Jharkhand's Muslim Tailor, Ghulam Jilani, Makes 40-Foot Lord Hanuman Flag for Ayodhya's Ram Temple

New Age Islam News Bureau

28 December 2023

 

Photo: ETV Bharat

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·         Jharkhand's Muslim Tailor, Gulam Jilani, Makes 40-Foot Lord Hanuman Flag for Ayodhya's Ram Temple

·         Module On LGBTQ In National Service Scheme Guide for School Teachers Makes Muslim Groups Angry

·         Bangladesh Has Discarded Secular 1971, Gone Back to Islamic 1947. Polls Won’t End This Fight

·         Israeli Hangs Donkey Head to Desecrate Historic Jerusalem Muslim Cemetery

·         German Police Chief Voices Concern Over Islamist Terror Threat

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India

·         Kerala Muslim Body’s Mouthpiece, Suprabhatham, Questions Cong Stand on Attending Ram Temple Event

·         UP: Deoband Madrasa Student Detained, Released for Threatening Post On X

·         Over 2K Objections Filed Against Proposed Demolition of Sunheri Masjid

·         Centre bans J&K Muslim League faction for 5 years under UAPA

·         ‘Avoid malls, markets’: Israel issues advisory, urges its citizens in India to be extra vigilant

·         At 18 lakh, Indian Umrah performers in 2023 third highest

·         Maha Govt Allocates 10 Lakh to All Madrasas for Modernization

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South Asia

·         Afghan Deputy PM: Countries Should Learn from Our History

·         Political Violence: 29 more BNP-Jamaat activists jailed in 3 cases

·         Afghan Migrants awaiting US Visa deported from Pakistan

·         Afghan citizen arrested in Serbia for Human Trafficking and arms

·         One-third of children in Afghanistan engaged in laborious work: IRC

·         'Afghanistan Future Thought Forum' Held in Istanbul

·         62% Returnees from Pakistan are Children and Adolescents: WHO

·         Russia’s deputy minister of interior praises IEA for its fight against drugs

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Mideast

·         No difference between actions of Hitler, Israeli Premier Netanyahu: Turkish President Erdogan

·         Christians also suffered from Israeli genocidal war on Gaza, says Palestinian artist

·         Jordan’s King Abdullah, Egypt’s Sisi reject any Israeli move to expel Palestinians from Gaza, West Bank

·         Dozens of high-profile Israeli firms' websites hacked by pro-Palestinian group

·         ‘Children's March’ In the Hague Urges ICC To Investigate Israeli Crimes

·         Iraqi resistance strikes 'vital Israeli target’ in occupied Golan Heights

·         Over 4,000 Gaza students killed in Israeli bombardment since October 7: Ministry

·         WHO says Gaza cannot afford to lose any more hospitals, warns of ‘grave peril’

·         Hezbollah targets Israeli military position in occupied lands

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Europe

·         Macron asks Netanyahu for ‘lasting ceasefire’ in Gaza

·         French president expresses concern over heavy civilian death toll in Gaza

·         Russian FM calls for immediate ceasefire in Gaza

·         Putin invites ‘friend’ Modi to Moscow

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Pakistan

·         Pak Minorities Enjoy Complete Religious Freedom in Country: Special Representative To PM

·         Caretaker PM Urges Muslim Ummah to Get United to Overcome Challenges

·         Conference being held today: Ulema agree on joint fatwa on polio eradication: Ashrafi

·         Cipher case: IHC rejects PTI's plea seeking stay on trial

·         Red Sea crisis threatens Pakistan’s salt exports, industry body warns

·         PTI condemns re-arrest of Qureshi

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North America

·         CAIR-SFBA Condemns Threat of Sexual Violence Targeting Palestine Activists

·         In The US, Arabs and Muslims Are Once Again Cast as Suspect

·         CAIR Urges Feds to Probe ‘Anti-Islamic’ Graffiti, Vandalism Targeting Wisconsin Restaurant

·         Dozens arrested in pro-Palestinian protests at two major US airports

·         Jewish groups object to GOP’s treatment of Muslim candidate for Court of Appeals seat

·         Will US support for Israel push it into greater isolation in 2024?

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Arab World

·         Mohammed bin Salman: Saudi Arabia Mobilized Arab, Islamic Efforts to Stop Aggression on Gaza

·         OIC slams Israeli crimes against Palestinians, urges end to Gaza war

·         Houthis recruit thousands of Yemenis under anti-Israel chants

·         Fanar holds various Islamic cultural event for reverts

·         Princes Take Oath before King Salman, in Presence of Crown Prince Mohammed

·         Deputizing for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, HRH the Crown Prince Delivers Annual Royal Speech Inaugurating the Fourth Year of Eighth Session of the Shura Council

·         OIC thanks Saudi Arabia for granting new, bigger headquarters in Jeddah

·         Ambassadors journey to AlUla’s historical marvels

·         Yemen says will inflict 'harshest blow' if US-backed Israel continues Gaza war

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Southeast Asia

·         Malaysian State Melaka to Tighten Regulations, Procedures at Temporary Shelters for Muslim Converts

·         Students in Indonesia protest the growing numbers of Rohingya refugees in Aceh province

·         All eyes on Mujahid as he assumes Amanah’s deputy presidency

·         Pro-Palestinian Picket: Police open investigation paper

·         IAIS Malaysia appeals 19 global religious leaders to advocate for immediate ceasefire in Gaza

·         Perak Islamic Religious Dept: Enforcement on preaching credentials to be strengthened

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Africa

·         Attacks Kill At Least 160 People in Central Nigeria

·         Floods In A Central Province In Congo Kill At Least 22 People

·         Sudan RSF leader visits Uganda in first known wartime foreign trip

·         Cholera Outbreak Ravages Port Sudan Amidst War

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Australia

·         2 Australians killed in Israeli airstrike in Lebanon, says Australia's acting foreign minister

Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau

URL:    https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/muslim-tailor-hanuman-flag-ayodhya-ram-temple/d/131406

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Jharkhand's Muslim Tailor, Ghulam Jilani, Makes 40-Foot Lord Hanuman Flag for Ayodhya's Ram Temple

 

Photo: ETV Bharat

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December 27, 2023

Hazaribagh: Gulam Jilani (55) is all smiles as he stands beside a 40-foot-long and 42-foot-wide flag that he stitched. This magnificent flag is ready to be hoisted atop the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22.

Jilani is a third generation tailor who specialises in making religious 'Mahaviri' flags in Jharkhand's Hazaribag district.

"I feel proud that a flag stitched by me will adorn the historic Ram temple, which over 100 crore people have been dreaming about. If I get a chance, I will definitely go to Ayodhya to participate in the inauguration ceremony," Jilani told PTI.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the "pranpratishtha" or consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla idol in Ram temple on January 22.

The 70-acre temple complex has 392 pillars and a 14-feet-wide 'percota' periphery spanning 732 metre.

Jilani said he learnt stitching from his father Abdul Shakur who died around 40 years ago at age 80.

"I used to work with my father at Bhola Vastralaya owned by one Fateh Lal Agarwal, located in front of Veer Vastralaya, where I am currently employed," he said.

"The 40-foot flag bears the images of Lord Hanuman on one side and Lord Ram and Lakshman on the shoulders of Lord Hanuman on the other," said Veer Vastralaya owner Devendra Jain.

Jain said Jilani has made thousands of Ram Navami and Mahaviri flags strengthening Hindu-Muslim unity in the region.

He said the flag was ordered by a prominent RSS leader Naval Kishore Khandelwal of Barabazar Hazaribagh.

He claimed that Khandelwal (81) was part of the group led by veteran BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani who participated in the demolition of Babri Masjid on December 6, 1992.

Jain said the flag was completed in about 10 days and was ready on December 26.

"Khandelwal and his group will take the flag to Ayodhya before the temple's inauguration by Modi," he said.

Jain said 150 metre of cloth was used to make the flag which will be fitted on a 100-foot-long pole at the temple. The cost of flag is ₹ 21,000, he said.

Veer Vastralaya was established in 1977 and makes more than 2 lakh flags every year for all religions, he added.

Jain said they even receive orders for flags from foreign countries during Ram Navami and Shivratri.

Khandelwal in a recorded statement said after participating in the Babri Masjid demolition, he was arrested and jailed for three months at Hazaribag Central Jail.

"My dreams of seeing a Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is coming true after almost 32 years. At present, I am unwell, but will make all efforts to participate in the inauguration of the temple on January 22," he said.

Source: ndtv.com

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https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/jharkhands-muslim-tailor-makes-40-foot-lord-hanuman-flag-for-ayodhyas-ram-temple-4752010

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Module On LGBTQ In National Service Scheme Guide for School Teachers Makes Muslim Groups Angry

 

Image used for representation. (Express illustrations)

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 28th December 2023

KOZHIKODE: Reigniting debates on gender neutrality and homosexuality, Muslim organizations have come out strongly against the handbook provided to teachers interacting with school students during the seven-day National Service Scheme (NSS) camps organized across the state, alleging it injected immorality into children’s minds.

IUML state general secretary P M A Salam said the handbook contained thoughts rejected by the West, the initial propagators of homosexuality and gender neutrality.

“The booklet says homosexuality is not wrong. Why is the government courting unwanted controversies? NSS camps should be a forum for developing students’ skills,” he said.

Salam said the Russian supreme court had recently declared the LGBTQ+ community as extremists and held they should be jailed. “Are we bigger communists than the Russians,” Salam asked, in an apparent jibe at the state government. He clarified that it was not a religious issue but a moral problem that had become a concern for people. In a Facebook post, Sunni Yuvajana Sangham (SYS) state secretary Nazar Faizi Koodathayi termed the module in the NSS handbook “extremely dangerous.”

“The government agreed to withdraw references to gender neutrality when it sparked a row earlier. However, teachers are forced to teach such superstitions as part of NSS camps,” Faizi wrote. He said the module titled samadarshan presents all immoralities as sexual orientations and asserts they are genetic.

Do not use schools for experiments, says Faizi

“The handbook says sex and gender are two different things and gender can be changed as per a person’s wish,” he said, alleging that the handbook even encouraged students to undergo gender change.

Maintaining that those who wanted to propagate such ideas could have their way, Faizi said, “However, schools should not be used for experimentation. You can have camps, guides, and modules of your own, but we will not allow you to teach them using government resources.”

Dr Abdulla Basil C P, vice-president of Wisdom Students, the feeder organization of Wisdom Islamic Organisation, said even scientific facts are distorted to make homosexuality acceptable. He said the argument in the handbook that it was scientifically proved that homosexuality was genetic has been punctured by scientists themselves.

“The theory about the presence of the ‘Gay Gene’ has been rejected by scientists. Propagators of LGBTQ are pushing their agenda though it is found to be unscientific,” Dr Basil said. He said theories about LGBTQ have been presented in the module without acquainting students with counterarguments. Dr Basil said the public education system should not be used to propagate the agenda of some vested interests.

Source: newindianexpress.com

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https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/2023/dec/28/module-on-lgbtq-in-nss-guide-for-school-teachers-makes-muslim-groups-angry-2645534.html

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Bangladesh Has Discarded Secular 1971, Gone Back to Islamic 1947. Polls Won’t End This Fight

Deep Halder

 

Members of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) join in a human-chain protest to mark the International Human Rights Day, demanding the release of BNP activists who were arrested, ahead of the twelfth national election, in front of the National Press Club in Dhaka, Bangladesh, December 10, 2023. REUTERS/Mohammad Ponir Hossain/File Photo

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28 December, 2023

There are two ideas of Bangladesh that are fundamentally at odds with each other. After the general election on 7 January 2024, one of these ideas will take a back seat for the next five years.

The first idea predates the birth of Bangladesh in 1971, when the same landmass was known as East Pakistan. Looked at with disdain and disinterest by West Pakistan, the Bengali-speaking Pakistan rose in protest, demanding more political autonomy and rejecting Urdu’s dominance.

What happened next is recorded history—targeted killings, mass rapes, and a clinical attempt to drain out any sense of Bengali-ness that contained within itself a more syncretic culture bound together by the love for the Bangla language. Midwifed by India, when East Pakistan cut its umbilical cord with West Pakistan and became Bangladesh, there was this sense of a common destiny for the Muslims and Hindus of Bangladesh, forged stronger by the bloody battle for a hard-fought independence and an idea of a country that may be Muslim-majority but has an equal space for Hindus and other minorities. It helped that the founding figure of this new country was Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who famously said that Bangladesh doesn’t belong to Hindus or Muslims but to anyone who calls the country her own.

Looking back, it hasn’t really gone according to plan. Bangabandhu was assassinated along with most of his family members barely four years after the birth of Bangladesh by a section of his own army, and the ensuing politics of the country often took Bangladesh far away from the stated goals of the Liberation War.

How much of East Pakistan lives on in Bangladesh today?

Bangabandhu, who?

If you were 20 years old when the 1971 Liberation War was fought, you would be 72 today and may be too disillusioned with the present to hold on to the struggles of the past. If you reach the voting age in January 2024, you may not even know what those struggles of the past were.

It took a biopic of Bangabandhu, directed by Indian filmmaker Shyam Benegal and jointly produced by both India and Bangladesh, to remind the country of its origin story and its dream of a syncretic culture forged by a common language. Mujib: The Making of a Nation became a hit in Bangladesh, but many of the values that Bangabandhu stood for seem to be lost to much of Bangladesh’s population today.

What else explains the popularity of an Islamist political party like the Jamaat-e-Islami in modern-day Bangladesh that, in its earlier avatar as Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, opposed the very independence of Bangladesh? It is recorded history that in the 1971 war, the Jamaat’s cadre joined hands with the Pakistan Army in mass killings and rapes in East Pakistan. Though the Supreme Court has barred the Jamaat from participating in the 7 January polls, the party’s cadre has been out on the streets demanding the dismissal of the Sheikh Hasina government and the introduction of Sharia laws in place of “man-made laws”.

In an interview to ThePrint, Bangladesh home minister Asaduzzaman Khan had said: “Jamaat shibir (Jamaat camp) is opposed to the very independence of Bangladesh. They gave birth to the Razakars and the AlbadrBahini (a paramilitary force composed mainly of Bihari Muslims which operated in East Pakistan during the Bangladesh liberation war, under the patronage of the Pakistani government). It is they who targeted and killed the intellectuals of Bangladesh.”

And yet, when the Jamaat’s vice-chairman and former MP Delwar Hossain Sayeedi died on 14 August 2023, incidentally on Pakistan’s Independence Day, while in prison outside Dhaka, there was an outpouring of public grief. More than 50,000 people attended his funeral and the police had to break up violent protests against the government. Sayeedi was serving life sentence for crimes committed during Bangladesh’s war for independence, which included murder, rape and persecution of Hindus.

If Bangladesh mourns the death of a war criminal that opposed its birth, did it ever let go of the past?

When the Jamaat through Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) came to power in Bangladesh in 2001, the violence against minorities tore up the secular fabric of the nation. It is the same Jamaat that has now publicly said that they want Sharia laws in Bangladesh to replace “man-made laws”.

If not Hasina, what?

For the last 15 years that Sheikh Hasina has been in power, Bangladesh has seen unprecedented growth, infrastructural development and technological progress. All this has been tempered by allegations of syndicate raj, curbing of free speech, and violent crackdown on political opposition. The opposition BNP has boycotted the 7 January election demanding that Hasina should step down and a caretaker government be put in place. But the question before Bangladesh is not ‘if not Hasina, who’. It is: if not Hasina, what?

Will the struggles of 1971 that led to the formation of a secular Bangladesh get lost again? Bangladeshi academic Dr Sharin Shajahan Naomi, who is now postdoctoral fellow at Krea University, says Hindus in Bangladesh have always shown political allegiance to Hasina’s Awami League and have had to bear the brunt every time Awami League lost. Naomi said this raises the question if there will be any future for Hindus in Bangladesh if Awami League loses and the idea of 1971 gets defeated.

“I grew up with the spirit of 1971. Perhaps that is why I never saw Bangladeshi Hindus as the other. But in today’s Bangladesh, I do see a sense of 1947 returning as political opposition to Sheikh Hasina. It would be naïve to say only BNP and Jamaat are attacking Hindus or the idea of secularism. Anti-secularist forces have become heterogeneous in nature,” Naomi told ThePrint. She said the 1947 idea of an Islamic East Bengal was preached only by the orthodox Islamic groups and their political representatives. Now, intellectuals, activists and even some Leftist politicians hark back to 1947 and discard 1971.

The results of the 7 January election may not end this debate.

Deep Halder is a writer and journalist. He tweets @deepscribble. Views are personal.

(Edited by Prashant)

Source: theprint.in

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https://theprint.in/opinion/bangladesh-has-discarded-secular-1971-gone-back-to-islamic-1947-polls-wont-end-this-fight/1902484/

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Israeli Hangs Donkey Head to Desecrate Historic Jerusalem Muslim Cemetery

 

Israeli settlers storm the Bab al-Rahma cemetery in occupied Jerusalem and hang a “donkey’s head” on a grave on 27 December 2023 [@QudsNen/X]

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27 December 2023

An Israeli man has desecrated a Muslim cemetery in occupied east Jerusalem's Old City by hanging a donkey's head.

"A Jewish extremist slit the throat of a donkey today at the Golden Gate cemetery before hanging it over the Muslim graves there," the Waqf Islamic affairs council said in a statement on Wednesday.

"It was a serious desecration of one of the main historic Muslim cemeteries in Jerusalem."

Describing the 35-year-old as "unbalanced", police said he was arrested after they were alerted that a man had "broken the law and disrupted public order by hanging the head of a donkey" at the cemetery.

Photographs circulating on social media show the head of a donkey hanging from a fence of the cemetery, which is adjacent to the Golden Gate, the oldest in the Old City and the only one to be walled.

According to Jewish tradition the Golden Gate will only open on arrival of the messiah, who will enter Jerusalem through it.

Police said the man was carrying an axe at the time of his arrest, adding that another suspect who allegedly had helped in taking him there was also in custody.

'Heart of provocations'

The cemetery is near the Al Aqsa Mosque compound, a site holy to both Muslims and Jews and is at the heart of tensions between Palestinians and Israelis.

The compound, also home to the Dome of the Rock, is Islam's holiest site after Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia. It lies directly above the Western Wall, the holiest place where Jews are allowed to pray.

In recent years far-right extremist Jews have made multiple visits to the compound, sparking anger among Palestinians who see this as a provocation.

Defending Al Aqsa was cited by the Palestinian resistance group, Hamas as the main reason for its attack on Israel on October 7.

Israel launched a massive military assault on Gaza following the cross-border attack, killing at least 21,110 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injuring 55,243 others, according to local health authorities.

Source: trtworld.com

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https://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/israeli-hangs-donkey-head-to-desecrate-historic-jerusalem-muslim-cemetery-16419700

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German Police Chief Voices Concern Over Islamist Terror Threat

 

Pro-Hamas demonstrators marching in Munich, Germany. Photo: Reuters/Alexander Pohl

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DECEMBER 27, 2023

The head of Germany’s police service on Wednesday said there was little doubt that four men detained on Dec. 14 were planning terrorist attacks on Jewish targets at the behest of Hamas.

“There is an urgent suspicion that the accused allegedly planned an attack against Jewish institutions in Europe and wanted to collect weapons that they hid in a depot,” Holger Münch — the president of the German Federal Criminal Office (BKA) — stated in an interview with the Swiss news outlet NZZ.

Asked whether the alleged terrorists had set up their weapons dump at a site in Poland, Münch said only that it was “somewhere in Europe” and that further details would emerge from intelligence reports.

Three of the suspects were arrested in Berlin, according to a statement from the office of Germany’s Federal Prosecutor General. A fourth man was arrested in the Dutch city of Rotterdam and was extradited to Karlsruhe in Germany where the accused are awaiting trial.

Additionally, Danish police arrested three individuals on the same day in Copenhagen charged with planning terrorist attacks on Jewish targets, though it is not clear if the operations were connected. “It is a great strength that there is very intensive international cooperation in the fight against Islamist terrorism,” Münch said. “Our partners give us tips, we give them tips.”

Münch emphasized that the threat posed by Islamist terrorism was “never gone.”

“We still have a large number of radicalized people who continue to try to find themselves in the various forums and [chat] groups. The current Middle East conflict acts as an amplifier because it is emotionally charged,” he said, referring to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. “At the moment, the danger therefore arises in particular from radicalized individual perpetrators or small groups who are planning comparatively easy to carry out attacks, for example with knives or vehicles, objects that are readily available.”

Münch also confessed that he was surprised by the “order of magnitude” of the antisemitic and Islamist propaganda circulating in Germany since the Oct. 7. Hamas pogrom in southern Israel.

“We have registered more than 4,700 crimes related to the terrorist attacks on Israel since Oct. 7,” he said. “These are quite often antisemitic crimes that are recorded as property damage or propaganda and incitement offenses by the police. Much of this crime is committed by people to whom we attribute to politically motivated crime — foreign ideology or religious ideology.”

Asked about the high proportion of Muslim immigrants detained for antisemitic agitation, Münch said that “we have to be even clearer about what our expectations of all people living here in Germany are.”

He continued: “It must be clear that certain values based on our history are inviolable. This includes Israel’s right to exist as well as the security of Jews in Germany.”

Source: algemeiner.com

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

https://www.algemeiner.com/2023/12/27/german-police-chief-voices-concern-islamist-terror-threat/

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 India

Kerala Muslim Body’s Mouthpiece, Suprabhatham, Questions Cong Stand on Attending Ram Temple Event

Dec 28, 2023

Kochi: The mouthpiece of an influential Muslim Sunni body of clerics in Kerala has hit out at the Congress for its non-committal stance on whether it would attend the consecration ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya on January 22.

The editorial published in Suprabhatham, the mouthpiece of the EK faction of the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama (SAMASTHA), on Wednesday attacked the Congress for its alleged soft-Hindutva stance by pointing out actions of its senior leader and former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath.

“The Congress stance seems to be that it wants to attend the Ram temple event to prevent the erosion of its Hindu vote base in north India especially with Lok Sabha elections approaching. It is this soft Hindutva stance that has taken the party which ruled India for 36 years down to its present condition. The Congress leadership may not know this but the people of India do,” the editorial said.

It pointed to Kamal Nath sending 11 silver bricks for the construction of the Ram temple as evidence of the Congress’ soft-Hindutva approach.

“The Sangh Parivar forces are experts at exploiting religion and belief to achieve political aims. But who is giving the Congress leadership the foolish advice of countering the Sangh Parivar with the same methods?” the editorial asked.

If the Congress does not rethink its stance on such issues, the BJP will come back to power at the Centre in the 2024 elections, the newspaper warned. “The party that led the freedom movement in the country will be reduced to trash in the pages of history books,” it said.

Taking a swipe at the Congress using its arch-rival CPM in Kerala, the Muslim body’s mouthpiece said that the Left party’s general secretary Sitaram Yechury had the wisdom to understand that the Ram temple event on January 22 is a litmus test to convert India into a Hindu nation. “India’s secular and democratic believers expect the same courage from Congress leaders like Sonia Gandhi and others,” it said.

Meanwhile, IUML leader PMA Salam said that the party has not received the invitation to attend the event in Ayodhya.

“We have not got the invitation. Those who have been invited should answer what they plan to do. Then why should we clarify our stand? BJP’s policy is to exploit communal feelings and they are continuing to do that. We want to say that no one should fall into the agenda set by the BJP,” Salam said.

The strong words in the Samastha editorial for the Congress is likely to give the party jitters as the EP faction of the outfit has largely remained close to the IUML, the oldest ally of Congress in the state. With the CPM vociferously wooing Muslim outfits like Samastha, mistakes on the part of the Congress can tilt the balance in favour of the Left especially in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Muslims comprise nearly 26 percent of the state’s population and can influence electoral outcomes in districts like Malappuram, Kasaragod, Kannur, Kozhikode and Wayanad.

Source: hindustantimes.com

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https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-muslim-body-s-mouthpiece-questions-cong-stand-on-attending-ram-temple-event-101703703840357.html

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UP: Deoband Madrasa Student Detained, Released for Threatening Post On X

28th December 2023

 Marziya Sharif

Saharanpur: The police detained a madrasa student in Deoband for a threatening post on X that read “Bahut Jald Inshallah Doosra Pulwama Bhi Hoga” (very soon there will be a second Pulwama).

SP(Rural) of Saharanpur, Sagar Jain, said that a case had been registered against the accused student and he was allowed to go after an interrogation on Wednesday.

“We found no links of him with anti-social elements; therefore, he was allowed to go after a notice was served to him,” said Jain adding that chargesheet will be submitted in the case after investigation.

The accused student has been identified as Talha Mazhar, 21, who belongs to Sarai Kalekhan locality of Jamshedpur in Jharkhand and presently lives in Khankah Chowki area of Deoband.

He has been pursuing a course in religious education from a madrasa in Deoband for the last four years.

The local unit of Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the police together are now investigating all the connections of this student.

They are trying to find answers to questions like who he often talks to, what WhatsApp groups are there in his phone, what does he watch on YouTube and what does he search on Google; along with this, what literature and books he reads.

The SP said that nothing objectionable was found in the student’s his WhatsApp and other social media groups and he also immediately deleted the post.

Source: siasat.com

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https://www.siasat.com/up-madrasa-student-detained-released-for-threatening-post-on-x-2943212/

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Over 2K Objections Filed Against Proposed Demolition of Sunheri Masjid

Dec 28, 2023

New Delhi: The New Delhi Municipal Council has received more than 2,000 comments and suggestions over the proposed demolition of the Sunheri Masjid.

The NDMC had sought public feedback and suggestions on the exercise by January 1.

“We have received over 2,000 suggestions over email. The suggestions have been received from Muslim organisations and minority welfare bodies,” sources from the NDMC said.

NDMC chairman Amit Yadav was asked about the proposed demolition of the mosque at the press conference for announcing the council’s budget.

“We have sought public feedback on the Sunehri Masjid. We had got a request from the Delhi Traffic Police on traffic snarls being reported around the area. We had started the process and sought comments from various stakeholders. We had also approached the religious committee but the Delhi Waqf Board went to the court over the matter,” he said.

The court had disposed of the matter.

“We have sought public feedback on the matter and are following the due process. The public feedback will be examined and the heritage committee will also look into it,” he added. ( With PTI inputs )

Source: muslimmirror.com

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https://muslimmirror.com/eng/delhi-over-2k-objections-filed-against-proposed-demolition-of-sunheri-masjid/

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Centre bans J&K Muslim League faction for 5 years under UAPA

Dec 28, 2023

The ministry of home affairs on Wednesday banned a faction of Muslim League Jammu Kashmir, led by separatist leader Masarat Alam Bhat, under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for five years.

The ministry of home affairs (MHA) on Wednesday banned a faction of Muslim League Jammu Kashmir, led by separatist leader Masarat Alam Bhat, under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for five years for indulging in “anti-national and secessionist activities”, with home minister Amit Shah asserting that those who work against the “unity, sovereignty, and integrity of the nation” will not be spared.

“The PM @narendramodi government’s message is loud and clear that anyone acting against the unity, sovereignty, and integrity of our nation will not be spared and face the full wrath of the law,” Shah said in a post on X.

In a statement, the MHA said the objectives of the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) were to attain freedom for Jammu & Kashmir from India, merge it with Pakistan, and establish Islamic rule.

“The organisation’s members have been involved in secessionist activities, raising funds through various sources, including Pakistan and its proxy organisations, to support terrorist activities and sustain stone-pelting on security forces in Jammu & Kashmir,” the statement said.

The home ministry emphasised that the outfit and its members show disrespect towards the constitutional authority and setup of the country. “Their unlawful activities undermine the integrity, sovereignty, security, and communal harmony of India,” it said.

The MHA also said that there have been indications of the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) having linkages with banned terrorist organisations. “The outfit and its members have been supporting terrorist activities with the intent to create terror in the country, thereby endangering its security and public order. Their anti-national activities demonstrate disregard and disrespect for the constitutional authority and sovereignty of India,” it said.

Bhat is known for his anti-India and pro-Pakistan propaganda. He became the chairman of the hardline faction of the Hurriyat Conference following the death of Syed Ali Shah Geelani.

Officials at North Block, who didn’t want to be named, said Bhat has been in jail since 2010 for his alleged involvement in violent protests in Kashmir valley.

In his post on X, Shah said the outfit was declared as an “unlawful association” under UAPA.

“The ‘Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction)’/MLJK-MA is declared as an ‘Unlawful Association’ under UAPA. This organisation and its members are involved in anti-national and secessionist activities in J&K supporting terrorist activities and inciting people to establish Islamic rule in J&K,” he said.

Source: hindustantimes.com

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https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/centre-bans-j-k-muslim-league-faction-for-5-years-under-uapa-101703705224105.html

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‘Avoid malls, markets’: Israel issues advisory, urges its citizens in India to be extra vigilant

28.12.23

Imran Ahmed Siddiqui

Israel on Tuesday night issued an advisory urging its nationals living in India, especially Delhi, to be extra vigilant after a low-intensity explosion near the Israeli embassy on Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Road in the national capital earlier in the evening.

Stating that “it is possible that this is an attack”, Israel’s National Security Headquarters in Tel Aviv said that “in light of the fear of a recurrence of the events”, Israelis should avoid crowded places including malls and markets known to be frequented by westerners and Jews and be extra-vigilant in public.

The advisory also asked Israelis to desist from “externalising Israeli symbols”, stay away from events that are not secured and have many participants, and refrain from posting travel details and photographs on social networks.

On Wednesday, Delhi police said it had identified two persons who were caught on camera walking on the road close to the spot shortly before the low-intensity explosion at the rear side of the embassy. No one was injured in the blast.

“The probe into the cause of the blast is still underway,” said a senior Delhi police officer.

The preliminary probe had earlier suggested an explosion akin to a “cracker blast” in an empty plot a few metres from the embassy on Tuesday around 5.20pm. The police on Wednesday said the possibility of a “chemical explosion” cannot be ruled out since no remnants of the explosive were found at the spot.

A Delhi police officer said an “abusive” one-page threat letter addressed to the Israeli ambassador was found near the spot. The letter and other exhibits lifted from the spot have been sent for forensic examination.

Investigators are scanning “end-to-end encrypted calls” of active mobile phone numbers near the Israeli embassy at the time of the incident as part of its probe.

“We are probing it from all angles. Special teams are checking the registration numbers of all vehicles that passed the area around the time of the blast and prior to the blast. We are scanning multiple CCTVs in and around the area,” the police officer said.

The police said security had been intensified in areas around the Israeli embassy and Jewish establishments in the capital. Even prior to the blast, security had been beefed up around the highly secured mission after Israel began bombing Gaza in the wake of the terror strike by Hamas on October 7.

Police sources said Tuesday’s blast was very similar to the 2021 low-intensity explosion that occurred outside the Israeli embassy in which no one was injured. The police had found a letter addressed to the Israeli ambassador then also. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is still probing the case and has failed to make any breakthrough so far.

Source: telegraphindia.com

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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/avoid-malls-markets-israel-issues-advisory-urges-its-citizens-in-india-to-be-extra-vigilant/cid/1989769

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At 18 lakh, Indian Umrah performers in 2023 third highest

27th December 2023

Sakina Fatima

New Delhi: A total of 18 lakh Indian Muslims performed Umrah in 2023 — the third highest in the world, Saudi Arabia government officials said on Wednesday.

The officials said they anticipate a yearly increment in the number, according to an official statement issued by the country.

Umrah is an Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah that can be undertaken any time of the year.

Indian Muslim Umrah performers ranked third highest among countries, reaching 18 lakh visitors, the officials said.

They did not mention the names of the top two countries accounting for the highest Umrah performers.

Highlighting the significance of India in the Umrah sector, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, made the first-ever visit to India in early December.

The minister participated in an introduction meeting organised by the unified government platform ‘Nusuk’ from December 4 to 6.

The event showcased the platform’s unique services and facilities to Muslim guests worldwide, with a special focus on those from India. Dr Al-Rabiah addressed concerns, proposed initial solutions, and set the stage for collaboration.

Nusuk has been launched by Saudi Arabia to streamline the process of obtaining electronic visas and automating access procedures for Umrah and visits to the Prophet’s Mosque.

The platform engages in extensive partnerships through regional and international roadshows.

A representative from an Indian Travel and Tourism Agency emphasised that Nusuk will significantly contribute to facilitating Umrah for Indian visitors, elevating service standards.

Hasan Al-Dabbagh, President of APAC Markets at the Saudi Tourism Authority, highlighted the platform’s role in developing an integrated ecosystem for the Umrah sector.

This allows the private sector in Saudi Arabia and globally, particularly in India, to serve the guests of the Rahman, benefiting from the platform’s services, he said.

Since its launch, Nusuk has empowered the private sector by sharing data, providing training courses, and strategically connecting service providers with visitors.

Source: siasat.com

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https://www.siasat.com/at-18-lakh-indian-umrah-performers-in-2023-third-highest-2943043/

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Maha govt allocates 10 lakh to all madrasas for modernization

27th December 2023

Zahed Farooqui

The Maharashtra government has announced plans to modernize madrasas across the state by allocating Rs 10 lakh to each madrasa and making science and math mandatory subjects.

The state minority department, as part of the Dr Zakir Husain Madrasa Modernization Programme, will disburse funds to enhance facilities, establish libraries, improve infrastructure, and provide salaries for madrasa teachers.

To be eligible for government grants and schemes, madrasas need to be registered with the Wakf Board.

As per the resolution, students in these madrasas will also need to enroll in government schools, expanding their educational horizons beyond religious studies.

The resolution highlights the inclusion of science and math in the curriculum, and teachers for these subjects will be hired on a contract basis, with the state government covering their salaries.

The resolution further specifies that only one madrasa will be allowed to operate in a single building. This move aims to streamline the education system in madrasas and bring about a more organized and modern approach.

While there are 121 registered madrasas in the state, the BJP, which had previously called for their closure, has now shifted its stance to support the modernization of these religious teaching centers.

Deputy CM Ajit Pawar has expressed a progressive agenda, advocating for 5% reservation for Muslims, a stance not entirely aligned with the BJP’s position.

In the state assembly, Deepak Kesarkar, the Minister for Education, highlighted that there are 621 unauthorized schools with madrasas in Maharashtra lacking government permissions, prompting the need for a comprehensive modernization effort.

Source: siasat.com

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https://www.siasat.com/maha-govt-allocates-10-lakh-to-all-madrasas-for-modernization-2942723/

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South Asia

 

Afghan Deputy PM: Countries Should Learn from Our History

Nazir Shinwari

December 27, 2023

The political deputy PM, Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, said the world and neighbours should learn from Afghanistan's history, during a meeting on December 27, the 44th anniversary of the Soviet Union's invasion of the country.

According to Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, Afghans hate occupation and never allow any type of occupation.

The political deputy PM added that the Islamic Emirate wants to have good relations with the world within the framework of Islamic laws and wants to solve all the problems through dialogue.

"We call on the world countries and our neighbors to learn from our history, because Afghans have never accepted occupation in their history, and do not try this on us again,” he added.

"This is not only the responsibility of the government so that this country is not a threat to someone, it is the responsibility of the people too,” Sirajuddin Haqqani, the acting interior minister said.

Referring to the 20-year presence of America in Afghanistan, Mawlawi Abdul Kabir said that the presence of Osama bin Laden was only a "pretext" for the attack on Afghanistan, and the "Islamic system" that came to power was unbearable to the world.

He noted that there is no threat from Afghan soil to any country of the world.

"If someone is concerned about the Afghan soil because they feel threatened by it, they should tell us. We have the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Interior, and intelligence. They should hold a meeting with them and share and present the problems that exist with evidence,” Kabir further stated.

Speaking at the event, the Acting Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi said that some are trying to destroy Afghanistan.

Muttaqi said that currently no one can occupy Afghanistan again.

"The enemies are still lurking and trying to come back to Afghanistan in any possible way,” the acting foreign minister said.

"Efforts are continuing to make Afghanistan insecure, an effort that failed in the face-to-face struggle; but even now, such efforts are continuing to disrupt the system,” said Mullah Khairullah, the acting minister of information and culture.

"We want good relations with all countries near and far,” said Deputy PM for Administrative Affairs, Abdul Salam Hanafi.

Even though the Islamic Emirate has always said Afghanistan's territory will not be used against other countries, it has not yet been recognized by any country, despite having interactions with some nations.

Source: tolonews.com

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https://tolonews.com/index.php/afghanistan-186688

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Political Violence: 29 more BNP-Jamaat activists jailed in 3 cases

Dec 28, 2023

The sentencing of BNP-Jamaat leaders and activists continues as 29 more were handed down different prison terms yesterday in three cases filed years ago over political violence in Dhaka.

With this, at least 1,342 BNP-Jamaat men have been jailed since November 7 this year in 78 cases lodged between November 2010 and December 2018 on charges of illegal gathering on the streets, rioting, damaging properties, arson attacks on vehicles, vandalism, and assaulting police personnel and obstructing them from discharging duties.

In a case filed with Khilkhet Police Station in September 2018, six BNP men, in absentia, were sentenced to two years' imprisonment by a Dhaka court yesterday.

Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Rajesh Chowdhury delivered the verdict.

Six prosecution witnesses testified in the case.

Among the convicts are Akter Hossain, organising secretary of Dhaka north city BNP, Mizanur Rahman Renu, joint general secretary of Khilkhet BNP, and Mobarak Hossain Dewan, Jubo Dal's Khilkhet unit president.

According to the case documents, a group of leaders and activists of BNP-Jamaat and their front organisations illegally gathered on the north side of 300 feet road in Khilkhet on September 27, 2018, demanding release of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia.

They then threw brick chunks at police and prevented them from carrying out duties.

Sub-inspector Saiful Islam lodged the case with Khilkhet Police Station.

The same court also jailed three BNP activists for three years for violence in Kotwali area in January 2015.

None of the convicts were present in the courtroom yesterday. Chhatra Dal Joint Secretary Jewel Mridha is among the convicts.

Eight prosecution witnesses gave depositions before the court.

According to the case statement, a bus was torched on the Jagannath University campus on January 21, 2015, during a hartal called by BNP-led 20-party alliance.

Noor Mohammad, then proctor of the university, filed the case with Kotwali Police Station.

In another case, magistrate Rajesh handed down jail sentences to 13 BNP-Jamaat activists for four years and seven others for two years over political violence in September 2018.

Among the convicts are SM Fazlul Haque, BNP's Khilkhet unit president, and Jahir Uddin Babu, general secretary of KhilkhetunitofSwechchhasebak Dal.

The court recorded statements of five prosecution witnesses in the case.

The case statement said a group of BNP-Jamaat men illegally assembled near the 300 feet road in Khilkhet on September 30, 2018.

They blasted crude bombs and barred police from performing duties, demanding release of Khaleda.

SI Abdur Rob filed the case with Khilkhet Police Station.

Source: thedailystar.net

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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/politics/news/political-violence-29-more-bnp-jamaat-activists-jailed-3-cases-3504756

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Afghan Migrants awaiting US Visa deported from Pakistan

Fidel Rahmati

December 27, 2023

International media have reported that following the mass deportation of Afghan migrants from Pakistan, at least 130 migrants awaiting U.S. visas were also deported.

Reuters reported on Tuesday, citing its sources that the Pakistani government has ignored U.S. letters confirming the migrants’ eligibility for relocation to US during the mass deportation of migrants.

According to the report, citing one of the Afghan migrants in Pakistan who was waiting to receive a U.S. visa and had a letter confirming his immigration case, but Pakistani police raided his home and disregarded the letter.

Previously, the Ministry of Interior of Pakistan had announced the receipt of a list of Afghan refugees that the U.S. Department of State had shared with the Pakistani government to prevent the possible deportation of eligible refugees to the U.S.

This list was rejected by the Ministry of Interior of Pakistan, but according to Reuters, citing a spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State, Washington has once again provided Pakistan with a list of Afghans eligible for resettlement in America.

However, at least three diplomats, including Shawn VanDiver, the head of an entity known as “Afghan Evac,” have confirmed to Reuters that Pakistan has ignored the list and the existing letters among the migrants during the deportation.

Since early November 2023, it has been reported that nearly half a million Afghan migrants have been deported from Pakistan.

The large-scale deportation has affected a significant number of the Afghan migrant population residing in Pakistan over the past months.

Source: khaama.com

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https://www.khaama.com/afghan-migrants-awaiting-us-visa-deported-from-pakistan/

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Afghan citizen arrested in Serbia for Human Trafficking and arms

Fidel Rahmati

December 27, 2023

Security officials in Serbia have announced the arrest of an Afghan citizen on charges of human trafficking and weapon possession.

Serbian media reported on Tuesday, December 26th, citing the Ministry of the Interior that the arrest of the Afghan citizen occurred in the Subotica area.

According to the Serbian Interior Ministry, a sniper rifle, two Kalashnikovs, and over 550 bullets were recovered from the arrested individual.

Previously, Serbian police authorities had reported the arrest of two Afghan citizens on charges of “human trafficking” at the Croatian border.

It is noteworthy that the operations of the Serbian security forces have increased in recent months aimed at arresting illegal immigrants and traffickers.

Based on the provided statistics, nearly 7,000 illegal immigrants, 38 machine guns, 13 handguns, and 3,700 bullets have been discovered and confiscated by the country’s forces so far.

Following the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan, many Afghans have sought refuge in neighboring countries such as Pakistan and Iran, with aspirations to reach European nations. This exodus is driven by a multitude of factors impacting their homeland.

The runaway of Afghans is attributed to various reasons including persecution, security threats, and a lack of job opportunities amid a deteriorating economy. Additionally, the stringent restrictions on women’s and girls’ education and employment have significantly contributed to the mass migration.

The dire situation in Afghanistan has prompted a large-scale humanitarian crisis, with neighboring countries and European destinations becoming primary refuges for those escaping the harsh realities of life under the Taliban regime. The international community continues to witness the movement of Afghans seeking safety and a more stable future.

Source: khaama.com

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https://www.khaama.com/afghan-citizen-arrested-in-serbia-for-human-trafficking-and-arms/

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One-third of children in Afghanistan engaged in laborious work: IRC

Fidel Rahmati

December 27, 2023

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) in its latest report has highlighted that the needs of 40% of children in Afghanistan are unmet, emphasizing that one-third of children in the country are engaged in laborious work.

The agency reported on Wednesday, that many children have been forced into arduous labour by their families due to increased poverty following the rise of the Taliban regime.

The report, aimed at examining the situation of children in Palestine, states that the condition of children in the Gaza Strip and Sudan is “disastrous.”

The International Rescue Committee has stressed that aid agencies in Afghanistan have failed to meet even the minimum needs of 40% of children.

Previously, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) had stated that children in Afghanistan are forced to undertake hard and dangerous work to obtain their meals.

According to a report in 2022, in the northern areas of Afghanistan, 131,400 children, some as young as five years old, have been separated from their families and are exposed to violence and abuse.

The United Nations also reported that children’s access to basic services has been disrupted due to prolonged conflicts, displacement, severe poverty, food insecurity, lack of livelihood opportunities, and lack of investment, and there has been an increase in recruitment, abuse, and sexual violence against them in Afghanistan.

It is worth mentioning that the Taliban administration has rejected this UN report and emphasized children’s rights in the country.

Meanwhile, as poverty increases in Afghanistan, the number of working children on the country’s roads has grown, becoming a concern for human rights and children’s organizations.

Source: khaama.com

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https://www.khaama.com/one-third-of-children-in-afghanistan-engaged-in-laborious-work-irc/

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'Afghanistan Future Thought Forum' Held in Istanbul

Hadia Ziaei

December 27, 2023

Sultan Barakat, the founding director of the Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies of Doha said that the 8th Afghanistan Future Thought Forum (AFTF) was held in Istanbul, Turkey.

According to Barakat's statements, in the meeting, they discussed the OCHA report, the issue of expelling Afghan immigrants from Pakistan and Iran, and the role of women's conditions on health issues.

Sultan Barakat, before holding this meeting, wrote on X: “In addition to the Independent Assessment mandated by UNSC resolution 2679, the participants will also discuss: Recent responses to natural disasters, the forced return of Afghans from Pakistan and Iran, the impact the conditions of women are having on health issues.”

But the Islamic Emirate emphasized that the achievements of the caretaker government should be taken into consideration in such meetings.

The spokesman of the Islamic Emirate Zabihullah Mujahid said that the Islamic Emirate should be supported more in the security sector, providing services in various sectors and preventing natural disasters.

Mujahid said: “Improvements in terms of security, providing services, and natural disasters and challenges should be considered. The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan should be supported so that it can provide better services to the people, and the international community must also fulfill its responsibilities.”

Some political experts and women's rights activists have different views about holding such meetings.

"If the women who live in Afghanistan are present at the meetings and express their problems and pains, at least the world will hear, I think it will be more effective,” said Tafsir Syahposh, a women’s rights activist.

“The effectiveness of these meetings will increase when the representatives or officials of the current acting government of Afghanistan, according to their responsibility to the people, take practical steps to solve these problems with the international community and, in cooperation with the international community, bring the necessary changes in internal and external policies and also in their government structure,” said Najiburahman Shamal, a political expert.

The Afghanistan Future Thought Forum (AFTF) has 30 members that include the employees of the former government, civil activists and university scholars.

Source: tolonews.com

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https://tolonews.com/index.php/afghanistan-186693

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62% Returnees from Pakistan are Children and Adolescents: WHO

2023-12-27

KABUL (BNA): The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that 62% of Afghan returnees from Pakistan are adolescents and children.

According to a new report on the situation of migrants and returnees from Pakistan, 471,500 Afghan refugees returned to Afghanistan from Pakistan between September and December of this year.

According to the survey, 48% of returns are women, 62% are children and adolescents, and 24% are youngsters under the age of five.

From November 1 to December 19, WHO and its partner organizations delivered health services to 167,797 people.

Primary and secondary healthcare, mental health support, and maternity and newborn health are among the services provided.

The organization highlights the vulnerability of returnees, especially women, children, and the elderly, in harsh winter conditions and challenging circumstances.

The World Health Organization has requested $10 million for a six-month period to assist returnees from Pakistan, of which only $500,000 has been secured so far.

This report comes amid Pakistan initiating the detention and expulsion of Afghan migrants and refugees for political reasons since November, facing global reactions.

Source: bakhtarnews.af

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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/62-returnees-from-pakistan-are-children-and-adolescents-who/

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Russia’s deputy minister of interior praises IEA for its fight against drugs

December 28, 2023

Abdulhaq Hamkar, deputy minister of interior, met with his Russian counterpart on Wednesday in Kabul for talks, including discussions on counter-narcotics.

According to the ministry of interior, Hamkar called on Russia for cooperation in helping to find an alternative for farmers who used to cultivate poppies. He also discussed the achievements accomplished by the Islamic Emirate in its fight against drugs.

In turn the Russian official praised the IEA for its efforts and said Russia would cooperate with Afghanistan in its fight against drugs.

Source: ariananews.af

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https://www.ariananews.af/russias-deputy-minister-of-interior-praises-iea-for-its-fight-against-drugs/

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Mideast

 

No difference between actions of Hitler, Israeli Premier Netanyahu: Turkish President Erdogan

Muhammed Enes Calli

27.12.2023

There is "no difference" between what Israeli Premier Benjamin Netanyahu is doing in the months-long attacks on Gaza and what Nazi leader Adolf Hitler did decades ago, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday.

At a science awards ceremony in the capital Ankara, Erdogan said: "How do you (Netanyahu) differ from Hitler? These (actions) will make us look for Hitler as well. Is there anything Netanyahu does that is less than Hitler? No."

Just like 80 years ago in Nazi Germany, Erdogan said that today, scholars worldwide who have the courage to decry the oppression and persecution in Gaza are facing pressure and threats, referring to academics in the US and elsewhere being fired or censured for standing up for Palestinians.

Germany is still paying the price for Hitler's actions, he said. "That's why Germany remains silent ... but we don't owe anyone. We have no debts, it is the West that owes. Because of its debt, it cannot speak up."

A "witch hunt" has been initiated against anyone criticizing Israel, including students, in many internationally renowned educational institutions, he added.

Speaking to scholars who are facing pressure for "defending human dignity," in Gaza, he said "the doors of Turkish universities are wide open to you."

"We realized that the institutions that talk big and spend big budgets are completely hollow when it comes to Israel and its atrocities," the president said.

"From the UN Security Council to press organizations, from the EU to journalist groups, all institutions that serve as apostles of democracy have failed (over the Israeli attacks on Gaza)," he said.

The Turkish president said that not only international organizations but also the prestigious Western universities have failed on the Gaza issue.

"Can you imagine that university presidents are being questioned and held accountable in Congress just because they advocate for the rights of children, women, and civilians?" he asked.

"The slightest criticism, even within the limits of law and democracy, is suppressed by attaching the label of antisemitism, and is considered a crime."

The presidents of Harvard, Pennsylvania and MIT universities testified to the US Congress over antisemitism on campuses on Dec. 5.

Emphasizing that hospitals, schools, places of worship, and universities have been bombed and scientists in Gaza with their families were killed, Erdogan said almost 100 journalists trying to expose the" barbarity" in Gaza have been killed.

"We are following with a heavy heart the massacre of 2.5 million people confined to a narrow area of only 360 square kilometers," he said. "Despite the diplomatic efforts made by conscientious countries such as Türkiye, unfortunately, we couldn't prevent the killing of hundreds of Gazans every day."

"Despite our aid, efforts, and contacts, as a Muslim and, most importantly, as a human being, we are experiencing the embarrassment of not being able to stop this oppression within our own conscience," Erdogan said.

Israel launched a massive military campaign on the Gaza Strip following a cross-border attack by Hamas on Oct. 7, killing at least 21,110 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injuring 55,243 others, according to local health authorities.

The onslaught has left Gaza in ruins, with 60% of the enclave's infrastructure damaged or destroyed and nearly 2 million people displaced amid acute shortages of food, clean water and medicines.

Around 1,200 Israelis are believed to have been killed in the Hamas attack.

Source: aa.com.tr

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https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/no-difference-between-actions-of-hitler-israeli-premier-netanyahu-turkish-president-erdogan/3093860

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Christians also suffered from Israeli genocidal war on Gaza, says Palestinian artist

Qais Abu Samra

27.12.2023

Palestinian artist Rana Bishara said Christians in Palestine are suffering like Muslims from the Israeli genocidal war on Gaza.

In an interview with Anadolu, Bishara said the Israeli occupation forces hit the fabric of the Palestinian society where Muslims, Christians, and Jews were peacefully living for decades.

Bishara, 52, hails from the Tarshiha town in the northern Galilee area, currently Israel, and names herself a Christian Arab Palestinian.

Her artistic works include paintings, sculptures, art installations, photography, and carvings. All her works address and represent the Palestinian cause and suffering.

She also displayed her work in art galleries abroad, including in Amman, Jordan, and New York.

"Israel is carrying out a genocidal war and ethnic cleansing against the Palestinian people, especially in the Gaza Strip," Bishara said.

"Before the occupation of 1948, we used to live together as Muslims, Christians, and Jews, but they (the Jews) turned towards Zionism and betrayed their religion," she added.

Christians also victims of Israeli aggression

Rana Bishara said the Palestinian Christians are suffering from the Israeli occupation in the same manner as the Palestinian Muslims suffer.

The Israeli army "struck Churches in Gaza and killed Christians, and in Jerusalem, Christian clerics are insulted by (Israeli) settlers," she said.

In the first days of the devastating Israeli onslaught on Gaza, the Greek Orthodox Saint Porphyrius Church was bombed by the Israeli army while people were sheltering inside, leaving dozens dead and injured, including at least 16 Palestinian Christians.

"The Christian world knows nothing about us, if they truly believe in Jesus, they won't back Israel with weapons, political statements, and colonial moral support," Bishara said.

On Monday, she embodied Christ in a baby incubator in Bethlehem City to pay tribute to Palestinian babies killed in Gaza in their incubators due to the deadly Israeli onslaught.

The piece of art, showcased in the Manger Square near the Nativity Church, showed the Christ Child lying in an incubator on a Palestinian keffiyeh scarf covered with blood.

Immediate halt to war

The Christ child lying in an incubator on Christmas in Bethlehem was a message to the Western world that is disregarding the Palestinian people’s suffering for over 75 years, she said.

"Israel committed in 1948 massacres against my people, destroyed and expelled people from 531 Palestinian villages, and there was an ethnic cleansing, but our people withstood and rose again, and they never died," Bishara said.

"As an artist and a human, my message is: Stop the war now, immediately, and permanently," she urged.

She stressed that Israel is targeting all Palestinian people in Gaza, the West Bank, and even inside Israel, "and seeks to kill as more as possible and to expel the remaining."

"On Christmas, (Palestinian) children are killed in their homes, they are left hungry," Bishara added. "They are the next generation that are supposed to build our (Palestinian) future."

On Dec. 16, the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem said two Christian women – an elderly mother and her daughter – were shot dead by an Israeli soldier on the grounds of a Catholic church in Gaza City.

Christmas Eve celebrations in Bethlehem were halted due to Israel's devastating war on Gaza.

Christmas is observed annually on Dec. 25 by Western churches and Jan. 7 by Eastern churches.

Christians in the Gaza Strip attended a midnight mass on Monday, while a special religious service was held at midnight on Christmas Eve on Sunday at the Holy Family Church in Gaza's center to commemorate the birth of Christ.

However, this year's Christmas is marred by intense Israeli bombing, making the midnight mass one of the most violent nights of Israel's war on the Gaza Strip.

Israel has pounded the Gaza Strip since a cross-border attack by the Palestinian group Hamas on Oct. 7, killing at least 20,915 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injuring 54,918 others, according to local health authorities.

Around 1,200 Israelis are believed to have been killed in the Hamas attack.

Israeli attacks have left Gaza in ruins, with half of the coastal territory's housing damaged or destroyed and nearly 2 million people displaced within the densely populated enclave amid acute shortages of food and clean water.

Source: aa.com.tr

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https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/christians-also-suffered-from-israeli-genocidal-war-on-gaza-says-palestinian-artist/3093829

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Jordan’s King Abdullah, Egypt’s Sisi reject any Israeli move to expel Palestinians from Gaza, West Bank

27 December 2023

Jordan’s King Abdullah and Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi have firmly rejected any Israeli move to expel Palestinians from the besieged Gaza Strip and occupied West Bank.

Following a meeting in the Egyptian capital Cairo on Wednesday, both leaders “reiterated their complete rejection of all attempts to liquidate the Palestinian issue and forcibly displace Palestinians in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.”

According to a statement released by Jordan's official Petra news agency, King Abdullah reaffirmed his country’s support for Egypt’s firm position against any attempts to displace inhabitants of the war-ravaged Gaza Strip.

Both King Abdullah and Sisi stressed the need “for the whole world to push towards an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and the delivery of sufficient and sustainable humanitarian aid to alleviate the tragic situation and the suffering of Gazans,” the statement further said.

The leaders also called on the international community to pressure the Israeli regime to agree to an immediate ceasefire and allow enough aid into Gaza in an attempt to ease the “tragic plight” of over two million Palestinians under siege there, it added.

They also emphasized that the international community “shoulders an immense political and ethical responsibility” toward implementing UN resolutions to “maintain the integrity of these international entities.”

The Israeli regime is trying to ‘deport the majority of the civilian population en masse’ as part of its plan to ‘permanently alter’ the composition of Gaza’s population, a UN expert has warned.

King Abdullah and Sisi further stressed the need to counter any attempts to reoccupy parts of Gaza, build so-called buffer zones in the blockaded Palestinian territory or separate it from the West Bank.

The Israeli regime waged the war on Gaza on October 7 after the Palestinian Hamas resistance group carried out the surprise Operation Al-Aqsa Storm against the occupying entity in response to the Israeli regime’s atrocities against Palestinians.

Since the start of the US-backed offensive, the Israeli regime has killed at least 21,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured more than 55,000 others. Thousands more are also missing and presumed dead under the rubble.

UN figures say around 1.9 million people, 85 percent of Gaza’s population, have been internally displaced in Gaza. The regime’s evacuation orders cover around two-thirds of the strip, limiting the civilian population to less than one-third of the region. 

The Israeli siege of the strip, which has extremely limited the flow of water, food, medicine and fuel to the region, has also caused starvation among the population.

Source: presstv.ir

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https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2023/12/27/717153/Palestine-Israel-Gaza-Egypt-Sisi-Jordan-King-Abdullah-West-Bank

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Dozens of high-profile Israeli firms' websites hacked by pro-Palestinian group

 27 December 2023

A group of pro-Palestinian hackers has targeted the websites of more than 40 high-profile companies in the occupied territories in retaliation for the relentless Israeli air and ground offensives against Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip.

According to the threat intelligence platform FalconFeedsio, a massive data breach and subsequent data leaks affected 49 Israeli companies, including the Israel Innovation Authority, Toyota Israel, the Ministry of Welfare and Social Security, IKEA Israel, cybersecurity and geo-intelligence company Max Security, and others in recent weeks.

“Contrary to popular belief, the cyber attackers did not breach all these companies individually. Instead, they targeted a single hosting company, Signature-IT, and allegedly stole data belonging to [over] 40 Israeli firms,” FalconFeedsio’s post on X reads.

Signature-IT provides e-commerce and website hosting services to customers in Israeli-occupied lands.

A group of hackers, calling itself “Cyber Toufan,” has claimed responsibly for the cyber operation against the Tel Aviv regime’s institutions and facilities.

The same group attacked several websites belonging to the Israeli regime and Hebrew-language media outlets in late November.

The hackers hacked Israel's ministry of military affairs at the time, and subsequently dumped huge troves of data on Cyber Toufan’s Telegram account. They said the data included the names of Israeli army and reserve soldiers.

In a video released on its Telegram account, a hacker displayed data he claimed was of Israeli soldiers, including their names, ranks, service numbers and places of residence.

Cyber Toufan said in a statement that it had destroyed more than 1,000 servers in attacks and breached 150 Israeli “targets”, including scores of agencies and companies.

Cyber Toufan appears to be a reference to the surprise Operation Al-Aqsa Storm carried out by Gaza-based resistance fighters into the occupied territories in response to the occupying regime’s intensified crimes against the Palestinian people.

According to the Gaza-based health ministry, over 21,000 Palestinians have been killed in the strikes, most of them women and children, and more than 55,000 others injured.

Tel Aviv has also imposed a “complete siege” on Gaza, cutting off fuel, electricity, food, and water to the more than two million Palestinians living there.

Source: presstv.ir

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

https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2023/12/27/717152/Dozens-of-high-profile-Israeli-firms-hacked-by-pro-Palestinian-group

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‘Children's March’ in The Hague urges ICC to investigate Israeli crimes

 28 December 2023

A diverse group of protesters, including children and their families, have gathered outside The Hague headquarters of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to express their unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, calling for an immediate investigation into Israeli atrocities against Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip.

Participants in the protest rally, dubbed the “Children’s March”, set off from The Hague train station on Wednesday, chanting slogans such as “ICC, do your job,” “Free Palestine,” and “Ceasefire now” as they waved Palestinian flags.

The crowd further urged the ICC to fulfill its mandate and address the ongoing crisis in Gaza, while carrying placards with messages like “Justice for the 9,000 Palestinian children killed” and “Stop killing children.”

MSF medics say they are in shock and fear, having no words to describe the horror of what is happening in Gaza, as the regime forces target the health infrastructures.

The demonstrators pointed out that the toll on children in the ongoing Israeli war on Gaza is particularly devastating, with thousands of them killed and tens of thousands injured since the beginning of the offensive.

Bilal Riani, president of the Endulus Foundation and one of the protest organizers, said what is happening in Gaza is not merely a war but a genocide.

“The ICC must do its job and investigate the genocide. Those who constantly speak in the case of Ukraine remain silent when it comes to Palestine,” he said.

Larissa-Mae Hartkamp, a participant in the march, voiced concern about the Netherlands providing F-35 parts to Israel, stressing that the occupying regime should be seen as the aggressor, not the defender.

She also called on Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte to “stop supporting genocide,” adding, “We marched to the ICC because we want a ceasefire, justice to be served, and the ICC to do its job.”

Hartkamp further underscored the importance of transparency and the need for the ICC to proceed based on facts, saying the alarming number of journalists who have lost their lives in the past 80 days is “an attempt to conceal the truth.”

The events unfolding in the Gaza Strip have been described as a textbook example of genocide and ethnic cleansing. Let’s take a look at the genocide in numbers

The latest development came after the Government Media Office in Gaza announced that Israel has killed 8,800 children alongside 6,300 women since the beginning of its onslaught against Gaza in early October.

“The number of killed Palestinians who have been brought to the hospitals in the strip since the beginning of the war has reached 21,110,” it said.

“During 82 days of the comprehensive genocidal war, the Israeli army committed 1,779 massacres, resulting in 21,110 martyrs and missing individuals,” the media office added.

Israel waged the brutal war on Gaza on October 7 after the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas carried out a historic operation against the occupying entity in response to the Israeli regime’s decades-long violence against Palestinians.

The Tel Aviv regime has imposed a “complete siege” on the territory, cutting off fuel, electricity, food, and water to the more than two million Palestinians living there.

The Israeli regime’s war in Gaza has received widespread condemnation across the globe.

Source: presstv.ir

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

https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2023/12/28/717166/Children-March-The-Hague-urges-ICC-investigate-Israeli-crimes

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Iraqi resistance strikes 'vital Israeli target’ in occupied Golan Heights

 28 December 2023

Iraq’s Islamic resistance has launched two separate attacks against Israeli targets in the occupied Syrian Golan Heights and northern Iraq.

In a statement released in early Thursday morning, the group announced it conducted an operation against a "vital and key" target in the south of the Israeli regime's "Eliad" settlement in the occupied Golan.

Some reports said an Israeli drone base was targeted in the attack.

The resistance, an umbrella group of anti-terror fighters, said it carried out the attack using “appropriate weapons” in support of the Gaza Strip which has endured 82 days of an unrelenting Israeli genocidal war.

Israeli media, meanwhile, reported that a "kamikaze drone" had hit a building located in southern Golan.

Israel's Channel 12 claimed that if it was confirmed that the drone operation had originated from Syria, it would be the first time since the beginning of the Gaza war that such an attack has taken place.

The Iraqi group also said it targeted a "technical and spying center" belonging to the Israeli regime in the northeast of the city of Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan region in northern Iraq.

The Iraqi anti-terror group has been attacking targets belonging to the Israeli regime and the United States since October 7, when Tel Aviv began the war on Gaza with unwavering military and political support from Washington.

The Israeli targets included the port of Eilat located in the southernmost part of the occupied Palestinian territories and the Karish gas field in the Mediterranean Sea.

Ever since the onset of the Israeli war on Gaza, the Iraqi resistance has conducted more than 100 operations against American occupation forces in the region..

Source: presstv.ir

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https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2023/12/28/717162/Iraq-attack-Israel-Syria-Golan-Heights-resistance-Gaza-war

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Over 4,000 Gaza students killed in Israeli bombardment since October 7: Ministry

27 December 2023

Palestinian Ministry of Education says at least 4,037 students and 209 educational staff have been killed since the start of Israel's brutal aggression on the besieged Gaza Strip on October 7. 

In a statement released on Wednesday, the ministry said that more than 7,259 students and 619 teachers were also injured in the besieged strip between October 7 and December 26.

The ministry and several education-focused NGOs reported that 352 schools across the Gaza Strip have sustained damage, affecting the education of 400,700 students.

Three governorates namely Gaza, Khan Younis and North Gaza are highly affected, accounting for 74 percent of the total damage.

Israel has been under fire by the UN agencies and human rights organizations for the “collective punishment” of Gaza’s 2.3 million people.

The figures come as hospitals and schools, protected under international humanitarian law, have repeatedly been hit by Israeli strikes since the war erupted.

Israel has justified attacks on UN schools, universities and hospitals, saying they were used by the Palestinian resistance group Hamas. The regime has provided no proof for its claims.

Media reports have also debunked Israeli claims that Hamas ran a command center under Shifa Hospital, Gaza’s largest medical facility, which was crippled by Israeli shelling.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has repeatedly called for a ceasefire and decried the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The UN chief has invoked Article 99 of the UN Charter, a move aimed at formally warning the Security Council of a global threat posed by Israel’s barbarism.

Videos of the Sunday attack circulated on social media showed blood in the school yard, and fire in the building.

The Red Cross demands Israel adhere to international law.

Meanwhile, the secretary-general of the International Federation of the Red Cross, Jagan Chapagain, says “No words adequately capture the depth of human suffering in Gaza”.

The humanitarian organization has repeatedly appealed for access to Gaza and for civilians to be protected.

Dozens of Palestinians have been killed as Israeli occupation forces strike al-Fakhoora School in the northern part of the Gaza Strip.

“In this conflict, civilians, humanitarian workers are paying the highest price with some losing their lives,” Chapagain wrote on X. “Rules exist to help preserve humanity in the darkest moments, and they desperately need to be.”

The developments come as incessant and indiscriminate bombardments claim the lives of more innocent civilians on day 82 of the Israeli genocidal war on Gaza. The Israeli regime is continuing with its relentless bombardments, killing more innocent women and children.

At least six Palestinians have been killed in the latest air attacks that hit northern Gaza.

The Israeli army has also targeted the Nuseirat, Bureij and Maghazi refugee camps.

In the south, the city of Khan Yunis has been the scene of deadly artillery strikes and air raids, the latest of which killed 20 people.

MSF medics say they are in shock and fear, having no words to describe the horror of what is happening in Gaza, as the regime forces target the health infrastructures.

The Palestinian health ministry says the regime has intensified attacks around the Nasser hospital, raising concerns about the lives of thousands of people taking shelter there.

The death toll has now surpassed 21,100, mostly women and children. Meantime, the World Health Organization has once again denounced the Israeli bloodbath in Gaza and warned about the dire humanitarian situation there.

Source: presstv.ir

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

https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2023/12/27/717148/Palestine-Gaza-Israel-US-Palestinian-Ministry-of-Education--

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WHO says Gaza cannot afford to lose any more hospitals, warns of ‘grave peril’

28 December 2023

The World Health Organization has once again sounded alarm on deepening humanitarian and medical crisis in war-torn Gaza, calling on the international community to take urgent steps to alleviate the grave peril facing Palestinians in the besieged territory.

"Gaza cannot afford to lose any more hospitals," said Richard Peeperkorn, WHO representative in office for Gaza and the West Bank.

According to the latest WHO assessments, Gaza has 13 partially functioning hospitals, two minimally functioning ones, and 21 that are not functioning at all.

"WHO is working to strengthen and expand the existing struggling health system," Peeperkorn added, according to a WHO post on social media on Wednesday.

More than 21,000 people, most of them children and women, have been killed in Gaza since the onset of the military campaign that the Israeli regime waged following an October 7 operation by Gaza's resistance movements.

“WHO is extremely concerned this fresh displacement of people will further strain health facilities in the south, which are already struggling to meet the population’s immense needs,” the post said.

“This forced mass movement of people will also lead to more overcrowding, increased risk of infectious diseases, and make it even harder to deliver humanitarian aid.”

The head of the World Health Organization warns the ongoing Israeli war on Gaza is having a ‘catastrophic’ impact on the healthcare sector of the Palestinian territory.

'Grave peril'

Also on Wednesday, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus repeated a call on the international community "to take urgent steps to alleviate the grave peril facing the population of Gaza and jeopardizing the ability of humanitarian workers to help people with terrible injuries, acute hunger, and at severe risk of disease."

The remarks came a day after WHO’s staff went on a high-risk mission to deliver humanitarian supplies to Al-Shifa Hospital in northern Gaza and Al-Amal Palestine Red Crescent Society in southern Gaza.

Both hospitals serve as shelters for displaced Palestinians seeking safety amid relentless Israeli bombardment. At Al-Shifa Hospital, a reported 50,000 people are sheltering, while 14,000.others are at Al-Amal.

Attending al-Amal, "WHO staff reported finding it impossible to walk inside the hospital without stepping over patients and those seeking refuge."

Ghebreyesus said, "My own colleagues in Gaza are also being directly and personally affected by the conflict, just like virtually everyone there."

He added, “The recent United Nations Security Council resolution appeared to provide hope of an improvement in humanitarian aid distribution within Gaza,”

WHO chief said, “However, based on WHO eyewitness accounts on the ground, the resolution is tragically yet to have an impact. What we urgently need right now is a ceasefire to spare civilians from further violence and begin the long road towards reconstruction and peace.”

Source: presstv.ir

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https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2023/12/27/717158/Palestine-Israel-World-Health-Organization-hospitals-Gaza-war

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Hezbollah targets Israeli military position in occupied lands

Dec 27, 2023

TEHRAN, Dec. 27 (MNA) – The Lebanese Resistance movement Hezbollah has targeted an Israeli command headquarters in the northern parts of the occupied territories.

Hezbollah said in a statement on Wednesday that it has targeted the Zionist military headquarters at the Israeli forces naval base in the Rosh HaNikra grottoes area in the northern parts of the occupied Palestinian territories and southern Lebanon with appropriate weapons.

Zionist media also announced that 18 missiles were fired from Lebanese territory at Rosh HaNikra grottoes.

Earlier today, Hezbollah also fired 12 missiles from southern Lebanon toward the Zionist military bases on the occupied Shebaa Farms and Upper Galilee region.

The Lebanese Resistance group has targeted Israeli military positions in recent weeks as part of its support for the Palestinian Resistance in the Gaza Strip, where Zionist assaults have killed at least 20,915 people.

Israeli regime waged the genocidal war on Gaza on October 7 after Hamas carried out a historic operation against the occupying entity in retaliation for its intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people.

Source: mehrnews.com

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https://en.mehrnews.com/news/210029/Hezbollah-targets-Israeli-military-position-in-occupied-lands

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Europe

 

Macron asks Netanyahu for ‘lasting ceasefire’ in Gaza

 Dec 28, 2023

PARIS: French President Emmanuel Macron demanded a “lasting ceasefire” in Gaza during a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday, his office said, as an escalating humanitarian crisis grips the Palestinian territory.

“France will work in the coming days in cooperation with Jordan to carry out humanitarian operations in Gaza,” the French presidency added in a statement.

Macron, an ally of Netanyahu since the start of the war triggered by the unprecedented Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, told the Israeli premier of his “deepest concern” about civilian deaths and the humanitarian emergency in Gaza.

He also insisted on the importance of measures to end violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinian civilians in the occupied West Bank and prevent new planned settlements.

Netanyahu’s office said during the call the prime minister thanked Macron for “France’s involvement in defending freedom of navigation and its willingness to help restore security along Israel’s border with Lebanon”.

The conflict erupted when Hamas attacked southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli figures.

Palestinian also took around 250 hostages, 129 of whom remain in captivity, Israel says.

Israel vowed to destroy Hamas and retaliated with relentless bombardment and a ground invasion in Gaza that has killed at least 21,110 people, mainly women and children, according to the territory’s Hamas-run health ministry.

Source: brecorder.com

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https://www.brecorder.com/news/40280899/macron-asks-netanyahu-for-lasting-ceasefire-in-gaza

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French president expresses concern over heavy civilian death toll in Gaza

Esra Taskin

28.12.2023

French President Emmanuel Macron expressed concern late Wednesday over the heavy loss of life among the civilian population in Gaza.

A statement from the Elysee Palace said Macron discussed the situation in Gaza and the region in a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

It said Macron conveyed his concerns to Netanyahu about the heavy civilian death toll in Gaza amid the intensified conflict and the urgent humanitarian situation.

The statement highlighted that Macron reminded Netanyahu of Israel's obligation to protect civilians and emphasized the urgent need to deliver necessary aid to the civilian population in Gaza.

It said Macron advocated for efforts towards a lasting cease-fire with the assistance of international and regional partners, adding that France along with Jordan will conduct humanitarian aid operations in Gaza in the coming days.

The French leader also emphasized the need for Israel to take measures to end the violence by Jewish settlers against Palestinian civilians and to halt new settlement projects in the West Bank, saying this situation threatens the two-state solution.

Macron also conveyed messages to Iran and its affiliated groups to stay away from the conflict to prevent it from spreading in the region and highlighted the importance of the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

The UN resolution calls for Israel to withdraw behind the Blue Line and disarmament of the region between this line and the Litani River in Lebanon, allowing only the Lebanese army and the UN Interim Force in Lebanon to possess weapons and military equipment in the area.

Source: aa.com.tr

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https://www.aa.com.tr/en/europe/french-president-expresses-concern-over-heavy-civilian-death-toll-in-gaza/3094194

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Russian FM calls for immediate ceasefire in Gaza

28 Dec, 2023

It is necessary to break the vicious circle of violence in the Israel-Palestine conflict, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said in an exclusive year-end interview with TASS news agency. According to Lavrov, this is the only way to achieve stabilization in Gaza and in the Middle East as a whole.

The conflict has been going on for 75 years, and shows no signs of stopping. Gaza's population has repeatedly suffered in the cycle of confrontation, attack and retaliation between Israel and Palestinian militant groups.

“It is unacceptable to justify, let alone encourage, terrorist attacks, or to respond to them with methods of collective punishment in flagrant violation of international humanitarian law,” the Foreign Minister said, commenting on the confrontation between Israel and Hamas.

The conflict in Gaza escalated on October 7 when Hamas fighters attacked Israel, killing about 1,200 people and taking hundreds hostage. Israel’s retaliatory operation in the Palestinian enclave, which Israeli officials say is aimed at wiping out the militant group, has left more than 21,000 dead so far, according to local health officials.

Lavrov has said the outbreak of the Middle Eastern conflict is a result of the longstanding failures of US foreign policy. “It’s time for everyone to learn a lesson from the consequences of US attempts to play behind-the-scenes diplomacy in the Middle East,” he said. “It was Washington’s line of monopolizing mediation efforts and undermining the international legal framework for a settlement that led to the current escalation in the conflict zone.”

Russia’s stance, Lavrov stressed, “is based on the decisions of the Security Council and the UN General Assembly, the Arab Peace Initiative.” He called for the establishment of a Palestinian state. “The task of international mediators is to help the parties establish a dialogue within which they could resolve all controversial issues.” The minister admitted that “it’s not easy,” adding, however, that without talks, bloodshed will continue.

On Tuesday Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisted peace can only be achieved in Gaza if Hamas is destroyed, the territory “demilitarized” and Palestinian society “deracialized,” after warning the war is set to intensify. Israel’s tactics have faced criticism from the United Nations and international humanitarian organizations as well as many world leaders.

“It is necessary to break the vicious circle of violence, to eliminate the injustice from which several generations of Palestinians have been suffering,” the minister said, adding that without “a political horizon, the Israelis and Palestinians will continue to live from escalation to escalation.”

Before 2023, some of the worst fighting was in 2014, when Hamas and other groups launched rockets at Israel. The IDF carried out air strikes and an artillery bombardment that devastated neighborhoods in Gaza, leaving over 2,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, dead.

Source: rt.com

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https://www.rt.com/russia/589792-lavrov-gaza-israel-interview/

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Putin invites ‘friend’ Modi to Moscow

27 Dec, 2023

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday evening held talks with the External Affairs Minister of India Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, who is on a four-day official visit to Russia.

During the meeting at the Kremlin, Putin invited Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi to visit Russia to have a detailed discussion on bilateral issues as well as geopolitical developments, including the Ukrainian conflict.

“We would be glad to see our friend Prime Minister Modi in Russia. We’ll be able to discuss all current issues and talk about the prospects for the development of Russian-Indian relations. We have a lot of work ahead,” the Russian leader said, according to the Kremlin readout.

“We are aware of Prime Minister Modi’s position [... and] his stance regarding complex processes, including [global] hotspots and the situation in Ukraine. I have repeatedly briefed him on the situation regarding this conflict. I know his desire to do everything possible to resolve this issue through peaceful means,” Putin said, promising to discuss the issue “in more detail” during closed-door talks.

Jaishankar conveyed “personal greetings” on behalf of Modi and handed over a “written message” to Putin containing “thoughts regarding the state of our cooperation and the progress that has been achieved in recent days.” The top diplomat said he was confident a meeting of the two leaders would take place next year at a “suitable date” for both sides.

Earlier in the day, Jaishankar told the media in Moscow that he was “very confident” the tradition of having annual bilateral summits between the leaders of the two countries could resume next year. A meeting between Modi and Putin could not be held this year because of India’s G20 presidency and “certain preoccupations” towards the end of the year, Jaishankar noted, speaking at a joint press conference with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov. The more recent bilateral summit took place in New Delhi in December 2021.

During the briefing, Jaishankar underlined that India’s relationship with Russia remains “very steady” and “very strong.” “[The relationship is] based on our strategic concerns, our geopolitical interests, and because they are mutually beneficial,” he said, emphasizing these strong sentiments are shared at all levels, from the top leadership to ordinary people.

Jaishankar said he had discussed several pivotal areas of cooperation during his meeting with his Russian counterpart and other top Moscow officials. He noted they spent “a lot of time” discussing political cooperation concerning “various international issues,” including those related to intergovernmental organizations such as BRICS and SCO.

The Indian diplomat also shared that he discussed cooperation related to the Russian Far East with Lavrov. Next month, a delegation from the Far East is expected to participate at one of India’s biggest trade shows, Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit held in the state of Gujarat.

“Energy, fertilizers, and coking coal are very big components [of India-Russia trade]. How we reach long-term arrangements in that regard was a big part of our discussion,” Jaishankar said, adding that the need to progress on a bilateral investment treaty, development of railway infrastructure and development of industrial-zone infrastructure also figured during his discussions in the Russian capital. New Delhi will also resume a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) talks with the Eurasian Economic Union, comprising Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, Belarus, and Russia, next month.

Source: rt.com

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https://www.rt.com/india/589785-putin-invites-friend-modi-to-russia/

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Pakistan

 

Pak Minorities Enjoy Complete Religious Freedom In Country: Special Representative To PM

December 27, 2023

Special Representative to the Prime Minister on Religious Harmony Hafiz Tahir Ashrafi has said minorities enjoy complete religious freedom in Pakistan, which is guaranteed by the Constitution.

Addressing media in Islamabad today, he said Islam teaches us to show respect for all religions and faiths. He said Christmas celebrations were held peacefully across Pakistan.

Hafiz Tahir Ashrafi also commended minorities’ role in the development and progress of the country.    

Source: radio.gov.pk

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https://www.radio.gov.pk/27-12-2023/minorities-enjoy-complete-religious-freedom-in-country-ashrafi

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Caretaker PM urges Muslim Ummah to get united to overcome challenges

December 27, 2023

Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar has emphasized the Muslim Ummah to continue working closely and collectively to deal with the challenges confronting the Islamic world.

He was talking to the resident Ambassadors of Muslim countries from the Middle East and North African [MENA] region over lunch in Islamabad today [Wednesday].

The meeting was attended by the Ambassadors of Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Syria, United Arab Emirates and Yemen.

The Prime Minister underscored the significance attached by Pakistan to fraternal ties with the Muslim world, particularly with countries of the MENA region.

He said these ties are anchored in mutual trust, common understanding and close cooperation on bilateral as well as regional matters of common interest.

The Prime Minister shared Pakistan's perspective on a number of issues, particularly the deteriorating human rights and humanitarian situation in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Other challenges confronting the Muslim world such as Islamophobia were also discussed.

The Prime Minister praised the Ambassadors for their efforts to forge stronger ties between Islamabad and their respective capitals.

The Ambassadors thanked the Prime Minister and reiterated their support towards advancing bilateral relations with Pakistan, which played a key role in the Muslim world. 

Source: radio.gov.pk

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https://www.radio.gov.pk/27-12-2023/pm-urges-muslim-ummah-to-get-united-to-overcome-challenges

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Conference being held today: Ulema agree on joint fatwa on polio eradication: Ashrafi

2023-12-28

ISLAMABAD: Special Representative to the Prime Minister (PM) on Religious Harmony Hafiz Tahir Ashrafi on Wednesday said the Ulema of Pakistan have agreed on a joint fatwa on the subject of polio eradication and a declaration in this regard would be issued on the legitimacy of polio vaccination globally.

In this regard, on the pressing issue of polio eradication, he mentioned that a conference is being held on Thursday (today), involving scholars and religious leaders.

Addressing at a press conference here, Ashrafi said Islam teaches to show respect for all religions and faiths and also commended minorities’ role in the development and progress of the country.

Ashrafi, while emphasizing the spirit of unity and cooperation among all religious communities on Christmas countrywide has said minorities in Pakistan are enjoying complete religious freedom as guaranteed by the national constitution.

He also announced that the government is establishing Pakistan Peace Councils (PPC) nationwide aiming at fostering interfaith harmony and collaboration, promoting unity and understanding among diverse religious communities.

Ashrafi, who is also the chairman of the Pakistan Ulema Council (PUC) while shedding light on the nationwide manifestation of interfaith cohesion said that Pakistan is a country that embraces and respects all religions.

He reiterated the commitment of Pakistan as a nation that upholds the principles of the constitution, emphasizing that everyone is bound by the rule of law.

Ashrafi stated: “Pakistan is a country that recognizes and respects all religions and sects. Our Constitution guarantees equal rights to all citizens, regardless of their faith.”

He regretted that some individuals wished to impose their ideologies on the nation, adding that the entire nation, irrespective of religious affiliations, collaborated with the Christian community, setting a remarkable example of interfaith harmony.

Expressing disappointment over the dissemination of misinformation, Ashrafi highlighted the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ efforts in managing Hajj applications that exceeded the designated quota. He asserted that the ministry was actively working to address these issues and find practical solutions.

He said the Ministry of Religious Affairs had launched the Pakistan Hajj Application, providing guidance and information for pilgrims. He said this digital initiative was designed to ensure that Hajj participants receive the necessary support and guidance throughout their sacred journey.

Ashrafi acknowledged the positive developments in Pakistan and the establishment of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) to facilitate foreign investment. He emphasized the significance of SIFC in providing essential facilities for external investments, highlighting its pivotal role in the country’s economic growth.

Addressing concerns about delayed justice, Ashrafi, on behalf of the PUC, urged the immediate punishment of those involved in the May 9 incidents. Despite the available evidence against the culprits, he questioned the delay in taking action and called for swift justice against the perpetrators.

Turning to the distressing situation in Palestine, Ashrafi revealed that Caretaker PM Anwaarul Haq Kakar was engaged with leaders from all Islamic countries regarding the peace and ceasefire situation in Gaza.

Source: brecorder.com

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https://www.brecorder.com/news/40280859/conference-being-held-today-ulema-agree-on-joint-fatwa-on-polio-eradication-ashrafi

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Cipher case: IHC rejects PTI's plea seeking stay on trial

December 28, 2023

Maryam Nawaz

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court Thursday rejected the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan's plea seeking stay orders to halt the in-camera trial of the cipher case.

Last week, the incarcerated PTI founder moved the IHC against his indictment in the cipher case and the entire proceedings by the special court, established under the Official Secrets Act.

During the hearing of the plea today, IHC's Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb rejected PTI lawyer Usman Gul's request to grant a stay on the trial, saying the court would issue notices first before issuing any order.

The IHC issued notice to the federation and asked Khan's lawyer Usman Gul to submit all necessary documents related to the cipher trial at the next hearing.

Highlighting the alleged irregularities in the cipher case, the PTI counsel contended in the court that a first information report (FIR) was lodged before the filing of a complaint.

The judge asked the PTI founder's lawyer what the point of the petition was. "The point is that the legal procedure was not completed before the indictment," said the lawyer, responding to the judge.

He said that a legally authorised official can file a complaint directly in court.

"You are saying that an authorised officer can file a complaint directly," asked the judge.

The PTI founder's lawyer requested that the IHC to direct the trial court to conduct the hearing of the case after five or six days. "The trial court can complete the trial in the meantime," he added.

"How many witness statements have been completed so far?" the judge questioned.

The lawyer responded by saying that statements of 25 witnesses have been recorded, while cross-examination of three has been completed out of the total 27 witnesses.

The cipher trial being conducted on a daily basis, the PTI counsel told the court.

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Prosecutor Raja Rizwan Abbasi received the notice in the courtroom.

Attorney General for Pakistan (AGP) Mansoor Usman Awan also appeared in the court and informed that the statements of 25 witnesses have been recorded in the cipher trial.

PTI lawyer Salman Akram Raja said statements of many witnesses were recorded after the judgment of this court.

Judge Aurangzeb said: “I can't ignore the court's previous proceedings regarding the cipher case. I am concerned about the way the cipher trial is being conducted.”

The court acknowledged that the trial court judge conducted the hearing early because he was ordered to do so.

Expressing concerns over in-camera trial, the IHC judge observed that a special court judge should have ordered conducting an open trial on every hearing of the case.

To which, the AGP told the court that media is allowed to cover the trial proceedings.

“Was the cross-examination of witnesses carried out in the presence of the media,” Justice Aurangzeb inquired.

The AGP said the statements of three witnesses were related to code and decode of the diplomatic cable, adding that the foreign secretary statement will also be recorded in the in-camera proceedings.

Both Khan and his party's Vice-Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi were granted post-arrest bail in the cipher case by the Supreme Court on December 22, 2023.

The former prime minister and the ex-foreign minister were directed to submit a surety bond of Rs1 million each in the cipher case related to the misuse of diplomatic cable for political purposes.

On December 13, the PTI founder and vice-chairman were indicted in the cipher case again by the special court established under the Official Secrets Act 2023 after the Islamabad High Court (IHC) declared their jail trial null and void.

Both politicians have pleaded not guilty to their involvement in the offence related to the alleged misuse of diplomatic cable for political purposes.

What is ciphergate?

The controversy first emerged on March 27, 2022, when Khan — less than a month before his ouster in April 2022 — while addressing a public rally waved a letter before the crowd, claiming that it was a cipher from a foreign nation that had conspired with his political rivals to have PTI government overthrown.

He did not reveal the contents of the letter nor did he mention the name of the nation it came from. But a few days later, he accused the United States of conspiring against him and alleged that Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Affairs Donald Lu had sought his removal.

The cipher was about former Pakistan ambassador to the US Majeed's meeting with Lu.

The former prime minister, claiming that he was reading contents from the cipher, said that "all will be forgiven for Pakistan if Imran Khan is removed from power".

Then on March 31, the National Security Committee (NSC) took up the matter and decided to issue a "strong demarche" to the US for its "blatant interference in the internal affairs of Pakistan".

Later, after his removal, then-prime minister Shehbaz Sharif convened a meeting of the NSC, which concluded that it had found no evidence of a foreign conspiracy in the cable.

In the two audio leaks that took the internet by storm and shocked the public after these events, the former prime minister, then-federal minister Asad Umar, and then-principle secretary Azam could allegedly be heard discussing the US cipher and how to use it to their advantage.

On September 30, the federal cabinet took notice of the matter and constituted a committee to probe the contents of the audio leaks.

In October, the cabinet gave the green signal to initiate action against the former prime minister and handed over the case to the FIA.

Once FIA was given the task to probe the matter, it summoned Khan, Umar, and other leaders of the party, but the PTI chief challenged the summons and secured a stay order from the court.

The Lahore High Court (LHC), in July this year, recalled the stay order against the call-up notice to Khan by the FIA.

Source: thenews.com.pk

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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1142530-cipher-case-ihc-rejects-ptis-plea-seeking-stay-on-trial

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Red Sea crisis threatens Pakistan’s salt exports, industry body warns

December 28, 2023

KARACHI: Pakistan's salt export industry is facing a severe crisis due to disruptions in the Red Sea, which have caused a sharp rise in shipping costs and threatened the viability of the sector, an industry body said on Wednesday.

The Salt Manufacturers Association of Pakistan (SMAP) urged the government to take immediate measures to stabilize freight charges, provide incentives to exporters, and support the state-owned Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) to increase its capacity and offer competitive rates.

"Our salt exporters are navigating through an unprecedented crisis," SMAP acting chairman Qasim Yaqoob Paracha said in a statement. "We need a comprehensive government response to address the multifaceted challenges we face."

He highlighted the role of the PNSC, the national flag carrier, in the crisis, and urged the corporation to add more ships to its fleet and temporarily operate in the Red Sea route, which would benefit not only the salt exporters but also other Pakistani exporters.

"Our National Shipping lines play a significant role in this crisis by adding more ships to their fleet and temporarily operating in this route."

Paracha said the ongoing conflict in Yemen, which has affected the security and traffic of the Red Sea, had forced many shipping companies to reroute their vessels, resulting in a surge in freight costs that had become unaffordable for many exporters.

He said the SMAP had proposed several solutions to the government to help the salt exporters cope with the crisis, such as temporary subsidies, negotiated shipping rates, or alternative routes to reduce the freight costs.

Paracha also called for the implementation of targeted incentives for salt exporters, such as freight rebates or temporary tax relief, to bridge the cost gap and stimulate export growth, safeguarding the industry and the jobs it sustains.

He said that the PNSC should offer competitive rates, dedicated shipping routes, and prioritize Pakistani cargo, symbolizing national self-reliance and supporting the revival of exports.

Moreover, Paracha emphasized that the positive outcomes of government intervention would extend beyond the salt export industry, and benefit the overall economy and various sectors.

"A stabilized shipping environment not only safeguards the economic backbone of our nation but also benefits other Pakistani exporters, contributing significantly to the country's foreign exchange reserves and the overall economic health and sustainability of various sectors," he said.

Paracha called upon the Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, the Ministry of Commerce, and other relevant authorities to grasp the gravity of the situation and act promptly.

"The future of the salt export industry is at stake, and decisive action is imperative for its survival," he said.

Source: thenews.com.pk

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https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1142312-red-sea-crisis-threatens-pakistan-s-salt-exports-industry-body-warns

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PTI condemns re-arrest of Qureshi

2023-12-28

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Wednesday vehemently condemned the draconian manner of re-arrest of PTI vice chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi by Punjab police from Adiala Jail premises by tossing the Supreme Court’s order in the trash, demanding the top court to take notice of such blatant transgressions and ensure his immediate release from unlawful detention.

Reacting to Qureshi’s re-arrest and shifting him to an unknown location immediately after his release from Adiala Jail, PTI Spokesperson Raoof Hasan said that the mistreatment of Qureshi by Punjab police officers was absolutely shameful and disgusting, which was a clear indication that there was a complete breakdown of rule of law in the country. He said that the violent and disgraceful arrest of the PTI vice chairman after SC granted him bail was a slap in the face of the judiciary and the justice system of the country.

He pointed out that the visible and certain signs of PTI landslide victory in forthcoming general elections and the failure to smash the unbreakable bond between the PTI Founding Chairman Imran Khan and the nation had sent the state into frenzy; hence it was crossing all limits of brutality and fascism against PTI and its leaders and workers.

He emphasized that after the announcement of the election schedule, an alarming upsurge had been witnessed in the state oppression and fascism against the PTI leadership, candidates, and workers. He reminded that Qureshi was one of the main candidates of PTI in the election; hence shameful attempts were being made to keep him in custody in order to push him out of the election race.

He noted that after the practical death of the concocted and frivolous case such as the cipher, the detention order of Qureshi by the deputy commissioner, who was bound to perform election duties, and his immediate re-arrest soon after his release was also a clear violation of the SC’s order directing to provide the level playing fields to all political parties in the next polls.

Hasan was of the view that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) was directly responsible for unleashing of atrocities and barbarities against PTI by the unconstitutional, illegal, undemocratic and unrepresentative caretaker governments. He stressed that Qureshi’s re-arrest testified PTI’s stance regarding the appointment of government officials as ROs, adding Chief Justice of Pakistan should take immediate notice of the rising fascism in the country and flouting of the court’s orders.

He made it clear that people were fully united and ready for accountability of those who plunged the country into the a quagmire of problems and they would take revenge from them by inflicting humiliating and crushing defeat on their candidates in the general elections scheduled for February 8, 2024.\

Source: brecorder.com

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https://www.brecorder.com/news/40280819/pti-condemns-re-arrest-of-qureshi

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North America

 

CAIR-SFBA Condemns Threat of Sexual Violence Targeting Palestine Activists

Ibrahim Hooper

December 27, 2023

The San Francisco Bay Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today strongly condemned the recent abhorrent statement made by an unidentified individual in San Francisco, who threatened sexual violence against Arabs at a peaceful Palestinian protest.

In a video posted on X, a pro-Palestine protester, standing in front of a chalk-written “Gaza We Are With You” sign on the sidewalk, can be heard telling an unidentified man, “Don’t come near me.” After an inaudible exchange, the man states that he’s going to “rape all Arabs.”

In a statement, CAIR-SFBA Executive Director Zahra Billoo said, “Such threats of sexual violence against Arabs or any population are alarming and unacceptable. We stand with the Palestinian, Arab, and Muslim communities and urge them to remain vigilant and report any form of hate speech or threats immediately.”

This latest incident is part of a disturbing trend of hate incidents and crimes against different religious and cultural communities in the Bay Area, including the recent vandalism of pro-Palestine banners in San Jose, a menorah at Lake Merritt in Oakland, and a Hindu temple in Newark. 

CAIR-SFBA calls on all communities of faith, especially pro-Palestine peace activists, to increase awareness and vigilance in these challenging times and reiterates its commitment to combating bigotry, racism, and hate in all its forms. 

Anyone experiencing acts of aggression, racism, and Islamophobia is urged to contact CAIR-SFBA’s Civil Rights Department at 408.986.9874.

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

Source: cair.com

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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-sfba-condemns-anti-arab-hate-speech-in-san-francisco/

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In The US, Arabs and Muslims Are Once Again Cast as Suspect

27 Dec 2023

Osama Abu Irshaid

For 80 days, Israel has been waging war on the Palestinians in Gaza with full diplomatic, economic and military support from the US government. The Israeli army has killed 21,000 people, carrying out what legal scholars agree amounts to a genocide and committing countless other war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Yet, rising moral outrage in the United States and across the world is being met with dangerous smear campaigns that weaponise racism to silence the Palestinian freedom movement.

Fuelled by and fuelling Islamophobia and anti-Palestinianism, extreme rhetoric has abetted unprecedented violations of Palestinian, Arab and Muslim American civil rights and even deadly violence against members of these communities.

But the negative repercussions of this bigoted repression are not limited to Palestinians, Arabs and Muslims; rather they threaten fundamental moral and civic values that are the basis of democracy.

Slander and witch hunts

Over the past two and a half months, we have seen massive street demonstrations, open letters of condemnation, public resignations of officials, and other protest actions aimed at calling for a ceasefire, equal rights for Palestinians, and accountability for war crimes.

But this mobilisation has been countered by attempts to portray the pro-Palestinian movement and any critique of Israel’s genocide as “anti-Semitic” and supportive of violence or terrorism.

While these tactics are not new, this campaign has expanded in scale and scope to the point that it resembles a McCarthyist witch-hunt, relentlessly targeting Palestinian, Arab and Muslim Americans in particular, as well as allies who have stood against the US-funded violence and apartheid policies of Israel.

Since October, thousands of individuals have fallen victim to this broad-brush smear campaign. On US university campuses, student activists have been disciplined by administrators, have had their student groups banned, have been doxxed on the internet, have had their faces and names plastered on billboards with false, defamatory captions, and have lost job offers.

Others who oppose genocide have been pressured to stay silent, faced threats, encountered intimidation and harassment online and in the streets, and endured economic repercussions, including the loss of employment.

But this persecution has not been limited to the private sector and online spaces; it has also extended into the halls of power.

In November, a hearing was held in the US Congress in which “witnesses” falsely alleged that US-registered charities, including the ones I am the director of – American Muslims for Palestine (AMP) and Americans for Justice in Palestine Action (AJP Action) – are “providing support” to Palestinian resistance groups.

These false allegations extended to the absurd claim that these organisations have called for a “genocide against Israel”.

Members of Congress who have spoken out against Israel’s atrocities or who have simply met with their constituents as part of annual “Palestine Advocacy Days” were also named and shamed during the hearing.

These malevolent “testimonies” seek to make our political contributions and voices toxic in the halls of power by spreading lies and pushing Islamophobic tropes that rely on decades of anti-Palestinian, anti-Arab and anti-Muslim biases.

It is one thing to fight against slander and misinformation in the media, but it is another – and fundamentally more troubling – to be attacked with false accusations in Congress. That these testimonies containing false and bigoted claims were allowed to proceed shows the utter failure of our public institutions to protect Americans’ right to dissent at a time when our tax dollars are being used to support Israel’s genocide in Gaza.

Islamophobia and violence

These defamatory, suppressive tactics have dangerous consequences. They fuel hatred and encourage people to act upon it.

According to the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, there has been a 417 percent increase in hate speech against Muslims since the war began.

Civil rights groups like Palestine Legal and the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) have also reported an unprecedented number of anti-Palestinian and anti-Muslim attacks and discriminatory incident complaints over the past two months. They have seen a more than 200 percent increase compared with the previous year, and this is likely an undercount.

There have been not only verbal attacks and harassment but deadly physical violence, as well. On October 14, Wadea al-Fayoume, a six-year-old Palestinian American child, was stabbed 26 times with a military knife by a man who was shouting, “You Muslims must die”; his mother was stabbed a dozen times but survived.

On November 25, three Palestinian students were shot for speaking Arabic and wearing keffiyehs; all three sustained injuries from gunshot wounds, and one is now paralysed from the chest down.

A member of our own staff, Neveen Ayesh, was shot at in her car and her home was broken into on November 11.

Apart from inciting violence and intimidation against Palestinian, Arab and Muslim Americans, the smear campaigns are reinvigorating the post-9/11 atmosphere of suspicion, mass surveillance and collective victimisation.

For decades, we have worked to expose the racism and double standards of successive presidential administrations and their anti-Muslim policies – from the watch lists and entrapment schemes, to the registries and bans.

We have demonstrated the waste of millions of taxpayer funds for programmes and initiatives that have targeted and deeply traumatised our communities, but produced no results in “improving national security”. We have fought to ensure that no community is disproportionately policed and surveilled, no matter what they look like or where they come from.

As pro-Israel groups wage a defamation war on our communities in order to obfuscate and distract public attention from Israel’s crimes in Gaza, we risk losing that progress towards an inclusive, anti-racist democracy, as slander and lies overcome truth.

That is why we call on media outlets, politicians, and progressive leaders to be vigilant about anti-Arab and anti-Muslim tropes that imagine our communities as extensions of governments or political groups in the Middle East, portray us as inherently suspect, and thereby endanger us.

There are three important ways to counter this smear campaign. First, we must recognise the long history of anti-Arab and anti-Muslim racism and Islamophobia in the US and elsewhere, alongside other racism and criminalisation.

Second, we must protect the right of individuals to speak up for Palestinian rights and defy attempts to impose a Palestine exception to free speech.

And third, we must echo our pro-peace Jewish allies in demanding that criticism of Israel and Zionism are not conflated with anti-Semitism. Our common fight against anti-Semitism must not be weaponised to fuel Islamophobia and censor voices for justice in Palestine. This issue must become an urgent, core part of any anti-racist and progressive agenda – or else we risk allowing anyone’s right to free speech to be undermined.

History teaches us that campaigns of suppression, slander and bigoted attacks may start with minority groups like Palestinians, Arabs and Muslims, but they do not stop there. These efforts create the social and legal template for repression of all political dissent.

That is why, we, American Muslims, and all voices supporting the rights of the Palestinian people, must act together as a bulwark against attempts to reproduce dark eras of history – when the murder and victimisation of racialised “others” was justified, and when the truth was lost to war-mongering propaganda.

Our ability to uphold the Palestinians’ right to protest the genocide – and the right of moral people to stand with them – is a fundamental test of our commitment to justice, equal rights and freedom for all. We cannot compromise on these values.

Source: aljazeera.com

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https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2023/12/27/in-the-us-arabs-and-muslims-are-once-again-cast-as-suspect

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CAIR Urges Feds to Probe ‘Anti-Islamic’ Graffiti, Vandalism Targeting Wisconsin Restaurant

Ibrahim Hooper

December 27, 2023

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today called on federal law enforcement authorities, including the FBI, to investigate “anti-Islamic” graffiti and vandalism targeting a restaurant in Madison, Wisconsin.

According to police, “On 12/26/23, between the hours of 1:30 am and 4:00 pm, a person or persons entered the restaurant and caused substantial damage, which included anti-Islamic graffiti.” Police are investigating the incident as a suspected hate crime.

“We urge federal law enforcement authorities to add their resources to those of local investigators so that the perpetrators of this alleged hate crime may be brought to justice,” said CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper.

He noted that earlier today, CAIR’s New York chapter sought hate crime charges for an alleged attack on a Muslim teenager who was reportedly called a terrorist and pepper-sprayed while walking in Brooklyn.

Washington, D.C., based CAIR recently released new civil rights data showing that it has received a “staggering” 2,171 complaints over the past 57 days amid an ongoing wave of anti-Muslim and anti-Palestinian hate.   

CAIR also released a new paper on the state of Islamophobia leading up to and during the ongoing attacks by the far-right Israeli government against Palestinians in Gaza.

CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.            

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertadesciviles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a losmusulmanesenlosEstados Unidos.     

Source: cair.com

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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-urges-feds-to-probe-anti-islamic-graffiti-vandalism-targeting-wisconsin-restaurant/

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Dozens arrested in pro-Palestinian protests at two major US airports

 Dec 28, 2023

Pro-Palestinian protesters blocked morning traffic on Wednesday around Los Angeles International Airport and New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport - two of the nation's busiest - in coast-to-coast demonstrations that ended with dozens of arrests.

Thirty-six people were taken into custody at LAX, where demonstrators became unruly, the Los Angeles Police Department said.

"Protesters threw a police officer to the ground, used construction debris, road signs, tree branches and blocks of concrete to obstruct" a road leading into the airport "while attacking uninvolved passersby in their vehicles," police said in a statement.

Most of those detained were booked on rioting charges and at least one was arrested for battery on a police officer, according to the statement.

Airport police said the entrance to the complex was reopened within about 45 minutes with "no impacts to fights," the Los Angeles City News Service reported.

Across the country, the Port Authority Police Department of New York said 26 people were arrested for disorderly conduct and impeding vehicular traffic during a protest along the Van Wyck Expressway inside JFK Airport in Queens.

During the disruption, the Port Authority dispatched two airport buses offering rides to travelers caught in the resulting traffic backup to help them reach the airport safely, the agency said.

The roadway was reopened after about 20 minutes, police said.

Local news coverage of both protests showed demonstrators carrying banners with messages such as "free Palestine" and "divest from genocide," in opposition to Israeli military action in the Gaza Strip over the past 11 weeks.

The protests came as the UN health agency reported thousands of people trying to flee fighting that has raged in the coastal Palestinian enclave since the Iranian-backed militant group Hamas attacked Israel from Gaza on October 7.

Some 1,200 people were killed in the surprise cross-border raid, marking the deadliest day in Israel's history.

A sustained Israeli counterattack on Gaza by air, land and sea has killed at least 21,000 and wounded more than 55,000 others, according to the Gaza health ministry. Nearly all of Gaza's 2.3 million people have been driven from their homes.

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com

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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/dozens-arrested-in-pro-palestinian-protests-at-two-major-us-airports/articleshow/106334491.cms

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Jewish groups object to GOP’s treatment of Muslim candidate for Court of Appeals seat

DECEMBER 27, 2023

WASHINGTON (JTA) — A number of national Jewish groups have come to the defense of a Muslim judicial nominee, saying Republican lawmakers inappropriately grilled him about his views on terrorism, Israel and antisemitism.

Adeel Mangi, a New Jersey lawyer who would be the first Muslim to serve on a federal appellate court, faced fierce questioning from GOP senators during his Dec. 13 confirmation hearing for his association with the Rutgers University Law School’s Center for Security, Race and Rights.

Sens. Ted Cruz of Texas, Josh Hawley of Missouri and Tom Cotton of Arkansas repeatedly asked Mangi if he endorsed a 2021 statement signed by the center’s director, Sahar Aziz, describing Israel as a settler colonial state and supporting Palestinian resistance, and a 2021 event marking the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks that included as a speaker Sami Al-Arian, who was convicted of material support for a terrorist organization unconnected to the attacks.

Mangi, who specializes in corporate law and who has successfully litigated a number of civil rights cases, answered that he did not know of the statement or the event; in his capacity from 2019-2023 as a member of the advisory board to the center, his role was to meet once a year to advise on areas of academic inquiry, he said. He condemned terrorism, specifically the Sept. 11 attacks, which he witnessed, and the Oct. 7 Hamas massacres of Israeli civilians. Regarding the statement signed by Aziz, he said Middle East policy was not in his purview as a judicial nominee.

The American Jewish Committee in a Dec. 21 statement called on the Senate to disregard the “untoward implications” in the GOP senators’ line of questioning. A separate Dec. 18 letter spearheaded by the National Council of Jewish Women endorsed Mangi. Both groups have joined Mangi in civil rights-related Supreme Court amicus briefs.

“Mangi was questioned aggressively on thin pretext about his views on Israel, terrorism, and antisemitism, turning these serious issues into a tool of partisan attack,” the AJC statement said, noting that he condemned those phenomena.

“We expect that senators will disregard the untoward implications underlying that unnecessary and unhelpful line of questioning,” it said. “Elected officials should take a leadership role in calming the fears of and against American religious minorities, such as Jews and Muslims, not stoke them.”

The NCJW-led letter was signed by, among other groups, Zioness, a pro-Israel women’s group; Bend the Arc: Jewish Action, a social justice advocacy group, and Jewish Women International.

“Having ethical and unbiased judges is ingrained in our Jewish teachings in which we are taught that ‘judges need to be people of strength through good deeds,'” the letter said. “It is clear to us that Adeel A. Mangi is a person of strength and good deeds, as evidenced by his career, devotion to his community, and commitment to religious freedom and civil rights.”

President Joe Biden nominated Mangi to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit on Nov. 27. Sen. Robert Menendez (D-New Jersey), who introduced Mangi at the Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing, called him a “preeminent litigator with a brilliant legal mind…. His accomplished record of appellate advocacy, combined with his steadfast commitment to serving vulnerable, voiceless clients pro bono, demonstrates his dedication to the cause of justice.”

Mangi is a partner at Patterson Belknap.

Source: jta.org

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https://www.jta.org/2023/12/27/politics/jewish-groups-object-to-gops-treatment-of-muslim-candidate-for-court-of-appeals-seat

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Will US support for Israel push it into greater isolation in 2024?

Rabia Iclal Turan

27.12.2023

The US has Israel’s back, President Joe Biden said in a speech shortly after Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack, reiterating Washington's unwavering support for Israel’s "right to defend itself."

There was, however, little mention of the need to protect civilian lives amid Israel’s complete siege on Gaza, as Biden accused Hamas of using civilians as "human shields."

As civilian casualties soared due to Israel’s relentless bombing of Gaza, the Biden administration has been facing increased international pressure, with millions of people taking to the streets in world capitals, calling for a cease-fire.

Although the US remains one of the few countries opposing a cease-fire in Gaza, the worldwide pressure led to a change in the tone of US officials, a shift from “unwavering” support of Israel to gradually ratcheting up pressure on Israel to take “every possible precaution” to minimize harm to Palestinian civilians.

Despite calls from the US, the civilian death toll continued to soar, with nearly 21,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, killed as of this week, and 55,000 injured, according to Gaza’s health authorities.

Around 1,200 Israelis are believed to have been killed in the Oct. 7 Hamas attack, according to Israeli figures.

Biden administration officials say that in their meetings with Israeli officials, they have been urging Tel Aviv to take additional steps to protect civilians although it is not clear what those steps are and whether Israel has so far taken any.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke about a gap between Israel’s intent to protect civilians and results on the ground in Gaza.

US officials also say their efforts behind the scenes to urge Israel to increase humanitarian access to Gaza yielded positive results, including Israel allowing the entry of fuel, a seven-day humanitarian pause for hostage releases, restoring internet access, and opening crossings into Gaza.

But despite the massive civilian deaths, the risk of regional escalation, and damage to the US global standing and credibility, experts do not see any sign yet that Biden is willing to shift his policy on Gaza.

"The challenge is that Biden, from the outset, signed onto the Israeli military objective of completely defeating Hamas – which, based on the US' own experience in the global war on terror, is unlikely to be achieved," Trita Parsi, executive vice president of the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft in Washington, DC, told Anadolu.

"As long as he sticks to that objective, he will oppose a cease-fire," he added.

Growing international isolation

The US has a longstanding special relationship with Israel, having provided its closest ally in the Middle East with a total of over $124 billion in aid since World War II, more military assistance than any other country.

There have been growing calls from Biden’s Democrats in the US House and Senate to create conditions for future military aid to Israel even as Biden bypassed Congress to supply tank shells to Israel.

The US has Israel’s back on the UN Security Council as well, having used its veto power several times, including being the only country to veto a Dec. 8 resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza, leading to charges that the US is growing more and more isolated.

The US on Friday abstained from from voting on a watered-down UN resolution calling for immediate aid deliveries to Gaza while its allies Britain, France, and Japan backed it.

More analysts and experts started to question how the US’ unconditional support for Israel will affect its standing in the Middle East and around the world.

“Decades of brutal Israeli control have demolished the moral case for unconditional US support.” Harvard University political scientist Stephen Walt argued in a 2021 essay.

"Biden's support for Israel's Gaza campaign has cost the US tremendously internationally because the double standards between Gaza and Ukraine are simply too great and too intolerable," Trita Parsi also said.

"The US is as isolated in Gaza as Russia was in 2022 on Ukraine. It is difficult to assess exactly what the long-term damage to the US will be," he added.

Asked about Israel's war on Gaza hurting America's image in the world, Blinken said the international community should also be pressing Hamas to lay down its arms, surrender and "stop hiding behind civilians."

Biden-Netanyahu rift

Despite the overall support for Israel, there have been disagreements between President Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Biden has expressed opposition to the reoccupation of Gaza and continued his support for a two-state solution. He also said at a Dec. 12 fundraiser that the Netanyahu government must "change," calling it "the most conservative government in Israel's history." Biden warned that Israel is losing international support because of its “indiscriminate bombing” of Gaza.

But the Netanyahu government insists on Israel retaining overall security control of post-Hamas Gaza and opposes a two-state solution.

US officials, from Blinken to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, say that the conflict in Gaza needs to move to a "lower intensity phase" while Netanyahu in contrast has vowed to intensify the fight against Hamas in the coming days.

"Disagreements between Israel and the US will be growing over the weeks, not only on the war in Gaza but also on Israel's desire to expand the war into Lebanon," said Parsi.

"The question is if Biden has the strength to liberate the US from Israel's policy and pursue an independent line that serves US interests," he added.

Source: aa.com.tr

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Arab World

 

Mohammed bin Salman: Saudi Arabia Mobilized Arab, Islamic Efforts to Stop Aggression on Gaza

27 December 2023

Deputizing for Custodian of Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, inaugurated on Wednesday the fourth year of the eighth session of the Shura Council.

Crown Prince was received at the council by Governor of Riyadh Region Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Riyadh Region Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz, Speaker of the Shura Council Sheikh Dr. Abdullah Al Al-Sheikh.

Delivering the Annual Royal Speech, Crown Prince Mohammed said: “It is my privilege to inaugurate the fourth year of the eighth session of the Shura Council, and express profound gratitude for the abundant blessings bestowed upon us and the remarkable achievements realized across various domains.”

“Our nation is steadfastly advancing on its path to a renaissance, as envisioned in Vision 2030 and its ambitious programs, which shall steadfastly uphold the Kingdom's evolved standing while propelling us toward further development, prosperity, and a dignified livelihood for our citizens,” he added.

“Significant strides have been made in numerous spheres, with our nation's advancements in over 50% of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals indicators. The Saudi economy has recorded the fastest growth rate among the G20 countries in 2022, at a rate of 8.7% of the GDP, accompanied by a non-oil GDP growth of 4.8%. Our nation also attained a prominent position among the top 20 most competitive countries in the world,” he stressed.

“The tourism sector, in particular, has achieved unprecedented milestones, witnessing a historic growth rate of 64% during the first quarter of 2023.”

“We shall determinedly forge ahead in our transformational economic journey, resolute in our commitment to meeting the targets of Vision 2030. The positive outcomes thus far serve as a testament to our ability to achieve further success in implementing vital economic reforms, strengthening the Kingdom's financial stature, and fostering comprehensive economic growth for our nation,” said Crown Prince Mohammed.

“The Kingdom, keen to facilitate the performance of Hajj and Umrah rituals for the largest possible number of pilgrims and Umrah performers, welcomed last year more than 1,800,000 pilgrims who performed the Hajj rituals, and more than 10,000,000 Umrah performers. These numbers are one of the results of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 programs: the Pilgrim Experience Program.”

Furthermore, he stated: “Based on its regional and international position and its influential role at all levels, the Kingdom has worked to strengthen its constructive relations with brotherly and friendly countries; it hosted several significant summits that brought together more than 100 countries.”

“Choosing the Kingdom to host the World Expo 2030 is but a confirmation of its status and the confidence it receives, and makes it an ideal destination for the most major global forums.”

“Saudi Arabia also hosted the Joint Arab-Islamic Extraordinary Summit to address the painful events facing our brothers in Gaza Strip. Through this summit, the Kingdom worked to spur joint Arab and Islamic action and pressure the international community to take a serious and firm stance to stop the Israeli aggression and allow humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza Strip,” he added.

“The Kingdom's consistent approach is based on respect for the sovereignty of countries, non-interference in their internal affairs, commitment to international legitimacy, adherence to the principles of good neighborliness and resolving disputes by peaceful means, and striving to enhance security and stability in the region and the world,” he declared.

The opening ceremony was attended by princes, ministers, high ranking officials and several other senior Shura council officials.

Source: english.aawsat.com

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OIC slams Israeli crimes against Palestinians, urges end to Gaza war

28 December 2023

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has strongly condemned Israel’s continued war crimes against Palestinians, including genocide and forced displacement, urging global efforts to end the regime’s devastating onslaught on the Gaza Strip.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the 57-member bloc slammed the occupying regime for depriving the Palestinian civilian population of food, medicine, water, medical care, protection, and other basic services.

It further blasted Israel for targeting United Nations staff, as well as facilities and workers in the health, humanitarian, and media sectors, in flagrant violation of the world body’s resolutions.

On December 22, the UN Security Council adopted a resolution to boost humanitarian aid to Gaza. It came 10 days after the General Assembly voted to demand an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the Palestinian territory.

The vote highlighted the stiffening consensus around the world for the need for an end to Israel’s relentless offensive against Gaza, in a rebuke to the US that has repeatedly blocked truce calls at the UN.

Also in its statement, the Jeddah-based OIC “renewed its demand to the international community to assume its responsibility towards forcing a stop to the Israeli military aggression, ensuring delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip…, countering attempts at forcible expulsion of Palestinian civilians, and providing protection for the Palestinian people.”

Israel waged the genocidal war on Gaza on October 7 after the Palestinian Hamas resistance movement carried out a historic operation against the usurping entity in retaliation for its intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people.

Since the start of the aggression, the Tel Aviv regime has killed at least 21,100 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured 55,243 others.

Thousands more are also missing and presumed dead under the rubble in the Gaza Strip, which is under “complete siege” by Israel.

UN: Gazans forced to move amid heavy Israeli attacks

Additionally on Wednesday, the UN humanitarian office (OCHA) said that “heavy Israeli bombardment from air, land, and sea,” continued across most parts of Gaza.

“Most people in Gaza are displaced. Families are forced to move repeatedly in search of safety. Lack of food and survival items worsen the dire living conditions and increase or amplify health issues,” it added in its latest update on the Gaza war.

OCHA also cited recent data by the World Health Organization (WHO) that showed only 13 out of Gaza’s 36 hospitals are partially functional.

Source: presstv.ir

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https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2023/12/28/717168/OIC-Israeli-war-crimes-Gaza

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Houthis recruit thousands of Yemenis under anti-Israel chants

December 27, 2023

AL-MUKALLA: Yemen’s Houthis militia has recruited tens of thousands of Yemenis who would supposedly fight the Israelis in Gaza, prompting fears in Yemen that those warriors will only fight Houthi opponents in Yemen.

Yemen’s government authorities, as well as military and political observers, have accused the Iran-backed Houthis of leveraging widespread popular fury in Yemen over Israel’s brutal shelling of Gaza to recruit thousands of Yemenis.

“This is another one of the Houthis’ falsehoods. They do not have the military, geographical, or political resources to deploy anybody to Gaza,” military analyst Brig. Gen. Mohammed Al-Kumaim told Arab News on Wednesday.

The Houthis have been encouraging individuals in densely populated regions under their control to undergo military training as part of their alleged mobilization efforts to help Palestinians over the last two months.

On Sunday, the Houthis organized a military parade for 20,000 recruits who graduated from short military courses in Abes district, Hajja’s northern province, where thousands of people dressed in traditional Yemeni attire raised Yemeni and Palestinian flags, waved their weapons and chanted anti-Israel and anti-America slogans.

The Houthis had earlier organized a military parade in Sanaa for 16,000 individuals who were reported to have graduated from the training and will purportedly battle the Israelis in Palestine.

The Houthis did not specify how they planned to get those troops to Palestine, raising concerns in Yemen that their recruits will be used to fuel Houthi military activities even as the UN Yemen envoy is close to providing a road map for ending the conflict in Yemen.

Al-Kumaim said that the Houthis saw the public outrage over what is happening in Gaza as an opportunity to boost their popularity and recruit people into their ranks, primarily because people refused to join them on the battlefields during the UN-brokered truce that went into effect in April last year.

“The Houthis discovered that, despite holding six military parades, military mobilization had deteriorated during the truce, so they used the events in Gaza as an excuse to reactivate mobilization,” Al-Kumaim said.

By enrolling thousands of volunteer warriors through their brief military training courses, the Houthis would not be committed to giving them money or treating them if they were injured on the battlefields, and they would not take care of their families after they died.

“The events in Gaza provided the Houthis with a justification to mobilize in this manner so that they do not pay wages or provide care to the warriors and consider them to be part of the framework of sacrifice and jihad,” Al-Kumaim said.

At the same time, Yemeni military officers on the ground have said that the Houthis have begun to deploy many of those freshly recruited individuals around the nation.

Abdul Basit Al-Baher, a Yemeni military official in Taiz, told Arab News that some of the newly recruited fighters had been dispatched to contested areas in Taiz, Hodeidah, and Al-Dhale, with some refusing to join the battlefield and returning home after realizing Houthi slogans had duped them.

“Fighters who graduated from the Houthi military camp in Yarim (Ibb province) have already been transferred to the battles in Taiz, the western coastline, and Al-Dhale,” Al-Baher said.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2432756/middle-east

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Fanar holds various Islamic cultural event for reverts

DECEMBER 27, 2023

The Sheikh Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Centre (Fanar) at the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs recently held various programmes for the communities in Qatar. According to an official statement from Awqaf, Fanar’s programmes included lectures that introduced the foundations of Islam and Islamic culture. Also, awareness programmes and cultural gatherings were held for reverts. These programmes aimed to present an integrated and balanced image of Islam and its cultural and civilisational values.

The Department of Islamic Culture organised a lecture on ‘Integrity to Islam’ for speakers of the Oromo language from the Ethiopian community. The lecture was delivered by preacher Iskandar Abadir and it witnessed the presence of about 125 participants including men and women. The lecture addressed the meaning of integrity in Islam and steadfastness on the straight path and its importance in the life of a Muslim. The department also organised a short competition for attendees and distributed several prizes to the winners.

In terms of the mosque visiting programme, Fanar organised a visit for 92 people from different nationalities to the Qatar Foundation’s Education City Mosque. They learned about the components of the mosque and its unique style that represents the convergence of Islamic architecture and modernity. The participants listened to an explanation about how to perform ablution, its importance and the rituals of prayer.

As many as 84 people from various European countries visited the Grand Mosque to learn about the mosques and local architecture. The cricket championship by Fanar continues for the reverts from the Sri Lankan community. The tournament aims to enhance communication between reverts with others and to support integration into society. Also, it helps the participants learn entertainment etiquette in Islam and the importance of sports in a person’s healthy life.

Source: gulf-times.com

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https://www.gulf-times.com/article/674404/qatar/fanar-holds-various-islamic-cultural-event-for-reverts

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Princes Take Oath before King Salman, in Presence of Crown Prince Mohammed

27 December 2023

Princes took the oath of office on Wednesday before Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and in the presence of Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, following royal orders appointing them to their new positions.

Governor of the Madinah Region Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of the Eastern Region Prince Saud bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of the Tabuk Region Prince Khalid bin Saud bin Abdullah bin Faisal bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of the Asir Region Prince Khalid bin Sattam bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, and Deputy Governor of the Al-Jouf Region Prince Miteb bin Mishaal bin Badr bin Saud bin Abdulaziz took the oath before King Salman.

They swore to be loyal to their religion, King, and homeland, not to divulge any of the State's secrets, to maintain its interests and regulations, and to perform their duties with honesty, integrity and sincerity.

Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz attended the ceremony.

Source: english.aawsat.com

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Deputizing for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, HRH the Crown Prince Delivers Annual Royal Speech Inaugurating the Fourth Year of Eighth Session of the Shura Council

27 Dec, 2023

Deputizing for Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, inaugurated today the fourth year of the eighth session of the Shura Council.

 HRH the Crown Prince was received at the council by Governor of Riyadh Region Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Riyadh Region Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz, Speaker of the Shura Council Sheikh Dr. Abdullah Al Al-Sheikh.

 The Royal Anthem was then played.

 After that, Speaker of the Shura Council Sheikh Dr. Abdullah Al Al-Sheikh delivered the following speech:

 Your Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister,

 Excellencies and Highnesses,

 Peace be upon you.

 "On behalf of fellow members of the Shura Council and all its employees, I would like to extend our thanks and appreciation to HRH the Crown Prince for inaugurating the fourth year of the eighth session of the Shura Council on behalf of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

 "The remarkable progress and the comprehensive development witnessed by our nation today demonstrates a meticulously planned and exceptionally executed approach aligned with the Kingdom's Vision 2030. Under the guidance of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the implementation of Vision 2030 programs under your supervision is driving the nation towards boundless horizons of development.

 "During the third year of activity, the Shura Council held 48 sessions, issued 379 decisions, and made remarkable countless achievements. Such progress would not have been possible without Allah's grace and the invaluable guidance and support of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Your Royal Highness.

 "I sincerely wish for the well-being of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Your Royal Highness, and for our country to perpetually experience the blessings of goodness, prosperity, security and stability.

 "Allah's peace, mercy and blessings be upon you."

 Following the Shura Council speaker's address, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, delivered the Annual Royal Speech as follows:

 "In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

 Praise be to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah.

 Dear brothers and sisters, speaker and members of the Shura Council,

 Peace be upon you.

 On behalf of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, it is my privilege to inaugurate the fourth year of the eighth session of the Shura Council, and express profound gratitude for the abundant blessings bestowed upon us and the remarkable achievements realized across various domains.

 Our nation is steadfastly advancing on its path to a renaissance, as envisioned in Vision 2030 and its ambitious programs, which shall steadfastly uphold the Kingdom's evolved standing while propelling us toward further development, prosperity, and a dignified livelihood for our citizens.

 Significant strides have been made in numerous spheres, with our nation's advancements in over 50% of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals indicators.

 The Saudi economy has recorded the fastest growth rate among the G20 countries in 2022, at a rate of 8.7% of the GDP, accompanied by a non-oil GDP growth of 4.8%. Our nation also attained a prominent position among the top 20 most competitive countries in the world.

 The tourism sector, in particular, has achieved unprecedented milestones, witnessing a historic growth rate of 64% during the first quarter of 2023.

 We shall determinedly forge ahead in our transformational economic journey, resolute in our commitment to meeting the targets of Vision 2030. The positive outcomes thus far serve as a testament to our ability to achieve further success in implementing vital economic reforms, strengthening the Kingdom's financial stature, and fostering comprehensive economic growth for our nation.

 The Kingdom, keen to facilitate the performance of Hajj and Umrah rituals for the largest possible number of pilgrims and Umrah performers, welcomed last year more than 1,800,000 pilgrims who performed the Hajj rituals, and more than 10,000,000 Umrah performers. These numbers are one of the results of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 programs: the Pilgrim Experience Program.

 Based on its regional and international position and its influential role at all levels, the Kingdom has worked to strengthen its constructive relations with brotherly and friendly countries; it hosted several significant summits that brought together more than 100 countries.

 Choosing the Kingdom to host the World Expo 2030 is but a confirmation of its status and the confidence it receives, and makes it an ideal destination for the most major global forums.

 Saudi Arabia also hosted Joint Arab-Islamic Extraordinary Summit to address the painful events facing our brothers in Gaza Strip. Through this summit, the Kingdom worked to spur joint Arab and Islamic action and pressure the international community to take a serious and firm stance to stop the Israeli aggression and allow humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza Strip.

 The Kingdom's consistent approach is based on respect for the sovereignty of countries, non-interference in their internal affairs, commitment to international legitimacy, adherence to the principles of good neighborliness and resolving disputes by peaceful means, and striving to enhance security and stability in the region and the world.

 You will find details of our country's internal and foreign policy in the speech distributed to you.

 In conclusion, we thank the brothers and sisters in the Council, and all those working in state agencies, serving their country with sincerity and dedication.

 Allah's peace, mercy and blessings be upon you."

 The Royal anthem concluded the event. His Royal Highness the Crown Prince bid farewell, being seen off with the same warmth and honor that marked his arrival.

 The opening ceremony was attended by princes, ministers, high ranking officials and several other senior Shura council officials.

Source: alriyadhdaily.com

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http://alriyadhdaily.com/article/2db46578e964483188fdd105954d1a25

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OIC thanks Saudi Arabia for granting new, bigger headquarters in Jeddah

December 28, 2023

JEDDAH: The General Secretariat of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation has begun operations from new headquarters in the Al-Rayan district of northeast Jeddah after completing its move from its old home, the body said in a statement on Wednesday.

The new headquarters offers new and bigger premises for the organization’s work, helping to support its operations and activities.

The OIC’s Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha extended his gratitude to Saudi Arabia — the host country and chair of the 14th Islamic Summit — and King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the moral support the Kingdom provides to the OIC and its structures.

He also thanked the Kingdom for supporting joint Islamic action in a way that guaranteed the smooth progress of the OIC’s work, adding that the new headquarters will contribute to supporting the bloc’s performance.

The secretary-general also thanked Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan for his support of the OIC, which helped enable it to discharge its duties.

Taha said that the OIC’s General Secretariat had already started its operations at the new headquarters and several meetings had been held there in the last few days. He added that the building was ready to receive guests and host activities.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2432881/saudi-arabia

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Ambassadors journey to AlUla’s historical marvels

December 28, 2023

JEDDAH, RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently organized an immersive expedition to AlUla for the ambassadors of accredited countries to the Kingdom and their families.

The trip offered an enlightening escapade into the rich historical and archaeological wonders nestled within AlUla.

Led by Abdulmajeed Al-Samary, the undersecretary of protocol at the ministry, the ambassadors explored AlUla’s distinguished landmarks — with the heart of their visit being Hegra, a destination revered as the Kingdom’s inaugural UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site.

The ambassadors were treated to an insightful tour, delving into the historical significance enshrined within Qasr Al-Bint and Qasr Al-Farid.

Another great moment of their expedition was the visit to Maraya Theater, a breathtaking architectural marvel celebrated as the world’s largest mirrored building.

To commemorate this significant occasion, the ministry hosted a lunch, offering a wonderful setting for the ambassadors to further cherish their AlUla experience.

Liselotte Plesner, ambassador of Denmark to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Yemen, shared her enchantment on her official X account. Posting picturesque snapshots of Elephant Rock, Maraya, Hegra, and the great mountains of AlUla, she wrote: “Cozy moment at Elephant Rock #AlUla.”

Plesner extended heartfelt gratitude to the ministry for curating an unforgettable day that left an indelible mark on her and her fellow diplomats.

Dya-Eddine Said Bamakhrama, the ambassador of Djibouti and dean of the Diplomatic Corps to the Kingdom, told Arab News: “The AlUla trip was quite spectacular. My ambassador colleagues and I had a chance to enjoy the beautiful city and take in its marvelous history. We’ve had many trips in the Kingdom with the kind hosting of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and witnessed first-hand how diverse and beautiful Saudi Arabia truly is.”

On his official account on X, Bamakhrama conveyed his appreciation for the well-organized trip that provided a profound exploration of Hegra and its historical significance.

He wrote: “Ambassadors and their families also appreciated the meticulous organization by the ministry’s officials, particularly Mr. Abdulmajeed Al-Samary, who accompanied us with great care and supervision during the trip.”

Anibal Gomez Toledo, ambassador of Mexico to Saudi Arabia, was unable to attend the trip to AlUla, but reposted the trip photos on X and told Arab News: “Yes, the embassy fully recommends visiting AlUla.”

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2432826/saudi-arabia

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Yemen says will inflict 'harshest blow' if US-backed Israel continues Gaza war

27 December 2023

Yemen has warned Israel of a very harsh response if the genocidal war on Gaza continues.

"We are ready to deliver the harshest, most painful and powerful blow to the enemies if they continue to commit crimes against the Palestinian nation, or if they seek to violate and harm Yemen's security and sovereignty," Major General Mohammad al-Atifi, Yemeni Defense Minister in the National Salvation Government, said on Wednesday.

"Yemen has many strategic options and will not hesitate to take them if deemed necessary," Atifi said, addressing a joint meeting of the country's military and security leaders.

He asserted that all security forces are on high alert to carry out their duty in cooperation and coordination with the armed forces.

Yemeni forces have been staging missile and drone attacks against vessels heading towards Israeli ports in support of Palestinians in war-torn Gaza and against targets across the occupied territories.

Yemeni forces strike a ship headed towards the occupied territories as well as targets lying within those territories in support of war-hit Palestinians in Gaza.

More than 21,000 people, most of them children and women, have been killed in Gaza since the onset of the military campaign that the Israeli regime waged following an October 7 operation launched by Gaza's resistance movements.

Atifi described Yemen’s stance of strong opposition to the Israeli genocide as a "religious and moral position consistent with all humanitarian and international laws."

The meeting, meanwhile, warned the United States against proceeding with its plan to form a Washington-led naval coalition against the Yemeni attacks in the Red Sea.

"We warn US against consequences of militarizing the sea and harming the security of international navigation in service of the Israeli entity," the Yemeni leaders stated.

The formation of a US-led alliance in the Red Sea against Yemen following a string of attacks on Israel-linked vessels in the strategic waterway is a maneuver doomed to fail.

"We will deter anyone who thinks of diverting the Yemeni Republic from its firm position towards the [Israeli regime's] oppression of the Palestinian people," they said.

Major General Abdul Karim al-Houthi, the National Salvation Government's Interior Minister, also said, “All Yemeni security forces are in a state of high readiness to carry out their duty in cooperation with the Armed Forces to implement the directives of leader of Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement Abdul-Malik al-Houthi.”

Last week, the Ansarullah leader said Yemen’s Armed Forces would not hesitate to target US military warships in the Red Sea if Washington and its allies carry out military strikes against Yemen.

Source: presstv.ir

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https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2023/12/27/717156/Yemen-warning-Israel-war-Gaza-United-States-Red-Sea-coalition

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Southeast Asia

 

Malaysian State Melaka to Tighten Regulations, Procedures at Temporary Shelters for Muslim Converts

28-12- 2023

MELAKA: The Melaka government will tighten the regulations and procedures for entry and supervision at two temporary shelters for new Muslim converts or reverts in the state to prevent any criminal incidents or immoral activities.

State Executive Councillor for Education, Higher Education and Religious Affairs Datuk Rahmad Mariman said this includes stricter screening, especially involving the backgrounds of potential residents, and wardens, to ensure the safety and comfort of all occupants in the two free shelters.

“The shelters are provided for new Muslim converts in Melaka, with the aim of offering temporary protection, especially for those who are homeless or estranged from their families due to a change in religion.

“The occupants also receive daily food allowances from the Melaka Islamic Religious Council (MAIM).

“However, due to the diverse backgrounds of the occupants, there have been cases that should not have occurred,” he told reporters here today in response to the sodomy incident involving an occupant of the temporary shelter for new converts in Taman Kesidang, after being featured in Melaka FM’s “ApaKhabau YB?” programme here today.

Rahmad said occupants at the two temporary shelters have also been reminded to cooperate with the management team and not to conceal any immoral or unhealthy activities occurring at the shelters.

“Sometimes unexpected incidents occur because other residents are afraid due to threats and so on. However, the state government, through MAIM, will closely monitor the operations of both temporary protection homes, including the wardens placed there,”

Two days ago, media reported that a 12-year-old boy, who is the son of a Muslim convert woman at the temporary shelter in Taman Kesidang, was allegedly repeatedly sodomised by his 20-year-old roommate since April.

Melaka Police Chief Datuk Zainol Samah reportedly said that the unemployed suspect, who hails from Kepala Batas, Penang, has been remanded for six days to facilitate investigations.–Bernama

Source: thesun.my

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https://thesun.my/local_news/melaka-to-tighten-regulations-procedures-at-temporary-shelters-for-muslim-converts-NI11916920

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Students in Indonesia protest the growing numbers of Rohingya refugees in Aceh province

 Dec 28, 2023

BANDA ACEH: Students in Indonesia's Aceh province rallied on Wednesday, demanding the government drive away Rohingya refugees who have been arriving by sea in growing numbers. The protest came as police named more suspects in human trafficking of refugees.

Over 1,500 Rohingya - who fled violent attacks in Myanmar to subsequently leave overcrowded refugee camps in neighboring Bangladesh in search of a better life elsewhere - have arrived in Aceh, on the tip of the island of Sumatra, since November. They have faced some hostility from fellow Muslims in Aceh.

About 200 students protested in front of the provincial parliament in Banda Aceh, the capital of Aceh, calling on lawmakers to turn away the Rohingyas, saying their presence would bring social and economic upheaval to the community.

"Get out Rohingya," the protesters chanted. Many criticized the government and the U.N. refugee agency for failing to manage the refugee arrivals. Some protesters burned tires on the street.

"We urged the parliament speaker to immediately take a firm action to remove all Rohingya refugees from Aceh," said Teuku Wariza, one of the protest organizers.

The protesters marched to a local community hall in Banda Aceh, where about 137 Rohingya are taking shelter. The demonstrators threw out clothes and household items belonging to the refugees, forcing authorities to relocate them to another shelter.

Footages obtained by The Associated Press shows a large group of refugees, mostly women and children, crying and screaming as a mob, wearing university green jackets, is seen breaking through a police cordon and forcibly putting the Rohingya on the back of two trucks.

The incident drew an outcry from human rights group and the UNHCR, which said the attack left the refugees shocked and traumatized.

"UNHCR reminds everyone that desperate refugee children, women and men seeking shelter in Indonesia are victims of persecution and conflict, and are survivors of deadly sea journeys," the agency said in a statement released late Wednesday.

The statement called on local authorities to urgently act to protect the refugees and humanitarian workers.

Indonesia had once tolerated the refugees while Thailand and Malaysia pushed them away. But the growing hostility of some Indonesians toward the Rohingya has put pressure on President Joko Widodo's government to take action.

Widodo earlier this month said the government suspected a surge in human trafficking for the increase in Rohingya arrivals.

Also Wednesday, police in Banda Aceh named two more suspected human smugglers from Bangladesh and Myanmar, following the Dec. 10 arrival of another boat with refugees. One of the suspects, the boat's captain, himself a refugee, was charged with trafficking.

"This is not an easy issue, this is an issue with enormous challenges," Foreign Minister RetnoMarsudi told reporters.

About 740,000 Rohingya were resettled in Bangladesh after fleeing their homes in Myanmar to escape a brutal counterinsurgency campaign carried out in 2017 by security forces. Accusations of mass rape, murder and the burning of entire villages are well documented, and international courts are considering whether Myanmar authorities committed genocide and other grave human rights abuses.

Efforts to repatriate the Rohingya have failed because of doubts their safety can be assured. The Rohingya are largely denied citizenship rights in Buddhist-majority Myanmar and face widespread social discrimination.

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com

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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/rest-of-world/students-in-indonesia-protest-the-growing-numbers-of-rohingya-refugees-in-aceh-province/articleshow/106336852.cms

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All eyes on Mujahid as he assumes Amanah’s deputy presidency

 28 Dec 2023

Ian McIntyre

ALL eyes will be on newly appointed Amanah deputy president Senator Datuk Seri Mujahid Yusuf Rawa, the son of a former PAS president, as he assents to possibly lead a splinter group of the Islamist party.

Amanah, with a membership of some 200,000, is the smallest component of the ruling Pakatan Harapan coalition, and it is only known as a party of former PAS technocrats, who by ideology are mostly moderate and articulate.

The 27 committee members, who were voted in at the recent party convention, together appointed Mujahid as the deputy president.

Mujahid by qualification is a cleric who also studied human resources development and political science, making him an ideal leader to take Amanah forward.

But unfortunately, since its formation in 2015, the party has largely stayed in the shadow of its nemesis PAS, which has over a million members, largely because of its inability to convince voters that it is a better option to PAS in the Malay heartland.

Political scientist Datuk Sivamurugan Pandian said Amanah has its work cut out to defeat PAS, which is now very much in the psyche of the Malay voters.

The issue is Amanah has been associated as a “lackey” of DAP in the eyes of some voters, while also falling victim to a perception that Islam has become secondary under the Pakatan Harapan (PH)-led unity government.

Mujahid needs to work harder to convince Malay-Muslim voters that Amanah offers a better option than their “cousins” in PAS, added the observers.

Amanah president Datuk Seri Mohamed Sabu, 69, will also need to play a greater role in his last term as the president, with many observers believing that when his term ends in 2026, the former PAS strongman will likely bid adieu to the party.

“He may remain as a minister though but perhaps within the Amanah setup, it is likely that Mujahid, 59, would need to counter PAS’ far right narrative,” said observers.

Out of the current parties in the national unity alliance, which now includes Umno through Barisan Nasional, Amanah is seen as the best to counter PAS, namely because its leaders used to be big personalities in the Islamist party.

Amanah needs to unearth new talents and listen to the suggestions of the popular Amanah information czar Khalid Samad, who has among others called for better media machinery to counter the slander and lies targeted at PH.

Khalid believes that many of the obstacles faced by Amanah is due to the false narrative that its rivals had successfully portrayed of the party.

Mujahid’s father is Yusuf Rawa, who led PAS from 1982 to 1989.

Yusuf is famous for defeating the then young Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad for the Kota Setar Selatan parliamentary seat with a majority of 989.

Dr Mahathir is a two-time prime minister and, at the age of 98, continues to wield political clout despite his obvious retirement from full-time politics.

Another son of a former PAS president is Muhammad Faiz Fadzil, whose father Datuk Fadzil Noor was the successor to Yusuf, as the PAS president in 1989.

Faiz is now with Amanah too.

He lost in the last state election in Penang, failing to defend his Penanti seat but the Kedah-born lawyer eyes a comeback.

Faiz has called on Amanah to be more aggressive in countering PAS, saying that the days of playing second-best to the party should end with Amanah taking the lead since it is also part of the national unity Madani government.

Amanah has the substance to dislodge PAS, especially since the sons of two former PAS presidents are in its fold – the question is whether they can deliver. – The Vibes, December 28, 2023

Source: thevibes.com

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https://www.thevibes.com/articles/news/100486/all-eyes-on-mujahid-as-he-assumes-amanahs-deputy-presidency

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Pro-Palestinian Picket: Police open investigation paper

27-12- 2023

KUALA LUMPUR: The police have opened an investigation paper concerning the solidarity picket for Palestine being held near the United States Embassy, here, since yesterday.

Wangsa Maju District Police chief Supt Ashari Abu Samah said the investigation paper was opened under the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 for organising an event without a permit.

He said the police had yet to call up the organisers of the ‘Aksi Bertindak: Kepung Demi Palestin’ (Siege for Palestine) picket to record their statement as they were waiting for the peaceful assembly to end this Sunday.

“The participants are currently still obeying police instructions and they are not blocking the road in the area. In addition, police officers also patrol and inspect the area round the clock,“ he told Bernama tonight.

Commenting on the actions of a few participants who set up tents in the area, Ashari said the police had no right to demolish the tents because they were not set up in front of the US embassy building.

“The tents are set up on the footpath area so that is under the jurisdiction of the Kuala Lumpur City Hall,“ he said.

Meanwhile, a Bernama survey today found that several tents were still erected around the area even though the police had prohibited participants from erecting any structures throughout the rally.

The picket is an initiative by Malaysians concerned about the war in Gaza, where more than 20,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces in the past three months.

According to the Palestine Solidarity Secretariat, the picket in front of the US embassy in Jalan Tun Razak is symbolic of the siege on Gaza, but they are also demanding a halt to the killing of Palestinians and for an immediate ceasefire.

The gathering involves a total of 48 NGOs comprising community, youth, and student organisations, as well as various political groups. – Bernama

Source: thesun.my

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https://thesun.my/local_news/pro-palestinian-picket-police-open-investigation-paper-KI11914385

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IAIS Malaysia appeals 19 global religious leaders to advocate for immediate ceasefire in Gaza

27-12- 2023

KUALA LUMPUR: Chairman of the International Institute of Advanced Islamic Studies (IAIS) Malaysia Prof Dr Maszlee Malik has sent letters to 19 esteemed global religious leaders, appealing for their collective wisdom and moral authority to advocate for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

Maszlee said these letters were addressed to influential figures, including the Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, President of the International Union of Muslim Scholars, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Pope Francis, Dalai Lama, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, Archbishop of Canterbury, Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, among others.

He noted that the letters urgently implore them to utilise their influence to pursue peace and humanitarian relief in Gaza.

“The gravity of this humanitarian crisis demands a unified effort to stop the killing of children and civilians, end the bombings of hospitals and schools, and cease the ongoing genocide in Gaza,“ he said in a statement Wednesday.

Maszlee said IAIS Malaysia is dedicated to advancing religious diplomacy as a means of promoting global peace and sustainability.

The organisation understands the significance of interfaith collaboration and the indispensable role that religious leaders play in fostering unity and tolerance among diverse communities, he said.

Maszlee pointed out that the call for a ceasefire is rooted in the principles of compassion, dialogue, and the pursuit of justice – pillars that resonate deeply with the national MADANI agenda, championed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

He added that IAIS Malaysia is committed to advancing this agenda, where ‘Compassion’ holds a pivotal place among its pillars.

“The promotion of compassion and empathy, central to the MADANI agenda, lies at the heart of our call for a ceasefire in Gaza. We firmly believe that these values are essential in building bridges, fostering understanding, and ultimately contributing to a more peaceful and harmonious world,“ he said.

IAIS Malaysia remains unwavering in its commitment to advocating peace, tolerance, and interfaith dialogue, Maszlee said, adding that it strongly encourages the engagement and cooperation of religious leaders worldwide to create a more compassionate, harmonious, and peaceful world. – Bernama

Source: thesun.my

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https://thesun.my/local_news/iais-malaysia-appeals-19-global-religious-leaders-to-advocate-for-immediate-ceasefire-in-gaza-DI11913660

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Perak Islamic Religious Dept: Enforcement on preaching credentials to be strengthened

27 Dec 2023

KUALA KANGSAR, Dec 27 — The Perak Islamic Religious Department (JAIPk) will continue to strengthen its enforcement measures to prevent individuals who hold office in any political party from teaching or lecturing in mosques in the state.

Its director Harith Fadzilah Abdul Halim said the circular regarding the guidelines dated March 6, which was distributed to all mosque committee chairmen in the state by the Perak State Islamic Religious Teaching Supervision Committee, remains in force.

“If there are parties who do not have the credentials to give religious talks in mosques or surau, an official complaint should be filed with JAIPk for action to be taken based on existing legislation.

“The same goes for those who have been given credentials but are leaning towards a party, even if they don’t hold any position, we will monitor and they will be blacklisted later, there is no compromise on this issue,” he told a press conference after officiating the ApresiasiUlangTahun ke-90 Penerbitan Kitab BahrulMadzi programme at Masjid Jamek Al-Marbawi near here today.

On October 26, 2022, JAIPk issued a circular prohibiting political activities in mosques and surau in the state.

Harith Fadzilah added that the enforcement measures are taken to ensure that Islam continues to be protected from false teachings, slander and ill will that can adversely affect the religion, society and country. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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Africa

 

Attacks Kill At Least 160 People In Central Nigeria

December 27, 2023

Armed groups have killed at least 160 people in central Nigeria in a series of attacks on villages, local government officials said on Monday.

The toll marked a sharp rise from the initial figure reported by the army Sunday evening of just 16 dead in a region plagued for several years by religious and ethnic tensions.

"As many as 113 persons have been confirmed killed as Saturday hostilities persisted to early hours of Monday," Monday Kassah, head of the local government in Bokkos, Plateau State, told AFP.

Military gangs, locally called "bandits", launched "well-coordinated" attacks in "not fewer than 20 different communities" and torched houses, Kassah said.

"We found more than 300 wounded people" who were transferred to hospitals in Bokkos, Jos and Barkin Ladi, he said.

A provisional toll by the local Red Cross reported 104 deaths in 18 villages in the Bokkos region.

At least 50 people were also reported dead in several villages in the Barkin Ladi area, according to Dickson Chollom, a member of the state parliament.

He condemned the attacks and called on the security forces to act swiftly.

"We will not succumb to the tactics of these merchants of death. We are united in our pursuit of justice and lasting peace," Chollom said.

- 'Barbaric' -

The attacks which started in the Bokkos area spilled into neighbouring Barkin Ladi where 30 people were found dead, according to local chairman Danjuma Dakil.

On Sunday, Plateau State governor Caleb Mutfwang condemned the violence, calling it "barbaric, brutal and unjustified".

"Proactive measures will be taken by the government to curb ongoing attacks against innocent civilians," said Gyang Bere, the governor's spokesperson.

Gunfire could still be heard on late Monday afternoon, according to a source from the region, which is on the dividing line between Nigeria's mostly Muslim north and mainly Christian south.

Markus Amorudu, a resident of Mushu village, said people were sleeping when shots rang out.

"We were scared because we weren't expecting an attack. People hid, but the assailants captured many of us, some were killed, others wounded," he told AFP.

Amnesty International criticised the government in the wake of the attacks, saying "the Nigerian authorities have been failing to end frequent deadly attacks on rural communities of Plateau state," in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

Northwest and central Nigeria have been long terrorised by bandit militias operating from bases deep in forests and raiding villages to loot and kidnap residents for ransom.

Competition for natural resources between nomadic herders and farmers, intensified by rapid population growth and climate pressures, has also exacerbated social tensions and sparked violence.

A jihadist conflict has raged in northeastern Nigeria since 2009, killing tens of thousands of people and displacing around two million, as Boko Haram battles for supremacy with rivals linked to the Islamic State group.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a former Lagos governor elected in February in a highly contested ballot, has promised to attract more investment to Africa's largest economy and most populous country in a bid to tackle its persistent security challenges.

Source: africanews.com

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https://www.africanews.com/2023/12/27/attacks-kill-at-least-160-people-in-central-nigeria/

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Floods in a central province in Congo kill at least 22 people

 Dec 28, 2023

Flooding triggered by heavy rains in central Congo killed at least 22 people, including 10 from the same family, a local official said Tuesday.

The hours-long rainfall in the district of Kananga in Kasai Central province destroyed many houses and structures, the province's governor, John Kabeya, said as rescue efforts intensified in search of survivors.

Five more deaths were confirmed later on Tuesday in addition to the initially reported death toll of 17, he said.

"The collapse of a wall caused 10 deaths, all members of the same family in Bikuku," said Kabeya. There was significant material damage caused by the floods, according to Nathalie Kambala, country director of The Hand in Hand for Integral Development non-governmental organization.

Flooding caused by heavy rainfall is frequent in parts of Congo, especially in remote areas. In May, more than 400 people died in floods and landslides brought on by torrential overnight rains in eastern Congo's South Kivu province.

Among the structures damaged in the latest flooding was the Higher Institute of Technology of Kananga, as well as a church and a major road that was cut off, said Kabeya, who added that urgent action would be requested from the national government.

Heavy rains triggered a landslide in eastern Congo late Sunday, killing at least four people and leaving at least 20 missing.

Source: africanews.com

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https://www.africanews.com/2023/12/27/floods-in-a-central-province-in-congo-kill-at-least-22-people/

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Sudan RSF leader visits Uganda in first known wartime foreign trip

December 28, 2023

KHARTOUM: The leader of Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo said on Wednesday he met Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, his first confirmed appearance outside of Sudan since the war between RSF and the Sudanese army broke out in April.

Dagalo, whose whereabouts during the war have been unknown, said on X the two discussed developments in Sudan, as well as his vision for negotiations to end the war. Museveni confirmed the meeting in a post on X, saying he welcomed Dagalo to his country home Rwakitura.

Sudan’s army and the RSF have been locked since mid-April in a conflict that has devastated the capital Khartoum and triggered waves of ethnic killings in Darfur despite several rounds of diplomacy to halt the fighting.

The RSF has been gaining momentum, taking over Wad Madani, a city in the center of the country earlier this month. Its soldiers have been accused of looting and killing civilians including in surrounding villages, allegations it rejects.

Sudan’s foreign ministry said in a statement on Wednesday that Dagalo was not able to travel to Djibouti, the current chair of regional body IGAD for a planned initial meeting with Sudan’s army chief Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan.

The meeting, which was meant to help find an end to the war, is to be rescheduled to an unspecified date in January due to “technical issues,” the statement said.

A source familiar with the matter said the meeting was postponed because of disagreements between the two, without giving further details.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2432836/middle-east

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Cholera Outbreak Ravages Port Sudan Amidst War

December 27, 2023

Port Sudan, which lies on Sudan's Red Sea coast, is facing a cholera outbreak exacerbated by a lack of medical supplies as the country remains in the grips of war.

A university dorm that was hosting students has been converted into a shelter for the displaced, housing at least 1,000 people.

Among the displaced is Julia Adam, who lost one of her two daughters a month ago after she was infected with cholera.

"My children were infected, two girls. I took them to the hospital, one of them recovered, but the other was not saved. Her illness was stronger, it was cholera, and she died a month ago. And the other girl is here after she recovered," Julia Adam, woman displaced from Khartoum.

According to Julia, who moved from the Sudanese capital Khartoum, the cleanliness in the shelters leaves much to be desired.

"We are really afraid, and we work on cleanliness, but not everyone (among the displaced) is keen on it. There is a lot of dirt behind the place. I can clean in front of my place and make sure my children bathe. As you can see, these flies will not disappear unless the place becomes clean," added Julia Adam.

Over, 8000 suspected cholera cases, including 224 associated deaths, have been reported since the country declared a cholera outbreak in Gedaref on 26 September.

The disease has spread to 46 localities in nine states as of December 2023.

"Currently, 70% of the health system in Sudan is out of service as a result of wars and as a result of the destruction of health care facilities. We are facing a great task and a great challenge in providing service to all of Sudan. Now all of Sudan is in Port Sudan (referring to the displaced) and this is a great challenge. The service delivery times are limited and not suitable for this number of displaced people. There is a shortage in the supply of medicines. We suffer greatly in providing treatment for people with all diseases and with cases of severe diarrhoea. There are many challenges, we are doing what we can, and we hope that (international) organisations will help us more so that we can tackle these infections and can control them," said Dr. Ahlam Abdullah, director general of Red Sea province health sector at the Ministry of Health.

Sudan’s war began in mid-April after months of tensions between military chief Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan and RSF commander Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo.

More than 7 million people were forced out of their homes, including more than 1.5 million who have sought refuge in neighboring countries, according to the U.N. figures.

Source: africanews.com

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https://www.africanews.com/2023/12/27/cholera-outbreak-ravages-port-sudan-amidst-war/

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Australia

 

2 Australians killed in Israeli airstrike in Lebanon, says Australia's acting foreign minister

 Dec 28, 2023

CANBERRA: Two Australian citizens including an alleged Hezbollah fighter were killed by an Israeli airstrike in Lebanon, Australia's acting foreign minister said on Thursday.

Ibrahim Bazzi and his brother Ali Bazzi were killed in the airstrike on Tuesday in the town of Bint Jbel in southern Lebanon, Acting Foreign Minister Mark Dreyfus said.

Ibrahim Bazzi had arrived in Lebanon recently from Sydney to accompany his Lebanese wife Shorouq Hammoud to Australia, news media reported. Hammoud, who had recently received an Australian visa, was also killed in the attack.

Their three coffins were draped in the flag of Hezbollah, an ally of the Palestinian Islamist faction Hamas, which is at war with Israel.

Dreyfus said Australia was investigating Hezbollah's claim that Ali Bazzi was one of its fighters.

"Hezbollah is a listed terrorist organization under Australian law. It's an offense for any Australian to cooperate with, to support, let alone to fight with a listed terrorist organization like Hezbollah," Dreyfus told reporters.

Dreyfus said his government had communicated with Israel about the airstrike but declined to disclose what was said.

"In the context of the current conflict, Australia has consistently called for civilian lives to be protected and we have consistently raised our concerns about the risk of this conflict spreading," Dreyfus said.

Dreyfus repeated a government warning for Australians not to travel to Lebanon. Australians already in the country should leave while commercial air services are still available.

The Australian embassy in Beirut was ready to provide consular assistance to the Bazzi family if required, he said.

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com

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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/rest-of-world/2-australians-killed-in-israeli-airstrike-in-lebanon-says-australias-acting-foreign-minister/articleshow/106334819.cms

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