Hello everyone...

This week, Hala is on holiday. So, Isha is manning both editions of I-Desk all week long.

Today, we're starting with a new effort by the NATO commander in Afghanistan, to win the hearts and minds of the people. The U.S. Defense Department has released a new video, featuring General Stanley McChrystal. In the fully translated video, which is airing across Afghanistan, McChyrstal sends a message to Afghans about NATO's goals, and their role in helping their homeland.

The video comes on the same day that a Swedish group claimed U.S. forces stormed into a hospital, and tied down employees, among other things. Atia Abawi is watching both of those developments from Kabul. She'll join us live to break down the details.

Also on the docket, new comments by Iranian Pres. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad regarding his country's nuclear program. We're also covering a major verdict in Sudan, new Israeli settlements approved in Palestinian territories, and a BIG change for drivers on a South Pacific island. You don't want to miss that!

In the United States, today is the Labor Day holiday. So, the entire country is taking it light. So, we'll reflect that a bit, towards the end of the show... with a look at surfing and tug-of-war.

See you then!
J the P.

Posted by: Javier de Diego, Senior Producer
Filed under: Afghanistan •NATO •Today At The I-Desk