December 2002
UN Inspectors Leave North Korea
Two UN inspectors are leaving North Korea after being expelled by the government, raising concerns about the lack of oversight on the country's nuclear activities.…
Fifteen Cargo Ships Worldwide Believed to Be Under Control of Al-Qaeda - 2002-12-31
U.S. intelligence has identified fifteen cargo ships worldwide that may be controlled by Al-Qaeda. These ships are tracked using various methods, but intelligence agencies sometimes…
Trial for Publishing Survey Results
Behrooz Gharanpayeh, an Iranian polling expert, is on trial for publishing survey results that suggest a majority of Iranians support dialogue with the U.S. He…
China Launches Its Fourth Unmanned Spacecraft
China has successfully launched its fourth unmanned spacecraft, marking progress towards future manned space missions. The country aims to join the ranks of the United…
Christo the Great Artist Erecting an Arch of Triumph - 2002-12-30
Christo, a renowned artist, is working on a unique project to create an arch of triumph in Central Park, New York. This project highlights his…
Paris Airport Employee Hid Weapons and Explosives in His Car - 2002-12-30
A 27-year-old baggage handler at Paris airport was arrested for hiding weapons and explosives in his car. The police are investigating his potential involvement in…
Saudi Arabia Assures the U.S. It Can Use Its Bases in Case of War with Iraq - 2002-12-30
Saudi Arabia has given private assurances to U.S. officials that American forces can utilize its bases for military operations if a conflict arises with Iraq.…
In Memory of Herb Ritts, Famous American Photographer - 2002-12-28
Herb Ritts, a celebrated American photographer known for his portraits of famous personalities, died at 50 from pneumonia. His unique approach to photography set him…
With Ongoing Conflicts to Overthrow President Laurent, France Sends More Troops to the Country - 2002-12-28
France is increasing its military presence in Ivory Coast amidst ongoing conflicts aimed at overthrowing President Laurent Gbagbo. Approximately 300 troops and military equipment have…
Signing of the Contract for the Transfer of Natural Gas from Turkmenistan to Pakistan via Afghanistan - 2002-12-28
Turkmenistan has signed a contract to transfer natural gas to Pakistan via Afghanistan after prolonged negotiations. This agreement marks a significant step for Turkmenistan in…
Mohammad ElBaradei: Reactivating North Korea's Nuclear Plant Has No Relation to Its Electricity Needs
The IAEA reports that North Korea is reactivating its Yongbyon nuclear plant, which is unrelated to its electricity needs. ElBaradei emphasizes that North Korea has…
International Atomic Energy Agency Asks North Korea Not to Expel Nuclear Inspectors
The IAEA has urged North Korea not to expel its nuclear inspectors, which would hinder monitoring of the country's nuclear activities. North Korea's decision follows…
Kim Dae-jung: North Korea has ignited the nuclear crisis in the region - 2002-12-26
South Korean President Kim Dae-jung declared that North Korea's nuclear ambitions will not be tolerated, condemning their reactivation of nuclear facilities. This situation escalates the…
Interview of Inspectors with the President of Baghdad Technical University - 2002-12-26
UN weapons inspectors interviewed the President of Baghdad Technical University regarding the university's connections to various ministries and its academic programs. Concurrently, the Iraqi government…
North Korean Leaders Plan to Resume Operations at Nuclear Power Plant - 2002-12-25
North Korean leaders are planning to restart operations at a nuclear power plant, raising international concerns about nuclear weapons production. This move comes as U.S.…
Russia Asks North Korea to Cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency
Russia has urged North Korea to collaborate with the IAEA amid concerns over its nuclear weapons program. This request highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding North…
Russian Supreme Court Refuses to Release Igor Sutyagin
The Russian Supreme Court has upheld the detention of Igor Sutyagin, a researcher accused of espionage for the U.S. He was arrested in 1999 for…
Hekmatyar Will Collaborate with Al-Qaeda - December 25, 2002
Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, an Afghan insurgent leader, has declared his intention to work with Taliban remnants and Al-Qaeda members. This development raises concerns about the resurgence…
Rebels in Ivory Coast Still Demand President's Resignation
Rebels in Ivory Coast continue to demand the resignation of President Laurent Gbagbo after three months of civil unrest. The government is expected to propose…
Iraqi Fighter Jet Enters 'No-Fly Zone' in Southern Iraq - 2002-12-23
An Iraqi fighter jet entered a no-fly zone to target a U.S. reconnaissance drone, which was subsequently destroyed. This incident highlights ongoing tensions between Iraq…
North Korea Apparently Begins Removing Seals from Its Nuclear Laboratory
North Korea has started removing seals from its nuclear laboratory, which is crucial for its nuclear weapons program. This move comes after the U.S.-led coalition…
Interview with Mr. Abdul Rahim Karimi, Minister of Justice of Afghanistan - 2002-12-23
An interview was conducted with Abdul Rahim Karimi, the Afghan Minister of Justice, after a two-day conference in Switzerland focused on drafting a new constitution…
Interview with Dr. Saif Rahman Samadi - 2002-12-23
Nazi Baghlari interviewed Dr. Saif Rahman Samadi at the conclusion of a UNESCO conference focused on education in Afghanistan. The discussion highlights the current state…
U.S. Defense Secretary: America Fully Capable of Doing What is Necessary - 2002-12-23
U.S. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld emphasized America's military readiness to confront multiple threats, including North Korea, while advocating for diplomatic solutions. This comes amid North…
Baghdad Challenges Washington to Prove Iraq Has Weapons of Mass Destruction - 2002-12-23
Baghdad has challenged Washington to prove its claims about Iraq's possession of weapons of mass destruction. General Amir al-Saadi has stated that Iraq will cooperate…
Interview with John Malkovich, Theater and Film Actor - 2002-12-23
Nazi Baghlari interviews John Malkovich, a prominent theater and film actor. The interview provides insights into Malkovich's views and experiences. This matters as it highlights…
U.S. Army Conducts Largest Military Exercises Since 1991 War - 2002-12-22
The U.S. Army has conducted its largest military exercises since the 1991 Gulf War, involving thousands of troops and armored vehicles in Kuwait. President Bush…
Switzerland's Role in Drafting Afghanistan's Constitution - 2002-12-22
Swiss officials conducted a research trip to explore the possibility of assisting Afghanistan in drafting a new constitution. This initiative highlights Switzerland's potential role in…
Interview with Vache Valaqourchian, Lebanese-Armenian Director - 2002-12-21
Vache Valaqourchian, a Lebanese-Armenian director, explores the significance of Ashura among Shia Muslims in southern Lebanon in his first documentary. The film aims to connect…
End of London Conference Delayed by One Day - 2002-12-20
The London conference aimed at discussing the future of Iraq concluded after an additional day of deliberations, with all opposition factions agreeing on the need…
Increased Military Pressure from American Forces in the Persian Gulf - 2002-12-20
The U.S. plans to double its military presence in the Persian Gulf, increasing pressure on Iraq. This move is part of a strategy leading to…
A Chinese National Residing in the U.S. Arrested on Charges of Espionage and Terrorist Activities in China - 2002-12-20
A Chinese democracy activist living in the U.S., Wang Bingzhang, has been arrested in China on espionage and terrorism charges. He allegedly sold state secrets…
Bomb Explosion in Afghanistan - 2002-12-20
A suicide bomber attacked German forces at a peacekeeping headquarters near Kabul, resulting in the death of the bomber and an Afghan translator, while injuring…
Al-Qaeda Remains Hidden and on the Run, Continuing Its Activities
Al-Qaeda continues to operate covertly and evade capture while engaging with extremist groups across different nations. The report highlights the ongoing threat posed by the…
Saddam Hussein, Leader of Iraq, Plans to Destroy Oil Fields, Food Supplies, and Power Plants - 2002-12-19
U.S. intelligence reports suggest that Saddam Hussein plans to destroy critical infrastructure in Iraq to prevent an American invasion and may use chemical weapons against…
In Ivory Coast, Rebels Take Major City from Government Forces - 2002-12-19
Rebels in Ivory Coast have captured the city of Man from government forces amid ongoing conflict. Amnesty International has condemned both sides for human rights…
Violence Continues in the Occupied Territories - 2002-12-18
Violence persists in the occupied territories as a Palestinian teenager is killed by Israeli soldiers in Rafah, Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon expresses willingness…
Three Arrested in Texas for Funding Terrorists
Three men in Texas have been arrested for allegedly funding Hamas, a radical terrorist group. The arrests were made by federal agents, and a press…
Sean Penn's Visit to Iraq - 2002-12-18
Sean Penn, the American actor, visited Iraq for three days during a time when UN weapons inspectors were searching for weapons of mass destruction. This…
UN Assistance for the Return of Afghan Refugees to Their Country - 2002-12-18
The UN Refugee Agency aims to help 1.5 million Afghan refugees return to Afghanistan, seeking $195 million for new programs. In the past nine months,…
Tensions Arise Between the Economic Community of West African States and Member Countries for Establishing Peace Between the Ivorian Government and Rebel Soldiers - 2002-12-18
New conflicts have emerged in Ivory Coast as rebel forces clash with government troops over the city of Man. West African leaders plan an extraordinary…
U.S. Officials Negotiating the Use of Military in Covert Propaganda Operations - 2002-12-17
U.S. defense officials are debating the potential use of military resources for covert propaganda operations abroad, which could include funding journalists and schools. Critics warn…
Interview with Mr. Akram al-Hakim - 2002-12-16
The conference of Saddam Hussein's regime opponents in London has ended, with Mr. Akram al-Hakim discussing its outcomes. This event involved key Iraqi opposition figures…
Increase of Pakistani Forces at the Border with Afghanistan - 2002-12-16
Pakistan has bolstered its military presence along the Afghan border in response to security concerns regarding al-Qaeda and Taliban infiltration. This move reflects ongoing tensions…
Interview with Nasser Rafaei, Director of the Film 'Exam' - 2002-12-16
Nazi Baghlari interviews Nasser Rafaei, the director of 'Exam', discussing insights about the film. The interview sheds light on Rafaei's perspective and the film's themes.…
North Korea Resumes Nuclear Program to Compensate for Power Shortages - 2002-12-15
North Korea has decided to resume its nuclear program in response to electricity shortages caused by the cessation of fuel oil exports from the U.S.…
Iran Firmly Rejects Claims of Attempting to Produce Nuclear Weapons - 2002-12-15
Iran has rejected allegations of developing nuclear weapons and insists its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi emphasized that the facilities…
North Korea: Oversight of Our Nuclear Facilities Must Be Stopped - 2002-12-14
North Korea has announced that the International Atomic Energy Agency must cease its oversight of its nuclear facilities, prompting a response from U.S. and South…
The Death of Shah Mahmoud Zahir, Son of Mohammad Zahir Shah - 2002-12-14
Shah Mahmoud Zahir, the son of Afghanistan's former king Mohammad Zahir Shah, has passed away and was buried in Kabul. His death marks the loss…
Ban on Two Films in Iran and Israel - 2002-12-14
Two films have been banned in Iran and Israel, reflecting the political tensions in both countries. The Iranian film "Women's Prison" and the Israeli film…
Expansion of the Role of the U.S. Army in the Reconstruction of Afghanistan - 2002-12-14
The U.S. Army is increasing its involvement in Afghanistan's reconstruction and humanitarian efforts to support the legitimacy of the Afghan central government. This development is…
Interview with Dr. Hossein Bagherzadeh - 2002-12-14
The article features an interview with Dr. Hossein Bagherzadeh discussing the Islamic Republic's structure and opposition forces. The interview is significant for understanding the political…
Interview with Amir Taheri Regarding Recent U.S. Military Aid to Algeria - 2002-12-14
The article features an interview with Amir Taheri discussing the implications of recent U.S. military assistance to Algeria. This aid is significant as it reflects…
Why is the Smallpox Vaccine More Dangerous than Other Vaccines?
The U.S. plans to vaccinate its armed forces and health workers against smallpox due to concerns over potential terrorist attacks. The smallpox vaccine is considered…
Inspection of Iran's Nuclear Facilities - 2002-12-13
An Iranian nuclear official refuted U.S. allegations regarding the potential use of Iran's nuclear facilities for secret weapons programs. This statement comes amidst ongoing tensions…
The U.S. Regrets North Korea's Decision to Reactivate Nuclear Power Plant
The U.S. has expressed regret over North Korea's decision to reactivate a nuclear power plant, which raises concerns about nuclear weapons production. Leaders from the…
Interview with Mr. Amir Taheri - 2002-12-13
Nazi Baghlari interviewed Amir Taheri about an upcoming conference for Iraqi opposition groups in London. This event is significant as it highlights the dynamics of…
The Return of Afghan Refugees to Their Country Will Be Voluntary
An agreement has been made between Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the UN Refugee Agency for the voluntary return of 400,000 Afghan refugees over the next three…
Washington's Efforts to Win Over Algeria - 2002-12-12
Washington is actively seeking support from Islamic nations, particularly Algeria, in its fight against terrorism, and has overcome its previous hesitations regarding arms sales to…
The Eleventh Award Ceremony of Reporters Without Borders - 2002-12-12
The eleventh award ceremony of Reporters Without Borders took place in Paris, where imprisoned journalist Gregory Paska was honored. Iranian journalist Taghi Rahmani addressed the…
U.S. Defense Secretary's Visit to Qatar - 2002-12-12
U.S. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld visited Qatar, emphasizing Iraq's possession of weapons of mass destruction and the need for disarmament. He signed an agreement to…
Loan Allocation to Afghanistan - 2002-12-11
The Asian Development Bank has approved a $150 million loan for Afghanistan aimed at revitalizing its economy. This development is reported by Nazi Bagheri from…
A Senior Judicial Official in Iran Resigns
A senior judicial official in Iran resigned in protest against the judiciary's harsh treatment of dissenters, particularly regarding the death sentence for a professor. This…
Mohammad Reza Khatami: If the Government Does Not Listen to Students' Demands, They Will Become Disheartened and Seek Another Government
Mohammad Reza Khatami warns that the Iranian government must address student demands or risk losing their support. Students are protesting against the death sentence of…
Reactions to Student Protests in Iran in International Media - 2002-12-10
Student protests in Iran have sparked widespread coverage in international media, highlighting the ongoing unrest. The protests are significant as they reflect the students' discontent…
UN Inspectors Visited Two More Sites in the Baghdad Suburbs - 2002-12-09
UN inspectors visited two sites in Baghdad suburbs as part of their investigation into Iraq's weapons programs. The findings will determine whether Iraq's claims of…
Request for the Expulsion of the Iraqi Olympic Committee from the International Committee
A human rights group is calling for the expulsion of the Iraqi Olympic Committee from the international committee. This request highlights ongoing concerns regarding human…
UN Weapons Experts Review Iraqi Government Report - 2002-12-09
UN weapons experts are analyzing a comprehensive report from Iraq regarding its weapons programs, which initially appears to support Iraq's claims of not having nuclear…
Iran in the Mirror of World Media December 8, 2002
Student protests occurred in Iran, making headlines in global news agencies. The protests are significant as they reflect ongoing dissent among Iranian youth. This matters…
First Group of Refugees Arrives in England - 2002-12-09
The first group of refugees has arrived in England as the closure of a refugee camp in northern France is imminent. This event highlights the…
Regarding the Documentary Film - Without My Daughter - 2002-12-08
The article discusses the release of a new documentary titled 'Without My Daughter', which presents the story of Dr. Mahmoudi, an Iranian doctor who kept…
Joint Congressional Committee Calls for Strengthening U.S. Intelligence Agencies - 2002-12-08
A joint congressional committee in the U.S. is set to vote on a proposal to enhance intelligence operations following last year's terrorist attacks. The proposal…
On the Anniversary of December 7, Iranian Police Used Batons and Tear Gas
On December 7, Iranian police clashed with thousands of protesters in Tehran, using batons and tear gas to suppress demands for political reform. At least…
Bangladesh Police Detain Twenty-One in Connection with Yesterday's Explosions
Following deadly explosions in Bangladesh that killed seventeen and injured over two hundred, police have detained twenty-one individuals, including notable opposition figures. The lack of…
Iraq Submits Reports for Analysis to the United Nations - 2002-12-08
Iraq has submitted extensive reports to the UN asserting it has no weapons of mass destruction, which are now under analysis. President Bush warns that…
Body of a Politician Discovered in India - 2002-12-08
The body of former politician Hannur Nagappa was found in a forest in India after being kidnapped by notorious bandit Koose Muniswamy Veerappan. This incident…
Student Protests in Iran on Student Day - 2002-12-07
Students at Tehran University protested on Student Day, demanding political reforms and a referendum for Iran's future. This follows previous unrest over a death sentence…
North Korea has taken a dangerous step by violating nuclear agreements
North Korea is facing serious accusations from the U.S. for violating nuclear agreements, as it refuses to allow international inspectors. U.S. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld…
Prevention of Bomb Explosion in Kabul Mosque - 2002-12-05
The Afghan police successfully thwarted a bomb explosion in a mosque in Kabul, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region. This incident underscores the persistent…
Rotterdam Port and the Possibility of a Terrorist Attack - 2002-12-05
A Dutch journalist warns that Rotterdam, the world's largest port, is vulnerable to potential terrorist attacks. Nazi Baghlari from Voice of America highlights the risks…
Reservists of the U.S. Armed Forces Are Being Called to Service - 2002-12-05
The Pentagon is preparing to call up a significant number of U.S. National Guard members and reservists in anticipation of a potential war in Iraq.…
Attack on Girls' Schools in Afghanistan - 2002-12-04
Recent attacks by extremist groups on girls' schools in Afghanistan have been condemned by an advisor from the World Learning organization. This situation highlights ongoing…
Interview with Two Iranian Immigrants about the Status of Iranian Immigrants in the Netherlands - 2002-12-03
The article features an interview with two Iranian filmmakers in the Netherlands discussing the challenges faced by Iranian immigrants. They highlight the complexities of being…
Reza Pahlavi's Speech in Paris - 2002-12-03
Reza Pahlavi spoke in Paris about Iran's situation and regional issues, highlighting his perspectives on the political climate. The event was reported by Nazi Baghlari…
Situation of the Sangatte Refugee Camp - 2002-12-03
French and British officials announced an improvement in the situation at the Sangatte refugee camp. This announcement comes from a report by Nazi Baghlari of…
Interview with Saaduddin Saljuqi, Second Secretary of the Afghan Embassy in Bonn - 2002-12-03
The article features an interview with Saaduddin Saljuqi, the Second Secretary of the Afghan Embassy in Bonn, discussing the Bonn conference. This conference was significant…
Trial of Irish Republican Army Members in Colombia - 2002-12-03
The trial of three Irish Republican Army members began in Bogotá, Colombia, where they are accused of training leftist rebels and attempting to leave the…
Hashim Aghajari's Lawyer Appeals Islamic Court Ruling Today
Hashim Aghajari's lawyer has filed an appeal against the death sentence imposed by an Islamic court for criticizing the regime. The case has sparked significant…
The Position of Southeast Asian Countries on the Entry of Terrorists - 2002-12-02
Southeast Asian leaders are shifting their stance on terrorism, moving from denial of its presence to actively discussing strategies to combat it. This change reflects…
Peacekeeping Forces and Security in Afghanistan - 2002-12-02
The UN Security Council has approved a resolution regarding peacekeeping forces in Afghanistan, but there are no plans to expand their operations to other regions.…
Hide Your Words - 2002-12-02
A 27-minute Iranian film titled 'Hide Your Words' was showcased at the International Documentary Film Festival in Amsterdam, highlighting the issues faced by women in…
Under the Microscope: Request for Reconsideration of Aghajari's Death Sentence - 2002-12-02
Mr. Aghajari, a university professor, is seeking a reconsideration of his death sentence through his lawyer. Political analyst Alireza Noori Zadeh provides insights on this…
On December 1st: Establishment of the 'Boys Town' in Nebraska - 2002-12-01
On December 1, 1917, Father Edward Flanagan founded 'Boys Town' in Nebraska to provide care for troubled youth. He believed that proper guidance and discipline…
In Search of Al-Qaeda in Southeast Asia - 2002-12-01
Southeast Asian security agencies are now actively searching for Al-Qaeda members following the Bali bombing, despite prior denials from officials in countries like Indonesia regarding…
Amsterdam Film Festival - 2002-12-01
The Amsterdam Film Festival is featuring Iranian films, with a report highlighting both the participating films and those that were not accepted. This event showcases…
As the Situation in Ivory Coast Deteriorates, French Forces Evacuate 160 Foreigners
French military forces evacuated 160 foreigners from rebel-controlled areas in Ivory Coast as the situation deteriorated. The evacuees included nationals from France, Lebanon, Africa, and…
Protests Against the Death Penalty in 60 Countries Worldwide - 2002-12-01
Opponents of the death penalty held the 'World Day Against the Death Penalty' in approximately sixty cities globally, highlighting the ongoing issue despite many countries…