ASI: “Additions And Alteration Of The Historical Structure ” Done By Sambhal Mosque Panel Led To Alteration Of Structure
New Age Islam News Bureau
02 March 2025
UP Sambhal police Force Deployed after Dispute. Express Photo by Gajendra Yadav
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• ASI: “Additions And Alteration Of The Historical Structure ”Done By Sambhal Mosque Panel Led To Alteration Of Structure
• Hundreds Mourn Murdered Gay Imam At South African Pride March
• Unknown Attackers Hurl Firecrackers At Cops Near Islamabad’s Lal Masjid
• Hamas Rejects Netanyahu's Ramadan Ceasefire, Insists On Full Truce Implementation
• Lawsuit Filed Against Trump Administration Over Deportation Of Migrants, Including Afghans, To Guantanamo
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India
• BDO Inquiry Reveals Violations In Resolution Banning Muslim Traders From Kanifnath Maharaj Yatra, Renders Decision Invalid
• Class 11 Student Shot Dead On Aligarh Muslim University Campus
• Only 80 temples destroyed during Muslim rule, claims Asaduddin Owaisi
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Africa
• Foundation begins feeding of 15,000 students at Jigawa varsity during Ramadan
• Ramadan: Let’s embrace love, empathy, brotherhood, selflessness – Rep Laguda
• Atiku, FEC, Govs, Saraki, Wike Pray for Peaceful, United Nigeria at Ramadan
• Disquiet as three Northern states shut schools for Ramadan fast
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Pakistan
• Two soldiers martyred in North Waziristan explosion
• Karachiites to experience temperature rise on first day of Ramadan
• Punjab police unveils extensive security plan for Ramadan
• Police boost security for 36,500 mosques
• 220 ‘Non-Essential Posts’ Abolished In NA To Save Money After MNAs’ Pay Hike
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Mideast
• Israel Agrees On US Plan For Temporary Ceasefire In Gaza Through Ramadan And Jewish Passover
• Iran calls for regional unity among Muslims against Israel
• A New Age of Iranian Cinema Is on Display at the Oscars
• 70,000 Palestinians perform Isha, Taraweeh prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque
• Ramadan begins in Gaza amid a fragile ceasefire
• Gaza residents mark a somber Ramadan amid the rubble
• Iran, UAE discuss bilateral relations; focus on mutual interests, trade
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South Asia
• Bangladesh’s Student Uprising Leaders Launch New Party To Challenge Hasina-Zia Duopoly
• Hundreds of Afghan refugees deported from Pakistan and Iran
• EU stresses commitment to ongoing assistance for Afghanistan
• Pakistan voices concerns over US Weapons left in Afghanistan
• 11-member Bangladesh team arrives on Monday for Ganga Water Treaty meeting
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North America
• Chicago-Area Muslim Americans Celebrate Beginning Of Ramadan: 'A Month Of Discipline'
• The Manitoba Islamic Association is celebrating Ramadan with an outreach program
• ‘Repentance Is A Beautiful Way Of Living,’ Says Elder Patrick Kearon To Families Facing Pornography Struggles
• Muslims across Minnesota gather as the first day of Ramadan ends
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Arab world
• Damascus Marks First Ramadan In Decades Free From Assad Family Rule
• Ramadan in UAE: Huge spike in cost of hiring chefs as demand soars
• President congratulates leaders of Arab and Islamic countries on occasion of advent of holy month of Ramadan
• Muslim Council launches 5 programmes for Ramadan
• Qur'an competition testing phase for children
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Europe
• After Trump-Zelenskyy Shouting Match, Ukraine And UK Sign Key Loan Deal
• Blackburn’s Faizal Momoniat To Run 20km A Day Whilst FastingTo Raise Funds For Charity
• Slice of Ramadan from Afghanistan to Auckland: Understanding the 'true test' of fasting
• Some simple facts about new mosques we tend to ignore
• Keir Starmer seeks to soothe Ukraine tensions at summit of Euro leaders and Zelensky
• UK affirms commitment to Ukraine NATO accession
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Southeast Asia
• Indonesians Swindled By Scams Using President Prabowo Deepfakes
• King, Queen extend Ramadan greetings to Muslims
• Ramadan: Mosques, Surau Under Jakim, Jawi Must Provide The Best Facilities Says Religious Affairs Minister
• MACC chief defends investigation into Malaysiakini reporter over alleged bribe, says initially asked for more than RM20,000
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/historical-structure-sambhal-mosque-panel/d/134762
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ASI: “Additions And Alteration Of The Historical Structure”Done By Sambhal Mosque Panel Led To Alteration Of Structure
by Manish Sahu
March 2, 2025
UP Sambhal police Force Deployed after Dispute. Express Photo by Gajendra Yadav
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THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL Survey of India (ASI), in its inspection report on the Jama Masjid in Sambhal, has said the mosque’s interior has been coated with thick layers of enamel paint and remain in good condition, with no immediate need for repainting. It also pointed out that earlier, the Masjid Committee had undertaken several works involving repair and renovation in the mosque resulting in “additions and alteration of the historical structure.”
The inspection was conducted following the Allahabad HC’s directive to assess whether whitewashing was required as part of the mosque’s maintenance and repair.
The report said, “The interior of the mosque has been painted with thick layers of enamel paint of sharp colours such as golden, red, green and yellow, concealing the original surface of the monument. As per the observation of the team, the said modern enamel paint is still in good condition and there seems to be no urgency to repaint the same. However, the exterior of the monument has some signs of flaking of the paint but the condition doesn’t require an immediate treatment at the moment.”
The report added that the monument as a whole is in good condition, there seems to be “some signs of deterioration” at the entrance gate as well in the chambers located behind and the northern side of the prayer hall.
The report said, “Earlier, the Masjid Committee had undertaken several works of repair and renovation in the mosque resulting in addition and alteration of the historic structure. The floor of the monument has been completely replaced by tiles and stones.”
The ASI submitted the report in Allahabad HC which is hearing a plea filed by Committee of Management, Jama Masjid, a centrally Protected monument, in Sambhal, seeking permission for maintenance work, including cleaning, whitewashing and lighting. On Friday, the court directed ASI to undertake daily maintenance of the Jama Masjid in Sambhal, including cleaning, dust removal, and clearing vegetation growth in and around premises.
Source: Indianexpress.Com
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Hundreds mourn murdered gay imam at South African pride march
02-03-2025
Muhsin Hendricks.
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Hundreds of people in rainbow colours gathered on Saturday in South Africa's tourist magnet Cape Town to honour the world's first openly gay imam, who was killed last month.
"I was heartbroken. I think it's sad especially how far we've come, considering how progressive South Africa has been," attendee Keisha Jensen told AFP.
Led by motorcycle riders, the mostly young crowd walked through the streets of the coastal city, some waving placards emblazoned with Hendricks's image and reading "#JUSTICEFORMUHSIN".
President Cyril Ramaphosa last month condemned the murder as a "heinous attack" and said he anticipated "the perpetrators will be brought to book".
The 56-year-old's death had left "an enormous gap", said Ecclesia de Lange, director of the Cape Town-based Inclusive and Affirming Ministries, which welcomes LGBTQ people.
Jacqui Benson-Mabombo, a friend of Hendricks and co-founder of the Cape Town-based Queer Faith Collective, said Saturday's event -- an annual showpiece -- was limited in effecting "any real change".
South Africa is the sole African country to allow gay marriage, and discrimination against sexual minorities is prohibited in the constitution. But in practice, discrimination and violence are still widespread.
Hendricks set up South Africa's first LGBTQ-friendly mosque, providing a safe haven and training in human-rights activism for worshippers of all genders and sexual orientations.
The father-of-three had raised concerns about his safety, often describing the threats he faced both online and in person for his advocacy.
In 2022, he had denounced a fatwa, or religious edict, condemning same-sex relationships issued by the South African Muslim Judicial Council shortly after the release of a documentary showcasing Hendricks's work, called "The Radical".
Source: Www.Iol.co.za
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Unknown Attackers Hurl Firecrackers At Cops Near Islamabad’s Lal Masjid
March 2, 2025
ISLAMABAD: An Islamabad police team narrowly missed a firecracker attack near Lal Masjid in the federal capital while on special duty, police said on Saturday.
Around 11 members of the police team including two lady constables were deployed at Gali No 2, G-7/3 to ward off any untoward incident during a down-played stand-off between the clerics and students of Jamia Hafsa following the arrest of Ume Hassan, the wife of cleric Maulana Abdul Aziz.
After carrying out the attack, the assailants reportedly fled the scene. Police said the unidentified individuals were aged between 20 to 25 years.
The Aabpara police have registered a case under sections 324, 353, 186, 147, and 149 of the Pakistan Penal Code and sections 3/4 of the Explosives Act.
Meanwhile, a video featuring former Lal Masjid cleric Maulana Abdul Aziz went viral on social media in which he can be seen hurling threats at law enforcement personnel while brandishing automatic weapons.
When contacted, police officials expressed reluctance to comment on the episode. It was unclear whether the cleric was booked for threats or not.
Source: Dawn.Com
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Hamas rejects Netanyahu's Ramadan ceasefire, insists on full truce implementation
2025-03-02
Shafaq News/ On Sunday, Hamas rejected Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s approval of a US envoy’s proposal for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza during the holy month of Ramadan (29-30 days) and Passover, insisting instead on the full implementation of a previously agreed truce.
The group stated that the US proposal underscored Israel’s reluctance to honor existing agreements. It demanded the start of the truce’s second phase, which includes talks on a permanent ceasefire, a full Israeli withdrawal, reconstruction efforts, and a prisoner exchange deal.
“The only path to regional stability and the return of hostages is the full implementation of the agreement, beginning with the second phase. We will not back down from this,” senior Hamas official Mahmoud Mardawi told AFP.
Earlier today, Netanyahu’s office said Israel had accepted a proposal by US envoy Steve Witkoff for a temporary ceasefire during Ramadan and Passover. This announcement followed the expiration of the first phase on Saturday, March 1, which was originally finalised on January 19.
Source: Shafaq.Com
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Lawsuit filed against Trump Administration over deportation of migrants, including Afghans, to Guantanamo
By Fidel Rahmati
March 2, 2025
A civil rights group known as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over the potential deportation of 10 migrants to Guantanamo Bay. Among these migrants are citizens of Afghanistan.
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According to a Reuters report released on Saturday, March 1, the ACLU has expressed concerns that these migrants will be subjected to harsh conditions upon being transferred to Guantanamo Bay in Cuba. The group has warned that the migrants might attempt suicide due to the extreme circumstances they will face.
The ACLU filed the lawsuit in a federal court in Washington, D.C., claiming that transferring detainees to foreign locations and instilling unnecessary fear violates U.S. immigration laws. The group argues that these actions are unconstitutional and unjust.
The report indicates that these detainees are currently being held in Texas and are on the verge of being transferred to Guantanamo Bay in Cuba.
The migrants involved in the lawsuit come from several countries, including Venezuela, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. They have already received final deportation orders and are currently being held in Texas, awaiting transfer to Guantanamo Bay.
This development occurs amid promises by President Donald Trump to expel an unprecedented number of undocumented immigrants from the United States. The Trump administration has been ramping up deportation efforts as part of its immigration enforcement policies.
The potential transfer to Guantanamo Bay has sparked serious human rights concerns, with the ACLU pushing for a halt to the deportations. The case has raised questions about the fairness and legality of such extreme measures against detainees.
The lawsuit filed by the ACLU is a critical challenge to the Trump administration’s immigration policies, particularly regarding the treatment of migrants awaiting deportation. This case could have significant implications for how the U.S. handles immigration enforcement and the protection of migrant rights.
As the legal battle unfolds, it will be important to monitor any changes in U.S. immigration policy and whether this lawsuit leads to a reassessment of the administration’s deportation practices and their impact on detainees.
As part of efforts to expand deportations, his administration began sending migrants to a detention camp at the U.S. naval base in Guantanamo Bay in early February, a location primarily used to hold foreign terrorism suspects.
Source: Www.khaama.Com
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India
BDO Inquiry Reveals Violations In Resolution Banning Muslim Traders From Kanifnath Maharaj Yatra, Renders Decision Invalid
Mar 02, 2025
Inquiry into resolution passed by Madhi village’s Gram Sabha, which prohibited Muslim traders from participating in Kanifnath Maharaj Yatra, has exposed procedural violations, rendering the decision invalid
PUNE An inquiry into the resolution passed by Madhi village’s Gram Sabha, which prohibited Muslim traders from participating in the Kanifnath Maharaj Yatra, has exposed procedural violations, rendering the decision invalid.
Shivaji Kamble, block development officer, said, “During the inquiry, it was found that outsiders were allegedly used to pass the resolution. Hence, we have declared the gram sabha and the resolution invalid.”
Source: Www.Hindustantimes.Com
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Class 11 Student Shot Dead On Aligarh Muslim University Campus
Piyush Srivastava
02.03.25
A Class XI student was shot dead on the Aligarh Muslim University campus on Saturday afternoon following an altercation with another student of the same school.
Abhay Pandey, the circle officer of Aligarh, said: “Two groups of the students of AMU’s ABK Union High School fought with each other for some reason, and someone among them opened fire in which a student of Class XI suffered injuries. We admitted him to JN Medical College on the AMU campus, where he succumbed to the injuries.”
“We have constituted three police teams to nab the killers. We are also trying to procure CCTV footage from the university administration,” he added.
Armed violence seems to have become a common scene on the AMU campus. Two staff members of the university were shot on July 24, 2024. The police had arrested two
Source: Www.Telegraphindia.Com
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Only 80 temples destroyed during Muslim rule, claims Asaduddin Owaisi
Mar 02, 2025
Owaisi claimed Pushyamitra Shunga, who was the founder of the Shunga empire, demolished thousands of places of worship that belonged to Buddhists.
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Saturday claimed American historian Richard M Eaton had written in his book that only 80 temples were destroyed during the "Muslim rule" in India.
"They say everywhere in the media that temples were demolished 400 years ago. Richard M Eaton (American historian) writes in his book 'Temple Desecration and the Muslim States in Medieval India' that 80 temples were destroyed from the 11th century until 1600 - during Muslim rule," Owaisi was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.
He claimed Pushyamitra Shunga, who was the founder of the Shunga empire, demolished thousands of places of worship that belonged to Buddhists.
"Pushyamitra Shunga demolished thousands of Buddhist places of worship. Will you make a movie on that? Pallava emperor Narasimhavarman I stole a Ganesh idol in 1640 AD in Chalukya, the capital of Vatapi. Hiuen Tsang wrote that Shashanka cut down a Bodhi tree," the AIMIM chief said.
Source: Hindustantimes.Com
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Africa
Foundation begins feeding of 15,000 students at Jigawa varsity during Ramadan
March 2, 2025
The Nasiru Haladu Danu (NHD) Foundation has begun feeding 15,000 students at Federal University Dutse (FUD), Jigawa State, as part of its 2025 Ramadan Special Feeding Programme.
The programme coordinator, Abubakar Mijinyawa, announced this during the inauguration at the university’s cafeteria in Dutse on Saturday.
Mr Mijinyawa, who is also the university registrar, explained that 500 students would receive free food, including pap (Kunu) and water, daily throughout Ramadan.
“This initiative, led by the Nasiru Danu Foundation, chosen to feed FUD students for 30 days of Ramadan, is a special programme,” Mr Mijinyawa said.
He stated that in addition to the feeding programme, the foundation was also sponsoring 148 indigent students at the university, studying various courses.
Source: Bazettengr.com
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https://gazettengr.com/foundation-begins-feeding-of-15000-students-at-jigawa-varsity-during-ramadan/
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Ramadan: Let’s embrace love, empathy, brotherhood, selflessness – Rep Laguda
March 2, 2025
As the fast of the glorious month of Ramadan commences, the Honourable Member representing Surulere 1 at the House of Representatives, Rep. Fuad Kayode Laguda (FKL), FCTI has charged Muslims to embrace love, empathy, brotherhood and selflessness.
This was contained in a press release signed by Rep. Laguda while congratulating Muslims in Surulere, Lagos and the world for the commencement of the 2025 Ramadan.
According to the release, he said: “As the holy month of Ramadan begins, I extend my warmest wishes to Muslims in Surulere, Lagos and around the world.
Source: Www.Vanguardngr.Com
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Atiku, FEC, Govs, Saraki, Wike Pray for Peaceful, United Nigeria at Ramadan
March 2, 2025
Chuks Okocha, Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja, Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City and Hammed Shittu in Ilorin
The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections, Atiku Abubakar; Federal Executive Council (FEC); a former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki; Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo; Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke; Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, and Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu have urged Muslims to pray for a peaceful and united Nigeria.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has also extended his warm felicitations to all Muslims faithful as they commenced the holy month of Ramadan yesterday.
In a statement on his official X page, Atiku highlighted the economic hardship facing Nigerians and urged governments at all levels to take concrete steps to ease the burden on citizens.
“I urge that we remember Nigeria in our prayers and call on governments to provide the necessary succour that will ease the pains in the lives of Nigerians during the Ramadan fasting and beyond,” he added.
Source: Www.Thisdaylive.Com
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Disquiet as three Northern states shut schools for Ramadan fast
by Olakunle Maruf
March 1, 2025
THE governments of three northern states, Katsina, Kebbi and Bauchi, have directed all schools, public and private, to proceed on holiday for the whole month of Ramadan when strict fasting is observed by Muslims.
The governments said the holiday is to allow students, teachers and other stakeholders to observe the holy month, which begins today.
According to Kebbi State’s revised 2024/2025 academic calendar, the second term would conclude on February 28, 2025, with the Ramadan break commencing on March 1, 2025.
Ahmed Idris, the Chief Press Secretary to the state governor, said the state government approved the break to provide an opportunity for the Muslim community within the state’s educational institutions to engage fully in fasting, prayers and other religious activities associated with Ramadan.
Source: Tribuneonlineng.Com
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https://tribuneonlineng.com/disquiet-as-three-northern-states-shut-schools-for-ramadan-fast/
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Pakistan
Two soldiers martyred in North Waziristan explosion
March 2, 2025
NORTH WAZIRISTAN / LAKKI MARWAT: Two soldiers were martyred when a suicide bomber rammed an explosive-laden car into their convoy in the Eidak area, North Waziristan, on Saturday, according to sources.
The martyrs and injured were moved to a hospital as security forces launched a search operation in surrounding areas to track down the perpetrators.
On Friday, ISPR said that security forces gunned down six terrorists during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Ghulam Khan village of North Waziristan.
Source: Dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1895189/two-soldiers-martyred-in-north-waziristan-explosion
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Karachiites to experience temperature rise on first day of Ramadan
By Shawwala Aslam
March 02, 2025
KARACHI: Residents of the metropolis are set to experience warmer temperatures as they observe the first fast of Ramadan 2025 on Sunday.
With north-westerly winds of six kilometres per hour, the weather is likely to remain hot, with the maximum temperature expected to reach 32°C.
In contrast to Karachi's weather forecast, the weatherman has said that a westerly wave is likely to impact western parts of the country, leading to widespread rain and snowfall in hilly areas.
Source: Www.Geo.Tv
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https://www.geo.tv/latest/593318-karachiites-to-experience-temperature-rise-on-first-day-of-ramadan
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Punjab police unveils extensive security plan for Ramadan
March 2, 2025
LAHORE: In a move to protect and maintain peace in the area, the Punjab police has devised an extensive security plan for all mosques and Imambargahs during the praying hours.
According to the security plan, more than 36,500 mosques, 2,179 Imambargahs, and 444 places of worship in the province of Punjab will receive security during the month of Ramadan.
To ensure public safety and to avoid any potential risk over 75,000 police officers and community volunteers will be deployed in the designated areas.
In Lahore alone, a significant contingent will deploy over 5,000 officers and officials at mosques, Imambargahs, and markets for maintenance of law and order.
Source: Dailyausaf.Com
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https://dailyausaf.com/en/pakistan/punjab-police-unveils-extensive-security-plan-for-ramadan/
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Police boost security for 36,500 mosques
March 02, 2025
LAHORE: Punjab Police has finalised an extensive security plan for more than 36,500 mosques, 2,179 Imambargahs, and 444 minority places of worship across the province, including Lahore.
Over 75,000 police officers, officials, and community volunteers will be deployed to ensure the security of religious sites during Ramadan.
In Lahore alone, more than 5,000 officers and officials will be stationed at mosques, Imambargahs, and markets. Security measures include the deployment of over 200 walk-through gates and more than 12,000 metal detectors at sensitive locations across the province.
Source: Dailyausaf.Com
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https://Tribune.com.pk/story/2531816/police-boost-security-for-36500-mosques
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220 ‘non-essential posts’ abolished in NA to save money after MNAs’ pay hike
Iftikhar A. Khan
March 2, 2025
ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly has abolished 220 “non-essential posts” to cut expenditures, official documents revealed weeks after parliamentarians hiked their salaries and other remunerations by around 300 per cent.
In its annual report published at the end of the parliamentary year, the National Assembly Secretariat said “220 non-essential posts” were abolished during three phases of “rightsizing” to save Rs1 billion annually.
“Under the leadership of Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, the National Assembly Finance Committee has approved a series of policy initiatives aimed at optimising the Secretariat’s operations”, the report said, adding the rightsizing was being carried out in three phases.
In the first two phases, “non-essential posts” within grades 1 to 19 were abolished, which reduced the assembly’s expenditure by over Rs563m.
Source: Dawn.Com
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Mideast
Israel agrees on US plan for temporary ceasefire in Gaza through Ramadan and Jewish Passover
By Paige Ingram
02 Mar 2025
The office of the Israeli prime minister has announced that Israel will adopt the proposal by U.S. President Donald Trump's envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza.
A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas was reached back on January, 17 2025. The agreement was confirmed by Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's office shortly after midnight on January 18, and went into effect on 19 January. There are three phases to the deal to allow both sides to work gradually towards a complete halt to fighting.
The announcement to adopt the temporary ceasfire came in the early hours of Sunday, March 2 just hours after the first phase of the previously agreed ceasefire was set to expire. The plan by Steve Witkoff was for an extension lasting for the periods of Ramadan and Passover.
Ramadan started on Friday, February 28 and is usually between 29 and 30 days, while the Jewish holiday of Passover is shorter but this year finishes on Sunday, April 20.
Source: Www.Mirror.Co.Uk
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https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/israel-agrees-plan-temporary-ceasefire-34778263
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Iran calls for regional unity among Muslims against Israel
Mar 2, 2025
Iran's deputy foreign minister called for unity among Muslim nations in response to what he called Israeli destabilizing actions and provocations in the region, Iranian state media reported.
Majid Takht-Ravanchi made the remarks in a Saturday meeting in Abu Dhabi with the UAE president's diplomatic advisor Anwar Gargash.
The two sides also discussed bilateral relations as well as pressing regional and international issues, according to Iran's official news agency IRNA.
Takht-Ravanchi underlined Iran’s commitment to forging closer ties with neighboring countries, expressing Tehran's preparedness to enhance relations with the UAE based on mutual interests.
Source: Economictimes.Com
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https://www.iranintl.com/en/202503017504
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A New Age of Iranian Cinema Is on Display at the Oscars
By Farnaz Fassihi
March 1, 2025
A wife, wearing a nightgown and her hair uncovered, lies down next to her husband in bed. An older man and woman, drunk on red wine, dance wildly and discuss the complexities of sex and nudity at their age. A distressed young woman navigates the sexual advances of a male employer in a job interview.
These scenes may seem to be simply ordinary life snippets on the big screen. But their existence — in three Iranian films released over the last few years — is nothing short of extraordinary, representing a new era of filmmaking in Iran’s storied cinema.
These movies, and the trend they represent, have gained recognition and accolades internationally. One of them, “The Seed of the Sacred Fig,” written and directed by Mohammad Rasoulof, will compete for best international feature film at the Academy Awards on Sunday.
In a collective act of civil disobedience and inspired by the 2022 women-led uprising in Iran and many women’s continued defiance of restrictive social laws, Iranian filmmakers say they have decided to finally make art that imitates real life in their country.
“Many people, including filmmakers and artists in the cinema industry, wanted to break the chains of censorship and practice artistic freedom,” Mr. Rasoulof said in a telephone interview from Berlin, where he now lives in exile.
Source: Www.Nytimes.Com
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https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/01/world/middleeast/iran-oscars-new-era.html
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70,000 Palestinians perform Isha, Taraweeh prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque
March 02, 2025
Amid the stringent military measures imposed by the Israeli occupation authorities to restrict access to the mosque, approximately 70,000 Palestinians performed the Isha and Taraweeh prayers on the first day of the holy month of Ramadan at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, according to the Islamic Waqf Department in Jerusalem.
The department added that most of them were residents of the holy city or from within the territories of 1948, with the Israeli occupation authorities preventing thousands of Palestinians from the West Bank provinces from reaching Jerusalem to perform prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Meanwhile, local sources reported that the Israeli occupation forces obstructed the arrival of worshipers to perform the prayers through the Damascus and the Lion Gates and engaged in vetting their identities, resulting in arresting some of young Palestinians and preventing them from entering the mosque.
Source: Www.Gulf-Times.Uk
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Ramadan begins in Gaza amid a fragile ceasefire
By MOHAMMAD JAHJOUH
March 2, 2025
JABALIYA, Gaza Strip -- Before the war, the Muslim holy month of Ramadan was a festive time of increased worship, social gatherings and cheer for Fatima Al-Absi. Together with her husband, the resident of Jabaliya in Gaza said she used to do Ramadan shopping, visit relatives and head to the mosque for prayers.
But the Israel-Hamas war has shredded many of the familiar and cherished threads of Ramadan as Al-Absi once knew it: her husband and a son-in-law have been killed, her home was damaged and burnt and the mosque she attended during Ramadan destroyed, she said.
“Everything has changed,” she said on Saturday as her family observed the first day of Ramadan. “There’s no husband, no home, no proper food and no proper life.”
For Al-Absi and other Gaza residents, Ramadan started this year under a fragile ceasefire agreement that paused more than 15 months of a war that has killed tens of thousands of Palestinians and devastated the Gaza Strip. Compared to last Ramadan, many found relief in the truce — but there's also worry and fear about what’s next and grief over the personal and collective losses, the raw wounds and the numerous scars left behind.
“I’ve lost a lot,” said the 57-year-old grandmother, who’s been reduced to eking out an existence amid the wreckage. “Life is difficult. May God grant us patience and strength," she added.
Israel’s government said early Sunday it supports a proposal to extend the first phase of the ceasefire in Gaza through Ramadan and Passover even as Hamas has insisted earlier on negotiating the truce’s second phase. The statement by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office came minutes after the first phase ended, and as talks have begun on starting the second phase.
The statement gave new details on what Israel described as a U.S. proposal, which it said was made after U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff got “the impression that at this stage there was no possibility of bridging the positions of the parties to end the war, and that more time was needed for talks on a permanent ceasefire.”,
“We’re scared because there's no stability," Al-Absi said and added that she’s praying for the war to end and that she can’t bear any more losses. She spoke before Israel’s statement.
“We can’t predict what will happen next,” Amal Abu Sariyah, in Gaza City, said before the month’s start. “Yes, the country is destroyed and the situation is very bad, but the feeling that the shelling and the killing ... have stopped, makes you (feel) that this year is better than the last one.”
Overshadowed by war and displacement, last Ramadan, was “very bad,” for the Palestinian people, she said. The 2024 Ramadan in Gaza began with cease-fire talks then at a standstill, hunger worsening across the strip and no end in sight to the war.
Source: Abcnews.Go.Com
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Gaza residents mark a somber Ramadan amid the rubble
By Bilal Shbair
March 01, 2025
Bags of fragrant spices, crates of dates, frozen chicken and fresh produce. Food and other goods that were scarce during the war have returned to the shops and street markets of the Gaza Strip in time for the holy fasting month of Ramadan. And the Israeli bombs have fallen silent. But the shadow of the war hangs heavy over what was once one of the most joyous seasons in the territory, and life in Gaza has not even begun to return to normal. Street vendors have refrained from playing the special songs they normally would during Ramadan, and even if there is more food in the shops, many struggle to afford it. The first phase of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has lasted a month and a half, but it was set to elapse Saturday, which coincides with the first day of Ramadan fasting from dawn to dusk. It could be extended, but so far, there has been little progress toward doing so. Maisa Arafa, 29, who said her brother had been killed during the war, has been living in a tent with other relatives as they clear away rubble from their devastated home in northern Gaza in hopes of moving into one room that is still intact. “More than anything, I wish my brother could come back. That would be the only thing to make Ramadan feel like it used to,” Arafa said as she shopped in downtown Gaza City. “This is not the Ramadan we knew, or even the life we knew.” Before the war, Ramadan was one of the most joyful festivals in Gaza. Crowds flocked to the mosques, and streets were festooned with colorful lanterns typical of the Ramadan period. But an enormous gap stretches between the happy holiday memories of a seemingly irrecoverable past and the desolation and grief left by the 15-month war in Gaza. Many Palestinians in the territory see little to celebrate. Since the Israel-Hamas ceasefire went into effect in mid-January, hundreds of truckloads per day of food and other supplies have been entering Gaza, offering a degree of relief from the intense hunger many suffered during the war. The constant bombardment that haunted civilians’ lives every day for more than a year has ceased. Farah Irshi, 21, described how the previous Ramadan felt during the fighting between Israel and Hamas. There was little food and about 25 displaced people crowded into their home amid constant bombardment, she said. “Now there’s more food in the local market as more aid seems to be entering Gaza, but people, including us, have no money at all,” she said. “So it’s as if there isn’t anything in the markets, anyway.” Abdelhalim Awad, who oversees a bakery and supermarket in central Gaza, said prices had dropped since the worst days of the war, when a 55-pound sack of flour could cost hundreds of dollars. Many goods -- such as frozen chicken and cooking gas -- are now in shops and street markets, although others, such as chocolate, are still scarce, he said. But they are still expensive and many people already burned through their savings during the war to buy hard-to-find, overpriced food. “The goods are now available, but people are still only able to buy wha
Source: Www.kansascity.Com
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Iran, UAE discuss bilateral relations; focus on mutual interests, trade
Mar 02, 2025
Anwar Gargash, Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President, on Saturday, met with Majid Takht Ravanchi, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran for Political Affairs. The meeting discussed relations between the United Arab Emirates and the Islamic Republic of Iran, with both sides commending the latest round of political consultations between the two countries.
Source: Economictimes.Com
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South Asia
Bangladesh’s student uprising leaders launch new party to challenge Hasina-Zia duopoly
March 01, 2025
Leaders of Bangladesh’s mass student uprising that toppled former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have entered politics by launching the National Citizen Party (Jatiya Nagarik Party). Led by 26-year-old student leader Nahid Islam, the party aims to dismantle constitutional autocracy and end decades of dynastic rule dominated by Hasina and Khaleda Zia. Critics call it a “King’s Party” backed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. Still, analysts believe it could reshape Bangladesh’s political landscape. The party seeks to mobilize youth, tackle corruption, and push for democratic reforms before the next elections.
Source: M.Economictimes.Com
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Hundreds of Afghan refugees deported from Pakistan and Iran
02-03-2025
Kabul, March 1 (IANS) Around 613 Afghan migrant families returned to Afghanistan from Pakistan and Iran between February 21-28, local media in Kabul reported on Saturday.
The data cited by Afghanistan’s Amu TV revealed that Iran expelled 501 families while Pakistan deported 112, either forcibly or voluntarily.
Earlier this week, speaking to TOLO news, representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Afghanistan, Arafat Jamal stated that over 2.1 million Afghan refugees returned to Afghanistan in 2024.
Source: In.investing..Com
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EU stresses commitment to ongoing assistance for Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati
March 2, 2025
The European Union (EU) mission in Afghanistan has once again emphasized its continued support for the people of Afghanistan in various sectors.
On Saturday, March 1, the mission shared a message on X, announcing the visit of several senior EU officials to Kabul. Their visit underlines the EU’s ongoing commitment to Afghanistan despite the challenges.
The statement highlighted that the EU and its partners will continue their activities in key areas such as education for all, healthcare, the private sector, and economic development. They are dedicated to supporting the people of Afghanistan in these crucial areas.
Source: Www.khaama.Com
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Pakistan voices concerns over US Weapons left in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati
March 1, 2025
Pakistan has raised concerns about U.S. weapons left behind in Afghanistan, worrying they could be used by terrorists to launch attacks, and seeks Taliban cooperation on security.
Shafqat Ali Khan, spokesperson for Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed concern over the U.S. weapons left behind in Afghanistan after the U.S. withdrawal. These weapons, which have reportedly fallen into the hands of the Taliban, have raised significant security concerns for Pakistan. Khan emphasized that the Pakistani government is actively seeking to engage with the Taliban to address this issue.
In a press conference on Friday, Khan stated that Pakistan has expressed concerns about the potential use of these advanced weapons by terrorists to carry out attacks within Pakistan. He stressed the importance of international cooperation in resolving this issue and ensuring that such weapons do not fall into the wrong hands.
Khan further explained that Pakistan has conveyed its concerns to the Taliban, urging them to address the issue directly and take appropriate measures to prevent misuse of these weapons. He also highlighted the critical need for a collaborative approach to tackle the broader security challenges posed by the Taliban’s control over Afghanistan.
Source: Www.khaama.Com
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11-member Bangladesh team arrives on Monday for Ganga Water Treaty meeting
Mar 02, 2025
An 11-member Bangladeshi delegation will travel to India on Monday for a meeting regarding the Ganga Water Treaty, which is due for renewal in 2026.
India and Bangladesh are set to hold the 86th meeting of the joint committee of technical experts next week regarding the renewal of the 30-year-old treaty for sharing the waters of the trans-boundary river.
“The Bangladeshi delegation, led by Muhammad Abul Hossen, member of the Joint River Commission (JRC), will reach Kolkata on March 3 and immediately leave on a two-day visit to the joint observation site on the Ganges at Farakka until the morning of March 5,” The Daily Star newspaper said here on Saturday.
The delegation will return to Kolkata for a two-day meeting under the aegis of the India-Bangladesh Joint River Commission on March 6-7, according to a letter written by RR Sambharia, senior joint commissioner (FM).
Source: Www.Tribuneindia.Com
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North America
Chicago-area Muslim Americans celebrate beginning of Ramadan: 'A month of discipline'
By Maher Kawash
March 2, 2025
BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. (WLS) -- It was a busy night Saturday in Bridgeview, with hundreds of people packing the mosque for nightly prayer as the month of Ramadan is officially underway.
"It is true you deprive yourself of eating and drinking from dawn to dusk but there's a tremendous amount of joy we feel during this month because you train yourself to self restrain," Oussama Jammal said.
Jammal is the vice president of the Mosque Foundation in Bridgeview, where the mosque has become a hub for thousands of people across the area to come together for Ramadan prayers, services and dinners.
Source: Abc7chicago.com
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The Manitoba Islamic Association is celebrating Ramadan with an outreach program Saturday evening welcoming the community to join their Iftar and learn more about Ramadan.
“So we may have a different colour, creed, God’s, religion, beliefs but at the end of the day we are one people and we are one community and we will work together to help each other and make Manitoba and Canada great,” said Ghulam.
Source: Winnipeg.Citynews.Ca
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‘Repentance is a beautiful way of living,’ says Elder Patrick Kearon to families facing pornography struggles
By Jacob Hess
March 1, 2025
Healing can be “elusive” for those seeking freedom from addiction, Elder Patrick Kearon acknowledged during the Utah Coalition Against Pornography conference on Saturday.
But the same God who “yearns for our progress” will “stay with us to the end,” said this newest member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Over time, such a practice “gives us divine strength from the Savior to change our minds, hearts and lives, little by little,” he said. This is possible because of a God who is “ever patient and ever forgiving” and who “magnifies our development and delights in our successes.”
The Utah Coalition Against Pornography is an independent non-profit, convening people of diverse backgrounds, including people of faith who look to “different higher powers,” explained the coalition director, Pamela Atkinson.
Saturday’s gathering was attended by members and leaders of many faiths, including Reverend Langes J. Silva of the Catholic Diocese of Salt Lake City — along with 1500 people online, joining from many states and countries, ranging from Australia to the Philippines (with interpretation available in 140 languages, including ASL).
In her introductory remarks of Elder Kearon, Atkinson highlighted the organization’s mission to “help individuals and families find hope, help and healing” — adding with a smile, “please note the alliteration. Isn’t that great? Three H’s.”
Source: Www.deseret.com
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Muslims across Minnesota gather as the first day of Ramadan ends
02-03-2025
For Muslims across the world, the holy month of Ramadan has begun, and Muslims across Minnesota have started their daily fasts.
From sunrise to sunset, Muslims will refrain from eating and drinking, embarking on 30 days of prayer, reflection, and spiritual growth.
Inside Minneapolis' Tawfiq Islamic Center on Saturday evening, Imam Nasir Hamza was front and center— hands raised in position to lead prayer. In this moment he is guiding his congregation through the most sacred act of worship during Ramadan.
Hamza says this month is about more than just fasting. "Most of Ramadan is also a time for us to reflect time to refresh our faith."
Source: Www.Cbsnews.com
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Arab world
Damascus marks first Ramadan in decades free from Assad family rule
By Malek Fouda
02/03/2025
Damascenes are experiencing the first Holy Month of Ramadan without the al-Assad family in more than five decades. Bashar al-Assad, who took over from his father Hafez, was the last of the family to lead the country.
Some restaurants and coffee shops remained open, while most were closed as observant Muslim embarked on the first day of a month of fasting and prayer.
Syria's interim Ministry of Religious Endowments reportedly ordered that all restaurants, coffee shops and street food stands be closed during the day, and barred public eating and drinking. They've also imposed penalties which include financial fines and up to three months imprisonment.
"This year, after the fall of the regime, there are many confirmations regarding the prohibition of publicly breaking the fast, with violators facing imprisonment," says Munir Abdallah, a resident of the Syrian capital.
Source: Www.Euronews.Com
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Ramadan in UAE: Huge spike in cost of hiring chefs as demand soars
Ali Al Hammadi
March 02, 2025
Abu Dhabi: The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has warned residents, both citizens and expatriates, against dealing with unlicensed agencies for the recruitment of domestic workers. It has also cautioned against engaging with unqualified individuals offering labour services.
In response to a shortage of domestic workers and the sharp rise in the prices for their hiring during Ramadan, the ministry clarified that temporary employment services for domestic workers serve as a key pillar in regulating the labour market. These services allow for the flexible hiring of registered domestic workers through recognised service centres, catering to employer needs on an hourly, daily, or weekly basis.
The ministry reaffirmed that dealing with licensed agencies allows clients to reclaim their payments if the recruited domestic workers do not meet the agreed-upon conditions, specifications or skills.
Source: Gulfnews.Com
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President congratulates leaders of Arab and Islamic countries on occasion of advent of holy month of Ramadan
02 Mar 2025
Sana'a (Saba) - Mahdi Al-Mashat, President of the Supreme Political Council, sent cables of congratulations to leaders of Arab and Islamic countries on the occasion of the advent of the holy month of Ramadan.
In the cables, President Al-Mashat expressed his sincere congratulations and blessings to the leaders of Arab and Islamic countries on this religious occasion.
Source: Www.Saba.ye
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Muslim Council launches 5 programmes for Ramadan
02-03-2025
During the Holy Month of Ramadan, the social media accounts of the Muslim Council of Elders will showcase five Ramadan-themed programmes: “Al-Imam Al-Tayeb,” “One Ummah,” “Human Values with the Elders,” “Month of Harmonious Coexistence,” and “Our Ethics.”
These programmes are integral to the Muslim Council of Elders’ media strategy, which aims at leveraging every available platform to foster dialogue, peace, tolerance, and coexistence.
The programme “Al-Imam Al-Tayeb” hosts Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders.
In this series, Ahmed Al-Tayeb delves into the Most Beautiful Names of Allah, exploring their meanings, the significance of understanding them, and their impact on a believer’s behaviour and interactions with others.
Building on the significance of dialogue for unity among all components of the Muslim Ummah and following the outcomes of the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference hosted in Bahrain under the patronage of King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain, the programme “One Ummah” has been launched by the Muslim Council of Elders.
The conference, attended by Dr Al-Tayeb, saw participation from over 400 scholars and thinkers from various Islamic schools of thought.
Source: Www.Gulftoday.ae
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Qur'an competition testing phase for children
March 01, 2025
The Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs on Saturday announced the testing phase for both male and female children participating in Sheikh Jassim bin Muhammad bin Thani Noble Qur'an competition to memorise one part from the last five sections of the Holy Qur'an.
The ministry said that the Imam Muhammad ibn Abd Al Wahhab Mosque will host tests for male citizens and residents starting at 3:30pm after Asr prayer, stating that tests for residents will continue until March 8, while the tests for male citizens will be held next week, on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.
The organising committee announced that tests for female residents will start today at the Department of Da'wah and Religious Guidance in Al-Waab, starting at 7:15pm for five days, while the tests for female citizens will take place next week, on March 8-9.
Source: Www.Gulf-Times.Com
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Europe
After Trump-Zelenskyy Shouting Match, Ukraine and UK Sign Key Loan Deal
2 March 2025
Following the intense argument between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukraine and the UK have signed a key loan deal. As the war in Ukraine rages on, Zelenskyy received a warm welcome from UK PM Sir Keir Starmer in London, who reaffirmed "full backing" for Kyiv.
The agreement, which follows the spat at the Oval Office, focuses on strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities. The loan deal was finalised by the respective finance ministers of the countries while Zelenskyy and Starmer held discussions in London.
"This agreement will deliver £2.26 billion in funding to Ukraine, which will be paid back using the extraordinary profits generated on sanctioned Russian sovereign assets held in the EU," reads the official statement issued by the UK government.
Source: Www.Outlookindia.com
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Blackburn’s Faizal Momoniat To Run 20km A Day Whilst FastingTo Raise Funds For Charity
By Safiyyah Tayyeb
02-03-2025
Every year since 2022, Blackburn’s Faizal Momoniat has been running every single day during the month of Ramadan whilst fasting to raise funds for charity.
Faizal, who is part of Blackburn Road Runners, says his past Ramadan running challenges have been highly successful in raising money for charity.
The following year, by running 10km each day, he raised £3,500, using the donations to provide clean and accessible water for victims of the Turkey-Syria earthquake.
Last year, he upped it by running 15k every day and raised £3,352 for free meals for children in Palestine affected by the fighting between Israel and Hamas.
This year is his biggest challenge yet, running 20k daily whilst fasting for Kashmir Orphan Relief Trust (KORT), hoping to raise £10,000.
Source: Www.Lancashiretelegraph.co.uk
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Slice of Ramadan from Afghanistan to Auckland: Understanding the 'true test' of fasting
Isra'a Emhail
02-03-2025
Kiwi Muslims are preparing to break their first fast for the Islamic month of Ramadan about 14 hours after starting - later than in the previous 20 years or so.
Muslims rely on the moon to follow their lunar-based Hijri calendar and know when Ramadan begins. When they sight the new moon, they begin fasting from sunrise to sunset every day, for 29 or 30 days, until the new moon appears again and a new month begins. Eid al-Fitr celebrations commence after the last day of fasting.
The Islamic year shifts back about 10-12 days each Gregorian calendar year, meaning that in the next seven years or so Muslims will be observing Ramadan during New Zealand's long summer days. (Fun fact: It is expected to be observed twice in the year 2030.)
Although the days may not be as long as some countries like Iceland or Greenland, which saw Muslims fast for about 17 hours last year, Auckland-based couple Shookria and Enayatullah Basir say the "true test" of Ramadan comes from experiencing hardship and overcoming it.
"Here, we have a lot of comfortability, and we have plenty of food … You don't really feel, in my point of view, the true test of Ramadan. We don't feel that much hunger.
"So over there, we were really feeling hunger and everybody was countlessly waiting for the time to break their [fast] ... Everything was so true basically, Ramadan was true."
Source: Www.Rnz.co.nz
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Some simple facts about new mosques we tend to ignore
By Shuiab Khan
02-03-2025
This week another new mosque opened in the heart of Blackburn, ahead of more projects which are set to be completed over the coming year.
Yet, it is noticeable that the pace of new mosques has slowed over the past decade as the demand for larger premises has waned. This is more than likely set to continue as maintaining larger buildings has become more and more difficult.
Now, on the whole, most people care very little when a new mosque or religious building opens. Most people are just happy someone is doing something positive and helping to rejuvenate an area.
First of all, mosques tend to take over dilapidated buildings that are of no use to anyone or are built on spare land. What would we rather have - an eyesore and land being used as a fly tip? Would we rather have the building fester for years or should someone put it to some use?
Source: Www.Lancashiretelegraph.co.uk
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Keir Starmer seeks to soothe Ukraine tensions at summit of Euro leaders and Zelensky
By Mikey Smith
1 Mar 2025
Keir Starmer hopes to soothe tensions over Ukraine - salvaging any hope of peace for the country after talks between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky dramatically imploded in Washington.
Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will be at to Downing Street on Sunday, before being joined at the summit by the leaders of Ukraine, France, Germany, Denmark, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Turkey, Canada, Finland, Sweden, Czechia and Romania. The Turkish Foreign Minister, NATO Secretary General and the Presidents of the European Commission and European Council will also attend.
Discussions at the summit will focus on strengthening Ukraine’s position now, the need for a strong lasting deal that delivers a permanent peace and ensures that Ukraine is able to deter and defend against future Russian attack, and the next steps towards strong security guarantees.
The PM will tell European leaders they need to play their part on defence and “step up for the good of collective security”, Downing Street said. “Three years on from Russia ’s brutal invasion of Ukraine, we are at a turning point,” Mr Starmer said ahead of the conference.
Source: Www.mirror.co.uk
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https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/politics/keir-starmer-seeks-soothe-ukraine-34777752
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UK affirms commitment to Ukraine NATO accession
By George Allison
March 2, 2025
The UK government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ukraine’s maritime security and its long-term path to NATO membership, according to Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Defence Luke Pollard, who addressed questions in the House of Commons on 27 February 2025.
In response to a question from Labour MP Johanna Baxter, Pollard outlined the UK’s ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of navigation and the protection of trade in the Black and Azov Seas. He stated:
“We are working with Ukraine and international partners to secure commercial shipping and shipping routes in the Black Sea, including Ukraine’s maritime corridor. The 100 Year Partnership will help with this endeavour through the provision of training and equipment to Ukraine, to prevent and deter Russian attacks.”
Source: Ukdefencejournal.Org.Uk
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Southeast Asia
Indonesians swindled by scams using President Prabowo deepfakes
02 Mar 2025
JAKARTA, March 2 — Wearing a traditional Indonesian black hat and shirt, President Prabowo Subianto speaks to the camera in an Instagram video, asking his people how he can help them after his election last year.
But while the Indonesian leader’s mouth moves and his eyes blink, the words he utters are part of a fraudulent deepfake scam uncovered by police last month that has swindled Indonesians across 20 provinces.
Those ensnared by the message were asked to contact a WhatsApp number and hand over between 250,000 and one million rupiah ($15-$60) as an “administrative fee” to get aid that never materialised.
Since last year’s Indonesian election, experts have warned of a tidal wave of deepfakes — audio, images and video appearing to come from a known person but which are in fact the work of scammers using artificial intelligence tools.
“People should be more careful. Don’t be easily fooled by the lure of prizes,” said Aryani, 56, who handed over 200,000 rupiah to fraudsters after seeing a deepfake video of a prominent Indonesian businessman.
During the Southeast Asian country’s presidential campaign, deepfakes became a prominent tool to spread misinformation both harmful and helpful to candidates.
AFP’s fact-checkers found the account behind the Prabowo clip has posted dozens of similar videos appearing to show various high-profile figures, including Indonesian Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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King, Queen extend Ramadan greetings to Muslims
02 Mar 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, March 2 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia and Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia, have extended Ramadan greetings to all Muslims in the country.
Their Majesties also called on Muslims to seize the opportunity during the blessed month to strengthen bonds and extend assistance to those in need.
“The Queen and I pray that Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala grants wellbeing to the people of Malaysia and spares them from any discord or conflict during this blessed month of Ramadan,” His Majesty said in a post on Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar’s Facebook page yesterday.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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Ramadan: Mosques, surau under Jakim, Jawi must provide the best facilities says religious affairs minister
02 Mar 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, March 2 — Mosques and suraus under the administration of the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) and the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (JAWI) have been instructed to provide the best facilities for congregants throughout the month of Ramadan, which begins today.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said that at the same time, the Ihya’ Ramadan programme has been planned throughout the month and will be organised by various agencies under the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs).
“Wishing everyone a blessed Ramadan filled with devotion and reflection. May Allah grant strength to all Muslims to fulfill their religious obligations throughout this holy month,” he said in a social media post in conjunction with Ramadan.
Other Cabinet ministers also took the opportunity to extend their Ramadan greetings and well wishes to all Muslims in the country via social media.
Praying that Ramadan brings blessings and well-being, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu also urged the public to practice moderation throughout the month by avoiding wastage and planning their expenses when purchasing food for the break of fast.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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MACC chief defends investigation into Malaysiakini reporter over alleged bribe, says initially asked for more than RM20,000
By Malay Mail
02 Mar 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, March 3 — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) today denied accusations of bias in its investigations on a Malaysiakini reporter said to be involved in a corruption case.
Its chief Tan Sri Azam Baki asserted that the commission does not discriminate against anyone, whether they are politicians or otherwise, Metro Ahad and Mingguan Malaysia reported.
“The MACC does not pick and choose when investigating corruption, as long as there is evidence,” he was quoted as saying by Mingguan Malaysia, the Sunday edition of Utusan Malaysia.
“In the case of the media practitioner who was arrested, we have solid reasons to believe he was involved in a corruption case, and we found RM20,000 in cash on him.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/historical-structure-sambhal-mosque-panel/d/134762