Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Saudi dissidents?
"For instance, Abdul Rahman al Rashid currently presides over Al Arabiya in Dubai Media City as its general manager. Prior to his appointment by Sheikh Waleed Al Ibrahim of Saudi Arabia, he was known as the editor of the most-recognised Arabic newspaper, the London-based Asharq Al Awsat. The newspaper's popularity was high during his era and he continues to publish widely read and influential pieces." I mean, where do I begin. To suggest that that Abdul Rahman Rashid, a lackey of the sons of Prince Salman, is some moderate or dissident is like suggesting that Muhammad Dahlan is the voice of the Palestinian silent majority. Give me a break, at least one. Secondly, the newspaper is certainly not the most recognized and certainly not popular, outside of Saudi royal circles and Zionist circles in the West. As for publishing influential pieces: I mean, yes, if publishing Israeli propaganda statements by Israeli officials is influential. And to speak of UAE is a cultural oasis is like talking about Vegas as a feminist destination. (thanks Olivia)