Hamas director draws criticism
The Hamas government on Thursday named a Palestinian whose group has attacked Israel and was blamed for bombing a U.S. convoy to head a new security force made up of Islamic militants.
The move is a direct challenge to the authority of President Mahmoud Abbas, and was quickly denounced by Israel and the United States.
Hamas Interior Minister Said Siyam issued a decree appointing Jamal Abu Samhadana, the head of the Popular Resistance Committees, as director general of his ministry.
Samhadana, a former security officer who was dismissed for refusing to report for duty during the uprising against Israel, was given the rank of colonel.
Katmandu, Nepal
Nepalis defy curfew to protest king
Tens of thousands of Nepalis defied a curfew to protest Thursday in the largest show of discontent with King Gyanendra since demonstrations against his royal dictatorship began more than two weeks ago. Security forces responded by fatally shooting three protesters.
The nearly two dozen demonstrations, which brought as many as 100,000 people into the streets around the capital, Katmandu, ranged from festive pro-democracy rallies to angry riots of young men who lighted bonfires and hurled bricks at police. Some demanded the death of the king, whose government appears increasingly unable to control the country.
Nepal’s royal government imposed a day curfew early today in the capital and surrounding areas, warning people to stay indoors between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. or risk being shot.
Curitiba, Brazil
Chavez blames U.S. for oil price run-up
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez blamed the United States for the high cost of oil Thursday, saying the American hard line on Iran was driving prices to record levels.
Chavez predicted that the cost of oil would soar far higher if the standoff over Iran’s nuclear program led to a U.S. attack on the Islamic republic.
Oil prices fell slightly Thursday after reaching a record high above $72 a barrel.
“It could reach $100 … It is up to the United States,” Chavez told reporters as he arrived in southern Brazil on a trade mission. He attributed the already-high price to American “bellicose statements and the American president’s threats against Iran.”