World News Bits for Friday, August 28, 2009

Forty Five Troops Killed in August making it Deadliest Month in AfghanistanAugust has proved the most fatal month for United States troops in Afghanistan. Thursday’s reports stated that this August, the United States lost 44 troops. Forty-four troops were also lost in July. Friday, the U.S. troops experienced one more loss, making August the most deadly month
 for troops in Afghanistan.Iran: Over 100 Opposition Leaders on Trial after Controversial June 12 ElectionIn an effort to quiet those opposing Iran’s election results, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, is encouraging the punishment of the opposition. At this time over 100 opposition leaders are on trial under charges that they intended to overthrow the government. The controversial June 12 election culminated in two presidential candidates claiming to have won. Mir Hossein Mousavi, who ran against Ahmadinejad, has stood by his claim that he is the true winner of the election. Former president Khatami has supported Mousavi. Neither Mousavi, nor Khatami have been harmed or prosecuted for trying to overthrow the government.Pakistan’s Plan to Fight Taliban Doesn’t Bode Well for US Afghanistan MissionThe Pakistani government has decided that it is unable to launch a ground offensive against the Taliban. The Pakistani military plans to utilize air attacks and to block major roads around South Waziristan. The United States is displeased with this planned course of action and would prefer to see a more direct attack on the growing Taliban force. Early this month the Taliban lost leader, Baitullah Mehsud, who was replaced by Hakimullah Mehsud. Since Baitullah Mehsud’s death the group has been disorganized, but will most likely be reorganized under its new leader. Pakistan’s unwillingness to attack the Taliban on the ground could prove detrimental to the United States mission in Afghanistan against the Taliban insurgents.Colombian President Defends Military Deal with United States