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Islamic World News ( 26 Feb 2024, NewAgeIslam.Com)

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Hindu Prayers To Continue In Gyanvapi "Vyas Tehkhana", Allahabad HC Rejects Mosque Management Petition

New Age Islam News Bureau

26 February 2024

 

Police personnel keep vigil at the Gyanvapi Mosque Complex during the Friday Prayers, in Varanasi. File | Photo Credit: ANI

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·         Hindu Prayers To Continue In Gyanvapi "Vyas Tehkhana", Allahabad HC Rejects Mosque Management Petition

·         Anti-Islam Activist, Salwan Momika, A Refugee From Iraq, Burns Quran In Swedish Demonstration

·         Catholic Church During Sunday Mass Attack Leaves More Than Dozen Dead In Burkina Faso: Vicar

·         US Air Force Member Sets Self On Fire As Protest Against 'Genocide' In Palestine

·         Saudi Arabia: Prophet’s Mosque Conducting Over 35 Weekly Oud Tours For Luxurious Experience In Aroma And Serenity

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India

·         Shankaracharya’s Disciples Destroyed More Buddhist Stupas Than Aurangzeb: Samajwadi Party

·         Anti-Muslim Hate Speech Soars In India, Research Group SaysIsrael-Gaza War Played A Key Role

·         All India Muslim Jamaat chief appeals Muslims to not oppose PM Modi, says parties exploiting them in the name of secularism

·         Ex-envoy Ajay Bisaria at Idea Exchange: ‘India should engage with Pakistan to consolidate gains in curbing terrorism’

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Europe

·         Demonstrations Across Spain Call For Arms Embargo On Israel

·         Muslim Council of Britain responds to closure of Inter Faith Network

·         Ex-Brazil president seen waving Israeli flag as hundreds of thousands gather in support

·         Islamist threats led to chaos in Commons during Gaza vote, says Deputy PM

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Africa

·         447 Borno families displaced by B’Haram resettled – Zulum

·         Economic hardship: Our problem not from God – Shehu Sani

·         DSS operatives take over court as Kanu’s trial resumes

·         Algeria inaugurates Africa's largest mosque: Great Mosque of Algiers

·         Sudan authorities block cross-border aid to stricken Darfur

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North America

·         US says talks came to 'understanding' on hostages, possible Gaza ceasefire

·         CAIR Releases Data Indicating Over 2 Million American Muslim Voters

·         CAIR Condemns Death of Palestinian Baby from Israel-Imposed Starvation, Israeli Torture of Gaza Doctor

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Arab World

·         OIC to expose Israeli war crimes in Gaza, establishes monitoring units

·         Waad campaign provides more than 800,000 training opportunities for Saudis

·         Over 6m worshippers flock to Prophet’s Mosque in one week

·         Saudi Arabia releases rules for parents performing Umrah with children

·         Saudi Arabia's Falconry Heritage Celebrated on Founding Day

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Mideast

·         Iran's Khamenei On Gaza: Islam Will Overcome 'Crooked' Western Civilization

·         Gaza Deal Won’t Affect Israel’s Hezbollah Fight: Israel Defence Minister

·         Turkish lawmakers in The Hague to back Turkish statement at ICJ

·         Israeli military proposes ‘plan for evacuating’ Gaza civilians

·         Hezbollah hits Israeli military positions in fresh strikes

·         Jordan king warns of continuing Gaza war during Ramadan

·         Al-Sudani expresses congratulations to Iraqi people, Islamic world on Mid-Sha'ban

·         Israeli attacks continue as Gaza death toll set to pass 30,000

·         Egypt sets up a second camp for displaced Palestinians in Gaza’s Khan Younis

·         ‘Man-made’ Gaza famine can still be avoided, says UN agency

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Pakistan

·         Ayaz Sadiq, Leader Of PML-N Urges All Political Parties To Work Together In Resolving Challenges

·         Cipher, Toshakhana Cases: IHC Takes Up Imran, Bushra’s Pleas Today

·         PPP and ‘N’ yet to name Balochistan CM, speaker

·         Unity needed for economic stability: Shehbaz

·         Naqvi opens new museum in Badshahi mosque

·         SIC boycotts Punjab Assembly session as voting begins to elect chief minister

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South Asia

·         Combat Terrorism, Corruption And Drug Abuse, PMSheikh Hasina Tells Local Govt Officials

·         UNSC Expected to Discuss UN Envoy for Afghanistan on Monday

·         Over 100 Afghan migrants detained by Turkish Coast Guard en route to Greece

·         Deputy FM: No Need for UN Envoy When UNAMA Active

·         Ministry of Martyrs and Disabled Affairs Signs MoU with Charity Organization for Economic Support of Heirs of Martyrs

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Southeast Asia

·         "Indonesia Run For Palestine": Ministry Commends Thousands Of Runners Expressing Support To Palestine

·         Surging wave of global condemnation against Israeli atrocities - Mohamad

·         Malaysia should stand out at international level to support peace and combat terrorism - Sultan Ibrahim

·         VP leaving for New Zealand for halal diplomacy to global community

·         Agong calls on govt to formulate policy to strengthen unity, harmony

Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau

URL:   https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/hindu-prayers-gyanvapi-mosque/d/131803

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Hindu Prayers To Continue In Gyanvapi "Vyas Tehkhana", Allahabad HCRejects Mosque Management Petition

 

Police personnel keep vigil at the Gyanvapi Mosque Complex during the Friday Prayers, in Varanasi. File | Photo Credit: ANI

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 26.02.24

Worship will continue in the southern cellar of the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi, the Allahabad High Court said on Monday while dismissing an appeal that had challenged the district court's order to this effect.

Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal dismissed the mosque management committee's appeal that had challenged the Varanasi district court's order allowing "puja" to be performed in the "Vyas Tehkhana" or southern cellar of the mosque.

The high court dismissed two appeals filed by the Anjuman Intezamia Mosque Committee challenging the district judge's January 17 order that appointed the district magistrate as the receiver of the "Vyas Tehkhana" and January 31 order by which he allowed "puja" to be performed there.

The high court said worship in the "Vyas Tehkhana" will continue.

Dismissing the appeals, Justice Agarwal said, "After going through the entire records of the case and considering the arguments of the parties concerned, the court did not find any ground to interfere in the judgment passed by the district judge on January 17, appointing the Varanasi district magistrate as the receiver of the property, as well as the order dated January 31 by which the district court permitted puja in the Tehkhana." The high court judge had reserved his verdict in the matter on February 15 after hearing the counsel for the parties.

The Anjuman Intezamia Mosque Committee manages the affairs of the Gyanvapi mosque. It moved the high court on February 2, hours after the Supreme Court refused to hear its plea against the district court order and asked it to approach the high court.

The district court ruled on January 31 that a Hindu priest can perform prayers before the idols in the southern cellar of the mosque.

The prayers are now being conducted by a "pujari" nominated by the Kashi Vishwanath temple trust and the petitioner, who has claimed that his grandfather offered puja in the cellar till December 1993.

The district court had directed the local administration to make arrangements within seven days for prayers in the cellar. This would have involved "proper arrangements" with metal barricades at the complex.

A survey conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on the court's order had suggested that the mosque was constructed during Mughal emperor Aurangzeb's rule over the remains of a Hindu temple.

The January 31 order was delivered on the plea of Shailendra Kumar Pathak, who had claimed that his maternal grandfather, priest Somnath Vyas, offered prayers in the cellar till December 1993.

He had said the "puja" was stopped during the tenure of then Uttar Pradesh chief minister Mulayam Singh Yadav after the Babri masjid in Ayodhya was demolished on December 6, 1992.

During the hearing, the Muslim side to the dispute had contested the petitioner's version. It had said no idols existed in the cellar and hence, there was no question of prayers being offered there till 1993.

The Muslim side had also countered the petitioner's claim that the basement was under his grandfather's control.

The petitioner had claimed that his family had the control of the cellar even during the British rule.

In an earlier order on January 17, the Varanasi court had directed the district magistrate to take charge of the cellar, but not given any directions then on the right to offer prayers there.

Source: telegraphindia.com

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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/hindu-prayers-to-continue-in-gyanvapi-cellar-allahabad-high-court-rejects-petition-challenging-varanasi-court-order/cid/2003001

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Anti-Islam Activist, Salwan Momika, A Refugee From Iraq, Burns Quran In Swedish Demonstration

 

Protestor Salwan Momika, who planned to burn a copy of Koran and the Iraqi flag, is escorted by police to a location outside the Iraqi embassy, in Stockholm, Sweden July 20, 2023

(Photo credit: TT News Agency/Caisa Rasmussen via REUTERS)

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FEBRUARY 25, 2024

Salwan Momika, a refugee from Iraq who has been publicly critical of Islam, filmed himself on Sunday burning pages of the Quran and shared the footage on his X account.

“During every demonstration I hold, I light my cigarette with a leaf of the Qur’an. They are angry,” Momika published with footage of the burning.

In another post, Momika revealed police detained a man from trying to approach him. “Someone tried to sneak towards me, but the police did the job,” he commented.

Footage of the incident showed two officers on the floor with a man in a space sectioned off by tape. Surrounding the incident were crowds yelling.

In a later social media post, assumedly related to his demonstration, Momika wrote “My battle with Islam is a moral human battle, a battle of civilization and existence, a battle of good against evil, a battle of knowledge against ignorance.”

Momika claimed that Sweden had withdrawn his political asylum status and that he would be returned to Iraq where he faced torture and execution. He stated that his protests were carried out within Swedish law and with the consent and knowledge of Swedish authorities. He also accused that Iraq, Sweden, and Turkey had come to a secret agreement in exchange for his return and that bribes had potentially been involved in Sweden’s decision to revoke his asylum status.

In addition to burning the Quran, Momika’s social media profile includes images of the Israeli flag. Normalization between Iraqis and Israel is forbidden by Iraqi law.

Sweden raises terror alerts

In August, Sweden raised its terrorism alert to the second-highest level and warned of an increase in threats against Swedes at home and abroad after Quran burnings outraged Muslims and triggered threats from jihadists.

The police denied several applications earlier this year for protests that were set to include burning the Quran, citing security concerns, but courts have since overturned the police's decisions, saying such acts are protected by Sweden's far-reaching freedom of speech laws.

Source: jpost.com

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https://www.jpost.com/international/article-788801

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Catholic Church During Sunday Mass Attack Leaves More Than Dozen Dead In Burkina Faso: Vicar

 

Sunday mass in a Catholic church in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, about 200 miles from where the atrocity on Sunday took place. Photograph: Godong/Universal Images Group/Getty Images

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February 26, 2024

At least 15 civilians were killed and two others injured during a "terrorist" attack on a Catholic church during Sunday mass in northern Burkina Faso, a senior church official has said.

"We bring to your attention a terrorist attack which the Catholic community of Essakane village was the victim of today, February 25, while they were gathered for Sunday prayer," the vicar of the Dori diocese, Jean-Pierre Sawadogo, said in a statement sent to AFP on Sunday.

The provisional toll was 15 killed and two wounded, he added.

Calling for peace and security in Burkina Faso, Sawadogo denounced "those who continue to wreak death and desolation in our country".

This is just the latest in a series of atrocities blamed on militant groups active in the region, some of which have targeted Christian churches while others have involved the abduction of clergy.

Burkina Faso is part of the vast Sahel region, which has been locked in a battle against rising violent extremism since Libya's civil war in 2011.

The insurgency spilled over into Burkina Faso and Niger from 2015..

Around 20,000 people in Burkina Faso have been killed in that violence, while over two million have been displaced.

Source: trtworld.com

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https://www.trtworld.com/africa/church-attack-leaves-more-than-dozen-dead-in-burkina-faso-vicar-17125012

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US Air Force Member Sets Self On Fire As Protest Against 'Genocide' In Palestine

 

Aaron Bushnell walking towards the gate of the Israeli embassy [Screengrab/Al Jazeera]

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February 26, 2024

A United States Air Force member set himself on fire in front of the Israeli Embassy in Washington, DC, on Sunday, shouting "Free Palestine," CNN reported.

According to reports, the man, identified as Aaron Bushnell, was an active member of the US Air Force.

As per witnesses, he was live streaming on the social media platform Twitch, and after walking in on the spot, he set his phone down and doused himself in a fluid, setting it alight, declaring that he "will no longer be complicit in genocide," adding that what he is about to do is nothing in comparison to the suffering of Palestinians.

The US Air Force spokesman, Rose Riley, has confirmed the incident, saying, "I can confirm an active-duty airman was involved in today's incident."

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) reported that Bushnell is in serious condition and has been taken to the hospital. It shared that MPD, along with the Secret Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, will be looking into the matter.

The embassy has been the focus of protests by pro-Palestinian demonstrators calling for a ceasefire to the Israeli military genocide in Gaza, in which the death toll has reportedly passed 30,000 this week.

Source: thenews.com.pk

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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1161691-us-air-force-member-sets-self-on-fire-as-protest-against-genocide-in-palestine

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Saudi Arabia: Prophet’s Mosque Conducting Over 35 Weekly Oud Tours For Luxurious Experience In Aroma And Serenity

 

An array of special fragrances like amber, musk, and oud is used at the Prophet's Mosque in Saudi Arabia during Ramadan.

Image Credit: SPA file

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 February 25, 2024

Dubai: The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has revealed that it is conducting more than 35 weekly oud tours, offering visitors to the Prophet’s Mosque a luxurious sensory experience. Through the infusion of over a kilo of high-quality natural oud and 120 grams of pure oud oil, these tours aim to create an atmosphere of tranquillity and spirituality for worshippers and guests.

In addition to these tours, the General Authority is committed to enhancing its services at the Prophet’s Mosque to accommodate the needs of worshippers around the clock.

This includes ongoing sterilisation and cleaning operations across vast areas within the mosque and its surrounding squares, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for worshippers during the five daily prayers.

Hundreds of workers are engaged in these cleaning and disinfection programmes, employing a combination of manual and mechanical equipment to sanitise all parts of the mosque, including its squares and doors.

Moreover, a dedicated team cleans approximately 20,000 carpets per day, particularly during peak hours and on Fridays.

To further enhance cleanliness and fragrance within the mosque, air propulsion devices are deployed at the entrances to the parking lots leading to the mosque’s squares.

Following the cleaning and disinfection processes, a fragrance programme is implemented throughout the mosque, welcoming worshippers with a serene ambiance as they perform their rituals in areas such as Al Rawdah Al Sharifa and corridors.

Source: gulfnews.com

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https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/saudi/saudi-arabia-prophets-mosque-conducting-over-35-weekly-oud-tours-for-luxurious-experience-in-aroma-and-serenity-1.101270148

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India

 

Shankaracharya’s Disciples Destroyed More Buddhist Stupas Than Aurangzeb: Samajwadi Party

Ramgopal Yadav

26.02.24

The disciples of Adi Shankaracharya were responsible for demolishing significantly more Buddhist stupas than the number of temples destroyed by Aurangzeb, said Prof. Ramgopal Yadav, the National Chief General Secretary of SP while addressing  gatherings commemorating Sant Ravidas Jayanti.

While not explicitly naming the BJP, he accused those in power of encroaching upon the fundamental rights of the populace.

Yadav highlighted the historical injustices within Hinduism, noting that Lord Buddha worked to rectify these, yet his stupas faced widespread destruction. He cautioned against forgetting this history, particularly in light of the current ruling powers. He emphasized the efforts of Ravidasji and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in combating such injustices and ensuring constitutional safeguards for marginalized communities. However, he lamented that the present administration is eroding these rights through legislative measures contradicting the constitution.

Furthermore, Yadav criticized the undue influence exerted by the authorities in Delhi, asserting that it has stifled the judiciary and instilled fear, leading to widespread silence. He attributed his own presence and the attainment of justice by many to Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy of reservation policies, which he accused the current regime of dismantling, particularly evident in the outsourcing and contracting of lower-level jobs.

Praising the achievements of the SP government, Yadav came down heavily on both central and state governments. The program was presided over by Prem Singh Jatav, with notable attendees including Santosh Yadav, Vijendra Singh Contractor, Gaurav Yadav, Biri Singh Pradhan, Shailendra Singh Titu, Ravindra Singh Jatav, Narendra Singh Suman, Kuldeep Suman, and Rahul Yadav.

Source: muslimmirror.com

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https://muslimmirror.com/eng/shankaracharyas-disciples-destroyed-more-buddhist-stupas-than-aurangzeb-ramgopal-yadav/

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Anti-Muslim Hate Speech Soars In India, Research Group SaysIsrael-Gaza War Played A Key Role

 February 26, 2024

Anti-Muslim hate speech in India rose by 62% in the second half of 2023 compared to the first six months of the year, a Washington-based research group said on Monday, adding the Israel-Gaza war played a key role in the last three months.

India Hate Lab documented 668 hate speech incidents targeting Muslims in 2023, 255 of which occurred in the first half of the year, while 413 took place in the last six months of 2023, the research group said in a report released Monday.

About 75%, or 498, of those incidents took place in states governed by the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, according to the report.

The states of Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh accounted for the most hate speech.

Between Oct. 7 – when Hamas attacked Israel, sparking the conflict in the Gaza Strip as Israel retaliated – and Dec. 31, there were 41 incidents of hate speech against Indian Muslims that mentioned the war, the report added. It accounted for about 20% of hate speech in the last three months of 2023.

The research group said it used the United Nations’ definition of hate speech – prejudiced or discriminatory language towards an individual or group based on attributes including religion, ethnicity, nationality, race or gender.

Rights groups have alleged mistreatment of Muslims under Modi, who became prime

minister in 2014 and is widely expected to retain power after the 2024 elections. – Reuters

Source: ariananews.af

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https://www.ariananews.af/anti-muslim-hate-speech-soars-in-india-research-group-says/

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All India Muslim Jamaat chief appeals Muslims to not oppose PM Modi, says parties exploiting them in the name of secularism

 February 26, 2024

National president of All India Muslim Jamaat, Maulana Shahabuddin Razvin, has appealed to Muslims to not oppose Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. In a viral video, Maulana Mufti Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi can be seen saying that political situation is changing in the country and advised all Muslims in the country not to oppose the Prime Minister. He was speaking during a conference held in Ambikapur district of Chhattisgarh.

Also hitting out at secular parties, Mufti Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi said that political parties claiming to be secular have only put the responsibility of opposing Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the shoulders of Muslims. This keeps Muslims always on the sidelines, while secular parties and their representatives benefit politically, he said in the video.

Must Leave Opposition to PM Modi: Mufti Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi

Shahabuddin Razvi said that the Muslims of the country will have to stop opposing Prime Minister Modi and by doing so, they can also dispel the illusion of secular parties. Muslims should not oppose Prime Minister Modi at all in the Lok Sabha elections to be held after two months.

He said that that every political party uses Muslims in elections in the name of secularism. Muslims, without thinking, start opposing Prime Minister Modi by raising the flag and banner of secularism. Muslims unknowingly become the pawns of political parties, and then it starts to feel like only Muslims are against Modi, while everyone else is in support of Modi.

The national president of the All India Muslim Jamaat said that neither have Muslims gained any benefit from opposition nor is there any hope of benefit in the future. Instead, a situation of confrontation has arisen between Hindus and Muslims, which is causing a lot of damage to Indian society.

India's Political Situation has Changed

In the religious conference, the Bareilvi Maulana said that the Muslim society should move forward with positive thinking. He said that the political situation in India has changed very rapidly, expectations of more changes can be made. In such a situation, looking at the political aspects, Muslims should think about their future.

Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com

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

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/elections/lok-sabha/india/all-india-muslim-jamaat-chief-appeals-muslims-to-not-oppose-pm-modi-says-parties-exploiting-them-in-the-name-of-secularism/articleshow/108001205.cms

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Ex-envoy Ajay Bisaria at Idea Exchange: ‘India should engage with Pakistan to consolidate gains in curbing terrorism’

 February 26, 2024

Shubhajit Roy: There are two revelations in the book. One concerns the1999-2004 period, when you were in the PMO and had been part of conversations with the then Prime Minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and then National Security Advisor Brajesh Mishra. The second one was about your tenure as high commissioner in Islamabad, which was cut short. How different have these two regimes been in their approach to Pakistan?

Between 1999 and 2004, I was, maybe, a fly on the wall, and more recently was one of the actors. There hasn’t been a dramatic shift but an organic evolution of a policy. The dominant theme in the Vajpayee years was dealing with terrorism. In 1998 we had gone nuclear and Vajpayee was deeply conscious of that nuclear responsibility. At that time it wasn’t really clear to us what Pakistan’s red lines were. So that was a factor in the policy-making on Pakistan.

Yet terrorism was a huge challenge. 9/11, the Kandahar hijack and the December 13 attack on the Parliament had happened. That dilemma of how to deal with terrorism was what the Modi government faced as soon as it took over in 2014. Modi wanted to do exactly what Vajpayee wanted, which is to untie the knot. In his initial two years, Modi met his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif five times. And yet, the deal breaker in both cases was terrorism like it was with Kargil and the attack on Parliament. But with surgical strikes in 2016 and air strike in 2019, we had a better answer for terrorism in the sub-conventional space. In this space, the debate was about could we escalate it to conventional warfare? We have evolved with a few new inventions in dealing with terrorism.

Shubhajit Roy: Many would argue that the hardline approach may have put India in a box…

Well, I would argue that there’s a smart way out of that dilemma. Because, “no talks with terror” is ambiguous. There could be a two-track policy. On terrorism, now the benchmark is that a Pulwama gets a Balakot or a Balakot-plus kind of response from India, right? And it will be incumbent on any future government to factor this in. But that doesn’t preclude engagement. In my book, I advocate a two-track policy of being tough on terror — delegitimising and countering terrorism accompanied by a calibrated and flexible engagement. Pakistan has been incoherent in the last few years with its political crises. If we had a conversation, who would we have it with? But if it becomes more coherent with an election, possibly have a same-page government, then it is time for India to engage. It should not have a policy of strategic neglect of Pakistan but engage with it. There is a way out. It’s a combination of being tough on terror, being willing to use kinetic means of responding to terror, but at the same time, being flexible about engagement.

Former Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria

Shubhajit Roy: Your comments on the elections in Pakistan and the Army being in saddle.

The Army has certainly been challenged. There are multiple ways of framing this election. At one level, it was a contest between the old and the new Pakistan. The old Pakistan was run by the Army with civilians trying to curry favour with it. The new Pakistan is young, aspirational with 50 per cent of the population under the age of 30 and united under a mascot called Imran Khan. This new constituency has expressed itself in the ballot box. So the outcome was completely predictable.

With surgical strikes in 2016 and the air strike in 2019, India had a better answer for terrorism in the sub-conventional space. Our policy has evolved with a few new inventions in dealing with terrorism

But the process was surprising because the Army goofed up enough to let it be known that the people’s will was in a completely different direction. It was kind of two-thirds, a major wave in favour of Imran Khan. The election template was the same for a long time — Civilian politicians out of favour put in jail, quietly going away, then doing a deal and coming back. The Army’s latest favourite horse was made to win with pre-election engineering, election engineering, post election engineering. Two things changed in Pakistan from 2018. One was the economic crisis arising from accumulated sins of the past, with 37 per cent inflation. The second was a political crisis that arose with the US exit of Afghanistan in 2021 and the Tehreek-e-Taliban there posing a security threat. The Army’s Project Imran became so successful that when the project was divorced from Imran, the people weren’t willing to divorce him. He was already charismatic and popular. So the two-thirds majority anti-Army wave coalesced with a strong protest vote and popular disaffection. Then there was a sympathy wave since Imran was in jail. For the Army, Imran should have disappeared. But he didn’t despite the largescale rigging.

Even Zulfiqar Bhutto had rigged elections in 1977 but there was a lot of protest and disaffection on the streets, and he declared martial law. General Zia ul-Haq took over, Bhutto was hanged and Haq took a decade to conduct elections he had promised in 90 days. In the 1970s, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman won from jail, exactly like Imran Khan, in east Pakistan and led to the creation of Bangladesh.

Former Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria

This scenario is what the Army fears, a breakup of the country because of the Pashtun and Baloch movements. If the Army takes over, Pakistan would lose its equity with the West, including IMF loans. So the Army could go for a hybrid government. It had one with Imran and with Shehbaz Sharif for 16 months. Going forward, it will hope that this government goes the usual Purana Pakistan route, outsourcing foreign and security policy to the Army, doing what it’s told and fixing the economy.

Shubhajit Roy: What happens to the future of Imran Khan and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) because there are still 93 candidates backed by him?

The Independents have done an alliance with a smaller party, the Sunni Ittehad Council, hoping somehow to get proportionate representation but they still don’t make the numbers. They will hope that if there’s disaffection, the Army would get Imran back in play if it wants to rotate its civilian leadership. This group is a political troublemaker in this hybrid situation.

The Army’s Project Imran became so successful that when the project was divorced from Imran, the people weren’t willing to divorce him. So the two-thirds majority anti-Army wave coalesced with a strong protest vote

Rakesh Sinha: If this Army-backed coalition in Pakistan stabilises a little, do you see India reaching out?

There is reason for cautious optimism on that front. Many objective factors favour a rapprochement. One, it is the Sharifs in control and not Imran who was too anti-India. Two, elections are being held in both countries and have been historically a reason for a fresh look at the relationship. Three, the ceasefire of 2021 has held. Four, we haven’t had spectacular acts of terrorism. The new Pakistan government will have to internally resolve its issue of not talking to India until Article 370 is reversed. That is their problem. As for sending in high commissioners, I don’t see that happening before India’s elections. There could be some positivity, but this is a time for some or quiet conversations. It is in India’s interest to pursue the gains we’ve had on the reduction in terrorism front by doing that. Particularly, it would be important for India to see that anything that comes from the civilians is triangulated with the Army.

Shubhajit Roy: In your book, you mention about how Pakistan’s ISI passed on intelligence to India through you, which turned out to be correct. Asim Munir was the ISI chief then.

Well, the jury is out on Asim Munir (now Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan). He hasn’t put his cards on the table although a Munir doctrine was published. But institutionally, the Army sees the merit in the doctrine of its former chief Qamar Bajwa in making good with Pakistan’s neighbours and focussing on geoeconomics, given its economic collapse. We saw some of these conversations in the leaks that came out after Bajwa retired. One of them was about serious conversation and proposals on freezing the Kashmir issue for 20 years and talking about trade. The onus is equally on Pakistan to resolve its problem because Imran had painted it in a corner by saying linking talks to reversal of Article 370.

Shubhajit Roy: What brief did Prime Minister Modi give you before you went to Pakistan? Also you were asked to use “local creativity” while having conversations with the Pakistan Army.

Modi didn’t hesitate much, he just said, Bharat hameshashaantikeliyekhadahai. That India stands for peace, and we expect peace in return. This was 2017. Despite the lows in the relationship, there was always room for thinking and openness in the political leadership to look at diplomatic options. “Local creativity” meant I didn’t have the mandate to get photographed talking to the Army. But I had the option of using proxies and talking to different people who were connected to officials in having those conversations. So that is what I did.

Having made his point on Ukraine, Putin is now looking for a way out. India should step in as a peacemaker, as a non-European, non-Western power that can help with a solution that has equities on both sides

Shubhajit Roy: How was your first meeting with Imran Khan, four days after he was elected Prime Minister?

I had a very positive meeting. I presented a bat signed by the Indian cricket team. He had not got a full majority of 134 seats and he told me, “I wish I had 20 more seats.” He felt the Press in India had been very unkind to him till I told him that he was seeing electronic media and some of his friends had written positive things about him. He believed we were very close to solving the Kashmir problem. I told him that the deal breaker in this relationship was terrorism and when something like Mumbai happens, you couldn’t be speaking. He said, “that’s true,” at which point one of his colleagues interrupted him and said, “no, but India also does all kinds of things.” But I found his overall approach to be reasonable at that point. After he took over, he got multiple briefings and he was given various lines. After the revocation of Article 370, there was conversation that Pakistan should do what it did in 1947, infiltrate people across the border. Imran had to step in, saying it wouldn’t be a good idea.

Amitabh Sinha: What does India expect to gain from a re-engagement with Pakistan? Does the Kashmir issue need a resolution in partnership with Pakistan, short of PoK, of course, and has Balakot changed everything?

Strategic neglect of a country with which you had four wars and which has mounted so much terrorism is bad policy. It’s also strategic complacence. That’s not good policy. And the parallel I would make is what Israel did with Hamas, a strategic neglect. There’s a lesson to be learnt there. The purpose of any engagement would be to consolidate the gains or the limited gains we’ve had on terrorism and strengthen the ceasefire and security along the border.

Balakot signified a major paradigm shift because it implied airstrikes together with the surgical strikes were India’s both capacity and intent to operate in the sub-conventional space for a punitive or pre-emptive action. It has entered their calculus and would be an important factor.

Also, at least with Article 370, Indian policy makers accept that our Kashmir and Pakistan policy should be separate. So Pakistan is part of foreign policy in which, just like with China, we could discuss issues of territory but not make it a party to our internal conversation with Kashmir. So a conversation between the Centre and the people of Kashmir is like a dialogue between the Centre and other states.

Sandeep Dwivedi: How is sports important for the relationship between the two countries? Can we keep sports outside the ambit?

Sadly no when exported terrorism is involved. But sports diplomacy has been a very important tool of the people-to-people diplomacy. Bilateral diplomacy has often ridden on the back of cricket diplomacy. But we should recognise its limits. However, when the relationship gets better, trade and cricket are low-hanging fruits.

Sandeep Dwivedi: ViratKohli has a huge appeal across Pakistan as was the case with Imran Khan in India earlier. How do you explain this?

Because cricket is a subcontinental religion and everything else falls before that. During one of the Iftar parties he had hosted, Imran Khan told me that he thought ViratKohli was clearly the best cricketer in the world and he would rate him much higher than Tendulkar. Because, he said, Kohli turned losing matches into winning ones, and that is not what often happened in the case of Tendulkar. Even Dhoni has a huge following in Pakistan.

Aakash Joshi: It’s a difficult time for Shehbaz Sharif to be Prime Minister of Pakistan with your major coalition partner, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) saying we’re not going to take any of the responsibility of decision-making but extend outside support.

Shehbaz Sharif has a crown of thorns but he seems to be the only one willing to wear it. He did run a hybrid 2.0 government. His strongest point is that the Army is shoring him up. Not having the PPP in governance is a sign, in the political power-sharing deal, that it has got a constitutional post, may be the President and the Senate Chair and so on. This may be pointing towards a rotational prime ministership.

The unspoken deal might be that three years you run the show, two years, PPP’s Bilawal Bhutto as PM may run the show. The Nawaz Sharif factor will be important. It will be a sort of Sonia Gandhi being the chairperson of UPA and Manmohan Singh being the PM. Nawaz Sharif might be more of a risk-taker on India, given the warm chemistry he had with India’s leaders.

Rakesh Sinha: Is there a new hard line that India has drawn on Khalistan, which has impacted the bilateral relationship with Canada or is there a broader democracy vs India debate?

It’s a bit of both because the Khalistan issue has been with us for years and decades. Mrs Indira Gandhi had written to Pierre Trudeau, father of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in 1983, that it was dangerous if he didn’t take action against the man who was later responsible for blowing up Air India’s Kanishka. Khalistan has been a problem since. But what has been a problem for India now is its escalation to the political level and to the level of Justin Trudeau. So, if you make a comparison on how this issue was dealt with in the US and other places, yes, we have a security issue which our security experts should deal with. But it doesn’t prejudice the overall political relationship. However, if it gets escalated at the level of the PM, then India has a problem.

P Vaidyanathan Iyer: These days there are narratives equating dissenters as anti-nationals and supporters of Pakistan. How difficult does it then become for India or Pakistan to hold talks at a zero reference level? Second, how much flexibility does a leader of both countries have so that they get a momentum of their own going?

The narrative comes from fringe voices which don’t really impact bilateral relations. Look at India’s relationship with Bangladesh, which again is an Islamic nation, but is based on $18 billion of trade, $8 billion of investment and huge connectivity. Both have resolved issues like sharing river water and marking land and maritime boundaries with so much ease.

On your second question, leadership is an important factor but so are structural factors. For instance, in 1971, US interests in Afghanistan impacted relations. But if you see the flawed choices Pakistan has made, they are the result of seemingly ill-considered decisions of its leaders. If Gen Pervez Musharraf hadn’t decided on the misadventure in Kargil, along with precisely four Army colleagues, the Lahore Bus initiative could have reached fruition and led to a different story.

Shubhajit Roy: What’s President Vladimir Putin playing at right now in the conflict with Ukraine?

Having made his point, Putin is looking for a way out. India should step forward as a peacemaker, as a non-European, non-Western power that can help with a solution that has equities on both sides.

Source: indianexpress.com

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https://indianexpress.com/article/india/ex-envoy-ajay-bisaria-at-idea-exchange-indi

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Europe

 

Demonstrations across Spain call for arms embargo on Israel

February 25, 2024

In a show of solidarity with Palestine and condemnation of Israel's actions, hundreds of thousands of people haven taken to the streets across Spain in a wave of demonstrations demanding an immediate halt to arms trade with Israel.

Organised by civil society groups and supported by several political parties, the protests resonated with chants calling for an end to what demonstrators called the "genocide in Palestine" and urged for severing ties with Israel.

Led by Podemos leader Ione Belarra, the rallies gained momentum as she announced plans to present a motion in parliament seeking an arms embargo on Israel.

Belarra emphasized the need for sincerity from the government, accusing the current coalition of empty promises and no concrete action in its support for Palestine.

"We will see the sincerity of the government in the motion we will submit to parliament to impose an arms embargo on Israel. If they really want to stop the genocide and do not want to be an accomplice to Israel, they will ban arms trade," she said.

The protests, which drew significant attendance in the capital Madrid, featured slogans denouncing Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza, where Israeli attacks have killed nearly 30,000 Palestinians.

Podemos, despite not being part of Spain's ruling coalition, threw its weight behind the demonstrations, highlighting the unity among various factions in Spain in their support for Palestine.

Demonstrators also criticized Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares' claims that Spain's weapons trade with Israel had been halted since Oct. 7, dismissing them as false.

They cited commercial data indicating ongoing collaboration between Spanish companies and Israel in the military sector.

The demonstrations, spanning over 100 cities and towns including Barcelona, Coruna, Malaga, and Tenerife, signify a resounding call from the Spanish populace for solidarity with Palestine and condemnation of Israel's actions.

Source: trtworld.com

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https://www.trtworld.com/europe/demonstrations-across-spain-call-for-arms-embargo-on-israel-17122866

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Ex-Brazil president seen waving Israeli flag as hundreds of thousands gather in support

FEBRUARY 26, 2024

The former president of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro, was recorded waving an Israeli flag at crowds of supporters at a massive rally in Sao Paulo on Sunday.

The rally was attended by approximately 185,000 people, according to a research group at the University of Sao Paulo. It was held in light of investigations against Bolosonaro for allegedly plotting a coup after denying election results after the current president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, was elected in 2022.

Bolsonaro called individuals to show up to the rally on his X account, formerly Twitter, and in Brazilian media. Participants at the rally were seen holding signs in support of Israel as well as Israeli flags.

Rally-goers could be seen carrying banners in São Paulo apologizing for current President Lula’s antisemitic statements about the Holocaust a few days ago. Signs read, “Brazilians want to tell the Jewish people that we are sorry.”

Brazilian President Lula had compared Israel's war against Hamas to the Nazis' extermination of Jews in the Holocaust and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Adolf Hitler a week earlier. According to a CNN Brasil poll, 83% of those polled disagreed with Lula’s comparison, illustrating that Lula’s sentiments are not representative of his constituents.

“What I seek is pacification. It is erasing the past,” Bolsonaro said in a speech at the rally as he held an Israeli flag, Euronews reported. “It is to seek a way for us to live in peace and stop being so jumpy. Amnesty for those poor people who are jailed in Brasilia. We ask all 513 congressmen and 81 senators for a bill of amnesty so justice can be made in Brazil.”

Bolosonaro denies attempted coup

Bolsonaro denied that he and his supporters attempted a coup while rioters assaulted government buildings a year earlier.

“What is a coup? It is tanks on the streets, weapons, and conspiracy. None of that happened in Brazil,” Bolosonaro said.

Bolsonaro is not allowed to run for office again until 2030 due to two convictions of abuse of power, although he remains active in politics as an adversary of Lula.

Several of Bolsonaro’s allies attended the rally, including Governors Tarcisio de Freitas of Sao Paolo state and RomeuZema of Minas Gerais state.

Source: jpost.com

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https://www.jpost.com/international/article-788855

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Islamist threats led to chaos in Commons during Gaza vote, says Deputy PM

Lemma Shehadi

Feb 25, 2024

The UK's Deputy Prime Minister blamed the chaos over parliament's ceasefire vote this week on "Islamic extremists", as he declined to describe Lee Anderson's comments as "Islamophobic".

Oliver Dowden said “Islamic extremists” had threatened MPs over their stance on Gaza, stifling debate in parliament.

The ceasefire debate on Wednesday descended into chaos after Speaker Lindsay Hoyle agreed to Labour’s amendments to the motion tabled by the Scottish National Party, with Conservative and SNP MPs walking out.

“I never thought that in my lifetime, I would see a situation where what is happening in the House of Commons is influenced by the threat of violence,” he told the BBC on Sunday.

“These threats of intimidation are often coming from Islamic extremists and we shouldn’t be shy of calling that out."

These threats were “being used to intimidate Jews in this country and are being used to intimidate a debate that is going on in our parliament", he said.

His remarks came as former Conservative deputy chairman Lee Anderson was suspended from the party on Saturday after refusing to apologise for his suggestion that London Mayor Sadiq Khan was controlled by "Islamists".

Mr Dowden declined to say whether he considered Mr Anderson's remarks to be Islamophobic.

Instead, he said he did not believe that Mr Anderson, the former deputy chairman of the Conservative party, was "intending" to be Islamophobic.

He defended former home secretary Suella Braverman, who recently claimed the UK is "sleepwalking into a ghettoised society" with "Islamists" in charge.

Asked if Mr Anderson would have kept the whip if he had apologised, Mr Dowden said: "Yes."

Mr Anderson’s remarks drew widespread criticism from figures including business minster Nus Ghani and senior Conservative politician Sajid Javid.

The Prime Minister has not yet commented publicly on the remarks, and Mr Khan has said his "silence" amounts to "tacit endorsement" of Islamophobia.

On Sunday Lisa Nandy, Labour MP for Wigan and shadow secretary for international development, warned of a “dangerous” streak within the Conservative party, whose members were “spouting conspiracy theories.”

“What’s going on in the Conservative party is dangerous and is bigger than Lee Anderson," Ms Nandy told Sky News.

Alongside Mr Anderson and Mrs Braverman, she accused Liz Truss, who was perceived to have endorsed convicted criminal and far-right leader Tommy Robinson in an interview this week, of having "repeatedly sought to stoke hate and division, spouting conspiracy theories that are normally confined to the sort of thing that we see online".

Threats to MPs were coming from “multiple directions”, Ms Nandy added, without naming any group in particular.

“Our political debate has become one that is very angry. Social media grants a great deal of anonymity,” she said.

"What we've seen happening on the streets of Britain, the rise in Islamophobia and anti-Semitism is also reflected in anger towards MPs," she said.

“We’ve had it in the last few months from people who purport to stand for Israel and purport to stand for Palestine as well,” she added,

“This is a wider problem of the way in which our political discourse has become angry and divisive,” she added.

Asked if anybody from her party had threatened Speaker Lindsay Hoyle in the lead-up to the Gaza ceasefire vote, she said no.

Labour leader Keir Starmer has “categorically” denied threatening the Speaker to call Labour’s amendment.

Ms Nandy added that she did not believe anybody else from the party had done so.

“I don’t believe for a moment that anyone in Labour did. Certainly our chief whip, Keir Starmer, none of the senior figures in Labour would ever dream of threatening the speaker,” she told Sky News.

"The idea that Speakers can be pushed around by members of parliament, leaders of political parties, is frankly for the birds,’ she said.

“There were MPs from all political parties who made representations to the Speaker. Not just about their safety and security but the fact that we’ve got an impending ground invasion in Rafah,” she said.

Defending Labour’s amendments, she added. “There was an urgent need for the commons to speak in one voice to prevent that from happening, and to back an immediate humanitarian ceasefire,” she added.

Ms Nandy declined to endorse a candidate in the upcoming Rochdale by-election, where the Labour candidate Azhar Ali was suspended over anti-Semitic remarks.

“I would just ask people not to vote for candidates who are spouting hate and division. We’ve had enough of that, we’ve seen it from the Conservative party this weekend,” she said.

Ms Nandy had been seen campaigning in Rochdale with Mr Ali before the remarks came to light, but said she was unaware of his comments then.

"I didn’t know that he’d made antisemitic comments. I was appalled by what he said about Israel," she said.

Source: thenationalnews.com

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https://www.thenationalnews.com/world/uk-news/2024/02/25/islamist-threats-led-to-chaos-in-commons-during-gaza-vote-says-deputy-prime-minister/

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Africa

 

447 Borno families displaced by B’Haram resettled – Zulum

26th February 2024

The Borno Government says it has resettled 447 households displaced by the insurgency to newly constructed houses in Dalori village, Konduga Local Government Area.

Governor  BabaganaZulum said the measure was part of the ongoing reconstruction, rehabilitation, and resettlement programme of his administration.

“Those resettled today were living in unofficial camps in Maiduguri.

“We want to close not less than three unofficial camps still existing in Maiduguri before May 29.

“It is no longer sustainable to keep people in camps, providing them with food and non-food items,” Zulum said.

He noted that basic facilities like water, clinics, and schools had been provided in the resettled communities, while families were provided with a source of livelihood, including farm inputs to start farming.

“We also provided women with skills training and gave them sewing machines,” he said.

The governor urged residents of the state to exercise patience over the current challenges occasioned by inflation, adding that he would inaugurate the distribution of food and non-food items to 100,000 vulnerable households in the Maiduguri metropolis and environs soon.

Zulum said the same gesture would be extended to vulnerable persons in the southern part of the state, comprising Biu, Askira/Uba, Bayo, Shani, Hawul, Chibok, and Kwaya-kusar LGAs.

Hajiya  Fatima Ali, a beneficiary of one of the houses, told the News Agency of Nigeria that she was excited to be back home after eight years.

Source: punchng.com

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Economic hardship: Our problem not from God – Shehu Sani

February 26, 2024

Francis Ugwu

Former Kaduna lawmaker and social critic, Senator Shehu Sani, on Monday, has said Nigeria’s current economic hardship is not from God.

In a post on his X handle, the social critic said Nigeria has natural resources that other countries will never have.

The statement comes amid a report that a massive crowd had besieged the Zonal Office of the Nigerian Customs Service in Yaba, Lagos, to purchase the discounted 25kg bags of rice being sokd at reduced prices, leading to a stampede in which some lives were lost.

Sani explained that the country’s problem is not from God as there are over 200 rivers in the country with a well nourished arable land of 923,768 kmsq.

According to him, Nigeria has virile men and fertile women more than any other country in Africa.

He wrote, “There are over 200 rivers in this country and we have a well nourished arable land of 923,768 kmsq. We have the natural resources that other countries will never have. We have virile men and fertile women more than any other country in our continent.

“We have no earthquakes, hurricanes or monsoon. What can grow in Thailand, Pakistan or Brazil can grow in this country. We want manna. Even the people who received the last plates of manna from Heaven have now turned their Desert Green. Our problem is not from God.”

Source: dailypost.ng

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https://dailypost.ng/2024/02/26/economic-hardship-our-problem-not-from-god-shehu-sani/

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DSS operatives take over court as Kanu’s trial resumes

26th February 2024

Solomon Odeniyi

Operatives of the Department of State Services are have beefed up security inside and outside the Federal High Court in Abuja as the court is expected to commence the trial of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, NnamdiKanu, today.

The matter was suspended after the Court of Appeal discharged and acquitted Kanu in October 2022.

The appellate court also declared illegal and unlawful, the abduction of Kanu from Kenya to Nigeria and quashed the terrorism charges brought against him by the Federal Government.

However, the FG appealed against the judgment at the apex court.

The Supreme Court in its judgment on December 15, 2023, ordered the continuation of the trial of Kanu on terrorism charges.

Kanu has been in DSS detention since June 2021 when he was repatriated from Kenya to Nigeria.

Before entering the court premises, journalists, litigants, and court staff were searched at a minimum of four checkpoints, starting from the road to the Ministry of Justice.

Source: punchng.com

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https://punchng.com/dss-operatives-take-over-court-as-kanus-trial-resumes/

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Algeria inaugurates Africa's largest mosque: Great Mosque of Algiers

February 26, 2024

Algeria has unveiled Africa's largest mosque on its Mediterranean coast, overcoming political delays and cost overruns after years of political upheaval.

The inauguration on Sunday would guide Muslims “toward goodness and moderation,” said Ali Mohamed Salabi, the General Secretary of the World Union of Muslim Ulemas.

Algerian President AbdelmajidTebboune inaugurated the mosque, fulfilling his promise to open it with great pomp and circumstance.

The event, however, was mainly ceremonial. The mosque has been open to international tourists and state visitors to Algeria for roughly five years. An earlier ceremony was delayed.

The timing allows the mosque to officially open to the public in time to host nightly prayers during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which begins next month.

A monument of controversy and delay

Built by a Chinese construction firm throughout the 2010s, the Great Mosque of Algiers features the world's tallest minaret, measuring at 869 feet (265 metres). The project’s official cost was $898 million.

The third largest mosque in the world and the largest outside Islam's holiest cities, its prayer room accommodates 120,000 people. Its modernist design contains Arab and North African flourishes to honour Algerian tradition and culture as well as a helicopter landing pad and a library that can house up to 1 million books.

Beyond its gigantic dimensions, the mosque is also known for the delays and controversy that characterised its seven years under construction, including the choice of site, which experts warned was seismically risky.

The mosque was originally a project of former President AbdelazizBouteflika, who designed it to be the largest in Africa. He wanted it to be his legacy and called “AbdelazizBouteflika Mosque” much like Mosque Hassan II in Casablanca, Morocco. That mosque, named after the former King of Morocco — Algeria's neighbour and regional rival — was once marked as Africa's largest.

However, the protests that swept Algeria in 2019 and led him to resign after 20 years in power prohibited Bouteflika from realising his plans, naming the mosque after himself or inaugurating it in February 2019 as scheduled.

Source: trtworld.com

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https://www.trtworld.com/africa/algeria-inaugurates-africas-largest-mosque-great-mosque-of-algiers-17131102

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Sudan authorities block cross-border aid to stricken Darfur

February 26, 2024

PORT SUDAN: Authorities loyal to the army in war-ravaged Sudan have blocked cross-border aid to the western Darfur region, a move decried by aid workers and the United States.

The vast Darfur region, bordering Chad, has been one of the hardest hit parts of Sudan since war began 10 months ago between the Sudanese Armed Forces and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

RSF are descendants of the Janjaweed militia which began a scorched earth campaign in Darfur more than two decades ago.

In their current battle against the army, which started last April, the RSF have taken over four out of the five Darfur state capitals.

More than 694,000 people have fled over the border to Chad, according to the International Organization for Migration, but many more remain trapped in Darfur and in need of assistance.

The United Nations has had to limit its work in Darfur to cross-border operations from Chad, but last week the UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) country director Eddie Rowe told reporters that “authorities have restricted the Chad cross-border operation.”

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller on Friday said the United States is deeply concerned by the army’s “recent decision to prohibit cross border humanitarian assistance from Chad and reports that the SAF is obstructing assistance from reaching communities in areas controlled by the RSF.”

Sudan’s foreign ministry, loyal to the army, expressed “confusion and rejection” of the “false accusations” by Washington.

The ministry said the Sudan-Chad border “is the main crossing point for weapons and equipment” used to commit “atrocities” against Sudanese.

Miller, of the State Department, also expressed concern about RSF “looting homes, markets and humanitarian assistance warehouses.”

In Brussels, Rowe of WFP said his agency was “engaging with the authorities to ensure this critical lifeline” from Chad remains operational.

It is essential, an international aid worker told AFP on Sunday from Darfur, requesting anonymity so as not to jeopardize their mission.

“Children and babies are already dying from hunger and malnutrition. There will be an immense human impact... and quite possibly large-scale mortality rates,” the aid worker said.

“The highest levels of diplomacy need to unblock this situation immediately because millions of lives hang in the balance,” the aid worker said, calling it “a huge region already facing an imminent and immense food security crisis on top of a civil war, ethnic violence and state service collapse.”

The war has killed thousands, including up to 15,000 in the West Darfur city of El Geneina alone, according to the UN experts.

Washington has accused both sides of war crimes, and said the RSF also carried out ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2466531/middle-east

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North America

 

US says talks came to 'understanding' on hostages, possible Gaza ceasefire

February 25, 2024

The United States said on Sunday that multinational talks in Paris came to an "understanding" on a possible deal for Hamas to release hostages and for a new ceasefire in the Gaza war.

An Israeli delegation led by Mossad chief David Barnea was in the French capital on Friday to discuss a deal to ensure a fresh ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.

"Representatives of Israel, the United States, Egypt, and Qatar met in Paris and came to an understanding among the four of them about what the basic contours of a hostage deal for temporary ceasefire would look like," White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan told CNN.

"It is still under negotiation in terms of hammering out the details of it. There will have to be indirect discussions by Qatar and Egypt with Hamas because ultimately they will have to agree to release the hostages," he said.

"That work is underway. And we hope that in the coming days, we can drive to a point where there is actually a firm and final agreement on this issue."

Negotiations for a ceasefire have resumed in Doha between the four countries, as well as Hamas representatives, state-linked Egyptian media reported on Sunday.

As with a previous week-long truce in November that saw more than 100 hostages and 240 Palestinian prisoners freed, Qatar, Egypt and the United States have been spearheading efforts to secure a new deal.

International pressure for a ceasefire has mounted in recent weeks, as the death toll from Israel's military offensive on the Palestinian territory nears 30,000, mostly women and children, according to the Gaza health ministry.

Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas -- which rules Gaza -- in response to its October attack that resulted in the deaths of 1,160 people, mostly civilians.

Source: gulftoday.ae

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https://www.gulftoday.ae/news/2024/02/25/us-says-talks-came-to-understanding-on-hostages-possible-gaza-ceasefire

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CAIR Releases Data Indicating Over 2 Million American Muslim Voters

Ibrahim Hooper

February 25, 2024

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today announced a significant increase in the sizable presence of registered Muslim American voters across the United States.

Through independent research and collaboration with Aristotle, a leader in voter, donor, and consumer data, CAIR counts over 2 million registered Muslim American voters nationwide. CAIR previously estimated in 2022, there were some 1.2 million or more Muslim voters.

This finding marks a crucial milestone in understanding the political landscape and civic participation of the Muslim American community. Using metrics including distinct Muslim surnames, Muslim first names, geographical information, and nationality, Aristotle was able to identify at least 1,785,755 registered Muslim voters. CAIR conservatively estimates there are well over 300,000 additional African American, White, and Latin-American Muslim voters who are unidentifiable through conventional methodologies.

States with the largest number of American Muslim registered voters by rank include California, New York, Virginia, Texas, Michigan, New Jersey, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Georgia, and Ohio.

CAIR made this assessment of American Muslim voter demographics within the nation’s most ethnically diverse religious group.

In a statement, CAIR National Executive Director, Nihad Awad said:

“As American Muslim voters surge in numbers, united in staunch opposition to the United States’ complicity in Israel’s ongoing genocide of Palestinians in Gaza, our ballots wield the power not only to shape policy but to determine our leaders and chart a better course for our nation.”

In a statement, CAIR Government Affairs Department Director Robert S. McCaw said:

“Understanding the size and diversity of the Muslim American electorate is vital for effective political representation and engagement. The finding of over 2 million registered Muslim American voters is a conservative estimate and underscores the need for parties, candidates, and policymakers to recognize the importance of engaging and addressing the needs of this active community. In many states, Muslim Americans can tip the outcome of close races.”

CAIR notes approximately 20-25% of Muslim American voters are African American, with three-quarters born in the U.S. Moreover, factors including assimilation, marriage, and conversion mean many African American, White and Latino Muslims may not have names typically associated with Muslim identity.

CAIR remains committed to advancing political empowerment and civil rights for Muslim Americans while fostering a more inclusive and equitable society overall. The organization encourages further research and collaboration to enhance understanding of the Muslim American electorate and its growing impact.

In the coming weeks, CAIR also plans to relaunch its nationwide “Muslims Vote” campaign, providing get-out-the-vote resources including an election calendar, sample candidate questions, election surveys of Muslim voter attitudes, and more.

NOTE: As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, CAIR does not endorse or oppose candidates for office, and makes no claims as to the favorability of one candidate being elected over another.

Source: cair.com

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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-releases-data-indicating-over-2-million-american-muslim-voters/

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CAIR Condemns Death of Palestinian Baby from Israel-Imposed Starvation, Israeli Torture of Gaza Doctor

Ibrahim Hooper

February 25, 2024

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 2/25/2024) – The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned both the death of a Palestinian baby from starvation intentionally imposed by Israel’s far-right government and the Israeli torture of a Palestinian doctor in Gaza.

Mahmoud Fattouh died at al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. Video shows the emaciated infant gasping for breath. A paramedic says in the video. “The baby has not been fed any milk for days, as baby milk is totally absent in Gaza.”

The head of Kamal Adwan hospital in Gaza says that there is a steep rise in malnutrition cases among children, especially newborns. A Canadian doctor who went to Gaza has said that she and her colleagues, “witnessed crimes against humanity together, saw small children dying of hunger, bombs, sniper shots.”

Aerial photos show more than 2,000 aid trucks on the Egyptian side of the Rafah crossing where they are being blocked by Israel from entering Gaza.

Palestinian Doctor Ahmed Abu Sobha, who was detained at Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis in Gaza reports he was ordered to strip, blindfolded, beaten, marked with an “X,” had glass bottles smashed on his head, sprayed with freezing water, and had his arm broken by a Israeli soldier during a beating.

Israel has already killed almost 30,000 people, mainly women and children, in Gaza.

In a statement, CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper said:

“The daily war crimes committed by the forces of the far-right Israeli government are so common that Western media have largely stopped reporting on them. We must never become numb to the ongoing Israeli genocide, forced starvation and ethnic cleansing that the Palestinian people are experiencing and which the Biden administration is enabling.”

On Friday, CAIR called on the Biden administration to repudiate the Israeli government’s post-war plan for the de facto annexation of Gaza.

Last week, CAIR called on the Biden administration to condemn comments made by Israeli Minister of Social Equality & Women’s Advancement May Golan in which she said she is “personally proud of the ruins of Gaza, and that every baby, even 80 years from now, will tell their grandchildren what the Jews did.”

CAIR recently called on House Speaker Mike Johnson and Democratic leader Hakim Jefferies to publicly repudiate Representative Andy Ogles (R-TN) and to issue a formal censure for his recent statement that “We should kill them all” in reference to Palestinian children in Gaza.

Take Action: Call on U.S. House Leaders to Censure Rep. Ogles for ‘We Should Kill Them All’ Comment on Gaza Children

CAIR also called on the Biden administration to address reported sexual violence, arbitrary detention and abuse by the forces of the far-right Israeli government targeting Palestinian women and girls.

CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.            

La misión de CAIR esproteger las libertadesciviles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a losmusulmanesenlosEstadosUnidos.        

Source: cair.com

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Arab World

 

OIC to expose Israeli war crimes in Gaza, establishes monitoring units

February 25, 2024

The Extraordinary Session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has underlined in the final declaration of the meeting of Israel's attacks on journalists and disinformation activities aimed at influencing world public opinion.

The Extraordinary Session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has drawn attention to Israel's attacks on journalists and disinformation activities aimed at influencing world public opinion in the meeting final declaration.

The declaration condemned the ongoing military aggression launched by Israel against the Palestinian people as well as its systematic oppression, massacre, and genocide of Palestinians civilians in Gaza since October 7, and in the occupied West Bank including occupied Jerusalem.

An unconditional ceasefire was called to prevent further loss of life.

The declaration condemned the Israeli occupation’s systematic misinformation campaigns and spreading of false and misleading information and fake news to cover its brutality and genocidal massacres committed in Gaza.

It also stressed protecting journalists’ rights and underlined that systematic targeting and killing of Palestinian journalists is part of a campaign to silence the voices of truthtellers.

An immediate investigation was called for to hold the Israeli authorities accountable for the crimes they commit against journalists in the occupied Palestinian territories.

The declaration calls upon all countries to recognize the sovereign independent State of Palestine based on the borders of 1967 with east Jerusalem as its capital, being a prerequisite for the peaceful resolution of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and security in the region.

Media monitoring unit

A media monitoring unit will be established to document and expose Israeli crimes and violations in Gaza, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation's (OIC) secretary-general announced on Saturday.

The body will work to ensure accurate information on the "Palestinian crisis" is available to the international community, OIC secretary-general HisseinBrahim Taha said at the opening speech of a meeting of OIC information ministers in Istanbul.

Stressing the need for Israel's attacks on Gaza to be closely monitored by the news outlets, Taha said the content produced by the media monitoring unit will be accessible from the OIC website.

OIC held an extraordinary session in Istanbul on February 25 on fighting disinformation over Israel’s onslaught on Gaza, with the attendance of information and communication ministers of all OIC member and observer states.

200 high-level representatives from 43 countries, including 20 ministers, presidents and senior managers of communication and media organizations, have attended the meeting.

Source: trtworld.com

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https://www.trtworld.com/turkiye/oic-to-expose-israeli-war-crimes-in-gaza-establishes-monitoring-units-17120465

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Waad campaign provides more than 800,000 training opportunities for Saudis

February 25, 2024

RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development’s national training campaign Waad has achieved 74 percent of its target numbers.

The campaign aims to offer 1,155,000 training opportunities by the end of 2025, as part of the ministry’s strategy to support and train national cadres in partnership with the private sector.

The initiative provided about 863,675 training opportunities for national cadres in 2023, with the second half of the year giving some 670,000 opportunities.

SABIC, Saudi Telecom Company and Arab National Bank achieved more than the campaign’s targets for the next three years in the course of 2023.

The regional meeting series started in Arar city in the Northern Borders, allocating 35,000 training opportunities for the region.

The second meeting took place at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture in the Eastern Province. This was attended by the region’s governor and the deputy minister of human resources and social development for labor, and 100,000 training opportunities were offered.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, through Waad, aims to advance the job market and achieve Saudi Vision 2030 targets by supporting, qualifying and training national cadres. It has set seven criteria for national facilities’ participation in the campaign, notably training 12 percent of Saudis annually.

The ministry is keen to provide more opportunities for the development and enhancement of skills for all Saudi beneficiaries, as part of its aim to achieve a vibrant society and a distinguished working environment.

Source: arabnews.com

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Over 6m worshippers flock to Prophet’s Mosque in one week

February 25, 2024

RIYADH: The General Authority for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque announced that the latter welcomed a total of 6,000,247 visitors last week, an achievement facilitated by high-quality services that enabled the crowds to perform their prayers smoothly, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

The statistics issued by the authority showed that 647,790 individuals visited the tomb of Prophet Muhammad. Additionally, 298,397 visitors performed prayers at Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifa, following organizational procedures that regulated crowd movement and designated specific prayer times for both men and women.

The authority also reported that 16,506 elderly people and individuals with disabilities were able to use electric carts provided to ease their access to the Prophet’s Mosque, while 114,532 visitors benefited from guidance services, which assisted them in navigating the various exhibitions, museums, and other areas. A total of 147,735 visitors benefited from translation services, and 12,205 sought information at the Prophet's Mosque’s library.

More than 5,400 people visited exhibitions and museums, while 30,140 used transportation services. Additionally, 146,429 gifts — including copies of the Qur’an, umbrellas, prayer mats, incense burners, flowers and sweets — were offered to visitors.

Over 160,000 bottles of Zamzam water were supplied to visitors, and 142,007 iftar meals were distributed in corridors of the mosque designated for people who had been fasting.

Source: arabnews.com

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Saudi Arabia releases rules for parents performing Umrah with children

 February 25, 2024

Saudi authorities have issued a set of guidelines to parents heading to Islam’s holiest site in Mecca to perform Umrah or minor pilgrimage.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued guidance for parents, emphasizing the importance of instilling respect for the Quran, Islam’s sacred text, in their children, especially as copies are readily available at the Grand Mosque where Umrah rites take place. Additionally, parents are urged to ensure their children maintain quietude while in the premises and to attend them when using escalators for safety, advising them to seek assistance from security personnel when needed.

These directives are mainly applicable as the Muslim holy month of Ramadan approaches, a time when the Umrah season typically reaches its peak. For Muslims who are unable to start the annual Hajj pilgrimage due to physical or financial constraints, traveling to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah at the Grand Mosque is a significant alternative.

Demand for Umrah pilgrimage rises as Ramadan approaches, particularly among UAE residents....

In recent months, Saudi Arabia has executed several developments to facilitate Umrah for international visitors. These include extending the Umrah visa duration from 30 to 90 days, permitting entry through various land, air, and sea ports, and allowing departure from any airport.

Furthermore, the requirement for female pilgrims to be convoyed by male guardians has been eliminated.

Moreover, the kingdom has declared that expatriates residing in Gulf Cooperation Council countries can apply for tourist visas regardless of their profession, allowing them to perform Umrah as well.
Source:
nation.com.pk

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Saudi Arabia's Falconry Heritage Celebrated on Founding Day

25 Feb, 2024

The falcon, deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of Saudi Arabia, has been playing a significant role in the country's history, economy, and identity.

 For centuries, these majestic birds have been revered as symbols of strength, courage, and nobility, accompanying Saudis on their journeys and serving as a source of pride and livelihood.

 The association of the falcon with Saudi Arabia dates back to the founding of the first Saudi state, three centuries ago. It was used as a symbol of peace in resolving tribal disputes and served as a prized gift exchanged between leaders.

 The falcon features in the visual identity of the Saudi Founding Day logo, alongside four other symbols: the Saudi flag, the palm tree, the Arabian horse, and the market.

 Beyond its symbolic significance, falconry played a crucial economic role. The birds were used for hunting, providing a source of food and income for many. It also fostered a strong sense of community and identity among Saudis, uniting them in their shared passion for this noble sport.

 In recognition of its cultural and economic importance, the Saudi government has taken significant steps to preserve and promote falconry. In 2017, the Saudi Falcons Club was established under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The club aims to unite falconers across the Kingdom, promote the responsible practice of falconry, and support the sustainable breeding and conservation of falcons.

 The club organizes various events and competitions throughout the year, attracting thousands of participants from around the world.

 The King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival, the largest falconry competition in the world, has entered the Guinness World Records three times for the number of participating falcons. Other notable events include the AlUla Falcon Cup, which concluded in January and was the largest in the value of awards internationally, and the International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition.

 The Saudi Falcons Club is committed to promoting falconry as a sustainable and responsible sport, while preserving this rich cultural heritage. Through its various initiatives and programs, the club is positioning Saudi Arabia as a global leader in falconry.

 The Kingdom was inscribed in 2021 on the “Falconry, a living human heritage” of UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Source: alriyadhdaily.com

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Mideast

 

Iran's Khamenei on Gaza: Islam will overcome 'crooked' Western civilization

FEBRUARY 25, 2024

Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Hosseini Khamenei on Sunday called Western civilization “crooked” and said, “The right culture and correct logic of Islam will overcome it,” Iranian state media reported.

In the same speech at a meeting in the Khuzestan province of Iran, on the southern border with Iraq and the Gulf states, he said: “This is the real face of Western culture and civilization and liberal democracy, which on the outside are ironed politicians with smiles on their faces. But on the inside, it is a rabid dog and a bloodthirsty wolf.”

Regarding the war in Gaza, Khamenei condemned what he said was Western hypocrisy.

“Westerners, who make noise and uproar for the execution of a criminal, face the slaughter of 30,000 innocent people in Gaza, and the United States brazenly vetoes the resolution to stop bombing Gaza for the umpteenth time,” he said.

Regarding the Palestinians in Gaza, Khamenei said: “The resistance forces’ standing and the enemy’s dismay from their destruction, as well as the patience of the people of Gaza in the face of bombings and calamities, show a strong religious faith.”

Iran's response to the October 7 massacre

Following the October 7 massacre, Khamenei praised Hamas, saying, “We kiss the foreheads and arms of those who planned the attack on the Zionist regime.”

Last December, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps spokesman Gen. Ramezan Sharif took credit for the massacre, saying the terrorist attacks were “acts of revenge” for the killing of “Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani by the US and the Zionists,” according to Iran’s state-sponsored news agency ISNA. Sharif retracted his claim after it was met with severe criticism.

In an interview with NBC in early February, Iranian Ambassador to the UN Amir SaeidIravani said, referring to Palestinians, “We’re sending arms. We’re training them and empowering them.”

The Iranian regime is a well-known state sponsor of terrorist organizations across the Middle East, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis. In addition to funding terrorist operations, it also provides training and intelligence for these organizations.

Source: jpost.com

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https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-788699

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Gaza Deal Won’t Affect Israel’s Hezbollah Fight: Israel Defence Minister

February 26, 2024

JERUSALEM:  Defence minister Yoav Gallant on Sunday said there would be no let up in Israeli action against Lebanon’s Hezbollah movement, even if a ceasefire and hostage deal is secured in Gaza.

Gallant visited the military’s Northern Command in Safed, which was hit earlier this month by a militant rocket strike from southern Lebanon, killing a soldier.

Talks are underway toward a possible deal for Hamas to release hostages and pause the fighting in Gaza, which was sparked by the militants’ attack on southern Israel on October 7.

Since then, there have been near-daily cross-border exchanges of fire between Israel and Hamas’s allies Hezbollah on the border with Lebanon, prompting fears of a regional escalation.

Both Hamas and Hezbollah are backed by Iran.

Gallant said he was keen to assess how Israel was combating increased Hezbollah activity from across the heavily fortified border.

“If anyone thinks that when we reach a deal to release hostages in the south and the firing stops it will ease what is happening here they are wrong,” he said in a video message.

Israel’s aim is to ensure the Iran-backed militants do not pose a threat from border areas in southern Lebanon, he added.

If a diplomatic solution to the situation is not possible, “we will do it by force,” Gallant warned.

On Sunday, the Israeli military said it had intercepted a “suspicious aerial target” in the Upper Galilee region of northern Israel, and rockets were fired at a number of locations.

Jets then struck a “terrorist cell exiting a Hezbollah military compound” and two “military compounds” on the Lebanese side of the border, it added.

Since October 7, 10 Israeli soldiers and six civilians have been killed by hostilities in the north, according to an AFP tally.

On the Lebanese side, at least 276 people have been killed, most of them Hezbollah fighters but also 44 civilians.

Hamas’s attacks on October 7 left around 1,160 people dead and saw 250 hostages taken, of whom about 130 are still thought to be in Gaza, according to an AFP tally based on official figures.

In Gaza, the Hamas-run health ministry says at least 29,692 have been killed in the war between the militants and Israel.

Source: arabnews.com

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Turkish lawmakers in The Hague to back Turkish statement at ICJ

February 26, 2024

A delegation of Turkish lawmakers arrived in The Hague to follow Türkiye's oral statement at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), addressing the legal implications of Israel's actions in the occupied Palestinian territories.

CuneytYuksel, the chairman of the committee, told Anadolu on Sunday that the world court had heard the oral arguments of total of 45 countries so far since February 19, when the hearings began.

"Tomorrow, following Türkiye’s presentation, the hearings will end with the presentations of four more countries and three international organisations," he noted.

The public hearings started last Monday in The Hague following the UN General Assembly's request for an advisory opinion on the legal consequences arising from policies and the practices of Israel in occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem.

"We hope that at the end of this process, the legal findings on the oppression of Palestinians will be revealed," he added.

He said Türkiye would continue to seek accountability and justice for Israel's actions in relevant international bodies as long as Tel Aviv's occupation of Palestine continues.

Non-binding advisory opinion

Besides Türkiye, 51 countries and the Arab League, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and African Union, have been presenting 30-minute oral arguments since February 19, starting with Palestine on the very first day. The hearings will end with the Maldives' testimony on Monday.

The main duties of the ICJ include resolving legal disputes that arise between states in line with international law and providing advisory opinions on legal issues referred to it.

The UN court, at the request of the UN General Assembly, will issue a non-binding advisory opinion on the legal consequences of Israel's policies and acts in occupied Palestine on this issue.

Israel has launched a deadly offensive on Gaza since October 7, killing more than 29,690 people and causing mass destruction and shortages of necessities, while nearly 1,200 Israelis are believed to have been killed.

The Israeli war on Gaza has pushed 85 percent of the territory's population into internal displacement amid acute shortages of food, clean water, and medicine, while 60 percent of the enclave's infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed, according to the UN.

Israel stands accused of genocide at the International Court of Justice. An interim ruling in January ordered Tel Aviv to stop genocidal acts and take measures to guarantee that humanitarian assistance is provided to civilians in Gaza.

Source: trtworld.com

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Israeli military proposes ‘plan for evacuating’ Gaza civilians

February 26, 2024

GAZA STRIP: Israel’s military proposed a plan for evacuating civilians from the Gaza Strip, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced Monday, after he said a ground invasion of the Palestinian territory’s southern city Rafah was necessary for “total victory.”

Foreign governments and aid organizations have repeatedly expressed fears that such an operation will inflict mass civilian casualties.

More than 1.4 million Palestinians — most of them displaced from elsewhere — have converged on the last Gazan city untouched by Israel’s ground troops.

It is also the entry point for desperately needed aid, brought in via neighboring Egypt.

Israel’s military “presented the War Cabinet with a plan for evacuating the population from areas of fighting in the Gaza Strip, and with the upcoming operational plan,” a statement in Hebrew from Netayahu’s office said Monday.

The statement did not give any details about how or where the civilians would be moved.

The announcement comes after Egyptian, Qatari and US “experts” met in Doha for talks also attended by Israeli and Hamas representatives, state-linked Egyptian media reported, the latest effort to secure a truce before the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Israel’s ally the United States said ongoing mediation efforts produced “an understanding” toward a ceasefire and hostage release, while a Hamas source said the group insisted on the withdrawal of Israeli forces.

But Netanyahu — who has dismissed the withdrawal demand as “delusional” — said a ground invasion of Rafah would put Israel within weeks of “total victory” over Hamas, whose October 7 attack triggered the war.

“If we have a (truce) deal, it will be delayed somewhat, but it will happen,” he said of the ground invasion in an interview with CBS Sunday.

“It has to be done because total victory is our goal and total victory is within reach — not months away, weeks away, once we begin the operation.”

Amid a spiralling humanitarian crisis, the main UN aid agency for Palestinians urged political action to avert famine in Gaza.

Dire food shortages in northern Gaza are “a man-made disaster” that can be mitigated, said Philippe Lazzarini, head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA.

“Famine can still be avoided through genuine political will to grant access and protection to meaningful assistance.”

The UN has said it faces restrictions, particularly on aid deliveries to northern Gaza.

DEATH TOLL MOUNTS

Nearly five months into the war, desperate families in Gaza’s north have been forced to scavenge for something to eat.

“We have no food or drink for ourselves or our children,” Omar Al-Kahlout told AFP, as he waited near Gaza City for aid trucks to arrive.

“We are trapped in the north and there is no aid reaching us — the situation is extremely difficult.”

Hundreds of Palestinians headed south whichever way they could, walking down garbage-strewn roads between the blackened shells of bombed-out buildings, said an AFP correspondent.

Israeli forces continued striking targets across the Palestinian territory and battling militants in heavy urban combat centered on the southern city of Khan Yunis, near Rafah.

The Israeli military campaign has killed at least 29,692 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory’s health ministry.

The war broke out after Hamas’s unprecedented attack, which killed about 1,160 people in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of official figures.

CEASEFIRE TALKS

Militants also took about 250 Israeli and foreign hostages, 130 of whom remain in Gaza, including 31 presumed dead, according to Israel.

Israel’s army confirmed Sunday the death of soldier Oz Daniel, 19, whose “body is still held captive by Hamas,” according to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, which said he was killed on the day of the attack.

Mediators have voiced hope that a temporary truce and a hostage-prisoner exchange can be secured before the start of Ramadan on March 10 or 11, depending on the lunar calendar.

Jordan’s King Abdullah II warned fighting during the holy month “will increase the threat of expanding the conflict,” according to a royal statement.

Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, whose country hosts Hamas leaders and had helped broker a one-week truce in November, is due in Paris this week, the French presidency said.

Media reports suggest the warring parties are weighing a six-week halt to fighting and the initial exchange of dozens of female, underage and ill hostages for several hundred Palestinian detainees held by Israel.

Across from overcrowded Rafah, neighboring Egypt has kept its border closed, saying it will not help facilitate any operation to push Palestinians out of Gaza.

But satellite images show it has built a walled enclosure next to Gaza, in an apparent effort to brace for the possible arrival of large numbers of refugees.

Inside Israel, pressure has grown on Netanyahu from families of hostages demanding swifter action, and resurgent anti-government protests.

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said there would be no let-up in action against Hamas’s powerful Lebanese ally Hezbollah, whose militants have traded near-daily fire with Israeli forces since early October.

Both Hamas and Hezbollah are backed by Israel’s enemy Iran.

“If anyone thinks that when we reach a deal (with Hamas)... it will ease what is happening here — they are wrong,” he said.

Source: arabnews.com

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Hezbollah hits Israeli military positions in fresh strikes

Feb 25, 2024

TEHRAN, Feb. 25 (MNA) – Lebanon’s Resistance movement Hezbollah has targeted Israeli military positions with rockets and missiles in solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza.

In a statement on Sunday, Hezbollah said that its forces had struck a gathering of Israeli soldiers in Ramim barracks with “appropriate weapons".

In a second strike, Hezbollah said an Israeli military outpost in the occupied Shebaa Farms was directly hit with two Falaq 1 missiles.

Thousands of Zionist settlers living in areas near the Lebanese border have abandoned their homes out of fear of Hezbollah’s retaliatory strikes.

Hezbollah has said that the campaign of strikes will continue until the Israeli regime ceases its genocidal war against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

Source: mehrnews.com

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https://en.mehrnews.com/news/212342/Hezbollah-hits-Israeli-military-positions-in-fresh-strikes

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Jordan king warns of continuing Gaza war during Ramadan

February 25, 2024

AMMAN: Jordan's King Abdullah II warned on Sunday of a wider regional war if Israel presses on with its military campaign in the Gaza Strip during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan in March.

At a meeting with Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas, Abdullah warned "of the continuation of the war on Gaza during the holy month of Ramadan, which will increase the threat of expanding the conflict," Jordan's official Petra news agency reported.

Israel has warned that, if Iran-backed Hamas militants do not free the remaining hostages held in Gaza by the start of Ramadan it will keep fighting during the holy month, including in Rafah along the Egyptian border where around 1.4 million Gazans have sought refuge.

Ramadan is to begin on March 10 or 11, depending on the lunar calendar.

Negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza have resumed in Doha, state-linked Egyptian media reported on Sunday, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said any deal would not prevent an offensive in Rafah.

This, he said, would put Israel within weeks of "total victory" over Hamas whose October 7 attack on Israel triggered the war.

Source: brecorder.com

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Al-Sudani expresses congratulations to Iraqi people, Islamic world on Mid-Sha'ban

February 26, 2024

While mentioning the holy fatwa of Jihad Al-Kafa'i, Prime Minister Mohamed Shia Al-Sudani congratulated the Iraqi people and the Islamic world on the birth of Imam Mahdi (PBUH). 

On the anniversary of the birth of Imam Mahdi (PBUH), we congratulate our Iraqi people, the Islamic world, and our great religious authorities," Al-Sudani wrote in a post on X that was picked up by the Iraqi News Agency (INA).

He went on, "We pray that Allah Almighty will accept the good deeds, as we recall the fatwa of the blessed Kafa'i jihad, which was issued by His Eminence the Supreme Religious Authority Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Al-Sistani in 1435 AH, and the unity of the Iraqi people against the defeated ISIS terrorism." He congratulated all the pilgrims who made the journey to Karbala to perform the 15th of Sha'ban pilgrimage.

"We pray that Allah protects all Iraqis and bestows upon them the blessings of security and stability, mercy for all of our brave martyrs, and complete healing for the injured and wounded," he continued.

Source: ina.iq

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https://ina.iq/eng/31573-al-sudani-expresses-congratulations-to-iraqi-people-islamic-world-on-mid-shaban.html

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Israeli attacks continue as Gaza death toll set to pass 30,000

February 26, 2024

At least 86 Palestinians were killed and 131 others injured over the last 24 hours in Israeli attacks in the Gaza City on Sunday, medical sources and eyewitnesses said.

Territory's Health Ministry said on Sunday that fifteen people, including children, were killed and several others were wounded after warplanes hit a residential building in the Zaytoun neighbourhood of Gaza City.

The death toll in Gaza is likely to pass the grim milestone of 30,000 this week, as negotiators try to pin down a ceasefire and hostage-release deal, and the Israeli government presses ahead with plans for an attack on Rafah.

Israel continues its onslaught on the Gaza Strip where at least 29,692 Palestinians have been killed, mostly women and children, and 69,879 injured since Oct. 7, according to Palestinian health authorities.

According to Israel's state-owned Kan TV news, the Israeli army has been conducting operations in the neighbourhood since February 20, targeting infrastructures belonging to the Hamas movement.

On the same day, 10 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes on the coastal road west of the Gaza City.

Local sources and eyewitnesses reported that Israeli forces launched artillery shells and conducted airstrikes targeting individuals waiting for aid trucks, killing 10 of them and injuring others.

The prime minster, Benjamin Netanyahu, convened the war cabinet late on Saturday for a briefing with negotiators who had been at talks in Paris.

This week, it will meet again to discuss preparations for an assault on Rafah, the southern border town where an estimated 1.5 million displaced Palestinians have sought shelter. A deal might delay that operation, but would not prevent it, Netanyahu said in an interview with CBS.

Negotiators from Israel, Qatar, Egypt and the US have agreed the “basic contours” of an arrangement during weekend talks in Paris, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan told CNN, but the final details still have to be hammered out.

Source: gulftoday.ae

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Egypt sets up a second camp for displaced Palestinians in Gaza’s Khan Younis

February 25, 2024

CAIRO: Egypt has begun setting up a second camp for the displaced in Khan Yunis, in the south of the Gaza Strip, with a capacity of 400 tents, accommodating about 4,000 people, and equipped with electricity and toilets, a source told Al-Qahera News TV channel on Saturday.

The source added that the second camp will be followed by a field hospital in the Palestinian city of Rafah and another camp north of Deir Al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip.

Egypt will also set up two aid distribution centers in Rafah, which is now home to a large number of displaced Palestinians.

A source indicated that the second camp will be completed at the end of this week, adding that the it comes within the framework of Egypt’s efforts to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people.

Meanwhile, the Egyptian Red Crescent, in cooperation with the Palestinian Red Crescent, continues with its work to set up a second camp for displaced in Khan Yunis.

The Palestine Red Crescent wrote on X on Sunday: “The Palestine Red Crescent teams, in partnership with the Egyptian Red Crescent, have completed the second phase of the Egyptian Camp for housing displaced people in the Mawasi area of Khan Yunis.

“A total of 139 tents were set up, accommodating 139 families,” the Palestine Red Crescent added.

Source: arabnews.com

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‘Man-made’ Gaza famine can still be avoided, says UN agency

 26 Feb 2024

JERUSALEM, Feb 26 — Famine in the Gaza Strip can be averted if vital aid is allowed into the besieged territory, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees said yesterday, more than four months into the Israel-Hamas war.

“This is a man-made disaster,” UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini said on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, of the dire humanitarian conditions in war-battered Gaza.

“The world committed to never let famine happen again,” he said.

“Famine can still be avoided through genuine political will to grant access and protection to meaningful assistance.”

Aid agencies have increasingly voiced concern for ordinary Gazans caught up in Israel’s military campaign against militant group Hamas which has ruled the coastal territory since 2007.

The UN has warned of looming famine threatening virtually everyone in Gaza, while the World Food Programme this week described “unprecedented levels of desperation”.

Lazzarini — under pressure after Israel claimed UNRWA workers took part in Hamas’s October 7 attack that sparked the war — said the last time the agency was able to deliver food aid to northern Gaza was more than one month ago, on January 23.

The UN humanitarian agency OCHA said the situation in the north of Gaza was “extremely critical”, with concern also mounting about conditions in the south.

Authorities in the Hamas-ruled territory said in recent days a number of children have died from malnutrition.

The health ministry put the latest death toll from Israel’s military offensive at 29,692 people, most of them women and children.

Hamas’ attack on rural communities, towns, military posts and other sites in Israel near the Gaza border resulted in the deaths of some 1,160 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures.

Gazans have told AFP they have had to resort to eating rotten corn and animal feed unfit for human consumption but even that is now running out.

Aid trucks come into Gaza from Egypt via the Israeli-controlled Kerem Shalom and Nitzana crossings, where checks are carried out.

COGAT, an Israeli defence ministry body governing civilian affairs in the occupied Palestinian territories, said four tankers of cooking gas were delivered to Gaza on Saturday.

Yesterday, the Israeli agency said 245 trucks carrying humanitarian aid were inspected and transferred to Gaza. — AFP

Source: malaymail.com

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https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2024/02/26/man-made-gaza-famine-can-still-be-avoided-says-un-agency/119992

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Pakistan

 

Ayaz Sadiq, Leader Of PML-NUrges All Political Parties To Work Together In Resolving Challenges

February 25, 2024

Leader of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has urged all political parties to work together in resolving the nation’s issues.

Addressing a ceremony in Lahore today, he said that all necessary measures will be taken to address Pakistan’s economic challenges.

Emphasizing the need for unity beyond political differences, he underscored the importance of collective efforts to combat terrorism and uplift Pakistan from economic struggles.

He said that Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz believes in the politics of hard work and service.

Source: radio.gov.pk

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

https://radio.gov.pk/25-02-2024/sardar-ayaz-sadiq-urges-all-political-parties-to-work-together-in-resolving-challenges

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Cipher, Toshakhana cases: IHC takes up Imran, Bushra’s pleas today

February 26, 2024

Awais Yousafzai

ISLAMABAD: Islamabad High Court (IHC) will take up appeals against conviction of PTI founder in Cipher and Toshakhana cases on Monday (today).

A division bench comprising Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Mian Gul Hasan Aurangzeb will conduct the hearing. The appeals of Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Bushra Bibi will also be heard. The same bench will hear pleas for bail with suspension of sentence.

The hearing will be held on the appeals against 10-year sentence by the Special Court under Official Secrets Act of PTI founder in Cipher case and 14-year imprisonment by Accountability Court in Toshahkhana NAB reference. A bench was also constituted to hear the bail application of Imran Khan in the £190 million corruption case. A division bench comprising Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri will hold the hearing.

Source: thenews.com.pk

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

https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1161630-cipher-toshakhana-cases-ihc-takes-up-imran-bushra-s-pleas-today

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PPP and ‘N’ yet to name Balochistan CM, speaker

 February 26, 2024

Saleem Shahid

QUETTA: The leadership of future coalition partners in Balochistan, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) could not finalise the names of their candidates for the top slots of the leader of the house, speaker, and deputy speaker, with three days remaining for the first session of the Balochistan Assembly, which has been summoned on Wednesday.

According to the formula reached between the central leadership of PPP and PML-N, after PPP agreed to support PML-N’s candidate Shehbaz Sharif for the prime ministership in the National Assembly, both parties decided to form a coalition government in Balochis­tan.

The chief minister will be a nominee from PPP, the office of the speaker will be from PML-N, and the deputy speaker will come from PPP. The slot of the new governor will go to PML-N.

Sources said that the PPP central leadership is considering three to four names for the chief minister position, including former chief minister Nawab Sanaullah Zehri, former caretaker interior minister Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti, former Baloc­histan finance minister Mir Zahoor Ahmed Buledi, and veteran party leader Mir Sadiq Umrani, who joined in 1972 and has remained with PPP until now.

PPP insiders said the leadership is facing opposition to the nominations of Mr Zehri and Mr Bugti as the new leader of the house. They said the chief minister candidate should be decided through consensus between both parties.

Despite several meetings between MPAs and MNAs elected on February 8, and discussions with the PPP high command, the name for chief minister could not be finalised. The majority of legislators have advocated for a “jiyala” to lead the next coalition government in Balochistan, as PPP has emerged as the single majority party with 17 MPAs in the house of 65 members.

“The name for the leader of the house was discussed at the Sunday meeting of the PPP, but no one was nominated as the party’s candidate for the slot of chief minister,” they said.

The same situation is evident in the PML-N as the party’s provincial leaders held a meeting with Shehbaz Sharif and discussed the future coalition government in the province.

Sources said some PML-N MPAs have expressed reservations over giving the slot of chief minister to PPP without consulting the provincial leadership.

According to party insiders, the provincial parliamentary party has suggested the name of Raheela Hameed Khan Durrani for the position of Balochistan Assembly speaker. She also served as the speaker from 2013 to 2018.

The provincial leadership has strongly opposed giving the speakership to any party other than PML-N.

Balochistan Awami Party leaders have demanded that the slot of speaker and proposed the name of Sadiq Sanjrani, the sitting Senate chairman, who will retire on March 8, after completing his six-year tenure as a senator.

According to reports, PML-N central leadership has not finalised the name of the party’s candidate for speaker.

However, the PML-N provincial leadership said that they will accept the decision of the party’s central leadership about the speakership.

Party sources indicate that the PML-N is yet to finalise the name for the governor.

Since it has been decided that the post will go to PML-N, various names were under consideration.

PML-N Balochistan president, Sheikh Jaffar Khan Mandokhail, is leading the race for appointment as the next governor of Balochistan.

Source: dawn.com

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

https://www.dawn.com/news/1817131/ppp-and-n-yet-to-name-balochistan-cm-speaker

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Unity needed for economic stability: Shehbaz

February 26, 2024

LAHORE:

The joint candidate for the PML-N led coalition, Shehbaz Sharif, has laid emphasis on political stability, which, he states, is vital for achieving economic stability in the country.

"To strive for economic stability, all differences must be set aside. The need for mutual unity for political and economic stability in the country was never felt as strongly before," Shehbaz said in a statement issued on Sunday.

He said in order to eradicate poverty, unemployment, and ignorance from the country, there was a need to make concerted efforts. While embracing simplicity and austerity, he said, it is imperative to spend as much resources as possible on the welfare of the people.

The PML-N president said political stability and a peaceful environment are of paramount importance for foreign investment in the country.  "Pakistan will only prosper when all its units are prosperous."

Shehbaz said progress of all provinces was closest to his heart.

He claimed that in the past, the PML-N had set a shining example of economic progress and stability and that it would take concrete and practical steps to further improve the economy.

He said great nations face challenges and difficulties with courage and hard work. "Together, united, we will move forward, God willing, and solve the problems."

Talking with reference to his terms as Punjab chief minister, he said his government managed to save billions of rupees on development projects.

"The era of [former prime minister] Mian Nawaz Sharif was a golden era of progress and prosperity. Under the visionary leadership of Nawaz, we will tread the path of happiness and progress for the country," he added.

Source: tribune.com.pk

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

https://tribune.com.pk/story/2457635/unity-needed-for-economic-stability-shehbaz

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Naqvi opens new museum in Badshahi mosque

 February 26, 2024

LAHORE  -  Punjab Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi, along with provincial ministers, visited the histor­ic Badshahi Mosque and the Mazaar-e-Iqbal here on Sunday.

The CM inaugurated the new museum for placing the holy relics in the Badshahi Mosque and the up­gradation project of the Mazaar-e-Iqbal.

Mohsin Naqvi also inaugurated the Lahore Fort Cafe being built at the exterior wall of the Lahore Fort and appreciated high quality of the new museum being built for placing the holy relics. He inspected the new and beautiful showcase for placing the holy relics.

The CM ordered early completion of the transfer work of the holy relics in the new museum. Mohsin Naqvi maintained that safely keeping the holy rel­ics attributed to the great personalities at an appro­priate place is our foremost responsibility. The holy relics would be kept separately and safely in an ex­cellent manner in the new museum. The installation work of new tiles, marbles in the exterior corridor of Mazaar-e-Iqbal and renovation work of its interior part has been completed.

He inspected the construction, rehabilitation and upgradation work of the Mazaar-e-Iqbal. Mohsin Naqvi along with the provincial ministers paid a vis­it to the Mazaar-e-Iqbal and prayed for the prosper­ity, stability and integrity of Pakistan. He directed to prepare SOPs for using the back door to pay a visit to the Mazaar-e- Iqbal.

Mohsin Naqvi remarked that the tourists would feel entertained with the establishment of the La­hore Fort Cafe at the exterior wall of the Lahore Fort. Provincial ministers Dr. Javed Akram, Mansoor Qadir, Amir Mir, Azfar Ali Nasir, Adviser Wahab Riaz, Chief Secretary, Senior Member Board of Revenue, Chair­man Planning & Development Board, Khateeb Bad­shahi Mosque Abdul Khabeer Azad, IG Police, DG WCLA Kamran Lashari, Secretary Auqaf, Commis­sioner Lahore, CCPO, Deputy Commissioner and of­ficials concerned were present.

Source: nation.com.pk

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

https://www.nation.com.pk/26-Feb-2024/naqvi-opens-new-museum-in-badshahi-mosque

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SIC boycotts Punjab Assembly session as voting begins to elect chief minister

 February 26, 2024

In a tumultuous Punjab Assembly session held on Monday to elect the Chief Minister, chaos ensued as members of the opposition Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) opted to boycott the proceedings. Presided over by newly-elected Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Ahmad Khan, the session, commencing at 11:30 am, strictly focused on the election of the Chief Minister, with no allowance for lawmakers to address the assembly.

As Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) MPAs staged a walkout, Speaker Khan responded by forming a committee, comprising Khawaja Salman Rafique, Salman Nazeer, Samiullah, and Khalil Tahir Sindhu, tasked with persuading the legislators to return to the Assembly.

The political landscape featured PML-N Senior Vice President Maryam Nawaz Sharif as the party's candidate for the Chief Minister position, pitted against Rana Aftab Ahmed of the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC). Notably, in Sindh, PPP's Murad Ali Shah would contend with Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) candidate Ali Khurshidi.

In a last-minute decision, PTI named Rana Aftab Ahmed Khan as its new candidate for the post, prompted by the provincial police's attempt to apprehend its initial nominee, Mian Aslam Iqbal.

The numerical dynamics played a significant role, with the PML-N boasting a substantial number of candidates, contributing to the competitive nature of the election. The oath-taking ceremony, which occurred on Friday, saw 321 out of 371 members of the Punjab Assembly taking their oaths.

Given the clear majority enjoyed by PML-N and its allies in the House, the path seems unobstructed for Maryam Nawaz to secure the top position. A day earlier, PML-N secured victory in the Punjab Assembly speaker and deputy speaker elections, with Malik Muhammad Ahmed Khan and Malik Zaheer Ahmed Channer elected to the respective positions, further solidifying the party's dominance in the assembly.

Source: nation.com.pk

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

https://www.nation.com.pk/26-Feb-2024/sic-boycotts-punjab-assembly-session-as-voting-begins-to-elect-chief-minister

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South Asia

 

Combat Terrorism, Corruption And Drug Abuse, PMSheikh HasinaTells Local Govt Officials

Feb 25, 2024

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today asked local government officials to dedicate their efforts to eradicating terrorism, militancy, drug abuse, and corruption from society.

"We must build a society free from terrorism, militancy, corruption and drugs. You have a crucial role to play," she emphasised.

Her call came during a speech at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre in Dhaka, celebrating National Local Government Day 2024, themed "Local government will be smart: Rights to services will be ensured".

Highlighting the detrimental impact of drug abuse on youth and its potential to fuel terrorism, militancy, and corruption, the prime minister called on public representatives to foster community awareness to combat these issues. She pointed to the significant strides Bangladesh has made under her leadership, urging local leaders to contribute to this momentum.

The PM asked the public representatives to keep the pledges they made and undertake the right projects, which would benefit the people most.

Observing that Bangladesh is a delta, she stressed the need for conservation of water bodies including rivers, canals, channels, beels and haors.

Sheikh Hasina also stressed the importance of environmental protection through initiatives like village-level waste management and water body conservation. "Starting waste management at the village level is imperative to avoid future complications," she asserted, advocating for comprehensive sewerage master plans that extend to rural areas.

The prime minister asked the local representatives to enhance the revenue generation for their own local bodies, promote food production through cooperatives, protect arable lands and pay attention to the operation and services of community clinics.

She said the budgetary allocation for the local government sector was only Tk 5,799 crore in the 2005-2006 fiscal year, but that was enhanced to Tk 46,704 crore in the 2023-2024 fiscal year.

She envisioned a future where local government bodies are empowered to drive national development, emphasising the central government's role in providing the necessary framework for local initiatives.

The event was chaired by LGRD and Cooperatives Minister MdTazul Islam, with notable speakers including Dhaka North City Corporation Mayor MdAtiqul Islam, Barishal City Corporation Mayor Abul Khair Abdullah, ShariatpurZila Parishad Chairman Sabedur Rahman KhokaSikder, Chairman of Bagha Upazila Parishad Layeb Uddin Ahmed from Rajshahi, Panchagarh Municipality Mayor Zakia Khatun and Chairman of Jagddol Union Parishad Humayun Rashid Lablu from Derai Upazila of Sunamganj.

Local Government Division Secretary Muhammad Ibrahim welcomed attendees, setting the stage for a day dedicated to enhancing local governance and service delivery across Bangladesh.

Source: thedailystar.net

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

https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/combat-terrorism-corruption-and-drug-abuse-pm-tells-local-govt-officials-3552396

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UNSC Expected to Discuss UN Envoy for Afghanistan on Monday

February 25, 2024

MitraMajeedy

The United Nations Security Council will convene a closed-door meeting on Afghanistan on Monday (February 26). It is expected that the proposed UN envoy for Afghanistan will be discussed.

The Islamic Emirate said that the United Nations should concentrate on resolving issues between the Afghan government and the UN and international community, rather than wasting time on non-important issues.

The spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate said that the UN should not prevent the Islamic Emirate’s diplomatic engagement with the world.

“Sanctions should be lifted, blacklists should be removed, and frozen assets should be released; the United Nations should work on these issues. The United Nations can also encourage other countries to engage with the Islamic Emirate and should not prevent diplomatic engagement of other countries with Afghanistan,” said Zabiullah Mujahid, the spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate.

Earlier, Naseer Ahmad Faiq, chargé d'affaires of Afghanistan's Permanent Mission to the UN said that the UN secretary general will present his Afghanistan report to the council and will discuss the appointment of a UN special representative for the country.

“The UN should plan in a way that Afghanistan does not get in trouble in large international programs so that it does not become a battlefield again,” said Moeen Gul Samkanai, a political analyst.

“The United Nations' consecutive meetings on Afghanistan mean that this country has not been forgotten about, this is good and will benefit Afghanistan. This will also lead to further international assistance to Afghanistan,” said Wahid Faqiri, a political analyst.

Source: tolonews.com

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

https://tolonews.com/afghanistan-187569

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Over 100 Afghan migrants detained by Turkish Coast Guard en route to Greece

Fidel Rahmati

February 25, 2024

The Turkish Coast Guard recently announced the detention of 106 Afghan migrants by the coast guard in their attempt to reach Greece.

Turkish media reported on Sunday, 25th of February that these refugees were sent to the foreign nationals’ return centre in Chanak Kale after being rescued and are currently held in detention.

43 children were also among the refugees aboard the boat carrying illegal migrants to Greece.

Turkish Coast Guard officials cite a lack of legal documents and illegal crossing as reasons for detaining these refugees.

Meanwhile, the Turkish Coast Guard command stated that they identified a group of migrants without official residency documents on three plastic boats on the shores of Ayvacık.

This comes as Greece remains the primary route for refugees’ entry from Turkey into the European Union.

This comes amid the deportation of Afghan migrants from neighboring countries including Pakistan, Iran and Turkey amid the dire humanitarian crisis in the country and harsh winter.

On the other hand, many Afghan refugees opt for Turkey as a gateway to European countries in pursuit of a better life, often braving perilous illegal routes to get there.

Upon reaching neighbouring countries, refugees encounter numerous challenges, including police harassment, deportation, incarceration, and exploitation.

Despite these obstacles, the allure of a brighter future prompts many to undertake the risky journey in hopes of finding refuge and opportunities in Europe.

Source: khaama.com

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https://www.khaama.com/over-100-afghan-migrants-detained-by-turkish-coast-guard-en-route-to-greece/

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Deputy FM: No Need for UN Envoy When UNAMA Active

NawidSamadi

The deputy foreign minister of the Islamic Emirate said that there is no need for another UN envoy when UNAMA is operating in Afghanistan.

Sher Muhammad Abbas Stanikzai told TOLOnews that the current government is powerful and only a representative of the Islamic Emirate should represent Afghanistan in international meetings.

“A UN special envoy is appointed only for those countries that are in crisis, in Afghanistan there exists no problem and UNAMA is also active here and a UN envoy is present. They are cooperating with us both in political and humanitarian affairs. We see no need for another UN envoy,” said Sher Muhammad Abbas Stanikzai, the deputy foreign minister.

Stanikzai added that some people are trying to weaken the Islamic Emirate's authority in governance.

“Sometimes in some foreign meetings on Afghanistan, some people who have no responsibility for the country are invited to portray our governance as weak, this creates conflict,” said Stanikzai.

Meanwhile political analysts shared different views on the participation of certain individuals in international meetings on Afghanistan, and the operation of UNAMA.

“This is a responsibility of the UN chief, even if countries do not agree, the UN chief will appoint the envoy,” said Sayed Ishaq Gilani, head of the National Solidarity Movement of Afghanistan.

“The appointment of a special envoy for a country in an international meeting is an important issue, if not dealt with properly this will trigger sensitivities,” said Rashid Qutbzada, an international relations analyst.

The deputy foreign minister also said that the reason behind the Islamic Emirate’s absence at the second Doha meeting was because its conditions were not met by the UN chief.

Source: tolonews.com

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

https://tolonews.com/index.php/afghanistan-187571

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Ministry of Martyrs and Disabled Affairs Signs MoU with Charity Organization for Economic Support of Heirs of Martyrs

2024-02-25

KABUL (BNA): The Ministry of Martyrs and Disabled Affairs has partnered with the HHR Charity organization to launch an alternative livelihood and food security program for the heirs of martyrs and people with disabilities. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the two entities.

Under the MoU, 1,055 heirs of martyrs and disabled individuals will receive training in technical and vocational sectors to promote food security and economic self-sufficiency. The program, valued at $487,500, will be implemented over one year in Kabul, Zabul, Ghazni, Kandahar, Nangarhar, and Laghman provinces.

Source: bakhtarnews.af

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

https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/ministry-of-martyrs-and-disabled-affairs-signs-mou-with-charity-organization-for-economic-support-of-heirs-of-martyrs/

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Southeast Asia

 

"Indonesia Run For Palestine":Ministry Commends Thousands Of Runners Expressing Support To Palestine

February 25, 2024

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Youth and Sports commended thousands of runners participating in the "Indonesia Run for Palestine" event showcasing Indonesia's solidarity and continued support for the Palestinian cause.

"Sport is a universal language to express a desire or a purpose, and today we gathered and ran to express our moral, financial, and spiritual support for the Palestinian independence," the ministry's Deputy for Youth Empowerment, AsrorunNi'amSholeh, stated here.

As per the statement received from the ministry on Sunday, he said that participants in the event reflected the majority of Indonesians who support Palestinian independence.

Ni'am also said that expressing support for the Palestinians would be a meaningful action amidst the continued aggression and occupation of Palestine by Israel.

The ministry deputy then highlighted the story of Abraham, or Prophet Ibrahim as known by Muslims, who was burned alive by the evil king Nimrod. While Ibrahim was at the stake, according to the story, ants formed a chain to extinguish the flame, but they were ridiculed by other animals who questioned whether the act would save Ibrahim.

The story, he said, allows people to learn that the question is not about the effectiveness of the action, but rather about the stance people take on the oppression happening before their eyes.

"We hope our presence today will be akin to the ants (that helped) Ibrahim, who would strengthen the push for Palestinian independence," Ni'am remarked.

The "Indonesia Run for Palestine" event was organised on Sunday morning by the National Alms Agency (Baznas) with the support of the ministry, the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), and the Religious Affairs Ministry. The opening ceremony took place at the Youth and Sports Ministry complex.

During the charity run event, organised to commemorate Baznas' 23rd anniversary, participants ran in a 5.5-kilometre route within the Gelora Bung Karno Sports Complex in Central Jakarta.

Participants in the event, after completing the run, also gave donations for the people of Palestine.

Source: antaranews.com

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

https://en.antaranews.com/news/306969/ministry-commends-thousands-of-runners-expressing-support-to-palestine

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Surging wave of global condemnation against Israeli atrocities - Mohamad

25-02- 2024

REMBAU: The world’s condemnation of Israel’s atrocities in Palestine and its violation of the rights of Palestinians is now very significant, said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.

He said 52 countries were recently given a chance to express their views at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Netherlands and almost all condemned Israel and wanted the United Nations Security Council to act against it.

Mohamad said although numerous resolutions had been approved by the UN and its Security Council, Israel had remained stubborn and continued committing acts in blatant violation of international practices and laws.

“ICJ heard (the opinions) from Feb 16 to 24; all countries presented their objections and views firmly. Although two or three countries supported Israel, their voices were drowned out.

“This time Israel does not have many options and we joined in presenting the road map for a permanent ceasefire through the establishment of a two-state system where Palestine is independent and recognised. This is being worked on,“ he told reporters after opening the Tok Mat Cup football tournament here today.

Mohamad, who is also Rembau MP, said since 2004 Malaysia had raised with ICJ the issue of Israeli atrocities against Palestine and this time around Malaysia’s voice was well supported by the international community.

When presenting Malaysia’s oral statement at the ICJ public hearing on the Palestine issue on Feb 22, Mohamad said Israel must stop all related ‘policies and practices’ and immediately withdraw from Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT).

Mohamad said Malaysia would continue to support South Africa’s resolution against the genocide committed by Israel in Palestine. – Bernama

Source: thesun.my

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

https://thesun.my/local_news/surging-wave-of-global-condemnation-against-israeli-atrocities-mohamad-CB12138956

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Malaysia should stand out at international level to support peace and combat terrorism - Sultan Ibrahim

Hana Naz Harun, QistinaSallehuddin

February 26, 2024

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia should be more conspicuous at the international level in its stance to support peace and combat terrorism, decreed His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia.

In his royal address at the First Meeting of the Third Session of the 15th Parliament, His Majesty said this included taking a firm position on the Palestinian cause by calling for an immediate ceasefire and accelerating humanitarian aid access to the people of Gaza.

"Malaysia's active role at both the Asean and international levels should be sustained to foster a spirit of unity and spur progress while considering the geopolitical challenges and regional developments.

"The country also needs to take a firm position on the Palestinian issue by calling for an immediate ceasefire and to accelerate humanitarian aid access to the people of Gaza in Palestine," His Majesty said.

This is His Majesty's first time opening the Dewan Rakyat since being appointed as the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong in January, this year.

His Majesty's arrival was welcomed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, both Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri FadillahYusof, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Datuk Johari Abdul as well as Dewan Negara President Datuk MutangTagal.

At the same time, Sultan Ibrahim also called upon all quarters to work together in the hope that Malaysia would stay progressive, prosperous, peaceful, and secure, allowing its people to live fulfilling and happy lives.

"I would like to express my appreciation for the loyalty shown to me and our country by the public service members, the armed forces, the police and all government agencies who have tirelessly served with the utmost dedication.

"I also thank the people for maintaining a harmonious unity, living cohesively, and holding firmly to the principles of the Rukun Negara."

The third session of the 15th Parliament commenced today and will run until March 27.

The 19-day session which was graced by Sultan Ibrahim will be continued with debate among the MPs on the second day.

Other matters expected to take centre stage during the session include the economic issues, particularly the falling ringgit and rising cost of living.

Source: nst.com.my

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

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/02/1017896/malaysia-should-stand-out-international-level-support-peace-and-combat

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VP leaving for New Zealand for halal diplomacy to global community

February 25, 2024

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian President Ma'ruf Amin is leaving for New Zealand on Sunday for his working visit to the country from February 25 to March 2, 2024, for halal diplomacy to the global community.

The Vice Presidential Secretariat office informed that Amin and his entourage departed from Terminal 3 of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Soetta) in Tangerang, Banten, using the Boeing 777-300 ER Presidential Aircraft on Sunday at around 19.00 local time.

The vice president will travel 9 hours and 10 minutes to Auckland International Airport, New Zealand, and is expected to arrive in New Zealand's largest city on Monday (February 26) at 10.10 local time.

The Indonesian Ambassador to New Zealand, Samoa, the Kingdom of Tonga, and the Cook Islands, FientjeMaritjeSuebu, and the Indonesian Defense Attaché in Wellington Col HerwantoSetyono will welcome the VP's arrival in New Zealand.

After transiting for about two hours in Auckland, the Vice President will continue his trip to New Zealand's capital, Wellington, using an Indonesian Air Force Falcon aircraft, while the entourage departed using three chartered planes.

His working visit to New Zealand will begin with a friendly agenda with the ranks of the Indonesian Embassy in Wellington on February 27.

He will continue his agenda with meetings and discussions with New Zealand Prime Minister (PM) Rt Hon Christopher Luxon, and Deputy Prime Minister Rt Hon Winston Peters, as well as meeting several other important figures at the Parliament Building.

Amin is also scheduled to give a public lecture on inter-religious harmony at Victory University, Wellington, on February 28.

The next day, he is scheduled to return to Auckland to attend a Business Forum with the Halal Industry Sector and a National Dialogue with the Indonesian Community in New Zealand.

"There is consistency in the Vice President's visits to several countries, previously Europe, now New Zealand. This consistency is our goal to becoming an important part of the halal industry," the vice president's spokesperson, MasdukiBaidlowi, said in a press statement before his departure.

Source: antaranews.com

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

https://en.antaranews.com/news/306963/vp-leaving-for-new-zealand-for-halal-diplomacy-to-global-community

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Agong calls on govt to formulate policy to strengthen unity, harmony

26 Feb 2024

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 26 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, today called on the government to formulate a policy to strengthen unity and harmony among Malaysians.

Sultan Ibrahim said that this was based on his observations that the relationships between the races in this country were still not as desired, even after more than 60 years of the formation of Malaysia.

“There is still a generation today who fail to grasp the national language and understand the cultures of other races.

“There is a Malay proverb, “kalauhendakmelenturbuluh, biarlahdarirebungnya” (start cultivating values at a young age), meaning that if we want to produce a future generation which is united and understands each other, we must nurture these values from a young age,” said Sultan Ibrahim.

His Majesty said this in his royal address at the opening of the First Meeting of the Third Session of the 15th Parliament, today. Also present was Her Majesty Raja ZarithSofiah, Queen of Malaysia.

The King also called on all levels of society to maintain harmony, and not touch on sensitive issues involving the royal institution, race or religion.

Sultan Ibrahim said that the Constitution recognises Islam as the official religion of the Federation, and it will continue to be preserved.

However, His Majesty said that other religions could be practised in peace and harmony, but must not be propagated among Muslims.

“Therefore, there should not be attempts by any party to manipulate and politicise this basic foundation of the Constitution. I am satisfied with the government’s efforts in resolving matters related to the Malaysia Agreement 1963, and hope that it fulfils its wishes and aspirations for the sake of mutual prosperity.

His Majesty also expressed his gratitude to Malaysians who have maintained unity, lived in harmony and held firm to the principles of the Rukun Negara.

“Let’s pray to Allah SWT for Malaysia to continually be blessed with peace, progress and prosperity,” he said.

Meanwhile, the King wants Malaysia to be more assertive in supporting peace and fighting terrorism at the international level.

Sultan Ibrahim said that this included the Palestinian issue by calling for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza to be expedited.

“Apart from that, Malaysia, both at Asean or the world stage, needs to continue to play an active role in fostering the spirit of unity and driving progress taking into account geopolitical challenges and regional developments,” said His Majesty. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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

https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/02/26/agong-calls-on-govt-to-formulate-policy-to-strengthen-unity-harmony/120044

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URL:   https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/hindu-prayers-gyanvapi-mosque/d/131803


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