2006 DECEMBER
December 30, 2006

Saddam Hussein Executed for Role in Shiite Massacre
Saddam Hussein, who brutally governed Iraq for a quarter century, was hanged in the pre-dawn hours Saturday for his role in the killing of 148 Shiite men and boys in the northern Iraqi city of Dujail in 1982.

December 29, 2006

Iraqis Face Challenges Finding Work, Stabilizing Lives
In addition to the attacks and sectarian clashes that dominate the headlines in the worldwide media, the average Iraqi is also struggling with a difficult financial reality -- trying to find and keep a job, conducting everyday business and planning a future for their children in a nation wracked by uncertainty and violence.

December 29, 2006

Saddam Execution May Take Toll on Situation in Iraq
Lawyers for Saddam Hussein made last-ditch attempts to save his life Friday as news surfaced that the former dictator could be executed at any time. A reporter and a professor discuss the likely impacts of the execution.

  

December 29, 2006

Retaliation Threats Mount as Officials Say Saddam's Execution Likely by Saturday
Saddam Hussein will likely be executed by Saturday for the deaths of 148 Shiite men in 1982, U.S. and Iraqi officials say. A reporter gives an update on the fate of the former dictator.

  

December 29, 2006

Profile: Former President Saddam Hussein
Saddam Hussein, one of the most controversial figures in modern Middle East politics, was hanged Dec. 30 after being convicted of crimes committed during his nearly 25-year reign as president of Iraq.

December 28, 2006

Sectarian Violence Driving Iraqis from Home and Country
More than 100,000 displaced Iraqis registered for aid in the last month, and thousands more are fleeing the country for neighboring states, including Syria, due largely to sectarian violence. Two experts discuss the situation.

  

December 26, 2006

Author Uncovers Stories of Arabs Helping Jews During Holocaust
There have been few books written about the Holocaust's impact in the Arab world. Margaret Warner speaks with author Robert Satloff about how Arabs saved some Jews during the Holocaust.

  

December 26, 2006

Iraqi High Court Upholds Saddam Death Sentence
An Iraqi appeals court upheld a death sentence for Saddam Hussein Tuesday and ordered his execution within 30 days, although the decision must be ratified by President Jalal Talabani and Iraq's two vice presidents under Iraqi law.

December 25, 2006

Iraqi President Decries U.S. Detention of Iranians
Iraqi President Jalal Talabani complained Monday that the U.S. is holding Iranians seized in a raid last week. A reporter updates the situation.

  

December 22, 2006

Senator Urges Talks with Syria to Ease Iraq Violence
Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Fla., who recently returned from a trip to the Middle East where he visited several countries including U.S. foe Syria, discusses how he thinks Iraq's neighbors can help ease the sectarian violence.

  

December 21, 2006

Marines Face Charges for Deaths of Iraqi Civilians
Eight Marines have been charged in the massacre of 24 Iraqi civilians in the town of Haditha last year. Prosecutors claim the Marines went on a killing spree in retaliation for an attack that killed a comrade; the defense says the threat was real.

  

December 21, 2006

Secretary of State Rice Places Conditions on Iran, Syria for Talks
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice re-asserts President Bush's need to seek input on Iraq strategy from a variety of sources beyond the Iraq Study Group and explains the president's hesitation to engage in talks with Iraq's neighbors, Iran and Syria.

  

December 21, 2006

Track Countries' Nuclear Developments
This interactive map allows you to trace different nations' nuclear efforts over the past 60 years.

December 20, 2006

Iraq Government Profile
Iraq is a transitional democracy with its first general election held in January 2005 and a permanent constitution ratified in October 2005.

December 20, 2006

Iraq's Provinces
An interactive map of Iraq's provinces with links to maps of Baghdad and the Green Zone.

December 20, 2006

Iraq's Fledgling Free-Market Economy
In the first of a two-part series examining Iraq's economy, the Online NewsHour reports on how the country is faring post Saddam Hussein. Part 2, on December 28, will look at how ordinary Iraqis are hashing out an existence in a country broken by daily occurrences of violence.

December 20, 2006

Iraq Under Saddam Hussein
Nine months after the United States led an invasion of Iraq, Saddam Hussein was found hiding in a spider hole in the town of Tikrit on Dec. 13, 2003, ending nearly a quarter century of rule marked by brutality and force, but also by social reforms that made the country achieve the highest literacy rate in the Middle East.

December 20, 2006

Creation of Modern Iraq Continues to Influence Current Politics
Iraq was carved out of the collapsing Ottoman Empire following World War I by a British administration focused on protecting its access to a much larger Indian colony and its growing thirst for newly discovered oil reserves. It was a process that has left its imprint on the politics and ethnic quarrels ever since.

December 20, 2006

Iraqi Forces Face Challenges Ahead of Planned 2007 Security Handover
As Americans debate the direction of U.S. strategy in Iraq, much of the focus has turned to the Iraqi Security Force, or ISF.

December 20, 2006

Political Timeline of Iraq
A timeline of major events in Iraqi political history from the beginning of the British Mandate in 1920 to the latest developments in the War in Iraq.

December 19, 2006

Turkish Prime Minister Says U.S. Must Set Timetable for Iraq
Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan warns Iraq has descended into civil war and says the U.S. should set a timetable for withdrawing troops.

  

December 19, 2006

Attacks in Iraq at All-Time High, Pentagon Report Says
Attacks on U.S. personnel, Iraqi forces and Iraqi civilians are at an all-time high according to a Pentagon report released Monday. A Washington Post reporter discusses the situation in Iraq and disagreements within the military about what to do to ease the violence.

  

December 18, 2006

Proposals to Increase Troop Levels in Iraq Raise Questions at Home
At a time when some policy-makers are calling for a drawback of combat forces from Iraq, Republican Sen. John McCain of Arizona and others have called for more troops to help end the conflict. Editorial page editors from around the country debate the proposals.

  

December 18, 2006

Abbas Calls for Early Elections After Hamas-Fatah Violence
In the days after Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas called for early parliamentary elections on Saturday, deadly fighting between rival Hamas and Fatah factions continued throughout the Gaza region.

December 15, 2006

Attack on Hamas Politician Sparks Fighting in Gaza
Clashes erupted Friday between rival Palestinian factions after Hamas accused Fatah of trying to assassinate Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh of the Hamas-led Palestinian Authority government. Two experts on the Middle East analyze Palestinian tensions.

  

December 14, 2006

Iraqi Vice President Discusses Political Crisis in Baghdad
Amidst continuing violence in Iraq and waning American support, Iraqi politicians struggle to bring peace and order. Iraqi Vice President Tariq Al-Hashimi, a Sunni leader, speaks about the political crisis in Baghdad and what can be done to improve the situation.

  

December 13, 2006

Iraqi Politicians Talk of Limiting Shiite Cleric al-Sadr as Chaos Continues
Vehicle bombings and shootings continued in Iraq Wednesday, as reports continued of attempts within the government to limit the power of radical Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr. New York Times journalist Ed Wong reports on the situation from Baghdad.

  

December 12, 2006

Experts Still Divided After Iraq Study Group Recommendations
Following up on a series of conversations about U.S. Iraq policy, six guests debate the Iraq Study Group and President Bush's response to the different options offered.

  

December 12, 2006

U.S. Resists Calls to Engage Syria in Iraq Planning
The recently released Iraq Study Group report called on the Bush administration to end its isolation of Syria, a move that sparked renewed debate over the American approach to dealing with Damascus.

December 12, 2006

Truck Bombing Kills at least 60, Government Seeks to Limit al-Sadr Influence
A man pulled into a busy Baghdad market Tuesday, called for help unloading his pickup truck and then detonated explosives, killing at least 60 people and wounding another 150.

December 11, 2006

U.S. Policy in the Middle East Revisited Following Iraq Study Report
The Iraq Study Group Report continues to raise prickly questions about the future of Iraq and America's role in the Middle East. Experts analyze how long troops will have to stay in the region and whether the Bush administration is ready to change directions.

  

December 8, 2006

Military Analysts Debate Proposed Shifts in Iraq Strategy
The Iraq Study Group proposed a major shift in U.S. military forces, calling for substantially increasing troops embedded with Iraqi Security Forces while reducing combat brigades by early 2008. A former colonel and army captain discuss the possibilities.

  

December 7, 2006

Shiite Politician Urges Faster Iraqi Takeover of Security
Leading Iraqi Shiite politician Abdul Aziz al-Hakim has urged U.S. forces to use a stronger hand against Sunni-led insurgents. Al-Hakim discusses his reaction to the Iraq Study Group report, as well as Iraqis' desire to take control of security forces as soon as possible.

  

December 7, 2006

Sandra Day O'Connor, Vernon Jordan Discuss Responses to Iraq Report
President Bush and several senators expressed reservations Thursday about portions of the Iraq Study Group's recent report. Study group members former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor and former Clinton adviser Vernon Jordan discuss the response.

  

December 7, 2006

President Bush, PM Blair Respond to Iraq Study Group's Report
President Bush and British Prime Minister Blair praised some of the proposals from the Iraq Study Group Thursday in a press conference, while expressing hesitation about others. NewsHour reports on their reactions.

  

December 6, 2006

Congress Responds to Iraq Study Group's Findings
Following the much-anticipated release of the Iraq Study Group report, Congress is debating alternative strategies for improving the situation in Iraq. Senate Foreign Relations Committee members Christopher Dodd, D-Conn., and Chuck Hagel, R-Neb., share their reactions.

  

December 6, 2006

President Bush Calls Iraq Study Group Proposals 'Very Interesting'
President Bush said the Baker-Hamilton report provided "very interesting proposals" that the administration would consider seriously and act on "in a timely fashion." White House counselor Dan Bartlett elaborates on the administration's response.

  

December 6, 2006

Baker, Hamilton Discuss 'New Way Forward' Proposal for Iraq
The Iraq Study Group released recommendations Wednesday calling for greater diplomatic efforts, as well as a "change in the primary mission" of U.S. troops that will allow "responsible" troop withdrawal. Co-chairmen James Baker and Lee Hamilton discuss the report.

  

December 6, 2006

Iraq Study Group Says U.S. Policy 'Is Not Working,' Suggests Changes
The Iraq Study Group delcared Wednesday that U.S. policy in Iraq 'is not working.' The bipartisan commission called for enhanced diplomatic efforts and a new role for combat forces. Kwame Holman reports Washington's reactions.

  

December 4, 2006

Iraq Strategy Casts Shadow over Gates Hearings
As ex-CIA chief Robert Gates begins confirmation hearings for his appointment as defense secretary, analysts Jessica Mathews and Dov Zakheim discuss the confirmation process, the Iraq Study Group's likely findings and the direction of Iraq policy.

  

December 1, 2006

Turkey Torn Between Eastern Heritage and Western Opportunity
For centuries Turkey has been known as a bridge between the East and West due to its strategic location. Now the predominantly Muslim nation must find a balance between its 80 years of separation between religion and state and new leadership with Islamist roots.

  

December 1, 2006

Protestors in Lebanon Demand Resignation of Prime Minister Saniora
A mass of protestors led by Hezbollah gathered outside Lebanon's governmental offices in Beirut Friday demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Fuad Saniora. Anthony Shadid of the Washington Post discusses the protests against the pro-western government.

  

December 1, 2006

Hezbollah Leads Protest Against Lebanese Government
A mass of protestors led by Hezbollah gathered outside Lebanon's governmental offices in Beirut Friday demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Fuad Saniora and the creation of a national unity government.

NOVEMBER
November 30, 2006

Pope Visits Religious Sites in Turkey
Pope Benedict XVI visited the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, becoming the second pope to enter a Muslim place of worship. He praised Islam and supported Turkey's bid to join the European Union during his four-day trip.

  

November 30, 2006

President Bush Dismisses Calls for U.S. Troop Withdrawal
President Bush and Iraqi Premier Nouri al-Maliki met in Jordan, Thursday, to discuss strategies in Iraq to combat sectarian violence. President Bush said that U.S. troops would stay in Iraq as long as necessary. Two experts discuss what may come of the talks.

  

November 30, 2006

Rice Urges Expansion of Fragile Israeli-Palestinian Cease-fire
U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, in the Middle East on a mission to revive peace talks, urged Israelis and Palestinians to extend a tentative cease-fire implemented this week.

November 29, 2006

U.S.-Iraq Talks on Security Delayed a Day
A meeting between Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and President Bush on security matters was postponed Wednesday, the same day a classified White House memo highly critical of the Iraqi leader was leaked to the press. The leaders are expected to meet on Thursday.

  

November 28, 2006

Former President Jimmy Carter Examines Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
Former U.S. President and Nobel Peace Prize Winner Jimmy Carter discusses his latest book, "Palestine, Peace Not Apartheid" about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

  

November 28, 2006

Americans Debate Whether to Call Crisis in Iraq 'Civil War'
As the numbers of deaths and retaliation attacks in Iraq increase, editors, lawmakers and even the general public are debating whether to call the conflict a 'civil war.' Experts on military warfare and a journalist analyze the terminology and its implications.

  

November 28, 2006

Pope Arrives in Turkey, Marking His First Visit to a Muslim Country as Pontiff
Pope Benedict XVI arrived in Turkey Tuesday, marking his first visit to a Muslim country as pontiff. He backed Turkey's bid to join the European Union and said he believed Islam was a religion of peace, hoping to soothe tension after his controversial remarks about Islam.

  

November 27, 2006

Turkish Opinion of U.S. War in Iraq Taints Relations
Opinions in the United States' once-friendly ally Turkey have turned negative in the wake of the U.S. invasion of Iraq and continued violence that is threatening Turkey's border. NewsHour correspondent Margaret Warner reports from Istanbul.

  

November 27, 2006

Iran Pledges Security Assistance to Longtime Rival Iraq
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad pledged to provide Iraq with whatever security is necessary to prevent its struggling neighbor from descending into civil war. Ahmadinejad made the offer during a visit Monday from Iraqi President Jalal Talabani.

  

November 24, 2006

Attacks Spur Reprisal Killings in Baghdad
Shiite gunmen bent on revenge burned mosques and homes in a Sunni enclave of Baghdad Friday as Iraq's leaders pleaded for calm a day after the worst bomb attack since the start of the U.S. invasion. Analysts discuss the events of the past two days.

  

November 23, 2006

Analysts Discuss Possible Iraq-Vietnam Parallels
When President Bush recently traveled to Vietnam for a meeting with Asian leaders, he was asked what lessons the Vietnam war offered for Iraq. Analysts discuss tactical and political comparisons between the two wars.

  

November 23, 2006

Series of Car Bombs Rips Through Eastern Baghdad
Suspected Sunni Muslim insurgents blew up five car bombs and fired mortars into Baghdad's largest Shiite district Thursday, killing at least 161 people and wounding more than 250. New York Times Baghdad Bureau Chief John Burns updates the story from Baghdad.

  

November 22, 2006

Lebanon Struggles to Maintain Stability After Assassination
Crowds in Lebanon paid their respects to Pierre Gemayel, the Christian Cabinet minister who was gunned down in Beirut this week. In the wake of the assassination of the prominent anti-Syrian leader, analysts discuss threats to stability in Lebanon.

  

November 21, 2006

Iraq and Syria Restore Relations After 24-year Rift
Iraq restored full diplomatic relations with Syria Tuesday in an effort to stem militant violence and garner favor with other Arab states. David Schenker and Robert Malley discuss the new alliance and its possible impact.

  

November 21, 2006

Gunmen Kill Anti-Syrian Lebanese Cabinet Minister
Lebanon's Christian, anti-Syrian Cabinet Minister Pierre Gemayel was assassinated Tuesday as he was leaving church in a predominantly Christian neighborhood near Beirut.

November 20, 2006

Analysts Debate Proposal to Increase Troop Levels in Iraq
Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., called for additional troops in Iraq on Sunday, while Democratic congressional leaders countered with a cry for their phased reduction. Analysts debate what the Pentagon's next step should be.

  

November 17, 2006

Al Jazeera Launches English Service
Arabic television news channel Al Jazeera has launched an English-language station. It will broadcast from studios in Doha, Kuala Lumpur, London and Washington, D.C., in addition to 20 other countries.

  

November 15, 2006

Watchdog Finds Many Iraq Reconstruction Projects Subpar
Reviews of the Iraq rebuilding program show many sub-standard facilities, but construction companies say they face unusual challenges in a war zone. The NewsHour presents a report.

  

November 15, 2006

General Abizaid Speaks Against Setting Firm Timetable for Iraq Withdrawal
Gen. John Abizaid, the top American commander in the Middle East, testified at Senate and House hearings Wednesday and said that imposing a firm timetable for withdrawal from Iraq would hurt efforts by U.S. commanders to manage the war.

  

November 14, 2006

Mass Kidnapping Highlights Difficulty of Daily Life in Iraq
Gunmen in police uniforms staged a mass kidnapping in Baghdad Tuesday. State television later reported that most people had been released. Experts discuss how Iraqis manage to live with the risk of violence.

  

November 13, 2006

Experts Discuss Increased Violence, Future of Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert met with President Bush Monday and reiterated that he is open to negotiations with the Palestinian government if it recognizes Israel and renounces violence. Experts discuss the conflict and its future.

  

November 13, 2006

Senators Debate Changes in U.S Strategy Toward Iraq
President Bush met with members of the bipartisan Iraq Study Group Monday to discuss the situation on the ground, as some Democrats called for a phased troop pullout. Two senior senators debate recalling U.S. forces.

  

November 13, 2006

Iraq Study Group Develops Policy Options as More Attacks Scar Country
President Bush met Monday with members of the bipartisan Iraq Study Group and said he would not "prejudge" the forthcoming report, though he did praise the commission for asking good questions.

November 6, 2006

Saddam Hussein's Death Sentence Will Be Appealed
Saddam Hussein was sentenced to death by hanging Sunday for his role in mass killings in 1982, causing mixed reactions. Capital sentences in Iraq are automatically appealed. John Burns of The New York Times discusses the appeals process, which could conclude in January.

  

November 6, 2006

Shiites, Kurds Celebrate Saddam Death Sentence; Sunnis Protest
Saddam Hussein was convicted of crimes against humanity Sunday and sentenced to hang for the 1982 killings of 148 people in a Shiite town, prompting thousands to spill into the streets in either jubilation or protest.

November 2, 2006

Engaging Iraq's Neighbors in Dialogue Could Ease Violence, Expert Argues
In the conclusion of a series on U.S. strategy in Iraq, James Dobbins, director of International Security and Defense Policy Center at the Rand Corporation, discusses how engaging Iraq's neighbors in dialogue could stabilize the war-torn country.

  

November 1, 2006

U.S. Should Increase Troops in Iraq, Military Historian Says
As part of a series of conversations about U.S. strategy in Iraq, Frederick Kagan of the American Enterprise Institute argues for sending more U.S. troops to Iraq amid heightened violence in the country.

  

November 1, 2006

Experts Eye Relationship Between U.S., Iraqi Governments
President Bush and Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki agreed to expedite the handing over of control of Iraqi security forces to Baghdad, easing tensions between the two governments somewhat. Experts discuss the relationship as it now stands.

  

November 1, 2006

Israeli Strikes Kill at Least Six in Gaza Strip
Israeli troops killed six Palestinian militants in Gaza Wednesday in what the army and witnesses called the largest military offensive since Israel re-entered the territory in June.

OCTOBER
October 30, 2006

Economic Development Can Help Curb Violence in Iraq, Expert Says
In a series on U.S. strategy in Iraq, Eric Davis, a professor of Middle East politics at Rutgers University, discusses how investing in economic development projects can help curb the violence in the war-torn country.

  

October 26, 2006

Democratic Senator Discusses Security in Iraq amid Increasing Violence
As the October death toll of U.S. troops in Iraq reached 96, Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki said more weaponry would be needed to handle the situation. Sen. Jack Reed, a Democrat on the Armed Services Committee who just returned from Iraq, discusses the situation.

  

October 26, 2006

National Security Adviser Outlines Three-step Plan for Iraq
The Bush administration has called on the Iraqi government to move more quickly to stabilize their country. National security adviser Stephen Hadley discusses the White House's plan to help support Iraqi security forces.

  

October 25, 2006

Journalists Gauge Possible Fallout of Bush Speech on Elections
President Bush said the United States is "winning" in Iraq and urged against a fixed timetable for withdrawal from the country. Political journalists E.J. Dionne and Rich Lowry discuss the possible political ramifications of the president's policy.

  

October 25, 2006

President Bush Calls Iraq Violence a 'Serious Concern'
President Bush announced in a press conference that violence in Iraq is a "serious concern," as the death toll of U.S. troops neared 100 for the month of October. Analysts discuss the administration's evolving Iraq policy.

  

October 25, 2006

President Bush Says U.S. is 'Winning' in Iraq
President Bush said in a press conference that increasing violence in Iraq is upsetting but that the United States must continue in the struggle because it is vital to national security. However, the U.S. is pressuring the Iraqi government to accept more responsibility for its own fate, he said.

  

October 24, 2006

Plan Floated to Divide Iraq Along Ethnic Lines
As the debate continues over the United States' next steps in Iraq, some proposals have called for sectioning the country along ethnic lines. Former State Department official Peter Galbraith discusses the decentralization of Iraq in this second of a Newshour series on the future of Iraq.

  

October 24, 2006

Iraqi Government Agrees to Timeline for Stabilization, U.S. Says
U.S. officials said Tuesday Iraqi leaders have agreed to develop a timeline by the end of the year toward stabilizing Iraq and taking control of security from U.S. forces in the next 12 to 18 months with some level of U.S. support.

October 23, 2006

Deadly Month in Iraq Bolsters Calls for Withdrawal
Eighty-six U.S. soldiers died in Iraq in October, making it one of the war's deadliest months. Phyllis Bennis of the Institute for Policy Studies considers a withdrawal of U.S. troops in this first part of a series on Iraq views.

  

October 20, 2006

Mahdi Militia Temporarily Seizes Control of Iraqi City
Shiite militias raided police stations in the southern Iraqi city of Amarah Friday, briefly taking control before mediators negotiated a truce. A London Times reporter in Baghdad provides an update on the situation in Iraq.

  

October 18, 2006

Violence Escalates Amidst Reconciliation Efforts By Iraqi Premier
The U.S. military announced 11 more deaths Wednesday, as Iraqi Prime Minister al-Maliki called for a national reconciliation conference to build political consensus between the warring Shiite and Sunni factions. A journalist in Baghdad discusses the situation there.

  

October 16, 2006

As Violence Escalates, President Bush Assures Iraq of U.S. Support
In a fresh wave of sectarian attacks in Iraq Monday, more than 100 people were killed. Meanwhile, President Bush assured Iraqi Prime Minister Maliki that the United States has no plans to set a timetable for the removal of U.S. troops. Analysts discuss the struggle for security in Iraq.

  

October 12, 2006

Controversial Turkish Novelist Wins Nobel Prize in Literature
Turkish novelist Orhan Pamuk, who was prosecuted by the Turkish government for commenting on the genocide of Armenians during World War I, was awarded the Nobel Prize in literature Thursday for his novels on modern life in Turkey. Pamuk discusses the award and his work.

  

October 12, 2006

Iraq Study Group Offers Recommendations for U.S. Policy
The chairmen of the Iraq Study Group, Republican James Baker and Democrat Lee Hamilton, discuss their assessment of the situation on the ground, its impact on the surrounding region and consequences for U.S. interests.

  

October 11, 2006

Study Finds Iraq Death Toll Higher Than Previous Estimates
According to a new study released by Johns Hopkins University, 655,000 Iraqis have been killed since the U.S.-led invasion in 2003 -- much higher than previously estimated, although the numbers have been disputed. A reporter in Baghdad provides an update on the death toll and other developments in Iraq.

  

October 11, 2006

President Bush Rules Out Military Attack on North Korea
President Bush on Wednesday said the United States had no intention of pursuing military action against North Korea and would continue to follow a diplomatic path to ending North Korea's nuclear program.

  

October 10, 2006

Bomb Attacks Kill at Least 18 in Iraq as Security Plan Proceeds
Scattered explosions left at least 18 dead in Iraq Tuesday, as the Iraqi government went ahead with plans aimed at ending the sectarian violence.

October 4, 2006

Woodward Discusses New Book Critical of Administration on Iraq War
Washington Post editor Bob Woodward's new book, "State of Denial", critiques the Bush administration's handling of the war in Iraq and how officials presented the need to go to war to the American public.

  

October 4, 2006

Iraqi Police Investigated for Possible Ties to Mass Kidnapping
A 700-member Iraqi police squad has been barred from duty because of suspected links to the kidnapping of 24 workers that occurred earlier in the week. A reporter provides an update on the situation.

  

October 3, 2006

Internal Palestinian Fighting Threatens to Derail Government
A new wave of internal fighting among Palestinian factions over the last two days has left at least a dozen people dead and threatened to unravel the Palestinian Authority.

October 2, 2006

Iraqi Prime Minister Announces Peace Plan; Curfew Extended
In an effort to curb the sectarian killings across Baghdad, Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki presented a four-point plan after talking with Sunni and Shiite party leaders, while Iraq's parliament extended the state of emergency in the capital Monday.

SEPTEMBER
September 29, 2006

Relative of Chief Judge in Saddam Trial Killed in Baghdad
Militant gunmen killed a brother-in-law of the chief judge in the Saddam Hussein trial, police said Friday. A reporter provides an update on the murder and other violence, as well as comments made by U.S. generals about the security situation in Iraq.

  

September 26, 2006

President Bush Declassifies Part of Leaked Intelligence Report
At a press conference with Afghan President Hamid Karzai, President Bush announced plans to declassify parts of the leaked National Intelligence Estimate. Two House Intelligence Committee members discuss the report's findings and the status of the global war on terrorism.

  

September 25, 2006

Iraqi President Shares Views on Terrorism Threat, Security
Iraqi President Jalal Talabani responds to a leaked U.S. intelligence report that says the Iraqi war is increasing the threat of terrorism. He also discusses security in Baghdad and the future of Iraqi politics.

  

September 25, 2006

Intelligence Report Finds War Increasing Terrorist Threat
Following the leak of the National Intelligence Estimate, a report from U.S. intelligence agencies that found the Iraq war is fueling Islamic radicalism and emboldening terrorists, Democrats reiterated the call for a new plan in Iraq. A CIA veteran discusses the report.

  

September 20, 2006

U.S. General Says Iraq Will Move Toward Stability
Army Gen. John Abizaid, commander of U.S. Central Command, expressed optimism about the situation in Iraq, saying the country is moving toward stability despite reports of growing sectarian violence.

  

September 15, 2006

Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister Discusses Increasing Violence
Continuing violence in Iraq has led to the deaths of seven more U.S. soldiers since Wednesday and the discovery of over 100 tortured and gunshot bodies across Baghdad. Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister Barham Salih discusses Iraq's political and security developments.

  

September 14, 2006

Syria's Assad Regime
For Syria, a nation wracked by nearly three decades of political turbulence following its independence from France, Hafez Assad and his son Bashar represent a dramatic change -- a ruling family that has formed the longest, most stable political legacy in the Arab world.

September 14, 2006

A History of Syrian Nationalism
For Syria, its relationship with the West and most of its regional neighbors remains deeply scarred by a colonial land-grab deal signed by a French and British diplomat some 90 years ago.

September 14, 2006

Syria's Links to Terrorism
The assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri seemed an unlikely catalyst for the steep increase in international scrutiny and condemnation that faced Syria in early 2005.

September 14, 2006

U.S.-Syrian Relations
The relationship between Syria and the United States, a relationship marred by more than four decades of mutual distrust and accusations of aggression, deteriorated sharply following the Feb. 14, 2005 assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister and opponent of Syrian involvement in Lebanon Rafik al-Hariri.

September 14, 2006

Syria's Influence in Lebanon
Syria's modern presence in Lebanon, which ended in 2005 under pressure from the international community, began in 1976 when Lebanese President Suleiman Franjieh called for support from Syrian troops in response to fighting that had escalated into the country's second civil war in less than 20 years.

September 14, 2006

Science of DNA Kits
Determining ancestry was once the realm of genealogists who followed paper trails and traveled the world, picking up clues. But now, researchers can provide a picture about a person's past with a DNA kit and a swab of his or her cheek.

September 13, 2006

Iran Looks to Increase Influence in Middle East, World Affairs
As Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad continues to court world leaders and openly defy the United States, Margaret Warner looks at what the ascendant Islamic republic wants to achieve with its growing influence.

  

September 13, 2006

Dozens of Tortured Bodies Found Across Baghdad
Violence in Iraq continued, as the bodies of some sixty gunshot victims were discovered in Baghdad, nearly forty Iraqis were killed by bomb and mortar attacks and the U.S. military announced the deaths of two more American soldiers. A reporter in Baghdad provides an update on the situation in Iraq.

  

September 12, 2006

President Bush Defends Iraq War Despite New Senate Report
President Bush defended the invasion of Iraq this week, drawing criticism from Democrats who claimed he was politcizing the Sept. 11 anniversary. Two senators debate the war and the disputed link between Iraq and al-Qaida.

  

September 11, 2006

Hamas, Fatah Agree to Unity Government
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh, head of Hamas, agreed Monday to form a coalition government.

September 7, 2006

U.S. General in Iraq Discusses Handover of Military Forces
As the United States formally transferred control of Iraq's military force to Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's government Thursday, sectarian violence continued in Iraq. Army Lt. Gen. Peter Chiarelli, commander of the multi-national forces, discusses the handover and new interrogation rules.

  

September 6, 2006

Iranians Debate Nuclear Program, Standoff with the West
As the fear of an American attack on Iran becomes stronger, people in Tehran support their president's decision to continue developing its nuclear energy program. NewsHour correspondent Margaret Warner reports on how Iranians view the nuclear issue.

  

September 4, 2006

NewsHour Correspondent Ordered to Leave Iran
Senior correspondent Margaret Warner, who has been ordered to leave Iran where she was reporting for the NewsHour, talks about the mood now that President Ahmadinejad has rejected U.N. demands to stop processing uranium.

  

September 1, 2006

Iran Ignores U.N. Uranium Enrichment Deadline; U.S. Pushes for Sanctions
The United States is pushing the U.N. Security Council to impose sanctions on Iran for ignoring a deadline to halt uranium enrichment, but not until EU negotiators meet with Iran next week. Margaret Warner reports from Tehran.

  

AUGUST
August 31, 2006

President Outlines U.S. Plans on Winning War on Terrorism
President Bush has begun a series of speeches to boost support for the war on terrorism. A Democrat and Republican debate U.S. foreign policy and its impacts on mid-term elections.

  

August 31, 2006

Report Finds Iran Defiant of Deadline to Stop Uranium Enrichment
An International Atomic Energy Agency report found that Iran continued its nuclear enrichment activities despite demands from the U.N. Security Council to stop research by the Thursday deadline.

August 30, 2006

Israel Rejects U.N. Chief's Request to Lift Blockade on Lebanon
U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan visited Jerusalem Wednesday, calling for the removal of Israel's air and sea blockade of Lebanon. Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert rebuffed the request until all ceasefire terms are met, including the release of two Israeli soldiers.

  

August 29, 2006

Sectarian Clash Leaves at Least 60 Dead in Southern Iraqi City
Diwaniyah was calm Tuesday, a day after militia loyal to Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr and the Iraqi army battled for 12 hours, killing 40 gunmen and 23 soldiers. Analysts assess what the fighting says about the Iraq government's ability to control the country.

  

August 29, 2006

Iran's President Ahmadinejad Challenges President Bush to Debate
At a news conference Tuesday, Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad continued to voice Iran's right to pursue "peaceful nuclear energy" and challenged U.S. President Bush to a live televised debate. Margaret Warner reports from Tehran.

  

August 28, 2006

Kidnapped Journalists Released in Gaza, Violence Continues
After 13 days in captivity, two Fox News journalists were dropped off in front of a Gaza City hotel this weekend, despite an earlier demand for the release of Muslim prisoners in the U.S. A reporter discusses the release and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

  

August 28, 2006

Iran Remains Defiant Amid Tensions over Uranium Enrichment
U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan announced Monday that he would visit Iran, one day after Iran repeated its intention to continue uranium enrichment despite a U.N. deadline to halt nuclear program activities. NewsHour Correspondent Margaret Warner reports from Tehran.

  

August 28, 2006

Shiite Militia, Iraqi Forces Clash in Southern Iraq
Fighting between Shiite militiamen loyal to radical cleric Muqtada al-Sadr and U.S. and Iraqi soldiers left at least 34 people dead and 70 injured in the southern city of Diwaniyah Monday, officials said.

August 25, 2006

Europe to Send 7,000 Peacekeepers to Lebanon
U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan announced that the European Union had agreed to provide 7,000 troops, or nearly half the expanded peacekeeping force, to southern Lebanon. Analysts discuss the U.N. mission.

  

August 23, 2006

Israeli Soldiers Angry over Losses in Hezbollah Fight
As the war between Israel and Hezbollah comes to an end, Israeli soldiers express anger over the loss of their comrades who were called into active duty from the reserves.

  

August 23, 2006

U.S. Marines to Recall 1,200 Reservists to Iraq and Afghanistan
The Pentagon announced Tuesday that in the next few months some 1,200 Marine reservists, formerly active-duty service members, will be recalled for duty in the war on terror in Iraq and Afghanistan. Experts discuss the consequences of the decision.

  

August 23, 2006

Countries Weigh Iran Nuclear Counterproposal
France offered its first take on Iran's proposal to re-open negotiations over its nuclear program, saying the door to talks was open, but only if Iran suspends uranium enrichment -- something it has opposed to date.

August 22, 2006

Iran Agrees to Negotiate on Nuclear Program
Although Iran said Tuesday the country is willing to enter negotiations over its nuclear program, it did not indicate whether it would suspend uranium enrichment activities. Analysts discuss possible implications.

  

August 21, 2006

Saddam Begins Trial for Ordering Deaths of Thousands of Kurds
Former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein is being tried for ordering the genocide of thousands of Kurds in northern Iraq during his rule.

August 21, 2006

President Declares Failed Mideast States Threat to U.S.
President Bush said Monday that failed states in the Middle East are a direct threat to U.S. security and that the United States will remain engaged in the region to defend democracy. Experts discuss the region's instability and its effects on U.S. foreign policy.

  

August 21, 2006

Nations Struggle with Details of Lebanon Peacekeeping Mission
The United States plans to present another U.N. resolution on disarming Hezbollah in southern Lebanon in an effort to flesh out a peacekeeping plan for the region and break an impasse in the international body.

August 17, 2006

Media Responds to Accusations of Bias in Middle East Coverage
Three days into a cease-fire between Israel and Hezbollah, many readers and viewers continue to debate the perceived bias in the coverage of the Middle East conflict. Media experts analyze the reasons behind the perceptions of bias in the war's coverage.

  

August 17, 2006

France Offers Few Troops to Lebanese Peace Force
President Jacques Chirac said France would only deploy 400 troops to Lebanon even as U.N. officials said they hoped for more troops from the country slated to lead the force to end the clashes between Israeli soldiers and Hezbollah militants.

August 16, 2006

France Agrees to Lead U.N. Peace Force in Lebanon
France agreed Wednesday to lead a U.N. peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon, while the Lebanese cabinet voted to start moving 15,000 troops to the region. U.N. Deputy Secretary-General Mark Malloch Brown discusses the U.N. effort.

  

August 15, 2006

Lebanese Refugees Return Home as Tense Cease-fire Holds
Israel began pulling its troops out of southern Lebanon Tuesday and made plans to hand over territory to U.N. peacekeeping forces and the Lebanese army on the second day of a delicate cease-fire tested by skirmishes and rocket fire.

August 14, 2006

American Jews Feel Effects of War in Middle East
Of the nearly 2 million North American Jews -- including 17,000 students -- who expected to travel to Israel this summer, many found themselves caught up amid the Israeli-Hezbollah conflict while others headed toward the fighting to provide moral support.

  

August 14, 2006

Cease-fire Holds Between Israel, Hezbollah
After Lebanon and Israel agreed to a U.N.-brokered cease-fire, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert declared Hezbollah crippled and vowed to still pursue its leaders, while Hezbollah head Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah claimed victory. Middle East experts discuss the cease-fire and its implications.

  

August 11, 2006

Political Analysts Discuss Terrorism, Connecticut Senate Race
Columnists Mark Shields and David Brooks discuss the plot to set off explosives on U.S.-bound airliners and Sen. Joseph Lieberman's loss in the Connecticut Democratic primary.

  

August 11, 2006

Diplomats Work to End Mideast Fighting
The U.N. Security Council moved to authorize the deployment of 15,000 troops to enforce a proposed truce between Israel and Hezbollah militants in southern Lebanon. Experts discuss efforts to end the violence.

  

August 10, 2006

Suicide Bomber Attacks Shiite Shrine in Iraq
A suicide attacker detonated his explosives outside a Shiite shrine in Najaf, Iraq, Thursday, killing at least 35 people and injuring at least 122, the Iraqi army said.

August 9, 2006

Israel Threatens to Expand Military Effort Against Hezbollah
Israel moved Wednesday to broaden its offensive into Lebanon to try to destroy Hezbollah strongholds, after naming a new commander to oversee the war. Experts analyze why the Israeli government took these steps.

  

August 8, 2006

U.N. Works to Hammer Out Terms of Mideast Truce
Arab leaders met with U.N. officials Tuesday to seek an immediate withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon as part of a U.S.-French draft resolution outlining terms of a truce between Israel and Hezbollah.

August 7, 2006

Ambassador Khalilzad Outlines New Security Plan for Iraq
As sectarian clashes continue, U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Zalmay Khalilzad discusses plans to heighten security and make other changes in hopes of reducing violence by late September.

  

August 7, 2006

U.S. Urges Vote on Draft Resolution to End Israeli-Hezbollah Fighting
U.S. officials pressed for a vote on a draft U.N. resolution that would set terms for an end to Israeli-Hezbollah hostilities. An expert discusses the agreement, drafted by the United States and France.

  

August 7, 2006

Fighting in Lebanon and Israel Claims More Lives
With war continuing to rage in the Middle East, Independent Television News correspondents in Israel and Lebanon provide updates on the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah.

  

August 4, 2006

Israel, Hezbollah Claim Victories After Weeks of Fighting
After more than three weeks of fighting, both Israel and Hezbollah continue to claim victory for differing reasons. Middle East policy experts discuss how the two sides are evaluating their progress.

  

August 3, 2006

Top U.S. Military Commanders Warn of Civil War in Iraq
Military officials told a Senate committee Thursday that Iraq could descend into civil war. Sens. John Warner, R-Va., and Jack Reed, D-R.I., review U.S. policy in the Middle East.

  

August 3, 2006

Israel Resumes Bombing in Lebanon as Fighting Escalates
Correspondents in Lebanon and Israel report on the ongoing Israeli-Hezbollah violence, which entered its 23rd day.

  

August 2, 2006

Lebanese-Americans Disagree with U.S. and Israeli Policy Toward Lebanon
As fighting continues in the Middle East, Lebanese-Americans and other Arab groups in the United States worry for relatives stuck in the war zone. They also protest Israel's offensive in southern Lebanon -- and the U.S. policy supporting a military campaign.

  

August 2, 2006

Talks for International Force in Lebanon Stall in U.N.
Tapped to lead a multinational force in Lebanon, France postponed negotations Wednesday until a cease-fire agreement is reached. The deputy U.N. secretary-general discusses the current status of diplomatic efforts.

  

August 1, 2006

Lebanese Special Envoy Tarek Mitri Calls for Immediate Cease-fire
Lebanese Special Envoy Tarek Mitri spoke to the U.N. Security Council Monday, resisting the creation of an international force in Lebanon and calling on the U.S. to press Israel for a cease-fire. On the NewsHour, Mitri discusses Lebanon's official perspective.

  

August 1, 2006

U.S. Secretary of State Rice Hopes for U.N. Resolution by Week's End
Pressure mounted Tuesday after the European Union called for an immediate end to fighting in Lebanon while the Israeli cabinet voted to expand its ground offensive. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice discusses U.S. efforts to end the conflict.

  

August 1, 2006

Israeli Vice Premier Shimon Peres Defends Israel's Actions
Prime Minster Ehud Olmert declared Tuesday that Israel was "winning" the battle against Hezbollah and that there was progress toward a conditional cease-fire. Vice Premier Shimon Peres gives the official Israeli position on the fighting and diplomacy.

  

August 1, 2006

Fighting Escalates Between Israel and Hezbollah
Correspondents in Lebanon and Israel report on the ongoing Israeli-Hezbollah violence, which entered its 21st day.

JULY
July 31, 2006

Violence Prompts Planned Troop Increase in Baghdad
Gunmen kidnapped 26 people from the Baghdad offices of the Iraqi-American Chamber of Commerce and a nearby company in a daylight raid Monday. A reporter discusses the U.S. military's plan to send at least 3,700 additional troops into Baghdad to stem the violence.

  

July 31, 2006

President Bush, Secretary Rice Outline Plans for Cease-fire
Cutting short a 48-hour moratorium on air raids, Israel resumed bombing of Lebanon Monday as Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice expressed hope that a comprehensive settlement can still be reached. Analysts look into the U.S. role in bringing peace to the Middle East.

  

July 31, 2006

U.N. Sets Deadline for Iran to Stop Uranium Enrichment
The U.N. Security Council passed a resolution Monday giving Iran until Aug. 31 to end its nuclear program or face the threat of economic and political sanctions.

July 28, 2006

President Bush, Prime Minister Blair Seek Resolution to Enforce Mideast Peace
President Bush and Prime Minister Blair announced an agreement to send a multinational stabilization force to Lebanon. After excerpts from a news conference, analysts Giovanni Castellaneta and Robin Niblett assess Europe's role in brokering a diplomatic solution.

  

July 28, 2006

Fighting Continues to Escalate Between Israel and Hezbollah
Fighting raged at the Lebanese border with Hezbollah striking deeper in Israel. ITN reporters describe the latest events in Lebanon and Israel.

July 27, 2006

Media Coverage of Israel-Hezbollah Fighting Shapes Perceptions
Media coverage of the Israel-Hezbollah fighting in both the United States and the Middle East has presented different perspectives on the conflict. Analysts discuss the ways in which the reporting has affected people's views.

  

July 27, 2006

Situation Worsens As Fighting Continues in Lebanon and Israel
The death toll increases and the humanitarian crisis deepens as fighting continues in Lebanon and Israel. Independent Television News reports.

July 26, 2006

Humanitarian Aid Efforts in Lebanon Continue on Slow Path
International agencies are providing relief aid to the estimated 700,000 Lebanese civilians displaced by the recent crisis. Israel opened four humanitarian corridors into Lebanon on Tuesday for relief agencies to provide food and medicine to those in need.

  

July 26, 2006

World Leaders Fail to Agree on Cease-fire in Middle East
At an international conference held in Rome on Wednesday, world leaders were unable to reach an agreement on how to end the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah. Analysts discuss the meeting and international efforts to establish peace in the region.

  

July 26, 2006

Dozens Wounded in Israel-Hezbollah Fighting
Hezbollah guerillas ambushed Israeli soldiers trying to advance on the Lebanese town of Bint Jbail Wednesday, killing at least 12 troops, according to Arab television.

July 25, 2006

Expert Explains Collapse of Global Free Trade Talks
An expert discusses the failure of global free trade talks, known as the Doha round, and assesses what countries may do from here.

  

July 25, 2006

President Bush Plans to Shift More Troops to Baghdad
Iraqi Prime Minister al-Maliki met with President Bush Tuesday in Washington to discuss security concerns in Baghdad. President Bush announced that more U.S. troops will be redeployed to Baghdad to combat increasing violence. Experts discuss President Bush's latest move and security in the Iraqi capital.

  

July 25, 2006

As Conflict Continues, Israel Weighs Military and Diplomatic Options
U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice continued her diplomatic trip to the Middle East Tuesday, speaking to Israeli and Palestinian leaders. Experts discuss the military and peace-keeping options facing Israel and the national debate over the current conflict.

  

July 24, 2006

Israeli Forces Push Further into Lebanon; Rice Makes Surprise Visit to Beirut
Israeli ground forces moved further into southern Lebanon Monday, focusing on the town of Bint Jbail, taking control of part of the Hezbollah stronghold.

July 24, 2006

Secretary Rice Visits Beirut as Hezbollah-Israeli Shelling Continues
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice visited with Lebanese officials in Beirut Monday. Experts analyze the purpose of her trip and the role of U.S diplomacy in the Middle East.

  

July 24, 2006

Violence Continues in Israel and Lebanon
Reporters provide an update on the fighting in Israel and Lebanon.

July 24, 2006

Iraqi Prime Minister Denies Civil War
Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki asserted Monday that, despite sectarian violence across the country that kills an average of 100 civilians per day, Iraq is not slipping into a civil war.

July 21, 2006

Oil Market Focuses Attention on Mideast Conflict
The NewsHour's economics correspondent Paul Solman reports on how the Middle East crisis is affecting the price of oil in other countries.

  

July 21, 2006

Secretary Rice Says Diplomatic Goal is "Sustainable Peace"
In a preview of her trip to the Middle East, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said the violence must end in a stable and lasting peace, not just a cease-fire. Middle East experts Martin Indyk and Robert Malley discuss prospects for a diplomatic resolution.

  

July 21, 2006

Reporters Share Latest from Lebanon, Israel
Reporters from Lebanon and Israel give an update on the current crisis in the Middle East.

July 20, 2006

Head Shia Cleric Calls for End to Iraqi Sectarian Violence
Amid an admission by the U.S. military Thursday that sectarian violence in Iraq had only slightly decreased, Iraq's top Shia cleric Ali al-Sistani has called for an end to the "hatred and violence." A reporter in Baghdad discusses the day's violence and announcement.

  

July 20, 2006

House Passes Resolution Backing Israel
Reps. Eric Cantor, R-Va., and Nick Rahall, D-W.Va., discuss the resolution overwhelmingly passed in the House Thursday supporting Israel in the Middle East conflict while condemning Syria and Iran for providing Hezbollah with weapons and money.

  

July 20, 2006

Violence Continues in Lebanon and Israel
Reports from Lebanon and Israel describe the continuing violence in the Middle East and the evacuation process.

  

July 19, 2006

Israel Says It Destroyed Half of Hezbollah's Power
More than 60 people died in the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah Wednesday, many of them civilians. Analysts discuss whether Israeli forces can eliminate Hezbollah's military capabilities.

  

July 19, 2006

Violence Continues in Lebanon and Israel
As the shelling continues in the Middle East, Independent Television News has two reports from Lebanon and Israel about the destruction.

  

July 19, 2006

Months of Sectarian Violence Leave Heavy Casualties in Iraq
A wave of violent crime led to the deaths of nearly 6,000 civilians in Iraq in May and June, a new U.N. report said, widening concerns that the country was spiraling into a civil war.

July 18, 2006

Iranians React to Tensions in Middle East with Sympathy, Fear
Amid accusations by the U.S. and other nations that the Iranian government is backing Hezbollah's attacks on Israel, Iranians hold mixed opinions on the current situation in the Middle East.

  

July 18, 2006

Brzezinski, Kissinger Debate U.S. Role in Mideast Crisis
Zbigniew Brzezinski, former national security adviser to President Carter, and Henry Kissinger, former secretary of state and national security adviser for presidents Nixon and Ford, discuss the crisis in the Middle East and what America's role should be.

  

July 18, 2006

U.S. Undersecretary of State Calls for Israel-Hezbollah Cease-fire
Clashes between Israeli and Hezbollah forces continued Tuesday as several countries worked to evacuate their citizens from the danger zone. The U.S. Undersecretary of State discusses evacuating Americans from the area and strategies for ending the conflict.

  

July 18, 2006

Attacks Cost More Israeli, Lebanese Lives in Seventh Day of Fighting
Two on-the-ground reports from Israel and Lebanon look at the continuing battle in the Middle East crisis Tuesday.

  

July 17, 2006

Middle East Conflict Dominates G-8 Summit Discussions
The Middle East crisis dominated the weekend meeting of the G-8 nations in St. Petersburg while pushing down other important issues. Three foreign affairs newspaper columnists discuss how other countries have been handling the Middle East crisis.

  

July 17, 2006

Israeli, Syrian Ambassadors to the U.S. Speak Out on the Middle East Crisis
Israeli Ambassador to the United States Daniel Ayalon and Syrian Ambassador to the United States Imad Moustapha discuss the escalation of violence in the Middle East, the capture of two Israeli soldiers and who should take responsibility for the conflict.

  

July 17, 2006

Israeli Prime Minister Vows to Continue Attacks Until Two Soldiers are Freed
Two reports from Beirut and Haifa look at Israel's bombardment of Lebanon and Hezbollah's rocket attacks into Israel in today's sixth day of fighting.

  

July 17, 2006

Brazen Market Attack Kills Dozens South of Baghdad
An attack on a market south of Baghdad Monday killed at least 40 Iraqis, mostly Shiites, and prompted members in the legislative bloc of the radical Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr to walk out of Parliament in protest.

July 17, 2006

Israeli Troops Briefly Enter Lebanon; Foreigners Evacuate Beirut
Israeli warplanes struck coastal targets in Lebanon and troops briefly entered the country to conduct military operations in the sixth day of fighting Monday aimed at stopping Hezbollah's missile attacks on Israel.

July 14, 2006

Fighting in Lebanon Escalates; Hezbollah Declares 'Open War'
As Israel continued attacks against Lebanon's infrastructure and militant strongholds, Hezbollah declared "open war," intensifying rocket attacks against Israeli cities in the north. Experts analyze Hezbollah's history and motives in the current conflict.

  

July 13, 2006

Democrats Debate Political and Military Strategy for Iraq
On the day U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Zalmay Khalilzad asked the Senate Foreign Relations Committee for patience regarding a deadline for troop withdrawal from Iraq, Democratic senators Biden and Reed discuss possible exit strategies.

  

July 13, 2006

Israel-Lebanon Fighting Broadens Middle East Conflict
Israeli troops continued attacks on Lebanon, targeting the Beirut airport and a Hezbollah television station. Hezbollah, in turn, fired over 120 rockets into northern Israel. Analysts look at the chances the violence can be de-escalated.

  

July 12, 2006

Israeli Forces Cross into Lebanon After Hezbollah Fight
Israeli troops moved into Southern Lebanon Wednesday in response to the abduction of two Israeli soldiers during a border raid by the militant group Hezbollah. Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert called the soldiers' kidnapping an "act of war."

  

July 11, 2006

Day of Terror Unfolds in Afghanistan, Iraq and Chechnya
Terrorist incidents in Afghanistan, Iraq and Chechnya over the past few days included attacks on coalition forces abroad and the assassination of Chechen militia leader Shamil Basayev.

July 10, 2006

Iraqi Violence Escalates as Government Calls for Unity
Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki pleaded for unity after an escalation of attacks over the weekend. Violence continued on Monday as two car bombs exploded in Baghdad's Sadr City neighborhood.

  

July 7, 2006

Gaza Incursion Continues, Officials Hint at Possible Compromise
A top Israeli official signaled a willingness to compromise Friday, saying Hamas militants must free an Israeli soldier and stop firing rockets. Hamas, meanwhile, insisted upon the release of prisoners.

  

July 7, 2006

U.S.-Iraqi Forces Increase Pressure on Militias
Iraqi troops backed by U.S. forces have launched a crackdown on insurgent militias blamed for the recent increase in sectarian violence that has led to fears of a civil war.

July 3, 2006

Saddam's Wife, Daughter, New Al-Qaida Leader on Wanted List
Iraqi officials recently released a most wanted list of 41 people, including Saddam Hussein's wife and eldest daughter, and the new al-Qaida in Iraq leader, Abu Ayyub al-Masri.

JUNE
June 30, 2006

Women's Suffrage, Reformist Victory Mark Kuwaiti Elections
Women voted and ran for the legislature of Kuwait for the first time in the oil-rich Gulf state's history Thursday, and though no women captured any seats, the election drew unprecedented support for democratic reform from young people and women.

June 29, 2006

Arrest of Hamas Leaders Fuel Tensions Between Palestinians and Israelis
Israel's detention of 64 leaders of the Hamas-led Palestinian government and 23 members of other factions has further heightened tensions strained after Palestinians abducted an Israeli soldier and Israelis launched a retaliatory attack on Gaza.

  

June 29, 2006

Israel Arrests Dozens of Hamas Government Officials
Israeli forces arrested 64 leaders of the Hamas-led Palestinian government and 23 members of other factions Thursday, days after Palestinians abducted an Israeli soldier and Israelis launched a retaliatory attack on Gaza.

June 28, 2006

Israel Attacks Gaza After Soldier Captured
Israeli troops launched air strikes against Gaza Wednesday, in response to the Palestinian abduction of a wounded Israeli soldier. Destroying three Palestinian bridges and a power station, troops crossed the Gaza border for the first time since the Israeli withdrawal 10 months ago.

  

June 28, 2006

Israel Attacks Gaza After Soldier Captured
Israeli troops attacked parts of Gaza in response to the Palestinian abduction of an Israeli soldier. After destroying three Palestinian bridges, forces crossed into Gaza for the first time since the Israeli withdrawal 10 months ago.

June 27, 2006

Hamas Ends Stalemate with Rival Fatah Party
Hamas has reached an agreement that ended a political stalemate with the rival Fatah Party. Hamas denied earlier reports that this deal implicitly recognized Israel's right to exist.

  

June 26, 2006

Iraq Offers Amnesty to Some Insurgents
Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki on Sunday released a 28-point plan to calm ethnic and sectarian factions and offer amnesty to insurgents who were not proven to be involved in terrorist activities.

June 21, 2006

Senate Debates U.S. Troop Withdrawl from Iraq
The Senate is considering two proposals to withdraw U.S. troops from Iraq. The NewsHour's congressional correspondent Kwame Holman recaps the debate.

  

June 21, 2006

Eight U.S. Troops Charged with Murder of Iraqi Civilian
Seven U.S. Marines and one navy sailor were charged with murder, kidnapping, and conspiracy Wednesday over the April death of a disabled Iraqi man in Hamandiya, while a fourth soldier also was charged with murder in the deaths of three Iraqis in May.

  

June 21, 2006

President Bush Calls on Iran to Respond to Nuclear Deal
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said Wednesday he will respond to a Western proposal to suspend the country's nuclear program in exchange for technical support and other concessions by mid-August, but President Bush urged a quicker response.

June 20, 2006

Killings Raise Questions About Insurgents' Tactics
In an Internet statement, the militant group al-Qaida in Iraq claimed responsibility for killing two U.S. soldiers. Terrorism experts discuss the tactics and leadership of insurgents in Iraq.

  

June 20, 2006

Two Missing U.S. Troops Found Dead in Iraq
The bodies of two American soldiers who disappeared Friday after an insurgent attack on a checkpoint were discovered late Monday and showed signs of having been tortured, according to the Iraqi military.

  

June 20, 2006

Two Missing U.S. Troops Found Dead in Iraq
The bodies of two American soldiers who disappeared Friday after an insurgent attack on a checkpoint were discovered late Monday and showed signs of having been tortured, according to the Iraqi military.

June 19, 2006

Massive Search Effort Underway for Two Missing U.S. Soldiers
Amid the security crackdown in Baghdad, an al-Qaida linked group has claimed responsibility Monday for abducting two U.S. soldiers from a checkpoint while the U.S. military has charged three soldiers with the murder of three detainees during an operation.

  

June 16, 2006

Shields and Brooks Debate Iraq War, Karl Rove and Guantanamo
Political analysts Mark Shields and David Brooks discuss the president's trip to Iraq, a House vote on a timetable for withdrawing troops, and debate over the detention center at Guantanamo.

  

June 16, 2006

Iraqi Foreign Minister Discusses the New Unity Government
Hoshyar Zebari, the Iraq foreign minister talks about efforts to build a unity government, the recent violence and efforts to crackdown on militias. Zebari has served as the foreign minister of Iraq for nearly three years.

  

June 16, 2006

Challenges Just Beginning for New Iraqi Unity Government
More than three years after American troops toppled Saddam Hussein's regime, Iraq established a permanent government that joins Shiite, Sunni and Kurdish politicians under a federal Constitution.

June 16, 2006

House Rejects Setting Timeline for Withdrawal in Iraq
In a symbolic move, the House passed a resolution that connected the conflict in Iraq with the global war on terrorism and rejected setting a deadline for withdrawing U.S. troops.

June 15, 2006

The House Holds Heated Floor Debate on U.S. Troops' Withdrawal from Iraq
The House held a heated floor debate on the Iraq war Thursday, with Republicans defending the conflict in the broader war on terror and Democrats criticizing President Bush's policies.

  

June 14, 2006

President's Baghdad Trip Sparks U.S. Iraq Policy Debate
President Bush Wednesday hailed efforts to build a democratic Iraq, but called for "patience" as U.S. troops continue to fight the war on terror. Analysts Zbigniew Brzezinski and Walter Russell Mead discuss the direction of U.S. foreign policy.

  

June 14, 2006

President Bush Urges Americans to Have Patience in Iraq
At a press conference Wednesday, President Bush called for "patience and sacrifice" from the American people, while the U.S. troops remain in Iraq and continue to fight the broader war on terror.

  

June 13, 2006

President Bush Discusses New Security Plan with Leaders in Iraq
President Bush made a surprise visit to Baghdad Tuesday to participate in his first direct talks with Iraq's Prime Minister Nuri Kamal al-Maliki, offering a dramatic show of support to the new government. Two senior senators on the foreign relations committee consider the visit and the road ahead in Iraq.

  

June 13, 2006

President Bush Made a Surprise Visit to Baghdad to Meet with New Leadership
President Bush made a surprise visit to Baghdad Tuesday to meet with the Iraqi prime minister and discuss ways to bring stability to the troubled nation.

  

June 13, 2006

President Bush Visits Iraq to Discuss Security, Other Matters
President Bush made a surprise trip to Baghdad Tuesday to meet with Iraqi leaders about ways to secure the country, including Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's reported plan to deploy 75,000 Iraqi and multinational forces to the capital.

June 12, 2006

Palestinian Parliament Delays Vote on Referendum Recognizing Israel
In the wake of violent confrontations between security forces loyal to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and members of the militant Hamas group, Palestinian leaders on Monday chose to table a decision on whether to pass a controversial referendum recognizing Israel's right to exist.

  

June 9, 2006

2006 World Cup Kicks Off in Germany
As soccer's World Cup kicks off in Germany, two authors talk about the history and culture of the tournament.

June 9, 2006

Ambassador Khalilzad Says Iraqi Govt. to Present Security Plan
As Iraq braces for a possible rise in violence following the death of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Zalmay Khalilzad said the new prime minister's plan to rein in the various militias is a critical step to bringing security back to the capital.

  

June 9, 2006

U.S. Military Clarifies Zarqawi Death from Air Strike
A report looks at the latest details of his killing of al-Zarqawi's death in Iraq, including the announcement today by that U.S. military that the Al-Qaeda operative was alive for a short time after the bombings.

June 8, 2006

U.S., Iraqi Leaders Hail al-Zarqawi Death
With news of al-Qaida in Iraq leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi's death in a U.S. air strike Wednesday, President Bush called his death a victory in the war on terror and an opportunity for Iraq to "turn the tide" against the insurgency.

  

June 8, 2006

Key al-Qaida Terrorist Killed in U.S. Bomb Raid
A reporter in Baghdad summarizes the military's role in the death of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi and the response from Iraqi citizens.

June 8, 2006

United States Warplanes Kill al-Qaida Leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi
U.S. and Iraqi officials announced the death of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, leader of al-Qaida in Iraq. Ray Suarez reports on the steps leading up to the death of Zarqawi.

June 8, 2006

Iraq Finalizes First Full-term Government Since Saddam's Fall
The Iraqi parliament finalized a permanent government Thursday after filling three contentious cabinet posts of the defense, interior and national security ministries, renewing hope that Iraq's nascent democracy can overcome sectarian differences.

June 8, 2006

Al-Qaida Leader Zarqawi Killed in Air Strike
Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, whose al-Qaida in Iraq has claimed responsibility for some of the bloodiest attacks against Shiite Iraqis and American forces, was killed in an American air strike Wednesday night.

June 7, 2006

Marine Corps Head Urges Patience in Haditha Investigations
In his first public comments since allegations concerning Iraqi civilian deaths in Haditha and Hamdaniya, Marine Corps Commandant Gen. Michael Hagee took responsibility for the training of troops in Iraq, but said he would not resign. Two former Central Command Marine Corps generals analyze the accusations and reaction.

  

June 5, 2006

Violence Continues as Iraqis Await Appointment of Key Ministers
Gunmen dressed in Iraqi police uniforms kidnapped at least 50 people Monday at bus stations in Baghdad a day after 21 Shiite students were killed. The New York Times' Baghdad bureau chief discusses the kidnappings and the deadlock over ministerial nominations.

  

June 2, 2006

Analysts Debate the Haditha Investigation and the Appointment of Henry Paulson
NewsHour analysts Mark Shields and David Brooks discuss the continuing fallout over allegations of civilian murders by U.S. troops in Iraq, Henry Paulson's appointment and the week's political news.

  

June 2, 2006

Soldiers Cleared in Ishaqi Incident, Haditha Investigation Continues
Despite the announcement late Friday that a military investigation had cleared soldiers in a March incident in the village of Ishaqi, the military is still conducting two investigations into the Haditha case, one to see if U.S. troops committed murder and a second to see if their actions were covered up.

  

June 1, 2006

Pentagon Orders Iraqi Troops to Be Retrained
Army Gen. George W. Casey ordered all U.S. and allied troops to undergo training in battlefield ethics and values. The order follows allegations that U.S. Marines murdered 24 Iraqi civilians in Haditha last November.

  

June 1, 2006

Major Powers Strike Deal over Iran's Nuclear Program
In a major diplomatic move, six major powers announced Thursday that they had reached agreement over a set of proposed incentives for Iran to suspend its nuclear effort, and a series of possible actions should Tehran defy international will.