April 2004
North Korea Likely Has Eight Nuclear Bombs - April 29, 2004
U.S. officials now estimate that North Korea may have eight nuclear bombs, based on new intelligence reports. This marks a significant increase from earlier estimates…
Second Phase of Voter Registration for General Elections in Afghanistan Begins
The second phase of voter registration for Afghanistan's general elections is set to begin, aiming to register eight million eligible voters. Security issues in four…
Deployment of Three Thousand South Korean Soldiers to Iraq Delayed
South Korea has postponed the deployment of 3,000 soldiers to Iraq to allow for further discussions with U.S. and Iraqi officials. The troops will focus…
Agreement by U.S. Military Officials for Withdrawal of U.S. Marines from Fallujah - 2004-04-29
U.S. military officials have agreed to withdraw Marines from Fallujah, allowing a new Iraqi security force to take control. This development follows recent violence in…
Sisters of Slain American Female Soldier Will Not Return to Their Unit in Iraq
Rachel and Charity Whitmer, sisters of Michelle Whitmer, a 20-year-old soldier killed in Iraq, have decided not to return to their combat unit and will…
The Head of the International Atomic Energy Agency Will Visit Israel Later This Year - 2004-04-28
The head of the IAEA, Mohamed ElBaradei, is expected to visit Israel in July, although no specific date has been set. This visit is significant…
Possibility of 8 Nuclear Bombs in North Korea's Arsenal - 2004-04-28
U.S. officials have updated their assessment of North Korea's nuclear capabilities, suggesting the country may have up to 8 nuclear bombs, a significant increase from…
Official Visit of Turkish Defense Minister to Pakistan - 2004-04-28
The Turkish Defense Minister, Vecdi Gönül, is on a three-day official visit to Pakistan to strengthen bilateral relations. This visit is seen as an opportunity…
Hamas Claims Responsibility for Failed Bombing in Gaza Strip
Hamas has taken responsibility for a failed bombing attempt in a Jewish settlement in Gaza, resulting in the death of the driver and injuries to…
Under the Microscope: Important Circular from the Head of Iran's Judiciary and Mr. Khatami's Remarks - 2004-04-28
Dr. Alireza Noori Zadeh discusses a significant circular issued by the head of Iran's judiciary and comments made by former President Mohammad Khatami. This analysis…
Iraq's Transitional Governing Council: We Will Unveil the New Flag of Iraq This Week - 2004-04-27
The Transitional Governing Council of Iraq, backed by the U.S., will unveil a new flag symbolizing a break from the Saddam Hussein era. The new…
North Korea Requests Aid from South Korea
North Korea has requested aid from South Korea after a tragic train explosion that killed 161 people. The request includes construction materials and school supplies.…
Gathering of Afghan Human Rights Activists in Front of UN Offices in Islamabad - 2004-04-27
Afghan human rights activists protested in Islamabad against the current Afghan government and the upcoming elections, criticizing the inclusion of former fundamentalists in power. They…
Televised Confessions of Suspected Terrorists in Jordan - 2004-04-27
Jordanian officials revealed new details about a thwarted terrorist plot involving suspected al-Qaeda militants who confessed on state television. The militants claimed they were following…
Confirmation of New World Records in Pole Vault and Triple Jump - 2004-04-26
The International Association of Athletics Federations has confirmed new world records in pole vault and triple jump set by Russian athletes. Yelena Isinbayeva and Tatyana…
At least 22 killed in recent clashes between Muslims and Christians in the Maluku Islands
Recent clashes in the Maluku Islands between Muslims and Christians have resulted in at least 22 deaths and over a hundred injuries. The violence erupted…
Interview with Ali Kashtgar about the Letter from the Association for the Defense of Press Freedom to Khamenei
Ali Kashtgar discusses an open letter from the Association for the Defense of Press Freedom to Khamenei in an interview. This letter raises concerns about…
At least 143 dead and 1300 injured in train explosion in North Korea - 2004-04-24
A devastating train explosion in North Korea resulted in at least 143 fatalities and 1300 injuries, with significant destruction reported. The incident occurred near the…
Two American Oil Workers Killed in Armed Attack in Nigeria
Two American oil workers were killed in an armed attack in Nigeria's Delta region. The attack highlights ongoing violence and kidnappings by local militants who…
14 Iraqis Killed in Bus Bombing - 2004-04-24
On April 24, 2004, a bus bombing in southern Baghdad killed 14 Iraqis. Concurrently, U.S. military casualties included six soldiers in Sadr City and five…
Muqtada al-Sadr's Remarks at Friday Prayer Ceremony in Kufa - April 23, 2004
Muqtada al-Sadr has threatened to deploy suicide bombers against coalition forces if they attack Shia holy cities in Iraq. This warning follows recent clashes resulting…
According to a new poll, two-thirds of Americans feel another terrorist attack is imminent - 2004-04-22
A recent poll indicates that two-thirds of Americans anticipate another terrorist attack before the upcoming presidential elections. Many believe this could coincide with the summer…
A Militant Arrested in Connection with the Explosion of an American Warship in Yemen - 2004-04-22
A militant linked to the 2000 explosion of the USS Cole in Yemen has been arrested. He is suspected of being part of al-Qaeda and…
A South African Security Guard Shot and Killed in Baghdad - 2004-04-22
A South African security guard was shot and killed in Baghdad while working for the U.S.-led coalition. The assailant, who concealed his identity, reportedly called…
Collision of Two Trains Carrying Flammable Materials Near the China Border - 2004-04-22
A collision between two North Korean trains carrying flammable materials near the China border may have caused thousands of casualties. North Korean officials have not…
Under the Microscope: Open Letter from the Association for the Defense of Press Freedom to Ayatollah Khamenei - 2004-04-22
Dr. Alireza Noorizadeh analyzes an open letter addressed to Ayatollah Khamenei from the Association for the Defense of Press Freedom, along with discussions between Iranian…
Interview of VOA Journalist with Mahdi Ahmad Regarding Muqtada al-Sadr - 2004-04-22
Mahdi Ahmad, a former Iranian parliament member, discusses Muqtada al-Sadr's stance against the U.S. in an interview with VOA. Ahmad compares Sadr to Islamic regime…
Israeli Soldiers Kill Five Palestinians in Northern Gaza Attack - 2004-04-21
Israeli soldiers killed five Palestinians in northern Gaza after being attacked by armed Palestinians. The Israeli military claims the operation was to prevent rocket attacks…
Iran to Supply Electricity to Parts of Iraq Starting Late June
Iran has agreed to supply electricity to certain regions of Iraq starting in late June, following negotiations in Tehran. This deal involves local Iraqi officials…
At least 68 killed in a series of explosions in Basra - 2004-04-21
A series of coordinated suicide bombings in Basra, Iraq, resulted in at least 68 deaths, primarily among students. The attacks targeted police stations and included…
Iran Denies Report of Arresting Two Experts for Providing Nuclear Secrets to Foreigners - 2004-04-21
Iran's Minister of Intelligence has denied reports of the arrest of two experts for allegedly sharing nuclear secrets with foreigners. The claims originated from an…
Under the Microscope: European Officials' Priorities in Meeting with Iran's Foreign Minister and the Situation in Iraq - 2004-04-21
Dr. Alireza Noori Zadeh discusses the priorities of European officials during their meeting with Iran's Foreign Minister, focusing on the situation in Iraq and a…
Life and Progress in America: American Library Association Awards - April 20, 2004
The article discusses the prevalence of public libraries in the U.S. and highlights the annual awards given by the American Library Association for outstanding contributions…
Italian Authorities Seize 7,500 Kalashnikovs Intended for Shipment to the U.S.
Italian customs officials seized 7,500 Kalashnikov rifles meant for shipment to a Georgia-based company in the U.S. The seizure occurred during a routine inspection, and…
Cancellation of Deportation Order for a Kurdish Man from Turkey in Japan
A Japanese court has granted refugee status to a 39-year-old Kurdish man from Turkey, reversing a deportation order due to fears of torture upon his…
Award for 'Free Writing' Given to Nasser Zarafshan by the American PEN Association
The American PEN Association is awarding Dr. Nasser Zarafshan, an imprisoned Iranian lawyer, with its Free Writing Award for his defense of freedom of expression.…
Deadline for Surrender of Al-Qaeda Fugitives at Afghanistan Border to be Extended
Pakistani authorities are considering extending the deadline for Al-Qaeda and Taliban fugitives to surrender at the Afghanistan border. The governor emphasized the need for positive…
New Spanish Cabinet Introduced to the King
The new Spanish cabinet, led by Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, was introduced to King Juan Carlos. The cabinet includes notable figures such as…
Changes and Transfers of the U.S. Army in Fallujah - 2004-04-17
The U.S. Army has agreed to relocate its forces in Fallujah to facilitate access to medical care for residents amid ongoing violence. Meanwhile, an Iranian…
Egyptian Security Officials Arrest Kuwaiti Passenger Attempting to Hijack Qatari Plane - 2004-04-17
A Kuwaiti passenger attempted to hijack a Qatari plane traveling from Morocco to Qatar. The incident was thwarted by the pilot, and the plane safely…
Under the Microscope: Events in Iraq and Tony Blair's Visit to Washington - 2004-04-16
Dr. Alireza Noori Zadeh analyzes the situation in Iraq concerning Iranian officials and the significance of Tony Blair's visit to Washington. This discussion highlights the…
Colin Powell: Intelligence Officials Believe the Audio Tape Features Osama bin Laden - 2004-04-16
Colin Powell announced that U.S. intelligence believes a recently released audio tape features Osama bin Laden, who offers a ceasefire to European nations withdrawing from…
Spanish Parliament Expected to Grant Confidence Vote to Zapatero
The Spanish Parliament is set to vote confidence in José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero as the new Prime Minister, who has pledged to prioritize anti-terrorism efforts…
Confirmation of José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero as the New Prime Minister of Spain - 2004-04-16
José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero has been confirmed as the new Prime Minister of Spain, pledging to prioritize the fight against terrorism and to withdraw troops…
Six Moroccan Suspects Released in Madrid
Six Moroccan suspects were released in Madrid after being cleared of involvement in the train bombings. Eighteen others remain detained as investigations continue. This incident…
Two American Officials Join the Iraqi Governing Council - 2004-04-16
Two American officials have joined the Iraqi Governing Council to mediate ongoing violence in Fallujah that has caused many casualties. A special Iranian delegation is…
Iraqi Rebels Kill One of Four Italian Hostages
Iraqi rebels have killed one of four Italian hostages and demanded the withdrawal of Italian troops from Iraq. This incident follows the release of a…
Muqtada al-Sadr Agrees to Drop Conditions for Negotiation with Coalition Forces
Muqtada al-Sadr has agreed to negotiate with coalition forces without preconditions, following mediation from Shia religious leaders. This development is significant as it may help…
America Assures China It Does Not Support Taiwan Independence - 2004-04-14
U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney reassured China that the U.S. does not support Taiwan's independence during his visit. This is significant as China views Taiwan…
Suspected Taliban Militants Kill 7 Afghans
Suspected Taliban militants executed seven Afghans, including three provincial officials, in Paktika. The attackers posed as government forces and targeted individuals based on their support…
George Tenet's Remarks at the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks Investigation Commission - 2004-04-14
George Tenet, the CIA Director, testified that it would take five more years to develop the necessary intelligence capabilities to fight terrorism effectively. He admitted…
One of the French Journalists in Iraq Has Been Released - 2004-04-14
A French journalist kidnapped in Iraq has been released. This incident highlights the ongoing violence and hostage crisis affecting foreign nationals in Iraq, prompting countries…
Muqtada al-Sadr Withdraws Conditions for Negotiation
Muqtada al-Sadr has retracted his conditions for negotiations with the U.S.-led coalition, influenced by Shia religious leaders. Coalition forces are poised to act against his…
Al Jazeera: Missing Russians Likely Taken Hostage in Iraq - 2004-04-13
Al Jazeera reports that 11 missing Russians are likely hostages in Iraq, amidst ongoing dangers for foreigners in the war-torn country. Meanwhile, 7 Chinese hostages…
About 40 nationals from 12 countries are held captive in Iraq - 2004-04-13
Approximately 40 individuals from 12 different countries are being held hostage in Iraq by insurgents. The U.S.-led coalition refuses to negotiate for their release, while…
Dick Cheney: The Bush Administration Does Not Support Taiwan's Independence - 2004-04-13
During a visit to China, U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney reassured Chinese officials that the Bush administration does not support Taiwan's independence and opposes changes…
On This Day, April 13: An American Won the 'Tchaikovsky' Prize - 2004-04-13
On April 13, 1958, an American won the prestigious Tchaikovsky Competition for the first time, marking a significant cultural achievement in the context of U.S.-Soviet…
Arrest of 7 More Suspects in Connection with Madrid Bombing
Spanish authorities have arrested 7 additional suspects linked to the March 11 train bombing in Madrid, which killed 191 people. This brings the total number…
Involvement of Intelligence Officials in the Commission Investigating the September 11 Terrorist Attacks - 2004-04-12
U.S. intelligence and law enforcement officials will testify before a commission investigating the September 11 attacks, amid criticisms of their lack of cooperation. This follows…
Under the Microscope: Unrest in Iraq - Appreciation for Saeed Mortazavi - 2004-04-12
Dr. Alireza Noori Zadeh discusses the recent unrest in Iraq and the Iranian judiciary's recognition of Saeed Mortazavi. This highlights the political dynamics in Iraq…
The White House Releases Confidential Report on September 11 Attacks
The White House has declassified a report warning of al-Qaeda's plans to hijack planes in the U.S. prior to the September 11 attacks. This comes…
Security and Military Officials in Iraq Warn Shiites Traveling to Karbala and Najaf
Iraqi security officials have issued warnings to Shiite pilgrims heading to Karbala and Najaf due to potential terrorist threats. U.S. General Ricardo Sanchez highlighted the…
Closure of Several Paris Metro Stations Based on CIA Warning - 2004-04-09
The French police closed several metro stations in Paris following a CIA warning about potential terrorist threats. This action took place during a time of…
A Russian Scientist and Weapons Expert Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison
Igor Sutyagin, a Russian scientist and weapons expert, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for allegedly selling classified military information to a British consulting…
At least 9 killed in grenade explosion in Kashmir, India
A grenade explosion at an election rally in Kashmir resulted in at least 9 deaths and over 50 injuries, including state ministers. The attack was…
Casualties of U.S. Marines in Iraq - 2004-04-07
In Ramadi, 12 U.S. Marines were killed in a clash with insurgents. This incident is part of a broader wave of violence in Iraq, resulting…
Interview with Ms. Shirin Ebadi - 2004-04-07
Ms. Shirin Ebadi, a prominent Iranian lawyer and Nobel laureate, discusses her upcoming trip to Canada and critiques the human rights situation in Iran. She…
Nazi Baghlari's Report: Meetings of the UN Special Representative with Iraqi Officials - 2004-04-07
UN Special Representative Lakhdar Brahimi is meeting with Iraqi officials to discuss support for the interim government after the power transfer on July 1. This…
Jordan Court Sentences 8 Militants to Death for Involvement in Killing American Diplomat in Amman
A Jordanian court has sentenced eight militants to death for the murder of American diplomat Lawrence Foley in 2002. Among those sentenced is Abu Musab…
Foiling Plans for a Terrorist Attack in London - 2004-04-06
British authorities have thwarted a planned terrorist attack in London involving toxic chemicals intended to cause harm to civilians. The plot was linked to al-Qaeda…
Thousands of Muqtada al-Sadr Supporters Demonstrate Power in Iraq
Thousands of Muqtada al-Sadr's supporters marched in Baghdad to demonstrate their strength, protesting the arrest of al-Sadr's aide and the closure of his publication. The…
India Successfully Finds Wreckage of Two Fighter Jets
India's rescue teams have found the wreckage of two fighter jets that crashed in Kashmir, along with one pilot's body. The jets reportedly collided mid-air…
At least 24 killed in clashes in Najaf
Armed clashes in Najaf resulted in at least 24 deaths, primarily among protesters loyal to Muqtada al-Sadr, who were opposing the suppression of the Al-Hawza…
Afghanistan to Launch Operations to Arrest Taliban and Al-Qaeda Fighters
Afghanistan is preparing to conduct operations to capture fleeing Taliban and Al-Qaeda fighters from Pakistan, collaborating with U.S. forces. Local tribal leaders in Pakistan are…
Second Day of Protests by Thousands of Monarchy Opponents in Kathmandu - 2004-04-03
Thousands of protesters opposed to the monarchy clashed with police in Kathmandu for a second day, demanding the return of a democratic government. The protests…
Powell Acknowledges Evidence Regarding Mobile Biological Labs in Iraq Was Likely Incorrect - 2004-04-03
Colin Powell, the U.S. Secretary of State, admitted that the evidence he presented about mobile biological labs in Iraq was likely incorrect. This acknowledgment raises…
Clashes Between Israeli Police and Palestinian Muslims at Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem - 2004-04-02
On April 2, 2004, clashes erupted between Israeli police and Palestinian Muslims at Al-Aqsa Mosque, marking one of the most violent confrontations in the ongoing…
Arrest Warrant Issued for Tunisian in Connection with Madrid Bombings
A Spanish judge has issued an arrest warrant for Serhan Abdulmajid Fakhit, a Tunisian identified as the leader of the group responsible for the Madrid…
Cancellation of a Major Trade Exhibition in Baghdad - 2004-04-01
A major trade exhibition in Baghdad was canceled due to security concerns following the killing of 9 Americans in Fallujah. Over 200 international companies were…
A Woman Detonates Herself in Bukhara, Uzbekistan
A woman in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, detonated herself, resulting in severe injuries and the death of a man. This incident follows a recent wave of violence…