Maharashtra’s ‘Love Jihad’ Law to Be Strictest in India: Minister Chandra Shekhar Bawankule
New Age Islam News Bureau
16 February 2025
• Maharashtra’s ‘Love Jihad’ Law to Be Strictest in India: Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule
• Iran Says It Will Rebuild Nuclear Sites if Attacked
• Stricter penalties enforced under new amendments to the Communications Act to combat online crimes, says Fahmi
• India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh at risk of destruction more powerful than 500 atomic bombs due to…
• Imam Who Openly Identified as Gay Shot Dead
• Zelenskyy calls for a European army as US backing questioned
India
• Centre will not accept Muslims in BC category: Bandi
• India, US in tension as this Muslim country bought Pakistan’s fighter jet J-10C from…, will replace American made…
• Muslim mob creates a ruckus at Delhi Metro’s Jama Masjid station, sparks security concerns, • DMRC responds ‘momentary reaction of passengers’
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Mideast
• Iran's abandoned bases in Syria: Years of military expansion lie in ruins
• Iran receives messages from new Syrian government after Assad's ouster
• Several people arrested in Iran after student's death triggers protest
• This Muslim nation seals massive defence deals, not Iran, its name is…, the deals are for…
• Iran's early recordings revive forgotten sound heritage
• Tear gas fired at Hezbollah supporters protesting Lebanon blocking Iranian flight
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Southeast Asia
• Police deny inaction in RM3m Umrah scam probe, say 141 reports received and investigations ongoing
• Fama guarantees sufficient coconut supply for Ramadan in Peninsular Malaysia with 640 tonnes monthly
• E-waste crackdown: RM1.3b worth of machinery, e-waste seized; 27 arrested in Perak raid
• Abdul Karim open to stepping down after losing PBB vice president race, says will discuss position with Abang Jo
• MACC releases Perlis fire station chief on bail in RM30,000 false allowance claims probe
• Elderlydriver dies after running a red light and crashing into another car in Johor
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South Asia
• Key shift in India-Afghanistan trade since Taliban takeover in 2021: Exports slump, imports surge
• Taliban carries out public flogging in northern Afghanistan
• Ramadan is on the horizon, and soybean oil is still scarce
• The Legacy of Abandoned US Military Equipment In Afghanistan: A Strategic And Ethical Issue
• US-China clash over drafting Afghanistan resolution at UN signals growing diplomatic tensions
• Two arrested for attacking worshippers in Samangan Mosque
• Amid 'Deep State' Allegations, US Slashes Funding In Bangladesh
• Starlink in Bangladesh? Yunus-Musk hold talks over potential collaboration
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Africa
• ‘Why the devil is after Nigerian churches’
• JFC calls for unified response to combat misogyny, cyberbullying, GBV
• PFN rejects Shariah Court in Southwest
• Zimbabwe responds to U.S. aid withdrawal
• Mahamoud Youssouf Speaks after Defeating Raila Odinga in AUC Election: "I Am Humbled"
• COP27: Oxfam calls on nations to redeem financial pledges
• Who was Muhsin Hendricks? World's first openly gay imam fatally shot in South Africa
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Europe
• Russian troops sharply stepped up attacks on Ukrainian forces on Saturday, military says
• British Veterans Retrace epic Lawrence Trek in ‘Living Tribute to History’
• A memory of Saint Flavian, Patriarch of Constantinople
• Mosque plans family fun day to support funeral centre appeal
• It's a 'no' to US bid for rare earth minerals
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North America
• How this New York Times writer is approaching politics differently
• Ecumenical Initiative Calls for Unity to Celebrate Easter Together
• Children learn about sharing Jesus’ love through service in Friend to Friend with Elder Bednar, Primary general presidency
• Doctors report Pope Francis' health is improving
• Donald Trump's crackdown on government employees: List of agencies firing federal workers
• Millions collected by US Army for food program funds spent elsewhere: Report
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Pakistan
• Interior minister hopes ties with US to grow under Trump
• Yasmin expects Nawaz to admit defeat in NA-130 election
• A drought emergency imposed in Rawalpindi to conserve water
• Veteran journalist Razi Ahmed Rizvi passes away
• Shangla people pour onto roads against the killing of miners in Harnai
• Suspect remanded in police custody as SHC moved for exhumation of Mustafa Amir’s body
Maintaining balance
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Arab world
• Working out during Ramadan: When is the right time and which exercise is best?
• Saudi Arabia supports Lebanon's measures to restore security
• Saudi, and US defence ministers discuss ties during a call
• Ramadan 2025 duration and fasting hours revealed
• Launching Ramadan program in Sana'a
• An influx of more sheep set to stabilise meat prices ahead of Ramadan
• SCIA President receives Muslim Council of Elders, Sec Gen
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/maharashtra-love-jihad-law-india-minister/d/134635
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Maharashtra’s ‘love jihad’ law to be strictest in India: Minister Chandra shekhar Bawankule
Feb 16, 2025
NASHIK: State BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Saturday said Maharashtra was committed to bring in a stringent law against ‘love jihad’.
“The law will be one of the best in the country. Govt is taking several measures, and the party is also contributing to it,” said Bawankule.
Bawankule, who earlier addressed a divisional-level workshop of party office-bearers, told reporters that Mahayuti would try to capitalize on the goodwill among voters, thanks to the schemes started by state and central govts.
“The elections to 13,000 seats of local self-governing bodies and 27,000 sarpanch and deputy sarpanch positions will be held over the next two years. Mahayuti had the support of 3.5 crore voters in the assembly elections. Therefore, the alliance will contest as one unit in the elections. We are sure we will win 100% of the seats,” he said.
Regarding the possibility of some conflict between the parties over contesting the same seats, Bawankule said, “We all have decided to contest as one unit. In such cases, something will be worked out in the interest of Mahayuti.”
When asked about the huge influx of workers from other parties and whether they would be given tickets, Bawankule allayed fears by stating that preference would be given to those with elective merit.
“Yes, people want to be with the party in power. So, we have a large number of people joining us. However, for the polls, the old party workers with elective merit will be given the tickets ,” he said.
Source: Timesofindia.Com
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Iran Says It Will Rebuild Nuclear Sites if Attacked
By Nigar Bayramli
February 15, 2025
The picture shows President Masoud Pezeshkian's visit to the Mahalati navy and ship industry complex in the coastal Gulf city of Bushehr in southwestern Iran, on February 13, 2025. / AFP
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Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has warned that even if Iran's nuclear facilities are attacked, Iran will rebuild them.
"They [US and Israel] threaten us by hitting our nuclear centers, but you cannot destroy the brains of our children. If you hit 100 nuclear centers, our children will build a thousand other ones," he said during his visit to the construction sites of phases 2 and 3 of the Bushehr nuclear power plant in southern Iran on February 13, according to Iran’s Press TV.
Pezeshkian's remarks came after the Washington Post reported quoting current and former US officials familiar with the intelligence as saying that “Israel is likely to attempt a strike on Iran’s Fordow and Natanz nuclear facilities in the first six months of 2025”. This preemptive attack would set back Tehran’s program by weeks or perhaps months but escalate tensions across the Middle East and renew the prospect of a wider regional conflagration”.
A distance attack, known as a standoff strike, would see Israeli aircraft firing air-launched ballistic missiles, or ALBMs, outside of Iranian airspace, the intelligence report said. A riskier stand-in attack would see Israeli jets enter Iranian airspace, flying near the nuclear sites and dropping BLU-109s, a type of bunker buster.
Earlier, Iran's Air Force Chief Gen Hamid Vahedi warned that "we tell all countries, friends and foes alike, that our country's doctrine is defensive, but we will respond with force against any enemy attack."
Pezeshkian also criticized US policies on Iran during his speech in Bushehr, asking Trump "if you are a man of negotiations, why are you acting in an unmanly way and depriving people of bread and water?"
On February 10, US President Donald Trump raised the possibility of Israel hitting Iran in an interview with Fox News, saying he would prefer to make a deal with Iran. On February 6, the US imposed its first set of sanctions on Iran after Trump revived his so-called maximum pressure strategy against the Islamic Republic.
In his memorandum on February 4, Trump called on various US departments to reinstate the "maximum pressure" policy to persuade Iran to stop its nuclear and missile program and end its alleged support for terrorism. The order stated that the US would “implement a campaign aimed at driving Iran’s oil exports to zero”.
Meanwhile, the Iranian oil ministry announced in early February that crude exports had hit 10-year highs. At their lowest, Iran's oil exports dropped to 404,000 barrels per day when Trump's campaign was in full swing.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry on February 12 issued a statement criticizing US policy on Iran, saying that "negotiations with the US, which has explicitly adopted the imposition of extensive pressure on the Iranian nation and explicitly threatens Iran with military action, will not serve Iran's national interests".
The statement said that the sanctions imposed by Trump after leaving the 2015 nuclear deal (JCPOA) continued under President Joe Biden.
"The US government claims to be reinstating Maximum Pressure, but in reality, maximum pressure was never halted to be revived again," it said.
It also warned that Tehran would "respond in kind" to "any kind of aggression against its national security", in a possible reference to recent remarks by Trump which implied possible US approval for an Israeli attack on Iran.
The International Atomic Energy Agency’s Director General, Rafael Grossi, said in late December that Iran is moving quickly toward obtaining a nuclear device, enriching uranium to near military grade, and refusing to cooperate effectively with the agency’s experts.
Source: Caspiannews.Com
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https://caspiannews.com/news-detail/iran-says-it-will-rebuild-nuclear-sites-if-attacked-2025-2-15-0/
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Stricter penalties enforced under new amendments to Communications Act to combat online crimes, says Fahmi
16 Feb 2025
Amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588) aim to address online crimes such as paedophilia, scams and gambling, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said. — Bernama pic
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KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 16 — Amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588) aim to address online crimes such as paedophilia, scams and gambling, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said.
“Certain acts previously classified as offensive are now specifically defined as ‘grossly offensive,’ making them more precise and less broad than before.
“The amendments also provide explanations that can be used as arguments for both the defence and prosecution in court. This provides greater transparency and prevents misuse,” he told reporters at the Temu Anak Muda Lembah Pantai programme here today.
Fahmi also urged the public to be cautious when consuming information, especially on social media, and to avoid spreading unverified news.
“If mainstream media do not report a matter or if viral content uses different wording, I urge everyone not to share or repost, as this could also be an offence,” he said.
The amendments to Act 588 came into force last Tuesday after being gazetted on February 7, aiming to create a safer and more sustainable internet ecosystem for users.
On December 9, 2024, the Dewan Rakyat passed the Communications and Multimedia (Amendment) Bill 2024 through a bloc vote, with 59 Members of Parliament in favour, 40 against, one abstaining, and 122 absent.
Fahmi, when winding up the debate on the Bill, emphasised that Section 233 of Act 588 was retained to prevent network misuse, particularly for commercial purposes such as the sale of pornographic and paedophilic content.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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India, Pakistan, Bangladesh at risk of destruction more powerful than 500 atomic bombs due to…
By Tahir Qureshi
February 15, 2025
(Representational image)
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Asteroid 2024 YR4: The likelihood of asteroid 2024 YR4 colliding with Earth is continuously increasing. Scientists had previously estimated that the chance of asteroid 2024 YR4 hitting Earth was about 1 percent. However, this risk has now been raised to 2.3 percent. The ongoing increase in the probability of danger is also continuously troubling scientists. The most concerning aspect is that there is no information about its speed and actual size. Scientists estimate that its size could be up to 200 meters. However, NASA scientists have begun identifying potential impact areas of asteroid 2024 YR4 so that if a collision becomes inevitable, efforts can be made in advance to save people.
NASA scientists have estimated that if asteroid 2024 YR4 collides with Earth, it could destroy entire cities. Therefore, the potential path prepared by NASA for the asteroid’s fall includes several densely populated countries, including India. Scientists also believe that if this asteroid falls on Earth, it could generate energy more powerful than 500 atomic bombs. Hence, one can gauge the level of destruction that could occur.
David Rankin, an engineer with NASA’s Catalina Sky Survey project, identified a risk corridor for the asteroid’s collapse from northern South America to the Pacific Ocean, southern Asia, the Arabian Sea and parts of sub-Saharan Africa. Apart from this, the countries where the asteroid is most likely to fall include India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Ethiopia, Sudan, Nigeria, Venezuela, Colombia and Ecuador. Scientist Rankin has stated that “although the impact is unlikely, if 2024 YR4 hits Earth, we cannot ignore the possible consequences.”
Asteroid 2024 YR4 was discovered last December. This has since become a major concern for scientists at NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA). Initial estimates put the collision probability at 1%, which has now increased to 2.3 percent, placing it in a quite dangerous category. Scientists believe that there is currently not much information about its size and speed.
The asteroid 2024 YR4 has been placed in the most dangerous category and given a rating of three on the Torino scale, considering the potential threat it poses.
The available data so far indicates that this asteroid will pass close to Earth at a distance of 106,000 km on December 22, 2032, with a margin of error of 1.6 million km. The report states that at this distance, it could collide with Earth in a narrow strip extending from western Central America to northern South America, then through the central Atlantic Ocean and parts of Africa, reaching India.
Source: Www.India.Com
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Imam Who Openly Identified As Gay Shot Dead
By Oladipo Abiola
16 February 2025
A popular Islamic cleric, Muhsin Hendricks, who openly identified as gay, has been shot and killed near the southern city of Gqeberha, South Africa.
According to reports by the Police, the Imam was in a car with another person when two unknown persons who covered their faces, got out of another car which blocked their own and fired at the Imam, killing him on the spot.
Naija News understands that Hendricks, considered the world’s first openly gay imam, ran a mosque intended as a safe haven for gay and other marginalised Muslims.
“Thereafter they fled the scene, and the driver noticed that Hendricks, who was seated at the back of the vehicle was shot and killed,” the Eastern Cape force said in a statement.
A police spokeswoman confirmed to AFP the authenticity of a video on social media that showed the killing in Bethelsdorp near Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth.
It is understood that Hendricks, involved in various LGBTQ advocacy groups, came out as gay in 1996. He ran the Al-Ghurbaah mosque at Wynberg near his birthplace Cape Town.
According to information on its website, the mosque provides “a safe space in which queer Muslims and marginalised women can practise Islam.”
Source: Www.naijanews.Com
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Zelenskyy calls for European army as US backing questioned
Feb 16, 2025
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called Saturday for the creation of a European army, as he insisted Kyiv and its backers on the continent must be listened to in peace talks with Russia.
Speaking at a gathering of top policymakers in Munich, the Ukrainian leader said that with the return of President Donald Trump to the White House Europe could no longer count on Washington to always have its back.
Trump stunned allies and upended the status quo of US support for Ukraine this week when he announced he would likely soon meet Russian leader Vladimir Putin to start truce talks.
Zelenskyy's rallying cry came a day after he met US Vice President JD Vance as Kyiv scrambles to ensure it is not sidelined in Washington's push to wrap up the three-year war. "Let's be honest - now we can't rule out the possibility that America might say no to Europe on issues that threaten it," Zelenskyy said. "I really believe that time has come. The Armed Forces of Europe must be created."
The push for a joint continental force has been mooted for years without gaining traction and Zelenskyy's intervention seems unlikely to shift the balance.
In the short-term, the priority for Kyiv remains ensuring its voice is heard at any peace talks involving Russia and that it doesn't get a bad deal. "Ukraine will never accept deals made behind our backs without our involvement," Zelenskyy said in a speech. "No decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine. No decisions about Europe without Europe." Zelenskyy cautioned Putin would seek to use Trump as a "prop in his own performance".
Source: Timesofindia.com
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India
Centre will not accept Muslims in BC category: Bandi
Feb 16, 2025
Hyderabad: Union minister of state for home Bandi Sanjay has said he will convince the central govt to approve the proposed Backward Classes (BC) reservation bill if the Telangana govt removes Muslims from the BC category and sends it to the Centre. He said the Centre will not accept the BC reservation bill in its present form as it is for making a legislation, saying the BJP govt was against religion-based reservations.
The Telangana govt has recently announced plans to pass a bill in the assembly to increase the reservation for BCs to 42% and send it to the Centre for parliamentary approval. The proposal would exceed the 50% cap on reservations.
Regarding the remarks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's caste by CM Revanth Reddy, Sanjay on Saturday dared the CM for a debate, including issues like Rahul Gandhi's caste and religion. He said the party was ready to take it as a referendum in the upcoming MLC elections. The minister alleged that the Telangana CM was resorting to diversion politics.
Source: Www.Timesofindia
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India, US in tension as this Muslim country bought Pakistan’s fighter jet J-10C from…, will replace American made…
By Joy Pillai
February 15, 2025
Egypt has a very good bilateral relationship with India and also holds major significance in the Middle East. In a significant development that can increase India’s tension, Egypt has received the first batch of J-10CE fighter jets made in China for its Air Force. These fighter jets are equipped with advanced air-to-air missiles, which are capable of hitting targets beyond visible range, as per BulgarianMilitary.com.
A handle named Hurin on the social media platform X has shared a picture showing two J-10CE fighter jets. Notably, India’s rival, Pakistan, has also received these fighter jets from China.
Earlier, Hurin had reported on Egypt’s growing defence ties with China. Last year, Hurin had hinted at Cairo’s possible acquisition of the J-10CE fighter jets, citing a Chinese defence exhibition. At that time, Beijing displayed J-10CE designed for export.
Source: Www.India.Com
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Muslim mob creates a ruckus at Delhi Metro’s Jama Masjid station, sparks security concerns, DMRC responds ‘momentary reaction of passengers’
15 February, 2025
In a video that is going viral on social media, a mob of young Muslim men wearing skull caps can be seen creating a ruckus at the Jama Masjid station of the Delhi metro. The video visuals show the mob exiting the metro station by jumping over the exit gates without using the token or swiping the metro card.
The incident prompted a response from Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) which issued a statement explaining the situation. “There was a temporary surge of passengers for a brief time when some passengers bypassed the AFC gate by jumping over it to exit. Security personnel and other staff were adequately present to counsel such passengers and the situation was never out of control. Rather, it was a momentary reaction of some passengers due to the sudden surge at AFC gates.”
The DMRC stated that the incident in the viral video happened on 13the February 2025 at the Jama Masjid Metro station on the Violet Line of the Delhi Metro.
The situation was reportedly caused after two trains arrived at the same time at the station and a huge crowd got down from the trains. This led to temporary malfunctioning of the exit gates due to a sudden increase in the number of passengers at the station.
Source: Www.Opindia.Com
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Mideast
Iran's abandoned bases in Syria: Years of military expansion lie in ruins
Nafiseh Kohnavard
16-02-2025
Mouldy half-finished food on bunk beds, discarded military uniforms and abandoned weapons - these are the remnants of an abrupt retreat from this base that once belonged to Iran and its affiliated groups in Syria.
The scene tells a story of panic. The forces stationed here fled with little warning, leaving behind a decade-long presence that unravelled in mere weeks.
Iran was Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's most critical ally for more than 10 years. It deployed military advisers, mobilised foreign militias, and invested heavily in Syria's war.
Its elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) built deep networks of underground bases, supplying arms and training to thousands of fighters. For Iran, this was also part of its "security belt" against Israel.
We are near Khan Shaykhun town in Idlib province. Before Assad's regime fell on 8 December, it was one of the key strategic locations for the IRGC and its allied groups.
Source: Www.Bbc.Com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cjw4egp7lwno
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Iran receives messages from new Syrian government after Assad's ouster
Feb 15, 2025
Iran has received messages from Syria's new government following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad.
Iran said Saturday that it had received messages from the new government in Damascus following the ouster of its longtime Syrian ally, former president Bashar al-Assad.
Source: Www.Hindustantimes.Com
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Several people arrested in Iran after student's death triggers protest
Agencefrance-presse
February 15, 2025
Iranian authorities said on Saturday that several suspects had been arrested in the case of a student’s murder that triggered a night of protest at Tehran University.
Amir Mohammad Khaleghi, a 19-year-old business student, was killed by robbers on Wednesday near the university’s dormitory, according to media reports.
The incident has grabbed the nation’s attention and sparked outrage and protests, with students demanding better security on campus.
“Suspects have been arrested in this case, and investigations are ongoing,” Tehran prosecutor Ali Salehi said on Saturday, according to the judiciary’s Mizan Online news website.
Source: Www.Firstpost.Com
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This Muslim nation seals massive defence deals, not Iran, it’s name is…, the deals are for…
By Analiza Pathak
February 15, 2025
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan embarked on a significant three-nation tour this week, visiting Indonesia, Malaysia, and Pakistan. His visit left a strong impression in these countries, particularly in the defense sector. Several key defense agreements were signed between Turkey’s defense companies and these nations, which are expected to benefit Turkey’s defense industry in the long run.
Accompanying Erdogan on this Asia tour were Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, National Defense Minister Yaşar Guler, Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacır, Agriculture and Forestry Minister İbrahim Yumaklı, and Trade Minister Omer Bolat.
According to Turkish media reports, Erdogan’s visit to Malaysia resulted in 11 agreements being signed. One of the most notable deals was between Turkey’s Desan Shipyard and Malaysia’s Ministry of Home Affairs for the purchase of multi-purpose mission ships. While the financial details of the agreement have not been disclosed, Malaysian authorities have stated that the ships are expected to be fully operational by the first quarter of 2027. These vessels will have the capability to operate in deep waters for up to 30 consecutive days. They will also feature a helipad, two aerial drones, and four high-speed interceptor boats.
A senior official from the Malaysian Navy confirmed that the newly commissioned 99-meter-long vessel will accommodate 70 crew members and 30 passengers. Its primary mission will be to monitor activities in the South China Sea, focusing on detecting foreign vessel intrusions, preventing illegal fishing, and combating cross-border crimes like smuggling and human trafficking. This project is an extension of Turkey’s ongoing LMS Batch 2 Corvette program, led by STM Shipyard.
Source: Www.India.Com
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Iran's early recordings revive forgotten sound heritage
February 16, 2025
TEHRAN, IRAN — In a century-old building in Tehran, Saeed Anvarinejad turned the dial of a vintage radio to tune into some of Iran's earliest recorded sounds, some serving as reminders of the seismic changes that shaped the country's history.
Along with a team of fellow enthusiasts, he spent months tracking down the earliest recordings of Iranian music, speeches, interviews, theatrical plays, radio broadcasts and even the hum of daily life from more than a century ago up to the present day.
"Sound is a phenomenon we pay little attention to ... although it's very important," said Anvarinejad, one of the organizers of the "SoundScape" exhibition.
He highlighted the emotional power of early voice recordings, saying they captured "in a very raw and pure way ... the feeling that people have at that moment," unlike written records.
According to Anvarinejad, the oldest surviving sound recordings from Iran date back to 1898 and 1899, during the reign of Mozaffar al-Din Shah of the Qajar dynasty, which reigned over the country from the late 18th to the early 20th century.
His rule saw the unfolding of the Constitutional Revolution, a pivotal moment in Iran's political transformation that established a parliament and constitutional monarchy.
Source: Www.Voanews.Com
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https://www.voanews.com/a/iran-s-early-recordings-revive-forgotten-sound-heritage/7975972.html
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Tear gas fired at Hezbollah supporters protesting Lebanon blocking Iranian flight
February 15, 2025
BEIRUT, Feb 15 (Reuters) - The Lebanese army fired tear gas on Saturday at Hezbollah supporters protesting around Beirut airport against Lebanon blocking an Iranian flight to Beirut this week after the Israeli military accused Tehran of using civilian aircraft to smuggle cash to Beirut to arm the Lebanese group.
The Lebanese army and government "should have held immediate meetings to prevent the Israeli enemy from imposing its dictates on the airport and from continuing its occupation of Lebanese territory ... instead of using force against a peaceful sit-in on the airport road," Fadlallah added in a statement.
Iran barred Lebanese planes from repatriating dozens of Lebanese nationals stranded in Iran on Friday, in a standoff between the two countries following what Tehran described as an Israeli threat to attack it.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi spoke to his Lebanese counterpart by phone on the matter and both "declared their readiness for constructive talks," state media said, without elaborating.
Source: Reuters.Com
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Southeast Asia
Police deny inaction in RM3m umrah scam probe, say 141 reports received and investigations ongoing
By Malay Mail
16 Feb 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 16 — Police have denied allegations that they are not investigating an alleged umrah scam under Section 420 of the Penal Code.
Federal Commercial Crime Investigation Department director Datuk Seri Ramli Mohamed Yoosuf said police have received 141 reports against the travel agency as of February 7, involving total losses of RM3,015,412.
According to New Straits Times, Ramli stressed that investigations are ongoing despite some reports being referred to the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (Motac).
“As this agency is registered and licensed by Motac to conduct umrah-related activities from 2023 until March 2027, a portion of the police reports has also been referred to the ministry, the relevant enforcement agency responsible for taking action under the Tourism Industry Act 1992.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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Fama guarantees sufficient coconut supply for Ramadan in Peninsular Malaysia with 640 tonnes monthly
16 Feb 2025
JOHOR BAHRU, Feb 16 — The Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) has assured that coconut supply will be adequate during Ramadan in the peninsula, following intervention measures taken to address the issue.
FAMA Deputy Director-General (Food Security and Operations) ShahrizanSudiman said these measures include securing approximately 640 tonnes of supply per month from Indonesia as well as Sabah and arawak.
“In terms of coconut supply, FAMA has intervened by sourcing from multiple suppliers, primarily Indonesia, as well as Sabah and Sarawak.
“The monthly supply is 640 tonnes, which will be distributed across Peninsular Malaysia. So far, the plan is proceeding as expected,” he told a press conference after launching the 40th Anniversary Celebration of the Farmers’ Market at the Johor state level here today.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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E-waste crackdown: RM1.3b worth of machinery, e-waste seized; 27 arrested in Perak raid
16 Feb 2025
IPOH, Feb 16 — The General Operations Force (GOF), in collaboration with the Perak Environment Department (DoE), raided an illegal e-waste processing facility in Kanthan, Sungai Siput, seizing e-waste and machinery valued at approximately RM1.3 billion.
According to The Star, Northern Brigade Commander Senior Asst Comm Shahrum Hashim said the operation, conducted yesterday, led to the arrest of 27 individuals, including foreign workers from China and Myanmar.
“We’ve seized machinery used for smelting, processing, and a laboratory to break down and identify materials like gold, tin, and copper,” Shahrum was quoted as saying.
“Among those arrested was a scientist from China who runs the laboratory and a two-year-old son of one of the Myanmar workers,” he told The Star during a press conference Sunday.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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Abdul Karim open to stepping down after losing PBB vice president race, says will discuss position with Abang Jo
16 Feb 2025
KUCHING, Feb 16 — Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said he will need to discuss his position in the Sarawak State Cabinet with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg following his defeat in the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) elections today.
Abdul Karim, who is Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister as well as Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister, said he is prepared for any possibilities, including a cabinet reshuffle and potentially stepping down from his ministerial posts.
“Well, I see the Cabinet as the prerogative of the Premier. Of course, probably his appointments in the Cabinet are based on positions in the party,
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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MACC releases Perlis fire station chief on bail in RM30,000 false allowance claims probe
16 Feb 2025
KANGAR, Feb 16 — A fire station chief in Perlis, who was remanded for six days until today to assist in an investigation into a case of submitting false claims related to the attendance of auxiliary personnel, has been released on bail by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
According to an MACC source, the 49-year-old civil servant was released last Friday, but a detailed investigation into the case is still ongoing by the Perlis MACC.
Last Tuesday, the media reported that the man had been remanded to assist in the investigation into the false claims, which amounted to approximately RM30,000 between November 2023 and February 2024.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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Elderly driver dies after running red light and crashing into another car in Johor
By Malay Mail
16 Feb 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 16 — A 69-year-old driver who ran a red light and collided with another car in Johor on Thursday died at the hospital yesterday morning.
Seri Alam district police chief Assistant Commissioner Mohd Sohaimi Ishak said the accident occurred at 8.48pm at a traffic light junction on Jalan Johor Jaya-Jalan Masai Lama, the New Straits Times reported.
He said the man was driving a Proton Iswara towards Plentong when he ran the red light and crashed into a Perodua Axia making a right turn towards Taman Johor Jaya.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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South Asia
Key shift in India-Afghanistan trade since Taliban takeover in 2021: Exports slump, imports surge
by Harikishan Sharma
February 16, 2025
India’s trade equation with Afghanistan has witnessed a shift after the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, with imports touching a record $642.29 million in 2023-24 and exports slumping to a 16-year low, creating an unusual trade deficit, reveals Ministry of Commerce data.
This shift gains significance as New Delhi has initiated its highest-level contact yet with the Taliban regime and the latter too has expressed interest in strengthening political and economic ties with India, calling it a “significant regional and economic power”.
Source: Indianexpress.Com
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Taliban carries out public flogging in northern Afghanistan
February 15, 2025
The Taliban publicly flogged five individuals, including a woman, in Takhar province on Thursday, according to a statement from the group’s Supreme Court, Afghan TV network Amu reported.
The individuals were accused of adultery, sodomy, and theft, receiving 39 lashes each and prison sentences ranging from one year and six months to one year and seven months. The punishment took place in a stadium in Yangi Qala district after approval from the Taliban’s Supreme Court.
According to Amu TV, at least 50 people, including seven women, have been publicly flogged in various provinces over the past three weeks for alleged moral and criminal offenses. The practice has drawn ongoing criticism from human rights organizations and the international community.
Source: Shiawaves.Com
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Ramadan on the horizon, soybean oil still scarce
Sukanta Halder
Feb 16, 2025
Consumers say that the supply of bottled soybean oil has not improved significantly, while several players in the local supply chain have expressed mixed reactions regarding the outlook of the edible oil market ahead of Ramadan, when demand for the cooking staple nearly doubles.
On February 10, Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin stated that the edible oil market would normalise within a week. But five days after that comment, an edible oil wholesaler in Dhaka's key commodity market, Karwan Bazar, said the supply had instead declined.
Another trader in Chattogram's Khatunganj market mentioned yesterday that the supply had remained almost unchanged, while a trader in the capital's Moulvibazar reported an increase.
A resident of the capital's West Dhanmondi area told The Daily Star that he couldn't find any bottled soybean oil at the first two retail shops he visited. At the third shop, he managed to find some, but not in the five-litre bottle he wanted. They only had two-litre bottles.
Meanwhile, Laizur Rahman, a resident of Rupnagar in Dhaka's Mirpur, said he was able to buy a five-litre bottle of soybean oil after searching through four different shops yesterday.
"The government says the edible oil crisis is artificial, but the problem is still not being resolved quickly," he said in frustration, referring to the Bangladesh Trade and Tariff Commission's statement on February 9 that the prevailing edible oil crisis was artificial.
Retailers and wholesalers in several markets in major cities, including Dhaka, Chattogram, and Barishal, said supply had been reduced after the government last month rejected refiners' requests to raise prices in the face of increased import costs.
Now, the supply shortage is forcing consumers to rummage from store to store for soybean oil, a commodity for which Bangladesh relies heavily on imports to meet its annual requirement of 24 lakh tonnes.
Source: Www.Thedailystar.Ne
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The Legacy Of Abandoned US Military Equipment In Afghanistan: A Strategic And Ethical Issue – OpEd
By Umair Khan
February 16, 2025
The precipitous withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan in August 2021 was a watershed and controversial moment in the history of the U.S. military in Afghanistan.
While the decision to end the almost 20-year conflict was made with a desire to return American forces home, it has come hand in hand with an unwanted legacy: that of leaving behind an unfinished problem and a huge stock of American military hardware. This reservoir, whether it is high-level defense machinery, armor tanks, helicopters, and fighter aircraft, puts not only Afghanistan’s future security but also American policy, international community relations, as well as war ethics to an extremely high degree of test.
As the American troops left Afghanistan, they took with them approximately $7 billion of equipment, including more than 70 aircraft, 100,000 rifles, and a few hundred vehicles. Among the more visible equipment abandoned were Black Hawk helicopters, Humvees, and other cutting-edge surveillance and communications equipment, much of which has since made its way into the hands of the Taliban. It made people ask questions about the craziness of letting this cutting-edge equipment go to waste on the table to be picked up by the insurgents, potentially to be used for its capabilities by fueling an outfit that was notorious for both its human rights atrocities and destabilizing nature.
Source: Www.Eurasiareview.Com
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US-China clash over drafting Afghanistan resolution at UN signals growing diplomatic tensions
By Fidel Rahmati
February 15, 2025
A U.S. think tank focused on security and democracy issues reports growing tensions between Washington and Beijing over who should draft the United Nations Security Council resolutions on Afghanistan. This dispute has intensified in recent weeks.
The issue revolves around which country should act as the Security Council “penholder” on Afghanistan. Penholders are responsible for drafting and negotiating resolutions, holding significant influence over international peace operations and sanctions.
The analysis, published by the “Just Security” organization on February 14, highlights how the disagreement is not only about the U.N.’s approach to the Taliban but also about China’s rising role in the Security Council under the Trump administration.
Richard Gowan, the author of the report, explains that the argument over which country should take responsibility for drafting Afghanistan resolutions has become a major diplomatic row between the U.S. and China.
Source: Www.khaama.Com
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Two arrested for attacking worshippers in Samangan Mosque
By Fidel Rahmati
February 15, 2025
Local authorities in Samangan province said two individuals have been arrested in connection with injuring four worshipers in Samangan. The incident occurred during Friday prayers on February 14 at a Mosque in the city of Aybak.
According to a statement from Hashmatullah Rahmani, spokesperson for the Samangan Police, the two individuals, residents of Samangan, threw a hand grenade inside the mosque, resulting in injuries to four worshipers. The attack was reportedly motivated by personal grievances with the mosque’s community.
Rahmani confirmed that after being informed of the incident, the Deputy Security Commander and personnel from the third security district of the Samangan Police responded quickly. They apprehended the suspects, who were attempting to flee, along with a firearm. They are now under investigation.
The wounded victims were immediately transferred to the provincial hospital in Mazar-e-Sharif for medical treatment. The authorities have stated that the situation is under control.
Source: Www.khaama.Com
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Amid 'Deep State' Allegations, US Slashes Funding In Bangladesh
by:Mohammed Ghazali
16-02-2025
Amid 'Deep State' Allegations, US Slashes Funding InBangladeshThis comes days after American President Trump denied allegations of US involvement in the regime change in Bangladesh last year when former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted following a nationwide protest led by students.
In its bid to save US taxpayers' money, the Donald Trump administration's cost-cutting team--Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)-- has cancelled a slew of overseas projects, including one in Bangladesh that raised several eyebrows. The billionaire Elon Musk-led department said it is cancelling $29 million funding intended for "strengthening the political landscape in Bangladesh".
In a post on X listing a list of cancelled US funding abroad, DOGE said, "USD 29M to 'strengthening the political landscape in Bangladesh" has been stopped.
This comes days after American President Trump denied allegations of US involvement in the regime change in Bangladesh last year when former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted following a nationwide protest led by students.
Funded by the United States Agency For International Development (USAID) and the United Kingdon's erstwhile Department for International Development, the strengthening Political Landscape in Bangladesh program (SPL) worked to build political party capacity and strengthen relationships between parties and constituents while reducing political violence, according to Democracy International (DI).
Per DI, the programme supported political activists and citizens as they built the skills they needed to become effective leaders, advocate for inclusive policies, and constructively engage with one another to mitigate conflict.
In addition, SPL confronted the challenges of political violence by engaging political parties, grassroots activists, and university students, monitoring incidents of violence, and promoting peaceful alternatives.
After a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, US President Donald Trump dismissed any American involvement in the Bangladesh political crisis, stating that the issue has been handled by India for a long time.
When a reporter sought the views of President Trump on whether the previous Democratic government under former President Joe Biden carried out a regime change in Bangladesh, and installed Muhammad Yunus as a chief adviser, the Republican said, "There is no role for our deep state. This is something that the Prime Minister has been working on for a long time and has worked on for hundreds of years... I have been reading about it."
Source: Www.Ndtv.Com
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Starlink in Bangladesh? Yunus-Musk hold talks over potential collaboration
By: Mohit Pandey
Feb 15, 2025
Yunus holds talks with Musk: Bangladesh's Chief Adviser, Muhammad Yunus, said that he held a conversation with Tesla CEO Elon Musk to discuss a potential collaboration to launch Starlink satellite internet service in the country. In a post on X, Yunus said that he had a great meeting with Musk as they agreed to work together, adding, "Hoping to launch Starlink in Bangladesh soon together with him." Yunus also extended his invitation to Tesla CEO Musk to visit Bangladesh for the potential launch of Starlink services, underscoring the significance of this initiative for national development, to which Musk responded positively.
In a post from the official handle of the Chief Adviser of the Government of Bangladesh, it was said, "Bangladesh Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Thursday held an extensive video discussion with @elonmusk, the owner of SpaceX, Tesla, and X, to explore future collaboration and to make further progress to introduce Starlink satellite internet service in Bangladesh."
The discussion was also attended by Khalilur Rahman, High Representative for the Rohingya crisis and priority issues; Lamiya Morshed, Principal Coordinator of SDGs, on the Bangladesh side; Lauren Dreyer, Vice President; and Richard Griffiths, Global Engagement Adviser from SpaceX.
Source: Www.Indiatvnews.Com
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‘Why the devil is after Nigerian churches’
by Adeola Ogunlade
February 16, 2025
The Mantle Prayer Ministry, popularly known as Oke-Isimi, located in Sagamu, Ogun State, has marked 13 years of existence. Over the years, the ministry has grown from a humble beginning in a wilderness to a thriving spiritual hub, drawing worshippers from across the world. As part of the anniversary celebrations, Prophet Isaac Olaomo, the Founder and President of the ministry, speaks to ADEOLA OGUNLADE on his journey in ministry, the challenges faced, the state of the Church in Nigeria, and his vision for the future.
Mantle Prayer Ministry is 13 years old. How do you feel about this milestone?
I’m excited and deeply grateful to God. What we have today is a testimony of His greatness and mercy. When we started, many thought it was impossible, especially, because we were coming into a wilderness. But God assured us that He would see us through, and today, people from all over the world come here to worship and have their prayers answered.
Source: Thenationonlineng.Net
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JFC calls for unified response to combat misogyny, cyberbullying, GBV
February 16, 2025
by Adeola Ogunlade
Journalists For Christ (JFC) International Outreach has called for a unified effort to tackle the growing issues of misogyny, cyberbullying, and online gender-based violence.
This appeal was made during an information-sharing and capacity-building session for the #EndMisogynyNG Project held recently in Lagos.
The initiative, implemented by JFC International Outreach in collaboration with the World Association for Christian Communication (WACC), seeks to address these critical challenges.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Ugonma Cokey, Focal Lead of the #EndMisogynyNG Project, emphasized that violence against women is not only physical but also takes place online through cyberbullying and harassment.
Source: Thenationonlineng.Net
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https://thenationonlineng.net/jfc-calls-for-unified-response-to-combat-misogyny-cyberbullying-gbv/
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PFN rejects Shariah Court in Southwest
By Anthony Ufoh
15 February 2025
The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has rejected the implementation of the Islamic Penal Code, also known as Sharia Court, in the South Western part of Nigeria.
He also said that it is unfair if, for any reason whatsoever, the government begins to tilt towards recognising or promoting a particular religious system over the other.
He said, “Our position is that Nigeria is officially a secular state. That does not endorse any specific religion. Our advice to the government is to stick to that.
“It is fair to our country If, for any reason whatsoever, the government begins to tilt towards recognizing or promoting a particular religious system over the other. So the best for Nigeria, because of our morality, ethnicity, is to remain a secular state in which individuals are allowed to be who they are.
Source: Guardian.Ng
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https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/pfn-rejects-shariah-court-in-southwest/
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Zimbabwe responds to U.S. aid withdrawal
16-02-2025
The government has stopped short of telling the United States of America to go hang following the termination of financial aid to African countries.
Zimbabwe is among the African nations affected by the Executive Order signed by U.S. President Donald Trump, which halts aid to Africa.
Financial aid had previously alleviated the country's burden in tackling HIV and AIDS through the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).
Responding to questions in the National Assembly recently, Deputy Minister of Health Sleiman Kwidini stated that the government would cover the gaps left by the withdrawal of U.S. funding.
Source: Gbulawayo24.Com
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https://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-national-byo-250585.html
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Mahamoud Youssouf Speaks after Defeating Raila Odinga in AUC Election: "I Am Humbled"
by NancyOdindo
February 16, 2025
Djibouti's long-serving Foreign Affairs Minister, Mahamoud Youssouf, has expressed gratitude to the African heads of state who supported and voted for him in the Saturday, February 15, African Union Commission (AUC) election.
Youssouf secured the chairmanship after obtaining 33 votes in the seventh round, after Kenya's former prime minister Raila Odinga's withdrawal from the race.
The election, held during the AU summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, saw Youssouf defeat Raila and Madagascar's former foreign minister Richard Randriamandrato.
Source: Gwww.tuko.co.ke
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COP27: Oxfam calls on nations to redeem financial pledges
By Chimezie Godfrey
February 16, 2025
Oxfam, an international organisation, has called on nations to honour their financial commitments made during 27th Conference of Parties (COP27) convention on climate change.
Oxfam, an international organisation, has called on nations to honour their financial commitments made during 27th Conference of Parties (COP27) convention on climate change.
Mr Henry Ushe, the Oxfam Program Manager for Accountable Governance in Nigeria, made the call at a two-day workshop organised by the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Center (CISLAC), with the support of Oxfam in Port Harcourt.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that some developed countries had pledged $100 billion annually to support the low and middle income countries in their climate action efforts.
Oxfam said that the actual amount already delivered was low with much of the finance provided as loans which aggravating debt burdens in vulnerable countries
Ushe, however, stated that Nigeria had developed the gas master plan following its commitment to COP27 to transit energy to net zero by 2060 and to the Paris agreement of accelerating climate action.
Source: Newsdiaryonline.Com
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Who was Muhsin Hendricks? World's first openly gay imam fatally shot in South Africa
February 16, 2025
World's first openly gay imam was fatally shot near Cape Town, South Africa, on Saturday in a targeted killing.
Identified as Muhsin Hendricks, the imam was attending a wedding in Bethelsdorp, Gqeberha, on Saturday when he was shot dead.
He was seated at the back of a car when another vehicle blocked it and two unidentified masked suspects opened fire.
Muhsin Hendricks, 58, was an Islamic scholar who advocated for the inclusion of LGBT people in the religion. He was running the Al-Ghurbaah mosque at Wynberg where gay and marginalised Muslims were given a safe haven.
Source: Www.Theweek.In
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Europe
Russians troops sharply stepped up attacks on Ukrainian forces on Saturday, military says
By Thomson Reuters
Feb 16, 2025
KYIV (Reuters) – Russian forces sharply increased combat activity in eastern Ukraine on Saturday and the main attacks were concentrated near an important logistic hub of Pokrovsk, Ukrainian military said on Sunday.
Russian troops have been advancing towards Pokrovsk for weeks as part of their steady drive through eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region, capturing a string of villages.
The military said there were 261 military clashes in the past 24 hours, compared to just over 100 days earlier. Almost a third of all the fighting was concentrated near Pokrovsk.
Russian forces are attacking Ukrainian positions south, west and east of Pokrovsk in an effort to cut off the group’s supplies, the military said.
Source: Kelo.Com
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British veterans retrace epic Lawrence trek in ‘living tribute to history’
Nada Hameed
February 15, 2025
JEDDAH: In a journey that followed the path of one of history’s most legendary desert crossings, a British team of four endurance riders has retraced the famous route of T.E. Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia, across Saudi Arabia and Jordan.
Their remarkable expedition, inspired by the historic trek that helped change the course of the First World War, was a feat of endurance, history and adventure.
“A few of us last year were sitting around a table and mulling what was probably the most historic camel ride in recent history, and we came up with the one from Lawrence of Arabia,” Howard Leedham, one of the riders, told Arab News. “Nobody has ever done it since Lawrence, Auda Abu Tayi, Nasib Al-Bakri and Sherif Nasir did this ride.”
Riders who trained in Tabuk during December were Martin Thompson, Riyadh resident Craig Ross, Mike Baker and James Calder, and Howard Leedham. All five riders are former British soldiers. (Supplied)
Their journey mirrored the original path taken by Lawrence and his Arab allies in 1917, beginning in Al-Wajh, Saudi Arabia, and traversing the vast desert landscapes toward Aqaba, Jordan. Along the way, the riders passed through key historical sites mentioned in Lawrence’s book, “Seven Pillars of Wisdom.”
Source: Www.Arabnews.Com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2590353/saudi-arabia
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A Memory of Saint Flavian, Patriarch of Constantinople
Feb 16, 2025
The Orthodox Church commemorates today Saint Martyr Pamphilus and Saint Flavian, Patriarch of Constantinople.
Saint Flavian lived during the 5th century AD. and initially served the Church as a presbyter and skeuophylax (meaning “keeper of the vessels”) of the Hagia Sophia. In 447 AD he succeeded to the patriarchal throne Saint Proclus and distinguished himself with his morals, virtue and devotion to the Orthodox Faith.
Just a year after his enthronement, he convened a local council in Constantinople and condemned monophysitist Archimandrite Eftychis, who preached that Christ had only one nature, the divine one because the human nature was completely absorbed by the divine.
Saint Flavian paid dearly for his steadfastness in the Orthodox faith as he was humiliated and suffered torture during the so-called Robber Council of 449 AD, also known as Latrocinium, when Archimandrite Eftychis, who was backed by Dioscurus of Alexandria, provoked an insurgence.
The saint died three days after the end of the synod and he became a martyr after having remained steadfast in the Orthodox faith.
Source: Orthodoxtimes.Com
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Mosque plans family fun day to support funeral centre appeal
By Shuiab Khan
16-02-2025
A mosque is to host a family fun day during half-term to support a major redevelopment plan.
More than £320,000 has been raised towards a £400,000 target to build the new funeral centre at the Masjid al-Momineen in Ash Street, off Whalley New Road.
The free event will feature arts and crafts, Islamic clothing, luxury oud, cakes, biscuits, and treats, beauty stalls, games and a barbeque.
Source: Www.Lancashiretelegraph.Co.Uk
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It's a 'no' to US bid for rare earth minerals
Feb 16, 2025
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he rejected for now a US offer that would give Washington access to critical minerals in the war-battered country because it didn't offer sufficient protections. "The deal doesn't protect our interests," Zelenskyy told reporters at the Munich Security Conference. "There should be a connection with security guarantees and investments". He said the presented draft "was not in the interest of a sovereign Ukraine", as the the sides continue to negotiate.
Source: Timesofindia.com
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North America
How this New York Times writer is approaching politics differently
By Sydney Jezik
Feb 15, 2025
In addition to being a New York Times award-winning journalist, constitutional lawyer, military veteran and author, David French has found his politics changing at the same time, as he went from supporting Republicans to voting for Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris in the last election.
One thing he’s stayed constant to, though, is his Christian faith. And though he has faced ire from all directions over the course of his evolution, he’s maintained a steady calm, at least it appears so to me.
I met French at an American Enterprise Institute presentation, where he agreed to let me interview him after the program was done.
“We hate each other more than we did four years ago. And it is very difficult to preserve a union in the face of an enormous amount of mutual hatred.”
And partisanship didn’t end with the Jan. 6, 2021, riots at the U.S. Capitol. Anger has persisted throughout the last four years, up to and including during the 2024 election.
French laid out his politics for me. He didn’t vote for President Donald Trump in part because he doesn’t like the current president’s isolationist stance. He also supports sending Ukraine financial aid.
But he spends only a little time on these issues before pivoting. He begins to explain how his Christian perspective shapes his present view on politics.
Source: Www.Deseret.Com
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Ecumenical Initiative Calls For Unity To Celebrate Easter Together
By Victoria Cardiel
February 16, 2025
The First Ecumenical Council, the meeting of Christian bishops that was held in 325 in Nicaea (today İznik, Turkey), laid the groundwork for reaching consensus within the Church through an assembly representing all of Christendom.
This event marked a key moment in the history of Christianity, 17 centuries ago this year, in which, among other decisions, the way of calculating the date of Easter was established.
However, over the centuries, changes to the calendar resulted in discrepancies between the Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox churches, differences that still persist. While Latin-rite Catholics follow the Gregorian calendar, in the East the tradition of calculating liturgical dates according to the Julian calendar has been maintained.
“The process of changing the calendar, which began in 1582 with Pope Gregory and was completed to a certain extent in 1923 with the adoption of the new calendar by some Orthodox churches, was not without difficulties,” Kostas Mygdalis, consultant to the Orthodox Interparliamentary Assembly (IOA), explained in an interview with ACI Prensa, CNA’s Spanish-language news partner.
Source: Www.Eurasiareview.Com
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Children learn about sharing Jesus’ love through service in Friend to Friend with Elder Bednar, Primary general presidency
Feb 15, 2025
As a Primary class in Salt Lake City learned how to plan, invite and serve, they learned more about their capacity to share Jesus Christ’s love through service.
The Valiant-age class counseled with Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Sister Susan Bednar, before and after their service activity.
“The whole point of service is to help us bless other people, because that is what Jesus did,” Elder Bednar told the children. “And if we are His disciples, we should be looking for opportunities to serve and bless other people.”
Their experience was featured in the Friend to Friend broadcast Saturday, Feb. 15, which included the Primary general presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and two young hosts, who used songs, pictures, puppets and a craft to teach children about service.
Source: Www.Deseret.Com
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https://www.deseret.com/faith/2025/02/15/friend-to-friend-elder-david-a-bednar-service/
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Doctors report Pope Francis' health is improving
16-02-2025
Pope Francis’ condition is improving, but to facilitate his recovery the doctors at the Gemelli Hospital have prescribed that he observe “total rest,” the Vatican press office announced in a communique released at 6 p.m. local time. That means that for the second time in 12 years, Pope Francis will not lead the noonday Angelus prayer on Feb.16.
The communique confirmed that the pope had “rested all night” on Feb. 14, his first night in hospital, and did not have any “episodes of fever.” It reported that “the examinations carried in the course of the day confirmed the infection of the respiratory tracts” and said the hospital doctors “modified the [pharmacological] therapy on the basis of further microbiological findings.”
Anna Lisa Bilotta, an Italian doctor who reviewed the communique but who is not treating Pope Francis, told America that the most recent laboratory tests indicated the pope’s condition was improving. She explained that this suggests “the therapy is working and the infection is decreasing.” Dr. Bilotta underlined the fact that the doctors have prescribed that Francis has “total rest” and said “this is likely to be for some days to enable the therapy to take full effect.”
Although the Holy Father will not lead the prayer of the Angelus, he has forwarded the text for publication. The Vatican statement said Pope Francis received the Holy Eucharist on Saturday morning and during the day “alternated moments of rest with prayer and reading.”
Source: Www.Americamagazine.org.Com
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https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2025/02/15/pope-francis-illness-249942
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Donald Trump's crackdown on government employees: List of agencies firing federal workers
Feb 16, 2025
Jobs of over 20,000 federal employees are under jeopardy after US President Donald Trump ordered the heads of agencies across the government to start firing employees who were still within their probationary period.
Some federal staff members facing termination were given a mere 30 minutes to collect their items and depart from government premises. Moreover, the firing was done via Microsoft Teams group calls or pre-recorded messages.
Some were told that they would be laid off over email but never received such mails. Following Donald Trump's directive, federal organisations were instructed to dismiss primarily probationary personnel, with some being hastily escorted out, according to the Washington Post.
This comes after intensified cost-cutting measures were launched by President Trump's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), under Elon Musk's leadership, including potential elimination of entire governmental departments.
The Interior Department dismissed about 2,300 employees following directives from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). These employees were on probationary status, meaning they were recently hired, the Hill reported.
The department, which oversees national parks, tribal affairs, endangered species, and energy production on federal lands, is now led by Doug Burgum, former governor of North Dakota and a former GOP presidential candidate, who was confirmed earlier this month.
Department of veterans affairs (VA) laid off over 1,000 new employees as part of a wave of federal government cuts. The firings affected probationary employees with less than two years of service.
According to the VA, the layoffs are expected to save over $98 million annually, with the savings redirected toward healthcare and benefits for veterans.
The Environmental protection agency (EPA) terminated nearly 400 employees after receiving the OPM directive. Under the leadership of newly confirmed Administrator Lee Zeldin (R-N.Y.), the agency explained that these layoffs followed a thorough review in line with Trump's executive orders.
Source: Timesofindia.Com
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Millions collected by US army for food program funds spent elsewhere: Report
Feb 16, 2025
Majority of the funds collected by the US army for a food program were spent elsewhere, while less than half of the funds were used for meals, Military.com reported.
According to the report, $225 million was taken from junior enlisted soldiers through the basic allowance for subsistence program, yet only $74 million went toward providing food.
The money for the program is essentially collected as a tax on troops, deducted from their basic Allowance for subsistence (BAS) payment of $460 per month. This amount is automatically taken from the paychecks of service members living in barracks and is intended to help enlisted personnel cover food costs.
However, records from the 11 largest military bases reveal that in 2024, $151 million of the $225 million collected from soldiers was not used for food, according to Military.com. The actual amount may be even higher, as the Army operates 104 garrisons, all using the same program.
Source: Timesofindia.Com
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Pakistan
Interior minister hopes ties with US to grow under Trump
Iftikhar A. Khan
February 16, 2025
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi during a meeting with acting US Ambassador Natalie Baker on Saturday expressed the hope that Pakistan-US relations would be further strengthened during the tenure of President Donald Trump.
The interior minister said that US cooperation in enhancing the capacity of Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies was highly significant. Detailed discussions were also held on Pakistan-US relations, matters of mutual interest, and enhancing bilateral cooperation, at the meeting.
The interior minister’s recent visit to the US was also discussed during the meeting, where he had positive interactions with members of the US Congress.
During these meetings, detailed negotiations were held on formulating a joint strategy against terrorism and further strengthening bilateral relations.
Source: Www.Dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1892219/interior-minister-hopes-ties-with-us-to-grow-under-trump
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Yasmin expects Nawaz to admit defeat in NA-130 election
February 16, 2025
LAHORE: The incarcerated president of PTI’s Punjab chapter, Dr Yasmin Rashid, in an open letter sent through her lawyer, has said PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif should have the courage to admit his ‘defeat’ in the 2024 general elections as did his party leaders Rana Sanaullah and Saad Rafique.
She said the people were aware who had won the election in the Lahore NA-130 constituency. “I contested the election from jail, yet I managed to get more votes than Nawaz Sharif according to 93 per cent results as per Form-45 that we have,” she said.
Hoping that the election tribunals will be honest with their verdict once they go through the fudged-up results, she said the truth would finally prevail.
She said the nation came through with flying colours on Black Day on Feb 8 proving that they believe in the democracy, but “do not try out their patience”.
Source: Www.Dawn.Com
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A drought emergency imposed in Rawalpindi to conserve water
Aamir Yasin
February 16, 2025
RAWALPINDI: In line with the Pakistan Meteorology Department’s drought alert which warns of minimum chances of rain in February and March, the Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa) on Saturday imposed the drought emergency in the city to manage the water requirements of the residents.
Wasa Managing Director Muhammad Saleem Ashraf told Dawn that due to the drought, rapidly growing population, various commercial activities, and limited resources the supply of water to the residents of the garrison city was affected.
“Wasa Rawalpindi is facing severe difficulties in provision of water and in view of this situation, it has been decided to impose a drought emergency in Rawalpindi so that the people use water judiciously,” Mr Ashraf said.
He said that a water conservation campaign had been launched in the city because of the absence of rain over the past three months.
He said that due to a prolonged dry spell, there had been a sharp decline in dams and underground reservoirs which created a huge gap in the demand and supply.
“Rawalpindi city requires 68 million gallons daily (MGD) of water, while 51 MGD is being provided from the existing resources, including the Rawal and Khanpur dams besides more than 490 tube wells. Keeping this in mind, a campaign has been started…to prevent unnecessary use and waste of water,” he said, warning that fines would be imposed in cases of violation.
Source: Www.Dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1892191/drought-emergency-imposed-in-rawalpindi-to-conserve-water
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Veteran journalist Razi Ahmed Rizvi passes away
February 16, 2025
ISLAMABAD: Syed Razi Ahmed Rizvi, former senior news editor at Pakistan Television (PTV) and ex-editor at Voice of America (VOA)’s Urdu service, passed away in Islamabad due to cardiac arrest. He was 81 years old.
Rizvi, who was visiting Pakistan, had been admitted to a hospital in Islamabad on Friday after experiencing health complications. He was diagnosed with pneumonia, but suffered a fatal heart attack on Saturday morning.
After completing his education, Rizvi began his journalism career in Dhaka with the PPI news agency. In 1967, he joined the Asian Television Service, a subsidiary of PTV, as news producer.
Source: Www.Dawn.Com
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Shangla people pour onto roads against killing of miners in Harnai
February 16, 2025
SHANGLA: Residents of Shangla blocked the Bisham-Swat Road in Alpuri on Saturday against the terrorist attack that claimed the lives of 10 coal miners, including six Shangla residents, in Harnai, Balochistan, on Friday.
The residents came onto the roads on the call of Shangla action committee and the district bar association, upon arrival of bodies of mineworkers from Balochistan.
The protesters, among them family members of the deceased, shouted slogans against the government for its failure to protect innocent citizens.
Addressing the rally, chairman Shangla action committee Waqif Shah Advocate condemned the ‘pathetic’ behaviour of Balochistan government for not providing ambulances for shifting the bodies (mostly remains) of the blast victims.
He said the other coal miners from Shangla then had to place a piece of cloth on the road for collecting donations for arranging ambulances for the victims, and the bodies were brought to Shangla without the support of the Balochistan, federal and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governments.
Source: Www.Dawn.Com
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Suspect remanded in police custody as SHC moved for exhumation of Mustafa Amir’s body
Ishaq Tanoli
February 16, 2025
KARACHI: An anti-terrorism court on Saturday remanded a suspect in police custody in a case pertaining to the abduction and murder of a youth in the Defence Housing Authority.
Mustafa Amir was abducted from the DHA on Jan 6 and two weeks later his family had received a ransom call. During the course of investigation, the police arrested victim’s friend Armaghan after a shoot-out, but could not get his physical remand from court for questioning.
On Saturday, the investigating officer produced another suspect, Sheraz, aka Shavez Bukhari, a friend of Armaghan, and sought his custody for interrogation.
The IO said that during the initial questioning, the suspect had disclosed that Armaghan had called Mustafa at his DHA residence, killed him after subjecting him to torture and burn the body along with his car in Hub.
The judge remanded the suspect in police custody till Feb 21 and directed the IO to produce him at the next hearing along with a progress report.
The mother of the victim also moved an application in court, seeking a directive for the authorities concerned to exhume the body of her son.
However, the ATC asked the applicant to approach the judicial magistrate concerned for such purpose as a magistrate is empowered to pass an order about exhumation and other related issues.
The police said that an unidentified body was found in a torched car in Hub on Jan 12 and the Balochistan police had handed it over to the Edhi Foundation for burial. The unclaimed body was buried in the Edhi graveyard in Karachi on Jan 16.
Source: Www.Dawn.Com
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Arab world
Working out during Ramadan: When is the right time and which exercise is best?
Evelyn Lau
February 16, 2025
During Ramadan, maintaining a normal exercise routine is not easy, especially because of fasting, interrupted sleeping patterns and lowered liquid intake.
“The 30-day period of fasting can be challenging, and it can be tempting to abandon fitness and health goals,” says Aadil Baksh, a personal trainer at Ultimate Performance Dubai.
“Going long hours without food or water can put a large amount of stress on your body, but with some careful planning and smart training advice, you can still lose weight or build muscle during Ramadan safely and effectively.”
“When working out during Ramadan, the secret is to stimulate, not annihilate. It’s important to take a more measured approach to your training while fasting,” says Baksh.
As someone who observes the fast himself, Ahmed El Sayed, a personal trainer at Fitness First, says he focuses on three basic aspects in each workout – strength training, cardio and flexibility. “The reason I prioritise muscular strength is because a loss of muscle mass will slow down metabolism. The goal should be to avoid both, losing muscle and a drop in your metabolic rate,” he says.
“When it comes to cardio, I recommend a light-intensity session, limited to 30 minutes of slow, steady distance, every other day. Remember, you will be dehydrated, so your body will use your fat storage as a source of energy, especially if you do cardio before iftar. However, the fact that you’re depleted means your blood pressure might drop at the onset or even after, so don’t skip warm-up and cool-down routines,” says El Sayed.
“Similarly, when you start your resistance training, choose exercises that target the upper body before the lower body to avoid any drop in your blood pressure during or after. The last fitness aspect to focus on is flexibility to avoid any mobility-related issues you might face, especially when you exercise normally again after Ramadan and the Eid break.”
Given the mid-day sun and no liquids from sunrise to sunset, you will compromise your health by pushing yourself too much. It is not recommended to do intense cardio workouts and heavy weight-training exercises while fasting. You should also cut your routine down to two cardio sessions a week throughout the holy month.
Source: Www.Thenationalnews.Com
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Saudi Arabia supports Lebanon measures to restore security
Arab News
February 16, 2025
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia expressed its full support for measures taken by the Lebanese government to confront attempts to tamper with the security of Lebanese citizens, and to deal firmly with the perpetrators of an attack on the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
“The Kingdom renewed its support and confidence in the measures taken by His Excellency President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam in this regard, and the national tasks carried out by the Lebanese Army that contribute to achieving security and stability,” read a statement by the foreign ministry on Sunday.
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has pledged to bring the assailants behind the criminal attack on a UN peacekeeping force to justice.
A UNIFIL deputy commander was wounded on Friday when the convoy he travelled in was attacked by protesters who set his UN vehicle on fire.
Source: Www.Arabnews.Com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2590406/saudi-arabia
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Saudi, US defense ministers discuss ties during call
Arab News
February 16, 2025
RIYADH: Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman held a telephone call with US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.
Their conversation focused on Saudi-American relations and strategic cooperation in the defense field, as well as ways to develop the cooperation for mutual benefit, as well as the efforts to establish the foundations of international peace and security.
Source: Www.Arabnews.Com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2590390/saudi-arabia
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Ramadan 2025 duration and fasting hours revealed
Abdulla Rasheed
February 16, 2025
Abu Dhabi: With only a few days left until the arrival of Ramadan 2025/1446, astronomical calculations indicate that the Holy Month will begin on Saturday, March 1, 2025. The crescent moon will be observed after sunset on Friday, February 28, corresponding to 29 Sha’ban 1446, to confirm the exact start date of fasting.
As is widely known, many Arab and Islamic countries rely on official moon sighting using astronomical observatories, in accordance with the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him): “Do not fast until you see the crescent, and do not break your fast until you see it. If it is obscured, then estimate it.”
Islamic nations are expected to announce official moon sighting efforts on that Friday evening, confirming the start of Ramadan based on the verified sighting.
Source: Gulfnews.Com
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https://gulfnews.com/uae/ramadan/ramadan-2025-duration-and-fasting-hours-revealed-1.500037680
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Launching Ramadan program in Sana'a
16 Feb 2025
Sana'a (Saba) - The Women's Authority of Ansar Allah and the General Administration for Women's Development launched today the preparations for the Ramadan and summer program for the year 1446 AH.
At the launch, the Director of the General Administration for Women's Development, Ibtisam Al-Mahtouri, stressed the importance of psychological and physical preparation to receive the holy month as it should be.
Source: Www.Saba.Ye
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An Influx of more sheep set to stabilise meat prices ahead of Ramadan
February 15, 2025
Sheep market traders are ramping up preparations to meet the anticipated surge in demand for meat, particularly mutton, as the holy month of Ramadan approaches.
Several salesmen at the sheep markets told the local Arabic daily Al Raya that they have reached agreements with local farm owners to supply additional quantities of sheep. This measure aims to ensure price stability during the holy month.
Currently, the market offers a variety of sheep at different prices. The price of a small local sheep is around QR1,150, while a large local sheep costs an average of QR1,350. The Awassi sheep, produced in Doha, is available for QR1,450, whereas Somali sheep are the cheapest, selling for QR650 for a weight of 35kgm. However, the prices are subject for slight changes depending on the market day and the negotiation skills of both the seller and the buyer. The Central Market in Al-Wakra have a wide range of sheep, both local and imported, providing consumers with multiple options as Ramadan approaches.
Ahmed al-Rashidi, sheep seller, pointed out that the market offers Arabian, Iranian, and Somali sheep, alongside Somali goats. He explained that prices vary depending on the type, with the price of an Arabian sheep ranging between QR1,300 and QR1,400, while a local sheep costs QR 1,350, and an Iranian sheep is priced at around QR1,100.
Hamdan Abdulrahman, sheep seller, pointed out that Kerman sheep are available for QR1,200, while the price of local sheep ranges between QR1,350 and QR1,400. He also stressed the availability of locally produced Syrian sheep at QR1,450 and Turkish sheep at QR1,150, in addition to Somali goats priced at QR700. He noted that the market activity is strong and expects demand to increase as Ramadan begins.
Source: Www.Gulf-Times.Com
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SCIA President receives Muslim Council of Elders Sec Gen
15 Feb 2025
Manama, Feb. 15 (BNA): Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Khalifa, President of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (SCIA), received Mohamed Abdel Salam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, to discuss final preparations for the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference.
Bahrain will host the conference on February 19-20 under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The event will be attended by Grand Imam Professor Ahmad Al Tayyeb, Grand Imam of Al Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, along with a distinguished group of scholars.
Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Mohammed welcomed the conference’s participants, including scholars, religious authorities, and intellectuals, affirming that all arrangements are in place to ensure its success. He highlighted the conference’s goal of issuing recommendations aimed at strengthening Islamic unity and solidarity, particularly in light of the challenges facing the Muslim world today.
Mohamed Abdel Salam stated that the conference is being held at a critical time for the Muslim world, emphasising the need to unify efforts, strengthen areas of common ground, and advance intra-Islamic dialogue to develop a shared vision that restores the Muslim world's leadership. He confirmed that all preparations have been completed, ensuring an atmosphere of fraternity, understanding, and cooperation.
The Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference, themed "One Nation, One Shared Destiny", is organised by Al Azhar, the SCIA, and the Muslim Council of Elders. It will bring together over 400 scholars, leaders, and intellectuals from across the Islamic world to promote unity, transition from discussions on rapprochement to deeper engagement on common challenges, and establish a sustainable framework for intra-Islamic dialogue.
Source: Www.Bna.Bh
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