News Briefs
News Briefs (8-26-10)
Iran opens first domestic nuclear power reactor -- Pakistan flood aid not enough -- Skepticism over peace talks widespread in Mideast -- Parcel tax could raise funding for City College
Iran opens first domestic nuclear power reactorIran’s first civilian nuclear power reactor opened in Bushehr on Aug. 21. The reactor is being loaded with low-enriched uranium, which was supplied by Russia. The plant will be under United Nations monitoring and could start producing electricity later this year or early next. The Obama administration said the plant will serve as a solution to the Iranian nuclear dispute: Iran will benefit from the nuclear energy it is entitled by international law and since the fuel comes from outside sources it will negate Iran’s need to produce its own uranium rods, which can also produce highly-enriched uranium for nuclear bombs. The Iranian government is planning to build at least 10 more nuclear plants like the one in Bushehr. --- Pakistan flood aid not enoughPakistan is seeking aid from the international community following massive flooding that has swept through one fifth of the country. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said the U.S. will help provide aid for the nearly 20 million displaced Pakistanis. Currently the U.S. has donated $96 million, while Great Britain and China have pledged $50 million and $9 million respectively. The United Nations has also pledged to raise $460 million in relief, but have only raised 70 percent of that amount so far. While pledges have been made to aid Pakistan, it will not be enough to cover the billions of dollars needed to repair the country.---Skepticism over peace talks widespread in MideastAfter nearly two years, a new round of peace talks between Israeli and Palestinian leaders will resume Sept. 2. While the Obama administration heralds the new round of peace talks between Israel and Palestine, others remain skeptical. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will face opposition from coalition and party members if he agrees to some of the compromises the Palestinians expect from peace talks which include an Israeli pullout from Jewish settlements. Palestinian officials said talks with Israel have been more difficult in recent years but believe peace is possible if the Israeli government were more willing to negotiate. The U.S, Russia, United Nations and European Union have declared support and hope that a settlement will be reached. ---Parcel tax could raise funding for City CollegeCity College is exploring the idea of a parcel tax to help generate additional revenue for the college to cover operating expenses, building upkeep and school programs. It has not been determined exactly how the funding will be used. The Board of Trustees approved a resolution to contract Godbe Research to conduct a public opinion survey to assess if San Francisco voters would oppose or support a parcel tax as well as determine the feasibility of a parcel tax that voters will approve.
