Three Jharkhand Muslim Men Accused Of Links With Al Qaeda Acquitted After 9 Years In Jail

New Age Islam News Bureau

4 March 2025

Three Muslim men accused of having Al-Qaeda links were acquitted by Jamshedpur court as the prosecution failed to bring evidence.

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·         Three Jharkhand Muslim Men Accused Of Links With Al Qaeda Acquitted After 9 Years In Jail

·         Marking Ramadan at Canada's 'Little Mosque on the Tundra', Adheres To The Local Time In Mecca, Islam's Holiest City

·         Authorities In Kano State Arrested 20 For Eating In Public During Ramadan

·         United Nations OCHA Warns Millions Of Afghans Without Food Through Ramadan

·         Egypt’s Alternative To Trump’s ‘Gaza Riviera’ Aims To Sideline Hamas

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India

·         AIUDF legislators protest in Assam assembly over health minister's remarks on Bengali-speaking Muslims

·         Demand for liquor ban in J&K cannot be ignored

·         Samajwadi Party leader Abu Azmi claims Aurangzeb was not a cruel leader, Eknath Shinde demands treason charges against him

·         SC Pulls Up Gujarat Police Over Case Against MP Imran Pratapgarhi: ‘Must Understand Freedom Of Speech, Expression’

·         Assam: University founder MahbubulHoque gets bail in alleged exam malpractice case

·         DMK Ally Claims 'Muslim Threat' Behind Y-Security To Actor Vijay, TVK Hits Back

·         Sambhal: Hearing today in Allahabad HC on Shahi Jama Masjid case

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North America

·         CAIR Congratulates Muslims on Governor’s Proclamation Commemorating Holy Month of Ramadan

·         CAIR-SFBA Condemns Anti-Muslim Vandalism in Berkeley, Calls for Action Against Hateful Acts

·         Melania Trump urges lawmakers to sign bill combatting revenge-porn

·         'It never should have happened': Americans frustrated by Trump-Zelensky spat

·         US stops financing new weapons sales to Ukraine – media

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Africa

·         Tunisia rescues 64 migrants off eastern Mediterranean coast

·         Onaiyekan urges Christian-Muslim unity during Lent, Ramadan

·         ‘Your Time Maybe Short, But You Have Written It In Gold’ – Lawmaker Tell Meranda During Plenary

·         Resignations Hit Lagos Assembly As Chief Whip, Deputy Step Down

·         ECOWAS team leaves Guinea-Bissau after threat of expulsion

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South Asia

·         Trump’s Claims on U.S. Weapons in Afghanistan Dismissed as Baseless

·         Understand significance of Ramadan while fasting: Khalid

·         Environmental protection our shared responsibility

·         Why should Muslim scholars lead in science and technology?

·         Dozens of Afghan Migrants Repatriated from Pakistan

·         Roza Otunbayeva to brief UN Security Council on Afghanistan

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Mideast

·         Tunisia opposition figures go on trial on state security charges

·         Islamic Jihad Movement Blesses Haifa Operation

·         Israeli army restricts prayers, settlers storm Aqsa Mosque

·         Why sanctions relief is critical to Syria’s recovery and political future

·         80,000 Palestinians perform Ramadan prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque despite Israeli restrictions

·         Syria state media says Israel strikes Tartus area

·         Israel PM warns Hamas of consequences it ‘cannot imagine’ if Gaza hostages not released

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Southeast Asia

·         Govt Does Not Intend To Compel Muslims To Contribute To Shariah Savings – Indonesian PM

·         Putrajaya Ramadan ASEAN food festival to showcase regional culinary delights

·         HK ready to show hospitality to Muslim travellers with Halal-certified restaurants and hotels amid Ramadan

·         Less Beef Import for Private Sector Said to Worsen Indonesia's Layoff Worries

·         Anwar urges profit-making firms to raise wages, warns against stagnant pay amidst inflation

·         High Court allows govt's bid to delay RM1.7b pension arrears payment pending appeal

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Pakistan

·         SC Constitutional Bench Urged To Send Civilians’ Cases To Anti-Terrorism Courts

·         Pakistan slams blocking of Gaza aid in Ramazan

·         Information Minister says coalition govt reversed PTI's 'economic, diplomatic failures'

·         Pakistan Institute Of Medical Sciences Doctors Examine Imran In Jail

·         Sindh CM orders crackdown on profiteers to curb ‘artificial’ price hike

·         Three Islamabad-based universities to open campuses in Karachi

·         FC soldier martyred in Kalat suicide bombing

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Arab World

·         Saudi Commission Launches Fashion Recycling Initiative

·         Ramadan bonfire tradition rekindles roots in Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders

·         Lebanon appreciates Saudi support for its stability: Aoun

·         Restoration of 130-year-old Buraidah mosque to uphold architectural heritage

·         Saudi opposition welcome to return home: Head of State Security

·         Saudi Arabia Introduces Ihram Exit Service At Grand Mosque For First Time

·         Civil Defence issues rain warning across Saudi Arabia

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Europe

·         Labour Hasn’t Always Got It Right On Muslim Engagement, Says UK Health Secretary

·         Two arrested after 'huge brawl' outside Birmingham mosque

·         Elon Musk sparks crisis talks at UK's elite Royal Society

·         Trump condemns Zelensky remarks that war's end is 'far away'

·         What hurdles does Europe's peace plan for Ukraine face?

·         Pope Francis 'alert' after respiratory failure

·         A weekend of frantic talks - where does it leave Zelensky, Trump and Europe?

·         Macron floats one-month Ukraine truce: Would it work?

Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau

URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/jharkhand-muslim-men-qaeda-accused-/d/134782

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Three Jharkhand Muslim Men Accused Of Links With Al Qaeda Acquitted After 9 Years In Jail

March 3, 2025

Three Muslim men accused of having Al-Qaeda links were acquitted by Jamshedpur court as the prosecution failed to bring evidence.

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Three Muslim men accused of having Al-Qaeda links were acquitted by Jamshedpur court on Friday as the prosecution failed to bring evidence of their alleged involvement.

The individuals, Muslims Kalimuddin Mujahid, Mohammad Abdul Rehman Ali Khan and Abdul Shami were suspected of having Al Qaeda links in 2016 based on Delhi Special Task Force’s information.

Maulana Mansoor alias Cuttacki and Shami are currently in Ghaghidih central jail while Kalimuddin is out on bail. Shami was arrested from Mewat, Haryana in 2019 on the accusations that he has links with an AQIS operative. Cuttacki was arrested in 2015.

Back in 2016, the then Senior Superintendent had claimed that the three individuals were radicalising youth and had terror links due to which they were being interrogated by the police.

A Delhi court in 2023 convicted Shami and Cuttacki under UAPA and were brought to Jamshedpur. On Monday, following their acquittal, defence lawyer, Balai Panda said, “All 16 witnesses produced by the prosecution failed to prove the complexity of the accused. The court has acquitted them due to lack of evidence.”

After the court’s decision, the accused will be released from jail after 9 years of incarceration. “The court’s verdict has brought back out faith in the judiciary,” said Cuttacki’s brother Md Tahir expressing his joy and relief.

Source:muslimmirror.com

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https://muslimmirror.com/three-muslim-men-accused-of-links-with-al-qaeda-acquitted-after-9-years-in-jail/

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Marking Ramadan at Canada's 'Little Mosque on the Tundra', Adheres To The Local Time In Mecca, Islam's Holiest City

4 March 2025

Daphné LEMELIN

The Midnight Sun mosque in Inuvik, in Canada's Northwest Territories, was built in Winnipeg, in Manitoba province, and driven 4,000 kilometers (2,485 miles) north on a truck (Cole BURSTON) (Cole BURSTON/AFP/AFP)

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Muslims who gathered at the Midnight Sun Mosque in the Canadian Artic to break the Ramadan fast this week enjoyed home-cooked Sudanese food in a tranquil setting with breath-taking surroundings.

But it wasn't for everyone.

"I'm stuck. Every year I go, 'This is my last year in Inuvik,'" said Abadallah El-Bekai, a Lebanese-born Palestinian, who chuckled as he reflected on his efforts to leave the community in Canada's Northwest Territories, where he has lived for 25 years.

"God didn't agree for me to go. Maybe I made bad in my life, God sent me here!" the 75-year-old said.

The Midnight Sun Mosque, widely referred to as the "Little Mosque on the Tundra," opened its doors in August 2010 to serve a growing number of Muslim Canadians who were migrating north for work.

The structure was built in Winnipeg, in the province of Manitoba, and driven 4,000 kilometres (2,485 miles) north on a truck.

It is now the northern-most mosque in the Western Hemisphere.

The imam, Saleh Hasabelnabi, has lived in Inuvik for 16 years. He told AFP the congregation is no longer growing, but has remained stable at roughly 100 to 120 members.

Muslims who live around the Arctic Circle face challenges adhering to their faith, notably when trying to follow a prayer schedule linked to the position of the sun.

Inuvik gets 24 hours of sunlight more than 50 days a year and sees polar nights -- or no direct sunlight -- about 30 days each year.

"The first time was like a shock. I can't believe. The first time in my life I pray five times, the sun is still up," Hasabelnabi said, recalling his first summer in Inuvik.

The community has implemented a rule that it adheres to the local time in Mecca, Islam's holiest city.

Mohamed Asad Behrawar, who works in accounting and recently moved to Inuvik, said adjusting to the white nights wasn't difficult because he had previously lived in Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, which also has long summer days.

"But it's still hard to adjust to this environment. It's kind of harsh," the 36-year-old told AFP.

Braving frigid weather, members gathered at the Midnight Sun on Sunday to break the fast on the third day of Ramadan.

They brought multiple chicken dishes, rice and other fare packed in containers and sat together, including El-Bekai, who despite his eagerness to live elsewhere, happily chatted as he ate.

Inuvik's population is about 3,400 people and the Midnight Sun's congregation includes those who came to Canada as refugees, ultimately moving north seeking higher incomes.

Several work as taxi drivers in the community just south of the tree line.

Abdul Wahab Saleem, a 37-year-old Islamic scholar visiting from Edmonton, described the Muslim's in Inuvik as a "visible minority."

"You walk around outside you will see Muslims all the time, every time you get a cab, more than likely it's going to be a Muslim," he said.

Source:yahoo.com

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https://uk.news.yahoo.com/marking-ramadan-canadas-little-mosque-020639512.html

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Authorities In Kano State Arrested 20 For Eating In Public During Ramadan

By Guardian Nigeria

03 March 2025

Authorities in Kano State have arrested 20 Muslims for eating and drinking in public during Ramadan, the state’s Hisbah Board has said.

The board, which enforces Islamic morality laws in Kano, also detained five individuals accused of selling food during fasting hours, local media reported.

Ramadan, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, requires Muslims to abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset for a month. This year’s fast is expected to conclude on Sunday, 30 March.

Deputy Commander of Hisbah, Mujahid Aminudeen, confirmed the arrests on Monday, saying they were made to uphold the sanctity of the holy month.

“It is heartbreaking that adult Muslims would be seen eating and drinking publicly during Ramadan,” Aminudeen said. “We will not tolerate this, which is why we made these arrests.”

All 25 suspects have been charged in a Sharia court, where they face possible penalties under Islamic law, he added.

Aminudeen stressed that Hisbah’s operations were only targeted at Muslims.

“We do not concern ourselves with non-Muslims,” he said.

The Hisbah commander also noted that enforcement activities, which began at the start of Ramadan, would continue throughout the month.

As part of its broader operations, the board has also arrested individuals for “inappropriate haircuts,” wearing shorts above the knee, and tricycle drivers found mixing male and female passengers.

“We receive reports from concerned residents who are outraged by such behavior, and we act swiftly,” Aminudeen said.

In previous years, some offenders were released after pledging to observe the fast, while others were placed under the supervision of guardians. However, this year, those arrested will face legal action, he added.

The fasting period was declared to have begun on Saturday after the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon on Friday, 28 February.

Source:guardian.ng

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https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/ramadan-20-arrested-for-eating-in-public/

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United Nations OCHA Warns Millions Of Afghans Without Food Through Ramadan

March 3, 2025

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) says that millions of people in Afghanistan are facing food insecurity this Ramadan, and many of them don’t know where their next meal will come from.

The UN agency wrote on X late Sunday that 14.8 million people in the country are currently suffering from food insecurity.

OCHA added that 3.1 million people across Afghanistan are in an emergency phase.

According to OCHA, out of the $1.9 billion needed to address the needy in Afghanistan, only $9.9 million has been provided.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has called on the international community to continue its assistance to the people of Afghanistan.

Source:ariananews.af

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https://www.ariananews.af/ocha-warns-millions-of-afghans-without-food-through-ramadan/

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Egypt’s alternative to Trump’s ‘Gaza Riviera’ aims to sideline Hamas

March 04, 2025

Palestinians gather by the rubble of destroyed buildings on the second day of Ramadan, in Gaza City's Tal al-Hawa district on Sunday. Photograph: Omar Al-Qattaa/AFP via Getty Images

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DOHA: A plan for Gaza drawn up by Egypt as a counter to US President Donald Trump’s ambition for a Middle East Riviera would sideline Hamas and replace it with interim bodies controlled by Arab, Muslim and Western states, according to a draft seen by Reuters.

The Egyptian vision for Gaza, which is due to be presented at an Arab League summit on Tuesday, does not specify whether the proposal would be implemented before or after any permanent peace deal to end the war triggered by the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks.

Trump’s plan, which envisioned clearing Gaza of its Palestinian inhabitants, appeared to back away from long-standing US Middle East policy focused on a two-state solution and sparked anger among Palestinians and Arab nations.

Who will run Gaza after the conflict remains the great unanswered question in negotiations over the future of the enclave. Hamas has so far rejected the idea of any proposal being imposed on Palestinians by other states.

Cairo’s plan does not tackle critical issues such as who will foot the bill for Gaza’s reconstruction or outline any specific details around how Gaza would be governed, nor how an armed group as powerful as Hamas would be pushed aside.

Under the Egyptian plan, a Governance Assistance Mission would replace the Hamas-run government in Gaza for an unspecified interim period and would be responsible for humanitarian aid and for kick-starting reconstruction of the enclave, which has been devastated by the war.

“There will be no major international funding for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Gaza if Hamas remains the dominant and armed political element on the ground controlling local governance,” a preamble outlining the draft Egyptian plan’s objectives said.

Details of Egypt’s proposed framework for Gaza’s future have not been previously reported.

Egypt, Jordan and Gulf Arab states have for almost a month been scrambling to formulate a diplomatic offensive to counter Trump’s plan. A number of ideas have been proposed, with Egypt’s considered the frontrunner.

Reuters was unable to determine whether Arab leaders would support the plan presented by Egypt.

The plan does not specify who would run the governance mission. It said it would, “draw on the expertise of Palestinians in Gaza and elsewhere to help Gaza recover as quickly as possible.”

The draft proposal was shared with Reuters by an official involved in Gaza negotiations who wished to remain anonymous because the draft has not yet been made public.

The plan firmly rejects the US proposal for mass displacement of Palestinians from Gaza, which Arab states such as Egypt and Jordan see as a security threat.

“President Trump has been clear that Hamas cannot continue to govern Gaza,” White House National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes said when asked about Egypt’s Gaza plan and whether the US would support it.

“While the President stands by his bold vision for a post-war Gaza, he welcomes input from our Arab partners in the region. It’s clear his proposals have driven the region to come to the table rather than allow this issue to devolve into further crisis,” Hughes said.

STABILISATION FORCE

Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri told Reuters the group knows of no such proposal by Egypt.

“The day after in Gaza must only be decided by the Palestinians,” he said. “Hamas rejects any attempt to impose projects or any form of non-Palestinian administration, or the presence of any foreign forces on the land of the Gaza Strip.”

The Egyptian draft does not mention future elections.

Egypt’s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment, nor did the office of Israel’s prime minister, whose support for any plan is seen as vital to secure a commitment that any future reconstruction will not be destroyed again.

Palestinian Islamist group Hamas has ruled the coastal enclave since 2007. It launched the Oct. 7, 2023 attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people and started the Gaza war.

A January 19 ceasefire brought a temporary end to the fighting but the first phase of the deal expired on Saturday with no sign of an agreement to move to the second phase.

The Egyptian draft does not tackle the issue of what actions could be taken if Hamas refuses to disarm or step aside from politics.

The proposal envisions an International Stabilization Force drawn primarily from Arab states that would take over the role of providing security from the militant group, with the eventual establishment of a new local police force.

Both security and governance bodies would be “arranged, guided and supervised” by a steering board. The draft said the board would comprise key Arab countries, members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the United States, Britain, the European Union and its member states, and others.

The plan does not detail a central governing role for the Palestinian Authority (PA), which opinion polls show has little support among Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.

A Palestinian official told Reuters that, like the West Bank, Gaza falls under the PA’s jurisdiction — and it must be run by Palestinians.

“We agreed with the Egyptians on a committee made of Palestinian experts that will help the Palestinian Authority in running the Gaza Strip for six months. The committee is made of Palestinian experts and coordinates with the PA, and doesn’t answer to non-Palestinian bodies,” said the official, who asked not to be named for sensitivity.

RECONSTRUCTION BILL

Since Hamas drove the Palestinian Authority out of Gaza after a brief civil war in 2007, it has crushed all opposition there. Supported by Iran, it built an extensive security apparatus and military organization based around a vast network of tunnels — much of which Israel says it has now destroyed.

The plan does not say who would pay to rebuild Gaza, a bill estimated by the UN at more than $53 billion. Two sources have told Reuters that Gulf and Arab states would need to commit at least $20 billion in the initial phase of reconstruction.

Egypt’s proposal envisions that states on the steering board could establish a fund to support the interim governing body and arrange donor conferences to seek contributions for a longer-term reconstruction and development plan for Gaza.

The plan does not contain any specific financial pledges.

Oil- and gas-producing Gulf Arab states such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates could be vital sources of funding from the region.

The United Arab Emirates, for instance, sees Hamas and other militant groups as an existential threat and is unlikely to offer any funding until Hamas has been sidelined.

The foreign ministries in Qatar and the UAE and Saudi Arabia’s international media office did not immediately respond to requests for comment about Egypt’s plan, or to questions about their willingness to commit funds to rebuild Gaza.

The draft plan also calls on the steering board to coordinate with a Civil Society Advisory Board, consisting of academics, NGO leaders and other notable figures.

Source:arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2592320/middle-east

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India

 

AIUDF legislators protest in Assam assembly over health minister's remarks on Bengali-speaking Muslims

04 Mar 2025

GUWAHATI: Legislators of the opposition AIUDF staged a protest in the Assam Assembly on Tuesday, demanding a breach of privilege motion against Health Minister Ashok Singhal for his alleged remarks against Bengali-speaking Muslims.

The protest created an uproar in the House, forcing Speaker BiswajitDaimary to adjourn the session for 20 minutes.

AIUDF MLA Rafiqul Islam sought to move the breach of privilege motion at the end of the Question Hour. However, the Speaker disallowed the motion, stating that it did not meet the required criteria.

Islam expressed concern over the minister's remarks, which were reportedly made in Dhekiajuli, his constituency. He claimed that Singhal's statement suggested that Bengali-speaking Muslims, commonly referred to as 'Miyas,' would be excluded from government welfare schemes.

"He has made it publicly clear that he dislikes an entire community. He should be dismissed as a minister, and if he is to continue, he must apologise for his remarks," Islam said.

Speaker Daimary acknowledged the concerns raised by the opposition but maintained that the breach of privilege motion could not be permitted under the rules.

Despite this, AIUDF MLAs continued to press for their demand, creating a ruckus in the House. As the commotion persisted, the Speaker adjourned the proceedings for 20 minutes.

Source:newindianexpress.com

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https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2025/Mar/04/aiudf-legislators-protest-in-assam-assembly-over-health-ministers-remarks-on-bengali-speaking-muslims

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Demand for liquor ban in J&K cannot be ignored

BILAL GANI

Mar 4, 2025

The liquor issue in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K)gained momentum ahead of the maiden budget session of the legislative assembly that commenced on March 3. Growing calls for a blanket ban on the sale and consumption of liquor in the Union Territory (UT) have been advocated by political parties and civil society groups. Recently, posters urging tourists to avoid liquor and substance abuse in Kashmir appeared in Srinagar’s Lal Chowk but were later removed by the police. This move was widely criticised by political leaders across party lines for disregarding the sentiments of the people in the Muslim-majority region.

A reasoned resistance

The mass resistance to liquor consumption surged after some tourists openly consumed alcohol in public places like Tangmarg in Baramulla. People in the region view the growing promotion of liquor as a vicious assault on their cultural ethos and religious practices, which explicitly prohibits its consumption. Liquor shops have been operating in the Valley since the British era, largely due to the region’s hospitality industry. Public consumption was banned by some militant outfits during the turbulent 1990s but was revived by the Mufti Mohammad Sayeed government in 2005. Attempts to ban alcohol in Kashmir were also discouraged by the Mehbooba Mufti-led coalition in 2016.

The liquor trade has accelerated over the years and generated revenues worth crores. Between 2008 and 2010, liquor consumption in the Valley increased from Rs 13.59 crore to Rs 19.39 crore, much of it consumed by tourists from outside. The steep rise in alcohol consumption has driven liquor-generated revenue from Rs 991.50 crore in 2013 to Rs 2,486 crore in 2024.

However, the strong opposition to its promotion in Kashmir is deeply rooted in the people’s belief that the region, revered as “Pir Vear” (abode of saints), embodies sanctity and spiritual heritage. Locals fear that the liquor trade is yet another addition to the ongoing policy changes allegedly aimed at accelerating demographic transformation in the Muslim-majority region. Kashmir’s cultural ethos is quite distinct from that of the rest of India, where the consumption of liquor is a part of social life, barring a few states. However, in Kashmir, culture is considered a sacred entity, and any attempt to undermine it is seen as a violation of that sacredness. The growing demand for liquor ban in Kashmir should be read through its cultural and spiritual heritage. Notably, states like Gujarat, Bihar and Nagaland have declared the sale and consumption of liquor illegal.

The sale and consumption of liquor in the region are regulated by the Jammu and Kashmir Excise Act, 1958 and the Jammu and Kashmir Liquor License and Sales Rules, 1984. These laws prohibit the sale of alcohol to individuals below the age of 21 and also forbid its sale by anyone without a valid license. It is imperative to enforce these regulations to prevent the illegal sale of liquor and prohibit its consumption in public spaces.

Growing political outcry

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is leading a campaign to ban the liquor trade in the valley. Three private member bills have been submitted to the Assembly secretariat for consideration during the ongoing session, seeking legal measures to prohibit liquor trade in the region. This significant political shift appears to be aimed at redefining the political landscape in the UT, where political activities have been partially suspended since the imposition of direct central rule following the collapse of the PDP-BJP coalition government after the BJP withdrew from the alliance.

The political turmoil surrounding the liquor issue in Kashmir reflects the changing dynamics in the region since the annulment of Article 370 and the subsequent downgrade of the state to a UT. While the ruling National Conference has shown passive support for the liquor trade, the opposition PDP is firmly against it. This contrast highlights the deeply divided political climate in the valley.

Omar Abdullah’s cautious stance on Article 370 suggests that he is negotiating with the BJP-led central government. However, his keen awareness of the disempowered political system he oversees may lead him to support legislation aimed at banning liquor. The upcoming budget session is expected to be contentious, but it is significant as it will reveal how the new assembly responds to the latest political landscape.

Source:indianexpress.com

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https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/demand-for-liquor-ban-in-jk-cannot-be-ignored-9867451/

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Samajwadi Party leader Abu Azmi claims Aurangzeb was not a cruel leader, Eknath Shinde demands treason charges against him

March 3, 2025

Shiv Sena chief and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde Monday demanded an apology from Samajwadi Party leader and MLA Abu Azmi and called for him to be charged with treason for saying that Mughal ruler Aurangzeb was “not a cruel leader”.

“The statement made by him (Abu Azmi) is very wrong, unacceptable and condemnable. This is a sin to call Aurangzeb a good administrator. This is the same Aurangzeb who tortured Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj for 40 days. Abu Azmi should apologise immediately. Our chief minister has also taken this very seriously, and I feel that Azmi should be charged with treason for insulting the national heroes,” Shinde said in Mumbai, adding that those who speak against national heroes should be called anti-national.

During a media interaction in Mumbai, Azmi, who represents the Mankhurd Shivaji Nagar constituency in the Maharashtra Assembly, stated that the depiction of history in the movie Chhava is not entirely accurate. He emphasised that Aurangzeb should not be viewed simply as a cruel leader, but rather as a great administrator.

“A wrong history is being shown (in the movie Chhava)… Aurangzeb built several temples… I don’t think Aurangzeb was a cruel administrator,” Azmi said.

When asked whether his actions towards Sambhaji were cruel, Azmi stated that it was a power struggle, not a conflict between Hindus and Muslims.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray also demanded action against Azmi. “We will keep a watch on what action our chief minister will be taking against him,” Thackeray said.

The controversy arises from the Bollywood film Chhaava, a historical drama centred on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the eldest son of Maratha empire founder Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The film, directed by Laxman Utekar, shows Sambhaji’s life, coronation, and struggle against the Mughal Empire, particularly against Aurangzeb. Vicky Kaushal portrays Sambhaji, RashmikaMandanna plays his wife YesubaiBhonsale, and Akshaye Khanna plays Aurangzeb.

Source:indianexpress.com

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https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/mumbai/abu-azmi-aurangzeb-remarks-eknath-shinde-demands-treason-charges-9866384/

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SC pulls up Gujarat Police over case against MP Imran Pratapgarhi: ‘must understand freedom of speech, expression’

March 4, 2025

The Supreme Court on Monday pulled up the Gujarat Police over the FIR it filed against Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi over an Instagram post earlier this year and said that “75 years after the existence of the Constitution, freedom of speech and expression has to be at least now understood by the police.”

Justice A S Oka was presiding over a two-judge bench as it reserved judgment on the appeal filed by Pratapgarhi challenging the January 17, 2025, Gujarat High Court order refusing to quash the FIR against him.

According to the prosecution, after attending a wedding function at Jamnagar, Pratapgarhi uploaded a video with the poem “Ae khoonkepyasebaatsuno” running in the background. The words in the poem were deemed objectionable.

Hearing the appeal on Monday, the bench – also comprising Justice UjjalBhuyan – expressed its reservation over the police action.

Justice Oka said the police should have shown some sensitivity before lodging the FIR. He was of the view that the poem propagates a message of non-violence. “This actually promotes non-violence. It has nothing to do with religion, this has nothing to do with any anti-national activity. Police have shown lack of sensitivity,” he said.

Appearing for Gujarat, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said that people may have appreciated its meaning differently.

To this, Justice Oka said, “This is the problem. Now nobody has any respect for creativity. If you read it plainly, it says that even if you suffer injustice, you suffer it with love… Those who are blood-thirsty, listen to us. Even if the fight for justice is met with injustice, we will meet that injustice with love.”

Mehta said that Pratapgarhi’s contention was that it was his social media team which uploaded the video and that he ought to take responsibility for the team’s actions.

Justice Oka said the police ought to have shown sensitivity in the matter. “They must at least read and understand.”

Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Pratapgarhi, urged the court to say something about the high court’s judgment. Mehta opposed this.

Acting on a complaint, the Gujarat Police had booked Pratapgarhi on January 3 under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections 196 (promoting enmity between different groups on ground of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc, and doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony), 197 (putations, assertions prejudicial to national integration), 299 (deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs), 302 (uttering words, etc, with deliberate intent to wound religious feelings of any person) and 57 (abetting commission of offence by the public or by more than ten persons).

The MP then moved the high court seeking quashing of the FIR where the prosecution contended that the “words of the poem clearly indicate the rage to be raised against the throne of the state” and that “pursuant to the said post, the response received from the various persons of the community certainly indicates that the repercussion is also very serious and certainly disturbing to the social harmony of the society.”

Dismissing the Congress MP’s plea, the high court had said, “looking to the tenor of the poem, it certainly indicates something about the throne. The responses received to the said post by other persons also indicate that (the) message was posted in a manner which certainly create(s) disturbance in social harmony.”

The court had observed, “It is expected from any citizen of India that he should behave in a manner where the communal harmony or social harmony should not be disturbed and the petitioner, who is a Member of Parliament, is expected to behave in some more restricted manner as he is expected to know more about the repercussions of such (a) post.”

The high court had added, “…on bare reading of the FIR in question and also the provisions of law which are invoked in the present case, I am of the opinion that further investigation is required in this matter. Further, as pointed out by learned Public Prosecutor, the petitioner has not cooperated in the process of investigation as pursuant to the earlier notice issued on 4.1.2025, he did not remain present on 11.1.2025 and again the second notice is issued on 15.1.2025 asking him to remain present on 22.1.2025 before the concerned investigating officer.”

“In this regard also, it is noteworthy to mention that the petitioner being a Member of Parliament is considered as maker of law and is expected that he should cooperate in the process of investigation and show high regards to the process of law in proper manner,” the court had stated.

Source:indianexpress.com

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

https://indianexpress.com/article/india/sc-imran-pratapgarhi-case-gujarat-police-9866129/

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Assam: University founder MahbubulHoque gets bail in alleged exam malpractice case

Scroll Staff

March 3, 2025

The owner and chancellor of the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya, MahbubulHoque, was granted bail by the Gauhati High Court on Monday in one of two cases against him pertaining to alleged malpractices in the Central Board of Secondary Education Class 12 examinations, reported The Indian Express.

Hoque, a Bengali-origin Muslim from Assam’s Karimganj district, will remain in judicial custody in the second case registered against him on February 21. The bail application in the second case is due to be heard on Tuesday, reported India Today North East.

In the past, Hoque has been at the receiving end of several communal jibes from Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

In August, Sarma said that he was looking into the possibility of restricting students who graduate from the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya from competing for posts in the state government.

This statement came against the backdrop of the chief minister’s claims that the university was responsible for the flash floods in Guwahati on August 5. He alleged that the campus was built by cutting trees and destroying hills in the adjacent RiBhoi district, which triggered floods in the city. The chief minister accused the university of waging a “flood jihad”.

The hills of Meghalaya in the RiBhoi district slope into Guwahati. The campus is about six kilometres from the outskirts of Guwahati.

Hoque was booked by the Assam Police after students at a school run by his Education and Research Development foundation alleged malpractice during the physics examination.

Some students from Central Public School in Patharkadi had claimed they joined the Vision-50 coaching program, run by the Education and Research Institute, after being promised help to clear their Class 12 Physics exam in exchange for payments. They claimed they never received this assistance.

“Last Friday, we moved the Gauhati High Court, and after the first hearing itself, we were granted bail in this case,” Hoque’s lawyer was quoted as saying by The Indian Express on Monday. “Apprehending that he would be granted bail, authorities had filed a similar second first information report against him. That will come up for hearing in front of a different bench tomorrow.”

Source:scroll.in

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

https://scroll.in/latest/1079853/assam-university-founder-mahbubul-hoque-gets-bail-in-alleged-exam-malpractice-case

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DMK ally claims 'Muslim threat' behind Y-security to actor Vijay, TVK hits back

Mar 4, 2025

CHENNAI: A controversy erupted in Tamil Nadu over the Centre providing Y-category security to actor and TVK founder Vijay, after VCK spokesman Vanniarasu said TVK sought the security cover as they feared the actor faced threats from Muslims.

TVK and ally Tamil Nadu Muslim League, refuted the charges, saying it was a ploy by DMK and its allies to alienate Muslims from TVK.

"Vijay showed Muslims in poor light in his films 'Kathi' and 'Beast'. So, Vijay and TVK felt that the actor might face threats from Muslims and sought protection from home ministry," Vanniarasu told TOI. Asked if he possessed the copy of the letter submitted by TVK seeking protection, Vanniarasu said he didn't have it, but the information was from a reliable source in the police department.

TVK's propaganda wing joint secretary I Thahira condemned Vanniarasu and said: "Muslims were given many key posts in TVK. Our leader (Vijay) is against CAA and is supporting Muslims. Vanniarasu has insulted Muslims by indicating they have intent to harm politicians in the state."

TNML founding president V M S Mustafa, too, rubbished Vanniarasu's claims. "This is a planned campaign by DMK and its allies to portray Vijay as an enemy of the Muslims and to divert all Muslim support to DMK alliance," he said.

"No letter was submitted by Vijay or TVK seeking security," Thahira added.

Source:indiatimes.com

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

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/dmk-ally-claims-muslim-threat-behind-y-security-to-actor-vijay-tvk-hits-back/articleshow/118692458.cms

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Sambhal: Hearing today in Allahabad HC on Shahi Jama Masjid case

March 4, 2025

The Allahabad High Court will hear the petition related to the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal on Tuesday. The case, which has drawn significant attention, will be heard by a bench of Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal at 10 a.m.

The mosque management committee has filed the petition requesting permission to whitewash the mosque premises ahead of Ramzan, a matter that has sparked considerable debate in recent months.

During today’s hearing, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) team will submit a report on the cleanliness of the mosque. The ASI was previously directed by the court to inspect the mosque and ensure its cleanliness. In addition, the legal representatives of the mosque committee will file a reply in response to the ASI’s report.

In response to a plea from the mosque management committee, the court had earlier issued a directive on Friday, instructing the ASI to clean the premises of the Shahi Jama Masjid but stopped short of ordering the whitewashing of the mosque before Ramzan. The court also ordered the ASI to appoint a team of three officers to inspect the mosque and submit their findings.

This case remains a focal point of legal, historical, and communal discussions, with its resolution likely to have a significant impact on both the region’s religious dynamics and its legal landscape. The developments will be closely followed by both local communities and legal observers.

The dispute surrounding the mosque stems from a claim that the Shahi Jama Masjid was constructed after the demolition of the historic Harihar Temple, which some believe was located at the same site.

The controversy surrounding the mosque’s origins escalated following a court-ordered survey of the mosque on November 24, 2024. The survey led to violent clashes, with four people losing their lives, further intensifying the sensitive religious and historical dispute.

Source:thestatesman.com

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

https://www.thestatesman.com/india/sambhal-hearing-today-in-allahabad-hc-on-shahi-jama-masjid-case-1503404207.html

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North America

 

CAIR Congratulates Muslims on Governor’s Proclamation Commemorating Holy Month of Ramadan

March 3, 2025

The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) extends its congratulations to the Muslim community on Governor Wes Moore’s official proclamation commemorating Ramadan as a month of reflection, prayer, and community.

The Proclamation highlights the significance of this holy month, which is observed by approximately 2 billion Muslims worldwide and 350,000 Muslims across the state. It is a time for spiritual growth, self-discipline, and charitable giving, fostering a deeper sense of community and connection.

“We commend Governor Moore’s acknowledgement of the rich tapestry of our state’s diverse Muslim community,” said CAIR’s Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry. “This recognition honors the values Ramadan embodies, strengthens bonds between different groups, and serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and respect for all cultures and religions.”

As Muslims around the state observe this sacred month, they are engaging in fasting from dawn until sunset, increased prayer, and acts of charity, aimed at increasing God-consciousness and fostering a spirit of unity and compassion.

The Proclamation reads:

“From the Governor of the State of Maryland

THE HOLY MONTH OF RAMADAN 2025

FEBRUARY 28th,2025 – MARCH 30th,2025

WHEREAS,

The holy month of Ramadan is observed by Muslims around the world as a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community, marking a sacred period ofsiritual growth and devotion; and

WHEREAS,

Islam is a faith practiced by over 1.9 billion people globally and by a vibrant and diverse Muslim community here in Maryland, which is home to approximately 350,000 Muslim residents, who contribute significantly to the social, cultural, and economic fabric of our state; and

WHEREAS,

During Ramadan,Muslims abstain from food, drink, and intimate relations from dawn until sunset, demonstrating self-discipline, gratitude, and compassion and encourage acts of kindness, charity, and service, exemplifying these values through outreach, interfaith dialogue, and initiatives to assist those who are less fortunate; and

WHEREAS,

The principles of Ramadan reflect the shared values of unity, compassion, and mutual understanding, which strengthen the bonds of our diverse communities across Maryland and foster values of peace, unity, and empathy, encouraging individuals of all backgrounds to embrace mutual understanding and work toward a more just and equitable society; and

WHEREAS,

The State of Maryland is committed to combating Islamophobia, prejudice, and discrimination, ensuring that all residents, including our Muslim neighbors, can live and worship freely in peace and security; and

WHEREAS,

The State of Maryland joins its Muslim residents in welcoming the month of Ramadan and recognizes their valuable contributions to building a more inclusive and harmonious society; and

WHEREAS,

All Marylanders are encouraged to recognize and honor the significance of this sacred time, promoting interfaith understanding, and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of our Muslim neighbors.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, WES MOORE, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF MARYLAND, do hereby proclaim FEBRUARY 28h,2025-MARCH 30″, 2025 as THE HOLY MONTH OF RAMADAN in Maryland, and do commend this observance to all of our citizens.

Given under my hand and the Great Seal of the State of Maryland on this 28th day of February Two Thousand and Twenty-Five.”

CAIR Maryland encourages all Marylanders to join in the spirit of Ramadan by practicing compassion, empathy and understanding.

CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.  

Source:cair.com

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

https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-congratulates-md-muslims-on-governors-proclamation-commemorating-holy-month-of-ramadan/

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CAIR-SFBA Condemns Anti-Muslim Vandalism in Berkeley, Calls for Action Against Hateful Acts

March 3, 2025

The San Francisco Bay Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA) today condemned the reported anti-Muslim vandalism targeting a longtime Berkeley clinic, Berkeley Community Physical Therapy, on the first day of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

According to reports, vandals scrawled slurs across the clinic’s windows, including “F— Islam.” This incident follows repeated defacements of the clinic’s pro-peace posters since the onset of the Israeli genocide in Gaza in 2023, underscoring an escalating climate of hate toward Muslims and those perceived to be Muslim.

“It is unconscionable that a community member would be targeted with such vile, hateful vandalism, particularly as Muslims worldwide observe the sacred month of Ramadan,” said CAIR-SFBA Executive Director Zahra Billoo. “All residents of Berkeley—and across the Bay Area—deserve to feel safe, supported, and free from intimidation. We call on local leaders and law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate this incident as a hate crime and to hold those responsible accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

CAIR-SFBA calls on:

Local and State Officials to unequivocally condemn all forms of hate, including anti-Muslim incidents, and to demonstrate equal commitment to combatting Islamophobia, antisemitism, anti-Black racism, and every other manifestation of bigotry.

Community Solidarity – We encourage all community members to join in standing against hate and discrimination, in words and in action, including by attending the vigil against hate at 6:30pm tonight at the South Berkeley Senior Center at 2939 Ellis Street.

Law Enforcement to treat this case as a serious hate crime and conduct a swift, transparent investigation, ensuring that the victim’s rights and safety are prioritized.

In light of the recent uptick in anti-Muslim, anti-Palestinian, and other hateful acts, CAIR-SFBA reaffirms its commitment to advocating on behalf of community members facing discrimination and harassment.

From January to June 2024, CAIR documented 4,951 incoming bias complaints nationwide, a 69 percent increase over the same period in 2023.

CAIR’s national office released its 2024 civil rights report, which revealed the highest number of complaints it has ever received in its 30-year history. Titled “Fatal: The Resurgence of Anti-Muslim Hate,” the report documented 8,061 complaints. Nearly half of all complaints received in 2023 were reported in the final three months of the year.

CAIR-SFBA is an office of CAIR, America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.

Source:cair.com

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

https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-sfba-condemns-anti-muslim-vandalism-in-berkeley-calls-for-action-against-hateful-acts/

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Melania Trump urges lawmakers to sign bill combatting revenge-porn

March 4, 2025

Melania Trump was on Capitol Hill Monday to urge lawmakers to vote for a bill with bipartisan support that would make so-called "revenge-porn" a federal crime.

The Take It Down bill would make it a crime to post "intimate images" - real or AI-generated - online without an individual's consent and would require technology companies to remove the content within 48 hours.

"It's heartbreaking to witness young teens, especially girls, grappling with the overwhelming challenges posed by malicious online content, like deepfakes," the first lady said, in her first public solo appearance of the new administration.

The bill already has passed the Senate with bipartisan support, but still needs to pass the House of Representatives.

"In an era where digital interaction are integral to daily life, it is imperative that we safeguard children from mean-spirited and hurtful online behaviour," Trump said during a roundtable on Monday.

The Senate version of the Take It Down bill was sponsored by Republican Ted Cruz of Texas and Democrat Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota.

House Energy and Commerce Chair Brett Guthrie has said his panel would schedule a hearing on the bill in the next few weeks, according to Politico.

The first lady focused on online initiatives during her husband's first term, when she launched the "Be Best" campaign to promote child well-being and online safety.

The Take It Down bill appears to be a part of Trump's efforts to continue the Be Best campaign.

The first lady has made few public appearances since her husband took over the White House on 20 January. She was rarely on the campaign trail during his run last year.

She is expected to attend the president's joint session before Congress on Tuesday.

Source:bbc.com

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

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8d41zv4ng2o

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'It never should have happened': Americans frustrated by Trump-Zelensky spat

March 4, 2025

The shocking blow-up between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House on Friday continues to ripple across the globe, including through American voters who expressed frustration at one or both leaders.

The extraordinary scene saw Vice-President JD Vance accuse the Ukrainian president of being "disrespectful" to the US, while Trump urged him to make a deal with Russia "or we are out".

Trump also accused the Ukrainian president of "gambling with World War Three" as Zelensky pushed back at suggestions that he should work harder to agree a ceasefire with Vladimir Putin. Zelensky was eventually told to leave the White House early.

World leaders and elected officials in the US have had much to say about the tense exchange, but so do American voters. We've asked five people what they think.

Christopher Carey, 51, Republican

This South Carolina voter aligns himself with the Trump administration but he was frustrated by the Oval Office spat and wants the US to continue to back Ukraine.

It never should have happened. I blame both [Zelensky and Trump].

Zelensky did come across as arrogant, frankly. I get he was trying to make his point but he doesn't know how to deal with Trump. [UK Prime Minister Keir] Starmer knows how to deal with Trump, [French Prime Minister Emmanuel] Macron knows how to deal with Trump, [Russian President Vladimir] Putin definitely knows how to deal with Trump, but [Zelensky] doesn't know how to handle Trump.

Some of what Trump says is true. When he said Ukraine doesn't have the cards, [Zelensky] doesn't have the cards.

But Zelensky does have the cards in so far as saying that we will feel it in America shortly after Europe feels it, if Putin is appeased, because [Putin will] just reconstitute his forces and invade somebody else.

Kat O'Brien, 37, Democrat

This Florida Democrat has repeatedly voted against Trump and said she was ashamed to call herself an American in the wake of the meeting.

I had to pause it a couple of times to give myself a few moments to cool off. I saw Trump and Vance steamrolling President Zelensky and refusing to let him get a word in edgewise.

They were selfish, rude, callous, and displayed a complete lack of basic human empathy.

It's hard to stay optimistic about the outcome of this war, and I knew something like this was likely to happen after Trump was re-elected.

I've been dreading this possibility since election day; however, I didn't anticipate Trump being this horrible about it. I'm terrified for Zelensky and Ukraine.

Kim E Pelletier, 57, Republican

If more people had seen the full interaction between Trump and Zelensky, then this Pennsylvania voter says they would understand Trump's frustrations.

The majority of the American public is getting a sliver of what happened, I'm glad that was public but I wish people would watch the whole thing because I think they'd have a very different point of view.

This war needs to end, but it's not going to end the way Zelensky wants it to end. It's a sad state of affairs.

Zelensky was expecting it to go a lot differently and I give Vance and Trump a lot of credit for handling it the way it did.

Putin sitting there going, "Damn, I better behave because Trump is holding no prisoners."

John Carroll, 41, Independent

This New Jersey voter has backed both Republicans and Democrats in the past but was "disgusted" by how Trump and Vance handled themselves in the Oval Office.

I was absolutely disgusted with it. Even if Zelensky and the Ukrainians were considered adversarial to us, you wouldn't talk to their head of state or head of government that way.

I would go beyond sending more aid to Ukraine - I would go as far as saying we should send military assets: putting planes in the air or putting boots on the ground.

[Putin] operates like a bully. The only way you're really going to get a bully to reconsider their actions is to stand up to them - you have to be willing to punch them in the mouth at some point in time.

AlliRastrelli, 21, Republican

This Indiana Trump voter wants to help Ukraine, but thinks there should be limit to US generosity to ensure Americans are taken care of too.

I want to help them as much as we can but we can't keep giving, giving, giving.

Zelensky had good reason to want more, but I feel like he was in the wrong to ask for it in that manner. If he did it in private, it would have been the place for it.

I didn't feel like Trump or Vance's reaction to it was wrong. It wasn't perfect, but I don't think it was a bad reaction per se. I hope there can be reconciliation after this, I want to help them end this war.

But if there isn't some middle ground they can find, I don't want to see the US to continue to spend and spend on a country that isn't ours when we have domestic problems.

Ryan Rodriguez, 38, Democrat

This California voter was taken aback by the "arrogant stance" of Trump and Vance against Zelensky.

All it seemed like Trump and Vance wanted to do was "make a deal", in other words turn a profit from this conflict. Ukraine doesn't need trade partners. It needs allies, nations who aren't afraid to put some skin in this fight and fend off an invading enemy.

The world's leaders need to take in the full scope of this conflict and stop letting Vladimir Putin dictate the rules of engagement.

The war in Ukraine is not some limited regional border dispute. This is a case of full-blown invasion by one sovereign nation of another.

The war has gone on long enough for Ukraine to fight it without any other allies fighting alongside them in battle. Ukraine can't and shouldn't fight this war alone.

Jim Sullivan, 54, Republican

This Indiana voter supports the president but described Trump and Vance's behaviour as the wrong move.

In all my years alive, I've never seen anything like that before. I understand behind closed doors things like this happen, but the Oval Office is not where you're displaying your dirty laundry.

I'm not a big fan of Zelensky but I found what happened in the Oval Office the other day is embarrassing.

It's getting muddled up between the personalities on display there but the fact of the matter is Russia invaded Ukraine not once but twice.

Russia is the aggressor.

I understand the administration wants to show the world what we're dealing with, but we're supposed to be the leader of the world and good leaders don't lose their cool at this level.

I don't want to appear that I'm hostile of Trump, but I just think this style of leadership is not productive.

Source:bbc.com

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

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvg17jmm5vxo

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US stops financing new weapons sales to Ukraine – media

3 Mar, 2025

The US has suspended funding for any new arms sales to Ukraine, the Wall Street Journal has reported, citing unnamed sources.

In an article on Monday, the publication said that Washington “has stopped financing new weapons sales to Ukraine and is considering freezing weapons shipments from US stockpiles.”

Soon after assuming office in January, Trump suspended all foreign aid, including military aid, except to Israel and Egypt, pending a review.

Meanwhile, Axios claimed that Trump would conduct a meeting Monday afternoon on the Ukraine conflict, “including a possible suspension of US military aid.” According to the media outlet, Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and several other senior officials are expected to take part.

The Washington Post, citing an anonymous senior US official, carried a similar report on Monday, saying that Trump would hold a meeting later in the day to “discuss whether to end military assistance to Ukraine.”

The newspaper claimed that aside from stopping arms and equipment deliveries to Kiev, the termination of intelligence sharing and training for Ukrainian troops and pilots is also under consideration.

On Sunday, Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky predicted that a peace agreement between his country and Russia “is still very, very far away.” He also expressed confidence that despite his acrimonious exchange with Trump and Vance at the White House on Friday, “Ukraine has a strong enough partnership with the United States of America” to keep the aid flowing.

Commenting on the Ukrainian leader’s remarks on his Truth Social platform, President Trump described them as the “worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy.” He further warned that “America will not put up with it for much longer,” adding that Zelensky “doesn’t want there to be Peace as long as he has America’s backing.”

Speaking to Fox News after the weekend, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz hinted that the “American people’s patience is not unlimited, their wallets are not unlimited, and our stockpiles and munitions are not unlimited.”

The official described Zelensky as the “problem” due to his refusal to “talk peace.”

“Time is not on his side. Time is not on the side of just forever continuing this conflict,” Waltz stated.

In an interview with the same outlet on Sunday, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said that the Ukrainian leader had been told in no uncertain terms during Friday’s meeting with Trump that further financial support would be contingent on Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate peace with Russia.

Source:rt.com

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

https://www.rt.com/news/613632-axios-trump-considering-ukraine-aid-suspension/

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Africa

 

Tunisia rescues 64 migrants off eastern Mediterranean coast

March 03, 2025

TUNIS: Authorities in Tunisia say 64 migrants were rescued from a boat that capsized off the country’s eastern Mediterranean coast after running out of fuel.

The country’s national customs agency said in a statement that maritime patrols sent to the capsized vessel rescued 64 people of various nationalities off the coast of Mahdia on Friday evening. No deaths were reported.

“The rescued migrants were trying to cross by boat toward the European space illegally,” the customs agency said.

Initial findings of the investigation suggest that the migrants had set off from an unnamed neighboring country, likely to be Libya.

The migrants were taken to the port of Chebba, 60 km north of Sfax, for further investigation.

More than 30,000 migrants set sail from Libya and arrived in Italy in 2024, according to UNHCR.

The UN refugee agency said 61 percent of those arriving in Italy by sea came from Libya, followed by 32 percent from Tunisia.

The UN’s International Organization for Migration estimates that more than 100 migrants have died or gone missing in the central Mediterranean off the coast of Tunisia and Libya since the beginning of 2025.

There is no official data about the actual number of migrants living in Libya.

Source:arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2592316/middle-east

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Onaiyekan urges Christian-Muslim unity during Lent, Ramadan

March 4, 2025

As Christians and Muslims observe their sacred seasons of Lent and Ramadan, the Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, is calling for greater unity between the two faiths.

 In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday in Abuja, Onaiyekan emphasised the shared values of both Christianity and Islam, particularly the belief in one merciful, all-powerful God.

He highlighted how both faiths held similar core principles, especially during times of fasting and prayer.

“Whether you are Christian or Muslim, we all believe in one God who is Almighty and merciful”.

The cardinal urged believers to come together in prayer, fasting, and acts of charity during the unique overlap of Lent and Ramadan in 2025.

He called for unity between Christians and Muslims as they sought God’s mercy and engaged in spiritual reflection during these sacred seasons.

The cardinal acknowledged that though the two observances differ, their core principles were the same.

“Both Ramadan and Lent are times to draw closer to God, be more fervent in prayer, and help the poor.

“This year, as they coincide, it is a divine reminder for us to come together and pray for our nations,” he explained.

He also stressed the importance of religious leaders promoting unity in their communities

“Priests, bishops, and imams must encourage their followers to approach these seasons with sincerity and righteousness.

“Fasting without a genuine heart and purpose won’t lead to meaningful change,” he said.

Onaiyekan also emphasised that during this unique period, the collective prayers of faithful Muslims and Christians would be heard by God.

“This is an opportunity for us to unite in prayer for mercy and healing,” he added.

Source:thenationonlineng.net

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

https://thenationonlineng.net/onaiyekan-urges-christian-muslim-unity-during-lent-ramadan/

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‘Your Time Maybe Short, But You Have Written It In Gold’ – Lawmaker Tell Meranda During Plenary

3 March 2025

By EnioluwaAdeniyi

The Speaker of the Lagos House of Assembly, MojisolaMeranda, was commended on Monday for her legislative acumen, diligence, and performance as speaker within her short time in office.

Naija News understands that Meranda took over as Speaker on January 13, 2025, following the removal of former Speaker MudashiruObasa, who is reportedly poised for reinstatement.

AroMoshood during a plenary on Monday, led by Meranda at about 2:20 p.m initiated the praise session, describing Meranda’s tenure as “positively life-transforming.”

The lawmaker representing Alimosho II, Kehinde Joseph added, “You have made history with your resilience and humility. Your time may be short, but you have written your name in gold.”

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General, Lawal Pedro SAN, convened a strategic meeting on Monday with all 40 lawmakers at the Assembly Complex in Alausa-Ikeja.

While the specific agenda of the meeting remains unclear at the time of filing this report, it is believed to be linked to the ongoing leadership crisis within the House of Assembly.

Around 1:30 pm, the ousted Speaker, Hon. MudashiruObasa, arrived at the meeting and was seen exchanging handshakes with his colleagues.

Also present at the meeting was the Lagos APC State Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi.

Source:naijanews.com

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

https://www.naijanews.com/2025/03/03/your-time-maybe-short-but-you-have-written-it-in-gold-lawmaker-tell-meranda-during-plenary/

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Resignations Hit Lagos Assembly As Chief Whip, Deputy Step Down

3 March 2025

By George OshogweOgbolu

The Chief Whip of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Setonji David, has stepped down from his position.

Naija News understands that David resigned to return to his previous role before the leadership crisis.

However, he was subsequently renominated by Hon. Kehinde Joseph as Deputy Whip, with Hon. Surajudeen Tijani seconding the nomination.

In a related development, the Deputy Chief Whip, Hon. GaniyuOkanlawon, also resigned from his position to allow Hon. David to assume the role.

In related development, Speaker MojisolaLasbatMeranda has resigned her position as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Naija News reports that Meranda, the Assembly’s first female Speaker, resigned during plenary on Monday.

Meranda said she resigned to protect the state assembly, adding that she is not a quitter.

“I know that this is a point at which, as your leader, I must make this selfless sacrifice to resign in order to protect the institution,” she said.

The Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. FataiMojeed also resigned his position.

Mojeed who read his resignation letter during plenary session on Monday, he appreciated his colleagues for choosing him 49 days ago.

Source:naijanews.com

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

https://www.naijanews.com/2025/03/03/just-in-resignations-hit-lagos-assembly-as-chief-whip-deputy-step-down/

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ECOWAS team leaves Guinea-Bissau after threat of expulsion

3 March 2025

A mission from the West African Regional bloc, ECOWAS, has left Guinea-Bissau saying the president had threatened to expel it.

The team was sent to the country last month to help it reach a “political consensus” on how to conduct elections this year.

It said it had "prepared a draft agreement on a roadmap for elections” and had started presenting it to the stakeholders for their consent.

But the team decided to leave early on Saturday morning after President UmaroSissocoEmbalo’s threat.

It says it will now present its report to the ECOWAS president, including a proposal for an agreement leading to "inclusive and peaceful elections".

Embalo has not responded to the bloc's accusation.

There has been heightened tension in the country over when his five-year mandate ends.

The opposition say his term as president expired last week, but the Supreme Court of Justice ruled that it ends on 4 September.

A new round of general elections was due to take place last November, but Embalo postponed them and has since announced they will take place on the 30 November this year.

The opposition has opposed the delay.

Guinea-Bissau has experienced several military coups since independence in 1974, and there have been two attempts to overthrow Embalo, the latest in December 2023.

This led him to dissolve the opposition-dominated parliament.

The opposition last Thursday called for a nationwide strike, on the day they said the president's term was expiring, with the government deploying security forces across the capital.

Embalo travelled to  Moscow the day before where he held talks with Russia President Vladimir Putin, reportedly discussing developing cooperation between the two countries.

Source:africanews.com

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South Asia

 

Trump’s Claims on U.S. Weapons in Afghanistan Dismissed as Baseless

2025-03-04

KABUL(BNA): After two decades of U.S. occupation, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan took control of the country in 2021. One of the most striking outcomes of this historic victory was the sheer amount of military equipment left behind by U.S. forces during their hasty withdrawal—weapons, armored vehicles, aircraft, and ammunition abandoned in their wake.

For the Islamic Emirate, these weapons are not just material gains; they are the spoils of a hard-fought struggle, earned through immense sacrifice. Yet, U.S. President Donald Trump has tried to claim that the U.S. still has rights to these assets. This assertion is not only baseless but also goes against both international norms and Islamic principles.

The Mujahideen of the Islamic Emirate waged a relentless struggle against a global superpower—a force that sought to dominate and occupy. In Islam, there are clear guidelines about what happens when Muslims acquire weapons or resources from disbelievers during war. Such acquisitions are considered legitimate spoils, or ghanima, and are to be used for the benefit of the Islamic state and its people.

Even by international standards, the Islamic Emirate’s position is justified. History is full of examples where victorious forces have claimed the military assets of their defeated enemies. During World War II, for instance, the U.S. seized vast amounts of equipment from Germany and Japan and never returned it. Now that the Islamic Emirate is the legitimate authority in Afghanistan, these weapons are rightfully ours—not America’s.

The U.S. and its allies are trying to frame this issue as though the Islamic Emirate somehow stumbled upon these weapons by chance. But the truth is far from that. For twenty years, the Mujahideen endured unimaginable sacrifices—thousands of martyrs, economic hardships, and relentless struggle—to finally end the occupation. These weapons are not just material gains; they are the fruits of our people’s resilience and sacrifice.

The Afghan people have a long and proud history of defending their land against invaders. These weapons are a testament to that struggle, and they will be used to ensure the stability, security, and defense of our nation.

Washington claims that these weapons pose a threat to regional security, but their real concern is something else entirely: they do not want to see Afghanistan emerge as a strong, independent Islamic state.

Source:bakhtarnews.af

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Understand significance of Ramadan while fasting: Khalid

03 Mar 2025

DHAKA, March 3, 2025 (BSS) - Religious Affairs Adviser Dr. AFM Khalid Hossain today urged all concerned to practice fasting by understanding the significance of holy Ramadan.

 “Fasting should not be just a worldly practice” he said, calling the Muslims for burning the bad desire being glorified with the teachings of Ramadan,” he said.

The adviser said this at an Iftar Mahfil at the TSC auditorium organized by Dhaka University (DU) under the patronization of Turkey Diyanet Foundation (TDV).

“We should bring purity in every aspect of life by upholding the beauty of Ramadan . . . We should revive morality in our character and awaken the virtue of humility. The evil instinct of character must be suppressed,” the adviser said.

Dr. Khalid requested everyone to spread the message of harmony and brotherhood in the society in addition to seeking the pleasure of the Almighty Allah through observing fasting.

Describing the misappropriation of state resources as unfortunate, AFM Khalid said, “When we get the responsibility of running the country, we must avoid the evil mentality of grabbing everything. When we get the responsibility, we eat from the top and collect from the bottom as well. We have to come out of this culture.”

DU Arabic Department Chairman Professor Jobayer Mohammad Ehsanul Haque was the key note speaker on the occasion.

Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan and TDV's Bangladesh Coordinator OguzhanAdsiz attended the function as special guests.

DU Pro-VC Saima Haque Bidisha, teachers, officials and employees of the university were present while DU Treasurer Prof Dr M Jahangir Alam Chowdhury was in the chair.

Source:bssnews.net

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Environmental protection our shared responsibility

March 4, 2025

The environment, on which our health, economy and social development depend, is a fundamental part of our lives, but unfortunately, our nature is facing unprecedented threats due to human activities. Environmental protection has become a pressing concern in our modern world. As we continue to witness the devastating effects of climate change, deforestation, pollution, and habitat destruction, it has become abundantly clear that we must take immediate action to safeguard our planet for future generations. The Earth’s environment is facing unprecedented challenges that threaten the delicate balance of ecosystems, biodiversity, and the overall well-being of our planet. These challenges are driven by human activities, including industrialization, overconsumption, and the relentless pursuit of economic growth. The consequences are dire and include climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, resource depletion and waste management. • Climate Change: The Earth’s climate is rapidly warming due to the emission of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane. This leads to rising global temperatures, more frequent extreme weather events, and the melting of polar ice caps. • Biodiversity Loss: Human activities, such as deforestation, habitat destruction, and pollution, are driving species to extinction at an alarming rate. The loss of biodiversity threatens ecosystem stability and the services they provide, including clean air and water. • Pollution: Pollution of our air, water, and soil is a pervasive problem. The release of pollutants into the environment harms human health, damages ecosystems, and disrupts the natural balance. • Resource Depletion: Our current rate of resource consumption is unsustainable. We are depleting natural resources like freshwater, forests, and minerals faster than the Earth can regenerate them. • Waste Management: The production of waste, particularly non-biodegradable plastics, is overwhelming our planet. Landfills and oceanic plastic waste islands are stark reminders of our failure to manage waste responsibly. Despite increasing challenges that hinder progress to environmental protection, there are several steps we can collectively take to protect the environment and mitigate the impact of human activities: • Transition to Clean Energy: We must accelerate the shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower. Governments should provide incentives and invest in clean energy infrastructure. • Conservation and Reforestation: Protecting existing forests and undertaking reforestation efforts are essential to combat deforestation and preserve biodiversity. Forests act as carbon sinks and provide habitat for countless species. • Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Individuals and industries should prioritize waste reduction and recycling to minimize the environmental impact of products and materials. Reducing single-use plastics is especially important. • Sustainable Agriculture: Promoting sustainable farming practices can reduce soil erosion, minimize the use of pesticides and fertilizers, and protect biodiversity. • Environmental Education: Schools, communities, and organizations should prioritize environmental education to raise awareness and inspire sustainable behaviors. • Support Conservation Initiatives: Contributing to and volunteering with organizations dedicated to environmental protection and wildlife conservation can make a significant difference. • Advocate for Policy Change: Engage with your local and national governments to advocate for policies that prioritize environmental protection, such as carbon pricing and emissions reduction targets. • Reduce Consumption: Adopt a more mindful approach to consumption. Choose products with minimal packaging, prioritize quality over quantity, and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. Environmental protection is not an optional endeavor but a moral and practical imperative. Our country is at a critical juncture, and the decisions we make today will determine the quality of life for future generations. It is the time to possess the knowledge, technology, and collective will to address them. By transitioning to cleaner energy, conserving our natural resources, reducing waste, and advocating for policy change, we can create a more sustainable and harmonious relationship with the environment. It’s time for each of us to recognize our role as stewards of the Earth and take action to protect the only home we have. If we protect our environment, we will reap the benefits of health, clean air, and a prosperous life. But if we destroy it, not only we, but also future generations will suffer the consequences of our irresponsible behavior. Every individual, every household, and every organization must take practical steps to protect the environment. Let us keep this world clean, green, and livable for ourselves and future generations. Mukhtar Safi

Source:thekabultimes.com

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Why should Muslim scholars lead in science and technology?

March 4, 2025

Throughout history, prophets were pioneers in various fields, always ahead of their time in their daily tasks and responsibilities. Their leadership was not confined to spiritual and moral guidance; they also played an essential role in advancing knowledge and technology suitable for their respective eras. In today’s world, Muslim scholars must follow the same path and take the lead in scientific, military, and technological advancements. However, despite the necessity of such progress, many contemporary scholars remain hesitant, failing to fully grasp the importance of advancing in these critical areas. Prophets were not just religious figures; they were also innovators, strategists, and problem-solvers in their societies. They understood the significance of knowledge and its application in everyday life. For example, Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) emphasized the importance of seeking knowledge, famously stating, “Seek knowledge even if it takes you to China.” This highlights the necessity of continuous learning and exploration. Similarly, Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) played a crucial role in economic planning during a time of crisis, demonstrating administrative and strategic expertise. Such examples indicate that religious leadership historically encompassed scientific, economic, and strategic advancements. In the modern world, science and technology play an integral role in shaping societies. From artificial intelligence to renewable energy, from space exploration to biotechnology, these advancements determine the strength and influence of nations. While many non-Muslim nations have embraced these fields, a significant portion of the Muslim world still lags behind due to hesitation, lack of awareness, or insufficient efforts to integrate modern knowledge into traditional scholarly domains. This lag not only affects economic and technological progress but also weakens the position of Muslim communities on the global stage. To address this gap, Muslim scholars must recognize that embracing scientific and technological advancements does not contradict religious teachings. On the contrary, Islam encourages exploration, research, and innovation. The Quran itself calls upon believers to observe and reflect on the natural world, indicating the necessity of scientific inquiry. Furthermore, the history of Islamic civilization is filled with pioneering contributions in medicine, mathematics, engineering, and astronomy. Scholars like AlKhwarizmi, Avicenna, and AlFarabi exemplified the perfect blend of religious wisdom and scientific inquiry. One of the key areas where technology can play a crucial role is in the dissemination of Islamic teachings. In an era dominated by digital platforms, social media, artificial intelligence, and online learning, scholars must harness these tools to effectively spread the message of Islam. Traditional methods of preaching and education, though valuable, are no longer sufficient to reach global audiences. Websites, applications, virtual learning platforms, and AI-driven educational tools can significantly enhance the reach and impact of Islamic knowledge. Despite these opportunities, some scholars remain reluctant to engage with modern technology. This hesitation stems from a lack of familiarity, concerns over ethical implications, or a misunderstanding of how technology can be utilized positively. It is imperative to overcome such barriers by integrating technological literacy into religious education and encouraging scholars to actively participate in digital platforms. Failure to adapt to scientific and technological advancements can have serious consequences for the Muslim world. Without leadership in these areas, Muslims risk continued economic dependence, technological inferiority, and geopolitical weakness. Moreover, without engagement in cutting-edge research, Muslims may find themselves as mere consumers of technology rather than contributors to its development. This dependency limits the ability to shape global narratives and defend Islamic values effectively in an everevolving world. Furthermore, technological advancements are closely linked to national security and defense. In an age where cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, and space exploration define global power dynamics, Muslim scholars and leaders must understand and support scientific growth. The failure to do so leaves Muslim nations vulnerable and unable to safeguard their interests effectively. To ensure progress and self-sufficiency, Muslim scholars must actively engage with science and technology. Institutions should prioritize research and innovation while ensuring that young Muslim minds are encouraged to explore and excel in these fields. Collaboration between religious scholars and scientists can lead to the development of ethical and socially responsible technological advancements that align with Islamic values. It is also necessary to establish centers of excellence where religious knowledge and modern sciences are integrated. Such institutions can serve as hubs for producing scholars who are well-versed in both Islamic teachings and contemporary sciences. By fostering an environment that values both faith and intellect, the Muslim world can regain its historical position as a leader in knowledge and innovation. The progress and freedom of the Muslim community depend on its ability to embrace science and technology. Just as prophets led in their respective times, today’s Muslim scholars must take the initiative to drive advancements in these fields. This is not merely an option but a necessity for the survival and prosperity of the Islamic world. Without a shift in mindset and approach, true liberation and success will remain unattainable. It is time for scholars to lead the way, ensuring that faith and progress go hand in hand toward a brighter future for the Muslim ummah. Sayed Sharif

Source:thekabultimes.com

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Dozens of Afghan Migrants Repatriated from Pakistan

2025-03-03

KANDAHAR (BNA): Dozens of Afghan Migrants Return from Pakistan via Spin Boldak, Kandahar Province.

The head of the registration and verification committee for migrants at the Anzargi camp in TakhtaPul district, Kandahar, told Bakhtar News Agency that 67 Afghan migrants have returned to the country from Pakistan through Spin Boldak.

According to the official, upon their return, these migrants received financial assistance from relevant government institutions. Additionally, they have been introduced to aid organizations for further support.

Source:bakhtarnews.af

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Roza Otunbayeva to brief UN Security Council on Afghanistan

By Fidel Rahmati

March 4, 2025

The United Nations has announced that Roza Otunbayeva, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, will address the Security Council in a session about the situation in Afghanistan.

According to a newsletter released on Tuesday, March 4, the meeting will be held under the rotating presidency of Denmark. This session will cover various critical issues, including Afghanistan’s ongoing crisis.

The United Nations also stated that discussions in March will focus on Afghanistan, Yemen, the Middle East peace process, and Syria. These conversations are part of broader diplomatic efforts on multiple fronts.

The humanitarian situation in Afghanistan has worsened, with UNICEF reporting that 22.9 million people, including 12 million children, will need aid in 2025.

The country faces severe challenges, including widespread food insecurity, limited healthcare, and a lack of basic necessities. The crisis has been worsened by climate change and ongoing instability, putting vulnerable communities at greater risk.

OCHA has also raised serious concerns, highlighting that nearly 15 million people in Afghanistan are facing severe food insecurity, with 3.1 million experiencing acute hunger. As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, millions remain uncertain about where their next meal will come from.

The United Nations agencies have stressed the importance of sustained humanitarian aid to address these needs and prevent a worsening catastrophe, as many are already at risk of famine and disease.

The head of UNAMA, who has been closely monitoring the situation in Afghanistan, will deliver an important speech on the current situation in the country on March 10th.

Additionally, a briefing session on the collaboration between the United Nations and the European Union will be organized. This session will aim to strengthen partnerships for addressing global crises, including Afghanistan’s.

On March 17, the UN Security Council will reconvene to discuss Afghanistan once again. This meeting will likely center on the potential extension of UNAMA’s mandate, which remains crucial for international support in the region.

These upcoming sessions are critical as they indicate the UN’s ongoing efforts to address the escalating crisis in Afghanistan. Key decisions on humanitarian aid, peace processes, and diplomatic relations with the country are expected.

Source:khaama.com

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Mideast

 

Tunisia opposition figures go on trial on state security charges

March 04, 2025

TUNIS: The trial of several prominent Tunisian opposition figures accused of national security offenses is set to begin Tuesday, with rights groups denouncing the case as politically motivated.

The around 40 high-profile defendants include former diplomats, politicians, lawyers and media figures, some of whom have been outspoken critics of President Kais Saied.

The charges against them are “plotting against the state security” and “belonging to a terrorist group,” which could entail hefty sentences and even capital punishment, according to lawyers.

Saied was elected in 2019 after Tunisia emerged as the only democracy following the Arab Spring. But in 2021 he staged a sweeping power grab, and rights groups have since warned of a rollback on freedoms.

The defendants include politicians Jawhar Ben Mbarek, AbdelhamidJelassi and IssamChebbi, founder of the opposition National Salvation Front coalition — all staunch critics of Saied.

In a letter from his cell, Ben Mbarek called the trial a form of “judicial harassment” aimed at “the methodical elimination of critical voices,” claiming the accusations were baseless.

Activists KhayamTurki and Chaima Issa, businessman KamelEltaief, and BochraBelHajjHmida, a former member of parliament and human rights activist now living in France, have also been charged in the case.

Some of the defendants have been detained since a flurry of arrests in February 2023, after Saied dubbed them “terrorists.”

Others remain free pending trial, as some have fled abroad, according to the defense committee.

On Sunday, during a visit to the streets of the capital Tunis, Saied told a woman who asked him to intervene for her imprisoned sons — unrelated to the trial — that he “never intervenes” in judicial matters.

“Let this be clear to everyone,” he was heard telling her in a video posted on the presidency’s official Facebook page.

Other critics of Saied have been detained and charged in different cases, including under a law to combat “false news.”

In early February, the leader of Islamist-inspired Ennahdha party Rached Ghannouchi, 83, was sentenced to 22 years in prison for plotting against state security, though in a separate case.

The United Nations urged Tunisian authorities last month to bring “an end to the pattern of arrests, arbitrary detentions and imprisonment of dozens of human rights defenders, lawyers, journalists, activists and politicians.”

Tunisia’s foreign ministry dismissed the UN statement with “astonishment” and denounced its “inaccuracies.”

“Tunisia can give lessons to those who think they are in a position to make statements,” it said.

Source:arabnews.com

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Islamic Jihad Movement Blesses Haifa Operation

03 Mar 2025

The Islamic Jihad Movement in Palestine confirmed that the stabbing operation at a bus station in the city of Haifa in the occupied interior, on Monday, is a natural response to the ongoing crimes, war of extermination and war crimes committed by the "Israeli" entity and settlers against the sons of the Palestinian people, and an affirmation of the Palestinians' adherence to their land and homeland and to the choice of resistance.

The Islamic Jihad Movement stressed in a statement that "our people's insistence on responding to the crimes of the occupation proves the failure of the security system in the entity to achieve illusory security, and proves that all its military campaigns have no goal other than suppression, abuse and committing massacres."

Source:saba.ye

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Israeli army restricts prayers, settlers storm Aqsa Mosque

03 Mar 2025

Zionist settlers stormed the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque this morning, Monday, from the Mughrabi Gate, under heavy guard from the Zionist enemy forces.

The Islamic Endowments Department in occupied Quds reported, according to the Palestinian Safa Agency, that dozens of settlers stormed Al-Aqsa and toured its courtyards, amidst severe restrictions on worshipers in and around the mosque.

It explained that the intruders performed Talmudic rituals in the eastern area of the mosque.

The occupation forces intensified their military presence around Al-Aqsa and the Old City of Quds, in an attempt to restrict worshipers coming to the mosque during the Ramadan night.

The occupier imposes restrictions on worshipers coinciding with the advent of Ramadan, as it prevented young men from entering the mosque to perform the Isha and Tarawih prayers, and removed a number of male and female worshipers from the mosque.

75,000 worshipers performed the Isha and Tarawih prayers on the second day of the holy month of Ramadan, in the courtyards of Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Calls continue to intensify the pilgrimage and the garrison in Al-Aqsa Mosque, throughout Ramadan, to confront the occupation's attacks and settler incursions.

The calls stressed the need to intensify the mobilization and the presence in Al-Aqsa throughout the holy month and beyond, to thwart any Judaization plans.

They stressed the importance of adhering to Al-Aqsa and protecting it in light of the dangerous circumstances that threaten the Palestinian cause and its Islamic sanctities, especially with regard to the threats of the occupation and the US administration with plans aimed at liquidating the cause.

Source:saba.ye

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Why sanctions relief is critical to Syria’s recovery and political future

ANAN TELLO

March 03, 2025

LONDON: Ahead of the Syrian Arab Republic’s national dialogue held in Damascus on Feb. 25, the EU made an important gesture of goodwill by agreeing to lift a portion of the sanctions imposed on the now-deposed Bashar Assad regime.

However, the full and sustained lifting of all sanctions on Syria is yet to be assured, as Western leaders are currently not convinced that an inclusive administration — willing to implement much-needed reforms — is on the cards.

The EU announced on Feb. 24 that it has suspended restrictions on Syria’s oil, gas, electricity, and transport sectors with immediate effect, while also easing its ban on banking ties to allow transactions for humanitarian aid, reconstruction, energy, and transport.

In addition, five financial entities — the Industrial Bank, Popular Credit Bank, Saving Bank, Agricultural Cooperative Bank, and Syrian Arab Airlines — have been removed from the asset freeze list, allowing funds to reach Syria’s central bank.

The decision came a day before Syria’s interim government launched its national dialogue, where President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, who was appointed in December to lead until March 1, pledged to form an inclusive transitional government.

Al-Sharaa and his armed group, Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham, which overthrew the Assad regime on Dec. 8 following a lightning offensive from its stronghold in Idlib, touted the forum as a crucial step toward democracy and reconstruction.

Although critics said preparations for the event had been rushed, it attracted around 600 delegates and marked an important step toward drafting a new constitution, the reform of institutions, and a road map for the economy.

For these aims to succeed, however, rights groups and experts have called for sanctions on Syria, especially US restrictions, to be lifted as a vital prerequisite for economic, social, and political recovery.

“Lifting sanctions is crucial at this moment to promote a stable and peaceful political transition in Syria,” Nanar Hawach, senior Syria analyst at the International Crisis Group, told Arab News.

Ibrahim Al-Assil, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute, likewise stressed that “rebuilding Syria’s middle class is essential for any meaningful political transition” — a goal that cannot be achieved without first lifting sanctions.

“Economic devastation limits Syrians’ ability to engage in the political transition,” Al-Assil told Arab News.

Emphasizing that sanctions have “severely damaged” Syria’s economy and “crippled society’s ability to function,” Al-Assil warned that “prolonging sanctions risks undermining the country’s fragile transition and could doom efforts to establish a stable and inclusive future.

“Syrians need support, not continued economic restrictions, to move forward,” he added.

Likewise, the New York-based monitor Human Rights Watch has warned that Western sanctions are “hindering reconstruction efforts and exacerbating the suffering of millions of Syrians struggling to access critical rights, including to electricity and an adequate standard of living.”

In a statement in February, the monitor said more than half of Syrians lacked access to nutritious food, while at least 16.5 million were in need of humanitarian aid.

“It’s very difficult to say how bad the situation is,” Karam Shaar, a senior fellow at the New Lines Institute for Strategy and Policy, told Arab News.

“Without either lifting sanctions or being provided with an injection of funding from abroad, as Qatar has promised, the situation could implode at any moment.”

Concerns over continued US sanctions recently led Qatar to delay pledged funds to support Syria’s public sector, which had been promised a 400 percent pay raise.

The EU has likewise been cautious, saying in its Feb. 24 statement that the continuation of sanctions relief hinges on the interim government’s performance. The bloc warned that sanctions could be reinstated if Syria’s new authorities do not implement reforms.

“If everything does not go right, then we are also ready to put the sanctions back,” said the EU’s top diplomat, KajaKallas. She said that “any kind of government needs to be all-inclusive and take into account all the different groups that are in Syria.”

 

And while a technocratic government was not established as expected on March 1, Al-Sharaa announced on March 2 the creation of a seven-member committee to draft a temporary constitution.

“Syria’s new leader faces the formidable challenge of navigating the expectations of both liberal and ultraconservative factions,” Syrian-Canadian analyst Camille Otrakji told Arab News.

“While Al-Sharaa’s personal leanings align with the conservatives, he cannot afford to dismiss the strong recommendations from his Western and moderate Arab interlocutors.

“Thus far, however, his response has been largely symbolic — appointing Christian representatives to committees and inviting minority groups to dialogue sessions,” he added, stressing that “symbolic gestures will not suffice.”

Media reports suggest the government’s formation could be delayed until the last week of March or beyond, potentially postponing decisions to ease more sanctions.

Aid agencies and economists warn that further delays in lifting sanctions could do more harm than good, particularly during this critical transition.

“Rather than take a ‘wait and see’ attitude toward lifting the sanctions, which may squander today’s long-awaited opportunity for a new Syria, Western governments should lift the sanctions now, conditioned on Syria continuing in a rights-respecting direction,” Kenneth Roth, former executive director of Human Rights Watch, told Arab News.

“While there has been some easing of sanctions, particularly for humanitarian aid, the continuing sanctions are a big impediment to economic progress.”

Roth, author of “Righting Wrongs,” which opens with a chapter on Syria’s Idlib, cautioned that “while we celebrate the demise of the brutal Assad regime, Syria remains in a precarious position.”

Echoing Roth’s concerns, Syrian economic adviser HumamAljazaeri also said the restrictions should be lifted sooner rather than later.

“We understand the position of the international community to attach the lifting of sanctions to political progress — especially to cross towards representative government — but at some point, it might just be too late,” he told Arab News.

Hawach of the International Crisis Group warned that without easing economic and trade restrictions, the country risks renewed fighting.

“After more than a decade of conflict, the new leadership faces daunting challenges in rebuilding institutions and stabilizing the economy,” he said. “If Syria has any chance of succeeding, it needs sanctions relief, otherwise, the country risks falling into renewed cycles of violence and conflict.”

Noting that while “European efforts to ease sanctions are a step in the right direction,” Al-Assil of the Middle East Institute said “US sanctions remain the most significant obstacle.

“Without their removal, other governments and financial institutions will hesitate to engage with Syria,” he said.

Syria has been under Western sanctions for more than four decades, with the most severe imposed after the Assad regime’s crackdown on anti-government protests in 2011 and later the reported use of chemical weapons against civilians.

These sanctions included broad restrictions on trade, financial transactions, and key industries, in addition to targeted asset freezes and travel bans.

The strictest sanctions are enforced by the US, banning almost all trade and financial transactions with Damascus, except for limited humanitarian aid. The Caesar Act, introduced in 2019, extended these restrictions to foreign companies doing business with the ousted regime.

After more than 13 years of civil war, some 90 percent of the population has been driven below the poverty line. The fighting damaged schools, hospitals, roads, water systems, and power grids, crippling public services and sending the economy into freefall.

Even after Assad’s 24-year rule collapsed on Dec. 8, the bulk of US, EU, and UK sanctions have remained in place, hobbling the postwar recovery.

On Jan. 6, the US Treasury issued Syria General License No. 24 (GL 24), allowing transactions with the transitional Syrian government, easing restrictions on energy-related transactions within Syria, and permitting transactions necessary for processing personal remittances.

GL 24, set to expire July 7, 2025, may be extended as the US government monitors the evolving situation in Syria, the Treasury said in a client alert on Feb. 27.

“What would be the most important, in my opinion, is re-enabling financial transactions with Syria,” said Shaar of the New Lines Institute. “At the moment, we’ve seen GL 24 from the US. We’ve seen suspensions and carve-outs from the EU.

“However, none of them is sufficient to replug the Syrian banking sector into the rest of the world. And I think this is the main vein.”

Otrakji is skeptical about any significant easing of US sanctions happening soon. “Any major rollback remains improbable in the near term,” he said.

“Historical precedent suggests that sanctions, once in place, tend to endure — those imposed on Iraq after its 1990 invasion of Kuwait remained largely intact for two decades, with only partial relief granted in 2010 and further easing in 2013.”

Despite concerns that linking sanctions relief to the interim government’s performance may be counterproductive, Western officials want to see the HTS-led administration follow through on promises of inclusive governance and protections for all Syrian ethnic and religious groups.

Many Alawites, Christians, Druze, and Kurds fear for their future amid reports of reprisals and sectarian killings since the HTS and its allies seized power.

“Al-Sharaa has been saying many inclusive, rights-respecting things,” said former Human Rights Watch chief Roth. “However, we all know that he has an extremist background and that there are many jihadists within the HTS rebel force that toppled Assad.”

HTS, which evolved from the Nusra Front, is designated a terrorist group under UN Security Council Resolution 2254, adopted in 2015. Formerly affiliated with Al-Qaeda, the group later broke ties with the extremists and Al-Sharaa has since advocated coexistence.

“The question is which way Al-Sharaa proceeds,” Roth said. “His ability to resist extremist pressure will depend significantly on whether he can deliver basic economic improvements to the long-suffering Syrian people, but the continuing sanctions, meant for Assad, not the new government, stand in the way.”

While US-led sanctions were aimed at preventing the ousted regime from committing human rights violations, they worsened conditions for ordinary Syrians. And their continuation after Assad’s fall has only deepened the crisis.

Prior to Assad’s downfall, support from his political allies — mainly Iran and Russia — provided some sustenance to the war-devastated nation. But a shift in this dynamic over the past three months may have created a vacuum, making the swift lifting of Western sanctions all the more critical.

“Before its fall, the regime was reliant on a network of traders, cronies, and political support of its allies to evade sanctions,” Syrian economic adviser Aljazaeri said, explaining that “this enabled the government to sustain some kind of economic stability, not least through the continuous flow of energy resources.

“Although this stability was increasingly compromised by growing corruption and failed economic policies, especially after 2019, it nonetheless helped sustain the status quo.”

He added: “Today, in the absence of such network and cronies, whether to sustain the flow of money or commodities, not least energy resources (and wheat), and despite the wide political support of the current administration, the economy and subsequently the social and political stability is put at growing risk of fragmentation.

“Against this backdrop, lifting sanctions, even gradually, but substantially though, is absolutely critical to achieving some balance.”

Hawach of the International Crisis Group also believes easing sanctions is vital for Syria’s recovery and helping its population overcome a decade of economic devastation.

He said: “Easing these restrictions would not only boost economic recovery and reduce the reliance on the informal economy, but also strengthen governance, providing Syrians with better living conditions and more opportunities.

“For the Syrian people, lifting sanctions would mean tangible improvements in their daily lives.”

Although analyst Otrakji agrees that lifting sanctions is crucial for Syria’s recovery, he stressed that it alone “will not be enough to reconstruct the damaged country and its society.

“The new administration in Damascus must take the first decisive move — but doing so carries significant risks,” he said, adding that any failed attempt to chart a new course will “expose deep divisions among Syrians, who remain polarized and bitter after 14 years of conflict.”

Source:arabnews.com

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80,000 Palestinians perform Ramadan prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque despite Israeli restrictions

March 03, 2025

LONDON: Nearly 80,000 Palestinians performed the evening and Taraweeh prayers on the fourth night of the holy month of Ramadan at Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, despite Israeli restrictions.

The Jerusalem Waqf and Al-Aqsa Mosque Affairs Department, which is responsible for administering the site, said that most of the 80,000 worshippers were residents of Jerusalem and Palestinian citizens of Israel living in the 1948 territory.

However, thousands of Palestinians from cities and towns in the occupied West Bank were barred entry to Jerusalem through Israeli military checkpoints, it added, as Israel had introduced new restrictive measures during Ramadan.

Israeli military police raided the compound on Monday and detained three individuals, according to the Palestine News Agency. Israel also deployed additional forces in the Old City in occupied East Jerusalem over the weekend at the start of Ramadan.

Muslims worldwide fast from dawn until sunset, participating in the nightly Taraweeh prayers during Ramadan.

Source:arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2592305/middle-east

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Syria state media says Israel strikes Tartus area

March 03, 2025

DAMASCUS: Syrian state media said Israeli strikes hit the Tartus area on Monday, after a war monitor reported a blast near the city’s port and the Israeli army said it struck a “military site” further north.

Israel carried out hundreds of air strikes after a lightning offensive ousted president Bashar Assad in December, in what it said was a bid to prevent Syrian military assets from falling into hostile hands.

Official news agency SANA reported “air strikes carried out by Israeli occupation aircraft on the surroundings of Tartus city, without recording human losses so far.”

“Civil defense and specialized teams are working to confirm the location of the targets,” it added.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor said that “a strong explosion rocked the Tartus port” at the same time as aircraft flew overhead, reporting smoke rising from the site.

Observatory chief Rami Abdel Rahman told AFP the explosion was in a military base near the port.

The Israeli army said in a statement that its forces “struck a military site where weapons belonging to the previous Syrian regime were stored in the area of Qardaha.”

It added that the decision to strike the site was “due to recent developments in the area,” without elaborating.

Qardaha, the hometown of deposed president Assad, is located in Latakia province, some 60 kilometers (40 miles) north of the city of Tartus.

Last Tuesday, the Israeli army said it carried out air strikes targeting military sites containing weapons in southern Syria.

At least two people were killed by a strike on one of the sites, the headquarters of a military unit southwest of Damascus, the Observatory said at the time.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said last month that southern Syria must be completely demilitarised, warning that his government would not accept the presence of the forces of the new Syrian Islamist-led government near its territory.

Even before Assad’s fall, during Syria’s civil war which broke out in 2011, Israel carried out hundreds of strikes in the neighboring country, mainly on government forces and Iranian-linked targets.

The same day Assad was ousted, Israel announced that its troops were entering a UN-patrolled buffer zone that has separated Israeli and Syrian forces on the strategic Golan Heights.

Israel seized much of the Golan Heights from Syria in a war in 1967, later annexing the area in a move largely unrecognized by the international community.

Participants in Syria’s national dialogue conference last week affirmed their rejection of “provocative” statements by Netanyahu and urged the international community to pressure Israel to stop any “aggression and violations,” condemning “the Israeli incursion into Syrian territory.”

Israel on the weekend threatened action if Syria’s new leaders harmed the country’s Druze community, after unrest in a Damascus suburb home to members of the religious minority.

Source:arabnews.com

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Israel PM warns Hamas of consequences it ‘cannot imagine’ if Gaza hostages not released

March 03, 2025

JERUSALEM: Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Hamas on Monday of consequences it “cannot imagine” if the Palestinian movement does not release the hostages held in Gaza.

“I tell Hamas: If you do not release our hostages, there will be consequences that you cannot imagine,” Netanyahu said during a speech at the Israeli parliament, as negotiations for the Gaza ceasefire’s continuation have stalled.

Netanyahu’s comments came a day after Israel blocked aid flowing into Gaza, where a six-week truce had enabled a surge of vital food, shelter and medical assistance after more than 15 months of fighting.

The move came as talks on a truce extension appeared to hit an impasse, after the ceasefire’s 42-day first phase drew to a close over the weekend.

Under the first phase, Gaza militants handed over 25 living hostages and eight bodies in exchange for the release of about 1,800 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.

Of the 251 captives taken during Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, 58 remain in Gaza, including 34 the Israeli military says are dead.

Early on Sunday, Israel had announced its support for a truce extension until mid-April that it said US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff had proposed.

But Hamas has repeatedly rejected an extension, instead favoring a transition to the truce deal’s second phase, which is expected to lay out a more permanent end to the war.

Israeli media on Monday reported that Netanyahu had a plan to exert “maximum pressure” on Hamas to accept an extension of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire under Israel’s terms.

Public broadcaster Kan reported that Netanyahu wanted to extend the first stage by at least one week, until the arrival of US envoy Witkoff in the region.

Referencing sources close to Netanyahu, Kan reported that the prime minister was waiting to see if mediators could persuade Hamas to extend the first phase, failing which he would consider resuming fighting.

Kan said Israel has drafted plans to ramp up pressure on Hamas this week, under a scheme dubbed the “Hell Plan.”

The plan includes following up the decision to block aid with displacing residents from the northern Gaza Strip to the south, halting the electricity supply, and a resumption of full-scale fighting, Kan reported.

Daily paper Israel Hayom said that Netanyahu, unlike his far-right allies in government, “wants to exhaust all possibilities of freeing hostages before returning to war.”

Source:arabnews.com

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Southeast Asia

 

Govt Does Not Intend To Compel Muslims To Contribute To Shariah Savings – Indonesian PM

BERNAMA

04-03- 2025

KUALA LUMPUR: The government does not intend to make it mandatory for Muslim contributors to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) to contribute to Syariah savings automatically, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

However, he said that the government highly encourages them to do so through a series of incentives and explanations regarding Syariah financial instruments, which are hoped to increase the number of Muslim contributors in these types of savings.

In fact, he said that the EPF’s achievement in announcing a higher dividend rate of 6.30 percent for both conventional and Syariah savings for 2024 was also hoped to encourage Muslims to switch to the latter.

“Therefore, we do not intend to make it mandatory, but with what has been made evident (by EPF) and with the series of incentives and explanations, we hope the number (of contributors to Syariah savings) will increase.

“There is no policy to make it mandatory, but we do encourage it,” he said in reply to Datuk MohdIsamMohd Isa (BN-Tampin) during the Minister’s Question Time at the Dewan Rakyat sitting today.

MohdIsam wanted to know whether the government plans to make it mandatory for Muslim contributors to contribute to Syariah savings to prevent their savings from being questioned in terms of halal and haram.

The Prime Minister said Muslims need to be given more information and explanation on banking matters, such as interest-free banking and several Syariah instruments introduced in financial instruments to ensure they better understand the benefits of their choices.

In response to a supplementary question from ChiewChoon Man (PH-Miri) on whether the EPF’s recent achievements indicate a strong economic foundation for the country, Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said that the achievements were driven by investment confidence in the MADANI Economy framework.

“We must also express our appreciation to the EPF management for their performance, transparency, and efficiency, which have led to better records.

“As of December last year, 63 percent of EPF’s total investments were in the domestic market, amounting to RM782 billion, an 11 percent growth compared to 2023. At Bursa Malaysia, the increase was 12.9 per cent, which is a significant improvement,” he said.

Anwar added that the best achievements in the past seven years were also supported by policies introduced by the government, as well as several measures such as institutional reforms through the Public Finance and Fiscal Responsibility Act.

Source:thesun.my

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https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/epf-govt-does-not-intend-to-compel-muslims-to-contribute-to-syariah-savings-pm-PA13758412

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Putrajaya Ramadan ASEAN food festival to showcase regional culinary delights

BERNAMA

03-03- 2025

PUTRAJAYA: Putrajaya is set to become a hub of Southeast Asian flavours with the Putrajaya Ramadan ASEAN Food Festival (PRAFF) 2025, which is taking place from March 3 to 28.

The month-long festival, organised by Putrajaya Holdings SdnBhd (PjH) in collaboration with Putrajaya Leisures& Services Group SdnBhd (PULSE Group), will take place at some of Putrajaya’s top dining venues, including the Everly Putrajaya, DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside, Pulse Grande Hotel and Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC).

PjH chief executive officer Datuk IzwanHasliMohd Ibrahim said the festival aims to celebrate the rich cultural diversity of ASEAN through its unique culinary traditions, bringing people together in the spirit of unity and appreciation.

“This festival is a testament to the vibrant community we are building here in Putrajaya, where people from all walks of life can come together to celebrate and appreciate the rich tapestry of ASEAN cultures,” he told media after hosting a media breaking fast event here today.

Izwan said food lovers can look forward to a wide array of authentic and fusion dishes from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Brunei, Singapore, the Philippines, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia — each dish reflecting the diverse cultures and culinary artistry of the region.

Source:thesun.my

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https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/putrajaya-ramadan-asean-food-festival-to-showcase-regional-culinary-delights-PA13756944

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HK ready to show hospitality to Muslim travelers with Halal-certified restaurants and hotels amid Ramadan

3 Mar 2025

Over 140 restaurants and 50 hotels in Hong Kong have received Halal-certification or international Muslim tourism accreditation, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) said on Monday.

So far, 53 hotels, five attractions and exhibition venues have successfully applied for and received the accreditation from “CrescentRating” -- an international Muslim tourism certifier, while over 140 local restaurants in Hong Kong are halal-certified.

HKTB deputy executive director Becky IpChing-tak said the board has been developing Hong Kong as a Muslim-friendly tourism environment since the beginning of last year and is glad to see more tourism-related businesses are seizing the opportunities arising from the Muslim market by applying for Muslim-friendly accreditation and introducing halal-certified edible souvenirs.

“These initiatives further enrich Muslim visitors’ experience and options for catering, accommodation, and shopping when they are visiting Hong Kong,” she said.

Ip revealed that the board is producing a series of new training materials for frontline tourism practitioners, such as simple greetings, customs, dietary requirements, attire to daily life situations.

“[This aims] to deepen their understanding towards Muslim culture and how they can provide hospitality to Muslim travelers. In the future, we will also step up promotions of Hong Kong’s tourism in Muslim visitor source markets,” she said.

Last month, HKTB hosted over 20 Muslim travel trade representatives for an invited trip to introduce the city’s latest Muslim-friendly travel facilities and tourism products.

A total of 22 representatives from Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia, Hong Kong’s Southeast Asian visitor source markets, visited the city from February 17 to 20.

During the visit, they tried authentic quality Chinese cuisines with Halal-certifications, including crab roe noodles, while tasting Hong Kong-baked handmade cookies, such as palmiers with salted eggs, and Hong Kong-style dim sum.

The HKTB-organized trip also took the delegation to Ocean Park, meeting with giant pandas “An An” and “Ke Ke.” Other spots included Hong Kong Disneyland, Ngong Ping 360, the historic fishing village of Tai O, and mosques.

The trade also visited various Muslim-accredited hotels to check out their accommodation facilities and catering services.

A representative from Indonesian travel agency Moslem Tour – Panorama JTB, AB Sadewa, recognized Hong Kong’s readiness to receive visitors from Muslim markets.

“I think the ecosystem of the hotel or the restaurant is ready to receive visitors from our market, especially for the Muslim segment, and they will find Hong Kong has reached a new level as a destination for Muslim travelers,” he said.

Among the hotels with Halal-certification are The Mira Hong Kong, a TsimShaTsui hotel, as well as its sister property Mira Moon on Hong Kong Island, receiving 5 crescents on CrescentRating’s seven-tier system.

To accommodate Muslim travelers during the holy month of Ramadan, which is now underway, some hotels, including the Mira, now have rooms with Mecca direction pointers, Quran and prayer rugs, while some launched special Ramadan buffets.

Head of hotels and serviced apartments of Miramar Group Alexander Wassermann said the company is proud to receive the recognition.

“We are also delighted to share that 100 percent of our employees have received pre-required training on halal food and halal travel practices implemented at our hotels. Our Team looks forward to welcoming more Muslim guests from around the world and we aim to be the preferred Chinese dining destination in Hong Kong for the local Muslim community,” he said.

Source:thestandard.com.hk

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https://www.thestandard.com.hk/breaking-news/section/4/228954/HK-ready-to-show-hospitality-to-Muslim-travelers-with-Halal-certified-restaurants-and-hotels-amid-Ramadan

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Less Beef Import for Private Sector Said to Worsen Indonesia's Layoff Worries

Jayanty Nada Shofa

 March 3, 202

Jakarta. The government's massive cuts to the beef import quota for private enterprises has sparked layoff concerns in the Indonesian meat industry.

The government initially let private enterprises to import 180,000 tons of beef this year. Indonesia later decided to reallocate 100,000 tons of the quota to the state-run enterprises. The abrupt transfer leaves private importers with just 80,000 tons or merely 44 percent of what was originally intended, according to the Indonesian Meat Traders and Processors Association (APPDI).

"This is such a huge decline. We have warned the government that not letting private enterprises to flourish would only lead to layoffs. With only around 40 percent of the original quota, there will be excess labor [at the meat companies] and of course, they might have to lay off some workers," APPDI's executive director TeguhBoediyana said at the Investor Market Today talk show aired by Beritasatu on Monday.

The job losses could further worsen the massive layoff problem that is spiraling across the country. Most recently, over 10,000 factory workers at the country's largest textile producer Sritex lost their jobs after the company ceased operations. Japanese electronics company Sanken Electric decided to shut down its Cikarang company, thus sending off over 450 workers to unemployment.

Teguh said: "We are supplying [meat] for hotels, restaurants, and catering. ... Their business activities will certainly get interrupted. We hope that the government can review [the quota] policy."

World's largest Muslim majority nation Indonesia has entered Ramadan. The fasting month, alongside the upcoming Eid celebrations, are synonymous with higher consumption of beef due to specialties like the traditional spicy meat dish rendang. Teguh revealed some private enterprises had begun importing beef to secure supply for the Ramadan season, although he did not say how much of the foreign-grown meat had landed in Indonesia.

"But what will happen after June? ... Reports claimed that the government would return the 100,000 ton quota back to private enterprises, a decision that businesses really welcome. But the government has not put those words into action to date," Teguh said.

"We want an equal treatment between the state-owned and private-run companies. They both contribute to the national economy. ... A level playing field can lead to a better competition and eventually benefit the customers," he added.

The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported that the country's beef imports had totaled $61.2 million in January alone. About 73.5 percent of that imported cattle meat came from India, while Australia contributed to 15.7 percent of the imports. Aside from Ramadan, Indonesia's beef demand is on the rise as the rollout of the government-funded nutritious meals go on full swing.

Source:jakartaglobe.id

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https://jakartaglobe.id/business/less-beef-import-for-private-sector-said-to-worsen-indonesias-layoff-worries

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Anwar urges profit-making firms to raise wages, warns against stagnant pay amidst inflation

04 Mar 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, March 4 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today that companies reporting significant profits must ensure their workers receive fair wages, amidst private sector resistance to the official implementation of the Minimum Wage Order (MWO) in February.

Speaking at the Dewan Rakyat, Anwar said challenges remained in the private sector despite the positive reception to public sector wage increases.

He noted a gap where productivity gains were not matched by wage increases, exacerbating the effects of inflation if workers’ wages remained stagnant.

“As such, companies reporting significant profits have been asked to pay higher wages.

“I, along with other ministers, have discussed with these profit-making companies to be fair, as it is not right for them to make excessively high profits while workers’ wages remain inadequate,” he said.

Anwar was responding to a supplementary question from Pendang MP Datuk Awang Hashim on measures taken by the federal government to raise private sector workers’ wages, especially those in manufacturing, amidst the rising cost of living.

Apart from the minimum wage, Anwar said the federal government had also introduced a progressive wage scheme.

“We have to admit that high-achieving companies should emulate this practice, and I am firm on this.

“However, there is no legislative power to compel private companies, since they are private enterprises, to implement the scheme.

“But we have started this moral suasion, particularly with government-linked investment companies.

“GLICs such as Petronas, Tenaga NasionalBhd, and Telekom Malaysia, which employ hundreds of thousands of workers, are setting an example by paying above the minimum wage, more than RM2,000,” he said.

As for small and medium enterprises still struggling to cope with the increased wage order, Anwar acknowledged their plight and said government agencies were available to provide the necessary capital, expertise, and training to upskill them.

The MWO applies to employers with five or more workers and professional sector employers regardless of workforce size.

For businesses with fewer than five employees, the new rate will take effect on August 1, allowing time for necessary adjustments in wage structures and operations.

Employers must comply with the new order to ensure their workers receive at least RM1,700 per month.

Source:malaymail.com

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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/03/04/anwar-urges-profit-making-firms-to-raise-wages-warns-against-stagnant-pay-amidst-inflation/168596

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High Court allows govt's bid to delay RM1.7b pension arrears payment pending appeal

04 Mar 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, March 4 — The High Court here today allowed the government’s application to stay payments of pension arrears to 531,976 pensioners amounting to RM1.7 billion, which is based on their final salary according to the 2016 Public Services Department Circular, pending the disposal of its appeal at the Court of Appeal.

Judge Datuk Amarjeet Singh decided after hearing the submissions by Senior Federal Counsel Ahmad HanirHambaly @ Arwi, representing the government and the Director-General of the Public Service, and lawyer Datuk Dr Abd Shukor Ahmad, representing Aminah Ahmad.

“After considering the affidavits and submissions from both parties, I find that there are special circumstances to allow the stay. There is no order as to costs,” said the judge.

Meanwhile, the court dismissed the respondent’s application to stay the decision.

The government filed the stay application against a High Court decision which allowed Aminah’s judicial review and ordered the Public Service Department (PSD and the government to pay the pension arrears within three months, starting Jan 16.

Source:malaymail.com

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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/03/04/high-court-allows-govts-bid-to-delay-rm17b-pension-arrears-payment-pending-appeal/168585

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Pakistan

 

SC Constitutional Bench urged to send civilians’ cases to Anti-Terrorism Courts

Nasir Iqbal

March 4, 2025

ISLAMABAD: The Constitu­ti­o­nal Bench of the Supreme Court, hearing petitions aga­inst the military trial of civilians, has been urged to transfer the cases of civilians to the Anti-Terrorism Courts (ATCs.)

Faisal Siddiqi, who was representing civil society, proposed that the transfer of cases would be a “via media” — the middle way.

He added that if the trials conducted by military courts were invalidated, the cases of civilians handed maximum sentences by military courts should be sent to the ATCs, while the cases where convicts have completed their punishments should be considered “past and closed transactions”.

“If the court accepts my argument, the trial of civilians by military courts should be declared null and void,” Mr Siddiqi argued.

Headed by Justice Aminuddin Khan, the seven-judge CB resumed the hearing on a set of intra-court appeals filed against the court’s Oct 2023 order of nullifying the military trial of civilians involved in the May 9 violence.

The core issue in this case was the app­ropriate forum to try civilians, the lawyer argued, adding that civilians sho­uld be tried in civilian courts to ensure adherence to fundamental rights.

On Mr Siddiqi’s suggestion, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar remarked if he was seeking fresh trials of those already convicted for their involvement in the May 9 violence.

“If these cases are transferred from military to civilian courts, then from where would the trials should commence?” asked the judge.

He also questioned whether ATCs should treat evidence recorded during military trials as admissible.

The counsel contended that he was asking for a limited fresh trial by ATC of those who were awarded maximum punishments like six to ten years imprisonment.

Justice Khan, who was heading the bench, asked the counsel that if the concept of past and closed transactions was accepted, would it not mean endorsing military trials of civilians?

Unlimited authority

The court also questioned how it was decided which case would be prosecuted by military courts.

The question is not how 105 accused were selected for military trial, the counsel said, adding the question was whether the law allowed it or not.

Justice Khan then asked Mr Siddiqi if he had challenged Section 94 of the Pakistan Army Act, which deals with cases that can be tried in both civilian and military courts.

“When a criminal court and a court martial have each jurisdiction in respect of a civil offence, it shall be in the discretion of the prescribed officer to decide before which court the proceedings shall be instituted…”

The section alsostates that if “[an] officer” decides that the case will be tried in military court, the accused should be taken into military custody.

The counsel replied that the offence, which falls under the Army Act, was not determined when the custody of the accused was transferred to military courts.

He added that he had also challenged the “unlimited discretion” of Section 94 in his petition.

The authority of the officer who decides the transfer of custody to military courts should not be unlimited,“ Mr Siddiq contended.

When the discretion enjoyed by the prime minister is subject to certain limits, why the authority of the commanding officer to decide the transfer of custody was unlimited, the counsel argued.

He also emphasised the need for “structuring the power” to transfer the custody to military courts.

During the hearing, Justice Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi observed whether investigations conducted by the police were slow and the ones by military authorities were swift.

He also questioned the evidence available at the time of transferring the custody.

The counsel, however, argued that the root cause was not the availability of evidence on record but the “unlimited power” exercised by the commanding officer in relation to the transfer of custody.

Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail remarked whether the executive’s discretion ended after Article 175 of the Constitution — outlining the jurisdiction of courts — underscoring the judiciary’s independence from executive influence.

The counsel argued that the military trial of civilians was challenged before the Supreme Court under Article 245, which pertains to the deployment of armed forces in aid of civil power.

Justice Khan observed that when the events of May 9 took place, Article 245 had not been invoked by the government.

The counsel replied that Article 245 was in the field when the military trials were challenged before the Supreme Court. The hearing will recommence today (Tuesday).

Source:dawn.com

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https://www.dawn.com/news/1895618/sc-constitutional-bench-urged-to-send-civilians-cases-to-atcs

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Pakistan slams blocking of Gaza aid in Ramazan

March 4, 2025

ISLAMABAD: The Foreign Office (FO) has issued a statement condemning in the strongest possible terms the Israeli decision to block critical humanitarian aid from entering Gaza during the holy month of Ramazan.

“This latest action is part of Israel’s systematic campaign to deny much needed humanitarian aid to millions of Palestinians in dire need,” the FO said.

“This constitutes yet another blatant violation of international law by the occupying power and could imperil the ceasefire agreement.”

Pakistan called on the international community to ensure unrestricted humanitarian access to Gaza and to hold Israel accountable for “the imposition of collective punishment through denial of humanitarian aid to millions of civilians”.

Source:dawn.com

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Information Minister says coalition govt reversed PTI's 'economic, diplomatic failures'

By Web Desk

March 03, 2025

Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has criticised the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on the eve of the PML-N-led coalition govt's 1st anniversary in power, saying that the incumbent set up reversed the economic and diplomatic "failures" of the former ruling party.

His statement came after Pakistan's inflation fell to the lowest level since September 2015 and the coalition government is going to complete its one year in power tomorrow.

"Those who were betting on [Pakistan's] default are in turmoil today," Tarar said while referring to the former ruling party during a press conference in Islamabad today.

On March 4, Shehbaz Sharif took the oath to officially become prime minister for a second time, nearly four weeks after an uncertain national election caused delays in forming a coalition government.

Shehbaz, 72, officially took up office at a swearing-in ceremony at the presidential office in the nation's capital, Islamabad, a day after parliament elected him prime minister despite protests from lawmakers aligned with jailed former premier Imran Khan.

Tarar criticised the Imran Khan-founded party that had celebrated the drop in the country's current account and sent letters to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

"We sacrificed our politics for the state," said Tarar, adding that important decisions for the country's development were made under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to avert default.

Claiming that all economic indicators were positive, Tarar highlighted that the inflation rate had dropped to its lowest level in nine years, the interest rate also declined to 12%, and the stock exchange is also performing better with each passing day.

He went on to say that the coalition government also restored the country's reputation and contacts globally, reversing Pakistan's "global isolation" due to PTI's diplomatic failures.

The minister added that positive sentiments were being expressed for Pakistan at the international level as many global personalities, including Turkiye president, Abu Dhabi crown prince and others, paid official visits and expressed interest in investments in Pakistan.

Source:thenews.com.pk

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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1288354-tarar-says-coalition-govt-reversed-ptis-economic-diplomatic-failures

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Pakistan Institute Of Medical SciencesDoctors Examine Imran In Jail

Ikram Junaidi

March 4, 2025

ISLAMABAD: A team from the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) visited the Adiala Jail on Monday to conduct a medical check-up of former prime minister Imran Khan.

The four-member team was headed by Dr Altaf Hu­s­sain, an ENT specialist.

Other members of the team included Dr Umar Farooq from the hospital’s Dental Department, Dr Muhammad Ali Arif from General Medicine and Dr Tashfeen Imtiaz from General Surgery.

The checkup lasted 30 minutes.

The examination follows a spate of allegations recently levelled by the PTI, most notably its information secretary Sheikh Waqqas Akram, claiming that the government had placed Imran Khan in solitary confinement.

Another PTI leader had claimed that Mr Khan was not even being allowed to meet his sisters or other relatives.

Mr Khan’s family physician was not being allowed to visit him, fuelling concerns about his health, a PTI leader said.

On the other hand, speculations were rife in Islamabad that the former prime minister might be transferred to some other location. However, there was no official word about any such claims.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur had said last month that Imran Khan would “soon be shifted elsewhere”.

Source:dawn.com

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https://www.dawn.com/news/1895619/pims-doctors-examine-imran-in-jail

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Sindh CM orders crackdown on profiteers to curb ‘artificial’ price hike

Tahir Siddiqui

March 4, 2025

• Says authorities are empowered to auction seized goods under anti-profiteering law to prevent market manipulation

• Four non-custom paid vehicles used by customs officers impounded by excise officials, meeting told

KARACHI: Amid the ongoing price hike, which occurs during every Ramazan, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Monday ordered a crackdown on profiteers and directed the administration to seize and auction hoarded goods in accordance with the existing anti-profiteering laws to ensure effective price control.

In a typical pattern, the prices of essential commodities and traditional edibles have sharply increased, with the administration failing to enforce the officially notified prices in the province, particularly in Karachi. While the market forces and chain of supply are stated to be the key factors behind the price hike, a weak oversight by the administration —which doesn’t have ample staff to take action against the profiteers across the city — leaves people at the mercy of retailers.

In 2023, over 100 section officers (SOs) of different provincial departments had been given magisterial powers to take action against profiteering and hoarding during Ramazan in Karachi alone.

Presiding over a high-level meeting on price control, the CM issued strict directives to regulate the prices of essential commodities across the province, emphasising that artificial price hikes and hoarding would not be tolerated.

According to a press statement issued from the CM House, the chief minister reminded the officials that the anti-profiteering law empowered the government to seize and auction hoarded goods to prevent market manipulation. He therefore directed the administration to ensure seizure of the hoarded goods and auction them under the law.

The Karachi commissioner informed the meeting that over 250 “Bachat Bazaars” (discount markets) were operating in the city to provide relief to citizens. The CM stressed that these markets must be well-organised and effectively regulated to ensure smooth operations and prevent traffic congestion.

Mr Shah also directed the deputy commissioners, through divisional commissioners, to regularly visit markets to monitor prices and curb unnecessary inflation.

He ordered that price lists be printed and distributed promptly and instructed officials to monitor price compliance closely throughout Ramazan. Additionally, he emphasised that major retail stores should also be compelled to maintain reasonable prices.

Concern over utilities

Expressing concern over gas shortages, the chief minister demanded its uninterrupted supply during Ramazan.

He also instructed the mayor to ensure adequate water supply in the city and directed the energy minister to immediately contact power distribution companies to stop electricity outages.

Tampered vehicles

During another meeting, the chief minister directed Excise Minister Mukesh Chawla to begin impounding non-customs paid (NCP) vehicles and those with tampered chassis numbers that were being operated in the city.

The excise minister informed the CM that his department had already impounded four vehicles being used by customs officers in the city.

He said that these vehicles did not have valid number plates, and their chassis numbers had been tampered with.

The chief minister issued clear directives to both the excise police and the district police to take action against such vehicles, impound them, and report back to him.

The meeting was attended by Provincial Ministers Sharjeel Memon, Nasir Shah, Zia Lanjar, Special Assistant for the Bureau of Supply & Prices Usman Ghani Hingoro, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah, Principal Secretary Agha Wasif, Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi, Sindh police chief Ghulam Nabi Memon, Agriculture Secretary Sohail Qureshi, while the Commissioners of Hyderabad, Mirpurkhas, Shaheed Benazirabad, Sukkur, and Larkana participated via video link.

Source:dawn.com

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Three Islamabad-based universities to open campuses in Karachi

Kashif Abbasi

March 4, 2025

ISLAMABAD: Three major institutes of higher learning — National University of Sciences and Technology (Nust), National University of Technology (NUTECH) and Comsats University — will establish their campuses in Karachi, it emerged on Monday.

In a landmark move, Federal Minister for Education, Science and Technology Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui has given approval for setting up campuses of Nust, NUTECH, and Comsats University in Karachi. This initiative aligns with the prime minister’s vision of expanding quality education, which is essential for the country’s economic growth, said a press statement issued by the ministry of education.

It mentioned that a temporary campus of Comsats University will be set up on Hub Road. Additionally, a Rs4.6 billion PC-1 has been submitted for the development of a dedicated campus for Comsats University.

However, the education ministry did not share any further details regarding the establishment of Nust and NUTECH campuses in Karachi.

It is worth mentioning that Dr Siddiqui, the chairman of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan, hails from Karachi and the establishment of these campuses in the city would greatly benefit local students.

Sources in Comsats told Dawn that, in the past, several attempts were made to establish Comsats campuses in Sukkur, Gujar Khan and Dera Murad Jamali, but unfortunately, those projects could not be executed.

Currently, in addition to its main campus in Islamabad, Comsats University has six other campuses across the country, including in Wah, Abbottabad, Attock, Lahore, Sahiwal and Vehari. The establishment of a Comsats campus in Karachi is widely considered as a positive development.

Earlier in 2024, Dr Siddiqui had announced that the National College of Arts (NCA) and Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design (PIFD) would open their campuses in Karachi. He had inaugurated the Karachi chapter of the PIFD in November last.

Call for early appointment of CUI rector

However, besides this initiative, Dr Siddiqui also asked to ensure the early appointment of a rector for Comsats University Islamabad (CUI) to facilitate the smooth functioning of one of the country’s major public-sector universities, said a faculty member of Comsats.

The CUI has been facing administrative challenges, as it has been without a regular rector since July 2023. Several other key offices within the university are also being run through ad hoc arrangements. Recently, President Asif Ali Zardari, as the CUI chancellor, barred the acting rector from making any major policy decisions.

Last month, the Ministry of Science and Technology officially conveyed the president’s directive and stated that it has come to the notice of the chancellor’s office that the acting rector of CUI is making significant decisions, including appointments and promotions of teaching and non-teaching staff, especially for positions of BS-17 and above in CUI.

The letter further stated that the President of Pakistan/Chancellor, CUI, has directed that the acting rector shall not make any appointments or promotions of teaching and non-teaching staff to prevent further legal complications.

The appointment of a permanent rector for CUI has faced prolonged delays. The university has been functioning under an ad hoc arrangement since July 2023, when the then rector, Dr Mohammad Afzal, stepped down. Subsequently, then president Arif Alvi appointed Dean Dr Sajid Qamar as a temporary rector, a position he continues to hold.

Recently, the National Assembly Standing Committee on Science and Technology, chaired by MNA Khawaja Sheraz Mehmood, had urged the government to expedite the appointment of a permanent rector to ensure effective decision-making and long-term planning at the university.

Apart from the rector’s position, several other key administrative posts, including those of registrar, treasurer and controller of examinations, are also being managed on a temporary basis. Additionally, many deans are serving in acting capacities.

In September last year, following a competitive process and interviews, a panel of three educationists was recommended to the president’s office for the final selection of a rector. After an extensive review, President Zardari, as the chancellor of Comsats, approved Dr Shahid Munir’s appointment and the Ministry of Science and Technology issued a notification confirming his selection on Sept 23, 2024.

However, Dr Munir did not assume the role, as he was appointed vice chancellor of the University of Engineering and Technology Lahore on the same day. Since then, the appointment process for a new rector remains incomplete, raising concerns about the university’s administrative stability.

Source:dawn.com

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FC soldier martyred in Kalat suicide bombing

Saleem Shahid

March 4, 2025

QUETTA: A Frontier Corps man was martyred and four others were injured in a suicide attack carried out by a woman on a convoy near Kalat on Monday, officials said.

The attack came a day after Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti expressed alarm over the security situation prevailing in the province.

Officials said the suicide blast took place when the FC convoy was passing through the Mughalzai area.

“An FC soldier was martyred and four others were wounded in the attack carried out by a female suicide bomber,” Kalat Dep­uty Commissioner Bilal Shabbir confirmed, adding that soon after the attack security forces and police cordoned off the area and shifted the body and the injured to hospital.

The banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA-Azad) claimed responsibility for the assault.

Reports said the targeted FC vehicle was badly damaged in the attack, but other vehicles in the convoy remained safe.

“An FC commandant travelling in the convoy also escaped unhurt in the suicide attack,” a senior security official said.

Sources said the FC convoy was on its way to a mess from the FC fort in Kalat area.

Police and CTD officials started investigation into the incident while security forces launched a search operation to trace out the elements involved in the attack.

The martyred FC soldier was identified as Lance Naik Attaullah while the injured were sepoys Wakeel, Zahid, Abbas and Mushtaq. The condition of one of the injured is stated to be serious.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi paid homage to the martyr and extended condolences to the bereaved family. CM Bugti said terrorism and cowardly acts could not affect the province’s peace and stability.

Earlier on Sunday, CM Bugti while talking to the media in Quetta expressed alarm over the security situation in Balochistan.

He said the rise in acts of terrorism is the result of the previous government’s policy of appeasement of militant groups like the banned TTP, noting that several Taliban ‘commanders’ released during Imran Khan’s tenure had re-established their camps.

Admitting that the security situation in Balochistan is alarming, the chief minister pledged that terrorists will not be allowed to control even an inch of land of the province.

He said that the influx of weapons from Afghanistan after the US withdrawal had exacerbated the situation in Balochistan, with terrorists now using thermal technology to carry out attacks from up to two kilometres away.

The CM, however, expressed the confidence that his government would soon bring acts of terrorism under control through smart strategies, emphasising the need for increased federal government’s support to enhance the capacity of law-enforcement agencies.

He also mentioned plans to upgrade security in “B Areas” to “A Areas” to improve governance and security. He announced that an Apex Committee meeting has been called for Tuesday (today) to formulate a strategy, and underperforming deputy commissioners will be replaced immediately.

Missing persons’ issue

Discussing the issue of missing persons, Mr Bugti described it as highly complex, suggesting that some groups involved in forcibly blocking roads might be behind disappearances of people to put pressure on the provincial government.

Source:dawn.com

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Arab World

 

Saudi commission launches fashion recycling initiative

March 03, 2025

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Fashion Commission launched the Future of Sustainability Initiative, a project designed to promote fashion recycling across retail spaces in the country.

The initiative aims to foster behavioral change in clothing recycling through the strategic placement of recycling bins in prominent malls, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

It encourages both the public and private sectors to adopt responsible fashion recycling practices, the SPA added.

The initiative embodies the values of the commission’s sustainability pillar, focusing on promoting sustainable practices within the fashion industry and enhancing consumer awareness.

By supporting the development of a circular textile recycling system, the initiative seeks to raise public awareness of the importance of fashion recycling, thereby advancing the sustainability agenda in the Kingdom.

Source:arabnews.com

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Ramadan bonfire tradition rekindles roots in Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders

March 03, 2025

RIYADH: During the holy month, the Northern Borders region lights up with one of its standout traditions: the Ramadan bonfire.

These Ramadan gatherings hold a special place in the community, strengthening family and neighborly bonds.

They provide a space for exchanging stories and experiences about the past, present and future, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.

In an interview with the SPA, local inhabitant Marawi Al-Sudairi explained that the fire is a symbol of generosity and togetherness, and an integral part of the region’s culture.

Karim Al-Dhaidi, another local, said the gatherings are open to everyone, and serve to strengthen social ties. They also connect people with their past, he said.

JazaaMarji, board chairman of the Retirees Association in the Northern Borders region, said the Ramadan fire has always been a part of the local heritage.

“We grew up with it, and it brings generations together, offering an opportunity to recall memories and share experiences with the youth,” he said.

“Ramadan is the perfect time to revive such traditions, as they reflect the spirit of love, communication, and the reinforcement of social values between generations.”

Even today, the Ramadan fire remains a tradition at many homes in the Northern Borders region. Residents are keen to revive it during Ramadan nights.

Source:arabnews.com

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Lebanon appreciates Saudi support for its stability: Aoun

 NAJIA HOUSSARI

March 03, 2025

BEIRUT: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said on Monday that his visit to Saudi Arabia represents an opportunity to reaffirm the depth of relations between the two nations.

He expressed appreciation for the Kingdom’s role in supporting Lebanon’s stability, safety, and the functioning of its institutions, as well as the various forms of assistance provided by Riyadh.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received Aoun at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh in an official ceremony.

The pair discussed the latest developments in Lebanon and the region, in addition to ways of enhancing bilateral relations.

Aoun, in his first trip abroad as president, expressed hope that discussions with the crown prince will further enhance cooperation between the two nations.

The Lebanese president said that it was “an opportunity to express gratitude to the Kingdom for hosting Lebanese individuals who have come to it years ago and contributed to its urban and economic development.”

Aoun arrived at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh in the afternoon, accompanied by Foreign Minister Youssef Raji.

Aoun and his delegation are scheduled to travel to Cairo on Tuesday to participate in the extraordinary Arab summit.

In Beirut, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam emphasized during his visit to Dar Al-Fatwa and his meeting with the Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Latif Deryan that the government had initiated reforms in Lebanon following last week’s vote of confidence.

Salam said all efforts would be taken to end Israeli military operations in Lebanon, and that “citizens will experience a new level of government performance and services in the coming months.

“Our primary concern will be the welfare of the Lebanese people, alleviating their burdens, restoring Lebanon to its leading role, and fostering the best relationships with Arab brothers and friendly nations committed to the state of Lebanon, its institutions, and its people.”

Salam said the government would prioritize critical issues “with a focus on living conditions, as well as essential matters such as water, electricity, roads, and the economic, social, and financial situation, particularly the depositors’ funds.”

He emphasized that “the government will ensure justice in all cases, appoint the most qualified individuals to fill vacancies, maintain balance, and protect everyone’s rights.”

He pledged to address “the plight of detainees who have not been tried for years, some of whom have exceeded their trial periods, particularly the so-called Islamist detainees. Justice must ultimately prevail, with offenders punished and innocents released.”

The Interior Ministry stepped up security measures to maintain public order and ensure the safety of citizens after a security meeting chaired by Interior Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar on Monday, emphasizing the importance of coordination between security agencies.

On Sunday night, Burj Al-Barajneh was the site of a shooting incident that led to the death of one person not involved in the altercation.

The mayor of Burj Al-Barajneh, Atef Mansour, said that Mohammed Wissam Al-Itawi was killed by gunfire exchanged between gangs.

Mansour called on the state to work “through its security apparatus to find an immediate and decisive solution to these dangerous recurrent acts of lawlessness.”

Such attacks are claiming the lives of innocent people due to clashes between gangs involved in theft, drugs, and violence, he said.

“Swift action, with an iron fist, is urgently needed” to stop the menace, he added.

“It is time to end this by effectively deploying the army and internal security forces to protect citizens. This is a demand shared by all, without exception.

“Everyone is calling for the streets to be secured and corrupt criminals to be confronted. The citizens can no longer tolerate this lawlessness and the destruction of property by outlaws.

“Citizens must feel the presence of the state and its ability to protect them from violent armed gangs that have no regard for human life. The state is the only entity capable of providing security and safety to its citizens across Lebanon and shielding them from this harsh reality,” the mayor added.

In recent developments along the southern border, a Lebanese citizen was injured by Israeli gunfire while attempting to inspect his home in the border town of KfarKila.

The Israeli military, which remains positioned at five strategic Lebanese hills, has raised a new earthen barrier on the road leading to the town of Odaisseh to prevent residents from reaching their properties.

Additionally, Israeli soldiers carried out an incursion into the border plain of Al-Abbassieh, detaining a farmer who was working on his land and later releasing him.

This comes after Israeli forces opened fire on a group of citizens traveling on the Odaisseh–KfarKila road on Sunday evening.

On Monday morning, an Israeli military drone flew over Mansouri and Byout Al-Saiyad in the Tyre district, playing an audio recording accusing Hezbollah of obstructing the Lebanese Army’s enforcement of UN Resolution 1701.

Source:arabnews.com

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Restoration of 130-year-old Buraidah mosque to uphold architectural heritage

March 03, 2025

RIYADH: The historic Al-Ruwaibah Mosque in Buraidah, Qassim region, is among the mosques undergoing restoration as part of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historic Mosques.

The second phase of the crown prince’s project focuses on preserving the mosque’s original materials and spatial features while allowing for necessary additions that do not compromise its historical character.

As part of the restoration, the mosque’s traditional roof — composed of clay, tamarisk wood and palm fronds — will be carefully preserved, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Located 7.5 km southeast of Buraidah municipality, Al-Ruwaibah Mosque is more than 130 years old and has undergone only one previous restoration, in 1945.

The mosque has long served as a center for prayer, worship and Qur’anic study, in addition to being a place for teaching reading, writing and various sciences, making it a vital cultural and educational landmark in the region.

Before restoration, the mosque covered almost 204 sq. m and could accommodate 60 worshippers. On completion, its area will expand to about 233 sq. m, increasing its capacity to 74 worshippers.

The restoration will focus on rebuilding the mosque’s traditional roof, which consists of lintels, perpendicular trunks, a layer of palm branches, and a final clay layer that serves as insulation and helps to drain rainwater.

Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s project aims to balance traditional and modern construction standards to ensure the sustainability of historic mosques.

Saudi companies specializing in heritage restoration are leading the work, with Saudi engineers actively involved to maintain the mosque’s authentic architectural identity while ensuring structural durability.

Phase two of the crown prince’s project follows the successful completion of phase one in 2018, which restored 30 mosques in 10 regions across the Kingdom.

The project’s strategic objectives include rehabilitating mosques for worship, restoring architectural authenticity, highlighting the Kingdom’s cultural heritage, and enhancing the religious and cultural significance of these historical sites.

The project aligns with Vision 2030 by preserving architectural heritage and influencing the design of modern mosques.

Source:arabnews.com

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Saudi opposition welcome to return home: Head of State Security

March 03, 2025

RIYADH: Saudi opposition staying overseas are welcome to return home without any fear of punishment, Abdulaziz Al-Howairini, head of the Presidency of State Security, said in an interview on MBC’s “HekayatWaad” program during Ramadan.

“Under the directives of the crown prince, if there are no lawsuits filed against you for homicide, theft or assault, and you were misled, the state will welcome you and will not punish you,” he said.

“If a person has not actually committed a crime, but only entertained the thought of it, the state will address this issue and fix it.”

Al-Howairini, quoting Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, said: “Anyone who decides to return, without having any lawsuits filed against them for assault, homicide, or other violent acts, and if their actions were limited to opposition or they were exploited by haters or received money at some point or were misled, they are welcome to come back without fear of punishment.”

He added that the Kingdom’s embassies were fully aware of the new directive, and nationals seeking assistance can contact a designated number (990) where they can provide their name and location and request to communicate with their family members.

“We receive numerous calls, but rest assured, we do not shame those individuals,” Al-Howairini said, guaranteeing the confidentiality of communications.

Source:arabnews.com

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Saudi Arabia Introduces Ihram Exit Service At Grand Mosque For First Time

March 03, 2025

By Khitam Al Amir

Dubai: For the first time in Saudi Arabia’s history, pilgrims completing Umrah at the Grand Mosque in Mecca will be able to exit the state of Ihram directly within the mosque’s courtyard.

The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has introduced a trial operation of the service during Ramadan, offering further convenience for worshippers.

The initiative provides designated locations for male pilgrims to conclude their sacred journey by shaving or trimming their hair, a required step in completing Umrah.

Five sites have been set up opposite the Marwa area, where mobile units equipped with sterilised tools are available to accommodate the influx of visitors.

The move is part of ongoing efforts to improve services for the millions who visit the holy sites annually.

The operation is supervised by a team of specialized experts, ensuring smooth, rapid service while adhering to the highest safety and quality standards.

Source:gulfnews.com

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Civil Defence issues rain warning across Saudi Arabia

March 03, 2025

RIYADH: The General Directorate of Civil Defense has issued a weather warning for most regions of the Kingdom, with moderate to heavy rain expected to continue until Friday.

The affected regions include Makkah, Riyadh, Madinah, Tabuk, Hail, Qassim, the Eastern Province, the Northern Borders, Al-Jouf, Al-Baha and Asir, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The Civil Defense urged all residents to take necessary precautions, avoid areas prone to flash floods, such as valleys, and refrain from swimming in them.

It also called on the public to stay informed about the latest weather updates through official channels and social media platforms.

Source:arabnews.com

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Europe

 

Labour Hasn’t Always Got It Right On Muslim Engagement, Says UK Health Secretary

By Vivek Mishra

Mar 03, 2025

HEALTH secretary Wes Streeting has acknowledged that the Labour Party "hasn't always got it right" in its engagement with Muslim communities.

Speaking at the launch of the British Muslim Network, Streeting said successive governments had failed to establish strong relationships with Muslim communities, The Times reported.

The British Muslim Network, launched this week, aims to provide policymakers with expert feedback on issues affecting Muslim communities, including healthcare, education, security, and employment.

The event was attended by Streeting, faith minister Lord Khan of Burnley, and other political figures.

Baroness Warsi, a former Conservative cabinet minister, said the government's longstanding "policy of disengagement" with Muslim communities might be shifting.

She noted that Labour leader Keir Starmer had met Muslim community leaders at a roundtable last week.

Brendan Cox, who helped bring the network together, called the attendance of government ministers a “really significant” step.

The Bishop of Bradford, Right Rev Toby Howarth, added: "I'm glad to see government finally, seriously, in the room."

Streeting said he was committed to ensuring that Muslim voices were heard and cited his own narrow majority in Ilford North as evidence of political consequences for failing to engage properly.

Warsi praised the network’s organisers, Akeela Ahmed and Qari Asim, for their efforts, while Nusrat Ghani, Conservative MP for Sussex Weald, said she looked forward to seeing the organisation’s progress.

Streeting clarified that the government was not aiming to shield religious beliefs from debate but to protect worshippers from discrimination and hate crime.

Source:easterneye.biz

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Two arrested after 'huge brawl' outside Birmingham mosque

Harry Leach

03 Mar 2025

Two people were arrested on suspicion of violent disorder after reports of a huge brawl outside a mosque in Small Heath.

Footage circulating online showed a group of men appearing to fight outside Noor-Ul-Uloom mosque, on the corner of Sommerville Road and St Oswalds Road, at around 5.15pm yesterday, March 2.

Police said the incident was not connected to the mosque and arrested a 16-year-old boy on suspicion of violent disorder and a 29-year-old man on suspicion of the same offence and assaulting an emergency worker.

Both remained in custody for questioning. Detectives said no-one was seriously injured.

West Midlands Ambulance Service told BirminghamLive that paramedics were not called to the scene.

A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: "Two people have been arrested on suspicion of violent disorder after we responded to reports of men fighting outside a mosque in Birmingham.

"We were called to St Oswalds Road in Small Heath at around 5.15pm yesterday.

"On arrival, officers arrested a 16-year-old boy on suspicion of violent disorder.

"A 29-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and assaulting an emergency worker.

"The two remain in custody for questioning.

"No-one was seriously injured and enquiries are ongoing to establish what went on. This includes reviewing CCTV footage."

Chief Insp Haroon Chughtai said: “We have carried out enquiries and after speaking with various members of the community, and after initial CCTV enquiries, we are satisfied the incident is not linked to the mosque.

“We understand the concerns of the community, and we will be carrying out reassurance patrols in the area.”

Source:birminghammail.co.uk

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Elon Musk sparks crisis talks at UK's elite Royal Society

04 MARCH 2025

Behind the imposing doors of the world's oldest scientific academy, the Royal Society, confidential talks have been taking place.

The gathering of 150 members on Monday evening was effectively a crisis meeting, held amid a growing campaign urging the society to expel its most controversial member - Elon Musk.

Mr Musk's achievements earned him a fellowship of the Royal Society back in 2018.

But, over the last nine months, many scientists have raised concerns about the billionaire's behaviour, which has been called a threat to science.

Most recently, in his senior role in President Trump's Department of Government Efficiency (or Doge), Mr Musk has overseen unprecedented funding cuts to scientific research in the US.

He has also been accused of sharing misinformation on his social media platform, X.

The Royal Society has made no comment about Mr Musk. It described Monday's meeting as a discussion of "the principles" around public pronouncements and behaviours of Fellows.

After the meeting, it issued a statement: "[Those who] attended tonight's meeting were united in the need for the Society to step up its efforts to advocate for science and scientists."

While the Royal Society has previously steered away from political comments, it added that particular concern had been expressed among members who attended about "the fate of colleagues in the US who are reportedly facing the prospect of losing their jobs amid threats of radical cutbacks in research funding".

This follows a statement published on the society's website last week, saying science was "under threat" and that "ideological agendas" were being used to "suppress research, threaten academic freedom and to cut funding".

It is 150 years since a member of the Royal Society was ejected: German scientist and writer Rudolf Eric Raspe, who was accused of theft and fraud.

So the rift among the membership, caused by Mr Musk and his public pronouncements, could be a historic turning point for this most elite of scientific academies.

Two eminent scientists have resigned their fellowships in protest - Dr Dorothy Bishop of Oxford University and Prof Andrew Millar from University of Edinburgh.

Both suggested that Elon Musk's actions were "incompatible" with the society's own code of conduct.

More than than 3,300 scientists also put their names to a letter, written by Prof Stephen Curry, emeritus professor of structural biology at Imperial College London, who is not a fellow, that expressed "deep concern" about the billionaire's fellowship and the society's "continued silence and apparent inaction" with regard to the controversy.

"As a private individual, he is free to say what he likes, but as a member of this club, he has a responsibility to promote excellence and promote the pursuit of truth," Prof Curry told the BBC.

Prof Curry has not called for Mr Musk's removal explicitly but has said that a more open debate needs to be held.

Dr Dorothy Bishop, emeritus professor of development neuropsychology at Oxford University and the first fellow to resign over the issue, told BBC News she had complained to the Royal Society twice last year.

"On both occasions they consulted lawyers, and it may well be the case that the lawyers are concerned about the prospect of legal action," she said.

There are more than 1,700 fellows of the Royal Society and more than 60 of them have signed Prof Curry's letter. Many more have expressed their concern about Mr Musk's behaviour.

But there are many academics, researchers and Royal Society fellows who do not wish to see the divisive billionaire have his membership revoked.

Nobel prize-winner Prof Sir Andre Geim from Manchester University said: "Musk is certainly an eccentric, but his achievements beat those of any of his critics in the Royal Society. Very few can say that they achieved similar in their lives."

Other scientists who spoke to the BBC pointed out that an attempt to remove Mr Musk's fellowship could be seen as political interference and a curtailment of freedom of expression.

But Prof George Efstathiou, from the University of Cambridge, dismissed that argument.

Members, he said, "should at least have respect for the truth".

"If somebody has a disregard for the truth and says things that are blatantly false, then that speaks to their ethical standards," he added. "That's not political."

Fiona Fox is chief executive of the Science Media Centre, which works with journalists and scientists to promote "accurate, evidence-based information" in science coverage. She was elected as a Royal Society fellow in 2023.

Ms Fox told BBC News she was concerned at what was happening to the science community in the US, but questioned whether ejecting Mr Musk would achieve the Royal Society's overall aims of educating and advancing scientific research.

"There are terrifying things being done in the US - removing data sets, taking web pages down of data. This is knowledge. This is universally owned.

"There's a climate of fear in which people are self censoring. I mean, it's absolutely terrifying," she said.

Source:bbc.com

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Trump condemns Zelensky remarks that war's end is 'far away'

04 MARCH 2025

A statement by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky saying a deal to end the war with Russia was "very far away" has drawn a furious response by Donald Trump.

"America will not put up with it for much longer," the US president said in a social media post, before accusing Zelensky of not wanting peace.

A summit of mostly European leaders in London on Sunday agreed a four-point plan to guarantee Ukraine's defence in the event of a peace deal with Russia.

"Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia. What are they thinking?" Trump said, apparently referring to the summit held two days after his fiery clash with Zelensky at the Oval Office.

The summit - hosted by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer - was intended as a show of support for Ukraine and an attempt to reduce differences between Western countries over Ukraine.

Britain and France said they were working on a European-led solution to the conflict.

After the meeting, Zelensky said a deal to end the war between Ukraine and Russia was "still very, very far away".

He added that he expected the US to continue backing Ukraine despite his own fraught relations with Trump.

"I believe that Ukraine has a strong enough partnership with the United States of America," Zelensky said late on Sunday.

But on Monday, Trump responded by reiterating his view that Zelensky stood in the way of peace negotiations.

"This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelensky, and America will not put up with it for much longer! It is what I was saying, this guy doesn't want there to be Peace as long as he has America's backing," he wrote on his Truth Social media network.

During a news briefing later on Monday, Trump once again said that Zelensky "should be more appreciative" for the aid he has received from the US in the three years since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

During the confrontation in front of cameras at the White House, both Trump and US Vice-President JD Vance expressed anger at what they perceived as Zelensky's lack of gratitude.

"Just say thank you," Vance demanded at one point.

The angry exchange meant that a deal that would give the US access to Ukraine's deposits of rare earth minerals was left unsigned.

In his news conference on Monday, Trump said he did not believe the agreement was dead.

He added that he would provide an update on the minerals deal late on Tuesday.

After the London summit, the UK and France suggested a European "coalition of the willing" to defend Ukraine - and to make sure Russia would not invade after a peace deal.

Sir Keir said that the idea of sending troops to Ukraine - which would include boots on the ground and planes in the air - had the backing of several parties, but he was careful to leave it to individual countries to discuss the matter internally.

Scandinavian countries have signalled they were open to the idea if it had the backing of the US.

The European moves follow a reversal of US policy under President Trump.

He says he wants to end the war and has held a lengthy telephone conversation with Putin and a round of talks with Moscow to which Ukraine was excluded.

Trump has caused consternation among Western allies by saying he trusts Putin, accusing Zelensky of being a dictator and even saying Ukraine started the war, not Russia.

Source:bbc.com

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What hurdles does Europe's peace plan for Ukraine face?

04 MARCH 2025

Whatever words are used to frame the plans emerging from Sunday's summit of 19 mainly European leaders in London - ceasefire, truce or peace plan - the challenges ahead are enormous.

The UK's Prime Minister Keir Starmer, along with French President Emmanuel Macron, hope this will be the plan to eventually bring lasting peace to Ukraine.

At its heart lies what Sir Keir is calling the "coalition of the willing", those who would help to guarantee peace in the event of a deal being reached.

But what are the hurdles – and how easily can they be overcome?

Can Europe put together a sufficient deterrent force?

First, can Europe's depleted armies and half-empty arsenals muster anything approaching a substantial deterrent force to deploy to Ukraine? What nations, other than the UK and France, will be willing to send forces into such an uncertain scenario given the doubts over US support?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said it would need an international force of up to 200,000 troops to sustain a ceasefire along the 600 mile (960km) line of contact between the two opposing armies, Russia and Ukraine.

Although that figure is wildly optimistic, the Ukrainian leader is correct in assessing just how many would be needed to act as a sufficient deterrent to any future Russian incursions.

In reality, Europe will struggle to come up with even a third of that number, such is the effect of decades of running down its militaries, years after the post-Cold War peace dividend should have ended.

Air power would be crucial. This is both for what is known as ISR [Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance] and for repelling any future Russian incursions.

There is no point having a brigade of UK troops sitting on part of the notional ceasefire line if thousands of Russian troops and armoured vehicles are pouring through a gap 100 miles away and there is no adequate means to repel them.

The US has a huge capability in Signals Intelligence, Sigint, as well as air-to-air refuelling, without which a purely European force would struggle. A recent report by the London-based think tank the International Institute for International Affairs (IISS) stated:

"Europe's reliance on Washington's military capabilities, especially critical enablers such as ISR and air-to-air refuelling, will make pursuing 'independence' a major challenge without major investment in those areas."

It goes on to say that: "The US also contributes over half of all Nato's fighter and fighter ground attack aircraft."

In short, putting together a credible deterrent force to protect Ukraine would be extremely challenging, if not impossible, without US military backup.

Can Trump be persuaded to provide a US backstop?

Donald Trump likes to say that he doesn't start wars, he stops them.

The last thing he wants to do right now is to commit US combat troops and air power to a notional unstable ceasefire line which has the potential to erupt into a shooting war that drags in Nato forces.

Instead, he has telegraphed his preferred way to end this war, which is to cut a deal direct with Russian President Vladimir Putin, one-on-one.

Sir Keir's aim is for Europe to come up with a credible ceasefire proposal which can then be presented to President Trump in the hope - and I would emphasise that word "hope" - that he then agrees to provide a US military backstop.

So far, that looks unlikely.

Will Russia accept it?

Why on earth would it? - some would argue.

Its ground forces are winning on the battlefield, albeit at a horrendous cost in human lives and Ukraine has all but lost its greatest ally in this war: the US.

Without America's military support, Ukraine will be hard-pushed to hold back advancing Russian troops in the east and south-east. Without US Patriot missiles, its cities will be even more vulnerable to mass missile attacks by Russia.

President Putin has always made it clear he will not accept the presence of Nato member troops in Ukraine. Now that he effectively has an ally in the White House, he is even less likely to give way on this point unless President Trump can offer him a major inducement in return.

The bottom line in all this is that the Kremlin has not given up on its maximalist aims for Ukraine which is to eventually bring the whole country back into Moscow's orbit, replacing Zelensky with a pliant, pro-Russian puppet.

At the bare minimum, it is unlikely to budge on its core demand that Ukraine permanently cede not only those territories Russia already occupies - in Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Luhansk regions - but also gives up the adjacent cities of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, forcing hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian residents to either flee or become Russian.

Source:bbc.com

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Pope Francis 'alert' after respiratory failure

04 MARCH 2025

Pope Francis is alert after suffering two episodes of "acute respiratory failure" on Monday afternoon, the Vatican has said.

Doctors were forced to intervene to clear mucus from the Pope's lungs, an update from the Holy See said, though it said he was alert throughout.

The 88-year-old pontiff has resumed the use of an oxygen mask and ventilator to assist his breathing, but remains "alert, focused and cooperative", the Vatican said.

This is now the third serious downturn since the 88-year-old pontiff was admitted to hospital 18 days ago with pneumonia.

On Friday, Pope Francis suffered an "isolated" breathing crisis involving vomiting, the Vatican said.

Updates from the Holy See reported that he responded well to oxygen therapy, with Vatican officials saying on Sunday the Pope no longer required "non-invasive mechanical ventilation, only high-flow oxygen therapy".

Following Monday's episodes, Pope Francis has resumed that mechanical ventilation.

His illness has meant that Pope Francis has been unable to deliver his traditional Angelus prayer in person for three weeks in a row, with the Vatican publishing his written comments instead.

Officials said the text, sent from his hospital room in Rome, had been written "in the past few days". In it, the Pope thanked people for their prayers and thanked his medical team for their care.

He will also miss the procession and mass this Wednesday that mark the first day of Lent, the six-week period leading to Easter.

Hundreds of Catholics gathered outside in St Peter's Square on Monday for an eighth evening to pray for the Pope's health, many carrying rosary beads as they headed across the cobbles towards the Basilica.

The crowd, a mixture of priests and nuns based in Rome and Catholic pilgrims here for a Jubilee year, were led by an American cardinal.

"I come every night to pray, but this night I am pretty worried," Javier, a Romanian priest, voiced the feelings of many on the square. "We still have hope, but it doesn't look good."

"It looks bad, and that's a shame because we really like Francis," Patricia, a Spanish catholic from Toledo, told the BBC.

She was following the prayers with her husband and young daughter.

"He's really opened the doors of the church to many, like LGBT people. I think they will look for a more conservative pope next, to stop the change."

Catholics have also been visiting the Gemelli hospital in Rome to pray for him - hoping he might come to the window, as has happened in the past.

But although the Vatican recently described the Pope's condition as stable, he remains too sick even to greet the crowd below.

The Pope was admitted to hospital on 14 February after experiencing breathing difficulties for several days.

He was first treated for bronchitis before being diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs.

The pontiff is particularly susceptible to pneumonia, an infection of the lungs that can be caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi, after he contracted pleurisy – an inflammation of the lungs – as a young man and had a partial lung removal.

Vatican sources stress, as they have all along, that the Pope's condition remains complex – his doctors remain cautious - and he is not out of danger.

Source:bbc.com

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A weekend of frantic talks - where does it leave Zelensky, Trump and Europe?

04 MARCH 2025

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is back in Kyiv after three frantic days - which began with him being ordered to leave the White House following a tense and public showdown with Donald Trump and JD Vance on Friday.

He found a warmer welcome in London on the weekend, where he was greeted by the prime minister outside Downing Street, visited the King, and received a strong show of support from European leaders at a summit on Sunday - a sharp contrast to the scenes in the Oval Office.

After the London summit, Sir Keir Starmer suggested European leaders would form a "coalition of the willing" to defend Ukraine - but details of who would contribute what were scarce.

Here's the latest on Zelensky's relationship with Trump, and Europe's plans to guarantee Ukraine's security.

Where is Trump and Zelensky's relationship now?

In a series of social media posts on Saturday morning, President Zelensky said Ukraine and the US needed to be "honest and direct with each other" to understand their shared goals - and he wanted America to "stand more firmly" on their side.

Appearing on Fox News hours after leaving the White House, Zelensky said the confrontation was a "really tough situation" and took the chance to thank Americans and Donald Trump. He also stopped short of an outright apology despite calls from US lawmakers for him to do so.

While Trump hasn't commented directly on the angry exchange over the weekend, most Republican figures have expressed their support for Trump and Vance.

National Security Adviser Mike Waltz - who was in the Oval Office during Friday's heated meeting - compared the Ukrainian leader to an "ex-girlfriend", while Speaker Mike Johnson called for Zelensky to quit.

However, moderate Republican Nebraska Congressman Don Bacon said it was "a bad day for America's foreign policy" and Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski said she is "sick to my stomach as the administration appears to be walking away from our allies and embracing Putin".

How have European leaders reacted?

Posts on social media in support of Zelensky poured in shortly after he left the White House on Friday evening. Among the notable exceptions were Italy's GiorgiaMeloni, who wants to preserve her excellent relations with the Trump administration, and Hungary's Viktor Orban, who praised Donald Trump for "standing bravely for peace".

By the time the London summit came around on Sunday, there was a sense that concrete action had to follow words of support – with most leaders careful to highlight that they still considered US support essential.

At the end of the summit, Starmer outlined a four-point plan for peace which included the continuation of military aid to Ukraine, a commitment for Ukraine to be present at peace talks, boosting Ukraine's defence capabilities to deter future Russian aggression, and developing a "coalition of the willing" to defend Ukraine, including sending troops to Ukraine.

What about European security guarantees?

Starmer said that the idea of sending troops to Ukraine - which would include boots on the ground and planes in the air - had the backing of several parties, but he was careful to leave it to individual countries to discuss the matter internally.

Scandinavian countries have already signalled they would be open to the idea. Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said she was keeping an "open mind" on the proposal, while Sweden's Ulf Kristersson said his country was ready to provide Ukraine with security guarantees – if it had the backing of the US.

Italy's GiorgiaMeloni would much rather push for another summit that includes the US than discuss a European contingent in Ukraine – a possibility which she says "perplexes" her.

And Poland – which has long been one of Kyiv's most vocal supporters – has already ruled out sending soldiers, although it put few boundaries on humanitarian and military aid to Ukraine.

European leaders will now have a few days to digest the latest developments before they meet again in Brussels on Thursday for a special meeting on defence, at which Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen will present what she has called "a comprehensive plan on how to rearm Europe".

UK plays down Macron's truce plan

On Sunday night, the French newspaper Le Figaro reported that President Emmanuel Macron and Starmer have proposed a potential one-month truce between Russia and Ukraine, "in the air and at sea".

Details of any agreement are scarce and the idea put forward by the French remains just that. Under the hypothesis, both sides would agree a truce for four weeks in the air, on the sea and around energy infrastructure. But, Macron has suggested it would not cover fighting on the ground along the front line, as it would be too hard to monitor.

But on Monday morning, the UK's armed forces minister played down the idea of a truce insisting that "no agreement has been made on what a truce looks like".

Luke Pollard told Times Radio: "We are working together with France and our European allies to look at what is the path to how... we create a lasting and durable peace in Ukraine."

Any truce would have to be agreed by Russia and there is no evidence yet they are willing to do that.

What has Russia said?

Although Vladimir Putin has not yet officially commented on the Washington encounter, the Kremlin's foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said it had been a "complete diplomatic failure of Kyiv".

On Monday morning, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov then added his criticism of the London summit on Ukraine.

"Statements were made there about the need to step up funding for Ukraine as a matter of urgency. This is obviously not part of a peace plan but is done to continue the fighting," Peskov said.

"The rest will depend on what kind of peace plans will be drawn up and offered for discussion. Any constructive support for this process would be welcome now, and any constructive initiatives."

Remarking on the response to the war more broadly, Peskov also suggested that "the collective West has partially begun to lose its collectivity".

Source:bbc.com

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Macron floats one-month Ukraine truce: Would it work?

04 MARCH 2025

Could a partial month-long truce between Russia and Ukraine be the key to unlocking a lasting peace between the two sides?

President Emmanuel Macron of France believes so and he floated the idea during Sunday's summit of European leaders in London.

In an interview with Le Figaro newspaper, he proposed a four-week truce "in the air, at sea and on energy infrastructure". It would not cover ground fighting along the front line in the east.

"In the event of a ceasefire, it would be very difficult to verify [a truce] along the front was being respected," Macron told the newspaper.

In a separate interview, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said: "Such a truce on air, sea and energy infrastructure would allow us to determine whether Russian President Vladimir Putin is acting in good faith when he commits to a truce. And that's when real peace negotiations could start."

This so far appears more of an idea than a fully worked-out plan and hard details are scarce. But the essence of the hypothesis would seem to divide the process of ending the fighting.

An initial short-term truce - something less permanent than a formal ceasefire - would provide a moment to test Russia's willingness to negotiate a peace. It would also potentially give an early political win for President Trump.

It would not involve any ceding of territory. And it could create the political space to allow serious talks to begin about a lasting peace.

Under the French proposal, a European "assurance force" would deploy to Ukraine to deter future Russian aggression only after any lasting ceasefire had been agreed.

Britain's Ambassador in Washington, Lord Mandelson, appeared to give credence to the idea on Sunday in an interview with ABC News when he said: "Ukraine should be first to commit to a ceasefire and defy the Russians to follow."

But on Monday UK government officials and ministers were cool about the French truce idea and emphasised it was not yet an agreed proposal. Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard told the BBC's Today programme: "A number of options that are being discussed at the moment. None of them have been agreed at this stage".

The prime minister's spokesman said: "There are clearly a number of options on the table. I'm just not getting into a running commentary on the options."

Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani was more blunt, saying the idea was "premature", according to the Italian news agency Ansa.

"I believe that everything must be done together, Europe and United States, sitting at a table with Ukraine and Russia to reach a fair and especially a long-lasting peace," Tajani said. "Therefore, it is still premature to see what to do, how to do it."

There are clearly difficulties with the idea. How would one measure a violation by an anonymous drone attack on a Ukrainian power plant? Why would Ukraine want to give Russian forces a free month to regroup and rearm?

But for all that, Western diplomats said the idea of a partial truce was not entirely "blue-skies thinking" by President Macron - a man known for floating ideas at international summits.

They said it could be part of the European ceasefire plans that are being worked on before being put to the Americans.

Clearly some fresh thinking may be needed to try to unlock the current impasse with the US and Ukraine still at odds and the Europeans struggling to find ways of repairing the diplomatic breach.

Everything of course depends on what Ukraine and Russia think. On Sunday night Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was asked if he was aware of the French truce plan and said simply: "I'm aware of everything."

So far there is no evidence the Russians would be willing to agree to a partial truce. As Zelensky said: "Anyone who wants to negotiate does not deliberately hit people with ballistic missiles."

Source:bbc.com

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