Darul Uloom Deoband Issues Fatwa Giving 'Validity to Idea of Ghazwa-e-Hind'
New Age Islam
News Bureau
22 February 2024
Photo: Panchjanya
------
·
Darul
Uloom Deoband Issues Fatwa Giving 'Validity to Idea of Ghazwa-e-Hind'
·
UK
Hate Crime Monitor Records Over 2,000 Anti-Muslim Cases Since Oct. 7
·
Pakistan
Religious Leaders Urge Political Parties to Forge 25-Year Accord for Peace
·
Saudi
Arabia Calls for Unconditional and Immediate End to Israeli Occupation of
Palestine
·
Israel
to Indict Preacher of Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque
----
India
·
BJP
Begins Drive to Reach Out to Muslims with Urdu Posters, “Na Doori Hai Na Khayi
Hai, Modi Hamara Bhai Hai”
·
108
Mazars Demolished in Gujarat: Gujarat Home Minister in Assembly
·
Protests
In Tamil Nadu Over Portrayal of Muslims in Teaser of Sivakarthikeyan Film ‘Amaran’
·
Mamata
Banerjee Reacts To ‘Khalistani’ Row: Would You Call Muslim Cop Pakistani?
·
Delhi
High Court refuses to entertain PIL against proposed demolition of Sunehri Bagh
Mosque
·
8-year-old
who went to mosque and never returned: CBI takes up probe
----
Europe
·
UK
may halt arms exports to Israel if IDF goes through with Rafah operation -
report
·
10
countries present legal arguments at ICJ against Israel’s occupation of
Palestine
·
UK
parliament descends into chaos as MPs vote to back Gaza humanitarian ceasefire
·
Brazil
condemns ‘paralysis’ on Gaza, Ukraine at tense G20 meeting
----
Pakistan
·
PTI-Backed
Independentsof National and Provincial Assemblies Join Sunni Ittehad Council
·
'200
Days in Jail, But Imran Khan Still Sticking to Ideology'
·
Contempt
case: IHC rejects Islamabad DC’s unconditional apology
·
Some
religious leaders oppose SC ruling in ‘proscribed literature’ case
·
Notices
to Centre, ECP on plea against withdrawing PTI symbol
·
MQM-P
wants four ministries as JUI-F also seeks role in Centre
·
Toshakhana
case: Hearing against Nawaz, Zardari, Gilani and others adjourned till Mar 6
-----
Arab World
·
Arab
League, OIC, And Egypt Condemn US Veto of Gaza Ceasefire
·
Fresh
aggression: US, UK launch five strikes on Yemen’s Hudaydah
·
KSrelief,
UN officials meet to discuss aid cooperation
·
KSrelief
to provide equipment to Sudan children’s hospitals
·
Saudi
and Egyptian foreign ministers discuss bilateral ties
·
Saudi
foreign minister, Blinken discuss Gaza situation
·
Saudi
FM urges G20 to act to end Gaza disaster
-------
Mideast
·
Al-Aqsa
Storm Stopped US Plan in Region, Marked End of Netanyahu’s Dream: Hamas
Official
·
Zionist
enemy launches campaign of raids, arrests in occupied W Bank
·
Resistance attackers kill Zionist
soldier, injure eight others in occupied al-Quds
·
Hezbollah
strikes Israeli settlements near Lebanon's border
·
Sheikh
Qassem says ceiling will be higher than any ceiling exceeded by enemy
·
Turkiye
calls for Gaza ceasefire, two-state solution at G20 meeting
----
North America
·
US:
‘Taliban Not Only Afghans Who Have Stake in Future of Afghanistan’
·
Over
18,000 SIVs approved for Afghan allies last year: US State Department
·
US
State Department Reacts to Taliban’s Durand Line Statement
·
Blinken
To Brazil's Lula: US Disagrees with Remarks Comparing Israel to Nazis
·
US
military says it destroyed Houthi missiles in pre-emptive strikes
----
South Asia
·
Doha
Summit Urged Continued Talks with Afghan Rulers: Envoy
·
Mujahid:
Islamic Emirate Committed to Rights of People
·
Nearly
2,000 Afghan migrants return home from Iran and Pakistan
·
UNSG:
Half of Afghanistan Population Will Require Aid in 2024
·
Dialogue
is the Key to Resolution, Asserts Deputy PM
·
Significant
Decrease in Criminal Offenses in Panjshir Province
·
Our
dream is to make Bangla an official UN language: FM
----
Southeast Asia
·
Malay
Religious Affairs Minister Advises Muslims to Reject Fanaticism
·
US
Veto Pushed Gaza to More Dangerous Situation: China
·
Sultan
of Brunei joins funeral prayers for Taib
·
Malaysian
MPs delegation visits Egypt to reiterate support for Palestinian cause
·
Cultivator
of harmony: S'wak politicians credit Taib for pivotal role in nurturing ethnic,
religious unity in state
·
Yunnan
mosque gets pagodas and party slogans in Chinese makeover
----
Africa
·
Kano
Govt Inaugurates Ramadan Feeding Committee
·
‘Pray,
fast for Naira, you will see miracle’ – Shehu Sani tells Muslims, Christians
·
Somalia
approves defence deal with Turkey
·
Lift
Mali, B’Faso, Niger sanctions, Gowon writes ECOWAS
Compiled
by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/darul-uloom-deoband-fatwa-ghazwa-hind/d/131776
-----
Darul
Uloom Deoband Issues Fatwa Giving 'Validity to Idea of Ghazwa-e-Hind
Photo: Panchjanya
------
FEBRUARY
22, 2024
Darul
Uloom Deoband, one of the largest Islamic seminaries in the country, has
reportedly issued a fatwa giving validity to the idea of Ghazwa-e-Hind. The
seminary has written on its website that ‘Ghazwa-e-Hind’ (holy raid of India)
is “valid from the Islamic point of view”. It further stated that those
martyred in Ghazwa-e-Hind will be great supreme martyrs.
Terming
the fatwa ‘anti-national’, the National Commission for Child Protection (NCPCR)
has asked Saharanpur DM and SSP to lodge an FIR.
According
to News18 Hindi, a netizen had sought information from Darul Uloom online
regarding Ghazwa-e-Hind. This person had asked the seminary whether there is
any mention of it in the Hadith.
In
response, Darul Uloom Deoband cited ‘Sunan an-Nasai’, one of the ‘Kutub al-Sittah’ (six major
hadith collections). It said that there is an entire chapter in it regarding
Ghazwa-e-Hind.
It’s
mentioned in the fatwa that a hadith has been narrated quoting Hazrat Abu
Huraira, who was close to Prophet Mohammad. In this he spoke of Ghazwa-e-Hind
and said, “I will fight for it and will sacrifice all my wealth for it. If I
die, I will be a great sacrifice. If I remain alive, I will be called ‘Ghazi’
(a Muslim warrior).”
Taking
cognizance of the complaint by NCPCR chairman Priyank Kanungo, Saharanpur
district officer Dinesh Chandra directed SDM and CO Deoband to take action
after investigation.
Expressing
concern over the matter, Kanungo said, “At Darul Uloom Deoband, children are
being taught how to perform ‘Ghazwa-e-Hind’, Whoever gives his life for
Ghazwa-e-Hind will be called the supreme martyr. This organisation operates
madrassas throughout South Asia. It is very dangerous to incite children to
attack India in this way. We have asked the district administration to register
a case under sections of treason.”
Darul
Uloom Deoband is the largest Islamic institution running several madrassas in
the country. Madrasas linked to this seminary are running in India, Pakistan
and Bangladesh, where lakhs of students are enrolled.
A
local publication of Uttar Pradesh quoted Muslim cleric Maulana Sajid Rashidi
as defending the fatwa, and saying “it is a hypothetical situation”.
“It
has been said that only ‘if’ there was a fight between Hindus and Muslims, then
the person killed would be called martyred,” Rozana Spokesman quoted him as
saying.
Source: news18.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.news18.com/india/darul-uloom-deoband-issues-fatwa-giving-validity-to-idea-of-ghazwa-e-hind-8788618.html
----
UK Hate
Crime Monitor Records Over 2,000 Anti-Muslim Cases Since Oct. 7
File
Photo/ aa.com
------
Nur
Asena Erturk
22.02.2024
A
hate crime monitoring group in the UK recorded over 2,000 anti-Muslim cases
since Oct. 7, according to a statement issued on Thursday.
"Tell
MAMA recorded over 2,000 anti-Muslim cases in the four months that followed
Hamas’s deadly terror attacks on October 7. This is the largest recorded number
of cases in four months, since Tell MAMA was founded in 2011," it said in
a statement.
The
number of cases increased by 335% in a year, it added.
"In
stark contrast, between 7 October 2022 and 7 February 2023, Tell MAMA recorded
310 offline cases and 290 online cases, respectively," the statement said.
The
types of cases were abusive behaviour, threats, assaults, acts of vandalism,
discrimination, and acts of hate speech, and women were the main target in 65%
of the cases.
"We
are deeply concerned about the impacts that the Israel and Gaza war are having
on hate crimes and on social cohesion in the U.K.," Tell MAMA director
Iman Atta said.
She
expressed the hope that "political leaders will speak out to send a clear
message that anti-Muslim hate, like antisemitism, is unacceptable in our
country."
Israel
launched a deadly offensive on the Gaza Strip following a cross-border
incursion by the Palestinian group Hamas on Oct. 7. The ensuing Israeli
bombardment has killed at least 29,313 people and injured nearly 70,000 with
mass destruction and shortages of necessities.
Source: aa.com.tr
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/europe/uk-hate-crime-monitor-records-over-2-000-anti-muslim-cases-since-oct-7/3144619
-----
Pakistan
Religious Leaders Urge Political Parties to Forge 25-Year Accord for Peace
Special
Representative to the Prime Minister for Religious Harmony & Islamic
Countries and chairman Pakistan Ulema Council Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood
Ashrafi addresses at The Pact Pakistan Convention (Meesaq-e-Pakistan
convention) on February 21, 2024.— NNI
------
February
22, 2024
Asim Yasin
ISLAMABAD:
The religious scholars and leaders at the “Convention for Pakistan Accord”
organised by the Pakistan Ulema Council (PUC) under the leadership of Chairman
Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi urged political parties to forge ‘Pakistan
Accord’ for 25 years to avoid any crisis in future.
“The
religious scholars and leaders from different schools of thought emphasize the
necessity for all stakeholders, including the Pakistan Armed Forces, judiciary,
and all political and religious factions, to come together and formulate a
covenant for the betterment of the nation. This covenant, named the ‘Pakistan
Accord’, should outline the trajectory for the country’s next 25 years,” they
added.
In a
joint declaration, they highlighted that political parties must accept each
other’s mandate and resort to the Constitution and law to resolve electoral
disputes.
They
urged the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and the judiciary to play
impartial roles in the matter. Ulema and Mashaykh emphasized that economic
stability was linked with political stability, and without the latter, the
former could not be achieved. They pointed out that Pakistan faces several
challenges, and addressing them requires cooperation from all democratic
societies.
They
stressed all parties should accept the results of general elections and work
together to resolve the national issues. However, they raised concerns
regarding the dissatisfaction expressed by certain political parties over the
results of the elections held on February 8.
Regarding
electoral results, they reiterated that parties with doubts and suspicions
should adhere to the Constitution and law, and the ECP should promptly address
their concerns. It was deemed unacceptable to push the country towards unrest
under any circumstances, they said, adding that the ECP and judiciary should
play impartial roles in resolving electoral disputes. The religious scholars
and leaders emphasized the importance of fostering an environment of tolerance
and mutual respect among all political parties. They stated that the Pakistan
Armed forces, judiciary, and all political and religious groups should unite
under a comprehensive Pakistan Accord. They said a unified strategy for
steering the beloved country out of crisis be devised to address internal and
external challenges.
Furthermore,
they proposed that Pakistan’s foreign policy, along with improving relations
with friendly countries, should also focus on alleviating poverty and
unemployment through a plan for youth rehabilitation to eliminate extremism and
terrorism.
They
concluded by asserting that all stakeholders must come together to formulate a
consensus policy, which should be declared a national policy, and any
government, irrespective of its origin, should accept it coherently. “The path
we stand on today is the right path, and any experimentation with the situation
will only lead to serious consequences,” they opined. They commended the
services of the Pakistan Army and security agencies for maintaining peace
during elections.
Source: thenews.com.pk
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1160272-religious-leaders-urge-political-parties-to-forge-25-year-accord-for-peace
-----
Saudi
Arabia Calls for Unconditional and Immediate End to Israeli Occupation of
Palestine
Saudi
Ambassador to the Netherlands Ziad Al-Attiyah takes part in the Public hearings
at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague
------
February
21, 2024
THE
HAGUE— Saudi Arabia called for an unconditional and immediate end to the
Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories. Denouncing roundly Israel’s
aggression on the Gaza Strip, Saudi Arabia told before the International Court
of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, Netherlands, that Israel’s behaviour since 1967
has made the establishment of a Palestinian state impossible.
Saudi
Ambassador to the Netherlands Ziad Al-Attiyah said this while making the
statement of Saudi Arabia during the Public hearings at ICJ, requesting an
advisory opinion regarding the legal effects resulting from Israel’s policies
and practices in the occupied territories, including East Jerusalem.
Al-Attiyah
condemned the Israeli military aggression on the Gaza Strip, and the increasing
acts of violence against the Palestinians. He voiced the Kingdom’s rejection
and strong condemnation of the horrific killing, destruction and displacement
of Palestinian civilians as a result of the brutal and illegal war in the Gaza
Strip. He reiterated the Kingdom’s strong rejection of Israel’s twisted logic
for practicing this brutality, destroying Gaza Strip and killing tens of
thousands of innocent civilians, in addition to the displacement of the entire
population of 2.3 million Palestinians.
“There
are no reasons to prevent the court from exercising its jurisdiction to express
an advisory opinion regarding the practices and policies of the Israeli
occupation, and that the issue before it represents great importance to all
countries and the United Nations,” he said.
Al-Attiyah
said that the Kingdom has shown that Israel’s behavior since 1967 has made the
establishment of a Palestinian state impossible, by annexing more than two
million dunams of land, building more than 279 illegal settlements in the West
Bank, illegally annexing East Jerusalem, and declaring Jerusalem the capital of
Israel. The confiscation of natural resources and the destruction of
Palestinian homes and others, and these actions are fully documented in many
United Nations reports.
“There
is much evidence available to the court regarding Israel’s illegal policies and
practices in the occupied Palestinian territories, and the court must clearly
define the legal consequences resulting from Israel’s prolonged occupation, and
illegal policies and practices in the Palestinian territories, and how these
practices and policies affect the situation,” Al-Attiyah said while drawing
attention to the legal implications of the occupation, as well as the legal
implications for all states and the United Nations. He emphasized that the
court’s opinion will not harm the negotiation process aimed at resolving the
Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as some people claim.
The
ambassador asked the court to consider the Israeli occupation of the
Palestinian territories as illegal, and that all countries must cooperate to
put an end to Israel’s violations of international law. Public hearings have
begun at the ICJ regarding the advisory opinion pertaining to the legal
consequences resulting from Israel’s policies and practices in the occupied
territories, including East Jerusalem, which started on Feb. 19 and will
conclude on Feb. 26
Source: saudigazette.com.sa
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/640609/SAUDI-ARABIA/Saudi-Arabia-calls-for-unconditional-and-immediate-end-to-Israeli-occupation-of-Palestine
----
Israel
To Indict Preacher of Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque
Sheikh
Ekrima Sabri, the preacher of East Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque,
------
Abdelraouf
Arnaout
21.02.2024
Israel
said Wednesday it will file an indictment against Sheikh Ekrima Sabri, the
preacher of East Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque, for "incitement to
terrorism."
A
statement by the Israeli Justice Ministry said Sabri, 85, will be accused of
inciting “terrorism” after offering condolences to families of Palestinians
killed by Israeli forces.
The
ministry said the decision was approved by Israel's Attorney General Gali
Baharav-Miara.
Khaled
Zabarqa, a defense lawyer for the Al-Aqsa Mosque preacher, blamed pressure from
right-wing Israeli groups for Tel Aviv’s move to file charges against him.
“The
Israeli decision amounts to a subversion of the law for political goals,” he
told Anadolu.
“This
is a political, religious and intellectual persecution carried out by extreme
right-wing groups to spread chaos,” he added.
Sabri
was detained multiple times by the Israeli forces in the past and was banned
from entering Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem for several months.
Sabri
is a staunch critic of the decades-long Israeli occupation of the Palestinian
territories. He had previously held the position of mufti of Jerusalem and the
Palestinian territories from 1994 to 2006.
Al-Aqsa
Mosque is the world's third-holiest site for Muslims. Jews call the area the
Temple Mount, saying it was the site of two Jewish temples in ancient times.
Israel
occupied East Jerusalem, where Al-Aqsa is located, during the 1967 Arab-Israeli
War. It annexed the entire city in 1980, a move never recognized by the
international community.
Source: aa.com.tr
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/israel-to-indict-preacher-of-jerusalem-s-al-aqsa-mosque/3144037
---
India
BJP
Begins Drive to Reach Out to Muslims with Urdu Posters, “Na Doori Hai Na Khayi
Hai, Modi Hamara Bhai Hai”
Feb 22, 2024
Lucknow:
BJP on Wednesday launched the campaign of pasting posters and banners with
messages in Urdu in and around mosques, dargahs and madrassas as part of its
minority outreach ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.
The
posters have two messages: “Na Doori Hai Na Khayi Hai, Modi Hamara Bhai Hai”
and “Ek bar phir, Modi sarkar”.
The
idea, sources said, stemmed from BJP’s micro-management strategy, specially for
Muslim dominated seats in UP where the party faces stiff challenge from the
opposition, mainly the Samajwadi Party.
Muslims
account for 19% of the total electorate in UP and have been traditionally loyal
to the SP. Coincidentally, BJP launched its outreach drive on the day SP and
Congress announced their tie-up for Lok Sabha elections in the state.
Sources
said the posters will also be pasted outside the homes of BJP’s Muslim booth
presidents in minority dominated pockets. Muslims are in sizable numbers in
40,000 polling booths of UP, with nearly 10,000 of them supervised by party’s
Muslim booth presidents.
“A
good number of Muslims have an affinity towards Urdu. In fact, they read only
Urdu text. We need to tap such people and convey the party’s message to them,”
UP BJP minority morcha chief Basit Ali told TOI.
Ali
said a large number of Muslims have benefitted from various welfare schemes of
govt and it’s time they reciprocate the favour to BJP in the Lok Sabha
elections.
Political
experts said BJP campaign is another attempt to blunt an aggressive opposition,
mainly the SP.
BJP
has identified at least 23 Lok Sabha seats for the Urdu poster campaign. Eleven
of these 23 seats were won by the SP-BSP combine in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls,
though BJP won Azamgarh and Rampur in the subsequent byelections.
Earlier
this month, BJP had kicked off ‘Qaumi Chaupal’ campaign in nearly 4,100 Muslim
dominated villages.
We
also published the following articles recently
BJP
begins drive to reach out to Muslims with Urdu postersBJP launches minority
outreach campaign in UP ahead of Lok Sabha elections, targeting
Muslim-dominated seats. Urdu posters and banners are being pasted in mosques,
dargahs, and madrassas. The campaign aims to tap into the sizable Muslim
electorate and is being led by Basit Ali, UP BJP minority morcha
chief.107890759
Will
defeat BJP from Budaun in Lok Sabha polls: SP leader ShivpalYadavSamajwadi
Party leader Shivpal Yadav accepts party's order to contest from Budaun,
expresses confidence in defeating BJP candidate. Dharmendra Yadav to contest
from Azamgarh. Yadav comments on Swami Prasad Maurya's resignation, speaks to
reporters at Kedareshwar temple about his nomination.107873762
BJP
prepares for Modis grand welcome; eyes Lok Sabha pushBJP prepares for PM Modi's
Varanasi visit ahead of Lok Sabha elections. Efforts to ensure turnout at
public gatherings for Ravidas Jayanti. Extensive outreach, social media
campaigns, door-to-door engagement underway. Preparations in final stages with
dedicated teams. Warm welcome planned at various points along PM Modi's
route.107869511
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/bjp-launches-urdu-poster-campaign-for-muslim-outreach-ahead-of-lok-sabha-elections/articleshow/107899552.cms
-----
108
Mazars Demolished in Gujarat: Gujarat Home Minister in Assembly
22.02.24
Gujarat’s
Home Minister, Harsh Sanghavi, addressed the Assembly on Wednesday, informing
members that the Bhupendra Patel-led government has demolished 108 Mazars as
part of a crackdown on encroachments believed to be “part of a conspiracy.”
Sanghavi reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding temples from
any malicious intent.
Quoting
an earlier statement by a BJP MLA from Ellisbridge, Sanghavi remarked, “Today,
the point mentioned by Amitbhai… He said that a derasar was removed in
Jamalpur. Now, Dada’s (Bhupendra Patel) bulldozer is moving around in every
nook and corner of the state so that no temple or devsthan can be removed while
hatching a conspiracy. Nobody knows where will it (bulldozer) go.”
Sanghavi
addressed the Assembly while seeking approval for the budgetary allocation for
the home department. He raised concerns about the sudden appearance of multiple
mazars within the Uparkot Fort premises in Junagadh, recently redeveloped. “In
Uparkot, it was not known where (and when) all mazars were built. How can it be
built suddenly?” he questioned.
Sanghavi
continued, stating, “In all, 108 mazars have been demolished (in the state) and
the state’s properties have been opened… The encroachment around Somnath has
been removed. This bulldozer of Dada can enter a 20-ft wide street and an 80-m
wide road.”
Source: muslimmirror.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://muslimmirror.com/eng/108-mazars-demolished-by-bulldozer-dada-gujarat-home-minister-harsh-sanghavi/
-----
Protests
in Tamil Nadu over portrayal of Muslims in teaser of Sivakarthikeyan film
‘Amaran’
February
22, 2024
Members
of the Tamilaga Makkal Jananayaga Katchi (TMJK), a political outfit, staged
protests in Tamil Nadu on Wednesday against the yet-to-be-released film Amaran,
alleging that the teaser of the film portrayed Muslims in a bad light.
The
protests were held in Tirunelveli, Tiruchirapalli, Tiruppur, Vellore, Cuddalore
etc over the demand that the film’s release be stalled. The release date is yet
to be announced.
The
teaser of the Sivakarthikeyan-starrer Amaran, bankrolled by actor Kamal
Haasan’s Raaj Kamal Films International and Sony Pictures Films India, was
released a few days ago. Directed by Rajkumar Periasamy, the film will see
Sivakarthikeyan portraying the role of Major Mukund Varadarajan and also
features Sai Pallavi, Bhuvan Arora and Rahul Bose, among others.
Major
Varadarajan of the 44th Battalion of the Rashtriya Rifles (22 Rajput) was
awarded the Ashoka Chakra, the nation’s highest peacetime gallantry award,
posthumously. He was leading an anti-terrorist operation in a village in Jammu
and Kashmir’s Shopian in April 2014 when he lost his life.
On
Wednesday, TMJK members raised slogans against Sivakarthikeyan and Kamal
Haasan, urged the police to invoke the Goondas Act against the two actors, and
tried to burn effigies of the actors. The police took measures to disperse the
gathering and later detained some of the members to bring the situation under
control.
“The teaser
of the film has scenes portraying the Muslims and the people of Kashmir as
terrorists. The government of Tamil Nadu should immediately intervene and ban
the film,” Rayal Siddique, Tiruchirapalli district secretary of the TMJK, told
reporters in Palakarai. The Tamil film industry, he alleged, continues to
portray Muslims who have been living in harmony with people of all religions in
the state in a bad light.
Source: indianexpress.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chennai/tamil-nadu-amaran-teaser-protests-9174627/
----
Mamata
Banerjee reacts to ‘Khalistani’ row: Would you call Muslim cop Pakistani?
Feb
21, 2024
The
state police on Tuesday claimed Adhikari hurled a 'Khalistani' slur at a Sikh
police officer.
West
Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday extended her support of a
Sikh IPS officer who was allegedly called "Khalistani" by some
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) activists, saying that the official was only doing
his duty and should not have been called a 'Khalistani' just for wearing a
turban.
While
addressing an event on Language Day on Wednesday, Banerjee said, “What was the
fault of the officer doing his duty? Is there no Sikh regiment in the force? We
respect all religions. If an officer wears a turban, how can you call him
Khalistani? There are Muslim IAS, IPS, and WBCS officers; how can you call them
Pakistani just because someone is a Muslim officer? I have been mocked using so
many names, but I never reacted to it.”
Hindustan
Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.
"A
few people are now engaging in this. They are the biggest blot in Bengal, those
who are maligning Bengal's reputation," she added.
Earlier,
the chief minister shared a video of the verbal spat of the confrontation
between the BJP activists and police where the police personnel was seen
protesting against the BJP workers for labelling him "Khalistani" for
wearing a turban.
A
Sikh police official, who was deployed at Dhamakhali in a bid to prevent BJP
leader Suvendu Adhikari from visiting North 24 Parganas district's Sandeshkhali
town, was confronted by protesting BJP workers who allegedly called the
official 'Khalistani'.
Meanwhile,
the state police on Tuesday claimed Adhikari hurled a 'Khalistani' slur at a
Sikh police officer. The police condemned the unprovoked, unacceptable attack
on an individual's religious identity and added that stern legal action is
being initiated.
Responding
to the allegations, Adhikari challenged the ADG (South Bengal) to prove his
charge that a slur was hurled at a Sikh police officer, within 24 hours or face
consequences.
He
was accompanied by BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul on his way to Sandeshkhali, which has
been witnessing unrest for over 10 days as women protestors are seeking justice
for allegedly land-grabbing and sexually assaulting" them under coercion
by Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan and his aides.
The
police so far have arrested 18 people for their alleged involvement in violent
protests
Shajahan
has been absconding after a mob, allegedly affiliated with him, attacked
Enforcement Directorate officials who had gone to search his premises in
connection with a ration scam in January this year.
Source: hindustantimes.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-reacts-to-khalistani-row-would-you-call-muslim-cop-pakistani-101708531714562.html
-----
Delhi
High Court refuses to entertain PIL against proposed demolition of Sunehri Bagh
mosque
21.02.24
The
Delhi High Court on Wednesday refused to entertain a PIL against the proposed
demolition of Sunehri Bagh Mosque due to alleged traffic congestion in the
area.
A
division bench of Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Manmeet PS Arora
noted that a similar petition is already pending before a single judge of the
high court and said no orders are required to be passed.
“Since
appropriate measures have already been taken by the Delhi Waqf Board in
discharge of its legal and executive duties to protect waqf properties, this
court is of the view that no order is required in the present writ petition.
Accordingly, the petition is closed,” the bench said.
The
bench also questioned the petitioner for filing the PIL with similar prayers
even when one petition on the issue was already pending before the single
judge.
The
PIL filed by Waqf Welfare Forum was vehemently opposed by the counsel for the
Centre, Delhi Police, Delhi Waqf Board and the New Delhi Municipal Council
(NDMC) who contended that the petition was nothing more than a cut and paste
work of the contentions and submissions advanced in the plea pending before the
single judge filed by the Imam of Sunehri Bagh Masjid.
One
of the prayers in the petition sought direction the Delhi Waqf Board to
discharge its legal and executive duty to protect waqf properties as per the
Waqf Act, 1995 and Waqf (amendment) Act, 2013.
Senior
advocate Sanjoy Ghose, representing the Board, said appropriate steps have been
taken to protect waqf properties and the Board is supporting the plea pending
before the single judge.
He
said due to the pendency of this fresh petition, today’s hearing before the
single judge has been adjourned till February 28.
The
fresh petition sought quashing of the public notice published in newspapers on
December 24, 2023 issued by the chief architect of the NDMC calling upon the
general public to submit objections/ suggestions regarding removal of Sunehri
Bagh Masjid due to alleged traffic congestion in the area.
The
plea also sought direction to the authorities not to cause any harm to the
mosque situated near Udyog Bhawan in Lutyens Delhi.
The
petitioner sought declaring as unconstitutional vesting the respondents with
powers to demolish, alter, alienate, convert the structure or religious
character of the mosque or its removal or to disturb its heritage existence.
Before
the single judge, petitioner Abdul Aziz, the Imam of Sunehri Bagh Masjid, has
challenged the December 24, 2023 public notice by NDMC asking the general
public to tender objections/ suggestions regarding removal of the mosque.
On
December 18, the high court had closed the proceedings in a separate petition
by the Delhi Waqf Board anticipating demolition of the mosque at the Sunehri
Bagh Road roundabout while recording that the parties would act as per law.
Source: telegraphindia.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/delhi-high-court-refuses-to-entertain-public-interest-litigation-against-proposed-demolition-of-sunehri-bagh-mosque/cid/2002033
----
8-year
old who went to mosque and never returned: CBI takes up probe
February
22, 2024
Saurabh
Parashar
Around
two years after the mysterious disappearance and killing of an eight-year-old
boy, Rizwan, who had gone to his village mosque in Haryana’s Palwal district,
CBI registered an FIR and launched a manhunt to nab the culprits.
Days
after Rizwan went missing on December 23, 2021, his mutilated body was
reportedly found in the fields of Nagla Ahsanpur village in Palwal district
after one week on December 30.
Rizwan,
a resident of Khatela Sarai village (Palwal), had gone to a mosque in his
village around 5.30 pm on December 23, 2021, but he never returned home after
that, disappearing without a trace. A week later his body, with a disfigured
face, was found in the fields of Nagla Ahsanpur village on December 30, 2021.
Despite
an FIR registered by Haryana Police based on a complaint filed by Rizwan’s
father Mustaq, there was no progress in the investigation. Subsequently, Mustaq
approached the high court, seeking a CBI investigation into the matter and the
court directed the central investigating agency to file an FIR on January 4,
2024.
Sources
revealed that a CBI team visited the crime scene and Mustaq’s residence on
Wednesday and collected relevant records. Inspector Gurtar Singh, under SP
(CBI) Navdeep Singh Brar’s supervision, is leading the investigation.
Talking
to The Indian Express, Mustaq said, “Police naikuchnahikiyathaa..unhonai to
case bhi band kaardiyatha..Rizwan doosri class maipadtatha..sham ko masjid
gayatha..uskilaash ek haftaibaadmili..police naimujah bata ki mere bete kai
chareepaatezabdalahai..cbi wale aayeethaiaaj, mere bete ki photo
layegayihai.(Police did nothing in the case. They even closed the
investigation. My son Rizwan was studying in Class II. He had gone to a local
mosque. His body was found after one week. A policeman had told me that
assailants had poured acid on my son’s face. His tongue was cut off and one eye
gouged out. Today (Wednesday) CBI officials visited my house and collected my
son’s photograph along with relevant documents from me.”
Mustaq
had named three persons in his plea to the high court, suggesting their
involvement in the case due to a property dispute. The affidavit from DSP
Sajjan Singh submitted in the high court mentioned negative brain-mapping test
results of the three suspects. The medical board that studied the postmortem
report couldn’t provide a definite cause of death, though circumstantial
evidence was considered.
In
his high court plea, Mustaq, a daily wager, had also stated that Haryana
Police’s investigation failed to find the culprits and the postmortem report
did not indicate natural causes of Rizwan’s death.
The CBI
registered an FIR under Section 302 (murder), 365 (kidnapping) and 201
(destruction of evidence) of the IPC.
Source: indianexpress.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/8-year-old-missing-mosque-cbi-probe-9174666/
----
Europe
UK
may halt arms exports to Israel if IDF goes through with Rafah operation -
report
YUVAL
BARNEA
FEBRUARY
22, 2024
The
UK could suspend arms exports to Israel if it enters Rafah, although no decision
has been made yet, according to a report by the Guardian on Wednesday.
Ministerial
sources told the Guardian that no decision had been made regarding the
suspension of arms exports to Israel, but that should the government receive
legal advice that Israel was in breach of International Humanitarian Law (IHL)
they would be able to respond quickly.
However,
any decision to suspend arms exports looks unlikely as the UK's High Court of
Justice dismissed a case urging the suspension of arms sales to Israel on
Tuesday, according to British media.
The
court ruled against Palestinian human rights group Al-Haq and its UK-based
partner Global Legal Action Network (GLAN), who argued the government had
ignored its own rules on arms exports which could be used to violate IHL.
The
decision is likely to be appealed to the UK Supreme Court, the case is only one
of several cases being brought against the UK government over arms exports to
Israel.
UK
government response
UK
Foreign Secretary David Cameron sent two letters to the Foreign Affairs
Committee, one regarding the planned Israel invasion of Rafah, and the other
regarding arms exports to Israel.
In
the first letter, he reiterated that the UK is against an Israeli invasion of
Rafah due to the potential to harm civilians.
"We
want Israel to stop and think seriously about the repercussions of a military
offensive before it takes any further action. Too many civilians have been
killed in this conflict already," read the letter.
In
the second letter, he cautioned he could not say too much due to the ongoing
court cases. He did say that on December 12 Cameron decided that there was not
a clear risk that the exports would be used to violate IHL.
He
confirmed that reviews of the situation would continue saying, "The
Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office continues to assess Israel's
commitment and capability to comply with IHL and its past record of compliance.
Those assessments are supported by a detailed evidence base."
This
comes less than a month after a Dutch court suspended the export of F-35 parts
to Israel over concerns they were being used in violations of international
law.
Source: jpost.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.jpost.com/israel-hamas-war/article-788192
----
10
countries present legal arguments at ICJ against Israel’s occupation of
Palestine
Ahmet
Gençtürk
21.02.2024
Ten
countries presented legal arguments Tuesday at the International Court of
Justice (ICJ) in The Hague in relation to South Africa’s genocide case against
Israel, underscoring its unlawful occupation of Gaza.
Belgium’s
legal expert Vaios Koutroulis condemned the use of violence against
Palestinians and urged Israel to fulfil its legal obligations to put an end to
it and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Israel’s
settlement policy aims to transform the demographic composition of the
Palestinian territory, he added.
Belize’s
representative Assad Shoman pointed out that Palestinians have an inalienable
right to self-determination and complete independence, which Israel has
systematically denied to them.
Bolivia’s
Ambassador to the Netherlands, Roberto Calzadilla Sarmiento, said Israel’s
occupation of Palestine is in violation of international law.
Brazilian
diplomat Maria Clara Paula de Tusco maintained that the country expects the
court to reaffirm that the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories is
illegal and violates international obligations.
Chile’s
representative Ximena Fuentes Torrijo said the situation that affects the
occupied Palestinian territory may only find a satisfactory solution on the
basis of compliance with the charter of the United Nations, international human
rights law and international humanitarian law.
Israel’s
policies run counter to the possibility of reaching a two-state solution and a
sustainable peace in the region, she added.
South
Africa, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, the Netherlands and Bangladesh also made
presentations at the ICJ.
The
public hearings started Monday in The Hague following the UN General Assembly's
request for an advisory opinion on the legal consequences arising from policies
and practices of Israel in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East
Jerusalem.
South
Africa brought a genocide case against Israel to the ICJ in late December and
asked it for emergency measures to end the bloodshed in Gaza, where more than
29,000 Palestinians have been killed since Oct. 7.
The
court in January ordered Israel to take "all measures within its
power" to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza but fell short of ordering a
cease-fire.
It
also ordered Israel to take "immediate and effective" measures to
enable the provision of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian
assistance in the Gaza Strip.
A
cross-border incursion by the Palestinian group Hamas on Oct. 7 killed an
estimated 1,200 people, but the ensuing Israeli offensive into Gaza has pushed
85% of the territory's population into internal displacement amid acute
shortages of food, clean water and medicine, while 60% of the enclave's
infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed, according to the UN.
Despite
international outcry, Israel now plans a ground invasion of Rafah, which houses
around 1.4 million refugees.
Source: aa.com.tr
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/world/10-countries-present-legal-arguments-at-icj-against-israel-s-occupation-of-palestine/3143374
----
UK
parliament descends into chaos as MPs vote to back Gaza humanitarian ceasefire
21
February 2024
UK
lawmakers called Wednesday for a temporary ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war,
but only after dozens walked out of the House of Commons in protest at how the
vote was handled.
Lawmakers
had been debating three separate resolutions related to the war. All were
largely symbolic and not binding on the government.
But
Parliament descended into chaos as legislators from the governing Conservatives
and an opposition party accused Commons Speaker Lindsay Hoyle of upending
parliamentary procedure.
The
mayhem broke out during debate on a motion from the opposition Scottish
National Party, or SNP, urging an immediate ceasefire, the release of all
Israeli hostages held by Hamas and “an end to the collective punishment of the
Palestinian people.”
The
main opposition Labour Party, which is divided over how strongly to criticize
Israel, submitted a tweaked version of the motion calling for an “immediate
humanitarian ceasefire,” and without the mention of collective punishment.
Rishi
Sunak’s governing Conservatives put forward their own amendment, which backed
an “immediate humanitarian pause,” followed by “moves towards a permanent
sustainable” ceasefire. The government says a ceasefire can only happen if
Hamas frees all Israeli hostages and relinquishes control of Gaza.
When
Hoyle allowed votes on all three, Conservative lawmakers were furious, saying
it went against House of Commons conventions. Some accused Hoyle — who was
elected as a Labour lawmaker before taking up the neutral post of speaker — of
favoring the opposition.
The
move helped Labour leader Keir Starmer, who avoided another major rebellion
among his lawmakers on the war thanks to his proposal getting a vote. This
meant Labour members of parliament could vote on their party’s plan and would
not have to defy their leadership by voting in support of the SNP’s amendment.
The
political mayhem is a sign of how the conflict has divided Britain’s
politicians and public, sending tensions soaring.
“His
decision has raised temperatures in this House on an issue where feelings are
already running high,” said Penny Mordaunt, Conservative leader of the House of
Commons.
The
SNP, meanwhile, accused Labour of hijacking their motion, and said Hoyle had
enabled them to do it.
The
speaker said in a statement his decision gave the “widest possible range of
options” for a vote on a “highly sensitive subject.”
Many
Conservatives and SNP members walked out, and in their absence the Labour
version of the ceasefire call passed on a voice vote — by calls of “Aye” —
without a full formal vote.
Afterwards,
Hoyle apologized for the chaos.
“I
regret how it’s ended up,” Hoyle said. “I wanted all to ensure they could
express their views and all sides of the House could vote.”
The
Labour Party, tipped to win a national election expected later this year, has
been engulfed by an internal battle over its policy towards the Middle East
conflict since the devastating October 7 onslaught by Hamas that led to
Israel’s offensive against the terror group.
While
the outcome of the vote was not binding on the British government or closely
watched in Israel or by Hamas, it had the potential to cause problems for
Starmer, who is keen to present his party as united, disciplined, and ready for
power.
A
similar motion tabled by the SNP in November saw Starmer suffer the biggest
revolt of his leadership when 56 Labour members of parliament voted to back it.
The
Labour leadership was reluctant to back the SNP amendment that calls for an
immediate ceasefire because it condemned the “collective punishment” of the
Palestinian people.
The
Labour leader initially gave full backing to Israel as it embarked on its
military retaliation. But Labour members of parliament and party members have
put increasing pressure on the leadership to back an immediate ceasefire.
The
war erupted after the Palestinian terror group carried out a massacre of
southern communities that killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians. The thousands
of terrorists who invaded also abducted 253 people of all ages to the
Palestinian enclave.
Both
Israel and Hamas have deflected rising international pressure to halt a war,
now in its fifth month, that has demolished much of the Gaza Strip and caused a
humanitarian catastrophe.
Israel
has said the war will only end when over 130 hostages still in Gaza are
returned and Hamas is dismantled. It has agreed in principle to a temporary
truce as part of a hostage release deal, but Hamas has said it will only free
hostages in exchange for a full Israeli withdrawal leading to an end to the
war, amid other demands Israel has said are non-starters.
Source: timesofisrael.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.timesofisrael.com/uk-parliament-descends-into-chaos-as-lawmakers-vote-to-back-gaza-humanitarian-ceasefire/
----
Brazil
condemns ‘paralysis’ on Gaza, Ukraine at tense G20 meeting
February
22, 2024
RIO
DE JANEIRO: Brazil criticized the “paralysis” of the UN Security Council on the
wars in Gaza and Ukraine as it opened a G20 meeting Wednesday where the
international community’s deep divisions were on display.
The
outlook is bleak for progress on the thorny agenda of conflicts and crises
gripping the planet as foreign ministers from the world’s biggest economies
gather in Rio de Janeiro for the Group of 20’s first high-level meeting of the
year.
Opening
the two-day meeting, which featured US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Brazil’s top diplomat, Mauro Vieira,
said the explosion of global conflicts shows international institutions like
the United Nations are not working.
“Multilateral
institutions are not properly equipped to deal with the current challenges, as
has been demonstrated by the Security Council’s unacceptable paralysis on the
ongoing conflicts” in Gaza and Ukraine, Vieira said, adding the situation was
costing “innocent lives.”
EU
foreign policy chief Josep Borrell for his part warned multilateralism “is in
crisis.”
The
Security Council has failed to act on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, held in
check by Russian veto power, and has struggled to find a response to the war in
Gaza, with Israel’s ally the United States using its veto to block calls for a
ceasefire, most recently Tuesday.
Brazil,
which took over the rotating G20 presidency from India in December, has voiced
hopes the group could be a forum to make progress on such questions.
But
that likely took a hit when Lula ignited a diplomatic firestorm Sunday by
accusing Israel of “genocide,” comparing its military campaign in the Gaza
Strip to the Holocaust.
The
comments drew outrage in Israel, which declared him persona non grata, and
could overshadow any bid to de-escalate the conflict via the G20.
Blinken,
who met Lula Wednesday in Brasilia before heading to the G20, “made clear we
disagree with (his) comments,” a senior State Department official told
journalists.
The
secretary of state and Brazilian leader had a “frank exchange” in their more
than 90-minute meeting at the presidential palace, the official said.
More
than four months after the Gaza war started with Hamas fighters’ unprecedented
October 7 attack on Israel, which has vowed to wipe out the Islamist group in
retaliation, there is little sign of progress toward peace.
The
outlook is similarly grim on Russia’s war in Ukraine, which also has G20
members divided as the second anniversary of President Vladimir Putin’s
invasion approaches.
Despite
a push by Western countries to condemn the invasion, the G20’s last summit
ended with a watered-down statement denouncing the use of force but not
explicitly naming Russia, which maintains friendly ties with India and Brazil,
among other members.
UK
Foreign Secretary David Cameron said he planned to use the Rio meeting to “call
out Russia’s aggression” directly to Lavrov, as Britain announced sanctions on
six Russian officials over opposition leader Alexei Navalny’s death in prison
last week.
Lavrov
— who will meet Lula in Brasilia Thursday, according to a Brazilian official —
meanwhile lashed out at the West for “pumping Ukraine full of arms.”
“Neither
Kiev nor the West have shown the political will to resolve the conflict,” he
told Brazilian newspaper O Globo.
Blinken
voiced pessimism on the current chances for diplomacy on Ukraine in his meeting
with Lula. “We don’t see the conditions for it right now,” a US official said.
Brazil
also wants to use its G20 presidency to push the fights against poverty and
climate change.
There
will also be space for bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the gathering —
though a Blinken-Lavrov encounter looks unlikely, given soaring tensions.
The
pair last met in person at a G20 gathering in India in March 2023.
Founded
in 1999, the G20 brings together most of the world’s biggest economies.
Originally
an economic forum, it has grown increasingly involved in international
politics.
A
Brazilian government source said that after recent G20 struggles for consensus,
the hosts axed the requirement that every meeting produce a joint statement —
with the exception of the annual leaders’ summit, scheduled for November in
Rio.
Source: arabnews.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2464411/world
----
Pakistan
PTI-Backed
IndependentsOf National And Provincial Assemblies Join Sunni Ittehad Council
February 22, 2024
Ikram
Junaidi
ISLAMABAD:
Almost all PTI-backed winning independent candidates of national and provincial
assemblies submitted affidavits to the Election Commission on Wednesday,
officially joining the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC).
As
many as 89 MNAs, 85 members of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, 106 members of
the Punjab Assembly and nine members of the Sindh Assembly have submitted their
affidavits.
The
submission of affidavits proves the PTI’s claim that it had managed to win 93
NA seats, as three party leaders did not submit affidavits, including Omar Ayub
Khan, Barrister Gohar Khan and Ali Amin Gandapur, while the notification of one
candidate, Dawar Kundi, was yet to be issued by the ECP.
Mr
Ayub and Mr Gohar deliberately did not file affidavits to become SIC members
because they plan to contest PTI’s intra-party elections. Mr Gandapur also did
not file the affidavit, as he has been nominated as the PTI’s candidate for the
slot of KP chief minister.
Barrister
Gohar, three others yet to sign up as they will oversee PTI intra-party polls;
party says nation won’t accept ‘govt with stolen mandate’
PTI
sources said that all the notified MNAs, apart from Mr Ayub and Mr Gohar, and
MPAs have joined the SIC.
Two
MNAs-elect, Chaudhry Ilyas and Brig (retired) Muhammad Aslam Ghumman, were
missing, but their affidavits have also been submitted to the ECP. “We hope
that we will get our due share from the reserved seats in the national and
provincial assemblies,” a party source said.
Meanwhile,
the PTI has alleged that the PML-N and PPP are going to form the government
with a stolen mandate and the nation would not accept the “PDM 2.0”.
It
alleged the “regime change conspiracy” was backed by the chief election
commissioner by making a mockery of the Constitution and law in the country.
A
party spokesperson said a group “rejected by the nation” had gathered once
again to stage a “drama” of PDM 2.0 in the country, which was unacceptable and
intolerable.
He
claimed that the nation had given a clear mandate to the PTI to form its
government in Centre, Punjab and KP despite the incarceration of PTI founding
chairman Imran Khan, the snatching of the party’s election symbol “bat”, and
obstacles to carry out poll campaigns.
He
claimed that as per Form-45s, the citizens had given the PTI an overwhelming
majority of 180 seats in the National Assembly.
“It
is high time we learned a lesson from history and respected the public mandate,
as Pakistan had to go through a tragedy like the fall of Dhaka as a result of
daylight poll fraud,” the party’s spokesperson said.
He
alleged that the heirs of those who “dismembered Pakistan” were again active in
facilitating the state’s efforts to trample on the public mandate.
However,
he made it clear that people of Pakistan would not tolerate any attempt to make
a mockery of the Constitution and democracy and the robbery of their votes. He
vowed that PTI would resist all attempts to steal public mandate.
Source: dawn.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.dawn.com/news/1816169/pti-backed-independents-join-sunni-ittehad-council
----
'200
days in jail, but Imran Khan still sticking to ideology'
22 Feb 2024
PTI
leader Musarrat Cheema has said that it has been 200 days since ex-premier
Imran Khan was jailed.
In a
message posted on platform X, she said it has been 200 days since Imran Khan
was unjustly imprisoned, but despite enduring the hardships of the prison, he
is still sticking to his ideology. "Every possible effort is being made to
break Imran Khan, but he neither made any deal nor is he ready to back down
from his goal," she added.
Meanwhile,
in a message from jail a couple of days ago, Imran Khan said that the recent
elections on February 8 were marred by the "mother of all riggings,"
both before and after the polls, Dawn reported.
Imran's
sister, Aleema Khan, conveyed his message after meeting him at Adiala Jail,
where he labelled the electoral process as the epicentre of widespread rigging.
Source: newindianexpress.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.newindianexpress.com/world/2024/Feb/22/200-days-since-imran-khan-was-jailed-but-still-sticking-to-ideology
---
Contempt
case: IHC rejects Islamabad DC’s unconditional apology
February
22, 2024
Awais
Yousafzai
ISLAMABAD:
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) rejected Islamabad Deputy Commissioner (DC)
Irfan Nawaz Memon’s plea seeking unconditional pardon on Wednesday after he
failed to appear for a hearing in the contempt of court case against him.
In
the hearing conducted by IHC’s Justice Babar Sattar, the court asked Memon to
submit his response to a show-cause notice issued regarding the matter by
Monday, while he was also barred from travelling abroad. Justice Sattar also
turned down his request to transfer the contempt of court case to another
bench.
The
court had also issued a show-cause notice to DC Islamabad for non-attendance,
despite the rejection of his request for exemption from attendance. Justice
Sattar said he will issue a judgment on the case next week.
The
IHC will issue a verdict in the contempt of court case on March 1, announcing
to adjourn the hearing till then.
A day
earlier, the IHC had ordered Memon’s arrest and asked authorities to place his
name on the no-fly list for skipping proceedings of a contempt case over the
detention of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shehryar Afridi under the
Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) ordinance.
The
ordinance provides the government with vast powers of detention and has been
used by authorities to round up and detain PTI leaders following the May 9
riots.
Justice
Sattar was hearing the case against Islamabad DC and Islamabad Senior
Superintendent of Police (SSP) Operations Malik Jamil Zafar for exceeding their
authority by issuing orders under Section 3 of the MPO.
During
the hearing, SSP Operations Zafar and Superintendent of Police (SP) Farooq
Buttar appeared upon being summoned by the court. At the same time, the lawyer
representing Islamabad DC submitted a plea for Memon’s exemption from the
court.
Meanwhile,
Memon, who was present at the hearing today, said he has not missed any of the
18 hearings in the case and that he leaves himself at the court’s mercy.
Justice
Sattar, who was upset at the DC for his previous absence, remarked: “Do you
think this is a joke, you are being held in contempt of court [case]. You
issued 69 MPO orders for 970 days.”
Memon’s
lawyer, Raja Rizwan Abbasi, requested the court to hear the case after a while,
as he was angry during the hearing.
“This
case was supposed to be completed yesterday, it could not be done because of
you,” the IHC judge remarked, questioning DC Islamabad whether he knew the
court’s order.
“I
cannot even think of disobeying the court order,” Memon replied.
Justice
Sattar asked DC Islamabad if benches would now be formed as per his choice when
he urged the transfer of the contempt case to another bench.
DC
Islamabad’s non-appearance here was not an obstacle to justice, his lawyer
said, adding that Memon had no intention of undermining the court’s authority.
“The
court is requested to dismiss the contempt of court case,” he pleaded.
During
his argument, Memon’s counsel read the text of DC Islamabad’s indictment.
“There
are three types of contempt of court, civil, criminal and judicial. This court
action was initiated due to obstruction of justice,” he said, arguing that the
case does not meet section 6 of contempt of court.
Abbasi
said that the order of 3MPOs were quashed on a court directive and a new MPO
order was issued later, while the second one was issued by district magistrate
Rawalpindi.
“If
there was contempt of court, it was not by DC Islamabad, but by DC Rawalpindi,”
the lawyer said, adding he doesn’t want to throw anyone under the bus.
He
urged the court to look at the whole situation.
“On
August 5, Shehryar Afridi’s party leader was arrested. The situation of May 9
is also in front of everyone,” he said, adding that the Intelligence Bureau
informed the capital’s administration about the worsening law and order
situation and agitation.
The
district intelligence committee, he added, included representatives of all
sensitive agencies and expressed fear of attacks on government buildings, GHQ
Chowk near F-9 Park in Islamabad.
Abbasi
added that there was no malice in issuing the MPO order by the district
magistrate.
“On
May 16, the first MPO order was quashed. MPO orders were issued even after show
cause notices were issued in the case,” Justice Sattar remarked, adding that
the most the court can say is that the order is not correct.
It
stopped when “we removed their power” to issue MPO orders, the IHC judge added.
The
lawyer argued that the law and order situation may have cost someone’s life if
the order wasn’t issued.
“In
this situation, the court should have asked why action was not taken in the
light of intelligence reports,” added the counsel.
Meanwhile,
Abbasi also presented the transcript of Shehryar Afridi’s inflammatory speeches
ahead of his arrest. He argued that the politician used threatening language
and tried to provoke people with his words.
During
the hearing, the Senior Superintendent of Police Operations Jameel Zafar’s
lawyer Shah Khawar also presented his arguments in the case.
“The
police might have evidence that Shehryar Afridi provoked the mob while sitting
in jail?” Justice Sattar asked the SSP.
“Did
you recommend issuing MPO against these people also?” the judge questioned him.
“Our
focus was on leadership,” replied the SSP.
“If a
guy is already in jail, what will you do with him? Put him back in jail again?”
Justice Sattar remarked, directing him to submit the composition of the
district intelligence committee and terms of reference.
After
the completion of his lawyer’s arguments, the SSP submitted an unconditional
apology from the court.
Source: thenews.com.pk
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1160248-contempt-case-ihc-rejects-islamabad-dc-s-unconditional-apology
----
Some
religious leaders oppose SC ruling in ‘proscribed literature’ case
February
22, 2024
ISLAMABAD:
A number of leaders belonging to religio-political parties have taken exception
to a Supreme Court decision, which ordered the release of a person accused of
distributing supposedly proscribed religious literature.
The
reaction came almost two weeks after the apex court’s order on an appeal
against a verdict of the Lahore High Court.
In
their inflammatory remarks against the chief justice of Pakistan, some leaders
from the JUI-F and Jamaat-i-Islami condemned the decision and called for
“action” against the chief justice for hurting the sentiments of their
followers.
Insisting
that the “controversial” order be withdrawn, JUI-F Secretary General Maulana
Abdul Ghafoor Haideri called on its followers to become active in this regard.
Meanwhile,
in a separate statement, Jamaat deputy emir Fareed Paracha called the Supreme
Court’s decision “contrary to the laws and Constitution of Pakistan”, alleging
that it was a premeditated decision by the court.
Separately,
the banned militant group, Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has issued a
statement in the matter, expressing similar sentiments.
Source: dawn.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.dawn.com/news/1816145/some-religious-leaders-oppose-sc-ruling-in-proscribed-literature-case
-----
Notices
to Centre, ECP on plea against withdrawing PTI symbol
February
22, 2024
LAHORE:
The Lahore High Court on Wednesday issued notices to the federal government and
the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on a petition challenging the
latter’s power to withdraw the electoral symbol of a political party.
A
two-judge bench headed by Justice Ali Baqar Najafi heard the petition as
Advocate Azhar Siddique appeared on behalf of the petitioner, a lawyer, Munir
Ahmed.
The
lawyer argued that section 215 of the Elections Act 2017, which provides for
eligibility of a political party to obtain election symbol, is against the
Constitution.
He
pleaded that the right to contest the election under a common symbol cannot be
taken away from the candidates of a political party. He said the ECP being a
constitutional body is not a court or a tribunal, therefore, any power wrongly
assumed by it for denying fundamental rights is illegal in terms of Article 8
of the Constitution.
Referring
to the ECP decision on the intra-party polls of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf
(PTI), the counsel argued that by denying the symbol, the party was eliminated.
He said the common symbol cannot be denied to the candidates of a political
party.
He
said the ECP action of interpreting section 215 of the Act that it has the
right to set aside the intra-party election and deny a party its symbol is a
sheer violation of the Constitution.
Advocate
Siddique asserted that the ECP had even no role in dissolution of the political
parties as only the federal government had the power to declare that a party is
formed or is operating in a manner prejudicial to the sovereignty or integrity
of Pakistan.
It
may be recalled that the PTI contested the Feb 8 elections without an electoral
symbol which it lost after a legal battle over its failure to hold intra-party
elections. The bench sought replies from the respondents by next week.
Court
seeks copies of past verdicts on jail trial
The
Lahore High Court on Wednesday directed the provincial government’s lawyer to
present copies of the past judgements on the question of jail trial in
terrorism cases.
A
two-judge bench headed by Justice Aalia Neelum was hearing a petition of
incarcerated PTI Senator Ejaz Chaudhry challenging his jail trial in two cases
of May 9 riots.
At
the outset, the judge asked an additional advocate general whether the high
court already passed judgements on the points similar to the petition in hand.
The
law officer said he had knowledge about one such decision.
The
judge directed him to submit details of all decisions on the issue raised by
the petitioner. The bench would resume further hearing on Feb 27.
Earlier,
Advocate Ali Ashfaq, the counsel for the senator, pleaded that the provincial
government with ulterior motives approved jail trials in the FIRs relating to
the May 9 protests only to harass the suspects.
He
argued that the jail trial cannot be termed open and fair as the concept of
jail trial is against the fundamentals of due process of law.
He
said a jail trial is a violation of Article 10-A of the Constitution, which
guarantees the right to fair trial and due process of law.
The
counsel stated that the trial court also approved the decision of the
government and started the jail trial against the petitioner in two cases of
attacks on the Jinnah House and Shadman police station.
He
asked the court to set aside the decision of the provincial government and the
trial court for being unconstitutional.
The
PTI senator is on judicial remand in several cases of the May 9 riots
registered against the leaders and workers of the party.
Source: dawn.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.dawn.com/news/1816112
----
MQM-P
wants four ministries as JUI-F also seeks role in Centre
February
22, 2024
ISLAMABAD:
A day after the PML-N and the PPP evolved a consensus on a power-sharing deal
to run the country for the next five years, a delegation of the Muttahida Qaumi
Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) called on PML-N representatives and demanded three to
four ministries in the federal cabinet.
Sources
said the MQM wanted the slot of the deputy speaker in the National Assembly,
but the PML-N had already given it to the PPP. Now, the MQM is insisting on
four portfolios in the federal cabinet since the party cannot have its deputy
speaker.
In
addition to its share in the cabinet, the MQM demanded legislation to empower
the local government bodies, a demand long held by the Karachi-based party for
devolution of powers.
MQM
Punjab leader Muhammad Zahid told Dawn that the PML-N agreed to retain
incumbent Kamran Tessori as the Sindh governor. “It has been agreed that Mr
Tessori will remain the governor,” Mr Zahid said.
The
MQM delegation was led by Mr Tessori and included Farooq Sattar and Mustafa
Kamal, whereas the PML-N side included Ishaq Dar and Ayaz Sadiq.
JUI-F
meets PML-N
On
the other hand, a meeting was held between the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl
(JUI-F) and the PML-N, in which the plan to form the provincial government,
probably led by PPP’s Sarfaraz Bugti, was discussed.
Media
reports claimed that Ishaq Dar had told JUI-F leader Abdul Ghafoor Haideri that
the JUI-F was too late to come to the PML-N for a power-sharing deal in
Balochistan. Mr Dar told the JUI-F leader that the PML-N had already made plans
with the PPP for the government formation in Balochistan.
These
reports, however, were denied by PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb. In a
statement, the PML-N information secretary said that a meeting between the two
parties was held on Wednesday and an official statement was also issued on it.
The
participants of the meeting decided that the challenges faced by Balochistan
demanded a “strong democratic government” in the province, she said. The
meeting decided that it was in the country’s interest for various political
forces to sit together in Balochistan. Marriyum Aurangzeb said the political
ties between the two parties were based on mutual understanding.
Outlook
for coalition
Insiders
told Dawn the PPP would not join the federal cabinet and that the NA speaker
slot would go to the PML-N as per the deal reached between the two parties.
They
claimed that the Senate chairmanship would go to the PPP, with Senator Yousaf
Raza Gilani being tipped as the next chairman. The governorships in Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab will also go to the PPP, and the Sindh governorship will
go to the MQM.
Sources
said that the PML-N and the PPP would jointly form a government in Balochistan,
and Sarfaraz Bugti “is so far” the most likely contender for the CMship. In the
Senate, the PML-N will get the slot of the deputy chairman whereas in the lower
house, the deputy speaker will be from the PPP.
According
to Article 91(2) of the Constitution, the first session of the National
Assembly has to be summoned by Feb 29. On the first day of the NA session,
after taking oath, members will elect the speaker and deputy speaker through a
secret ballot. Following this, the new speaker will announce the schedule for
the election of the PM. In the 336-strong house, 169 votes are required for the
PM’s election.
The
election of the president will take place soon after the completion of the
process of the government formation in the Centre and provinces as well as the
Senate elections due in the first week of March. Incumbent president Arif
Alvi’s five-year term expired in September last year but he is serving an
extended period till the election of his successor.
Source: dawn.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.dawn.com/news/1816168/mqm-p-wants-four-ministries-as-jui-f-also-seeks-role-in-centre
----
Toshakhana
case: Hearing against Nawaz, Zardari, Gilani and others adjourned till Mar 6
2024-02-22
ISLAMABAD:
The Accountability Court on Wednesday adjourned the hearing of Toshakhana case
against Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Supremo Nawaz Sharif, former
president Asif Ali Zardari, former premier Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, and others
without proceedings till March 6.
The
Accountability Court adjourned the hearing of the Toshakhana case without
proceedings as the newly-appointed judge Nasir Javed Rana did not take charge
till March 13, but following the request of Sharif’s counsel Qazi Misbah, court
adjourned the hearing of the case till March 6.
The
NAB had filed the Toshakhana reference against Zardari, Sharif, Gilani, and
others for allegedly acquiring three vehicles including BMW 750 Li model 2004,
Toyota Lexus Jeep 472 model 2007 gifted by the embassy of United Arab Emirates
(UAE), and BMW 760 LI model 2008 gifted by embassy of Libya and gifts from
Toshakhana -an official treasury where gifts from foreign dignitaries or heads
of state are deposited- in violation of rules and regulations.
Source: brecorder.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.brecorder.com/news/40290021/toshakhana-case-hearing-against-nawaz-zardari-gilani-and-others-adjourned-till-mar-6
----
Arab World
Arab
League, OIC, and Egypt condemn US veto of Gaza ceasefire
21 February 2024
The
Arab League, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and Egypt have
censured the third veto by the United States of a draft resolution proposed at
the United Nations Security Council demanding an immediate end to Israel’s
brutal war in the besieged Gaza Strip.
The
US used its veto power at the UNSC on Tuesday to block the Algeria-drafted
resolution, which rejected the “forced displacement of the Palestinian civilian
population” and urged “all parties to comply with international law.”
Representatives
of 13 countries at the 15-member Security Council voted in favor. Britain
abstained.
Washington
vetoed similar draft resolutions in October and December.
The
Egyptian Foreign Ministry, in a statement on Wednesday, said vetoing a
resolution “calling for a ceasefire in an armed conflict that has claimed the
lives of more than 29,000 civilians, most of them children and women, is a
shameful precedent” in the history of the Security Council.
The
ministry said the international community has a moral and human obligation to
work for an end to the daily suffering of the Palestinians.
“Egypt
strongly denounces … selectivity and double standards in dealing with wars and
armed conflicts in various regions of the world, which has come to question the
credibility of the rules and working mechanisms of the current international
architecture, especially the UN Security Council, which is entrusted with the
responsibility of preventing and settling conflicts and halting wars,” the
statement read.
The
ministry said Cairo would continue to demand a safe passage for humanitarian
aid in the tightly-blockaded territory. It also said Egypt would be against any
attempts aimed at displacing the Palestinians outside their homeland.
Separately,
Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit said in a statement that the
veto “clearly indicates its political and moral responsibility for the
continuation of the war.”
He
also warned that the veto “undermines the credibility of the UN system and
reinforces the state of paralysis witnessed by the UN.”
“(It)
provides political cover for Israel to continue the aggression in light of the
international community’s inability to stop the heinous crimes committed every
day against Palestinian civilians,” Aboul Gheit said.
The
veto also drew condemnation by the OIC, which expressed its “deep regret” over
the failure of the UNSC to adopt the draft resolution.
“The
OIC also regrets deeply the United States’ use of veto against the draft
resolution, describing it as a negative reflection of the Security Council’s
role in the maintenance of international peace and security, protection of
civilians and ensuring delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip,” it said
in a statement.
Condemnations
have poured in from across the world. Countries such as China, Russia, Saudi
Arabia, and even Washington’s close allies, including France and Slovenia, have
denounced the veto.
Washington
has supplied the Israeli regime with more than 10,000 tons of military
equipment over the past months of hostilities in Gaza.
Israel
has killed more than 29,000 people, mostly women and children, and injured over
69,000 others in Gaza since early October. The regime ignited the brutal war
machine on October 7, 2023, after the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas
carried out Operation Al-Aqsa Storm against the occupying entity.
Source: presstv.ir
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2024/02/21/720534/Arab-League-OIC-Egypt-US-veto-Gaza
----
Fresh
aggression: US, UK launch five strikes on Yemen’s Hudaydah
22
February 2024
The
United States and Britain have conducted fresh aerial assaults on Yemen's
strategic western province of Hudaydah.
The
al-Masirah television network reported three airstrikes on Ras Issa area in
Hudaydah’s a-Salif district late on Wednesday.
Earlier
in the day, it added, four similar air raids also targeted al-Jabana and al-Arj
areas in Hudaydah.
Meanwhile,
the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement that its forces had
carried out four strikes on areas in Yemen, targeting “seven mobile anti-ship
cruise missiles and one anti-ship ballistic missile launcher” in the act of
aggression.
It
claimed that the targets “presented an imminent threat to merchant vessels and
to the US Navy ships in the region.”
CENTCOM
also said that its forces had shot down a “one-way attack unmanned aircraft
system.”
In
recent months, the US and its allies have launched illegal attacks on Yemen
amid their frustration in the face of an anti-Israel maritime campaign by the
Yemeni armed forces.
Israel
waged a US-backed genocidal war on the besieged Gaza Strip on October 7
following a historic operation by the Palestinian Hamas resistance group
against the occupying regime.
In
support of Gaza, Yemeni armed forces have targeted ships going to and from
ports in the occupied territories, or whose owners are linked to Israel, in the
southern Red Sea, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, the Gulf of Aden, and even in the
Arabian Sea.
The
US-led attacks on Yemen prompted the country’s military to declare American and
British vessels to be legitimate targets.
Source: presstv.ir
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2024/02/22/720551/US-UK-strikes-Yemen-Hudaydah
----
KSrelief,
UN officials meet to discuss aid cooperation
February
22, 2024
RIYADH:
Officials from Saudi Arabia’s aid agency and the UN met in Riyadh on Wednesday
to discuss ways to improve aid delivery across the world.
Dr.
Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, royal court advisor and supervisor-general of KSrelief,
met with Mohamed El-Zarkani, the UN’s resident coordinator in Saudi Arabia.
El-Zarkani
praised Saudi Arabia for assisting the UN’s various humanitarian and aid
agencies.
Source: arabnews.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2464571/saudi-arabia
---
KSrelief
to provide equipment to Sudan children’s hospitals
February
22, 2024
RIYADH:
Saudi Arabia’s aid agency KSrelief signed a cooperation agreement on Wednesday
with the Patients Helping Fund Organization in Sudan to provide essential
medical equipment to the country’s children’s hospitals.
Ahmed
Al-Baiz, KSrelief’s assistant supervisor-general of operations and programs,
and Kamal Yaqoub Mohamed, director-general of the fund, signed the agreement in
Riyadh, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The
aim is to reduce mortality rates in the Kassala and El-Obeid hospitals.
The
new equipment will directly benefit 100,000 individuals and another 100,000
indirect beneficiaries.
The
agreement is part of the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts, led by KSrelief, to support
Sudan’s health sector.
Source: arabnews.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2464536/saudi-arabia
---
Saudi
and Egyptian foreign ministers discuss bilateral ties
February
22, 2024
RIYADH:
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and his Egyptian counterpart,
Sameh Shoukry, held talks on Wednesday on the sidelines of a meeting of G20
foreign ministers in Rio de Janeiro.
They
discussed the relationship between their countries and ways in which it might
be enhanced in various fields, the Saudi Press Agency reported. They also
reviewed the latest regional and international developments, particularly those
relating to Israel’s war on Gaza.
The
Saudi ambassador to Brazil, Faisal Ghulam, and the assistant director general
of the foreign minister’s office, Walid Al-Smail, were also present at the
meeting.
Source: arabnews.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2464416/saudi-arabia
---
Saudi
foreign minister, Blinken discuss Gaza situation
February
22, 2024
RIYADH:
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met on Wednesday with US Secretary
of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
in Rio de Janeiro.
The
pair discussed developments in Gaza and efforts aimed at resolving the crisis.
Earlier,
Prince Faisal said in his remarks during Foreign Ministers’ Meeting that the
G20 countries bear the responsibility to act decisively to end the disaster in
the Gaza Strip, which poses urgent threats to regional peace and prosperity as
well as global economic stability.
Source: arabnews.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2464386/saudi-arabia
---
Saudi
FM urges G20 to act to end Gaza disaster
February
22, 2024
RIYADH:
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said that the G20 countries
bear the responsibility to act decisively to end the disaster in the Gaza
Strip, which poses urgent threats to regional peace and prosperity as well as
global economic stability.
In
his remarks at the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Prince
Faisal reiterated the importance of condemning the atrocities committed in the
Gaza Strip.
He
called on the G20 countries to press for meaningful measures to end the war in
Gaza, and to support a reliable and irreversible path towards a two-state
solution.
Prince
Faisal stressed the importance of international institutions’ commitment to
fulfill their obligations at the global level, and to be clearer in their
positions than they are currently, especially in dealing with the tragic
situation in the Gaza Strip.
Source: arabnews.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2464376/saudi-arabia
----
Mideast
Al-Aqsa
Storm stopped US plan in region, marked end of Netanyahu’s dream: Hamas
official
22 February
2024
A
senior Hamas official says the Operation al-Aqsa Storm launched by Gaza-based
resistance groups against Israel has stopped the US plan to shape the region
and its future.
Osama
Hamdan, who is Hamas representative in Lebanon and also a member of the group’s
politburo, made the remarks during an interview with Lebanon's al-Mayadeen
television network on Wednesday.
“The
American administration has never been a mediator or neutral, but has always
been a partner of Israel, and one of the most important outcomes of the al-Aqsa
flood (operation) is that it stopped the US administration’s plans to shape the
region and its future according to the interests of Washington and the
occupation,” he said.
The
Hamas official went on to say that “the resistance has shattered the dreams of
Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who remains delusional about
implementing the ideological Zionist project."
He
also noted that if the Israeli regime persists in continuing genocide against
Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, the resistance group has no option but to
continue its defense.
Hamdan
further stated that the occupying regime is still hesitant about attacking the
southern city of Rafah due to the fact that it failed to achieve any tangible
results from its aggression against Gaza.
He
also emphasized that resistance is the only path that will lead to the
liberation of Palestine, adding that the enemy's black propaganda cannot damage
the relations between resistance groups.
Hamdan’s
remarks came after the US vetoed a UN resolution that called for an immediate
humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza for the third time, drawing widespread
condemnation.
Hamas
launched Operation Al-Aqsa Storm on October 7, penetrating deep into the
territories occupied by the Israeli regime, by carrying out large-scale air,
land, and sea strikes.
The
group said the operation was a reaction to the recurring desecration of al-Aqsa
Mosque in occupied al-Quds as well as intensified Israeli atrocities against
Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.
Since
the start of Israel’s latest brutal aggression, more than 29,300 Palestinians,
most of them women and children, have been killed and about 70,000 others have
been injured.
The
regime has also intensified the siege of Gaza, leaving the city, home to more
than 2.3 million Palestinians, without water, electricity, fuel and internet.
Source: presstv.ir
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2024/02/22/720552/Palestine-Israel-Gaza-war-Hamas-Osama-Hamdan-Operation-al-Aqsa-Strom-stopped-US-plan-Netanyahu-Zionist-project-resistance
----
Zionist
enemy launches campaign of raids, arrests in occupied W Bank
[22/February/2024]
RAMALLAH
February 22. 2024 (Saba) - The Zionist enemy forces have launched a campaign of
raids and arrests in various parts of the occupied West Bank, targeting freed
prisoners and a political activist from Ramallah during which confrontations
and clashes broke out in several areas.
In
Ramallah, enemy forces stormed the village of Beit Rima and Deir Ghassana,
northwestern Ramallah and launched an arrest campaign among citizens, including
political activist Fadia Barghouti, who was arrested after storming the home of
her imprisoned husband, Mahmoud Barghouti.
Enemy
forces stormed the center of the city of Ramallah and the Umm
al-Sharayetneighborhood in the city of al-Bireh, which led to the outbreak of
confrontations during which enemy soldiers fired poison gas bombs at young men
who threw stones and Molotov cocktails at those forces.
In
Nablus, the Nazi enemy forces stormed the village of Deir al-Hatab, and
arrested the young man Yaqoub al-Ashqar, son of the martyr Abdul Aziz
al-Ashqar, from his home. The Enemy forces also stormed the village of Beit
Dajan, east of Nablus.
The
enemy forces also stormed the city of Nablus from the direction of al-Quds
Street, and stormed Balata camp, east of the city, amid the outbreak of clashes
and confrontations, during which two citizens were injured.
The
resisting youth were able to detonate explosive devices with enemy forces, amid
gunfire and clashes in Balata camp, coinciding with an enemy bulldozer storming
Market Street.
The
Red Crescent Society announced that its crews dealt with two casualties from
enemy bullets during the storming of Balata camp in Nablus.
In
Tulkarm, the enemy forces stormed the city of Tulkarm and the suburb of Dhanaba
to the east, and raided a number of residential buildings in the suburb,
specifically adjacent to the camp, and conducted searches and combing
operations in it and in the neighboring lands, deployed its snipers in the
area, and fired heavy bullets.
Resistance
fighters opened fire on enemy forces near Tulkarm camp, while many explosions
were heard.
In
Jenin, resistance fighters targeted enemy forces storming the town of Faqoua
with high-explosive devices, amid clashes erupting in the town. The Nazi forces
stormed the village of al-Jalama, northeast of Jenin, and drove their vehicles
into the village.
In
Jericho, the enemy forces stormed Aqabat Jabr camp in the city of Jericho, and
arrested Mohammad Suleiman Jahalin and Raafat Mohammad Dahbour after storming
Aqabat Jabr camp.
The
enemy forces destroyed the Martyrs' Roundabout in the middle of Aqabat Jabr
camp, while a group of journalists were targeted with live bullets and
poisonous tear gas while they were covering the storming.
In
Hebron, the enemy forces stormed al-Fawwar camp, southern Hebron and raided
several homes. They also stormed the city of Yatta, south of Hebron.
Source: saba.ye
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.saba.ye/en/news3307016.htm
----
Resistance
attackers kill Zionist soldier, injure eight others in occupied al-Quds
[22/February/2024]
OCCUPIED
AL-QUDS February 22. 2024 (Saba) - A Zionist soldier was killed and eight
others were injured, including three in serious condition, on Thursday morning
in a shooting attack at a crossroads near the town of al-Zayyim, eastern
occupied al-Quds.
The
Zionist enemy police said that the shooting operation was carried out by three
young men. They were shot and wounded by the enemy, and the resistance
attackers were later declared martyred.
Source: saba.ye
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.saba.ye/en/news3307010.htm
---
Hezbollah
strikes Israeli settlements near Lebanon's border
Feb
21, 2024
TEHRAN,
Feb. 21 (MNA) – In light of the Israeli aggression on the various South Lebanon
villages, the Islamic Resistance continued striking the Zionist occupation
sites near the Lebanon border.
Hezbollah
military media issued consecutive statements to illustrate the attacks and
their outcomes, Al Manar reported.
The
first statement mentioned that the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted, at
07:30 am on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, a military position of “Israeli”
enemy soldiers in Even Menachem settlement with appropriate weapons, inflicting
direct hits.
Hezbollah's
Islamic Resistance fighters targeted, at 07:30 am on Wednesday, February 21,
2024, a military positioning of “Israeli” enemy soldiers in the Shomera
settlement with appropriate weapons, inflicting direct hits, the second
statement pointed out.
“In
response to the Israeli attacks on southern villages and civilian homes,
including the recent ones in Hula, Blida, Aita, Kfar Kila, and Khiam villages,
the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted, at 10:00 am on Wednesday, February
21, 2024, two buildings where Israeli enemy soldiers were stationed in Avivim
settlement with appropriate weapons, causing direct hits on both buildings,”
the third statement maintained.
The
Islamic Resistance fighters targeted, at 12:05 PM on Wednesday, February 21,
2024, a gathering of Zionist soldiers in the vicinity of the Al-Marj occupation
site with missiles, achieving direct hits, according to the fourth statement.
The
fifth statement noted that the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted, at 12:20
PM on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, the Ruweisat Al-Alam site in Lebanon’s
occupied Shebaa Farms with appropriate weapons, hitting it directly.
The
sixth statement mentioned that the Islamic Resistance fighters were targeted,
at 1:35 pm on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, Zibdeen site in the occupied
Lebanese Shebaa Farms with appropriate weapons, inflicting direct hits.
The
seventh statement indicated that the Islamic Resistance fighters targeted, at
1:45 pm on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, Zar’it barracks with appropriate
weapons, inflicting direct hits.
On
Tuesday night, Israeli enemy aircraft raided the towns of Marwahin, al-Dhahira,
Aita al-Shaab, and Yaroun, and shelled with artillery the villages of Ramya,
al-Naqoura, and Alma al-Shaab, causing severe damage to crops, olive trees, and
houses.
Source: mehrnews.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://en.mehrnews.com/news/212238/Hezbollah-strikes-Israeli-settlements-near-Lebanon-s-border
---
Sheikh
Qassem says ceiling will be higher than any ceiling exceeded by enemy
[22/February/2024]
BEIRUT
February 22. 2024 (Saba) - Deputy Secretary-General of the Lebanese Hezbollah
Sheikh Naim Qassem has said “When the enemy exceeds the highest ceiling, our
ceiling will be higher than it.”
Sheikh
Qassem added “You may have seen, four days after October 7, a long call that
took place between American Biden and Netanyahu, the prime minister of the
Zionist enemy, the focus of which was that “Israel” wanted to suddenly go to
war against Lebanon, so it objected. America is doing this for the sake of
Israel.
Qassem
said the resistance initiative came to support Gaza, adding "we are not
surprised by any aggression that the enemy may carry out," according to
the Lebanese media
He
continued saying the resistance goal is to deters the enemy and the any enemy
aggression for supporting the oppressed people.
Source: saba.ye
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.saba.ye/en/news3306999.htm
----
Turkiye
calls for Gaza ceasefire, two-state solution at G20 meeting
February
22, 2024
ANKARA:
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan called on the international community to
take a more active role toward an urgent ceasefire in Gaza and a two-state
solution to the conflict during talks at the G20 meeting in Brazil, a Turkish
diplomatic source said.
Turkiye,
which has harshly criticized Israel for its attacks on Gaza and backed measures
to have it tried for genocide at the World Court, has repeatedly called for a
ceasefire.
Unlike
its Western allies and some Gulf nations, NATO member Turkiye does not view
Hamas, the Palestinian militant group which runs Gaza and on Oct. 7 carried out
an attack inside Israel that prompted the Israeli campaign, as a terrorist
organization.
Fidan
told a G20 foreign ministers meeting in Rio de Janeiro on Wednesday that the
“savagery” in Gaza must be stopped, and discussed steps to achieve an urgent
ceasefire and get more aid into the enclave during talks with counterparts from
the United States, Germany, and Egypt, the source said.
“Steps
that can be taken to achieve a full ceasefire as soon as possible were
discussed,” during talks between Fidan and US Secretary of State Antony
Blinken, the source said, adding Fidan also discussed “concrete steps” to stop
the fighting with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock.
“The
fact that a decision on a ceasefire did not come out of the UN Security Council
once again, has shown that reform is a must,” Fidan told a session at the G20
meeting, according to one of his aides, referring to a third US veto on a
ceasefire call at the 15-member body.
Ankara
says the UN Security Council must be reformed to be more inclusive and
representative of the world.
“The
stance shown by Brazilian President Lula (Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva) is
admirable,” the aide cited Fidan as saying, in reference to comments by Lula in
which he likened the war in Gaza to the Nazi genocide during World War Two and
which caused a diplomatic spat.
Source: arabnews.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2464516/middle-east
-----
North America
US:
‘Taliban Not Only Afghans Who Have Stake in Future of Afghanistan’
February
21, 2024
The
US Department of State’s spokesman, Mathew Miller said that he is "not
surprised" that the Islamic Emirate did not participate at the second Doha
meeting.
Speaking
at a press briefing, Miller said the “Taliban are not the only Afghans who have
a stake in the future of Afghanistan.”
“I
can’t say I’m incredibly surprised that the Taliban declined the invitation to
participate in a meeting with a broad representation from the international
community. But I will say, as you’ve heard us say before, that the Taliban are
not the only Afghans who have a stake in the future of Afghanistan. We will
continue to support giving all Afghans, including, of course, women and girls,
a voice in shaping their country’s future,” Miller said.
The
US Department of State’s spokesman said that what the US was trying to achieve
by attending the Doha meeting was to “make clear that Afghanistan should not be
a hotbed for terrorist activities that impact other countries; two, a vision
for Afghanistan with inclusive institutions in which its diverse groups all
feel represented in a state that is truly inclusive; and number three, a
concern about the respect of human rights, and in particular the rights of
women and girls.”
In
response to a question about the refusal of Chinese, Russian, and Iranian
envoys to meet with the Afghan civil society, Miller said “we always find
engagement with civil society to be productive. We try to take actions through
our diplomacy to empower civil society, and we would certainly encourage every
country in the world to pursue that path.”
However,
the Islamic Emirate called the remarks of the US Department spokesman
"prejudiced."
"We
know America's intentions. The main reason is not the one they mentioned; they
are actually the big violators of human rights in the world. The Islamic
Emirate is committed to the rights given to individuals by Islamic Sharia.
America's problem is America's failure,” said the Islamic Emirate’s spokesman,
Zabihullah Mujahid.
"Afghanistan,
with its balanced, neutral and positive policy, wants to have a positive
interaction with all parties,” said Mohammad Mateen Mohammadkhail, a political
analyst.
The
second Doha meeting on Afghanistan was held on the 18 and 19 of February
without the presence of the Islamic Emirate.
Source: tolonews.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://tolonews.com/afghanistan-187517
----
Over
18,000 SIVs approved for Afghan allies last year: US State Department
Fidel
Rahmati
February
22, 2024
The
spokesperson for the US State Department told media outlets that last year the
US government approved more than 18,000 Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs) for
Afghans who worked with the US.
He
said that this figure represents the highest number of SIVs issued in a year.
The
spokesperson for the State Department once again asked the US Congress to
approve the residency plan for Afghans who worked with the United States in
that country.
CNN
reported earlier this month, that nearly 80,000 former local employees of the
United States in Afghanistan, eligible for Special Immigrant Visas, are
awaiting evacuation in Afghanistan and neighboring countries.
Among
these individuals, tens of thousands have recently initiated the process of
requesting their visas, as highlighted in the CNN report.
As of
the eighth month of the year, only 10,800 applicants for Special Immigrant
Visas have received leadership approval for evacuation, while the cases of
67,000 others are still pending approval, according to CNN’s Wednesday report.
Additionally,
tens of thousands of former American colleagues and employees in Afghanistan
have begun the visa request process, amplifying the urgency of the situation
following the Taliban’s takeover.
One
Afghan engineer, who worked with Americans, shared his experience of fleeing to
Pakistan with his family after the fall of Afghanistan, waiting for over a year
for approval of their Special Immigrant Visa application, citing the slow and
time-consuming process.
He
outlined the six essential documents required for the application, emphasizing
the increasing delay in visa approval, which now exceeds a year compared to the
earlier three-month timeline.
Source: khaama.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.khaama.com/over-18000-sivs-approved-for-afghan-allies-last-year-us-state-department/
----
US
State Department Reacts to Taliban’s Durand Line Statement
Fidel
Rahmati
February
22, 2024
The
US State Department spokesperson responded to statements made by Shir Mohammad
Abbas Stanekzai, the Taliban’s Deputy Foreign Minister, concerning the Durand
Line.
Mathew
Miller said, “We support the territorial integrity of Pakistan and Afghanistan
within the framework of internationally recognized borders between the two
countries.”
Abbas
Stanekzai, a Taliban-appointed official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,
stated that the Taliban, like previous governments, does not recognize the
Durand Line as the official border between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
During
an event in Logar marking the 35th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s withdrawal
from Afghanistan, Abbas Stanikzai, boldly declared that Afghanistan will never
acknowledge the Durand Line as its official border with Pakistan. This
statement highlights the enduring dispute between the two nations,
significantly impacting Afghan-Pakistani relations.
The
Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs dismissed Abbas Stanekzai’s remarks as
” “self-serving and fanciful claims.”.”
However,
the high-ranking Taliban official’s statements were welcomed by the Afghan
government’s Foreign Minister, Ashraf Ghani. Hanif Atmar wrote on his Twitter
page that despite differences with the Taliban, he agrees with the statements
of this Taliban official, and Abbas Stanekzai is not alone in his national
stance.
However,
Mr. Atmar raised the question of whether the Taliban’s official policy towards
the Durand Line is the same or not.
The
Durand Line, stretching over 2,400 kilometres, was created in 1893 by an
agreement between British India and Afghanistan’s Amir Abdur Rahman Khan. It
divides Pashtun and Baloch tribal areas between Afghanistan and present-day
Pakistan. Originally serving as a buffer between British India and the Russian
Empire, it has long been disputed by Afghanistan, which questions its
legitimacy as a true border.
Source: khaama.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.khaama.com/us-state-department-reacts-to-talibans-durand-line-statement/
----
Blinken
to Brazil's Lula: US disagrees with remarks comparing Israel to Nazis
FEBRUARY
21, 2024
US
top diplomat Antony Blinken and President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva had a
"frank exchange" on Wednesday in which the secretary of state made it
clear to Brazil's leader that the US did not agree with his recent remarks
about Israel's war in Gaza.
Lula
is in the middle of a diplomatic spat with Israel over comments in which he
likened the war in Gaza to the Nazi genocide during World War II, leading
Israel to say he was not welcome there until he takes back the comments.
"I
would say that it was a frank exchange, with the secretary making clear that we
don't agree with those comments," said a senior State Department official,
who briefed reporters after the meeting in Brasilia.
US
officials had previously said they expected Lula and Blinken to have a robust
conversation on issues of global security, including the conflict in Gaza that
was sparked by attacks in Israel by Hamas militants on October 7.
Blinken,
whose stepfather was a Holocaust survivor, highlighted US efforts to free
hostages still being held by Hamas and get a temporary pause in the conflict,
as well as to increase humanitarian aid, according to US officials.
In a
separate statement, Brazil's presidential office said the meeting, which lasted
almost two hours, involved discussions on topics ranging from the G20 summit to
peace efforts in Gaza and Ukraine.
"President
Lula reaffirmed his wish for peace and an end to the conflicts in Ukraine and
the Gaza Strip," the Brazilian government said. "Both agreed on the
need for the creation of a Palestinian state."
Brazil
this week is hosting a meeting of foreign ministers in Rio de Janeiro as part
of its presidency of the G20 group of advanced economies.
Washington,
which provides Israel with military and diplomatic support, has urged Israel to
protect civilians but defended Israel's right to target Hamas terrorists in
Gaza.
Ahead
of Blinken's travel to South America, Assistant Secretary of State for Western
Hemisphere Affairs Brian Nichols told reporters that sharing ideas on the
conflict in Gaza would be "crucial to the conversation" between Lula
and Blinken.
Source: jpost.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-788120
----
US
military says it destroyed Houthi missiles in pre-emptive strikes
February
22, 2024
RIYADH:
American forces operating in the Red Sea have destroyed seven anti-ship
missiles, one missile launcher and a drone originating from Houthi-controlled
areas of Yemen, the US military said early Thursday.
In a
statement on the X platform, the Central Command said its forces conducted four
self-defense strikes against the Houthi missiles between 12 a.m. and 6:45 p.m.
(Sanaa time), on Feb. 21, as they were prepared to launch towards targets in
the Red Sea.
"A
one-way attack unmanned aircraft system (UAS) was also shot in self-defense by
CENTCOM forces," the statement said.
It added that the missiles, launchers and UAS
were identified to originate from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen and
determined that they "presented an imminent threat to merchant vessels and
to the US Navy ships in the region."
Source: arabnews.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2464466/middle-east
---
South Asia
Doha
summit urged continued talks with Afghan rulers: Envoy
Feb
21, 2024
TEHRAN,
Feb. 21 (MNA) – Iran's special envoy for Afghanistan Hassan Kazemi Qomi says a
recent UN-led international conference on Afghanistan called on the
international community to keep communicating with the ruling authorities in
that country.
The
Doha conference, which ended on Monday, outlined two primary objectives, first,
the establishment of an international contact group for engaging with Kabul's
ruling authorities, and second, the appointment of a UN special envoy to
Afghanistan, Kazemi Qomi told IRNA.
He
said that a regional contact group has already been established within the
Moscow format and as recommended by Iran.
The
Moscow format is a diplomatic platform established in 2017 to facilitate
dialogue and cooperation between regional countries on the conflict in
Afghanistan. The format takes its name from the Russian capital, Moscow, where
the first meeting of the group was held.
Given
that regional countries play the most critical role in ensuring the stability
and security of the region, Kazemi Qomi said, “The key point at the Doha summit
was that the international community supports the regional initiative of the
United Nations.”
He
continued, “The new (UN) representative should be appointed from a place where
he has the most familiarity and cooperation with Afghanistan.”
Source: mehrnews.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://en.mehrnews.com/news/212249/Doha-summit-urged-continued-talks-with-Afghan-rulers-Envoy
-----
Mujahid:
Islamic Emirate Committed to Rights of People
February
21, 2024
The
Islamic Emirate rejected UN expert reports regarding the violation of women's
rights in the country, saying that women's rights are protected more than ever
before.
The
Islamic Emirate’s spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, said that the issue of women’s
rights is an internal issue of Afghanistan and that other countries should not
interfere in it.
“We
should not believe their false slogans. The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan
recognizes and is committed to the rights of all people. The government is
obliged to honor the rights that Islam has given to the people,” Mujahid said.
Earlier,
UN experts, who were drawing attention to the situation of women and girls in
Afghanistan, said in a news release that "gender apartheid" must be
recognized as a crime against humanity due to growing worldwide issues.
Experts
stressed that the designation of gender apartheid as a crime against humanity
would be a long overdue recognition by the international community.
“The
Taliban’s rule makes codifying gender apartheid in international law
particularly urgent, as it would allow the international community to better
identify and address the regime’s attacks on Afghan women and girls for what
they are,” the experts said.
“If
we want Allah, the world and the Afghan people to be satisfied with us as a
government, we must give the citizens all their basic rights,” said Zakiullah
Mohammadi, a university lecturer.
Meanwhile,
some women’s rights activists asked the Islamic Emirate to guarantee their
future by providing their fundamental rights, including the right to work and
education.
"We
ask the government to open schools and universities and allow women to work.
Don't let the countries call out our pain,” said Fazela Sorush, a women’s
rights activist.
This
comes as the acting Minister of Higher Education, Neda Mohammad Nadim, on
Tuesday in a seminar in Kabul criticized the holding of meetings on Afghanistan
abroad, saying that what is raised about women's rights in these meetings is
untrue.
Speaking
during the seminar, Nadim said that now more than ever, women's rights are
protected in the country.
Source: tolonews.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://tolonews.com/afghanistan-187518
----
Nearly
2,000 Afghan migrants return home from Iran and Pakistan
Fidel
Rahmati
February
22, 2024
The
Ministry of Refugees and Repatriations of Afghanistan has announced that nearly
two thousand Afghan migrants have returned to the country after being expelled
from Pakistan and Iran.
The
ministry stated on Wednesday, February 21st, in a statement that around one
thousand six hundred and sixty-six Afghan migrants entered the country on
Tuesday.
The
statement said that these migrants returned to the country via the Islam Qala
border in Herat province.
At
the same time, the ministry clarified that the returning migrants entered the
country voluntarily and involuntarily.
Meanwhile,
the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriations also announced that two hundred and
twenty-four Afghan migrants returned to the country after being expelled from
Pakistan on Tuesday.
It
should be noted that the newly returned migrants from this country returned via
the Spin Boldak border in Kandahar province and the Torghundi border in
Nangarhar province.
This
comes as Iran and Pakistan have recently been deporting individuals without
legal documents from their countries.
Amid
a severe winter and a humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, many returning
Afghans face an uncertain future with no jobs, inadequate shelter, food, water,
or medical care.
Source: khaama.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.khaama.com/nearly-2000-afghan-migrants-return-home-from-iran-and-pakistan/
----
UNSG:
Half of Afghanistan Population Will Require Aid in 2024
February
21, 2024
The
UN has said that more than half of Afghanistan’s population will require aid
this year.
The
UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres said that the UN humanitarian response
plan for Afghanistan has received less than 3% of the funds needed.
“Many
Afghans are destitute, struggling to feed themselves, living without access to
education, healthcare or employment,” the UN chief wrote on X.
“We
want that this aid that is being spent to be used appropriately in a way to
benefit Afghanistan and become an economic source for the families and people
of Afghanistan,” said Zabiullah Mujahid, the spokesman of the Islamic Emirate.
The
Ministry of Economy of the Islamic Emirate said the imposed sanctions on the
government, the stopping of foreign aid and years of drought have led to an
increase in poverty in the country.
“Focusing
on job creation programs and supporting the home-based economy in different
sectors can be economically effective for the gradual reduction of poverty and
the fight against food insecurity,” said Abdul Rahman Habib, the spokesperson
for the Islamic Emirate.
The
poverty in Afghanistan has not only hit those with no jobs but also the
disabled who have not been paid their salaries.
“They
gave us our six month salary but another six months, which is 18,000 Afs,
remains upaid. We want the Islamic Emirate to pay our salaries because we don’t
have anything for our life,” said Abdul Wodod, a needy person.
Other
Afghans are calling on the Islamic Emirate and other donors to provide
employment opportunities for them.
“I
was collecting bags from the shops to burn because we have nothing to heat our
houses. I burned my jumpers last night to heat the house for our kids,” said
Sayed Agha, a Kabul resident.
“We
want them to provide employment opportunities so that we can pay for our
families' expenses,” said Abdul Manan, a Kabul resident.
Earlier,
Reuters reported that the World Bank had decided to deploy $300 million from
the bank’s International Development Association.
According
to the report, the funds would remain outside the control of the “Taliban”
leadership in Afghanistan and would complement Afghanistan Resilience Trust
Fund (ARTF) donor financing in supporting critical basic services such as food,
water, health, education and jobs.
Source: tolonews.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://tolonews.com/afghanistan-187520
----
Dialogue
is the Key to Resolution, Asserts Deputy PM
2024-02-21
KABUL
(BNA): Mawlavi Abdul Kabir, the Deputy Prime Minister for Political Affairs,
emphasized the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan’s commitment to dialogue as the
preferred method for resolving issues. This sentiment was expressed during a
meeting with Takayoshi Kuromiya, the Ambassador of Japan in Kabul, according to
a statement from the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office.
During
the meeting, Ambassador Kuromiya highlighted the longstanding historical ties
between Japan and Afghanistan, expressing Japan’s interest in strengthening
these relations. He also conveyed Japan’s desire to play a pivotal role in
fostering and enhancing Afghanistan’s global relationships.
Kuromiya
reassured that Japan would continue to provide humanitarian aid to Afghanistan
and expressed readiness to participate in reconstruction, development projects,
health, and capacity enhancement initiatives.
The
Ambassador acknowledged that not only Japan but the entire international
community recognizes the significant progress Afghanistan has made over the
past two years. He noted the establishment of a unified governance system and
the assurance of national security.
Deputy
Prime Minister Mawlawi Abdul Kabir acknowledged Japan’s consistent support for
peace, stability, and development in Afghanistan. He stressed the importance of
ongoing cooperation in infrastructure development and the initiation of
development projects in Afghanistan.
He
further stated that the Islamic Emirate is committed to serving all Afghans
without discrimination. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that all
Afghans benefit from government aid and services and are included in the
governance process.
According
to him, the Islamic Emirate’s policy is that Afghanistan should not pose a
threat to anyone, nor should anyone be allowed to use Afghanistan against
others. He reiterated the Islamic Emirate’s belief in dialogue as the means to
resolve every issue.
Mawlavi
Abdul Kabir concluded by stating that the Islamic Emirate is prepared to
address the concerns of others through dialogue.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/dialogue-is-the-key-to-resolution-asserts-deputy-pm/
---
Significant
Decrease in Criminal Offenses in Panjshir Province
2024-02-22
KABUL
(BNA): Abadullah Aqa Farooqi, the spokesperson for the Panjshir police,
reported a significant decrease in criminal offenses in the province since the
return of the Islamic Emirate.
He
informed BNA that forty criminal incidents have been registered in the capital
and seven districts of this province since the beginning of the month of Hamal
(March 21), leading to several arrests.
Farooqi
attributed this unprecedented decrease in crime to the diligent efforts of the
police personnel and leadership in ensuring the safety of the residents of
Panjshir.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/significant-decrease-in-criminal-offenses-in-panjshir-province/
----
Our
dream is to make Bangla an official UN language: FM
Feb
21, 2024
In a
heartfelt tribute to the heroes of the 1952 Language Movement, Foreign Minister
Hasan Mahmud today articulated Bangladesh's aspiration to accord Bangla the
status of an official language of the United Nations.
Speaking
at a commemorative event for National Martyrs Day and International Mother
Language Day at the Foreign Service Academy, Hasan acknowledged the challenges
ahead but emphasised the national dream.
"Our
dream is to make Bangla the official language of UN. This is our dream. I know
there are many hurdles, but this is our dream today."
On
February 21 in 1952, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was
in jail.
"Many
people don't know that when he was taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital
(from jail) for treatment, he organised a meeting. In that meeting, it was
decided that a protest rally would be brought out on the 21st February, 1952.
The decision was given by Bangabandhu with his jail mates," Minister Hasan
said.
The
ceremony saw participation from Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen, alongside
various foreign missions in Dhaka. Among the attendees were Mashfee Binte
Shams, Rector of the Foreign Service Academy, diplomats, senior ministry
officials, and their families.
Hasan
paid homage to Bangabandhu and the martyrs of the 1971 War of Liberation,
highlighting his pivotal role in the 1952 Language Movement as a young leader.
He
also praised Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's efforts in propelling Bangladesh
towards new developmental heights, citing accolades received at the Munich
Security Conference 2024 for her leadership.
The
observance of International Mother Language Day, endorsed by Unesco and the UN
General Assembly, celebrates linguistic diversity and promotes inclusion
towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals.
The
2024 theme, "Multilingual education -- a pillar of learning and
intergenerational learning," advocates for education that begins in one's
mother tongue, easing the transition to multilingual learning and preserving
indigenous languages.
Bangladesh's
solemn commemoration of "Amar Ekushey" pays respect to the Language
Movement martyrs, asserting the nation's commitment to cultural and linguistic
preservation.
President
Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's participation in laying
wreaths at the Central Shaheed Minar signifies a national moment of unity and
remembrance, echoing the timeless anthem "Amar Bhai-er RakteRanganoEkushey
February".
Source: thedailystar.net
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/our-dream-make-bangla-official-un-language-fm-3549346
----
Southeast Asia
Malay
Religious Affairs Minister Advises Muslims to Reject Fanaticism
22
Feb 2024
PUTRAJAYA,
Feb 22 ― Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk
Mohd Na'im Mokhtar has advised the community, especially Muslims, to avoid
fanaticism towards any individual, instead they should always adhere to the
balance of knowledge and facts.
He
also urged all parties to refer to the State Islamic Religious Departments
(Jain) regarding any matters concerning the qualification of preachers,
ensuring that everything conveyed is in line with Islamic teachings.
“Fanaticism
in any matter is dangerous to both oneself and society.
“It
will cause someone to be easily influenced by claims made by certain
individuals or groups,” he said in a statement today.
Mohd
Na’im added that the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) is
following the developments reported by a local newspaper on the lineage of the
Prophet.
Mohd
Na’im said that the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) would
closely cooperate with Islamic religious authorities, especially Jain, and the
Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to investigate the revelations by the newspaper.
“The
Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) will not compromise with any
party attempting to exploit religion for personal or group interests,” he said.
Yesterday,
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the authorities would
continue monitoring an Algerian man claiming to be a descendant of Prophet
Muhammad and who has given religious talks in the country.
He
said the Home Ministry would cooperate with state authorities to take action
against the man, identified as Mawla Muhammad Amin al-Idrisi, if he breaches
any laws. ― Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/02/22/religious-affairs-minister-advises-muslims-to-reject-fanaticism/119408
----
US
veto pushed Gaza to more dangerous situation: China
Feb
21, 2024
TEHRAN,
Feb. 21 (MNA) – The US veto at the UN Security Council against a cease-fire has
pushed the besieged enclave of Gaza to a “more dangerous situation,” China
warned on Wednesday.
“China
voted in favor of a UN Security Council draft resolution that would have
demanded an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza,” said Mao Ning,
spokeswoman of China’s Foreign Ministry, Anadolu reported.
The
US vetoed “it alone, pushing the situation in Gaza to a more dangerous
situation,” he said.
“All
relevant parties, including China, expressed strong disappointment,” said Mao.
The
US Tuesday vetoed the latest attempt at the Council to demand an immediate
humanitarian cease-fire in the besieged Gaza Strip, where the official death
toll is rapidly approaching 30,000.
The
draft resolution put forward by Algeria received widespread support in the
council, with 13 of its 15 member states voting in favor.
The
US was the sole nation to vote against it, and as a permanent council member,
its opposition killed the resolution. The UK, another permanent member,
abstained.
China’s
top envoy at the UN Zhang Jun said: “The outcome of today's vote clearly shows
that on the issue of a cease-fire to halt the fight in Gaza, it is not that the
Security Council does not have an overwhelming consensus, but rather it is the
exercise of veto by the United States that stifles the Council consensus.”
“The
US veto sends a wrong message, pushing the situation in Gaza into a more
dangerous one,” he added.
Source: mehrnews.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://en.mehrnews.com/news/212237/US-veto-pushed-Gaza-to-more-dangerous-situation-China
----
Sultan
of Brunei joins funeral prayers for Taib
22 Feb 2024 #
KUCHING,
Feb 22 — Sultan of Brunei, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, joined the funeral prayers
for former Governor of Sarawak, Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud, at Masjid Demak here
today.
Also
joining the funeral prayers was Sultan Hassanal’s son, Pengiran Muda Abdul
Mateen Bolkiah.
Sarawak
Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg also attended the prayers, led by Imam
Besar Negeri Sarawak Datuk Mustapha Kamal Ahmad Fauzi.
Subsequently,
Sultan Hassanal also attended the burial ceremony of Abdul Taib at the family
cemetery near the mosque.
Earlier,
the casket bearing the body of the Abdul Taib was brought from the Sarawak
State Legislative Assembly Complex after the conclusion of the public paying of
respects ceremony held there.
The
journey from the complex to the Demak Mosque was accompanied by an 87-gun
salute by the 8th Royal Artillery Regiment as a final tribute to Abdul Taib.
The
body arrived at the mosque grounds at 11.56am.
The
casket was then carried into the mosque by military and police personnel,
accompanied by Abdul Taib’s wife, Toh Puan Raghad Kurdi Taib, and other family
members.
The
body of Abdul Taib was then taken to the cemetery at around 1.20p.m. amidst
rainy weather.
Abdul
Taib, 87, died at 4.40am at a private hospital in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. The
Sarawak Government declared a two-day mourning period until today.
Born
on May 21, 1936, Abdul Taib was the man who shaped Sarawak’s development when
he led the state as Chief Minister for 33 years. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/02/22/sultan-of-brunei-joins-funeral-prayers-for-taib/119422
----
Malaysian
MPs delegation visits Egypt to reiterate support for Palestinian cause
22-02-
2024
PUTRAJAYA:
A five-member delegation comprising Malaysian parliamentarians, led by Deputy
Foreign Minister Datuk Mohamad Alamin, is on a special visit to Egypt from Feb
21 to 24 to reiterate Malaysia’s staunch support for the Palestinian cause.
The
Foreign Ministry, in a statement Thursday, said the delegation includes Syed
Ibrahim Syed Noh (Ledang-PKR), Ahmad Tarmizi Sulaiman (Sik-PAS), Datuk Andi
Muhammad Suryady Bandy (Kalabakan-UMNO) and Senator Datuk Dr Mohd Hattta Md
Ramli (AMANAH).
The
delegation will visit the Rafah-Gaza border checkpoints, through which the
emergency and humanitarian relief supplies from Malaysia are channelled to
Gaza, it said.
“This
arrangement is undertaken in close collaboration with the Egyptian government
and Ops Ihsan,“ the statement read.
According
to Wisma Putra, other programmes include a courtesy call on Egypt’s Deputy
Foreign Minister Hamdi Loza, a meeting with the chief executive officer of the
Egyptian Red Crescent (ERC), Dr Rami Al Nazer, and a visit to a hospital
managed by the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS).
“Discussions
will also be held on the cooperation with Ops Ihsan in assisting Palestinians
affected, including those who are seeking medical treatment in Egypt,“ it said.
The
ministry noted that there will be a symbolic ceremony to hand over donations
from Malaysia to the ERC and PRCS amounting to US$250,000 (RM1.2 million) and
US$500,000 (RM2.4 million), respectively.
Wisma
Putra said a total of 100 tonnes of humanitarian assistance (worth RM5.6
million or US$1.2 million) was successfully flown to the El-Arish Airport in
November and December last year.
The
delivered items included medicine, medical equipment, food and winter supplies
such as blankets, tents and clothing.
The
humanitarian aid was made possible following contributions by the Malaysian
public, agencies, and companies to Akaun Amanah Kemanusiaan Rakyat Palestine,
said Wisma Putra. –Bernama
Source: thesun.my
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://thesun.my/local_news/malaysian-mps-delegation-visits-egypt-to-reiterate-support-for-palestinian-cause-AA12128091
----
Cultivator
of harmony: S'wak politicians credit Taib for pivotal role in nurturing ethnic,
religious unity in state
22
Feb 2024
POLITICIANS
across the spectrum in Sarawak have hailed the important role that the late Tun
Abdul Taib Mahmud had played in nurturing multi-racialism and multi-religious
harmony in the state.
PKR
deputy chairman Abun Sui Anyit said Taib, the longest serving state chief
minister in Malaysia, cultivated a society that was united as far as ethnic and
communal relations are concerned.
"Tun
Taib had been at the forefront of building Sarawak as a state united in
multiracial and multi-religious cohesiveness.
"We
acknowledge that very important role he had performed,” said Sui, who is a
senator, in a statement to express the party’s condolences on his passing.
Taib,
87, breathed his last at a private hospital in Kuala Lumpur at 4.28am
yesterday.
He
had served as Sarawak's chief minister for over three decades starting from
1981, making him the longest-serving head of government in Malaysian state
history.
He
then served for three terms as Sarawak governor from March 1, 2014, until
January 26 this year when Tun Tan Sri Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar succeeded him.
A
senior state leader also credited Taib for having played a pivotal role in
laying the foundation for a multiracial and multi-religious Sarawak.
The
solid unity and harmony existing now among the many diverse communities of
faiths and races was due to Taib to a large extent, said Datuk Seri Fatimah
Abdullah, chief of Parti Pesaka Bumiputra Bersatu’s (PBB) women’s wing.
Fatimah,
who is minister in the state Women, Family and Community Well-being Ministry,
said that the foundation of multiracialism and religious tolerance has seen
Sarawak progress on the social, economic and political fronts.
"Tun
Taib was the one who brought Sarawakians of all races, faiths and ethnic groups
together.
"His
policies of cultivating multi-religious and multiracial unity and harmony were
reflected on the social and political fronts,” she said in a statement.
"These
enabled Sarawak to prosper in the social sectors, business and industrial
arenas and brought stability and peace.
"His
passing left a huge void in Sarawak. We pray that Tun Taib will rest in
peace," she added. "May Allah forgive him for his sins and grant him
eternal rest."
Lifelong
devotion to public service
Meanwhile,
Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri
Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah described Taib as a leader who had devoted his life
to public service.
In
fact, Abdul Karim, who is also the state Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur
Development Minister, said Taib had dedicated his life not only to Sarawak but
also to the nation way before his tenure as the state chief minister.
“The
day Malaysia was formed in 1963, Abdul Taib was a state minister; the youngest
in Sarawak,” Karim told Bernama yesterday.
“While
he was serving as a state minister, he was brought over to the federal to be a
minister. He served about four or five ministries before returning to Sarawak
in 1981.”
“After
33 years as Sarawak Chief Minister, he was appointed as Sarawak Governor until
the end of January this year.
“So,
from his young life to his tenure as governor and until his demise today, he
has devoted his life to public service,” he said in a phone interview featured
in Bernama TV’s The Brief yesterday.
At
the same time, Abdul Karim said everything Sarawak has today such as political
stability, racial harmony and tolerance towards each other were all led by
Taib; hence his demise was felt by all, especially the people of Sarawak.
Following
Taib’s death, prayers were conducted at the National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur
yesterday.
His
remains were brought back to Kuching at around 3pm yesterday.
The
state government declared two days of official mourning, and all state and
national flags are flown at half-mast. – The Vibes, February 22, 2024
Source: thevibes.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.thevibes.com/articles/news/101058/cultivator-of-harmony-swak-politicians-credit-taib-for-pivotal-role-in-nurturing-ethnic-religious-unity-in-state
---
Yunnan
mosque gets pagodas and party slogans in Chinese makeover
Gu Ting for RFA Mandarin
2024.02.21
A
mosque in a mostly-Muslim town in southwestern China whose dome and minarets
were demolished last year has been refitted with Chinese-style pagodas and
billboards praising the Communist Party, according to a local resident and an
overseas Muslim with connections to the area.
Last
May, dozens of residents were detained in the town of Nagu in Yunnan province
after clashes with police, when a government demolition team toppled the
minarets and dome roof of the historic Najiaying Mosque.
The
destruction was part of the "sinicization" of religion under
President Xi Jinping that ushered in a nationwide crackdown on Muslim,
Christian and Tibetan Buddhist religious activities and venues in 2017.
The
mosque, run by Hui Muslims, had recently expanded its minarets and dome, a move
that was ruled illegal by a court in Yunnan's Tonghai county.
A
Muslim who lives close by the Najiaying Mosque who gave only the surname Ma for
fear of reprisals said the building is now open again after receiving a
Chinese-style makeover.
"It's
open now," Ma said. "It was renovated and the dome changed into a
Chinese-style building following the demolition."
‘Follow
the Party’
Residents
shared photos of signage outside the Najiaying Mosque, which read: "Obey
the Party. Be grateful to the Party. Follow the Party."
Ma
said all mosques in the area, which is home to a large Hui Muslim population,
are undergoing similar changes.
"They
all have to be changed. Most of them already have," he said. "Around
90% of local [mosques] have been changed."
The Najiaying
Mosque was first built in the 14th century during the Ming Dynasty and has been
rebuilt many times over the centuries.
The
Arabesque-style mosque building was completed in 2004, and boasted four
minarets and a dome, with enough space for thousands of worshipers.
But
according to Ma Ju, a Chinese Muslim scholar living in the United States who
remains in contact with many Muslims in Nagu township, it wasn’t just the
building that got an overhaul.
He
said the mosque had also been forced to undergo organizational changes.
"The
authorities also used the reconstruction process to reorganize the
democratically elected management committee for the mosque," Ma Ju said.
"Now, there are no longer democratic elections, but appointments made
directly by the government's religious affairs bureau and the United Front Work
Department."
Under
the control of the Communist Party, the United Front has the task of getting
minority groups and organizations outside of the party-state to toe the line.
"Several
schools linked to the mosque have been banned, and children aren't allowed to
enter the mosque," Ma Ju said.
Repeated
calls to the Tonghai County Ethnic and Religious Affairs Bureau rang unanswered
during office hours on Tuesday.
Conflict
over supreme power
Current
affairs commentator Guo Min said the signs remind Muslims that, in China, the
Communist Party is the supreme power, a claim that Muslims in Hong Kong say
goes against the core tenet of their religion.
"The
party controls everything, and they insist that we love the party, and
highlight their supreme leadership over any religion," Guo said.
"Religious belief must be predicated on loving the party."
"The
authorities will never allow anything to deviate from that."
China’s
“sinicization of religion” policy, which has led churches in mainland China to
display portraits of Xi and prompted local officials to forcibly demolish
domes, minarets and other architectural features in mosques around the country.
The
Communist Party now requires all religious believers to love their country as
well as their religion, and claims that patriotism is a part of Islam.
In
October 2023, some Muslims in Hong Kong spoke out against the raising of the
Chinese national flag in formal ceremonies at Kowloon Mosque in honor of the
anniversary of the 1997 handover to Chinese rule, seeing them as a challenge to
the Islamic doctrine of the supremacy of God.
Source: rfa.org
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.rfa.org/english/news/china/china-yunnan-mosque-02212024144639.html
---
Africa
Kano
Govt Inaugurates Ramadan Feeding Committee
February
22, 2024
Abdullahi
Yusuf
February
22, (THEWILL) – The Kano State Government has inaugurated a high-powered
Committee for the forthcoming 2024 Ramadan Feeding Programme (RFP) in the
state.
This
was contained in a statement issued to newsmen by Ibrahim Garba Shuaibu,
spokesperson of the Kano State Deputy Governor.
Shuaibu
said the Deputy Governor, Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, while inaugurating the committee,
stated that the programme was aimed at “assisting all residents of the state,
transcending political affiliations.”
He
said Gwarzo urged the committee to strategise the distribution of food across
designated areas in the state during the Ramadan fast and gave the body five
days to complete its assignment.
The
committee’s terms of reference include “identifying key distribution spots
within the 8 metropolitan Local Government Areas and 36 Local Government Areas
of the state, recommending breakfast menus for the targeted Muslim ummah during
Ramadan, and identifying individuals or groups deserving of government goodwill
as a Ramadan gesture.”
The
Deputy Governor thanked the people of the state for their continued support and
reiterated the continued commitment of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s
administration to their well-being.
The
State Commissioner of Religious Affairs, Ahmad Tijjani Auwal, while responding
on behalf of the committee, thanked the State Government for assigning them
“this crucial task of Ramadan feeding,” assuring that the body would work
diligently to discharge its mandate.
Auwal
called on philanthropists in the state to support the programme to ensure its
success by effecting its widespread benefits during the Holy period.
Other
members of the committee include Aisha Lawan Saji, Commissioner for Women
Affairs; Amina Abdullahi, Commissioner for Special Duties; Umar Haruna Doguwa,
Commissioner for Education, and Baba Halilu Dantiye, Commissioner for
Information.
Source: thewillnews.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://thewillnews.com/kano-govt-inaugurates-ramadan-feeding-committee/
----
‘Pray,
fast for Naira, you will see miracle’ – Shehu Sani tells Muslims, Christians
February
21, 2024
Francis
Ugwu
Amid
the continuing depreciation of the value of the Naira, a former lawmaker and
social critic, Shehu Sani, has asked Nigerian Muslims and Christians pray for a
miracle.
In a
post on his X handle on Wednesday, Sani advised adherents of both religions to
fast if the miracle didn’t happen in seven days.
He
said, “Muslims should pray for Naira this coming Friday. Christians should pray
for Naira on Sunday. You will see miracle on Monday. If you don’t see it, fast
for 7 days. If you still don’t see miracle, it means even miracle hath left
thee because of thy sins.”
DAILY
POST reports that the Naira dropped to N1,740.00 per US Dollar on Tuesday, from
N1,660 on Monday, at the parallel market.
However,
the turnover of US Dollar supply at Tuesday’s official foreign exchange market
surged by 76.61 per cent to $117.32 million as the Naira appreciated
marginally.
FMDQ
data indicated that FX Turnover increased to $117.32 million on Tuesday from
$66 million on Monday.
The
development led to the marginal appreciation of the Naira to N1,551.24 per US
dollar on Tuesday from N1,574.62 on Monday.
DAILY
POST reports that this is the first time the Naira has appreciated against the
US dollar at the official foreign market since last Thursday.
Source: dailypost.ng
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://dailypost.ng/2024/02/21/pray-fast-for-naira-you-will-see-miracle-shehu-sani-tells-muslims-christians/
---
Somalia
approves defence deal with Turkey
2024-02-22
MOGADISHU:
Somalia’s cabinet and lawmakers on Wednesday endorsed a defence deal with
Turkey, with Mogadishu locked in a dispute with Addis Ababa over a maritime
agreement it says threatens its sovereignty.
Under
the 10-year pact, close ally Turkey will help defend Somalia’s long coastline
and also rebuild the naval forces of the fragile Horn of Africa nation,
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud told reporters after a joint session of
parliament.
“The
agreement submitted to parliament today is solely about cooperation between
Somalia and Turkey on maritime defence and economy, it is not in any way aimed
at creating hatred or feud with another country or government,” he said.
In
January, Ethiopia infuriated Somalia when it signed a maritime deal with the
breakaway region of Somaliland that would give the landlocked country
long-desired sea access.
Source: brecorder.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://www.brecorder.com/news/40290073/somalia-approves-defence-deal-with-turkey
-----
Lift
Mali, B’Faso, Niger sanctions, Gowon writes ECOWAS
22nd
February 2024
Gift
Habib
Former
Nigerian head of state and one of the founding fathers of the Economic
Community of West African States, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, has urged the regional
bloc to lift the sanctions imposed on Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger Republic.
Gowon
gave the recommendation in an open letter to the Heads of State and the ECOWAS
member states on Wednesday.
Widely
seen as West Africa’s top political and regional authority, the 15-nation
ECOWAS – formed in 1975 to promote economic integration in member states – has
struggled with a wave of military takeovers in the region, including in Mali in
2020 and 2021, Burkina Faso in 2022 and Niger last year.
In
response to the military takeover of powers in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger
Republic, ECOWAS imposed various sanctions on the countries, while demanding a
return to democratic rule.
THE
ROUND TABLE: Food Crisis - Monarchs, NBA Lament Hardship0.00 / 0.00
Such
sanctions include border closure, suspension of financial transactions and
freezing of the country’s assets in external banks.
In
response to the sanctions, the adamant military juntas in Niger, Burkina Faso
and Mali, on January 27, announced their withdrawal from ECOWAS, saying the
regional bloc had derailed “the ideals of its founding fathers and
pan-Africanism.”
They
claimed that ECOWAS had become a threat to its member states.
The
three countries subsequently went on to announce the formation of a new
alliance, tagged the Alliance of Sahel States.
ECOWAS
had earlier invited Gowon to its headquarters in Abuja on Monday to speak on
the crisis and advise on the way forward. The ex-Nigerian head of state,
however, did not show up.
But
Gowon, in a letter addressed to the
President ECOWAS Commission, Omar Touray, described the exit of Mali,
Burkina Faso and Niger Republic as sad, and made a three-prong recommendation
to resolve the crisis.
In
the letter seen by The PUNCH on Wednesday, Gowon wrote: I have noted with deep
concern and sadness, the past and recent developments unfolding in the West African sub-region,
particularly the pronouncement by
Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger of their intention to exit from the
Economic Community of West African States.
“As
one of the founders of our regional economic community, it is incumbent
upon me to speak on behalf of the 14
Heads of State and Government who joined me in
Lagos, on 27th May 1975, to establish ECOWAS.
“Since
its inception, the regional bloc has
made a number of major accomplishments, including trade liberalisation, right of West Africans to live legitimately
in any country within the community, as
well as successful peacekeeping operations in Liberia and Sierra Leone.
“ECOWAS,
despite its shortcomings, has become an example of regional integration for the
wider
continent. Having achieved all of the above, it saddens me to learn that ECOWAS
is
threatened
with disunity following the announcement by Burkina Faso, Mali and
Niger,
three important member states, of their intention to leave the community. The
impact
of such a decision will have far-reaching implications for the ordinary
citizens
who have been the major beneficiaries of regional integration.
“Therefore,
on behalf of all the founding fathers of the community and myself, I urge the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State
and Government, including the leaders of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, to put
aside their differences and reunite for the peace, stability and prosperity of
our sub-region.”
On
the way forward, Gowon urged “all West African leaders to immediately consider
the lifting of all sanctions that have been imposed on Burkina Faso, Guinea,
Mali and Niger.”
He
also appealed to Burkina Faso, Mali and
Niger to withdraw their notice to dump ECOWAS.
He
advised ECOWAS to convene a summit of
“all 15 ECOWAS Heads of State to
discuss the
future
of the community, regional security, and stability, as well as the role of the
international community given the current geopolitical context.”
Receiving
the letter, President of the ECOWAS Commission, Touray, assured the Gowon that
he would send the letter to all ECOWAS Heads of State.
He
said, “Your message is a profound one. I take note of your appeal and
recommendations.
“An
extraordinary summit has been scheduled to take place in Abuja on Saturday. The
heads of state will consider your message in their discussion.”
Source: punchng.com
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original
https://punchng.com/lift-mali-bfaso-niger-sanctions-gowon-writes-ecowas/
----
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/darul-uloom-deoband-fatwa-ghazwa-hind/d/131776