Free Republic

WASHINGTON, Oct. 28, 2006 -- President Bush and Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki are committed to the security and prosperity of a democratic Iraq and the global fight against terrorism, according to a joint statement the two leaders issued today. “Via secure video, we discussed a range of issues of great importance to our common mission in Iraq, including the development of Iraqi security forces, efforts to promote reconciliation among all Iraqis, and the International Compact for Iraq and the economic reforms associated with it,” they said. The two countries have three goals that will help successfully complete the...

It would have made for a jarring sight at any place of leisure. But the large black banners mourning the death of the Prophet Muhammad and his grandson Hasan were cause for particular dismay among the small army of skiing enthusiasts expecting a day of care-free enjoyment on Iran's slopes. The proclamations signified that the Islamic authorities had ordered the closure of Dizin, the country's leading ski resort, in memory of the religious figures, both of whom died more than 1,300 years ago. It was a mourning festival observed with passionate intensity in mosques throughout Iran. But among the affluent...