Banke Bihari Temple In Vrindavan Rejects Call To Ban Muslim-Made Attire For Deity
New Age Islam News Bureau
13 March 2025
People celebrating Holi at Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan
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· Banke Bihari Temple In Vrindavan Rejects Call To Ban Muslim-Made Attire For Deity
· UP Government To Cover 10 Mosques In Sambhal During Holi Celebrations that Falls on a Ramazan Juma’ah, A Rare Sixty-Year Coincidence
· Pakistan Train Attack Siege Ends With 33 Militants And 21 Hostages Dead, PM Sharif Says Attack Won’t Shake Resolve For Peace
· ‘Humiliated’: Palestinian Victims Of Israel Sexual Abuse Testify At UN
· Saudi FM Discusses Gaza Reconstruction With Arab Counterparts, US Envoy In Qatar
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India
· UP: Hindutva Organisations Create Uproar After Muslim Man Offers Prayer Inside Hospital
· Uttarakhand Seals 52 Illegal Madrasas, Muslim Community Calls It Unconstitutional
· Two Muslim brothers assaulted in UP’s Varanasi during Holi donation drive
· Kerala BJP Leader's Love Jihad Comment Gets Support Of Syro-Malabar Church
· Former U.P. top cop slams Sambhal DSP who asked Muslims to stay indoors on Holi
· Friday Prayers At Ayodhya Mosques Will Be Offered After 2pm On Holi
· Yogi Adityanath Takes A 'Land Jihad' Jibe At Previous UP Governments
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Pakistan
· Islamabad police rescue two officers held hostage by drug dealers
· Whoever takes up arms against state will be eliminated, vows Balochistan CM
· Armed groups not ready to talk will face state’s wrath: Bugti
· Govt maintains eerie silence in NA over train hijacking
· Nawaz blames ‘stubbornness’ of PTI for failure of negotiations
· Pakistan denounces fresh round of India curbs on Kashmiri organisations: FO
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Mideast
· ‘Nobody Is Expelling Any Palestinians’ From Gaza, Says US President Trump
· At least 1,383 civilians killed in Syria violence: new monitor toll
· Canada eases sanctions on Syrian Arab Republic, names ambassador
· Syria’s interim President Sharaa forms national security council
· Financial reform plan can unlock foreign support for Lebanon, IMF says
· Dissident former diplomat shot dead in southern Syria: monitor
· Iran says UAE’s Gargash will deliver Trump’s letter to Tehran
· Turkish party leader says his arrest is part of a crackdown on Erdogan’s political opponents
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Arab World
· Saudi hospital performs robotic spinal, pelvic surgery
· Authorities bust drug smugglers across Saudi Arabia
· Saudi project restores authenticity to Najran’s historical mosque
· Saudi king, crown prince congratulate Mauritius on its independence day
· Saudi joint forces chief receives UAE counterpart and delegation
· Saudi scouts volunteer 11,800 hours in first 10 days of Ramadan
· Facilities Security Forces chief inspects Haramain train stations to ensure Umrah pilgrims' safety
· Saudi, Japan food and drug authorities to strengthen ties
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Europe
· UK Muslim Community Is Sick Of Being Ignored. Here’s Why Some Want A Hung Parliament
· Uber Eats offers free Ramadan meals to Muslim delivery drivers in London
· Debunked: No, RTÉ is not replacing the Angelus with a Muslim call to prayer
· Non-Muslim council staff fast for a day
· Finns Party minister survives confidence vote over alleged anti-Muslim discrimination
· Blackburn mosques pledge to tackle growing health challenges
· Greenland's opposition wins election dominated by independence and Trump
· EU braces for higher prices as US trade war ramps up
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North America
· Who Is Mahmoud Khalil, Palestinian Student Activist Facing US Deportation?
· Carney ready to talk trade with Trump if 'there's respect for sovereignty'
· Trade war escalates as Trump pledges more tariffs
· CAIR Appeals Arkansas Dept. of Corrections Policy of Starving Muslims During Ramadan
· CAIR Sends Ramadan, Eid Cards to 51 State-Level Education Departments Encouraging Religious Literacy
· CAIR-LA Welcomes LAUSD Resolution Recognizing Ramadan, Commends Commitment to Inclusivity
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Southeast Asia
· Mosque-Based Cooperatives Can Strengthen The Economy Of Muslims - Angkasa
· Zakat Boards Urged To Boost Collaboration With Mosques, Community Groups
· Seven caught using Ramadan bazaar stall as drug den
· BSI Partners with B-Universe to Promote Sharia Banking Literacy
· Amir Hamzah: i-Saraan contributions surge to RM2.6b in 2024, government incentives jump to RM114.8m
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South Asia
· Chief Adviser of Bangladesh To Open Project Of Cox’s Bazar Airport, Model Mosque Friday
· EC staffers protest for keeping NID services under commission
· A Day in court: Of ‘preventing measure’ against anti-govt slogans
· Hanafi urges Islamabad-based Afghan embassy to address problems of Afghan migrants
· More should be done for Afghan goods exports to Oman, Muttaqi
· Approval of 11 major mining projects: A strategic path to Afghanistan’s economic self-sufficiency
· From Survival to Stability: Community-Driven Housing for Afghanistan’s Displaced
· Commerce Secretary opens Ramadan & Eid Festival in city
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Africa
· African Union Warns Of Huge Risk Of Partition In Sudan
· Oil production resumes at Libya’s Mabruk field after a decade
· Another Miyetti Allah vigilante member assassinated in Kwara
· Zazzau Emirate Limits District Heads To 30 Horses For Sallah Festival
· Tinubu-Ojo leads Ramadan prayers for security, national growth
· APC forum applauds Matawalle for N1bn Ramadan charity in Zamfara
· Police Celebrates, Claims No Single Gunshot In Anambra For One Month
· Speaker Obasa Requests Deployment Of Armed Security Operatives To Lagos Assembly
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/banke-bihari-templein-vrindavan-muslim/d/134868
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Banke Bihari Temple In Vrindavan Rejects Call To Ban Muslim-Made Attire For Deity
Mar 13, 2025
People celebrating Holi at Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan
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AGRA: Authorities at Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan on Wednesday dismissed a proposal seeking a ban on dresses made by Muslim weavers for Lord Krishna. The temple administration clarified that “no changes have been made to the selection process for the deity’s dresses.”
On Tuesday, Dinesh Falahari, president of Shri Krishna Janambhumi Sangharsh Nyas — also involved in the ongoing Shahi Idgah mosque dispute in Mathura — submitted a memorandum to the temple administration stating, “If any heretic who does not follow our religion offers anything made by their hands to Thakurji (Lord Krishna), it cannot be accepted, and those who do so are committing a grave sin.”
Gyanendra Kishor Goswami, a member of the temple administration, told TOI, “We received a proposal to stop using ‘poshaks’ (attire) made by Muslim weavers. Our primary concern is to ensure purity and sanctity of the ‘poshaks’ offered to Thakurji. If members of the Muslim community have faith in Thakurji, we have no objection to accepting ‘poshaks’ from them.” Anyone is free to submit proposals, he said.
Goswami said 30,000 to 40,000 devotees from diverse backgrounds visit the 164-year-old temple daily, with the number crossing one lakh on weekends and festivals.
Meanwhile, city magistrate Rakesh Kumar told TOI, “I am not aware of the memorandum submitted by Dinesh Falahari, but I will look into the matter.”
Source: indiatimes.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/agra/banke-bihari-temple-rejects-call-to-ban-muslim-made-attire-for-deity/articleshow/118945381.cms
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UP Government To Cover 10 Mosques In Sambhal During Holi Celebrations that Falls on a Ramazan Juma’ah, A Rare Sixty-Year Coincidence
Mar 12, 2025
UP Police officials have been given instructions to maintain strict vigilance.
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In a significant move, the Uttar Pradesh (UP) administration has decided to cover ten mosques in Sambhal during Holi celebrations on Friday. March 14 marks a rare sixty-year coincidence of the festival of colours and a Ramazan 'Jumma' falling together on the same day.
Briefing the media over the UP administration's preparedness, Sambhal SP, Shrish Chandra, said that the decision was taken to maintain communal harmony and facilitate the two communities in celebrating their respective festivals with full glee and gaiety.
"A total of ten mosques have been identified which fall in the proposed route of the 'Chaupai' procession. All of them will be covered to prevent any disturbance or tension between the two communities," he said.
He said that the decision has been taken to cover those mosques, from where the 'Chaupai' processions (a customary practice during Holi) will cross through and also added that this has been a practice for years.
"The conventional route of the 'Chaupai' procession during Holi has been identified and ten mosques along the route will be covered," he said.
According to reports, an agreement has also been reached to alter the timings of the Friday prayers and 'Chaupai' processions, so that the two don't overlap each other.
The Friday 'namaaz (prayers)' will take place either before or after the Holi procession. Also, outsiders won't have permission to enter mosque premises.
Local authorities and UP Police officials have been given instructions to maintain strict vigilance and prevent any untoward incidents from unfolding on the day of the festival.
The ten mosques which will be covered with tarpaulin in Sambhal during Holi celebrations, include the Shahi Jama Masjid, Ladania wali masjid, Thaane wali masjid, Ek raat masjid, Gurdwara road masjid, Gol masjid, Khajoor wali masjid, Anaar wali masjid and Gol dukaan wali masjid.
A peace meeting was also organised at the Sambhal police station, where the religious heads of the two communities discussed and deliberated on ways to prevent any incident of communal strife, during Holi celebrations and the Friday 'namaaz'.
Source: ndtv.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/10-sambhal-mosques-including-jama-masjid-to-be-covered-with-tarpaulin-during-holi-7908667
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Pakistan Train Attack Siege Ends With 33 Militants And 21 Hostages Dead, PM Sharif Says Attack Won’t Shake Resolve For Peace
By: Express Web Desk: March 13, 2025
A Pakistan Army soldier stands guard next to a rescue train, after the attack on a train by separatist militants in Bolan, at the railway station in Mushkaf, Balochistan, Pakistan, on March 12, 2025. (Reuters Photo)
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Pakistan Train Attack Today Live News Updates: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday expressed grief and shock over the attack on Jaffar Express train, saying that “such cowardly acts will not shake Pakistan’s resolve for peace.” Pakistani army confirmed the end of the rescue operation, stating that 33 militants and 21 hostages were killed, while over 300 passengers were rescued, PTI reported. Separatist militants launched an attack on the Jaffar Express, a passenger train carrying around 500 people in southwestern Pakistan’s Balochistan province on Tuesday. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for derailing the train, asserting that they had seized control, killed 50 security personnel, and taken 214 passengers, including active-duty personnel, as hostages, according to the Reuters reports. However, their claims have not been independently verified.
Militant demands: The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the separatist militant group, which claimed responsibility for the attack issued a 48 hours ultimatum, stating that they would execute the hostages if Baloch political prisoners, activists and missing persons abducted by the Pakistani military are not freed. It also warns that if military intervention continues, all hostages will be executed and the train will be completely destroyed. On Wednesday evening, before the army’s announcement, the BLA claimed it had killed 50 passengers. Earlier, a junior government minister stated that 70-80 attackers had hijacked. The train was targeted while traveling from Quetta to Peshawar, when it got trapped in a tunnel and gunmen opened fire, killing the train driver, according to Reuters.
Government response: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, saying security officials were “repelling” the militants. Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, strongly condemned the attack, calling the militants “beasts” for targeting innocent passengers. In response to the attack, the Balochistan government implemented emergency measures to manage the crisis. Security forces engaged in an exchange of fire with the militants as efforts were made to contain the situation and rescue the passengers, Reuters reported. The region has long been plagued by an insurgency led by separatist groups such as the BLA, who claim that the government exploits Balochistan’s rich gas and mineral resources without fair distribution to the local population.
14:03 (IST) 13 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: Pakistan PM visits survivors
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif traveled to Balochistan to meet survivors of the deadly train attack and the commandos who rescued over 300 passengers. The military stated that the attack was “orchestrated and directed by terrorist ring leaders operating from Afghanistan,” a claim Kabul denies. Authorities have arranged for the victims’ bodies to be transported to their hometowns, while the injured are receiving medical care.
12:23 (IST) 13 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif to visit Quetta
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will visit Quetta to assess the security situation following the Jaffar Express hijacking, Geo News reported. The visit follows a military operation that eliminated 33 Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) militants who took over 400 passengers hostage.
12:21 (IST) 13 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: Deadly Pakistan train siege ends as security forces kill militants
Pakistani security forces killed all 33 militants involved in the hijacking of a passenger train in Balochistan. The attack by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) left 21 hostages and four security personnel dead before the rescue operation began.
The militants, armed with rocket launchers and guns, stormed the Jaffar Express on Tuesday, targeting passengers based on their region and executing some on the spot. Survivors said they had little to survive on during the ordeal. Security forces launched a large-scale operation involving special troops and helicopters to regain control of the train.
12:14 (IST) 13 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: Pakistan Army hunts for missing passengers
Pakistan’s military is continuing its search operation in Balochistan to locate any missing passengers after a hijacked train was rescued, reported BBC. Some militants are believed to have escaped with an unknown number of hostages into the surrounding mountainous region. Officials are also trying to account for passengers who fled the train during the attack, as per BBC.
11:17 (IST) 13 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: 25 hostages killed before rescue operation, says army
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) killed 21 civilian hostages and four military personnel before Pakistan’s army launched its rescue operation, a military spokesperson said, as per BBC. The militants had threatened to execute more hostages if authorities did not release Baloch political prisoners within 48 hours.
09:47 (IST) 13 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: Pakistan army rescues over 300 hostages from hijacked train
Pakistan’s army has freed more than 300 hostages from a passenger train hijacked by militants in Balochistan, a military spokesperson said, as per BBC. The rescue operation, which lasted over 30 hours, resulted in the deaths of 33 militants. Authorities are continuing search operations in the area to locate any remaining militants and missing passengers. At least 100 security personnel were among the 440 passengers onboard, reported BBC.
09:00 (IST) 13 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: How did BLA cecome this powerful?
The BLA’s ability to hijack a train, hold hostages, and engage in prolonged combat against Pakistan’s military signals its increasing sophistication. But how did the group reach this level of operational strength? According to Al Jazeera, experts point to two key factors:
Advanced weaponry
Decentralized command structure
Additionally, field commanders now have greater autonomy, making BLA attacks more unpredictable, reports Al Jazeera.
08:27 (IST) 13 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: Is Pakistan’s military strategy failing in Balochistan?
The Pakistan military’s counteroffensive against the Jaffar Express hijacking ended with all 33 BLA attackers killed. But the broader conflict in Balochistan remains unresolved. The province has witnessed a 119% surge in attacks, with the state struggling to curb the insurgency, reported Al Jazeera. Analysts argue that Islamabad’s reliance on military crackdowns instead of political solutions has backfired. “The biggest beneficiaries of this growing state-citizen divide have been Baloch insurgents, who are increasingly able to recruit young men willing to embark on suicidal missions,” said political analyst Rafiullah Kakar, as per Al Jazeera.
07:51 (IST) 13 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: Why did BLA hijack Jaffar Express?
The Balochistan Liberation Army’s (BLA) hijacking of the Jaffar Express is unprecedented—not just in Pakistan but globally. The separatist group, which has waged an armed rebellion for decades, previously relied on targeted bombings and assassinations. Why escalate to train hijacking now?
Experts believe, as per Al Jazeera, that this attack reflects a shift in the BLA’s tactics, aimed at maximizing visibility. Malik Siraj Akbar, a Balochistan analyst, noted that the group “now undertakes major attacks, like the recent assault on a passenger train. This shift reflects both its increasing audacity and its confidence that the government lacks the capability to contain them.”
By seizing nearly 400 hostages, the BLA forced the state into direct negotiations—a rarity in Pakistan’s counterinsurgency approach. Though the military eventually neutralized the attackers, the message was clear: Baloch separatists are growing bolder, and the state remains on the defensive.
(With inputs from Al Jazeera)
00:25 (IST) 13 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: Minister accuses Indian media of engaging in “propaganda”
Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar on Wednesday accused the Indian media of engaging in “propaganda”. “Some political elements tried to exploit this tragic incident for their own political gain,” he said.
Tarar claimed that the Indian media, the BLA and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) were speaking the same language on this incident.
Earlier, he also confirmed that the 33 terrorists who held Pakistani citizens hostage have been eliminated.
“We thank Allah that the operation in Balochistan has reached its logical conclusion,” he said.
“There were 440 passengers on board the train, and the Pakistan Army, FC (Frontier Corps), SSG (Special Service Group) and Air Force executed this operation with great skill,” he said. (PTI)
23:37 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: Operation to free hostages after train hijacking ends
22:34 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: 21 passengers, 4 soldiers killed, says Army general
A Pakistan Army spokesperson in a televised statement announced that the operation resulted in the deaths of 33 militants and 21 hostages.
“The armed forces successfully concluded the operation in the (Wednesday) evening by killing all terrorists and rescuing all passengers safely,” Lt Gen Sharif said.
21:47 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: Security forces' operation against terrorists enters into final stage - State media
Rescue operation enters its “final stages” after all terrorists, who hijacked the Jaffar Express, got killed, state media Radio Pakistan reported on Wednesday.
It further added that casualties were being determined.
20:57 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: PM Shehbaz Sharif condemns train attack, says “won't shake Pakistan's resolve”
A day after the train attack in Balochistan, Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif condemned the incident on X, saying, “Dozens of the terrorists have been sent to hell.”
He stated that he spoke with Balochistan CM Sarfaraz Bugti for updates on the attack. Sharif called the nation “deeply shocked” by the tragedy but vowed such acts would not shake Pakistan’s resolve for peace.
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: Killed 50 hostages after hijacking train- BLA
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) announced killing 50 hostages following the hijacking of the Jaffar Express. (Reuters)
19:31 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: What's behind the surge in attacks and train hijacking in Pakistan’s restive southwest?
The hijacking of a passenger train in Balochistan by the Baluch Liberation Army (BLA) marks a significant escalation in the province’s long-running insurgency. The attack, which resulted in a standoff with security forces, is the first large-scale hostage situation carried out by the separatist group, highlighting the increasing threat it poses to Pakistan’s stability.
Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest but least populated province, has seen insurgent violence for decades, with the BLA demanding greater autonomy and a larger share of the region’s vast natural resources. The group has previously targeted Pakistani security forces, Chinese nationals, and infrastructure projects linked to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. Islamabad accuses India of supporting the insurgency, though New Delhi denies the claim.
The attack comes as militancy surges across Pakistan, particularly since the Pakistani Taliban ended a ceasefire in 2022. Balochistan’s porous border with Iran also fuels instability, with both nations accusing each other of harboring militants. Security experts warn that continued violence will deter foreign investment and exacerbate economic challenges. While the train attack gained the BLA international attention, analysts believe civilian casualties may weaken its local support.
18:53 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: Suicide bombers sitting next to hostages - Junior Minister
While hundreds of troops and helicopter teams have been deployed to rescue hostages from the remote mountainous area where the train was stopped. Officials say the train driver and several others have already been killed.
Moreover, Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) militants, wearing suicide vests, are sitting next to passengers, making the rescue operation extremely challenging, junior interior minister Talal Chaudhry told Geo television.
“They are wearing suicide vests and … that’s making the rescue difficult,” he said.
“The operation is being conducted very carefully so that no harm is inflicted to the hostages, the women and children.” — PTI
18:17 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: All about Majeed bridge, the BLA wing behind the hijack
17:59 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: China says ready to strengthen security cooperation with Pak
China on Wednesday condemned the hijacking of a passenger train in Pakistan’s Balochistan province by militants and expressed readiness to strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation with Islamabad.
“We noted the reports and strongly condemn this terrorist attack,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a media briefing.
She emphasised that China firmly opposes terrorism in any form and reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to working with Pakistan to combat such threats. — PTI
17:32 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE | 190 passengers rescued till now, 30 Baloch militants killed
Security forces rescued 190 passengers from a hijacked train, killing 30 Baloch militants in Pakistan’s restive Balochistan, as they continued to battle heavily-armed insurgents for a second day on Wednesday.
The Jaffar Express, carrying some 400 passengers in nine coaches, was going from Quetta to Peshawar when militants derailed it using explosives and hijacked it.
The Baloch Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the attack on Tuesday when they said they killed six soldiers. However, there has been no confirmation from the Pakistani authorities on casualties. — PTI
15:59 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE | BLA releases clip showing how rebel group hijacked Jaffar Express
About 50 separatist insurgents blew up a railway track and lobbed rockets at the Jaffar Express on Tuesday, which had over 400 people on board, a security official said.
In a video shared by the militants, the train is seen travelling through a barren pass when an explosion strikes the track as the locomotive approaches, sending up a plume of black smoke. A group of militants are seen watching from a hill above the tracks.
The video, shared by the group’s spokesperson on Telegram, then cuts to people being pulled off the train as it stands still outside a tunnel. Reuters could not independently verify the authenticity of the video. — Reuters
15:11 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE | How the BLA militants hijacked the Jaffar Express in Pakistan
Pakistani security forces are carrying out a rescue operation to free dozens of passengers taken hostage by separatist militants who hijacked their train in the southwest of the country on Tuesday.
Here is a look at what happened, and the current situation.
THE TRAIN
The Jaffar Express was heading to the city of Peshawar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province from Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province, with 425 people on board when it was attacked.
The passengers included personnel from the Pakistani army and other security forces who were travelling on leave.
THE ATTACK
Militants blew up the railway tracks and opened fire on the train, killing the driver and trapping the locomotive inside a tunnel before taking control of it.
Some of those rescued said they crouched low when the firing started, while others spoke of passengers who had been injured or killed.
RESCUE OPERATION
Security forces have launched a massive operation to free the hostages, deploying special forces and helicopters, and 155 passengers have been rescued so far.
Some 27 militants have also been killed, sources say.
However, attackers wearing suicide bombs, who have been seated next to some of the hostages, have made the rescue efforts tougher.
THE DEMANDS
Ethnic armed group Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), which has claimed responsibility for the attack, has demanded the release of Baloch political prisoners, activists, and missing persons who it says were abducted by the military, within 48 hours.
It has threatened to start executing the hostages if the government does not fulfil the demand.
GOVERNMENT RESPONSE
Pakistan’s prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif, has condemned the attack and said security officials are “repelling” the militants.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has called the attackers “enemies” of Pakistan and vowed to foil their conspiracy to destabilise the nation. — Reuters
12:39 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE | Hostage rescue complicated by suicide bombers: Reports
Attackers wearing suicide bombs were sitting next to passengers taken hostage after militants took over
a train in southwest Pakistan, news agency Reuters reported Wednesday, complicating rescue efforts a day after the country’s first such hijacking.
The separatist militants blew up a railway track and opened fire on the Jaffar Express on Tuesday as it travelled from Quetta, Balochistan’s capital city, to Peshawar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
Pakistani forces have rescued 155 passengers, and the government said a security operation was under way to free dozens still held hostage, without specifying the exact number.
12:17 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: What is the history of Baloch Liberation Army, which attacked Jaffar Express in Balochistan?
The Baloch Liberation Army group has claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it was open to negotiations to swap prisoners. So far, there has been no response or any indication from the government to the offer from the insurgents.
The BLA regularly targets Pakistani security forces, but has also in the past attacked civilians, including Chinese nationals working on multibillion-dollar projects related to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC.
Pakistan hosts thousands of Chinese workers as part of Beijing’s multibillion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative, which is building major infrastructure projects.
Authorities said the rescued included women and children, while an undisclosed number of security personnel have been killed, according to three security officials who spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to speak to media.
(Associated Press)
11:46 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: At least 27 militants killed as Pakistan security forces battle to free about 300 hostages from hijacked train
Pakistan security personnel are trying to release about 300 hostages from a train which was attacked by Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) militant group on Tuesday, while it was while travelling from Quetta to Peshawar.
According to Radio Pakistan reports quoting security forces, 27 BLA militants have been killed till now and security forces have rescued more than 150 of the 450 people who were on the train.
The Baloch Liberation Army group, which has claimed the responsibility of the attack and hostage situation, has said that they were open to negotiations to swap BLA prisoners but there has been no words from the Pakistan government in this regard, Reuters reported.
11:27 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: Pakistan rescues 155 hostages from train, dozens still held
Pakistani forces have rescued 155 passengers from a train that was hijacked by separatist fighters in the southwest of the country, security sources said on Wednesday, while the government said an operation was underway to rescue dozens still held hostage.
Militants blew up a railway track and opened fire on the train on Tuesday as it travelled from Quetta, Balochistan’s capital city, to Peshawar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), an ethnic armed group, claimed responsibility for the attack and threatened to start executing hostages unless Baloch political prisoners, activists, and missing persons it said had been abducted by the military were not released within 48 hours.
The militants have made bombers wearing “suicide jackets” sit next to some of the hostages, said multiple sources who asked not to be named. They did not specify the number of people being held but the interior ministry said in a statement that an operation was underway to rescue them.
BLA said on Tuesday it was holding 214 people hostage, and a security source told Reuters that there were 425 passengers on the train when it was attacked.
(Reuters)
11:18 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: What has Pakistan Peoples Party chief Bilawal Bhutto said while condemning the train attack?
Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has condemned the train attack incident reported from Balochistan, where in Jaffar Express train was attacked by BLA militant group while travelling from Quetta to Peshawar.
According to Geo TV, PPP’s chief Bilawal Bhutto said “Terrorists are the biggest threat to Pakistan. Targeting innocent citizens by terrorists is a coward act.”
10:41 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: What has Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif said on the train hijacking incident?
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hailed the efforts by the security forces for pushing back the militants who hijacked the Jaffar Express train in the Mushqaf area of the Bolan district of Balochistan.
PM Shehbaz Sharif’s Office, in a statement, said that he lauded the “timely action and bravery” of the security personnel.
PM Sharif further added, “The beastly terrorists who carry out the cowardly attack do not deserve any concession. Terrorists are the enemies of the development of Balochistan. We will continue the war against the monster of terrorism until it is completely eradicated from the country. We will thwart every conspiracy to spread insecurity and chaos in Pakistan,” the Dawn reported.
10:17 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: What has Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari said on the train hijacking incident?
Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari has condemned the incident where the Jaffar Express train has been hijacked by the BLA militants on Tuesday.
President Zardari also paid tribute to the security personnel for their “effective action” in getting the passengers released from hostage situation.
“Attacks on innocent citizens and passengers are inhumane and heinous acts. Those who attack passengers are against Balochistan and its traditions. The Baloch nation rejects those who attack and take hostages innocent passengers, elders and children. No religion or society allows such heinous acts,” President Zardari said, as reported by Dawn.
09:58 (IST) 12 Mar 2025
Pakistan Train Attack LIVE: What emergency measure has Balochistan government taken in response to train hijack by BLA militants?
The Balochistan government has implemented emergency measures, and said that all institutions have been mobilised to deal with the situation where the Jaffar Express has been attacked by Baloch Liberation Army militants which was carrying about 500 passengers.
A relief train has been dispatched by the authorities and contingents of security forces were also sent to the attack site.
According to Geo TV, an emergency information desk has been set up at the Quetta Railway Station in Balochistan.
https://indianexpress.com/article/pakistan/pakistan-train-attack-live-baloch-liberation-army-train-hijack-dead-army-9881065/
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‘Humiliated’: Palestinian victims of Israel sexual abuse testify at UN
March 12, 2025
Israeli soldiers patrol near the Israel-Lebanon border, in Israel, March 12, 2025. (Reuters)
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GENEVA: Palestinians who say they suffered brutal beatings and sexual abuse in Israeli detention and at the hands of Israeli settlers testified about their ordeals at the United Nations this week.
“I was humiliated and tortured,” said Said Abdel Fattah, a 28-year-old nurse detained in November 2023 near Gaza City’s Al Shifa hospital where he worked.
Ahead of the hearings Daniel Meron, Israel’s ambassador to the UN in Geneva dismissed them as a waste of time, saying Israel investigated and prosecuted any allegations of wrongdoing by its forces.
Fattah gave his testimony from Gaza via video-link to a public hearing, speaking through an interpreter.
He described being stripped naked in the cold, suffering beatings, threats of rape and other abuse over the next two months as he was shuttled between overcrowded detention facilities.
“I was like a punching bag,” he said of one particularly harrowing interrogation he endured in January 2024.
The interrogator, he said, “kept hitting me on my genitals... I was bleeding everywhere, I was bleeding from my penis, I was bleeding from my anus.”
“I felt like my soul (left) my body.”
Fattah spoke Tuesday during the latest of a series of public hearings hosted by the UN’s independent Commission of Inquiry (COI) on the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
This week’s hearings, harshly criticized by Israel, are specifically focused on allegations of “sexual and reproductive violence” committed by Israeli security forces and settlers.
“It’s important,” COI member Chris Sidoti, who hosted the meeting, told AFP. Victims of such abuse are “entitled to be heard,” he said.
Experts and advocates who testified Tuesday spoke of a “systematic” trend of sexual violence against Palestinians in detention, but also at checkpoints and other settings since Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attacks inside Israel sparked the war in Gaza.
Meron, for Israel, slammed attempts to equate allegations against individual Israelis with Hamas’s “shocking... sexual violence toward Israeli hostages, toward victims on October 7.”
Any such comparison was “reprehensible,” he told reporters on Monday.
He insisted the hearings were “wasting time,” since Israel as “a country with law and order” would investigate and prosecute any wrongdoings.
But Palestinian lawyer Sahar Francis decried a glaring lack of accountability, alleging that abuse had become “a widespread policy.”
All those arrested from Gaza were strip-searched, she said, with the soldiers in some cases “pushing the sticks” into the prisoner’s anus.
Sexual abuse happened “in a very massive way” especially in the first months of the war, she said.
“I think you can say that most of those who were arrested in these months were subjected to such practice.”
The allegations of abuse are not limited to detention centers.
Mohamed Matar, a West Bank resident, said he suffered hours of torture at the hands of security agents and settlers, even as Israeli police refused to intervene.
Just days after the October 7 attack, he and other Palestinian activists went to help protect a Bedouin community facing settler attacks.
As they were leaving the compound, they were chased and caught by a group of settlers, who he said were joined by members of Israel’s Shabak security agency.
He and two other men were blindfolded, stripped to their underwear and, had their hands tied before being taken into a nearby stable.
The leader stood “on my head and ordered me to eat ... the faeces of the sheep,” said Matar.
With dozens of settlers around, the man urinated on the three, and beat them so badly during the nearly 12 hours of abuse that Matar said he cried: “just shoot me in the head.”
The man, he said, jumped on his back and repeatedly “tried to introduce a stick into my anus.”
Blinking back tears, Matar showed Sidoti a photograph taken by the settlers showing the three blindfolded men lying in the dirt in their underwear.
Other pictures taken after the ordeal showed him with massive bruises all over his body.
Speaking to journalists after his testimony, he said he had spent months “in a state of psychological shock.”
“I didn’t think there were people on Earth with such a level of ugliness, sadism and cruelty.”
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi FM discusses Gaza reconstruction with Arab counterparts, US envoy in Qatar
March 12, 2025
Arab ministers agree to continue consultations on Gaza plan as a foundation for rebuilding efforts. (SPA)
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RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, discussed the reconstruction plan for the Gaza Strip with his Arab counterparts and the US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff in Doha.
Qatar’s foreign ministry said on Wednesday that “the Arab foreign ministers discussed the Gaza reconstruction plan, which was approved during the Arab League Summit held in Cairo on March 4, 2025. They also agreed with the US envoy to continue consultations and coordination on the plan as a foundation for the reconstruction efforts.”
Significant areas of the Gaza Strip are in ruins following 15 months of Israeli bombings and military operations in the enclave, which resulted in the deaths of nearly 50,000 Palestinians.
In February, US President Donald Trump proposed relocating residents of Gaza to neighboring countries, such as Jordan and Egypt. The idea was strongly rejected by Arab League countries, which held an emergency summit in March and advocated for a plan to reconstruct Gaza without displacing its residents.
The meeting in Doha on Wednesday was attended by the Qatari Foreign Minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, and his counterparts from Jordan, Ayman Safadi, and from Egypt, Badr Abdelatty.
Khalifa Shaheen Al-Marar, the UAE minister of state for foreign affairs, and Hussien Al-Shiekh, secretary of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization, were also present.
Source: arabnews.com
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India
UP: Hindutva Organisations create uproar after Muslim man offers prayer inside hospital
March 12, 2025
A video of a Muslim man offering prayer inside a government hospital in Firozabad in Uttar Pradesh had gone viral on social media. Although Namaz takes not more than 20 minutes, Hindutva extremists have widely criticised the man.
Reacting to the incident, BJP MLA Ketki Singh in her controversial statement said that a separate ward must be allocated for Muslims.
She said, “Muslims have a problem with Hindu festivals like Holi, Ram navami and Durga Puja. probably they also have a problem getting their treatment done along with Hindus. I will request Maharaj ji, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to allocate a separate ward for Muslims so that they are treated separately.”
“Who knows what will happen if they spit on us? We must ensure our safety,” she remarked.
Her shocking statements on Muslims has brought criticism from the public who accused her of trying to spread propaganda and hatred against Muslims.
However, many Hindutva organisations came in her support and said that Muslims offering prayers inside a hospital is an attempt to prove their religious dominance. Expressing the organisation’s outrage, Hindu Vahini leader Hridesh Sharma said, “The administration has passed a rule that no new practice should be started. Offering prayers within the premises is unacceptable.”
Surprisingly, the hospital management also came in favour of these Hindu organisations. Chief Medical Superintendent (CMS) Dr. Naveen Jain in a statement confirmed that an investigation is underway regarding who the individual is and the staff present during the time. He said, “Namaz should be offered in a mosque.
Right wing groups have also demanded stricter action against those who allowed the Muslim man to pray.
Many users took to their X handles to express their shock over the incident being called an ‘attempt to prove dominance.’ Several users pointed out the lack of infrastructure facilities in many hospitals. They alleged that instead of focusing on the development, the BJP is trying to polarize a routine situation by stirring up unnecessary controversy and debate.
Source: muslimmirror.com
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Uttarakhand seals 52 illegal madrasas, Muslim community calls it unconstitutional
Mar 12, 2025
The Uttarakhand government has intensified its crackdown on illegal madrasas, sealing 52 such religious institutions across the state in the last 15 days. The move has sparked strong opposition from the Muslim community, which has labelled the actions unconstitutional.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, commenting on the action, reiterated his government’s commitment to identifying and taking action against illegal religious institutions and encroachments, stating that the process will continue.
“Our government had vowed to investigate and take action against illegal madrasas and encroachments. After a thorough investigation, we are acting against those found to be illegal, and this process will continue,” Dhami stated.
In response to the crackdown, the Uttarakhand Muslim Seva Sangathan held a press conference at Jama Masjid in Dehradun. State President Naim Qureshi and Imam Organisation President Mufti Rais Ahmed Qasmi condemned the sealing of mosques and madrasas as an "unconstitutional" move.
Earlier this week, BSP chief Mayawati criticised the Uttarakhand government over the sealing of madrasas in Dehradun, saying the government must refrain from such "prejudiced" and "non-secular moves" that hurt religious sentiments.
Uttarakhand officials had earlier stated that the sealed madrasas in the district were not registered with the Uttarakhand Madrasa Board and that their maps were also not approved by the Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority.
Source: indiatoday.in
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Two Muslim brothers assaulted in UP’s Varanasi during Holi donation drive
March 12, 2025
In Uttar Pradesh’s Varanasi district, two Muslim brothers, Niyaz Ahmed and Khurshid Ahmed, were brutally assaulted by a group of about a dozen individuals who had come to their village to collect donations for the Holi festival.
The attack, which took place in Dindayalpur village, was accompanied by religious slurs and forced chanting of the Hindu slogan “Jai Shri Ram.” The brothers were beaten with sharp weapons and sticks, leaving them with severe injuries.
Niyaz Ahmed, the elder of the two, was away at a nearby mosque offering Taraweeh prayers when the group arrived at his house to ask for donations. Upon returning, Niyaz was attacked from behind after a brief argument. The group allegedly hurled abuses and religious slurs at him.
He was struck on his head, shoulder, and back, causing him to fall unconscious. In a viral video shared on social media, Niyaz is seen with a bandage on his head, and his shirt is stained with blood.
In the same video, Niyaz mentions that he knows the attackers but has no personal conflict with them. He also emphasized that he keeps to himself and doesn’t interact with others in the area unless necessary.
As the attack continued, his younger brother, Khurshid Ahmed, intervened in an attempt to stop the assault. However, Khurshid was also beaten severely, suffering injuries to his head and shoulder. He recounts that he and Niyaz were both forced to chant “Jai Shri Ram” and were beaten with sticks when they refused. The attackers, initially around a dozen, were later joined by others in the assault.
The incident has sparked outrage on social media, with users tagging the Varanasi police and district magistrate, demanding swift action. In response, the Deputy Commissioner of Police for the Varuna Zone confirmed that an FIR had been filed at Sarnath Police Station, and legal proceedings were underway.
The case has raised concerns about the safety and security of minorities in the region, with some social media users criticizing the state government. One user pointed out the contradictory statements from the Yogi Adityanath government, referring to an incident where a local official had advised Muslims to stay indoors during Holi, yet the brothers were not even safe within their own home.
Source: muslimmirror.com
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Kerala BJP Leader's Love Jihad Comment Gets Support Of Syro-Malabar Church
Mar 13, 2025
The Syro-Malabar Church in Kerala has come out in support of BJP leader PC George, who is facing backlash for his controversial remarks on ‘love jihad’.
In a statement, the Syro-Malabar Church Public Affairs Commission defended George, stating that his comments on “drug trafficking, love traps, and terrorist activities” at a conference in Pala were based on facts. The commission urged both central and state governments to conduct a high-level probe into the issues he raised while ensuring the privacy and security of the affected families.
The Church condemned efforts to interpret his statements in a religious context and called such attempts “regrettable.” It also pointed to reports of rising drug abuse and extremist activities, citing concerns over recent discoveries of explosives and weapons in Kerala.
The statement came after Youth Congress and IUML Youth League activists lodged police complaints against George for his speech in Pala. UDF MLA AKM Ashraf raised the issue in the Kerala Assembly, questioning the government's inaction against him.
George, currently out on bail in a hate speech case, stirred controversy by urging Christian families to marry off their daughters by 24, citing ‘love jihad’ as a threat. His remarks were made at a conference led by Bishop Joseph Kallarangatt and the Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council (KCBC) Temperance Commission.
The term ‘love jihad’ has been widely used by BJP and right-wing groups to allege that Muslim men target Hindu women for conversion through marriage. However, in 2020, the Centre clarified that no case of ‘love jihad’ had been reported by any central agency.
George, a former MLA, was recently arrested for delivering a hate speech against a minority community during a TV debate. He was granted bail on February 28.
Source: indiatoday.in/
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https://www.indiatoday.in/india/kerala/story/syro-malabar-church-backs-bjp-leader-pc-george-seeks-probe-into-love-jihad-claims-2693096-2025-03-13
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Former U.P. top cop slams Sambhal DSP who asked Muslims to stay indoors on Holi
March 12, 2025
MAYANK KUMAR
Former senior Uttar Pradesh police top officials reacted sharply over the recent statement of Anuj Kumar Chaudhary, posted as Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in Sambhal, for his comments telling the Muslims to not leave home if they feel their religion will get corrupted by Holi colours.
Speaking to The Hindu, former U.P. Director General of Police Sulkhan Singh dubbed the statement as extra-legal, stressing for action against the officer.
Other senior retired officials said the comment will fuel divisive politics in the State, adding the Chief Minister supporting the statement is unfortunate.
“This statement [by the DSP] is supporting lawlessness. Instead of directing people to follow rules, this officer is encouraging people to create nuisance. Such irresponsible and illegal behaviour calls for action against him. As per the law nobody can throw colours or water or anything on anyone without their consent. Police officers are responsible to make sure rules and regulations are followed and that there is no lawlessness in public places. The official in question [the Sambhal DSP] is acting contrary to his mandate,” Sulkhan Singh, a former Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police, said.
When asked about U.P. CM Yogi Adityanath supporting the DSP’s comments, Sulkhan Singh, a 1980-batch retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer said, “I will not comment on the statement by the CM as he was my boss, but lawlessness or inciting people to commit offence cannot be encouraged.”
Vibhuti Narain Rai, another retired Director General level officer of U.P. police said no professional police officer should have given such statement. “It is awful. No professional police officer should have given such a statement,” Mr. Rai, a 1975-batch IPS officer, said.
He added that the BJP’s incumbency has also made a difference. “Deputy SP Anuj is trying to be show his loyalty to the administration. However, the comments of the officer will fuel divisive politics in U.P. The Chief Minister has unfortunately supported him and added to the confusion,” he said.
On March 6, at the peace committee meeting at the Sambhal Kotwali police station, Mr. Chaudhary said, “The festival of colours comes only once in a year while the Friday in comparison to the Friday prayers which come 52 times each year. I advise my Muslim brothers who think that colours on them while going for the Friday namaz will be an ungodly act to remain indoors until the Holi celebrations on the streets subside.” U.P. CM Mr. Adityanath supported the statement Adityanath adding the police official may have spoken as a “pehalwaan [wrestler]”.
Source: thehindu.com
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Friday Prayers At Ayodhya Mosques Will Be Offered After 2pm On Holi
Mar 12, 2025
Friday prayers in all mosques across Ayodhya will be offered after 2 pm in view of Holi celebrations this week, a prominent cleric of the city said.
Ayodhya Chief Cleric Mohammad Haneef issued instructions on Wednesday for this week's Juma Namaz -- which is also the second Friday of the month of Ramzan.
Namaz timings are being discussed by authorities in many places as Friday prayers coincide with Holi celebrations on March 14.
Ayodhya District Magistrate (DM) Chandra Vijay Singh said adequate security arrangements have been made for Holi and peace committee meetings are also being held to avoid any communal tension.
Speaking to PTI, Mohammad Haneef, who is also the president of Ayodhya's central mosque, Masjid Sarai, said the timing for Juma prayers would be adjusted to accommodate Holi celebrations.
"Considering the timing of the Holi festival, we have directed all mosques to offer Juma prayers after 2 pm as the window for Juma prayers remains open until 4.30 pm," Haneef said.
"I have also urged all members of the Muslim community to be patient and generous during Holi. If anyone applies colour to them, they should respond with a smile and say 'Holi Mubarak' in the spirit of love and respect." "This is not the first time that Holi and Juma have coincided. This happens frequently and it is an opportunity for us to foster unity," he said.
Haneef, also the 'ameer' of the Tablighi Markaz in Ayodhya, extended heartfelt Holi greetings to people. "We wish our Hindu brothers the very best for Holi. We share in their joy and stand with them in celebration," he said.
Ayodhya's District Magistrate (DM), Chandra Vijay Singh, said police personnel have been stationed at all Holika Dahan sites to maintain order. Holika dahan will be celebrated on March 13.
He said that Holika Dahan will only be permitted at established traditional sites, not new ones to "ensure safety and prevent any untoward incidents.
"A control room has been set up to handle any emergencies. We are also stationing police personnel at all Holika Dahan sites to maintain order. The administration remains vigilant, especially as the holy month of Ramzan continues. Peace committee meetings are being held with religious leaders and prominent community members in both towns and villages to ensure peaceful celebrations," the DM said.
Muslim clerics in Kannauj district of UP have also announced that Friday prayers will be held after 2 pm in mosques.
Earlier a circle officer in UP's Sambhal kicked up a row by saying that those who feel uncomfortable with Holi colours should stay indoors, as the festival comes only once a year whereas Juma namaz takes place 52 times in a year.
UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath supported the remarks of the Sambhal police officer, saying the official may have spoken as a "pehelwan", but what he said was correct.
Ahead of the festival, many mosques in the state have shifted the Friday prayer timings on Holi.
The imam of Lucknow Eidgah has asked the mosques to hold the Juma Namaz at 2 pm that day. He also advised Muslims to offer prayers at a nearby mosque, instead of going to a distant one.
In Sambhal, it has been decided that Hindus would celebrate Holi till 2.30 pm on March 14 and Muslims would offer namaz after 2.30 pm, according to a senior police official.
The chief mufti of Aligarh, Khalid Hameed, urged Muslims to take all precautions to ensure that the festival of Holi passes off peacefully in a cordial atmosphere.
Source: ndtv.com
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Yogi Adityanath takes a 'land jihad' jibe at previous UP governments
By Puja Awasthi
March 12, 2025
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said numerous mythological sites in Prayagraj had been illegally captured through "land jihad" under the previous governments.
The chief minister was speaking at a programme called ‘Manthan: Kumbh and Beyond’ in Lucknow on Tuesday.
Among the sites he referred to were the Akshay Vat, Saraswati Koop and Shringverpur. All these, he said, were now liberated, which was a symbol of gratitude towards Sanatan.
The organisation of the Mahakumbh, he said, had shown the world the true strength of Sanatan dharma and also changed the negative perception of the state.
The chief minister claimed that devotees of every caste, creed and region taking dips together in the Sangam was an embodiment of the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat’ (One India, Best India). The successful organisation has made the world curious and also surprised, he added.
Taking jibes at the opposition, he said that it was useless to expect positivity from those whose thinking was negative. He mentioned the chaos that took place during the reign of the Congress and the Samajwadi Party (SP) from the first Kumbh (1954) of independent India to the Kumbhs of 1974, 1986, 2007 and 2013.
In 1954, more than a thousand deaths occurred; in 2007, a natural disaster caused loss of life and property; and in 2013, the then Prime Minister of Mauritius had shed tears after seeing the filth of Sangam, he noted.
He also said that the previous governments had made Kumbh a den of disorder and filth. Today the same people were questioning the clean Mahakumbh. Their persistent negativity had made them fall in the eyes of the public. People responded to the opposition by reaching Prayagraj in huge numbers, the chief minister said.
Attacking those who consider Aurangzeb as an ideal, he said that this was the result of mental disorders. All those who admire him insult the heroes of India, he added.
Source: theweek.in
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Pakistan
Islamabad police rescue two officers held hostage by drug dealers
By Ayaz Akbar Yousafzai
March 12, 2025
ISLAMABAD: Two police officers who were taken hostage by a group of drug peddlers in Phulgran’s Uthaal village, a suburban area of Islamabad, were successfully rescued by federal police on Wednesday.
In a statement, the SSP operations said that both officials were injured due to torture by the suspects and were shifted to a hospital for medical treatment. Meanwhile, a search operation was underway to arrest the suspects.
Earlier, police sources told Geo News that the law enforcers had entered the area to take action against drug dealers when they were shot at. During the exchange of fire, two police officials were taken hostage.
A citizen was also injured during the incident.
Following the incident, a large contingent of police was dispatched to the village to carry out a rescue operation.
However, local residents resorted to stone-pelting and reportedly opened fire on the police, making it difficult for law enforcers to advance into the area. In response, additional police personnel were called in from various stations across Islamabad.
Earlier in the day, Islamabad Capital Police launched a crackdown on illegal weapons and drug dealers, arresting 17 suspects in the past 24 hours and registering cases against them.
A spokesperson said that law enforcement officials recovered 11 pistols of different calibers, along with ammunition from the suspects. He said that police teams also seized 7,230 grams of hashish and 2,275 grams of heroin from drug peddlers.
He said that cases have been registered against the arrested individuals, and further investigations have been initiated.
The spokesperson added that ensuring the safety and security of citizens remains the top priority of the Islamabad Police.
DIG Muhammad Jawad Tariq reaffirmed the department’s commitment to eliminating crime and maintaining law and order in the federal capital.
Source: thenews.com.pk
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Whoever takes up arms against state will be eliminated, vows Balochistan CM
March 12, 2025
Condemning the terrorist attack on the Jaffar Express train, Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti vowed on Wednesday that whoever takes up arms and talks about breaking the state will be eliminated.
"Why are we afraid to name those [elements] who are carrying out killings in Balochistan," said Bugti, addressing the Balochistan Assembly session on Wednesday.
His statement came after an unknown number of terrorists blew up a railway track, opened fire, and hijacked the Jaffar Express train near Balochistan's Bolan — which was on a 30-hour-long journey carrying around 400 passengers — on Tuesday as it travelled from Quetta to Peshawar.
He questioned: "Should we apologise to them for the killings of 500 people?" The chief minister added that terrorists wanted to impose their ideology through violence and arms.
Even war has some principles, he said, adding that the history of the Baloch people was filled with examples of bravery and hospitality.
Condemning the terrorist attacks, he said hairdressers and laundrymen were being picked up and killed by the terrorists.
CM Bugti added that such elements were not ready to hold dialogue, a point that he raised multiple times during in-camera briefings. He also said that the terrorists cannot seize an inch of land in Balochistan.
The chief minister vowed that whoever talked about breaking the state and taking up arms would be eliminated. He also clarified that the state will own the common Baloch, however, those elements involved in the killings of innocent people will not be tolerated.
Meanwhile, the Balochistan Assembly passed a resolution, presented by Adviser to Chief Minister on Sports and Youth Affairs Meena Majeed Baloch, to condemn the terrorist attacks.
The hostage rescue operation to free the passengers neared its culmination on Wednesday as security sources confirmed that most of those taken captive were freed.
According to security sources, forces have rescued a large number of hostages, including women and children. The rescued civilians were being used as human shields by the terrorists.
During the clearance operation, the security forces practised utmost caution because of the innocent lives involved.
The number of passengers who embraced martyrdom is being determined, sources said, adding that all terrorists present at the site of the incident were killed.
Earlier, security sources stated that suicide bombers were holding women and children at three different locations, using them as human shields.
Meanwhile, 37 injured individuals were evacuated for medical treatment, security sources confirmed. The situation remains tense as efforts to neutralise the threat are ongoing.
After day-long efforts, the security forces successfully freed at least 190 hostages and eliminated 30 terrorists, pledging to continue the operation until the last militant is defeated.
Source: thenews.com.pk
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Armed groups not ready to talk will face state’s wrath: Bugti
March 13, 2025
QUETTA: The war in Balochistan has reached every home, and there is dire need to launch coordinated actions to tackle the situation, Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti said on Wednesday.
Speaking in the Balochistan Assembly on Wednesday, a day after the Jaffar Express was hijacked en route to Peshawar, he said that they should respond through tribal, Islamic, and constitutional means, but the positions occupied by terrorists through violent means “will be reclaimed through violence”.
He congratulated the security forces on successfully completing a highly sensitive rescue operation and expressed concern over the confusion regarding terrorism in the house.
He reiterated that the government and the state were ready for dialogue and negotiations, but stressed that this was not a war of deprivation or rights, rather the separatists are demanding independence.
“What should we do if we don’t conduct an operation against armed groups? Terrorism is being funded from neighboring countries,” he said.
He recalled the state had repeatedly played the role of a mother and tried to bring Nawab Khair Bakhsh Marri back through talks. He also recalled how Balach Marri was brought back from London and helped to win the elections. He emphasised anyone who advocates for the disintegration of the country and takes up arms will face the state’s wrath. He stated that the government has opened doors for youth at prestigious universities like Harvard and Oxford, while terrorists could not even hold on to any territory for more than four to five hours.
The chief minister asserted that the state is ready, but those fighting against it are not willing to talk. He criticised the people who declared that Pakistan has lost the war, emphasising that the state has shown restraint. Once a war begins, he said, it will be clear who wins and who loses.
He reaffirmed that the Constitution demanded unconditional loyalty to the state and that the government was willing to do whatever it takes to resolve issues, including holding Jirgas. He said the assembly was the representative body of the entire province, and policies would be developed based on suggestions from the legislature.
CM Bugti also revealed that Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif would be coming to Balochistan soon, and he would urge him to call a Jirga to resolve the issue.
Security meeting
Earlier, chairing a meeting on law and order convened to discussed recent terrorist attacks in the province, particularly the recent incident involving the Jaffar Express, CM Bugti reaffirmed the government’s resolve to take stern action against terrorists and bring them to justice at all cost.
Additional Chief Secretary of Home Zahid Saleem briefed the meeting on the Jaffar Express attack, the initial investigations, and security measures being implemented in response.
In his address, CM Bugti strongly condemned the attack, calling it intolerable, and issued orders for strict action against the perpetrators.
“The enemies of Pakistan will never succeed in weakening our country. The government will use all its strength to eliminate them,” he said. “It is time to leave behind any confusion and launch a full-scale operation against terrorism.”
He added that the prompt apprehension of the terrorists would instill a sense of security among the public and send a strong message to the terrorists.
The meeting was also attended by Principal Secretary to CM Baber Khan, Inspector General of Police Moazzam Jah Ansari, Inspector General of Railway Police Rai Tahir, and other senior officials.
Source: dawn.com
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Govt maintains eerie silence in NA over train hijacking
Amir Wasim
March 13, 2025
• Omar Ayub attributes attack to ‘incompetence, gross intelligence failure’
• MNAs irked by ministers’ absence
ISLAMABAD: The coalition government on Wednesday maintained an uncanny silence in the National Assembly over the hijacking of the Jaffar Express in Balochistan, despite scathing criticism from Opposition Leader Omar Ayub Khan, who slammed the handling of the attack that shook the nation.
Surprisingly, no one from the federal cabinet bothered to give a policy statement on the incident, even though several key ministers, including Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, newly-inducted Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry and Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, were seen in the house during the opposition leader’s nearly two-hour-long speech.
The opposition leader’s speech formally opened the debate on the March 10 address of President Asif Zardari to the joint sitting of parliament.
At the outset, the opposition leader asked the chair to suspend the normal business of the house to allow the members to hold a debate on the Jaffar Express incident, but PPP’s Abdul Qadir Patel, who was presiding over the sitting in the absence of the speaker and the deputy speaker, ignored his call.
His announcement of the Question Hour prompted a noisy protest by the opposition lawmakers, belonging to the PTI.
After raising slogans for a few minutes, the opposition members staged a walkout, leaving behind MNA from Khyber Iqbal Khan to point out the quorum. Mr Patel, however, declared the house in order after a headcount and allowed the members to ask supplementary questions. The PTI lawmakers returned to the house after the completion of the Question Hour.
Opposition leader’s speech
Finally, taking the floor to initiate traditional debate on the presidential address, Omar Ayub slammed the chair for not allowing a debate on the Bolan incident. “Balochistan is burning and the government is doing business as usual,” said Mr Khan. While pointing towards some of the treasury members who were busy in chit-chat, the opposition leader said that this showed the “seriousness” on the part of the government to deal with terrorism.
Interestingly, Mr Khan started his speech with criticism of the government for its handling of the latest terror attack in Balochistan. He then consumed most of his time in highlighting the alleged political victimisation of the opposition members and incarcerated PTI’s founding chairman, Imran Khan. His speech ended with his party’s demand regarding the formation of the judicial commission on the May 9 and Nov 26 incidents, in which a number of PTI activists allegedly became victims of state oppression.
He also called for releasing the reports of Hamoodur Rehman Commission on the 1971 tragedy, Abbottabad Commission and on the attacks on Salala checkpoint and the Army Public School attack in Peshawar.
The opposition leader termed the attack on Jaffar Express “a gross intelligence failure”, questioning how dozens of terrorists managed to gather in broad daylight to carry out such a heinous act without getting noticed by the intelligence agencies. He said it was the soldiers and officers of the armed forces who were suffering the most due to such failures. On the other hand, he said, the police and all types of forces with riot gear would reach the location even if there were five PTI members present.
Stating that there were 13 intelligence agencies operating in the country, Mr Khan alleged that the focus of all these agencies was on targeting the opposition. He alleged that the Balochistan government was only interested in taking action against opposition leaders, like Mahmood Achakzai, Akhtar Mengal and Mahrang Baloch, whereas it was unable to locate and find terrorists. He claimed that there were 37 districts in Balochistan that had become “no-go areas”. Mr Khan then criticised the government’s economic policies and challenged its claim regarding the reduction in price hikes and inflation.
Ministers absent from house
Earlier, during the Question Hour, the government faced the wrath of the opposition as well as coalition partners over the absence of the ministers from the proceedings. The issue was raised by PPP’s Naveed Qamar and then a number of other lawmakers, who resented the absence of the ministers despite recent inductions in the federal cabinet. Mr Patel deferred the questions related to the energy division due to the absence of the minister.
At one point, Noor Alam Khan of the JUI-F asked the PPP to consider joining the opposition as it was not getting any positive response from the PML-N on any issue, including the canals on the River Indus. Mr Patel responded that the PPP could consider it. He later adjourned the sitting till Thursday morning (today).
Source: dawn.com
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Nawaz blames ‘stubbornness’ of PTI for failure of negotiations
Zulqernain Tahir
March 13, 2025
LAHORE: PML-N President Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday regretted that the talks between the government and the opposition remained inconclusive due to Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf’s “inflexible and non-serious approach”.
In a meeting with National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, the PML-N president said: “You had facilitated negotiations between the government and the opposition as the custodian of the house. However, these talks failed to yield results due to the PTI’s lack of seriousness.”
In an indirect reference to the PTI, Nawaz Sharif said people were “not interested in protests and sloganeering”, rather they wanted their pressing issues are resolved.
The meeting underscored the importance of “parliamentary supremacy, effective legislation in the public interest, and the strengthening of democracy”.
Mr Sharif stressed that a strong parliament was essential for ensuring political stability and people’s welfare.
He appreciated Mr Sadiq for conducting the proceedings of the house with fairness despite protests by the opposition. During the meeting, the NA speaker briefed the president of the ruling party on the ongoing session of the National Assembly, the legislative process, key parliamentary developments, and the performance of the 16th National Assembly during its first parliamentary year.
They also discussed PML-N’s future strategy and legislative agenda.
Over a month ago, the dialogue process between the government and the opposition ended after the latter accused the PML-N of non-compliance with its demand to form judicial commissions to probe the violent incidents of May 9 and Nov 26.
Incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan, however, had expressed his willingness to talk to the military establishment in the country’s best interests, claiming that it (establishment) had control over all issues while all others were merely “puppets”. He also had reiterated the demand for the formation of judicial commissions, comprising senior judges of the apex court, to investigate the May 9 and Nov 26 incidents.
Source: dawn.com
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Pakistan denounces fresh round of India curbs on Kashmiri organisations: FO
Abdullah Momand
March 12, 2025
Pakistan on Wednesday denounced Indian authorities’ decision to declare two organisations of Indian-occupied Kashmir as “unlawful associations”, according to a Foreign Office statement.
A day earlier, the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs declared the Jammu and Kashmir Awami Action Committee (AAC), headed by Kashmiri chief cleric and Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, and the Jammu and Kashmir Ittihadul Muslimeen (JKIM), headed by Maulana Mohammad Abbas Ansari, as “unlawful association” for the next five years, The Hindu reported.
Last year, Indian authorities had declared several political parties as “unlawful associations” as well, bringing the total of banned political parties to 14 in the occupied region. The decision was denounced by the FO at the time as well.
“Pakistan denounces the Indian authorities’ decision to declare the AAC and JKIM as ‘Unlawful Association’ for a period of five years,” the statement said.
“The AAC is led by a prominent political and religious leader, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq. The JKIM was also founded by another notable political and religious leader, Maulana Mohammad Abbas Ansari, who headed it till his demise in 2022,” the statement continued.
It added that the recent decision increases the total number of outlawed Kashmiri political parties and organisations to 16.
“Banning of different political parties and organisations is yet another manifestation of the Indian authorities’ iron-fisted approach in the IOJK [Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir],” the FO said.
The statement noted that it reflected a desire to suppress political activities and stifle dissent in the region.
It also shows sheer disregard of democratic norms and international human rights law, it added.
“The Government of India is urged to remove the curbs on the Kashmiri political parties; release all the political prisoners; and faithfully implement the UN Security Council resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir,” the statement concluded.
Earlier in the month, the FO rejected recent remarks made by India’s foreign minister on Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) as “baseless claims” while asking his country to vacate the occupied areas of the region.
The statement came a day after India’s External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, referring to AJK, said the Kashmir dispute would be solved after the “return of the stolen part of Kashmir which is under illegal Pakistani occupation”.
The Indian government had freed Mirwaiz Farooq in Sept 2023 after more than four years of house arrest. The 50-year-old was detained along with other political leaders and thousands of residents when the government cancelled occupied Kashmir’s constitutional semi-autonomy and imposed federal rule in 2019.
Source: dawn.com
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Mideast
‘Nobody is expelling any Palestinians’ from Gaza, says US President Trump
March 12, 2025
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump insisted on Wednesday that “nobody is expelling any Palestinians” from Gaza.
His comment, in response to a question from a reporter, came during a meeting on Wednesday with Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin at the White House.
It seemed to contradict the president’s previously suggested plan for the US to take ownership of Gaza, relocate the Palestinian population, and turn the territory into the “Riviera of the Middle East.”
His proposal, voiced in February during the early stages of a fragile ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, drew widespread international condemnation and rejection, amid concern that it reinforced long-standing Palestinian fears of being permanently driven from their homes.
Egypt, Jordan and Gulf Arab states warned that any such plan could destabilize the entire region. In response, Arab states adopted a $53 billion Egyptian plan for the reconstruction of Gaza that would avoid any displacement of Palestinians.
Arab foreign ministers said on Wednesday they would continue to consult with Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, about the Egyptian plan to rebuild Gaza as an alternative to the US president’s proposed takeover of the territory.
“The Arab foreign ministers discussed the Gaza reconstruction plan, which was approved during the Arab League Summit held in Cairo on March 4, 2025. They also agreed with the US envoy to continue consultations and coordination on the plan as a foundation for the reconstruction efforts,” Qatar’s foreign ministry said in a statement.
The talks will serve as a “basis for the reconstruction efforts” in Gaza, the ministers said in a joint statement following a meeting in Doha.
Source: arabnews.com
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At least 1,383 civilians killed in Syria violence: new monitor toll
March 12, 2025
BEIRUT: At least 1,383 civilians, the vast majority of them Alawites, were killed in a wave of violence that gripped the Syrian Arab Republic’s Mediterranean coast, a war monitor said Wednesday.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the civilians were killed in “executions by security forces and allied groups,” after a wave of violence broke out last week in the coastal heartland of the Alawite minority to which toppled president Bashar Assad belonged.
The Britain-based Observatory added that even as the violence subsided, the toll was still rising as bodies continued to be discovered, many on farmland or in their homes.
The latest deaths were recorded in the coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus and in the neighboring central province of Hama, it said.
It accused the security forces and allied groups of participating in “field executions, forced displacement and burning of homes, with no legal deterrent.”
The violence erupted on Thursday when clashes broke out after gunmen loyal to Assad staged attacks on the new security forces.
At least 231 security personnel were killed in the ensuing clashes, according to their official toll. The Observatory said 250 pro-Assad fighters were killed.
The UN Human Rights Office said it had documented “summary executions” that appeared “to have been carried out on a sectarian basis.”
Interim President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, who led the Sunni Islamist group Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) that toppled Assad, has vowed to prosecute those behind the “bloodshed of civilians” and set up a fact-finding committee.
The spokesman for the committee, Yasser Al-Farhan, has said Syria is determined to “prevent unlawful revenge and guarantee that there is no impunity.”
The authorities have also announced the arrest of at least seven individuals since Monday on suspicion of “violations” against civilians.
HTS, an offshoot of the former Syrian branch of Al-Qaeda, is still proscribed as a terrorist organization by several governments including the United States.
Since Assad was toppled in December, many Alawites have lived in fear of reprisals for his brutal rule.
Source: arabnews.com
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Canada eases sanctions on Syrian Arab Republic, names ambassador
March 13, 2025
OTTAWA: Canada announced plans Wednesday to ease its financial sanctions against Syria and to appoint an ambassador, as the Damascus interim government seeks international support.
Canada’s special envoy for Syria, Omar Alghabra, said: “Canada can play a meaningful role in enabling Syrians to build an inclusive country that respects all of its citizens.
“We also can help prevent Syria from falling into chaos and instability.”
A statement from Canada’s foreign ministry said sanctions would be eased “to allow funds to be sent through certain banks in the country, such as Syria’s Central Bank.”
Canada’s ambassador to Lebanon, Stefanie McCollum, will now take on a parallel role as a non-resident ambassador to neighboring Syria.
Previously, Canada — along with many other world powers — had strict sanctions in place to punish the now-ousted government of Bashar Assad.
“These sanctions had been used as a tool against the Assad regime and easing them will help to enable the stable and sustainable delivery of aid, support local redevelopment efforts, and contribute to a swift recovery for Syria,” the Canadian statement said.
Assad fled Syria late last year and opposition forces overthrew his administration in early December. An interim government under former jihadist leader President Ahmed Al-Sharaa is now in place.
Many capitals welcomed Assad’s fall, but gave only a cautious welcome to the victorious rebels.
Sharaa’s Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) Islamist group has its roots in the Syrian branch of Al-Qaeda.
The new government has vowed to protect Syria’s religious and ethnic minorities, but security forces have reportedly killed hundreds of Alawite civilians in recent days.
In the statement announcing sanctions relief, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joy and Minister of International Development Ahmed Hussen expressed concern over the killings.
“We utterly condemn these atrocities and call on the interim authorities to take all necessary measures to end the violence,” they said.
“Civilians must be protected, the dignity and human rights of all religious and ethnic groups must be upheld, and perpetrators must be held accountable.”
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Syria’s interim President Sharaa forms national security council
March 12, 2025
CAIRO: Syrian Arab Republic’s interim President Ahmed Al-Sharaa issued a decree on Wednesday to form the country’s national security council, according to a statement by the Syrian president’s office.
The council will take decisions related to the country’s national security and challenges facing the state.
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Financial reform plan can unlock foreign support for Lebanon, IMF says
NAJIA HOUSSARI
March 12, 2025
BEIRUT: A unified financial reform plan will allow Lebanon to overcome its economic issues and unlock foreign funding, the head of the IMF’s mission to the country said on Wednesday.
Ernesto Ramirez Rigo was speaking in a meeting with President Joseph Aoun, who said that Lebanon was “committed to moving forward with implementing reforms.”
Negotiations between Lebanon and the IMF aim to pave the way for essential reforms to put the country on the path to financial recovery.
It follows worsening financial and economic crises that Lebanon has been grappling with since 2019 due to economic mismanagement, rampant corruption and accumulated debt.
Presidential media adviser Najat Charafeddine told Arab News: “The IMF delegation emphasized that Lebanon’s proposed plan must be approved by all relevant parties in order to pass in parliament.
Implementing reforms will enable Lebanon to receive aid, including grants, particularly from countries with close ties, the delegation said.
“Achieving the plan will serve as an IMF seal of approval that will unlock assistance,” Lebanese officials were told.
The delegation also highlighted “the necessity of Lebanon returning to the fundamentals, particularly in restructuring banks and revisiting banking secrecy laws, which have yet to see the light of day due to disagreements.”
Over the past two days, specialized technical meetings have continued between experts from the IMF and a World Bank delegation, along with directors of departments and specialized experts at the Lebanese Ministry of Finance.
The talks aimed “to reach conclusions on proposed issues to promote transparency in public finances and more comprehensive reforms,” a Ministry of Finance statement said.
The IMF delegation met Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and Finance Minister Yassine Jaber to discuss the details of the economic plan and required reforms.
Jaber said he discussed “the priorities, namely the appointment of the governor of Banque du Liban, who will play a crucial role in working with the IMF.
“Preparations for reforms are ongoing to enable Lebanon to implement its financial plan,” he added, highlighting support for amending Lebanon’s Monetary and Credit Law.
Jaber said: “The issue of frozen deposits in banks will be addressed in stages, and as minister of finance, I have no authority over the banking sector.”
Ousmane Dione, World Bank VP for the Middle East and North Africa, who met Jaber in Beirut in late February, had previously called on the Lebanese government to implement reforms.
This would “ensure credibility and transparency, reassure investors and improve the business environment,” he said.
The IMF delegation will meet a technical committee at the Association of Banks on Thursday.
According to media reports, the meeting will focus on “the performance of the exchange market and the Banque du Liban’s interventions, the banking restrictions on transfers and the authorization of certain outgoing transfers.
“This is seen as an attempt to monitor Lebanon’s cash economy, which has flourished since the country’s financial collapse.”
Meanwhile, diplomatic pressure exerted by Lebanon on the five-member committee overseeing the implementation of the ceasefire agreement between Hezbollah and Israel led to the release of four captives held by the latter on Tuesday evening.
The development was welcomed by Hezbollah supporters.
Israel is set to release a fifth person, a Lebanese soldier, on Wednesday evening, after he underwent surgery in an Israeli hospital.
It follows the release of four Lebanese captives a day earlier.
On social media, activists supporting Hezbollah celebrated the release of prisoners held by Israel for three months as a result of “diplomatic, not military, efforts.”
One activist claimed that President Joseph Aoun “had achieved what 100,000 rockets failed to accomplish,” while another said: “Diplomacy succeeded in releasing five prisoners, and tomorrow it could resolve the issues surrounding the disputed border points.”
Axios quoted a US official on Tuesday: “The Trump administration had been mediating between Israel and Lebanon for several weeks with the aim of strengthening the ceasefire and reaching a broader agreement.
“All parties are committed to upholding the ceasefire agreement in Lebanon and fulfilling all its conditions. We look forward to convening swift meetings of the working groups regarding Lebanon to address the outstanding issues. Israel and Lebanon have agreed to initiate negotiations to resolve disputes concerning their land borders.”
Six of 13 points remain unresolved since the establishment of the Blue Line following Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanon in 2000.
Additionally, Israel has yet to withdraw from five Lebanese hills it occupies in the border area following the recent conflict.
Reporters in the south have said that the Israeli army has expanded its presence around the hills, where it has established military facilities.
A joint statement issued by the US and French embassies in Lebanon and UNIFIL on Tuesday said: “The ceasefire implementation mechanism committee will continue to hold regular meetings to ensure full implementation of the cessation of hostilities.”
Israeli Channel 12 quoted an Israeli politician as saying: “Discussions with Lebanon are part of a broader and comprehensive plan. Israel aims to achieve normalization with Lebanon.
“The prime minister’s policy has already transformed the Middle East, and we wish to maintain this momentum and reach normalization with Lebanon.
“Just as Lebanon has claims regarding the borders, we also have our own border claims ... we will address these matters.”
Source: arabnews.com
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Dissident former diplomat shot dead in southern Syria: monitor
March 12, 2025
BEIRUT: A former Syrian Arab Republic diplomat who defected from his service under the administration of toppled president Bashar Assad was shot dead alongside his brother in the country’s south, a war monitor said on Wednesday.
Armed men on Tuesday night entered the home of former diplomat, Noureddine Al-Labbad, in the town of Al-Sanamayn, some 50 kilometers (30 miles) south of Damascus, opening fire on him and his brother before fleeing, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.
The Britain-based monitor said Labbad had returned to Syria two weeks earlier from France, where he had represented the opposition’s Syrian National Coalition after having served as a diplomat under Assad.
He had defected from the foreign ministry service in 2013.
Security forces declared a curfew in the town after cars were set alight and grenades were set off following the attack, an AFP journalist said.
But by the morning it had been lifted with traffic gradually resuming.
Videos shared on Telegram by Syrian security forces show gunmen entering what was described as Labbad’s home.
No further details were available regarding the killing of the former diplomat, but there have been frequent incidents involving tribal violence or acts of revenge in the past months, particularly since Assad’s ouster in December.
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Iran says UAE’s Gargash will deliver Trump’s letter to Tehran
March 12, 2025
DUBAI: US President Donald Trump’s letter to Iran’s clerical establishment will be delivered by Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the president of the United Arab Emirates, Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday.
Trump said last week that he had sent a letter urging Iran to engage in talks on a new nuclear deal.
Gargash was due to meet Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi on Wednesday, Iranian state media said. Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei did not give details about the meeting.
Iran is expected to hold a fifth round of talks with the European powers involved in the nuclear deal — France, Britain, and Germany — and has confirmed a meeting in Beijing on Friday with the other members, Russia and China.
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Turkish party leader says his arrest is part of a crackdown on Erdogan’s political opponents
March 12, 2025
ISTANBUL: The leader of a Turkish nationalist party has said he was arrested and detained on political grounds as part of an opposition crackdown that contradicts the government’s purported effort to boost democracy while ending a Kurdish militant insurgency.
Umit Ozdag, leader of the Victory Party and known for his fierce opposition to the presence of millions of Syrian migrants in Türkiye, is currently in jail pending trial on charges of insulting President Tayyip Erdogan and inciting hatred.
“Democracy cannot be established with illegal arrests and silencing,” he said in a hand-written statement responding to Reuters’ questions from his cell in Silivri prison in northwest Türkiye.
Erdogan’s office did not immediately respond to Ozdag’s claims about his arrest.
Opposition politicians have faced a series of legal probes, detentions and arrests in what critics say is a government effort to muzzle dissent and hurt their popularity among voters.
Last month Turkish police detained nine district municipal council members from the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) on terrorism-related charges and several pro-Kurdish DEM party mayors have been removed from their posts over convictions on terrorism-related offenses.
The government has repeatedly stated that the judiciary operates independently in response to criticism that arrests are politically motivated.
Opinion polls suggest Ozdag’s nationalist rhetoric, such as calling for an end to financial support for Syrian migrants and proposing that they be sent home, resonated with some voters. A survey by research firm Konda, carried out after his January arrest, showed support for his party rose to 6 percent in February — its highest ever — up from 4.6 percent in January.
In his first response to media queries since being detained seven weeks ago, Ozdag dismissed Ankara’s current effort to end a 40-year conflict with the Kurdistan Workers Party, or PKK, as “too good to be true.”
The PKK’s jailed leader Abdullah Ocalan brought that goal one step closer last month when he called on the group’s commanders in Iraq to convene, disarm, and disband.
The PKK, designated as a terrorist organization by Turkiye and its Western allies, responded by agreeing to heed the call.
Ozdag linked his arrest to this ongoing process.
“I was arrested by the political decision of the government because I had studied terrorism issues as an academic for years before politics and was the party leader who best analyzed the politics carried out with the PKK,” he said.
Erdogan’s office did not respond to Ozdag’s claims about the PKK.
Previously, Ozdag has said in a statement on X that his party rejects the current process with the PKK, saying it had the potential to harm Türkiye’s national identity and unity.
Ending the insurgency would be a major achievement for Erdogan after past efforts failed to resolve a conflict in which more than 40,000 people have died since 1984.
Ocalan’s call may also boost Erdogan’s own political prospects. In order to extend his rule beyond 2028, when his last term as president ends, he would need the support of an opposition party, in order to amend the constitution or bring about early elections.
INTIMIDATION
Ozdag was detained in Ankara in January after he was accused of inflaming tensions during anti-refugee riots in Kayseri in the summer of 2022. The riots, which lasted a week, involved widespread vandalism.
Authorities say Ozdag’s statements on social media played a role in inciting the unrest. Ozdag denied this. The Konda Barometer’s February report found that three out of five people believe his detention is illegal.
Ozdag said the ruling alliance was using its engagement with Ocalan to burnish its democratization credentials with voters while continuing to silence political opponents and intimidate independent institutions.
It has not taken the needed steps for a lasting peace, he said.
“It is not clear what changes to the Constitution or laws will be required. Will there be an amnesty for PKK members? How will the YPG be treated?” he said, referring to the Kurdish militia in Syria that Ankara views as an extension of the PKK.
“There are too many dark points in this process,” he added.
Ozdag pointed to the investigation into leaders of TUSIAD, Türkiye’s leading business group, as further evidence of authorities’ disinterest in democratic reforms. “The entire business world has been intimidated through TUSIAD,” he said.
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Arab World
Saudi hospital performs robotic spinal, pelvic surgery
March 12, 2025
RIYADH: King Fahd University Hospital has successfully performed a complex robotic surgery to stabilize spinal and pelvic fractures in a patient injured in a motor vehicle accident.
The hospital is part of Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University’s Academic Medical City in Alkhobar.
The hospital highlighted that the Saudi medical team used robotic surgery to reduce complications and speed up recovery, thereby improving healthcare quality, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.
The achievement underscores the hospital’s commitment to advanced medical technologies and AI integration, enhancing safety, accuracy and innovation, the SPA added.
In January, King Fahd University Hospital’s Heart Center achieved significant breakthroughs in treating heart and lung conditions.
The center pioneered balloon pulmonary angioplasty, a groundbreaking treatment for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, marking a first for the Eastern Province.
During the procedure, a catheter is inserted through a vein to reach narrowed or blocked pulmonary arteries. A small balloon is then inflated to widen the vessels and restore normal blood flow.
This technique improves blood oxygen levels, reduces pulmonary artery pressure, enhances heart function and significantly elevates quality of life, according to the SPA.
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Authorities bust drug smugglers across Saudi Arabia
March 12, 2025
RIYADH: Saudi authorities carried out multiple drug-related arrests and seizures across the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.
Border Guard land patrols in the Al-Raboah sector of the Asir region arrested five Ethiopians for smuggling 100 kg of qat.
In the Al-Dayer governorate of the Jazan region, authorities arrested three Yemenis and Ethiopians for smuggling 90 kg of qat.
In another seizure, land patrols thwarted the smuggling of 59,210 tablets subject to medical circulation regulations in the same governorate.
Authorities in Jazan also arrested a citizen for selling methamphetamine, also known as shabu.
Preliminary legal procedures were completed and all seized items were transferred to the relevant authorities.
Authorities have urged the public to report drug smuggling or selling by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, or 999 in other regions.
Reports can also be submitted, in strict confidence, to the General Directorate of Narcotics Control at 995 or via email at 995@gdnc.gov.sa.
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Saudi project restores authenticity to Najran’s historical mosque
March 12, 2025
RIYADH: Al-Zubair bin Al-Awwam Mosque, located near the historic Emirate Palace in Najran, is undergoing restoration as part of the second phase of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historic Mosques.
The project aims to correct previous renovations that introduced non-authentic materials, restoring the mosque to its original heritage style, reflective of the Najran region, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Built in 1966, the mosque spans 1,436 sq. meters and accommodates 1,000 worshippers, the SPA added.
Its construction follows traditional methods, featuring horizontal courses and roofing made from wood extracted from palm trunks, fronds, and tamarisk trees.
The restoration will use the same natural materials as the original construction, preserving the distinctive architectural character of Al-Zubair bin Al-Awwam Mosque — the first mosque in Najran’s old popular market area.
It is one of 30 mosques across 13 regions included in the project’s second phase, which covers six mosques in Riyadh, five in Makkah, four in Madinah, three in Asir, two each in the Eastern Province, Jouf, and Jazan, and one each in the Northern Borders, Tabuk, Baha, Najran, Hail, and Qassim.
Phase two follows the successful completion of phase one in 2018, which restored 30 mosques in 10 regions, the SPA reported.
The project balances traditional and modern construction standards, ensuring the sustainability of mosque components while preserving their heritage and historical features.
Saudi companies and engineers specializing in heritage restoration are leading the development efforts, according to the report.
The project’s four strategic objectives include restoring historic mosques for worship, preserving their architectural authenticity, highlighting the Kingdom’s cultural heritage, and enhancing their religious and cultural significance.
It also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by preserving architectural heritage and integrating it into modern mosque designs.
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Saudi king, crown prince congratulate Mauritius on its independence day
March 13, 2025
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's King Salman on Wednesday congratulated President Dharambeer Gokhool of Mauritius on his country's Independence Day, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
In a cable, King Salman wished Gokhool continued good health and happiness, and the government and people of Mauritius steady progress and prosperity.
Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman sent a similar cable to the Indian Ocean republic's leader, wishing him and his people all the best.
Mauritius, a nation of 1.27 million people and located east of Madagascar off the African continent, was a colony of Great Britain until it won independence March 12, 1968.
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Saudi joint forces chief receives UAE counterpart and delegation
March 13, 2025
Saudi Arabia’s Commander of the Joint Forces Lt. Gen. Fahd bin Hamad Al-Salman received Deputy Commander of the UAE Joint Operations Maj. Gen. Awad Saeed Al-Ahbabi and his accompanying delegation at the Armed Forces Officers Club in Riyadh on Wednesday.
During the meeting, they discussed various aspects of cooperation between the two sides, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Al-Ahbabi expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality and stressed the importance of joint coordination between the Saudi and Emirati sides for the benefit of the two countries.
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Saudi scouts volunteer 11,800 hours in first 10 days of Ramadan
March 12, 2025
MAKKAH: Makkah’s young scouts at the Saudi Arabian Scouts Association volunteered 11,800 hours during the first 10 days of Ramadan.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Education’s Makkah Department, the association’s pilgrim service camp deployed 295 scouts to assist Umrah performers in Makkah during Ramadan.
Ziyad Qadeer, the camp leader, said the camp plays a vital role in promoting volunteerism, patriotism, and a positive image of the Saudi youth, confirming that their services will continue throughout Ramadan.
The camp also collaborated with the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, the Makkah Health Cluster, and the General Directorate of Public Security.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2593387/saudi-arabia
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Facilities Security Forces chief inspects Haramain train stations to ensure Umrah pilgrims' safety
March 12, 2025
MAKKAH: The commander of Saudi Arabia’s Facilities Security Forces, Maj. Gen. Saad bin Abdulaziz Al-Moghaisseb, inspected transportation sites in Makkah as part of efforts to ensure the safety and security of visitors and Umrah pilgrims during Ramadan.
Al-Moghaisseb visited the command and control centers, halls, and yards of the Haramain High Speed Railway, which connects the holy city of Makkah to Madinah.
Staff briefed the FSF commander on security measures implemented at the Haramain train stations to create a safe environment for visitors and Umrah pilgrims.
The commander conveyed the greetings of Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif to FSF staff for the month of Ramadan, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2593386/saudi-arabia
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Saudi, Japan food and drug authorities to strengthen ties
March 12, 2025
TOKYO: The Saudi Food and Drug Authority and the Food Safety Commission of Japan have agreed to collaborate on improving regulatory systems and safety mechanisms.
This was a major outcome of talks held on March 10 between the SFDA’s CEO Hisham S. Aljadhey and the FSCJ’s Chairperson Shigeki Yamamoto.
The meeting was attended by Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Japan Ghazi bin Faisal bin Zaqr and officials from both sides.
The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation mechanisms, the FSCJ’s operational model, global challenges facing the food sector, and best regulatory practices for risk assessment, the SFDA stated in a press release.
The participants also explored avenues for increased research and scientific collaboration between the two sides to improve regulatory systems and enhance food safety.
The SFDA officials are visiting Japan and are participating in the annual meeting of the International Medical Device Regulators Forum which began on Sunday and ends on March 14.
At the IMDRF meeting, the SFDA aims to strengthen international cooperation and exchange expertise with leading global regulatory bodies to ensure the safety of food, medicine, and medical devices in the Kingdom.
This aligns with the goals of the Health Sector Transformation Program, a key initiative of Saudi Vision 2030. This alignment is a promising sign for the future of the health and medical technology sectors in the Kingdom, the SFDA stated.
The SFDA delegation is also participating in the 27th Management Committee Meeting of the IMDRF in Tokyo which began on Monday and ends March 14.
The meeting was also attended by regulatory bodies from member states to discuss the latest advancements in medical device monitoring and regulation.
The SFDA underscored Saudi Arabia’s advanced regulatory capabilities and commitment to international best practices and emphasized the need to develop local industry and innovation in this sector.
The forum’s participants also discussed the IMDRF’s 2026-2030 strategy, capacity development programs for member states, and related challenges and solutions.
The SFDA became a member of the IMDRF in September 2023.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2593319/saudi-arabia
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Europe
UK Muslim Community Is Sick Of Being Ignored. Here’s Why Some Want A Hung Parliament
MAR 13, 2025
RACHEL WITHERS
Muslim Votes Matter (MVM) is quite clear about its objective: it wants a hung parliament, with Muslim-backed MPs holding the balance of power.
The advocacy body, one of two Muslim groups endorsing candidates at the election, launched in September, spurred on by Labor’s failure to stand with Palestine. Its first endorsement, announced on Sunday, was for Greens hopeful Samantha Ratnam, who is looking to win the prestigious Victorian seat of Wills off Peter Khalil.
MVM will be endorsing independents and minor parties in eight other seats where the Muslim community could have a deciding vote: Bruce and Calwell in Victoria; Watson, Blaxland and Werriwa in NSW; Moreton in Queensland; Sturt in SA; and Cowan in WA. All except one of those seats is Labor-held, and have relatively large Muslim constituencies who traditionally vote Labor. Liberal-held Sturt is something of an outlier, with only a 2% Muslim population.
Ghaith Krayem, MVM spokesperson, says this is about more than just the war on Gaza. The former Islamic Council of Victoria president is one of seven co-founders, only two of whom are publicly identified, due to the threat of campaigns being run against them.
“In terms of the election itself, our goal would be a Labor minority government,” Krayem tells me. “At a more strategic level, what we are aiming at is to demonstrate the political value of the Muslim community’s vote, and that when that vote is exercised strategically, it can and will have a significant impact on the political landscape.”
The registered third party is not funding candidates, with its volunteers instead manning booths as Muslim Votes Matter. It will release how-to-vote cards for all 150 seats, even where it isn’t endorsing a candidate. As for the endorsees, MVM has a clear set of priorities, and will be seeking and publishing commitments — as it has done for Greens candidate Ratnam. Candidates are asked about 15 categories, ranging from health to housing, but five priorities top the list: Palestine and international law; Islamophobia and anti-discrimination; religious freedom; reviewing national security; and refugees and asylum seekers. Palestine is easily the number one priority.
“I don’t think the major parties are appreciating just how significant this issue is within our community,” Krayem says. “In all of our community surveys, this is ranked probably five times higher than the second item on the list.”
Krayem is not concerned by claims unseating Labor MPs may lead to a hung parliament with Peter Dutton in the box seat, declaring it a scare campaign.
“It’s obviously something we’re mindful of, but the pathway for a Liberal minority government is really narrow,” he says. “That is currently being used to scare the community, not just our community but the community generally, into falling back into this pattern where you think you only have two options around voting, and that’s either the Labor Party or the Coalition… The current duopoly is not working.”
It’s worth noting MVM plans to endorse in Liberal-held Sturt, a marginal seat that’s grown increasingly progressive. Krayem can’t yet say who the group is endorsing, as it are still locking in commitments. But even a 2% Muslim vote could be enough to sway a seat held by 950 votes.
“Whether the Greens win it or Labor gets the seat, they’re going to need our 2%,” he says. “We’re more than happy to take a seat off the Coalition to demonstrate that it’s not just about numbers, that we know the political landscape and we can pick where our strategic impact will have an effect.”
The other key group to know about this election is The Muslim Vote (TMV), a collective led by Sheikh Wesam Charkawi. TMV shares its name and colours with a UK movement that last year flipped four Muslim-heavy Labour seats to pro-Palestine independents — five if you include helping now-independent Jeremy Corybn hold his — while creating big swings in many others.
Charkawi makes similar arguments to Krayem about strategy, dismissing concerns about ending up with Dutton, a la Donald Trump in the US. TMV has so far endorsed independents in the three seats with the largest Muslim populations: Ziad Basyouny in Watson (25% Muslim), Ahmed Ouf in Blaxland (32%), and Samim Moslih in Calwell (24%), who I recently profiled for Forget the Frontbench.
All three candidates are independent of MVM and TMV, and the groups may end up endorsing different figures — something Krayem says would only show how diverse the community is.
Basyouny, an Egyptian-born GP based in Sydney’s southwest, is attempting to unseat Immigration Minister Tony Burke in what has always been a safe Labor seat. Speaking to me via Zoom from his clinic, Basyouny says Watson is tired of being neglected, always getting the short end of the stick when it comes to infrastructure — hospital spending in particular.
“The idea that we’ve been unheard, or the idea that we’ve been taken for granted, was exacerbated by the fact that the Labor Party did not represent our views when it came to the Palestinian issue,” he says. “That was the straw that broke the camel’s back.”
Basyouny is highly critical of Burke, reeling off a range of issues that highlight his “incompetence”, including the fact refugees are still living in limbo on Temporary Protection Visas.
“He’s not representing us, he’s representing the Labor Party to us,” Basyouny says. “He comes around, appears in celebrations, and walks the street maybe once every three years, and gets to walk in every election with a sizeable majority. So the right thing to do is to change that from a sizeable majority to no majority, and I think we’ve achieved that.”
Labor is “heavily concerned” about the seat according to Basyouny, who says Burke held a campaign launch, has corflutes, and is doorknocking for the first time in years.
“People are not believing the idea that Tony Burke is doorknocking. ‘Is he doorknocking? No way, Tony Burke is doorknocking??’ That’s a big thing.”
Basyouny, meanwhile, has faced regular attacks in the media, mostly due to sharing an October 7 post, which he has defended as recognising Palestinians’ right to “resist oppression”. The Herald Sun this week reports he is planning to swap preferences with the Liberals — a claim Basyouny says is “ridiculous and wrong”, given that the Libs haven’t even decided if they are running in Watson. For his part, Basyouny says he has had conversations with all parties, and will be setting preferences based on conversations with the community.
Like MVM and TMV, Basyouny isn’t concerned that efforts to win seats off Labor could leave us with a hung parliament in which the Coalition holds more seats. If he wins, there will likely be multiple new independents who likewise claim victory — independents who will be opposed to Dutton’s policies.
“When there is a hung parliament, there’s a true representation of our democracy,” he says. “I actually seek a hung parliament, and I seek a representation to make sure I can affect the hung parliament. It augments the people’s voice.”
Attacks on the Muslim independents will no doubt continue all the way up to election day — Muslim community leader and “Friend of Tony Burke” Jamal Rifi has repeatedly argued the movement is opportunistic, conflating issues and “militarising” Gaza pain for political gain.
As Ghaith Krayem says, the frustration with Labor did not need people like him to stoke it.
“The reality is, movements like ours would not have come into existence if the community felt its voice was being heard,” he says. “The community has felt for a long time that it’s been marginalised and silenced, and it’s incorrect to suggest that any individuals are taking advantage of anger within the community. That anger is there and it is real and it is very widespread. And what movements like ours and The Muslim Vote are doing is giving voice to the community.”
Source: crikey.com.au
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https://www.crikey.com.au/2025/03/13/2025-election-australia-muslim-community-hung-parliament/
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Uber Eats offers free Ramadan meals to Muslim delivery drivers in London
MAR 13, 2025
Uber Eats has partnered with several UK restaurants to provide free iftar meals for couriers during Ramadan.
The Sundown Spots initiative takes place in towns and cities with the largest Muslim populations, offering food at night and early morning to support those fasting. During Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset.
Iftar is the meal Muslims eat to break their fast at sunset during Ramadan.
Sundown Spots was launched in 2023 by Bafta-winning grime artist and chef Big Zuu.
Which restaurants are included?
Several London restaurants will provide free takeaways, including Lahore Karahi in Tooting, Smacks in Thornton Heath, Turkuoise in Bethnal Green and Chicago Grill.
"It’s so important for Muslims to feel seen and represented in modern Britain, especially during Ramadan,” said Numan Iqbal, owner of the family-run restaurant Lahore Karahi.
“We’re excited to work with Uber Eats to showcase the incredible food our culture has to offer.”
The first Sundown Spot will launch in London on Thursday March 20, followed by events in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leicester, Nottingham, Manchester, Birmingham and Bradford.
What else is Uber Eats doing for people fasting during Ramadan?
Uber Eats is helping Muslim customers discover late-night and early-morning meals by highlighting independent restaurants that stay open for suhoor. Also spelled suhir, suhoor refers to the pre-dawn meal consumed by Muslims before they begin their daily fast during Ramadan.
As part of the Open for Suhoor initiative, the campaign aims to support small eateries while making it easier for Muslim communities across the UK to access food during Ramadan.
Thousands of Uber Eats restaurant partners extend their hours annually to serve customers fasting during Ramadan. However, many users may not realise they can order from these restaurants during these times.
This campaign highlights these independent venues, underscoring their commitment to supporting Muslim communities.
To help customers find Suhoor options, Uber Eats is adding Suhoor badges to the app for participating restaurants. Selected partners will also display special signage at their storefronts. Customers can benefit from exclusive deals and promotions throughout Ramadan.
Source: standard.co.uk
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https://www.standard.co.uk/going-out/foodanddrink/uber-eats-ramadan-muslim-free-meals-london-b1216266.html
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Debunked: No, RTÉ is not replacing the Angelus with a Muslim call to prayer
12 Mar 2025
CLAIMS CIRCULATING ON social media have incorrectly suggested that RTÉ is set to replace the Angelus with a Muslim call to prayer.
The claim has been shared hundreds of times on Facebook and X, and originated from a screenshot of a satirical article that was posted online on 10 March.
The screenshot features a headline that says “Muslim call to prayer set to replace Angelus on RTÉ” beneath a tag that says “breaking”, though it does not indicate what outlet first reported the supposed news.
The Angelus is a Catholic devotion commemorating Jesus, and is broadcast on RTÉ radio twice a day (at 12pm and 6pm) and on RTÉ television at 6pm every day.
The claim suggesting that RTÉ was replacing the Angelus attracted particular ire among anti-immigrant social media users and groups, who leaned into the Great Replacement conspiracy theory by suggesting it was further evidence of Islamic culture replacing Western traditions.
The Journal searched for the image using Meta’s content library and discovered that it originated on a page called Ireland on Craic on 10 March.
The page is run by two Irish admins for a satirical news website of the same name, where the article can be found.
It describes itself on Facebook as publishing “satire from the entertainment capital of the world. Yes, Tullamore in Co. Offaly”.
The website’s ‘about’ section also contains the same description, alongside a disclaimer that says “All our stories are made up and complete fiction, just like in other forms of comedy”.
Despite this, the screenshot that was originally posted to the Ireland on Craic Facebook page was subsequently re-shared by at least four other pages or profiles with significant followings.
They include pages run by a group called the Yellow Vests, an Irish group that has adopted the name of the grassroots populist protest group that originated in France in 2018.
The Irish group’s activities are now largely limited to posting on Facebook, where it shares anti-vaccine and anti-immigration content across various pages.
A post on the Yellow Vest Ireland – Dublin page about the Angelus on 10 March was re-shared 100 times; the false claim was also shared by other pages around 100 times.
The claim also migrated to X, where one account posted a video on 11 March purporting to show the “new Angelus”.
The video, which has been viewed over 50,000 times, showed a broadcast of the Angelus on the RTÉ Player overlaid with audio from an Islamic call to prayer taken from YouTube.
An RTÉ spokesperson declined to comment, but pointed to the satirical nature of the website where the claim originated.
Source: thejournal.ie
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https://www.thejournal.ie/angelus-replaced-call-to-prayer-rte-factcheck-6646724-Mar2025/
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Non-Muslim council staff fast for a day
12/03/2025
A group of 19 non-Muslim Luton Council staff abstained from food, drink and water between 4.52am-6.01pm on Tuesday 11 March in support, solidarity and friendship with their Muslim colleagues and councillors who are observing Ramadan.
In what was a lovely return gesture, a number of Muslim councillors and staff prepared and brought food so they could all break the fast together at an evening Iftar inside the Town Hall.
The day was a great example of people of different faiths, and none, coming together to enjoy each other’s company, learn from one another and showcase Luton’s incredible community spirit.
The initiative was also an opportunity to raise money for the CAP (Community Against Poverty) Foundation's Orphan Village in Bangladesh, an inspiring project which will save the lives of very young vulnerable children who are facing exploitation and dangers on the streets.
The village will transform the lives of vulnerable young people and shape future generations through quality education and innovative solutions that foster self-sufficiency.
The Mayor of Luton, Councillor Tahmina Saleem, who prepared and brought food for the evening Iftar, said: “My huge thanks and congratulations to our officers and my fellow councillors for organising and taking part in this wonderful initiative.
“Luton is a very special place and yesterday’s fast and iftar epitomises so many wonderful things about our town – unity, respect, generosity and friendship – the list goes on.
“Fasting brought us together in the shared experience of hunger and thirst which is not easy to do, much respect and gratitude for the officers that came up with and participated in this wonderful initiative to raise money for the less fortunate which is the spirit of Ramadan. I encourage anyone who can, to donate to the Orphan Village.”
Adam Kearney, Head of Communications at Luton Council, who organised the initiative, said: “This was a really special day for us all. More than just showing support and respect for our Muslim colleagues, it was also a chance to increase our understanding of the faith that is so important to many of our friends, councillors and co-workers.
“Abstaining from food and drink for a day was tough and really makes you appreciate how hard it is for so many people around the world who live in destitution and can’t afford the daily meals we take for granted. It was very humbling.
“We were overwhelmed with offers for food for our evening Iftar which absolutely sums up Luton’s community spirt and generosity.”
Source: m.luton.gov.uk/
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https://m.luton.gov.uk/Page/Show/news/Pages/Non-Muslim-council-staff-fast-for-a-day.aspx
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Finns Party minister survives confidence vote over alleged anti-Muslim discrimination
12 Mar 2025
Finns Party Minister Mari Rantanen survived a confidence vote in Parliament on Wednesday by a margin of 94–53, with 15 abstentions and 37 MPs absent.
The vote was called by the opposition Greens and supported by the Left Alliance.
The parties said their motion was prompted by a statement from the Non-Discrimination Ombudsman, who alleged that the Ministry of the Interior's political leadership had prioritised Christian refugees over those from Muslim-majority countries when preparing the refugee quota.
The Ombudsman has suggested that the Chancellor of Justice investigate the matter. According to the Non-Discrimination Ombudsman, the Ministry of the Interior sought to block Muslim refugees from Afghanistan and Syria.
Rantanen has denied that refugee quota selections were based on religious affiliation and has expressed support for an investigation by the Chancellor of Justice.
Source: yle.fi
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Prime Minister Petteri Orpo (NCP) last week said that Rantanen had his full support.
https://yle.fi/a/74-20149151
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Blackburn mosques pledge to tackle growing health challenges
12TH MARCH
Mosques pledged to do more to tackle issues relating gambling and substance misuse at a health and well-being conference in Blackburn.
The Al Sihatu Wal Aafiyah - 'Our Community, Our Responsibility' conference aimed to address ‘critical health challenges’ within the borough.
Mosque committee members and imams joined councillors and health professionals at the gathering which was organised by the IMO charity.
Speakers included IMO trustee Canon Michael Wedgeworth, director of public health at Blackburn and Darwen Council Abdur Razaq, Hanif Ali of SPARK, Suhail Patel from Gamble Aware, and Umar Malik from NHS blood and transplant.
Kidney donor recipients and advocates Fez Awan and Mufti Helal Mehmood also spoke about their experiences.
Mosques formally pledged to partner with IMO Charity to raise awareness about vital health issues and ‘implement early intervention initiatives’ to improve community health outcomes.
Each mosque committed to supporting priority areas, with most focusing on addictions, diabetes, cancer, and many also supporting living kidney donation awareness, the charity said.
The aim was to establish mosque based drop-in support and counselling services and appoint dedicated mosque staff members as health resource points of contact.
There were also plans to host monthly information sessions on screening, prevention, and related topics and providing specialised education and training for mosque staff, scholars, and members.
Chief executive of IMO, Mohammed Sidat, said: “This landmark conference represents a turning point in how we approach health challenges in our community.
“By bringing together faith leaders and health professionals, we have created a powerful foundation for change.
“The enthusiastic response from our mosque partners shows there’s both urgent need and genuine willingness to address these sensitive health issues.
"Together, we are building a healthier future where prevention, education, and support are accessible within the trusted spaces of our mosques.
“This is just the beginning of a transformative journey that will touch countless lives in our community."
Source: lancashiretelegraph.co.uk
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https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/24995289.blackburn-mosques-pledge-tackle-growing-health-challenges/
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Greenland's opposition wins election dominated by independence and Trump
12 Mar 2025
Greenland's centre-right opposition has won a surprise general election victory - in a vote dominated by independence and US President Donald Trump's pledge to take over the semi-autonomous territory.
The Democratic party, which favours a gradual approach to independence from Denmark - achieved around 30% of the vote, near-complete results show.
"Greenland needs us to stand together in a time of great interest from outside," party leader Jens-Frederik Nielsen told local media. "There is a need for unity, so we will enter into negotiations with everyone."
His party will now have to negotiate with other parties in order to form a coalition.
Greenland - the world's biggest island, between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans - has been controlled by Denmark, nearly 3,000km (1,860 miles) away, for about 300 years.
Greenland governs its own domestic affairs, but decisions on foreign and defence policy are made in Copenhagen.
Five of the six main parties in the election favour independence from Copenhagen, but disagree over the pace with which to reach it.
The Democratic party, whose vote was up by more than 20% on 2021, is considered a moderate party on independence.
Another opposition party, Naleraq, which is looking to immediately kick off the independence process and forge closer ties with the US, is on course for second place with almost a quarter of the vote.
Support for Naleraq was boosted ahead of the vote by the decision of one of Greenland's most popular young politicians, Aki-Matilda Hoegh-Dam, to switch from one of the ruling parties. She came second only to Democrats leader Jens Frederik Nielsen in the popular vote.
"It's the second biggest party, so you can't avoid them," Nielsen told local reporters. "But we don't want to rule out the other parties beforehand."
The two current governing parties, Inuit Ataqatigiit (IA) and Siumut, are heading for third and fourth place - marking an upset for Prime Minister Mute B Egede.
More than 40,000 Greenlanders out of a population of 57,000 were eligible to cast their votes to elect 31 MPs, as well as the local government. Six parties were on the ballot.
The voting took place at 72 polling stations scattered across the vast island.
"The Democrats need a supporting partner to be able to have a majority," says Maria Ackren from the University of Greenland. "It would say it can be either Naleraq or Inuit Ataqatigiit. It's up to the Democrats to try to figure out what they want."
Since 2009 Greenland has had the right to call an independence referendum.
Although Naleraq is pushing for a vote within a few years, Jens-Frederik Nielsen's party favours a gradual approach towards independence, focusing first on making self-government a success.
Prof Ackren believes the Democrats won, partly because Greenlanders wanted a change of government, but also because they were unhappy with new fisheries laws and other domestic issues.
Independence is seen as the end goal for most Greenlanders, but not before reforms have been made to the economy, health and other sectors, she says.
Greenland's strategic location and untapped mineral resources have caught President Trump's eye in particular. He first floated the idea of buying the island during his first term in 2019.
Since taking office again in January, Trump has reiterated his intention to acquire the territory.
"We need Greenland for national security. One way or the other we're gonna get it," he said during his address to the US Congress last week.
Greenland and Denmark's leaders have repeatedly rebuffed his demands.
The leader of the Democrats said Greenland needed to adopt a calm course with the US. He told public broadcaster KNR that while big developments were happening globally, they should stand together and speak with one voice.
Source: bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2r3d0r8z0o
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EU braces for higher prices as US trade war ramps up
13 Mar 2025
In Brussels, it was just after 06:00 on Wednesday. But it was midnight in Washington DC when President Donald Trump's 25% tariffs on steel and aluminium took effect on major US trading partners.
It took less than 10 minutes for the European Union to respond.
"Tariffs are taxes. They are bad for business, and worse for consumers," said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
The EU's initial countermeasures will take effect on US products on 1 April, ranging from jeans and motorbikes to peanut butter and bourbon, just as they were with the Trump administration's first tariffs in 2018 and 2020.
But there will be more to come in mid-April. A whole swathe of textiles, home appliances, food and agricultural products could be included, depending on a two-week consultation with stakeholders.
A list of items almost 100 pages long is being circulated that features meat, dairy, fruit, wine and spirits, toilet seats, wood, coats, swimwear, nightdresses, shoes, chandeliers and lawnmowers.
For consumers, higher prices loom on Europe's supermarket shelves, especially for American products. But for businesses and some industries, especially steel, there is real danger.
The head of Germany's BGA federation of wholesale, foreign trade and service, Dirk Jandura, warned that Germans might have to dig deeper into their pockets to pay for American products in the supermarkets.
Orange juice, bourbon and peanut butter were the most likely products to be hit. "Margins in trade are so low that this cannot be absorbed by the companies," he said.
In total, the EU will target €26bn (£22bn) of US exports.
"We're not going to go into hypotheticals other than to say we've been preparing assiduously for all these outcomes," said EU spokesman Olof Gill.
António Costa, the EU's Council President, called on the US to de-escalate, although there was little sign of that on Wednesday, as Trump vowed to hit back at the EU's countermeasures.
"We've been abused for a long time and we will be abused no longer," he said.
In Austria too, there was concern about the escalation.
"The US is the second most important export market for Austrian products after Germany - and the most important for Germany," said Christoph Neumayer, who is head of the Federation of Austrian Industries. It was "essential that Europe acts together and decisively", he added.
One EU official pointed out that products such as soybeans and orange juice could easily be sourced from Brazil or Argentina, so consumers would not be hit too hard.
And there was a suggestion that some of the US exports targeted were also from US states under Republican control: soybeans from Louisiana or meat from Nebraska and Kansas.
A relatively large number of US exports enter the EU via the Dutch port of Rotterdam or Antwerp in Belgium.
Dutch Economic Affairs Minister Dirk Beljaarts said nobody stood to benefit from a "tariffs war", but he was hopeful it would not hit his own country's economy too hard: "It has an impact on companies and consumers - particularly consumers in the US."
One area that will be hit especially hard on both sides of the Atlantic is in the drinks sector.
Pauline Bastidon of Spirits Europe said producers in the EU and US stood united, with risks facing European companies that produced US spirits and US companies that were heavily invested in Europe.
Chris Swonger, of the US Distilled Spirits Council, said that in the three years since the suspension of the EU's earlier 25% tariff on American whiskey, US distillers had "worked hard to regain solid footing in our largest export market".
Reimposing tariffs from 1 April was "deeply disappointing" and he called for a return to "zero-for-zero" tariffs.
For cognac producers in France, the prospect of a 25% US import tax is also a major problem as most of their produce is for export, either to the US or China.
French producers have already been hit by Chinese measures that have slapped heavy taxes on cognac.
"Morale is down in the dumps," Bastien Brusaferro of the general winegrowers' union told France Info.
Thousands of jobs are at stake in the Charente region alone, he says: "Cognac is a product that's made for export."
There was a dire warning too from the head of the European Steel Association, Henrik Adam.
"President Trump's 'America First' policy threatens to be a final nail in the coffin of the European steel industry," he warned.
Trump's initial tariffs on European steel in 2018 saw EU steel exports to the US fall by more than a million tonnes, and for every three tonnes of steel that did not enter the US, two-thirds of it entered the EU instead.
"These new measures imposed by Trump are more extensive, therefore the impact of the US tariffs is likely to be far greater."
Source: bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cm2y8222ye4o
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North America
Who is Mahmoud Khalil, Palestinian student activist facing US deportation?
13 Mar 2025
Mahmoud Khalil, a prominent figure during the Gaza war protests at Columbia University in the spring of 2024, has drawn global attention after the Trump administration arrested and moved to deport him.
The case has raised questions about free speech on college campuses and the legal process that would allow for the deportation of a US permanent resident.
Mr Khalil will remain in detention in Louisiana following a court hearing on Wednesday, where lawyers argued over whether he should be moved back to New York.
Born in Syria, the Columbia graduate's arrest by immigration agents was linked to President Donald Trump's promise to crack down on student demonstrators he accuses of "un-American activity".
Trump has repeatedly alleged that pro-Palestinian activists, including Mr Khalil, support Hamas, a group designated a terrorist organisation by the US. The president argues these protesters should be deported and called Mr Khalil's arrest "the first of many to come".
The 30-year-old's lawyers say he was exercising free speech rights to demonstrate in support of Palestinians in Gaza and against US support for Israel. They accused the government of "open repression of student activism and political speech".
Khalil's work for UK in Middle East
Born in Syria to Palestinian refugees, Mr Khalil earned a degree in computer science from the Lebanese American University before working with the Syrian-American non-profit Jusoor.
More recently, he managed the Syria Chevening Programme for the British Embassy in Beirut, offering scholarships for study in the UK, according to his biography on the Society for International Development website.
The UK Foreign Office said Mr Khalil stopped work there more than two years ago.
Mr Khalil moved to the US in 2022, where he earned a master's degree at Columbia University's School of International and Public Affairs. He has since married an American woman, who is eight months pregnant, and initially faced arrest threats herself, according to his lawyer.
His role in the student protests
Mr Khalil's role in Columbia's 2024 protests placed him in the public eye. On the front lines of negotiations, he played a role in mediating between university officials and the activists and students who attended the protests.
Activists supporting Israel have accused Mr Khalil of being a leader of Columbia University Apartheid Divest (Cuad), a student group that demanded, among other things, the university to divest from its financial ties to Israel and a ceasefire in Gaza.
Mr Khalil has denied that he led the group, telling the Associated Press (AP) that he only served as a spokesperson for protesters and as a mediator with the university.
After Mr Khalil's arrest the Department of Homeland Security accused him of "leading activities aligned to Hamas" but did not provide further details.
On Tuesday, the White House alleged that he had organised protests where pro-Hamas propaganda was distributed. His lawyers responded that there was no evidence that he had provided support of any kind to US-designated terror groups.
"They're trying to make an example of him to chill others from making similar speech," Samah Sisay told the AP.
Some Jewish students at Columbia have said the protests veered into antisemitism and made them feel unsafe on campus.
The Columbia Jewish Alumni Association said Mr Khalil had "spent over a year abusing the privileges this country and Columbia gave him".
The Trump administration recently cut $400m in funding to the university over what it said was "continued inaction in the face of persistent harassment of Jewish students".
Students affiliated with Cuad and the protests have rejected these characterisations, and many Jewish students and groups participated in the campus rallies.
Columbia was just one college campus that played host to mass student protests over the war in Gaza. And activists say they fear the Trump administration will continue to target protesters who are not US citizens.
Legal experts say green card holders can be deported on national security grounds, but add that the case against Mr Khalil is unprecedented.
"Targeting individual protesters just for protesting... is highly unusual and something that we haven't seen before, even under the first Trump administration," said Jacob Hamburger, a visiting assistant professor at Cornell Law School.
Khalil had been briefly suspended from Columbia
Amid the protests early last year, Mr Khalil was briefly suspended from the university, after police swarmed the campus following the occupation of a building.
At the time, he told the BBC that while he was acting as a key protest negotiator with Columbia officials, he had not participated directly in the student encampment because he was worried it could affect his student visa.
It is unclear when he obtained his green card, which provides permanent residency.
"[They said] that after reviewing the evidence, they don't have any evidence to suspend (me)," he said in an interview in early May. "It shows how random the suspension was … they did that randomly, and without due process."
At the time he said he would continue protesting, but more recently, Mr Khalil's wife said her husband had grown worried about deportation, after facing online attacks that "were simply not based in reality". She said he sent Columbia University an email asking for urgent legal help on 7 March, the day before immigration agents arrested him.
Protests surge in wake of arrest
Mr Khalil's arrest has sparked demonstrations in New York City, where Columbia is located. On Monday, hundreds of people gathered at a Manhattan protest, including students and professors from Columbia University.
Donna Lieberman, president of New York Civil Liberties Union, called the attempted deportation of Mr Khalil "targeted retaliation and an extreme attack on the First Amendment". New York Attorney General Letitia James said she was "extremely concerned".
The American Civil Liberties Union called the arrest "unprecedented" and "obviously intended to intimidate and chill speech on one side of a public debate"
"The federal government is claiming the authority to deport people with deep ties to the US and revoke their green cards for advocating positions that the government opposes," it said.
The White House has continued to defend its move.
"This administration is not going to tolerate individuals having the privilege of studying in our country and then siding with pro-terrorist organisations that have killed Americans," said Karoline Leavitt, Trump's press secretary.
Source: bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgj5nlxz44yo
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Carney ready to talk trade with Trump if 'there's respect for sovereignty'
13 Mar 2025
Canada's Prime Minister-designate Mark Carney has said he is ready to negotiate a renewed trade deal with President Donald Trump, as long as there is "respect for Canadian sovereignty".
Carney made these comments during a visit to a steel plant in Hamilton, Ontario, as Canada unveiled C$29.8 billion ($20.7 billion) in reciprocal tariffs on US imports.
It comes after Trump slapped 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminium coming into the country.
Since President Trump took office in January, the two countries have been involved in an escalating trade war, with the US president repeatedly threatening to annex its neighbour.
Carney on Wednesday condemned the latest round of US tariffs as "unjustified".
"We're all going to be better off when the greatest economic and security partnership in the world is renewed, relaunched," he said.
Canada, which is the biggest foreign supplier of steel and aluminium to the US, is heavily exposed to the tariffs.
Trump has justified the tariffs, claiming they are necessary for US national security and to boost demand for domestic producers, which he argues has been "depressed" by foreign competition.
The US president implemented a blanket 25% tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico, citing concerns over drugs and migrants crossing the US border.
The tariffs on steel and aluminium, effective Wednesday, mark the end of exemptions previously granted to several countries, including Canada.
In retaliation, Canada announced tariffs on US goods, including steel and aluminium, with additional measures set to take effect at 00:01 EST (04:01 GMT) on Thursday.
The new tariffs cover a range of products, including C$12.6 billion on steel, $3 billion on aluminium, as well as tools, computer equipment, water heaters, sports equipment, and cast-iron products.
Experts say the growing trade dispute threatens economic stability for both countries.
On Wednesday, Canada's central bank cut interest rates to 2.75% from 3% to prepare the country's economy for disruption.
Canadian Finance Minister Dominic Leblanc told a news conference that the country was still seeking to de-escalate.
"If you're racing to the basement, there's no real prize for the first person to get to the basement," Leblanc said.
On Thursday, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, along with federal representatives, will meet US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.
Lutnick told Fox Business Network that at the meeting he plans to try to "level set" things between the two nations.
Mark Carney, who was elected leader of the governing Liberal Party on Sunday, is set to be sworn in as prime minister, replacing Justin Trudeau. He has promised to win the trade war against Trump, following his landslide victory.
Source: bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn892j6wpg8o
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Trade war escalates as Trump pledges more tariffs
13 Mar 2025
US President Donald Trump has pledged to impose more tariffs after his latest move to introduce import taxes on steel and aluminium entering the US prompted retaliation from the European Union (EU) and Canada.
Trump said "of course" he would respond to the countermeasures, repeating his warning to reveal "reciprocal" tariffs next month on countries around the world.
"Whatever they charge us with, we're charging them," he said.
The threat marked a further escalation of a trade war which has rattled financial markets amid concerns over the impact on the economies and consumers in many countries around the world, including the US.
On Wednesday, Trump moved forward with a plan to widen US tariffs on steel and aluminium, imposing a blanket duty of 25% and ending exemptions that the US had previously granted for shipments from some countries.
That followed an order earlier this month that raised levies on Chinese imports into the US to at least 20%.
Trump has also threatened tariffs - which are taxes applied to goods as they enter a country - on a range of more specific items, including copper, lumber and cars.
Leaders in Canada and Europe called the new metals taxes unjustified and struck back with their own tariffs on a range of US products.
Other countries that are key US suppliers of metals, including the UK, Australia, Mexico and Brazil, held off on any immediate retaliation.
"Like everybody else, I'm disappointed to see global tariffs in relation to steel and aluminium but we will take a pragmatic approach," said UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
"We are...negotiating a deal which covers and includes tariffs if we succeed. But we will keep all options on the table."
'Bad for business, worse for consumers'
Canada said from Thursday it would start charging a 25% tax on nearly C$30bn ($20bn; £16bn) worth of US products, including steel, computers and sports equipment.
Prime Minister-designate Mark Carney said he was ready to negotiate a renewed trade deal with Trump, as long as there is "respect for Canadian sovereignty".
The EU said it would raise its levies on up to €26bn ($28bn; £22bn) worth of US goods, including boats, bourbon and motorbikes, from 1 April.
EU President Ursula von der Leyen said the response was intended to be "strong but proportionate" and added that the EU stood "ready to engage in a meaningful dialogue".
"Tariffs are taxes. They are bad for business and worse for consumers," she said, warning the economic disruption put jobs at stake and would send prices higher.
"Nobody needs that – on both sides, neither in the European Union nor in the United States."
Trump had said he wants to boost US steel and aluminium production in the longer run, but critics say in the immediate term the taxes on imports of the metals will raise prices for US consumers and dent economic growth.
Major packaged food makers including Quaker Oats and Folgers coffee asked Trump for targeted exemptions from tariffs on imports such as cocoa and fruit, according to a letter seen by Reuters.
PepsiCo, Conagra and J M Smucker, also requested the president exempt ingredients not available from US sources in the letter, which was sent by the trade group the Consumer Brands Association.
Coffee, oats, cocoa, spices, tropical fruit and tin mill steel, used for some food and household goods, are among the imports listed as unavailable domestically, Reuters reported.
The import taxes are also expected to reduce demand for steel and aluminium that is not made in the US - a blow to makers of the metals elsewhere.
The EU estimated that the latest US tariffs affect about 5% of its total exports to the US, while the US is the destination for roughly 90% of Canada's steel and aluminium exports.
Shares in the US were mixed on Wednesday, after two days of sharp decline. The Dow closed down 0.2%, while the S&P 500 ended nearly 0.5% higher and the Nasdaq jumped 1.2%.
In an appearance at the White House with the Irish prime minister, Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Trump said he did not plan to back down from his trade fight, saying he was "not happy" with EU trade policies.
He cited concerns about legal penalties it has imposed on Apple and rules he claimed put US farm products and cars at a disadvantage.
"They're doing what they should be doing perhaps for the European Union but it does create ill will," he said.
Repeating his threat to hit European cars with tariffs, he added later: "We're going to win that financial battle."
Source: bbc.com
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CAIR Appeals Arkansas Dept. of Corrections Policy of Starving Muslims During Ramadan
March 12, 2025
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today announced the filing of a notice of appeal in Holt v. Payne challenging the legality of the Arkansas Department of Corrections’ Ramadan food policy.
A few years ago, Arkansas went from providing additional portions for the after-sunset meal (known as iftar) to simply providing a regular dinner portion. As a result, Greg Holt and other Muslim incarcerees not only were unable to satiate themselves after sundown, but during the entire month of Ramadan, they only receive two-thirds of the recommended daily amount of food for adult men.
CAIR says this policy violates the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act, RLUIPA, because it acts as a substantial burden to the sincere religious beliefs of Holt and other Muslims in two ways. First, starving Muslims substantially burdens their beliefs in performing the Ramadan fast itself. Second, failing to provide adequate food for iftar violates their sincere religious belief in satiating themselves at the end of the daily fasting period.
The District Court, adopting in full a Report and Recommendation from a magistrate judge, nevertheless found that failing to adequately feed Muslims during Ramadan did not constitute a substantial burden unless Muslims were actually prevented from hunger from fasting, or suffered some specific medical condition or illness as a result.
RLUIPA was specifically designed to protect the sincere religious beliefs of incarcerated people,” said CAIR Senior Litigation Attorney Justin Sadowsky. “The District Court’s requiring evidence of torture before Muslims can enforce their rights is simply wrong as a matter of law.”
He noted that CAIR offers an educational toolkit, called “A Correctional Institution’s Guide to Islamic Religious Practices,” to help correctional officers and administrators gain a better understanding of Islam and Muslims.
Source: cair.com
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CAIR Sends Ramadan, Eid Cards to 51 State-Level Education Departments Encouraging Religious Literacy
March 12, 2025
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today announced that it has sent Ramadan and Eid Mubarak greeting cards to the state-level Departments of Education in all 50 states and the District of Columbia encouraging their offices to recognize, respect and accommodate the diversity of religious holidays followed by their students, including American Muslim students.
Each card highlights the significance of Ramadan and Eid for millions of Muslim students and families across the nation and encourages state and federal education leaders to promote understanding and religious literary within schools.
The cards were sent as part of CAIR’s Unhostile Campus Campaign, an initiative designed to foster respectful campus environments where all students, including Muslim students, are welcomed and able to practice their faiths.
In a statement, CAIR Research and Advocacy Director Corey Saylor said:
“Ramadan is a sacred time for millions of American Muslim students and families, and it is important for educational institutions understand and accommodate the experiences of students observing this holy month, as well as students of other faiths during their religious holidays. Through our Unhostile Campus Campaign, we also hope to inspire school leaders to create campus environments where students of all faith backgrounds can fully practice their faith and fully participate in school life.”
As part of CAIR’s Unhostile Campus Campaign, CAIR provides free resources, training, and guidance to educators, administrators, and families to support religious accommodations and inclusive policies in schools and on campuses.
CAIR is also encouraging Muslim students, parents, and community members to take an active role in promoting religious inclusion by using CAIR’s Ramadan Toolkit. The toolkit includes educational materials, sample accommodations language, and a resolution template that can be used to invite their state’s department of education leadership to officially welcome Ramadan and Eid.
CAIR’s mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
Source: cair.com
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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-sends-ramadan-eid-cards-to-51-state-level-education-departments-encouraging-religious-literacy/
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CAIR-LA Welcomes LAUSD Resolution Recognizing Ramadan, Commends Commitment to Inclusivity
March 12, 2025
The Greater Los Angeles Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-LA) today welcomed the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) resolution recognizing the month of Ramadan in honor of the district’s Muslim students and families. CAIR-LA also commends the district for its commitment to supporting the well-being of all its students and providing an inclusive environment for them to practice their faith without hindrance.
On Tuesday, March 11, the LAUSD Governing Board unanimously passed a resolution acknowledging the significance of the holy month for Muslims worldwide and renewing the district’s commitment to supporting Muslim students who choose to observe Ramadan.
As stated in the resolution, LAUSD will send a yearly bulletin to staff and families of students every year prior to the beginning of Ramadan with suggestions for how schools can support Muslim students during Ramadan. These suggestions include providing a comfortable space for students to go to during lunch periods instead of the lunchroom and offering free to-go meals for fasting students to take home. LAUSD will also support educators and staff looking to provide a brief lesson about Ramadan to promote inclusivity and understanding.
The efforts to introduce and pass the resolution were led by the Muslim Parent Association (MPA), an advocacy group dedicated to the education and well-being of Muslim K-12 students within LAUSD’s school systems.
In a statement, CAIR-LA Executive Director Hussam Ayloush said:
“This resolution not only honors the important religious traditions of LAUSD’s Muslim students and families but also sets an important example for other school districts to implement similar resolutions where every student can feel respected and supported in their faith. It is crucial that schools not only acknowledge but actively support the diverse needs of their students. We commend the LAUSD Board for its commitment to fostering an environment of understanding and respect for its students.
“We also thank MPA for leading this important initiative, as well as the students, teachers, and community members whose efforts helped pass this resolution.”
Last month, CAIR’s California chapter (CAIR-CA) released a resource guide to support Muslim employees, students, and community members in navigating school and the workplace during the month of Ramadan, including creating downloaded letter templates to assist Muslim employees and students in securing religious accommodations at work and school. CAIR-CA also sent letters to California school administrators providing education and advice on preparing for Ramadan.
Two CAIR-CA-sponsored bills that protect the rights of American Muslim students during the month of Ramadan were recently signed into law. AB 2377, authored by Assemblymember Luz Rivas, ensures that K-12 students observing religious fasting are given appropriate accommodation during physical education (P.E.) classes by offering them a modified exercise regimen or providing them with academic assignments related to the course. AB 1503, authored by Assemblymember Alex Lee, grants students K-12 students a full day of excused absence time per semester to observe religious holidays, such as Eid, without academic penalty.
CAIR-LA is Southern California’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice and empower American Muslims.
Source: cair.com
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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-la-welcomes-lausd-resolution-recognizing-ramadan-commends-commitment-to-inclusivity/
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Southeast Asia
Mosque-based cooperatives can strengthen the economy of Muslims - Angkasa
BERNAMA
13-03- 2025
KANGAR: The establishment of mosque community cooperatives is seen as the best mechanism in efforts to strengthen Muslims’ economic standing while also serving as a hub for social unity and socio-economic development within the community, said Angkatan Koperasi Kebangsaan Malaysia Berhad (Angkasa) president Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Fattah Abdullah.
He said the mosque-based cooperatives can drive Syariah-compliant business activities, create job opportunities, and assist in the systematic and sustainable management of mosque assets.
“A mosque is more than just a place of worship as it is also a community hub with great potential for driving local economic development. Through cooperatives, resources such as capital, manpower, and ideas can be pooled to create business chains, including retail shops, catering services, and tourism. This in turn benefits the congregation members and the wider community,“ he said.
His speech text was read out by Angkasa board member Datuk Kamarudin Ismail at the launch of the mosque community cooperative establishment campaign here yesterday evening. The Raja Muda of Perlis Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail officiated the event.
Abdul Fattah said as of June 2024, a total of 577 mosque-based cooperatives had been established nationwide, with a membership of 47,832, adding that the accumulated share value or fees had reached RM15.96 million, with total assets of RM37.68 million.
“However, this figure represents only nine per cent of the total 6,828 mosques in Malaysia. In Perlis, only 15 mosque community cooperatives have been established compared to the 101 mosques in the state. This indicates its significant potential,“ he added.
Meanwhile, he said Angkasa is ready to provide full support to mosque-based cooperatives through various development and training programmes to ensure their management is conducted professionally.
“We also urge newly established mosque community cooperatives to become Angkasa members to accelerate the growth and development of cooperative businesses,“ he said.
He added that Angkasa is actively promoting the establishment of mosque-based cooperatives abroad, with two cooperatives already created in the Philippines.
“The next plan is to expand this initiative to other ASEAN countries. With a market potential of approximately 240 million Muslims in ASEAN, I believe cooperatives businesses can become more competitive through the regional halal trade network,“ he added. Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/mosque-based-cooperatives-can-strengthen-the-economy-of-muslims-angkasa-NM13796319
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Zakat Boards Urged To Boost Collaboration With Mosques, Community Groups
12/03/2025
KUALA LUMPUR, March 12 (Bernama) -- Strong collaboration between state zakat boards and mosque institutions as well as residents' associations can ensure zakat is better channelled to those in need, says International Centre for Education in Islamic Finance (INCEIF) economist Prof Dr Baharom Abdul Hamid. He said these institutions could help provide accurate information to the zakat boards regarding those genuinely in need and assess the effectiveness of aid distribution. "Additionally, these institutions can supply up-to-date information on asnaf (eligible zakat recipients) who have moved out of poverty. We need just one platform—meaning we should not work in silos," he said as a guest on Bernama TV’s Ruang Bicara programme tonight.Baharom said that through partnerships with relevant institutions and agencies, zakat boards could ensure that human capital and entrepreneurial development aid, such as business capital and equipment like sewing machines, is fully utilised by asnaf. "Aid distribution should not stop once it is given; there needs to be a sustainable plan. This means that when we distribute items or money, we must ensure asnaf have a support system—this is crucial to ensure continuity. "When aid is given, there should be an action plan, financial literacy training, skill development, and market access—only then can we provide holistic assistance. There must be a comprehensive plan that works in tandem with existing agencies," he added. Source: bernama.com
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Seven caught using Ramadan bazaar stall as drug den
BERNAMA
12-03- 2025
GEORGE TOWN: Police arrested seven men, suspected of using Ramadan bazaar stalls as their drug den, during two raids in Bayan Baru, yesterday.
Barat Daya police chief ACP Sazalee Adam said that the 8 pm raid led to the arrest of six men, aged 20 to 33, working at the bazaar. Police found five packets of ketamine, totalling 2.85 grams, and two ketamine-laced cigarettes.
“We then conducted another raid at a nearby stall and arrested a 30-year-old man. During the search of the suspect, we found a red and silver foil package, containing two Erimin 5 pills, weighing 0.60 grams,” he said, adding that the estimated value of the seized drugs from the seven suspects is RM610.
Sazalee said all suspects tested positive for drugs, with six individuals having prior criminal and drug-related records, each having between one and six offences. All were remanded for investigation under Section 12(2) and Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.
Meanwhile, in a separate case, Sazalee said a female factory worker was arrested for allegedly stealing gold scrap from an electronics factory in Bayan Lepas, last Saturday.
The 47-year-old woman was detained in Kampung Matahari Jatuh, Telok Kumbar, after selling the stolen gold to a trader, without any transaction records.
Police raided a gold shop in Bayan Lepas at 2.18 pm yesterday, apprehending a 66-year-old shop owner suspected of buying stolen gold. During a shop search, officers seized 4.42 grams of gold scrap.
Investigations revealed that the woman confessed to stealing gold and selling it to the trader for RM1,700. The shop owner also admitted to buying the gold without proper documentation. Both have been remanded and are being investigated under Section 381 of the Penal Code.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/seven-caught-using-ramadan-bazaar-stall-as-drug-den-IM13794738
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BSI Partners with B-Universe to Promote Sharia Banking Literacy
The Jakarta Globe
March 12, 2025
Jakarta. Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) on Wednesday welcomed a collaboration with B-Universe Media Holdings to enhance public knowledge of sharia banking and finance, emphasizing the need for greater awareness among Indonesian Muslims.
BSI President Director Hery Gunardi noted that while Indonesia has the world’s largest Muslim population, awareness and understanding of sharia banking remain significantly lower than that of conventional banking.
Partnering with B-Universe, a multi-platform media company operating in digital, print, and television networks, is expected to strengthen BSI’s campaign to educate the public about the benefits and principles of sharia banking, he said after hosting a discussion with the B-Universe leadership team.
“We intend to collaborate with B-Universe in raising awareness about sharia banking and its advantages for customers and the wider public,” Hery said at the BSI headquarters in Jakarta.
“Media support is crucial to our business. B-Universe, which has actively covered BSI’s journey and growth, has played a key role in disseminating accurate and reliable information about our initiatives. We hope this collaboration will continue to grow,” he added.
The B-Universe delegation included Executive Chairman Enggartiasto Lukita, CEO Rio Abdurachman, Deputy CEO Apreyvita Wulansari, and Corporate Secretary Ida Dewiyanti.
The meeting also addressed the challenges and future outlook of the sharia banking industry in Indonesia. Hery said that the biggest challenge is raising public awareness about how sharia banking operates beyond traditional savings and loans, highlighting its expanding services and tangible benefits for Indonesia’s Muslim population.
BSI’s Role in Indonesia’s First Bullion Bank
Last month, BSI made headlines after being entrusted with operating Indonesia’s first bullion banks together with the state-owned pawnshop company Pegadaian.
President Prabowo Subianto envisions Indonesia’s bullion bank as one of the largest in the world, providing sharia-compliant savings options for the country’s predominantly Muslim population.
Chief Economic Minister Airlangga Hartarto previously said that bullion banking aligns with Islamic financial principles, making it a viable alternative for saving for Hajj pilgrimages and other financial needs.
Gold has long been considered a safe investment, much like the US dollar, but with key advantages under Islamic finance. It retains value over time, provides stable returns without bank interest, and is immune to currency fluctuations, making it a secure asset in uncertain economic conditions.
The establishment of a domestic bullion bank is a strategic move to industrialize Indonesia’s gold sector, reducing reliance on foreign trading hubs like Singapore and Switzerland. Despite being one of the world’s top gold producers, Indonesia has traditionally conducted most of its gold trading and storage overseas.
Government data shows that Indonesia produces up to 60 tons of gold annually, with major mining operations in Papua, North Sumatra, and West Java. The new bullion banks aim to increase the economic value of Indonesia’s gold reserves, enhance the domestic gold trading system, and strengthen the national financial sector.
BSI Competing with Global Bullion Banks
The new role positions BSI alongside major global bullion banks such as JP Morgan, HSBC, and UBS, which operate in the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA), the world’s largest gold trading hub.
BSI itself is a merger of the sharia banking units of three state-owned banks -- BRI, BNI, and Mandiri -- making it Indonesia’s largest Islamic bank.
In November 2024, BSI launched BSI Gold, a 99.99 percent pure gold investment product, aimed at promoting stable and profitable sharia investments while encouraging asset diversification amid global economic uncertainty.
With its growing role in sharia finance and bullion banking, BSI is positioning itself as a key player in Indonesia’s efforts to modernize and expand its Islamic financial sector.
Source: jakartaglobe.id
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Amir Hamzah: i-Saraan contributions surge to RM2.6b in 2024, government incentives jump to RM114.8m
13 Mar 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, March 13 — Total contributions to the i-Saraan programme, a voluntary scheme under the Employees Provident Fund (EPF), amounted to RM2.6 billion in 2024, said Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan.
He said that out of this amount, the government’s incentive allocation was RM114.8 million, benefiting 529,667 members.
“This marks a significant increase compared to the government’s incentive of RM54.7 million for 383,082 members in 2023 and RM33.2 million for 291,743 members in 2022.
“As a result, total contributions received for i-Saraan in 2023 amounted to RM1.44 billion compared to RM888 million in 2022,” he said during the question-and-answer session in the Dewan Negara today.
He was responding to Senator Hasbie Muda’s query on the allocations for the i-Saraan and i-Suri programmes under the EPF.
Amir Hamzah further explained that the government has announced enhancements to the i-Saraan programme, including an increase in the matching incentive from 15 per cent to 20 per cent, subject to a maximum of RM500 per year and a lifetime limit of RM5,000 per individual under Budget 2025.
Eligibility for the incentive applies to individuals under the age of 60, he noted.
Meanwhile, Amir Hamzah reported that 75,196 members have received government incentives totalling RM11.4 million under the i-Suri EPF scheme.
The number of recipients has increased by 77 per cent compared to 42,759 members in 2023, he shared.
The incentive rate for i-Suri in 2024 is a matching contribution of 50 per cent for every ringgit contributed to the EPF, with a maximum incentive of RM300 per year.
“This incentive is subject to a lifetime limit of RM3,000 per individual under the age of 55,” he added.
In another development, Amir Hamzah announced that the number of contributors with basic savings has increased by seven percent in 2024 to 37.3 per cent or 2.75 million members. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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South Asia
Chief Adviser of Bangladesh To Open Project Of Cox’s Bazar Airport, Model Mosque Friday
12 Mar 2025
DHAKA, March 12, 2025 (BSS) - Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus will inaugurate a project of Cox’s Bazar Airport and a model mosque in Cox’s Bazar on Friday, Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder said today.
“During his visit, he will also visit a project on climate migrants there,” he told a press briefing at Foreign Service Academy here.
Later, Azad said, Chief Adviser Prof Yunus and United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will join an Iftar party with about one lakh Rohingyas in Cox's Bazar refugee camp.
CA Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, Senior Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahammad and Assistant Press Secretary Suchismita Tithi also present at the press briefing.
Source: bssnews.net
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https://www.bssnews.net/news/254296
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EC staffers protest for keeping NID services under commission
Mar 13, 2025
Election Commission (EC) officials and employees are holding a human chain and sit-in protest, demanding that the National Identity Card (NID) services remain under the commission.
The human chain continued for two hours -- from 11:00am to 1:00pm --, outside the EC Secretariat and election offices across the country. During this time, all services, including NID-related services, remain suspended.
They have warned that if no visible steps are taken by next Tuesday (March 18) to repeal the existing law, National Identity Registration Act, 2023, and return NID services to the Election Commission, a nationwide work stoppage will be observed on Wednesday (March 19).
Officials and employees of the Election Commission, including the Bangladesh Election Commission Officers' Association and the IDEA-2 Project Officers-Employees Unity Council, participated in the demonstration in front of the election building.
Mohammad Monir Hossain, convener of the Election Commission Officers' Association and EC Deputy Secretary, said, "We have been holding a sit-in programme since 11:00am, and everyone is participating. The Election Commission is the guardian of all voter personal information. NID will remain with the Election Commission... The current law must be repealed to restore the previous system."
"We are giving time until next Tuesday. If we do not see any visible steps to repeal the law and return NID under the Election Commission, a three-hour work stoppage will be observed across Bangladesh on Wednesday (March 19) from 9:00am to 12:00pm."
He also mentioned that due to the "Operational Halt" programme, NID services would remain suspended during this period.
During the human chain, protesters chanted various slogans.
Fayez Ahmed Tayyab, special assistant to the chief adviser in charge of the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, said yesterday that although NID services will remain under the Election Commission for now, they will have to be placed under an independent agency in the future.
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Election Commission Officers' Association announced the "Stand for NID" programme yesterday. Earlier, on March 5, EC officials and employees observed a work stoppage with the same demand.
On March 4, the interim government proposed transferring NID services under a separate commission named the "Civil Registration Commission." To implement this, the chief adviser gave policy and final approval to the draft of the National Identity Registration Act (Repeal) Ordinance, 2025.
Based on discussions in the advisory council meeting, the Cabinet Division was instructed to take necessary actions on the matter.
However, in response, officials and employees of the NID subdivision began a sit-in protest in front of the Chief Election Commissioner's office, demanding that NID services remain under the EC.
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/ec-staffers-protest-keeping-nid-services-under-commission-3846941
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A Day in court: Of ‘preventing measure’ against anti-govt slogans
Mar 13, 2025
Former state minister for posts, telecommunications and information technology Zunaid Ahmed Palak was brought to a courtroom of the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate's (CMM) Court of Dhaka from its lockup yesterday.
Wearing a police helmet and bulletproof vest, Palak, was escorted from the lockup at 9:39am, flanked by police officers. His hands were cuffed behind his back.
Just two days back, on the premises of the Metropolitan Sessions Court of Dhaka, he had complained about how he was handcuffed from behind while being brought to the courtroom.
Salman F Rahman, former private industry affairs adviser to ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, also walked towards the courtroom just before Palak yesterday. His hands were also cuffed behind his back.
Former lawmaker Mohammad Solaiman Salim and former Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) mayor Atiqul Islam followed, both had their hands cuffed behind their backs.
Further back, former senior secretary Mohibul Haque also walked with his hands cuffed behind his back.
Their handcuffs were unlocked after they were placed inside the courtroom dock.
Minutes later, Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Awlad Hossain Muhammad Jonaid took his seat and held hearings in four cases linked to the July uprising.
After the court's hearings, Palak, Salman, Solaiman, Atiqul and Mohibul were handcuffed again in the same manner before being taken back to lockup.
Dhaka Metropolitan Public Prosecutor Omar Faruq Faruqi on February 26 told several media outlets that he was unaware of any accused being brought to court with hands cuffed behind their backs. "No accused should be presented in court in such a manner," he said.
However, Faruqi yesterday said, "Several accused want to raise their hands and shout anti-government statements while being taken from the lockup to the courtroom. To prevent them from doing so, they are being cuffed with their hands behind their backs before being presented in courtroom."
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/day-court-preventing-measure-against-anti-govt-slogans-3846446
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Hanafi urges Islamabad-based Afghan embassy to address problems of Afghan migrants
March 12, 2025
KABUL: Mawlavi Abdul Salam Hanafi, the Deputy Prime Minister of the Islamic Emirate for Administrative Affairs urged the Islamabad-based Afghan embassy and consulates to make more efforts to address the problems of Afghan migrants in Pakistan, Arg said in a statement the other day. According to the statement, Hanafi met with Sardar Ahmad Shakib, the ambassador of the Islamic Emirate to Pakistan, saying that Afghanistan and Pakistan have many commonalities and that the two countries can strengthen their relations based on these commonalities. “The Islamic Emirate is committed to supporting Afghan refugees living in Pakistan and other countries of the world,” the statement quoted Hanafi as saying. Meanwhile, the Afghan ambassador to Islamabad said that Afghan diplomats and consulates in Pakistan are doing their best to address the problems of Afghan refugees. Referring to the closure of the Torkham crossing by the Pakistani government for nearly twenty days, the Deputy Prime Minister underscored the importance of fortifying ties with Islamabad during this period of restricted movement. The Kabul Times
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/hanafi-urges-islamabad-based-afghan-embassy-to-address-problems-of-afghan-migrants/
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More should be done for Afghan goods exports to Oman, Muttaqi
March 12, 2025
KABUL: The acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate, Mawlavi Amir Khan Muttaqi, during his official visit to Oman, met with Badr Band Hamad Al-Busaidi that country’s Foreign Affairs Minister to discuss the enhancement of bilateral political, economic, and social relations, the ministry said in a statement Tuesday. Speaking at the meeting, Mawlavi Amir Khan Muttaqi highlighted that Afghanistan and Oman are ready to initiate a new era of bilateral relations, emphasizing the favorable investment ground in Afghanistan, particularly for Omani investors, according to the statement. He outlined priorities such as facilitating the export of Afghan goods to Oman and the commencement of bilateral air services as key areas for collaborative efforts. Meanwhile, the Omani Foreign Minister expressed his supportive stance towards Afghanistan’s welfare and progress, affirming his commitment to reinforcing political, economic, trade, and overall bilateral relations with the country. Stressing the importance of sustaining high-level exchanges between the two nations, he emphasized that necessary efforts should be made towards strengthening relations between Oman and Afghanistan in various fields. The Kabul Times
Source: thekabultimes.com
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Approval of 11 major mining projects: A strategic path to Afghanistan’s economic self-sufficiency
March 12, 2025
By: Hashmat Nasiri
Afghanistan, endowed with vast natural resources, is actively pursuing economic self-sufficiency by developing and utilizing its mineral reserves. Following the re-establishment of the Islamic Emirate, concerted efforts have been undertaken to attract domestic and international investment, implement large-scale infrastructure projects, and ensure the efficient and sustainable utilization of the country’s mineral wealth. The Ministry of Mines and Petroleum, as a key sectoral entity within the government, has made significant strides in this regard. Over the past three years, the ministry has signed more than 200 mining contracts with both small and large enterprises. These agreements have played a pivotal role in boosting the national economy, facilitating infrastructure development, and generating employment for over 150,000 individuals. The contracts encompass the extraction of copper, lead, zinc, iron, coal, and natural gas, with total investments in large-scale mining operations reaching approximately $7 billion. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to fostering the development of Afghanistan’s mining sector and maximizing the benefits of its natural resources. Recently, the Economic Deputy Office of the Prime Minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan announced the approval of 11 large-scale mining projects set to commence in 1403 (2024–2025). These projects include: Yatim-Taq Cement Project – in Jawzjan Province, Salt Mine Projects in Maymana and Andkhoy – Faryab Province, Salt Mine Project in Darzab – Jawzjan Province, Dara-e-Noor Marble Mine Project, in Shah Wali Kot District – Kandahar Province, Chromite Mine Development Project- Logar Province, Taimani Laman Coal Mine Project – Badghis Province, Kashk and Tirpul Gas Basin Project – Herat Province, Tuti Maidan Gas Field Project – Faryab Province, Loy Jangal Gas Basin Project – Jawzjan Province, and Altamur Cement Project in Logar Province. The implementation of these projects is expected to play a transformative role in Afghanistan’s economic self-sufficiency, contributing significantly to national economic growth and driving tangible improvements in the social and economic well-being of the people. Key Mining Projects and Their Economic Impact 1. Yatim-Taq Cement Project – Jawzjan Province: This project stands as one of Afghanistan’s most ambitious industrial initiatives, designed to bolster domestic cement production and employment opportunities. On October 30, 2024, the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum formalized a $163 million agreement with the Turkish firm (77 Turkish) for the establishment of the cement plant. Under this 30-year contract, the company will invest in exploration, extraction, production, and community development programs. With a daily production capacity of 3,000 tons of cement, the project is expected to create over 1,200 direct jobs. This initiative represents a strategic step towards reducing Afghanistan’s reliance on cement imports and strengthening domestic industrial capabilities. 2. Salt Mine Projects – Faryab and Jawzjan Provinces: The mining projects in Maymana, Andkhoy, and Darzab have been awarded to a private entity under a 15-year contract valued at $24 million. Spanning 14 square kilometers, these mines are projected to yield a daily output of 2,500 tons of salt, creating employment for approximately 1,000 individuals. 3. Dara-e-Noor Marble Mine – Kandahar Province: Located in Shah Wali Kot District, this initiative marks a substantial investment in Afghanistan’s marble extraction and processing sector. On February 12, 2025, the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum entered into a $6.2 million agreement with the Turkish company (Emioglu). The 30-year contract encompasses 3 square kilometers and is designed to ensure marble extraction and processing in line with global industry standards, enabling the export of high-quality marble to international markets. 4. Chromite Mining Project – Logar Province: In 2023, a five-year contract for the extraction of chromite in Azrah District was awarded to a domestic Afghan enterprise, which has pledged an investment of 151 million Afghanis. Afghanistan possesses extensive chromite reserves, particularly in Logar, Khost, Wardak, Kabul, and Parwan provinces, with an average chromium content of 35% and iron content of 8%. This project is poised to enhance legal and structured mineral extraction while fostering economic expansion and employment generation. 5. Tuti Maidan Gas Field – Faryab Province: Among Afghanistan’s largest recent investments in natural gas exploration and extraction, this 10- year, $1 billion agreement was signed on October 10, 2024, with Uzbekistan’s (Eriyel Kam). The contract mandates an initial investment of $100 million within the first year, with a total commitment of $1 billion over a decade. Furthermore, the company is obligated to generate 100 megawatts of electricity from extracted gas within the first two years. This project is expected to significantly enhance Afghanistan’s energy security while creating thousands of jobs. 6. Loy Jangal Gas Basin – Jawzjan Province: This strategic gas reserve ranks among Afghanistan’s most significant energy resources, alongside Yatim Taq (Jawzjan) and Toti Maidan (Faryab). Several initiatives are already underway, including plans to supply natural gas to households in Mazar-e-Sharif to ensure sustainable energy distribution. The development of this basin is projected to make a substantial contribution to Afghanistan’s energy independence and economic stability. 7. Altamur Cement Project – Logar Province: One of the largest investments in Afghanistan’s cement industry, this 30-year, $145 million contract was signed on December 24, 2024, between the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum and (Afghan Sako), a private sector entity. The cement plant, located in Altamur, Logar Province, is designed to produce 2,500 tons of cement per day, generating hundreds of employment opportunities. The project is aimed at reducing Afghanistan’s reliance on imported cement, thereby advancing the country’s industrial self-sufficiency and enabling potential exports to neighboring markets. The Strategic Importance of Afghanistan’s Mining Sector Afghanistan’s mineral resources represent a cornerstone for economic growth, employment generation, and national self-reliance. The mining sector serves as a critical revenue source for the government, facilitating foreign exchange earnings through the extraction and export of minerals. These revenues can be allocated toward infrastructure development, social welfare programs, and public sector advancements. The implementation of the above-mentioned large-scale mining projects is expected to enhance Afghanistan’s legal and internationally standardized mining practices, fostering economic expansion and job creation across multiple provinces. Ensuring nationwide security, fostering a conducive investment climate, generating economic opportunities, and improving public welfare remain top priorities for the Islamic Emirate. The Islamic Emirate is committed to reducing Afghanistan’s dependence on external sources and advancing practical measures to achieve economic self-sufficiency.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/approval-of-11-major-mining-projects-a-strategic-path-to-afghanistans-economic-self-sufficiency/
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From Survival to Stability: Community-Driven Housing for Afghanistan’s Displaced
By Khaama Press
March 13, 2025
Afghanistan has endured decades of conflict, instability, and economic hardship, resulting in one of the world’s most severe displacement crises. Millions of Afghans have been forced to flee their homes due to violence, natural disasters, and economic distress, leading to overcrowded informal settlements with limited access to essential services. Climate-related disasters, including droughts and floods, have further exacerbated living conditions, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable, community-driven housing solutions that not only provide shelter but also promote self-sufficiency, resilience, and long-term integration.
Traditional aid models often fall short in fostering sustainable development and long-term resilience. Recognizing these gaps, architect and urban researcher Sameedha Mahajan has introduced an innovative approach that shifts the focus from aid dependency to community-led governance. Her Community Kits initiative reimagines humanitarian aid by placing decision-making and resource management directly in the hands of displaced communities. This model emphasizes collaboration, economic independence, and social cohesion, offering an alternative to conventional top-down aid programs.
Mahajan’s approach is built upon three core interventions: Community Kits, designed to equip families with essential resources that encourage communal collaboration; Women’s Courtyards, which provide safe spaces for skill-building and financial empowerment; and the Community School, a modular learning and vocational hub aimed at fostering education and employment opportunities. These components work together to create a framework for self-sufficiency, particularly empowering Afghan women to reclaim agency over their lives and integrate into society with dignity.
Community Kits: A Self-Governance Model
Many traditional rehabilitation models in Afghanistan have relied on prolonged external aid, which often creates a cycle of dependency. Mahajan’s Community Kits initiative seeks to reverse this trend by equipping displaced populations with the tools needed to take control of their own development. In a country where conflict and displacement have left many communities stateless, fostering self-sufficiency at the local level can be a crucial step toward social stability and integration.
Building upon the existing aid infrastructure of organizations such as UNHCR, Mahajan’s proposal introduces Community Kits, a resource package provided to each arriving refugee family. These kits are accessible only through collective participation, particularly among women, and include solar cookers, sewing machines, gardening tools, and other essential supplies. By pooling resources and skills, women can establish small businesses, cultivate food, and manage household responsibilities more effectively. This approach not only strengthens economic independence but also nurtures strong social bonds within the community.
Beyond simply distributing resources, Mahajan’s design challenges traditional aid delivery models by emphasizing self-reliance and adaptability. A pictorial guide, developed as part of her research, instructs families on how to use the Community Kits, ensuring that they can modify and optimize the tools according to their needs without reliance on external experts.
Women’s Courtyards: Safe Spaces for Economic Empowerment
Displacement disproportionately affects Afghan women and children, making it crucial to establish secure communal spaces where women can engage in skill-building, childcare, and income-generating activities. Mahajan’s model incorporates Women’s Courtyards, which draw inspiration from traditional Afghan housing structures and encourage collaboration and financial independence.
This concept is structured into two parts:
The Individual Dwelling Unit & Communal Networks – By encouraging families to share their Community Kits, Mahajan’s model creates interconnected spaces where women can engage in economic and domestic activities collectively.
The Community School – Expanding upon the Women’s Courtyards, this initiative establishes structured learning environments that help displaced individuals transition from survival to stability.
As families collaborate and share resources, courtyards emerge organically between shelters, transforming into vibrant communal spaces. These areas serve multiple purposes, from shared cooking and gardening to childcare, ultimately reducing domestic burdens and allowing women to participate in income-generating activities. By integrating communal living with economic self-sufficiency, Mahajan’s model fosters resilience and well-being within displaced Afghan communities.
The Community School: Education and Economic Integration
Access to education and vocational training is critical for displaced individuals seeking to rebuild their lives. Mahajan’s model culminates in the Community School, a modular and adaptable educational space that serves as both a learning and employment hub.
Developed in collaboration with UN Women and Women-Led Community Centers, these pop-up schools offer displaced women formal education, technical skills training, and entrepreneurship opportunities. By building upon the Women’s Courtyards, these schools provide a structured, long-term approach to education and workforce integration.
One of the key strengths of Mahajan’s design is its flexibility. The Community School can be tailored to meet diverse local needs, featuring a mix of classrooms, open-air workshops, and semi-sheltered spaces. Whether offering digital skills training, sustainable agriculture programs, or vocational courses, these schools promote a self-sustaining economic model, allowing displaced individuals to regain control over their futures.
The Broader Socioeconomic, Political, and Environmental Relevance
Afghanistan’s displacement crisis is deeply connected to its socioeconomic, environmental, and political landscape. With growing internal migration due to war, economic hardship, and climate change, the country’s rehabilitation strategies must evolve. The shift toward community-driven, sustainable housing solutions is not just necessary—it is imperative.
Conflict-Induced Displacement and Housing Pressure – Afghanistan has one of the world’s highest numbers of internally displaced persons (IDPs), many of whom live in overcrowded settlements with limited access to basic services. Sustainable housing models that integrate economic opportunities and community governancecan provide long-term stability while reducing pressure on urban centers.
Climate Change and Environmental Resilience – Severe droughts, harsh winters, and recurring floods have forced many rural Afghan communities to migrate due to water shortages and agricultural decline. Instead of short-term relief, Afghanistan requires climate-resilient housing solutions that incorporate energy-efficient designs, sustainable water management, and regionally adapted materials.
Socioeconomic Stability and Urban Integration – Major cities like Kabul, Herat, and Mazar-i-Sharif have experienced rapid population growth due to internal displacement. Informal settlements often lack access to clean water, electricity, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Embedding vocational training and economic activities into rehabilitation efforts can facilitate integration into the urban workforce.
Political and Policy Challenges – Afghanistan’s governance challenges, shifting political landscape, and economic instability have slowed the implementation of housing and resettlement programs. Many displaced individuals lack legal recognition, land rights, or access to government services. A bottom-up, community-driven approach can complement national policies and make rehabilitation efforts more scalable and effective.
Conclusion
Afghanistan is at a turning point in its approach to displacement and rehabilitation. The traditional model of temporary shelters and emergency aid is proving inadequate in addressing long-term challenges. A paradigm shift toward sustainable, people-centric design is necessary.
Sameedha Mahajan’s Community Kit Initiative represents a bold new vision for humanitarian architecture, promoting self-sufficiency, economic empowerment, and community resilience. By integrating collaborative housing models, vocational training, and local economic development, this initiative offers a long-term solution to Afghanistan’s displacement crisis.
Policymakers, urban planners, and humanitarian organizations must rethink displacement housing—not as a temporary fix, but as a foundation for a more inclusive, resilient, and self-sustaining future.
Source: khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/from-survival-to-stability-community-driven-housing-for-afghanistans-displaced/
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Commerce Secretary opens Ramadan & Eid Festival in city
12 Mar 2025
DHAKA, March 12, 2025 (BSS) - Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman inaugurated the Ramadan and Eid Festival 2025 at Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in the capital today.
The X-Group Chain Restaurant and Hospitality Management is organizing the festival which will continue till March 26 featuring various traditional Iftar items, festival clothes, household and other items.
The festival will remain open every day for everyone from 12 noon to 10:30 pm during the period, said a Commerce Ministry press release.
The Commerce Secretary inaugurated the festival through cutting ribbon and releasing balloons.
Presided over by X-Group Chain Restaurant and Hospitality Management CEO Md Jahangir Alam, SME Foundation Managing Director Anwar Hossain Chowdhury and Beam Show Managing Director Abdul Kader were present as special guests.
Speaking on the occasion as the chief guest, the Commerce Secretary said that this Ramadan and Eid Festival would become a nice place of gathering for the food lovers, businessmen and consumers.
Mahbubur also said this fiesta would play an important role towards turning the city life more joyous and enjoyable.
Source: bssnews.net
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Africa
African Union warns of huge risk of partition in Sudan
March 12, 2025
ADDIS ABABA: The African Union on Wednesday said the announcement of a parallel government in war-torn Sudan risked cleaving the country, already ravaged by nearly two years of unrest.
The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been locked in a brutal conflict with Sudan’s army (SAF) since April 2023 in a war that has claimed tens of thousands of lives and uprooted more than 12 million people.
The war, which was initially sparked by disagreements over the integration of the RSF into the army, has torn the country apart, with the military now controlling eastern and northern Sudan and the RSF dominating almost all of western Darfur and parts of the south.
Both the army and the RSF have been accused of war crimes.
The RSF and its allies signed a “founding charter” of a parallel government in Nairobi last month.
On Wednesday the AU condemned the move and “warned that such action carries a huge risk of partitioning of the country.”
The signatories to the document, seen by AFP, intend to create a “government of peace and unity” in rebel-controlled areas.
They have also pledged to “build a secular, democratic, decentralized state, based on freedom, equality and justice, without cultural, ethnic, religious or regional bias.”
In early March, the RSF and its allies signed, again in Nairobi, a “Transitional Constitution.”
The AU called on all of its member states, as well as the international community, “not to recognize any government or parallel entity aimed at partitioning and governing part of the territory of the Republic of Sudan or its institutions.”
In a statement, it said the organization “does not recognize the so-called government or parallel entity in the Republic of Sudan.”
On Tuesday, the European Union also reiterated its commitment to the “unity and territorial integrity of Sudan.”
“Plans for parallel ‘government’ by the Rapid Support Forces risk the partition of the country and jeopardize the democratic aspirations of the Sudanese people for an inclusive Sudanese-owned process that leads to the restoration of civilian rule,” it said in a statement.
It follows a warning from the UN Security Council last week that expressed “grave concerns” over the signing, adding it could worsen an already dire humanitarian situation.”
The conflict has up-ended the nation, with the UN describing the situation as an “unprecedented humanitarian crisis on the African continent.”
Parts of the country have already descended into famine, with another eight million people on the brink of mass starvation.
Nationwide, nearly 25 million people are suffering dire food insecurity.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2593340/middle-east
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Oil production resumes at Libya’s Mabruk field after a decade
March 12, 2025
DUBAI: Libya’s Mabruk Oil Operations has resumed production at the Mabruk oilfield after a decade-long shutdown, the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity (GNU) said in a statement on Wednesday.
Production officially restarted on Sunday at an initial rate of 5,000 barrels per day, according to the statement, with plans for an increase to 7,000 bpd by the end of March and 25,000 bpd by July.
Crude began to be transferred to the nearby Al-Bahi field on Tuesday as part of efforts to improve the efficiency of the country’s oil infrastructure and operations.
Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) had said it planned to reopen the Mabruk oilfield in the first quarter of 2023 with production up to 25,000 barrels per day.
The field had been closed in 2015 after what NOC described as a “terrorist” attack that cost the company $575 million in field equipment losses.
Libya, holding Africa’s largest proven oil reserves, has struggled to maintain consistent output levels due to internal conflicts and infrastructure damage since 2011.
“This marks a significant step forward in Libya’s oil sector, reflecting improved stability and confidence in our capacity to rebuild and boost the national economy,” Wednesday’s statement said.
Source: arabnews.com
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Another Miyetti Allah vigilante member assassinated in Kwara
March 13, 2025
By Abdulrazaq Adebayo
Another member of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Kwara State chapter, identified as Dabe, has been assassinated by unknown assailants.
Dabe, a vigilante member, was allegedly assassinated by unknown gunmen on Tuesday night at Kanbi town on Ilorin-Jebba highway, Moro Local Government Area of Kwara State.
He was the second victim of assassins’ bullet in two weeks, an insider in the association informed DAILY POST on Wednesday in Ilorin.
Recall that the Chairman of the Cattle Breeders Association, Idris Abubakar, was shot dead last Saturday at the front of his residence at Oke-Ose, in Oke-Oyi town, Ilorin East Local Government Area of the state by unknown gunmen at about 10 pm.
Tuesday’s killing at Kanbi, brings to five the number of members of the association so far allegedly murdered for collaborating with security agencies and vigilantes to stamp out criminal elements and criminalities in the group.
Secretary of the Miyetti Allah Association, Azeez Mohammed while reacting to the murder of Idris Abubakar, had lamented that Fulani cattle breeders have now become targets of assassins and criminal elements.
Efforts to reach the spokesperson of the police command, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, on the Tuesday’s incident proved abortive.
Meanwhile, a manhunt has been launched by the state police command for the masterminds of the murder of the late chairman of the Cattle Breeders Association, Idris Abubakar.
Source: dailypost.ng
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Zazzau Emirate Limits District Heads To 30 Horses For Sallah Festival
13 Mar 2025
By Abubakar Sadiq Mohd, Zaria
The Zazzau Emirate Council has directed all district heads to limit the number of horses to 30 each during the upcoming Eid-el-Fitr Sallah horse riding festivities.
It said the directive applies to both district heads with and without portfolios.
A statement by Malam Yusuf Abubakar Hayat, secretary to the Emirate Council, said all district heads must comply.
Also, the statement mandated the 31 district heads with portfolios to participate in the Sallah horse riding, as agreed upon by the council.
“All district heads wishing to participate in the Sallah horse riding must submit a written notice of intent by Friday, March 14, 2025,” the statement added.
Zazzau Emirate has long placed significant cultural importance on horse riding, particularly during the Eid-el-Fitr and Eid-el-Kabir festivals. These events serve to showcase the emirate’s rich heritage, attracting thousands of visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.
Source: dailytrust.com
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Tinubu-Ojo leads Ramadan prayers for security, national growth
March 13, 2025
by Dele Anofi
Iyaloja-General Folasade Tinubu-Ojo yesterday called on the Muslim community and Nigerians to intensify prayers for the unity, security and progress of Nigeria during Ramadan.
Speaking at the Annual Ramadan Lectures and Prayers for the Nation in Abuja on Wednesday, Mrs. Tinubu-Ojo emphasized the importance of seeking divine intervention for the country’s leadership.
She described prayer as a powerful tool for unlocking greatness and mercy and should therefore not be neglected.
The event drew prominent figures, including serving and former heads of government agencies, industry leaders, market women representatives from various geopolitical zones, and members of civil society organisations (CSOs).
Islamic clerics led lectures and prayers, reinforcing the spiritual significance of Ramadan and the need for collective supplication.
Addressing the gathering, Mrs. Tinubu-Ojo urged Nigerians to uphold prayer as a continuous practice beyond Ramadan, stressing that faith and action must go hand in hand in building a peaceful and prosperous country.
She underscored the values of love, unity and charity, which define the holy month, encouraging citizens to embrace generosity and support for the less privileged.
The market leader called on Nigerians not to relent in praying for the country’s security and economic growth, emphasizing that both spiritual and practical efforts are crucial to ensuring national stability.
Acknowledging that ultimate security comes from God, she also encouraged vigilance and ongoing prayers for divine guidance for the nation’s leaders.
She said: “It is only God that can keep you secure. But then, you should not fold your hands and expose yourself to danger.
“So, we have to pray, commit the whole nation, the whole leadership of this nation into the hands of Almighty Allah, that God should use them to provide security for every Nigerian.
“We have to continue to pray for them, not just during this Ramadan period alone. It is very, very key because it is only God that can give us whatever we need.”
Mrs. Tinubu-Ojo also highlighted the significance of organizing the prayers during Ramadan, describing the month as one of divine favor and mercy.
“You agree with me that we need prayers in Nigeria. At all times, we have to pray for our leaders, pray for everybody,” she said, describing the gathering as a spiritual obligation aimed at fostering peace, unity, and prosperity for the country.
In their lectures on the benefits and lessons of Ramadan, Islamic scholars Prof. Sunusi Yuguda, Dr. Abdulahi Shahibu, Mikhail Daud and Sheikh AbdulWahab Garba, urged Muslims to uphold the spiritual discipline beyond the fasting period, emphasizing the need to shun vanity, practice selflessness, and sustain charitable acts beyond the holy month.
The clerics, Sisters of Salawah, stressed that Ramadan is a period of spiritual rebirth and renewal, encouraging Nigerians to cultivate habits that promote societal harmony.
Source: thenationonlineng.net
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https://thenationonlineng.net/tinubu-ojo-leads-ramadan-prayers-for-security-national-growth/
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APC forum applauds Matawalle for N1bn Ramadan charity in Zamfara
MARCH 12, 2025
A political support group, Zamfara APC Unity Forum (ZAUF), has commended former Zamfara State Governor and current Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, for distributing over ₦500 million in cash assistance to residents during Ramadan.
The forum highlighted that more than 5,000 people benefited from the initiative, each receiving at least ₦100,000.
It said Matawalle has also spent over 200 million naira on providing rice to feeding centres across 14 local government areas in Zamfara State.
Defence state minister has also given over 300 million naira to party officials and stakeholders, including commissioners, special advisers, and many politicians.
The group stated that the beneficiaries were carefully selected by a team led by Ibrahim Maigandi (Danmalikin Gidan Goga), Matawalle’s special adviser on political matters.
“This team comprises party leaders, technocrats, academics, and youth leaders who ensured a fair distribution of the funds across Zamfara’s local government areas,” said Ismael Jibrin, the chairman of the support group in Gusau.
The group also criticised Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, accusing him of failing to provide relief for struggling residents.
“Despite not being in office as governor anymore, Matawalle continues to listen to the cries of the people and ensure that Zamfara citizens do not go to bed hungry,” Jibrin said.
“This is what we call true leadership, not mere media appearances like Governor Dauda.”
Matawalle’s Ramadan disbursement follows a similar intervention last December, when he reportedly distributed more than 1 billion naira to party loyalists, community leaders, and residents. That event, according to the Zamfara APC Unity forum, brought the state “to a standstill in awe of his generosity.”
Matawalle, who served as governor from 2019 to 2023 before losing to Lawal in last year’s election, remains a key political figure in Zamfara. His supporters describe him as a “beacon of hope” for the state’s residents in difficult times.
Source: authorityngr.com
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https://authorityngr.com/2025/03/12/apc-forum-applauds-matawalle-for-n1bn-ramadan-charity-in-zamfara/
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Police Celebrates, Claims No Single Gunshot In Anambra For One Month
12 March 2025
By Richard Ogunsile
The Anambra State command of the Nigeria Police Force is ‘celebrating’ a remarkable milestone with a month free of gunfire across the state.
In a recent press briefing at his office, the the State Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, praised the efforts of security personnel for this significant accomplishment, which reflects a period devoid of gunshots from both law enforcement and suspected offenders.
He emphasized that this achievement signifies a growing commitment among the residents of Anambra State towards fostering peace and a crime-free atmosphere.
Naija News reports that prior to Orutugu’s appointment in February 2025, the state faced considerable security challenges, leading the government to impose restrictions on certain types of traditional healers and fraudulent religious leaders believed to be contributing to criminal activities.
Orutugu remarked that Anambra, known for its abundant human capital and illustrious figures such as Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, is deserving of enduring tranquility.
He underscored the necessity of maintaining peace, especially in Onitsha, which is home to Nigeria’s largest market and attracts traders from various regions.
The Commissioner noted that the enhanced security conditions over the past month are gradually encouraging an influx of visitors and businesses back into the state.
Additionally, Orutugu expressed his concerns regarding the previous trend of sit-at-home protests on weekdays, which he deemed unjustifiable.
However, he acknowledged the positive changes taking place.
He forecasted a continuation of lasting peace in the state but cautioned that law enforcement would remain vigilant against any individuals or groups harboring criminal intentions.
The Commissioner reiterated the significance of proactive policing and innovative problem-solving approaches, rather than relying solely on conventional security measures, to ensure ongoing peace and stability in Anambra State.
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2025/03/12/police-celebrates-claims-no-single-gunshot-in-anambra-for-one-month/
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Speaker Obasa Requests Deployment Of Armed Security Operatives To Lagos Assembly
12 March 2025
By Richard Ogunsile
The Lagos State House of Assembly, led by speaker Mudashiru Obasa, has reportedly requested the deployment of armed security forces to enhance the security of the Assembly complex.
Naija News report that this request arises amidst a leadership crisis and conflicting judicial rulings that have plunged the state’s legislative body into disarray.
A confidential letter directed to the Lagos State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), signed by the Clerk of the House, O. B. Onafeko, disclosed Obasa’s appeal for increased security measures at the Assembly complex located in Alausa, Ikeja.
“I have the instruction of the Leadership of the House to request for Armed Officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to provide security cover for the Lagos State House of Assembly as well as Honourable members and Staff,” the letter reads.
According to SaharaReporters, the document additionally indicates that personnel from the NSCDC will collaborate with 20 private security guards to ensure the safety of the premises.
This request arose following the clarification from the National Industrial Court (NIC) that it did not mandate the reinstatement of Clerk Onafeko, contrary to claims made by Obasa’s faction.
The court merely instructed both parties to uphold peace while awaiting further hearings.
During the most recent court session on March 12, 2025, Justice M.N. Esowe expressed astonishment at Onafeko’s aggressive takeover of the Assembly Secretariat, which involved the use of security personnel to remove Acting Clerk Taiwo Ottun.
Counsel for the Assembly, O.O. Oniyire (SAN), accused Onafeko of manipulating the judicial system and disseminating false information regarding his supposed reinstatement.
In the meantime, the court has set March 18 for the hearing of all outstanding applications, further prolonging the resolution of the crisis.
Meanwhile, reports are that the leadership turmoil within the Lagos Assembly has been exacerbated by a multi-billion naira procurement of official vehicles for lawmakers.
According to SaharaReporters, sources indicate that the contentious issue revolves around the acquisition of 39 SUVs, a project initially approved by Obasa prior to his removal in January.
Obasa was said to have allegedly authorized the procurement of 35 Toyota Fortuner SUVs and 10 Toyota Prado SUVs from Dubai at an astonishing cost of N7 billion.
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2025/03/12/breaking-speaker-obasa-requests-deployment-of-armed-security-operatives-to-lagos-assembly/
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