Middle East

The nightmare is that Syria will become another Iraq, which explains why many Christian leaders seem to support the regime of President Assad. Benedict XVI's call for dialogue and renunciation of violence by both sides was not reported in Syrian media.

All markets slide, some loosing up to 5%. A decline or stagnation of U.S. and European economies feared, with a reduction in consumption and exports from Asia. The G-7 promises to "support financial stability and growth." The ECB seems intent on buying Italian and Spanish bonds. The economies of many Asian countries at risk of. China’s criticism.

Christian authorities of the country believe Benedict XVI’s Angelus appeal will contribute to dialogue. Clashes and deaths yesterday in Deir ez Zor and other cities. Saudi Arabia recalls its ambassador. The concern of Melkite Archbishop Jeanbart: "The opposition is an angry and fanatical opposition, fundamentalist Muslims, and all it want is to sink the regime."

Benedict XVI calls on Catholics to pray. He urges the government and people of Syria “to re-establish peace as soon as possible, and that the legitimate demands of the country’s people be adequately met”. In Libya, “constructive dialogue” is important because the “use of weapons has not resolved the situation.” Moreover, “amid so many concerns, problems and difficulties that trouble the sea of our life,” may “our hearts [. . .] heed the reassuring word of Jesus, ‘Have courage! It is me; fear not!’, so that our faith in Him may grow.”

Losses from 3 to 4%. Price of oil and gold plummet. Yesterday New York lost 4.3%. Industries that export to the West penalized. "Close to the abyss."

Already 9 000 settlers in Har Homa. With its development, the area of Bethlehem will be cut off from East Jerusalem, making the creation of a Palestinian state even more difficult. There is also environmental damage: Har Homa (Abu Ghnaim) was a wooded area, now destroyed by building development.

In Doha, Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Lebanon and Qatar agreed yesterday to the initiative. Palestinian authorities tell Israel and the world that their demand is non-violent. Marches are planned in Palestinian cities to coincide with next month’s UN General Assembly.

The Security Council condemns human rights violations and use of force, but excludes any foreign intervention. Violence of the demonstrators also condemned. Tanks enter the centre of Hama and surround Deir Ezzor. Forces open fire on the fleeing crowd. Protests every night throughout Ramadan. Tens of thousands demonstrate in Deir al-Zour, Duma, Homs.

Thousands of parents, teachers and students march against the rising cost of education. Taxi drivers block roads over higher fuel prices. In many cities, people set up tent cities to protest against the high cost of living. Born from egalitarian and socialist dreams, Israel now has one of the widest gaps between haves and have-nots.

The death toll from crackdown has surpassed 160 deaths. Yesterday three more victims in the clashes between protesters and those loyal to Assad. The UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon expresses frustration and calls upon the Syrian president to resolve the situation "peacefully". For the second day the Security Council fails to agree on Syria.

The “Syrian spring” did not want regime change. However, months of violence by Assad and his government, army and secret services have discredited the regime. It is time for everyone, including the Churches, to act and speak out despite fears of Islamisation.

The former president is accused of corruption and ordering the killing of civilians during ‘Arab spring’ protests. Scuffles break out in the courtroom between spectators. For Fr Henry Boulad, directed of Alexandria’s Jesuit Cultural Centre, the proceedings are a “huge” step forward, but will not bring anything concrete. In his view, Egypt’s democracy and future will not be decided in this trial.