PACOM-analysis-11-9-15

PACOM Press Review & Analysis

To: USSTRATCOM J223

From: THE RENDON GROUP

Date: 17 November 2005

Re: Week of 9 - 15 November 2005





The following is an analysis of major news reporting from 9 - 15 November 2005 in nine

PACOM countries: China, The Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (North Korea),

India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, The Republic of Korea (South Korea), and

Singapore.



The North-South divide in the PACOM AOR monitored media was more evident than

ever this week, as a Grand Canyon‘s worth of news stories were observed across the

region. The width and breadth of interesting news this week vividly illustrated the vast

differences in importance of stories to the media between the AOR‘s regions.



In the northern reaches of PACOM, the six-way talks on North Korean nuclear

disarmament, the Busan APEC summit and US base talks were the key storylines for the

week. In the southern regions of the AOR, the killing of wanted Jemaah Islamiyah

bomber Azahari Husin by Indonesian security forces and the arrests of 17 Islamic

extremists planning a ‗major‘ attack in Australia formed the backbone of coverage there.

While some crossover of storylines was observed, with Japan and China reporting on the

Azahari killing and Indonesia and Malaysia providing some coverage of the six-way talks

and the APEC summit, the variance in emphasis seen within the reporting underscored

the difference in outlooks the two distinct regions within PACOM have: this week more

than ever, the emphasis on geopolitical and global economic issues typical in the northern

countries and the primacy of ‗rubber meets the road‘ issues regarding regional terrorism

and other threats to security which comprise the primary focus of the southern countries

was manifest.



Regarding what is certainly the key war on terrorism story for this busy monitoring week,

the killing of Azahari Husin by Indonesian counterterrorism forces – after the bustle of

gleeful reporting immediately after the confirmation of Azahari‘s death died down – it

became apparent that the terror threat in Indonesia and elsewhere in the region is only

now being understood. Commentary in Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore and reporting

from the Philippines all pointed to the fact that ‗the terrorist threat has not disappeared‘

with the killing of Azahari, but it was within the avalanche of straight-news reporting in

Indonesia where the basis of the commentators‘ assertions was best seen. According to

reports in Indonesia, video training tools for bomb-making were found during the raids

(one of which was carried out in a separate location and targeted Azahari‘s colleague

Noordin Top {who eluded capture}) which displayed a shocking level of both simplicity

and sophistication. Authorities interviewed regarding the videos said they believed the

videos may have allowed Azahari and Noordin Top to train dozens of other bombers and

bomb-makers to carry on their ‗struggle‘.

One storyline that garnered the attention AOR-wide was the barbaric hotel bombings that

occurred in Amman, Jordan. A combination of the nationalities of the victims (which

included three Chinese military officers and a well-known Indonesian musician), the

claim of responsibility by Al Qaida in Iraq and the stunning arrest of an Iraqi woman who

failed to complete her deadly mission created nearly week-long headlines across the

region. Commentary monitored in Indonesia indicated belief that Abu Musab Al

Zarqawi‘s Al Qaida in Iraq is now expanding their fight with the US and its allies outside

the borders of Iraq, as urged by Al Qaida‘s number two, Ayman Al Zawahiri several

months ago. As with most recent large-scale terror attacks, however, the event was

widely reported but not as widely commented on by the media and elites in the region.



Another story that drew nearly universal attention from the PACOM media, in a

continuation from last week, was the violence that has spread across France and touched

on neighboring countries. Again, the events in France were largely covered from a spot-

news perspective as the French Government exerted more authority over its troubled

cities and the rioting waned. By the end of the monitoring week, it appeared to be all

over but for the legislating, with the French Parliament voting to extend the recently

declared state of emergency through February. Reporting described a humbled French

President Jacques Chirac admitting that the riots had exposed the anger and pain of

disaffected immigrant communities within France and promising that these issues would

be addressed. Commentators across the region had little to offer in the way of

compelling analysis of the events outside of the obvious conclusion that France was in

deep trouble and had failed to integrate its large immigrant populations into the

mainstream.



US Sentiment storylines continued to garner significant coverage this week, primarily

due to the visit of US President George W. Bush to the region. President Bush‘s visit

started at the end of the monitoring week and will extend well into the coming week.

Other US Sentiment storylines involved the debate over use of torture on terror detainees

in US custody, the CIA prison revelations, the alleged rape of a Filipino woman by five

US Marines in Olongapo City near Subic Bay Freeport, base realignments in Japan which

are drawing the ire of the residents of Okinawa and a recent survey that showed rapidly

waning support for President Bush‘s leadership of the United States. While these stories

were spread across the region, the sum total presented a battered face for the US.



The non-story of the week came from the six-way talks on North Korean nuclear

disarmament. In the face of pessimistic assessments by the media last week about the

prospects for progress in this round of the talks, both the US and North Korea were

reported to have lived up to those less-than-stellar expectations, walking away from the

negotiating table empty handed. Perhaps the most noteworthy aspect of the talks was the

forward-leaning position of the Japanese negotiators who offered ‗working groups‘ for

tackling the various elements of a disarmament plan.



Finally, Bird Flu coverage across the region is rising in relation to the deep concerns the

issue is generating in Asia. With outbreaks of the human form of H5NI reported in

Thailand, China and Vietnam, concern over the direction the disease is heading is now

palpable in the reporting on the issue. If the reports of a new and perhaps more virulent

strain of the disease in Vietnam prove correct, Bird Flu may overtake terrorism as the

most feared threat to the region and its stability.





TRG analyzed native language and English news sources, as well as translations of

foreign press where noted. A summary of the week’s press coverage is organized by

country and is included in the following document. The document is intended to convey

the tone of reporting in the monitored media. Characterizations of persons and events are

described accordingly and based strictly on the monitored sources, unless otherwise

noted.

CHINA

(Sources monitored: The People’s Daily, China Daily, Jiefang Daily, Nanfang Daily)



PRC print media gave prominent coverage to PRC President Hu Jintao‘s state visits to

Germany, the UK, Spain and South Korea just prior to the APEC Summit in Busan. Joint

communiqués at the conclusion of his visits to both the UK and Spain stated that the visit

promoted China‘s ―comprehensive strategic partnership‖ with each country. Spain said it

would work toward getting the EU to lift its embargo on arms sales to China. The APEC

Summit in Busan in South Korea was also well covered. Nanfang Daily analysis: ―This

meeting provides an opportunity for the ROK leader to discuss the future of the Korean

Peninsula with leaders of neighboring countries, and also talk with President Bush about

the future of the ROK-US alliance…They can also search for a common strategy within

the framework of the six-party talks.‖ The first session of the Fifth Round of the six-party

talks in Beijing concluded without any dramatic breakthroughs, with mainly straight

news coverage. The upcoming November 19-21 China visit by President Bush received

mainly positive coverage. The official Jiefang Daily: ―China expects the visit by

President Bush will play an important role in further promoting Sino-US relations.‖



Global War on Terrorism (65)

 EU and US agreed Iran may have nuclear program, but reprocessing should be done

by Russia, which denied making this proposal and to which Iran refused to agree; in

limited concession, EU and US then agreed Iran could reprocess uranium; IAEA

Director intends to visit Tehran to persuade Iran (16); US claimed ―stolen‖ laptop

contained ―ironclad‖ proof of Iran‘s nuclear missile program, but statement is

doubted by EU diplomats as ―too perfect‖ and Iran refuted US claim (9).

 Syrian President: Will cooperate with UN investigation that implicated Syrian

officials in assassination of Lebanon's former PM Hariri, but will not ―give in‖; Syria

opposes UN request to question six of its officials in Beirut because their presence

could ―cause friction‖ between the two countries. (23)

 Indonesian police claimed they shot to death Azahari Husin, chief bomber of Jemaah

Islamiyah; Malaysia requested report to verify his death. (10)

 China criticized warning on possible terrorist attack on luxury hotels in Beijing by

Islamic extremists, calling it "sheer fabrication"; USG warning on possible attacks on

US organizations in Guangzhou was taken seriously with increased security. (5)

 Malaysia, Indonesia and Philippines agreed to establish areas of responsibility for

counter-terrorism at sea. (2)



Usama bin Laden / Al Qaida (49)

 Chinese President Hu sent message of condolence on Wednesday to Jordanian King

on heavy casualties caused by three deadly hotel bombings that killed at least 59

people, including three visiting Chinese military personnel; US strongly condemned

bombings; Zarqawi said Al Qaida did it because Jordan is ―US backyard‖; angry

Jordanians rallied to protest bombings, shouting "Burn in hell, Abu Musab Al

Zarqawi!"; 11 Jordanian officials, including national security adviser, resigned. (45)

 US forces in Iraq claimed they killed two key Al Qaida leaders. (3)

 Al Qaida will target Queen of England, calling her enemy of Iraqi people. (1)

Israeli - Palestinian Conflict (15)

 Israel, Palestinians reached deal on Gaza crossings during Secretary Rice visit. (5)

 Israeli media refuted Hamas speculation about negotiating with Israel. Israel FM:

Hamas statements may be ploy in Palestinian internal power struggle. (5)

 On the first anniversary of Arafat‘s death, Al Fatah vowed to realize establishment of

Palestinian state, but peace between Palestine and Israel seems as elusive as ever. (2)

 Israeli forces killed Hamas leader in West Bank and another young Palestinian. (2)

 Qurei: Israel is no longer partner for Palestine to realize peace. (1)



Iraq (56)

 Suicide bombings and assassinations continued throughout Iraq; Zarqawi

organization claimed responsibility for suicide bombing at Baghdad restaurant

frequented by Iraqi army personnel that claimed at least 42 dead. (22)

 There are conflicting claims on reported death of Saddam's chief lieutenant, Izzat

Ibrahim Al Douri, believed to have played key role in organizing insurgency. (6)

 Iraqi Deputy PM Chalabi: US troops could begin leaving Iraq in significant numbers

sometime next year, if Iraqi forces are properly armed and trained by then. (6)

 US forces in Iraq concluded Operation Steel Curtain along western border; Zarqawi

sternly ordered Iraq government to halt further offensives. (5)

 President Bush escalated bitter debate over rationale for Iraq war with attack on

Democratic critics, recalling their worries that Saddam Hussein was grave threat. (3)

 US Senate urged Bush to outline his plan for "successful completion of mission" in

Iraq; it passed resolution demanding partial withdrawal next year from Iraq. (2)

 Secretary Rice made sudden visit to Iraq, called on religious factions to strengthen

cooperation and unite for December elections. (2)

 US forces in Iraq are accused of using white phosphorus and Mark 77 firebombs on

civilians in Fallujah last year; Pentagon confirmed use there, but not on civilians. (4)

 IED‘s in Iraq have been upgraded to improve lethality by use of infrared sensors,

causing grave concern at Pentagon. (2)

 UK Defense Secretary: British troops could begin to pull out of Iraq in 2006; Latvia

will extend length of stay in Iraq for its forces. (2)

 During Iraq visit, UN's Annan denounced terrorist strikes in Middle East and called

for Iraqis to reconcile. (2)



Saddam Hussein Trial (12)

 The endless trial of Saddam, ―trial of the century,‖ has degenerated into endless

political farce; Saddam‘s defense lawyers and judges at Special Court made mutual

accusations of tying to kill others on opposite side. (8)

 Vehicle used in killing of one defense lawyer is of type used by Iraqi government,

promoting calls for investigation. (2)

 International tribunal is unable to try Saddam. (2)



North Korea (45)

 DPRK claimed progress was made in carrying out first step in common document; no

date set for next round, but US Representative Hill said it will probably be next year;

Among proposals considered were ―simultaneous actions‖ (Russia); creation of

working group on elimination of nuclear weapons and provision of light water

reactors (Japan); and creation of ―road map‖ (US, Japan, ROK); key to further

progress is ―simultaneous actions‖; Each side stated its preliminary views on how to

implement common document, and PRC Rep summarized them into agenda for

further progress; US Rep: next round should made realistic progress. (43)

 Japanese MFA: Japan and DPRK agreed that bilateral talks on normalization of

relations will be revived in January or February. (2)



US Sentiment (46)

 Jiefang Daily: ―China expects visit by President Bush will play important role in

further promoting Sino-US relations.‖ In Phoenix TV interview prior to his Nov. 19-

21 visit to China, President Bush said Sino-US relations are ―important and fine;‖ US

would maintain its One China policy; US needs China‘s support; and cooperation is

mutually beneficial. (10)

 People’s Daily: Fourth Summit of the Americas was an embarrassment for US in its

own "backyard" and was first such Summit to end without final document; this due to

US double standard in selling its values and resulting loss of trust among Latin

American neighbors; Venezuela and Mexico recalled their ambassadors after

President Chavez called his Mexican counterpart ―US lapdog‖ in dispute over US

regional free trade proposal. (8)

 US military issued regulations on prisoner interrogations; internal documents

recognized CIA interrogation methods violated international conventions against

torture. White House declined to totally rule out torture; majority of US people think

this damages image of US; US Congress may investigate secret CIA overseas prisons,

demanded report from Executive Branch. EU Commissioner: EU members proven to

host secret US prisons could face sanctions. (7)

 New poll: Most Americans say President Bush is not honest. (6)

 Senior US official: US and Japan have reached general agreement on re-deployment

of forces; US is again trying to get Japan into UN Security Council. (6)

 China criticized US President Bush for meeting Dalai Lama and dismissed

Washington's annual report on religious freedom in China as groundless. (3)

 Motive for Western media in dishing up ―China Naval Threat‖ is to make ―China

Threat‖ more concrete and expand it, while at same time using this as excuse for

consolidating US naval hegemony. (2)

 UN resolution called on US to terminate its embargo on Cuba; lack of support once

again isolates US from rest of world on international occasions. (2)

 Poland will permit US to deploy worldwide ballistic missile defense system there. (1)

 Filipinos demand expulsion of US troops after accusation of gang rape of Filipina. (1)



Effect of US Policy on WOT Progress (6)

 Secretary Rice attended second ―Forum for the Future‖ in Bahrain which concluded

without any results or final statement regarding promotion of democracy in Middle

East; US proposal for $100 million fund for commerce and $50 million for

democracy met with cold reception from Arab FMs, who are withholding judgment

until they see details; AFP analysis: Bush Administration is promoting democracy in

Middle East because it has already shifted from a ―global war on terrorism‖ to ―war

between ideologies‖; conservative Japanese Yomiuri newspaper analysis: with attacks

in Jordan, entire US plan to institute democracy in Middle East was dealt heavy blow;

It cannot prevail in Iraq War, and may push entire Middle East into chaos. (6)



Domestic Issues (132)

 PRC President Hu Jintao made state visits to Germany, UK, Spain and South Korea

just prior to APEC Summit in Busan, promoting ―comprehensive strategic

partnerships‖ with UK and Spain. (93)

 China faces serious situation in fighting bird flu. (28)

 Russia supports SCO in opening liaison with Afghanistan. (6)

 PRC Ministry of Public Security: SCO will make its own list of terrorists. (3)

 Western media fabricated stories that China wants to lease Camran Bay in Vietnam,

but in fact US wants it most. (2)



Other Issues (85)

 French Cabinet extended state of emergency to three months as rioting continued

throughout France, albeit at on a lesser scale. (41)

 APEC Summit in Busan in South Korea discussed trade, counter-terrorism, oil prices,

fighting corruption, and avian flu; meetings of Chinese, US, Japanese and Russian

leaders provided unique opportunity to shape future of Korean Peninsula; Koizumi‘s

continuing visits to Yasukuni Shrine to ―worship devils‖ made it difficult for him at

APEC meeting; ROK will formally acknowledge China‘s Market Economy status;

US took extraordinary security measures to protect President Bush at Summit. (23)

 Suicide attacks in Kabul killed several persons; President Karzai called on Taliban

insurgents to join peace process. (14)

 After Azerbaijan parliamentary elections, 80,000 opposition supporters under orange

banners marched and demanded fresh elections, called for President to step down. (8)



BACK



DEMOCRATIC PEOPLES REPUBLIC OF KOREA (NORTH KOREA)

(Media source monitored: Korea Central News Agency [KCNA])



North Korea’s (DPRK) media is controlled by the state, and thus it often reports only

upon things that are politically expedient—the country's strengths, its policies and

positions, and the greatness of its leaders. Specifically, the KCNA is understood to

publish stories that help it to communicate its agenda with foreign audiences. This past

week‘s reporting lacked any dominant themes. Per past reporting trends, the lack of

otherwise consistent themes related to US sentiment and Japanese sentiment is likely due

to the fact that DPRK was engaged with both the US and Japan in the 6-way talks to

resolve the nuclear crisis. On that subject, no significant reporting occurred, as is to be

expected when the country is involved in such negotiations.

Global War on Terrorism (2)

 Message of sympathy to King Abdullah II regarding suicide bombings in Amman. (2)



Usama bin Laden / Al Qaida (0)

NO REPORTING



Israeli - Palestinian Conflict (0)

NO REPORTING



Iraq (0)

NO REPORTING



North Korea (2)

 The results of debates on disarmament at the recent session of the UN General

Assembly prove that the nuclear disarmament is urgent for peace in the world. (1)

 DPRK demanded the end of US sanctions. (1)



US Sentiment (11)

 US-ROK security consultative meetings damaging to ROK society, re-unification. (3)

 US imperialist aggressors frantic in their preparations for a preemptive nuclear attack

on the DPRK, according to a military source; Guam-based "B-1B" strategic bombers

flew above Wonju and Thaebaek on Nov. 9 and 10 for bombing exercises under the

simulated conditions of preemptive nuclear attacks on the DPRK. (2)

 ROK civic groups urged the withdrawal of USFK from DPRK. (2)

 US instituted smear campaign against DPRK involving lies about human rights. (1)

 US assailed for developing war operations plans (e.g. OPLAN 5027-04). (1)

 ROK‘s CBS reported that traces of 68 tons of natural uranium exported by the United

States to ROK are missing—the KCNA demands an investigation of whereabouts. (1)

 USFK assailed for the crimes of its troops in ROK. (1)



Effect of US Policy on WOT Progress (0)

NO REPORTING



Domestic Issues (18)

 Life and policies of Kim Jong-il praised. (4)

 60th Anniversary of the creation of the Workers‘ Party of Korea was celebrated. (4)

 Life and policies of Kim Il-sung praised (3).

 ROK civic groups urged the independent re-unification of the Koreas. (3)

 Kim Jong Il reviewed KPA Units 1188, 802 and 847. (3)

 Family reunions held. (1)



Other Issues (9)

 Japan assailed for Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi‘s Yasakuni Shrine visit that

celebrates ―militarist hysteria‖ (2); Japanese reactionaries‘ moves to make extremely

belligerent and provocative computer war games in mobilizing "Self-Defense Forces"

assailed; plans to unleash a war of aggression against Korea and surrounding

countries, occupy Tok Islet and Jeju Island, attack the DPRK's nuclear facilities (2).

 Friendly correspondence between DPRK and Bashar Al-Assad, president of Syria;

Jose Eduardo Dos Santos, president of Angola; King Sihanouk of Cambodia. (3)

 The Democratic People's Republic of Korea will positively promote the cooperation

and exchange with the international community including the UN and different

countries of the world and develop the independent space science and technology in

the field of peaceful use of the space. (2)



BACK



INDIA

(Sources monitored: Times of India, Hindustan Times, Hindu and Indian Express)



In India‘s media, the SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation)

summit, the arrest of an alleged Lashkar-e-Tayyiba operative, and the bomb blasts in

Amman, Jordan of three American-owned hotels were the dominant storylines for the

week. The funeral of former Indian President, K.R. Narayanan, who was cremated with

full state honors, was the early focus in the observed outlets. The majority of coverage

then shifted quickly to the breaking stories of the Amman bomb blasts and the SAARC

summit. There was also significant coverage of the Naxalites (an Indian government-

designated domestic terrorist organization) that attacked a jail where its members were

being held. Overall, the invitation to Afghanistan to join SAARC, speculation as to

whether Pakistan seriously desires Afghanistan‘s inclusion in spite of public

pronouncements hailing that invitation, and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh‘s

statement that India cannot re-deploy its military forces nor can it de-militarize the Line

of Control in Kashmir unless Pakistan halts its support of cross-border terrorism, were the

highlighted themes within the SAARC storyline.



Global War on Terrorism (16)

 Tariq Ahmed Dar, alleged Lashkar-e-Tayyiba conduit, arrested in Srinagar on charges

of his involvement in Delhi bomb blasts; disclosed that four militants who triggered

the explosions planned to carry out more attacks in the Indian Capital. (9)

 Germany, France and the United Kingdom are against referring Iran's nuclear

program to the United Nations' Security Council (3); Iran under renewed pressure

over its nuclear program after reports that US officials had found information on a

stolen laptop computer that Iran was attempting to develop a nuclear warhead. (2)

 Sri Lankan Police recovered suicide jacket in Colombo; authorities suspect LTTE. (2)



Usama bin Laden / Al Qaida (15)

 Al Qaida in Iraq announced that four Iraqis including a woman carried out the deadly

bombings of three hotels in Amman (6); Jordanian security forces have arrested a

woman, Sajida Mubarak Atrous Al Rishawi who was allegedly the fourth member of

the suicide squad that targeted three American-owned hotels in Amman (6).

 Al Qaida named Queen Elizabeth II as ―one of the severest enemies of Islam,‖

holding her ―ultimately responsible for Britain's crusader laws‖. (2)

 Bruce Willis offered one million dollar reward to any civilian with information that

leads to the capture of Usama bin Laden. (1)



Israeli - Palestinian Conflict (0)

NO REPORTING



Iraq (7)

 Wanted Saddam aide Izzat Ibrahim Al Douri reportedly died of Leukemia. (4)

 US military authorities made arrangements for positioning Iraqi forces in Husaybah

after announcing that a five-day assault on town had ended. (3)



Saddam Hussein Trial (0)

NO REPORTING



North Korea (0)

NO REPORTING



US Sentiment (4)

 Muhammad Ali accepted the highest civilian award, the Presidential Medal of

Freedom, from President Bush. (4)



Effect of US Policy on WOT Progress (0)

NO REPORTING



Domestic Issues (29)

 At least six persons — two policemen, two Naxalites (an Indian-designated terrorist

group) and two Ranvir Sena (army of landlords) members — were killed when

hundreds of Naxalites attacked a jail, police lines and other places in Bihar. (13)

 Former Indian President, K.R. Narayanan, was cremated with full state honors. (12)

 Small group of Jawaharlal Nehru University students greeted Prime Minister

Manmohan Singh with black flags and slogan shouting. (4)



Other News (58)

 Afghanistan invited to join the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation as

its eighth member (7); stories on whether Nepal been put up by Pakistan to ensure

that Afghanistan does not become a member of the South Asian Association for

Regional Cooperation (SAARC) (6); Prime Minister Manmohan Singh proposed that

all South Asian countries provide reciprocal transit facilities to connect one another,

as well as third countries in the Gulf, Central Asia and South-East Asia. (5)

 A top Pakistani Christian leader claimed that trained terrorists were behind weekend

attacks on churches, a school and a student dorm sparked by rumors that a local

Christian had desecrated Islam's holy book (5); tension prevailed near the eastern city

of Lahore, Pakistan where an angry mob set ablaze three churches, Christian schools

and residence of the local bishop (5).

 Paul Volcker, author of the report that has named Natwar Singh and the Congress

party in Iraqi oil payoffs, offered full cooperation with Indian investigations. (5)

 Indian and Pakistani Army officials opened the third border meeting point along the

Line of Control (LoC) to ferry relief material to earthquake victims. (5)

 Prime Minister Manmohan Singh told his Pakistani counterpart Shaukat Aziz that

there could be no demilitarization unless cross-border terrorism ended. (5)

 The French Government, led by Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin, adopted

emergency measures including the imposition of dusk-to-dawn curfew. (5)

 A Boeing jet arrived in London from Hong Kong after 22 hours and 43 minutes in the

air, breaking the record for the longest non-stop flight by a commercial jet. (5)

 Russian President Vladimir Putin promoted Defense Minister Sergei Ivanov to

Deputy Prime Minister in a major power reshuffle. (3)

 Prime Minister Manmohan Singh declared that a strong, prosperous Bangladesh was

in India's interest. (2)



BACK



INDONESIA

Sources monitored: (Kompas, Media Indonesia, Republika, Jawa Pos)



A week of major events in the war on terrorism, both in Indonesia and abroad, eclipsed

all but the biggest stories in the monitored Indonesian media this week. Of those events,

none was bigger than the killing of Indonesia‘s most wanted man, Jemaah Islamiyah

bomb-maker Dr. Azahari bin Husein. After a failed attempt to capture his associate

Noordin Top in the Central Java city of Semarang, police counterterrorism units raided

Azahari‘s safe house in Batu, just outside the East Java resort town of Malang. In a

dramatic raid, Azahari was shot dead as he attempted to detonate an explosive suicide

device. One of his colleagues in the house, Arman, did detonate his belt bomb, killing

him and wounding one police officer. According to reports, the house turned up a king‘s

ransom of intelligence, as did the house raided in Semarang. Leaks regarding some of

the treasure trove of information made its way into the newspapers, revealing the scope

of the terror network constructed by Azahari and Noordin. The raids also netted videos

of the Bali II bombers and bomb-making videos of such stunning sophistication that the

police are now worried that Azahari may have been able to train dozens of would-be

bombers to advanced levels. Universally praised, news of the death of Azahari was also

received with full cognizance that the real scale of the terror threat in Indonesia is only

now becoming clear. The good news, however, is that the police have exploited

intelligence gathered in the raids to find dozens of pre-made explosive devices, dealing a

serious blow to the terror infrastructure in Indonesia. The arrests of 17 Muslim

extremists in Australia in advanced stages of planning a ‗massive‘ strike there was also

widely reported, but disappeared from the pages of the monitored sources as soon as the

Azahari raid occurred. The Zarqawi Group bombing of three hotels in Amman, Jordan

also received significant coverage as a well-known Indonesian musician was killed in the

attack on the Hyatt Hotel. The only other major stories to break through the war on

terror news with consistency were the French riots, Bird Flu coverage and the shuttering

of a massive methamphetamine plant near Jakarta. Israel-Palestine and Iraq coverage

were at their lowest levels in recent memory.

Global War on Terrorism (150+)

 Indonesian counterterrorism squad Detachment 88 raided a house in Batu, Central

Java, near Malang, killing wanted Jemaah Islamiyah [JI] bomber Dr. Azahari Husin

and two others after a fierce fire fight; Azahari shot dead before he could detonate

suicide device he was wearing; death of Azahari confirmed by National Police Chief;

reports of raid; interviews with neighbors of the three, said Azahari had been there for

three months; experts praised raid, said danger still exists from followers; several

constructed bombs found in house; Azahari accomplice Noordin Top escaped similar

raid in Semarang, Central Java; editorials, opinion pieces, expressing near universal

support for actions, some said threat not eliminated; victims of Azahari bombings

said death was too quick; 30 more bombs found in stash near safe house; Noordin

Top still on the loose, police say he‘s trapped in Semarang; Azahari‘s family said

they will wait until DNA tests prove he‘s dead; police chief says threat remains, said

Christmas and New Year‘s were/are potential strike dates; evidence linking Azahari

to Bali II bombings reported found in treasure trove of documents, intelligence; a raid

of Noordin safe house in Semarang netted bullets, videos of Bali II bombers;

Azahari‘s old university mates said he was a good man; Azahari‘s family wants his

body returned to Malaysia for burial; interview with Bali bomber Amrozi in jail, he

said he‘s sure person killed was not Azahari; police searching for bunker said to have

dozens of constructed bombs, light weapons in forest near Ponogoro, East Java;

President Yudhoyono, clearly pleased with Azahari‘s death, celebrated with

participants of regional development conference; Malaysian authorities expressed

pleasure with raid, results; tips led to more searches for Azahari bomb ‗bunkers‘ in

East Java; tip on bunkers from jailed Azahari associate now believed to be wrong, no

bombs or weapons found; many more opinion pieces examined terrorism post-

Azahari, universal belief in long struggle expressed; police searching for Azahari-

trained bombers; body not yet released to family; related stories. (129)

 Australian authorities staged a massive raid, arresting 17 Islamic militants reported to

be planning a large-scale attack in that country; Abu Bakr, noted radical cleric

arrested in raid, shoot-out occurred, one wounded; report said ―Muslims victims of

implementation of Australian anti-terrorism laws‖; Prime Minister John Howard

assured Australian Muslims they were not being targeted; Muslim leader said attacks

on Muslims rising sharply in that country; bombs found in raid on Muslim extremists

very similar to those used in London Underground bombings; suspects had materials

to produce 15 bombs; bail denied in case; target said to be Sydney reactor. (16)

 Police announced they had positively identified two of the Bali II bombers. (6)

 A legal expert decried the government‘s decision to not allow jailed radical and

Jemaah Islamiyah leader Abu Bakar Bashir a holiday sentence reduction (1); letter to

the editor also voiced support for Bashir, said rejection was unfair (1); executions of

Bali bombers waiting legal decision for implementation (2); Australian Ambassador

to Indonesia David Ritchie said his government still watching Bashir case closely,

made no apologies for support of sentence reduction denial (1).

 More support voiced for including Indonesian local military representatives in

counterterrorism efforts, some apprehension over role also expressed. (4)

 Anti-terrorism regulations supported by British Prime Minister Tony Blair rejected in

vote; said to imperil Blair‘s position as Prime Minister. (2)

 Terrorism on top of the APEC agenda for meeting. (2)

 Singapore reported arresting a Jemaah Islamiyah member. (1)



Usama bin Laden / Al Qaida (27)

 Triple suicide bombs hit three major hotels in Amman, Jordan killing 57 people; Al

Qaida in Iraq claimed responsibility; well-known Indonesian Jazz musician Perry

Pattiselanno killed in the attack; harsh condemnation flowed from world leaders,

Jordanian streets; angry protests against terrorists in Amman; Al Qaida in Iraq

described bombers as heroes, striking ally of US, Israel; abortive female suicide

bomber arrested, was a part of the strike team, but couldn‘t go through with it, said

US forces in Iraq killed her older sibling; Haryanto, an Indonesian survivor of the

attack, arrived in Jakarta, described bombing for reporters; abortive female suicide

bomber provided taped confession aired on Jordanian television; the Zarqawi group

said to be actively pursuing strategy of strikes outside of Iraq. (27)



Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (1)

 Israeli forces shot dead a Hamas leader. (1)



Iraq (6)

 The UN voted to extend the mandate of the multinational forces in Iraq. (2)

 A report from Italian TV said that the US forces in Fallujah had used ‗chemical

weapons‘ to fight insurgents; white phosphorus rounds cited as proof. (1)

 A report taken from an extremist website said Izzat Ibrahim Al Douri, the most

wanted former regime official from the Saddam era, died of Leukemia. (1)

 Iraqi Prime Minister said immediate troop withdrawal would be disaster. (1)

 Iraqi Defense Minister harshly criticized Syria for allowing militants to seek refuge in

that country. (1)



Saddam Hussein Trial (1)

 Tamer Hammud Hadit, a lawyer for a Saddam Hussein aide, gunned down. (1)



North Korea (5)

 Pessimism ruled the day at the beginning of the six way talks; North Korea promised

to make its best effort to resolve nuclear impasse (2); talks resumed at the six way

discussions, little progress made so far (2); North Koreans reported to be ignoring US

urging for resolution of talks disputes (1).



US Sentiment (14)

 The US Government failed to either confirm or deny existence of secret CIA prison

system as more calls for investigations heard (1); profile of ‗the Salt Pit‘, a secret CIA

prison in Afghanistan, said it originated as prison during Soviet occupation era (1);

vigorous debate continued over US use of aggressive interrogation methods (1);

report said White House should downplay torture issue (1).

 Americans think President Bush cannot be trusted, according to new poll. (3)

 Dewi Fortuna Anwar: US must fully explain the escape of Omar Al Farouq (1); US

Government promised to keep Indonesia informed of hunt for Al Farouq (2).

 President Bush harshly condemned democratic critics of his Iraq policies. (1)

 US President George W. Bush and Indonesian President Yudhoyono conversed by

phone to discuss US Congress weapons embargo on Indonesia. (1)

 A report said US is preparing to invade Syria, operational plans being formed. (1)

 The US Senate initiated inquiry into massive profits made by US oil companies. (1)



Effect of US Policy on WOT Progress (0)

NO REPORTING



Domestic Issues (57)

 A sniper opened fire in Poso, wounding two young men; military authorities arrested

five men for suspicion of involvement with recent beheadings; President called for

quick arrests, trials of Poso suspects, rejected clemency appeal from Poso riot

organizer; the five suspects arrested by the military will face terrorism trials if

indicted; editorial said security forces had failed the people of Pos; military admitted

one of the suspects being held in beheading case is a former member of the Army;

editorials called for security forces to implement peace for Poso residents; five

suspects arrested all released for lack of evidence. (15)

 A major methamphetamine laboratory raided in coordination with the US DEA,

reported to be third largest in the world, capable of producing over 1 million ecstasy

pills per week; President Yudhoyono visited the site; several foreigners arrested in

raid including French and Dutch; plant under surveillance for three months; seven

new suspects sought in connection. (12)

 Another woman died, suspected to have been caused by Bird Flu; other patients in

hospitals around Jakarta said to be rejecting admission of suspected Bird Flu cases;

dozens of chickens again died in Sukabumi, near Jakarta; the World Health

Organization issued permission for Indonesian companies to produce Bird Flu

vaccine; hospitals still reported to be observing five suspected Bird Flu cases; more

avian Bird Flu deaths reported in chicken population; two more suspected human

cases also resulted in death; WHO will help Indonesia produce flu vaccines. (12)

 President Yudhoyono confirmed that two ministers will be replaced (1); cabinet

called to meet with President, performances evaluated (3); reports said only one or

two ministers will be replaced by President (1); editorials supporting reshuffle (5).

 Counterterrorism police from Detachment 88 arrested an Islamic cleric on suspicion

of terrorism, no links to known terror groups reported, family said to be shocked. (3)

 An outbreak of Anthrax reported in water buffalo population of South Sulawesi. (3)

 Third stage of GAM weapons cantonment underway in Aceh. (2)



Other Issues (25)

 France implemented curfews as riots continued for 12th night; state of emergency

declared in France, rioting seemed to be lessening; editorials called riots ‗fruit of

French discrimination‘ and compared them to Palestinian Intifada; curfew, state of

emergency yielded results, few reports of trouble; editorial; state of emergency will

stay in place until February, according to reports. (19)

 Global health experts continued to discuss response to Bird Flu threat (2); worst case

scenarios presented at conference estimates 11 million fatalities from Bird Flu if the

disease can be transmitted from human to human (1).

 Thai Prime Minister Thaksin urged the country to continue to fight separatists. (2)

 Indonesia and India will cooperate on Malacca Strait security issues. (1)



BACK



JAPAN

(Sources monitored: Asahi Shimbun, Yomiuri Shimbun)



The continuing violence in France, which has become a major political issue there,

remained a major storyline for the monitored outlets. As curfews were imposed and

weekend meetings were banned, there were few signs that the unsatisfied youth from

immigrant communities would end their violent acts any time soon. In their editorials,

Asahi and Yomiuri Shimbun both discussed how deep-rooted this problem is, but they

failed to elaborate on the issue any further. In a separate Asahi piece, however, a French

sociologist was quoted as saying that the eruption of violence stems from the absence of

communication channels with immigrant communities. As expected, the 6-way talks on

North Korean nuclear disarmament in Beijing produced little substantive progress, and

yet the outlets spent a healthy amount of column space covering proposals presented by

North Korea and Japan. The attacks in Amman, for which Abu Musab Zarqawi's Al

Qaida in Iraq claimed responsibility, also gained the media's attention partly because it

was the Jordanian terrorist's first major attack outside of Iraq. The death of key Jemaah

Islamiyah member Azahari Husin in Indonesia was also significant although the media

coverage of the raid in East Java was limited to several stories. Among the top domestic

stories was the Japanese government's effort to convince local Okinawa residents of its

new plan to relocate US Marine Corps' Futenma air base to the area adjacent to Camp

Schwab in northern Okinawa. Despite the Japanese government's promise to the US to

move the Marine base in a speedy manner, it has already run into strong local resistance;

72% of Okinawa people voiced opposition to the plan, according to the latest poll.



Global War on Terrorism (15)

 Key Jemaah Islamiyah member Azahari Husin killed in an East Java raid. (4)

 The New York Times: US and three EU countries will propose a new plan that will

allow Iran to do uranium conversion and Russia uranium enrichment; Iran and

Russian began behind-the-scenes discussions on the idea (2); The New York Times:

US obtained from an informant in Iran a notebook PC that contains Iran's nuclear

warhead data; Iran called the report groundless (2).

 The Forum for the Future international conference in Bahrain, which is aimed at

spreading democracy in the broader Middle East, ended without a declaration

illustrating the difficulty the US faces putting its plan into practice; Syria will attend

the conference for the first time. (2)

 Indian police arrested Tariq Ahmad Dars, a member of Laskhar-e-Tayyiba, in

connection with the October bomb blasts in India's capital. (2)

 IAEA chief Mohamed El Baradei introduced a moratorium of 5-10 years during

which non-nuclear countries refrain from building facilities for uranium enrichment

or plutonium reprocessing in exchange for nuclear fuel. (1)

 UK parliament voted down a proposal to extend a terrorist suspect's detention period

to 90 days. (1)

 Indian and Pakistani Prime ministers agreed to fight against terrorism together. (1)



Usama bin Laden / Al Qaida (13)

 Al Qaida in Iraq, a militant group led by Abu Musab Zarqawi, claimed responsibility

for the Amman hotel attacks that killed 57 people and wounded 300; Amman has

been a logistically important place for Iraq reconstruction efforts; Jordanian

authorities identified four Iraqi suspects, including an arrested woman; as King

Abdullah condemned the attacks, thousands of Jordanians held rallies denouncing

Zarqawi and his acts; Yomiuri: The attacks are a declaration of war against pro-US

Jordan that has been helping in the reconstruction of Iraq. (13)



Israeli - Palestinian Conflict (1)

 Hamas expressed interest in peace talks with Israel. (1)



Iraq (9)

 Japan will soon decide whether its Self-Defense Force (SDF) is going to stay in Iraq

for an extra six months or a year; Japanese government began discussing plans to start

withdrawing SDF in the first half of 2006 and complete withdrawal by September

when Koizumi is to step down (2); UN Security Council (UNSC) decided to keep the

multinational force in Iraq through 2006. (2)

 Suicide bomb attack in Baghdad killed 35 people, Al Qaida in Iraq responsible. (2)

 Visiting Iraq, UN Secretary General Annan called for political reconciliation. (2)

 Former Saddam Hussein aide Izzat Ibrahim Al Douri reportedly passed away. (1)



Saddam Hussein Trial (1)

 A defense attorney for Hussein's aide was shot and killed. (1)



North Korea (24)

 The 6-way talks in Beijing could agree on neither a roadmap to implement the

September agreement nor the date for the next meeting; wary of possible escalation in

anti-North Korea sentiment at the APEC meeting in South Korea, North Korea

announced its readiness to gradually dismantle nuclear weapons and return to NPT

while demanding the "US nuclear umbrella" be removed from South Korea and it be

allowed to inspect US military facilities in the South; playing a more visible role than

usual, Japan proposed to set up three working groups to discuss: 1) North Korea's

nuclear weapons elimination and its verification, 2) economic/energy aids to North

Korea, and 3) bilateral relations and regional security; US and Japan criticized North

Korea's proposal while China expressed strong interest in Japan's "working-group"

idea; reviewing the latest round of 6-way talks in Beijing, Yomiuri questions whether

North Korea is serious about eliminating nuclear weapons; in a more positive-

sounding editorial piece, Asahi praised Japan's "working group" approach and called

on other participants to use is as the base to move the multinational discussion

forward (19); Bush said North Korea has to destroy nuclear weapons before any

discussion of a light-water nuclear reactor take place. (1)

 Due to a good harvest, 500-grams-a-day rationing has begun in North Korea. (1)

 North Korea denied the existence of Thai woman who was reportedly kidnapped. (1)

 Discussions began on a UN resolution that criticizes North Korea's human rights. (1)

 US will stop sending food to North Korea via WFP following Pyongyang's request to

stop humanitarian aid. (1)



US Sentiment (5)

 US President Bush discussed US-China and Japan-China relations ahead of his Asian

trip; Bush left for Asia hoping to boost his low-approval rating. (3)

 Subpoenas were issued for six US Marines who allegedly raped a Filipina. (1)

 Bush and Democrats accused each other over the decision to invade Iraq. (1)



Effect of US Policy on WOT Progress (0)

NO REPORTING



Domestic Issues (23)

 The Japanese government is caught between the US government which anticipates a

speedy relocation of the US Marine Corps Futenma air field in Okinawa and the local

residents who strongly oppose it; Japan's defense chief Nukaga indicated opposition

to the idea of enacting a special law to implement the US military realignment plan;

newspaper poll: 72% of Okinawa people are opposed to the Futenma air base

relocation plan, signaling difficult times ahead for the government (10); US Deputy

Assistant Secretary of Defense Lawless said US military realignment in Japan will

start in 2006 and complete in 2012; Lawless said transfer of 7,000 Marines from

Okinawa to Guam will be completed within six years with Japan's financial help. (2)

 Asahi editorial encouraged a non-partisan parliamentary group to work hard on

building a non-religious war memorial; in a meeting with former Japanese Prime

Minister Mori, South Korean President Roh reiterated his opposition to Koizumi's

Yasukuni visit but expressed his intention to avoid any escalation of conflicts

between two countries; Foreign Minister Aso supported Koizumi's Yasukuni visits

while his South Korean and Chinese counterparts expressed concern. (8)

 Japan and North Korea met over dinner in China, meetings produced little result. (2)

 Abe said abduction issue not resolved until all abductees return from North Korea. (1)



Other Issues (38)

 The government's mishandling of immigrant communities and the youths‘

dissatisfaction with the government are the main causes of escalating violence in

France; as violence has become a major political issue, many areas imposed a curfew

and banned weekend meetings, but 800 demonstrators gathered in Paris to protest

discrimination against immigrants; vehicles in Belgium and Germany were also

burned; a French sociologist attributed the eruption of violence to the lack of

communication channels with immigrant communities; Asahi: The violence in France

illustrated the deep-rooted problems a country with mass immigrants is confronted

with; Yomiuri: The violence in France showed the anguish of European countries that

have large immigrant communities; France has decided to expel foreigners who

illegally participated in violent acts but opposition parties and human rights groups

are opposing the decision; French Interior Minister Sarkozy expressed no regret about

describing young troublemakers as "scum"; in a televised speech, French President

Chirac called for restoration of order. (28)

 Another Vietnamese man died of N5H1-type bird flu while a one-year-old boy in

Bangkok was found infected with the bird flu; Vietnamese government ordered to kill

all poultry in major cities; a wild goose infected with N5HI bird flu was found in

Italy; APEC leaders will confirm to cooperate on bird flu measures; Indonesia said of

11 people infected with N5H1 bird flu, seven died; Japan came up with an action plan

to deal with a possible bird flu pandemic; WHO estimated that the bird flu measures

will cost one billion dollars over the next three years. (7)

 Number of pirate incidents during the January-September, 2005, period dropped

sharply to 205 from 251 a year earlier. (1)

 It is estimated that the Kashmir quake killed more than 87,000 people. (1)

 Lebanese families called for return of their kidnapped members from Syria. (1)



BACK



MALAYSIA

(Sources monitored: New Strait Times, Sin Chew Jit Poh, The Star, Utusan Malaysian)



For the first time in a number of weeks, global war on terrorism-related storylines rivaled

reporting on the SE Asian bird flu in the Malaysian media. The Jordanian suicide

bombings claimed by Al Qaida in Iraq was the primary storyline of the week. The

reporting on the story was dominated by the factual recounting of bombing details as they

became available. The papers did cite the Malaysian government‘s condemnation of these

events including comments that these ―criminal acts could not be justified in any way.‖ In

other editorial comment on the bombing, the Malaysian media noted that the US was

attempting to use the terrorist act to ―rally public opinion against Al Qaida.‖ The other

significant GWOT-related storyline was the death of Malaysian master bomber Azahari

Husin. According to media reports, Azahari, surrounded by Indonesian authorities, blew

himself up. Malaysia‘s Deputy Prime Minister called the death of Azahari a ―massive

achievement.‖ The monitored media also reported that Noordin Mohomad Top escaped a

similar dragnet, prompting terrorism expert Rohan Gunaratna to warn that ―the threat was

not over.‖ In other reporting, coverage of the bird flu remained a consistent, daily story

with the death of the sixty-fifth person from the virus and a Vietnamese report that the

disease had mutated into an even more dangerous form.



Global War on Terrorism (26)

 Rohan Gunaratna: ―The threat is not over‖ following reports that Asia‘s most wanted

terrorist, Dr Azahari Husin, 48, was killed; death of Asia‘s most wanted terrorist was

lauded all over the region; Azahari‘s sidekick, Noordin Mohamad Top, once again

escaped dragnet; Malaysia considers the death of Azahari Husin a massive

achievement by the Indonesian authorities in fighting terrorism in the region, Deputy

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said. (16)

 The New York Times: The United States and European allies would allow Iran to

pursue limited nuclear activities under a proposal they hope will head off a

confrontation; U.S. Secretary of State Rice denied Washington and its European allies

had a proposal that would let Iran pursue limited nuclear activities; new evidence

suggests Iran has made significant progress in its pursuit of nuclear weapons, data

shared with the International Atomic Energy Agency and key countries. (4)

 Taliban insurgents killed at least three policemen and wounded eight in separate

attacks in Afghanistan; two apparent suicide car bombers targeted NATO

peacekeepers in Afghanistan's capital, killing a German soldier and three Afghans. (3)

 Islamic militants arrested last week on charges of plotting a major terrorist bombing

were stopped by police near Australia's only nuclear reactor last year and underwent

"jihad training" at outback camps. (2)

 US Senate allowed the Bush administration discretionary power to treat terror

suspects as it wishes by voting to revoke prisoner‘s right to appeal their detention. (1)



Usama bin Laden/Al Qaida (22)

 Al Qaida in Iraq claimed responsibility for the bombings that ripped through luxury

hotels in Jordan's capital and killed fifty-seven people; a married Iraqi couple and two

other men carried out the suicide bombings; Jordanian police arrested a woman who

accompanied a suicide bomber to one of the targeted Amman hotels and failed to

detonate her own explosive device; Malaysia condemned the deadly bombings,

saying these "criminal acts cannot be justified in any way‖; United States sought to

rally Arab public opinion against Al Qaida after the suicide bombings; Iraqi woman

confessed on Jordanian state television Sunday that she tried to blow herself up along

with her husband during a hotel wedding reception last week, saying that the

explosives concealed under her denim dress failed to detonate. (22)



Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (4)

 Israel and the Palestinians agreed on a detailed arrangement for opening the borders

of the Gaza Strip and allowing freer movement for Palestinians elsewhere. (2)

 U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice met Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon on

Monday in a new push to revive peace moves stalled by violence. (1)

 Israel's march towards what appears to be an inevitable early election gained speed

after new Labor Party leader Amir Peretz threatened to act quickly to bring down

Ariel Sharon's government. (1)



Iraq (20)

 Five policemen died in a suicide bombing north of the capital; gunmen shot dead

another foreign embassy employee; two suicide bombers blew themselves up in a

restaurant frequented by police, killing at least thirty-three people; car bomb killed

seven army recruits in Saddam Hussein's hometown; Iraq's Al Qaida said it had

carried out the suicide bomb attack in the Baghdad restaurant; six people were killed

when a roadside bomb exploded near two coaches in the western Iraqi city of

Ramadi; at least two foreign security guards were killed when a roadside bomb

exploded near Baghdad's high-security "Green Zone‖; Roadside bombs killed nearly

a dozen people in Iraq on Monday. (10)

 Izzat Ibrahim Al Duri, former Saddam Hussein regime official, died. (3)

 US Secretary of State Rice made surprise visit to Iraq, urged the war-battered

country's communities to bridge differences before next month's elections. (2)

 Iraqi President Jalal Talabani: Iraqi forces will probably be ready to replace British

troops in one year and allow the British to return home. (2)

 U.S. and Iraqi troops trying to stem the flow of insurgent fighters across the Syrian

border launched an assault on border town killing thirty-seven insurgents. (3)



Saddam Hussein Trial (3)

 Saddam Hussein's chief lawyer said lawyers for the former Iraqi president and seven

co-defendants would stop all dealings with the tribunal; Saddam Hussein's lawyer

also blamed U.S.-led "occupation forces" for slaying of a second colleague. (3)



North Korea (5)

 New talks aimed at persuading North Korea to give up its nuclear programs opened in

Beijing; talks appeared to have made modest progress going into their second day but

Washington and Pyongyang remained at odds over the timing of denuclearization. (5)



US Sentiment (6)

 President Bush strongly rebuked congressional critics of his Iraq war policy, accusing

them of being "deeply irresponsible" and sending the wrong signal both to America's

enemy and to U.S. troops; "The stakes in the global war on terror are too high, and

the national interest is too important, for politicians to throw out false charges," Bush

said in his most combative defense yet of his rationale for invading Iraq. (3)

 US Senator Hagel said the Bush administration was making ―a terrible mistake‖ in

opposing congressional ban on torture and other inhumane treatment of prisoners. (1)

 Most Americans said they aren't impressed by the ethics and honesty of the Bush

administration, already under scrutiny for its justification of war in Iraq. (1)

 9/11 Commission: The U.S. government is not doing enough to protect nuclear

weapons from terrorists and its handling of terrorism suspects is undermining

America's image in the Muslim world. (1)



Effect of US Policy on WOT Progress (0)

NO REPORTING



Domestic Issues (1)

 Malaysia anticipates up to a fifth of its chickens, 32 million birds, may be infected

with bird flu should the virus take hold of its poultry industry. (1)



Other Issues (44)

 An Indonesian teenager is feared to have become the 65th person killed by bird flu as

the World Bank called for up to $1 billion to prevent the virus spawning a pandemic

in which millions could die; three Asian nations reported more outbreaks of the bird

flu, a day after health experts unveiled a $1 billion global plan to halt the spread of

the virus; China, Vietnam and Thailand said they had more outbreaks as the region

heads into the northern winter, when the H5N1 avian flu virus seems to

thrive; Vietnam, the country worst hit by bird flu, will send soldiers and police to help

contain the spread of the virus as more outbreaks erupt and the sudden death of ducks

in two provinces hints at a more virulent strain; scientists in Hong Kong say they may

have helped explain why the H5N1 bird flu virus kills so many healthy young adults -

- it apparently causes a "storm" of immune system chemicals that overwhelms the

patient; scientists in Vietnam, where bird flu has killed 42 people, said the deadly

H5N1 influenza virus had mutated into a more dangerous form that could breed more

effectively in mammals; Indonesia's president said that seven people had died in the

country from bird flu, announcing a higher death toll than the World Health

Organization, which puts the number of confirmed fatalities at five. (26)

 Violence in France fell sharply one day after the government toughened its stance by

imposing emergency measures and ordering deportations of foreigners involved in

riots that have raged for two weeks; some rioters shrugged off emergency laws

looting and burning two superstores, setting fire to a newspaper office and paralyzing

France's second-largest city's subway system with a firebomb; youths set fire to

vehicles in several cities in Belgium for the third night on Tuesday in what officials

say appeared to be an imitation of violence in France; nine cars were set on fire

overnight in the German cities of Berlin and Cologne as well; French Cabinet

approved a bill to extend the country's state of emergency for three months, while

youths set schools ablaze and waged other scattered arson attacks across France. (11)

 India arrested a Kashmiri militant who allegedly planned and funded the triple

bombings in New Delhi last month that killed sixty people. (1)

 President Bush embarks on an eight-day Asian trip to Japan, South Korea, China and

Mongolia that White House predicted would produce few tangible breakthroughs. (2)



BACK



THE PHILIPPINES

(Sources monitored: Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, Philippine Daily Inquirer, and the

Philippine Star)



Prominent storylines from the previous week largely remained at the forefront of

reporting in monitored media. Although few details of the investigation into rape

allegations involving five US Marines saw substantive change over the past week, the

Philippine government‘s disposition toward some aspects of the Visiting Forces

Agreement (VFA) became clear; Arroyo Administration officials, including Justice

Secretary Raul Gonzalez, made it clear that those accused in the alleged crime should

remain on Philippine soil to be subjected to the Philippine justice system. Prominent

Senators Joker Arroyo (no relation to the president) and Miriam Defensor-Santiago

remained determined to pursue the investigation and criminal proceedings amid calls for

review of the terms of the VFA. Among GWOT storylines, an offensive against the Abu

Sayyaf Group (ASG) in the Sulu Archipelago garnered the greatest share of media

attention as the Armed Forces of the Philippines pursued ASG leadership; pundits

interpreted the offensive as a ploy intended to draw attention away from the previous

week‘s error of mistaken identity in the botched arrest of Anthony Gara, whom

Philippine authorities mistook for ASG ranking leader Radulon Sahiron. Fear of a

potential avian flu pandemic continued to generate noteworthy national and international

coverage, as did the continuing French civil unrest.



Global War on Terrorism (53)

 Philippine soldiers pursued Abu Sayyaf Group members, Nur Misuari supporters in

Sulu, 19 ASG operatives, four Philippine soldiers killed, 2,000 civilians evacuated

from combat zones (11); Malik Alimuddin, a member of the Rajah Solaiman

Movement (RSM) turned state witness, allegedly will reveal RSM-ASG-Jemaah

Islamiyah (JI) cooperation in Valentine‘s Day bombings (2005) (3); Indonesian police

chief General Sutanto warned that Azahari Husin, JI‘s top bomb maker killed in a

recent raid, had taught others his skills (6); journalist Julius Babao cleared of role in

escape of RSM member Dawud Santos (1); Indonesian authorities uncovered JI terror

training facility in Maluku (1); Manila court dismissed case against two terror

suspects accused of plotting to bomb Black Nazarene procession (January 2005) (1);

Philippine Navy seized boats off Tawi-Tawi, weapons, provisions found (1).

 National Security Advisor Norberto Gonzalez issued warning of persistent

communist threat of rebellion (2); European Union (EU) added the Communist Party

of the Philippines (CPP) to the list of terrorist groups, the CPP joined the New

Peoples‘ Army (NPA) and founder of the CPP-NPA, Jose Maria Sison (1); 200

members of the NPA surrendered in Sarangani province, one rebel surrendered in

Abra (2); thirteen alleged CPP-NPA sympathizers arrested in Hacienda Luisita (1);

approximately 500 citizens of Cuyapo marched against NPA ―revolutionary tax‖

collection, disruption of life (2); CPP-NPA splinter group in Mindanao

Rebolusyunaryong Partido Manggagawa ng Mindanao (RPMM) signed ceasefire with

Philippine government (1); NPA burned Bataan transit bus, cell site (2).

 Consolidated Philippine anti-terror bill to face several barriers to passage. (2)

 Australian authorities arrested 17 alleged terrorists involved in planned ―large scale

attack,‖ possibly on nuclear reactor, group allegedly led by Algerian Abu Bakr, ties to

Al Qaida established, Australian Premier Howard reassured Muslim community. (6)

 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit to be held in Busan, South

Korea (17-19 November) to address cooperation on anti-terror measures, anti-terror

cooperation efforts also raised at the South Asian Association for Regional

Cooperation summit in Dhaka. (4)

 Indian authorities arrested Tariq Dar, Ghulam Mohiuddin Lone in connection to the

New Delhi bombings that killed 62, both suspects members of Lashkar-e-Tayyiba. (3)

 Armed Forces of the Philippines to train 7,000 soldiers in counterterrorism. (1)

 Indonesia‘s military chief General Endriartono Sutarto ordered the revival of ―Koter‖

community watch system to aid in anti-terror efforts. (1)

 Two day Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) found regional defense

chiefs in agreement on more cooperation in trans-border threats such as terrorism. (1)



Usama bin Laden / Al Qaida (5)

 Suicide bombings in Amman, Jordan claimed 56 lives, Abu Musab Al Zarqawi

claimed responsibility, Jordanian citizens angrily denounced Al Zarqawi, suspects

taken into custody including Sajida Mubarak Al Rishawi. (5)



Israeli – Palestinian Conflict (1)

 US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice looked to revive Israeli-Palestinian peace

effort, met with Israeli Premier Ariel Sharon, will meet with Palestinian leader. (1)



Iraq (2)

 Sir Christopher Meyer, former British Ambassador to US, criticized British officials

for failing to wield influence on US decision-making prior to 2003 Iraq invasion. (1)

 UN Secretary General Kofi Annan paid surprise one-day visit to Baghdad, focused on

―reconciliation‖ in Iraq. (1)



Saddam Hussein Trial (0)

NO REPORTING



North Korea (5)

 Six nation nuclear talks resumed in Beijing, timetable for North Korean nuclear

disarmament on agenda, US chief delegate Chris Hill called on North Korea to

immediately cease reactor operation; analysts feel resolution of mutual US-North

Korean mistrust key to successful six nation summit agreement; North Korea

proposed five-stage nuclear disarmament plan. (5)



US Sentiment (49)

 Investigation, outrage continued over alleged rape committed by US servicemen near

Subic Bay Freeport, Philippine Department of Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez

warned Timoteo Soriano about perjured testimony, Soriano testified against six US

servicemen in rape case, Soriano criticized for alteration of statement, Secretary

Gonzalez would oppose transfer of US soldiers to Okinawa, Philippine government

insisted that the accused remain in Philippine jurisdiction (27); investigation of the

alleged rape case involving six US solders remained in Olangapo City (2); Antonio

Cuenco, chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee: Visiting Forces Agreement

presidential commission executive director Zosimo Paredes should ―stop sounding

like an American lapdog‖ (1); commentaries called for review of the Visiting Forces

Agreement if any provisions were disregarded, viewed the VFA as essential in light

of limited Philippine military capacity, offered widespread condemnation of the

alleged crime (13); former Philippine president Joseph Estrada: rape case does not

warrant ―scrapping of the VFA‖ (1).

 US Servicemen donated $20,000 in medical supplies to Lanao del Sur village (1); US

Charge d‘Affaires Paul Jones led US ceremony for new Zamboanga del Norte port,

among well received US development aid in southern Philippines (1).

 Editorial considered allegations of US use of torture in GWOT, Philippine view. (1)

 US Senate Resolution 307 offered recognition to Filipino WW II veterans. (1)

 US Senate to vote on Guantanamo Bay detainees‘ right to launch court challenges. (1)

Effect of US Policy on WOT Progress (0)

NO REPORTING



Domestic Issues (150+)

 President Arroyo renewed call for national unity; newly elected Catholic Bishops‘

Conference of the Philippines president Angel Lagdameo to deemphasize role in

politics; President Arroyo argued that the media had become ―bad boys‖ and

―pawn(s) of political games,‖ drew the ire of journalists; Citizens‘ Congress for Truth

and Accountability mock trial of President Arroyo continued, social activist groups

staged ―national day of protest‖ (64); expanded value added tax remained

controversial, positive economic news debated, minimum wage bill debated, new

budget mulled (29); two Marine officers who testified in Congress against the

direction of an executive order to face insubordination charges (1).

 Video of Philippine authorities engaging carjacking suspects in Pasig City inspired

controversy over use of force, police exonerated of wrongdoing. (14)

 Consultative commission continued to meet, review Philippine charter. (12)

 Jailed former Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) leader Nur Misuari sought

medical furlough, was rejected. (7)

 Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) eager to resume peace talks with Philippine

government (1); government of Brunei expressed support, praise of Philippine

government efforts at peaces with the MILF (1); Philippine government negotiators

(for RP-MILF negotiations) ambushed by ―unknown gunmen‖ none injured (1);

Abdul Kabalu, brother of MILF spokesman Eid Kabalu, killed in drug raid (3); three

leaders of a MILF ―lost command‖ arrested in Zamboanga City, wanted in connection

to 2003 attack that claimed 13 lives (1).

 Philippine government moved to counteract avian flu threat to poultry industry,

launched new domestic strategies to curb threat. (5)

 Philippine Special Forces Captain Rommil Abayon, 14 officers arrested following

raid on police station to recover seized weapons (4); an editorial lamented the

difficulty of controlling loose firearms (1).

 Reporters Without Borders assessment of Philippine press freedom disputed. (3)

 An article profiled the ―Balik Islam‖ movement, examined extremism, relation to

Philippine Muslim community (1).



Other Issues (38)

 Fear of avian flu continued to spread, governments around the world prepared for

potential pandemic. (17)

 Riots continued in French suburbs, emergency law invoked to quell riots, an editorial

expressed hope the impulse to riot won‘t spread to other disaffected populations. (10)

 South Korean activists opposed to free trade to hold protest marches during Asia-

Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings. (5)

 South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation to host 13th meeting in Dhaka,

questions, doubts over impact of summit predominate. (3)

 Chinese President Hu Jintao embarked on European tour, arms embargo, trade issues

to comprise agenda (1); two Hong Kong reporters deported from China (1); China

jailed Muslim Uighur editor (1).

 Japan sought ―appropriate treatment‖ for former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori

in his return to Peru, Fujimori is wanted in Peru on several charges (2).



BACK



REPUBLIC OF KOREA (SOUTH KOREA)

(Media sources monitored include: Korea Herald, Korea Times, and Digital Chosunilbo)



Reporting this past week did not have any dominant themes. Regarding the nuclear crisis

there was very little reporting. This was surprising in light of the fact that the 5th round of

six-way talks began this week. There was no progress made in the talks and it remains to

be seen whether these talks will resume shortly. There was significant coverage of the

preparations for the APEC summit that will be held in Busan, South Korea. Most of the

reporting discussed physical infrastructure preparations and the increase in security in

order to deal with the threat of terrorism and protestor riots. In other news, ROK will

hold high-level meetings with Russia and Japan on the sidelines of the APEC summit, in

order to seek further movement towards the resolution of the nuclear crisis and to resolve

bi-lateral issues. ROK-Japan conflicts remain unresolved.



Global War on Terrorism (0)

NO REPORTING



Usama bin Laden / Al Qaida (3)

 Al Qaida in Iraq claimed that four suicide bombers, including a woman, carried out

bombings in Amman that killed 57 people and wounded more than 100 others. (3)



Israeli - Palestinian Conflict (2)

 Israeli troops have shot and killed a senior commander of Hamas, Uvoal Bazak. (2)



Iraq (6)

 Japan will pull out of Iraq by September of next year. (3)

 Car bomb exploded in central Baghdad killing at least three people. (2)

 The U.N. Security Council has unanimously agreed to extend the mandate of the

U.S.-led coalition in Iraq through the end of 2006. (1)



Saddam Hussein Trial (2)

 The lead lawyer for former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein and his seven co-

defendants says the defense team will not appear because of security concerns. (2)



North Korea (24)

 Six-party talks in Beijing aimed at ending North Korea‘s nuclear programs went into

recess without so much as a date for their resumption agreed upon. (5)

 U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission in its 2005 report quoted

testimony by U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency Director Lowell Jacoby as saying

Chinese companies continued to provide North Korea and Pakistan with WMD. (5)

 U.S. President George W. Bush reassured the new South Korean ambassador that

Washington is determined to settle the dispute with North Korea's peacefully. (4)

 Chairman of the U.S. House Committee on International Relations, Henry Hyde,

wrote to North Korea's UN mission early this month to demand that the Stalinist

country reveal the whereabouts of South Korean and Japanese abductees. (3)

 South Korean government arrived at a virtually foregone conclusion when it decided

to abstain on a resolution in the UN General Assembly condemning human rights

violations in North Korea. (2)

 South Korea hopes to use a Leaders‘ Statement that will conclude the Asia Pacific

Economic Cooperation summit as another means of pushing for an early resolution of

the North Korean nuclear dispute. (2)

 U.S. President George W. Bush will continue to adhere to a policy of no economic

aid for North Korea before it gives up its nuclear programs. (2)

 North Korea asked the U.S. to lift a freeze on its transactions through a Chinese bank

in Macau which Washington claims was used to funnel the Stalinist country‘s ill-

gotten gains. (1)



US Sentiment (7)

 North Korean in his 30s who was featured in a CNN documentary on rights abuses in

will head to South Korea after the U.S. rejected his appeal for political asylum. (4)

 The U.S. Forces Korea has denied reports that a floating fortress will be moved into

Busan harbor to accommodate U.S. President George W. Bush during his visit. (3)



Effect of US Policy on WOT Progress (0)

NO REPORTING



Domestic Issues (6)

 City of Busan officially announced its bid to host the 2020 Summer Olympics. (3)

 NIS bugging scandal investigation continues. (2)

 ROK reporters concerned that DPRK suppressing press rights. (1)



Other Issues ()

 The French government has approved a bill extending the country's state of

emergency for three more months, despite signs riots that have swept the country are

now subsiding (2); related stories (2); the French government has approved a bill

extending the country's state of emergency for three more months, despite signs riots

that have swept the country are now subsiding. (1)

 ROK and Japan unable to find common ground over Japanese shrine visits. (3)

 Bird flu spreading through Asia. (3)

 Japanese Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry found no parasites harmful to humans

in Korean kimchi imports. (2)

 A car bomb outside a fast food restaurant in the southern Pakistan city of Karachi has

killed at least three people and injured about 15 others. (1)

 President Bush meets Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi for talks expected to focus

on Avian Flu and the Japanese ban on American beef imports. (1)

 Chile's Supreme Court denied bail to former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori. (1)

 Eight members of the U.S. Congress have sent a letter to the commander of U.S.

forces in the Pacific, Admiral Fallon, demanding an explanation of his alleged

opposition to the proposed sale of submarines to Taiwan. (1)



BACK



SINGAPORE

(Sources monitored: Business Times and the Strait Times)



The death of Malaysian master bomber Azahari was the primary storyline in the

Singaporean media this week. Coverage of Azahari‘s death, a reported suicide after

being surrounded by Indonesian authorities, was primarily factual with a daily accounting

of each day‘s new details. Articles consistently included the fact that Noordin Top

remained at large and ―poised to strike.‖ The monitored media reported on a special

suicide squad that the pair of Malaysian bombers had established and suggested this

squad could seek revenge. In commentary on Azahari‘s death, Singapore‘s Mufti, Syed

Isa Mohamed Semait, said that Azahari‘s actions were ―a complete deviation from the

teachings of Islam.‖ In other prominent war on terrorism-related reporting, the media

offered consistent, primarily factual coverage of the suicide bombings in Jordan,

attributed to Al Qaida in Iraq leader and Jordanian Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. In one

commentary piece, it was suggested that Al Zarqawi had displaced Bin Laden in his

appeal to radical Muslims worldwide. In domestic/regional news, former Malaysian

Prime Minister Mahathir stepped provocatively into the debate over a new causeway

bridge between Malaysia and Singapore. Following Singapore Foreign Minister Yeo‘s

suggestion that Singapore might unilaterally tear down its part of the causeway, Mahathir

called the Foreign Minister‘s suggestion ―threatening.‖ And in US Sentiment coverage,

the Singaporean media reported on US President Bush‘s Veterans Day defense of the Iraq

war in which he said critics were ―deeply irresponsible and undermining the war effort.‖



Global War on Terrorism (28)

 Local TV stations reported that Azahari, one of Southeast Asia's most wanted

terrorists, had blown himself up in an apparent bid to avoid being captured alive;

Indonesian police confirmed the death of Azahari Husin from fingerprint tests;

Noordin Mohd Top remained at large and experts said he and other leaders in the

terror network remain poised to strike, members of the special suicide squad set up by

the group could also seek revenge; Indonesia deployed thousands of troops to hunt

down Noordin as fears mounted that he could soon strike again (13); Singapore's

Mufti, Syed Isa Mohamed Semait: the actions of bomb-maker Azahari Husin were a

complete deviation from the teachings of Islam (2).

 Australian authorities said they had averted a 'catastrophic act of terrorism' after pre-

dawn raids led to the arrest of seventeen suspects, including a man who was shot in

an exchange of fire with police; suspects arrested in Sydney and Melbourne belonged

to rival cells engaged in a grim race to be the first to bomb an Australian target. (4)

 Chinese police warned that Islamic extremists could be planning attacks on luxury

hotels in China next week. The United States withdrew the terror alert about

extremists targeting luxury hotels in China after the Beijing authorities publicly

dismissed the threat as sheer 'fabrication'. (2)

 Investigations into the Divali Eve serial bomb blasts in New Delhi may have achieved

the first breakthrough with the arrest of a Kashmiri militant who allegedly helped the

terrorists to plant one of the three bombs; Indian police arrested a man from Kashmir

whom they said coordinated and financed last month's devastating blasts in New

Delhi; hunt was on for four accomplices identified as members of the hard line rebel

group Lashkar-e-Tayyiba. (2)

 The Singaporean Government detained a Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) member. (2)

 US officials have shown the United Nations nuclear watchdog a stolen Iranian laptop

computer containing nuclear designs. (2)

 Indonesian anti-terror police discovered a recently abandoned jungle training camp

where militants taught bomb-making skills to scores of extremists. (1)



Usama bin Laden/Al Qaida (13)

 Al Qaida in Iraq, led by Abu Musab Al Zarqawi, claimed responsibility for the

bombings that tore through three luxury hotels in Jordan's capital, killing fifty-seven

people; an Iraqi woman confessed on Jordanian television that she had tried to blow

herself up alongside her husband in one of three attacks; in industrial town where Al

Qaida leader Abu Musab Al-Zarqawi was born, residents expressed anger, skepticism

and dismay that one of their own could be behind Amman's triple bombings. (11)

 Some terrorism analysts and officials say Al Zarqawi has already eclipsed Al Qaida's

founder, Usama bin Laden, in terms of prominence and appeal to Muslim radicals. (1)

 Al Zawahiri named Britain's Queen Elizabeth II as 'one of the severest enemies of

Islam' in a video seen by The Sunday Times. (1)



Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (0)

NO REPORTING



Iraq (1)

 US Secretary of State Rice made a surprise visit to Iraq and urged its war-battered

fractious communities to bridge their differences ahead of next month's elections. (1)



Saddam Hussein Trial (2)

 A second defense lawyer in Saddam Hussein's trial was shot dead, raising fresh

questions about Iraq's ability to conduct the trial; 1,100 Iraqi lawyers have withdrawn

from Saddam Hussein's defense team, citing insufficient protection. (2)



North Korea (3)

 Nearly two months after securing a pledge in writing from North Korea to dismantle

its nuclear program, diplomats from six countries returned to Beijing today to work

out a road map to this eventual goal; the United States drew a clear line at the opening

day of the talks, telling North Korea it had to disarm and open up its atomic program

for inspections before it could get a civilian reactor. (3)



US Sentiment (2)

 Philippine prosecutors served summons on five US marines accused of raping a

Filipino woman as dozens of left-wing militants protested at the US Embassy. (1)

 US President Bush lashed out at Democrats who accused him of misleading the

nation about the threat from Iraq's weapons program, calling their criticism 'deeply

irresponsible' and suggesting that they were undermining the war effort. (1)



Effect of US Policy on WOT Progress (0)

NO REPORTING



Domestic Issues (1)

 Singapore Foreign Affairs Minister George Yeo expressed dismay over former

Malaysian premier Mahathir‘s remarks that Singapore had made 'threatening'

statements on the bridge issue. (1)



Other Issues (22)

 France‘s Cabinet authorized curfews on rundown suburbs under a state-of-emergency

law after violence raged for a 12th night; President Jacques Chirac for the first time

directly addressed the inequalities and discrimination that have fueled two weeks of

rioting across France; France's worst rioting in nearly forty years seemed to be

waning though youths torched vehicles in the south-western city of Toulouse;

President Chirac said the riots have revealed a deep identity crisis and vowed to fight

the 'poison' of discrimination faced by France's immigrant communities. (9)

 Two more bird flu outbreaks have been detected in China's north-eastern Liaoning

province; government warned the virus was not under control and could lead to a

disaster; Bangkok toddler tested positive for bird flu, the first human case in the Thai

capital since a fresh flare-up of the deadly disease; scientists in Vietnam, where bird

flu has killed forty-two people, said the deadly H5N1 influenza virus had mutated

into a more dangerous form; South-east Asian military chiefs signed an accord to step

up joint efforts against trans-border threats ranging from terrorism to bird flu. (7)

 Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra: Thailand will launch a 'D-Day operation' against

southern unrest in the next few days; all measures have already been planned. (1)



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