Mosaic features selections from daily TV news programs produced by national broadcasters throughout the Middle East. The news reports are presented unedited and translated, when necessary, into English.

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MOSAIC: World News from the Middle East

Monday, June 7, 2004

Program Summary

Abu Dhabi TV, UAE

Egypt Agrees to Major Role in Gaza

Israeli foreign minister, Sylvan Shalom, states that Egypt has agreed to play a major role in enforcing security and order in Gaza, during and after the Israeli withdrawal. Shalom's statements came after his meeting in Cairo, discussing plans for Israel's gradual withdrawal from the Gaza Strip. Previously, Egypt had proposed an initiative to end violence, move forward with the negotiations, and set a meeting with Israeli prime minister Arial Sharon, and his Palestinian counterpart Ahmed Quriae.

Sharon's Plan Draws Mixed Reactions

The Israeli cabinet decision to approve Sharon's revised plan, the so-called disengagement plan, from the Gaza Strip drew mixed reactions from various Palestinian factions.  The Islamic Movement Hamas absolutely rejected the Sharon plan because it leaves in place the policy of maneuvering use by Israel, especially since the plan no longer includes the guarantee to withdraw from all the settlements from the Strip, and it contains no timeline for withdrawal.

Jordan TV, Jordan

U.S. Soldiers Killed and Wounded in Latest Iraq Clashes

At least 2 Americans were killed and two others were wounded in the latest attacks in US forces in Iraq. They were attacked at a camp near Baghdad. Also, a bomb exploded in the house of a translator, killing his son.

Militias in Iraq Disarmed

Nine of Iraq's militia has agreed to disband. But the deal does not include Muqtada Sadr's Mehdi army. The country's interim minister announced the success of the negotiations.

UN Resolution on Iraq

Iraq and the United States tried to devise a plan for a military partnership after the June 30 transfer of power. A proposed amendment from France that allows for an Iraqi veto over US operations may stall passage of the US-British draft resolution on Iraq.

Egypt to Play Role in Gaza

In Cairo, Israeli Foreign Minister, Sylvan Shalom says that he hopes Egypt will play a key role in the security of the Gaza Strip after the pullout of Israel. He said this after a meeting with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak. Palestinian Chairman Yasser Arafat agreed on the initiative.

Palestinians Mourn Handicapped Man Shot Dead by Israeli Troops

Thousands of Palestinians marched in a procession of a funeral of a handicapped Palestinian man. Israeli troops opened fire on him in his wheel chair near the entrance of the refugee camp. They also shot dead a 17-year old youth in the Gaza Strip. Meanwhile, Israeli soldiers shot at a group of demonstrators, protesting a bulldozer digging up their land.

IBA TV, Israel

Reactions to Sharon's Withdrawal Plan

Israeli Prime Minister Arial Sharon received congratulations from US President George Bush and around the world for the cabinet's approval of the Gaza Strip withdrawal. The US called the decision a courageous and historic step. Meanwhile, at home, Sharon received mixed reactions from Israelis and Palestinians.

Future TV, Lebanon

Hariri: The World Should Do More for Peace

Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri called for the implementation of UN resolutions in the Middle East to ensure stability and peace. In Morocco, he told the International Chamber of Commerce Conference, that the international community should do more to boost stability.

Al Arabiya TV, Dubai

Debate: Wedding Massacre in Iraq

The American military operation that targeted the Maqar Al Deabe Village along the Syrian Iraqi borders is still raising a lot of controversy. The American government still insists that the operation which led to the death of about 40 Iraqis was based on intelligence information indicating that foreign fighters were present there. However, the villagers tell a different story. The story of the Maqar Al Deabe Village evoked many reactions, especially after airing images of the victims' bodies, including women and children. Al Arabiyah visited the area, listened to survivals views of what they call the "Wedding of Blood", and then communicated their views to the US forces.