Advice Ahead Of The Maha Kumbh: RSS Chief Cautions Against Raking Up Temple-Mosque Disputes In UP
New Age Islam News Bureau
29 December 2024
RSS Chief, Mohan Bhagwat
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• Advice Ahead Of The Maha Kumbh: RSS Chief Cautions Against Raking Up Temple-Mosque Disputes In UP
• Perlis Mufti: Public Caning For Khalwat (Close Proximity) Not Stipulated In Islamic Law
• Pakistan Army Plans To Return To Bangladesh For The First Time Since 1971
• Jerusalem Sirens In The Dead Sea Area From Houthi Missile Raise Iran's Morale
• Russia Advances Efforts to Delist Islamic Emirate from Prohibited Entities
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India
• Experts See Temple-Mosque Disputes Ahead Of 2027 UP Polls As Effort To Polarise Voters
• For The Fundamentalist, Secular Is Dirtiest Of Dirty Words: Rushdie On The Satanic Verses Fatwa
• Hindu, Muslim Religious Leaders In Bengal Call For End To Atrocities In Bangladesh
• Sukanta Majumdar Slams Mamata Banerjee Over 'Muslim Majority Bid By TMC'
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Southeast Asia
• Halal Certification In Kelantan Not Required For Non-Muslim-Only Premises, Says State Exco
• Saifuddin: Hadi selectively using Islam to defend SitiMastura
• PAS vows legal action over Christmas remarks, demands accountability from NgaKor Ming for ‘spreading falsehoods’
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Pakistan
• As Many As 365 People, Including Security Personnel, Have Been Martyred And Several Injured In Terrorist Attacks In Quetta
• Soldier martyred in wanton firing by Afghan forces
• Imran not seeking talks for sake of relief, says PTI
• FIA arrests 3 suspected human traffickers in raids
• KP chief minister okays more members for MTI boards
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Mideast
• Suicide Bomber Kills Police Officer, Wounds Another In Southern Iran, Home To A Large Sunni Muslim Community
• Unravelling the geopolitical game playing out in Syria
• Efforts to free reporter held in Iran 'complicated,' says Italy
• Kamal Adwan Detainees Beaten, Humiliated By Israeli Army
• Israel detains director of one of Gaza's last functioning hospitals
• Starvation, sexual abuse, and children beaten: Report exposes conditions of Hamas captivity
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Europe
• Germany To Open Its First Anti-Muslim Racism Reporting Center Next Spring
• Reform UK leader Urges Kemi Badenoch To Apologise Or Face "Action" After She Accused Reform UK Of "Fakery"
• US, UK carry out airstrikes in Yemen's Hajjah province, says Houthi group
• Azerbaijan airlines crash: UK calls for complete, independent probe
• Farage says Musk will help Reform win youth vote ‘because he’s cool and wears a bomber jacket’
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South Asia
• Taliban Regime Targets Pakistani Hideouts In Response To Deadly Strikes That Killed 46 In Afghanistan
• WFP announces support for Saffron farmers in Afghanistan
• Border clashes between Taliban and Pakistani forces leave casualties
• Bangladesh imposes new restrictions to limit journalists' access to government
• India shows no willingness to extradite Sheikh Hasina to Bangladesh
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Arab World
• Riyadh’s Souq Al-Awaleen Featuring Handicrafts, Folk Art Celebrates Saudi Traditions
• Islamic Movement In Kurdistan Reopens Office In Damascus To Address Rojava Issues
• Egypt strongly condemns storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque by Israeli National Security Minister
• Border guards thwart drug smuggling attempts
• Hail governor inaugurates Middle East’s largest salmon production centre
• Saudi armed forces chief of staff meets Turkish defence minister in Ankara
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Africa
• Popular Yoruba Traditional Ruler Backs Sharia Law In Southwest Amid Public Outcry
• “Rivers is not a private estate” – Odili commends Fubara for resisting Wike’s dominance
• NNPC employments, appointments not influenced by ethnicity, religion –Soneye, spokesman
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North America
• 'This Is Trump’s America Now!': Colorado Man Arrested For Assaulting TV Reporter Over US Citizenship
• Trump supporters divided after Elon Musk, tech allies back foreign tech workers over Americans
• Trump's Bitcoin policies depend on US economic standing — Ki Young Ju
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/maha-kumbh-rss-chief-temple-mosque/d/134178
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Advice Ahead Of The Maha Kumbh: RSS Chief Cautions Against Raking Up Temple-Mosque Disputes In UP
RSS Chief, Mohan Bhagwat
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Dec 29, 2024
Advice ahead of the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, where the Akhil Bhartiya Akhada Parishad is likely to take a position on issues, which may include the growing claims of Hindus on temples Muslim rulers allegedly demolished to build mosque
Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has raised hackles with his advice against raking up temple-mosque disputes, especially in Uttar Pradesh. The advice ahead of the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, where the Akhil Bhartiya Akhada Parishad, the highest body of 13 Akhadas (Hindu monastic organisations), is likely to take a position on issues, which may include the growing claims of Hindus on temples Muslim rulers allegedly demolished to build mosques.
The RSS chief’s statement came against the backdrop of violence in Sambhal over the survey of the Shahi Masjid that emperor Babur said to have been built in 1529 after demolishing a temple. The Akhada Parishad may take a divergent view.
On December 19, Bhagwat said the Ram Temple in Ayodhya was built to respect the sentiments of the Hindus but to use it to become a “Hindu leader” was unacceptable.
Several Parishad members have appreciated chief minister Yogi Adityanath, and he may once again muster their support for his ongoing campaign to restore historical temples.
Swami Jitendranand Saraswati criticised the RSS chief’s remarks, saying despite Bhagwat’s similar comments in the past, temple structures have been identified at 56 sites, signalling sustained interest in the contentious issues. He emphasised that religious organisations often align their actions with public sentiment rather than political agendas.
The RSS is not pushing for Kashi and Mathura temples. It neither controls nor spearheads the movement for it. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad, an ancillary body of the RSS, had demanded the liberation of Ayodhya, Mathura, and Kashi temples. It sought the Akhada Parishad’s support for the Ayodhya temple.
Earlier, Bhagwat advised Hindus against looking for Shivlinga under every mosque and creating social disharmony. There have been few takers for his advice even in the Sangh’s associated organisations amid heightened Hindu assertiveness.
The has also been a fresh campaign to find abandoned and deserted temples in Muslim areas in places such as Muzaffarnagar, Meerut, and Kanpur which have a history of communal riots.
The demographic profile of districts in western Uttar Pradesh changed after communal clashes from 1987 to 2013. In Kanpur, Muslim families started moving from the Hindu-dominated Mall Road, Kamla Towers, Ludhera, Dalelpurva, etc since the 1931 riots.
Kanpur mayor Premlata Pandey recently inspected Muslim areas, reopening temples, and ordering their renovation. Some of these deserted temples were encroached upon.
Pandey vowed to revive temples. She claimed there were 125 ancient temples in Muslim areas, including Bekanganj, earlier known as Sunar Wali Gali. She ordered the removal of encroachments and warned of “bulldozer action” if Muslim residents created any obstruction. Small and big temples are being cleaned and whitewashed so that daily worship can resume.
Sudhir Dwivedi, vice president of Sanatan Math Mandir Raksha Samiti, is restoring temples with the help of the local community. The focus remains on Raja Yayati Fort said to be centuries old at Jajmau in Kanpur. ASI declared it a protected heritage site after it was discovered in 1968 during the construction of a bridge.
In Muzaffarnagar, Hindus and Muslims relocated in the 1990s and this continued until after the 2013 riots. Large-scale migrations to safer zones in western Uttar Pradesh led to a change in demographics.
A Hindu, who moved from Muslim-dominated Mehmoodnagar, told HT the situation worsened after homes were attacked during the 1990 riots. “I sold my house for a song and moved out after living there for 26 years. Two Hindu lanes sandwiched between Muslim settlements in a locality have virtually disappeared.”
Muslims have been leaving Kakra village 20 km away. The mosque here is abandoned and Gayoor, the last of the Muslim inhabitants, is preparing to leave.
“Migration of Muslims from urban areas began after the 1987 riots. [Farmer leader] Mahendra Singh Tikait tried to regain the confidence of Muslims but Arya Samaj threw a spanner while the Sangh Parivar’s temple movement put up a barrier,” Allahabad-based professor A Satyanarayana said.
The ghettos that developed after every communal riot in these cities hampered interactions between the two communities that could have addressed conflicts and averted violence. People abandoned temples and mosques.
In Kanpur, two mosques in Kamla Nagar have not been functional for decades. There are examples of Muslims manning deserted temples and the Hindus deserted mosques.
Every year, people belonging to all castes and communities used to assemble at Lucknow’s Cathedral Church. But this year while worshippers silently celebrated Christmas at the church, a few metres away near a temple, people assembled and did loud bhajan-kirtan.
Source: Www.Hindustantimes.Com
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Perlis Mufti: Public Caning For Khalwat (Close Proximity) Not Stipulated In Islamic Law
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Dec 28, 2024
Islamic law does not make specific stipulations that khalwat (close proximity) must be punished with public caning, said Perlis mufti MohdAsri Zainul Abidin.
He said such punishment may even clash with Islamic law's determination to cover an individual's shame.
"So, caning in public over khalwat is not...
Source: Www.Malaysiakini.Com
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https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/730089
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Pakistan Army Plans To Return To Bangladesh For The First Time Since 1971
By Dipanjan Roy Chaudhury
Dec 29, 2024
New Delhi: In what may send alarm bells ringing in the Indian establishment Pakistan Army for the first time since 1971 has reached an agreement with Bangladesh to train its Army beginning February 2025.
The training will be conducted in four cantonments of Bangladesh Army beginning with Mymensingh cantonment in February, ET has reliably learnt. Mymensingh houses training and doctrine command headquarters of the Bangladesh Army. Sources alleged that Maj Gen rank officers from Pakistan may train Bangladesh Army officers.
The agreement for cooperation between Armies of Pakistan and Bangladesh was reached in the backdrop of the Yunus regime's effort to improve ties with Islamabad. The first training module guided by the Pakistan Army could last for a year. The proposal to Bangladesh was offered by Pakistan Army's Joint Chief of Staff Committee chairman Gen S Samshad Mirza.
This has raised apprehensions of indoctrination of Bangladesh Army with anti-India ideology that was diluted over the years following the induction of officers born in Bangladesh and under the Awami League rule.
Pakistan trained officers continued to hold leadership positions in the Bangladesh Army for the first two decades after the country's independence. The list included Gen Ziaur Rahman and Lt Gen HM Ershad both of whom went on to become Presidents. That exercise ensured anti-India doctrine being advocated by the Bangladesh Army till it got diluted.
The leadership of the Bangladesh Army “perceived” to be close to Awami League and Sheikh Hasina are being targeted by the current regime with cases being filed against them.
Meanwhile, explosives have reportedly reached Bangladesh from Pakistan through that second ship that entered Chittagong Port last Friday. The containers containing explosives were unearthed when local authorities launched a search -operation on the cargo of the ship. Port authorities are now ascertaining the motive of the cargo containing explosives.
Source: Economictimes.Com
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Jerusalem Sirens In The Dead Sea Area From Houthi Missile Raise Iran's Morale
(Photo credit: ABDALLAH ADEL/AFP via Getty Images)
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By Seth J. Frantzman
DECEMBER 28, 2024
The IDF intercepted a Houthi missile threat overnight on Friday, which set off sirens in the Dead Sea area, the southern West Bank, and Jerusalem, appearing to indicate that the Houthis are attempting to target a new portion of Israeli territory.
What matters is that the Houthis are not deterred despite recent IDF airstrikes. They appear ready to continue to attack Israel almost every night. They usually fire one missile at a time, meaning they would need to have a stockpile of dozens or hundreds of these missiles to keep this volume up for the next months.
Meanwhile the head of the Iranian Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Major General Hossein Salami praised the Houth “resistance and their support for Palestine,” saying that they will eventually emerge victorious, Iranian state media said. “The Yemenis [Houthis] will continue their resistance, as they have so far resisted with dignity, and they will ultimately win,” Salami said in an interview with the Houthis Al-Masirah TV Network on Saturday.
The IRGC leader claimed that Iran’s “resistance” axis has not been weakened. He is referring to Hezbollah and the fall of Assad. He is thus putting on a brave face as Iran invests in the Houthis as a kind of “last man standing” in the Iranian map of proxies in the region. Iran wants the Houthis to continue their attacks to keep pressure on Israel.
“He also hailed the Yemenis for their weekly rallies, which they have been holding on Fridays in support of the Palestinians in Gaza since the Israeli regime unleashed its war there in early October last year,” IRNA wrote. Iran is watching the Houthi attacks closely and hopes that they can keep them up for the next months. Iran knows that a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, that caused Hezbollah to stop its attacks, could end in the next weeks. Iran is watching closely what happens next.
Source: Www.Jpost.Com
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https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-835169
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Russia Advances Efforts to Delist Islamic Emirate from Prohibited Entities
Russian President Vladimir Putin
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2024-12-29
KABUL (BNA): Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law allowing Russian judicial and legal institutions to remove the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan from the country’s list of prohibited entities.
According to Interfax news agency, Leonid Slutsky, Chairman of the State Duma’s International Affairs Committee and leader of the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia, previously stated that this legislation was introduced to ensure the legal framework for Russia’s interaction with the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.
Russia has gradually developed relations with the Islamic Emirate, which President Putin referred to as Moscow’s ally in combating terrorism during July. The Russian State Duma approved the draft law on December 10, and it was passed by the Russian Parliament on December 17.
The draft law was introduced by several Russian Duma members on November 25, just one day after Sergei Shoigu, Russia’s National Security Council Secretary, visited Kabul. The law paves the way for removing the Islamic Emirate from Russia’s prohibited list.
Meanwhile, China has also accepted the Islamic Emirate’s ambassador and is pursuing further engagements. Worth noting that, the number of countries adopting an approach of engagement with the Islamic Emirate continues to grow, with dozens of nations and credible international organizations now establishing relations and interactions with the Islamic Emirate.
Source: Bakhtarnews.Af
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India
Experts see temple-mosque disputes ahead of 2027 UP polls as effort to polarise voters
Dec 29, 2024
Although the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls are due only in 2027, political experts suggest that the increasing number of temple-mosque disputes in the state and the resultant polarisation have started to set the political narrative.
Analysts point to the recent bypolls in the state where slogans like "Batenge to Katenge" (divided we perish) played a key role in ensuring Hindu unity. And it is in this backdrop that the experts feel that the intensifying temple-mosque polarisation pitch has its own implications.
"During the bypolls, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's 'Batenge to Katenge' slogan was seen as a response to the Samajwadi Party's (SP) attempt to create caste-based mobilisation using the PDA (Backwards, Dalits, Minorities) move. The outcome (of the bypolls) was clearly in favour of the BJP," political analyst Rajeev Ranjan told PTI.
Of the nine Assembly seats that went to bypolls in Uttar Pradesh, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won seven, while the main opposition SP secured the two remaining seats.
Source: Economic Times
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For The Fundamentalist, Secular Is Dirtiest Of Dirty Words: Rushdie On The Satanic Verses Fatwa
29 December, 2024
To stand in this house is to be reminded of what is most beautiful about religious faith: its ability to give solace and to inspire, its aspiration to these great and lovely heights, in which strength and delicacy are so perfectly conjoined. In addition, to be asked to speak here on this day, the fourth anniversary of the notorious fatwa of the late Imam Khomeini, is a particular honour.
When I was an undergraduate at this college, between 1965 and 1968, the years of flower-power and student power, I would have found the notion of delivering an address in King’s Chapel pretty far-out, as we used to say; and yet, such are the journeys of one’s life that here I stand.
I am grateful to the Chapel and the college for extending this invitation, which I take as a gesture of solidarity and support, support not merely for one individual but, much more importantly, for the high moral principles of human rights and human freedoms that the Khomeini edict seeks so brutally to attack. For just as King’s Chapel may be taken as a symbol of what is best about religion, so the fatwa has become a symbol of what is worst.
It feels all the more appropriate to be speaking here because it was while in my final year of reading history at Cambridge that I came across the story of the so-called satanic verses or temptation of the Prophet Muhammad, and of his rejection of that temptation. That year, I had chosen as one of my special subjects a paper on Muhammad, the rise of Islam, and the caliphate.
So few students chose this option that the lectures were cancelled. The other students switched to different special subjects. However, I was anxious to continue, and Arthur Hibbert, one of the King’s history dons, agreed to supervise me. So as it happened I was, I think, the only student in Cambridge who took the paper. The next year, I’m told, it was not offered again. This is the kind of thing that almost leads one to believe in the workings of a hidden hand. The story of the ‘satanic verses’ can be found, among other places, in the canonical writings of the classical writer al-Tabari.
He tells us that on one occasion the Prophet was given verses which seemed to accept the divinity of the three most popular pagan goddesses of Mecca, thus compromising Islam’s rigid monotheism. Later he rejected these verses as being a trick of the devil saying that Satan had appeared to him in the guise of the Archangel Gabriel and spoken ‘satanic verses.’ Historians have long speculated about this incident, wondering if perhaps the nascent religion had been offered a sort of deal by the pagan authorities of the city, which was flirted with and then refused.
I felt the story humanized the Prophet, and, therefore made him more accessible, more easily comprehensible to a modern reader, for whom the presence of doubt in a human mind, and human imperfections in a great man’s personality, can only make that mind, that personality, more attractive.
Indeed, according to the traditions of the Prophet, even the Archangel Gabriel was understanding about the incident, assuring him that such things had befallen all the prophets, and that he need not worry about what had happened. It seems that the Archangel Gabriel, and the God in whose name he spoke, was rather more tolerant than some of those who presently affect to speak in the name of God. Khomeini’s fatwa itself may be seen as a set of modern satanic verses. In the fatwa, once again, evil takes on the guise of virtue; and the faithful are deceived. It’s important to remember what the fatwa is.
Source: Theprint.In
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Hindu, Muslim religious leaders in Bengal call for end to atrocities in Bangladesh
29 December 2024
Kolkata: Religious leaders from Hindu and Muslim communities in West Bengal on Saturday called for the restoration of peace and amity in trouble-torn Bangladesh and an end to atrocities against the Hindu minority, including women, in the neighbouring...
Prominent leaders of 'Hindu Sanatani Sangathan' and 'All India Imams Organisation' attended a meet here where they discussed the continuing attacks on minorities and their places of worship in Bangladesh.
Voicing concern over the situation, the religious leaders said there was an immediate need for restoration of peace and harmony and the interim government must step in to protect lives and properties in Bangladesh.
FaizenMunieer of All India Imams Organisation said, "Every community must enjoy the right to practice its religion without any intimidation. But we are worried and saddened over the situation in Bangladesh from where reports of attacks against minor...
Source: Www.Indiatoday.In
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Sukanta Majumdar Slams Mamata Banerjee Over 'Muslim Majority Bid By TMC'
Dec 29, 2024
Kolkata: Union Minister and BJP West Bengal chief Sukanta Majumdar made sharp allegations against the ruling Trinamool Congress ( TMC ), claiming that terrorists aim to convert West Bengal into a Muslim-majority state and Banerjee's is giving them support. He said that BJP leaders, such as Suvendu Adhikari, are on the hit list of terrorists as BJP poses a roadblock to such plans.
Speaking to ANI, Majumdar said, “Terrorists want to convert West Bengal into a Muslim-majority state, and Mamata Banerjee ’s TMC is helping them fulfill this wish. That is why BJP leaders are on their hit list, while TMC leaders are not.”
Majumdar alleged that fake Aadhaar and voter ID cards in the state belong to TMC workers. “Those who are making fake Aadhaar cards and voter IDs are Trinamool Congress people. Terrorists caught in the state are often found to have links with TMC members,” he said.
The BJP leader also accused Mamata Banerjee of aiding terrorists during elections. “Mamata Banerjee has helped terrorists in West Bengal, and in return, they help her during elections to secure votes,” Majumdar alleged. He also criticized the state government for the lack of border fencing.
Source: Www.Republicworld.Com
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Southeast Asia
Halal Certification In Kelantan Not Required For Non-Muslim-Only Premises, Says State Exco
By Malay Mail
29 Dec 2024
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 29 — Non-Muslim businesses in Kelantan are not required to obtain the state’s halal certification (SPHM) unless they cater to Muslim customers.
Kelantan State Committee on Local Government, Housing, Health and Environment chairman Hilmi Abdullah said that the certification only applies to businesses serving Muslim customers and is not mandatory for those catering exclusively to non-Muslims, as reported by the New Straits Times.
“The SPHM requirement by the local authority applies solely to premises catering to Muslim customers, and businesses must obtain the certification in order to secure a permanent business license,” Hilmi said.
“Our data shows that in 2024, 453 premises in Kelantan have been granted the SPHM, with 48 non-Muslim-owned products included. Additionally, 198 premises are operating in Kota Baru,” he said.
Hilmi said that the SPHM policy was first approved by the Kelantan State Executive Council in 2016 and later refined in 2020 by the Local Government, Housing, and Health Committee.
“Since 2020, owners of seven specific types of business premises in Kelantan have been notified of the decision through their local authorities (PBT).
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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Saifuddin: Hadi selectively using Islam to defend SitiMastura
B Nantha Kumar
Dec 29, 2024
Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has criticised PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang for selectively using religious arguments to defend the actions of his party members.
Saifuddin said such moves are irresponsible and tarnish the beauty of Islam.
Source: Www.Malaysiakini.Com
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https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/730141
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PAS vows legal action over Christmas remarks, demands accountability from NgaKor Ming for ‘spreading falsehoods’
By Malay Mail
29 Dec 2024
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 29 — PAS today announced its intention to take legal action against Housing and Local Government Minister NgaKor Ming, for spreading baseless accusations and malicious defamation.
This follows claims by PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan that the minister accused the party of being “deviant”, “spreading deviant teachings”, “exploiting religion”, “disrupting social harmony”, and “blocking Christmas celebrations”.
In a statement posted on Facebook today, Takiyuddin said Nga’s outburst came after Deputy PAS youth chief Hanif Jamaluddin raised concerns over the presence of Muslims at a recent Christmas event organised by the ministry.
Hanif questioned the ministry’s sensitivity to the issue and referenced the National Fatwa Council’s 2005 guidelines on Muslim participation in religious celebrations of non-Muslim faiths.
“History has shown that since the country’s independence, government ministries and agencies have never openly organised religious celebrations other than Islamic ones at government premises, let alone involve Muslim officials and staff in such events,” he said in the statement.
Source: Www.malaymail.Com
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Pakistan
As Many As 365 People, Including Security Personnel, Have Been Martyred And Several Injured In Terrorist Attacks In Quetta
Saleem Shahid
December 29, 2024
QUETTA: As many as 365 people, including security personnel, have been martyred and several injured in terrorist attacks, targeted killings, bomb blasts, landmine explosions and criminal activities so far this year in the provincial capital.
Quetta DIG Atizaz Ahmed Goraya disclosed these facts at a press conference here on Saturday. SSP Operations Muhammad Baloch, SSP Traffic BehramMandokhail and other senior police officers accompanied him.
At the outset, DIG Goraya explained that Quetta is divided into four police divisions, each led by an SSP. The city has 31 police stations, including a female police station. Approximately 1,000 personnel are serving in various duties besides regular policing.
He mentioned that in 2024, 1,224 foreign nationals visited Quetta. Six polio campaigns were conducted in the city with police security. This year, eight police officers were martyred, 5,988 FIRs were registered, nearly 7,000 individuals were arrested, and 115 murders were reported. He said that police also recovered 26 vehicles and 351 motorcycles, which were stolen from different areas of Quetta.
Source: Www.Dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1881746/quetta-records-65-acts-of-terrorism-in-2024
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Soldier martyred in wanton firing by Afghan forces
Umer Farooq
December 29, 2024
PESHAWAR: A Frontier Constabulary (FC) soldier was martyred and 11 others were injured when Afghan forces launched unprovoked fire on multiple Pakistani border posts in the Upper Kurram district on Saturday morning, sources said.
The Afghan forces targeted border posts in Ghozgarhi, MathaSangar, KotRagha and TariMengal areas using both light and heavy weaponry, the sources said, adding that Pakistani security forces retaliated, inflicting significant losses on the other side as seven to eight personnel of the Afghan forces were killed in the exchange of fire.
Besides, militants made an infiltration attempt late on Friday night, using the posts controlled by the Afghan Taliban to cross into Pakistani territory, but the attempt was thwarted.
“After the infiltration attempt failed, militants and Afghan forces jointly opened fire on Pakistani posts with heavy weapons on Saturday morning. The firing was effectively responded to and there are confirmed reports of heavy losses on the Afghan side with over 15 militants dead and many others wounded,” another source said, adding that Afghan forces abandoned their posts and left the area after the incident.
Pakistan has repeatedly raised concerns over Afghan soil being used by militants for cross-border terrorism, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has intensified its activities since calling off a ceasefire in November 2022.
Source: Www.Dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1881763/soldier-martyred-in-wanton-firing-by-afghan-forces
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Imran not seeking talks for sake of relief, says PTI
Ikram Junaidi
December 29, 2024
ISLAMABAD: The opposition PTI on Saturday said that former prime minister Imran Khan was not seeking relief for himself in ongoing negotiations with the government.
Addressing a press conference at Khyber Pakhtunkhwa House here, Senator Shibli Faraz, National Assembly Opposition Leader Omar Ayub and Asad Qaiser accused the government of creating an impression that the PTI founder was trying to get relief for himself in the garb of talks.
Mr Faraz said PTI is a peaceful political party and would continue its struggle under the law and the Constitution. The PTI has fixed Jan 31 as a cut-off date for the outcome of these talks.
The former ruling party claimed that then-army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa had proposed a dialogue with the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan during a meeting of the National Security Committee.
Source: Www.Dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1881760/imran-not-seeking-talks-for-sake-of-relief-says-pti
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FIA arrests 3 suspected human traffickers in raids
Waseem Ashraf Butt
December 29, 2024
GUJRAT: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) claimed to have unearthed a printing factory of fake travel documents on Saturday and arrested two human traffickers who had been running that business in Gujrat city.
A large number of fake Pakistani as well as other countries passports, visa stickers of the United States, European, Middle and Far Eastern countries, and stamps were recovered during the raid.
The raid was conducted by a team of FIA Gujrat circle, being led by Gujrat SHO Badar Basheer, at Shadman Colony that resulted in the arrest of suspects, Ziaur Rehman and Ejaz Ahmad.
Source: Www.Dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1881752/fia-arrests-3-suspected-human-traffickers-in-raids
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KP chief minister okays more members for MTI boards
Ashfaq Yusufzai
December 29, 2024
PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur has approved the appointment of more members to the board of governors for medical teaching institutions in the province to pave the way for making teaching hospitals and their affiliated medical and dental colleges fully operational.
The officials said last week, the search and nomination council headed by health adviser to the chief minister Ihtisham Ali sent a summary to the chief minister for approval.
According to summary, Qaisar Iqbal Rajput, Khalid Abdul Aziz and Dr Ghulam Siddique have been made BoG members for the Lady Reading Hospital Peshawar, Dr Waqar Ajmal, Dr Wajid Ali and Javed Ihsan for Hayatabad Medical Complex, and Dr Abdul Hameed Afridi, Dr Shafqat Hassan, Dr Masood Sadiq and Syed Asif Shah for the Peshawar Institute of Cardiology.
Likewise, Dr Javed Khan, Shahab Khattak, Mohammad Murtaza Ali Shah, Dr Syed Irfan Kabir and Dr Mian Tahir Ali Shah have made it to the BoG of Qazi Hussain Ahmad Medical Complex Nowshera, whose board is currently non-existent.
For Ayub Medical College and Abbottabad Teaching Hospital, Usman Ali, JavidQaisar and Dr Gul Afshana Hafeez Khan have been named board members, whileAlmasFasih Khattak and Irfan Saleem Awan have become part of the board for Bacha Khan Medical Complex Swabi.
Source: Www.Dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1881699/kp-chief-minister-okays-more-members-for-mti-boards
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Mideast
Suicide Bomber Kills Police Officer, Wounds Another In Southern Iran, Home To A Large Sunni Muslim Community
December 29, 2024
A suicide bomber killed a local police officer and wounded another in a southern Iranian port city, home to a large Sunni Muslim community, local media said Sunday.
The hard-line Javan Daily, a newspaper close to the country’s powerful Revolutionary Guard, said the attacker stopped Capt.
MojtabaShahid’s car Saturday evening in Bandar Lengeh in the province of Hormozgan before detonating his vest.
Source: Indianexpress.Com
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Unraveling the geopolitical game playing out in Syria
TK Vineeth
29 Dec 2024
KOCHI: When news broke on December 8 on the sudden collapse of Syria’s Bashar al-Assad regime, even veteran West Asian watchers were aghast. For, Assad’s abdication came barely 12 days after a motley mix of rebel groups led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) launched an offensive against the powerful autocrat. Assad, who ruled the country with an iron fist for 24 years, was hitherto considered invincible. The last time he faced a real threat of being toppled was in 2011 at the height of ‘Arab Spring’ – a series of pro-democracy uprisings against autocratic Muslim regimes in west Asian and north African regions. But Assad crushed the unrest by unleashing a reign of terror on protesters, torturing and killing thousands, many of them civilians.
Russia and Iran supported him, offering political and military counterweight against the Western game to inject democracy by force. Russia, as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, used its veto power to shield the Assad regime from sanctions. Iran’s Shia theocratic regime entrusted Hezbollah to support Assad – who belongs to the minority Alawite sect of Shia Islam – to cling on to power in a Sunni-majority country. Given Assad’s brutal control over the seat of power in his war-torn nation, experts found the news of a lightning rebel advancement resulting in his ouster a bit incredulous. As Kremlin spokesman DimitryPeskov put it: “What happened surprised the whole world, and we are no exception here.”
By design or coincidence, the regime change happened in less than a fortnight. The rebels’ blitzkrieg started on November 27 from the western districts of Aleppo. In the intense fighting that followed, dozens of casualties were reported from both sides but the rebels eventually seized several villages as well as some strategic towns, including Base 46, the largest Syrian regime army base in the region. In just three days, the rebel fighters advanced to the city of Aleppo, which is Syria’s second largest with two million residents, and captured it in a lightning-fast offensive. This was a turning point as it was the first time the rebels managed to set foot in the city since the 2016 battle in which government forces took control of the city.
The next in line to fall was Hama, which has a strategic location from a military point of view because it lies in west-central Syria providing direct supply lines between Damascus and Aleppo.
Dara, the birthplace of the 2011 uprising, and Homs fell over the next two days. Finally, on December 8, Damascus came under the control of rebel groups. What was conspicuous was the absence of resistance from Assad’s forces as the rebels advanced and took control of key cities. It was as if Assad’s troops were advised to acquiesce without trying to put up a fight. By the time the rebels entered the Syrian capital, Assad had fled, reportedly under Russian orders. He is said to be in Moscow now along with his family.
Source: Www.Newindianexpress.Com
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Efforts to free reporter held in Iran 'complicated,' says Italy
December 28, 2024
ROME — Efforts to release Italian journalist Cecilia Sala from prison in Iran are "complicated," Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Saturday.
"We are trying to resolve a complicated issue and to ensure in the meantime that Cecilia Sala is detained in the best possible conditions," Tajani said.
Prime Minister GiorgiaMeloni's office said she was "following the complex affair" closely, and Rome was pursuing "all possible avenues of dialogue" to bring Sala home "as soon as possible."
Source: Www.VoanewsCom
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Kamal Adwan Detainees Beaten, Humiliated By Israeli Army
28 Dec 2024
Israeli forces are shelling the Baptist Hospital in Gaza City, days after raiding and setting fire to the Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahiya. The military confirmed arresting 240 people in that assault.
International aid groups call on Israel to immediately release Dr Hussam Abu Safia, the director of Kamal Adwan, who was arrested during Friday’s attack.
Israeli forces continue to bomb southern Lebanon, in violation of a ceasefire agreed with Hezbollah last month.
Israel’s war on Gaza has killed at least 45,484 Palestinians and wounded 108,090 since October 7, 2023. At least 1,139 people were killed in Israel during the Hamas-led attacks that day, and more than 200 were taken captive.
Source: Www.Aljazeera.Com
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Israel detains director of one of Gaza's last functioning hospitals
Deir al-Balah
Dec 28 2024
Israel's army detained the director of one of northern Gaza's last functioning hospitals as overnight strikes elsewhere in the territory killed nine people, including children, Palestinian medical officials said on Saturday.
Gaza's Health Ministry said Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, director of Kamal Adwan Hospital, was arrested on Friday along with dozens of other staff and taken to an interrogation centre.
The ministry said Israeli troops stormed the hospital and forced many staff and patients outside and told them to strip in winter weather, according to the ministry.
Israel's military on Saturday confirmed it detained the hospital director and called him a suspected Hamas operative while providing no evidence. It said it encircled the hospital and special forces entered and found weapons in the area. It said militants fired on its forces and they were eliminated.
On Friday, the military denied it had entered or set fire to the hospital complex but acknowledged it had ordered people outside. The military repeated claims that Hamas militants operate inside Kamal Adwan but provided no evidence. Hospital officials have denied that.
Source: Www.Business-Standard.Com
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Starvation, sexual abuse, and children beaten: Report exposes conditions of Hamas captivity
By SHIR PERETS
DECEMBER 29, 2024
This article contains descriptions of torture pertaining to the Gaza hostages, which may not be suitable for some readers.
Hostages who returned from Hamas captivity in Gaza suffered from a myriad of medical and psychological conditions as a result of their imprisonment, with many enduring starvation, sexual abuse, beatings, and more, a Saturday Health Ministry report revealed.
The report detailed the abuse suffered by the hostages and its impact on their physical and mental health, as described by the personnel who treated them after their return to Israel.
Additionally, the Health Ministry detailed several successful rehabilitation stories based on information collected from professionals who have been providing ongoing care to the returned hostages, who are referred to by pseudonyms in the report.
According to the report, women, men, and children who returned from captivity were subjected to a variety of abuses, including beatings, isolation, deprivation of food and water, branding, hair-pulling, and sexual assault.
Many hostages were subjected to torture by withholding medical attention, and at least one hostage is believed to have died from untreated medical complications.
Source: Www.Jpost.Com
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https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-835211
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Europe
Germany to open its first anti-Muslim racism reporting center next spring
Yasin Gungor
28.12.2024
A populous western German state will open the country’s first anti-Muslim racism reporting center in spring 2025, local media reported.
The state of North Rhine-Westphalia, home to more than 1.7 million Muslims, will establish the center, called MEDAR, to document and report attacks and crimes targeting Muslims.
The center, which will be set up by the state government, will also track other racist activities directed at non-Muslim foreigners, public broadcaster WDR reported on Friday.
Source: Www.Aa.Com.Tr
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Reform UK leader Urges Kemi Badenoch To Apologise Or Face "Action" After She Accused Reform UK Of "Fakery"
28 December 2024
By Charlie Duffield
The Reform UK leader will spend the weekend weighing up what action to take if Conservative leader Mrs Badenoch ignores his calls for an apology over the "crazy conspiracy theory".
Tech entrepreneur Mr Musk met Mr Farage earlier this month at US President-elect Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, amid rumours of a possible donation to either Mr Farage or Reform.
Tensions between Reform and the Conservatives escalated after Mrs Badenoch accused Mr Farage of "fakery" in response to Reform claiming they had surpassed the Tories in signed-up members.
A digital counter on the Reform website showed a membership tally before lunchtime on Boxing Day ticking past the 131,680 figure declared by the Conservative Party during its leadership election earlier this year.
Mr Farage, in a statement issued on Mr Musk's social media site X, said the accusations of "fraud and dishonesty" made against him were "disgraceful".
Source: Www.lbc.co.uk
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US, UK carry out airstrikes in Yemen's Hajjah province, says Houthi group
Mohammed Sameai
28.12.2024
The Houthi group on Saturday said the US and UK had carried out airstrikes in Yemen's northwestern Hajjah province.
"The American-British aggressors conducted two airstrikes in the area of Bahis in the Hajjah province’s Midi district," said pro-Houthi TV channel Al-Masirah.
In solidarity with people in the Gaza Strip, the Houthis target shipping vessels in the Red Sea owned or operated by Israeli companies, or transporting goods to and from Israel, which has been attacking the besieged enclave since October 2023, with arms support from the US and other Western countries.
Source: Www.aa.com.tr
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Azerbaijan airlines crash: UK calls for complete, independent probe
Dec 29, 2024
President Putin apologised “for the fact that the tragic incident occurred in Russian airspace” stopped short of admitting responsibility for the incident
President Vladimir Putin apologised “for the fact that the tragic incident occurred in Russian airspace” during a call with his Azerbaijani counterpart Ilham Aliyev on Saturday.
In an official statement, the Kremlin said Russian air defences had been firing in the vicinity of Grozny, the regional capital of the Russian republic of Chechnya, at the time the Azerbaijan Airlines plane passed through the area.
Source: Www.Hindustantimes.Com
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Farage says Musk will help Reform win youth vote ‘because he’s cool and wears a bomber jacket’
Jack Peat
Nigel Farage has said Elon Musk would help Reform UK win the youth vote at the next election if he came on side.
The Reform UK party leader met the Tesla billionaire with Nick Candy at Donald Trump’s Mar-A-Lago resort in Florida earlier this month.
It comes after Musk was reported to be mulling a $100 million deal with the UK party, despite being a resident of the United States of America.
Source: Www.Thelondoneconomic.Com
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South Asia
Taliban regime targets Pakistani hideouts in response to deadly strikes that killed 46 in Afghanistan
December 28, 2024
Afghanistan’s Defense Ministry announced Saturday that its forces targeted several locations inside Pakistan in response to deadly airstrikes carried out by Islamabad earlier in the week.
The airstrikes, conducted by Pakistan on Tuesday, targeted a training facility in Afghanistan’s eastern Paktika province, reportedly killing dozens, including women and children. In a statement on X, the Taliban’s Defense Ministry claimed its retaliatory strikes hit areas in Pakistan that served as “centers and hideouts for malicious elements and their supporters” responsible for attacks in Afghanistan.
Ministry spokesperson Enayatullah Khwarzami did not provide details about the nature of the strikes or information on casualties. However, pro-Taliban media outlet Hurriyet Daily News reported that the Afghan strikes killed 19 Pakistani troops, while three Afghan civilians also lost their lives in the violence, according to Associated Press (AP).
South Korean Plane Crash: All except 2 are presumed dead on Jeju Air flight, says authorities after aircraft bursts into flames due to landing gear malfunction
Source: Www.FinancialExpress.In
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WFP announces support for Saffron farmers in Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati
December 29, 2024
On Saturday, December 28, the WFP shared a video on X/ Twitter, revealing that hundreds of women in various parts of the country are currently working in the saffron industry.
According to the World Food Program, saffron cultivation serves as a means to feed families and create sustainable opportunities for local communities.
Saffron is considered one of Afghanistan’s most valuable industrial crops, recognized for its high quality. For several years, it has been awarded the top ranking for the best taste, and is exported to many countries, especially in the Arab world, India, and China.
Previously, the International Taste Institute of Belgium had announced that Afghanistan’s saffron had won the first-place award for the ninth consecutive time, being recognized as the “most flavorful” saffron in the world.
Recently, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) also reported its support for saffron farmers, providing saffron bulbs and training in cultivation techniques.
Source: Www.Khaama.Com
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Border clashes between Taliban and Pakistani forces leave casualties
By Fidel Rahmati
December 28, 2024
According to Tolo News, citing the Ministry of Defense of the Taliban, at least 19 Pakistani soldiers and 3 Afghan civilians were killed in the fighting that took place last night in the provinces of Khost and Paktia.
The clashes, which started in the middle of the night in the DandPatan district of Paktia and the Ali Shir district of Khost, ended in the morning.
Al-Marsad, a media outlet affiliated with the intelligence of the Taliban, confirmed the clashes and reported that Taliban forces launched attacks from the DandPatan district of Paktia towards the Dubbghi area across the border and from the Ali Shir district of Khost towards the significant Ozgari regions across the Durand Line.
Radio Hurriyat, another media outlet close to the Taliban, also reported that the border clashes between the Taliban forces and Pakistan’s border guards are ongoing near the Durand Line.
This media outlet, citing its sources, claimed that Taliban forces “set fire to several of Pakistan’s border posts” on the other side of the Durand Line.
Source: Www.Khaama.Com
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https://www.khaama.com/border-clashes-between-taliban-and-pakistani-forces-leave-casualties/
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Bangladesh imposes new restrictions to limit journalists' access to government
Dec 28, 2024
"Access to the Secretariate through accreditation cards issued in favour of journalists is hereby cancelled until further orders", a press release said.
Bangladesh's interim government has cancelled the accreditation card of journalists due to security reasons. As a result, the journalists will be restricted from entering the Secretariat.
Bangladesh's home ministry on Friday issued an order to impose the restrictions. The Bangladesh Secretariat is the administrative headquarters of the government of Bangladesh and houses the majority of ministries and government agencies and bodies, located in Segunbagicha, Dhaka.
"Access to the Secretariate through accreditation cards issued in favour of journalists is hereby cancelled until further orders", a press release from the home ministry said.
Source: Www.Hindustantimes.Com
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India shows no willingness to extradite Sheikh Hasina to Bangladesh
By Shaikh Azizur Rahman
December 29, 2024
India has shown no sign of complying with Bangladesh’s formal request to extradite former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from New Delhi. Hasina fled to India during the massive student-led protests of her regime earlier this year.
The Bangladesh foreign affairs adviser Md. Touhid Hossain told local reporters earlier this week that the country’s interim government had informed India of their request to send Hasina back for a "judicial process."
India confirmed receiving the request. "At this time, we have no comment to offer on this matter," said Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, on Tuesday.
Pinak Ranjan Chakravarty, former Indian high commissioner to Bangladesh, told VOA via WhatsApp that when Hasina was sent to India by the military for her own safety, there were no legal cases against her. This would complicate extradition, he said, because it is a judicial process that requires solid evidence of a crime.
"Moreover, the bilateral extradition treaty has political exception clauses as well as clauses for fair treatment and safety. Unless these conditions are fulfilled, extradition could be denied," Chakravarty added.
Source: Www.Voanews.Com
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Arab World
Riyadh’s Souq Al-AwaleenFeaturing Handicrafts, Folk Art Celebrates Saudi Traditions
Arab News
December 28, 2024
RIYADH: Souq Al-Awaleen, a part of Riyadh Season, offers a “captivating journey through Saudi traditions,” according to a recent Saudi Press Agency report.
Souq Al-Awaleen features handicrafts, folk art, and live performances reflecting the Kingdom’s cultural heritage and providing a platform for local artisans to showcase their work and revive traditional crafts. Visitors can also participate in workshops focused on Sadu weaving and pottery.
Sufrat Al-Deira, meanwhile, offers “a taste of authentic Saudi cuisine,” the SPA reported, adding that the “atmosphere evokes a bygone era, with activities like cooking demonstrations and cultural performances enriching the experience.”
Source: Www.Arabnews.Com
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Islamic Movement in Kurdistan reopens office in Damascus to address Rojava issues
2024-12-28
Shafaq News/ On Saturday, Irfan Ali Abdulaziz, the General Guide of the Islamic Movement in Kurdistan, announced the reopening of the movement's office in the Syrian capital, Damascus, aiming to enhance dialogue and address unresolved issues in the Rojava areas.
It is noteworthy that Rojava, also known as the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), is a de facto autonomous region in northeastern Syria. It was established during the Syrian civil war and encompasses areas such as Jazira, Euphrates, Raqqa, Tabqa, and DeirEz-Zor
During a press conference, Abdulaziz confirmed that the Islamic leadership in Kurdistan reopened its Damascus office, which had been closed since 2011 due to security concerns, stating, "We had an office in Damascus from 1989 to 2011, and now we have reopened it and sent representatives to engage in dialogues to find better solutions for the issues facing our Kurdish brothers."
Source: Shafaq.Com
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Egypt strongly condemns storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque by Israeli National Security Minister
December 28, 2024
CAIRO, Dec 26 (MENA) – Egypt strongly condemned on Thursday the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque by the Israeli Minister of National Security, under the protection of the Israeli occupation forces, expressing its complete rejection of this provocative move.
Egypt warned against these extremist actions, which constitute a flagrant and unacceptable violation of the historical and legal status of the Al-Aqsa Mosque. These practices reflect the disregard and provocation of the feelings of Muslims worldwide.
Egypt called on Israel to adhere to its obligations as an occupying power, stressing the importance of respecting the status of the Al-Aqsa Mosque as a place of worship exclusively for Muslims.
Source: Www.Egyptindependent.Com
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Border guards thwart drug smuggling attempts
Arab News
December 29, 2024
RIYADH: Saudi border guards have foiled several attempts to smuggle illegal drugs into the country, state news agency SPA reported.
Border personnel seized 1.3 tonnes of hashish, 1,388,622 narcotic pills and 136 tonnes of qat in separate operations in Jazan, Aseer and Najran and also arrested 959 Ethiopians, 849 Yemenis, three Somalis and Eritreans and 12 nationals suspected of involvement in the smuggling attempt.
Security authorities urge the public to report any information related to drug smuggling or selling by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern regions, and 999 in other regions of the Kingdom.
Source: Www.Arabnews.Com
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Hail governor inaugurates Middle East’s largest salmon production center
Arab News
December 28, 2024
HAIL: Prince Abdulaziz bin Saad bin Abdulaziz, the governor of Hail, inaugurated the Excellence Center for Salmon Production on Saturday, the largest facility of its kind in the Middle East.
A collaboration between the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture and King Abdulaziz University, the center aims to produce 100,000 tons of salmon annually, bolstering Saudi Arabia’s food security and aquaculture sector, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The 10,000-square-meter facility features the latest marine technology, including recirculating aquaculture systems and aquaponics units, which integrate fish and vegetable production.
Source: Www.Arabnews.Com
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Saudi armed forces chief of staff meets Turkish defense minister in Ankara
Arab News
December 28, 2024
ANKARA: Saudi Chief of General Staff Lt. Gen. Fayyadh Al-Ruwaili recently met Turkish Minister of National DefenseYasarGuler during an official visit to Ankara.
During the meeting, they reviewed relations between the two countries and discussed aspects of cooperation in the defense field, the Defense Ministry wrote on X.
Al-Ruwaili also headed the Saudi-Turkish Joint Military Committee’s sixth meeting with his Turkish counterpart Lt. Gen. MetinGurak.
Source: Www.Arabnews.Com
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Africa
Popular Yoruba traditional ruler backs Sharia law in southwest amid public outcry
Jerry Wright-Ukwu
December 29, 2024
The Oluwo of Iwo, Osun State, Oba AbdulrasheedAkanbi, has declared his support for the introduction of Sharia law in the South-West, stressing that it has long been part of Yoruba tradition.
His statement comes in the wake of a planned inauguration of a Sharia council, initially scheduled for January 11, 2025, in Oyo State, but now postponed indefinitely due to public backlash.
“Sharia law has been in Iwo for over 100 years, and there is a Sharia college in Iwo. It’s the right of Muslims to choose customary law or the high court,” he told Punch.
Source: Politicsnigeria.Com
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“Rivers is not a private estate” – Odili commends Fubara for resisting Wike’s dominance
Jerry Wright-Ukwu
December 29, 2024
Former Governor of Rivers State, Dr. Peter Odili, has commended Governor SiminalayiFubara for his boldness in resisting the Federal Capital Territory Minister, NyesomWike’s alleged attempt to control Rivers State as a private estate.
Speaking at a Christmas night of songs organized in honour of Fubara and his family, Odili lauded the governor’s fortitude in confronting what he described as an unnecessary but fierce political battle waged by Wike.
“Governor Fubara demonstrated exceptional courage to emancipate Rivers people and prevent the state from being captured as a private estate. His leadership has restored the joy and progress we once enjoyed until I left office in 2007,” Odili stated.
Source: Politicsnigeria.Com
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NNPC employments, appointments not influenced by ethnicity, religion –Soneye, spokesman
29th December 2024
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) has responded to recent claims suggesting that its employment practices and leadership appointments are influenced by ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation.
This is in response to an article by Farooq Kperogi, which raised concerns about the impact of ethnicity on the leadership structure of NNPC.
In a statement over the weekend, NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, OlufemiSoneye, firmly rejected the assertions, insisting that the company’s decisions are guided by merit, professionalism, and business requirements.
Soneye stressed that the NNPC operates as a professional and meritocratic organisation, where employment, promotions, and appointments are based solely on qualifications, experience, and the competencies of individuals.
He assured that these processes are free from considerations of ethnicity, religion, or political connections, reflecting the company’s commitment to efficient service delivery.
Source: Thesun.Ng
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North America
'This is Trump’s America now!': Colorado man arrested for assaulting TV reporter over US citizenship
Dec 29, 2024
A Colorado man was recently arrested for allegedly assaulting a television news reporter after questioning his US citizenship and saying, “This is Trump’s America now.”
On December 18, Patrick Thomas Egan, 39, allegedly followed KKCO/KJCT reporter Ja’Ronn Alex for approximately 40 miles from Delta to Grand Junction in Colorado. Egan, driving a taxi, confronted Alex at a stoplight. According to the arrest affidavit, Egan said something like: “Are you even a US citizen? This is Trump’s America now! I’m a Marine and I took an oath to protect this country from people like you!” according to a CNN report.
Alex was driving a news vehicle at the time of the incident. He drove back to his news station after the incident. When he got out of his vehicle, Egan allegedly chased him as he ran toward the station’s door, demanding identification. The affidavit states Egan tackled Alex, put him in a headlock, and “began to strangle him.” Coworkers and witnesses intervened, reporting that Alex appeared to be struggling to breathe. The incident was partially recorded on surveillance video.
Source: Timesofindia.Ca
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Trump supporters divided after Elon Musk, tech allies back foreign tech workers over Americans
Michelle L. Price
December 29, 2024
West Palm Beach: President-elect Donald Trump entered the fray in a debate over immigration policy that’s dividing his supporters, telling the New York Post he favours a visa program for highly skilled workers that Elon Musk has strongly defended.
Musk is among tech leaders stoking a social-media storm this week over how to bring top talent to the US — revealing friction between Trump’s Silicon Valley supporters and anti-immigration sentiment that helps fuel his base.
During his first term as president, he unveiled a “Hire American” policy that directed changes to the program to try to ensure the visas were awarded to the highest-paid or most-skilled applicants.
Trump’s hardline immigration policies, focused mostly on immigrants who are in the country illegally, were a cornerstone of his presidential campaign and a priority issue for his supporters.
But in recent days, his coalition has split in a public debate largely taking place online about the tech industry’s hiring of foreign workers. Hard-right members of Trump’s movement have accused Musk and others in Trump’s new flank of tech-world supporters of pushing policies at odds with Trump’s “America First” vision.
Source: Www.Theage.Com.Au
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Trump's Bitcoin policies depend on US economic standing — Ki Young Ju
29-12-2024
CryptoQuant CEO and founder Ki Young Ju said that President-elect Donald Trump's Bitcoin
Ju argued that store-of-value assets like Gold and BTC surge in price when investors perceive threats to US economic hegemony. However, investors continue to express confidence in the US economy and see the US dollar as a safe haven currency.
The CEO said that this position of strength makes it unlikely that the Trump administration would adopt a Bitcoin strategic reserve to protect US dollar dominance and may cause the President-elect to backtrack on pro-BTC policies. The CEO wrote:
"Even before his inauguration, Trump consistently warned other world leaders of the power gap between the US and other nations. This rhetoric, combined with increased capital inflows to the dollar, could renew confidence in its supremacy."
"Around me, many Koreans are choosing US dollars as a safe haven over gold or Bitcoin, particularly as the Korean won weakens," The CEO continued. This trend is also seen in emerging economies where individuals use US dollar stablecoins to store value.
Source: Cointelegraph.com
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https://cointelegraph.com/news/trump-bitcoin-policies-depend-us-standing-ki-young-ju
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URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/maha-kumbh-rss-chief-temple-mosque/d/134178