight the security measures taken during these sessions reflecting the twentieth century pre-world war II characteristics in the twenty first century causing frustration among the members in the society from various discipline gravely concerned about the abnormal clandestine consortium.

The public opinion upon revelation on the political, economic, corporate media and military institutional assembly behind closed doors to map out global direction is;

If it is conducted to benefit humanity then it is commendable and praiseworthy.

But then, why not hold them in public view and elaborate on the objectives to the republics’ complete satisfaction eliminating any doubts on the validity of the futuristic aspirations.

In conclusion, the fulcrum power has two immediate priorities to stabilize the deteriorating global environment predominantly due to incessant warfare and undemocratic principles adopted in the universal policies targeting humanity.

Disclosure on Osama Bin Laden and dismantling secret organizations – the deafening silence thus far proved detrimental to human progress in every frontier.

Any reluctance to conform or evasion through false propaganda and negative attacks would categorically confirm the “Who is Who” and the intrinsic aspects of –

‘The New World Order’ inevitably setting itself for a disastrous end.

Humanity thrives with consolidated contributions benefiting all and not a ‘specific society’ in the globalization concept.

Peace and perseverance to make this world a better place for all inhabitants is the natural path to prosperity.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

The global economy is still far from recovery and most nations are dealing with austerity, Europe in particular much against their population will.

Meanwhile, among them an overwhelming majority have disproportionate defense budget that is not targeted in the spending cuts. United States has an exceptionally higher defense expenditure that is invariably passed with bipartisan approval regardless of the political party in power.

Whereas, the other life threatening issues concerning jobs, health care, social security, housing…are usually subjective to filibuster and marginalization at the worst resulting in a meaningless final product.

The contemporary society is currently confronted with the so-called war on terror. Although terrorism took birth in the twentieth century predominantly through Middle East conflicts, it escalated in the twenty first century with 9/11 becoming the premise for relentless warfare fomenting terrorism seeing no end in sight.

After two world wars to contain imperialism, fascism and ‘Great Depression,’ the expectation among the international community was long lasting peaceful environment with the governments focused on alleviating poverty, hunger and disease contributing to a healthy habitat for all living beings.

Subsequently the United Nations Charter was created with the U.N. Security Council formation comprising the five nations – United States, United Kingdom, Russia, China and France maintaining the status quo until now, despite the titanic shift in the economic realm over the latter part of the twentieth century leading till date.

The authorities then in power with the responsibility to establish peace and harness diplomatic relations, instead steered in the opposite direction with communism rising in the former Soviet Union, Germany in the West and the entire Eastern Europe as well as China influencing South East Asia.

It’s noteworthy that the arms race proliferated rather than being terminated at the end of world wars with the United States and the then Soviet union followed by the remaining Security Council members successfully conducting their nuclear test that empowered them as the largest nuclear arsenal holders and continue to remain so.

Further, the U.N. Security Council members’ illegal invasions and occupations in the aftermath of the world wars proceeded throughout the twentieth and now into the twenty first century with certain occupied territories annexed as the regional state again at the prevailing horrendous humanitarian plight such as Tibet, Palestinian territories and the disputed regions in the Middle East and elsewhere.

The cold war between the two major powers – the United States and the Soviet Union vying for ‘Super Power’ status caused the ‘United Nations’ to split with the two contenders choosing partners conciliatory to their respective political positions at that time.

In the sixties, it is also well known that the cold war brought the two major powers on the brink of nuclear confrontation with the Cuban Missile crisis.

Notwithstanding the Korean War notably the significant armed Cold War conflict with the reunification negotiations eventually evolved into a proxy war sponsored by the three U.N. Security Council members – the U.S., Soviet Union and China.

The infamous Vietnam War spreading to the neighboring Cambodia and Laos certainly aroused the anti-war sentiments in the United States and around the world at its peak but it did not necessarily deter the wars in Africa, Latin America, Central Asia and the Middle East with the United States and the other permanent U.N. Security Council members involved in almost all of them either directly or indirectly as the arms supplier including the combat forces viz. Afghanistan on the ground.

Increased military aid to Indonesia in 1977 at the height of the East Timorese massacre produced more than one-third i.e. around 200,000 East Timor population deaths in war related starvation, disease and atrocities.

Likewise in 1978 the military aid to Central America against the Sandinistas in Nicaragua and similar assistance to El Salvador compounded the regional turmoil with incredible loss of lives from brutal killings.

In 1979, the U.S. tax payers’ approximately $40 billion dollars investment to train Mujahedeen in Afghanistan generated Osama Bin Laden.

Arguably, the United States footprints in Latin America and Middle East are comparatively prominent with the other members concentrating in their region, Central Asia and Africa.

However, the genocide from the civil wars in Africa through the permanent U.N. Security Council members’ arms trade and distribution was entirely ignored since 1991 and up until now – such as the Democratic Republic of Congo referred to as ‘African World War,’ Burundi, Rwanda earlier on, and Darfur, Sudan.

It’s imperative to mention Haiti during the Democratic and Republican administrations’ at the White House going back to 1977 when agreements were made to decline Haitian refugees asylum claims and between 1990 and up until now – the Democratically elected popular leader Jean Bertrand Aristide indefinitely exiled in South Africa.

The combined powerful U.S.and NATO forces delayed intervention in Bosnia, Herzegovina or for that matter regrettable deliberation on Rwanda rescue operation could be regarded worthwhile, leaving other missions a territorial conquest and/or an economic interest.

It’s obvious that the military industrial complex war strategy is the same with the players alternated between the two major political parties in the United States and the trend replicated in other western democracies as the permanent U.N. Security council members.

Twentieth century wars fought in the regions desperately seeking economic and social development were categorically denied the opportunities to merge with the rest of the world converting those nations into a fertile ground for terror recruitment.

Therefore, the cyclical violence is a revenue source for the conventional and the nuclear weapons industry at the horrendous loss of lives and economic cost.

That raises many questions surrounding the wars and the global community priority in the tough economic times. They are evaded with no logical explanation often confirming the doubts in the public mind.

The war architects owe the domestic and international citizenry evidence based legitimate reason for the decade old conflicts severely affecting the weak and the vulnerable in the so-called war on terror.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

There is potential for a breakthrough in the ongoing Palestinian and Israeli meeting in Washington D.C.

The issue has received worldwide attention with several mediation attempts by the U.S. Presidents, European leaders and humanitarians from different nations in the past six decades.

People on both sides have suffered enormous casualties –

The rocket firing, suicide bombings including the recent killing of the Jewish settlers in Hebron, West Bank and,

On the other side – The military intervention with heavy artillery shelling against the Palestinians in Gaza, while the West Bank and East Jerusalem citizens denied normal existence through check posts, strong defense presence and above all the contentious settlement expansion in the Palestinian territories.

These actions inflicting pain and agony on each other are deeply regrettable with innocent civilians being the victims in the quagmire.

After years of unsuccessful negotiations, Palestinian and Israeli authorities’ willingness to recognize the two states solution is encouraging.

Although there are justified grievances on the prevalent attacks and disruption in daily life, the mainstream population in the respective states desire peaceful co-existence with mutual respect for sovereignty and national security.

In fact, the forces in opposition to peace are essentially against their own people and the nation they represent. The parallel provocation through violence and settlements promotes the proponents’ personal ideology and hinder the pragmatic course for peace.

Palestinians have been seeking independence for more than half a century and were not effectively led by the PLO in the initial phase due to the ‘intifadas,’ premised on ‘armed struggle,’ rather than peace and diplomacy. However, it was acknowledged later and now vigorously pursued by Fatah in the West Bank under Prime Minister Salam Fayyad and President Mahmoud Abbas leaderships.

On the Israeli side, the political leaderships’ earnest decisions for reconciliation thwarted by the hard liners’ overwhelming influence to embrace aggression and expand settlements that is proved detrimental largely affecting Israel’s image and credibility as a viable peace partner.

The violent retaliations became the bedrock for terrorism and enabled the peace opponents to gain political power in Gaza. As a result the beleaguered Gazans are currently held hostage in the political dilemma.

Considering the preconditions on both sides, the issues deserve fair evaluation.

Palestinian expectations apart from an independent state is predominantly focused on settlement freeze, Israeli troop withdrawal, border demarcation, Palestinian expatriates’ right to return and East Jerusalem as the state capital.

It’s in Israel’s best interest to accommodate the Palestinian requests and relinquish the territories held since 1967. Israel can then invest the resources for national growth and the armed personnel to safeguard its own borders.

Further, Israeli policies on the Palestinians right to return and Jewish settlements in West Bank, East Jerusalem would ultimately impact the settlers as the inevitable minorities given the evolving demography.

For instance, the documented population figure for 2005 in Golan Heights was 38,900 (in the Israeli-occupied part) 79,000 (in the Syrian- controlled part) and likely to be exponentially higher in 2010.

Even the one state proposal through settlement occupation would render Israeli citizens the minority status in the near future for similar reasons.

Therefore, Israel’s sovereignty and the majority rights are intact in Israel’s land prior to 1967 invasion.

With respect to Gaza, Israel’s concerns are understandable. Again the stark contrast in economic progress between West Bank at an impressive 11% growth in the last quarter and the lack luster Gaza economy under Hamas would lead the Gaza residents to a political transformation in the upcoming elections.

Palestinians in Gaza could democratically bring about the change for their own economic prosperity and political freedom. The choice is clear for them to renounce the militant statehood under Hamas and adopt the Fayyad-Abbas governance prospering on the democratic principles by maintaining peaceful relationship with Israel.

Israel’s sovereignty and security is the major factor – peace with independent Palestine would guarantee the global assurance in that regard. International support broadens the horizon for Israel in strengthening political and economic ties with nations other than the United States viz. Turkey, Arab neighbors and other democracies disappointed with the latest developments in Gaza, West Bank and East Jerusalem.

Any threats to Israel or Palestine would constitute a regional security issue with an appropriate global response.

The coalition members in the Israeli political system might challenge the initiatives as seen earlier.

Israel upon reflection would realize that living in peace is bliss compared to the eternal warfare and the lingering insecurity over the piece of land that has caused immense misery all around.

Not to mention the generational decline particularly the youth population – Israel and Palestine’s hope for a new beginning.

What belongs to Israel will remain with Israel and likewise for Palestine i.e. West Bank, Gaza and East Jerusalem, the Palestinian state capital. Extending the same strategy on Golan heights with Syria would place Israel in a favorable situation as a thriving democracy that honors legitimacy in territorial disputes.

Israel and Palestine can foster a good relationship built on trust and ability to set their differences aside for a long lasting peace and security.

There is tremendous opportunity to exchange resources facilitating trade and commerce between free Palestine and democratic Israel.

People in Israel and Palestine have endured traumatic experience from the conflict. It’s time to move forward and let peace dawn on the region with a pledge to a bright future for all.

Good Luck and Best Wishes to President Barack Obama, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian leaderships – President Mahmoud Abbas and Prime Minister Salam Fayyad, President Hosni Mubarak and King Abdullah for a successful peace process.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Israel is in spotlight for the recent intervention of the Turkish ship Mavi Marmara originally scheduled to deliver humanitarian aid directly to the beleaguered Palestinian population in Gaza.

According to the worldwide reports, the Israeli Navy commandos stormed the ‘Freedom Flotilla,’ that was carrying humanitarian essentials like medical supplies, equipments, children’s toys other than cement and building materials on board to help the Gazans rebuild the enclave that has been under siege in the ongoing Israeli Palestinian conflict.

As a result, per IBA – Israel Broadcast Authority at least 15 international activists on the Turkish cruise liner have died and several including around seven Israeli soldiers are wounded from the skirmish,

That prompted the U.N. Security Council to convene an emergency session to express concern and regrets over the loss of lives in the clash between the Israeli forces and the Pro-Palestinian activists.

Israel’s blockade on Gaza subsequent to the 2008 Gaza invasion is claimed by Israel as a territorial trade embargo to weaken the Palestinian authority, Hamas and prohibit conventional weapons importation into Gaza from Iran, Hezbollah in Lebanon and Syria.

While Israel has adopted these measures to deter the possible arms shipment from its adversaries in the region, the joint display by Israel and its strongest ally, U.S. on October 22, 2009,

Titled –“Juniper Cobra 2009 – Reports stated that:

“U.S. and Israel conducted massive missile defense drills to create the world’s most sophisticated anti-missile umbrella to protect the Jewish State,”

Further, it emphasized that:

“Unlike past Juniper Cobras, this one will employ the widest spectrum of missile defense assets yet, including the US’s Aegis BMD ships, Patriot PAC-3 batteries, THAAD batteries, the mobile X-Band radar currently stationed in the Negev, and Israel’s own Arrow 2 batteries. Interoperability between allied systems is the main goal.”

United States does have a small military garrison at a strategic radar, X-band, stationed in Israel’s southern Negev desert.

“The Israel Defense Force can defend Israel alone,” Gavish said. “But it is good to know that U.S. capabilities are available.”

Despite the unflinching U.S. military aid to Israel and its nuclear capability, the Israeli policies against the Palestinian population under the “national security,” pretext in the Gaza war and,

Now in the Freedom flotilla raid is characteristic of the twentieth century Imperialism promoted into the twenty first century – through illegal invasion, occupation, oppression, persecution and denial of basic human rights in the modern civilization.

Israel’s persisting provocative actions in this instant along with Jewish settlements expansion in Palestinian territories, refusal to comply with international humanitarian law including the Geneva Convention violation as detailed in the “Goldstone Report,” are responsible for Israel’s self-inflicted insecurity.

Ironically, not long ago, Israel found an ally in Hamas when they both were implicated in the ‘Goldstone report,’ much to the frustration and disappointment of the West Bank authority – Fatah leader and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, in their successful attempt to evade the potential trial for war crimes by the offenders in the international court of justice.

Thus, proving that “politics finds strange partners.”

It’s apparent that the innocent civilians in Palestine and Israel were victims in the Gaza war with the perpetrators on both sides forging alliance to prevent prosecution in the U.N. sponsored investigation.

The independent investigation in the Freedom flotilla deaths and the Goldstone report on Gaza war deserve to be honored and executed.

Nevertheless, the Palestinian plight in the past six decades and their struggle for an independent state is nearing end due to the increased international awareness and solidarity to liberate Palestine from Israel.

Israel is at the crossroads amid widespread global disdain for the systemic abuse of power against Palestinians.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with the hard line Likud Party coalition partners advocating anti-democratic doctrine fail to recognize the mirage in the occupied land.

History is testimony to the fact that colonization eventually leads to emancipation.

Israeli check posts, blockades, military aggression, settlements has consumed the moderate and the conservative powers’ time and resources leaving Israel in self-bondage without truly experiencing the independent statehood granted in 1948.

Israel is perceived to exist in the shadow of the staunch supporter, the United States, in spite of the great many attributes within not optimized to attain peace and harmony with the fellow human beings – the Palestinians.

Rather than adopting the ‘Live and let Live,’ maxim, the prolonged annexation of boundaries from 1967 to until now has generated acrimony, bloodshed and perennial border disputes among Israel and Arab neighbors.

By enduring the generational loss in the quest for freedom that has sadly remained a fantasy among the young and the old on the Palestinian side and similarly the Israeli side deprived of normal existence from the fear of being attacked, the two-fold tragedy has a simple solution.

Signing the Israel and Palestinian Peace Treaty as outlined on several occasions.

1. Complete withdrawal of Israeli settlers and the military base from all Palestinian territories including the occupied peripheral lands since 1967.

2. Palestine is to be internationally recognized as a sovereign nation with East Jerusalem as the Capital for the independent state.

3. The policy restricting Palestinians the right to return to Israel would conversely apply to the Jewish settlers and Israeli citizens on the Palestinian land. Similar reciprocation applies to Prime Minister Netanyahu’s insistence to call Israel the ‘Jewish’ state.

Therefore, it’s very important to weigh the pros and cons of the harsh terms and conditions being imposed by the powerful against the powerless to avoid the inevitable backlash from such extemporaneous demands.

4. Palestinian and Arab nation’s reaffirmation of Israel as a sovereign nation in the Middle East along with a solemn oath to disavow violence in the form of suicide bombings, rocket firing and last but not the least any nuclear threats against Israel.

5. Free flow of Economic and Humanitarian aid to Palestine for reconstruction purpose, to commence effective immediately without Israeli authority intrusion.

6. Evidently, the International community seeks equal support from the United States and other economic powers to both Israel and Palestine to reflect fairness in the deal.

Finally, it’s imperative and incumbent on the U.S., the U.N.,the EU and the Arab league to be honest brokers in implementing the Peace Treaty to restore credibility in resolving international problems.

Palestinians and Israelis are entitled to a long lasting peace and a bright future. It’s time to set the differences aside and reconcile terms with reality that,

Future is determined by the present as time and tide waits for none.

The burden lies more on Israel as the occupying power in setting the corner stone for peaceful resolution in the age-old conflict.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Happy 62nd Anniversary to the State of Israel!

By Padmini Arhant

Welcome to a New Era!

By Padmini Arhant

Padmini Arhant
President of the United States

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