An ill wind that bodes no good
Ibrahim Nafie examines a hate campaign in the Israeli press

European surprises
In less than a week, resignations have shaken first Germany then the entire European Union. Mohamed Sid-Ahmed comments

From cold peace to cold war
Israeli intransigence in the peace process is not the only reason for the deterioration in relations with Egypt, writes Wahid Abdel-Meguid

Close up
By Salama Ahmed Salama
Children for sale
Political rancour between certain members of the People's Assembly and the governor of Menoufiya helped disclose a horrific crime, but we have only seen the tip of the iceberg. The crime involves abandoned children and orphans placed in the care of state institutions and foster homes. Once all the facts are revealed, it will become evident that the case is not about financial wrongdoing or mismanagement. Nor is the point the offences committed by a few reckless people engaged in social work to make money while claiming to help needy children. The issue here is the absence of any system to protect children from people who buy and sell human beings, exploit legal loopholes, and take advantage of the prevailing laxity. --read on--

Naguib Mahfouz The desired effect Regardless of whether or not a Palestinian state is officially declared on 4 May, I support the Palestinians' desire to make such a declaration, and I respect their reluctance to change the date. --read on--

Soapbox
Bound and helpless
Salah Issa

This week: Hillary Clinton