Law Needed To Ban Muslims From Voting: Karnataka Seer Kumara Chandrashekaranatha Swami Amid Waqf Protests
New Age Islam News Bureau
27 November 2024
Vishwa Vokkaliga Mahasamastana Math seer Kumara Chandrashekaranatha Swamiji.(YouTube)
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· Law Needed To Ban Muslims From Voting: Karnataka Seer Kumara Chandrashekaranatha Swami Amid Waqf Protests
· Shia–Sunni Violence: Death Toll In Kurram Clashes Climbs To 99 As Violence EscalatesAfter The Government-Brokered Seven-Day Truce
· How Nigerian Military’s Tactics Forced 200,000 Terrorists To Drop Arms – CDS
· ASri Lankan Cabinet Without Muslims Is Not Meritocratic But Discriminatory
· Israeli NGO Warns Of “Quiet Annexation” Of West Bank Under Cover Of War
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India
· Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind President Urges CJI To Take Cognisance Of Mosque ‘Surveys’ Aimed At Fomenting Communal Tension
· Uttarakhand HC Directs Police To Ensure Law And Order Amid Calls To Demolish Uttarkashi Mosque
· Jammu And Kashmir: Valley Housing 'Comeback' Baby Step By Displaced Pandits
· J&K police conduct 56 raids in Jammu, arrest several suspects
· J&K officials warned against sharing key info on internet
· ‘Seal Of Authenticity’ To Certify Jammu And Kashmir Crafts For Global Market
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Pakistan
· Following Govt Crackdown, PTI Calls Off Islamabad Protest ‘For The Time Being’
· ‘No more talks’ as govt vows decisive action against PTI protesters
· PkMAP leader calls for unity among Pashtuns
· Constitution, democracy in danger, says SCBA president
· Three terrorists killed trying to cross into North Waziristan: ISPR
· SBP makes key revisions to Minimum Profit Rate requirements, Islamic banking guidelines
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Africa
· Institute for Security Studies expert’s anti-Muslim fearmongering is unacceptable
· Three Soldiers Killed In Boko Haram Attack, Troops Repel Assault In Borno
· Chad complains it is fighting terrorism “alone" in the Lake Chad Basin
· 5 more have been rescued after tourist yacht sank in Egypt's Red Sea
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South Asia
· Mullah KhairullahKhairkhwa Highlights Cultural Heritage Preservation in MesAynak Project
· Afghan embassy shut as tensions escalate in Pakistan
· Assisting communities grappling with impact of climate change
· Acting Ambassador of Afghanistan in Oman Meets with CEO of Oman Charitable Organization
· Iranian Ambassador Bids Farewell to Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi
· BB removes ICB Islamic Bank MD for fund embezzlement
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Mideast
· Sirens sound in central, northern Israel after ceasefire announcement: army
· Hezbollah says launched drones at ‘sensitive military targets’ in Tel Aviv
· What does the US-brokered truce ending Israel-Hezbollah fighting include?
· Lebanese Prime Minister demands ‘immediate’ implementation of ceasefire
· Israeli strikes hit north Lebanon crossings with Syria for first time, minister says
· Winter rain piles misery on Gaza’s displaced
· Cultural Seminar on Culture of Jihad, Martyrdom at Faculty of Education, Sana'a University
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Arab World
· EU Delegation Reviews Saudi Efforts To Combat Extremism
· Global Harmony event concludes with celebration of Egyptian culture in Riyadh
· Emir of Kuwait sends King Salman GCC Summit letter
· King Salman asks people of Saudi Arabia to pray on Thursday for rain
· Riyadh Expo 2030 provides progress update to international exhibitions regulator BIE
· Hospitality sector innovations, trends showcased at Riyadh exhibition
· Saudi economy minister meets former Italian prime minister
· Riyadh exhibition explores palm’s role in ancient cultures
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Europe
· Quwwat ul Islam Mosque In Preston Slammed For Meeting With Zionists
· Ex-Teacher Accused Of Sharing Islamic Propaganda Denies Terrorism
· Plans for new Muslim burial ground with over 8,000 plots on Peterborough farmland
· Man who threatened to burn down mosque spared jail
· Trump vows tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China on day one
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North America
· Judge Rules U.S. Muslim Group Must Disclose Donors
· 'No-One Will Win' - Canada, Mexico And China Respond To Trump Tariff Threats
· Judge Rejects Effort To Stop Transgender College Volleyball Player Competing
· Are 300,000 migrant children missing in the US?
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Southeast Asia
· Male Muslims In Johor Must Halt Business During Friday Prayers, Says Exco
· Only 70 permitted to witness first public caning at Terengganu mosque
· Najib and IrwanSerigar granted DNAA in RM6.6b IPIC CBT case after trial stalled since 2018
· Defence Ministry expels five UPNM cadet officers for bullying, dismisses them from army, and orders compensation
· Rule of law must prevail over tourism interests in signboard language debate, says Sarawak’s tourism minister
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/law-ban-muslims-karnataka-waqf-protests/d/133839
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Law needed to ban Muslims from voting: Karnataka seer Kumara Chandrashekaranatha Swami amid waqf protests
Nov 27, 2024,
Vishwa Vokkaliga Mahasamastana Math seer Kumara Chandrashekaranatha Swamiji.(YouTube)
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BENGALURU: Amid ongoing protests over waqf properties in the state, Vishwa VokkaligaMahasamastana Mutt seer Kumara Chandrashekaranatha Swami has demanded a law that restricts voting power of Muslims in areas where they lack political influence. He cited Pakistan as an example, claiming that limiting voting rights in the neighbouring country ensured "peace".
Speaking at a Bharatiya Kisan Sangh protest, Swami condemned govt notices which said several hundred acres of land of farmers — besides other property — belonged to the waqf.
"Someone taking away someone else's land is not ‘dharma'," he said, urging a united front to safeguard farmers and their land. "Everyone should fight against this injustice being caused to farmers... It is a big injustice... Farmers' land must remain with farmers."
He criticised the Waqf Board, which some believe is responsible for marking land as waqf properties, suggesting that such practices undermine farmers' rights. "We should abolish the Waqf Board," the seer said.
He said a law should be passed withdrawing the right of Muslims to vote.
"If we ensure they (Muslims) don't have a right to vote, then they will keep to themselves, and everyone can remain peacefully. Pakistan has done a similar thing," the seer claimed.
The waqf controversy erupted when farmers in Vijayapura district claimed their fields were erroneously designated as waqf property.
The opposition BJP then took up the issue leading to protests spreading across the state. CM Siddaramaiah intervened and ordered revocation of such notices and the nullification of amendments to land records. Many ministers have pointed out that even the BJP govt issued such notices but protests have refused to die down.
Source:indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/controversial-seer-calls-for-law-to-restrict-muslim-voting-rights-in-karnataka/articleshow/115706042.cms
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Shia–Sunni Violence: Death Toll In Kurram Clashes Climbs To 99 As Violence EscalatesAfter The Government-Brokered Seven-Day Truce
By Ali Afzal Afzaal
November 26, 2024
Supporters of Majlis-e-Wahdat-e-Muslimeen hold placards as they chant slogans to condemn the killings of people, after gunmen opened fire on passenger vehicles in the Kurram tribal district, during a protest in Karachi, November 22, 2024. — Reuters
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Violence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Kurram district continued to escalate after the government-brokered seven-day truce was broken, with overnight firing claiming 10 more lives, taking the death toll to 99.
The police, in a statement, said that the recent violence between rival tribes left 10 dead and 21 others wounded, taking the toll to 99 deaths.
An uptick in violence began last Thursday when two separate convoys travelling under police escort were ambushed, sparking two days of gun battles.
At least 82 people were killed and 156 more wounded before the provincial government delegation — led by Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif — brokered the ceasefire on Sunday night.
But late Monday Kurram deputy commissioner Javedullah Mehsud told AFP "reports of tribal clashes and gunfire continue to emerge from several areas".
A security official stationed in Kurram who asked not to be named confirmed "clashes are ongoing" in at least three areas.
"There are significant disagreements over the exchange of prisoners and bodies," he said. "According to my information, both communities are currently holding over 18 individuals hostage, including eight women."
The educational institutions in the violence-hit districts have been closed for five days, while all roads — including Peshawar-Parachinar Central Highway — remain closed for sixth straight day.
Furthermore, the trade with Afghanistan at Kharlachi comes to halt due to closure of main highway. Internet and mobile services are also suspended in the district.
It is pertinent to mention here that tribal and family feuds are common in the area.
Last month, at least 16 people, including three women and two children, were killed in a clash in Kurram.
Previous clashes in July and September killed dozens of people and ended only after a jirga, or tribal council, called a ceasefire. HRCP said 79 people died between July and October in clashes.
Several hundred people demonstrated against the violence on Friday in Lahore and Karachi.
In Parachinar, the main town of Kurram district, thousands participated in a sit-in, while hundreds attended the funerals of the victims of Thursday’s attack.
The latest violence drew condemnation from officials and human rights groups.
The independent Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) urged authorities this month to pay "urgent attention" to the "alarming frequency of clashes" in the region, warning that the situation has escalated to "the proportions of a humanitarian crisis."
Source:thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1255293-death-toll-in-kurram-clashes-climbs-to-99-as-violence-escalates
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How Nigerian Military’s Tactics Forced 200,000 Terrorists To Drop Arms – CDS
26 November 2024
By IkennaNgere
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has revealed that approximately 200,000 former terrorists in the North East have surrendered and abandoned their arms, attributing this success to a combined strategy of kinetic and non-kinetic operations.
Speaking at the Security and Justice Symposium in Abuja, organized by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in collaboration with the British High Commission, Musa highlighted the importance of justice, equity, and accountability in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
He emphasized that non-kinetic strategies, which address social issues like hunger and poverty, are pivotal in reducing insurgency.
He also stressed the importance of disrupting the logistics and funding networks of terrorists, which he described as their “oxygen.” According to Musa, denying these resources has significantly weakened insurgent operations and led to mass surrenders.
The CDS said, “All the challenges we are facing today have to do with fairness, equity, justice, and accountability.
“There will not be peace without justice, equity, fairness, and accountability. In our operations, we are conducting both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, which have to a large extent yielded significant successes, and we want to particularly thank the National Security Adviser for his great support in this regard.
“Nigeria is going through so many challenges, and we feel we’re able to address this, and everybody has a sense of belonging. A lot of the security challenges we are having, we are sure, will go down. I want to thank the National Security Advisor for all the support he’s given us, both the kinetic and the non-kinetic.
“We have said it; the kinetic aspect is just less than 30%. The non-kinetic has a lot to play. The non-kinetic, because when you have democracy, people must have the evidence of democracy. As long as it tells people to sleep well and be peaceful, and they are hungry, their children cannot eat, and all this creates more problems.
“The issue of informants. We have to look at how we tackle this issue of informants. Because these are the people who have created the issue.
“Those supporting the terrorists by giving them logistics, we have to look for the oxygen. Where is the funding coming from? How are they getting the logistics across?
“For us in the Armed Forces during our operations, one of the challenges is IEDs. IEDs have been the major challenge since the beginning of the insurgency. So we are looking at aspects of how we handle this, what solutions, and what new things we can do.
“Because you have to be creative. To fight this insurgency, you have to be creative and innovative every day. Because they are not relenting.
“As the theatre commander in the Northeast, we found out that if we are able to deny them this logistics, this oxygen, they will not survive. We did that, and that’s why you have almost 200,000 that have surrendered.
“But through enhanced communications and non-kinetic activities, many of the terrorists are realising the fruitlessness of what they are doing and retracing their steps.
“I’ve observed that with the asymmetrical challenges we are facing if you don’t communicate, you might be doing the right thing, but the perception might be different. And the enemy is working on that. So it’s important that we get that part right.
“And then you cannot work in isolation as a country. We need our international partners working together with us. Our neighbours are very, very relevant to us. Nigeria, as we are all aware, is surrounded by Francophone countries. And so the challenges are there.”
The National Security Adviser, MallamNuhuRibadu, added that the symposium provides a platform for strengthening ties between military and law enforcement operations while promoting justice and accountability.
He reiterated the need for a unified approach to protecting civilians, promoting accountability, and countering improvised explosive devices (IEDs), threats.
Ribadu, said, “The objective of the Security and Justice Symposium, a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration among our security and justice institutions, is clearly to delve into the successes, challenges, and opportunities for growth within the realms of security and justice.
“As we embark on this journey of critical analysis and discussion, let us keep in mind the noble goals set before us, from analysing and strengthening the intricate relationship between military operations and law enforcement, to enhancing the protection of civilians, very important, and fostering a culture of justice and accountability, to promoting a unified approach in countering improvised explosive devices.
“Each objective is poised to make a significant impact. Our intended achievements are ambitious, of course, yet entirely within our reach.
“As we review and map existing frameworks, evaluate institutional practices, and establish collaborative mechanisms, our collective efforts will chart a course towards a safer and more just society for all.
“I am honoured to see such an esteemed gathering of key stakeholders from various sectors, including representatives from the military, law enforcement agencies, legal authorities, human rights organisations, and civil society groups. Your presence here today underscores the importance of our shared commitment to security, justice, and the well-being of our communities.”
British High Commissioner Richard Montgomery commended Nigeria’s efforts in balancing civil and military collaboration, noting the importance of upholding human rights and the rule of law in conflict zones.
He acknowledged the complexity of these challenges but reiterated the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s security architecture through dialogue and partnership.
Montgomery said, “At the heart of all this is a recognition of the importance of upholding the rule of law, human rights, humanitarian law, and international humanitarian law. The importance of these principles for the way in which we tackle security challenges, and our lawyers keep telling us, and we have lawyers in the British High Commission as well as the Nigerian government.
“We need to consider the different legal principles and frameworks that apply to criminal violence or to violent conflicts and how we deal with them in protracted conflict zones, and I think that there’s already been a productive dialogue in our security defence partnership.
“The UK knows only too well from our own experience, our own involvement in armed conflict, that incorporating human rights doctrine is quite challenging. The strategies needed are not without complexity, but we do. The UK strongly believes that our commitment to these legal principles and doctrines is because of the experience we’ve had.”
Source:naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2024/11/26/how-militarys-tactics-forced-200000-terrorists-to-drop-arms-cds/
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ASri Lankan Cabinet Without Muslims Is Not Meritocratic But Discriminatory
27 November 2024
Muslims, among other communities, have overwhelmingly voted for this government. It is an injustice for them not to be represented in the Cabinet
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For the first time in recent memory, Sri Lanka now has a Cabinet devoid of Muslim representation. That is a grave error which should be rectified.
At first, it appeared as an oversight, considering that the appointments to the Cabinet must have come through deliberations between the JVP and its partners in the NPP, which claims to represent a multitude of professional and civil society groups, and each lobbying on behalf of their members.
But not any longer. The government is now defending the indefensible, claiming that the composition of the new Cabinet is guided by meritocracy.
That is nonsense! Meritocracy is untenable in the exclusion of one core ethnic group that accounts for one-tenth of the Sri Lankan populace in its Cabinet of Ministers, who are, under the Constitution, charged with the direction and control of the Government of the Republic and collectively responsible and answerable to the Parliament.
Meritocracy as an Excuse
Instead, it is blatantly discriminatory. Those who cite meritocracy as an excuse should look into how countries such as Singapore, which in many ways, are meritocratic go the extra mile to accommodate its Malays and Tamils in the Cabinet. That is notwithstanding the fact that its elections have long been highly choreographed.
The government’s continued defence of the indefensible and refusal to make amends with an erroneous and unfortunate decision smack of a strain of arrogance, which reminds me of Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s trademark ego-fuelled stupidity and shallowness.This is a dangerous combination of twin follies that could destroy many good things that are capable of delivering to the people of this country.
Cabinet Spokesman and Media Minister NalindaJayathissa told the media, “We did not form the Cabinet based on race, religion or caste. We selected individuals who are highly capable of handling Ministerial portfolios.”
They are not Rhodes Scholars
That gives the impression that there was not a single competent representative of the Muslim community to be placed among that highly capable assemble of people. That itself is an insult, probably unintentional, to the Muslim community. While I do not wish to comment on the credentials of the Cabinet of Ministers, this is surely not made of Rhodes Scholars, Ivy League PhDs and top-tier tech executives, the generally the types we call gifted minds and technocrats.
This is a Cabinet comprising of what one would call indigenous intelligentsia, a mixture of 1956 and Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s ViyathMaga. It is hard to believe that there was not a single competent Muslim representative to be part of this illustrious group. Instead, their unfortunate omission reveals a great degree of intellectual and ethical void in the process that guided the selection.
NPP and JVP leaders tell the Muslim community not to view the Cabinet through the ethnic or racial lens. Foreign Minister VijithaHerath, when visited a constituency of Muslims, was asked to appoint a Muslim into the Cabinet. And he replied with a self-righteous,non-racial sermon.
That again is hallow. You can not rise above the race when you relegate one community to insignificance.
It is hard to understand why it is so difficult for the government to acknowledge the error of its judgment and make amends with it.This is the type of arrogance manifested in the Gotabaya Rajapaksa regime, which, when unchecked, led to its demise. The government has defended its decision, citing that it had appointed a Muslim businessman as the Governor of the Western Province and that members of the Muslim community hold positions such as Deputy Speaker and Deputy Minister. Those are all fine and salutary deeds, though this is not the first government to have Muslims in high positions. Muslims have held high political positions in this country, from BakeerMarkar M.H. Mohammed, Maulana, Fawzie, and Ashroff to Hakeem. This is probably the first government that had to remind the public that it has also appointed Muslims to high positions and used it as an excuse not to have a Muslim representative in the Cabinet.
The Cabinet Spokesman is quoted saying: “We are focused on serving the Sri Lankan nation as a whole, not specific races, religions or castes.”
That is exactly why a Cabinet of Ministers should be representative of all its communities.The omission of one core community simply fails that mission even before it starts.
The representation of one’s own ethnic and religious group within the country’s highest body gives the members of that particular community a special sense of belonging; that is truer for the ethnic minorities, who, as much as they share much with the rest, also face unique challenges, which could better be addressed through the representation of their own members. That, by extension, is the very idea of universal suffrage, where every man and woman is entrusted with a vote to elect their own representatives.
Probably, a meritocratic cabal like Pinochet’s Chicago boys could well more efficiently achieve long-term prosperity for all people, but that is not participatory democracy and is shunned upon.
Represent and Exclude at the same time
When a government excludes one community from its Cabinet, it fails in its duty to represent the country as a whole of all its communities. You can not both represent and exclude at the same time.
The sense of exclusion itself is mutually reinforcing, and it would not be long before the Muslim community would notice that their representatives are absent from the foremost governing body of the government. That sets off a sense of disenchantment not only with the government but also with the Sri Lankan state.
Muslims, among other communities, have overwhelmingly voted for this government. It is an injustice for them not to be represented in the Cabinet.
This is when the government should strive to glue all Sri Lankans together to a unified Sri Lankan identity. But that mission would be a failure if it refuses to have a fair representation of Muslims in its Cabinet of ministers.
Source:dailymirror.lk
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https://www.dailymirror.lk/opinion/A-Cabinet-without-Muslims-is-not-meritocratic-but-discriminatory/172-296860
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Israeli NGO warns of “quiet annexation” of West Bank under cover of war
JONATHAN GORNALL
November 26, 2024
A Palestinian activist lifts a national flag and flashes the victory sign as Israeli armoured vehicles including a bulldozer drive on a street during a raid in Tulkarem on September 3, 2024. (AFP)
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LONDON: On Oct. 12 last year, a group of armed settlers and Israeli soldiers drove into the West Bank village of Wadi Al-Seeq, 10 kilometers east of the Palestinian city of Ramallah.
There, they seized and handcuffed three Palestinian men, subjecting them to hours of abuse and violence, later compared by one of the victims to the treatment meted out by rogue US soldiers to prisoners at Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq in 2003.
The abuses in Wadi Al-Seeq were led by members of the IDF’s SfarHamidbar (Desert Frontier) unit, notorious for recruiting into its ranks violent “hilltop youth” from the illegal farming settlements that are proliferating in the West Bank with the blessing of Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government, which includes, and is dependent on the support of, far-right parties.
“For hours,” as an Israeli newspaper reported on Oct. 21, 2023, the Palestinians “were severely beaten, stripped to their underwear, and photographed handcuffed.
“Their captors urinated on two of them and extinguished burning cigarettes on them. There was even an attempt to penetrate one of them with an object.”
Israeli human rights activists who arrived at the scene were also arrested, cuffed, beaten, threatened with death and, like the Palestinians, robbed.
At the time, many in Israel were shocked to read the reports of the joint operation between the IDF and settlers, exposed by the left-wing Israeli newspaper Haaretz.
But as a new report from an Israeli human rights group makes clear, such events have become commonplace as, under cover of the wars in Gaza and Lebanon, the Israeli government and its agencies have been pursuing the ultimate goal of “realizing the vision of full Israeli sovereignty in the occupied territory.”
In the report, “One year of war: the collapse of human and civil rights in Israel and the West Bank,” the Association for Civil Rights in Israel (ACRI) accuses the government of “excessive, unrestrained, and illegal use of force.”
Furthermore, it says, Netanyahu’s government is “demolishing the judicial system and the civil service with the aim of accumulating unlimited power; increasing the use of force in the West Bank and granting tacit permission for unrestrained settler violence; using force to limit freedom of expression and protest; and systematically violating the rights of detainees and prisoners.”
The list of charges levelled against the government is long, including institutionalized discrimination against Arab society, “unprecedented” infringement of the rights of suspects and prisoners, the “mass armament and creation of untrained forces” of settlers, the “destruction of democratic foundations,” attacks on freedom of expression and “normalization of citizen surveillance and disregard for privacy.”
Legislative steps are being taken with the aim of excluding certain parties from running for the Knesset, Israel’s parliament. Last month a controversial bill was passed to change the rules for banning individuals or parties from membership of the Knesset if they have “supported terror,” a definition which now includes visiting the family of someone accused of an act of terrorism.
Likud, Netanyahu’s party, has even accused Arab members of the Knesset of supporting terror simply on the ground of their support for Palestinian statehood.
“Depriving a population of the right to protest politically and the right to political representation” is “a very slippery slope,” said NoaSattath, the CEO of ACRI.
“When there’s no political representation of a minority, then there's a radicalization of that minority.”
What the ACRI report exposes on a grand scale, says Sattath, is “the excessive use of power. Of course, we see it in Gaza, and in Lebanon now, but we also see it in the West Bank.
“We also see it being used against Israeli protesters. We’re also seeing it in the treatment of prisoners. In all walks of life, basically, the Israeli government has moved to using excessive power against the different players, rather than making more complicated decisions.”
The headline scandal of the past year is what ACRI describes as “the quiet coup” in the West Bank.
“With public attention focused elsewhere,” says the report, “the government is implementing profound changes to all aspects of control in the West Bank, most of which are flying under the radar.
“In the last two years, the government has made giant strides in advancing policies aimed at accelerating the annexation process of the West Bank, while establishing Jewish supremacy and marginalizing the Palestinian population, all in pursuit of realizing the vision of full Israeli sovereignty in the occupied territory.”
The annexation of the West Bank has long been on the agenda, said Sattath, “but the war has given cover and enabled this to happen.
“Basically, they’re creating a new reality on the ground, behind the scenes, without a lot of public scrutiny, without a lot of international discourse on this new reality that they’re manufacturing.”
The Israeli government has, in certain instances, issued statements that aim to distance itself from the violent actions of settlers in the West Bank. Netanyahu has occasionally called for calm and condemned settler attacks on Palestinians, especially after high-profile incidents.
However, ACRI fears that under the incoming US administration of Donald Trump, whose election has been welcomed so enthusiastically by far-right members of Netanyahu’s cabinet, things are only going to get worse.
“I think that the next years are going to be very difficult,” said Sattath.
“The US government is one of the only checks and balances on the behavior of the Israeli government behavior and, even if we would have liked them to be more forceful in the way that they do it, we're very worried that the disappearance of that will have grave implications for the lives of Palestinians, both in Gaza, where the US is currently so involved in the humanitarian aid efforts there, and in the West Bank.”
Disturbingly, she says, Israel is manoeuvring behind the scenes to end the status of the West Bank as an occupied territory under military occupation, which is how it has been defined by international law since the occupation of the West Bank by Israel in 1967.
“It seems a little strange that an organization like ACRI would be advocating for military occupation,” she said.
“But under international conventions military occupation gives the protected citizens of that area many different rights and gives the occupiers obligations.
“Residents in occupied territories cannot be moved. You cannot build on their territory and the occupying force has all sorts of obligations toward them, in terms of humanitarian aid.
“Now, what the settler movement, through its ministers in the government, is trying to do is erase the military occupation, replacing it with government agencies and officials to facilitate the settlement enterprise.”
The process began in February 2023 when, despite disquiet among some members of Netanyahu’s government, authority over many civilian issues in the West Bank was stripped from Defense Ministry agency COGAT (Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories) and transferred to Bezalel Smotrich, the religious Zionism leader and finance minister.
According to a Times of Israel report, the agreement “appears to give the ultranationalist leader sweeping powers over the territory, and allows him to advance his goal of thwarting Palestinian aspirations for a state in the West Bank by enabling the Israeli population there to substantially expand.”
Anti-settlement organizations denounced the agreement, with one, Breaking the Silence, saying it amounted to “legal, de jure annexation,” of the West Bank.
The importance of ACRI’s report, says Sattath, lies in the sheer breadth of abuses by the Israeli government it exposes.
ACRI, founded in 1972 and the oldest civil and human rights organization in Israel, has been publishing reports on the state of human rights in Israel and the West Bank for decades. But, she says, “we have never published a report showing such a severe and comprehensive deterioration as we have seen over the past year.”
ACRI says it hopes its report “will deepen the public’s understanding of the damage being done to human rights and democratic institutions, and that it will stir the public to action and resistance.”
It added: “Monitoring human rights violation processes is also critical for there to be any hope of correction under a different government and reality.”
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2580881/middle-east
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India
Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind President Urges CJI To Take Cognisance Of Mosque ‘Surveys’ Aimed At Fomenting Communal Tension
Nov 27, 2024,
Lucknow: Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind president, Maulana Arshad Madani, on Tuesday urged the Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna to take cognisance of the deaths of five people during demonstration to oppose the survey of Jama Masjid in Sambhal district on Sunday.
Urging the CJI to take steps to check the conspiracy aimed at fomenting communal tension under the pretext of mosque surveys, Madani said, "Activities undertaken under the guise of surveys have culminated in mistrust and unrest in numerous regions, including Sambhal, disrupting public tranquility and communal harmony. These occurrences are perceived as a direct threat to the secular fabric of the nation."
In a communiqué issued by Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind, the scholar articulated that the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, was instituted with the noble objective of ensuring communal amity and averting conflicts over places of worship.
"However, recent developments, particularly the Supreme Court's observation that surveys are not prohibited under the Act, have inadvertently furnished a pretext for certain groups to foment discord," Madani said.
"The misappropriation of such surveys harbours the potential to destabilise the social harmony that we have meticulously cultivated since independence," Madani asserted.
He urged the apex court to take suomotu cognisance of the matter and act decisively to prevent further escalation of communal tensions, thereby preserving the spirit of the 1991 Act and the rule of law.
"The Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind maintains that proactive judicial intervention at this juncture is imperative to prevent widespread violence and safeguard the unity and integrity of the nation. We anticipate that the judiciary will reaffirm its commitment to justice and social harmony through timely intervention," added Madani.
Source:indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/jamiat-ulema-e-hind-calls-on-cji-to-address-communal-tension-from-mosque-surveys/articleshow/115708344.cms
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Uttarakhand HC directs police to ensure law and order amid calls to demolish Uttarkashi mosque
Scroll Staff
November 26, 2024
The Uttarakhand High Court has told the police and civil administration to ensure law and order in and around Uttarkashi’s Jama Masjid amid demands from Hindutva groups that the 55-year-old mosque be demolished.
A bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Manoj Kumar Tiwari and Justice Rakesh Thapliyal on November 22 directed the district magistrate and senior superintendent of police to ensure that no untoward incidents occur in the area. The case is slated to be heard again on Wednesday.
Hindutva groups have been demanding that the mosque be demolished, claiming that it was built illegally. However, the district administration had said that the mosque was built legally in 1969, and was registered with all the necessary documents, according to The Times of India.
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad has called for a mahapanchayat, or a mega conclave, against the mosque on December 1.
In this backdrop, an organisation named the Alpasankhyak Seva Samiti approached the High Court seeking directions to protect the mosque.
The petition said that the Jama Masjid was built in 1969 on privately purchased land, and that it was registered as a Waqf property in 1987. A waqf is a property given for a religious, educational or charitable cause by Muslims.
“However, in September 2024, the Hindu outfit leaders – Jitendra Singh Chauhan, Swami Darshan Bharti, Sonu Singh Negi, Lakhpat Singh Bhandari, and AnujWalia – who identify themselves as members of the Sanyukt Sanatan Dharam Raksha Sangh and Vishwa Hindu Parishad, began threatening to demolish the mosque,” the petition said, according to The New Indian Express.
The petitioners alleged that the Hindutva leaders spread false information about the mosque’s legality and also engaged in hate speech against Muslims.
On October 24, the Uttarkashi town witnessed violent clashes during a rally led by Hindutva groups to demand the demolition of the mosque.
Muslim-owned shops were vandalised and four police officers were injured in the scuffle, the newspaper reported. The police resorted to a lathi-charge to disperse the protestors.
The escalation came after months of organised protests against the mosque, with Hindutva activists staging sit-ins and submitting repeated requests to district officials demanding its demolition.
Source:scroll.in
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Jammu and Kashmir: Valley housing 'comeback' baby step by displaced Pandits
Muzaffar Raina
27.11.24
Displaced Kashmiri Pandits have registered a maiden group housing society to facilitate the return of the members of the community to the Valley.
Called Displaced Kashmiri Residents' Housing Society Limited, Srinagar, the initiative has been launched by the Jammu and Kashmir Peace Forum, a group representing sections of displaced Pandits.
“This marks a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to provide a sense of belonging, identity and a path towards returning to their ancestral roots for the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community,” the group said in a statement.
Forum president Satish Mahaldar said the society was registered on Friday. “The response has been good. Forty families have registered. This is in addition to the 419 families who had volunteered to return in 2014. The list was presented to the government but there has been no progress since,” Mahaldar said.
“All that has happened with us is that we have been misused politically and no real effort has been taken to take us back,” he said, adding that they plan to set up the first colony in Srinagar. Although a private initiative, the support of the Union Territory and the Centre will be key to its success.
The group has asked the government to provide them land at nominal prices and subsidise their constructions. Successive Congress and BJP-led governments at the Centre have taken multiple initiatives to bring back displaced Pandits. One of the major schemes introduced over a decade back offered 6,000 government jobs to Pandits. Most of the jobs have been filled. They have been provided accommodation at secured transit camps, built exclusively for them at multiple places.
Mahaldar, however, said this was a temporary return as most of them had not rebuilt their houses. “They will live in transit camps as long as they are in (government) service. After that they will have to pack their bags and leave,” he said.
The return of Pandits faced a setback after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 as militants stepped up targeted attacks on non-locals and Pandits. Hundreds of Pandit government employees fled Kashmir but have since returned after the government refused to shift their job positions to Jammu.
The forum has launched a website, www.displacedkashmiris.in, to initiate the membership drive. “Kashmir, being the cradle of Indian civilisation, holds an irreplaceable place in the heart of the nation. The Kashmiri Pandit community’s return to Kashmir is integral to preserving the rich cultural fabric and ensuring the region's ties with the broader Indian ethos,” the statement reads.
The group said it had a “right to reclaim homes, lands, temples, shrines and cultural landmarks that were lost during the years of displacement".
“We also emphasise that this is not a claim for rehabilitation but rather an expression of our collective will to rebuild our lives in Kashmir,” it said.
Source:telegraphindia.com
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J&K police conduct 56 raids in Jammu, arrest several suspects
27 Nov 2024,
The J&K Police raided 56 locaions across four districts of the Jammu region, targeting terrorist networks linked to organisations like the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT), officials said on Tuesday.
The police arrested several terror suspects and Over Ground Workers (OGWs) as well as recovered weapons, cash, electronic devices and documents.
Following intelligence inputs, the police raided residential houses and potential hideouts in nine locations in the Rajouri district and 12 locations in the Poonch district. In Udhampur, 25 locations were raided that were part of an investigation linked to a case registered at the Basabtgarh Police Station. 10 other raids were carried out in the Reasi district.
The raids were aimed at tracking down terror suspects who were assisting terrorist organisations with recruitment, logistics and transfer of weapons, ammunition and money.
According to sources, the raids were part of an investigation into two separate cases registered at the Thanamandi Police Station in 2013 and at the Rajouri Police Station this year. The investigations were based on inputs about terrorist networks active in the border districts to "execute terror-related activities".
According to a statement issued, the raids resulted in the crackdown of several operating terror organisations, the arrest of OGWs and the recovery of several incriminating materials. The searches were carried out to avoid any collateral damage and any inconvenience to innocent citizens.
Jammu ADGP Anand Jain said that similar investigations will continue based on the information beforehand as well as anything that was ascertained from the raids. Further operations are planned to target any other elements attempting to disrupt peace in the region to help security forces strengthen efforts against terrorism, he added.
The ADGP also requested citizens to report any suspicious activities or individuals as police will continue on intelligence-based operations to dismantle any terror in the region.
Source:newindianexpress.com
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J&K officials warned against sharing key info on internet
Fayaz Wani
27 Nov 2024
SRINAGAR: Amid the threat of cyber attacks and hackers, the Jammu and Kashmir government has warned its officers against using WhatsApp, Gmail and other similar third-party platforms on the internet for sharing sensitive, secret and top-secret documents, saying the practice of sharing information using third-party tools by employees has been posing significant risks to integrity and security of the information being communicated.
In an order issued by Commissioner Secretary to Government, Sanjeev Verma, it was stated that it has come to the notice of the administration that there is an increasing trend among officers to use third-party tools such as WhatsApp, Gmail, and other similar platforms for transmitting sensitive, secret, and confidential information.
This practice, the order said, poses significant risks to the integrity and security of the information being communicated. “Using third-party communication tools can lead to potential issues, including unauthorised access, data breaches, and leaks of confidential information.
These platforms are not specifically designed to handle classified or sensitive information, and their security protocols may not meet the stringent standards required for official communications. Consequently, the use of such tools could result in severe security breaches that jeopardize the integrity of governmental operations,” it stated.
The officials were to adhere to established protocols for handling official communications, especially those secret, or confidential. They were told that confidential and restricted information could be shared on the internet through networks that have deployed commercial AES 256-bit encryption.
Also, the officials have been asked to use the government email (NIC email) facility or government instant messaging platforms (such as CDAC’s Samvad) for the communication of confidential and restricted information. Those working from home were directed to use security-hardened electronic devices connected to office servers via a VPN and Firewall setup.
Source:newindianexpress.com
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‘Seal of Authenticity’ to certify Jammu and Kashmir crafts for global market
November 27, 2024
Peerzada AshiqPEERZADA ASHIQ
The focus on Kashmir’s famed handicrafts sharpened on Tuesday (November 26, 2024) as members of the World Crafts Council (WCC), an international advocacy body, announced the ‘Seal of Authenticity of the Craft’ will certify handmade crafts produced with centuries-old processes in J&K.
“The initiative aims to address the pressing need for a globally recognised certification of crafts from J&K. It’s a significant step towards encouraging quality and ownership. This will start with the textile industry,” Saad Al Qaddumi, president of the WCC, said in Srinagar.
Mr. Qaddumi made the announcement at the WCC’s 60th anniversary celebrations in Srinagar, an event attended by global artisans from 15 countries. The WCC event came in the backdrop of Srinagar’s recognition as a ‘World Craft City’ by the international body, which is at the forefront of empowering artisans and safeguarding heritage globally.
“The recognition opens a new door for Srinagar. We are now at the historic moment by signing an agreement with J&K, which reflects our collective vision of positioning Srinagar as a global hub for crafts through multiple initiatives,” Mr. Qaddumi said.
The WCC is considering the establishment of a ‘World Craft Hub’ and International Crafts Museum in Srinagar with the help of the government.
Speaking on the occasion, J&K Lieutenant-Governor Manoj Sinha felicitated the delegates and artisans. “My dream is to make the ‘Made in Jammu and Kashmir’ creative products a famous and integral part of households across the world. Our aim is to also focus on global cooperation and improve people’s connection for the priceless artistic and cultural heritage of India,” Mr. Sinha said.
He said the government was working on integrating crafts into tourism, positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a prime cultural destination to attract international visitors, and providing a fillip to the tourism industry in order to strengthen the local economy.
With Srinagar’s recognition as the 63rd World Craft City, the region, officials said, is set to become “a hub of cultural and artisanal excellence”. The WCC’s 60th anniversary celebrations, which are on till November 27, aims to preserve traditional skills and create sustainable revenue streams for artisans, the officials added.
The event also saw the participation of artisans from Iran and Central Asia, which would “foster cross-cultural learning, celebrate shared heritage, and open up avenues for reviving lost techniques”, officials said.
Source:thehindu.com
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Pakistan
Following govt crackdown, PTI calls off Islamabad protest ‘for the time being’
Umar Bacha
November 27, 2024
The PTI, in the early hours of Wednesday, announced that it was calling off its high-stakes Islamabad protest sit-in “for the time being”, following a day of clashes between security forces and protesters in the city’s Red Zone ended in the party leadership’s hasty retreat.
As PTI supporters inched towards the heavily barricaded D-Chowk late on Tuesday, the police and security forces employed intense teargas shelling to disperse the protesters.
The late-night retreat by the PTI leadership, including Imran Khan’s wife Bushra Bibi and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, came after the latter was heard telling the protesters “to go home, have dinner and return tomorrow”.
In the early hours of Wednesday, a press release shared by the party on its official X account read: “In view of the government’s brutality and the government’s plan to turn the capital into a slaughterhouse for unarmed citizens, [we] announce the suspension of the peaceful protest for the time being.”
It added that future plan of action would be announced “in light of the directions” of its incarcerated founder Imran Khan after the party’s political and core committees presented their “analyses of the state brutality” to him.
The statement, issued by the party spokesperson, condemned the alleged “killing” and “terror and brutality against peaceful protesters in the name of an operation”.
The party appealed to Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi to take suomotu notice of the alleged “brutal murder of martyred [party] workers” and order legal action against the prime minister and interior minister as well as Islamabad and Punjab police chiefs for “attempt to murder”.
Separately, Bushra Bibi, CM Gandapur and National Assembly Opposition Leader Omar Ayub Khan will address an “emergency” press conference at 11am today.
In a statement, Taimur Saleem Swati, senior vice president of PTI’s Hazara chapter, said the press conference will be held at the residence of KP Speaker Babar Saleem Swati in Peshawar.
As PTI supporters faced off with security personnel across the federal capital on Tuesday, with both sides using tear gas and rubber bullets, at least two were killed and over 60 were injured during clashes.
The Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) confirmed the death of two civilians and injuries to around 60 persons, including security personnel. At least three injured policemen and 10 civilians were also shifted to Polyclinic for treatment.
At least six lives were lost in the three days of protests, which included a policeman and three Rangers officials who perished in a vehicular accident, officials and hospital sources said.
PTI claims at least 8 dead in shooting at protesters
In the statement, the PTI claimed that “dozens” of its workers were shot at directly and killed, of which it said it had the details of eight and listed their purported names.
The PTI said it was “not a military or armed party and neither does it consider itself to be willing to have its citizens slaughtered by state murderers”.
Highlighting that its supporters cleared “all difficulties, obstacles, violence, savage barbarism” to reach D-Chowk but “would not allow the bodies of its citizens to pile up”.
According to the press release, the PTI had a “long history peaceful political struggle and kept blocking the way of the government plan to pile up bodies since November 24”.
The party also stated the dates of previous protests since its 2022 ouster where it said it “failed each of the government’s attempts to drench every peaceful protest in blood” — three from 2022 and four from 2023.
While calling off the protest, the PTI also reaffirmed its intention to “keep struggling” for “haqeeqiazadi” (actual freedom).
The PTI paid tribute to citizens and its workers for coming to Islamabad from all across the country for the protest, as well as overseas Pakistanis who heeded its call for global protests. It further said it was immensely grateful to the residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi for the hospitality they offered to the party convoys.
Road to protest
The PTI’s protest, which the government was determined to foil with force, was originally scheduled to be staged on November 24.
However, the party’s convoys took a breather on Sunday night as PTI leaders said they were in “no hurry” to reach the federal capital for their ‘do or die’ protest.
The PTI protesters, some of them employing industrial fans to counter tear gas, crossed Islamabad’s Toll Plaza on Monday night as the government vowed to not spare those behind a cop’s death in “violence of miscreants”.
As PTI workers from across the country attempted to defy arrests, baton charges and tear gas to participate in the agitation, around 800 PTI leaders and supporters were arrested from across Punjab as well as in and near Islamabad on Sunday.
In an update, capital police officials told Dawn that during the ongoing protests, over 500 local PTI leaders and workers have been arrested in Islamabad.
On Tuesday, the Pakistan Army was called into Islamabad to “deal with miscreants”, state-run Radio Pakistan reported. Shortly after, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said three Rangers personnel and a Punjab policeman lost their lives on Monday, in what he said was an “attack by miscreants”.
A stalemate in reported talks between the PTI and the government had continued, with PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan saying the government had “not made any contact” with the party and Naqvi similarly ruling out any negotiations with the party.
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) had ruled that PTI’s planned protest was unlawful and had directed the government to take all necessary measures to maintain law and order in Islamabad without disrupting public life, particularly as the Belarusian president’s arrival coincided with the protest.
Source:dawn.com
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‘No more talks’ as govt vows decisive action against PTI protesters
Syed Irfan Raza | Iftikhar A. Khan
November 27, 2024
ISLAMABAD: As the federal capital turned into a battleground on Tuesday, the federal government summoned the army for the security of sensitive installations and virtually closed the door on further negotiations with the PTI.
Official sources told Dawn that the force, deployed under Article 245 of the Constitution, has orders to “shoot on sight” the miscreants. Besides, the army has also been authorised to impose a curfew in any locality of Islamabad it deems necessary to maintain law and order.
In back-to-back press conferences on Tuesday, federal ministers accused the PTI of reneging on the agreement to hold their demonstration at Sangjani, on the outskirts of Islamabad and not enter the Red Zone.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said that forces could have resorted to firing to disperse the protesters, but they exercised restraint against those vying for bloodshed to further their political agenda.
The troops have taken position at D-Chowk with the primary responsibility of protecting the Belarusian delegation, Mr Naqvi told reporters.
Speaking alongside Information Minister Ata Tarar, the interior minister a meeting chaired by the prime minister has categorically decided not to hold any more dialogues with the protesters.
He accused Bushra Bibi, the wife of PTI founder Imran Khan, of being the “orchestrator” of the violence.
“The state is being very patient and not giving in to the demands simply because Bushra Bibi planned this and wants bloodshed and bodies to pile up,” he said.
Mr Tarar said the former PM’s wife was “sending children and labourers to the front lines”, who he claimed were throwing tear gas at police.
He alleged that the PTI was using resources of the KP government led by it, including teargas shells. “Their entire leadership does not want this bloodshed, except for one secret hand behind them controlling every single thing,” he said.
He also showed empty gas canisters and marbles allegedly hurled by the protesters.
Meanwhile, sources told Dawn the government had decided to take stern action against the protesters after the departure of the Belarusian president, Aleksandr Lukashenko, and his delegation on Wednesday.
The authorities have shown the “utmost restraint” and allowed the rally to proceed to China Chowk a few metres away from D-Chowk and parliament house, the source said, adding it was “only because the Belarus president was in the federal capital”.
Condemnation
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the violence and said the country “cannot afford any chaos and bloodshed for achieving vested political purposes”.
“These acts of violence are unacceptable and highly condemnable, which are bordering the limits of restraint by the Law Enforcement Agencies,” the PM was quoted as saying in a statement released by his office.
“The entire nation pays homage to the martyred Rangers soldiers and all those police officials who have embraced shahadat and those who are injured during these riots.”
“This is not a peaceful protest; it is extremism. Pakistan cannot afford any chaos and bloodshed … Bloodshed for nefarious political purposes…”
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also blamed the protesters for the martyrdom of Rangers personnel.
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has also condemned the martyrdom of security personnel and called it “outright terrorism”.
He called for the culprits to be brought to justice.
Source:dawn.com
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PkMAP leader calls for unity among Pashtuns
November 27, 2024
QUETTA: Nawab Ayaz Khan Jogezai, central secretary of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party and convener of the Pashtunkhwa Jirga, has said Pashtoons are at a critical crossroads, facing the threat of death ahead and hunger behind.
Speaking at the concluding session of a two-day public and tribal jirga in Zhob division, Mr Jogezai said the only way to confront this grave situation is to create political awareness, unity and solidarity among the people.
He said he had 29 samples of different minerals in his office which have been found in the Pashtun belt of Balochistan alone, “but this is a pity that our children work in these minerals’ mines as labourers as there is no processing plant or industry to make finished products from these minerals in Balochistan”.
He gave the example of development and progress of China and Japan, and said that China gained independence later than us, and Japan was attacked with two nuclear bombs by the US, but today both nations are political and economic powers of the world.
He said that in the Pashtun and Baloch areas of Balochistan, the child mortality rate is the highest, and the primary cause of this is the lack of access to proper food and healthcare services.
“Our situation has become like that of African nations, where despite the presence of valuable minerals, the people are not prosperous and they are facing bloodshed and hunger,” the PkMAP leader said.
He said that in Qilla Abdullah and Pishin, 125,000 acres of land has been allotted to a non-local person “and that will result our children working as labourers in the mines beneath that land”.
He also discussed a recent strange security related incident in Gwal Haider Zai area of Qilla Saifullah and said that when local people apprehended some suspicious people hired by the Frontier Corps for protection of a local contractor’s camp, the FC high-ups when contacted, denied recognising these people.
This situation has made the people of the area confused as they do not know as to who is working for whom in their areas. To address this serious political and security situation, the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party has started holding public jirgas in different areas of Balochistan, he said.
Mr Jogezai announced that after Zhob, similar jirgas will be held in Sibi and Quetta divisions and public committees will be formed at district and local levels.
Concluding his speech, the PkMAP leader said: “Supporting the oppressed and confronting the oppressor is an Islamic duty and a requirement of Pashtunwali. The Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party has fulfilled this duty and it will continue to do so. The Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party is committed to continuing the struggle for the rights of Pashtuns and it will make every possible effort to address problems of the common people,” he said.
Source:dawn.com
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Constitution, democracy in danger, says SCBA president
Nasir Iqbal
November 27, 2024
ISLAMABAD: While voicing concern over the political turmoil and prevailing law and order situation in the capital, Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) President Mian Mohammad Rauf Atta has urged the PTI and government to find a way out by holding dialogue and reconciliation.
“It is highly apprehended that if preventive steps are not chosen by the parties to this political conflict so as to avoid further chaos, the ultimate loser will be the Constitution, democracy and rule of law whilst everyone shall stay empty-handed,” Mr Atta said, noting that Article 245 has been invoked and troops deployed.
In a statement, the SCBA president said the overall law and order situation was extremely grave in the entire country and in the federal capital.
Already numerous precious lives on the outskirts of the capital have been lost and dozens have sustained severe injuries since Monday evening.
“The ongoing protest has turned into a chaos,” he said.
The SCBA president noted that thousands of protesters had already taken control of roads, bringing life to a halt in the capital, while the law enforcement agencies had turned the entire city into a siege.
Besides, he regretted, there were roadblocks in every nook and corner of the country. The grave situation could provide an opening for unscrupulous elements to destroy peace “under the guise of this protest”.
With Article 245 of the Constitution already invoked and armed forces deployed, he said it was high time for all the relevant parties to let better sense prevail and sit together to find a way out of this ongoing turmoil by way of dialogue, negotiations and compromise.
After all, he said, that was what the democratic forces ought to do.
Otherwise, the ongoing situation was nothing less than “a perfect recipe” for undemocratic forces to sabotage the democratic and constitutional process of the country, Mr Atta feared.
Source:dawn.com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1875054/constitution-democracy-in-danger-says-scba-president
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Three terrorists killed trying to cross into North Waziristan: ISPR
November 27, 2024
PESHAWAR: Three terrorists were killed when security forces foiled their attempt to infiltrate from Afghanistan in the Hassan Khel area of North Waziristan district on Tuesday, the military said.
According to an ISPR statement, security forces detected the movement of armed gunmen attempting to infiltrate through the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in the Hassan Khel area on the night between Nov 25 and 26. The forces engaged the attackers and killed three of them.
“Pakistan has consistently been asking interim Afghan government to ensure effective border management on their side of the border. Interim Afghan government is expected to fulfil its obligations and deny the use of Afghan soil by Khwarij for perpetuating acts of terrorism against Pakistan,” the ISPR said.
It added that that security forces remain determined and committed to securing the borders and eliminating terrorism in the country.
Meanwhile, security forces and police successfully repelled attacks on a police station and a check post in tehsil Birmal of Lower South Waziristan district on Monday night.
According to police officials, the assailants first attacked the Raghzai police station in Birmal, leading to an hour-long exchange of gunfire with security forces. Officials said this was the sixth attack on the Raghzai police station in the current month.
In a separate incident, terrorists targeted a security checkpoint in the Ghorlama area of Birmal with a rocket. However, prompt action by security forces repelled the attack and forced the militants to flee.
Bomb blast
A member of a local peace committee narrowly escaped injury when a remote-controlled bomb exploded near his vehicle on the Wana-Kari Kot Road in Lower South Waziristan on Tuesday.
The bomb targeted the vehicle of Saifur Rehman Wazir. A colleague traveling with him sustained minor injuries in the blast.
Sources said the bomb was planted on a dirt road near the Baghicha post in Wana. Saifur Rehman and his colleague Ajaz were traveling from the Talabani area of tehsil Wana to Rustam Bazar Wana when the bomb exploded near their vehicle.
After the explosion, police arrived at the scene and collected evidence.
Source:dawn.com
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SBP makes key revisions to Minimum Profit Rate requirements, Islamic banking guidelines
November 26, 2024
In a major development for the banking sector, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Tuesday announced that the Minimum Profit Rate (MPR) requirement will no longer apply to financial institutions, public sector enterprises and public limited companies.
Moreover, the central bank has directed Islamic Banking Institutions (IBIs) to pay at least 75% of the weighted average gross yield from their investment pools as profit on PKR savings deposits.
As per a circular issued by the SBP, the MPR requirement specified vide BPRD Circular No. 05 of 2014 dated May 27, 2014 and BPRD Circular No. 07 of 2013 dated September 27, 2013 “shall not be applicable on the deposits of financial institutions, public sector enterprises and public limited companies.”
Previously, banks were required to pay an MPR on all Pak Rupee Saving Deposits equivalent to 50 basis points below the prevailing SBP Repo Rate (Interest Rate Corridor - Floor).
Meanwhile, experts have termed the changes a positive development for the banking industry.
“The measure is overall positive development for the banking sector,” Sana Tawfik, Head of Research at Arif Habib Limited (AHL), told Business Recorder. “This will help commercial banks reduce the cost of deposits,” she added.
Sunny Kumar of Topline Securities noted that the measure will benefit banks with a higher mix of corporate deposits, as they are no longer required to pay any MDR.
“Banks will now pay negotiated rates to corporates,” Kumar said in a note.
In a separate circular, Pakistan’s central bank has also introduced revisions to the profit distribution framework for IBIs.
The SBP has decided that IBIs “shall pay profit on their PKR saving deposits (excluding deposits of financial institutions, public sector enterprises and public limited companies) equivalent to at least 75% of the weighted average gross yield of all pools of an IBI”.
“For the purpose of determining the gross yield of each pool, the monthly gross earnings of the pool shall be divided by the monthly average assets of the pool (excluding fixed assets).
“However, the pool(s) created by IBIs for Shariah-compliant standing ceiling facility and Shariah-compliant open market operations (OMOs) will be excluded while calculating the weighted average gross yield of pool(s),” read the central bank’s circular.
The SBP announced revisions in the “Instructions for Profit & Loss Distribution and Pool Management for IBIs” issued vide IBD Circular No. 03 dated November 19, 2012 and IBD Circular Letter No. 01 dated January 01, 2013.
It stated that “Clause 4.2.3 shall stand deleted.
“Clause 5.2.1 shall be replaced with “IBI may forego a part of its Mudarib share as hiba to meet the market expectation in case of lower than expected/market returns earned by the pool. However, IBIs maintaining PER will reduce their Mudarib share only if the PER is insufficient to improve the profit payouts to the depositors.”
Moreover, “Clause 5.2.2 shall be replaced with “If needed, IBIs may give hiba to saving account depositors to meet the requirement of minimum profit rate.”
SBP said the instructions shall be effective from January 01, 2025.
Source:brecorder.com
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Africa
Institute for Security Studies expert’s anti-Muslim fearmongering is unacceptable
26 NOVEMBER 2024
By Iqbal Jassat
The Institute for Security Studies appears to be either staying aloof or is unmoved by the uproar in South Africa’s Muslim community over the provocative Islamophobic claims made by one of its analysts, Willem Els.
The allegations attributed to Els cast a shadow of suspicion upon Muslims and the thousands of institutions they manage across the country, from mosques and madressahs to Islamic schools and universities.
Take his Islamophobic comments about South African children as young as 11 being indoctrinated and groomed to commit acts of terrorism.
These are attributed to Els in a News24 report by Amanda Khoza, where he is cited as an expert in international relations and Islamic State in Syria. His alarmist warnings implicated unnamed Muslim organisations.
“We see that they have programmes where they are indoctrinating children from as young as 11 years old and that programme has been sustained and is ongoing,” he says.
He continues that unless this is dealt with in its early stages, “it might get out of hand”.
In the current climate of xenophobia, sparked afresh by the tragic deaths of children arising from contaminated food being attributed to foreign-owned spaza shops, it is extremely disappointing that Els added fuel to fire.
According to the report, he was addressing a Border Management Authority conference at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research in Tshwane.
If indeed his presentation on the “threat of cross-border terrorism” in South Africa painted a “grim picture”, as Khoza says in her report, surely it requires evidence-based research that can be placed under the microscope?
Instead, he went on a tirade about the “indoctrination of children” and “radical ideology”, without any disclaimers or attempt to conceal his targeting of Muslims.
The stereotyping of Muslims as terrorists is clearly evident in his biased view: “Children are the most susceptible when they are young … if they start to embed this type of radical ideology within these children, by the time they grow up, they will be fully radicalised, and they will be ready to become a terrorist or an operative for these radical organisations.”
Els’s bigoted rhetoric paints a picture of the danger posed by the “Islam[ic] community” and yet again, without any proof, he claims that “we see radical elements within the community hijack some of our mosques”.
Despite his allegations, he bizarrely admits lacking “… intelligence capacity within our Islam[ic] community …” and unashamedly and brazenly implicates mosques in Mayfair, Hillbrow, Soweto and the West Rand.
It is thus no surprise that Na’eemJeenah, a senior researcher at the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection, has dismissed Els as a fearmonger.
“In effect, Els paints all Muslim children with a terrorist brush, suggesting pre-teen Muslim children should be viewed with fear and suspicion by other children their age and by South African society at large,” he said.
Jeenah warns that the views advanced by Els are not far removed from statements by Israeli politicians that Palestinian children are “snakes” and should be killed because they are already terrorists by virtue of being Palestinian.
“For Els, it is the children’s religion that defines them, not their nationality,” said Jeenah.
There is no doubt that divisive rhetoric of the type Els indulges in stigmatises Muslim children as terrorists.
While anti-Muslim hate was inherent during the apartheid era, in South Africa today such conduct should neither be allowed nor tolerated.
Source:mg.co.za
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Three Soldiers Killed In Boko Haram Attack, Troops Repel Assault In Borno
26 November 2024
The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the death of three soldiers from Operation Hadin Kai following a Boko Haram attack in Kukawa Local Government Area, Borno State, on Monday.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. OlufemiOluyede, commended the troops for their bravery in repelling the attack.
He also urged them to maintain their momentum in the fight against terrorism despite the loss of their comrades.
The statement further disclosed that several items were recovered from the terrorists during the confrontation, though specifics were not detailed.
The troops of the 101 Special Forces Battalion were instrumental in successfully pushing back the assault, preventing further casualties and damage.
The statement read, “In the early hours of 25th November 2024, an unconfirmed number of terrorists, mounted on gun trucks and motorcycles, launched an attack on troops of the 101 Special Forces Battalion under Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) in Kukawa Town, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
“The attackers attempted to breach the camp using a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) from the Gudumbali axis.
“The gallant troops, in a coordinated and determined response, engaged the terrorists with overwhelming firepower, bolstered by support from the Air Component and the Nigerian Army’s ‘Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Command.”
The statement added that 12 of the terrorists were killed while others fled with gunshot injuries.
“During the confrontation, 12 terrorists were neutralised, while many others fled with gunshot wounds. The following items were recovered from the terrorists; 5 AK-47 rifles, 1 RPG bomb, 1 RPG tube, 2 Anti-Aircraft (AA) guns, 1 QJC gun, 1 NSV heavy machine gun, 40 motorcycles, 152 rounds of Shilka ammunition, among other items.
“Additionally, four out of seven VBIEDs deployed by the terrorists were destroyed,” it added.
It, however, stated that three soldiers lost their lives during the gun battle.
“Regrettably, three brave soldiers paid the ultimate price during the attack. Efforts to clear and exploit the area are ongoing, with house-to-house searches being conducted to ensure the area is secure”, it said.
The statement reassured all that Operation HADIN KAI remains steadfast in its mission to eliminate the remnants of terrorism in the Northeast and foster an environment where socio-economic activities can thrive in line with its mandate.
Source:naijanews.com
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Chad complains it is fighting terrorism “alone" in the Lake Chad Basin
26 November 2024
Chadian defence forces have intensified their operations to track down Boko Haram fighters.
This follows a deadly attack in late October in which the terror group targeted a garrison in the Lake Chad basin killing about 40 soldiers. In the aftermath, the president launched operation Haskanite. Authorities say they have killed about 100 fighters.
"I can confirm that there are no more Boko Haram groups on Chadian soil," the governor of the Lake province du Lac.
"Operation Haskanite has driven them out, moreover, we were able to finish them off. For instance, I can talk about our last confrontation during which a prominent leader, he was known among Boko Haram fighters, this leader was named KanayeDjougoun. This operation has bore fruits," Saleh Haggar said.
Chad claims no Boko Haram fighter is based on its soil and that they operate from neighbouring Niger and Nigeria. The Lake Chad basin would be their supply area.
The region has remained a flashpoint for militant attacks, with insurgent activity spilling over from Boko Haram’s origins in northeastern Nigeria since 2009.
Chad's minister of communication considers his country has been left alone in this fight.
"Why is Chad alone on the battleground?" Boukar Michel said.
"Why haven't these refugees, internally displaced people, received any help from the international community? Why haven't they been taken care of by humanitarians? Nobody can accept to be the only one suffering losses when attacks occur or to be the only one having their defence forces laid to rest."
N'Djamena has threatened to exit the regional counterterrorism security force.
Multinational Joint Task Force's (MNJTF) was set up in 2015 with Chad, Nigeria, Niger, and Cameroon, each contributing troops.
Source:africanews.com
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5 more have been rescued after tourist yacht sank in Egypt's Red Sea
26 November 2024
Egyptian naval forces rescued five people Tuesday and recovered four bodies, a day after a tourist yacht carrying 44 passengers sank in the Red Sea coastal town of Marsa Alam, officials said, after facing rough weather.
This brings the total to 33 survivors while seven remain missing.
Sea Story, a live-aboard used mainly for maritime activities, sent a distress signal after a large wave crashed into the boat, causing it to capsize, according to survivors' accounts. Some passengers were inside the cabins when the boat overturned within minutes, according to statements.
A rescue operation, still ongoing, was ordered and 28 people were rescued Monday from the vessel.
On Tuesday, the governor of the Red Sea region, Amr Hanafy, said the five survivors were two Belgians, an Egyptian, a Swiss citizen, and a Finnish national. He also said the four bodies are yet to be identified.
The boat carried 13 Egyptians, including crew members, and 31 foreign nationals from the United States, Germany, United Kingdom, Poland, Belgium, Switzerland, Finland, China, Slovakia, Spain, and Ireland.
The German foreign ministry said Tuesday that three Germans remain missing while three others have been rescued.
Meanwhile, PawełWroński, Poland’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, said two Polish nationals, a man and a woman, are also missing and that their families have been notified.
Live-aboards usually depart port for multiple-day excursions. Sea Story left Port Ghalib in Marsa Alam on Sunday and was scheduled to deck in Hurghada five days later. It sank 46 nautical miles away from Marsa Alam, according to the governor.
The boat had no technical problems, obtained all required permits prior to the trip, and was last checked for naval safety in March, officials said. According to the website of the boat operator Dive Pro Liveaboard, the Sea Story was built in 2022 and can hold 36 passengers.
The Egyptian Meteorological Authority on Saturday warned of turbulence and high waves, advising against naval activity on Sunday and Monday.
Marsa Alam is renowned for its pristine beaches, a wide variety of marine life, and regular shark sightings, particularly the curious Oceanic White Tip, drawing in scuba diving enthusiasts worldwide. However, some of the dive sites are challenging, with rough currents, and require advanced certification.
The Egyptian military is also involved in coordinating the rescue operation.
Source:africanews.com
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South Asia
Mullah KhairullahKhairkhwa Highlights Cultural Heritage Preservation in MesAynak Project
2024-11-26
KABUL(BNA): Mullah KhairullahKhairkhwa, the Acting Minister of Information and Culture, met with representatives of the contractors involved in the extraction of copper at the MesAynak mine in Logar province.
During the meeting, Liu Jun, President of MCCT, commended the Ministry of Information and Culture for its professional efforts in preserving Afghanistan’s historical and cultural heritage. He also requested close collaboration between a joint delegation from the Ministries of Information and Culture and Mines to oversee and support the copper extraction process.
Mullah KhairullahKhairkhwa stressed the importance of preserving the historical artifacts at MesAynak, describing it as a priority for both Afghanistan and China. He further highlighted that the Ministry of Information and Culture, along with its technical team, is actively present at the MesAynak project site to ensure the safeguarding of Afghanistan’s rich cultural heritage.
Source:bakhtarnews.af
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Afghan embassy shut as tensions escalate in Pakistan
November 27, 2024
ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad-based Afghanistan embassy was closed amid growing tensions as former premier Imran Khan’s supporters’ demonstration turned violent in Pakistan, the embassy said in a statement on its official X account the other day. “No services would be provided by the embassy, due to the rising tensions,” the embassy added. The pro-PTI protestors who had reached the D-Chowk retreated but said that they were ready for negotiation with the government but warned to reoccupy the key area in Islamabad if their demand was not accepted. Reports said that negotiations have started between the government and the Tehreek-e-Insaf protestors, with a representative, Gawhar Ali Khan, visiting the prison for consultation with the ex-PM Imran Khan. Pakistan’s Interior Ministry has earlier said it had deployed the army to defend Islamabad’s heavily fortified Red Zone, as supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan are demanding the jailed leader’s release. Four security troops have so far been reportedly killed in the unrest after PTI supporters cleared blockades on their way to demonstration in the capital where army were deployed to Red Zone to protect diplomatic missions. The Kabul Times
Source:thekabultimes.com
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Assisting communities grappling with impact of climate change
November 27, 2024
Following the UN climate change conference that concluded on 24 November in Baku, Azerbaijan, with an agreement calling on developed countries to deliver $300 billion per year to developing countries by 2035 to drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect lives and livelihoods from the worsening impacts of climate change, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in a statement has informed that it striving to provide expertise and support to help mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change in Afghanistan. “Our efforts include projects aimed at supporting communities through improved water management and a stable electricity supply and protecting agricultural livelihoods. We help overcome environmental and humanitarian challenges through protective, preventive and responsive measures,” said Katharina Ritz, ICRC head of delegation in Afghanistan. Afghanistan is currently regarded among one of the most vulnerable to climate change, which is expected to adversely impact its environment, economy and population. According to climate change experts, the country’s annual average temperatures are expected to be 1.7–1.9°C higher by the 2050s, which in turn will lead to a scarcity of freshwater due to the shrinking snow cover and glaciers in the Hindu Kush and Pamir Mountain ranges. According to ICRC, decades of conflict and violence, underinvestment in critical infrastructure, and economic challenges have weakened the country’s capacity to tackle the growing threats posed by climate hazards. As agriculture is the primary means of livelihood for nearly 80 percent of Afghans, agricultural livelihoods have been one of the biggest casualties of extreme climate events, such as droughts, unseasonal rainfall and floods, leading to crop failures, reduced yields and worsening food insecurity for over 14 million people. This has also resulted in significant economic loss, infrastructure damage and increasing poverty, which in turn has forced more people to be displaced from their homes and livelihoods. Preventive actions focus on taking mitigating steps such as reducing carbon emissions by installing solar plants and connecting essential services to the power grid. The ICRC also supports various protective measures such as the construction and repair of check dams, canals, gabion and stone walls to prevent erosion and flooding of agricultural land and to recharge aquifers. In terms of responsive actions, the ICRC says their work aims to help communities access water and essential services by providing material and technical support to the Afghan Red Crescent Society and relevant authorities in order to improve water systems and counter the long-term challenge of decreasing water levels. According to the organization, they also employ sustainable approaches in their operations, such as working with communities to develop innovative, environmentfriendly and climate-smart solutions to optimize the use of limited land, water and other resources. The ICRC says that to resolve the challenges of traditional energy supply systems, such as high costs, unreliability and harmful emissions, they have supported projects across Afghanistan to implement a shift from diesel generators to sustainable alternatives. According to ICRC, climate change-induced drought and depletion of groundwater levels have led to the drying up of many wells in both urban and rural areas. Compounded by rapid urbanization, this has put additional stress on aging water infrastructure. The organization says, as part of their broader effort to improve the access of communities to clean and safe water and support their adaptation to climate-related challenges, they have provided their expertise and support to the repair and upgrade of deteriorating infrastructure in various parts of the country. “These upgrades have been crucial in providing reliable access to clean water and reducing water wastage, thus ensuring a transition to a more sustainable system. This is in line with our strategy to focus on strengthening critical water infrastructure to support communities’ access to clean water”, Katharina Ritz said. Despite the country’s minimal contribution to global emissions, Afghanistan was ranked the sixth most climatevulnerable country in the world and fourth in overall disaster risk in 2023. It is thus urgent to implement coordinated measures which simultaneously mitigate the risks and help communities adapt to environmental changes, in order to reduce the long-term and shortterm humanitarian impact of climate change on the people of Afghanistan. Mukhtar Safi
Source:thekabultimes.com
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Acting Ambassador of Afghanistan in Oman Meets with CEO of Oman Charitable Organization
2024-11-26
KABUL (BNA): The Afghanistan Embassy in Oman has reported a meeting between the Acting Ambassador of Afghanistan and Mohammed bin Hamoud Al Dhahli, the CEO of the Oman Charitable Organization.
According to a statement from the embassy’s press office, Hafiz Omar, the Acting Ambassador of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan in Oman, held discussions with Mohammed bin Hamoud Al Dhahli regarding ongoing and future projects.
During the meeting, Hafiz Omar expressed appreciation for the charitable projects announced by the Sultanate of Oman for Afghanistan during the Paris and Tokyo conferences. He also requested further collaboration in implementing new initiatives in Afghanistan.
In response, Mohammed bin Hamoud Al Dhahli reaffirmed the Oman Charitable Organization’s commitment to fulfilling previous obligations and emphasized the organization’s intent to continue its cooperation with Afghanistan.
Source:bakhtarnews.af
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Iranian Ambassador Bids Farewell to Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi
2024-11-26
KABUL(BNA): The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced a farewell meeting between Hassan KazemiQomi, the Ambassador and Special Representative of the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.
According to Hafiz Zia Ahmad Takal, Deputy Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who shared the update on his X account, the meeting took place in Kabul today. The two sides discussed bilateral relations and regional developments during the meeting.
Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi commended Ambassador Qomi’s efforts during his tenure in Afghanistan and expressed the Ministry’s readiness to collaborate with the incoming Iranian ambassador to further strengthen bilateral ties.
Source:bakhtarnews.af
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BB removes ICB Islamic Bank MD for fund embezzlement
Nov 26, 2024
Bangladesh Bank has removed ICB Islamic Bank Managing Director Muhammad Shafiq Bin Abdullah from his post as the banking regulator has found proof of his involvement in embezzlement, laundering of money along with mismanagement of the bank.
On November 19, the central bank informed the chairman of ICB Islamic Bank that Abdullah's reappointment as managing director was not approved due to his involvement in activities detrimental to the interests of the bank and its depositors.
The chairman of the Shariah-based bank was also asked to inform the banking regulator after taking legal action against Abdullah for embezzlement, money laundering and mismanagement.
The bank was also directed to fill the vacant post of the managing director within the stipulated time prescribed by the Bank Companies Act-1991.
Abdullah was appointed as managing director of the bank in 2013.
Earlier, the central bank on October 21 instructed the bank to appoint an acting managing director, but the lender is yet to appoint any in the post.
"Abdullah is not present at the office today, but he is still serving ICB Islamic Bank," officials of the bank told this correspondent, when he visited the head office of the financial institution.
"I am doing office until today as the allegations are yet to be proved," Abdullah told The Daily Star.
The board of directors of the bank has appealed against the central bank decision with the request of keeping Abdullah in the post of the managing director, he said.
Source:thedailystar.net
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Mideast
Sirens sound in central, northern Israel after ceasefire announcement: army
November 26, 2024
JERUSALEM: Israel’s military said sirens sounded across central and northern Israel Tuesday, with three projectiles fired from Lebanon after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his cabinet would vote for a ceasefire.
“Sirens sounded in a number of areas in central and northern Israel following projectiles that crossed from Lebanon,” the military said in a statement. “Three projectiles that crossed from Lebanon into Israeli territory were successfully intercepted by the IAF (Israeli air force).”
Source:arabnews.com
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Hezbollah says launched drones at ‘sensitive military targets’ in Tel Aviv
November 27, 2024
BEIRUT, Lebanon: Lebanon’s Hezbollah said it launched drones at “sensitive military targets” in Tel Aviv on Tuesday evening, after deadly Israeli strikes in Beirut and as news of a ceasefire deal was announced.
“In response to the targeting of the capital Beirut and the massacres committed by the Israeli enemy against civilians,” Hezbollah launched “drones at a group of sensitive military targets in the city of Tel Aviv and its suburbs,” the group said in a statement.
Source:arabnews.com
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What does the US-brokered truce ending Israel-Hezbollah fighting include?
November 27, 2024
BEIRUT: Israel and Lebanese armed group Hezbollah are set to implement a ceasefire early on Wednesday as part of a US-proposed deal for a 60-day truce to end more than a year of hostilities.
The text of the deal has not been published and Reuters has not seen a draft.
US President Joe Biden announced the deal, saying it was designed to be a permanent cessation of hostilities. Israel’s security cabinet has approved it and it will be put to the whole cabinet for review. Lebanon Prime Minister Najib Mikati welcomed the deal, which Hezbollah approved last week.
The agreement, negotiated by US mediator Amos Hochstein, is five pages long and includes 13 sections, according to a senior Lebanese political source with direct knowledge of the matter.
Here is a summary of its key provisions.
HALT TO HOSTILITIES
The halt to hostilities is set to begin at 4 a.m local time (0200 GMT) on Wednesday, Biden announced, with both sides expected to cease fire by Wednesday morning.
The senior Lebanese source said Israel was expected to “stop carrying out any military operations against Lebanese territory, including against civilian and military targets, and Lebanese state institutions, through land, sea and air.”
All armed groups in Lebanon — meaning Hezbollah and its allies — would halt operations against Israel, the source said.
ISRAELI TROOPS WITHDRAW
Two Israeli officials said the Israeli military would withdraw from southern Lebanon within 60 days. Biden said the troops would gradually pull out and civilians on both sides would be able to return home.
Lebanon had earlier pushed for Israeli troops to withdraw as quickly as possible within the truce period, Lebanese officials told Reuters. They now expect Israeli troops to withdraw within the first month, the senior Lebanese political source said.
A Lebanese official told Reuters the deal included language that preserved both Lebanon’s and Israel’s rights to self-defense.
HEZBOLLAH PULLS NORTH, LEBANESE ARMY DEPLOYS
Hezbollah fighters will leave their positions in southern Lebanon to move north of the Litani River, which runs about 30 kilometers (20 miles) north of the border with Israel.
Their withdrawal will not be public, the senior Lebanese political source said. He said the group’s military facilities “will be dismantled” but it was not immediately clear whether the group would take them apart itself, or whether the fighters would take their weapons with them as they withdrew.
The Lebanese army would deploy troops to south of the Litani to have around 5,000 soldiers there, including at 33 posts along the border with Israel, a Lebanese security source told Reuters.
“The deployment is the first challenge — then how to deal with the locals that want to return home,” given the risks of unexploded ordnance, the source said.
More than 1.2 million people have been displaced by Israeli strikes on Lebanon, many of them from south Lebanon. Hezbollah sees the return of the displaced to their homes as a priority, Hezbollah lawmaker Hassan Fadlallah told Reuters.
Tens of thousands displaced from northern Israel are also expected to return home.
MONITORING MECHANISM
One of the sticking points in the final days leading to the ceasefire’s conclusion was how it would be monitored, Lebanon’s deputy speaker of parliament Elias Bou Saab told Reuters.
A pre-existing tripartite mechanism between the United Nations peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon (UNIFIL), the Lebanese army and the Israeli army would be expanded to include the US and France, with the US chairing the group, Bou Saab said.
Israel would be expected to flag possible breaches to the monitoring mechanism, and France and the US together would determine whether a violation had taken place, an Israeli official and a Western diplomat told Reuters.
A joint statement by Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron said France and the US would work together to ensure the deal is applied fully.
UNILATERAL ISRAELI STRIKES
Israeli officials have insisted that the Israeli army would continue to strike Hezbollah if it identified threats to its security, including transfers of weapons and military equipment to the group.
An Israeli official told Reuters that US envoy Amos Hochstein, who negotiated the agreement, had given assurances directly to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that Israel could carry out such strikes on Lebanon.
Netanyahu said in a televised address after the security cabinet met that Israel would strike Hezbollah if it violated the deal.
The official said Israel would use drones to monitor movements on the ground in Lebanon.
Lebanese officials say that provision is not in the deal that it agreed, and that it would oppose any violations of its sovereignty.
Source:arabnews.com
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Lebanese Prime Minister demands ‘immediate’ implementation of ceasefire
November 26, 2024
BEIRUT: Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati demanded in a statement on Tuesday that the international community “act swiftly” to halt Israeli aggression “and implement an immediate ceasefire.”
His comments came after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in an address that his security cabinet would agree “this evening” on a truce deal in its war against Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.
Mikati said the intense wave of Israeli air strikes on Beirut on Tuesday “reaffirms that the Israeli enemy has no regard for any law or consideration.”
“The international community is called upon to act swiftly to stop this aggression and implement an immediate ceasefire,” he said in his statement, which was issued before a strike hit the central Hamra commercial district.
Source:arabnews.com
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Israeli strikes hit north Lebanon crossings with Syria for first time, minister says
November 27, 2024
BEIRUT: Israeli strikes late on Tuesday targeted Lebanon’s three northern border crossings with Syria for the first time, Lebanon’s transport minister Ali Hamieh told Reuters.
The strikes came moments after US President Joe Biden announced that a ceasefire would come into effect at 4:00 a.m. local time (0200 GMT) on Wednesday to halt hostilities between Lebanese armed group Hezbollah and Israel.
Hamieh said it was not immediately clear whether the roads had been cut off as a result of the strikes. Israeli raids on Lebanon’s eastern crossings in recent weeks had already sealed off those routes into Syria.
Syria’s state news agency reported four civilians and two soldiers were killed, and 12 people were wounded including children, women and workers in the Syrian Red Crescent.
The Red Crescent said earlier a volunteer was killed and another was injured in “the aggression that targeted Al-Dabousyeh and Al-Arida crossings ... as they were performing their humanitarian duty of rescuing the wounded early on Wednesday.”
The strike damaged several ambulances and work points, it added in a statement.
Syrian state TV reported the Israeli strike hit the Arida and Dabousieh border crossings with Lebanon.
The Israeli military did not immediately comment. It has previously stated that it targets what it says are Iran-linked sites in Syria as part of a broader campaign to curb the influence of Iran and its ally Hezbollah in the region.
Separately, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Tuesday that it struck an Iranian-aligned militia weapons storage facility in Syria in response to an Iranian-aligned attack against US forces in the country on Monday.
Source:arabnews.com
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Winter rain piles misery on Gaza’s displaced
November 26, 2024
GAZA CITY: At a crowded camp in Gaza for those displaced by the war between Israel and Hamas, Ayman Siam laid concrete blocks around his tent to keep his family dry as rain threatened more misery.
“I’m trying to protect my tent from the rainwater because we are expecting heavy rain. Three days ago when it rained, we were drenched,” Siam said, seeking to shield his children and grandchildren from more wet weather.
Siam is among thousands sheltering at Gaza City’s Yarmouk sports stadium in the north after being uprooted by the Israel-Hamas war.
He lives in one of many flimsy tents set up at the stadium, where the pitch has become a muddy field dotted with puddles left by rainfall that washed away belongings and shelters.
People in the stadium dug small trenches around their tents, covered them with plastic sheets, and did whatever they could to stop the water from entering their makeshift homes.
Others used spades to direct the water into drains, as grey skies threatened more rain.
The majority of Gaza’s 2.4 million people have been displaced, often multiple times.
With many displaced living in tent camps, the coming winter is raising serious concerns.
Mahmud Bassal, spokesman for Gaza’s civil defense agency, said that “tens of thousands of displaced people, especially in the central and south of Gaza Strip, are suffering from flooded tents due to the rains,” and called on the international community to provide tents and aid.
International aid organizations have sounded the alarm about the deteriorating situation as winter approaches.
“It’s going to be catastrophic,” warned Louise Wateridge, an emergency officer for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees currently in Gaza.
The rainy period in Gaza lasts between late October and April, with January being the wettest month, averaging 30 to 40 millimeters of rain. Winter temperatures can drop as low as 6 degrees Celsius. Recent rain has flooded hundreds of tents.
“The rain and seawater flooded all the tents. We are helpless. The water took everything from the tent, including the mattresses, blankets and a water jug. We were only able to get a mattress and blankets for the children,” said Auni Al-Sabea, a displaced person.
Source:arabnews.com
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Cultural Seminar on Culture of Jihad, Martyrdom at Faculty of Education, Sana'a University
26 Nov 2024
The Faculty of Education and the University Student Forum at Sana'a University organized today a cultural symposium entitled "The Culture of Jihad and Martyrdom is a Culture of Life and Resistance" under the slogan "Our Great Martyrs".
The seminar, which was attended by a group of academics and a group of students, dealt with six working papers, which included a reading of the results of the sacrifices of the martyrs that resulted in victory, attribution, and strength presented by the Dean of the College, Dr. Saad Al-Alawi, while Dr. Abdullah Al-Khaled touched on the concept of martyrdom and martyrdom, and Dr. Taha Al-Ahdal reviewed the evidence and meanings of jihad and the affirmation that the culture of jihad is a culture of life, resistance and the title of eternal life.
Dr. GhalebAmer touched on jihadi education and its Quranic position and prophetic texts and reviewed Dr. Bashir Mufarreh, and jihadi education in the thought of revolution leader, which he presented in his Ramadan lectures and his focus on the faith, behavioral and technical aspects, and jihadi education by moving from the individual case to the general situation, and jihad is charity for society, while Dr. Muhammad Taqni, and Dr. Abdullah Talib touched on the location and status of martyrs from God Almighty.
Source:saba.ye
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Arab World
EU Delegation Reviews Saudi Efforts To Combat Extremism
November 26, 2024
RIYADH: Members of the EU’s Political and Security Committee, including its chair, Delphine Pronk, paid an official visit to the Global Centre for Combating Extremist Ideology in Riyadh.
The centre’s secretary-general, Mansour Al-Shammari, received the delegation and addressed several topics of mutual interest in combating extremism.
The EU members were briefed on the centre’s strategy and its efforts to combat extremist ideology as well as mitigate its impact and messages, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.
They also learned about the community initiatives and international partnerships that promote the principles of tolerance and a culture of moderation.
The meeting was attended by EU Special Representative for the Gulf Luigi Di Maio, European External Action Service Managing Director for the Middle East and North Africa Helene Le Gal, EU Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Christophe Farnaud and Saudi Ambassador to the EU Haifa Al-Jedea.
Earlier, the EU delegation visited the Gulf Cooperation Council’s headquarters in Riyadh and met Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi to discuss mutual interests and joint efforts to address global challenges.
Topics included regional issues such as Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, Gulf security, Iran, maritime security in the Red Sea, Iraq, Sudan, the Horn of Africa and Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
The delegation also met Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Climate Envoy Adel Al-Jubeir to discuss climate change, environmental cooperation and strengthening joint efforts in these areas. They also reviewed recent foreign policy developments in Europe and the Middle East.
Source:arabnews.com
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Global Harmony event concludes with celebration of Egyptian culture in Riyadh
HAJAR ALQUSAYER
November 26, 2024
RIYADH: The Global Harmony initiative concludes its third edition with a week-long celebration of Egyptian music, art and tradition in Suwaidi Park as part of Riyadh Season.
Running from Nov. 24-30 and organized by the Ministry of Media, the event invites visitors to experience Egypt’s rich heritage through a range of cultural activities.
Speaking to Arab News, Egyptian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Tarek El-Meligy highlighted the deep-rooted connection between the two nations. “The Egyptian community is the most harmonious, coexistent and understanding in a positive way within Saudi society,” he said.
“If you ask any Egyptian which country they would like to live in after Egypt, they will say Saudi Arabia.”
SarryShaaban, an executive and consultant at the General Entertainment Authority, said: “We are talking about millions of visitors, both residents and Saudis, entering the park. Whether I’m a resident, a Saudi or from a country hosting the event, it provides an opportunity for residents to learn about your culture, colors, explore its arts, food, crafts, and traditional industries.”
Live music and dance performances displaying Egypt’s cultural traditions, with the rhythm of drums and flutes and performers in traditional costumes, have brought the life and spirit of Cairo’s streets to Riyadh.
A separate bazaar area has been set up featuring Egyptian cuisine, traditional clothing and handcrafted items.
“An event like this carries positive messages and highlights something we strive to emphasize every day, that we are one people, united by love and affection,” said El-Meligy.
Egyptian Sameh Nabil emphasized the feel of unity: “This initiative brought us closer together as Egyptians, and with Saudis here, I feel like we are brothers. I always feel like we are not expatriates.”
And visitor Khaled Zahir said: “This event reflects the love, connection and affection between Egyptians living in the Kingdom and Saudis.”
Egyptians make up 11 percent of Saudi Arabia’s population, according to the Saudi Census, meaning such exhibitions are important in promoting mutual respect and harmony.
El-Meligy said Saudi Arabia hosted the largest Egyptian expatriate community abroad, with remittances from those in the Kingdom forming a significant part of their home nation’s income.
“In recent months, remittances from Egyptians abroad have increased substantially, thanks to the facilities between the two countries and the confidence in both the Saudi and Egyptian economies,” he added.
Saudi Arabia and Egypt continue to strengthen their political relationship through agreements in trade, tourism, energy and culture. In his October visit to Cairo, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to discuss investment opportunities and the establishment of a supreme coordination council to deepen bilateral relations.
Trade between Saudi Arabia and Egypt saw a 35.16 percent annual increase in the first half of 2024, according to the General Authority of Statistics. The increase was driven by a 73.44 percent surge in Saudi imports from Egypt, totaling $4.18 billion.
Egypt has also shown a growing interest in investing in Saudi Arabia, with a 71 percent rise in licenses granted to Egyptian firms in the second quarter of 2024.
The festival, which began in October, highlights the lives, contributions and cultural integration of its residents. So far, it has celebrated cultures including Indian heritage and moving through Philippine, Indonesian, Pakistani, Yemeni, Sudanese, Bangladeshi, Jordanian, Lebanese and Syrian traditions.
Source:arabnews.com
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Emir of Kuwait sends King Salman GCC Summit letter
November 27, 2024
RIYADH: King Salman has received a letter from the Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah inviting him to the Gulf Cooperation Council Summit.
The message was delivered to Minister of State Prince Turki bin Mohammed bin Fahd during a meeting in Riyadh on Tuesday with Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya.
The two sides held cordial talks and discussed issues of common interest.
The 45th GCC Summit takes place in Kuwait on Sunday.
Source:arabnews.com
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King Salman asks people of Saudi Arabia to pray on Thursday for rain
November 27, 2024
RIYADH: King Salman called on Muslims in Saudi Arabia to pray on Thursday for rain, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
“Everyone who is able should be keen to perform the prayer, in accordance with the tradition of Prophet Muhammad,” the Royal Court said.
Muslims are often asked to pray for rainfall in times of drought or other water shortages.
Source:arabnews.com
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Riyadh Expo 2030 provides progress update to international exhibitions regulator BIE
November 26, 2024
RIYADH: A Saudi delegation representing Riyadh Expo 2030 took part in a Bureau International des Expositions meeting on Tuesday to review the Kingdom’s readiness to host the global event.
In November 2023, Saudi Arabia won the bid to host the 2030 World Expo between October 2030 and March 2031 in the capital, Riyadh.
The Riyadh Expo 2030 delegation took part in the 175th general assembly meeting of the BIE, a Paris-based intergovernmental organization which oversees and regulates World Expos, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
They updated senior officials of the BIE about the latest Saudi developments and preparations for hosting the event. They also discussed progress on work to accommodate an expected 246 exhibitors, including countries, organizations and companies, at a site north of Riyadh.
Under the theme “The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow,” the event aims to be a unique platform for innovations and modern technologies which aim to find answers to challenges facing the planet in various fields, according to the Expo 2030 website.
Source:arabnews.com
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Hospitality sector innovations, trends showcased at Riyadh exhibition
WAAD HUSSAIN
November 26, 2024
RIYADH: This year’s HORECA exhibition held in Riyadh is underscoring the Kingdom’s growing influence in the global hospitality market.
Held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, the three-day event concludes on Nov. 27 and gathers local and international exhibitors, industry leaders, and visitors to showcase trends, innovations, and business opportunities in the sector.
The event contributes to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by fostering private-sector growth, promoting tourism, and enhancing the country’s food and beverage industries.
The exhibition features an array of engaging activities, including live cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, a barista competition, and workshops for aspiring culinary professionals.
Visitors can sample creative dishes, observe new techniques in food and beverage, and explore sustainable packaging solutions, among other highlights.
Prince Waleed bin Nasser, guest of honor and CEO of Mukatafa Co., highlighted the importance of collaboration between the private and public sectors.
Speaking at a session on public policies impacting the food and beverage sector, he said: “The vision today aspires for the private sector to play a significant role in the development of the economy. The private sector must take the initiative to have a voice. To achieve this, it needs to be organized and united in presenting a single perspective.”
He also emphasized the need for proactive engagement: “We must work as one, united with a common vision, and present this vision in a professional manner backed by facts, ensuring that the decisions made have a positive impact on the sector and the citizens.”
Culinary competitions are among the highlights celebrating creativity and technical skills at HORECA. Mohammed Naif, a participant representing Saudi Arabia’s Hotel and Tourism Management Institute, told Arab News: “The atmosphere was amazing, and the competition was all about passion and enjoyment. There was a panel of judges and organizers who were very supportive — if you made a mistake, they would help you, and if you had an incomplete idea, they would guide you.
“I encourage anyone with a passion for cooking to join, showcase their creativity, and learn while bringing out their best.”
The exhibition also provided a platform for networking, with exhibitors showcasing local innovations as well as international brands. From cutting-edge hospitality tech to Saudi-inspired culinary creations, the event highlighted the Kingdom’s growing reputation as a global hub for the sector.
Source:arabnews.com
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Saudi economy minister meets former Italian prime minister
November 26, 2024
RIYADH: Saudi Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal Alibrahim met with Matteo Renzi, strategic counselor at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change and former prime minister of Italy, the Economy Ministry said on X on Tuesday.
During the meeting, they discussed areas of collaboration and other topics of mutual interest.
Meanwhile, Saudi Minister of Commerce Majid Al-Qasabi met with Zambian Minister of Trade and Industry ChibukaMulenga.
“We discussed strengthening our trade relations and developing joint cooperation between our countries,” the Saudi minister wrote on X.
Source:arabnews.comv
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Riyadh exhibition explores palm’s role in ancient cultures
HEBSHI ALSHAMMARI
November 26, 2024
RIYADH: The “Palm Tree in Civilizations” pavilion at the International Dates Conference and Exhibition in Riyadh, running until Nov. 28, highlights the historical significance of the palm tree across ancient cultures.
The pavilion explores how date palms supported food and economic sustainability, offering a historical journey through the ages.
It also showcases the palm’s importance in ancient Egypt through carvings and murals depicting its role in daily life and religious rituals, as well as in agriculture, construction, and fertility practices.
Organized by the National Center for Palm and Dates under the theme “World of Dates,” the exhibit also highlights the palm’s significance in Mesopotamia and the Levant, featuring ancient texts like the Code of Hammurabi, which protected palm cultivation, along with carvings illustrating their role in trade and society.
Artifacts from the Dilmun civilization highlighted the reliance of ancient Arab societies on palms for agriculture and trade.
The pavilion also showcases the palm’s symbolic role in the Levant, particularly among the Canaanites and Arameans, with depictions from historical sites like Palmyra emphasizing its importance in religious and artistic traditions.
Saad Alnajim, vice president of the Antiquities and Heritage Association in the Eastern Province, said: “Beyond providing food, medicine, and shade, the palm symbolizes belonging and pride, reflected in its place on Saudi Arabia’s national emblem.”
Abdulaziz Al-Tuwaijri, chairman of the National Committee for Environment, Water and Agriculture, said that dates are central to the Saudi economy, with Vision 2030 aiming to make the Kingdom the world’s largest date exporter.
He added: “Today, the Kingdom is the largest producer and exporter of dates, thanks to the clear vision of the crown prince, whose efforts we are now benefiting from.”
According to the UN Comtrade database, Saudi Arabia exported dates worth over SR1.4 billion ($373 million) to 119 countries by the end of 2023.
The Saudi General Authority for Statistics reported production exceeding 1.9 million tonnes, reflecting a 152.5 percent increase in export value since 2016, solidifying the Kingdom’s position as the world’s largest date exporter.
Meanwhile, a panel of global climate and agriculture experts discussed the impact of climate change on date palm cultivation.
The session focused on challenges such as delayed fruit maturation, reduced yields, pests, and pollution, and explored innovative solutions to address these issues. The panel emphasized the need for international cooperation and sustainable farming practices.
The discussion highlighted global best practices, including improved irrigation and smart agricultural techniques, as well as the importance of farmer education and technical support.
Recommendations included enhancing international collaboration, supporting research on climate-resistant varieties, and promoting awareness for sustainable date palm cultivation.
The exhibition offers a variety of entertainment activities, including folklore shows, regional poetry, and cooking competitions.
It also features a museum that takes visitors on a journey through the history of palm trees and dates over the past 1,000 years.
Additionally, a live cooking area brings together local and international chefs to prepare a variety of date-based dishes.
Source:arabnews.com
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Europe
Quwwat ul Islam Mosque In Preston Slammed For Meeting With Zionists
By 5Pillars
26th November 2024
Quwwat ul Islam Mosque in Preston has received a backlash from the local community after hosting a meeting with Zionists from Greater Manchester’s Jewish Representative Council (JRC).
The idea for the meeting was mooted in August by Jeremy Dable, a pro-Israel representative of Preston City Council’s inter-faith group, who was working closely with the JRC.
Mosque officials at Quwwat ul Islam agreed to and subsequently held the meeting on September 26 without consulting or informing its congregation. 5Pillars understands that they were informed about who would be attending the meeting prior to it taking place.
Nevertheless, the Muslim council official who arranged the meeting at Quwwat ul Islam Mosque has told 5Pillars that they are “blameless,” and he would never have held the meeting if he knew it would be with Zionists.
Local residents Faisal Bodi, Adil Tagari, Naima Adam, and AneesahBana were among congregation members who issued an open letter of criticism regarding the actions of the mosque’s officials.
The signatories argue that hosting such an organisation without proper vetting procedures may effectively lend support to groups that “are known to spread Islamophobia,” thereby indirectly endorsing their harmful narratives.
According to the letter, Jeremy Dable is described as being “well known in local, political and inter faith circles” to be “a hard line Zionist.”
The signatories express their bewilderment, stating: “It is all the more perplexing that anyone from the Muslim community would entertain his request.”
Dable on countless occasions has professed his pro-Zionist stance. In one instance he declared that anyone with a “communal sense of their Jewish identity” should by extension identify as a “Zionist.”
The open letter further addresses the elected committee members of Quwwatul Islam by stating: “your decision to meet the JRC is despicable, unjustifiable and does not represent the community that you serve, particularly in the current climate, and it behoves you to explain your actions to the people to whom you are accountable.”
Who are the JRC?
The JRC itself is recognised as the leading body addressing concerns within the regional Jewish community. Its affiliates include several Jewish groups, many of which are staunchly Zionist and hostile to the Palestinian struggle.
One post on its X page brands demonstrators taking part in the pro-Palestine marches as “anti-semitic hate marchers” supporting “Pro-Hamas” sentiments.
One of the JRC’s most influential affiliates is the North West Friends of Israel – a hard line Zionist body whose website identifies its mission as “Advocating for Israel” and “Combatting BDS.” Its co-chair Raphi Bloom, also attended the meeting at Quwwatul Islam.
They have been criticised for lobbying stronger British support for Israel and for attempting to discredit and silence pro-Palestinian activism by labelling it as “extremist” or “antisemitic.”
Quwwatul Islam response
5Pillars approached the mosque and received a response from Mukhtar Master, a Muslim representative at Preston City Council.
Master told 5Pillars that he was approached by the “Jewish Lead from the Preston Faith Covenant” asking him to facilitate a meeting with so called “Jewish leaders in the Northwest” and Muslim leaders from Preston.
He said that he put this request to all the mosques of Preston and Quwwatul Islam Mosque was the preferred venue.
Master explained that mosque officials did not give the meeting much more thought because they were distracted by a large event happening at the masjid as well as the tragic deaths of two young local Muslims.
He said: “As the facilitator of the meeting, it was my duty and responsibility to vet and check the individuals that we were meeting on the 26th September. However, in the weeks leading up to the meeting, my local community and masjid were devastated by the news of a road traffic accident that had led to the deaths of two young lads and another seriously injured. My mosque, my community, my friends, my neighbours, my family and I were grieving. As a result – I had lost all interest in the meeting that was planned for the 26th September.
“We only realised that we were meeting with Zionists – when these so called ‘Jewish Leaders’ introduced themselves at the meeting. I would never have asked for a mosque to host the meeting – had I known they were Zionists. Nevertheless, I can categorically state that Quwwatul Islam Mosque is utterly blameless.”
Master addressed 5Pillars directly by saying: “The true Zionists are currently physically destroying mosques in Gaza as we speak. Would you honestly seek to ‘destroy’ the reputation of a ‘House of Allah’ – especially when the mosque and its representatives are faultless?… The people of Preston who know me well, it is laughable to even contemplate that I would be party to any action, which may be deemed or interpreted as being pro-Zionist.”
‘Zionist infiltration’ into Muslim spaces
The city of Preston has a strong track record of anti-Zionist and pro-Palestine activism, which has received national and international attention.
The meeting held at Quwwatul Islam Mosque came on the same day as the JRC’s meeting with Preston City Council. It is believed that one of the topics discussed during these meetings was Preston Council’s recent decision to twin with a Palestinian town.
Jeremy Dable told the Lancashire Evening Post that “this is not offering friendship – this is offering support to one side in a war.”
Given the timing, the open letter by local residents suggests that the JRC may have been attempting to frame the mosque meeting as a “Muslim-friendly” gesture, possibly diverting attention from its controversial stance on Palestine. And unfortunately, according to one of the signatories, elected officials at Quwwatul Islam “fell right into the trap.”
The meeting therefore could be indicative of a growing trend of local normalisation efforts.
In an email from Dable to Preston’s Muslim faith covenant (Mukhtar Master), he outlines an “eagerness to establish a direct relationship with Muslim leaders in Preston.”
David Miller, former professor at Bristol University, warns in a post on X of a “repertoire of subversion and infiltration tactics, such as the sponsorship of Zionist interfaith activities.”
Professor Miller cites the example of such collaboration with the controversial pro-Israel Board of Deputies of British Jews’ “Nisa-Nashim” campaign – a heavily criticised campaign sponsored by the government to “bring closer” inter-faith interests.
Source:5pillarsuk.com
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Ex-Teacher Accused Of Sharing Islamic Propaganda Denies Terrorism
26th November
By Nicole McBride
A former teacher accused of wanting to share her extremist views with British children through a “cartoon-style” book has denied being a terrorist while giving evidence in court.
DzhamilyaTimaeva, 20, from Windsor, Berkshire, is on trial at the Old Bailey accused of sharing extreme Islamic propaganda between 2022 and 2023.
The prosecution says she sought extremist books and videos and obtained a place as a teacher at an Islamic Sunday school to teach young children extremist beliefs.
Jurors heard previously that “pro-Isis (Islamic State) propaganda” was uncovered by police after her phone was seized and the contents downloaded in October 2022.
Police uncovered a document entitled the Little Muwahideen, with a colourful cartoon-style front cover designed for children, the court was told.
The book made reference to “fitna”, meaning strife, and included sections on waging war for Islam, it was alleged.
In September 2022, Timaeva had been making arrangements to teach a class of children at an Islamic faith school and made reference to the booklet in planned lessons, the court was told.
Giving evidence on Monday, Timaeva, who now works as a dental nurse, told jurors she was born in Kazakhstan to Chechen parents who left their home country before she was born because of the war with Russia.
The family tried to seek asylum in various European countries until they came to the UK in 2013, gaining refugee status in 2019 after a six-year asylum process.
Asked to explain her understanding of the conflict in Chechnya which prompted her parents to leave, Timaeva said Russia invaded after the country “persisted” in its call for independence after the dissolution of the USSR.
She told jurors she felt “very strongly” about the conflicts in her homeland, explaining her father fought as a teenager and was tortured. She called the war an “ethnic genocide” which has left an “open wound” on her heart.
Ed Butler, defending, made reference to exchanges Timaeva had with a close friend in which they used the word “jihad”.
Asked what she was talking about when she used the word, the defendant said: “The context was the war back home.”
She explained the different meanings of jihad of which “fighting” only applied to one – physical jihad.
“Physical jihad is waged as defence,” the 20-year-old said, adding that if a land was invaded and Muslims were under threat then jihad by fighting would be “permissible”.
“I have an understanding of this jihad in the context of the country that I’m from, in the context of Russia’s invasion of our country,” she said.
“I believe the men who were fighting for our country were fighting jihad.”
She said she would not categorise 9/11, the 2015 Paris attacks or the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017 as jihad.
Timaeva denied being a supporter of the so-called Islamic State group and said she disagreed with attacks by the group.
She denied being a violent or aggressive person and said she had no plans to fight or die as a young person, or to encourage others to do so.
Mr Butler asked her: “Are you a terrorist?”
She said: “No.”
“How do you feel about the concept of going out and committing terrorist crimes and atrocities?” the barrister went on.
Timaeva replied: “I don’t believe it’s permissible.”
She said she does not plan to harm or kill people and does not encourage other people to do so.
Timaeva denies four counts of dissemination of terrorist publications including Little Muwahideen and possessing a video for terrorist purposes entitled Incite The Believers.
Source:sloughobserver.co.uk
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Plans for new Muslim burial ground with over 8,000 plots on Peterborough farmland
By Ben Jones
27th Nov 2024,
A total of 8496 spaces would be provided over three planned phases.
Plans for a large new burial ground to serve the Muslim community in Peterborough have been submitted.
The burial ground plans have been submitted by Sageer Mohammed and Zahid Akbar and concerns an 8.5-hectare plot of arable land on Old Peterborough Road, just outside the Sutton village boundary.
Plans state that the site would cater for a “much under-resourced need.”
According to the 2021 census, 12.2% of Peterborough’s population is Muslim and, at present, Eastfield Cemetery is the only facility which accommodates burials for the local Muslim community.
The application stats that there is between three and ten years of informal burial provision remaining for the local Muslim community at the cemetery and that “it is increasingly difficult and costly to make provisions for Muslim burials at Eastfield cemetery and therefore the proposed site will provide a service to the citizens of Peterborough without placing further strain on the public purse.”
The proposed development is envisaged across three phases; the first would provide 1620 burial spaces, the second 4610 and the third 2266, totalling 8496 when fully complete.
Plots at the new burial site would be freehold whereas in Eastfield Cemetery that are leased for 75 years. After that lease time expires, it is up to Peterborough City Council to decide the future of that grave and the remains contained within it.
The application states: “The limited lease period at Eastfield is contrary to religious beliefs as the lease period ends after 75 years this has and will continue to cause stress for bereaved families.
"The land at the proposed cemetery will be freehold and therefore will not have a lease period and therefore will be in accordance with cultural practices, as the graves will be available for purchase in perpetuity.
This will protect the proposed site from further development in the future and importantly will give the families of the bereaved peace of mind to know that their families’ burial plots will be preserved and suitably maintained into the long-term future."
The burial process would also be streamlined in accordance with Islamic practice of burying the deceased as soon as is practical.
The application states that the current process for the general population can be subject to delays that “cause much distress to the bereaved family.”
It adds: “A higher service level will be offered at the new cemetery, within the hours agreed with all relevant authorities, to be more flexible. Visitors will be able to visit the site for seven days a week.
“Currently if a Muslim dies on a Thursday and the body is not released to the funeral director until late Friday, there is limited provision over the weekend, and the family must endure the stress and upset of delays in burial across the weekend until the following week.
"At the proposed site, the booking and burial process will be streamlined to ensure where possible processes are expedited to ensure that burials will occur as quickly as possible after death (burials will typically take place on weekdays between 10am and 4pm.
The proposed site would also include access gates, CCTV a large 62-space car park as well as a single storey building with male and female prayer spaces, toilets and further space for burial rituals to be performed.
The burial site will plans will now be considered by Peterborough City Council and can be viewed on its planning portal using reference 24/01440/FUL.
Source:peterboroughtoday.co.uk
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https://www.peterboroughtoday.co.uk/news/politics/council/plans-for-new-muslim-burial-ground-with-over-8000-plots-on-peterborough-farmland-4884749
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Man who threatened to burn down mosque spared jail
26th November 2024
A 19-year-old man has been given a suspended prison sentence after threatening to burn down a mosque in an online video and shouting Islamophobic abuse from the top of a phone box.
Max Ritchings, of Haywards Heath in West Sussex, posted an Instagram story with a backdrop of news footage of unrest on 4 August, while swearing and making the threat.
Later that evening, he stood on a phone box near Brighton pier, shouting abuse.
At Lewes Crown Court earlier, Ritchings, who admitted inciting violence online and causing religiously aggravated harassment, was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment, suspended for two years.
He was also ordered to complete 300 hours of unpaid work in the community and 18 sessions of rehabilitation activity.
The court heard Ritchings recognised that he became “obsessed” with online personalities.
Sentencing him, Judge Christine Laing KC said: "It has to be viewed against the background of unrest... taking place [around] the country at that time and this was your contribution.
"One of those weighted numbers bringing fear to the streets of the United Kingdom at that time."
But the judge acknowledged that while he committed “very serious and troubling offences”, Ritchings showed self-reflection and was keen to understand his own mental health difficulties.
Source:bbc.com
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Trump vows tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China on day one
26th November
Peter Hoskins
Donald Trump says he will hit China, Mexico and Canada with new tariffs on day one of his presidency, in an effort to force them to crack down on illegal immigration and drug smuggling into the US.
The US president-elect said he would sign an executive order imposing a 25% tariff on all goods coming from Mexico and Canada, after being inaugurated on 20 January 2025.
He also said "we will be charging China an additional 10% tariff, above any additional tariffs" until it cracked down on fentanyl smuggling.
The threat could mark a major escalation in tensions with the US's three top trading partners. It could also lead to higher prices for Americans, since tariffs work as a form of tax on imports.
The US is the world's largest importer. China, Mexico and Canada account for about 40% of the $3.2tn (£2.6tn) of goods it imports each year, according to official data.
China has defended its efforts to stop the flow of illegal drugs, and has warned that there can be no winner in a trade war between the two.
After Trump made his tariff threat, he spoke to Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for about 10 minutes, discussing trade and border security, a Canadian government official told the BBC. They had a "good discussion", the source said.
During the call, Trudeau pointed out that the number of migrants crossing the Canadian border was much smaller compared to the US-Mexico border, the official said.
Mexico's finance ministry said: "Mexico is the United States' top trade partner, and the USMCA provides a framework of certainty for national and international investors."
The measures have the potential to cause disruptions to the global supply chain and would hit the three countries targeted by the tariffs hard.
The tariffs on Mexico and Canada will remain in place until the two countries clamp down on drugs, particularly fentanyl, and migrants illegally crossing the border, Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform.
"Both Mexico and Canada have the absolute right and power to easily solve this long simmering problem," he wrote. "It is time for them to pay a very big price!"
In a follow-up Truth Social post, Trump attacked Beijing for failing to follow through on promises that he said Chinese officials made to carry out the death penalty for people caught dealing fentanyl, a synthetic opioid.
A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Washington told the BBC "the idea of China knowingly allowing fentanyl precursors to flow into the United States runs completely counter to facts and reality".
"China believes that China-US economic and trade cooperation is mutually beneficial in nature. No one will win a trade war or a tariff war," he added.
The Biden administration has been calling on Beijing to do more to stop the production of ingredients used in fentanyl, which Washington estimates killed almost 75,000 Americans last year.
During his election campaign, Trump threatened Mexico and China with tariffs of up to 100%, if he deemed them necessary, much higher than those he put in place during his first term in office.
Trump has also said he will end China's most-favoured-nation trading status with the US - the most advantageous terms Washington offers on tariffs and other restrictions.
Last year, more than 80% of Mexico's exports went to the US, while around 75% of Canada's went to its southern neighbour.
Even after years of a bitter trade dispute between the world's two biggest economies, the US still accounts for about 15% of China's exports.
How do tariffs work?
A tariff is a domestic tax levied on goods as they enter the country, proportional to the value of the import. So a car imported to the US with a value of $50,000 subject to a 25% tariff, would face a $12,500 charge.
Tariffs are a central part of Trump's economic vision - he sees them as a way of growing the US economy, protecting jobs and raising tax revenue.
He has previously claimed that these taxes are "not going to be a cost to you, it’s a cost to another country".
This is almost universally regarded by economists as misleading.
The charge is physically paid by the domestic company that imports the goods, not the foreign company that exports them.
So, in that sense, it is a straightforward tax paid by domestic US firms to the US government.
Trump imposed a number of tariffs in his first term of office, many of which have been kept in place by his successor, President Joe Biden. Economic studies suggest most of the economic burden was ultimately borne by US consumers.
It was not immediately clear whether Trump's "additional 10% tariff, above any additional tariffs" earmarked for China were on top of the 25% he was planning for Canada and Mexico.
What is Trump's strategy?
The move is "clearly consistent with his promise that he made during the campaign to utilise tariffs as a weapon to accomplish many of his policy initiatives," Stephen Roach, Senior Fellow at the Paul Tsai China Center of Yale Law School, told the BBC's Business Today programme.
Trump's pick for Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, has previously suggested that the president-elect's threats to impose major tariff hikes were part of his negotiating strategy.
“My general view is that at the end of the day, he's a free trader," Bessent said of Trump in an interview with the Financial Times before he was nominated for the role.
“It’s escalate to de-escalate.”
It comes as the Chinese economy is in a significantly more vulnerable position than it was during the previous Trump presidency.
The country has been struggling with a number of serious issues, including an ongoing property market crisis, weak domestic demand and growing local government debt.
The new tariffs appear to break the terms of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) on trade.
The deal, which Trump signed into law, took effect in 2020. It continued a largely duty-free trading relationship between the three neighbouring countries.
Outside the official reaction from the three countries affected, the response has been critical.
Doug Ford, the premier of the Canadian province of Ontario, said Trump's planned tariff would be "devastating to workers and jobs in both Canada and the US".
Leader of the Mexican senate, Gerardo Fernández, asked: "What tariffs should we impose on their [America's] goods until they stop consuming drugs and illegally exporting weapons to our homeland?"
Source:bbc.com
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North America
Judge Rules U.S. Muslim Group Must Disclose Donors.
November 27, 2024
A U.S. magistrate judge has ordered the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) to disclose its financial records, which could reveal alleged foreign and terrorism-connected funding sources. This decision followed a defamation lawsuit that CAIR had initially filed against a former employee, Lori Saroya, but subsequently withdrew. Saroya then filed a counter-defamation suit against CAIR, leading to the recent court ruling by U.S. Magistrate Judge David Schultz.In the original suit, CAIR accused Saroya of suggesting through social media and emails that the organization received funding from terrorist entities. However, CAIR abandoned this legal action amidst concerns that discovery could require them to reveal donor identities. In her suit, Saroya claims CAIR’s motivations were to intimidate her from speaking out, and now the discovery process could require CAIR to provide detailed financial disclosures.
Judge Schultz notes, “The thrust of CAIR’s allegations against Saroya in the 2021 complaint is that Saroya falsely implied CAIR received funding from foreign governments and terrorists when she stated CAIR accepted ‘international funding through their Washington Trust Foundation.’”The judge acknowledges, “CAIR points to no public admission that it received funding from terrorists or that it received funding through the Washington Trust Foundation. ” However, the judge contends, “discovery into these matters is proportionate to the needs of the case.” Schultz concludes, “CAIR has not shown that the burden or expense of the proposed discovery outweighs its likely benefit or that it unwarrantedly taxes its resources.”Jeffrey Robbins, Saroya’s legal counsel, described the ruling as a significant legal reversal for CAIR. The organization must present evidence regarding its fundraising practices, including any foreign funds, the management of donor money, and its treatment of employees related to harassment claims.The National Pulse previously reported the Biden-Harris government was forced to distance itself from CAIR after its executive director, Nihad Awad, defended Hamas’s October 7 terrorist attacks against Israel. Awad wrote in social media posts following the deadly attacks that Palestinians have a “right to self-defense,” insinuating the acts of terrorism were justified. Additionally, Awad asserted that Israel is an “occupying power” and does not enjoy a similar right.
Source:thenationalpulse.com
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'No-one will win' - Canada, Mexico and China respond to Trump tariff threats
27 Nov, 2024
Officials from Canada, Mexico and China have warned US President-elect Donald Trump's pledge to impose sweeping tariffs on America's three largest trading partners could upend the economies of all four countries.
"To one tariff will follow another in response and so on, until we put our common businesses at risk," Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum said.
Trump vowed on Monday night to introduce 25% tariffs on goods coming from Mexico and Canada and an additional 10% on goods coming from China. He said the duties were a bid to clamp down on drugs and illegal immigration.
Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he spoke to Trump in the hours after the announcement and planned to hold a meeting with Canada's provincial leaders on Wednesday to discuss a response.
A spokesman for China's embassy in Washington DC told the BBC: "No-one will win a trade war or a tariff war.”
The international pushback came a day after Trump announced his plans for his first day in office, on 20 January, in a post on his social media website, Truth Social.
Trudeau said his country was prepared to work with the US in "constructive ways".
"This is a relationship that we know takes a certain amount of working on, and that's what we'll do," Trudeau told reporters.
In a phone call with Trump, Trudeau said the pair discussed trade and border security, with the prime minister pointing out that the number of migrants crossing the Canadian border was much smaller compared with the US-Mexico border.
Trump's team declined to confirm the phone call.
But Trump spokesman Steven Cheung added that world leaders had sought to "develop stronger relationships" with Trump "because he represents global peace and stability".
Mexico's President Sheinbaum told reporters on Tuesday that neither threats nor tariffs would solve the "migration phenomenon" or drug consumption in the US.
Reading from a letter that she said she would send to Trump, Sheinbaum also warned that Mexico would retaliate by imposing its own taxes on US imports, which would "put common enterprises at risk".
She said Mexico had taken steps to tackle illegal migration into the US and that “caravans of migrants no longer reach the border”.
The issue of drugs, she added, “is a problem of public health and consumption in your country’s society”.
Sheinbaum, who took office last month, noted that US car manufacturers produce some of their parts in Mexico and Canada.
"If tariffs go up, who will it hurt? General Motors,” she said.
Meanwhile, a spokesman for China's embassy in Washington, Liu Pengyu, told the BBC that "China-US economic and trade co-operation is mutually beneficial in nature".
He denied that China allows chemicals used in the manufacture of illegal drugs - including fentanyl - to be smuggled to the US.
"China has responded to US request for verifying clues on certain cases and taken action," Liu said.
"All these prove that the idea of China knowingly allowing fentanyl precursors to flow into the United States runs completely counter to facts and reality."
President Joe Biden has left in place the tariffs on China that Trump introduced in his first term, and added a few more of his own.
Currently, a majority of what the two countries sell to each other is subject to tariffs - 66.4% of US imports from China and 58.3% of Chinese imports from the US.
Speaking in the House of Commons in Ottawa, Trudeau told lawmakers that "the idea of going to war with the United States isn’t what anyone wants".
He called on them to not "panic", and to work together.
"That is the work we will do seriously, methodically. But without freaking out,” he said.
The leaders of Canadian provinces suggested that they would impose their own tariffs on the US.
"The things we sell to the United States are the things they really need," Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland said on Tuesday. "We sell them oil, we sell them electricity, we sell them critical minerals and metals."
America's northern neighbour accounted for some $437bn (£347bn) of US imports in 2022, and was the largest market for US exports in the same year, according to US data.
Canada sends about 75% of its total exports to the US.
Doug Ford, the premier of Ontario, Canada's most populous province, said on Monday the proposed tariff would be "devastating to workers and jobs in both Canada and the US".
“To compare us to Mexico is the most insulting thing I’ve ever heard,” said Ford.
Ford was echoed by the premiers of Quebec, Saskatchewan and British Columbia, while a post on the X account of Alberta Premier Danielle Smith acknowledged that Trump had "valid concerns related to illegal activities at our shared border".
The Canadian dollar, the Loonie, has plunged in value since Trump vowed to impose tariffs on Canadian imports come January.
The Canadian dollar dipped below 71 US cents, the lowest level the Loonie has fallen to since May 2020, when Trump threatened to impose tariffs on Canadian goods during his first stint as US president. The Mexican peso fell to its lowest value this year, around 4.8 cents.
Source:bbc.com
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Judge rejects effort to stop transgender college volleyball player competing
27 Nov, 2024
A transgender athlete on the San Jose State University women's volleyball team can continue to compete, a US judge has ruled, denying a request made by other players to keep her off the court.
Monday's ruling by US District Judge S Kato Crews will allow the athlete, who has played all season, to compete in the Mountain West Conference (MWC) women's championship, which is scheduled to start on Wednesday in Las Vegas.
Players for the MWC, including the current co-captain of San Jose State, filed an emergency lawsuit against the league to prevent the athlete from competing.
The case comes amid an intense debate over transgender women's participation in sport.
San Jose State University has not confirmed whether its women's volleyball team includes a transgender player, citing privacy laws. It has not, however, disputed that there is a transgender person on its team, according to Judge Crews' ruling.
The dozen plaintiffs, a group that includes a San Jose co-captain, associate head coach and several other past and present college volleyball players, had requested a last-minute injunction to stop the athlete from competing.
In their 132-page complaint, the plaintiffs argued that the presence of a transgender athlete in the league effectively discriminates against women, by denying them equal opportunities and threatening their safety.
"Men competing on women's teams is incompatible with equal opportunities for women," the lawsuit states, citing Title IX, the federal law barring discrimination in education based on sex. The plaintiffs argue that it prohibits transgender women from participating in women's sports.
But lawyers for the defendants noted a 2020 Supreme Court ruling that found that federal legislation which banned sex discrimination in the workplace covered sexual orientation and gender identity.
In his ruling, Judge Crews cited that decision, saying the equal protections afforded by Title IX apply to transgender athletes.
Judge Crews, a Joe Biden appointee, also said the plaintiffs had hurt their chances by submitting their case only days before the competition. Prohibiting the player from participating in a tournament days before its start "would risk confusion and upend months of planning", he said.
"On balance, the equities favour the MWC's interest in conducting and proceeding with the tournament as planned", he said.
In a statement released on Monday, San Jose State welcomed the ruling, saying it would continue to "reject discrimination in all forms".
"All San Jose State University student-athletes are eligible to participate in their sports under NCAA [National Collegiate Athletics Association] and Mountain West Conference rules."
The judge's ruling was upheld by a federal appeals court on Tuesday.
Last month, four teams forfeited games against San Jose in apparent protest of the transgender athlete. Players for one of those teams, the University of Nevada Reno, said in a statement they would not be playing "in any match that advances injustice against female athletes".
This is the player's fourth season playing college-level volleyball - including two for San Jose State - though her participation in previous years did not make headlines. All four of the teams that cancelled games this year have played against the transgender player in previous years, according to a New York Times' review of past records.
The NCAA's rules on transgender athletes vary by sport, and depend on each sport's governing body.
USA Volleyball says transgender women must take "the necessary steps to transition to their adopted gender", and submit testosterone levels before competing. For trans women, testosterone levels "must not exceed the upper limit of the normal female reference range for their age group".
Source:bbc.com
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Are 300,000 migrant children missing in the US?
27 Nov, 2024
Donald Trump's incoming border tsar, Tom Homan, has said that the US government "can't find" more than 300,000 migrant children - and that many have been lured into forced labour and sex trafficking.
President-Elect Donald Trump and his political allies, including Vice-President-Elect JD Vance, have repeatedly made similar claims.
Some experts have accused them of distorting statistics to suggest the children are "lost" and victims of crime, although there is agreement that aspects of the system need to be changed.
The incoming administration has made immigration enforcement a priority, promising to clamp down on the US-Mexico border and conduct mass deportations of undocumented immigrants.
Let's take a look at the claims of missing migrant children.
What are the Trump team's claims?
In an interview with Fox News on 26 November - just before a visit to the US-Mexico border in Texas - Homan accused the Biden administration of "bragging" about how quickly children are released from custody, as well as "not properly vetting" adult sponsors in the US.
"Shame on them," he said of the Biden administration. "They have over 300,000 children that they have released [to] unvetted sponsors that they can't find."
"Many are going to be in forced labour. Many forced sex trade," Homan added. "We need to save these children."
In his October debate against Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, JD Vance also said that the Department of Homeland Security "effectively lost" a total of 320,000 migrant children.
Concerns over the plight of migrant children were also starkly highlighted earlier this week when authorities in Texas shared an image of a two-year-old girl from El Salvador found at the border clutching a piece of paper with a phone number.
“Putting optics over safety has led to countless children in danger or unaccounted for," Tennessee Republican representative Mark Green told the New York Post.
"This refusal to protect vulnerable alien children from abuse, exploitation, and human trafficking will be one of the defining failures of the Biden-Harris administration.”
Are the children actually missing?
According to immigration experts and attorneys, the claims largely stem from an August report from the Department of Homeland Security's inspector general's office, which found that 32,000 unaccompanied minors failed to show up for court dates at immigration courts from 2019-23.
The report noted that 291,000 migrant children received no court notices at all. It also called on the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Ice) to "take immediate action to ensure the safety" of unaccompanied migrant children in the US.
Migrant children "who do not appear for court are considered at higher risk for trafficking, exploitation, or forced labor", the inspector general's office reported.
But Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, policy director at the American Immigration Council, a migrant advocacy group, told the BBC the figures are indicative of a bureaucratic "paperwork issue" rather than "anything nefarious".
"When you hear the phrase 'missing', you think that there is a child that someone is trying to find and can't," he said.
"That's not the case here. The government has not made any effort to find these children."
Many of the children, experts say, may well be at the addresses that are on file with the government, but were simply unable to make their court dates.
"That doesn't mean something bad happened to them," Mr Reichlin-Melnick said. "It means you missed a court hearing."
Mr Reichlin-Melnick added that there are "valid concerns" about exploitation.
"We cannot, however, suggest that all 320,000 of those children are being labour trafficked," he said.
Eric Ruark, an immigration researcher with NumbersUSA - which calls for tighter border controls - said that the children are difficult to track "because of some combination of apathy, incompetence and bureaucratic inefficiency".
"Many, hopefully even most, are safe with caring sponsors," he added. "But the Biden administration can't actually say one way or the other, and apparently doesn't care enough to find out."
What happens to children at the border?
Unaccompanied minors detained at the US-Mexico border go through a complicated process that begins with detention and processing by Customs and Border Patrol, or CBP.
If the child is from a foreign country that is not Mexico or Canada, they are placed into removal proceedings and transferred to the US Department of Health and Human Services, or HHS.
HHS, through its Office of Refugee Resettlement office, cares for the children in a network of state-licensed providers.
The office also seeks to reunify children with family members in the US or with individual or organisational sponsors - who in turn are obligated to ensure they arrive at immigration court dates.
What can the Trump administration do?
Homan and other Trump administration officials have so far not provided many details about how they plan to address the issues that plague the detention of undocumented minors.
Several immigration attorneys contacted by the BBC suggested that the administration is likely to make becoming a "sponsor" for undocumented children much more difficult, even if the sponsor is a member of their family.
In practice, this would mean that more undocumented children are kept in detention.
"They could do what the Obama administration did, and detain them," said Alexander Cuic, an immigration attorney and professor at Case Western Reserve University.
The controversial "Remain in Mexico" programme could also be applied to children, forcing them to wait across the border for the outcome of immigration proceedings.
"I'm not sure even they know what they're going to do with the kids," Mr Cuic said of the Trump administration. "But there's a border problem they're trying to figure out first, and that's the first concern before whether they're going to be harsh to both children and adults."
When the BBC asked the Trump transition team what plan they have for the undocumented migrant children, spokesman Taylor Rogers said only that "Democrats' wide-open border policies" have led to the children going "missing".
"President Trump and leaders in his administration will deliver on their promise to end the invasion at our southern border that puts innocent children in harm's way," she added.
Source:bbc.com
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Southeast Asia
Male Muslims in Johor must halt business during Friday prayers, says exco
27 Nov 2024
ISKANDAR PUTERI, Nov 27 — Male Muslim business owners, employees and customers in Johor are required to temporarily halt activities at business premises, including restaurant operations, during Friday prayer time.
Johor Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Mohd Fared Mohd Khalid said this measure is to ensure all Muslim men fulfil their obligation to perform the Friday prayers.
“Those required to stop business activities are male Muslims; they must not engage in trading, work or continue dining during prayer time. However, exemptions are given to non-Muslims and Muslim women.
“The Johor Islamic Religious Department (JAINJ) will carry out enforcement to ensure all Muslim men in Johor attend Friday prayers,” he told newsmen on the sidelines of the state assembly sitting yesterday.
MenteriBesar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, while presenting the Johor Budget 2025 on Thursday, announced that the state government would extend the Friday lunch break for public and private sectors to two hours starting Jan 1, compared to the current one hour and 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, regarding the adjustment to the weekend rest days, which will shift to Saturday and Sunday starting Jan 1, Mohd Fared said the state government is open to feedback from parents about school uniforms for religious classes on Fridays.
“There may be parents who find it inconvenient to switch to religious school uniforms on Fridays and would prefer their children to wear the same attire as their national school uniform.
“For me, that’s not an issue. We are open to suggestions. What’s more important is that students attend school and perform Friday prayers,” he said. — Bernama
Source:malaymail.com
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Only 70 permitted to witness first public caning at Terengganu mosque
Nov 27, 2024
After Friday prayers on Dec 6, MohdAffendiAwang will become the first person in Malaysia to undergo public caning at the Al-MuktafiBillah Shah Mosque in Kuala Terengganu.
The Terengganu Syariah High Court handed the 42-year-old widower the sentence for committing the offence of khalwat (close proximity with the opposite gender) for a third time.
Malaysiakini learned that a meeting to...
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Najib and IrwanSerigar granted DNAA in RM6.6b IPIC CBT case after trial stalled since 2018
By Kenneth Tee
27 Nov 2024
KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 27 — Former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak and former Treasury secretary-general Tan Sri MohdIrwanSerigar Abdullah were today granted discharge not amounting to acquittal (DNAA) from all six charges in a trial involving RM6.6 billion of government funds.
High Court judge Datuk Muhammad Jamil Hussin granted the order by way of the inherent powers of the court after lawyers representing both the accused wrote in their formal applications seeking a DNAA for their client.
“These are my brief grounds. First, the prosecution failed to abide by Section 51A of the Criminal Procedure Code (CPC).
”Second, the DNAA does not prejudice the prosecution as they can recharge the accused.
”Third, this case was registered in 2018 but the trial cannot proceed even when trial dates have been set many times. This is an inordinate delay,” he ruled.
Section 51A of the CPC requires the prosecution to provide the accused with certain documents before the commencement of a trial.
A DNAA would allow the prosecution to charge the accused with the same charges in the future, as opposed to an acquittal where the prosecution cannot bring the accused back to the court to be charged with the same charges.
In other words, both men do not walk scot-free as the DNAA simply means that they can be charged again on similar grounds at a later date.
Earlier, the court heard submissions from counsels on whether he could use his inherent powers to give the DNAA as the application was made by the defence, not the prosecution.
Under Section 254 of the CPC, the prosecution can apply for a DNAA but the final decision rests with the court.
Deputy prosecution head II Muhammad Saifuddin Hashim Musaimi conceded that the judge could invoke his inherent powers to grant the DNAA order and that it was up to the court’s discretion.
In July, both Najib and MohdIrwanSerigar made separate requests to the court seeking for a DNAA due to the prosecution’s delay in handing over hundreds of documents to the defence to mount its case against the charges.
Earlier this week, defence lawyers had also argued that the criminal’s charges have been hanging over their client’s head for the last six years, with proceedings having been postponed three times this year to afford time for the prosecution to get the documents in order, some of which are classified.
According to the defence, the hundreds of documents involved correspondence between ministries, Cabinet and government agencies.
Today’s hearing was their third attempt. The first DNAA application was made in March 2022.
Lawyers Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah and Datuk K. Kumaraendran appeared for Najib and MohdIrwanSerigar respectively.
In October 2018, Najib and IrwanSerigar pled not guilty to six charges of CBT amounting to RM6.6 billion in government funds, involving payments to International Petroleum Investment Company (IPIC) that were also said to be linked to 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).
They were charged under Section 409 of the Penal Code read together with Section 34 of the same code which provides for a maximum of 20 years in jail and whipping as well as fine upon conviction.
Source:malaymail.com
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Defence Ministry expels five UPNM cadet officers for bullying, dismisses them from army, and orders compensation
By Malay Mail
27 Nov 2024
KUALA LUMPUR, 27 Nov — Five cadet officers at the National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM) have been expelled from the Military Training Academy (ALK) and dismissed from the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) following their involvement in bullying incidents.
The Ministry of Defence confirmed in a statement today that the officers will also be required to repay the government for the expenses incurred during their time at the university.
Defence Minister Khaled Nordin stated that the decision was made during the Malaysian Armed Forces Council meeting yesterday, emphasising that the measures are separate from any further actions that may be taken by UPNM or the Attorney General’s Chambers.
The first case involved Amirul Iskandar Ahmad Norhanizan, who was found to have burned a fellow cadet with a hot iron. Amirul Iskandar’s appointment has been revoked, and he will be required to pay RM44,600.20 in compensation to the government.
The second case, which came to light after a report from a UPNM lecturer, involved three cadets — Izzat Izuddin Mohammad Arif, Muhammad Hidayat HaqimiMohdYuslan, and Ku Muhammad Irfan Ku Zaimi — who violated ALK’s regulations by inflicting physical and emotional abuse on a fellow cadet officer. They have been ordered to pay compensation of RM48,452.75, RM19,481.70, and RM44,600.20, respectively.
The final case involved Ammar Hafiy Muhammad Habib, who caused soft tissue injuries to a fellow cadet’s lower back. He is required to pay RM32,115.95 in compensation.
Khaled Nordin reiterated that the Ministry of Defence has a zero-tolerance stance towards any form of abuse within military institutions.
“The Ministry is committed to strengthening preventive measures to avoid such incidents in the future,” he said, adding that the ministry will continue to take firm and immediate action against anyone found violating military ethics and regulations.
Source:malaymail.com
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Rule of law must prevail over tourism interests in signboard language debate, says Sarawak’s tourism minister
27 Nov 2024
KUCHING, Nov 27 — The rule of law must take precedence over tourism interests in determining the languages used on signboards across Malaysia, said Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
The Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak said in the state, it would be acceptable for Malay and English to be utilised as languages for signboards, as the two are the official languages of the state.
“Not a problem for dual languages to be used in signboards in Sarawak — big letters in Malay on top with the English translations underneath.
“It would be good to have dual language signage; we only utilise the official languages of the state,” he told a press conference conducted at his office here yesterday.
When speaking on Kuala Lumpur City Hall’s (DBKL) recent enforcement actions on business signboards in KL, ensuring that all business signboards must be in Malay, Abdul Karim said the usage of languages depends on the respective city’s by-laws, and that its residents must abide by such Acts.
“I think it will not significantly impact travellers, but rather be a minor inconvenience,” he said.
Meanwhile, in a Malay Mail report published last Sunday, federal Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing criticised DBKL’s enforcement against Chinese-language signboards, remarking ‘it can tarnish Malaysia’s image as a diverse and multi-cultural nation’.
Tiong, who is Bintulu MP and Dudong assemblyman, was quoted to have said the controversial move had created a negative perception among some international tourists.
Nevertheless, Abdul Karim opined that the argument of dual languages on road and business signboards is not the main consideration of tourists visiting Malaysia.
“There is no need to go overboard just because we want to attract tourists from India; we must use Tamil on the signboards. That should not be an issue as we just have to follow the state’s by-laws.
“This matter should not be made into an issue, escalating from a trivial matter to raising major concerns.”
Since last month, DBKL has issued enforcement notices on premises in the capital for failing to display signboards in Malay, citing the Small Advertising Act (FT) 1982. — The Borneo Post
Source:malaymail.com
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/law-ban-muslims-karnataka-waqf-protests/d/133839