02/22/2013
PRI’s The World: 02/22/2013 (Taiwan, Spain, Tunisia)
The role being played by the militant group Hezbollah in Syria’s civil war. Also, the former comedian whose anti-establishment movement is making Italy’s politicians very nervous. Plus, a Taiwan-born singer’s love affair with Brazilian jazz.
Hezbollah’s Role in Syria’s Civil War
Syria’s opposition claims the government in Damascus is working with the Lebanon-based militant group Hezbollah. Anchor Aaron Schachter finds out more from Thanassis Cambanis, a fellow with The Century Foundation who has written extensively about Hezbollah.
Israelis Cringe Over US Senate’s Discussion of Chuck Hagel Nomination
Israel has loomed large for Republican Senators opposing the nomination of their former colleague Chuck Hagel to be US Defense Secretary. Among other things, they question his commitment to Israel’s security.
For Sale – A Gently Used Bentley: Tunisian Dictator’s Luxury Items Go Up for Auction
It’s been two years since the revolution that swept Tunisia’s long-time president Zine El Abidine Ben Ali from power. Ben Ali was forced to flee to Saudi Arabia, but it he left behind a palace-full of luxury possessions.
Five Foreign Language Films You Might’ve Missed
Aaron Schachter talks with KCRW film critic Matt Holzman about some of his favorite foreign language films that didn’t make the cut to the Oscars this year.
Adopted Child’s Death Inflames Russia-US Relations
The US ambassador in Moscow Friday appealed to Russian news media to stop sensationalizing the case of Max Shatto. Shatto, a 3-year-old Russian boy, adopted by an American couple, died last month.
South African Track Star Oscar Pistorius is Out on Bail
A judge in Pretoria has released double-amputee track star Oscar Pistorius on a $113,000 bail. Pistorius was charged with the shooting murder of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp at his house last week. The judge said the prosecution failed to establish Pistorius as a flight risk — or that he’s too violent to be out on bail.
Spanish Baker Starts a Bread War
A baker in the region around Valencia, Spain, has his own answer to the national economic crisis. He’s selling loaves of bread for just 20 euro cents. Other bakers are furious, claiming he’s selling below cost to put them out of business.
Politics Takes A Funny Turn in Italy with Comedian Beppe Grillo
Comedian Beppe Grillo is shaking up Italy’s political system with his mixture of humor and populism. His Five Star Movement has already won elections for mayor in Parma and Palermo.
Japan Premier’s Comment Inflames Tensions With China
China reacted angrily Friday to a comment by Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. He was quoted as saying that Beijing has a “deeply ingrained” need to spar with Japan and its other Asian neighbors.
Taiwan-Born Emy Tseng Swings to Brazilian Jazz
Singer Emy Tseng talks to host Aaron Schachter about her love for Brazilian music and her debut CD, “Sonho.”
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