Concerning Increase in Anti-Conversion Laws, Hate Speech in India: US Secretary of State
New Age Islam News Bureau
27 Jun 2024
·
Concerning Increase in Anti-Conversion Laws,
Hate Speech in India: US Secretary of State
·
Anti-Muslim Attacks: Why Are Rahul, Akhilesh
Silent?
·
Rare Bilingual Inscription Unearthed in Saudi
Arabia’s Tabuk Province
·
Pakistan's First Human Milk Bank Halts
Operations as Initiative Seen 'Haram' Under Islamic Law
·
Malaysian Islamic Preacher, Firdaus Wong, Gives
Directives to Secretly Convert Non-Muslim Minors
North America
·
Harvard Task Forces Release First
Recommendations on Antisemitism, Anti-Arab and Anti-Muslim Bias
·
US provided $6.5 billion in 'massive' security
aid to Israel since Gaza war began: Report
·
Tijuana shelter hosts Muslim migrants seeking
US asylum
·
International business forum on Islamic
finances and water resources held in Almaty
·
Evidence mounts Islamic State is looking to the
US southern border
·
Man who identifies as Muslim woman to receive
$350,000 after being housed in men's prison for 1 month: Report
·
American Muslim, Palestinian Groups Urge CNN
Presidential Debate Hosts to Ask About Gaza Genocide, Hate Crimes, Student
Rights
·
Pro-Israel lobbies unseat Democratic lawmaker
over criticism of Israel
--------
India
·
Lok Sabha Poll Results Reject 'Hindu Rashtra'
Notion, Says Nobel Laureate Amartya Sen
·
Probe into Ahmedabad Sunni Muslim Waqf
Committee Ordered
·
Voice from Kashmir in Lok Sabha: Hope No Muslim
MP Is Called Terrorist or Bills Rushed, Says NC MP Mehdi
·
Nawazuddin Siddiqui Opens Up On Whether He Has
Faced Discrimination In Bollywood For His Muslim Identity
·
3 militants gunned down in Jammu’s Doda
district after firing at security forces
--------
·
Saudi village built atop volcanic crater
attracts tourists
·
Saudi Arabia issues clear message on World
Anti-Drug Day
·
Celebratory Al-Daha Dance at Turaif Weddings
Has Deep Historical Roots
·
AI training program targets Saudi science and
engineering specialists
·
Saudi pavilion inaugurated at the 2024 Seoul
International Book Fair’s
·
Saudi Arabia celebrates International Year of
Camelids 2024 in Geneva
--------
Pakistan
·
From Territorial to Virtual: Is Militant
Islamic State’s Khorasan Province the Next Al Qaeda?
·
Govt Taking Steps to Curb Religious
Intolerance: Pakistani Ambassador to the United States
·
Peshawar High Court Orders Removal of
Blasphemous TikTok Content
·
Two FC men martyred in Kalat attack
·
'Foreign intervention': US resolution sparks
war of words between PTI, ruling parties
·
Pakistan rubbishes US resolution on poll probe
as 'neither constructive nor objective'
--------
Southeast Asia
·
Guan Eng: Deputy Minister’s Langkawi Rebranding
As ‘Preferred Muslim Destination’ Sparks Travel Trade Concerns
·
Report: Kedah MB affirms Langkawi is open to
all, denies ‘Muslim-preferred destination’ claims
·
Man accused of teaching doctrine contrary to
Islamic laws needed 13 wives, says ex-follower
·
Thailand: Killing of Malay Muslim human rights
defender must be investigated
--------
Africa
·
ICC Convicts Mali Islamist Al Hassan Ag Abdoul
Aziz for Timbuktu Atrocities
·
SA raises terror financing risk to high as
Islamic State makes inroads into Africa
·
Death toll rises to 22 a day after Kenyan
protesters stormed parliament
·
Kenyan lawmakers approve army deployment amid
ongoing protests
--------
Europe
·
Ahead of Snap Polls, France Bans Extreme-Right,
Radical Islamic Groups
·
Eurasian Development Bank, Dar Al Sharia Sign
Agreement On Cooperation
·
Warning Over Scam That ‘Takes Control’ Of Your
WhatsApp
·
The Muslim Vote campaign is poisoning democracy
--------
Mideast
·
Illegal Israeli settlers storm into Al-Aqsa
Mosque complex, perform Talmudic rituals
·
Houthis in Yemen Say They Targeted Ship in
Haifa Port with ‘Islamic Resistance’ in Iraq
·
Settlers storm al-Aqsa Mosque
·
Sunni MP announces agreement to elect new
Speaker of Iraqi Parliament
·
US-Israeli Spy Cell confessions are witness to
danger of soft war on Muslim peoples, societies
·
In the searing heat of the Gaza summer,
Palestinians are surrounded by sewage and garbage
·
Defence chief says Israel doesn’t want war but
warns Hezbollah; cites progress on resolving weapons rift with US
·
Israeli strike on Syria kills two: state media
·
Israeli strike wounds five in Lebanon: media
--------
South Asia
·
Islamic Emirate Conducting Successful
Counter-Drugs Operation
·
Islamic banks’ liquidity plummets 77% in 3
months
·
FM Muttaqi and UNAMA Head Confer on Key Issues
for Doha Meeting
·
Thousands of tourist visits Bamyan
·
New Kabul City: A beacon of hope for
Afghanistan’s future
·
Sports cause solidarity and bring happiness
among Afghans
·
WFP to assists only one million in Afghanistan
due to financial crisis
·
Vienna Conference calls for responsible UN
action on Afghanistan
·
Pakistani UN envoy reiterates focus on Afghan
refugee deportations
Compiled by
New Age Islam News Bureau
URL:
Concerning
Increase in Anti-Conversion Laws, Hate Speech in India: US Secretary of State
Jun 27,
2024
NEW
DELHI: US secretary of state Antony Blinken on Thursday expressed concern over
the alleged rise in anti-conversion laws, hate speech in India.
Blinken
made these remarks during the release of the state department's annual report
on international religious freedom, while also acknowledging the efforts of
people worldwide to safeguard religious freedom.
"Today,
the state department is releasing its annual report on the status of
international religious freedom. The department’s report tracks these kinds of
threats to religious freedom in almost 200 countries. For example, blasphemy
laws in Pakistan help foster a climate of intolerance and hatred that can lead
to vigilantes and mob violence," Blinken said.
"In
India, we see a concerning increase in anti-conversion laws, hate speech,
demolitions of homes and places of worship for members of minority faith
communities...Today religious freedom is still not respected for millions of people
around the world. Some countries place restrictions on wearing certain types of
religious dress; others enforce it. Here in the United States, reports of hate
crimes and other incidents targeting both Muslims and Jews have gone up
dramatically," he added.
The
report highlighted that in 2023, senior US officials continued to raise
concerns about religious freedom issues with their Indian counterparts. It
noted that ten out of 28 states in India have laws restricting religious
conversions for all faiths, with some states imposing specific penalties
against forced religious conversions for the purpose of marriage.
The
report also mentioned that some members of religious minority groups questioned
the government's ability and willingness to protect them from violence,
investigate crimes against them, and safeguard their freedom of religion or
belief.
The US
state department's report further noted that Christians and Muslims were
arrested under laws banning forced religious conversions, which religious groups
claimed were used in some cases to harass and imprison members of religious
minority groups on false and fabricated charges or for lawful religious
practices.
The
report also discussed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's calls for a Uniform Civil
Code (UCC) at the national level, which was met with opposition from Muslim,
Sikh, Christian, and tribal leaders, as well as some state government
officials, who viewed it as part of a project to turn the country into a
"Hindu Rashtra (a Hindu Nation)".
The
Indian American Muslim Council (IAMC) welcomed the report, stating that it
echoes the findings presented in the annual report released by the United
States Commission on International Religious Freedom, which calls on the State
Department to designate India as a "Country of Particular Concern
(CPC)" for ongoing and severe violations of religious freedoms for
minorities.
IAMC
executive director Rasheed Ahmed urged Secretary Blinken to act on these facts
and designate India as a CPC.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/concerning-increase-in-anti-conversion-laws-hate-speech-in-india-blinken/articleshow/111302273.cms
--------
Anti-Muslim
Attacks: Why Are Rahul, Akhilesh Silent?
June 27,
2024
IMAGE: A
Muslim man arrives to vote at a polling station in the old quarters of Delhi,
May 25, 2024.
------------
Indian
Muslims were among those greatly relieved with the Bharatiya Janata Party with
Narendra Modi at its helm, not securing again a clear majority of its own. But
will the fact that Modi is no longer a 'lord' onto himself, and is instead
dependent on coalition partners with potential to be exacting at times, make
India a communally less-polarised nation?
Will
Muslims be able to once again lead a more zestful life, no longer having to
constantly look over their shoulders to check if a marauder's arm or a lynch
brigade was reaching out for them?
Questions
arise because within days of the election results, several incidents across
several states, notably Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat,
Rajasthan and Telangana made it clear that although the verdict may have been
reassuring there was little change in people's actions.
These
episodes of targeted attacks on Muslims established that for a section of
people and, sadly, even officials of the State, the election results conveyed
no lessons.
The
script was eerily familiar in Chhattisgarh, where a mob of cow vigilantes
detained a truck within Raipur district in which three Muslims men were
transporting buffalos from Uttar Pradesh to adjoining Odisha.
The
crowd took law into their hands and in the violence perpetrated on the alleged
cattle-smugglers, all the three men died.
In MP's
Mandla district, the state government performed the role of the mob and dished
out bulldozer justice to eleven Muslim families by demolishing their homes.
Brazening
it out, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, obviously exuberant after the BJP swept all
29 seats in the state in the Lok Sabha polls, decided to observe this year as
Gauvansh Raksha Varsh (bovine protection year).
The
houses which were demolished had been allegedly built on government land. But,
the reason cited for sending the bulldozers to raze the houses was the
allegation that these families were key players in the illegal beef trade in
the state.
The
state government alleged that following a tip off, they discovered beef in the
refrigerators in these eleven houses and thereafter decided to demolish the
houses.
Tellingly,
the local superintendent of police stated that the meat seized from these
houses, was found to be beef by the local government veterinarian.
However,
it is well known that often buffalo meat, whose trade and consumption is
permitted, is often mistakenly assumed to be cow meat.
In
September 2015, in the first such publicised incident after Modi became PM, in
Dadri in UP, Mohammed Akhlaq was lynched to death on suspicion of storing beef
in his house, although a forensic test later established that it was not cow
meat.
It is
necessary to recall the Dadri incident because the political response to it was
contrasting.
While
Modi, back from the United States after his maiden visit as PM, remained
silent, several Opposition leaders including Rahul Gandhi and Arvind Kejriwal
condemned the incident and went to commiserate with the family.
The
issue also figured significantly in the Bihar assembly elections with the
Rashtriya Janata Dal and its allies, including the Nitish Kumar-led Janata
Dal-United and the Congress, raked up this matter to garner the secular
anti-BJP vote.
In
contrast, now, almost the entire Opposition remained silent not just on the
recent Chhattisgarh and MP incidents, but on the others too.
Quite
clearly, the Opposition parties are diffident about speaking out when 'politics
of hate' manifests itself.
Does
this mean that attacks on Muslims by vigilante groups and even government
forces merely on suspicion is the new normal?
Does the
passive response of Opposition parties demonstrate that these parties do not
have the political courage to articulate concerns of the Muslims and even the
Christians, because it fears backlash from Hindus?
It is
well known that even the Congress was cautious in fielding and deploying its
Muslim leaders in elections from the first general elections onwards.
But in
recent decades there has been significant fall in number of Muslim candidates
fielded not just by the Congress, but even other non-BJP parties.
The
guilt for shrinking Muslim presence in Parliament is not solely that of the BJP
and its coalition partners.
At 78,
the total number of Muslim candidates in the fray this time is an all-time low
-- significantly lower than 320 in 2014.
The
total number of 26 Muslim Lok Sabha members, this was the same number in the
17th House, is way below their proportion in population.
Importantly,
even parties which avowedly pursue secular politics and are active in states
with significant Muslims presence, like the Samajwadi Party and Trinamool
Congress, significantly reduced the number of their Muslim candidates.
Very
significantly in the Moradabad Lok Sabha seat, the SP did not field its sitting
Muslim MP and instead put up a Hindu upper caste woman.
Despite
the fact that the constituency has more than 45% Muslim voters, the SP
candidate defeated the BJP nominee.
With an
eye on the Muslim vote the Bahujan Samaj Party put up a Muslim candidate, but
he polled only slightly more than 90,000 votes, in contrast to the SP nominee's
vote share of 637,000.
Quite
clearly, the Muslim voters cast their lot tactically and backed candidates with
the best chance to worst the BJP nominee.
It is
evident that the community has not turned against opposition parties for
selecting fewer Muslim candidates.
But,
choosing to remain silent when Muslims are attacked by lynch-armies backed by
the BJP and its affiliates, with tacit support of the government, will be little
but self-defeating politics.
While it
will be premature for non-BJP parties to begin fielding Muslims with gusto, but
it is time to intervene in debates whenever violent incidents occur, and when
the State plays a partisan role, as it did in Mandla and Ratlam where in a
separate episode the homes of four Muslims were demolished by the state
administration after charging them with throwing bovine remains inside a
temple.
Marginalising
communal politics and ensuring that Muslims live with dignity will be a long
haul and Opposition parties cannot baulk from the pursuit of secular politics
due to fear of antagonising the majority community.
As
Verdict '24 has demonstrated, there are regions in India where people are
beginning to withdraw support to communal and divisive politics.
In the
course of his Bharat Jodo Yatra, Rahul Gandhi evolved a radical vocabulary of
secularism and found support for this among people besides securing backing of
some opposition parties.
His
coinage of running shops of mohabbat (love and affection) in the market of
nafrat (hatred) must not remain just that.
Instead,
the sense articulated through the slogans has to become second nature.
The
Opposition must gain courage and believe that advocating for peaceful
coexistence among various religious communities is the original credo of India.
In the
same vein, it must argue that the Hindutva worldview of unitarist cultural
nationalism was rejected by people for decades after Independence.
Divisive
politics based on hate and prejudice gained support only through the
decades-long Ram temple agitation. But, as some sections of Indians made it
obvious in the elections, there are limits to such politics.
Opposition
parties must not be hesitant in speaking out whenever the mob with tacit State
support targets Muslims.
It must
be communicated to people that no Indian Muslim should be made to feel that
their ancestors took a wrong decision during Partition to remain in the nation
of their birth where religion was not the basis of nationalism.
Source: rediff.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.rediff.com/news/column/nilanjan-mukhopadhyay-anti-muslim-attacks-why-are-rahul-akhilesh-silent/20240627.htm
--------
Rare
bilingual inscription unearthed in Saudi Arabia’s Tabuk province
June 26,
2024
Recent
archaelologican find demonstrates the historical coexistence of Thamudic in the
Arabian Peninsula, says Saudi Heritage Commission
---------------
RIYADH:
The Saudi Heritage Commission has announced the discovery of a bilingual
inscription in Tabuk.
The
piece, found during an archaeological dig in the village of Alqan, comprises
two lines in Thamudic script and one in early Arabic, the Saudi Press Agency
reported on Wednesday.
The
style of the characters suggests the piece dates from the 5th century.
The
commission said the find demonstrated the historical coexistence of Thamudic
and early Arabic and illuminated the evolution of ancient writing systems in
the Arabian Peninsula.
It
represents a significant addition to the commission’s collection of ancient
Arabic inscriptions and writings and aligns with its ongoing efforts to study,
document, preserve and promote archaeological sites across the Kingdom.
Such
work underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to protecting and showcasing its
rich cultural heritage.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2538386/saudi-arabia
--------
Pakistan's
first human milk bank halts operations as initiative seen 'haram' under Islamic
law
Jun 26,
2024
Representational
image of the milk Photograph:(Others)
-------------
Pakistan's
first human milk bank has been forced to suspend operations following a
religious edict that deemed the initiative "haram" or forbidden under
Islamic law.
The
Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology (SICHN) in Karachi had launched
the country's first Shariah-compliant human milk bank just weeks ago, with the
goal of providing donated breast milk to premature and malnourished
infants.
However,
the project has now been put on hold after a revised fatwa or religious ruling.
Notably, in December 2023, a fatwa was issued by the influential Darul Uloom
Karachi seminary which called for "providing necessary religious
endorsement to proceed."
Now, the
revised fatwa by the seminary cited the need to respect religious and cultural
sensitivities surrounding the issue and said it would seek further guidance
from Pakistan's Council of Islamic Ideology.
Concept
of 'Milk Kinship'
The
controversy centres around the Islamic concept of "milk kinship",
where a woman who breastfeeds a child not biologically related to her develops
familial ties that prohibit marriage between the child and her own
offspring.
While
human milk banks have operated in the West for over a century, the notion of
milk kinship has impeded their adoption in the Muslim world. A similar
initiative in Bangladesh was shut down in 2019 after facing religious
opposition.
"This
relationship is akin to blood ties, which forbids marriage between breastfed
siblings within Islamic legal frameworks," as per Mufti Syed Qaiser
Hussain Tirmizi, a prominent Islamic scholar.
Sindh
Institute of Child Health and Neonatology (SICHN) had initially obtained a
fatwa allowing the milk bank to operate, on the condition that it maintain
detailed records of donors and recipients to prevent any violations of Sharia
law.
However,
the revised edict from Darul Uloom Karachi has now forced the institute to
suspend the project, despite its potential to save the lives of premature and
malnourished infants in Pakistan.
"Our
primary goal remains the health and well-being of children, and we are committed
to finding solutions that honour both our medical and religious
responsibilities," SICHN said in its statement.
Source: wionews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-first-human-milk-bank-halts-operations-a-initiative-seen-haram-under-islamic-law-735104
--------
Malaysian
Islamic Preacher, Firdaus Wong, Gives Directives to Secretly Convert Non-Muslim
Minors
06/26/2024
After
several complaints and a video that went viral, the police opened an
investigation against the controversial leader Firdaus Wong. In a video that
went viral on social media, he talks to a teacher giving instructions on how to
make children pray and hide their conversion from their parents. Malaysian
activist: the teacher's behaviour is also contrary to the 'relationship of
trust' with families.
Kuala
Lumpur (AsiaNews) - The Malaysian police have opened an investigation against
the famous and controversial Islamic preacher Firdaus Wong, who allegedly
promoted a clandestine tutorial dedicated to teachers and religious leaders
aimed at the "surreptitious conversion" of non-Muslim minors.
In a
video that recently went viral on social media and online in the country, he
proposes a sort of guideline to push children and young people to embrace the
Muslim faith, often unaware of their own parents.
The full
extent of the matter has only exploded in the last few days following the
opening of the investigation; However, there are already several reports
presented to the police by NGOs and activist groups against the preacher, in
many cases with the support of parents of non-Muslim families with children
enrolled in public schools.
In a
statement released today by the media, lawyers Rajesh Nagarajan and
Sachpreetraj Singh say they are "pleased to inform the public that the
police have finally opened an investigative case against Firdaus Wong under
Section 505(c) of the Penal Code". According to the legal duo, representing
complainant Arun Dorasamy, the video also contained advice on how children can
pray in secret and hide the conversion from their parents.
The
Advisory Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism had
also previously expressed its opinion, saying it was disconcerted by the video,
which it had defined as "immoral, unconstitutional and illegal".
The
Council also said that Firdaus Wong's directions go against the fundamental
freedoms outlined in the Federal Constitution of Malaysia. The leaders of the
institution finally specified that, following the viral spread of the video on
social media, numerous complaints were filed with the police against the
Islamic preacher, including one presented by the Council itself representing
Arun Dorasamy.
The
video, lasting approximately 4 minutes and 12 seconds, shows a secondary school
teacher, who is at the same time an ustaz (religious professor, the title is
honorific) of the institute, engaged in an intense conversation with the
preacher Firdaus Wong. The debate centers on the methods and indications
through which it is possible to convert middle and high school students from
the different modules.
In
particular, the preacher advises the ustaz to "convert" minors by
asking them to first recite the "kalimah syahdah" (article of faith).
He then goes on to advise not to take videos or photographs of the students
while they recite the formula, since they are under 18 and are minors and are
liable to report.
“If
there are such requests from these minors, let the teachers make them 'convert
first' by reciting the kalimah syahdah. And then we need to teach them the
religion of Islam - says Firdaus Wong - while they continue their education and
to officially convert them after they reach the age of consent of 18".
Interviewed
by AsiaNews Peter John Jaban, vice-president of the Global Human Rights
Foundation Malaysia (Ghrf), underlines that "the advice or suggestion put
forward by the preacher raises not only ethical concerns regarding the
conversion of minors and without parental consent".
His
indications, continues the activist, are also "contrary to the laws of
Malaysia and also to the Constitution of the Federation". According to
Jaban, the secondary school teacher's pattern of behavior raises questions about
his "duty of care" towards the students who are entrusted to his care
and supervision.
Engaging
in discussions about religious conversion without involving parents is seen as
a violation of the trust and responsibility required of him “as an educator.
Furthermore, the preacher's suggestion to first convert minors and then teach
them Islam - warns Jaban - raises doubts about the authenticity and sincerity
of the religious conversions themselves".
Finally,
he underlined how by supporting "hidden conversions" the Islamic
leader seems to be promoting a superficial and false approach, which goes
against the principles of the law and the Constitution.
“We have
filed many police complaints against this preacher in the past, but so far the
police have not taken any action. The prevalence of illegal conversions in
Malaysia - he comments - is a serious problem that must be addressed to protect
the rights of minors and uphold ethical standards in religious conversions
themselves".
Source: asianews.it
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.asianews.it/news-en/Islamic-preacher-gives-directives-to-secretly-convert-non-Muslim-minors-61024.html
--------
North America
Harvard
Task Forces Release First Recommendations on Antisemitism, Anti-Arab and
Anti-Muslim Bias
26-06-24
Harvard’s
presidential task forces to combat antisemitism and anti-Muslim and anti-Arab
bias released their first recommendations on Wednesday, urging the University
to fund a visiting professorship in Palestinian studies for next spring and
tackle a culture of exclusion and discrimination against both pro-Palestinian
and pro-Israel students.
Both
groups reported widespread discrimination against students based both on their
identity and their political views, and suggested the University has failed to
adequately address students’ concerns over antisemitism or anti-Palestinian
bias.
“We will
commence detailed review and implementation of the shorter-term recommendations
over the summer,” interim Harvard President Alan M. Garber ’76 wrote in an
email announcing the recommendations, but stopped short of pledging to fully
implement them as written.
Garber’s
implementation of the recommendations will mark another major test as Harvard’s
governing boards hold off on announcing their process for selecting the
University’s next president — and as he tries to prove to both Congress and
Harvard affiliates that he is up to the task of handling antisemitism and other
forms of bias on campus.
The task
force to address anti-Muslim and Anti-Arab bias said Arab and Muslim students,
faculty, and staff reported “a deap-seated sense of fear” and a “pervasive
climate of intolerance” toward pro-Palestine views. The task force to combat
antisemitism likewise said that Jewish and Israeli students faced “shunning,
harassment, and intimidation.”
The
highly-anticipated reports from the task forces, which were announced weeks
after Garber took office in January, echo longstanding complaints from students
about feelings of bias and harassment on campus since Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on
Israel.
The twin
task forces operated separately, but sought to coordinate their timelines for
releasing recommendations. Since Garber created the task forces in January,
both launched an extensive listening campaign that included more than 85
listening sessions between task force members and Harvard faculty, students,
and staff.
The
leadership of the antisemitism task force in particular came under serious
scrutiny over the course of the semester, with antisemitism task force co-chair
Derek J. Penslar — a professor of Jewish history — facing national scrutiny
over his past criticisms of Israel and accusations that he had downplayed
campus antisemitism.
Harvard
Business School professor Raffaella Sadun, who had been tapped as the task
force’s other co-chair, resigned from the group in February over concerns that
the University had not precommitted to implementing the group’s recommendations
once they were issued.
The
groups began to publicize their findings over the course of the semester,
presenting them to the Faculty of Arts and Sciences and issuing dire warnings
in op-eds in The Crimson about Harvard’s campus climate.
“We must
strengthen our ties with a sustained commitment to engaging each other with tact,
decency, and compassion,” Garber wrote. “Our learning cannot be limited to
purely academic pursuits if we hope to fulfil our responsibilities to one
another and to the institution that is our intellectual home.”
The
Wednesday recommendations ask Harvard to make statements condemning forms of
discrimination and affirming existing values. The University’s response will
test its new pledge not to take positions on public policy issues.
“While
we recognize that Harvard will be issuing fewer university-wide statements, it
is crucial that statements from University and School leaders express
solidarity for all groups equally, without overlooking affected groups,” the
anti-Muslim and Anti-Arab task force wrote.
“Leaders
should learn from past mistakes and aim for adequate balance in their
responses, taking care not to give the impression that they are taking sides on
contentious issues,” they added later in the report.
They
also recommended auditing academic resources on the Middle East and Palestine,
creating a prayer space for Muslims on campus, consulting a group of “trusted
leaders from across the campus’ diverse communities’ to give feedback on
university statements prior to release, and changing the task force’s name to
include anti-Palestinian bias.
The report
zeroed in on doxxing as “a significant concern that affects not only physical
safety and mental well-being, but also future career prospects.” They called on
Harvard to immediately denounce the attacks.
The task
force on combating antisemitism wrote in its report that Israeli and pro-Israel
students have described an environment of exclusion and “political litmus
tests” in student activities and alleged discrimination by professors and
teaching fellows.
The
report’s authors slammed what they described as a “lack of follow-up after
complaints regarding anti-Semitic expression or behaviour,” feeding a
perception that Harvard is not “committed to imposing substantive consequences
for anti-Semitic expression or action.”
The
report described social media as a source of anti-Semitic rhetoric and urged
the University to “make clear that harassment, abuse and intimidation in
Harvard-related social media postings could have disciplinary consequences.”
The
report also urged University offices — including the Office of Equity,
Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging — to add combating antisemitism to the
scope of their anti-discrimination efforts and to implement antisemitism
awareness training for students.
“To the
extent that Orientation discusses issues of oppression and injustice,
antisemitism and anti-Israeli bias should be included,” the report added.
Both
task forces urged the University to publish aggregated data on the number and
outcomes of disciplinary cases related to discrimination complaints.
—Staff
writer Cam E. Kettles can be reached at cam.kettles@thecrimson.com. Follow her
on X @cam_kettles or on Threads @camkettles.
Source: thecrimson.com
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the text of the original Story
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--------
US
provided $6.5 billion in 'massive' security aid to Israel since Gaza war began:
Report
27 June
2024
The
United States has reportedly provided $6.5 billion in security assistance to
Israel since the occupying regime launched its genocidal war on the Gaza Strip.
Citing
an unnamed senior official of US President Joe Biden's administration, The
Washington Post reported on Wednesday that almost half of the amount was
provided last month alone.
“This is
a massive, massive undertaking,” the official said, adding that the figure was
announced during discussions between senior White House officials and Israel’s
minister of military affairs Yoav Gallant in Washington this week.
The
report said the US official had disclosed the amount “as an indication of the
depth and complexity of US support for Israel.”
It
further said that the remarks counter claims by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin
Netanyahu that Washington had placed “bottlenecks” in its arms flow.
In a
video posted to X on Tuesday, Netanyahu alleged that the Biden administration
was “withholding” weapons and ammunition bound for Tel Aviv.
Israel
waged its brutal Gaza onslaught on October 7 following a historic operation by
the Palestinian Hamas resistance group against the usurping entity in
retaliation for its intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people.
However,
almost nine months into the offensive, the Tel Aviv regime has failed to
achieve its objectives in Gaza despite killing at least 37,718 Palestinians,
mostly women and children, and injuring over 86,377 others.
The US
remains Israel’s most important ally and biggest supplier of arms. It has
provided Israel with weapons and intelligence support during the Gaza war, and
blocked UN resolutions calling for a humanitarian ceasefire in the besieged
Palestinian territory.
Source: presstv.ir
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2024/06/27/728244/US-aid-Israel-Gaza-war
--------
Tijuana
shelter hosts Muslim migrants seeking US asylum
27 June,
2024
FROM
Algeria, Syria, Yemen, and Afghanistan, citizens of distant, Muslim countries
wait for US asylum at a shelter in the Mexican border city of Tijuana, more
used to seeing migrants from Latin America than the Middle East.
At the
Assabil Inn, Mexico’s first shelter catering for US-bound Muslim migrants, the
backstories of the guests are as varied as the assortment of languages they
speak.
“Almost
everybody follows the same faith. So it feels like you’re among your brothers
and sisters,” Maitham Alojaili, a 26-year-old who fled civil war-wrecked Sudan,
told AFP before joining Friday prayers at the facility’s mosque.
“People
get kidnapped. Anything could happen. Sometimes, when you leave home, there’s a
high chance that you don’t come back,” Alojaili said of the circumstances that
forced him to leave everything behind in search of a better life far away.
Data released
this week by Mexico’s National Migration Institute said some 1.39 million
people from 177 countries have travelled through the country so far this year,
trying to reach the US.
The
figure represents almost the whole world – the UN has 193 member states. The
majority came from Venezuela, Guatemala, Honduras, Ecuador, and Haiti.
Increasingly,
migrants from the Middle East and North Africa also undertake the perilous
route via South and Central America. For many, it includes a journey on foot
through the Darien Gap, a dense jungle on the Colombia-Panama border replete
with dangerous animals, criminals, and human traffickers.
Yusseph
Rahnali, a 31-year-old Algerian, told AFP he opted for the United States
“because they accept everybody.” Europe is not an option, he said, because of
visa requirements. Instead, he flew visa-free to Ecuador before crossing seven
other countries to Mexico where he awaits news on the US asylum process.
Migration
is at the heart of the campaign for the US presidential election in November.
Seeking re-election, incumbent Joe Biden signed a decree this month shutting
down the border to asylum seekers after daily limits are reached.
On
Tuesday (25), in an attempt to balance the crackdown criticized by the left and
human rights groups, he announced a new potential citizenship path for
immigrants married to US nationals – which was in turn slammed by
conservatives.
In
Tijuana, 29-year-old Afghan journalist Fanah Ahmadi he travelled to Brazil on a
humanitarian visa, then through “nine or 10 other countries” to get to Mexico.
“There
are many difficulties on the way but I am still grateful that… today, I am
here,” said Ahmadi of the Assabil Inn, where migrants receive food and shelter,
“and we are near the border as well.”
The Inn,
opened in 2022, can house up to 200 people and allows Muslims to pray and eat
halal. A stay can last from one week to seven months.
“Muslims
have home here in Tijuana,” said founder Sonia Garcia, a Mexican who converted
to Islam through marriage.
In 2023,
a record 2.4 million people crossed the US-Mexico border without documents,
according to US figures. The flow hit a high of 10,000 people per day in
December, which has since been reduced as both countries have cracked down.
For
purposes of statistics, migrants from Muslim countries are grouped by US
officials into a category labelled “other,” due to their small number compared
to those from Latin America, India, or Russia.
Trump,
as US president, banned migrants from Muslim countries in a measure that has
since been overturned. On the campaign trail, he has ramped up his
antiimmigration rhetoric, saying migrants were “poisoning the blood” of the US.
Source: easterneye.biz
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https://www.easterneye.biz/tijuana-shelter-hosts-muslim-migrants-seeking-us-asylum/
--------
International
business forum on Islamic finances and water resources held in Almaty
JUNE 27,
2024
AKIPRESS.COM
- The annual meeting and business forum of the Eurasian Development Bank is
held in Almaty from June 27-28.
The
event will discuss such issues as hydropower balance in Central Asia,
development of transport and logistical routes and financial markets in
Eurasia.
The
program of the business forum includes sessions on Islamic finances in Central
Asia, water, energy and food, Eurasian transport framework, investment tools of
the Eurasian Development Bank, digital technologies and innovations, outcomes
and prospects of investment projects in the Eurasian Economic Union.
EDB
experts will make presentations on advancement of high ecological and social
standards in Central Asia, potable water supply and treatment in Central Asia.
Source: akipress.com
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the text of the original Story
https://akipress.com/news:782111:International_business_forum_on_Islamic_finances_and_water_resources_held_in_Almaty/
--------
Evidence
mounts Islamic State is looking to the US southern border
June 26,
2024
WASHINGTON
— U.S. intelligence and security officials are increasing their focus on the
country’s southern border, worried the constant flow of migrants has attracted
the attention of the Islamic State terror group.
The
heightened concern follows the arrests earlier this month of eight men from
Tajikistan, all of whom entered the United States via its southern border with
Mexico, some making the trip over a year ago.
While
the initial background checks came up clean, U.S. law enforcement subsequently
turned up information indicating potential ties to the Islamic State group,
also known as IS or ISIS.
“It's
not lost on us that the people who killed over 150 Russians in that theater
were from the same part of the world," said Ken Wainstein, the U.S.
Department of Homeland Security’s undersecretary for intelligence and analysis,
referring to the March attack on a Moscow concert hall, claimed by the terror
group’s Afghan affiliate.
Wainstein,
testifying Wednesday before the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on
Counterterrorism, said concern about the potential for IS to exploit the border
has led to daily meetings with the director of the U.S. National
Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), as well as unprecedented cooperation with the
FBI.
But he
sought to downplay concerns stemming from intelligence suggesting that the IS-linked
human smuggling network may have brought more than 400 migrants from Central
Asia into the U.S., across the southern border.
“There
is not information which suggests those particular individuals are terrorist
operatives," Wainstein told lawmakers.
Information
on the 400 migrants, first reported by NBC News, indicates more than 150 of the
migrants have been arrested. But officials told NBC that the whereabouts of
more than 50 others are unknown.
The
newfound concerns about terror groups like IS actively trying to exploit the
southern border seems to indicate a significant shift in the threat landscape.
For
years, U.S. counterterrorism officials have maintained there was no evidence
that IS or other Sunni terror groups were trying to infiltrate the U.S. along
its border with Mexico.
And this
past November, NCTC Director Christine Abizaid told lawmakers that while
counterterrorism officials “absolutely recognize the risk,” evidence for such
plots was lacking.
“We
don’t have indications that are credible or corroborated,” she told members of
the House of Representatives at the time.
But U.S.
and Turkish sanctions unveiled earlier this month may point to the Islamic
State terror group’s growing interest in human smuggling.
The
sanctions focus on what the U.S. Treasury Department described as a Eurasian
human smuggling network that was providing support for IS members in Turkey.
One of
the key operatives, Olimkhon Ismailov, is based in Uzbekistan. And Ismailov had
high-level help, with Treasury alleging he was given guidance by the leader of
IS in the Republic of Georgia, Adam Khamirzaev.
According
to the U.S. State Department, Khamirzaev apparently had his sights set on the
U.S.
The
IS-Georgia emir “provided guidance to this network on a range of activities supporting
ISIS and was aware of its efforts to facilitate travelers to the United
States," the State Department said in a statement.
Multiple
U.S. agencies, including DHS, the FBI and the State Department declined to
respond to questions about the reach of the Eurasian human smuggling network
involved with IS operatives in Turkey and Uzbekistan.
There
are also no indications that the sanctioned network is connected to the same
IS-linked network that brought the eight men from Tajikistan, or the hundreds
of other Central Asian migrants, into the U.S. through the southern border.
As for
the eight men from Tajikistan, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas
told reporters in Tucson, Arizona, Wednesday that, “They are in removal
proceedings as we speak.”
And
other U.S. officials say they have stepped up security measures.
"We
have increased our vigilance at our border," said Jen Daskal, the White
House deputy Homeland Security adviser, virtually addressing a counterterrorism
conference Wednesday in Omaha, Nebraska.
“We have
enhanced our screening and vetting, instituted recurrent vetting of migrants to
identify newly uncovered threats and detain those who pose a public safety
threat,” she said.
But
Daskal admitted the threat from IS, and especially its Afghan affiliate,
persists.
"Both
ISIS and ISIS-Khorasan, or what we call ISIS-K, have demonstrated a capability
and intent to conduct external operations,” she said.
Source: voanews.com
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https://www.voanews.com/a/evidence-mounts-islamic-state-is-looking-to-the-us-southern-border/7675345.html
--------
Man who
identifies as Muslim woman to receive $350,000 after being housed in men's
prison for 1 month: Report
JUNE 26,
2024
Cash-strapped
New York City, which could shell out as much as $10 billion in the next fiscal
year to address the migrant crisis within its limits, has now agreed to pay a
man $350,000 because he was housed with other men during a brief stint at
Rikers Island a couple years ago.
From
June to July 2022, Ali Miles — a biological man whose given name was Dylan but
who now reportedly identifies as a "Muslim transgender woman" — was
jailed at a men's facility at Rikers Island before transferring to an Arizona
jail to await adjudication for charges there, Reduxx reported. Miles was
ultimately convicted of two felony counts of aggravated harassment per domestic
violence as well as several misdemeanor offenses, including harassment and
disorderly conduct, and sentenced to 312 days in jail, including time served.
The
following year, Miles filed a lawsuit against NYC, claiming that Rikers
officials knew that he identified as a woman and that a judge had ordered him
to be kept at the women's unit at Rikers but that the judge's order was not
followed. As a result, Miles supposedly endured "transphobic"
comments from prison staff, including one officer who allegedly complimented
Miles' "t*ts" and "p***y," even though he has not undergone
genital-mutilation surgery.
The lawsuit
even claimed that fellow prisoners, especially "African American
male" inmates, sexually assaulted Miles.
The
initial lawsuit sought $22 million, but last week, NYC officials offered Miles
$350,000, ostensibly to make the case go away. Per the terms of the agreement,
the city did not admit fault in Miles' case, and Miles will not be able to take
further legal action against the city in connection with this matter, Reduxx
reported.
Miles
has filed other lawsuits against NYC and Arizona businesses, alleging
discrimination and other forms of mistreatment on account of his so-called
gender identity, even as the lawsuits often used male pronouns in reference to
him. A lawsuit filed last May alleged that a NYC yoga studio deprived Miles
"of his civil rights because he is gay, undergoing a gender transition,
and because Miles does not conform to ... gender-based preferences,
expectations, or stereotypes about how a man/woman should dress and conduct
himself/herself."
Miles
also filed suits against a NYC bagel shop, a Planet Fitness facility, a
Presbyterian hospital, and a former Arizona employer. These suits are often
"poorly-written" and "rife with spelling errors," Reduxx
claimed. One suit even repeatedly referred to the plaintiff as "Mr.
Miles." Others were dismissed because Miles failed to file the appropriate
paperwork and pay the attending fees.
Source: theblaze.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.theblaze.com/news/man-who-identifies-as-muslim-woman-to-receive-350000-after-being-housed-in-men-s-prison-for-1-month-report
--------
American
Muslim, Palestinian Groups Urge CNN Presidential Debate Hosts to Ask About Gaza
Genocide, Hate Crimes, Student Rights
June 26,
2024
The
Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil
rights and advocacy organization, yesterday joined more than 40 American Muslim
and Palestinian organizations in sending a letter to CNN’s Jake Tapper and Dana
Bash urging the journalists to ask President Biden and former President Trump
questions about the Gaza genocide, hate crimes, and student free speech rights
during tomorrow’s presidential debate.
The
letter letter emphasizes the need for balanced discussion, by asking the
following three questions concerning the U.S-backed Israel war on Gaza, the
rise in anti-Muslim hate crimes, and the free speech rights of students:
1.
Should the United States use American financial leverage to force the Netanyahu
government to adhere to both uphold international law and agree to the Biden
administration’s proposed ceasefire plan?
2. What
actions, if any, will you take to address the reported increase in complaints
of anti-Muslim, anti-Palestinian, and anti-Semitic incidents occurring across
the country?
3. What
role, if any, should the federal government play in protecting both the
physical safety and free speech rights of students on American college
campuses?
In a
statement, CAIR Government Affairs Director Robert McCaw said:
“The
Israeli government’s genocide in Gaza, our government’s involvement in it, and
the wave of hate crimes and civil rights violations in our nation that have
followed, are some of the most pressing issues for our communities and the
majority Americans during this election. That’s why we urge CNN’s debate hosts
Jake Tapper and Dana Bash to ask both President Biden and Donald Trump about
these issues.”
The
letter was signed by the following organizations:
American
Center for Justice
American
Muslim Community Foundation
American
Muslims for Palestine (AMP)
Arizona
Muslim Police Advisory Board
Baltimore
County Muslim Council
Council
on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR)
CAIR
Action
Dar
al-Hijrah Islamic Center
Friends
of Sabeel North America (FOSNA)
Husaynia
Islamic Society of Seattle
Indian
American Muslim Council (IAMC)
Imam
Council of Metropolitan St. Louis
Islamic
Association of North America (IANA)
Islamic
Center of Boca Raton, Florida
Islamic
Circle of North America (ICNA)
Islamic
Community Center of Atlanta
ICNA
Council for Social Justice
Islamic
Society of Carroll County, Westminster MD
Islamophobia
Studies Center
Islamic
Center of Wheaton (ICW)
Kurdish
Community Islamic Center
Masjid
Al-Furqan West Cobb Islamic Center
Majlis
Ash-Shura: Islamic Leadership Council of NY
Muslim
American Public Affairs Council
Muslim
American Society
Muslim
American Society – Arizona
Muslim
American Society – Central Florida
Muslim
American Society – Maryland
Muslim
American Society – D.C.
Muslim
League of Voters of New Jersey
Muslim
Ummah of North America (MUNA)
Palestinian
American Community Center
Partners
for Palestine
The
Mosque Cares | Ministry of Imam W. Deen Mohammed
Tunisian
United Network
US
Council of Muslim Organizations (USCMO)
Voices
for Justice in Palestine
Voices
of Muslims
Source: cair.com
Please click the following URL to read
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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/american-muslim-palestinian-groups-urge-cnn-presidential-debate-hosts-to-ask-about-gaza-genocide-hate-crimes-student-rights/
--------
Pro-Israel
lobbies unseat Democratic lawmaker over criticism of Israel
26 June 2024
Pro-Israel
lobbies have ousted an outspoken critic of the occupying Israeli regime in US
Democratic primary in suburban New York in yet another indication of support
for the illegal entity in its months-long devastating war on Palestinians in
the besieged Gaza Strip.
American
media reports said on Tuesday that congressman Jamaal Bowman lost a primary
challenge to his Democratic rival, George Latimer, who had entered the race at
the urging of local Jewish leaders over Bowman’s vocal criticism of Israel and
its genocidal war in Gaza.
With
more than 70% of votes counted on Tuesday evening, Latimer had won nearly 56%
of the vote, compared with 44% for Bowman.
“This
movement has always been about justice. It has always been about humanity. It
has always been about equality,” Bowman, who had been seeking a third term,
said at his election party in Yonkers, conceding that he lost the race but
remaining unapologetic about his opposition to the war in Gaza.
Various
groups spent $24.8 million in the race, making it the most expensive House of
Representatives primary in history.
Latimer,
who enjoyed heavy financial backing from the American Israel Public Affairs
Committee (AIPAC), the largest pro-Israel organization in the United States, is
a former state legislator who has served as Westchester County executive since
2018. He portrayed himself as a steadfast defender of Israel and labeled the
Palestinian resistance movement Hamas as a “terrorist” organization that cannot
be negotiated with.
Backed
by an avalanche of spending by AIPAC and pro-Israel groups, the 70-year-old
prevailed over Bowman in the Democratic Party primary for the 16th
Congressional District of New York, with supporters of the Israeli regime and
its barbaric onslaught on Gaza celebrating the development and hoping that it
has a chilling effect that extends far beyond the district.
The
latest move comes as AIPAC has been involved in an all-out campaign to remove
the most progressive Black members of Congress who have expressed any criticism
of Israel.
Media
reports said AIPAC spent $14.5 million on the race in just one month, which
works out to about $17,000 an hour.
“Never
before in the history of US politics has so much money been spent in a single
Congressional election,” the reports said. “Getting Bowman out of Congress was
a top priority for the right wing, both because of his criticism of Israel and
because of across-the-board opposition to his policies on economic inequality
and racial justice.”
AIPAC’s
list of top targets for 2024 also reportedly included Pennsylvania
Representative Summer Lee, who prevailed over her opponent in April, and
Missouri Representative Cori Bush, who faces a tough election in August.
Other
progressive Congress members have previously been reproached for their vocal
criticism of Washington's untrammeled support to Tel Aviv.
US
Congresswoman Ilhan Omar unveiled a resolution to block a $320 million arms
sale to Israel in November last year and said Israeli prime minister Benjamin
Netanyahu and his far-right cabinet “continue to commit war crimes in their
siege of the Gaza Strip."
In a
statement released on Tuesday, the Gaza-based resistance movement of Hamas said
US President Joe Biden’s administration is responsible for the genocidal
campaign in the Gaza Strip.
Hamas
urged the international community and the United Nations to assume
responsibility for the crimes of Israel in Gaza, protect innocent civilians,
and hold the leaders of the terrorist Zionist regime accountable for their
crimes.
Israel
launched the atrocious onslaught on Gaza, targeting hospitals, residences, and
houses of worship after Hamas-led resistance groups conducted surprise
Operation al-Aqsa Storm against the usurping regime on October 7, 2023.
Israel
has killed more than 37,658 Palestinians, most of them women and children, and
injured nearly 86,237 in Gaza since that October day.
More
than 1.7 million people have also been internally displaced.
Source: presstv.ir
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2024/06/26/728174/Republican-Congressman-Jamaal-Bowman-Democratic-primary-George-Latimer-Gaza-Strip
--------
India
Lok
Sabha Poll Results Reject 'Hindu Rashtra' Notion, Says Nobel Laureate Amartya
Sen
Jun 27,
2024
NEW
DELHI: Economist and Nobel Laureate Amartya Sen on Wednesday claimed that the
recently concluded Lok Sabha election results proves the point that India is
not a 'Hindu Rashtra'.
"That
India is not a 'Hindu Rashtra' only has been reflected in the election
results," Sen told a Bengali news channel at the Netaji Subhas Chandra
Bose International Airport in Kolkata.
"We
always hope to see a change after every election. Some of what happened earlier
(during the BJP-led central government) like putting people behind bars without
trial, and widening the gap between the rich and poor, are still continuing.
That must stop," he said.
"I
do not think the idea of turning India into a 'Hindu Rashtra' is
appropriate," he added.
The
renowned economist expressed his belief that India, being a secular nation with
a secular Constitution, should maintain an open-minded approach in politics.
"I
do not think the idea of turning India into a 'Hindu Rashtra' is
appropriate," Sen said.
He also
commented on the new Union cabinet, stating that it closely resembles the
previous one, with ministers holding similar portfolios.
"Despite
a slight reshuffle, the politically powerful are still powerful," he
added.
Sen
shared his memories of India under British rule, when people were imprisoned
without trial. "When I was young, many of my uncles and cousins were put
in jail without trial. We had hoped that India would be free from this.
Congress is also to blame for the fact that this did not stop. They didn't change
it... But, this is more in practice under the present government," the
Nobel laureate said.
On BJP's
loss in the Faizabad Lok Sabha seat despite the construction of the Ram Temple
in Ayodhya, Sen argued that attempts were made to overshadow the country's true
identity.
"Building
the Ram Temple, spending so much money to portray India as a 'Hindu Rashtra',
which should not have happened in the country of Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath
Tagore and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. It shows an attempt to neglect India's
true identity, and it must change," he said.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
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the text of the original Story
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/lok-sabha-poll-results-reject-hindu-rashtra-notion-says-nobel-laureate-amartya-sen/articleshow/111300838.cms
--------
Probe
into Ahmedabad Sunni Muslim Waqf Committee Ordered
Jun 27,
2024
Ahmedabad:
In what could bring a change in one of the largest trusts in the city —
Ahmedabad Sunni Muslim Waqf Committee — the Gujarat State Waqf Board has formed
an inquiry committee and tasked it with presenting a draft scheme for the
committee in two months.
The Waqf
committee is a trust registered with the Waqf board which manages 34 mosques,
five graveyards, six shrines, three Rauzas and various heritage buildings under
Archaeological Survey of India protection, and over 1,200 properties in the
city.
The
board ordered the setting up of a six-member panel that includes MLA Imran
Khedawala, retired sessions judge Tanvir Shaikh and senior advocate Suhel
Tirmizi with three other waqf board members. It has directed the committee to
probe complaints of irregularities and mismanagement. The board also cited a
waqf tribunal’s order passed in 2019 in this regard. It sought a report in two
months.
The
board has also ordered the inquiry committee to consult all stakeholders,
experts from different fields and well-wishers of the Muslim community and to
invite suggestions for a new scheme for the waqf committee. The inquiry panel
will submit a draft scheme to the board in two months. Till then, the board has
ordered that all change reports proposed by the waqf committee remain
suspended, and the inquiry committee will inspect all sites to verify
complaints. The board said that since the waqf committee manages many places of
worship and administers over 1,200 properties in the city, it is connected to
all members of the Muslim community in Ahmedabad.
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Pakistan
Cricket Board to revert back to previous selection committee system after T20
World Cup disappointmentPakistan faced setbacks in the T20 World Cup, losing to
the USA and India, resulting in elimination. The board is considering
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Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
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the text of the original Story
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/probe-into-sunni-muslim-waqf-committee-ordered/articleshow/111299242.cms
--------
Voice
from Kashmir in Lok Sabha: Hope no Muslim MP is called terrorist or bills
rushed, says NC MP Mehdi
26.06.24
Aga Syed
Ruhullah Mehdi, the newly-elected MP from Srinagar, on Wednesday urged Lok
Sabha Speaker Om Birla to ensure the sanctity of the House by restraining
members from making disparaging remarks like dubbing a Muslim parliamentarian a
"terrorist" or rushing legislations like the abrogation of Article
370.
In his
two-minute inaugural address after Birla was elected Speaker, the National
Conference member made a passionate appeal and emphasised, "I would
request you that from today you are neither BJP nor Congress or Samajwadi, and
you have only one party, and that is the Constitution of India." He
expressed hope that the Speaker would uphold the Constitution and lead the
house as a beacon of democracy.
Mehdi
cryptically alluded to the Speaker's legacy, stating that his actions in
handling both the government and opposition voices would define his tenure.
"This
House would remember you for your actions whether you forced treasury benches
to listen to the opposition or you silenced the opposition," he said.
Mehdi
highlighted the importance of respecting elected representatives and cited a
past incident where a member termed a fellow MP, who was Muslim, as
"terrorist".
"You
will be remembered how you silenced the voices in the House that called an
elected Muslim MP a terrorist or did you allow those voices.
"If
an elected MP is called a terrorist in this House, then I wonder what would be
happening to other Muslims in the country," Mehdi said after which Birla
interrupted.
Mehdi
stressed the significance of preventing instances where elected representatives
are disparaged in the House, expressing concerns about the treatment of Muslims
across the country if such behaviour goes unchecked.
He was
referring to the incident during a special session last September where former
BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri called former BSP's Danish Ali a 'Muslim terrorist'.
In his
letter to the Speaker, Ali said the BJP South Delhi MP had called him
"bhadwa (pimp), "katwa (circumcised one)" and "Mullah
aatankwadi (Muslim terrorist)".
The
remarks were expunged by the Speaker from the records. Defence Minister Rajnath
Singh, who was present in the Lok Sabha during the exchange, had apologised to
the House for Bidhuri’s remarks soon after.
Later
Bidhuri expressed regret for his objectionable remarks during a meeting of the
Lok Sabha Privileges Committee in December.
Mehdi
also underscored the need for thorough discussions on critical bills, referring
to the passage of the Article 370 bill.
Birla
responded by informing the House about the extensive debate that preceded the
bill's passage, countering Mehdi's assertion of a rushed legislative process.
Source: telegraphindia.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/voice-from-kashmir-in-lok-sabha-hope-no-muslim-mp-is-called-terrorist-or-bills-rushed-says-nc-mp-aga-syed-ruhullah-mehdi/cid/2029777
--------
Nawazuddin
Siddiqui Opens Up On Whether He Has Faced Discrimination In Bollywood For His
Muslim Identity
26 June
2024
With a
career spanning more than two decades, Nawazuddin Siddiqui has time and again
proved his acting prowess with his versatility and his nuanced portrayals. In a
recent interview, he opened up about whether his Muslim identity has impacted
his career in any way. The actor mentioned that his religious identity has not
impacted his work and he feels fortunate to be able to work in India.
In a
conversation with Shubhankar Mishra, Nawazuddin Siddiqui talked about being a
Muslim actor in Bollywood. He mentioned that he has not faced any
discrimination in the industry and mentioned that society should learn from
Bollywood. He said, “The rest of society should learn from Bollywood… Do you
know that Anupam Kher respects Naseeruddin Shah a lot as far as acting is
concerned?”
In the
same conversation, he mentioned that the love and respect that he has received
for his craft in India is something that he would not find anywhere else. The
actor continued, “I’m a part of this industry. My country is beautiful. The
love and respect I get here; I wouldn’t get anywhere else. I’m overjoyed to be
among common people because of the love they shower on me, regardless of their
background. You wouldn’t see this anywhere else in the world. I’ve travelled to
the interiors of our country; I don’t know what they show in the news, but the
people of our country are beautiful, they’re innocent.”
Siddiqui
mentioned that he has no interest in cricket or politics. On the work front,
the actor was last seen in ‘Saindhav.’ He will be next seen in ‘Rautu Ka Raaz’
where he will play the role of Deepak Negi. The film will be released on Zee5
on June 28.
Source: outlookindia.com
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3
militants gunned down in Jammu’s Doda district after firing at security forces
Written
by Arun Sharma
June 27,
2024
gandoh
encounter, doda encounter, jammu and kashmirArmy personnel stand guard in the
Kota Top area of Gandoh in Doda on Friday. (ANI Photo)
Three
militants, suspected to be from across the border and involved in the June 11
attack that injured a special police officer (SPO) in Gandoh area, were killed
in an ongoing encounter with the police and security forces in Jammu and
Kashmir’s Doda district on Wednesday.
According
to police sources, the encounter began in Doda’s Gandoh area after militants
opened fire at security forces combing the area, prompting the latter to
retaliate.
An SPO,
Ashiq Hussain, was injured during the encounter and has been hospitalised.
Pointing
out that the senior police officers, including Additional Director General of
Police, Jammu zone, Anand Jain were at the spot monitoring the operation,
sources said the bodies of the three militants have been recovered and two M4
rifles and an AK 47 have been seized, along with ammunition and explosives.
Although
police and security forces officials were yet to make an official statement,
sources said the slain militants are believed to be from the same group that
had attacked police and security forces at Kota Top in Gandoh on June 11,
wounding an SPO.
Last
Friday, police had arrested three people in connection with the attack. The
residents of Tanta in Gandoh are accused of providing logistical support to the
militants.
Based on
the description provided by the arrested persons, police had released a sketch
of four militants and announced an award of Rs 20 lakh for “fruitful”
information about them.
Source: indianexpress.com
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Arab World
Saudi
village built atop volcanic crater attracts tourists
June 26,
2024
RIYADH:
One of the oldest villages in the Hail region, sitting adjacent to the iconic
Salma Mountains, is attracting an increasing number of tourists because it was
built on the rim of an extinct volcano’s crater in pre-Islamic times.
Located
around 90 km southeast of Hail City, Taba is affiliated with the Al-Shanan
governorate, known for its abundance of farms, date palm trees, ancient wells,
and archaeological inscriptions. The Taba is also one of the largest dormant
volcanoes in the northwest of the Kingdom.
The
village has a population of about 5,000 and is considered one of the most
important tourist attractions in Hail, drawing visitors from both inside and
outside the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.
The
village’s residents have faced challenges in recent times because of the
volcano. In 1983, Taba experienced consecutive earthquakes that caused cracks
in buildings and deep fissures, exceeding 3 meters in width in some areas.
Bariqa
Al-Shammari, a Taba resident, praised the government for its response in the
aftermath, which included loans and financial compensations for residents and
farmers.
Mohammed
Al-Sanitan, another resident, said that at the time the government formed a
committee that studied the situation and introduced safety measures.
Recently,
Saudi Arabia’s Cabinet approved additional compensation of SR200,000 ($53,000)
for every person, or their heirs, affected by the natural disaster.
Several
beneficiaries thanked King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for
their support.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi
Arabia issues clear message on World Anti-Drug Day
June 26,
2024
RIYADH:
Saudi Arabia has doubled down on its campaign to combat drug use and those who
engage in the trafficking and financing of illicit substances.
National
Center for Security Operations Commander Colonel Omar bin Aida Al-Talhi said
the goal of the initiative was to “eliminate” drugs and “protect society and
its youth from their effects.”
His
announcement coincided with International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit
Trafficking, which was set up by the UN in 1987 and falls annually on June 26.
World
Anti-Drug Day, as the event is commonly known, was “an important day that
emphasizes the harm of drugs and their impact on nations, societies and
individuals, which requires fighting them in various ways and taking the
initiative to report smugglers and dealers,” Al-Talhi said.
“Thanks
to society’s awareness, high sense of responsibility and integration with the
security authorities, this has resulted in cooperation in reporting drug cases
to neutralize their danger.”
He said
the NCSO, represented by the Unified Security Operations Centers (911) in
Makkah, Riyadh and Al-Sharqiyah, received reports about drug smugglers and
dealers and passed them on to the relevant authorities.
Jazan
Governor Prince Mohammed bin Nasser on Wednesday inaugurated the activities of
World Anti-Drug Day, whose slogan this year is “The Evidence is Clear … Let’s
Invest in Prevention,” at the Prince Sultan Cultural Center.
The
venue is staging an exhibition to spread awareness of the health, social and
cultural impact of drugs and the efforts being made to prevent their spread and
use.
Director
of Public Security Lt. Gen. Mohammad bin Abdullah Al-Bassami said the drugs
trade was a cross-border issue that created challenges for countries around the
world.
In Saudi
Arabia, the government prioritized the protection of its citizens and tackling
any threats to national security, he said.
The
Kingdom’s war on drugs, directed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and
overseen by Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud, has yielded
positive results.
Al-Bassami
said the nation’s security forces were committed to protecting society, and
especially young people, from the scourge of the drugs trade and urged all
citizens to remain vigilant to the ongoing threat.
Undersecretary
of the Ministry of Interior for Security Regiment Affairs, Maj. Gen. Awad bin
Mashouh Al-Enezi said World Anti-Drug Day was an occasion to raise awareness of
the dangers of drugs and reiterated the efforts being made by his ministry to
tackle and punish those who engaged in it.
Director
General of the Border Guard Maj. Gen. Shayea bin Salem Al-Wadaani said the
Kingdom had made great efforts in combating drugs and protecting society.
Source: arabnews.com
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Celebratory
Al-Daha Dance AtTuraif Weddings Has Deep Historical Roots
June 27,
2024
TURAIF:
Weddings in Turaif governorate in the Northern Border province are marked by
the celebratory Al-Daha dance which symbolizes community and connection to the
land.
Its
songs have sounds mimicking animals, including the lion’s roar and the camel’s
grunt. Young and old people traditionally perform it together, the Saudi Press
Agency reported on Wednesday.
In the
past, the dance was used to inspire combatants before battle and celebrate
victories in the aftermath.
Khalaf
Al-Karan, head of the Saudi Arabian Society of Culture and Arts in the Northern
Border province, said that normally between 20 and 40 people participate in the
dance.
He added
that his organization was committed to keeping traditional practices alive,
including on national holidays and during various cultural events.
Al-Karan
said young people have shown increasing interest in the country’s history and
traditions.
Source: arabnews.com
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AI
training program targets Saudi science and engineering specialists
June 27,
2024
JEDDAH:
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology and Alat have collaborated
to launch an eight-week training program covering the latest AI technologies,
the SPA reported on Wednesday.
The
Alat-KAUST Artificial Intelligence Training Program targets science and
engineering specialists in Saudi universities who are either outstanding
bachelor’s degree holders or nearing the completion of their degree.
he program
aims to drive the transformation of global industries, including electronics
and advanced manufacturing, by equipping specialists with comprehensive
knowledge and tools in the field of AI.
Alat, a
conglomerate owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, specializes in
manufacturing semiconductors, smart devices, smart buildings, smart appliances,
smart health, advanced industrials, and next gen infrastructure.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2538431/saudi-arabia
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Saudi
pavilion inaugurated at the 2024 Seoul International Book Fair’s
June 26,
2024
SEOUL:
Saudi Arabia on Wednesday inaugurated its pavilion as the guest of honor at the
2024 Seoul International Book Fair, which is being held from June 26-30, the
Saudi Press Agency reported.
Held at
the Convention and Exhibition Complex south of the Korean capital, SIBF’s 66th
edition is a celebration Saudi culture, with the Kingdom’s pavilion reflecting
various aspects of its cultural heritage.
The
pavilion will highlight features of Saudi culture through an integrated
experience led by the Ministry of Culture’s Literature, Publishing and
Translation Commission, in collaboration with the Heritage Authority, the
Fashion Authority, the Film Commission, the Culinary Arts Commission, King
Abdulaziz House, the King Salman International Academy for the Arabic Language,
the King Abdulaziz Public Library, the King Fahd National Library, the
Publishing Society, and the Ministry of Investment.
Throughout
the exhibition, LPT will present a diverse cultural program at the pavilion and
the exhibition’s main theater, in collaboration with an elite group of writers
and authors. The program includes dialogue sessions and seminars on various
topics, most notably the Kingdom’s history and antiquities, Saudi women
writers, and the contribution of the language in transmitting cultural values,
traditions and customs, societal and identity formation, the common features
between Korean and Arabic languages and cultures, and the historical and
contemporary interactions between the two cultures, including trade, travel and
cultural exchanges and their effect on the language.
The
program includes seminars on poetry and what it represents to Arabs, the Saudi
novel, and the Kingdom’s role in teaching Arabic to non-natives in Korea. One
of the seminars will also discuss ways to activate cooperation between Korean
and Arab singing.
The
Saudi pavilion will also host the inauguration of the “Book of Poems in Korean
Language,” which was the result of fruitful cooperation between the King
Abdulaziz Center for World Culture and the LPT.
The King
Salman International Academy for Arabic Language will launch a project for
Arabic language in Korea.
There
will be live performance of traditional Saudi arts such as the Ardha (a type of
group folk dance), and a special display of books and artifacts discovered on
Saudi land to enrich the experience of Korean visitors to the pavilion.
A Saudi
dinner night presenting national dishes from various regions will also be
organized.
Through
participating in SIBF, Saudi Arabia aims to consolidate the bonds of
partnership and cooperation with Korea, enhance dialogue between cultures and
civilizations, and enrich areas of joint cooperation in literature, culture and
arts.
Launched
in 1954, SIBF is one of the most famous book fairs in Asia and the world. In
1995, the Korean Publishing Culture Association developed the event into an
international fair. This year, there are about 90 publishing institutions and companies
from 19 countries participating, alongside 350 Korean publishing houses.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi
Arabia celebrates International Year of Camelids 2024 in Geneva
June 26,
2024
RIYADH:
Saudi Arabia has organised a four-day exhibition in Geneva to highlight the
importance of camels as part of its presidency of the International Year of
Camelids 2024, Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.
The
United Nations declared 2024 the International Year of Camelids and the
designation will highlight how the animals are key to the livelihoods of
millions of households in hostile environments across over 90 countries,
particularly indigenous peoples and local communities.
The
Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the United Nations Office
in Geneva organized the exhibition in partnership with the Food and Agriculture
Organization of the United Nations, the Permanent Mission of the Plurinational
State of Bolivia to the United Nations Office, and the United Nations Office at
Geneva.
The
exhibition, from June 24-28 2024, aims to highlight the economic, social, and
cultural importance of camels and their contributions to food security,
nutrition, economic growth, and cultural heritage in over 90 countries.
The
Saudi section of the exhibition highlights prominent locally manufactured camel
products and their importance in achieving food security in the Kingdom, as
well as showcasing the numerous medical benefits of these products.
The
Kingdom’s delegation to the exhibition is headed by Ali Al-Shaikhi,
undersecretary for fisheries and livestock wealth at the Ministry of
Environment, Water, and Agriculture.
In a
speech, Al-Shaikhi stressed the importance of camels in promoting economic
development, contributing to food security, and achieving sustainable
development goals for livestock.
He
highlighted the Kingdom’s support for the camel sector, noting that Saudi
Arabia has contributed $844,342 to support the IYC 2024 and has adopted several
local and international initiatives to support the camel sector as a cultural
and heritage asset.
The
Kingdom has made significant strides in developing the camel sector locally and
internationally, raising community awareness about the importance of camels and
their role in providing food and livelihoods for their owners and breeders.
The
Kingdom has also spread community awareness encouraging increased productivity
and combating diseases and epidemics that affect camels. It has highlighted the
importance of regularly vaccinating the animals, and improving the marketing of
camel products to raise breeders’ incomes and living standards.
The
Kingdom has also cooperated with international bodies to develop and update all
regulations and laws related to camel activities. It has launched a cultural
and educational grant called the “Camel Studies Grant” to encourage scientific
research and authorship and support studies, authors, and translators
specializing in camels.
Source: arabnews.com
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Pakistan
From
Territorial to Virtual: Is Militant Islamic State’s Khorasan Province the Next
Al Qaeda?
June 27,
2024
“We beat
them through their own app; all they can do is delete our IDs,” an Islamic
State (IS) supporter from Qawqaz, the Arabic name for the Caucasus region,
boasted in a closed chat room on the Darknet. He was live-updating other IS
members about the attack that killed more than 140 people at a concert hall
near Moscow in March — the worst attack to hit Russia in years.
Soon
after, the militant Islamic State’s Khorasan Province (ISKP) claimed
responsibility for the attack. While there was no official word on the motive,
security analysts have pointed out that for at least two years preceding the
attack, the ISKP had been fixated on Russia, frequently criticising Putin in
its propaganda.
In fact,
this is hardly the first attack carried out by an affiliate of the militant
Islamic State in Russia. In October 2015, a plane carrying Russian tourists
from Sharm el-Sheikh in Egypt to St Petersburg crashed. According to
investigators, an explosive device had been placed in the hold, and IS claimed
responsibility. Two years later, a bomb attack in St Petersburg metro killed 15
and left 45 others injured. While no group claimed responsibility for the
attack, the perpetrator was believed to be inspired by IS.
In
recent years, the militant group’s regional affiliate, the ISKP, appears to
have grown both in capabilities and the intensity of the attacks it has carried
out. Months before the Moscow attack, the ISKP claimed responsibility for the
twin-bombing that killed 84 people in Kerman, Iran, during a memorial
procession for Maj Gen Qasem Soleimani.
The
latest attack on Moscow’s Crocus Hall has further raised concerns about the
group’s capabilities, sophistication in operations, recruitment, planning, and
execution of large-scale attacks in areas considered most secure in the world.
This incident has heightened perceptions of the group’s ability to strike at
the heart of seemingly impenetrable targets, manifesting their ability to
outsmart even the most technologically advanced adversaries.
What is
the ISKP?
Since
its inception in 2014, the militant Islamic State (IS) has resurrected archaic
geographies and distributed itself into quasi-regional demarcations known as
Wilayah (provinces). There are currently 23 Wilayah of the militant group
active across the globe, with the Khorasan chapter considered the most lethal,
and the Eastern and Western African chapters deemed the most lucrative.
ISKP
takes its name from an old Persian term for the region, Khorasan, that included
parts of Iran, Turkmenistan and Afghanistan, as well as areas of Tajikistan and
Uzbekistan. The group’s formation was announced in January 2015 by the then-IS
spokesman Abu Muhammad al-Adnani. The militant outfit attracted most of its
initial recruits from splinter factions of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban
Pakistan (TTP) as well as other parts of Central Asia such as Uzbekistan and
Tajikistan, with former TTP commander Hafiz Saeed Orakzai, serving as its first
leader.
Today,
the extent of the group’s capabilities and reach can be gauged from the
testimony of General Michael Kurilla, the chief of US Central Command
(Centcom), during two hearings with US lawmakers. In March 2023, General
Kurilla warned lawmakers about the growing threat posed by ISKP, stating that
the group had become a global threat with sophisticated operational planning,
capable of executing global operations against the US or Western interests
within six months “with little to no warning”.
A year
later, in March 2024, General Kurilla reiterated the same concern during a US
Senate committee hearing, emphasising that “IS-Khorasan retains the capability
and will to attack US and Western interests abroad”.
Elusive
terrorist entity
Of all
the militant Islamic State’s affiliates, the ISKP stands out as its most
dangerous and operationally potent regional franchise, growing a rapidly
expanding transnational reach and a robust presence in the cyber realm. Unlike
its other regional counterparts, the ISKP has strategically advanced its cyber
capabilities by transitioning from a territorial presence to a largely virtual
one since 2018, making it an exceedingly elusive terrorist entity to track and
hunt.
Moreover,
ISKP is the only IS affiliate to have developed an independent media
architecture via its al-Azaim Media Foundation, which produces content in
Arabic, English, Farsi, Pashto, Tajik, Urdu, and Uzbek. This content is not
only used to disseminate propaganda against its foreign targets, but also used
to plan, coordinate and carry out attacks.
According
to interviews with former ISKP affiliates and Pakistani officials who monitor
the group’s activities, the banned outfit outsources and assigns operations,
logistics, and religious authorisation for attacks through encrypted
communication channels, which shows the group’s sophistication and
adaptability.
At
present, the group heavily utilises encrypted communication channels such as
Telegram, Matrix, Element, Threema, Rocket Chat and TeleGuard for recruitment,
financial transactions, planning attacks, and tasking terrorists for execution,
with almost minimal physical interaction. The vast majority of this
correspondence is anonymous, with neither the sender nor the receiver ever
knowing each other’s real identity.
Hence,
when ISKP terrorists are caught, they can only reveal faceless and traceless
encrypted channels as their point of contact. Furthermore, the group has
established multiple digital communication channels to attract and recruit
individuals from various regional ethnicities including Tajiks, Uzbeks,
Afghans, Pakistanis, Turks, Iranian Sunni Arabs, Baloch, and Uighurs.
It is
for this very reason that the ISKP poses a grave challenge for investigators
seeking to learn more about the group’s capabilities and future intentions.
Even senior ISKP members in custody tend to demonstrate limited knowledge of
the group’s future operational plans.
“Arrested
members of the group will only disclose information to a limited extent,” noted
a senior Pakistan official, who wished not to be named. “They would be privy to
a certain amount of the group’s operational information, but beyond that, they
would be blank.
“Efforts
to extract deeper insights from them have largely been unsuccessful, making it
difficult to stay ahead of the group’s plans,” the official added.
It is
also this very tactic that makes the terror outfit a global threat, with
operational planning that surpasses the reach of many regional countries. “The
group has exceeded its capabilities beyond the traditional scope of other
jihadist groups,” said a senior US counter-terrorism official.
The
official, speaking on condition of anonymity, pointed out that “there is a
clear pathway to neutralising the group, but it requires global cooperation and
Pakistan has a crucial role to play in this effort”.
Fueling
mistrust
The ISKP
has long sought to instigate a war between neighbouring countries or, at the
very least, fuel mistrust among them. To some extent, it has succeeded in its
efforts, as Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan are now engaged in a war of
words, accusing each other of harbouring the group’s operatives.
Soon
after its inception in 2015, the militant group established bases in
Afghanistan, referred to as “Tamkin” or “base”. Meanwhile, Tajikistan has also
become a significant source of manpower for the group, with Tajik affiliates
playing increasingly prominent roles in recent terror attacks across the
region.
Over the
past year alone, Tajik members of the ISKP have been involved in complex
attacks in Russia, Iran, and Turkiye, as well as foiled plots in Europe. This
intricate dynamic, where the group draws manpower from one country, uses
another as a base, and a third as a corridor, has pit the three neighbouring
countries against each other.
In doing
so, the ISKP appears to be following a pattern similar to that of Al-Qaeda when
the latter, as pointed out by analysts, carried out the 9/11 attacks to lure
the US into a protracted guerrilla war in Afghanistan. Based on its modus
operandi and propaganda monitoring, the ISKP seems intent on using the region
as a staging ground for large-scale attacks in the US or Europe. This would
likely draw Western forces into the region, trapping them in another prolonged
and bloody conflict.
The
ISKP’s pattern of attacks reveals a consistent strategy: launch an extensive
propaganda campaign against the target — which could be a state, international
organisation, Islamic sect or religious-political party — before striking it.
Subsequently,
the group issues a “fatwa” (religious decree), authorising the attack followed
by accumulating resources and then executing the operational plan to carry out
the attack.
This
pattern has been observed in several instances, including the attacks on the
Russian Embassy and a Chinese hotel in Kabul, the attack on the Pakistani
Charge d’affaires in the Afghan capital, the suicide attack in the Bajaur
tribal district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa targeting Pakistan’s largest
religious-political party, the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl, the twin attacks in
Iran’s Kerman and the recent attack on western tourists in Bamyan.
Negligence
in countering the ISKP threat
The
militant landscape in Pakistan is becoming increasingly complex due to the
emergence of new outfits and the formation and consolidation of alliances
between various factions.
Authorities
have long prioritised the TTP threat over the ISKP, which is understandable
given the latter’s long history, larger public presence, greater ideological
appeal and prominent public propaganda efforts.
In
contrast, the ISKP has an almost non-existent public presence, limited
ideological appeal and secretive nature, as the group’s ideology is
marginalised and its propagandists use pseudonyms or remain anonymous, with no
public faces or identifiable names. However, despite these differences, the
ISKP has demonstrated an alarming capability to carry out attacks of greater
magnitude than the TTP or other regional militant entities.
The
government’s failure to effectively counter the ISKP’s threat is evident in
Bajaur where the group has carried out several targeted assassinations and
large-scale attacks. Meanwhile, the authorities’ reactionary approach, focused
solely on kinetics, only responds to the ISKP after large-scale attacks,
allowing the group to continue its operations under the radar.
The lack
of a comprehensive strategy to counter the ISKP, which relative to the TTP is
still its nascent stages, enables the group to grow its tentacles in Pakistan,
both operationally and ideologically. Currently, the group is heavily utilising
Central Asian nationals for operations and revenue generation, but if it begins
to use Pakistani soil or nationals for regional or global attacks, it could
pose significant diplomatic challenges to the country, which is already
battling insurgents on several other fronts.
Source: dawn.com
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Govt
Taking Steps to Curb Religious Intolerance: Pakistani Ambassador to the United
States
June 27,
2024
WASHINGTON:
Pakistani Ambassador to the United States Masood Khan on Wednesday said the
Pakistani government was taking all measures to curb religious intolerance and
stem the abuse of blasphemy laws.
The
Pakistani ambassador said this while addressing an event related to interfaith
dialogue hosted by the Embassy of Pakistan “to build bridges of understanding”
in Washington DC, US.
The
event was attended by diplomats, leaders representing different religious
groups, the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) and
United States Institute of Peace (USIP)’s representatives as well as members of
think tanks and civil society.
According
to the embassy, the dialogue focused on fostering harmony and peace among
different religious communities and assimilated societies.
It
should be noted that the US Department of State Wednesday released its annual
report on international religious freedom, highlighting serious concerns about
the treatment of religious minorities in Pakistan and some other countries. The
report highlighted the discrimination faced by the minority groups in those
countries.
As per
the State Department report, in 2023, 329 individuals were accused of blasphemy
in Pakistan, with 75% being Muslims, 20% Ahmadis, and 3.3% Christians.
The same
year the Federal Investigation Agency arrested 140 people over blasphemy
allegations on social media, with 11 sentenced to death and two of these
sentences confirmed by higher courts.
Violent
attacks by armed sectarian groups targeted religious gatherings and buildings.
These often anonymous attackers victimised members of the Hindu, Christian,
Ahmadi, Sikh, Sunni, and Shia communities.
"On
December 29, 2023, the Secretary of State redesignated Pakistan as a Country of
Particular Concern (CPC) under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998,
as amended, for having engaged in or tolerated severe violations of religious
freedom and issued a waiver of the sanctions that accompany the designation in
the national interest of the United States. Pakistan was first designated a CPC
in 2018," it said.
During
the interfaith dialogue, Ambassador Khan reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to
fostering unity and strengthening intersocietal bonds.
"Such
gatherings," he stated, "provide a platform for broader perspectives
about each other’s faith." He urged participants to focus on commonalities
and tear down barriers that divide us.
Addressing
the issue of religious minorities, Khan called the unfortunate killing of
minorities a crime against humanity.
He
emphasised interfaith harmony was top priority of the Pakistani government and
society.
"The
Government of Pakistan is making conscious efforts to bring people together and
strengthen intersocietal linkages,” he maintained.
Former
US ambassador to Pakistan, Anne Patterson also expressed her optimism about
curbing violent extremism through interfaith dialogue.
Daniel
Spiro, representing the Jewish Islamic Dialogue Society (JIDS), emphasised the
shared heritage of Abrahamic religions and the importance of treating all
people with dignity.
Sikhs of
America Director Dr Surinder Singh Gill commended Pakistan for facilitating
Sikh pilgrimages and the Kartarpur Corridor initiative, a peace gesture also
lauded by the international community.
Other
speakers including Chairman of Adam Center Rizwan Jaka, member of All Neighbors
Mike Crowe, Alok Srivastava from American Hindu Coalition and social activist
and renowned artist Karina Hou, and a Pakistani American community leader
Ayesha Khan also echoed similar sentiments, calling for healing and cooperation
among societies.
The
speakers emphasised the significance of interfaith dialogue and the
government’s efforts to protect the rights of minorities in Pakistan. Despite
the challenges, all faith leaders expressed confidence in continued progress
and cooperation toward a more inclusive and equitable society.
The
dialogue concluded with a renewed sense of hope for continued progress and
cooperation.
Source: thenews.com.pk
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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1204102-govt-taking-steps-to-curb-religious-intolerance-abuse-of-blasphemy-laws-ambassador
--------
Peshawar
High Court Orders Removal of Blasphemous TikTok Content
June 27,
2024
PESHAWAR:
The Peshawar High Court (PHC) has directed the Pakistan Telecommunication
Authority (PTA) to immediately remove blasphemous and objectionable videos from
TikTok on a petition seeking a permanent ban on the TikTok app in Pakistan.
The case
was heard by a PHC two-member bench comprising Justice SM Atiq Shah and Justice
Shakeel Ahmed.
Barrister
Babar Shahzad Imran appeared in court on behalf of the petitioner, Imran, while
PTA lawyer Jahanzeb Mehsud Advocate also appeared in court.
The
petitioner’s counsel told the court that, although social media was a useful
tool, some social media platforms had become a means of destroying decency and
morals as well as insulting the glory of Islam in many countries, including
Pakistan.
He said
the TikTok application, a platform launched by a Chinese company that allows
users to create and share short videos, was also becoming a tool for the
destruction of religious values and that around 54.4 million Pakistani users
were currently using TikTok with Pakistan ranking 7th in the world in its use.
He also told the court that the platform violated Islamic principles by
spreading anti-Islamic, insulting, obscene, indecent and communal content,
which was against the Constitution of Pakistan, the PICA Act and PPC laws.
Referring
to various past judgments of high courts and steps taken by the government,
Barrister Babar said that, in March 2021, the PTA had banned it on the orders
of the PHC but the company had been allowed to operate after it had assured the
removal of objectionable content as well as the filtering of such videos. But,
he said, it had not implemented the necessary steps to exclude content
violating the laws of Pakistan.
PTA counsel
Jahanzeb Mehsud told the court that he had submitted the comments today. The
petitioner’s counsel informed the court that he had not seen the comments. The
petitioner has requested a ban on TikTok in his petition and has objected to
the blasphemy posts shared on TikTok.
Justice
Shakeel Ahmed said that this was a very important issue and that objectionable
and blasphemous content should not be shared. However, he said, positive
content could be shared.
The
petitioner’s counsel told the court that he was not against positive
content-sharing on the app while the PTA’s counsel said hundreds of thousands
of videos were shared on the app in a day and, if a blasphemous post is shared,
it gets blocked.
Source: tribune.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2474345/removal-of-blasphemous-tiktok-content-ordered
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Two FC
men martyred in Kalat attack
June 27,
2024
QUETTA:
Two security personnel were martyred in a gun attack on a post guarding the
Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) oil and gas exploration site in the Iskalku
area of Kalat district.
Officials
said around 50 armed men attacked the PPL project area and the Frontier Corps
(FC) post in the wee hours of Tuesday.
“In a
heavy exchange of fire, two FC soldiers lost their lives,” Home Minister
Ziaullah Langove said, adding that the attackers wanted to take all those
deputed at the post hostage. Acting on the information soon after the launch of
the attack, he said, more troops rushed to the site and foiled the attempt of
the militants.
“As many
as 20 FC men at the two posts were guarding the PPL exploration project site.
After gun battles lasting several hours, 18 FC personnel were recovered from
the check posts while two martyred,” Minister Langove said, adding that the
militants first attacked an FC camp in the Khaliqabad area of Kakat district
and fired rockets. There was no loss of life.
Just two
hours later, some 50 militants attacked the FC post protecting the PPL gas
exploration project site. However, PPL employees were not there as they had
left the area some two years ago after the previous attack.
A
spokesman for the banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility
for the attack.
Source: dawn.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.dawn.com/news/1842232/two-fc-men-martyred-in-kalat-attack
--------
'Foreign
intervention': US resolution sparks war of words between PTI, ruling parties
June 26,
2024
The US House
of Representatives' resolution seeking an impartial probe into alleged poll
irregularities in Pakistan has sparked war of words between the ruling parties
and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) that welcomed the development as positive
step in its pursuit of "rigged election" narrative.
The US
lawmakers, many of whom have been speaking in PTI’s favour, passed on Wednesday
a resolution with an overwhelming majority, emphasising the need for Pakistani
public's participation in the country's democratic process,
The
former ruling party is among those opposing the results of the polls after its
candidates faced immense hurdles in their run-up to their participation in the
vote, leading them to participate as independent candidates and being deprived
of their iconic bat symbol following a legal battle with the Election
Commission of Pakistan (ECP).
The
country's two major parties — Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan
Peoples Party (PPP) — along with other political parties, formed a coalition
government in the Centre.
Terming
the development a move in the “right direction”, former president Arif Alvi
lauded the massive majority in the resolution’s approval.
“What a
resounding condemnation by (368-7) of the unhinging of the democratic process
in Pakistan by the US Congress. A positive push in the right direction, along
the lines of our own constitution, for democracy, rule of law, civilian control
over our armed forces (not vice versa), personal freedoms, etc,” he wrote on
social site, X (formerly Twitter).
The PTI
leader drew similarities between the Resolution 901 and the Constitution of
Pakistan about upholding democracy and citizens’ right to have a free and fair
election.
The
ex-president also mentioned the key proposals and demands in the US resolution
in his post.
Meanwhile,
former aide to Khan during his tenure as the prime minister, Zulfi Bukhari also
appreciated the passage of the resolution saying that the move was about to
bring a “change”.
“Things
are about to change. The International silence is about to break,” he wrote on
X.
However,
Raza Haroon from rival PPP voiced criticism, asking if PTI now deemed the “US
intervention” right.
Replying
to Alvi’s post, the politician stated three questions.
Seeking
and supporting US intervention in our internal matters?
Where
does our Constitution or Law of the Land allows for it?
How do
you explain the issue of jurisdiction?
—
Screengrab of Zulfi Bukharis X post.
—
Screengrab of Zulfi Bukhari's X post.
Haroon
also responded to Bukhari’s post, raising concern over the “foreign
intervention in #Pakistan's internal matters”.
“Wasn't
your leader against #USA intervention terming it conspiracy for #regime_change
during the vote of no confidence? Was IK [Imran Khan] bluffing of US conspiracy
on stage while he was the PM and even after?” he asked.
The PPP
leader referred to PTI founder's allegation that the US hatched conspiracy to
topple his government in April 2022 by supporting then opposition's
no-confidence motion.
—
Screengrab of Raza Haroons X post.
—
Screengrab of Raza Haroon's X post.
US has
no right to interfere in Pakistan's affairs: Khawaja Asif
Meanwhile,
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif bashed the rival party, saying that PTI was
"highly active" in the US and warned the America against the
interfering in the internal affairs of Pakistan.
"PTI
got the resolution passed with manipulation," the minister said, asking
the US administration, how many democratic regimes had it toppled and backed
military revolutions in the last century.
He called
upon the US to first make its upcoming elections "transparent"
instead of levelling allegations against others.
"The
US has no right to interfere in Pakistan's affairs," he said.
Continuing
criticism of the former ruling party, Asif said that they had been telling the
US "absolutely not" till this point and now they are celebrating.
He said
that PTI is expressing love to the US after accusing it of a "regime
change" conspiracy.
The
minister further stated that the country had been bearing the brunt of supporting
the US in its wars.
Alongside
maintaining a harsh stance on the alleged US involvement, the former ruling
party continued to seek support from American lawmakers on transparent
elections and human rights “violations” in the country, as well as engaging
various US lobbying firms to project its goals abroad.
In July
2023, several lawmakers of the United States, including Congressman Brad
Sherman, called for free, fair, and internationally-monitored general polls in
Pakistan.
Today,
at least 368 members of the US house voted in favour of the resolution and
called for a "full and independent investigation of claims of interference
or irregularities in Pakistan’s February 2024 election".
Responding
to the development, the Foreign Office (FO) has said that the resolution on
alleged poll irregularities in Pakistan “stems from an incomplete understanding
of the political situation and electoral process in Pakistan”.
Source: thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read
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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1203886-foreign-intervention-us-resolution-sparks-war-of-words-between-pti-ruling-parties
--------
Pakistan
rubbishes US resolution on poll probe as 'neither constructive nor objective'
June 26,
2024
After
the United States House of Representatives raised objections on Pakistan's 2024
nationwide polls via passing a resolution, the Foreign Office (FO) rejected the
claims and termed it the former's "incomplete understanding of the
country’s electoral process".
“Pakistan
has taken note of the passage of the House Resolution 901 by the US House of
Representatives on June 25,” FO spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said in
response to media queries on Wednesday.
She
said, “We believe that the timing and context of this particular resolution
does not align well with the positive dynamics of our bilateral ties, and stems
from an incomplete understanding of the political situation and electoral
process in Pakistan.”
Pakistan,
she said, believes in constructive dialogue and engagement based on mutual
respect and understanding.
Earlier,
the US House of Representatives expressed its support for democracy and human
rights in Pakistan by a massive majority, approving the “House Resolution 901”
which urged an impartial probe into the claims of irregularities during the
February 8 general elections in the country.
At least
368 members of the US house voted in favour of the resolution and called for a
"full and independent investigation of claims of interference or
irregularities in Pakistan’s February 2024 election". Around seven members
have voted against it.
Through
the resolution, the US lawmakers have emphasised on the need for the Pakistani
public's participation in the country's democratic process months after its
general polls were contested as "rigged" and its outcome termed
"delayed" by political parties now seated on the opposition benches
in the legislature.
The
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is among those opposing the results of the polls
after its candidates faced immense hurdles in their run up to their
participation in the vote, leading them to participate as independent
candidates and being deprived of their iconic bat symbol following a legal
battle with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).
The
country's two major parties, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan
Peoples Party (PPP), along with other political parties, formed a coalition
government in the Centre following the polls, leaving the candidates of PTI and
other political parties with the opposition seats.
The
resolution, on the other hand, has denounced "attempts to suppress the
people of Pakistan’s participation in their democracy, including through
harassment, intimidation, violence, arbitrary detention, restrictions on access
to the Internet and telecommunications, or any violation of their human, civil,
or political rights".
The
resolution also condemned “any effort to subvert the political, electoral, or
judicial processes of Pakistan".
Responding
to the allegations, the FO spokesperson said, “Pakistan, as the world’s
second-largest parliamentary democracy and fifth-largest democracy overall, is
committed to the values of constitutionalism, human rights and rule of law in
pursuance of our own national interest.”
Such
resolutions, she further said, are therefore neither constructive nor
objective. "We hope that the US Congress will play a supportive role in
strengthening Pakistan-US ties and focus on avenues of mutual collaboration
that benefit both our peoples and countries,” Baloch concluded.
Source: thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1203825-us-resolution-exhibits-incomplete-understanding-of-pakistans-electoral-process-fo
--------
Southeast Asia
Guan
Eng: Deputy minister’s Langkawi rebranding as ‘preferred Muslim destination’
sparks travel trade concerns
27 Jun
2024
KUALA
LUMPUR, June 27 — DAP national chairman Lim Guan Eng today urged Deputy
Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan to retract his
statement suggesting Langkawi be made a “preferred Muslim destination” to
compete with other islands in the region for Visit Malaysia Year 2026
(VMY2026).
He said
the deputy minister’s suggestion has raised concerns among those in the travel
industry who have invested in the island as an international resort.
“For
this reason, it is necessary for Khairul Firdaus to revise and backtrack on his
announcement to restore confidence in the Langkawi travel industry.
“Limiting
Langkawi to niche sectors, such as the Muslim market, would be
counterproductive by depriving itself of the non-Muslim tourism market,” he
said in a statement today.
Lim, who
is also the former Penang chief minister, pointed out that Langkawi is a United
Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) Global
Geopark and a key destination for European, Indian, and Chinese tourists, who
are mainly non-Muslims.
He said
Khairul Firdaus’ intention to rebrand Langkawi as a preferred Muslim
destination would result in the rapid loss of its international appeal.
“Many in
the travel trade, both Muslims and non-Muslims, including duty-free shops, are
now concerned that they will lose out on the lucrative non-Muslim tourist
market following the recent announcement,” said the Bagan MP.
He added
that other competing tourist destinations in neighbouring countries will only
benefit at Langkawi’s expense from any diversion of tourists away from the
island.
Lim
reminded that hampering Langkawi in such a manner would undo the commendable
work by Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, who has
thus far successfully promoted Malaysia as a tourist destination with increased
tourist arrivals and spending.
Yesterday,
it was reported that Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor said
the state government has no plans to promote Langkawi as a tourist destination
specifically for Muslims.
He said
the issue of Langkawi being a preferred Muslim destination was never discussed
at the state government level.
Muhammad
Sanusi stated that Langkawi does not need such an approach, as the island has
its own uniqueness that can attract tourists from various backgrounds.
It was
reported on Monday that Khairul Firdaus had informed the Dewan Rakyat that the
ministry was planning to promote Langkawi as a Muslim-friendly tourist
destination.
He said
this in response to DAP’s Seputeh MP Teresa Kok’s question on claims that
visitors to Langkawi are banned from wearing shorts in public.
Source: malaymail.com
Please click the following URL to read
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/06/27/guan-eng-deputy-ministers-langkawi-rebranding-as-preferred-muslim-destination-sparks-travel-trade-concerns/141769
--------
Report:
Kedah MB affirms Langkawi is open to all, denies ‘Muslim-preferred destination’
claims
27 Jun
2024
KUALA
LUMPUR, June 27 — The Kedah state government has no plans to promote Langkawi
as a tourist destination specifically for Muslims and welcomes tourists from
all over the world.
Menteri
Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor said Langkawi does not need such an
approach as the island has its own uniqueness that can attract tourists from
various backgrounds.
“Langkawi
is part of Kedah, and we call it the Jewel of Kedah. We have never said we
wanted to make Langkawi a preferred Muslim tourism island. Any tourist is
welcome to visit.
“This
matter (of Langkawi as a preferred Muslim destination) was never discussed at
the state government level. Langkawi is one of the top 10 islands in the world,
and that’s a fact,” he was quoted as saying by Berita Harian after an award
ceremony held at Wisma Darul Aman in Alor Setar, Kedah yesterday.
Muhammad
Sanusi’s response was believed to be directed at DAP’s Seputeh MP Teresa Kok
who had earlier asked if tourist-unfriendly policies like banning alcohol and
shorts by some state governments could impact the success of Visit Malaysia
Year 2026.
The
outspoken menteri besar’s comment was also in response to Tourism, Arts and
Culture Deputy Minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, who proposed to make
Langkawi a preferred destination for Muslims earlier this week.
In the
report, Muhammad Sanusi said that the issue of promoting Langkawi as a preferred
Muslim destination should be stopped as it had sparked unnecessary controversy
while the state government worked on revitalising the tourism sector.
“This
issue originated from DAP, claiming that we don’t allow shorts. Even the
tourism, arts and culture minister (Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing) said the same
thing about wearing shorts. That’s not true,” he said, adding that Langkawi
contributes billions to the country’s tourism sector, therefore there is a need
to safeguard its prestige and not just limit it to Muslims.
Muhammad
Sanusi assured the public that Langkawi is open to all and contributes billions
to the country’s tourism sector.
“Therefore,
there is a need to safeguard its prestige and not just limit it to Muslims.
“We are
open, anyone can come. We ourselves are puzzled as to why we can’t wear
shorts,” he was quoted saying in the report.
It was
reported on Monday that Khairul Firdaus had informed the Dewan Rakyat that the
ministry was planning to promote Langkawi as a Muslim-friendly tourist destination.
He said
this in response to Kok’s question on claims that visitors to Langkawi are
banned from wearing shorts in public.
Source: malaymail.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/06/27/report-kedah-mb-affirms-langkawi-is-open-to-all-denies-muslim-preferred-destination-claims/141740
--------
Man
accused of teaching doctrine contrary to Islamic laws needed 13 wives, says
ex-follower
JUN 26,
2024
SINGAPORE
– A former massage therapist accused of teaching a doctrine contrary to Islamic
laws took part in a “spiritual marriage” and needed 13 wives, one of his former
followers said on June 26.
The
former follower said: “He suggested that we do (spiritual marriage) and look
for ladies out there to pursue his belief to get these 13 wives.”
But he
could not recall the reasons behind the need to get the wives.
The man,
who took the stand on the third day of Mohd Razif Radi’s trial, was the fourth
witness to testify before District Judge Shaiffudin Saruwan.
The
witness, who cannot be named due to a gag order, said he was present when Razif
took a female business owner as his “wife” in one such spiritual marriage.
In
earlier proceedings, the court heard that Razif would get “possessed” by a
“spirit” called Mbah.
On June
26, the witness testified that he was later told that Mbah was Prophet
Muhammad.
The man
added that according to Razif, Mbah was the kadi or solemniser in spiritual
marriages while angels and Allah (God) were witnesses in such unions.
The
witness told the court that he and his then wife attended Razif’s classes
together from 2004 to 2007.
The
woman continued to attend them after he stopped doing so. She later became cold
towards him and wanted a divorce in 2008.
The
divorce was finalised two years later, and their daughter was three years old
at the time. The woman now has full custody of the girl, the court heard.
The man
did not state if the woman became one of Razif’s spiritual wives, but she later
set up a business with the former massage therapist.
The
witness told Judge Shaiffudin that he later found out that the marriages of
other men had also ended similarly.
The
witness, who met one of the men, told the court: “(The man) told me that this
had to be stopped... (We) went to Muis (the Islamic Religious Council of
Singapore) for advice on what we had to do.
“It took
a long time for Muis to get back to us... After a while, we didn’t hear
anything from them.”
According
to court documents, Razif, who has never been an Islamic teacher under the
Asatizah Recognition Scheme, allegedly taught his followers that gambling could
be made permissible and that a man and a woman could be formally married
through a “spiritual marriage”.
The
Singaporean is also accused of claiming to be able to summon the spirit of
Mbah, who was purportedly Prophet Muhammad or from the Prophet’s lineage.
Muis
states on its website that gambling is prohibited in Islam.
It also
says on its website that a spiritual marriage is one that occurs without
several elements, such as witnesses, a formal solemnisation and dowry.
Muis
adds: “In most cases, there are no limitations on the number of women ‘married’
to a man through such deviant spiritual marriages.
“Such
acts occur either between followers of a particular teaching or between the
teacher and his students.”
The man
who testified on June 26 told the court that a friend introduced him to Razif
in 2004.
Responding
to queries from Deputy Public Prosecutor Hidayat Amir, the man told the court
that some of the classes were held in another follower’s Teck Whye home.
There
were also instances when the group met at other locations, including a beach.
The man
recalled that during one such session near the sea, Razif told the group to
look at the water and predicted that waterspouts would appear.
Recalling
that the natural phenomenon occurred soon after, the witness said: “I saw with
my own eyes, and I was amazed. (The others) were astonished.”
The man
said he then felt that Razif was the “real deal” and added: “We believed in
what he said and would never object to what he encouraged us to do.”
The
witness testified that Razif’s followers were encouraged to place bets with
Singapore Pools and that the winnings would be used to supplement the group’s
income.
The man
told the court: “He made us believe that whatever we did would be forgiven... I
was (earlier) taught that gambling is not permitted.”
The
witness recalled that he was present when a “spiritual marriage” took place
between a businesswoman and Razif in a small room within her Joo Chiat shop.
But
defence lawyer Simon Tan pointed out that according to the woman, who testified
on June 25, the event did not happen.
Instead,
the woman had told the court that she kept silent when the idea was proposed to
her, and she stopped seeing Razif soon after.
When
confronted with this on June 26, the male witness insisted that the spiritual
marriage had indeed taken place.
Source: straitstimes.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/man-accused-of-teaching-doctrine-contrary-to-islamic-laws-needed-13-wives-ex-follower
--------
Thailand:
Killing of Malay Muslim human rights defender must be investigated
June 26,
2024
Responding
to last night’s fatal shooting of Malay Muslim human rights defender Roning
Dolah in Thailand’s insurgency-ridden southern border region, Amnesty
International’s Thailand Researcher Chanatip Tatiyakaroonwong said:
“This
tragic incident highlights the dangers faced by human rights defenders in
Thailand’s southern border region.
“It
seems especially poignant that Roning, who supported victims of torture and was
reportedly tortured himself, has now been shot dead ahead of today’s
International Day in Support of Victims of Torture.
“The
Thai authorities must carry out a prompt, transparent, independent and
effective investigation into Roning’s death and bring the perpetrators to
justice in a manner consistent with international human rights law.
“Such an
investigation is essential not only for delivering justice for Roning and his
loved ones, but also to prevent this incident from having a chilling effect on
human rights activism in this region of Thailand.
“We at
Amnesty International express our deepest condolences to Roning’s family and
loved ones.”
Background
On 25
June 2024 at 9pm, Roning Dolah was shot and killed by two unidentified men in
front of his home in the Yarang district of Pattani province.
Roning
was a coordinator working with local civil society organization Duay Jai Group
under the UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture to provide rehabilitation
support for other torture survivors in the region.
According
to the Duay Jai Group, Roning joined the group after allegedly being tortured
by military officers while he was held in custody in June 2017 in Pattani
province.
Since
around 2004, Thailand has seen a rise in insurgent attacks carried out by armed
Malay Muslim groups against the Thai state in this southern border region next
to Malaysia.
The
region covers the provinces of Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat, as well as four
districts of Songkhla (Saba Yoi, Tepha, Chana and Natawee). Local think tank
Deep South Watch reported that at least 7,594 individuals have been killed
between January 2004 and April 2024.
Since
the outbreak of the insurgency, Amnesty International has documented widespread
impunity in the region, with authorities failing to deliver justice in
suspected cases of unlawful killings, torture and other ill-treatment.
26 June
is the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture.
Source: amnesty.org
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2024/06/thailand-killing-of-malay-muslim-human-rights-defender-must-be-investigated/
--------
Africa
ICC
convicts Mali Islamist Al Hassan Ag Abdoul Aziz for Timbuktu atrocities
26 June,
2024
Judges
at the International Criminal Court (ICC) convicted a Malian Islamist on
Wednesday of war crimes and crimes against humanity for being a central figure
in the Islamic police that flogged residents of Timbuktu during a 2012 rebel
takeover.
In a
summary of their verdict, judges said Al Hassan Ag Abdoul Aziz played an
important role in the Ansar Dine Islamist group which took the city on the
fringe of the Sahara desert in 2012 and tried to impose sharia Islamic law.
Local
inhabitants testified that he was considered a key player within the Islamic
police force who could issue orders and police officers would carry them out.
"Al
Hassan has been found guilty by majority decision of war crimes and crimes
against humanity, including torture, cruel treatment and outrages upon personal
dignity, for the public flogging of 13 members of the population" of
Timbuktu, Presiding judge Antoine Kesia-Mbe Mindua said.
The
sentence Al Hassan will receive will be determined at a later date after
another round of hearings. He faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.
The ICC,
the world's only permanent war crimes tribunal, has been examining events in
Mali since 2012.
French
and Malian troops pushed the rebels back the following year.
Source: newarab.com
Please click the following URL to read the
text of the original Story
https://www.newarab.com/news/icc-convicts-mali-islamist-timbuktu-atrocities
--------
SA
raises terror financing risk to high as Islamic State makes inroads into Africa
26 Jun
South
Africa has updated its risk of being used as a hub for terrorist financing from
moderate to high as the Islamic State makes inroads into southern Africa, the
Financial Intelligence Centre has warned.
The FIC,
which gathers and analyses information to combat financial crime and money
laundering, said in athat the country's current terrorist financing
threat"emanates predominantly from the IS, its affiliates, its supporters,
and its ideology". "From a global and regional perspective the
activities of and its affiliates have seen them become one of the deadliest
global terror groups," said the FIC.South Africans need to be in the know
if we want to create a prosperous future. News24 has kept the country informed
for 25 years, and we're about to enter a new chapter of fearless journalism.
Join our free subscription trial to unlock this story and a world of news aimed
to inform, empower, and inspire.
Source: headtopics.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://headtopics.com/za/sa-raises-terror-financing-risk-to-high-as-islamic-state-54826004
--------
Death
toll rises to 22 a day after Kenyan protesters stormed parliament
26-06-24
Kenyans
faced the lingering smell of tear gas and military in the streets Wednesday,
June 26, a day after protesters stormed parliament over a tax plan that would
increase the cost of living an act of defiance that President William Ruto
called an “existential” threat.
At least
22 people were killed, a human rights group said.
The
capital, Nairobi, has seen protests in the past, but activists and others
warned the stakes are more dangerous after the biggest assault on Kenya's
government in decades. Ruto called the events “treasonous” and vowed to quash
unrest “at whatever cost.” Soldiers patrolled alongside police, who have been
accused of shooting several people dead on Tuesday.
More
protests are expected as Kenyans unite beyond tribal and other divisions in a
youth-led effort to keep the finance bill from becoming law. It would raise
taxes and fees on a range of daily items and services, from egg imports to bank
transfers, increasing the pain of a majority of the country's people who
struggle to get by. The government is intent on raising revenue to pay off debt
in East Africa's economic hub.
There
were no reports of violence Wednesday, but there was fear. Civil society groups
have reported abductions of people involved in recent protests and expect more
to come.
“We are
dealing with a new phenomenon and a group of people that is not predictable. If
it would have been the normal demonstrations, I’d say it will fizzle out with
time, but we don’t know whether these people will fear the army,” said Herman
Manyora, an analyst and professor at the University of Nairobi.
He said
Kenya's president missed an opportunity in his national address Tuesday night
speech to calm tensions and adopt a more conciliatory approach.
“We
expected him to appreciate the gravity of the issue and empathize with the
young people,” Manyora said. “Instead, people saw an angry president who is
reading a riot act to the nation.”
Many
young people who helped vote Ruto into power with cheers for his promises of
economic relief now object to the pain of reforms. Thousands stormed parliament
on Tuesday, and part of the building burned. Clashes occurred in several
communities beyond the capital.
At least
22 people were killed, the Kenya National Human Rights Commission said.
Commission chairperson Roseline Odede told journalists that 300 others were
injured and 50 people were arrested.
The
mother of a teenager who was killed, Edith Wanjiku, told journalists at a
morgue that the police who shot her son should be arrested and charged with
murder because her 19-year-old son had been unarmed.
“He had
just completed school and was peacefully protesting,” she said.
Parliament,
city hall and the Supreme Court were cordoned off Wednesday with tape reading
“Crime Scene Do Not Enter.” Authorities said police fired over 700 blanks to
disperse protesters in the Nairobi suburb of Githurai overnight. Videos of the
gunfire were shared online.
Opposition
leader Raila Odinga condemned the killing of protesters and the “brute force”
of authorities and called for dialogue, asserting that Kenya's constitution had
been suspended.
“Kenya
cannot afford to kill its children just because the children are asking for
food, jobs and a listening ear,” Odinga said in a statement.
In
Nairobi, a regional hub for expatriates and home to a United Nations complex,
inequality among Kenyans has sharpened along with long-held frustrations over
state corruption. A booming young population is also frustrated by the lavish
lifestyles of politicians including the president. Some who had passionately
supported Ruto, who won the presidency by portraying himself as a “hustler” of
a humble background, feel betrayed.
The
youth, commonly referred to as Gen Zs, mobilized the protests and sought to
keep lawmakers from approving the finance bill on Tuesday. Ruto now has two
weeks to sign the bill into law.
The
events are a sharp turn for Ruto, who has been embraced by the United States as
a welcome partner in Africa while frustration grows elsewhere on the continent
with the U.S. and some other Western powers.
In May,
Ruto went to Washington for the first state visit by an African leader in 16
years. On Tuesday, as the protests exploded, the U.S. designated Kenya as its
first major non-NATO ally in sub-Saharan Africa, a largely symbolic act but one
highlighting their strong security partnership. Also Tuesday, hundreds of
Kenyan police deployed to lead a multinational force against gangs in Haiti, an
initiative that brought thanks from U.S. President Joe Biden.
Now
Kenya's president and his government — along with protesters — face pleas for
calm and pressure from partners including the U.S., which joined a dozen other
nations in a statement Tuesday expressing “deep concern” over the violence and
abductions.
“Let’s
reason together," the Daily Nation's front page said.
Source: africanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.africanews.com/2024/06/26/death-toll-rises-to-22-a-day-after-kenyan-protesters-stormed-parliament/
--------
Kenyan
lawmakers approve army deployment amid ongoing protests
26-06-24
Kenya’s
National Assembly has formally approved the deployment of soldiers in support
of police as the country faces nationwide protests against controversial tax
hikes.
The vote
on Wednesday took place as protesters vowed to continue demonstrations, with
plans to take to the street again on Thursday.
However,
at least one local newspaper is reporting that the Law Society of Kenya plans
to go to court over the decision.
It is
reportedly arguing that no emergency, unrest, or instability has been
officially declared to warrant the deployment of the Kenya Defence Forces.
President
William Ruto has defended the tax increases in a finance bill passed by
lawmakers on Tuesday, saying the country needs to reduce its reliance on
borrowing and service its massive debt.
Protesters
say the tax hikes laid out in the bill will raise the cost of living for people
already struggling to make ends meet.
Source: africanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.africanews.com/2024/06/26/kenyan-lawmakers-approve-army-deployment-amid-ongoing-protests/
--------
Europe
Ahead Of
Snap Polls, France Bans Extreme-right, Radical Islamic Groups
26 June
2024
France's
government on Wednesday ordered the dissolution of extreme right and radical
Muslim groups, four days before the first round of high-stakes legislative
elections that may see a surge in support for political extremes.
Snap
national elections called by pro-business moderate President Emmanuel Macron
have plunged the country into a hasty and disorderly electoral race.
Immigration, France's retirement age and taxes emerged as top points of
contention as the prime minister and two potential challengers for his job held
a televised debate Tuesday night.
Interior
Minister Gerald Darmanin announced Wednesday that the government ordered the
dissolution of multiple extreme-right and “radical Islamist'' groups. A series
of decrees announcing the shutdown cited the risk of violence.
The
groups affected include the GUD, a group known for violence and antisemitism
whose members have provided support for far-right political leader Marine Le
Pen in the past.
Le Pen's
National Rally party is leading all polls ahead of the two-round elections June
30 and July 7, and Macron's centrist alliance is lagging badly. However, the
outcome remains highly uncertain due to the complex, two-stage voting system
and potential political alliances.
In the
TV debate, young and fast-rising National Rally president Jordan Bardella
renewed his proposal to abolish free health care for foreigners and toughen
regulations around the acquisition of French nationality.
Source: outlookindia.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.outlookindia.com/international/ahead-of-snap-polls-france-bans-extreme-right-radical-islamic-groups
--------
Eurasian
Development Bank, Dar Al Sharia Sign Agreement On Cooperation
27 June
2024
ALMATY,
Kazakhstan, June 27. The Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) and consulting company
Dar Al Sharia signed an agreement on cooperation in the field of Islamic
finance within the framework of the annual meeting and business forum in
Almaty, Trend reports.
According
to information, the document was signed by EDB Chairman of the Board Nikolai
Podguzov and from the side of Dar Al Sharia Executive Director Ammar Ahmed.
Following
the signing of the agreement, Podguzov noted that earlier this year, the EDB,
together with Dar Al Sharia, started practical preparations for the opening of
the bank's Islamic Window.
"The
company is assisting the bank in customizing the bank's relevant procedures and
processes. This agreement will strengthen and expand our partnership. We have
agreed on long-term cooperation, continuing to work on the development of
Islamic finance banking products, advising on the conversion of the
conventional portfolio into an Islamic finance-compliant portfolio, and other
aspects of the practical implementation of the Islamic Window," he said.
He stated
that this will allow the preparation of unique financial products that meet
international standards, increase Islamic investments in the region, and
contribute to the sustainable development of the Central Asian region.
To note,
the EDB's annual meeting (business forum) is being held in Almaty. The event
will last two days (June 27–28).
The
event will include several sessions on Islamic finance, transportation, the
environment, energy, and digital technologies.
The
Eurasian Development Bank is a multilateral development bank engaged in
investment activities in Eurasia.
The
authorized capital of the EDB is $7 billion. The main share of the EDB's
portfolio is occupied by projects with integration effects in the areas of
transportation infrastructure, digital systems, green energy, agriculture,
industry, and machine building.
Source: en.trend.az
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://en.trend.az/business/3916883.html
--------
Warning
Over Scam That ‘Takes Control’ Of Your WhatsApp
26th
June
A
Blackburn mosque has shared further details of a WhatsApp scam which is
catching some worshippers out.
The
Madina Mosque on Oak Street said it had received complaints from some people
after they were contacted via WhatsApp.
Earlier
in the month, people had been receiving calls asking for a verification code to
join a supposed mosque Zoom meeting. The mosque said it does not contact people
in this way and residents should hang up if they receive the call which asks
for such details.
In a new
warning, the mosque shared details of how the scam had caught some members out.
Mohammed
Khalil from the mosque said: “The scam is still going on.
“I have
received two calls and two people have been scammed. We want to highlight how
the scam works.
“You
will receive a call on WhatsApp indicating there is a meeting through Zoom for
Madina Masjid or the Raza Masjid (Randal Street)
“They
will send you a code and then request for that code. And that code is not for
the Zoom meeting but it is to take over your WhatsApp.
“They
are attempting to set up your WhatsApp on another device. To do that you will
receive a code on your mobile phone. Hence that is what is happening.
“Once
you issue that WhatsApp code it will ask you a second time ‘are you sure you
want to transfer your WhatsApp?’ and when you press ‘yes’ - that is the time
they will take over your WhatsApp for a temporary basis.
“What
they are doing from then on is contacting all your contacts.”
The
fraudster, pretending to be you says they are have ‘problems’ and ask for a
certain amount of money to be transferred over.
Mohammed
added: “People, because they trust that person whose mobile has been hacked and
without contacting them, they have been transferring the money over.
“If you
receive a call and they are asking you to join a meeting – that is not from us
“And
secondly, if they are sending you a code and you send that code out – that is
the time you are taking over your WhatsApp.”
The
mosque confirmed one person had managed to get £730 back after assistance from
their back and another lost their money after the bank refused.
Similar
scams have in recent years been sent via text message claiming to be from
Zoom. BT revealed the text message says
you have a voicemail on the platform and to listen to the message you must dial
a premium rate telephone number.
The text
message does not come from Zoom and if you call the number the call will cost
£6 plus charges.
Source: lancashiretelegraph.co.uk
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/24412353.warning-scam-takes-control-whatsapp/
--------
The
Muslim Vote campaign is poisoning democracy
26th
June 2024
The
Muslim Vote (TMV) campaign has attracted a great deal of attention in the
build-up to next week’s UK General Election. Seeking to mobilise Britain’s four
million Muslim voters, it pledges to support pro-Palestine parliamentary
candidates who back an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. It is especially keen to
inflict electoral harm on Labour MPs who – in TMV’s eyes – have failed to
sufficiently condemn Israel for its actions in Gaza.
The
cause of Palestinian statehood, insofar as it is rooted in Palestinians’ right
to self-determination, is a noble one. Yet too many activists who pose as on
the side of the Palestinians seem less interested in Palestine’s independence,
or even in criticising Israel’s actual record of mistreating the Palestinians,
than in chanting anti-Jewish slogans at protests and peddling anti-Semitic
conspiracy theories online.
TMV
appears to associate with such people. According to an investigation published
by The Sunday Times at the weekend, it has endorsed multiple pro-Palestine
candidates with deeply dodgy views. In May, it backed Owais Rajput, the Workers
Party of Britain candidate in Leeds. He has labelled Israel supporters ‘cryptoJews’,
and accused them of abetting the ‘great satan king in Israhell’. He is far from
alone. Others backed by TMV have been responsible for disseminating conspiracy
theories, such as that 7 October was an inside job and that the war in Gaza is
primarily about oil and gas.
TMV is
not just backing dubious candidates; it is also trying to demonise its
opponents. It has even denounced Muslims who canvass for Labour as ‘parasites’.
TMV’s
willingness to back dubious figures should hardly surprise us. As the Sunday
Times investigation reveals, TMV is supported by Muslim Engagement and
Development (MEND) and the Muslim Association of Britain (MAB). These two
organisations were explicitly named in parliament in March as likely to fall
foul of the UK government’s new definition of extremism.
TMV is
also associated with Sheikh Haitham al-Haddad, a London-based Islamic scholar,
who has appeared at TMV events and promoted it online. In January, Haddad
shared a video doubting whether Hamas militants committed rape on 7 October,
challenging the death toll at the Nova music festival and claiming that Hamas
was merciful to its Israeli hostages.
This is
the danger of a campaign group like TMV. By promoting a form of militant Muslim
identity politics, it inevitably attracts tribal conspiracists and sectarian
ideologues.
The
TMV’s outlook is also incredibly limited. It has no interest in cultivating
meaningful support beyond its particular religio-political milieu. It shows no
interest in candidates’ views on economic or social issues, or indeed on
anything beyond their attitudes to Israel. Many TMV-endorsed politicians may
challenge Labour MPs on the matter of Palestine, but they have little to say on
broader social issues. Take Labour’s ludicrous positions on trans rights, which
defy biological reality and threaten female-only spaces. This has dismayed both
Muslims and feminists alike, but TMV has shown no interest in taking Labour to
task for this. No doubt Muslim voters would also like questions about the role
of faith in society, the breakdown of the family or the increasing atomisation
of Britain to be debated in this election.
The
problem with TMV is that while it chimes with mainstream British Muslim opinion
in calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, it also goes much further than that by
fraternising with bigoted conspiracy theorists. What’s more, it fails to
represent the views of British Muslims on just about everything else. This is
largely because British Muslims are not a monolithic bloc. They comprise
diverse opinions and even religious beliefs.
TMV
claims that it wants to ‘reinvigorate the spirit of democracy’ and tackle
‘dirty politics’. Given some of the parliamentary candidates it has endorsed,
and the figures it associates with, such claims ring hollow. TMV is not encouraging
greater democratic engagement. It is spreading division and further poisoning
public life.
Source: spiked-online.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.spiked-online.com/2024/06/26/the-muslim-vote-campaign-is-poisoning-democracy/
--------
Mideast
Illegal
Israeli settlers storm into Al-Aqsa Mosque complex, perform Talmudic rituals
26 June
2024
Dozens
of illegal Israeli settlers on Wednesday forced their way into the Al-Aqsa
Mosque complex in occupied East Jerusalem under the protection of the Israeli
security forces.
The
official Palestinian news agency Wafa quoted witnesses in the mosque who said
dozens of settlers broke into the mosque in groups, made provocative tours
inside and performed Talmudic rituals.
The
Israeli forces imposed tightened restrictions on the entry of worshippers to
the mosque, while hundreds of Israeli forces were deployed in Jerusalem's Old
City area leading to Al-Aqsa Mosque, Wafa added.
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.
Palestinians
hold firm to East Jerusalem, where Al-Aqsa Mosque is located, as the capital of
their hoped-for state, citing international resolutions that do not recognize
Israel's occupation of the city in 1967 or its annexation in 1981.
Source: aa.com.tr
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/illegal-israeli-settlers-storm-into-al-aqsa-mosque-complex-perform-talmudic-rituals/3258609
--------
Houthis
in Yemen Say They Targeted Ship in Haifa Port with ‘Islamic Resistance’ in Iraq
26 June
2024
The
Iran-backed Houthi militias in Yemen said on Wednesday they targeted a ship in
Israel's Haifa port with a number of drones in a joint military operation with
the so-called “Islamic Resistance” in Iraq.
The
operation targeted the Portuguese-flagged container ship MSC Manzanillo, the
Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said in a televised speech on Wednesday.
The
Israeli military is not aware of any such incident, a spokesperson said, and
there was no indication of anything unusual at Haifa port.
The
Houthis have been launching drone and missile strikes in shipping lanes since
November, in what it says is in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
They
first launched drone and missile strikes in shipping lanes in November. In
dozens of attacks, they have sunk two vessels, seized another and killed at
least three seafarers.
Source: english.aawsat.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://english.aawsat.com/arab-world/5034531-houthis-yemen-say-they-targeted-ship-haifa-port-%E2%80%98islamic-resistance%E2%80%99-iraq
--------
Settlers
storm al-Aqsa Mosque
[27/June/2024]
OCCUPIED
AL-QUDS June 27. 2024 (Saba) - Zionist settlers on Thursday stormed the
courtyards of the Blessed al-Aqsa Mosque in the occupied city of al-Quds, under
the protection of the Zionist enemy police.
Eyewitnesses
reported that dozens of settlers stormed al-Aqsa Mosque in groups, carried out
provocative tours of its courtyards, and performed Talmudic rituals.
The
Zionist enemy police imposed restrictions on the entry of worshipers to
al-Aqsa, and tightened their military procedures at the gates of the Old City,
which they turned into a military barracks, where hundreds of occupation police
officers were deployed at close distances, especially at the gates of al-Aqsa.
Source: saba.ye
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.saba.ye/en/news3343454.htm
--------
Sunni MP
announces agreement to elect new Speaker of Iraqi Parliament
2024-06-26
Shafaq
News/ A Sunni member of parliament, who preferred anonymity, revealed, on
Wednesday, that an agreement has been reached between Sunni and Shiite blocs to
hold an extraordinary session to elect a new Speaker of the Iraqi Parliament.
The MP
stated to Shafaq News Agency, "There is an agreement between Sunni
political blocs and the Coordination Framework to convene an extraordinary
session of the parliament to elect a new Speaker. Acting Speaker Mohsen
Al-Mandalawi will notify MPs next week regarding the session's date for the
election."
The MP
noted that there is a competition for the position of Speaker between MPs
Mahmoud Al-Mashhadani and Salem Al-Issawi. However, Al-Issawi is favored to win
the position due to the defection of more than 10 MPs from the Taqadum Party,
who have either formed a new bloc or declared themselves independent.
On
November 14, 2023, the Federal Supreme Court, Iraq's highest judicial
authority, ruled to terminate the membership of former Speaker Mohammed
Al-Halbousi following a lawsuit filed by MP Laith Al-Dulaimi, accusing
Al-Halbousi of falsifying Al-Dulaimi’s resignation. Consequently, the court
ended the memberships of both Al-Halbousi and Al-Dulaimi.
On
November 21, 2023, the Iraqi Parliament officially terminated Al-Halbousi’s
membership. Since then, the parliament has held several sessions to elect a new
Speaker, but disagreements among Sunni political forces have prevented a
consensus.
On June
6, 2024, MP Salem Al-Anbaki from the Coordination Framework told Shafaq News
Agency that the defection of a group of Taqadum MPs had undermined the party's
claim to represent the Sunni parliamentary majority.
The
majority now lies with the other bloc, which has demonstrated cohesion among
al-Siyada Alliance, Azm Alliance, and Hasm bloc, along with a portion of
Taqadum MPs.
On the
same day, 11 MPs and provincial council members announced their defection from
Taqadum and the formation of a new political front named the Mubadara
(Initiative9 Bloc. They cited the political deadlock and the inability of the
legislative authority to elect a new Speaker as reasons for their departure and
the creation of the new bloc.
Source: shafaq.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://shafaq.com/en/Iraq/Sunni-MP-announces-agreement-to-elect-new-Speaker-of-Iraqi-Parliament
--------
US-Israeli
Spy Cell confessions are witness to danger of soft war on Muslim peoples,
societies
[26/June/2024]
SANA'A
June 26. 2024 (Saba) - The confessions of the members of the US-Israeli spy
cell represented a living witness to the dangers of soft war used by enemies to
harm Muslim peoples and societies, especially the Yemeni people.
According
to the confessions of the cell members published by the security services, the
American enemy used soft war to attract them and recruit them to work for it
and the Zionist enemy.
The spy
Bassam Ahmed Mohammed Al-Mardahi admitted that America relies on sexual
blackmail to attract spies and force them to work for it. He explained that he
was recruited to work in the FBI in 2012, by sexually trapping him and
documenting him after being sent to attend a training workshop in the German
city of Frankfurt.
He
revealed that the American side focuses on the weaknesses of all those who
recruit them to work for him, by studying the person to be recruited and
searching for gaps through which he can be controlled, such as his tendencies,
desires and needs.
The
confessions of the cell members constituted living evidence of the impact of
the soft war on young people and its damage and dangers to the homeland and
society, and confirmed the correctness of the vision of the revolutionary
leadership and the Supreme Political Council and its great focus on strengthening
the faith identity in the hearts of young people and immunizing them by all
possible means from all forms, means and methods of soft war and confronting
the conspiracies of enemies.
The
Quranic project founded by the martyr leader Sayyid Hussein Badr al-Din
al-Houthi represented the basic starting point for consolidating the faith
identity and Quranic culture among young people, youth and society as a whole
to immunize them from all forms of invasion and systematic targeting of Islamic
societies and desperate Western attempts to strip these societies of their
Islamic values and principles that preserve their existence and protect them
from the dangers of foreign Western cultures.
In many
of his speeches, the Leader of the Revolution, Abdul Malik bin Badr al-Din
al-Houthi, stresses the importance of societal awareness and the armament of
faith identity to confront misleading ideas and soft war methods and tools used
by the Western enemy to weaken Muslim peoples and drag them into the stage of
dependence to serve him and implement his agendas.
Strengthening
the faith identity in the conscience of Yemenis, especially in light of the
soft war through which the enemies seek to remove the nation from its religious
identity and moral values, is one of the most important issues that the Leader
of the Revolution and before him the martyr leader focus on with the aim of
enhancing societal awareness of the dangers of soft war and thwarting the plans
of the enemies in this aspect.
In one
of his speeches, the leader described the reality and life of the infidel West
as worse than the lives of animals, and that it represents a terrible and
heinous situation, pointing out that the Western enemy targets young people by
all means and methods within the framework of a soft war at the intellectual
and cultural levels, concepts, perceptions and beliefs, with diverse
capabilities and means unprecedented in human history, including modern
technological means such as satellite channels and the Internet, as well as
through organizations that play a role in this aspect.
According
to the nation's scholars, the faith identity is the summary of the great fruit
of the Book of God Almighty and the Prophet's guidance, because of its positive
impact on building and refining the human soul, and upgrading humanity to moral
and mental perfection, spiritual intelligence and psychological purity that
qualifies man for true attachment to God Almighty and thus enables man to
confront any misleading ideas to confront any means of soft war.
Observers
believe that the soft war is one of the enemy's paths that he resorted to to
try to target Yemen intellectually and culturally, as it is the most dangerous
and least expensive type of war, and has catastrophic effects on Islamic
societies as it targets their faith and national identity and social fabric.
Source: saba.ye
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.saba.ye/en/news3343300.htm
--------
In the
searing heat of the Gaza summer, Palestinians are surrounded by sewage and
garbage
June 27,
2024
DEIR
AL-BALAH: Children in sandals trudge through water contaminated with sewage and
scale growing mounds of garbage in Gaza’s crowded tent camps for displaced
families. People relieve themselves in burlap-covered pits, with nowhere nearby
to wash their hands.
In the
stifling summer heat, Palestinians say the odor and filth surrounding them is
just another inescapable reality of war — like pangs of hunger or sounds of
bombing.
The
territory’s ability to dispose of garbage, treat sewage and deliver clean water
has been virtually decimated by eight brutal months of war between Israel and
Hamas. This has made grim living conditions worse and raised health risks for
hundreds of thousands of people deprived of adequate shelter, food and
medicine, aid groups say.
Hepatitis
A cases are on the rise, and doctors fear that as warmer weather arrives, an
outbreak of cholera is increasingly likely without dramatic changes to living
conditions. The UN, aid groups and local officials are scrambling to build
latrines, repair water lines and bring desalination plants back online.
COGAT,
the Israeli military body coordinating humanitarian aid efforts, said it’s
engaging in efforts to improve the “hygiene situation.” But relief can’t come
soon enough.
“Flies
are in our food,” said Adel Dalloul, a 21-year-old whose family settled in a
beach tent camp near the central Gaza city of Nuseirat. They wound up there
after fleeing the southern city of Rafah, where they landed after leaving their
northern Gaza home. “If you try to sleep, flies, insects and cockroaches are
all over you.”
Over a
million Palestinians had been living in hastily assembled tent camps in Rafah
before Israel invaded in May. Since fleeing Rafah, many have taken shelter in
even more crowded and unsanitary areas across southern and central Gaza that
doctors describe as breeding grounds for disease — especially as temperatures
regularly reach 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius).
“The
stench in Gaza is enough to make you kind of immediately nauseous,” said Sam
Rose, a director at the UN agency for Palestinian refugees.
Conditions
are exacting an emotional toll, too.
Anwar
Al-Hurkali, who lives with his family in a tent camp in the central Gazan city
of Deir Al-Balah, said he can’t sleep for fear of scorpions and rodents. He
doesn’t let his children leave their tent, he said, worrying they’ll get sick
from pollution and mosquitoes.
“We
cannot stand the smell of sewage,” he said. “It is killing us.”
Basic
services breakdown
The UN
estimates nearly 70 percent of Gaza’s water and sanitation plants have been
destroyed or damaged by Israel’s heavy bombardment. That includes all five of
the territory’s wastewater treatment facilities, plus water desalination
plants, sewage pumping stations, wells and reservoirs.
The
employees who once managed municipal water and waste systems have been
displaced, and some killed, officials say. This month, an Israeli strike in
Gaza City killed five government employees repairing water wells, the city
said.
Despite
staffing shortages and damaged equipment, some desalination plants and sewage
pumps are working, but they’re hampered by lack of fuel, aid workers say.
A UN
assessment of two Deir Al-Balah tent camps found in early June that people’s
daily water consumption — including drinking, washing and cooking — averaged
under 2 liters (about 67 ounces), far lower than the recommended 15 liters a
day.
COGAT
said it’s coordinating with the UN to repair sewage facilities and Gaza’s water
system. Israel has opened three water lines “pumping millions of liters daily”
into Gaza, it said.
But
people often wait hours in line to collect potable water from delivery trucks,
hauling back to their families whatever they can carry. The scarcity means
families often wash with dirty water.
This
week, Dalloul said, he lined up for water from a vendor. “We discovered that it
was salty, polluted, and full of germs. We found worms in the water. I had been
drinking from it,” he said. “I had gastrointestinal problems and diarrhea, and
my stomach hurts until this moment.”
The
World Health Organization declared an outbreak of Hepatitis A that, as of early
June, had led to 81,700 reported cases of jaundice — a common symptom. The
disease spreads primarily when uninfected people consume water or food
contaminated with fecal matter.
Because
wastewater treatment plants have shut down, untreated sewage is seeping into
the ground or being pumped into the Mediterranean Sea, where tides move north
toward Israel.
“If
there are bad water conditions and polluted groundwater in Gaza, then this is
an issue for Israel,” said Rose, of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees. “It
has in the past prompted actions by Israel to try and ameliorate the
situation.”
COGAT
said it’s working on “improving waste management processes” and examining
proposals to establish new dumps and allow more garbage trucks into Gaza.
Where
can garbage go?
Standing
barefoot on a street in the Nuseirat refugee camp, 62-year-old Abu Shadi Afana
compared the pile of garbage next to him to a “waterfall.” He said trucks
continue to dump rubbish even though families live in tents nearby.
“There
is no one to provide us with a tent, food, or drink, and on top of all of this,
we live in garbage?” Afana said. Trash attracts bugs he’s never seen before in
Gaza — small insects that stick to his skin. When he lies down, he said, he
feels like they’re “eating his face.”
There
are few other places for the garbage to go. When Israel’s military took control
of a 1-kilometer (0.6-mile) buffer zone along its border with Gaza, two main
landfills east of the cities of Khan Younis and Gaza City became off-limits.
In their
absence, informal landfills have developed. Displaced Palestinians running out
of areas to shelter say they’ve had little choice but to pitch tents near trash
piles.
Satellite
images from Planet Labs analyzed by The Associated Press show that an informal
landfill in Khan Younis that sprung up after Oct. 7 appears to have doubled in
length since January. Since the Rafah evacuation, a tent city has sprung up
around the landfill, with Palestinians living between piles of garbage.
Cholera
fears
Doctors
in Gaza fear cholera may be on the horizon.
“The
crowded conditions, the lack of water, the heat, the poor sanitation — these
are the preconditions of cholera,” said Joanne Perry, a doctor working in
southern Gaza with Doctors Without Borders.
Most
patients have illnesses or infections caused by poor sanitation, she said.
Scabies, gastrointestinal illnesses and rashes are common. Over 485,000
diarrhea cases have been reported since the war’s start, WHO says.
“When we
go to the hospital to ask for medicine for diarrhea, they tell us it is not
available, and I go to buy it outside the hospital,” Al-Hurkali said. “But
where do I get the money?”
COGAT
says it’s coordinating delivery of vaccines and medical supplies and is in
daily contact with Gaza health officials. COGAT is “unaware of any authentic,
verified report of unusual illnesses other than viral illnesses,” it said.
With
efforts stalled to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, Dalloul says
he’s lost hope that help is on the way.
“I am 21
years old. I am supposed to start my life,” he said. “Now I just live in front
of the garbage.”
Source: arabnews.com
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Defense
chief says Israel doesn’t want war but warns Hezbollah; cites progress on
resolving weapons rift with US
June 27,
2024
WASHINGTON:
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said on a visit to Washington that his
country does not want war in Lebanon but was ready to inflict “massive damage”
on Hezbollah if diplomacy fails.
“We do
not want war, but we are preparing for every scenario,” Gallant told reporters
during the visit that ended Wednesday.“Hezbollah understands very well that we
can inflict massive damage in Lebanon if a war is launched,” he said.
Tensions
have been rising, with growing skirmishes along the border between Israel and
the Iranian-backed militia, since the October 7 attack by Hamas that prompted a
relentless Israeli retaliatory campaign in Gaza.
Gallant
said that Israel has killed more than 400 Hezbollah “terrorists” in recent
months.
The
Israeli defense minister was in Washington for three days meeting with
officials in a bid to quietly resolve a rift over US weapons shipments, drawing
an implicit contrast to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s more
confrontational approach.
“During
the meetings we made significant progress, obstacles were removed and
bottlenecks were addressed,” Gallant said after meeting with Jake Sullivan,
Biden’s national security adviser.
Gallant
said the progress was on “a variety of issues” including “the topic of force
build-up and munition supply that we must bring to the state of Israel.”
“I would
like to thank the US administration and the American public for their enduring
support for the state of Israel,” he said.
Netanyahu
in recent days has publicly accused the Biden administration of slowing down
weapons deliveries to Israel, which has been at war in Gaza since an October 7
attack by Hamas.
US
officials have denied the accusations and showed annoyance, months before an
election in which Biden’s support for Israel has become a liability with a left
flank of his Democratic Party outraged by the heavy death toll among
Palestinian civilians.
The US
in early May froze a shipment that included 2,000-pound bombs and Biden warned
of a further halt as he pressed Israel not to carry out a wide-scale military
assault of Rafah, the southern Gaza city where more than one million displaced
Palestinians had sought shelter.
A senior
US administration official said the United States has sent more than $6.5
billion in weapons to Israel since October 7, with nearly $3 billion alone in
May.
“This is
a massive, massive undertaking and nothing is paused other than one shipment,”
the official told reporters on condition of anonymity.
The
official blamed the rift on misunderstandings of the “complex” US bureaucratic
process. He said Gallant’s team and US experts went through “every single
case.”
“There
was real progress and a mutual understanding of where things stand, of
prioritization of certain cases over others, so that we can make sure that we
are moving things in ways that meet the needs of the Israelis,” he said.
Biden —
whose approach to Israel has drawn criticism both from progressives and the
right — held off on curbing weapon deliveries after Israel carried out what US
officials described as comparatively targeted operations in Rafah.
Netanyahu
and Gallant have said the most intense phase of the fighting is over — with
Israel set to shift forces toward the border with Lebanon after rising
skirmishes with the Iranian-backed militant movement Hezbollah.
The US
official said Washington remained in “fairly intensive conversations” with
Israel, Lebanon and other actors and believed that no side sought a “major
escalation.”
Gallant,
who met twice in Washington with Amos Hochstein, the US pointman between Israel
and Lebanon, reassured that his country was trying to avoid an all-out war with
the Iran-backed Hezbolla militia of Lebanon.
“We do
not want war, but we are preparing for every scenario,” Gallant told reporters.
US
officials including Secretary of State Antony Blinken have voiced hope that a
ceasefire in Gaza could lead to a reduction in tension over Lebanon as well.
Biden on
May 31 laid out a plan for a temporary ceasefire and release of hostages, but
Hamas came back with further demands.
Despite
criticism of the proposal from some of Netanyahu’s far-right allies, Gallant
said, “We are all committed to and firmly backing the president’s deal.”
“Hamas
must accept it or bear the consequences,” he said.
The Gaza
war began with Hamas’s October 7 attack on southern Israel that resulted in the
deaths of 1,195 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on
Israeli figures.
The
militants also seized about 250 hostages, 116 of whom remain in Gaza, although
the army says 42 are dead.
Israel’s
retaliatory offensive has killed at least 37,718 people, also mostly civilians,
according to data from Hamas-run Gaza’s health ministry.
Source: arabnews.com
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Israeli
strike on Syria kills two: state media
June 27,
2024
DAMASCUS:
Two people were killed in an Israeli strike on southern Syria on Wednesday, the
official SANA agency reported, citing a military source.
According
to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the strike targeted the service
center of a foundation affiliated with pro-Iranian groups including Lebanon’s
Hezbollah.
The
strike was near Sayyeda Zeinab, which is home to an important Shiite sanctuary
and is defended by pro-Iranian militia, including Hezbollah, alongside the
Damascus army.
Since
the beginning of the Syrian civil war in 2011, Israel has carried out hundreds
of strikes mainly targeting army positions and Iran-backed fighters including
from Hezbollah.
“At
around 11.40pm, the Israeli enemy carried out an aerial assault from the
occupied Syrian Golan, targeting a number of positions in the southern region,
killing two people and injuring a soldier,” the SANA report said.
It said
Syrian anti-aircraft defense had also shot down some missiles, without giving
further details.
On June
19, a Syrian army officer was killed in the same region, according to SANA.
Israeli
strikes have increased since the start of the war since the Palestinian
militant group Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel sparked the war in the Gaza
Strip.
Iran has
long been a key ally of the Syrian government, but has said repeatedly that it
has no combat troops in Syria, only officers to provide military advice and
training.
Israeli
authorities rarely comment on the strikes, but have repeatedly said they will
not allow arch-enemy Iran to expand its presence in Syria.
Source: arabnews.com
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Israeli
strike wounds five in Lebanon: media
June 27,
2024
BEIRUT:
An Israeli strike on Wednesday wounded five people when it hit a two-story
building in the town of Nabatiyeh in southern Lebanon, state media reported.
The
report came as fears mounted that months of cross-border fire between Israel
and Lebanon’s Hezbollah could turn into a full-fledged conflict.
Israel
and Hezbollah, an Iran-backed ally of Hamas in Lebanon, have traded near-daily
cross-border fire since the Palestinian militant group’s October 7 attack on
Israel sparked the war in the Gaza Strip.
Tensions
have been rising in recent days with growing exchanges of fire.
On
Wednesday Israel carried out some 10 strikes on border regions, Lebanon’s
national news agency said.
An
Israeli strike destroyed the building in Nabatiyeh around 10:00 p.m. (1900
GMT), it said, adding the five people who were in the vicinity of the structure
were wounded and taken to hospital.
There
was no immediate comment from the Israeli military on the strike.
Hezbollah
on Wednesday claimed six attacks against Israeli military positions in the
border region.
Some 481
people have died in Lebanon as a result of the Israel-Hezbollah clashes since
October 7, including 94 civilians, according to an AFP tally.
On the
Israeli side, at least 15 soldiers and 11 civilians have been killed, according
to Israel.
Source: arabnews.com
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South Asia
Islamic Emirate
conducting successful counter-drugs operation
June 27,
2024
This is
clear that drugs have turned into a threat for any community and in order to
get rid of the problems, there is a need for strong sacrifices from the people
by taking the side of their governments to fight the heinous phenomenon. The
harmful plant affects the health of the young generation and causes long-term
suffering, gradually wearing out one’s body as the experts describe addiction
as worse than death. During the last two decades of the republic regimes, the
United States and its allies, against all international laws, attacked
Afghanistan, where they brought the gifts of drug production, promotion and
addiction to the Afghan nation besides other troubles, sufferings and hardship
for the Afghans. At that time, Afghanistan was the largest producer of drugs in
the world and during this period, around four million Afghans, including women
and children, were addicted to drugs. Before the re-establishment of the
Islamic Emirate in Afghanistan, in addition to corruption and economic
problems, the widespread production and use of drugs was also a serious problem
that the Islamic Emirate was facing with, after the power takeover in
Afghanistan. The Islamic Emirate made a firm plan and announced the cultivation
of poppy illegal throughout the country and strictly banned the production,
trafficking and use of any kind of drugs countrywide. As media reported, the
Ministry of Interior has destroyed more than 1,200 drug processing factories in
the country since the resumption of power by the Islamic Emirate in the
country. Since the issuance of the decree of the Leader of the Islamic Emirate,
the cultivation, trafficking and business of drugs in the country has dropped
to almost zero. Many big and small drug processing factories have been
destroyed and around 1,250 alcohol and drug processing factories in different
provinces of the country, have been eliminated. But the most important thing is
that media, religious scholars and school teachers and university professors
should fulfill their missions and inform the nation about the harms of using
drugs and its production. Also, the Islamic Emirate has the responsibility to
provide alternative ways for the farmers, despite the ban and provide them with
the possibility of planting saffron, wheat and other helpful grains, instead of
poppy, which will not only prevent the production of drugs and addiction, but
will also meet the need for food among the country’s farmers.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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Islamic
banks’ liquidity plummets 77% in 3 months
Jun 27,
2024
Liquidity
at Islamic banks in Bangladesh has decreased drastically, deepening a lingering
cash crunch at the crisis-hit Shariah-based banks.
Excess
liquidity at Islamic banks fell by 77.14 percent to Tk 1,518 crore at the end
of March this year, according to the Bangladesh Bank's latest quarterly report
on Islamic banking.
It was
Tk 6,643 crore at the end of December last year.
This
means that the excess liquidity dropped by Tk 5,125 crore in the span of just
three months.
Year-on-year,
the March figure was down by 27.82 percent, meaning Tk 585 crore.
Excess
liquidity is calculated after a bank has met the regulatory requirements of
cash reserve ratio (CRR) and statutory liquidity ratio (SLR).
Shariah-based
banks must keep a CRR equal to 4 percent of customers' deposits in cash with
Bangladesh Bank overnight alongside an SLR equal to 5.5 percent of customers'
deposits in the form of cash, gold or other securities.
The
country's Shariah-based banks are facing a severe liquidity crisis apparently
due to an increase in loan disbursements.
The
total amount of outstanding loans in the banking system increased by Tk 12,020
crore or 2.70 percent to Tk 456,994 crore at the end of March 2024 compared to
the end of December 2023.
It was
also Tk 44,597 crore or 10.81 percent higher from that at the end of March
2023.
Islamic
banks accounted for 28.24 percent of the total loans and advances of the whole
banking sector at the end of March 2024.
Meanwhile,
the total amount of deposits in the banking system stood at Tk 439,465 crore at
the end of March 2024, down Tk 3,938 crore from that at the end of December
last year.
It was
Tk 27,834 crore or 6.76 percent higher at the end of March 2023.
The
share of deposits of Islamic banks was 26.23 percent of the total deposits of
the entire banking sector at the end of March 2024.
Islami
Bank Bangladesh accounted for the highest 34.74 percent of deposits of Islamic
banks.
Al-Arafah
Islami Bank accounted for the second-highest, 10.42 percent, followed by First
Security Islami Bank (10.20 percent) and EXIM Bank (9.62 percent).
Besides,
Social Islami Bank held 7.38 percent of the deposits, ICB Islamic Bank 0.28
percent, Shahjalal Islami Bank 5.88 percent, Union Bank 5.05 percent, and
Global Islami Bank 2.91 percent.
Industry
insiders said a liquidity shortage at some Islamic banks has been adversely
affecting the overall banking sector.
The
liquidity crunch is worsening although some banks have been taking liquidity
support from the central bank.
An
official of the Bangladesh Bank told The Daily Star that Islamic banks in
Bangladesh were sitting on huge amounts of excess liquidity two to three years
ago.
But now
the sector is facing challenges due to massive loan irregularities at five of
the banks, he added.
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/business/economy/banks/news/islamic-banks-liquidity-plummets-77-3-months-3642741
--------
FM
Muttaqi and UNAMA Head Confer on Key Issues for Doha Meeting
2024-06-27
KABUL(BNA):
Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, the acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, recently
held a meeting with Roza Otunbayeva, Head of UNAMA and her accompanying
delegation to discuss various issues, including the participation of
Afghanistan in upcoming Doha meeting along with several other topics.
In the
meeting, Minister Muttaqi announced that a delegation from the Islamic Emirate,
led by Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, will
participate in the upcoming Doha meeting. The delegation includes
representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Industry and
Commerce, the head of the Islamic Emirate’s Political Office in Doha, and Da
Afghanistan Bank.
Foreign
Minister Muttaqi added that the Islamic Emirate’s delegation is fully prepared
to address critical agenda items, such as combating narcotics, financial and
banking sanctions, and overcoming obstacles hindering private sector
development.
It is
worth noting that Roza Otunbayeva, head of UNAMA, highlighted the upcoming Doha
meeting as an excellent opportunity for both sides to exchange views and engage
in productive dialogue.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
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Thousands
of tourist visits Bamyan
June 27,
2024
BAMYAN:
A total of 92,000 domestic and 92 foreign tourists visited historical and
recreational sites of the country’s central prov ince of Bamyan, the provincial
Information and Culture Department said in a statement the other day. Director
of the provincial Information and Culture Mawlavi Safiullah Raeed said: “To
attract further tourists, we provide necessary tourism services and facilities
in the province.” “Providing security, having suitable weather in the summer
season, having natural and historical sights, and the historical reputation of
Bamyan has made the province one of the important tourism goals in the
country,” the statement quoted Raeed as saying. He said ancient sites and
natural resources of the province attract thousands of tourists from other
provinces and foreign countries annually. Bamyan is an ancient and historical
province and has great importance in terms of its beautiful natural landscape
and historical monuments, thousands of domestic and foreign tourists every year
arrive in the province to visit historical places and natural attractions of
the province. The Kabul Times
Source: thekabultimes.com
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New
Kabul City: A beacon of hope for Afghanistan’s future
June 27,
2024
New
Kabul City, a bold and ambitious urban development project, represents a
significant stride toward modernizing Afghanistan. This initiative aims to
alleviate the population pressure on Kabul, the country’s capital, and provide
a sustainable, well-planned urban environment for its citizens. Situated
approximately 10 kilometers east of Kabul, New Kabul City (NKC) is designed to
cover an area of 740 square kilometers, making it one of the largest urban
development projects in the region. The city is planned to accommodate around 3
million residents upon completion, easing the overpopulation crisis in Kabul,
which currently struggles with infrastructure challenges, traffic congestion,
and inadequate public services due to its rapid, unplanned growth. The project
is divided into several phases, with the initial phase focusing on essential
infrastructure and residential areas. Subsequent phases will introduce
commercial districts, industrial zones, and recreational facilities.
Emphasizing green spaces, water management, and renewable energy sources, NKC
aims to be a model of sustainable urban living. The project is expected to
generate numerous jobs, from construction to various service sectors, providing
a significant boost to the Afghan economy. NKC plans to feature stateof-the-art
infrastructure, including reliable water supply, waste management systems, and
energy-efficient buildings. A well-designed transportation network, including
wide roads, public transit systems, and pedestrian-friendly pathways, will
ensure smooth connectivity within the city and to Kabul. From affordable
housing to luxury residences, NKC will cater to various socio-economic groups,
promoting inclusivity. Educational institutions, healthcare facilities,
shopping centers, and recreational areas will enhance the quality of life for
residents. If successfully implemented, New Kabul City could serve as a
blueprint for urban development in post-conflict regions. It embodies the hope
for a brighter future, where modern infrastructure and sustainable living
standards can coexist with cultural heritage. The city’s development is a
testament to Afghanistan’s resilience and its aspirations for peace and
prosperity. IEA’s Role in the Implementation of NKC Since the Islamic Emirate,
took control of the country in August 2021, the dynamics of various development
projects, including the ambitious New Kabul City (NKC) project, have undergone
significant changes. The role of the Islamic Emirate in implementing this
project is multifaceted, involving governance, security, funding, and regional
and international relations. The Islamic Emirate has emphasized its commitment
to economic development and infrastructure projects. It has articulated a
vision for rebuilding Afghanistan, which includes the continuation and
completion of large-scale projects like NKC. Establishing a clear policy
framework is critical. The government integrates NKC into its national
development strategy, ensuring it aligns with broader economic and social
goals. A stable and transparent regulatory environment is essential to attract
both domestic and international investors. The Islamic Emirate provides clear
guidelines and streamline bureaucratic processes to facilitate smooth project
implementation. Efforts to curb corruption and ensure accountability in project
management by Islamic Emirate is another plus point that plays a vital role in
maintaining investor confidence. The Islamic Emirate guarantees the safety of
construction sites, workers, and future residents to maintain the project’s
momentum. In addition, establishing secure zones around NKC is also a priority
of the ruling system which will help in creating a stable environment conducive
to development. Securing funding for NKC is a must priority. The Islamic
Emirate explores various funding avenues, including state resources,
international aid, and private investment. Moreover, efforts are underway to
promote NKC as an attractive investment opportunity, potentially through
incentives like tax breaks and simplified regulations, which will pave the way
to attract foreign direct investment. Engaging with international donors and
financial institutions is crucial. Despite geopolitical challenges, the Islamic
Emirate fosters relationships that can lead to financial support for NKC. The
Islamic Emirate works to collaborate with neighboring countries and regional
powers in terms of garnering investment and technical expertise for the smooth
implementation of this mega project. Given resource constraints, a phased
approach to NKC’s development is pragmatic. The Islamic Emirate prioritizes key
infrastructure and residential areas in the initial stages. Efficient project
management practices are essential to ensure timely completion of each phase.
Encouraging PPPs can leverage private sector efficiency and innovation. The
Islamic Emirate strives to create frameworks that facilitate such
collaborations. Moreover, the ruling system focuses on maintaining transparency
in these partnerships in order to avoid misuse of funds, aimed at building
trust among investors. NKC caters to various socio-economic groups, ensuring
affordable housing and access to basic services for all segments of society.
The Islamic Emirate’s policies reflect this inclusivity. In addition, the
current government is seeking opportunities to provide employment through the
project which will significantly benefit the local economy and reduce poverty.
Engaging with local communities and stakeholders in planning and implementation
ensures that the project meets the needs and expectations of the population.
The Islamic Emirate works to create environment conducive for community
involvement which will foster a sense of ownership and responsibility toward
the city’s development. The role of the Islamic Emirate in the implementation
of New Kabul City is crucial and complex. Effective governance, strategic
planning, and international cooperation are essential components that will
determine the fate of this ambitious project. If managed well, NKC has the
potential to become a symbol of Afghanistan’s progress and resilience,
providing a modern, sustainable urban environment for millions of its citizens.
In conclusion, New Kabul City is more than just an urban development project;
it is a symbol of Afghanistan’s ambition to rebuild and thrive. Its success
will depend on overcoming significant challenges, but the potential rewards for
the Afghan people and the broader region are immense.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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Sports
cause solidarity and bring happiness among Afghans
June 27,
2024
In
recent years, sports have considerably developed in Afghanistan, causing
happiness among the people. Sports result not only in solidarity among Afghans
but solidarity among nations of the world. Afghans have always cheered on their
internationally competitive sports games and showed solidarity inside and
outside of the country. Among sports games, cricket gives Afghans hope. Afghans
cheer when the Afghanistan national cricket team beat another team in
international cricket matches. Cricket is considered as the only source of
happiness for Afghans. Afghans have always cel ebrated any cricket win widely
inside and outside the country. This time, Afghans celebrated their team’s
cricketing victory over Bangladesh at the T20 World Cup with full happiness. With
beating Bangladesh at the T20 World Cup, Afghanistan reached the semi-finals
for the first time in cricket’s history. The win has given Afghans so much
hope. In Afghanistan, cricket represents a rare moment of happiness for the
country. It was a great victory for the Afghans when their cricket team reached
the first T20 World Cup semi-finals. With this win, Afghans flooded the
country’s streets in their thousands on Tuesday to rejoice in their men’s
cricket team reaching the T20 World Cup semi-finals for the first time.
Celebrations erupted throughout the country as people in Kabul, Khost,
Jalalabad and beyond enjoyed the dramatic victory over Bangladesh. The event
has given reason for hope for the Afghan youth who were previously
disappointed. Cricket represents a rare source of comfort for many Afghans and
brings happiness and solidarity among the people of all tribes in the country.
The Tuesday victory represents a welcome respite for the country where people
showed unprecedented happiness. The Islamic Emirate’s Acting Foreign Minister
Mawlavi Amir Khan Muttaqi seized the moment to call the cricket team’s captain
Rashid Khan and offer his congratulations. “Your victory has made everyone
happy, you are a great inspiration for the youth,” he said. After Afghanistan
beat Bangladesh by a nervy eight runs in St. Vincent in the Caribbean, most
Afghans could not find words to explain their happiness at the moment as they
expressed their feelings by sharing their team’s photos on various social media
platforms, mostly Facebook and X. Afghans are so proud of their national team
as they have created such a happy moment for all Afghans and now all are
optimistic that the team will make it to the final. It is worth mentioning that
the first recorded cricket match in Afghanistan took place in 1839 when
imperial British troops took a break from the Anglo-Afghan War to crack leather
on willow in Kabul. However, it wasn’t until the mid-1990s that cricket really
began to take root in Afghanistan, cultivated by Afghans who had been in
refugee camps in Pakistan and returned to their birthplace with a passion for
the game. The Afghan Cricket Board (ACB) was set up in 1995, the year before
the Islamic Emirate began its first stint in power. The national team was
established in 2001 and became a member of the International Cricket Council
(ICC) in 2017. Mashal Noori
Source: thekabultimes.com
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WFP to
assists only one million in Afghanistan due to financial crisis
June 26,
2024
The
World Food Programme in Afghanistan has announced that due to budget
constraints and financial crises, it may only be able to distribute food to one
million people until October 2024.
The
organization stressed that currently, 12 million people in Afghanistan require
assistance to survive.
On
Wednesday, June 26th, this UN-affiliated agency stated an urgent need for
immediate assistance to aid the people.
The
World Food Programme has highlighted that over 90% of Afghans lack enough food.
They warned that hunger leads to families’ collapse, forcing some to sell their
household belongings to survive.
The dire
humanitarian situation in Afghanistan has been exacerbated by the forced
deportation of Afghan refugees from neighboring countries.
Pakistan
and Iran, two significant host countries for Afghan refugees, have increased
efforts to repatriate them amid regional security concerns and strained
resources. This has resulted in a humanitarian crisis as many Afghan refugees
face uncertain futures and inadequate support upon returning to Afghanistan.
The
forced returns have put immense pressure on Afghanistan’s already fragile
infrastructure and limited capacity to provide essential services to returnees.
With the ongoing conflict and economic instability, the situation is dire for
both internally displaced persons and returning refugees who lack access to
basic necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare.
The
international community has been urged to step up humanitarian aid and support
mechanisms to alleviate the suffering of Afghan civilians, ensuring that
adequate resources are available to address the immediate needs and long-term
challenges facing the country.
Source: khaama.com
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Vienna
Conference calls for responsible UN action on Afghanistan
June 26,
2024
Participants
of the fourth Vienna conference criticized the announcement made today, June
26th, regarding the upcoming Doha conference and urged the United Nations to
handle this matter responsibly.
They
criticized the upcoming third Doha conference, scheduled for June 30th to July
1st, labeling it as a unilateral meeting organized according to the Taliban’s
representatives.
Furthermore,
the agenda of the third Doha conference indicates that the United Nations has
departed from its primary mission in this conference, and the organization
should not engage in talks with the Taliban as representatives of the people of
Afghanistan.
Anarkali
Honaryar, a former member of the Afghan Senate, addressed the Doha conference
in her speech at the Vienna meeting today, stating, “The United Nations has
organized this conference, and it must include women, civil society, political
forces, and the people of Afghanistan, including the Taliban, in every session,
as dialogue, in my opinion, is the only solution for Afghanistan.”
Ahmad
Massoud, leader of the anti-Taliban group known as the National Resistance
Front of Afghanistan, also emphasized in the concluding speech of the
conference that the purpose of holding such meetings is to strive to map out a
way out of Afghanistan’s crises.
He
stated that Afghanistan is no longer a priority on the world stage, and it is
time for Afghans themselves to make final efforts to pull their country out of
the crisis.
During
discussions in the past day’s fourth Vienna conference, two major views were
debated. Some participants stressed the final efforts to resume intra-Afghan
talks and negotiations as the sole solution, while others, alongside
negotiations, also pressed for military options.
However,
Mohammad Moheqiq, one of the former jihadist leaders, said in his speech today
at this meeting, “It is time for them {Taliban} not to listen to the truth and
peace talk; we have been waiting for three years for them to listen to the
world and countries for peace, but they did not.”
The
United Nations and the Taliban government have yet to comment on the statements
of the participants of the fourth Vienna conference. But before that, Zakir
Jalali, head of the third branch of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the
Taliban government, implicitly referred to the fourth Vienna conference and
called its participants a “wandering assembly.”
So far,
three rounds of these conferences have been held in Vienna, with the presence
of some politicians from the former republican system and some activists from
the capital of Austria.
The
first Vienna conference was held in September 2022, the second in April 2023,
and the third in December 2023.
Amidst a
dire humanitarian and human rights crisis in Afghanistan, the Vienna Conference
concluded with participants urging the United Nations to act responsibly
towards the country’s ongoing challenges.
They
emphasized the urgent need for international cooperation and support to address
the worsening situation, including severe restrictions on women’s rights and
escalating security concerns.
The
participants highlighted the critical importance of humanitarian aid and
protection of human rights in Afghanistan, calling for immediate action to
alleviate suffering and uphold fundamental freedoms amidst the escalating
crisis.
Source: khaama.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.khaama.com/vienna-conference-calls-for-responsible-un-action-on-afghanistan/
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Pakistani
UN envoy reiterates focus on Afghan refugee deportations
June 26,
2024
Amid the
daily deportation of Afghan migrants from Pakistan, Munir Akram, Pakistan’s UN
representative, emphasized the continuation of expelling illegal migrants from
the country.
Munir
Akram made these remarks at the Economic and Social Council of the United
Nations (ECOSOC).
Mr.
Akram hoped that another 1.5 million registered Afghan migrants would also be
returned to their country.
Earlier,
Amnesty International had stated in response to the continued mass expulsion of
Afghan migrants from Pakistan that Islamabad must respect asylum seekers’
rights under international law and stop this process.
The
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees database shows that approximately
2.18 million Afghan migrants have documentation and live in Pakistan, including
about 1.3 million with Proof of Registration (PoR) cards and over 880,000 with
Temporary Stay Permits (TVC).
Pakistan’s
representative reiterated the daily expulsion of Afghan migrants once again,
with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reporting the return of thousands of
Afghan migrants from Pakistan every day.
The dire
humanitarian situation of Afghan refugees remains critical amid the ongoing
crisis in Afghanistan, exacerbated by political instability, economic
challenges, and insecurity.
Many
Afghan refugees in Pakistan face uncertain futures, lacking access to basic
services such as healthcare and education, while international aid remains
inadequate to address their needs.
The
humanitarian community continues to call for greater international support and
assistance to alleviate the suffering of Afghan refugees and address the
humanitarian crisis effectively.
Source: khaama.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.khaama.com/pakistani-un-envoy-reiterates-focus-on-afghan-refugee-deportations/
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/hate-speech-india-us-secretary-state/d/132588