Cricket Isn’t Immune To Communal Hate: Mohammed Siraj’s Celebratory Post Thanking Allah for the Victory on X Stirred Strom

New Age Islam News Bureau

02 July 2024

Credit: Mohammed Siraj, X

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·         Cricket Isn’t Immune To Communal Hate: Mohammed Siraj’s Celebratory Post Thanking Allah for the Victory on X Stirred Strom

·         ‘We Don’t Want To Engage With You People’: UK Conservative Party Candidate Hounded At Mosque over Gaza War

·         The Caliphate Complaint Box: Stories of Islamic State Governance in the Words of Those Who Lived It

·         Borno Suicide Bomber Begged For Alms before Detonating Bomb – Commissioner

·         Men Brutally Caned For Drinking Alcohol in Indonesia and Breaking Sharia Law

 

India

·         ‘Despite Differences, India Is One’: Bhagwat Releases Book On Hamid

·         Attack On Muslims Increased After Lok Sabha Election Results Where The BJP Fell Short Of The Majority: CPI (M)

·         Now, Jains Seek Right To Worship In Disputed Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Mosque Complex

·         After Hijab, Mumbai College Bans Jeans, T-Shirt

·         Kerala CM Directs Anger at Indian Union Muslim League over Poor Performance in Lok Sabha

·         BMC to complete new cemetery for Sunni Muslims in Deonar by Dec

·         Muslim Welfare Association Threatens Mass Agitation For 5% Reservation To The Community In Maharashtra

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Europe

·         Prestwich Mosque: Muslim Worshipper Blasts Pro-Israel Tory Candidate

·         Islamist preacher Anjem Choudary compares himself to Kevin Keegan at terror trial

·         UK’s Sunak urges right-wing voters to stand by his party

·         Muslim Vote group says it will target Labor ministers and whip at next federal election

·         Labour supporters urged to step down from Stoke mosque committee

·         Voting Labour would be a massive black mark against British Muslims

·         Jewish community condemn treatment of Bury South candidate at mosque

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North America

·         Museum of Jurassic Technology Aims to Recreate Islamic Spain in LA

·         Putin Allies' Feud Spills Out into Open after 'Islamist Terrorists' Jibe

·         US military bases in Europe put on high alert amid possible terrorist threat

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Africa

·         Borno bombing: 14 survivors discharged as Shettima pays condolence visit

·         Turkey mediating Somalia-Ethiopia talks on port deal -officials

·         ‘We Are In A State Of War’ — Army On Borno Suicide Bombings

·         Borno Bombing Death Toll Now 31

·         Borno Suicide Bombing: US, UN Condemn ‘Horrific Attacks’

·         Boko Haram and western education: the surprising views of some Nigerians who left the insurgency group

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Southeast Asia

·         Report: Singapore’s money remittances at high risk of being misused for terrorism financing

·         Malaysia ready to deploy peacekeepers to Palestine with Indonesia, says PM Anwar

·         Man seeks court to declare he’s Sikh, never been Muslim – MKini

·         Malaysia ready to send peacekeepers to Palestine, says PM Anwar

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South Asia

·         Promoting the Spirit ofThe Five Principles Of Peaceful Coexistence

·         Doha meeting representing IEA’s strong diplomacy

·         Former Afghan interior minister calls for UN to remove Otunbayeva and cleanse UNAMA

·         US and Qatar officials meet at Doha summit to support women in Afghanistan

·         Local and Female Artists Shine in Herat’s Art Exhibition

·         Uzbek investors call on Deputy PM Beradar

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Arab World

·         ‘Many Challenges’ In Combating Islamophobia, Protecting Human Rights: Top OIC Official

·         Reconnect With ‘Harry Potter,’ ‘The Batman’ And More at Jeddah’s New Entertainment Destination

·         OIC holds international symposium on Jerusalem, Gaza war in Jeddah

·         Arabic Language Month in India organized by Saudi Arabia

·         Burkinabe conjoined twins arrive in Riyadh for possible separation

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Pakistan

·         MQM-P, PPP Trade Barbs over ‘Politics of Hatred’

·         TikTok Says Pakistan Telecommunication Authority Responsible For Reporting Blasphemous Content

·         Nine terrorists killed in Khyber, Lakki actions

·         Militant attacks down 20pc in June: PICSS data

·         Telecom Operators Allowed To Share Suspects’ Data with Police

·         Pakistan seeks immediate release of its citizens from Indian prisons

·         'PTI constitutes team for negotiation with JUI-F'

·         PM lauds Army for successful operations against terrorists

·         PM for boosting Pak-Kazakh trade, investment ties

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Mideast

·         First Civil Divorce Ruling Made In Abu Dhabi Courtroom between Muslim and Non-Muslim

·         Turkey: Historic Mosque Built By One of the Ottoman Grand Viziers Restored With Authentic Keşan Stone

·         ​Islamic Resistance announces targeting of Zionist military sites

·         Palestinian group Islamic Jihad fires rockets into Israel, no casualties reported

·         Israel strikes southern Gaza after ordering evacuations

·         Palestinian Authority pledges more backing for NGOs in Gaza

·         Iranian presidential candidates accuse each other of having no plan or experience ahead of runoff

Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau

URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/cricket-mohammed-siraj-allah-celebratory/d/132622

 

Cricket Isn’t Immune To Communal Hate: Mohammed Siraj’s Celebratory Post Thanking Allah for the Victory on X Stirred Strom

01 July, 2024

Credit: Mohammed Siraj, X

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India’s seven-run victory in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 final against South Africa had the country dancing with joy. The world champion’s trophy was finally ours after years of drought. However, the storm stirred by Mohammed Siraj’s celebratory post on X was a reminder—that cricket isn’t immune to communal hate.

Often hailed as India’s unofficial religion, the sport has always united the country. Whether a cricketer believes in Ram, Allah, Guru Nanak or Jesus, he is worshipped by every Indian fan. But this fandom has gone through an unfortunate change in the last decade. Like Hardik Pandya, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav and others, Siraj also posted a picture of the team lifting the trophy. While others received gratitude from fans, the right-arm fast bowler’s comment section was full of vitriol. Why? Because he thanked Allah for the victory.

Siraj’s caption, “Thank you almighty Allah”, didn’t sit well with some users. “It’s victory of Team India, not Allah….Why attaching everything with Islam,” said a user. Another wrote, “If Allah is Almighty then why did Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh not win? Instead of thanking the eleven players who won the match, are you thanking Allah?”

The backlash against Siraj’s post isn’t just unfair; it showcases a disturbing intolerance within the fanbase. His expression of gratitude is a personal act of faith and it does not detract from the team’s collective achievement. But when have the haters on the internet ever cared about logic or respect? This isn’t the first time they went after Siraj. In 2023, when the Indian team was playing a test series against Australia in Ahmedabad, the crowd chanted ‘Jai Shri Ram’ at him and Mohammed Shami.

Religion has seldom entered the discussions of Indian cricket until now. It looks like things are changing — for the worse.

The comments on Siraj’s post come days after the brutal killing of 23-year-old Salman Vohra, after a cricket match in Gujarat’s Chikhodra.

What began as a sports event, reportedly turned violent, fueled by communal tensions. Muslim players had been performing well in the tournament and it angered a section of the locals. Salman was mercilessly beaten to death, while the crowd cheered.

The fact that a young man lost his life simply for being present at a cricket match underscores the urgent need to address this toxic communal divide.

Cricket’s beauty lies in its ability to bring people together from different backgrounds to celebrate a shared passion.

Introducing religious elements is going to kill the game, leading to unnecessary controversies and distracting from what truly matters: the players, their performances and the thrill of competition.

The Indian cricket team’s magnificent win at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, on 29 June was the result of each player’s efforts. It shouldn’t matter which god they thanked for it; they made us the world champion.

Source: theprint.in

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://theprint.in/opinion/pov/dont-give-communal-spin-to-spirit-of-cricket-siraj-thanking-allah-is-his-business/2155479/

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‘We Don’t Want To Engage With You People’: UK Conservative Party Candidate Hounded At Mosque over Gaza War

JULY 2, 2024

Rabbi Arnold Saunders.

(photo credit: screenshot)

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Rabbi Arnold Saunders, a candidate for the UK’s Conservative Party, was invited to speak at Masjid Bilal Mosque in Manchester last month, where worshippers hounded him regarding his stance on the Israel-Hamas war, footage of the event revealed.

“Don’t come to the house of Allah and try to engage with us when we know that when you’re in your own places you’re saying it is good that they kill the children,” a worshipper told Rabbi Saunders in reference to civilians killed in Gaza by IDF forces.

The Hamas-run Gaza health ministry has claimed that nearly 38,000 Palestinians have been killed in the conflict so far. However, the ministry does not distinguish between combatants and non-combatants.

Saunders was repeatedly asked to condemn the IDF and questioned if he voted for a ceasefire - despite not currently being an elected official with the capacity to vote on such an issue.

“We don’t want to engage with you people, we don’t want to engage with you justifiers of child killers,” the worshipper said, in comments labelled as “blood libel” by the Campaign Against Antisemitism movement.

The worshipper, according to the footage, did not mention that hostages held captive in Gaza nor the over 1,200 people killed on October 7 by Hamas terrorists.

Jewish community condemn the incident

The Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester said in a statement: “Rabbi Saunders is a much respected communal figure and we unequivocally condemn his treatment in this video. It is unquestionably antisemitic and we expect action to be taken.

“The incident occurred following an invitation by the mosque to meet their congregants. As an organization we were delighted to invite and welcome members from the mosque to our hustings. The fact he has been attacked emphasizes how individuals are importing the tragic conflict taking place in Israel and Gaza onto the streets of the UK.

“This is manifesting itself in politicians campaigning in a general election being targeted, abused and unable to freely move around the constituencies they are seeking to represent. When politicians are unable to speak about their views in public, have meetings disrupted and their offices attacked, it constitutes a real risk to our democracy. We hope that there are no further scenes of this nature as we approach polling day.”

A spokesperson for the Board of Deputies said: "We are disgusted by the abusive treatment of Rabbi Arnold Saunders, a candidate in Bury South. Rabbi Saunders had been invited by the elders of a local mosque; the video shows that some of the attendees took issue with this, and the footage clearly shows the rabbi was being targeted in this fashion due to his religion. We urge all who care about the health of our democracy to call out this bigotry."

Labour candidate in Bury South Christian Wakeford also condemned the incident, stating ”Both Bilal Mosque and Rabbi Saunders have undertaken many years of progressive interfaith work which is in stark contrast to this individual’s behavior which is totally unacceptable.

“We get nowhere in the world without dialogue and this is not representative of Bury South.”

Wakeford added that "Despite political disagreements myself and Rabbi Saunders have always had an excellent relationship and I hope he is ok following this incident.”

Source: jpost.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-808572

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The Caliphate Complaint Box: Stories of Islamic State Governance in the Words of Those Who Lived It

JULY 01, 2024

In the summer of 2014, the terrorist organization known as the Islamic State declared itself the governing entity of a vast swath of territory across Iraq and Syria encompassing millions of people, who were now ‘citizens’ of the Islamic State. Although it is well-known that the group’s governance approach carried with it the strict and sometimes violent implementation of their interpretation of Islamic law, there has been comparatively limited evidence regarding the nature of the complaints that arose during this time. This report relies on 396 previously unreleased primary source documents created by both members and civilians of the Islamic State highlighting problems encountered under the group’s governing eye—the Caliphate Complaint Box.

These documents provide a vivid first-hand account of the challenges people faced living under the Islamic State. They demonstrate that, despite the group’s propaganda effort to highlight its establishment of a just society with a well-functioning government, the reality on the ground was much different. Given that any single analysis or summary cannot capture all the nuance included in these documents, the Combating Terrorism Center is releasing all of these documents through its website in an effort to promote future research on the Islamic State. However, this report does highlight some of the initial findings from an analysis of the material:

The Islamic State faced regular bureaucratic challenges. Despite the promise of being different than other forms of government, the Islamic State struggled to keep track of paperwork and people, at times leading to confusion and disillusionment among those living under its control.

Women living in the caliphate faced an uphill battle. Although perhaps not surprising, these documents drive home the inequity faced by women in the caliphate when it came to resolving issues of concern. Several complaints show women having to repeatedly seek help in order to provide for their families after losing husbands. Additionally, the documents contain multiple examples of men in positions of power targeting women with abuse.

Citizens suffered raids and harsh treatment by both religious and security-oriented police. The laws of the Islamic State were strict, but these documents show that the execution of justice could be both harsh and uneven. People living in the caliphate might find their children hit during a raid or their vehicle confiscated at a checkpoint without a clear indication as to why or what the resolution would be.

The Islamic State military bureaucracy faced challenges in recruiting, equipping, and managing its forces. The Islamic State was a group formed through military conquest. The Complaint Box documents show that, despite these successes against an array of external adversaries, the group’s military wing struggled with issues, including but not limited to the production of military weapons, leadership of training units and battlefield forces, and putting soldiers in the right units and places.

Source: ctc.westpoint.edu

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://ctc.westpoint.edu/the-caliphate-complaint-box-stories-of-islamic-state-governance-in-the-words-of-those-who-lived-it/

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Borno suicide bomber begged for alms before detonating bomb – Commissioner

1st July 2024

Borno State Government has revealed that one of the suspected female suicide bombers who killed 18 people in Gwoza, a town near the border with Cameroon, on Saturday, came to the venue begging for alms shortly before the explosion took place.

This was disclosed by the state Commissioner for Local Government and Emirates Affairs, Sugum Mai Mele, when he featured as a guest on Monday’s edition of Channels Television’s Politics Today.

The coordinated attacks, carried out by the women, affected a wedding, a hospital and a funeral in Tashan Mararaba and Gwoza town in the state.

But Mele said they discovered during the debriefing of some suspects detained at the site of the explosion that the attackers beat the military screening by mingling with the women returning from the farms.

So This Happened (EP 254) Reviews Tinubu's Order To Civil Servants Abroad To Refund Salary, Others0.00 / 0.00

He said, “It was discovered from the ladies who were detained for briefing at the bomb blast (site) that they are in fact, indigenes. But they smuggled in the bomb through some women coming back from their farms. They usually go to their farms in the morning. They came in through the military gates. These people were smuggled in.

“As the former Speaker has rightly said, it is the laxity of the part of the screening exercise. Before now, when the farmers were going out, they issued tax and would be registered. In the evening when they come back, they will be marked in the register that they have come back. Anybody who didn’t come in may be arrested or not allowed to go in.

“What happened here was that the women were allowed in with the men that went to the farm with them. We heard one of them was even carrying a baby. She went to the venue of the incident. She was begging and people have even started giving her incentives like N20, N50, and N100. She had been collecting the money in the name of a beggar. So suddenly, she just detonated the bomb. This is what is happening.”

When asked to confirm if the women were from the area and not foreigners as being speculated in some quarters, the commissioner nodded.

According to him, some of the suspects debriefed affirmed that they had only recently returned to their ancestral homes after they were previously displaced by insurgents.

“Some of the women brought in for debriefing were earlier displaced. Some were in Maiduguri and Cameroon. So when the security situation improved, they went back to their ancestral homes to pick up the pieces of their lives after the military allowed them to return.

“They have cleared and started harvesting their farms. They are residing in Gwoza permanently. I think there should be some seriousness in the screening exercise on the indigenes because Gwoza is a densely populated area. They have a population of over 30,000 households and we can’t know all their identities,” he stated.

On Monday, Vice President Kashim Shettima confirmed that the death toll from the bomb blast has hit 32.

The former Borno governor disclosed this when he paid a condolence visit to the victims and families of those who lost their lives in the gory attacks.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the VP’s spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha.

Shettima was also said to have made a personal donation to the affected families of those killed by the multiple explosions, saying the heart of President Bola Tinubu was with them.

He said, “The heart of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is with the victims and he specifically instructed us to come and offer our condolences and commiserations to the victims of this incident.

“We are here with the Director General of NEMA, with the Minister of Agriculture, with the Minister of Transportation, and, of course, the Chief Whip of the Senate, a son of the soil from Gwoza, who was here since yesterday (Sunday), and the Acting Governor. They have been working round the clock to provide succour and support to the victims.

Source: punchng.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://punchng.com/borno-suicide-bomber-begged-for-alms-before-detonating-bomb-commissioner/

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Men brutally caned for drinking alcohol in Indonesia and breaking Sharia law

1 JUL 2024

Three of the men received 42 strikes for breaking Shariah law

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Horrifying images have shown four men being caned for breaking the draconian Sharia law.

M. Fais Akbar, Aulia Syahputra, Yusdi, Cukri Ramadhan, were all identified by Indonesian newspaper Kompas as receiving between 19 and 42 lashes for drinking alcohol - a practice forbidden in the province of Aceh, on the island of Sumatra. The convicts can be seen being struck by a rattan cane by an Algojo: an anonymous executioner often donned in brown robes.

Two of the convicts were dressed in white tunics, while the other men had red tops on with the district attorney's office name emblazoned across. They were taken to the centre of a room and made to bow their heads before receiving their punishment.

It is alleged the cruel beating was temporarily halted after one man groaned in agony after just 10 lashes.

Reports claim he was offered a drink by medics who checked on his condition before the caning continued. According to Mail Online, the Head of the Banda Aceh District Prosecutor's Office confirmed the punishment, stating: "Today, the execution of the caning sentence for four people convicted of violating khamar or being drunk has been completed."

Aceh is the only province in Indonesia that has implemented Sharia law after being granted special autonomy in 2001, strengthened by a peace deal with Jakarta in 2015. The controversial rules criminalise gambling, drinking booze, sex outside of marriage, and same-sex relationships. Even non-Muslims in Aceh are subject to Sharia law, with the Qaran clearly describing intoxicants as 'the work of Satan'.

Earlier this week, it was revealed that Aceh was preparing to cane two men who admitted to having sex. They now face up to 100 lashings if found guilty after a group of vigilantes raided a boarding house.

The arrests sparked huge backlash from human rights activists who have consistently condemned the discriminatory dictatorship. Amnesty International, which has urged the region to stop the practice of caning gay men, say there were 108 canings carried out in 2015 and 100 the following year.

Source: dailystar.co.uk

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.dailystar.co.uk/news/world-news/men-brutally-caned-drinking-alcohol-33144195

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India

 

‘Despite differences, India is one’: Bhagwat releases book on Hamid

July 2, 2024

DESPITE ITS differences, India has functioned as one nation for thousands of years and this unity was apparent whenever it faced attacks from Pakistan or China, Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat said Monday.

Bhagwat was speaking in Ghazipur during the launch of a book on 1965 war hero Abdul Hamid, who was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra.

Bhagwat on Monday visited the native village of Hamid, Dhamupur, where he released a book on Hamid titled ‘Mere Papa Paramvir’ and another book titled ‘Bharat ka Musalman’.

During his address at the event, Bhagwat said, “Despite diversities, India is one nation and one society. We have different religions, castes, communities and states in our country and we speak different languages, but we all are one in the name of the nation and the country. During war with enemy countries, people from all castes, religions and states unite for the nation.”

Earlier, Bhagwat offered tributes at the statues of Hamid and Rasoolan Bibi, Hamid’s wife.

The book ‘Mere Papa Param Vir’ is written by Ramachandran Srinivasan while the book ‘Bharat Ka Musalman’ is authored by Captain (retired) Maqsood Ghazipuri. with PTI input

Source: indianexpress.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/lucknow/despite-differences-india-is-one-bhagwat-releases-book-on-hamid-9427124/

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Attack On Muslims Increased After Lok Sabha Election Results Where The BJP Fell Short Of The Majority: CPI (M)

July 01, 2024

Flagging the attacks on minorities over the past couple of weeks, the CPI (M) Central Committee in a statement at the end of a two-day meeting in Delhi, said that the “communal assaults” have sharpened, after the Lok Sabha results, where the BJP fell short of the majority.

The party pointed out that five Muslim men have reportedly been killed in different incidents in Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat. In Madhya Pradesh, 11 houses of Muslims were demolished based on unsubstantiated allegations of “cow slaughter” or “recovery of beef”. There were similar incidents in Delhi, where residents were forced to flee following the recovery of a cow carcass. Such incidents have been reported from other parts of the country too.

 Communal violence erupts in Jodhpur, two policemen injured

Condemning the attacks, the Central Committee called on party units to hold protests against such incidents. “Such sharpening of communal assaults following the reversals suffered by the BJP highlight the fact that the Hindutva communal forces are intensifying their attempts at polarisation with a renewed vengeance,” the committee said.

The party also criticised the “weaponisation of the central agencies”, underlining the re-arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the CBI and the sanction for prosecution of writer Arundhati Roy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, the party said, wants to float a narrative of “business as usual” by repeating all elected former Ministers and re-electing Om Birla as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.

Source: thehindu.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/attack-on-muslims-increased-after-lok-sabha-election-results-cpim/article68355557.ece

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Now, Jains seek right to worship in disputed Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Mosque complex

01 July 2024

Indore: A social activist has filed a writ petition in the Indore bench of Madhya Pradesh High Court, seeking the "right to worship" for his Jain community members in the disputed Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Mosque complex in Dhar.

The petition has claimed this complex once used to be a Jain Gurukul and a Jain temple where an idol of Goddess Ambika was installed.

The HC is likely to hear this week the petition filed on June 29 by Delhi-based social activist Salek Chand Jain, his lawyer Manohar Singh Chauhan said Monday.

The plea has been moved at a time when the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is set to present a report on its survey of the 11-century Bhojshala complex in the HC following the court order.

The site is claimed by both Hindus and Muslims, leading to a dispute about its nature.

The HC on March 11 directed the ASI to carry out a 'scientific survey' of the Bhojshala complex, a medieval-era monument, on a petition by an organisation named 'Hindu Front for Justice'.

While Hindus believe the monument is a temple of Goddess Vagdevi (Saraswati), the Muslim community calls it Kamal Maula Mosque.

The activist's petition claimed there used to be a Jain Gurukul and Jain temple in the Bhojshala complex where monks from the community and scholars taught students.

The translation of various scriptures in Sanskrit, Prakrit and other languages was also done in this complex, hence members of the Jain community should be given the "right to worship" at this place, the petition said.

The plea also claimed that the idol found in the Bhojshala complex, which the Hindu community calls of Vagdevi (Goddess Saraswati), is actually the idol of the Jain community's Goddess Ambika (Jain Yakshini) which was installed there by King Bhoj of ...

It has been requested through the petition that this idol, kept at a museum in London, should be brought back to India and re-installed in the Bhojshala complex.

The petition also said the central government should be instructed to use the "radiocarbon dating" method to find out the actual age of the Bhojshala complex, the idols, inscriptions and artefacts, etc found there.

Following the court orders, the ASI started the survey of the disputed complex on March 22 and the exercise ended recently.

According to the HC order, the ASI has to submit a complete report of the survey of the disputed complex by July 2.

Source: deccanherald.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.deccanherald.com/india/madhya-pradesh/now-jains-seek-right-to-worship-in-disputed-bhojshala-kamal-maula-mosque-complex-3088007

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After Hijab, Mumbai College Bans Jeans, T-Shirt

July 2, 2024

On Monday, students of Acharya & Marathe College in Chembur sporting jeans and T-shirt were in for a rude shock as they were stopped from entering the college.

Reason? The college issued a new dress code banning jeans and T-shirt, days after the Bombay High Court dismissed a plea filed by students of the college, challenging the institute’s dress code banning hijab and other religious identifiers that it issued last year.

According to the notice by the college titled “dress code and other rules” dated June 27, torn-jeans, T-shirts, revealing dresses and jerseys are not allowed.

The notice, signed by Principal of the college Dr. Vidyagauri Lele, states, “Students should wear formal and decent dress while on campus. They can wear a half-shirt or full-shirt and trousers. Girls can wear any Indian or western outfit. Students shall not wear any dress which shows religion or cultural disparity. Niqab, Hijab, Burkha, Stole, Cap, Badge etc shall be removed by going to common rooms on the ground floor and then only they can move throughout the college campus.”

Ateeque Khan from Govandi Citizens Association, who was approached by many students, said, “Last year they banned hijab. This year they have banned jeans and t-shirts which are very commonly worn by not only college-going youngsters but by all irrespective of religion and gender. We do not understand what they are trying to impose on the students by bringing such impractical dress-codes.”

However, according to the college, the administration is preparing them to be ready for the corporate world. Principal of the College Dr. Lele said, “We just want students to wear decent clothes. We have not brought in any uniform, but have asked them to wear formal Indian or western clothes. After all, they will be expected to wear those once they are employed.”

Dr. Lele said the dress code was informed to students at the time of admissions and she cannot fathom why they should raise concerns about it now. “Out of 365 days of the year, students hardly have to be in college for 120-130 days. What problem should they have to adhere to a dress code for these days?” she said adding that it was multiple instances of indecent behavior on campus by students which led the administration to bring out the new dress code.

In the last academic session, the college introduced uniforms for students from the junior college section, which banned hijab among other religious identifiers. Students were asked to remove hijab or niqab at a designated place in college after entering the gate. Nine students had moved the Bombay High Court against the ban. But their plea was dismissed by the HC last month stating that larger academic interest doesn’t violate rights.

Source: indianexpress.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/mumbai/students-of-chembur-college-turned-away-as-institute-brings-new-dress-code-banning-jeans-t-shirt-9426960/

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Kerala CM Directs Anger at Indian Union Muslim League over Poor Performance in Lok Sabha Polls

02.07.24

Santosh Kumar

The ruling Left Front may have lost 19 of the 20 Lok Sabha seats in Kerala for the second consecutive time but chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan is unfazed.

Ignoring criticism that his style of functioning was solely responsible for the drubbing, Vijayan, who had tried to woo Muslims throughout the campaign, has now directed his ire at the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML).

The general feeling in the state is that Vijayan’s “outreach” to the Muslims, with the 2026 Assembly elections in mind, had alienated other communities, especially the Hindus, from the CPM.

Statistics, however, show that Muslims had ignored Vijayan’s pitch that the CPM alone would be able to protect the community’s interests, especially in the light of the Citizenship Amendment Act, and voted for the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) en masse.

Though the IUML is the backbone of the UDF, Muslims by and large had voted for the LDF in the 2021 Assembly elections that saw Vijayan coast to power for a record second time.

Addressing an event in Muslim-dominated Kozhikode, Vijayan said the IUML had suffered a loss of face since it had aligned with Jamat-e-Islami and the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) — the political wing of the banned Popular Front of India — for electoral gains.

Elamaram Karim, the only senior Muslim leader in the CPM, was fielded from Kozhikode where he lost to his Congress rival by more than 1.15 lakh votes.

The IUML was quick to react. In an editorial titled “Will appearance be better by breaking the mirror?”, the party mouthpiece Chandrika accused the CPM of relaunching its “crooked strategy of cutting and dividing the wards in favour of the party”.

It added: “The ‘Modi wearing mundu’ is doing the copy-paste of the real Modi’s tactics.”

With the state CPM taking stock of its defeat and the party’s general secretary Sitaram Yechury hinting at a change of leadership, many believe that Vijayan is trying to ward off future attacks by raking up communal divide as the reason for the party’s dismal performance.

According to final poll tally, a major share of the Ezhava vote — the traditional CPM supporters — has gone in favour of the BJP.

With the BJP overtaking the CPM in 11 Assembly segments and coming just behind in another 10, it is almost certain that the saffron party will be a force to reckon with in the next Assembly elections.

Vijayan and the CPM maintain that the voters of the state were “misled” by the Congress and the BJP, and that the party’s soon-to-be-launched “awareness campaign” would bring them back on the right track.

However, many say the problem lies with Vijayan and not the electorate.

“As is the case with Narendra Modi in the BJP, there is no one in the state CPM or in its central leadership to say openly that the emperor has no clothes,” said K.C. Umesh Babu, activist and one-time CPM member.

Rift in party?

In Kannur, CPM strongman P. Jayarajan is facing heat over allegations that he is trying to build his own group within the party.

Last month, Jayarajan had suggested that Kerala wanted to see former health minister K.K. Shailaja as their future chief minister.

Manu Thomas, former leader of the CPM’s youth front DYFI, has alleged that Jayarajan has been plotting to form a rival group against Vijayan and state secretary M.V. Govindan, both hailing from Kannur.

Though the state leadership has not reacted to the allegations, Jayarajan and his son Jain Raj have engaged in a war of words with Thomas on social media.

Jayarajan, a one-time close ally of Vijayan, has drifted apart ever since he was accused of encouraging a personality cult among party workers in the district following which he was forced to disband the group known as PJ Army.

In 2019, Jayarajan was removed from the Kannur leadership and contested the Lok Sabha elections that year without success from Vadakara. Shailaja, a sitting MLA, contested from Vadakara unsuccessfully this year.

Source: telegraphindia.com

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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/pinarayi-vijayan-directs-anger-at-indian-union-muslim-league-over-poor-performance-in-lok-sabha-polls/cid/2030882

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BMC to complete new cemetery for Sunni Muslims in Deonar by Dec

Jul 02, 2024

MUMBAI: The Bombay high court (HC) has directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to complete the development of a new cemetery for Sunni Muslims of the Govandi-Deonar area on a 2,977-sq-metre plot in Deonar by December 2024. This directive came from a bench comprising chief justice DK Upadhyay and justice Amit Borkar, following an affidavit from BMC commissioner Bhushan Gagrani undertaking to do the same.

The court was hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Govandi residents Shamsher Ahmed, Abrar Chaudhari, and Abdul Rehman Shah, contending that the current burial ground was full and cannot accommodate the growing population, necessitating additional burial grounds for the eastern suburbs.

In previous hearings, the court had expressed its displeasure with the BMC’s failure to find a suitable burial plot in the eastern suburbs, emphasising the importance of the right to a decent and respectful last rite. The BMC had been unsuccessful in identifying a suitable property despite identifying three potential locations for the burial grounds in the nearby areas of Deonar colony, Rafi Nagar, and a plot near Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited.

However, the Deonar colony site was deemed infeasible due to a solid waste heap. Despite a seven-month search, the BMC struggled to find a suitable location within a three-kilometre vicinity. Subsequently, in the last hearing, the bench directed the BMC commissioner to personally address the issue by filing an affidavit and clarifying if any alternative plot can be explored near Rafi Nagar.

The affidavit disclosed that the state Urban Development Department (UDD) has sanctioned the preservation of the cemetery land under the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning (MRTP) Act. Consequently, a vacant plot of 2977.54 square metres in Deonar has been handed over to the BMC’s health department for the cemetery’s development. The court appreciated the efforts and expressed hope that the project would be completed on time.

The affidavit also highlighted that out of the total 5,242.28-square-metre plot at Deonar cemetery, 2,264.74 square metres have been reserved for a Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) scheme, hindering the cemetery’s development. As a result, the court ordered that development on the 2,977.54 square metre plot should proceed and be completed by December 2024. This area must be temporarily fenced by the BMC to prevent encroachment until a permanent compound wall is built. Similarly, the SRA developer must fence the 2,264.74 square metre plot to protect it from encroachments.

Additionally, the court directed the BMC to examine in a month the feasibility of converting a 28,526.47 square metre plot near the existing Rafi Nagar cemetery, currently reserved for transport, SWM facilities, landfill sites, and a garden/park, into a cemetery.

Regarding another potential cemetery plot owned by Oswal Agro Mills Ltd., near Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd., the affidavit stated that Oswal Agro had agreed to hand over the land to the BMC. In return, the BMC would grant 50% of the total Transferable Development Rights (TDR) immediately upon possession and the remaining 50% after the property cards are transferred to the corporation.

The plot is valued at ₹159 crore, and the collector has asked for a 30% deposit of this amount ( ₹47.72 crore). Advocate Ram Apte, representing the BMC, informed the court that the possession of this plot was expected to be taken within three months. The court directed that the possession must be handed over within this period, making it clear that Oswal Agro is bound by this order.

Source: hindustantimes.com

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https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/mumbai-news/bmc-to-complete-new-cemetery-for-sunni-muslims-in-deonar-by-dec-101719860706048.html

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Muslim Welfare Association Threatens Mass Agitation For 5% Reservation To The Community In Maharashtra

Jul 1, 2024

MUMBAI: Reiterating their demand for 5% Muslim quota, a group of Muslim leaders have threatened mass agitation soon if the government fails to give reservation (5%) to the community at least in education which even the Bombay High Court had allowed.

Joining hands under an organisation called Muslim Welfare Association, the activists and leaders said they would support the party and the alliance which fulfils the High Court’s order which allowed 5% reservation to Muslims in education.” There is a party which says reservation cannot be given to Muslims as there is no religion-based reservation. But the same party is in alliance with a pro-Muslim reservation party in Andhra Pradesh. If the same party can support Muslim reservation in Andhra Pradesh, why is it against this reservation in Maharashtra,”? asked NCP (Ajit Pawar) leader Saleem Sarang. He added that the community will be forced to launch a peaceful agitation across the state and will continue the fight till their demands are met and at least 5% reservation in education is given.

Activist M A Khalid declared that soon a movement would be launched in the state with a clear message that only the parties which support our demand for reservation will get our votes. “We are going to make it very clear that only those parties or alliance of parties will get our votes in the forthcoming assembly elections which promise Muslim quota in their manifesto. No political party should take us for granted,” said Khalid. Jalgaon-based activist Raghib Ahmed said different inquiry commissions had recommended reservation to Muslims but the governments have been dilly dallying on granting Muslims their quota. “Our fight is for equality,” he said.

Activists resolved to hold meetings across the state to create awareness about Muslim reservation and put pressure on the government to honour the High Court’s order.

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com

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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/muslim-group-threatens-mass-agitation-for-5-reservation-to-the-community/articleshow/111412397.cms

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Europe

 

Prestwich mosque: Muslim worshipper blasts pro-Israel Tory candidate

1st July 2024

The pro-Israel Tory candidate for Bury South, Rabbi Arnie Saunders, was berated by a Muslim worshipper at Bilal Mosque in Prestwich on June 21.

Footage on social media shows a man calling for Saunders to condemn Israel’s actions in Gaza.

The man says: “Condemn the IDF, condemn the killing of children, of women, of old people, of livestock.”

The man continues: “Tell him to go. He should go. Ask him to go. We don’t want to engage with you people. We don’t want to engage with you. You justify child killers. You say that it’s right that they cut off water and electricity supplies. You say that and then you come here and smile like a snake.”

He added: “You’re not getting our vote.”

Saunders was apparently invited to meet the congregation by the mosque committee but had to leave after being challenged over his support for Israel.

The Board of Deputies of British Jews said in a statement: “We are disgusted by the abusive treatment of Rabbi Arnold Saunders, a candidate in Bury South.

“Rabbi Saunders had been invited by the elders of a local mosque; the video shows that some of the attendees took issue with this, and the footage clearly shows the rabbi was being targeted in this fashion due to his religion. We urge all who care about the health of our democracy to call out this bigotry.”

Masjid e Bilal commented: “On the 21st of June 2024, Masjid E Bilal conducted one of a number of its Meet-and-Greet events for prospective Parliamentary candidates of Bury South. Rabbi Arnold Saunders, who is the Conservative candidate, was invited to attend on behalf of the Conservative Party to converse with the congregation, in an open event.

“The event was well received, and the Rabbi was welcomed, and most people present engaged positively with the Rabbi. Unfortunately, one or two individuals, questioned the Rabbi in a hostile manner and this clip has been widely circulated. This clip was recorded by one of the individuals himself.

“The Rabbi was a guest of the mosque, and he was treated inappropriately and disrespectfully. Any genuine political questions should have been raised respectfully. We regret what has happened, we have already apologised to the Rabbi for how he was treated and wish to extend our apologies to others who have seen the clip and are upset by it.

“This incident is not reflective of the congregation of the mosque or the Muslim community in Bury. Rabbi Saunders, a seasoned politician with many years of experience, and a former member of the Conservative Muslim Forum has himself taken the incident very calmly. He stated, ‘Most of the people there were receptive, but one or two were a bit hostile because of Israel Gaza, but there was nothing antisemitic.’ (reported in the Jewish Telegraph on the 28th of June).

“Masjid E Bilal has a long track record of good inter-faith relations and positive relations with the Jewish and other faith communities. The Muslim community itself suffered some incidents during the this year’s Purim celebrations at the hands of some youth activists. None of these incidents are reflective of most of the people in the area. We call on anyone attending any election events, wherever it may be, to remain calm and respectful whilst questioning candidates or holding politicians to account.”

Source: 5pillarsuk.com

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https://5pillarsuk.com/2024/07/01/prestwich-mosque-muslim-worshipper-blasts-pro-israel-tory-candidate/

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Islamist preacher Anjem Choudary compares himself to Kevin Keegan at terror trial

1 July 2024

Islamist preacher Anjem Choudary has compared himself to Kevin Keegan, telling his trial that he is so famous he will be forever associated with leading a banned terrorist group.

Choudary, 57, from Ilford in east London, said he suffered from the "Kevin Keegan effect", in a reference to the former England and Liverpool footballer.

Choudary is accused of directing a terrorist organisation called al-Muhajiroun (ALM) before and after his release from prison and for encouraging support for ISIS.

He is accused of delivering online lectures to a branch of the organisation in New York, which were recorded by undercover officers in the US between 2022 and 2023.

In one lecture he boasted of being labelled the "number one radicaliser in Britain" while in prison, where he was kept in a separation unit.

'Kevin Keegan effect'

Paul Hynes KC, defending, asked if being the "naqib" or administrator of al-Muhajiroun was "what you were famous for" before he went to prison.

"Oh yes of course, it is the Kevin Keegan effect," Choudary replied. "I have never moved on from him playing for Liverpool.

"If you ask people about Kevin Keegan, people say he plays football for Liverpool. They look at me as al-Muhajiroun.

"It is like, for me, Nigel Farage is still the Independence Party and George Galloway is Respect - because they are famous for that, that is what they are known as."

Choudary told the jury he had endorsed ISIS in 2014, but never joined the group, unlike many of his associates.

Later, he told the court that, before al-Muhajiroun was banned, he wanted to seek as much publicity as possible, adding "the more high profile the better."

'A well-oiled dawah machine'

"Our methodology was based in the methods of the time to stand on the mountain and shout as loudly as you can. We used the BBC, CNN, ITV, and Sky or go to Trafalgar Square," he added.

"Our structure was very sophisticated - a top-down pyramid with committees and we would meet together.

"We had a very well-oiled dawah [proselytising] machine, it was very, very effective."

Initially al-Muhajiroun was just himself and the group's spiritual leader Omar Bakri Muhammad.

"As it grew, the less role I had to play but in the first few years, I was very busy doing a lot of things," he said.

"We had a big rally in Trafalgar Square, roads shows, at least 70 people became Muslim on the day.

"The publicity we garnered was very, very significant. We had presence on many, many university campuses.

"There was a lot of talks and activities."

Mr Hynes asked if ALM continued to exist on a "semi-secret basis" and Choudary said: "Not at all. It was to promote Islam in the public arena and eventually when you have enough support, that is the time when you take the power."

Theological not terrorist

Mr Hynes asked if al-Muhajiroun was the "political wing" of a "secret more subversive and violent" group.

"No, it never had that," Choudary told the jury. "It was always intellectual, political, theological. Never more than that."

Choudary denies directing a terrorist organisation, membership of a proscribed organisation and addressing meetings to encourage support for a proscribed organisation over the internet from his home between June 2022 and July last year.

Khaled Hussein, 29, from Edmonton, Canada, denies membership of a proscribed organisation.

The case continues.

Source: news.sky.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://news.sky.com/story/islamist-preacher-anjem-choudary-compares-himself-to-kevin-keegan-at-terror-trial-13162037

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UK’s Sunak urges right-wing voters to stand by his party

July 02, 2024

LONDON: British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Monday urged voters on the political right to stick with his Conservatives at this week’s election, saying a huge win for Labour would be bad for the country and its democracy.

Appearing to all but concede defeat before Thursday’s election, Sunak appealed to Conservative voters, some of whom have been shifting to Nigel Farage’s right-wing Reform UK in protest at his Conservative government, to prevent what he called a Labour “super majority.”

The Conservatives look set to be kicked out of office after 14 turbulent years, marked by Britain’s vote to leave the European Union in 2016 and the cost of living crisis that followed the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Opinion polls have consistently given Keir Starmer’s center-left Labour Party an around 20-point lead, with support for Reform potentially splitting the center-right vote and the centrist Liberal Democrats further draining Conservative support.

“If there is an unchecked, unaccountable Labour Party in power with a super majority, think what that would mean for everyone,” Sunak told voters at a rally.

“Once you’ve given Labour a blank check, you won’t be able to get it back, and that means that your taxes are going up ... it’s in their DNA.”

Farage, one of Britain’s most recognizable and divisive politicians, has spent decades railing against the establishment and the European Union, and has in recent years campaigned for Donald Trump in the United States.

SPLIT THE RIGHT

He entered the election in early June — his eighth attempt at winning a seat in the Westminster parliament — vowing to supplant the Conservatives as the main party of the right.

Polls appear to show that Reform’s support peaked in the second half of June, shortly before Farage said the West provoked Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Some of his candidates and supporters have been dropped for racist or inappropriate remarks.

While Britain’s electoral system means Reform may win millions of votes, the party is unlikely to win more than a handful of parliamentary seats. But that could be enough to split the right in many areas and hand victory to Labour.

Reform said on Monday its membership had doubled from 30,000 to 60,000 in a month, and that donations would help it fund an advertising campaign through the last week.

“It is humbling but also very telling that they are prepared to back their faith in Reform UK with hard-earned cash and I thank each and every one of them,” Farage said in a statement.

Britain will likely elect a center-left government as much of Europe swings right, including in France where Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally won the first round of a parliamentary election on Sunday.

With polls showing many voters are undecided, Sunak made a final plea for people to limit Labour’s power if it gets into government, saying: “I say to every Conservative: don’t surrender to Labour, fight for every vote, fight for our values, and fight for our vision of Britain.”

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2541671/world

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Muslim Vote group says it will target Labor ministers and whip at next federal election

Tue, 2 July 2024

A new “grassroots” political movement called the Muslim Vote says it will back at least three independent candidates aiming to topple Labor ministers and the government whip in western Sydney at the next federal election.

The Muslim Vote – established in response to community anger at Labor’s handling of the war in Gaza – plans to back candidates in Watson, Blaxland and Werriwa, a spokesperson said on Tuesday.

Labor’s leader of the house, Tony Burke, has held Watson since 2004 while the minister for education, Jason Clare, has been the MP for Blaxland since 2007. The government whip, Anne Stanley, has held Werriwa since 2016.

The electorates have been held by Labor for decades along with other safe western Sydney seats the party relies on at federal polls.

The seats have large migrant communities and a Muslim Vote spokesperson told Guardian Australia the group was seeking to shake things up so communities were better represented.

Related: ‘Egg on his face’: sniping resumes despite NSW Coalition peace deal as MP blasts Liberal leader

The self-described “grassroots movement” was working to mobilise volunteers who would support the independent candidates. Other seats that could be targeted include McMahon and Parramatta.

The organisation was also looking to back lower house candidates in Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia and the ACT.

The first high-profile independent was due to be announced later this week, the Muslim Vote said on Tuesday. A second candidate was to be revealed early next week.

The spokesperson, who talked on the condition of anonymity, said they had been approached by various organisations seeking to support independent candidates and were working with local communities regarding who might stand.

The Muslim Vote website states it is focused on “justice for Palestine” and that “the Australian Muslim community is uniting”.

The spokesperson told the Guardian: “This is about shifting power. Our votes are not for sale but they are for lease. All future leaders should be warned not to take our community’s vote for granted.”

In recent days, Muslim groups have come out in support of Western Australia Labor senator Fatima Payman who says she has been “exiled” by the party and colleagues after stating she might cross the floor again on votes relating to Palestinian statehood.

Anthony Albanese suspended Payman indefinitely from Labor’s caucus after an ABC interview on Sunday when the senator said she would cross the floor if faced with another motion to recognise Palestine.

Mahmud Hawila, a prominent Muslim barrister and supporter of the Muslim Vote, said the group had mobilised “thousands” of volunteers and held community consultations.

“They have a register of thousands of volunteers, they have an established social media campaign, and a lot more going on offline. They have door knocked, they have conducted polling, they have surveyed. They have campaign experts as well as senior political advisors who are on board and advising the movement,” Hawila said.

“Right now they are finalising their support for candidates and are looking to step up in the coming weeks.”

Hawila said the federal government should be “very concerned” about the movement’s potential to energise voters who may have turned against Labor.

“So many members of the community feel Labor are out of touch with the reality on the ground – that their position on Israel has isolated them. This isn’t just about the Muslim vote. There are many concerns about Labor policies, on housing, climate and cost of living.”

Electoral analyst Ben Raue said wins in Labor heartland would be difficult but the party’s vote would be “eroded.”

“Nationally, the Labor party vote is very low. The primary vote for Labor to win the last election was about 33% – that was a really low level.

“Chipping away at their vote could cause problems for Labor. Labor’s already lost one seat to an independent in western Sydney with Dai Le in Fowler.”

Raue said there wasn’t otherwise a history of independents succeeding in western Sydney seats but that could change over time.

“Often these things build slowly. There is certainly potential for something to happen here.”

Watson is held by Burke with a margin of 15.1%. Muslims make up 25.1% of the population in the seat. Blaxland, held by Clare, has a margin of 14.9% and a Muslim population of 31.7%.

Source: uk.news.yahoo.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://uk.news.yahoo.com/muslim-vote-group-says-target-050734740.html

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Labour supporters urged to step down from Stoke mosque committee

1st July 2024

Worshippers at Stoke Central Mosque are demanding that Labour Party supporters in the masjid committee resign otherwise protests inside the mosque will be held starting this Friday.

“This is treachery, that you have people in the masjid committee who can side with and who can campaign for those who support the genocide of our brothers and sisters,” a worshipper told the congregation.

Source: 5pillarsuk.com

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https://5pillarsuk.com/2024/07/01/labour-supporters-urged-to-step-down-from-stoke-mosque-committee/

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Voting Labour would be a massive black mark against British Muslims

1st July 2024

In this open letter to British Muslims, the team from MPACUK says we must redeem ourselves for past mistakes when we voted Labour despite their complicity in the murder of our brothers and sisters.

Dear Muslims,

For 24 years MPACUK have asked Muslims to vote tactically, in a block, to de-seat Zionist MPs that have continued to enable the ethnic cleansing of Palestine, or MPs that are responsible for the illegal, senseless murder of 4 million Muslims in Iraq or for the emboldening genocidal leaders in India.

We never understood why something so fundamentally moral and Islamic was met with so much hate from our own. We can only conclude that Muslims that opposed us were acting in blatant self-interest and greed. The lust for power had clearly got to them.

Just like in Bosnia, the horrors of what we have seen so far in Gaza is just the tip of the iceberg. With time, there will be more evidence of mass graves, attacks on last-ditch flimsy refugee tents, systematic rape in Israeli detention, Palestinian hostages with organs missing and British aid workers murdered.

Continuing to vote Labour, despite their enablement of such heinous crimes would epitomise the moral cowardice of Muslims and our leadership.

If, like us, it baffles you as to how we ended up here, remember that Muslims blindly continued to vote Labour despite their unforgiveable crimes against our Ummah. Wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, the constant narrative that Muslims cannot coexist in the West, the apparent no-go areas and Trojan Horse scandals have dehumanised Muslims to the point that the world can just stand by and watch as Israel annihilates the Palestinian people.

There were sincere people on our journey. Take Rochdale for example – they heard our message and they responded. They were the first constituency ever to successfully de-seat a Zionist MP and they did it again in a recent by-election, when they voted in George Galloway. Those that remain sincere will prevail. To the constituents of Rochdale – we salute you.

So now, you have all bought kheffiyeh, you are finally marching, emblazoned with Palestine badges, but when we put the call out to take to the streets and go door to door ahead of the most important elections of our life and the life of Palestinians, you regressed to sit on your lapels and be nothing but bystanders, content to say “Someone else will do it, and make them pay.”

Imagine on 4th of July Labour wins with a majority, and there will be no effective opposition to stand in Parliament and be the voice of Palestine. That means Israel can do anything to Muslims with no repercussions, no matter how loud we the people raise our voices.

They can behead babies, they can wrench organs from hostages, they can weaponise starvation, they can gaslight you into thinking that these numbers are not real, that Israel can continue to operate under their title of the so-called “Most moral army in the world.”

Those of you who care, where there is potential for a split vote – go with the sincere candidate, one who opposes genocide, not supports it.

Source: 5pillarsuk.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://5pillarsuk.com/2024/07/01/voting-labour-would-be-a-massive-black-mark-against-british-muslims/

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Jewish community condemn treatment of Bury South candidate at mosque

1st July

Rabbi Arnold Saunders, a councillor in Salford, who uses a walking stick, was left shaking as he was harangued and called a “snake”.

He had gone to Masjid Bilal mosque in Prestwich to speak after prayers last Friday, as he is standing for the Conservative Party in the Bury South constituency in the General Election.

He had been invited there by Muslim elders, but a video online shows the elderly candidate being abused before he enters and finally leaves without speaking.

Mr Saunders said: “I visited the mosque a week last Friday at the invitation of the president and the consent of the imam.

"The event was intended to meet and greet worshippers before and after Friday prayers.

"There were around 500 people there, with the vast majority very courteous.

"However there were a number of individuals who took exception to my presence and became abusive and were quite intimidating.

"I thank the mosque for inviting me. On the whole the visit went well. It just saddens me that some individuals tried to spoil it.”

The Board of Deputies of British Jews said in a statement: “We are disgusted by the abusive treatment of Rabbi Arnold Saunders, a candidate in Bury South.

“Rabbi Saunders had been invited by the elders of a local mosque; the video shows that some of the attendees took issue with this and the footage clearly shows the Rabbi was being targeted in this fashion due to his religion.

“We urge all who care about the health of our democracy to call out this bigotry.”

During the four-minute incident, a man shouting at Rabbi Saunders tells him not to “come to the house of Allah” and orders him to leave, claiming: “You justified children to be murdered…when you are with your own people these are the things you say, then you come here and smile like a snake.”

Christian Wakeford, who, until the election was called the Labour MP for Bury South and the party’s candidate on Thursday, July 4, said in a statement on X: “Both Bilal Mosque and Rabbi Saunders have undertaken many years of progressive interfaith work which is in stark contrast to this individual’s behaviour which is totally unacceptable.

“We get nowhere in the world without dialogue and this is not representative of Bury South.

“Despite political disagreements myself and Rabbi Saunders have always had an excellent relationship and I hope he is ok following this incident.”

The Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester, said in a statement: “Rabbi Saunders is a much respected communal figure and we unequivocally condemn his treatment in this video.

“It is unquestionably antisemitic and we expect action to be taken.

“The incident occurred following an invitation by the mosque to meet their congregants.

“As an organisation we were delighted to invite and welcome members from the mosque to our hustings.

“The fact he has been attacked emphasises how individuals are importing the tragic conflict taking place in Israel and Gaza onto the streets of the UK.

“This is manifesting itself in politicians campaigning in a General Election being targeted, abused and unable to freely move around the constituencies they are seeking to represent.

“When politicians are unable to speak about their views in public, have meetings disrupted and their offices attacked, it constitutes a real risk to our democracy.

“We hope that there are no further scenes of this nature as we approach polling day.”

Masjid Bilal has been contacted for comment.

Source: burytimes.co.uk

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.burytimes.co.uk/news/24422871.jewish-community-condemn-treatment-bury-south-candidate-mosque/

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North America

 

Museum of Jurassic Technology Aims to Recreate Islamic Spain in LA

02-07-24

LOS ANGELES — The Museum of Jurassic Technology (MJT) specializes in the kind of wonder found in the encyclopedic museums of bygone eras, mixing art and science, fact and fiction, history and whimsy. Since its founding in 1988, it has presented exhibitions on a diverse array of subjects — some of dubious veracity, including the Microminiatures of Hagop Sandaldjian, Ricky Jay’s collection of decaying dice, the stink ant of Cameroon, and Soviet space dogs. This September, as part of the upcoming PST ART initiative focused on the intersection of art and science, the museum will take on its most ambitious endeavor yet: an exploration of Islamic architectural forms created in Spain from the 9th through the 16th centuries.

“Hands down, it’s the largest project we’ve ever done at the museum by a lot,” David Wilson, the museum’s founder, told Hyperallergic of A Veiled Gazelle – Intimations of the Infinite and Eternal – Islamic Geometries of Medieval al-Andalus.

The roots of the exhibition lie far from Spain, however, in the Central Asian nation of Uzbekistan. Wilson and a small crew had traveled there in 2007 during the making of the film The Great Soviet Eclipse, which chronicled Soviet astronomers who moved from Leningrad to Uzbekistan fleeing Soviet repression in the 1930s.

“We were just knocked out by these stunningly beautiful architectural monuments …particularly by muqarnas, honeycomb-like geometric forms,” Wilson explained. Muqarnas are essentially highly decorative versions of the squinch, an architectural element that marks the transition from straight walls to a curved dome. The earliest examples of this centuries-old form are located in Iran and Uzbekistan, but they are seen throughout the Islamic world, including in Al-Andalus, parts of the Iberian Peninsula that were Muslim-ruled from 711 to 1492.

Based on his MacArthur Foundation award-winning fusion of the technical and creative, Wilson was approached by the Getty Foundation a few years ago and encouraged to submit a proposal for the  PST initiative opening this falll. He received two grants totalling $210,000 for research and implementation for A Veiled Gazelle, which will focus on the development of muqarnas and lacería, another type of Islamic geometric ornament formed by intersecting lines  found in Muslim Spain. Wilson notes that Andalusian versions of these forms are unique in that they represent a synthesis of Islamic design with European building practices, notably in wood.

The grants funded trips to Spain to visit important examples of these forms, including the Alhambra. The museum also collaborated with artist Ángel María Martín, founder of Centro de Interpretación de la Carpintería Mudéjar in Ávila, who spent three weeks in LA in 2022 teaching Wilson and his team “how to make these crazy ceilings entirely out of wood,” Wilson said. After Martín left, the MJT crew was tasked with following his techniques, using traditional plaster and woodwork as well as 3-D printing to fabricate all the elements in their workshop, the largest of which is a lacería ceiling that measures roughly 22 by 15 feet.

Although the museum received substantial support from the Getty, it still needed additional funds to realize the project. In April, the Mike Kelley Foundation announced the recipients of its fourth annual Operational Support Grants, a program originally set up during the pandemic to support the pressing needs of LA County arts organizations. Totaling $400,000, the grants were awarded to a range of established and emerging institutions, from LAXART and REDCAT to the Coaxial Arts Foundation, Self-Help Graphics, Human Resources, and Fulcrum Arts. MJT received $28,000 to bring the new permanent exhibition, which will span three gallery spaces, to life.

Wilson’s interest in Andalusian muqarnas and lacería comes not only from their breathtaking aesthetic and mathematical qualities, but from the social and political forces that made them possible. This era is often referred to as the Convivencia, a period of relative harmony and exchange between Muslim, Christian, and Jewish communities in Medieval Spain, from the Muslim conquest to the Catholic Reconquista in 1492.

“Scholars, artists, scientists, musicians, were all working together. There was an enormous amount of translation between Hebrew, Arabic, Latin,” Wilson said. “Given the state of the world in which we live, that felt like something that was important to talk about as well.”

Source: hyperallergic.com

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https://hyperallergic.com/924580/museum-of-jurassic-technology-aims-to-recreate-islamic-spain-in-los-angeles/

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Putin Allies' Feud Spills Out into Open after 'Islamist Terrorists' Jibe

Jul 01, 2024

Afeud between allies of Russian President Vladimir Putin spilled out into the open after the head of the Russian Investigative Committee, Alexander Bastrykin, called for officials to "urgently" impose a ban on wearing niqabs in the country.

Bastrykin, commenting on the June 23 attacks by Islamic militants in Russia's southern Republic of Dagestan, said on Saturday that the perpetrators were "Islamist terrorists" who were "able to carry their banner of Islamic terror" into the country.

The attack, which saw militants attack Christian and Jewish places of worship, left 21 people dead.

Bastrykin called for Russia to respond by adopting a ban on the wearing of the niqab, a long garment worn by some Muslim women that leaves only the area around the wearer's eyes exposed.

He said it is the duty of the State Duma to pass a law prohibiting the niqab.

[In Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan] it's banned, but here it's allowed. Why? I don't know, I'm not a legislator but…we urgently need to ban it," Bastrykin said, responding to a suggestion from an audience member at the International Youth Legal Forum in St. Petersburg.

His remarks prompted criticism from Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, who is the head of the predominantly Muslim southern Russian republic of Chechnya, and a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Kadyrov has ruled the republic of Chechnya since 2007. His Chechen fighters have fought alongside Putin's troops in the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. On November 27, 2023, Kadyrov said a further 3,000 of his fighters were ready to fight in Ukraine as part of new units of the Russian Defense Ministry and the Russian National Guard.

"Bastrykin recalled the recent terrorist attacks in Rostov and Dagestan, and called their perpetrators 'Islamist terrorists,'" Kadyrov wrote on his Telegram channel, warning Bastrykin to be "extremely careful" with such statements.

"I have said many times and I emphasize once again that Muslims have not committed and do not commit terrorist acts," Kadyrov wrote. "At the same time, I very much hope that Bastrykin will not compare Islam with terrorism in the future."

Newsweek has contacted Russia's Foreign Ministry for comment via email.

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW), a U.S.-based think tank, said in its analysis of the conflict in Ukraine on June 29 that "two prominent Russian officials appear to be spearheading divergent paths for addressing religious extremism in Russia" as ethnic and religious tension in Russia continues to rise.

"Russian milbloggers and lower-level Russian officials have previously participated in similar debates, and it is significant that Kadyrov was willing to openly criticize another high-level Kremlin official on this issue," the ISW said.

Bastrykin has previously positioned himself as a prominent figure in Russia's ultranationalist movement and "is placing himself at odds with Kadyrov, who often presents himself as a representative of Russia's Muslim minority."

In its June 30 update, the think tank noted that the head of the Russian republic of Dagestan, Sergei Melikov, has since publicly sided with Kadyrov over the matter.

The ISW has assessed that Putin "may weigh in on Kadyrov's and Bastrykin's debate in hopes of quelling concerns among Russians about potential Islamist terrorist threats and stopping a potential conflict between Bastrykin and Kadyrov before it expands to other senior Russian officials."

Source: newsweek.com

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https://www.newsweek.com/putin-allies-kadyrov-bastrykin-dagestan-attack-niqab-1919398?piano_t=1

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US military bases in Europe put on high alert amid possible terrorist threat

01 July 2024

Several US military bases across Europe have been put on a heightened state of alert, amid concerns of a possible “terrorist” threat.

According to two US officials, the level of force protection was raised to its second-highest state, "Charlie", on Sunday.

That status “applies when an incident occurs or intelligence is received indicating some form of terrorist action or targeting against personnel or facilities is likely,” according to the US Army.

The bases include the US Army garrison in Stuttgart, Germany, where United States European Command (USEUCOM) is headquartered.

CNN quoted one of the US officials, who is stationed at a base in Europe, as saying they haven’t seen this threat level “in at least 10 years,” adding that it usually means the military has received an “active-reliable threat.”

A spokesperson for USEUCOM the command is “constantly assessing a variety of factors that play into the safety of US military community abroad. As part of that effort, we often times take additional steps to ensure the safety of our service members.”

“For operational security reasons we will not get into specific measures, but we remain vigilant,” Cdr. Dan Day added.

The intelligence that triggered the heightened state of alert is not known, but that state comes as European sporting tournaments are threatened by terrorist threats.

Germany beefed up its defenses ahead of the underway European football championships, bringing in 580 international police officers to assist with security alongside German officers.

Ahead of the tournament, German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said the focus is “above all” on the threat of terrorism after the Daesh terrorist group called for attacks at the month-long football tournament.

The Paris Olympics, the other European sporting tournament this summer, is also facing a terrorist threat.

Last month, The National cited a counter-terrorism expert as saying that Daesh terrorists have published "detailed" manuals for adapting drones to attack the games.

The US embassy in France said the European country has raised its national security alert system to the highest level since March.

“French authorities actively monitor terrorist threats from organized groups and radicalized individuals,” the embassy said, adding,  “Attacks may happen with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, major sporting and cultural events, and other public areas that attract large numbers of civilians.”

Source: presstv.ir

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https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2024/07/01/728479/US-military-bases-Europe-high-alert-

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Africa

 

Borno bombing: 14 survivors discharged as Shettima pays condolence visit

1st July 2024

Vice President Kashim Shettima, on Monday, paid a condolence visit to the victims and families of those who lost their lives in the suicide bombings in the Gwoza area of Borno State.

This was as 14 of the 42 injured persons were discharged from the State Specialist Hospital in Maiduguri, the state capital.

Shettima described the incident as pathetic, rehashing the words of the late Dele Giwa, saying, “One life lost in cold blood is as gruesome as millions lost in cold blood.”

The Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Communications, Mr Stanley Nkwocha, revealed details of the VP’s visit in a statement titled, ‘VP Shettima in Maiduguri, consoles victims of Gwoza suicide bombings.’

Shettima spoke to journalists immediately after meeting and commiserating with victims of the attack at the State Specialist Hospital, Maiduguri, conveying the condolences of President Bola Tinubu to the Borno State government and the people of Gwoza.

The Vice President made a personal donation to all the victims of the attacks and condoled with the families of those killed by the multiple explosions, saying the heart of the President is with them.

“The heart of President Bola Tinubu is with the victims, and he specifically instructed us to come and offer our condolences and commiserations to the victims of this incident.

“We are here with the Director General of NEMA, with the Minister of Agriculture, with the Minister of Transportation and, of course, the Chief Whip of the Senate, a son of the soil from Gwoza, who was here since yesterday (Sunday), and the Acting Governor. They have been working round the clock to provide succour and support to the victims,” Shettima stated.

Shettima pegged the death toll at 32, noting that while 42 persons injured in the suicide bomb attacks were rushed to the Specialist Hospital, 14 have been discharged after receiving treatment, with 26 still receiving treatment.

He said, “It was a very pathetic scene. Our hearts go out to the victims. So far, we have recorded 32 deaths; 42 of those injured were brought in from Gwoza, and about 14 have been discharged, while about 26 are currently receiving attention.

“I want to use this forum to most sincerely register our profound gratitude to the Borno State government, the National Emergency Management Agency, the State Emergency Management Agency and ICRC for rising to the challenges of the times and giving their best in terms of support.”

President Tinubu, in a statement on Sunday by the Presidency, said his administration would redouble its efforts “to ensure that those who trouble the nation, dispatching precious lives, and disrupting law and order are completely removed.”

A security analyst and counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, told PUNCH Online that the bomber, later identified as a young lady in her early twenties, detonated her explosive device in the middle of the gathering, causing chaos and destruction.

Intelligence sources told Makama that the victims, who were all civilians, were returning from a wedding celebration when the attack occurred near a busy motorpark.

Emergency services rushed to the scene to rescue those injured and transport them to the hospitals in Gwoza.

Saturday’s bomb attack is the first in years since Boko Haram began bombing raids across the country in 2009.

Notable among such raids was the bombing of the United Nations building in 2010 and the busy Nyanya motor park, both in Abuja, in 2014.

Tinubu strongly condemned the bomb attacks, describing them as “desperate acts of terror and a clear manifestation of the pressure mounted against terrorists and the success achieved in degrading their capacity to launch offensives.”

According to a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu said the purveyors of wanton violence “shall have a certain encounter with justice.”

He said the “cowardly attacks” were an isolated episode vowing that his government “will not allow the nation to slither into an era of fear, tears, sorrow, and blood.”

In the statement titled, ‘President Tinubu condemns bomb attacks in Borno State, says purveyors of terror will pay a heavy price,’ Tinubu said his administration was taking necessary measures to secure citizens.

Source: punchng.com

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https://punchng.com/borno-bombing-14-survivors-discharged-as-shettima-pays-condolence-visit/

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Turkey mediating Somalia-Ethiopia talks on port deal -officials

JULY 01 2024

Turkey has begun mediating talks between Somalia and Ethiopia over a port deal Addis Ababa signed with the breakaway region of Somaliland earlier this year, according to four officials familiar with the matter.

The negotiations are the latest attempt to mend diplomatic ties between the East African neighbours, whose relationship soured in January when Ethiopia agreed to lease 20km of coastline from Somaliland, in exchange for recognition of its independence.

Mogadishu called the agreement illegal and retaliated by expelling the Ethiopian ambassador and threatening to kick out thousands of Ethiopian troops stationed in the country helping battle Islamist insurgents.

Spokespeople for the Somali government, Turkey's foreign ministry, and Ethiopia's foreign ministry, government and intelligence service did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

A spokesperson for Somaliland, which has struggled to gain international recognition despite governing itself and enjoying comparative peace and stability since declaring independence in 1991, said it was not involved in the talks.

The goal of the negotiation was unclear, and expectations of a resolution were low, two of the officials said.

"Despite rumours that Somalia has softened its stance on refusing to engage in dialogue until Ethiopia withdraws the (agreement), it seems unlikely," one of the officials said.

"I don't see a way forward, and I don't expect much will come from these talks."

Turkey has become a close ally of the Somali government since President Recep Tayyip Erdogan first visited Mogadishu in 2011, training its security forces and supplying development assistance.

The two nations signed a defence pact in February under which Ankara will provide maritime security support to Somalia to help the African country defend its territorial waters.

Turkey has built schools, hospitals and infrastructure and provided scholarships for Somalis to study in Turkey, and in return secured a foothold in Africa and on a key global shipping route.

Source: theeastafrican.co.ke

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https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/east-africa/turkey-mediating-somalia-ethiopia-talks-on-port-deal-4675588

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‘We Are In A State Of War’ — Army On Borno Suicide Bombings

2 July 2024

Naija News reports that this was revealed in a statement by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, on Tuesday.

He recounted the tragic events that led to multiple deaths in the Gworza Local Government Area of Borno State over the weekend.

Buba detailed the terror attacks, which involved multiple Person-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (PBIED), commonly known as suicide bombings, all occurring on Saturday, June 29, 2024.

The first attack happened around 3:00 PM, when a female suicide bomber, disguised as a beggar, detonated an explosive device at a wedding reception on Mararaba Hausari Street.

Shortly after, around 5:00 PM, as efforts were underway to stabilize and transport the initial casualties to the hospital, a second female suicide bomber detonated another device on the same street, close to the first explosion site.

In response, troops immediately imposed a curfew on the community to keep residents indoors and prevent further casualties.

However, while enforcing the curfew, a third explosion targeted the troops.

“The third explosion targeted the troops enforcing the curfew. The troops were attacked from behind by a third woman strapped with an IED vest, killing a soldier and two members of the hybrid forces,” Buba explained.

A fourth incident was averted when a suspect was identified early and detonated the bomb prematurely, resulting in only her death. In total, 20 people were killed, and 52 sustained various injuries and are receiving treatment.

Buba emphasized that the armed forces regard every life lost, whether civilian or military, as a significant tragedy.

“The sad loss of lives is a tragedy for society, the community, and the nation,” he said.

On behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen CG Musa, and all officers and members of the armed forces, Buba extended condolences to the victims’ families and those needing healing and recovery.

He explained that the terrorists’ actions are a response to recent military successes that have weakened their leadership, resources, and influence.

“The terrorists embarked on these cowardly attacks against innocent citizens to project an image of strength to cover their weakness and decline,” Buba noted.

He urged citizens to see through the terrorists’ tactics and remain vigilant and united, supporting the armed forces’ efforts to ensure a secure and peaceful future.

“The fate of the terrorists that perpetrated this insecurity will be violent and short, as troops will stop at nothing to take them out of the battlefield,” Buba concluded.

Source: naijanews.com

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https://www.naijanews.com/2024/07/02/we-are-in-a-state-of-war-army-on-borno-suicide-bombings/

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Borno Bombing Death Toll Now 31

1 July 2024

According to Shettima, 42 persons were brought to the specialist hospital, but 14 have been discharged after receiving treatment.

The Vice President noted that 26 are still receiving treatment.

Shettima, who made a personal donation to all the victims, condoled with the families of those killed by the multiple explosions.

He also conveyed the condolences of President Bola Tinubu to Gwoza people and Borno State.

The Vice President was in the company of the Deputy Governor of Borno State, Babagana Kingibe, Senator Ali Ndume, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, former Nigerian Ambassador to China, Baba Ahmed Jidda, the Director General of NEMA and other government functionaries.

Meanwhile, President Tinubu has described criminals responsible for the suicide bombing in Borno State as cowards who would soon face the wrath of justice.

The President said the action of the terrorists is due to the pressure mounted against them by security forces which have degraded their abilities to mount attacks.

While consoling all those affected by the attack, President Tinubu assured Nigerians that the government would not allow the nation to slither into an era of fear, tears, sorrow, and blood.

He added that his administration would take every necessary step to ensure citizens are protected, and criminals are brought to justice.

Source: naijanews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.naijanews.com/2024/07/01/just-in-borno-bombing-death-toll-now-31/

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Borno Suicide Bombing: US, UN Condemn ‘Horrific Attacks’

1 July 2024

Naija News earlier reported that the Borno State Police Command confirmed that no fewer than six people were killed, with 15 others injured in a suicide attack in Gwoza, Borno State.

However, the Emir of Gwoza confirmed that female suicide bombers attacked a wedding and funeral, killing over 30 people on the spot and injuring about 50 others.

The attacks have drawn widespread condemnation from within Nigeria and across political divides, with prominent Nigerians calling for a significant overhaul of the country’s security structure.

In separate statements, the US and United Nations condemned the “horrific attacks” that occurred in Gwoza on June 29.

A statement from the US Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria expressed condolences to the families of the victims and described the attacks as horrific, stating, “These reprehensible acts of violence show a cruel and heartless disregard for human life. We offer our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those killed and wish a full recovery to the injured.

“These abhorrent attacks are a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by terrorism in the region. The U.S. Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria is committed to our partnership with Nigeria as it works to defeat terrorism and bring the perpetrators of these heinous acts to justice.”

Similarly, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, expressed his horror and condemnation of the attacks in a statement on Sunday.

Fall also reminded all parties involved in the conflict of their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect civilians.

He emphasized the United Nations’ commitment to supporting the victims of the attacks and conveyed his condolences to the Borno State Government.

“I am horrified by this attack on civilian populations and condemn such acts in the strongest terms. I stand in solidarity with the Government of Nigeria and the families and communities of all those affected.

“I have reached out to the Borno State Government to express my condolences and offer any support that the United Nations and the humanitarian community can provide to aid the victims of the attack,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, expressed sorrow over the loss of innocent lives due to the suicide bombing and promised that the perpetrators, whom he called cowards, would be brought to justice soon.

The President said the action of the terrorists is due to the pressure mounted against them by security forces which have degraded their abilities to mount attacks.

Source: naijanews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.naijanews.com/2024/07/01/borno-suicide-bombing-us-un-condemn-horrific-attacks/

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Boko Haram and western education: the surprising views of some Nigerians who left the insurgency group

July 1, 2024

The world has come to associate the insurgency in north-east Nigeria with the slogan “western education is forbidden”. This is how “Boko Haram” – the name given to the insurgents – is commonly translated from the Hausa language into English.

But “Boko Haram” is not what the insurgents call themselves or would like to be called. Different factions operate under different names. None of them use “Boko Haram”.

One faction calls itself Jama’at Ahl al-Sunna li-Da’wa wa-l-Jihad or “People Committed to the Propagation of the Prophet’s Teachings and Jihad”. Another faction uses the name Wilayat Garb Ifriqiya or Islamic State West Africa Province.

The preachings of the late insurgency leader Mohammed Yusuf (1970-2009) against western education earned his movement the nickname Boko Haram, which gained traction from 2009 onwards.

High-profile attacks on western schools, including the abduction of 276 schoolgirls from Chibok in April 2014, fed perceptions of the insurgency as opposing western education.

Western education was introduced in north-east Nigeria under British colonial rule, displacing the Islamic education system that produced the elite in pre-colonial times. Today, most formal sector jobs and government positions in Nigeria require western education.

Because of the destruction, bloodshed and mass displacement that the insurgency has caused in Nigeria, we wanted to know more about the role education plays as a grievance and as a way to build peace.

Our research aimed to explore what motivated ordinary members of the insurgency group, popularly called Boko Haram, to fight. Was opposition to western education a reason? We also wanted to know how being part of the insurgency had influenced their views on this education system.

By speaking to the rank and file, we sought to go beyond the rhetoric of the insurgency leadership.

Most of the respondents said that hatred of western education was not what motivated them to join the insurgency. They had other reasons. And their experiences as insurgents reinforced the value of a western education.

We argue that these results show how important it is to make western education accessible to all who want it.

Views on western education

We conducted 13 in-depth interviews and five group conversations with former insurgents in Bama and Maiduguri, Borno State, in 2021 and 2024. This was part of a larger research project on education and violent conflict in north-east Nigeria.

Our conversations focused on former members’ reasons for joining, their experiences of education inside the insurgency, and their perspectives on education after leaving. The majority of respondents were Kanuri men in their twenties and thirties with mostly Qur’anic education.

Some acknowledged that Yusuf’s preaching had resonated with them at the time of their recruitment. But they didn’t join out of hatred of western education.

Instead, they discussed other reasons for joining:

material incentives

perceptions of the insurgents as doing “God’s work” (aikin Allah)

the pull of family members and peers

fear of retaliation.

Most of our respondents did not object to western education. To the contrary, they considered it desirable. Many had enrolled themselves or their children in western schools.

Not everyone agreed to everything happening within western schools. Some respondents expressed reservations against co-education and some curriculum contents, especially in biology and geography, such as evolution, the rain cycle, and earth’s rotation around the sun.

Overall, the views were positive. The respondents considered western education important to find employment, to handle everyday life situations and to achieve societal progress, for example regarding healthcare.

To understand why former members view western education in such a positive light, it is helpful to take a closer look at their experiences inside the insurgency.

Ideology vs tactical needs

Despite what leaders of Boko Haram said about ideology, our research respondents found that they valued western knowledge for the tactical advantages it offered.

It was the western-educated who operated the laptops, repaired the phones and the cars, shot and shared the video footage, dispensed the medicines and treated the wounded.

The members we spoke to said they saw what a difference western education made. Those with only limited Qur’anic education or no education at all occupied lower ranks within the insurgency. They were more likely to be sent into combat, at great risk of being wounded or killed.

Respondents concluded that the insurgency leaders’ proclaimed views on western education could not be trusted.

What they could trust was what they saw with their own eyes. For instance, some western-educated defectors got recruited to work for the NGOs responding to the humanitarian crisis in north-east Nigeria.

Some of their western-educated peers who had not joined the insurgency had found decently paid employment with the police or army, or as teachers.

Most argued that being well educated could protect people against indoctrination and manipulation. This included having western education. One respondent said:

They were not blind to the shortcomings of the western education system as it currently operates in north-east Nigeria, though. They were aware of how difficult it can be to get education and work without financial backing or the right connections.

As one respondent put it:

What next?

On the basis of our findings, we recommend that policy makers:

ensure western education is genuinely free and accessible – including exams, uniforms and books

make sure that skills can be translated into meaningful job opportunities

facilitate exchange between people of different educational backgrounds.

Source: theconversation.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://theconversation.com/boko-haram-and-western-education-the-surprising-views-of-some-nigerians-who-left-the-insurgency-group-233129

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Southeast Asia

 

Report: Singapore’s money remittances at high risk of being misused for terrorism financing

01 Jul 2024

SINGAPORE, July 1 — Money remittances remain the highest risk sector of being exploited for Terrorism Financing (TF) in Singapore, according to a report published today.

The National Risk Assessment (NRA) 2024 report jointly issued by the republic’s Home Affairs Ministry (MHA), Finance Ministry (MoF), and Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) said banks remained at medium-high risk for such activities since the last report issued in 2020.

“Emerging TF risks have been identified in new cross-border fast payment systems and online fundraising, considering Singapore’s high internet penetration, and the prevalence of online banking, and the global surge in the digital economy driven by the Covid-19 pandemic,” the report said.

As there is a growing risk of virtual assets being utilised by international terrorist groups, TF risks associated with Digital Payment Token (DPT) service providers have been elevated from medium-low to medium-high risk, necessitating increased industry vigilance against this evolving threat.

Cross-border cash movements, precious stones, precious metals, and precious products, and non-profit organisations remained at medium-low risks for TF in the republic.

Meanwhile, the report said Singapore’s key TF threats stem from groups such as ISIS, al-Qaeda and JI; potential spillovers from the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and tensions in the Middle East; as well as radicalised individuals (locals and foreign workers) who are sympathetic towards the cause of these groups, particularly ISIS.

Among them, Singapore has convicted 13 individuals for TF offences from 2016 to date.

All of their TF activities were related to the raising and/or moving of funds out of Singapore using fairly unsophisticated channels and methods, such as through remittance agents to support terrorist activities abroad.

“Far-right extremism is also a growing security concern in many countries. While it has not gained significant traction in Southeast Asia, we cannot rule out that its anti-Islam and anti-immigration rhetoric may resonate with some individuals,” the report said.

MHA, MOF and MAS, in a joint statement today, said Singapore has developed and implemented a systematic and comprehensive whole-of-government approach to identify, monitor and mitigate TF risks.

“Singapore will continue to partner with industry players to implement strategies and measures to tackle TF threats. We will also closely collaborate with foreign counterparts, international organisations, and standard-setting bodies, such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF),” they said.

The updated 2024 NRA articulates the latest TF threats and vulnerable sectors in Singapore, taking into account key developments since the last NRA in 2020, such as the evolving global and regional terrorism landscape, growth of the digital economy and financial services in Asia, and emerging TF risk typologies. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.malaymail.com/news/singapore/2024/07/01/report-singapores-money-remittances-at-high-risk-of-being-misused-for-terrorism-financing/142413

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Malaysia ready to deploy peacekeepers to Palestine with Indonesia, says PM Anwar

01-07- 2024

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today expressed Malaysia’s willingness to cooperate with Indonesia in deploying peacekeeping forces to Palestine, should a mandate be granted by the United Nations (UN).

This topic was a key point of discussion during a telephone call between him and Indonesia’s President-elect and Defence Minister, Prabowo Subianto, today.

Anwar said he welcomed the idea of cooperation in a Malaysia-Indonesia international peacekeeping mission, and the potential for this collaboration to be extended to the ASEAN region.

“In our approximately three-minute conversation, we also exchanged views on current issues, particularly Prabowo’s recent role in representing Indonesia on the international stage, and his vision for regional and global collaboration and peace.

“Touching on the humanitarian situation in Palestine, I conveyed Malaysia’s readiness to cooperate, including in the deployment of peacekeeping forces alongside Indonesia, should a mandate be granted by the UN,” he said in a Facebook post today.

At the same time, Anwar also expressed gratitude and wished Prabowo a speedy recovery following his successful major surgery last week.

“I also pray that Prabowo receives good care and treatment throughout his recovery period and that he is granted a swift recovery to promptly resume his entrusted responsibilities,” he said.

Prabowo, who is the President-elect for the 2024-2029 term, underwent surgery to recover from injuries sustained during his military service.

Meanwhile, the prime minister also expressed hope that the Indonesian elections, which will culminate with the Regional Head Elections (Pilkada) on Nov 27, will proceed smoothly.

“May all preparations for Prabowo’s inauguration as President on October 20, 2024 go smoothly,” said Anwar.

Source: thesun.my

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://thesun.my/local-news/malaysia-ready-to-deploy-peacekeepers-to-palestine-with-indonesia-says-pm-anwar-OA12651186

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Man seeks court to declare he’s Sikh, never been Muslim – MKini

July 2, 2024

Professing to have been raised in the Sikh faith since childhood, a man has turned to the civil court for a declaration that he has never been a Muslim.

The 28-year-old filed the originating summons at the Kuala Lumpur High Court on Dec 4 last year, over the contention that he was raised as a Sikh by his late Muslim convert mother, reported MalaysiaKini.

However, the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP) has since applied to strike out the suit without it being subjected to a full trial, arguing that only the Syariah Court has the jurisdiction to determine the man’s religious status, the report added.

According to the man’s affidavit in support of the suit, he explained that his mother, who passed away on Nov 17, 2007, was initially a Sikh who embraced Islam upon marrying his father, a Muslim from Pakistan, on Aug 8, 1993.

The man said he was then born in Malaysia on June 25, 1996, but that his mother continued to raise him as a Sikh, and that he continued to be taught Sikhism in his childhood by his uncle.

The resident of Setapak, Kuala Lumpur, contended that he is not subject to Islamic law because he never professed the faith and his upbringing at home was in the beliefs and doctrines of Sikhism.

“To this day, I still practice Sikhism and regularly visit Sikh temples with my uncles and family and also celebrate all Sikh religious festivals and events such as Vaisakhi, Gurpurab, Akand Paath, Bandi Chor Divas, and Lohri.

“I have never willingly professed Islam at any point in time. I have never prayed in accordance with the Muslim faith or visited a mosque.

“I have never celebrated any Muslim festival or adopted any Islamic beliefs, including consuming only halal food or beverages and fasting.

“To the contrary, I would usually be vegetarian whenever I visited the temple or prior to a Sikh festival,” the man contended in the filing sighted by Malaysiakini.

Source: malaysiakini.com

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Malaysia ready to send peacekeepers to Palestine, says PM Anwar

02 Jul 2024

KUALA LUMPUR, July 2 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today expressed Malaysia’s willingness to cooperate with Indonesia in deploying peacekeeping forces to Palestine, should a mandate be granted by the United Nations (UN).

This topic was a key point of discussion during a telephone call between him and Indonesia's President-elect and Defence Minister, Prabowo Subianto, yesterday.

Anwar said he welcomed the idea of cooperation in a Malaysia-Indonesia international peacekeeping mission, and the potential for this collaboration to be extended to the Asean region.

“In our approximately three-minute conversation, we also exchanged views on current issues, particularly Prabowo's recent role in representing Indonesia on the international stage, and his vision for regional and global collaboration and peace.

“Touching on the humanitarian situation in Palestine, I conveyed Malaysia's readiness to cooperate, including in the deployment of peacekeeping forces alongside Indonesia, should a mandate be granted by the UN,” he said in a Facebook post yesterday.

At the same time, Anwar also expressed gratitude and wished Prabowo a speedy recovery following his successful major surgery last week.

“I also pray that Prabowo receives good care and treatment throughout his recovery period and that he is granted a swift recovery to promptly resume his entrusted responsibilities,” he said.

Prabowo, who is the President-elect for the 2024-2029 term, underwent surgery to recover from injuries sustained during his military service.

Meanwhile, the prime minister also expressed hope that the Indonesian elections, which will culminate with the Regional Head Elections (Pilkada) on November 27, will proceed smoothly.

“May all preparations for Prabowo's inauguration as President on October 20, 2024 go smoothly,” said Anwar. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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South Asia

 

Promoting the spirit of the five principles of peaceful coexistence

July 2, 2024

Writing a New Chapter in China-Afghanistan Relations

(Zhao Xing, Ambassador of China to Afghanistan)

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the proclamation of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence. Seventy years ago, the Chinese leadership specified the Five Principles in their entirety for the first time, namely, mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, mutual non-aggression, mutual noninterference in each other’s internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit, and peaceful coexistence. They included the Five Principles in the China-India and China-Myanmar joint statements, which jointly called for making them basic norms for state-to-state relations. In the course of the modern history of human society, handling well state-to-state relations, jointly maintaining world peace and tranquility, and promoting development and progress for humanity have always been big topics on the minds of all nations. As a call of the times and a choice of history, the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence were born in Asia but quickly ascended to the world stage. Over the past 70 years, it has transcended time and space and overcome estrangement, showing robust resilience and everlasting relevance. They have become open, inclusive, and universally applicable basic norms for international relations and fundamental principles of international law. They have made indelible historic contributions to the cause of human progress. In the important speech at the recently held “ Conference Marking the 70th Anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence” conference, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized that the baton of history is passed from generation to generation, and the cause of human progress moves forward from one era to another as mankind seek answers to the questions of the times. Seventy years ago, our forefathers, who experienced the scourge of hot wars and the confrontation of the Cold War, concluded that the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence were the crucial way to safeguard peace and sovereignty. This answer has withstood the test of international vicissitudes and has become more appealing rather than obsolete. Seventy years later today, challenged by the historic question of “what kind of world to build and how to build it,” China has answered the call of the times by proposing a community with a shared future for mankind. Today, this Chinese initiative has become an international consensus. The beautiful vision has been put into productive actions. It is moving the world to a bright future of peace, security, prosperity and progress. The future beckons with promise and challenges must be tackled. At this historic moment when mankind has to choose between peace and war, prosperity and recession, unity and confrontation, we must champion more than ever the essence of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, and we must always strive tirelessly for the lofty goal of building a community with a shared future for mankind. The people of China and Afghanistan have established a deep friendship since the time of the ancient Silk Road, with friendly exchanges never interrupted for thousands of years. The two sides have always continued this traditional friendship, which has become a model of mutual respect, equal cooperation, and mutual benefit among countries in the region. For nearly 70 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, even during the years of frequent wars in Afghanistan, China has always been guided by the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, developing friendly relations with Afghanistan as a neighboring country, practicing the spirit of these principles with concrete actions and striving to build a community with a shared future between China and Afghanistan. As a good neighbor, brother and partner, China has always cherished the traditional friendship with Afghanistan, adhering to the “three respects, three nevers” policy towards Afghanistan, which serves to the continuation of friendly relations between the two countries amid the complicated and changing regional situation. As Afghan friends often say, China is the only major country that has never harmed Afghanistan. China shares weal and woe with Afghanistan, dedicating to the provision of assistance and support to help the Afghan people rebuild their homeland and achieve peace and stability. China seeks joint development with Afghanistan, actively promoting practical cooperation in various fields such as economy and trade so as to benefit the peoples of both countries. Guided by the spirit of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, political mutual trust between China and Afghanistan has been further strengthened, bilateral cooperation continuously expanded, people-to-people exchanges increasingly deepened, and the tree of friendship has deeply rooted in the hearts of the two peoples. Standing at a new historical starting point, China and Afghanistan should join hands together in a more open, inclusive and active manner and take the lead in building a community with a shared future for mankind. On this new journey, China is willing to continue to champion the spirit of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence with Afghanistan, jointly advance the construction of a China-Afghanistan community with a shared future and write a new chapter in ChinaAfghanistan relations. Let us uphold the principle of sovereign equality, cement the foundation of mutual respect, turn the vision for peace and security into reality, unite all forces to achieve prosperity, commit to fairness and justice, embrace an open and inclusive mindset, and make new and greater contributions to safeguarding world peace and promoting common development

Source: thekabultimes.com

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Doha meeting representing IEA’s strong diplomacy

July 2, 2024

After its re-establishment in August 2021, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) has resumed the policy of broad political and economic relations with the world countries in accordance with the Islamic and national values and has made constructive efforts to achieve the goal. Unfortunately, due to the propaganda of the West, particularly, America, the international community did not take significant steps towards creating positive relations with the legitimate Islamic system, but recently, based on the successful foreign policy of the Islamic Emirate, several countries and international organizations resumed productive relations with Afghanistan, instead of opposing the Islamic system, with the order of the West. The two-day meeting initiated by the United Nations in Doha, the capital of Qatar, considering the demands of the Islamic Emirate, discussed issues relating to Afghanistan and the Islamic system as the legitimate and sole representative of Afghanistan that represents its successful foreign policy. According to experts, in the third Doha meeting, contrary to the first two meetings, the position, and demands of the Islamic Emirate regarding the agenda of the meeting were accepted and this is why the Islamic Emirate has decided to attend it. A few months ago, the president of Kazakhstan announced that his country removed the Islamic Emirate from the list of banned groups and wants to strengthen and expand political and economic relations with Afghanistan. Likewise, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov considered the Islamic Emirate to be the only sovereign power in Afghanistan and emphasized that his country is willing to restore all-round relations with the ruling Islamic system. Despite creating problems in the relations of some countries and organizations with Afghanistan, the Islamic Emirate has made significant progress in the political field and the world and regional countries are establishing broad political and economic relations for their mutual political and economic benefits. Therefore, it seems that the hopes of some countries and a few number of so-called Afghan politicians from the previous administration who wanted to impose their demands via political and economic pressures on the Islamic Emirate have not been met. It is to be noted that the Islamic Emirate has always been committed to having positive and productive interactions with all regional and world countries and once again calls on some certain countries and organizations that instead of spreading propaganda against the current Islamic system and interfering in the internal affairs of the country, should resume positive relationships and let Afghanistan moves towards peace, security and development.

Source: thekabultimes.com

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Former Afghan interior minister calls for UN to remove Otunbayeva and cleanse UNAMA

July 2, 2024

The former Afghan Interior Minister described the Doha summit as “another example of the UN’s failure in managing the Taliban and Afghanistan.”

Mohammad Omar Daudzai called on the UN Secretary-General to replace Roze Otunbayeva and cleanse UNAMA, stating that the Doha meeting was a waste of time and a deviation from its main purpose.

Daudzai, on Monday, Jule 1st, wrote on his social media platform X that the Doha meeting was a waste of time and a deviation from the main path.

He said; “It is time for the UN Secretary-General to introduce a new representative instead of Otunbayeva [UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative in Afghanistan] and cleanse UNAMA.”

Mr. Daudzai did not provide further explanation for the reasons for proposing Otunbayeva’s dismissal.

Several women and civil society activists had accused Roze Otunbayeva of “whitewashing” her record through a public statement.

The exclusion of women and civil society representatives from the Doha meeting underscores a significant setback for human rights advocacy in Afghanistan. The absence of these voices diminishes the chances of inclusive governance and sustainable peace in the region.

International concern over the Taliban’s stance against women’s rights and the broader implications for human rights in Afghanistan remains palpable. The international community monitors developments closely, emphasizing the need for inclusive dialogue that respects fundamental freedoms and promotes gender equality.

The head of UNAMA justified the Taliban’s opposition to the presence of women and civil society representatives and the inclusion of women’s rights in the Doha summit agenda.

The UN Secretary-General’s representative for Afghanistan said that this group has come from the mountains and war and should not be expected to think like others.

Diplomatic sources previously claimed that the United States and several other countries believe Otunbayeva’s positions on Afghanistan and the Taliban are close to Russia.

Source: khaama.com

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US and Qatar officials meet at Doha summit to support women in Afghanistan

July 1, 2024

Rina Amiri, U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan’s Women, met with Lulwa Al-Khater, Qatar’s Minister of State for International Cooperation, on the sidelines of the third Doha summit to discuss support for women and girls in Afghanistan.

Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated on Monday, July 1st, that the meeting emphasized the importance of economic stability and support for initiatives empowering women in Afghanistan.

The U.S. Special Representative for Afghan Women continues to express gratitude to Qatar for hosting the third Doha summit.

Ms. Amiri highlighted discussions at the Doha summit concerning the human rights situation of women and civil society in Afghanistan, as advocated by the United Nations.

She also previously mentioned meeting with Thomas West, the U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan, emphasizing, “We will continue extensive negotiations during and after the third Doha summit to support a comprehensive framework for women and civil society. Ultimately, Afghanistan’s peace, security, and stability challenges cannot be resolved without their inclusion.”

The absence of women at the third Doha summit has also sparked reactions.

International stakeholders are urging inclusive dialogues prioritising Afghan women’s rights and participation in all aspects of the country’s reconstruction.

The outcomes of the third Doha summit will be pivotal in shaping international support for Afghanistan’s development, with a particular focus on gender equality and human rights.

Moving forward, continued engagement and advocacy are crucial to ensuring that Afghan women are integral to the peace and stability of their nation.

Source: khaama.com

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Local and Female Artists Shine in Herat’s Art Exhibition

2024-07-01

KABUL(BNA): In a bid to support local artists, an exhibition named “Herat Evening” was inaugurated in Herat, aims to showcase and celebrate the talents of the region’s artists, providing them with a platform to display their work.

Mawlawi Ahmadullah Muttaqi, Head of Information and Culture in Herat, emphasized during the opening ceremony that citizens can support artists by utilizing artworks to decorate their homes.

Additionally, Abdul Karim Arbabzada, the organizer of the exhibition, informed Bakhtar News Agency that over 230 pieces from various artistic genres are on display, with a significant number created by female artists.

Arbabzada noted that the status of art in Herat has significantly improved and flourished under the Islamic Emirate’s rule and local artists have participated in both national and international exhibitions.

According to the organizer, the primary goals of the exhibition are to showcase new artworks and facilitate their sales.

The exhibition has been well-received by the citizens of Herat, who have shown great enthusiasm for the event.

Source: bakhtarnews.af

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Uzbek investors call on Deputy PM Beradar

July 2, 2024

KABUL: A number of Uzbek investors in a meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs Mullah Abdul Ghani Beradar Akhund, said that they want to invest in various sectors in Afghanistan, Arg said in a statement Monday. “We are seeking investment in extraction, standard processing, coal-based electricity production, standard oil well drilling, construc tion of cement factory as well as standard extraction and salt production, textile factory construction and e-governance in Afghanistan,” the statement quoted Uzbek investors as saying. According to the statement, they said that Afghanistan is a suitable place for investment. Meanwhile, Mullah Abdul Ghani Beradar, thanked the Uzbek investors for their readiness to invest in Afghanistan and assured them that the relevant ministries and departments would cooperate in their respective sectors. After the establishment of the Islamic Emirate and the provision of nationwide security in the country, the interest of foreign investors to invest in various sectors of the country has increased. The Kabul Times

Source: thekabultimes.com

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Arab World

 

‘Many challenges’ in combating Islamophobia, protecting human rights: top OIC official

July 01, 2024

JEDDAH: The 23rd regular session of the Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation began on June 30 and will continue until July 4 in Jeddah.

All OIC member and observer states are attending, including their national human rights institutions, experts from international and regional organizations, and senior officials of the OIC General Secretariat.

Noura bint Zaid Al-Rashoud, OIC-IPHRC executive director, said in her opening speech: “The commission faces many significant challenges, especially in combating Islamophobia and protecting the human rights guaranteed to Muslim minorities, women and children.

“In this context, it is necessary to note that the OIC region is grappling with a number of complex human rights issues, and it is our duty to engage in cooperative efforts to address each of these emerging issues appropriately.

“The most urgent and emerging issue today is the human rights and humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which requires us to pay more attention,” Al-Rashoud added.

She said that the secretariat will draft a comprehensive statement that highlights the results of the high-level meeting and the deliberations that will take place during the closed sessions of the working group on Palestine.

Hissein Brahim Taha, OIC secretary-general, said that “humanity stands on the brink of a new revolution” due to artificial intelligence, which will “transform our approach to life, living, thinking and working.”

AI is revolutionizing almost every aspect of human existence, from healthcare and education, to transportation and communication, Taha added.

He said that Islamic history is rich in scientific heritage, with Muslims pioneering study in a range of fields. The complex algorithms that form the foundation of today’s AI are a result of the sophisticated equations that Muslim scholars, such as Al-Khwarizmi, endeavored to build and develop, he added.

Jassem Al-Budaiwi, Gulf Cooperation Council secretary-general, highlighted the areas of cooperation between the GCC and OIC in safeguarding human rights. The collaboration spans agreements, joint efforts and consultations in human rights, complemented by political coordination to address crises and conflicts in the Islamic world.

Addressing the daily atrocities committed by Israeli occupation forces against Palestinians, particularly in Gaza, Al-Budaiwi highlighted the international community’s failure to protect those in dire need.

He urged renewed joint efforts to confront challenges, notably the Palestinian plight and escalating tensions in Gaza.

The Arab League’s assistant secretary-general, Haifa Abu Ghazaleh, highlighted the transformative potential of artificial intelligence AI in daily life, alongside the pressing challenges that the technology presents.

A memoranda of understanding was signed between the league and GCC aimed at fostering dialogue and collaboration on global human rights challenges.

During the first session, “International/Standard and Islamic Legal Perspectives on Human Rights Concerning Artificial Intelligence" Scott Campbell, senior human rights officer of the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights; and Dr. Nenden Shanty, director of the training and technical cooperation department at SESRIC, took part.

Shanty said that since many OIC countries are developing national plans to support the adoption and development of AI in their economies.

She provided policy recommendations, saying: “Breaching the digital divide in OIC countries involves a multi-phased approach that begins with assessing the current digital landscape in identifying priority areas, and engaging stakeholders to understand the specific challenges faced by underserved communities.”

Campbell shared the UNHCR’s perspective on these crucial challenges.

“We cannot afford any delay. The world waited too long, for example, on climate change; we should not repeat that mistake. But what can regulation look like? We should begin by addressing the harms that people currently face and are likely to encounter in the future,” he said.

The second session, titled “Institutional Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence: Challenges and Opportunities,” featured speakers including Sheikh Mohammed Ahmed Al-Sabah, president of the Artificial Intelligence Association of Things in Kuwait; Alaa Abdelaal, head of the Digital Foresight Sector at the Digital Cooperation Organization; and Sharon Slater, president of Family Watch International from the US.

Al-Sabah said: “The ethical framework guiding artificial intelligence is of the utmost importance for several reasons, encompassing essential aspects of human rights, societal norms and the potential impacts of AI technology. Constructing AI ethics aims to foster fairness, human justice, trust and equality.”

On Monday, the commission will hold a high-level event titled “International Court of Justice Judgment on Gaza: Implications for the Future and Possible Ways Forward.”

It will analyze the ICJ’s judgment on Gaza, focusing on implementing measures to end the humanitarian crisis and advocating for justice and accountability for human rights violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

Additionally, the commission will sign deals with international and regional organizations to enhance technical cooperation.

From July 2-4, the commission will hold closed meetings of its working groups at the IPHRC Headquarters to discuss civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights in OIC member states, as well as human rights violations in Palestine and India-administered Jammu and Kashmir.

Source: arabnews.com

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Reconnect With ‘Harry Potter,’ ‘The Batman’ And More AtJeddah’s New Entertainment Destination

July 01, 2024

JEDDAH: Warner Bros. Discovery’s new indoor entertainment destination in Jeddah is showcasing six concept zones inspired by some of cinema’s most iconic stories.

The venue includes “Batman,” “Tom and Jerry” and “Harry Potter” zones, alongside areas for shoppers.

Enthusiasts will be able to delve into Batman’s storied history and evolution with comic book displays, as well as interactive virtual and augmented reality games.

The zone featuring Harry Potter’s Magical World zone resembles Hogwarts from the movies. It includes interactive games inspired by the films, including a broomstick ball-throwing contest, and a store replicating the experience of Harry Potter buying his first wand.

Walid Jabbour, managing director of EventBox, said: “The ‘Warner Brothers Discovery Celebration’ is a unique event that brings together the best of Warner Bros. — from 100 years of history encompassing animation studios, ‘Harry Potter,’ movies, and superheroes — all in one place here in Jeddah.”

He added: “What makes it truly special is that it’s the first time such a comprehensive gathering of Warner’s iconic properties is taking place in Jeddah.

“Bringing this grand spectacle to our audience underscores our commitment, and the enthusiastic response from visitors affirms that having ‘Batman,’ ‘Harry Potter,’ and more all in one location is truly extraordinary.”

Young visitors will also have the opportunity to meet their favorite heroes and characters from Warner Bros. Discovery, including Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, The Flash from the “Justice League,” as well as Tom, Jerry, and the Scooby-Doo gang.

Julene Muller, event art director, told Arab News: “The energy and excitement from the crowd have been phenomenal, making this event a vibrant celebration for all ages.”

She added: “There’s always something new to discover, with various experiences, walkthroughs, and plenty of photo opportunities available. And of course, the Batmobile remains a favorite among visitors.”

Aleksandar Radulovic, a crew member of the Tom and Jerry Mini Orchestra, explained: “We are aiming to bring the music of the classic cartoons to life. These are the cartoons we grew up with, and now we want to share them with the younger generation.”

Their ensemble consists of a drummer, trombonist, pianist, bassist, and percussionist who plays the xylophone and produces other effects.

“Everything is meticulously organized, and we’re thrilled to be here. We originally collaborated on these ‘Tom and Jerry’ projects with Warner Bros., starting two years ago in Riyadh,” he added.

Fahad Nazer, a father of three, said: “The fully air-conditioned indoor entertainment area is a lifesaver this summer. My kids explored all the concept zones and had a fantastic time.

“The staff was extremely helpful and supportive, especially with the games, so I didn’t have to worry about my children getting lost.”

He said the crowd control was “impressive with five different time slots for booking tickets, which manages the flow very well and ensures kids can enjoy interactive games with shorter lines.”

Another visitor, Mohammed Harbi, said: “My son was thrilled to train with Superman and Batman. It’s amazing that Jeddah now has such a unique entertainment venue; having Warner Bros. here was a pleasant surprise.

“Experiencing it not only brought joy to our children but also allowed us to reminisce about our own childhood days with the ‘Tom and Jerry’ show. I never imagined we’d have such attractions in the city, and the tickets are affordable.

“However, it was challenging for me with a 9-month-old baby since they don’t allow strollers.”

The entertainment zone is open until Aug. 16.

Highlights and attractions

The “Celebrate Every Story” event features four shows across three stages. On the main stage, there is “Looney Tunes: Get in the Game,” an interactive sports-themed show where Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck compete to become the new team captain of Team Looney Tunes.

The “Tom and Jerry Mini Orchestra Performance” displays classic animations of the iconic cat and mouse duo on a large screen with a live orchestra playing their memorable tunes and sound effects.

The “Justice League Training Show,” allows guests to train alongside Justice League members and assist in saving the day during a live stage event. At the “Scooby-Doo: Mystery at the Mall” show visitors can help Scooby and the gang solve a mysterious case.

At the “Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight Experience” zone visitors can explore the iconic Batmobile from the movie “Batman Returns,” the Keaton Mobile and impressive life-sized figures of Batman, The Joker, Harley Quinn, and Catwoman.

The Animation Zone is a must-visit for cartoon lovers. It brings to life the worlds of “Looney Tunes" and “Scooby-Doo,” with interactive games and mystery-solving adventures.

The Celebration Zone allows visitors to take photographs and relive pivotal moments from the history of Warner Bros.

Source: arabnews.com

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OIC holds international symposium on Jerusalem, Gaza war in Jeddah

July 01, 2024

RIYADH: The Organization of Islamic Cooperation held an international symposium on Jerusalem and the Gaza war at the organization’s headquarters in Jeddah on Monday.

Organized in conjunction with the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People, the symposium was titled: “Jerusalem and the Gaza War: Palestinian Identity and Existence Under Threat of Erasure.”

“This meeting is being held at a time when we all feel the danger of the conditions that the occupied city of Jerusalem is enduring, as a result of repeated Israeli attacks on its Islamic and Christian holy sites, its people, and its Arab identity through settlement policies, land confiscation, house demolitions, building the Apartheid Wall, assaulting Muslim and Christian worshipers, and other serious violations,” the Secretary-General of the OIC Hissein Brahim Taha said.

He said that the city Jerusalem is the capital of Palestine and is an integral part of Palestinian territory that was occupied in 1967.

He added that all Israeli policies and actions are illegal and illegitimate, and constitute an assault on the political, historical and legal rights of the Palestinian people, embodying a blatant violation of the rule of international law and United Nations resolutions.

Israeli actions threaten to expand the circle of conflict to a dangerous religious dimension that threatens security and stability in the entire world and require responsible international action, Taha said.

The head of the OIC also reiterated its condemnation of the ongoing Israeli military aggression against the Gaza Strip which has killed nearly 38,000 people, destroyed hundreds of thousands of buildings, properties, and civilian infrastructure, and displaced more than a million Palestinians from their homes.

He expressed disappointment at the failure of the UN Security Council to oblige Israel to implement its resolutions calling for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire, a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces, and guaranteeing safe, sustainable and unhindered access to aid organizations so that humanitarian aid can be delivered to all parts of the Gaza Strip.

He added that he hoped the international community, states and organizations would bear their legal, political and moral responsibilities and put an end to the Israeli genocide in Gaza which threatens to expand the cycle of violence and instability in the entire region.

The Permanent Observer of Palestine to the UN Riyad Mansour said that Saudi Arabia’s position on the war in Gaza plays an important role in Palestinian people accessing their inalienable national rights.

He said: “Since the beginning of the aggression, we have been able to unify, in New York, the Arab and Islamic position regarding three goals that are extremely important for the Palestinian people. They are: stopping the aggression immediately in the Gaza Strip and in all of the occupied Palestinian territory, introducing enough humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip to respond to the needs of the people, and stopping war crimes and crimes against humanity including the forced displacement of Palestinians in Gaza.”

Mansour expressed appreciation for the efforts made by the Ministerial Committee Assigned by the Joint Arab Islamic Extraordinary Summit, led by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, to visit the five permanent members of the Security Council and other countries in an attempt to stop Israeli aggression and gain further recognition for Palestine.

Source: arabnews.com

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Arabic Language Month in India organized by Saudi Arabia

July 01, 2024

RIYADH: The King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language has launched Arabic Language Month in India, reported Saudi Press Agency.

The program will run in New Delhi and Kerala until July 26. It features activities aimed at developing the country’s Arabic language education curricula, improving teachers’ performance, building a positive image and promoting the language.

Additionally, it will highlight Saudi Arabia’s efforts in this field in line with the objectives of the Human Capability Development Program, one of the Saudi Vision 2030 realization programs.

Secretary-General Abdullah bin Saleh Al-Washmi said the academy undertook various initiatives in line with its strategies and the directives of Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, the Saudi minister of culture, to further the Arabic language locally and globally.

This program was one of those, he said. It was hoped to teach the Arabic language to non-native speakers, highlight the Kingdom’s efforts to take the Arabic language and its sciences around the world, directly work on training teachers and raise their competency.

Source: arabnews.com

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Burkinabe conjoined twins arrive in Riyadh for possible separation

July 02, 2024

RIYADH: Burkinabe conjoined twins Khadijah and Hawaa arrived in the Saudi capital for a possible separation surgery at King Abdullah Specialized Children’s Hospital.

Accompanied by their mother, the girls were airlifted from Burkina Faso to the Kingdom by the defense ministry’s medevac, following the directives of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, head of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, extended his thanks to the Saudi leadership for the gesture that embodies the Kingdom’s great medical capabilities and humanitarian sense towards needy groups around the world.

The twins’ mother thanked the Saudi government and people for the warm welcome and hospitality, expressing her confidence in the experienced Saudi medical team.

The Kingdom is a world leader in one of the most complex surgical procedures in modern medicine. Since its launch in 1990, Saudi Arabia’s Conjoined Twins Program has treated about 139 cases of conjoined twins from countries around the world. Al-Rabeeah, who heads the medical team, has conducted 61 operations on conjoined twins born to poor families from 26 countries.

King Abdullah Specialized Children’s Hospital plays a crucial role in the program. Equipped with state-of-the-art medical facilities and advanced technology, the hospital is staffed by a highly skilled medical team specializing in complex pediatric care. 

Operations carried out under the program are fully sponsored by the Saudi government.

According to medical studies, about 60 percent of conjoined twins are stillborn, while some 40 percent of those who survive birth then die within a few days. About 70 percent of conjoined twins are girls.

Source: arabnews.com

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Pakistan

 

MQM-P, PPP trade barbs over ‘politics of hatred’

July 2, 2024

KARACHI: The Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) — allies of PM Shehbaz Sharif-led coalition government and political opponents in Sindh — accused each other of “igniting the politics of hatred” on Monday, with the former blaming the PPP for hiring officials on ethnic grounds and the latter advising the MQM-P to refrain from fanning ‘urban-rural divide’ besides seeking removal of Governor Kamran Tessori who belongs to the MQM-P.

It all began when the MQM-P, while hailing the court verdict to scrap the entire recruitment process initiated by the PPP government last year in over 140 departments, called it their party’s success and dent to politics of “ethnicity and hatred” of the ruling party in Sindh.

Federal minister Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqi, who is MQM-P convenor, told a presser that his party succeeded in “putting a brake” on the “politically and ethnically motivated” recruitment in the Sindh government departments through the high court.

While strongly criticising the PPP government over its recruitment policy in public sector organisations, the MQM-P leader held the ruling party’s founder and former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto responsible for creating the rural-urban divide and “igniting the politics of ethnicity and hatred” in the province.

PPP leaders demand Sindh governor’s removal, apology from MQM-P leaders who blamed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for ‘creating rural-urban divide’

“The point is that why this quota system was only envisioned for Sindh when [Zulfikar Ali] Bhutto Sahib was prime minister of entire Pakistan,” he questioned. “That move was actually driven by ill intentions to grab the rights of urban Sindh and take over competence and skills through dubious and fraudulent legislation. This quota system has swallowed the talent, skills and justice system. It’s only MQM-P which has been resisting this unjustified rule and the recent judgement of Sindh High Court on our lawsuit further strengthened our stance.”

Demanding that “locals” be inducted in the Sindh government departments for Grade 1 to 15 posts, he said the SHC verdict gave hope to the youth by stopping recruitment in the government departments on “ethnic grounds”, a rule set by the PPP government for “dividing the people of Sindh.”

Senior MQM-P leader Dr Farooq Sattar, while seconding the party convener’s claim, said the quota system was introduced to recruit 60 per cent people from rural parts and 40pc from urban areas, including Karachi and Hyderabad. “But we failed to stop the misuse of quota system that’s been going on for the last 50 years, as more than 80pc jobs aren’t given to youngsters in urban areas,” he said.

Within hours after the presser, the PPP came up with a tit-for-tat news conference during which senior provincial ministers Sharjeel Inam Memon and Nasir Hussain Shah demanded that the MQM-P leaders tender an apology for their remarks about Bhutto.

“The MQM-P has again come up with the same old mantra of pretending themselves as oppressed and in this garb igniting the hatred and politics of urban-rural divide,” said Mr Memon. “It’s an old tactic of MQM-P that has always done politics of violence and ethnicity. The MQM-P leaders should apologise for lying about Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. And we believe that since Governor Tessori is representative of the same party that is spreading hatred and divide, he should step down immediately.”

He defended the quota system and said it was introduced after “careful consideration” to protect the rights of people from rural and remote areas. This system, he said, had always been targeted by political rivals by misleading the people and suppressing the whole truth.

“This is the same Khalid Maqbool and the same leaders of MQM-P who abandoned party founder Altaf Hussain and ran away only to save their skin,” said Mr Memon.

Source: dawn.com

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TikTok Says Pakistan Telecommunication AuthorityResponsible For Reporting Blasphemous Content

July 01, 2024

PESHAWAR: TikTok said that Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is responsible for reporting blasphemous content after which the app takes down the videos.

The video-sharing app wrote a letter to the Peshawar High Court (PHC), where a petition is being heard seeking TikTok's ban in Pakistan, saying that it has recently not received any escalations with respect to blasphemous content.

A bench comprising Justice SM Atiq Shah and Justice Shakeel Ahmed is presiding over the critical hearing of the petition seeking to ban TikTok in Pakistan for its alleged blasphemous and immoral content.

The petition was filed by Advocate Imran Khan requesting the court to direct the respondents — PTA, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), and Ministry of Information — to ban TikTok in Pakistan permanently for persistent breach of guidelines and violation of the Constitution.

In the previous hearing, the court directed the telecommunication regulator to ensure the removal of any blasphemous and objectionable material TikTok.

The video-sharing app, in its letter, said that TikTok has a strict policy with respect to Pakistan of taking the issue of blasphemous content with utmost seriousness.

"It is precisely because of this seriousness that TikTok has taken measures and provided special access to a dedicated portal to the PTA to report such content for expedited review by TikTok," said the letter.

It said that the app blocks access to any content which violates Pakistan's blasphemy laws reported through the portal, adding that it hasn't received any escalations recently.

"Hence, having come across this news report, we have also reached out to PTA to invite them to report the relevant content, and we await their response in this regard," the letter added.

The popular video-sharing platform TikTok was initially banned in Pakistan in October 2020. Since then, it has faced multiple bans, with authorities citing concerns over the promotion of immoral content.

Source: thenews.com.pk

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Nine terrorists killed in Khyber, Lakki actions

July 2, 2024

PESHAWAR: Nine terrorists were killed by the security forces in two separate operations in Khyber and Lakki Marwat districts on Monday, the military’s media wing said.

A statement issued by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that the security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation in Tirah area of Khyber, where seven terrorists, including high-value terrorist commander Najeeb alias Abdur Rehman, and terrorist commander Ishfaq alias Muavia were killed.

The killed terrorists were actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area, and were wanted by the law enforcement agencies, the statement said, adding that weapons, ammunition and explosives were also recovered from the killed terrorists.

The statement also said that another IBO was carried out in Lakki Marwat district, where security forces effectively engaged terrorists’ location. It added that two terrorists were killed during the operation.

The statement said that sanitisation operations were being conducted to eliminate any terrorist found in the areas as the security forces were determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country.

Meanwhile, an FC official was martyred in a targeted attack in Maddi area of Kulachi tehsil of Dera Ismail Khan.

The police identified the deceased as 24-year-old Nauman.

Ramazan, an uncle of the deceased, told the police that after hearing gunshots, he went outside and the found the body of his nephew lying near the government boys’ high school. He said that the assailants, who were on motorcycle, managed to escape the scene after the murder.

Source: dawn.com

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Militant attacks down 20pc in June: PICSS data

July 2, 2024

ISLAMABAD: The month of June saw 20 per cent decline in militant attacks, resulting in fewer deaths and injuries.

According to data released by an Islamabad-based think-tank, Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), militants carried out 69 attacks across the country last month. These attacks resulted in 60 deaths, including 33 security forces personnel, 26 civilians, and one militant. Additionally, 65 people were injured: 33 civilians, 31 security forces personnel, and one militant. Compared to May, there was a 20 per cent decline in militant attacks, a 33 per cent decrease in resultant deaths, and a 25 per cent decrease in injuries.

The month of June also witnessed the arrest of TTP top commander Nasrullah alias Molvi Mansoor, a member of the group’s Shura.

The data shows that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) remained the most affected province, followed by Balochistan. In KP, militants carried out 27 attacks, resulting in 21 deaths, including 15 security forces personnel and five civilians, while 18 people were injured, including nine civilians, eight security forces personnel, and one militant. Militants also kidnapped five people, highlighting a rising trend in kidnapping in the province.

In tribal districts of KP (erstwhile Fata), militants carried out 28 attacks, resulting in 30 deaths, including 18 civilians and 12 security forces personnel, and 28 injuries, including 16 security forces personnel and 12 civilians.

Balochistan witnessed 11 attacks, resulting in six deaths, including four security forces personnel and two civilians, while 14 people were injured, including eight civilians and six security forces personnel. Insurgents also kidnapped 10 people from Balochistan, three of them were later released.

Balochistan recorded a 52 per cent decline in militant attacks, an 80 per cent decline in resultant deaths, and a 69 per cent decline in injuries in June, which is significant in the context of the prevailing security situation.

Punjab and Sindh also saw improvement in security, with the former witnessing one and the latter two militant attacks, resulting in one death in Punjab and two in Sindh.

Source: dawn.com

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Telecom operators allowed to share suspects’ data with police

July 2, 2024

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has finally allowed cellular companies to share with police data related to suspects for investigation in the post-crime scenario, as scores of inquiries remained halted due to a previous order, restraining telecom operators from facilitating law enforcement agencies with surveillance.

The order was issued on the petitions of Mian Najamus Saqib, son of former chief justice Saqib Nisar, and Imran Khan’s spouse Bushra Bibi in the audio leaks case.

On May 29, Justice Babar Sattar issued the restraining order, with the result that the telecom operators stopped cooperating with police investigators.

At the last hearing, Islamabad Police Law Director Tahir Kazim and the counsel for telecom licensees submitted that licensees had suspended the sharing of Call Detail Record (CDR), live locations of accused persons and consumers telecom data with law enforcement agencies, in compliance with the SOPs issued by the interior division.

“As the question of legality of any instructions and SOPs issued by the interior division and/or PTA to telecom licensees with regard to the provision of consumers telecom data to police authorities and investigation agencies is yet to be determined, the telecom licensees will continue to share such data in accordance with the SOPs issued by the interior ministry till the next date of hearing,” ruled Justice Sattar.

Earlier, Mr Kazim apprised the court that following a blanket order issued to the cellular companies against the surveillance, they had stopped sharing the much-needed data for investigation of routine crimes. Despite the clear difference between spying and post-crime investigation, the cellular companies had been treating both the scenarios at a par, he argued.

The order virtually handicapped the intelligence and law enforcement agencies in probing crimes and terrorist monitoring as the court stopped cellular companies from sharing citizens data with agencies.

Justice Sattar, in the order of May 29, stated: “It appears from the reports filed by the federal government, PTA and intelligence agencies and arguments of the learned counsel that no authorisation has been granted by the federal government under Section 5 of the Telegraph Act and/or Section 54 of the Telecommunication Act to authorise any individual, entity or agency to intercept calls, messages and to surveil citizens of Pakistan.”

As per the court order, the Fair Trial Act provides for grant of requests for surveillance by a judge of the high court. No phone tapping or other surveillance can be carried out, except pursuant to a warrant issued for such purpose by a high court judge, it mentioned. “Any such unauthorised surveillance would also be in breach of fundamental rights of citizens guaranteed by Articles 9, 10A, 14 and 19 of the Constitution, read with Article 4, and would cause irreparable harm to the liberty, dignity and privacy of the citizens being surveilled,” Justice Sattar ruled.

The court issued the direction: “Till the next date of hearing the intelligence agencies, including, inter alia, the ISI and IB, and police authorities will not surveil any citizens, except in accordance with requirements of the Fair Trial Act and warrants duly issued by a Judge of the High Court, and neither PTA nor the telecom companies shall authorize the use of their services or equipment for purposes of any surveillance or interception of phone calls or data.”

Source: dawn.com

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https://www.dawn.com/news/1843310

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Pakistan seeks immediate release of its citizens from Indian prisons

July 01, 2024

ISLAMABAD: Islamabad has urged New Delhi to immediately release its citizens imprisoned in Indian jails, who have completed their sentences, as the two sides exchanged lists of inmates.

In a statement on Monday, the Foreign Office said that the exchange of the prisoners' lists was made through a diplomatic channel in Islamabad and New Delhi.

These lists are exchanged simultaneously, in pursuance of the Consular Access Agreement of 2008, every year on January 1 and July 1.

As per the statement, Pakistan handed over a list of 254 Indian or believed-to-be-Indian civilians and fishermen incarcerated in Pakistani jails, while India shared a list of 452 Pakistani or believed-to-be-Pakistani civilian prisoners and fishermen in Indian jails.

Moreover, a list of 38 missing Pakistani defence personnel, believed to be in India’s custody since the wars of 1965 and 1971, was also handed over by Pakistan.

Islamabad has called for immediate release and repatriation of all Pakistani prisoners who have completed their sentence in India.

A request for special consular access to various believed-to-be-Pakistani prisoners, including the physically — and mentally-challenged prisoners, and for expeditious confirmation of their national status has been made, the statement added.

The government also urged India to ensure safety, security, and well-being of all Pakistani or believed-to-be-Pakistani prisoners, awaiting their release and repatriation.

"The government is committed to addressing humanitarian matters as a priority. It will continue its endeavours to ensure early return of all Pakistani prisoners in Indian jails," the statement read.

As part of these efforts, repatriation of 62 Pakistani prisoners in 2023, and four others in 2024, has so far been secured.

Source: thenews.com.pk

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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1205399-pakistan-seeks-immediate-release-of-its-citizens-from-indian-prisons

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'PTI constitutes team for negotiation with JUI-F'

July 01, 2024

A day after Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) Emir Fazlur Rehman's remarks lamenting lack of consistency, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has formed a five-member negotiation team for holding talks with the former, sources told Geo News.

The sources say the PTI's negotiation team comprises PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar, former National Assembly speaker Asad Qaiser, party's Central Information Secretary Raoof Hasan, Senator Shibli Faraz, and NA Opposition Leader Omar Ayub Khan.

It is to be noted that the leadership of both parties, who have been arch rivals traditionally, have held multiple meetings since the February 8 polls due to their mutual concerns over the alleged interference and manipulation during the general elections.

Last month, PTI's Qasier called on JUI-F Emir Maulana Fazlur Rehman in Islamabad wherein both leaders agreed on fulfilling the role of opposition in the National Assembly as well as on the constitution of a political committee to address various issues between them and formulate a political strategy.

Both parties have also found common ground in their opposition to the recently announced anti-terror drive titled "Operation Azm-e-Istekham" announced by the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led government.

During the said meeting, the PTI and the JUI-F leadership maintained that military operation was not the solution to the problems and stressed the role of political parties in achieving peace and stability in the province.

But speaking to the media in Islamabad a day earlier, Fazl said that the party's Majlis-e-Shura — the top decision-making body — has decided against becoming part of any alliance for now and has expressed "serious reservations" over the PTI in light of the reports that the two parties were on a verge of joining hands against the coalition government led by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).

"Our stance and reservations against PTI are very serious," he said, adding that the decision-making body had reviewed JUI-F's meetings with other political parties and declared it nothing more than a "political process.

Speaking about the prospects of dialogue, the politico said that his party welcomed PTI if they wanted to hold talks.

However, he said that the PTI still "lacked consistency", he added.

"Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) chief ruled out an alliance with JUI-F. These are two contradictory opinions which we are finding difficult to establish a stance on," Fazl said while referring to the possible dialogue with PTI and the reluctance of its allied party to enter talks.

The JUI-F chief further stated that different delegations hold consultations on behalf of the jailed PTI founder but the party hadn't yet decided on a team for holding the dialogue.

He said that his party did not have any hesitation in creating a "better political environment" and it stood by the positive approach towards its political rivals.

The politician called on the PTI and SIC to remove the confusion regarding their position on holding a dialogue.

Source: thenews.com.pk

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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1205328-pti-constitutes-team-for-negotiation-with-fazl-led-jui-f

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PM lauds Army for successful operations against terrorists

July 02, 2024

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with valiant sons of the Armed Forces of Pakistan for purging the country from the scourge of terrorism.

In a statement, he lauded the bravery of soldiers and officers for carrying out successful operations against terrorists in Tirah area of district Khyber and Lakki Marwat. Nine terrorists including a most wanted terrorist were killed by the security forces in these operations.

The Prime Minister said the entire nation is proud of their brave soldiers. He said the unwavering resolve of the guardians of Pakistan for establishing peace in the country is highly commendable.

Source: radio.gov.pk

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https://www.radio.gov.pk/02-07-2024/pm-lauds-pak-army-for-successful-operations-against-terrorists

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PM for boosting Pak-Kazakh trade, investment ties

July 01, 2024

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized the need to enhance trade and investment with Kazakhstan, while also focusing on regional connectivity and security.

He was talking to Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Pakistan Yerzhan Kistafin who paid a courtesy call at the Prime Minister House Islamabad today (Monday).

The Prime Minister conveyed his greetings to the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and expressed his desire to strengthen the excellent bilateral relations between Pakistan and Kazakhstan.

The Prime Minister said he is looking forward to his meeting with President Tokayev during his upcoming visit to Astana for the SCO Council of Heads of State meeting.

The Kazakh Ambassador conveyed the greetings of the President of Kazakhstan and briefed the Prime Minister on various activities and initiatives currently in progress to expand relations between the two countries.

Source: radio.gov.pk

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https://www.radio.gov.pk/01-07-2024/pm-calls-for-boosting-pak-kazakh-trade-investment-ties

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Mideast

 

First civil divorce ruling made in Abu Dhabi courtroom between Muslim and non-Muslim

Jul 01, 2024

The first civil divorce case at Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court between a Muslim and non-Muslim has taken place.

While the judgment was made in May, details are only beginning to emerge of the case in which a non-Muslim from the UK was granted a no-fault divorce from his Muslim ex-wife from Australia.

The couple had married in 2019 in Australia before later moving to live in the UAE.

After their relationship had deteriorated, the husband filed for a no-fault divorce under Abu Dhabi’s Law No. 14 of 2021, which governs civil marriages and their dissolution.

This law permits a spouse to "unilaterally request a divorce without the need to prove fault or assign blame".

The husband's request for a divorce was granted by Judge Abdelhafez Zidan, despite the protestations of the wife in the case.

She had argued that previous rulings and their residence in different emirates should disqualify the case from being heard in Abu Dhabi.

"[The ruling] reflects a deep commitment to justice and equity, ensuring that expatriates, including foreign Muslims, have access to fair and impartial legal recourse," said Byron James, partner at Expatriate Law and the lawyer for the man who brought the case forward.

"The ruling not only provides justice to my client but also sets a positive precedent for the future.

"The UAE's legal framework, particularly the civil marriage and divorce laws, showcases the country's dedication to adapting and modernising its judicial processes to serve its diverse population.”

The court's decision underscores its authority to handle personal status matters involving expatriates, even when both parties are Muslims, provided their home countries do not primarily apply Islamic law to such issues.

The court granted the divorce under the provisions of Law No. 14 of 2021, which allows for the dissolution of marriage based solely on one spouse's declaration of their desire to end the relationship.

This approach eliminates the need for contentious proof of harm or fault, simplifying the divorce process.

In addition to the divorce, the court affirmed joint custody of the couple's child in accordance with Article 26 of the same law.

Watershed judgment

“This ruling is a watershed moment for foreign Muslims living in the UAE, illustrating several critical points," said Mr James.

"The decision assures foreign Muslims that they can seek and obtain justice in Abu Dhabi’s civil courts for personal status matters, enjoying the same legal protections and considerations as other expatriates and citizens.

"By clarifying that Abu Dhabi’s civil family law can apply to expatriates of Muslim faith, the ruling broadens the scope of legal inclusivity in the UAE, accommodating its diverse expatriate population."

The judgment highlights Abu Dhabi’s progressive approach to law, one that is adaptable and inclusive, reflecting the emirate’s commitment to serving its multicultural residents, he added.

The Civil Family Court opened in December 2021 at the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department. It is part of new legislation to better support residents in the emirate.

The new family law includes equal legal rights for men and women, joint custody and the expediting of divorce procedures.

In February, an Australian Muslim living in the UAE was reunited with his two daughters after a prolonged legal battle.

In the landmark ruling by Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court, a non-Emirati Muslim father was granted full custody of his children, with the mother receiving only visiting rights.

The court was again in the headlines last month when it was declared that non-Emirati lawyers would be able to represent clients there.

Previously, it was only Emirati lawyers who could operate in the country's courtrooms.

The new ruling applied only to the new Civil Family Court.

Source: thenationalnews.com

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https://www.thenationalnews.com/news/uae/2024/07/02/first-civil-divorce-ruling-made-in-abu-dhabi-courtroom-between-muslim-and-non-muslim/

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Turkey: Historic Mosque Built By One of the Ottoman Grand Viziers Restored With Authentic KeşanStone

July 02 2024

A five-century-old historic mosque in the northwestern province of Edirne has undergone restoration with a distinctive material known as Keşan stone, which was meticulously sought after within the city for years.

After three years of research to identify a specific stone for the restoration of the historic mosque, the Keşan stone has been discovered and used in the restoration of the Hersekzade Ahmet Paşa Mosque, which was built by one of the Ottoman grand viziers in the Keşan district.

The head of the Foundations Regional Directorate Ahmet Saraç touched upon the studies conducted in order to discover the Keşan stone, the green ones of which were used in the restoration of the exterior part while the yellow ones were applied in the minaret of the mosque.

"The green stone used in the main walls of the mosque is a feature that identifies with our mosque along with the yellow stone in the minaret. When we initiated the restoration work, there was no quarry for such stones in Keşan,” he said.

Authorities discovered the quarries of the Keşan stones in the wake of long-continued studies, subsequently quarrying the specific stones, according to Saraç.

“We have completed the repair work in the workshops we established on the construction site. The reinforcement works of the mosque have been completed, in addition to the covering of the dome leads and the plaster works. Currently, works on landscaping, burial arrangements, sinks and ablution areas are continuing in the mosque,” he further explained.

Emphasizing the significance of the city, which was the capital of the Ottoman Empire for 92 years, in terms of historical buildings, Saraç stated that they attach great importance to the maintenance, repair and revival of these buildings.

“Our restoration works are currently proceeding in the provinces within our area of responsibility, especially in Selimiye Mosque and Uzunköprü Muradiye Mosque along with Hersekzade Ahmet Paşa Mosque,” he said.

Saraç indicated that the team's engraving work is still ongoing in the mosque, where the minaret, interior and exterior works have mostly been finished. He reflected on their will to reopen the mosque for worship within the year, with the crews working to restore it to its previous state.

In another restoration initiative in the historic city, the centuries-old doors of Selimiye Mosque are currently undergoing comprehensive restoration by the General Directorate of Foundations.

As part of this restoration, two entrance doors and three courtyard gates, known for their intricate Kündekari construction technique and size, have been meticulously preserved.

Source: hurriyetdailynews.com

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https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/historic-mosque-restored-with-authentic-stone-198012

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Islamic Resistance announces targeting of Zionist military sites

[01/July/2024]

BEIRUT July 01. 2024 (Saba)- The Islamic Resistance in Lebanon, led by Hezbollah, announced on Monday that its fighters targeted several military sites and buildings belonging to the Zionist enemy army in the north of the occupied Palestinian territories.

The Islamic Resistance said in its latest statements, “their Mujahideen targeted a building used by Zionist soldiers in the Metulla settlement with appropriate weapons and hit it directly.”

It announced in another statement that "their fighters targeted the Ma'yan Baruch Zionist site with artillery shells and hit it directly."

Source: saba.ye

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https://www.saba.ye/en/news3344835.htm

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Palestinian group Islamic Jihad fires rockets into Israel, no casualties reported

Jul 2, 2024

The Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad fired a barrage of rockets into Israel on Monday as fighting raged in Gaza and Israeli tanks advanced deeper in parts of the enclave, residents and officials said.

Islamic Jihad, an ally of Hamas - both of whom are backed by Iran - said its fighters fired rockets towards several Israeli communities near the fence with Gaza in response to "the crimes of the Zionist enemy against our Palestinian people".

The volley of about 20 rockets caused no casualties, the Israeli military said. But the attack showed militants still possess rocket capabilities almost nine months into an offensive that Israel says is aimed at neutralising threats against it.

Residents of several neighbourhoods in eastern Khan Younis, which is in southern Gaza, said they had received audio messages from Israeli phone numbers ordering them to leave their homes.

"For your safety, you must evacuate immediately to the humanitarian zone," army spokesperson Avichay Adraee posted on social media platform X in a call to residents and displaced people living in those areas.

Some suggested this could mean Israeli forces will return to the area, which they left several weeks ago. The Israeli military said in a statement earlier on Monday the rockets were fired from the Khan Younis area.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel was nearing its goal of taking out the military capabilities of Hamas, the Islamist group that governs Gaza and led the Oct. 7 assault on Israel that sparked the war. Less intense operations would continue, he said.

"We are advancing to the end of the phase of eliminating the terrorist army of Hamas, and there will be a continuation to strike its remnants," Netanyahu said.

Violence also flared on Monday in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, where the Palestinian health ministry said a woman and a boy were killed in the city of Tulkarm during an operation by Israeli forces. A day earlier, an Israeli strike in the same area killed an Islamic Jihad member.

In some parts of Gaza, militants continue to stage attacks on Israeli forces in areas that the army had left months ago.

Israeli tanks deepened incursions into the Shejaia suburb of eastern Gaza City for a fifth day, and tanks advanced further in western and central Rafah, in southern Gaza near the border with Egypt, residents said.

The Israeli military said it had killed a number of militants in combat in Shejaia on Monday and found large amounts of weapons there.

Hamas said its fighters had lured an Israeli force into a booby-trapped house in the east of Rafah and blown it up, causing casualties.

The Israeli military announced the death of a soldier in southern Gaza without providing details. Israel's Army Radio said the soldier was killed in Rafah in a booby-trapped house - a possible reference to the incident reported by Islamic Jihad.

Also in Rafah, the Israeli military said that an airstrike killed a militant who fired an anti-tank missile at its troops.

Israel has signalled that its operation in Rafah, meant to stamp out Hamas, will soon be concluded. After the intense phase of the war is over, its forces will focus on smaller scale operations meant to stop Hamas reassembling, officials say.

The war began when Hamas-led fighters burst into southern Israel on Oct. 7, killed 1,200 people and took around 250 hostages, including civilians and soldiers, back into Gaza, according to Israeli tallies.

The offensive launched by Israel in retaliation has killed nearly 38,000 people, according to the Gaza health ministry, and has left the heavily built-up coastal enclave in ruins.

The Gaza health ministry does not distinguish between combatants and non-combatants, but officials say most of the dead are civilians.

Israel says 317 of its soldiers have been killed in Gaza and that at least a third of the Palestinian dead are fighters.

CEASEFIRE EFFORTS STALLED

Arab mediators' efforts to secure a ceasefire, backed by the United States, have stalled. Hamas says any deal must end the war and bring a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Israel says it will accept only temporary pauses in the fighting until Hamas is eradicated.

Israeli authorities released 54 Palestinians it had detained during the war, Palestinian border officials said.

Among them was Mohammad Abu Selmeyah, the director of Al Shifa Hospital, arrested by the military when its forces first stormed the medical facility in November.

Israel said Hamas had been using the hospital for military purposes. The military has released the hospital's CCTV footage from October 7 showing gunmen and hostages on the premises and has taken journalists into a tunnel found at the complex.

Hamas has denied using hospitals for military purposes. Abu Selmeyah rejected the allegations on Monday and said detainees had been abused during their detention, including being deprived of food and medicine, and that some had died.

"I was subjected to severe torture, my little finger was broken, and I was beaten in the head until blood came out, more than once," Abu Selmeyah told a press conference at a hospital in southern Gaza.

Israel in May said it was investigating the deaths of Palestinians captured during the war as well as a military-run detention camp where released detainees and rights groups have alleged abuse of inmates.

Source: indiatoday.in

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https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/palestinian-group-islamic-jihad-fires-rockets-into-israel-no-casualties-reported-2560990-2024-07-02

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Israel strikes southern Gaza after ordering evacuations

July 02, 2024

Gaza Strip: Israel carried out fresh strikes in southern Gaza on Tuesday, forcing hundreds of Palestinians to flee after the army once again ordered the evacuation of certain densely populated areas.

Witnesses reported multiple strikes in and around the city of Khan Yunis, where eight people were killed and more than 30 were wounded, according to a medical source and the Palestinian Red Crescent.

The bombardment came after a rare rocket barrage claimed by the militant group Islamic Jihad, which has fought alongside Hamas.

The rockets were aimed at Israeli communities near the Gaza border and were fired in retaliation for Israeli “crimes... against our Palestinian people,” said the Al-Quds Brigades, the armed wing of Islamic Jihad.

The Israeli military said about “20 projectiles were identified crossing from the area of Khan Yunis,” most of which were intercepted. It reported no casualties and said artillery was “striking the sources of the fire.”

This was followed on Monday by an order to evacuate Al-Qarara, Bani Suhaila and other towns in Rafah and Khan Yunis, nearly two months after an initial order to evacuate Rafah ahead of a ground offensive.

Prior to Israel’s ground incursion in Rafah, well over one million people had been displaced to Gaza’s southernmost city.

“Fear and extreme anxiety have gripped people after the evacuation order,” said Bani Suhaila resident Ahmad Najjar. “There is a large displacement of residents.”

Other parts of the Gaza Strip were reeling from continued fighting nearly nine months into the devastating conflict.

Witnesses and the civil defense agency reported Israeli air strikes in the southern Rafah area and in the central Nuseirat refugee camp.

And in Gaza City’s Shujaiya district, where battles raged for a fifth day on Monday, witnesses reported heavy Israeli tank fire.

An AFP correspondent reported Israeli helicopters firing on houses in Shujaiya, while Hamas’s armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, said it was continuing to fight in Shujaiya and Rafah.

The Israeli military said troops “eliminated numerous terrorists” in raids in Shujaiya, where air strikes also killed “approximately 20” militants.

The military also announced the death of a soldier in southern Gaza, bringing its total toll during the ground offensive to 317.

Netanyahu, who recently declared that the “intense phase” of the war was winding down, said on Sunday troops were “operating in Rafah, Shujaiya, everywhere in the Gaza Strip.”

“This is a difficult fight that is being waged above ground... and below ground” in tunnels.

The war started with Hamas’s October 7 attack on southern Israel, which resulted in the deaths of 1,195 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli figures.

The militants also seized 251 hostages, 116 of whom remain in Gaza including 42 the army says are dead.

Israel’s retaliatory offensive has killed at least 37,900 people, also mostly civilians, according to data from the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza.

Months of on-and-off talks toward a truce and hostage release deal have made little progress, with Hamas saying Saturday there was “nothing new” in a revised plan presented by US mediators.

Israeli authorities released Mohammed Abu Salmiya, director of Gaza City’s Al-Shifa hospital, along with dozens of other detainees returned Monday to Gaza for treatment, sparking anger from Netanyahu.

Successive Israeli raids have reduced large parts of Al-Shifa, the territory’s largest medical complex, to rubble.

Israel has accused Hamas of using Al-Shifa and other hospitals in Gaza as a cover for military operations, claims the militants have rejected.

Speaking after his release, Abu Salmiya said he had suffered “severe torture” during his detention since November.

“Detainees were subjected to physical and psychological humiliation” and “several inmates died in interrogation centers and were deprived of food and medicine,” he said.

Israel’s Shin Bet intelligence agency said it had decided on the release alongside the Israeli military “to free up places in detention centers.”

The agency said it “opposed the release of terrorists” who had taken part in attacks on Israeli civilians “so it was decided to free several Gaza detainees who represent a lesser danger.”

But Netanyahu said he had ordered the agency to conduct an investigation into the release and provide him with the results by Tuesday.

“The release of the director of Shifa Hospital is a serious mistake and a moral failure. The place of this man, under whose responsibility our abductees were murdered and held, is in prison,” Netanyahu said in a statement.

According to Abu Salmiya, no charges were ever brought against him.

The United Nations and relief agencies have voiced alarm over the dire humanitarian crisis and the threat of starvation the war and Israeli siege have brought for Gaza’s 2.4 million people.

The UN humanitarian agency OCHA reported that during the month of June, Israeli authorities facilitated less than half of 115 planned humanitarian assistance missions to northern Gaza.

In a displacement camp in Gaza’s Deir Al-Balah, pharmacist Sami Hamid said skin infections were on the rise, particularly among children, “because of the hot weather and lack of clean water.”

“The number of skin infections has increased, especially scabies and chickenpox,” as have hepatitis cases probably linked to untreated sewage flowing right beside tents, said Hamid.

Source: arabnews.com

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Palestinian Authority pledges more backing for NGOs in Gaza

July 02, 2024

RAMALLAH, Palestinian Territories: The Palestinian Authority on Monday pledged to give greater backing to NGOs in Gaza as it warned that 300,000 families in the beleaguered territory are “marginalized” and need assistance.

The authority held a meeting with about 15 NGOs and aid groups who have complained about increasing problems getting aid into the Gaza Strip and distributing food and other essentials around the territory where Israel has been fighting Hamas for more than eight months.

While the Palestinian Authority, which is based in the occupied West Bank, has virtually no influence in Hamas-ruled Gaza, the authority’s emergency relief minister Basil Al-Kafarna acknowledged the mounting dangers and said: “We are here to support the non-governmental organizations and the agencies for humanitarian relief in the Gaza Strip.”

He emphasized a number of cooperation projects including two online platforms that monitor the districts and families among Gaza’s 2.4 million inhabits most in need and allow NGOs to highlight problems.

Social development minister Samah Hamad said the authority would be able to provide family records from its social register. “Before (the war) we had about 120,000 families benefitting from cash transfers from the social protection scheme.”

Hamad added that the PA believed 300,000 families in Gaza were now “marginalized and going through hardship.”

Tens of thousands of Palestinian Authority workers still live in Gaza but the territory has been under Hamas control since 2007 when the militant group won weeks of battles with Fatah, the party of PA president Mahmud Abbas.

Source: arabnews.com

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Iranian presidential candidates accuse each other of having no plan or experience ahead of runoff

July 02, 2024

TEHRAN, Iran: Iran’s presidential candidates on Monday accused each other of having no solution for the country’s problems ahead of Friday’s runoff election aimed at choosing a successor for the late President Ebrahim Raisi, who died last month in a helicopter crash.

During a more than two-hour debate on public TV, reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian attacked his competitor, Saeed Jalili, a hard-line former nuclear negotiator, for his lack of experience, saying: “Tell me, what single company have you ever managed to make you capable to run the country?

Jalili, who is known as the “Living Martyr” after losing a leg in the 1980s Iran-Iraq war and is famous among Western diplomats for his haranguing lectures and hard-line stances, defended himself highlighting his career and several positions held, including that of top nuclear negotiator.

Pezeshkian further questioned his opponent on what plans he would have for reaching a nuclear deal, with Jalili responding he would approach it “based on strength not weakness,” without providing details.

Jalili said Pezeshkian has no plans for managing the country saying his presidency would drive the country to a “backward position,” as it was under relatively moderate former President Hassan Rouhani (2013-2021). Rouhani struck a nuclear deal with world powers that capped Iran’s uranium enrichment in return to lifting sanctions but later, in 2018, President Trump pulled the US out from the landmark deal abruptly restoring harsh sanctions on Iran.

Jalili said that “with the support of people,” Iran would achieve an economic growth of 8 percent a year, a promise Pezeshkian mocked, saying authorities should be allowed to “execute him if he failed” to deliver on it.

Iran must implement “a dynamic foreign policy” if it wants to have a successful economy, Jalili said, adding that it should not be limited to those nations that it has a problem with — a reference to the US and the western world. Instead, he said, “Iran should look to the other 200 nations in the world where “foreign relations should be improved.”

Pezeshkian said his foreign policy will be based on “engagement with the world” including engaging in “negotiations for lifting sanctions.”

Both sides promised to address the problems of the country’s poor, workers, women, ethnic groups and religious minorities, and vowed to provide better and faster Internet — a plea to a younger generation that showed apathy during Friday’s vote.

Pezeshkian and Jalili also said the low turnout in the first round — the lowest-ever poll turnout in the Islamic Republic’s history — should be probed.

“It is not acceptable that some 60 percent (of voters) did not cast a ballot,” said Pezeshkian.

The candidates will face Tuesday in a second and last debate.

Source: arabnews.com

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