more from Democracy Now!

Iraqi Gov't Freezes Bank Accounts of Iraqi Feminist Group
The Iraqi government has frozen the bank accounts of the Organization for Women's Freedom in Iraq led by Yanar Muhammad. The group has been highly critical of the U.S. occupation and has closely monitored the human rights situation for women in Iraq. It has documented the disappearance of some 4000 women and girls since the U.S. invasion in early 2003. The group believes most have been trafficked to other countries and forced into prostitution.

New Round of Sudanese Peace Talks Planned
In news from Africa, UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon has announced a new round of peace talks will begin next month between the Sudanese government and rebel groups from Darfur.

• Ban Ki Moon: "Mr. Konare and I have decided that the negotiations should begin in Libya on Saturday October 27, under the lead of the AU-UN Special Envoys who will continue to work in close coordination with the countries on the region. I urge and expect all parties to declare their serious commitment to cease all hostilities immediately."

Sudan Names Wanted War Criminal to Probe Human Rights
The Sudanese government has named Ahmed Haroun, a wanted war criminal, to head a newly formed committee to investigate human rights complaints. In March the International Criminal Court issued a warrant for Haroun's arrest.

Report: U.S. Building Military Base Near Iraq-Iran Border
The Bush administration is reportedly preparing to build a military base near Iraq’s border with Iran. According to the Wall Street Journal, the base will be located four miles from the Iranian border and in place for at least two years. A U.S. commander says the base will be used to stem the flow of advanced Iranian weaponry allegedly being supplied to Iraqi insurgents. The Pentagon plans to build checkpoints, x-ray machines and censors at the only formal crossing between Iraq and Iran. The development is the latest indicating the administration is stepping up its confrontation with Iran. President Bush has threatened to confront Iran while anonymous administration and right-wing think tank sources have reported that plans have been drawn for massive air strikes.

Report: Petraeus Rejects 2010 Withdrawal
Meanwhile there are new indications General Petraeus sees a long-term U.S. occupation in Iraq. The Washington Post reports Petraeus recently rejected plans that would withdraw three-quarters of U.S. troops -- by the year 2010. Petreaus is said to have clashed with his superior, Admiral William Fallon, over the possibility. The 2010 date is said to be the main source of debate between the two top military leaders on Iraq.