Muslims Should Be Prohibited from Selling Puja Items at Hindu Religious Sites; "So That the Faith of Hindus Is Not Hurt": VHP
New Age Islam News Bureau
10 July 2024
·
Muslims Should Be Prohibited from Selling Puja
Items at Hindu Religious Sites; "So That the Faith of Hindus Is Not
Hurt": VHP
·
UN Condemns Taliban’s Morality Ministry as
Human Rights Abuser
·
Islamic Cleric, Tajudeen Adebayo, Recommends
Two Years’ Exclusive Breastfeeding for Nigerian Babies
·
An Alabama Muslim Inmate Asks That State
NotPerform an Autopsy After ExecutionBecause of His Faith
·
Record Number of Muslims Elected to UK
Parliament Despite Rising Islamophobia
India
·
For First Time, Maharashtra Vidhan Parishad to
Have No Muslim Legislator
·
Allahabad HC Seeks Reply of Gyanvapi Mosque
Body On Plea for ASI Survey of ‘Wazukhana’
·
Jharkhand: Muslim Man Lynched by Mob in Ranchi
Over Goat Theft Slur
·
TN Minorities People Welfare Association
Condemns Violence Against Muslims In Northern India
·
NIA to probe 2023 Poonch terror attack case,
involvement of Pak-based handlers suspected
·
Fresh encounter in Doda as hunt on to track
militants who ambushed convoy
·
Interrogation of Reasi terror attack accused
points towards Pak-based LeT handlers: NIA
--------
South Asia
·
US Secretary of State Slams Taliban’s Treatment
of Afghan Women as ‘Inhumane’
·
Spokesman Mujahid Refutes UNAMA’s Critique of
Vice and Virtue Ministry
·
DAB Disposes of Nearly AFN 900 Million in Old
Banknotes
·
Pakistan suspends deportation of Afghan
migrants
--------
Africa
·
Bill to Strengthen Women’s Representation in
Parliament Scales Second Reading
·
Army, NDLEA Intercept Drug Shipment Meant for
Boko Haram Terrorists
·
69 Boko Haram Terrorists Surrender to Troops
·
Can Diomaye Faye, Africa's Youngest President,
Bring Burkina, Mali and Niger Back into ECOWAS?
·
Explosives Thrown at Durban Mosque in Suspected
‘Terror Attack Attempt’
·
Kano Residents in Fear as Armed Hoodlums Camp
At Emir’s Palace
--------
North America
·
CAIR Updates Muslims.Vote Website for
Presidential Election, Urges Muslims to Get Out and Vote
·
‘Uncommitted’: How American Voters Are
Protesting US Complicity in Gaza Genocide
·
Irrespective of who wins US presidential
election, losers will be American public
--------
Europe
·
Starmer accused of 'awful response' on Labour's
relationship with British Muslims
·
West doesn’t want to listen – Kremlin
·
Russia’s UN ambassador responds to Ukraine
hospital attack accusations
·
Moscow court issues arrest warrant for
Navalny’s widow
----
Pakistan
·
‘Security Threats Do Not Justify Indefinite Ban
On X’: Pakistan Press Foundation
·
Fate of documented Afghan refugees to be decided
today
·
IHC doesn’t extend deadline for decision in
Iddat case
·
Three soldiers martyred in exchange of fire
with terrorists in South Waziristan
·
ATC rejects Imran Khan's interim bail pleas in
May 9 cases
·
PTI announces to challenge phone tapping powers
granted to ISI
·
PM urges world to recognise Pakistan's burden
of hosting Afghan refugees
--------
Mideast
·
Sayyed Nasrallah Urges Muslim Solidarity with
Gaza, Reaffirms Hezbollah’s Resolute Stance
·
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has dismantled an
armed group, says state TV
·
Migrants in Turkiye fear being sent back to
Syria
·
UKMTO receives report of incident 40 nautical
miles south of Yemen’s Al-Mukha
·
Airstrike kills 25 in southern Gaza as Israeli
assault on Gaza City shuts down medical facilities
--------
Arab World
·
Saudi FM Calls for Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza at
Gulf Research Meeting 2024
·
Saudi FM receives phone call from newly
appointed British counterpart
·
AlUla Unveils Ground-Breaking Study On
Neolithic Settlements In Northwest Saudi Arabia
·
Saudi law graduates to benefit from specialist
skills program
·
Over one million people visit Qur’an printing
complex in Madinah during last year
·
Verification of highly-skilled expats’
qualifications underway
·
KSrelief supports vulnerable people in Sudan,
Yemen and Jordan
--------
Southeast Asia
·
Al-Azhar Grand Imam Commends Indonesia's
Unwavering Support for Palestine
·
Presidential Election in the Islamic Republic
of Mauritania
·
Daurah Hadis 40 2024: MOE’s initiative to
enhance teachers’ appreciation
·
Four S’poreans involved in gambling activities
handed over to S’pore cops
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL:
Muslims
Should Be Prohibited from Selling Puja Items at Hindu Religious Sites; "So
That the Faith of Hindus Is Not Hurt".: VHP
July 09,
2024
The VHP
on Tuesday claimed that Muslims are selling puja items at various Hindu
pilgrimage sites by "concealing" their identity and urged all state
governments to take effective steps to prevent them from running such shops
"so that the faith of Hindus is not hurt".
Vishva
Hindu Parishad (VHP) secretary general Bajrang Bagra also appealed to people to
remain vigilant and immediately inform the local administration if they find
anyone from the minority community selling puja items near temples and other
Hindu religious sites.
"We
have recently received some information that Muslims have set up shops at some
Hindu pilgrimage sites like Kedarnath and are selling prasada and other puja
items to the devotees. Legally, nobody should have any objection to it. We also
do not have," Bagra said in a statement.
"But
many incidents have come to light over the years when Muslim shopkeepers spat
in the food, drinks and other eatables before giving them to the customers.
Therefore, Muslims running shops at religious sites and selling prasada and
puja items is a matter of concern," he claimed.
The VHP
demands that all the state governments ensure that Muslims do not sell puja
items at any Hindu religious site, Bagra said.
"They
should be prohibited from selling puja items at Hindu religious sites so that
the faith of Hindus is not hurt," the senior VHP functionary added.
VHP
national spokesperson Vinod Bansal also claimed that Muslims are selling puja
items near various temples and Hindu religious sites by "concealing"
their identity. He appealed to people to identify such shopkeepers and
immediately inform the local administration.
Bansal
also urged the state governments to ensure that local administrations take
effective steps on such complaints and maintain the sanctity of Hindu religious
sites.
Source: theweek.in
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2024/07/09/muslims-should-be-prohibited-from-selling-puja-items-at-hindu-religious-sites-vhp.html
--------
UN
Condemns Taliban’s Morality Ministry as Human Rights Abuser
July 9,
2024
The UN
Mission in Afghanistan condemns the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and
Prevention of Vice (MPVPV) for human rights violations, noting 1,033 arbitrary
punishments.
The
report details 205 cases of women and 828 cases of men mistreated. Concerns
were raised over increased powers granted to the MPVPV by the Taliban.
MPVPV
actions negatively impact citizens’ rights, especially women, through threats,
detention, harassment, abuse, and public flogging.
The
MPVPV’s role includes media monitoring, participating in the Media Violations
Commission, and overseeing various societal aspects.
From
August 2021 to March 2024, the MPVPV imposed bans on music, hookahs, human
images, public statues, and cultural celebrations.
UNAMA
underscores these restrictions infringe on cultural participation rights,
disproportionately affecting women.
Privacy
violations include intrusive searches, mosque surveillance, and questioning
couples in public.
1,033
documented cases show the MPVPV using force to enforce its directives.
Restrictions
on Media
The
MPVPV severely restricts media, prohibiting music, comedy, and foreign content
and increasing limitations on women’s presence in media.
It’s a
member of the Taliban’s Media Violations Commission, enforcing strict dress
codes for women in media appearances.
Restrictions
on Women’s Travel
Under
MPVPV guidelines, women need a male chaperone for travels exceeding 78
kilometres, with varying local directives.
In
November 2022, Nangarhar women were barred from clinics without a chaperone,
later eased.
In
Balkh, taxi services refuse unaccompanied women, echoing Herat’s shopping
restrictions in September 2023.
Women’s
Businesses Restrictions
Despite
Taliban promises, the MPVPV arbitrarily closes women’s businesses, replaces
male with female shopkeepers, and dictates tailors’ operations.
The UN
urges Taliban compliance with international conventions to uphold citizens’
rights in Afghanistan.
Source: khaama.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.khaama.com/un-condemns-talibans-morality-ministry-as-human-rights-abuser/
--------
Islamic
Cleric,Tajudeen Adebayo, Recommends Two Years’ Exclusive Breastfeeding for
Nigerian Babies
JULY 9,
2024
A
breastfeeding mother used to illustrate the story [Photo credit: The Sun
Nigeria]
-----------
An
Islamic cleric, Tajudeen Adebayo, on Tuesday, advised mothers to make up their
minds to breastfeed their babies exclusively, describing it as the best gift a
mother could give to her baby. Mr Adebayo, the chief imam of the central mosque
in Falomo, Lagos, also urged breastfeeding for up to two years.
He said
this in an interview in Lagos.
The
cleric reacted to Nigeria’s poor ranking in the child nutrition index.
Data
recently released by UNICEF showed that Nigeria ranked number one in Africa and
number two globally in terms of the number of malnourished children.
Mr
Adebayo said that exclusive breastfeeding is the best diet and immunity a
mother could give her baby.
The
chief imam said, “The best immunity is to exclusively breastfeed a baby. While policymakers
in the health sector recommend six months’ exclusive breastfeeding, Allah
recommends two years.
“Mothers
who complete the circle will see the difference in the health and intelligence
quotients of their children compared to those of babies nurtured with
artificial foods.
“Apart
from that, the compassion and love such children have for their parents are
usually stronger.”
Bishop
Joseph Ojo, the general overseer of the Calvary Kingdom Church in Okokomaiko,
Lagos, said there was a need to build children’s immunity with a balanced diet
and vaccination.
Mr Ojo
said governments should educate parents on the national programme on
immunisation to enable them to present their children for immunisation.
He said
some parents and caregivers withheld their children from routine immunisation
due to poor understanding.
He added
that some withheld their children due to doubts.
“There
are too many fake things going on these days,” he said.
The
chief imam of the Lagos State University, Amidu Sanni, said it was a civic and
moral obligation to encourage members of the public to immunise their children
against killer diseases.
Mr Sanni
said that lifestyles had weakened body immunity, making vaccination necessary.
Source: gazettengr.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://gazettengr.com/islamic-leader-recommends-two-years-exclusive-breastfeeding-for-nigerian-babies/
--------
An
Alabama Muslim Inmate Asks That State NotPerform An Autopsy After
ExecutionBecause Of His Faith
July 10,
2024
This
image provided by the Alabama Department of Corrections shows Keith Edmund
Gavin. The Alabama Supreme Court on Wednesday, April 17, 2024 authorized an
execution date for Gavin, who was convicted in the 1998 shooting death of
William Clinton Clayton, Jr. in Cherokee County.(Source: Alabama Department of
Corrections)
-----------
MONTGOMERY,
Ala. (AP) — An Alabama inmate will not ask the courts to block his execution
next week but is requesting that the state not perform an autopsy on his body
because of his Muslim faith, according to a lawsuit.
Keith
Edmund Gavin, 64, is scheduled to be executed July 18 by lethal injection.
Gavin was convicted in the 1998 shooting death of a delivery driver who had
stopped at an ATM to get money.
Gavin
filed a lawsuit last month asking a judge to block the state from performing an
autopsy after his execution. It has been the standard practice in the state to
perform autopsies after executions.
“Mr.
Gavin is a devout Muslim. His religion teaches that the human body is a sacred
temple, which must be kept whole. As a result, Mr. Gavin sincerely believes
that an autopsy would desecrate his body and violate the sanctity of keeping
his human body intact. Based on his faith, Mr. Gavin is fiercely opposed to an
autopsy being performed on his body after his execution,” his attorneys wrote
in the lawsuit filed in state court in Montgomery.
His
attorneys said they filed the lawsuit after being unable to have “meaningful
discussions” with state officials about his request to avoid an autopsy. They
added that the court filing is not an attempt to stay the execution and that
“Gavin does not anticipate any further appeals or requests for stays of his
execution.”
William
Califf, a spokesman for Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, said Tuesday
that “we are working on a resolution.”
Gavin
was convicted of capital murder for the 1998 shooting death of William Clinton
Clayton Jr. in Cherokee County in northeast Alabama. Clayton, a delivery
driver, was shot when he stopped at an ATM to get money to take his wife to
dinner, prosecutors said.
A jury
voted 10-2 in favor of the death penalty for Gavin. The trial court accepted
the jury’s recommendation and sentenced him to death.
Source: apnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://apnews.com/article/death-penalty-alabama-muslim-inmate-0f058eea3408f124702ca973e80298fe
--------
Record
Number of Muslims Elected to UK Parliament Despite Rising Islamophobia
10.07.2024
A record
number of Muslims won seats in Britain’s parliamentary elections despite rising
Islamophobia, a major Muslim news outlet reported.
A
record-breaking 25 Muslims, up from 19 in 2019, were elected to the House of
Commons, the lower house of parliament, said the Muslim Network.
Among
those elected, 18 are from the Labour Party, four are independents, two are
from the Conservative Party and one is from the Liberal Democrats.
The
outlet highlighted that Muslim voters’ support for Gaza significantly
influenced the election, with five independent candidates, including four
Muslims, winning seats.
Noting
that 3.4 million Muslims are living in the country, it said the election marks
a significant milestone in the UK’s political landscape, reflecting the
increasing diversity and the impact of Muslim communities on British politics.
Source: aa.com.tr
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/europe/record-number-of-muslims-elected-to-uk-parliament-despite-rising-islamophobia/3270749
--------
India
For
First Time, Maharashtra Vidhan Parishad To Have No Muslim Legislator
Jul 10,
2024
MUMBAI:
After Wajahat Mirza of the Congress and Abdullah Khan Durrani of the NCP (SP)
end their respective terms this month, the state legislative council will for
the first time in history have no Muslim member.
Muslim
politicians demanded that the MVA must ensure adequate representation for
Muslims in the next election to the council. Samajwadi Party MLA Rais Shaikh
wrote a letter to the MVA top brass - Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray,
Congress state unit president Nana Patole, and NCP (SP) state unit president
Jayant Patil - saying that despite Muslims comprising nearly 12% of the state
population, they were not being represented in the council polls.
The
state has a bicameral legislature since 1937. Officials said there had always
been some Muslim representation in the upper house.
The
total strength of the council is 78, but with several vacant seats, the current
strength is 51. Mirza and Durrani retire on July 27.
Shaikh
said the MVA did not field a Muslim candidate in the recently concluded Lok
Sabha election despite 14 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state having Muslim
majority. "Since the state came into existence, 567 MPs were elected from
Maharashtra, out of which the Muslim community got only 15 (2.5%) MPs. By denying
representation to Muslims, the MVA risks alienating the community and
potentially driving them towards parties like the AIMIM, which polarises the
Muslim community," Shaikh said.
No
Muslim has been named as a candidate for the council election scheduled for Friday.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/for-first-time-vidhan-parishad-to-have-no-muslim-legislator/articleshow/111621254.cms
--------
Allahabad
HC seeks reply of Gyanvapi mosque body on plea for ASI survey of ‘wazukhana’
July 10,
2024
The
Allahabad HC on Tuesday granted a month to the Gyanvapi Masjid committee to
file a counter affidavit on a plea challenging a Varanasi court order that
refused to direct the ASI to survey the mosque’s ‘wazukhana’.
The HC
has fixed August 14 as the next date of hearing.
The
court’s order came on a revision petition filed by Rakhi Singh, one of the
plaintiffs in the Shringar Gauri Worshipping suit.
In her
petition, Singh pleaded that survey of ‘wazukhana’ area is necessary in
interest of justice. Her plea also contended the Varanasi district judge, in
his October 21, 2023 order, failed to exercise the jurisdiction vested in it by
law to direct a survey of ‘wazukhana’ area, where devouts offer ritual
ablutions before offering ‘namaz’.
Appearing
before the court, Saurabh Tiwari with Amitabh Trivedi argued that the survey by
ASI of the ‘wazukhana’ area is necessary so that the religious character of the
entire property can be determined.
Source: indianexpress.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/allahabad-hc-seeks-reply-of-gyanvapi-mosque-body-on-plea-for-asi-survey-of-wazukhana-9443598/
--------
Jharkhand:
Muslim Man Lynched by Mob in Ranchi Over Goat Theft Slur
10.07.24
Akhtar
Ansari, 32, a resident of Katamkuli in Ranchi, Jharkhand, was allegedly lynched
by a mob over an accusation of goat stealing at Tatisilwai in the early hours
of Sunday.
“My
uncle (Akhtar Ansari) used to do civil works in under-construction houses and
had gone out on Saturday evening. Around 2.30am (Sunday), I received a call
from an unknown number and heard my uncle’s choked voice informing me that he
was being beaten by a mob between Namkum and Tatisilwai and they were
threatening to kill him. Then an unknown voice said that they were going to
kill my uncle and the phone was cut off,” said Irshan Ansari, who lodged a
police complaint at Tatisilwai police station.
Irshad
further claimed that they immediately called the Namkum police station and
informed them about the phone number from which the call came.
“We
received a call from Tatisilwai thana around 6.30am informing us that an
unknown body had been found. We recognised the body as our uncle,” said Irshad.
The
police said that Akhtar was beaten up by locals for stealing goats, according
to Irshad.
“My
uncle was the sole breadwinner of the family (wife and four children) and had
no criminal history. We do not believe that he could have gone so far (over
37km from Pithoria to Tatisilwai) to steal a goat,” Irshad claimed.
“We have
nabbed the two main accused, Ved Vyas Mahato and Ajit Kumar Mahato, and are
continuing raids to identify other culprits involved in the incident. Based on
our investigation, it has come to our knowledge that the victim, along with two
others, were stealing goats in the locality and were chased by the locals.
While the two managed to escape, the victim fell down and was assaulted by the
locals,” said Manoj Kumar, Tatisilwal officer-in-charge.
Jharkhand
was the fourth state after Bengal, Manipur and Rajasthan to pass a bill against
mob lynching in December 2021.
Since
the passing of the act, a youth has been torched to death for tree felling in
Simdega by villagers in January 2022, while a youth was lynched in a group
clash in Hazaribagh in February 2022. A forest committee member was also
lynched in May 2022 for resisting tree felling, three women were lynched near
Ranchi in September 2022 on suspicions of witchcraft, a youth was lynched in
Gumla on an allegation of stealing goats in October 2022 and a middle-aged
resident of Gomia in Bokaro, identified as Imran Ansari, was beaten to death in
the same month for having an illicit affair with a married woman.
In
January 2023, a middle-aged person with alleged criminal antecedents was beaten
to death on an allegation of “goat theft” at a village in Giridih district and
a 20-year-old Wajid Ansari in Chanho block of Ranchi was allegedly beaten up
for stealing and died subsequently after being admitted in a hospital in Ranchi
in April 2023.
Source: telegraphindia.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/jharkhand-man-lynched-by-mob-in-ranchi-over-goat-theft-slur/cid/2032744
--------
TN
Minorities People Welfare AssociationCondemns Violence Against Muslims In
Northern India
July 09,
2024
Members
of the Tamil Nadu Minorities People Welfare Association staged a protest here
on Tuesday condemning the repeated attacks against members of Muslim community
in the northern parts of the country.
The
protesters said that the BJP government during in its last two terms in the
government was instrumental in staging various attacks against the minorities,
particularly Muslims, targeting them based on their food choices and attires.
The latest
Lok Sabha election displayed the people’s choice against BJP and allies for
their ‘anti-minorities policies.’
“The BJP
government claimed they will regain power by winning the majority number of
seats, but election results made them realize they are losing popularity among
people,” said N. Ganesan, district president of the association.
He
pointed out the various recent attacks against the minorities in Chhattisgarh,
Aligarh, Madya Pradesh, Lucknow, Himachal Pradesh, New Delhi, Gujarat and
others where the Muslim people were allegedly targeted and killed for
possessing beef.
“Despite
losing their majority mark, the BJP government has started acting violently
against people who seem to have not voted for them,” Mr. Ganesan said.
Killing
minorities and bulldozing their houses have become a regular affair for the
current union government, he alleged.
Source: thehindu.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/association-condemns-violence-against-muslims-in-northern-india/article68384200.ece
--------
NIA to
probe 2023 Poonch terror attack case, involvement of Pak-based handlers
suspected
July 9,
2024
The
National Investigation Agency will probe last year’s terrorist attack on an
Army convoy in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch that left five personnel dead,
officials said on Tuesday.
The
process to take over the investigation into the matter has started and a case
will be registered soon, they said.
The
probe will ascertain any “common angle” in last year’s attack with the recent
terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, the officials said, adding the
involvement of Pakistan-based handlers in the case cannot be ruled out.
Five
Army personnel lost their lives and another was seriously injured after their
vehicle caught fire following a terrorist attack on April 20, 2023, in the
Bhata Dhurian area under Poonch district.
The Army
had said the vehicle carrying soldiers came under fire from unidentified
terrorists and it caught fire because of the likely use of grenades. The
victims of the attack were from a Rashtriya Rifles unit deployed for
counter-terror operations.
The NIA
on Tuesday dispatched a team of its officers to assist the Jammu and Kashmir
police in its probe into the terrorist attack on an Army convoy in Kathua that
occurred on Monday.
Five
Army personnel, including a junior commissioned officer, were killed, and as
many were injured when a group of heavily armed terrorists ambushed a
patrolling party on the rugged Machedi-Kindli-Malhar mountainous road near the
Badnota village in Lohai Malhar, approximately 150 km from the Kathua
district’s headquarters.
Source: indianexpress.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/nia-2023-poonch-terror-attack-case-involvement-pak-based-handlers-suspected-9443136/
--------
Fresh
encounter in Doda as hunt on to track militants who ambushed convoy
Two to
three militants are believed to be trapped in the Sezan forest area bordering
Kishtwar district and Anantnag
Written
by Arun Sharma
July 10,
2024
kashmir
dodaFive soldiers were killed when militants ambushed a convoy of two Army
trucks in Jammu’s Kathua district on Monday. Sources said security forces are
combing through dense forests in Badnota area to track down the militants. File
photo
A fresh
encounter broke out between militants and security forces in Sezan forest area
of Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district on Tuesday evening, even as the Army,
police and CRPF launched a search operation to track down militants involved in
the attack on an Army convoy a day earlier.
The
Sezan forest area borders Kishtwar district on one side and Anantnag on the
other, and two to three militants are believed to be trapped there, a senior
police officer said.
Five
soldiers were killed and five injured when militants ambushed a convoy of two
Army trucks in Kathua district on Monday afternoon. Sources said security
forces are combing through dense forests in Badnota area to track down the
militants.
The
distance between Kathua’s Badnota village, where Monday’s attack took place,
and the Sezan forest is around 168 km.
Ground
troops conducting the searches in Kathua are being supported by helicopter and
drone surveillance, and the Army has also moved in Para commandos to the area.
The J&K Police has also deployed its Special Operations Group, which
primarily deals with anti-terror operations.
Security
forces believe the militants could not have gone far given the dense fog and
heavy rain on Monday evening, and search parties have started looking into
isolated houses built on the periphery of the forests. Nearly half-a-dozen people
have also been picked up for questioning.
Sources
said the militants had simultaneously attacked two Army vehicles carrying
soldiers and rations, first by hurling grenades and then opening fire from
automatic assault rifles. Both trucks, which had come from the Machedi side,
were on their way to Lohai Malhar and were on a small bridge over a nullah at
the time.
Sources
said both trucks were targeted together so soldiers from one couldn’t rush to
help the others. The militants, sources said, used steel core bullets to ensure
those inside the trucks got hit.
According
to sources, the soldiers, despite coming under heavy fire and suffering
injuries, retaliated, forcing the militants to flee into the forests.
Reinforcements from Machedi, which is nearly 25 kilometres away, took time to
reach the encounter site because of the road condition, sources said.
The five
soldiers killed on Monday have been identified as Naib Subedar Anand Singh,
Havildar Kamal Singh, Naik Vinod Singh, and Riflemen Anuj Negi and Adarsh Negi.
The
National Investigation Agency (NIA) has, meanwhile, sent a team to Kathua to
extend support to the J&K Police in its investigation. Officials made it
clear that the probe agency has not registered a case to investigate the
attack.
Uptick
in violence
The
uptick in terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir comes after the security
establishment received inputs of a successful infiltration by a large group
around two months ago. According to defence sources, given the nature of the
attacks, the involvement of highly trained and motivated militants is
suspected.
Source: indianexpress.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/encounter-underway-between-security-forces-militants-jk-doda-9442788/
--------
Interrogation
of Reasi terror attack accused points towards Pak-based LeT handlers: NIA
10.07.24
The
NIA's interrogation of an arrested accused in the attack on a bus carrying
pilgrims in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi last month has pointed towards the role
of Pakistan-based handlers of banned terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba, officials
said on Tuesday.
Nine
people were killed and 41 injured on June 9 when terrorists opened fire at a
53-seater bus, which was on its way from the Shiv Khori temple to the Mata
Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra, causing it to veer off the road and fall into a
deep gorge in Reasi.
NIA
officials said at least three terrorists could have been involved in the attack
on the bus. Interrogation of Hakam Khan alias Hakin Din has revealed that he
provided shelter, logistics and food to the terrorists, they said.
Khan
also helped terrorists in conducting a recce of the area and even accompanied
them, the officials said, adding the terrorists involved in the attack stayed
with Khan on at least three occasions since June 1.
Based on
details provided by Khan, the NIA on June 30, searched five locations linked
with hybrid terrorists and their overground workers.
Khan's
interrogation has also pointed towards the role of two Pakistan-based LeT
commanders -- Saifullah alias Sajid Jutt and Abu Qatal alias Qatal Sindhi --
who might have acted as the attackers' handlers, the official said.
This
aspect is being further verified, the official added.
The
National Investigation Agency (NIA) took over the investigation into the case
on June 15 orders from the Union Home Ministry.
LeT
commanders Jutt and Qatal have also been named in a charge sheet filed this
year by the NIA in connection with its probe related to the attack on civilians
in J-K's Rajouri district in 2023.
Seven
people belonging to the minority community were killed and several others
injured when terrorists attacked Dhangri village in Rajouri on January 1, 2023.
While five civilians were killed in firing by terrorists, two lost their lives
in an IED blast the next day.
The NIA
said it was yet to ascertain any common angle in recent terror attacks carried
out in Jammu and Kashmir.
The
probe agency has also decided to register a case to investigate last year's terror
attack on an Army convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch that left five personnel
dead.
The
probe will look to ascertain any "common angle" in last year's attack
with the recent terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, the officials said, adding
the involvement of Pakistan-based handlers in the case cannot be ruled out.
Five
Army personnel lost their lives and another was seriously injured after their
vehicle caught fire following a terrorist attack on April 20, 2023, in the
Bhata Dhurian area under Poonch district.
The NIA
on Tuesday also dispatched a team of its officers to assist the Jammu and
Kashmir police in its probe into the terrorist attack on an Army convoy in
Kathua that occurred on Monday.
Five
Army personnel, including a junior commissioned officer, were killed, and as
many were injured when a group of heavily armed terrorists ambushed a
patrolling party on the rugged Machedi-Kindli-Malhar mountainous road near the
Badnota village in Lohai Malhar, approximately 150 km from the Kathua
district's headquarters.
This was
the fifth terror attack in the Jammu region within a month.
Source: telegraphindia.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/interrogation-of-reasi-terror-attack-accused-points-towards-pak-based-let-handlers-nia/cid/2032671
--------
South Asia
US
Secretary of State Slams Taliban’s Treatment OfAfghan Women As ‘Inhumane’
July 10,
2024
U.S.
Secretary of State criticized the Taliban’s treatment of Afghan women and girls
as “inhumane” during a meeting in Washington on Tuesday.
Antony
Blinken stated, “We continue to exert global pressure on the Taliban to end
these oppressive policies that harm all Afghans.”
Speaking
at a NATO-focused meeting on “Women, Peace, and Security” in Washington on
Tuesday, July 9th, Secretary Blinken emphasized, “We are educating and
empowering civil society groups and peacebuilders to take a leading role in
promoting peace, fostering free societies, and negotiating an end to conflicts,
especially in countries like Afghanistan where those in power ruthlessly
suppress the rights of Afghan women and girls.”
Secretary
Blinken highlighted the Taliban’s prohibition on education and work for Afghan
women and girls, stating, “Women and girls continue to fight for their rights
and to build a brighter future for themselves and their country.”
Despite
international pressures, the Taliban has refrained from reconsidering its
policies, which human rights experts describe as constituting “gender
apartheid.”
Since
the Taliban assumed power in Afghanistan, they have implemented severe
restrictions, including prohibiting girls from attending school beyond the
sixth grade.
This
policy has severely limited educational opportunities for Afghan girls and
young women, denying them the chance to pursue higher education and fulfil
their potential.
Furthermore,
the Taliban’s policies have imposed strict limitations on women’s employment
opportunities, effectively excluding them from many sectors of the workforce.
This restriction has not only undermined women’s economic empowerment but also
perpetuated gender inequality and stifled the country’s socio-economic
development.
Additionally,
the Taliban’s imposition of restrictions on women’s freedom of movement has
compounded the dire humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.
Women
and girls face significant challenges in accessing basic services, healthcare,
and essential resources due to these constraints, exacerbating the already
precarious living conditions for millions of Afghans.
Source: khaama.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.khaama.com/us-secretary-of-state-slams-talibans-treatment-of-afghan-women-as-inhumane/
--------
Spokesman
Mujahid Refutes UNAMA’s Critique of Vice and Virtue Ministry
2024-07-10
KABUL(BNA):
Mawlawi Zabihullah Mujahid, Spokesman for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan,
has responded to UNAMA’s criticism of the Ministry of Vice and Virtue, stating
that the critique is unjustified.
Mujahid
emphasized in a statement, that the directives issued by the ministry are based
on well-established Islamic principles. He argued that UNAMA’s approach of
evaluating Afghanistan through a Western lens is inappropriate, insisting that
the country should be assessed as an Islamic society.
He
highlighted that the aspirations of the Afghan people, who are overwhelmingly
Muslim and have made significant sacrifices to establish an Islamic system,
should be respected and considered.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/spokesman-mujahid-refutes-unamas-critique-of-vice-and-virtue-ministry/
--------
DAB
Disposes of Nearly AFN 900 Million in Old Banknotes
2024-07-10
KABUL(BNA):
Da Afghanistan Bank (DAB) has announced the incineration of nearly 900 million
old Afghani banknotes in Kabul.
According
to a statement released by the bank, under Articles 39 and 42 of the bank’s
law, 889 million and 920 thousand old banknotes of various denominations were
meticulously counted and subsequently incinerated in the presence of a
designated delegation.
During
the incineration of these banknotes, the second deputy of Da Afghanistan Bank,
Mullah Mohammad Akhund, urged citizens to handle banknotes with care in their
commercial and economic transactions to prevent them from wearing out quickly.
Previously,
Da Afghanistan Bank had also reported the incineration of tens of millions of
old banknotes in Kabul.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/dab-disposes-of-nearly-afn-900-million-in-old-banknotes/
--------
Pakistan
suspends deportation of Afghan migrants
July 10,
2024
The
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has announced the
conclusion of a three-day visit by the UNHCR’s High Commissioner to Islamabad
and stated that the plan to expel illegal Afghan migrants from Pakistan has
been suspended.
In a
statement issued on Tuesday, July 9th, the organization wrote that Filippo
Grandi, the High Commissioner of UNHCR, during his three-day visit to
Islamabad, urged Pakistani authorities to show hospitality towards Afghan
migrants.
He also
called for strengthened efforts towards durable solutions for Afghans in
Pakistan and support for their host communities.
The
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has stated that Mr.
Grandi, during his discussions with Pakistani authorities, called for a timely
extension of Proof of Registration (PoR) cards. This is a crucial identity
document held by over 1.3 million Afghan refugees.
The
statement further emphasizes that the UNHCR Commissioner appreciates Pakistan’s
decision to suspend the “plan to repatriate illegal foreign nationals.”
Despite
this suspension, the forced deportation of Afghan refugees continues amid a
severe humanitarian crisis. Many Afghans face uncertain futures as they are
compelled to leave Pakistan, where they have sought refuge for years.
The
abrupt disruption of their lives poses significant challenges, exacerbating the
already dire conditions in Afghanistan and straining humanitarian resources.
UNHCR
has urged Pakistan and other host countries to uphold international refugee
protection principles and ensure that any returns are voluntary, dignified, and
in line with humanitarian standards.
The
international community, including neighboring countries and humanitarian
organizations, must collaborate to address the underlying causes of
displacement and create sustainable solutions that prioritize the safety and
well-being of Afghan refugees amidst ongoing instability in the region.
Source: khaama.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.khaama.com/pakistan-suspends-deportation-of-afghan-migrants/
--------
Africa
Bill To
Strengthen Women’s Representation In Parliament Scales Second Reading
9 July
2024
A
constitutional amendment bill aimed at increasing women’s representation in
parliament by introducing special seats has successfully passed its second
reading in the House of Representatives.
During
Tuesday’s session, lawmakers expressed mixed reactions to the bill. Some
members fully supported the initiative, while others urged a more critical
examination, citing the constitutional provision against discriminatory laws.
This
bill had previously failed during the 9th assembly’s constitutional amendment
process, where it was voted down by parliament.
Meanwhile,
the House of Representatives has asked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s led
government to halt the enforcement of the Samoa Agreement until all contentious
clauses are thoroughly examined and clarified.
Naija
News reports that the lawmakers took this move following a motion of urgent
national importance put forward by 88 members.
During
the discussion on Tuesday, House member Aliyu Madaki emphasized the clause
concerning “gender equality,” labelling it as a potential threat to the
country’s moral values.
Furthermore,
the House has tasked its pertinent committees with scrutinizing the disputed
terms of the agreement.
Naija
News reports that the Samoa Agreement, recently signed by the Federal
Government with the European Union, has stirred controversy due to concerns
over the perceived recognition of LGBT rights by the Nigerian government.
Many
concerned individuals expressed disapproval online, citing the country’s laws
against same-sex marriages and gay relationships enacted in 2014 under
then-President Goodluck Jonathan.
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2024/07/09/just-in-bill-to-strengthen-womens-representation-in-parliament-scales-second-reading/
--------
Army,
NDLEA Intercept Drug Shipment Meant For Boko Haram Terrorists
9 July
2024
The
Nigerian Army’s 21 Armored Brigade, alongside the National Drug Law Enforcement
Agency (NLEA), has intercepted a shipment of illicit substances meant for Boko
Haram terrorists in Borno State.
According
to security analyst and counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, the joint
team, acting on intelligence, conducted a swift operation in Konduga Local
Government Area, resulting in the seizure of 163 bags of a psychoactive
substance known locally as “Goom” or “Akusukura.”
The
total haul amounted to an impressive 2.5 tonnes of the illicit drug.
Speaking
via his X account on Tuesday, Makama
said, “The operation, which was carried out following a tip-off, resulted in
the recovery of 163 bags of the substance, equivalent to 2.5 tons in a
warehouse in Konduga.
“The
suspected illicit substances, known as “Goom” or “Akusukura”, is a deadly
psychoactive substance that represents a serious threat to public health and
poses a challenge for drug policy.”
He added
that the substance, which is of different varieties, is used in both liquid and
powdered form by people who mostly seek to raise their levels of psychological
or nervous activity in the body, or put it in simple terms, get high.
“The
recovered items were handed over to the NDLEA team leader, and the area was
cordoned off by the military. The operation highlights the effectiveness of
interagency collaboration and the commitment of the military and NDLEA to
keeping Nigeria safe,” Makama added.
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2024/07/09/army-ndlea-intercept-drug-shipment-meant-for-boko-haram-terrorists/
--------
69 Boko
Haram Terrorists Surrender To Troops
9 July
2024
According
to a statement released by the Chief Military Public Information Officer, HQ
MNJTF, Lt. Col. Abubakar Abdullahi, on Tuesday, the former insurgents were
handed over to the MNJTF by the maritime troops of the Cameroon and Niger
forces after a successful operation along Lake Chad.
Among
the surrendered insurgents were 14 fighters and 55 women and children.
One of
the fighters surrendered with an AK-45 rifle and live ammunition, the statement
noted.
Naija
News understands that the latest surrender took place between July 1 and 6 as
part of the ongoing operation of Lake Sanity 2.
“As
Operation Lake Sanity 2 continues, the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF)
has successfully facilitated the surrender of more terrorists while rescuing
others from hideouts between 1 and 6 July 2024.
“In
Sector 1 Cameroon, on 6 July 2024, a combined maritime operation by Cameroonian
and Nigerian forces led to the surrender of 56 Boko Haram terrorists. This
group included 13 adult men accompanied by 43 women and children. Additionally,
on the same date, 12 family members of terrorists, including 5 women and 7
children, were rescued. Both the surrendered individuals and the rescued family
members were handed over to the troops of Sector 1, Operation Hadin Kai, in
Gamboru and Banki for further action.
“While
on 1 July 2024, troops of Sector 4, Niger Republic, received 24-year-old
Tijjani Muhammad, who surrendered with one AK-47 rifle, 4 magazines, and
numerous 7.62mm rounds. He reported that he had escaped from a Boko Haram camp
in Libye Soroa, driven by the current Operation Lake Sanity 2.
“The
increasing number of surrenders significantly weakens the operational
capability of Boko Haram and undermines the morale of their remaining fighters.
Other terrorists are strongly urged to take advantage of the opportunity to lay
down their arms and surrender to the authorities for lasting peace in the Lake
Chad basin region,” the statement reads.
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2024/07/09/69-boko-haram-terrorists-surrender-to-troops/
--------
Can
Diomaye Faye,Africa's Youngest President, Bring Burkina, Mali and Niger Back
into ECOWAS?
08-07-24
Senegal's
Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Africa's youngest president, suddenly faces a daunting
challenge: reuniting a weakened regional bloc that is older than he is.
Faye,
44, was tasked Sunday with bringing military-ruled Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso
back into ECOWAS at the organization's summit in the Nigerian capital Abuja.
The three countries left ECOWAS and formed their own alliance after military
takeovers severed relations with their West African neighbours.
As a
peace envoy backed by Togolese President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbe, Mr Faye is
seen as the best head of state for a mission to bring the three countries back
into the fold of regional cooperation.
Beyond
the lure of security and economic collaboration, ECOWAS’s goodwill has waned in
recent years, said Afolabi Adekaiyaoja, a research analyst at the Center for
Democracy and Development, which focuses on West Africa. But the new role
offers Mr Faye an opportunity to eventually seek reforms for “a more
sustainable and self-reliant ECOWAS,” Mr Adekaiyaoja said.
Mr. Faye
also represents the opposite of what the three military leaders claim to
oppose.
He was
not yet elected when ECOWAS, founded in 1975, imposed harsh sanctions on Niger
following a coup last July. Niger cited those sanctions as one of the reasons
it left ECOWAS. Moreover, Mr Faye’s victory in this year’s elections, which
were certified as credible, contrasts with rigged polls across the region.
At home,
Mr. Faye is reexamining old ties that junta leaders say have stifled West
Africa’s development, though Senegal remains a key ally of the West. Under Mr
Faye, Senegalese authorities are renegotiating contracts with foreign operators
in the country and, according to Finance Minister Abdourahmane Sarr, “aim to
free us from the ties of dependency in our public policies. ”
That’s
exactly what the junta wants to hear, analysts say. Since ousting democratic
governments in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, the generals have cut military and
economic ties with traditional Western partners such as the United States and
France, believing they have failed to benefit their countries. The shift has
allowed Russia to expand its presence in the region.
"Like
other heads of state, he claims sovereignty and a break with the old
order," said Seidik Abba, a Sahel specialist and president of the
International Center for Reflection and Studies.
Nor is
age a mere number in the case of Mr Faye, a former tax inspector. Although he
is Africa's youngest president, he is older than three of the region's four
current military leaders.
At the
ECOWAS meeting in Nigeria on Sunday, Mr Faye was still one of the youngest.
Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo sat across from him. At 80, he is only four
years younger than Mr Faye’s father.
During
his visit to Nigeria in May, the Senegalese leader presented his age as an
"asset" that could open a window of dialogue with his neighbours.
Mr Abba,
a Sahel expert, said Mr Faye’s task of engaging with the three countries would
not be easy. He said the three countries had broader concerns about the functioning
of ECOWAS, which they said was being interfered with by foreign countries such
as France, their former coloniser.
The
question also arises as to what freedom Faye and the Togolese president will
have in their role as envoys under an ECOWAS which has just re-elected Nigerian
President Bola Tinubu as its head.
Their
success will depend on "how well different leaders can coordinate and
agree" on the issues, said Mr. Adekaiyaoja of the Center for Democracy and
Development.
Source: africanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.africanews.com/2024/07/08/can-diomaye-faye-bring-burkina-mali-and-niger-back-into-ecowas/
--------
Explosives
thrown at Durban mosque in suspected ‘terror attack attempt’
10 July
2024
Explosive
devices were discovered in a mosque in Durban on Monday.
The
trustees have labelled this incident as an 'attempted act of terrorism'.
The
suspects reportedly threw the devices onto the premises and fled the scene
after they were interrupted by a security vehicle patrolling the area.
Hendricks
says they are taking this attack very seriously and urge all mosques to tighten
up their security.
“The
idea was to completely destroy the mosque.”
- Ganief
Hendricks, Leader - Al Jama-ah
“The
Muslim community is very concerned. We are on high alert.”
- Ganief
Hendricks, Leader - Al Jama-ah
He says
they have no evidence suggesting who may be behind the attack and do not want
to jump to conclusions.
“We feel
we must leave the investigations to the police.”
- Ganief
Hendricks, Leader - Al Jama-ah
He
claims that some fringe groups have been attempting to stir up hostilities
between Jewish and Muslim communities in the area since the attack, which is
very concerning.
According
to Hendricks, these two communities in Durban are peaceful and have a good
relationship.
Source: ewn.co.za
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.ewn.co.za/2024/07/10/explosives-thrown-at-durban-mosque-in-suspected-terror-attack-attempt
--------
Kano
Residents In Fear As Armed Hoodlums Camp At Emir’s Palace
9 July
2024
Residents
of Rano town in Kano State have expressed serious concerns over the safety of
their community following the unexpected arrival of armed individuals at the
local emirate’s headquarters this past Sunday.
According
to a letter addressed to the Kano State Police Commissioner, armed groups have
been stationed within the compounds of the Main Palace and the historic Tsohon
Gari Palace since July 7, 2024.
The
residents described the scenario as an invasion, pointing out that the presence
of these armed individuals poses a significant threat to the security of lives
and property in the area.
The
letter underscores a breach of the June 20, 2024, directive from the
Commissioner of Police, which banned all non-state actors from providing
security services in the state.
The
letter further reads, “The intrusion of these arms-carrying individuals not
only threatens peace but also disrespects the established directives aimed at
maintaining order in the state.
“It said
over the years, the Rano emirate has experienced uninterrupted peace, and
security agencies can testify to this.
“The
recent emirates tussle in Kano State, however, had brought about a lot of
tension and discontent to the residents, as many felt that their opinions, as
stakeholders, were not respected, the letter stated.
“This is
connected to the fact that public hearings were not conducted throughout the
State to establish whether there was a need to dissolve the four additional
emirates (Rano, Gaya, Karaye, and Bichi) upgraded by the administration of Dr
Abdullahi Ganduje in the state.
“Even
with the above development, the residents of Rano emirate were able to control
their emotions and acted within the confine of the law, as only legitimate
peaceful demonstrations were carried out.’’
“The
people exercised restraint because they believe in the judiciary since the
Emirates case was before a competent court of justice.
“The
good people of Rano emirate, as usual, had opted to respect the court’s order
issued by the Federal High Court Kano on the case, which we believed is a
constitutional duty of all citizens.”
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2024/07/09/kano-residents-in-fear-as-armed-hoodlums-camp-at-emirs-palace/
--------
North America
CAIR
Updates Muslims.Vote Website for Presidential Election, Urges Muslims to Get
Out and Vote
July 9,
2024
The
Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil
rights and advocacy organization, today announced updates to its voter
engagement platform, Muslims.Vote.
These
enhancements are designed to empower the American Muslim community by
increasing its political capacity and presence in the upcoming November 5th,
2024, general election.
Muslims.Vote
has long been a cornerstone of CAIR’s efforts to promote civic engagement
within the Muslim community. The updated platform now offers a range of new
features aimed at making voter registration, education, and participation more
accessible and effective.
GO
TO:https://muslims.vote
Or enter
Muslims.Vote in your search bar.
CAIR
estimates there are more than 8 million American Muslims and two million
registered Muslim voters in the United States, with large communities residing
in key swing states and voting in sharply divided congressional races.
In a
statement, CAIR’s Government Affairs Department Coordinator Shafiquil Muhshna
said,
“CAIR’s
Muslims.Vote website is designed to promote Muslim civic engagement and empower
our community to support candidates who truly address our needs and concerns.
In the face of the Israeli government’s genocide and White House and
Congressional support for these atrocities, our vote has never been more vital.
Now is the time to educate yourself and others, mobilize our community, and
exercise our rights as Americans. Let’s make history by turning out in record
numbers and amplifying our voice for justice and change.”
CAIR’s
Muslims.Vote website also includes:
An
updated 50-state guide on voter registration and key election deadlines,
including voting by mail for the November 8th midterm elections. The guide
contains a list of upcoming election dates, whether an excuse is needed to vote
absentee and deadlines for requesting and submitting absentee ballots.
CAIR’s
updated 2024 Sample Questions for Candidates and Government Offices, which
encourages Muslim voters to ask candidates questions running for office about
issues like religious freedom, civil rights, fighting discrimination, the right
to boycott, and more.
An
updated 2024 Congressional Scorecard that tracks congressional votes and
co-sponsorship of key bills. The votes of every elected member of Congress have
been rated positively or negatively depending on how closely their votes on
relevant legislation corresponded with civil rights and social justice
priorities identified by CAIR. The criteria selected for each topic are rooted
in legislation introduced and voted upon in the 118th U.S. Congress
(2023-2024).
CAIR’s
Voter Rights Guide provides information on preventing discrimination against
voters because of their race, color, national origin, disability, sex, or
religion.
CAIR’s
2024 General Election Survey of American Muslim Voters: This 26-multiple-choice
question survey aims to better understand and promote the American Muslim
community’s readiness for the 2024 general election, interests in presidential
and congressional races, and Muslim political preferences, views, and attitudes
on widely discussed policy issues.
A
resource page with links to information on how to register to vote, how to vote
by mail and absentee, where to vote, and phone banking.
Muslims.Vote
is encouraging Muslims to responsibly practice social distancing and participate
in state and midterm elections by taking advantage of—where possible—early
voting by mail or vote-by-mail alternatives.
CAIR
will continue to promote election news on CAIR’s Twitter accounts @CAIRNational
and @MuslimsVote using the hashtag #MuslimsVote, focusing on niche news
relating to Muslims and the elections.
Source: cair.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-updates-muslims-vote-website-for-presidential-election-urges-muslims-to-get-out-and-vote/
--------
‘Uncommitted’:
How American voters are protesting US complicity in Gaza genocide
09 July
2024
By
Maryam Qarehgozlou
Calls
are mounting for US President Joe Biden to quit the presidential race following
his disastrous performance during the first presidential debate against
Republican Donald Trump.
While
Biden insists on staying in the contest, he has to win over more than 700,000
Americans who have opted for “uncommitted” in the Democratic primaries, in
protest against the incumbent president’s Gaza policy and his administration’s
direct complicity in the genocide of Palestinians in Gaza.
If
write-ins and blank ballots in states that lacked “uncommitted,”
“uninstructed,” or “no preference” options are counted, it is certainly
reasonable to assume that the number of Democratic primary voters who expressed
their anger against Biden’s support for the Israeli regime is much higher,
observers say.
The
“uncommitted” campaign against Biden’s support for Israeli genocidal war on
Gaza, which just completed nine months claiming close to 38,000 lives, has
earned enough votes to have a presence at the Democratic National Convention
(DNC) in August, with at least 29 delegates.
According
to the DNC’s own rules, any candidate who receives at least 15 percent of the
vote in any single congressional district is eligible for a delegate.
How
‘uncommitted’ campaign launched?
The
anti-war, grassroots movement in the US which began in the state of Michigan
has now spread across the country against the genocidal war on Gaza and the US
government’s complicity in it.
The
pro-Palestine activists have organized multiple rallies, showed up at the
president’s public events, and exerted pressure on their elected
representatives to demand a ceasefire in Gaza.
However,
their calls went largely unheeded by the Biden administration.
Therefore,
they started asking Democratic voters to cast ballots for “uncommitted”,
essentially no one, as a protest against the Israeli-American war on Gaza and
to send a message to Biden.
Earlier
last month, the Abandon Biden movement, which is behind much of the effort for
protest votes, declared in a press release that they will ensure Biden faces
defeat in the general election.
“Our
mission is clear: Joe Biden must be defeated,” the group said. “We will not
stand by. We are mobilized, we are furious, and we are committed to ensuring
Joe Biden is defeated in the general election. The time for accountability is
now.”
They
said that Israel’s “death machine is fueled by Biden’s policies” and that
“Biden’s speeches are nothing but Diplomacy Theater, a grotesque display of
blame-shifting while the massacre rages on.”
Even
some lawmakers have been telling people not to vote for Biden over his handling
of the Gaza war.
Rep.
Rashida Tlaib said earlier this year that she was “proud” to vote “uncommitted”
in the Michigan primary, casting a protest vote against Biden amid frustration
over the unending war on Gaza.
“I was
proud today to walk in and pull a Democratic ballot and vote uncommitted. We
must protect our democracy. We must make sure that our government is about us,
about the people,” Tlaib said in a video shared by the Listen to Michigan
campaign, calling for the protest vote.
“When 74
percent of Democrats in Michigan support a cease-fire, yet President Biden is
not hearing us, this is the way we can use our democracy to say ‘listen.’
Listen to Michigan.”
The
action has rattled the Biden presidential campaign, troubled democrats and
prompted some of them to make passionate calls for taking the issue with the
seriousness it deserves.
“Of
course, they should be concerned,” one former Biden campaign aide was quoted as
saying by media outlets last month.
“If
they’re not planning to vote for [Biden], they’ve already been disappointed.
Donald Trump is a disruptor and a change agent, so he might be an appealing
alternative for some of those people,” the former campaign aide added.
Why did
Michigan lead the campaign?
Michigan,
situated in the Great Lakes region of the Upper Midwest region of the United
States, is the state that helped deliver Biden's victory in 2020.
There
are about 200,000 Muslim American voters in Michigan, who are angry with
Biden’s response to the Israeli genocidal war on Gaza, and this could mean many
of these voters might just sit out the election this year or choose a
third-party candidate instead.
More
than 100,000 voters selected “uncommitted” in Michigan’s primary—about 13
percent of the state’s electorate and 10 times more than what the campaign
organizers had publicly projected.
The Arab
American Institute, an advocacy group, says that since the start of Israel’s
war on Gaza on October 7 last year, support by Arab Americans for the
Democratic Party has plummeted from 59 percent in 2020 to just 17 percent.
‘Uncommitted’
vote spans
After
Michigan, the uncommitted movement gained momentum and expanded at a rapid pace
across other US states such as Minnesota, Massachusetts, Hawaii, Missouri,
Washington and Wisconsin.
“The
Michigan campaign was an inspiration for us over here in Washington, it’s like
maybe there is a way for us who are unhappy with what the President is doing to
register our discontent with his policies,” said Rami Al-Kabra, an organizer of
Washington’s campaign and a city council member in Bothell, Washington.
In
Minnesota, 45,000 uncommitted votes, about 20 percent of the vote, netted the
movement 11 delegates, the highest of any state.
In
addition to Arab and Muslim communities, protest votes had the highest
concentration in areas where young people live.
Young
voters seem to be some of Biden’s most vocal critics on issues ranging from
Israel’s war on Gaza to climate change and inflation.
Moreover,
many Black and Hispanic voters, who were critical to Biden’s win in 2020, are
also among uncommitted voters.
Broadly
speaking, the majority of people in the US now disapprove of Israel’s war on
Gaza.
According
to a Gallup survey conducted in March, approval among Americans of Israel’s
offensive in Gaza dropped from 50 percent to 36 percent since November 2023.
‘No
point in voting’
Most of
the protest voters emphasize that their votes are not an anti-Biden, pro-Trump
campaign – they are a humanitarian vote, looking to save as many lives as
possible by ending the devastating war.
Pro-Palestine
activists are saying that they will advocate for an anti-war agenda at the DNC
in August and withhold their vote in November unless the democratic nominee
supports a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and stands up to the influential
pro-Israel lobby.
June
Rose, a Jewish Democrat and Rhode Island’s uncommitted delegate to the DNC
explained in a post on X that the Democratic Party “cannot espouse the values
of freedom, justice, and equality at home while being a party of death and
destruction abroad.”
“My goal
at the DNC is to help make sure that not for one moment is Palestine forgotten.
That the images of 15,000 children murdered in the name of my safety are seared
in the minds of Democratic leaders,” she wrote.
Rose
added that with other fellow uncommitted delegates, they will demand an end to
US support for genocide and colonization—including immediately halting aid and
ending the transfers of weapons to the Israeli regime used against Palestinians
in Gaza.
“I will
channel my rage and heartbreak into a cry for a free Palestine, with a
relentless hope that they’ll listen to me—as a Jew and as a Democrat—in chorus
with so many like me who are shouting: Not in our name. Stop the genocide.
Ceasefire now. End the occupation.”
Saad
Farooq, an uncommitted voter in Massachusetts, said it was unlikely that the
Democratic National Committee would select any candidate who took a stance
against Israel’s ongoing war, and that he would support Green Party candidate
Jill Stein if she were to appear on the ballot in Massachusetts.
“My
number one criterion for any candidate is opposing the genocide in Gaza,”
Farooq was quoted as saying by the Intercept.
Shaneez
Hameed, another uncommitted voter in California, also said that the war in Gaza
is a red line for him as a voter.
“Any new
candidate will have to do something about stopping the genocide in Palestine
and also be open to making changes with the Supreme Court and filibuster,”
Hameed wrote. “Or else, nothing changes and there is no point in voting.”
Source: presstv.ir
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2024/07/09/729033/uncommitted-how-american-voters-protest-us-complicity-gaza-genocide
--------
Irrespective
of who wins US presidential election, losers will be American public
09 July
2024
By Musa
Iqbal
Irrespective
of who wins the presidential election in the United States in November, the
losers will be the American public. Make no mistake about that.
The
first presidential debate between the two contenders - incumbent Joe Biden and
returning challenger and former president Donald Trump - was an unmitigated
disaster that stunned not only the American public but the carefully maintained
and imperialist-controlled American media machine.
American
voters have had experience with both candidates leading the polarized nation -
Trump from 2017 to 2021 and Biden from 2021 until now.
Both
presidents have brought catastrophe not just to the US, but globally. This
upcoming election will be between the same candidates as in 2020 but with
worsening conditions domestically and globally.
The
debate, which took place at CNN studios in Atlanta and was scheduled early in
the election cycle, was a disaster from start to finish.
Trump
and Biden both lied, avoided questions, and delivered childish remarks toward
one another with the maturity of pre-adolescent children - far from the norm of
any world leader.
Trump
delivered his usual chaotic antics in between racist remarks and question
dodging. After becoming the first American president to be convicted of a
felony crime (which of course, is related to cheating the electoral system, and
not the numerous imperialist crimes that come with the day-to-day of being the
president of the US), Trump doubled down on his bid for the presidency,
accusing Biden of weaponizing the state in order to stop him from becoming
president.
Trump
blamed the worsening shape of the American economy on Biden’s policies,
primarily citing the migrant crisis at the southern border multiple times, even
during unrelated questions.
It is
worth noting that Biden has more or less continued Trump’s border policies,
even continuing the infamous border wall that Trump started and maintaining
horrific migrant detention centers where border patrol agents exploit and abuse
migrants seeking asylum.
The
migrant crisis is a direct result of economic warfare against Latin American
and Caribbean countries, something both Biden and Trump have maintained.
Trump
repeatedly refused to answer the questions, running out of time multiple times
as he riffed on unrelated topics such as his own trial, the January 6 2021
Capitol Hill riot, and criticism of Biden.
He was
reminded of some questions several times while continuing to ignore them, a
classic Trump deflection strategy that he has mastered over the years.
Decades
of experience of being a real estate con man has made it a predictable strategy
for him, which makes it all the more concerning that the moderators did not
force him to answer the question or even fact-check him on his numerous false
claims even once, particularly around the performance of the economy for
everyday workers.
Biden’s
performance was similarly catastrophic. From the get-go, Biden’s statements
were filled with gaffes and confusing delivery.
He delivered numerous false statements and blanket answers that failed
to seriously address any question.
Furthermore,
he dived into several off-topic answers multiple times, and even collided with
Trump’s childish remarks and antics, going jab for jab once on the topic of
golfing (a sport the majority of Americans do not play or even watch).
On one
hand, Biden would claim that under his administration, the economic issues were
going in the right direction. When pressed on matters like deteriorating
conditions for Black communities, Biden would deflect and blame Trump, citing
that Trump’s administration left a mess for him to clean up.
But a
lot of Biden’s policies are a continuation of Trump, making the two
administrations virtually the same on a range of topics.
The
inability to differentiate himself from Trump while not offering any promising
answers even for current issues his administration is involved in shook viewer
confidence in Biden’s ability to lead the nation.
Furthermore,
Biden continuously mumbled or trailed onto other topics mid-sentence, causing
panic over his mental ability to lead. It is reported that many Democratic
officials were in a state of panic during the debate, as signs of mental
deterioration were crystal clear.
Biden’s
poor performance even raised the eyebrows of various establishment media
outlets that typically praise and defend him. The New York Times editorial
board released an op-ed asserting the best way for Joe Biden to serve his
country was to step down and let someone else run.
This
sentiment was shared by numerous Democratic analysts and political commentators
who have backed Biden throughout his current term.
Other
pro-Biden Democrats asserted that Biden was just having a bad debate night, and
looked to his campaign rally the next day as proof for their claims, where
Biden seemed refreshed and energetic.
However,
netizens on various social media platforms attributed this to Biden being more
awake during the day and “sundowning” at night, as the debate was scheduled for
9 pm ET. Sundowning is a term typically associated with those who suffer from
Alzheimer's disease, or senior dementia.
Many are
wondering if it is too late to swap Biden out. The Democratic National
Convention is scheduled for August in the city of Chicago, where widespread
protests against Biden are expected as the genocide in Gaza continues to be a
main rallying point for millions of people.
Thousands
are expected to bus into the midwest city to protest Biden’s role in arming
Israel, amongst other issues.
Spectators
have even hypothesized that the reason for the debate being scheduled unusually
early in the cycle may be to pressure the Biden administration to step down
before the convention, as it would take some months to build up a voter surge
for a step-in candidate.
However,
Biden has maintained that he will run, despite mounting pressure for him to
quit.
Even if
you ignore the depleting mental and physical conditions of both Biden and
Trump, there is no doubt that both presidential candidates are racist
imperialists, even before their mental and physical degradation in recent
years.
Biden
was in favor of segregationist policies during the peak of the US civil rights
movements. Trump is a lifelong racist, much like his father Fred Trump, whose
questionable business exploits since the start of his career included
exploiting undocumented workers and denying black people housing from his real
estate projects.
Neither
of them has flinched when it comes to their support for the racist Zionist
occupation.
Both
have also worked to cut already small social safety nets Americans have, like
Social Security and Medicare.
In one
portion of the debate, the candidates fought over who has better intentions for
Israel, with Trump affirming Israel’s mission to destroy Hamas, and calling
Biden weak for not doing more.
Trump
even used “Palestinian” as an insult, something which Biden did not criticize
or call out, causing concern from numerous human rights groups and
pro-Palestine activists.
In fact,
some of the most heated portions of the debate were over who was a more
effective warmonger, with Biden standing by his military decisions in support
of Ukraine and Israel, while Trump lauded his decision to assassinate top
anti-terror commander, General Qassem Soleimani.
The same
passion could not be found around topics like economic relief for everyday
Americans or the environment in the face of worsening climate catastrophes.
Both
used COVID-19 as an excuse for why they were not able to do more for the
American public, while easily catering to the needs of the military-industrial
complex and Wall Street.
The
American economy is suffering from inflation, wage stagnation, a lack of jobs
inaccessible industries, and job destruction and wealth depletion as a result
of capitalist greed - relaxed laws allow jobs to be outsourced to cheaper
countries while the rise of artificial intelligence promises more jobs being
dissolved.
A
deteriorating economy guarantees social suffering. Crime continues due to a
lack of jobs, education, and opportunity, while politicians rely on a brutal,
racist police force to maintain order.
Instead
of solving crime at root issues such as funding in education and social
services, politicians are persuaded by the prison industrial complex and police
unions to fund law enforcement militarization and expand criminalization of
minority populations, creating a prison labor force that can create goods for
cheap.
Combine
all of this with the US billions of dollars of spending on Ukraine and Israel -
the former a proxy war against Russia, and the latter a genocidal campaign
against the very existence of Palestinians.
It is
evidently clear that US presidents do not work for voters, they work for the
ultra-wealthy imperialist elite that profits off resource theft and
exploitation.
In a
sense, it would not matter if it was Biden versus Trump or anyone else running.
The day-to-day affairs of the imperialist system remain intact, with just
slight preferences on how money is shared between the capitalist elite of the
US.
The
Democrats and Republicans do indeed differ on certain issues strategically and
tactically, but at the end of the day, the American institution they represent
is committed to imperialism and the execution of “Manifest Destiny.”
The
world, and the American people, are held hostage by this incompetent
criminality. The real positive and tangible change will only come when more
Americans decide enough is enough.
Musa
Iqbal is a Boston-based researcher and writer focused on US domestic and
foreign policy.
Source: presstv.ir
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2024/07/09/729022/irrespective-who-wins-us-presidential-election-american-people-lose
--------
Europe
Starmer
accused of 'awful response' on Labour's relationship with British Muslims
9 July
2024
Prime
Minister Keir Starmer has been accused of giving "an awful response"
when asked about the Labour Party's relationship with British Muslims.
In a
recent interview, Starmer was questioned about General Election results showing
the declining support of Labour by British Muslims, who have traditionally
always supported the party.
Despite
winning a historic landslide in areas where there is a high British Muslim
population, Labour saw its vote share fall overall and lost four seats to
pro-Gaza independents.
When
asked about the party’s relationship with Muslims, Starmer said: “Very many
people voted Labour in that General Election who never voted Labour before, so
we now hold seats in parts of the country that have never had a Labour MP.
“This is
an incredibly strong mandate but of course wherever we were not able to secure
votes, I am concerned about that but this is a clear mandate for change.”
Pro-Gaza
independent candidates standing in Birmingham - Perry Barr, Blackburn, Dewsbury
and Batley, and Leicester South - all beat Labour candidates, with Jonathan
Ashworth who was expected to serve in Starmer’s cabinet, being the biggest
upset.
With
Labour winning massively across the country, these defeats were viewed as a
shock and an indication of a tense relationship with the party and the British
Muslim community.
Starmer’s
answer when asked about it has caused upset. A clip of the interview has been
watched more than 1.5 million times, with hundreds of comments criticising the
prime minister.
One of
Labour's own MPs, Apsana Begum, said the answer was “awful” and a “missed
opportunity".
"This
is an awful response from Keir and lacks any acknowledgement of the need to
build trust amongst British Muslims who feel that Labour has let them down,” Ms
Begum told ITV News.
“Labour's
position on Gaza – especially Starmer’s infamous comments about Israel’s right
to cut off electricity to Gaza – came up over and over again during the
election across the country and clearly lost Labour votes.
“There
is no doubt that lots of voters have serious concerns about Starmer's record on
Gaza, Islamophobia and migration, amongst a number of other issues. This was an
opportunity for Keir to assure British Muslims he was listening. An opportunity
ignored."
Starmer
caused controversy during an interview with LBC when he appeared to say that
Israel had the right to withhold power and water from Gaza.
Several
days later, he reversed that position, only then to advise elected Labour
representatives to not attend ceasefire protests.
When the
issue came to a vote in Parliament, Labour MPs were instructed not to vote for
a ceasefire, which resulted in several members of Starmer's then-shadow Cabinet
resigning.
The
party’s position has since shifted with the election manifesto emphasising the
need for a ceasefire in Gaza and to recognise a Palestinian state as part of a
peace process.
Leanne
Mohamad stood at the recent election as an independent candidate in the Labour
safe seat of Ilford North. She came within 530 votes of beating the Health
Secretary Wes Streeting in what would have been a huge upset.
She
accused the Labour leader of “burying his head in the sand.”
"Starmer's
lamentable response to a question about the mass disillusionment of Muslim
voters shows that Labour has not learned any lessons from the election,” Ms
Mohamad told ITV News.
“There
is a growing appetite to move away from this two-party system. But he continues
to bury his head in the sand. We are not going away."
Source: itv.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.itv.com/news/2024-07-09/starmer-accused-of-awful-response-on-labour-and-british-muslims
--------
West
doesn’t want to listen – Kremlin
10 Jul,
2024
Russia
will continue to “speak the truth” to the world, despite Western governments
and media refusing to allow their citizens to hear what Moscow has to say,
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Tuesday.
Peskov
was asked by the VGTRK broadcaster about Ukraine’s claims that Russia struck a
children’s hospital in Kiev. Moscow has insisted that its forces targeted a
nearby missile plant and that the hospital was actually hit by a stray
Ukrainian air defense missile.
Ukraine’s
version of events was quickly backed by its Western supporters. Moscow and Kiev
further traded accusations during an emergency UN Security Council meeting on
Tuesday.
“It is
very difficult to get our point across to the Western world right now. They do
not want to hear anything,” Peskov said.
“We see
the hysteria in [Western] newspapers, TV channels,” the Kremlin spokesman
added. “This is likely due to the monopolistic dominance of Anglo-Saxon media
there.”
Nevertheless,
Moscow will continue to “tell the truth about what has happened, both
domestically and in countries where the audience is ready to hear us and where
we have technical means to reach them,” Peskov stressed.
Since
2022, the EU has banned several Russian news broadcasters, including RT, citing
“systematic information manipulation and disinformation.” YouTube similarly
began to crack down on Russian-linked content, removing more than 70,000 videos
and 9,000 channels related to the Ukraine conflict, according to The Guardian.
Russian
Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has branded the sanctions
“political censorship and a campaign to completely wipe out alternative
viewpoints.”
Source: rt.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.rt.com/news/600779-west-doesnt-listen-peskov/
--------
Moscow
court issues arrest warrant for Navalny’s widow
9 Jul,
2024
Moscow’s
Basmanny Court has issued an arrest warrant for Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of
the late opposition figure Alexey Navalny, the city courts’ press service
revealed on Tuesday. She has been charged with being part of an extremist
group, it said.
The
court “upheld a motion [submitted] by investigators and ordered [Navalnaya] to
be put into custody for two months,” the statement published on Telegram said.
This would begin from the moment of her extradition to Russia or if she is
detained within the country, it added.
The
court said Navalnaya had “evaded” law enforcement authorities. Under Russian
law, membership in an extremist organization is punishable with a fine of between
300,000 and 600,000 rubles ($3,450 and $6,900) or up to six years behind bars.
The
court’s official statement did not elaborate on which specific actions taken by
Navalnaya had led to the charges, only that she had participated in an
“extremist community.” The Russian news agency Interfax reported, citing
sources, that her case is related to her participation in structures founded by
her late husband.
Several
organizations created by Navalny, including his Anti-Corruption Foundation
(FBK), have been designated extremist in Russia in recent years. The opposition
figure was imprisoned in 2021 for violating the terms of an earlier suspended
sentence.
He was
handed an additional nine-year sentence in early 2022 for contempt of court and
a second fraud conviction. In August 2023, he was sentenced to an additional 19
years on multiple extremism-related charges including creating an extremist
group, endorsing extremism, financing such activities, and luring minors into
them, as well as rehabilitating Nazi ideology.
Russian
courts had previously issued similar arrest warrants against a number of
Navalny’s allies, including his former right-hand man, Leonid Volkov, who had
earlier headed the FBK, as well as the organization’s current head, Maria
Pevchikh. None of them are currently in Russia.
Navalnaya
herself also left Russia back in 2021 together with her children after the
arrest of her husband. She has lived abroad ever since. In March 2024, she
pledged to continue her husband’s work.
Navalny
died at a penal colony in February while serving his sentence. The prison
authorities said the 47-year-old suddenly fell ill after a walk and collapsed,
and efforts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful. The FBK stated that the death
certificate provided to Navalny’s mother said he had died of natural causes.
Source: rt.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.rt.com/russia/600773-arrest-warrant-navalny-widow/
--------
Pakistan
‘Security
Threats Do Not Justify Indefinite Ban On X’: Pakistan Press Foundation
July 10,
2024
KARACHI:
Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF) has rejected the government’s justification of
national security threats as the reason for banning social media platform X.
The
reaction came a day after the Ministry of Interior defended the months-long ban
on X on the grounds that it posed a “threat to peace and national security”.
The PPF,
in its statement on Tuesday, said even if the government’s concerns regarding
national security and public safety were valid, “they do not justify the
complete closure of the platform without any clear timeline or process for when
such a ban could be lifted”.
It also
called on the authorities to hold meaningful engagements with stakeholders,
including civil society organisations, before taking any decision to ban the
platform, which affects millions of Pakistani users.
“We also
urge X to engage with Pakistani stakeholders, including the civil society and
state authorities, to address their concerns,” the statement added.
Separately,
Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) President Afzal Butt and
Secretary General Arshad Ansari welcomed the Kenyan High Court’s decision to
award compensation to the family of Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif, who was
murdered by police near Nairobi in Oct 2022.
“While
no amount of compensation can alleviate the suffering of Arshad Sharif’s family
and his countless followers, this verdict brings some solace and justice,” they
said in a joint statement.
Source: dawn.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.dawn.com/news/1844935
--------
Fate of
documented Afghan refugees to be decided today
July 10,
2024
ISLAMABAD:
The federal cabinet will meet today (Wednesday) to decide the fate of Afghan
refugees residing in the country, as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif complained
to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) that only 9,000 out
of 70,000 Afghans — who had worked for the US and allies — had been sent to a
third country over the three years.
A
government official on the condition of anonymity told Dawn that the Afghan
nationals who have a proof of residence (PoR) card might get relief, as the
cabinet would decide about an extension in their stay for six months or one
year. “The cabinet will decide whether to extend the proof of residence card
issued to Afghan refugees for six months or a year,” the source said.
The
development comes after UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi
called on PM Shehbaz on the last leg of his three-day visit to Pakistan.
In their
meeting, the PM complained that only 9,000 out of 70,000 Afghans, who arrived
in Pakistan after the fall of Kabul in 2021, had been sent to the third country
in three years. The UNHCR had asked Pakistan not to repatriate these 70,000
Afghans as their lives would be in danger if sent back to Afghanistan. The
government, therefore, decided that these 70,000 Afghans would be sent to a
third country, but after three years, only 9,000 were sent to the third
country. During the meeting, the UNHCR official called for bolstering efforts
towards longer-term solutions for Afghans in Pakistan, and support for their
host communities.
UNHCR
official seeks urgent reset of aid model, timely extension of PoR card;
promises to pave way for voluntary returns
During
his three-day stay, Mr Grandi visited Peshawar and Haripur in Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa, meeting Afghan refugees in urban settings as well as in a refugee
village. People he met shared a message of anxiety regarding their situation,
but also of their desire to contribute to their communities in Pakistan, as
well as eventually in Afghanistan, said the statement.
The high
commissioner also called for the timely extension of the PoR cards, a critical
identity document held by over 1.3 million Afghan refugees. He expressed
appreciation that the “Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan” had been suspended
and sought assurances that it would remain on hold. He called for Pakistan’s
proud tradition of hospitality towards those Afghans with international
protection needs to continue.
Recognising
the challenges facing the country and hosting the refugees for over 45 years,
Mr Grandi called for an urgent reset of the aid model towards solutions and
responsibility sharing, including fostering new partnerships and developing
innovative approaches to addressing the protracted displacement situation. “We
need to seize this opportunity to accelerate solutions, and have a bigger,
broader vision for the Afghan people in Pakistan,” he added.
The high
commissioner offered to work towards a dialogue later this year, which would
bring together key stakeholders (including government representatives,
development actors, and the private sector) to develop a package of solutions
for the benefit of Afghans living in Pakistan and the host country itself.
Mr
Grandi also committed to redoubling efforts aimed at creating conditions
conducive for returns to Afghanistan, including from the perspective of
material conditions, access to services, job opportunities, as well as rights —
paving the way for sustainable voluntary returns in the future.
In the
meantime, as Pakistan continues to host some three million Afghans, all
solutions need to be explored in addition to voluntary repatriation, including
third-country resettlement and longer-term solutions within Pakistan.
Source: dawn.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.dawn.com/news/1844903/fate-of-documented-afghan-refugees-to-be-decided-today
--------
IHC doesn’t extend deadline for decision in Iddat case
July 10, 2024
ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday directed the judge hearing appeals of former prime minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, against their conviction in the Iddat case to conclude proceedings within the stipulated time frame.
Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb dismissed the petition of Ms Bushra’s ex-husband, Khawar Fareed Maneka, to revise the order that had set a month’s deadline for the trial court to conclude the hearing.
Mr Maneka was seeking an extension in the deadline till after the court’s summer vacations, saying his lead counsel intended to go on a pilgrimage during Muharram. Justice Aurangzeb however rejected the request for extension till September as the counsel of Mr Khan and his spouse opposed the plea.
Later, while addressing media persons at the National Press Club, Islamabad, Mr Maneka cited various religious scholars to substantiate his claim of the Iddat period being of 90 days. He said his ex-wife married Mr Khan during her Iddat period and did not give any plausible reason for the haste.
He said the haste “deprived him of the opportunity to reconcile with his ex-wife as provided in the religion and law”. He contradicted the claim of Mr Khan and Ms Bushra’s counsels on the Iddat period and termed them “un-Islamic”.
Mr Khan and his wife were convicted and handed a sentence of seven years in February for contracting marriage during the former first lady’s Iddat period.
The punishment was handed down on the complaint filed by Mr Maneka. Late last month, an Islamabad district and sessions court turned down the pleas of ex-premier Khan and his wife to suspend their seven-year sentences in the Iddat case.
Source: dawn.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.dawn.com/news/1844938/ihc-doesnt-extend-deadline-for-decision-in-iddat-case
--------
Three soldiers martyred in exchange of fire with terrorists in South Waziristan
July 10, 2024
Three Pakistan Army soldiers embraced martyrdom in an exchange of fire with terrorists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s South Waziristan district, the military’s media wing said on Tuesday.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the three brave soldiers — Sepoy Asad Ullah, 30, resident of Mitiari district; Sepoy Muhammad Sufyan,28, resident of DI Khan district and Non-Combatant Bearer Zain Ali,24, resident of Bahwalnagar district — having fought gallantly, embraced martyrdom during intense exchange of fire.
Sanitisation operation is being carried out to eliminate any terrorists found in the area, the ISPR added.
“Security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve,” it added.
The latest incident comes only hours after a Pakistan Army captain embraced martyrdom in a gunbattle with terrorists in KP’s North Waziristan district, as per the ISPR.
The military’s media wing said 24-year-old Captain Muhammad Osama bin Arshad, a resident of Rawalpindi district, laid down his life in the motherland's defence.
The ISPR further said that two terrorists were also killed as troops effectively engaged the terrorists' location during the fierce exchange of gunfire.
Since the Taliban came into power in Afghanistan in 2021, Pakistan has witnessed a significant surge in terrorist attacks on security forces, especially in provinces bordering the neighbouring country in recent months with the militants using advanced weaponry and equipment.
With the security forces hitting hard on terrorism, frequency of such incidents of violence went down in recent month. The Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) Annual Security report stated that during the second quarter of the current year, Pakistan witnessed 380 violence-linked fatalities and 220 injuries among civilians, security personnel, and outlaws, resulting from as many as 240 incidents of terror attacks and counter-terror operations.
In the backdrop of this, the federal cabinet last month approved the launching of the counter-terrorism operation — Operation Azm-e-Istehkam — following the National Action Plan's Central Apex Committee's recommendations to root out terrorism from the country.
Source: thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1208114-three-soldiers-martyred-in-exchange-of-fire-with-terrorists-in-south-waziristan
--------
ATC rejects Imran Khan's interim bail pleas in May 9 cases
July 10, 2024
LAHORE: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan's pleas for interim bail were rejected in three cases related to the May 9 violent protests on Tuesday.
Judge Khalid Arshad of an anti-terrorism court in Lahore announced the verdict today that he reserved three days ago after hearing Khan's interim bail pleas related to vandalism of Jinnah House, Askari Tower and Shadman Police Station during the violent protest last year.
The May 9 mayhem refers to the riots that broke out in many parts of the country last year following the ex-PM's arrest in a corruption case. On that day, the alleged PTI supporters attacked several state buildings including military installations, prompting the civil and military authorities to try the rioters under the Army Act.
The deposed prime minister, who was ousted from power via the opposition's no-confidence motion in April 2022, has been facing multiple charges ranging from corruption to terrorism since his removal as premier.
He has been behind bars since August last year after he was sentenced in the Toshakhana case and subsequently sentenced in other cases ahead of the February 8 elections.
Khan secured relief in other cases, including £190 million reference and Toshakhana, and was acquitted in the cipher case last month.
However, he remains behind bars due to his conviction in the iddat (un-Islamic nikah) case only.
Pleading before Lahore's ATC today, the government demanded Khan's arrest in all three cases, including the Jinnah House case, saying his arrest was required for interrogation.
The former premier along with his spouse Bushra Bibi is currently serving a seven-year jail term each at Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail after the couple was convicted in the iddat case on February 3, 2024.
The rejection of bail pleas comes as PTI is hoping for Khan's release from prison this month as the district and sessions court in Islamabad is expected to announce a verdict on the PTI founder's main appeal challenging conviction in the iddat case.
Last month, the sessions court turned down the pleas of the ex-premier and his wife to suspend their seven-year sentences in the iddat case.
Source: thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1208005-atc-rejects-imran-khans-interim-bail-pleas-in-may-9-cases
--------
PTI announces to challenge phone tapping powers granted to ISI
July 09, 2024
ISLAMABAD: Reacting to the government’s move to grant the premier intelligence agency permission to trace people's phone calls viewing a threat to the "national security", Leader of Opposition in National Assembly Omar Ayub Tuesday announced to challenge the government's move.
Terming the tapping of phones unconstitutional and against the basic rights mentioned in the constitution, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader said he would challenge the government notification with the help of his party leader and counsel Babar Awan in the court.
The federal government has given its nod to the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to intercept and trace calls and messages in the apprehension of an offence against national security.
The federal cabinet has approved the relevant circular allowing a designated officer of the ISI to carry out the tracing of calls under Section 54 of the Telecommunication (Re-organisation) Act 1996. However, the officer nominated by the agency cannot be of less than grade 18.
The said section of the Telecommunications Act allows the federal government to authorise any person or persons to intercept calls and messages or to trace calls through any telecommunication system in the interest of national security.
It also states that the government will have preference and priority in the telecommunication system over any licensee for the defence or security of the country against any foreign aggression.
"The federal government in the interest of national security and in the apprehension of any offence is pleased to authorise the officers [...] to be nominated from time to time by ISI to intercept calls and messages or to trace calls through any communication system," read the notification issued by the Ministry of Information on Monday.
Meanwhile, the opposition leader said those giving authority for call tracing would themselves fall victim to it. He also said those authorising the intelligence agency to trace calls would be put behind the bars.
"Asif Zardari, Nawaz Sharif, Shehbaz Sharif, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Maryam Nawaz will also go to the prison because of this law," Ayub said, adding that all of them would be seen pursuing their cases in courts.
Source: thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1207931-opposition-leader-announces-to-challenge
--------
PM urges world to recognise Pakistan's burden of hosting Afghan refugees
July 09, 2024
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday urged the international community to recognise Pakistan's burden of hosting a large Afghan refugee population and demonstrate collective responsibility.
The premier made these remarks while speaking during a meeting with United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Filippo Grandi at the PM House in Islamabad.
The UN high commissioner is on a three-day official visit to Pakistan from July 7-9.
During the meeting, PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to address the protection and safety needs of people in vulnerable situations.
He also underscored that the international community needed to be mindful of the socio-economic challenges and security threats being faced by Pakistan in this regard.
While recalling Pakistan’s longstanding partnership with UNHCR, the prime minister appreciated the UN agency’s support to Islamabad in hosting Afghan refugees for over four decades.
He noted that despite numerous challenges, Pakistan had hosted Afghan refugees with exemplary respect and dignity.
PM Shehbaz sought UNHCR’s support in mobilising adequate resources to supplement Pakistan’s efforts, urging the UN body to play its role in promoting durable solutions to address the situation of Afghan refugees, including through safe and dignified return and reintegration in their homeland, as well as third-country relocation.
The UN high commissioner expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s generosity and hospitality in hosting millions of Afghan refugees for the past many decades and assured that UNHCR would continue to work closely with Pakistan to fulfill the basic needs of the Afghan refugees.
Source: thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1207926-pm-urges-world-to-recognise-pakistans-burden-of-hosting-afghan-refugees
--------
Mideast
Sayyed Nasrallah Urges Muslim Solidarity with Gaza, Reaffirms Hezbollah’s Resolute Stance
July 10, 2024
Hezbollah’s Secretary General stated on Tuesday that the organization’s unwavering decision to defend the oppressed Palestinians, including opening a support front in Lebanon, remains irreversible, despite the sacrifices endured.
During an Ashura sermon on the third eve of Muharram, his eminence delved into the religious interpretation of this year’s slogan, “Are We Not on the Righteous Path?” underscoring the Muslim duty to uphold righteousness, speak out against injustice, and resist oppression.
Hezbollah’s leader echoed the powerful words of Imam Hussein (A.S.), addressing the prevalence of falsehood in the world: Don’t you see that the truth is ignored and falsehood prevails? The situation is so dire that a believer longs to meet Allah (i.e., to die). Today, I see death as a blessing and living under tyrants as nothing but disgust and disgrace.”
Speaking of the courage required to take the righteous path, Sayyed Hasan Nasrallah stated, “What matters is not the majority, but the pursuit of truth, whether it aligns with the majority or the minority. If the majority of the world remains silent about supporting Gaza and instead supports ‘Israel’, it does not imply that this stance is right or even morally justified.”
S. Nasrallah Calls Upon Muslim Nation
In his speech, Sayyed Nasrallah highlighted the support fronts in Lebanon, Yemen, and Iraq, along with political backing from Syria and Iran, painting a positive contrast to the disappointing stances of the Arab and Islamic nations toward atrocities in Gaza.
“For weeks, aid has been unable to enter the Gaza Strip, exacerbating threats of famine, epidemics, and diseases. Is it reasonable for this situation to persist?” His eminence pointedly queried. “Every sane Muslim will be questioned about his or her support for Gaza. Is it believable that the Arab and Islamic nations are incapable of supporting Gaza?” Sayyed Nasrallah added.
“We, Hezbollah, firmly believe we are fulfilling our duty, with martyrs falling daily—including our elite brothers and commanders. We honor them with pride and will steadfastly continue on this path until we achieve our goal,” stressed Hezbollah’s leader.
Addressing both allies and adversaries, Sayyed Nasrallah underscored that “the actions of the Islamic Resistance since October 8 are irreversible. We will persist until we achieve our goal. Despite the sacrifices of martyrs, destroyed homes, or the looming threat of war, we remain resolute in our commitment.”
In a direct appeal to two billion Muslims, Sayyed Nasrallah posed a poignant question, asking, “Where is Muslim money being spent today, while two million Muslims in Gaza suffer from hunger and significant resources are allocated for tanks, planes, and other military capabilities?”
Source: english.almanar.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://english.almanar.com.lb/2149259
--------
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has dismantled an armed group, says state TV
July 10, 2024
TEHRAN, Iran: Iran’s powerful Revolutionary Guard forces have dismantled armed bandits in the northwest of the country, state TV reported Tuesday.
The report said ground forces of the Revolutionary Guard, known as IRGC in West Azerbaijan province, dismantled a counter-revolutionary terrorist team that was planning to enter Iran from its northwestern borders.
Several members of the “terrorist” team were killed and wounded in the operation, and their equipment was confiscated by the Guard, said the state TV.
The Guard warned that any action against the security and territorial integrity of Iran would be met with a decisive and firm response, it added.
The TV report did not elaborate on the exact location of the operation.
The province has borders with two countries, Turkiye and Iraq. The border with Turkiye is 550 kilometers (341 miles) long.
The area has seen occasional fighting between Iranian forces and Kurdish separatists as well as militants linked to the extremist Daesh group.
In 2022, Iran’s intelligence forces dismantled the biggest spy network affiliated with Israel that allegedly tried to hire thugs to carry out sabotage in the country.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2546756/middle-east
--------
Migrants in Turkiye fear being sent back to Syria
July 10, 2024
JEDDAH: Growing warmth in ties between Ankara and Damascus has raised fears among refugees in Turkiye that they will be deported back to Syria.
Syria has said normalization can come only after Turkiye pulls troops out of opposition-held areas of Syria, a condition Ankara has called unacceptable. Nevertheless, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan speaks increasingly of reconciliation and said at the weekend he would invite Syrian leader Bashar Assad “any time” to restore relations severed since 2011.
“There are fears that Erdogan will make a deal with Assad and send the Syrians back,” said Samir Alabdullah of the Harmoon Centre for Contemporary Studies in Istanbul. “There are also those who fear they will be stripped of their Turkish citizenship.”
Turkey hosts more than 3 million Syrian migrants, and resentment is growing.
Ahmad, 19, a Syrian student in the Eyupsultan district of Istanbul, said his family was considering selling their property because of anti-immigrant unrest. “They are scared even though they have Turkish citizenship,” he said.
In the city’s densely populated Sultanbeyli district, where many Syrian refugees live, attackers broke the windows of a Syrian-owned barber shop and chanted anti-immigrant slogans. A Syrian mother said her son, 8, now “wants to stay indoors because he believes people might do us harm.”
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2546741/middle-east
--------
UKMTO receives report of incident 40 nautical miles south of Yemen’s Al-Mukha
July 10, 2024
DUBAI: The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said on Wednesday it has received a report of an incident 40 nautical miles south of Yemen’s Al-Mukha.
UKMTO said that authorities are investigating the incident.
On Tuesday, an attack claimed by Yemen’s Houthi rebels targeted a ship in the Gulf of Aden, the latest assault on the crucial maritime trade route.
The captain of the ship reported an explosion in close proximity to the vessel off the coast of Nishtun, Yemen, close to the country’s border with Oman, UKMTO said.
The ship, whose name and flag were not released, and all crew are safe, the UKMTO said in a warning to mariners.
The explosion took place in the farthest reaches of the waterway earlier targeted by the rebels, the center said.
It did not elaborate on what caused the explosion, though the Houthis have been known to use drones and missiles as well as bomb-carrying drone boats.
Late Tuesday night, the Houthis issued a broad claim of responsibility for three attacks, although it remains unclear which of these attacks was reported by authorities. Since the latest assault, shipping or military authorities have not acknowledged any additional attacks in the region.
The last reported Houthi attack in the region took place June 28.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2546831/middle-east
--------
Airstrike kills 25 in southern Gaza as Israeli assault on Gaza City shuts down medical facilities
July 10, 2024
DEIR AL-BALAH: An Israeli airstrike on a school-turned-shelter in southern Gaza killed at least 25 Palestinians on Tuesday, as heavy bombardment in the north forced the closure of medical facilities in Gaza City and sent thousands fleeing in search of increasingly elusive refuge.
Israel’s new ground assault in Gaza’s largest city is its latest effort to battle Hamas militants regrouping in areas the army previously said had been largely cleared.
Large parts of Gaza City and urban areas around it have been flattened or left a shattered landscape after nine months of fighting. Much of the population fled earlier in the war, but several hundred thousand Palestinians remain in the north.
“The fighting has been intense,” said Hakeem Abdel-Bar, who fled Gaza City’s Tuffah district to the home of relatives in another part of the city. He said Israeli warplanes and drones were “striking anything moving” and that tanks had moved into central districts.
The strike at the entrance to the school killed at least 25 people, according to an Associated Press reporter who counted the bodies at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis. Hospital spokesperson Weam Fares said the dead included at least seven women and children and that the toll was likely to rise.
Earlier airstrikes in central Gaza killed at least 14 people, including a woman and four children, according to two hospitals that received the bodies. Israel has repeatedly struck what it says are militant targets across Gaza since the start of the war nine months ago.
The military blames civilian deaths on Hamas because the militants fight in dense, urban areas, but the army rarely comments on individual strikes, which often kill women and children. The Israeli army said the airstrike near the school and reports of civilian casualties were under review, and claimed the strike targeted a Hamas militant who took part in the Oct. 7 attack on Israel.
There was also no immediate word on casualties in Gaza City. Families whose relatives were wounded or trapped were calling for ambulances, but first responders could not reach most of the affected districts because of the Israeli operations, said Nebal Farsakh, a spokesperson for the Palestinian Red Crescent.
“It’s a dangerous zone,” she said.
After Israel on Monday called for an evacuation from eastern and central parts of Gaza City, staff at two hospitals — Al-Ahli and the Patients Friends Association Hospital — rushed to move patients and shut down, the United Nations said. Farsakh said all three medical facilities run by the Red Crescent in Gaza City had closed.
Scores of patients were transferred to the Indonesian Hospital in northern Gaza, which itself was the scene of heavy fighting earlier in the war. “We do not know where to go. There is no treatment and no necessities for life,” said Mohammad Abu Naser, who was being treated there. “We are dying slowly.”
The Israeli military said Tuesday that it told hospitals and other medical facilities in Gaza City they did not need to evacuate. But hospitals in Gaza have often shut down and moved patients at any sign of possible Israeli military action, fearing raids.
The Episcopal Church in the Middle East, which operates Al-Ahli, said the hospital was “compelled to close by the Israeli army” after the evacuation orders and a wave of nearby drone strikes on Sunday.
In the past nine months, Israeli troops have occupied at least eight hospitals, causing the deaths of patients and medical workers along with massive destruction to facilities and equipment. Israel has claimed Hamas uses hospitals for military purposes, though it has provided only limited evidence.
Only 13 of Gaza’s 36 hospitals are functioning, and those only partially, according to the United Nations’ humanitarian office.
Israel’s campaign in Gaza, triggered by Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack, has killed or wounded more than 5 percent of Gaza’s 2.3 million Palestinians, according to the territory’s Health Ministry. Nearly the entire population has been driven from their homes. Many have been displaced multiple times. Hundreds of thousands are packed into sweltering tent camps.
The UN humanitarian office said the exodus in Gaza City was “dangerously chaotic,” with people instructed to flee through neighborhoods where fighting was underway.
“People have been observed fleeing in multiple directions, not knowing which way may be safest,” the agency said in a statement. It said the largest UN bakery in the city was forced to close, and that the fighting had blocked aid groups from accessing warehouses.
Maha Mahfouz, a mother of two, said she fled twice in the past 24 hours. She first rushed from her home in Gaza City to a relative’s house in another neighborhood. When that became dangerous, she fled Monday night to Shati, a decades-old refugee camp that has grown into an urban district where Israel has carried out repeated raids.
She described vast destruction in the areas targeted in the latest raids. “The buildings were destroyed. The roads were destroyed. All has become rubble,” she said.
The Israeli military has said it had intelligence showing that militants from Hamas and the smaller Islamic Jihad group were regrouping in central Gaza City. Israel accuses Hamas and other militants of hiding among civilians. In Shijaiyah, a Gaza City neighborhood that has seen weeks of fighting, the military said it had destroyed 6 kilometers of Hamas tunnels.
Hamas has warned that the latest raids in Gaza City could lead to the collapse of negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage-release deal.
Israel and Hamas had appeared to narrow the gaps in recent days, with the US, Egypt and Qatar mediating.
CIA Director William Burns met Tuesday with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo to discuss the negotiations, El-Sisi’s office said. More talks were to be held Wednesday in Qatar, where Hamas maintains a political office.
But obstacles remain, even after Hamas agreed to relent on its key demand that Israel commit to ending the war as part of any agreement. Hamas still wants mediators to guarantee that negotiations conclude with a permanent ceasefire.
Israel has rejected any deal that would force it to end the war with Hamas intact. Hamas on Monday accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of “putting more obstacles in the way of negotiations,” including the operations in Gaza City.
Hamas’ cross-border raid on Oct. 7 killed 1,200 people in southern Israel, most of them civilians, according to Israeli authorities. The militants took roughly 250 people hostage. About 120 are still in captivity, with about a third said to be dead.
Israel’s bombardment and offensives in Gaza have killed more than 38,200 people and wounded more than 88,000, according to the territory’s Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between combatants and civilians in its count.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2546816/middle-east
--------
Arab World
Saudi FM calls for immediate ceasefire in Gaza at Gulf Research Meeting 2024
July 09, 2024
RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan called on Tuesday for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and “a renewed commitment to dialogue and negotiation guided by the principles of justice, equality, and mutual respect.”
Addressing the Gulf Research Meeting 2024 virtually, Prince Faisal said: “The ongoing violence and bloodshed in Gaza serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict and the urgent need for a durable solution that upholds the rights and dignity of all parties involved.”
He said the urgent need to find a pathway to the establishment of a viable and sovereign Palestinian state was central to the Kingdom’s vision for a just and peaceful world.
“In a world plagued by uncertainty and upheaval, the rules-based international order must stand as a bulwark against chaos and conflict, providing a framework for cooperation and peaceful coexistence among nations,” the foreign minister said.
“As we witness growing threats to this order, it is imperative that we reaffirm our commitment to upholding the principles of international law, mutual respect, and peaceful resolution of disputes,” Prince Faisal added.
He said the world must heed the warning signs of escalation and instability that threaten to engulf the region in turmoil.
“The spectre of conflict looms large, casting a dark shadow over our aspirations of prosperity and progress. It is incumbent upon us to exercise restraint, wisdom, and foresight in our actions, mindful of the consequences of reckless behaviour and brinkmanship.
“Saudi Arabia, guided by a vision of economic prosperity and collective benefit, has long been a steadfast proponent of regional stability and cooperation.
“We believe in the transformative power of partnership and dialogue, seeking to build bridges of understanding and solidarity that transcend boundaries and divisions,” he told the annual meeting being held at the University of Cambridge.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2546656/saudi-arabia
--------
Saudi FM receives phone call from newly appointed British counterpart
July 09, 2024
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan received a phone call from his new British counterpart David Lammy on Tuesday.
During the phone call, Prince Faisal congratulated Lammy on his new role after the Labour Party’s landslide election win last week.
The two ministers discussed strengthening Saudi-British relations and joint cooperation between the two countries.
They also discussed developments in the Gaza Strip, the situation in Lebanon, and the importance of reducing the intensity of escalation in the region.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2546596/saudi-arabia
--------
AlUla Unveils Ground-Breaking Study On Neolithic Settlements In Northwest Saudi Arabia
July 09, 2024
Riyadh: New archaeological evidence reshapes the understanding of Neolithic life in northwest Saudi Arabia, according to a study published in the journal Levant.
The research, conducted under the auspices of the Royal Commission for AlUla, reveals a more sophisticated society than previously imagined, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Jane McMahon from the University of Sydney, working with a research team as part of an RCU-supervised excavation project explained that they have uncovered a complex community that engaged in cattle herding, crafted jewelry, and participated in extensive trade networks. The strategic location of these settlements facilitated commerce with distant regions, including eastern Jordan and coastal areas along the Red Sea.
The research team has presented its latest conclusions and observations on archaeological investigations of structures known as standing stone circles. These dwellings consist of vertically placed stone slabs forming circles with diameters ranging from four to eight meters.
The study examined 431 standing stone circles at various sites in Harrat Uwayrid in AlUla, with 52 undergoing field surveys and 11 being excavated.
Researchers found that stone slabs, arranged in two concentric rows, likely served as foundations for wooden poles, possibly made of acacia. These poles would have supported the structure’s roof. At the center of each circular dwelling, a single stone slab appears to have anchored the main wooden column. This architectural feature suggests a sophisticated understanding of weight distribution and structural support among the ancient inhabitants. The discovery of various tools and animal remains at the site has led archaeologists to propose that dwelling roofs were fashioned from animal hides.
McMahon explained that “this research challenges hypotheses about how early northwest Arabian inhabitants lived.” She emphasized that these people were not merely simple pastoralists but had distinctive architecture, domesticated animals, jewelry, and diverse tools. Based on the number and size of stone circles, their population was likely substantial and much larger than previously thought.
Rebecca Foote, who heads archaeology and cultural heritage research at the RCU, has emphasized the significant impact of the commission’s archaeological initiatives. Under the RCU’s supervision, what is described as the world’s most comprehensive archaeological program has yielded crucial insights into the lives of Neolithic inhabitants in the region. Foote underscored the commission’s dedication to continued research efforts aimed at highlighting AlUla’s diverse cultural heritage and ongoing work towards establishing a globally recognized hub for archaeological studies.
Researchers examining animal bones from the Harrat Uwayrid site have uncovered evidence of a robust prehistoric economy. The findings indicate that the ancient inhabitants relied on a mix of domesticated animals like goats and sheep, and wild animals such as gazelles and birds for their livelihood. This diverse approach to animal exploitation likely provided the population with resilience in the face of environmental fluctuations.
Excavations have unearthed tools linked to animal husbandry, including implements for wool shearing and sheep slaughter.
Arrowheads discovered match types used in southern and eastern Jordan, indicating clear interaction between the regions.
Small perforated snail and seashells, likely used as decorative beads, were found at the sites. These shells correspond to those from the Red Sea, 120 km away, suggesting import from the coast during the Neolithic period.
Other artifacts include sandstone and limestone ornaments and bracelets, as well as a piece of red sandstone chalk, possibly used for drawing.
Researchers concluded that the study “greatly clarified the connected (yet distinct) nature of the Neolithic period in AlUla.”
The research team included experts from King Saud University, local AlUla residents like Youssef Al-Balawi who provided ethnographic and cultural insights, and students from the University of Hail.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2546546/saudi-arabia
--------
Saudi law graduates to benefit from specialist skills program
July 09, 2024
RIYADH: Outstanding Saudi law graduates will be receive intensive practical training from a team of specialist advisers as part of a second Future Adviser Program announced on Tuesday by the Center of Legal Studies and Research.
The 12-month program aims to qualify young legal talents, and develop their skills in legal and regulatory consultation, as well as legislative drafting.
Applicants for the program must be Saudi nationals, recent graduates from the years 2023-2024, and hold a bachelor’s degree in law with an academic GPA of no less than 3.75/5 or 2.75/4 or its equivalent.
They must be under 27, have no more than six months of practical experience after academic qualification, and should not be currently employed or enrolled in any study program.
Proficiency in English is also required, with a minimum score of 4.5 in IELTS, 70 in STEP, or 460 in TOEFL or its equivalent.
Benefits of the scheme include enrolment in training and personal and professional development programs, as well as a monthly stipend and medical insurance for the trainee and their family.
Applications for the program can be made via the center’s website from Monday, July 15 until July 29.
Initial applications that meet the criteria will be approved, followed by cognitive and legal ability tests. Applications will conclude with personal interviews, medical examinations, and official requirements.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2546601/saudi-arabia
--------
Over one million people visit Qur’an printing complex in Madinah during last year
July 09, 2024
RIYADH: Over one million people visited the King Fahd Glorious Qur’an Printing Complex in Madinah during the last Islamic year, Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.
1,019,494 visitors of multiple nationalities, including Hajj and Umrah pilgrims and tourists visited the complex between July 19, 2023 and July 6, 2024.
Visitors learned about the various stages of printing the holy Qur’an at the complex which produces 20 million copies annually.
The holy book is translated into 76 languages at the complex which has created special applications that enable Muslims to read the Qur’an and listen to reciters from various countries on smartphones.
The complex also produces audio versions of the holy book for people with hearing and visual disabilities.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2546406/saudi-arabia
--------
Verification of highly-skilled expats’ qualifications underway
July 09, 2024
RIYADH: The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has completed the first phase of its “Professional Verification” project, which is to determine the qualifications and experience of the country’s highly-skilled expatriate workers.
This initiative spans 128 countries and is being implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through a unified electronic platform, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.
The ministry aims to extend coverage to 160 countries worldwide for all professions, including engineering and health, in coordination with several government agencies.
The ministry aims to ensure that expatriate workers entering the Kingdom hold genuine academic qualifications and have the experience and skills required by the labor market.
The project targets highly-skilled professionals, with standards approved under the Unified Saudi Classification of Professions and the Unified Saudi Classification of Educational Levels and Specialties.
This verification process is fully automated, featuring streamlined procedures via the unified platform.
Through this service, the ministry seeks to regulate the labor market, improve services, and boost productivity.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2546161/saudi-arabia
--------
KSrelief supports vulnerable people in Sudan, Yemen and Jordan
July 09, 2024
RIYADH: The Kingdom’s aid agency KSrelief continues to support vulnerable people in Sudan, Yemen and Jordan, the Saudi Press Agency reported late Monday.
In Sudan’s Gezira state, KSrelief distributed 1,500 food parcels for 10,384 individuals, in the second phase of the agency’s food security project in the country.
KSrelief also distributed 900 personal care kits to Sudanese families in the capital Khartoum.
The initiative benefited 5,175 people as a part of a project to provide urgent shelter aid to Sudan this year.
And in Sinnar, the aid group distributed 1,010 shelter bags, benefiting 5,807 individuals in the rural area.
In Yemen, assistance was provided to families affected by a fire that recently ripped through the Maduda camp in the Hadhramaut region.
The support included tents and shelter kits, benefiting 11 families comprising 54 individuals.
Meanwhile, at the Zaatari refugee camp in Jordan, KSrelief provided a variety of health and training services for 1,400 Syrian refugees.
The health services included specialized clinics, while training courses ranged from electrical work and carpentry to sewing and even football refereeing.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2546131/saudi-arabia
--------
Southeast Asia
Al-Azhar Grand Imam Commends Indonesia's Unwavering Support for Palestine
10 July 2024
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif University, Ahmad Muhammad Ahmed Al Tayeb, commended Indonesia's unwavering support for peace and the end of Israeli aggression in Palestine's Gaza.
Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi spoke about Al-Tayeb praising Indonesia after accompanying President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) on his meeting with the prominent Sunni Muslim scholar at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta on Tuesday, July 9, 2024.
"The Grand Imam commended Indonesia's role in the Palestine issue," Retno Marsudi stated.
She affirmed that Indonesia is committed to playing its role in helping victims of Israeli aggression and calling for the fulfillment of the rights of Palestine and its people at international forums.
Indonesia is also actively advocating for the Palestinian interest in international organizations, such as the United Nations, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, she added.
During the two-hour meeting with Jokowi, Al-Tayeb lamented Israel's inhumane aggression in the Gaza Strip, which killed more than 38,000 Palestinians and had continued unabated in its ninth month, Marsudi noted.
"The Grand Imam highlighted the importance of unity among nations to achieve the immediate cessation of hostilities," she remarked.
She highlighted that Jokowi and Al-Tayeb are on the same page regarding the need for the international community to continue pushing for a lasting ceasefire and uninterrupted distribution of humanitarian aid to those in need.
"The Grand Imam seconded Mr. President's view on the need to immediately put an end to the war and achieve peace," she stated.
Al-Tayeb is embarking on a world tour for global peace in several Southeast Asian countries, including Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia.
Source: en.tempo.co
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://en.tempo.co/read/1889534/al-azhar-grand-imam-commends-indonesias-unwavering-support-for-palestine
--------
Presidential Election in the Islamic Republic of Mauritania
(Statement by Foreign Minister KAMIKAWA Yoko）
July 10, 2024
Following the Mauritanian presidential election held on June 29, the Constitutional Council of Mauritania announced on July 4 that Mr. Mohamed Ould CHEIKH EL GHAZOUANI, the incumbent candidate, has been elected.
Japan congratulates President GHAZOUANI on his re-election.
Japan reiterates its respect to Mauritania for its important role in peace and stability of the region and is confident that Mauritania’s social and economic development will further progress under the strong leadership of President GHAZOUANI.
Mauritania is the Chair of the African Union this year. Japan is committed to further strengthen friendly and cooperative relations between Japan and Mauritania, including cooperation through the TICAD process.
Source: mofa.go.jp
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.mofa.go.jp/press/release/pressite_000001_00416.html
--------
Daurah Hadis 40 2024: MOE’s initiative to enhance teachers’ appreciation
09-07- 2024
KANGAR: For the first time, the Ministry of Education (MOE) organised the national-level Daurah Hadis 40 Imam Nawawi 2024 programme, aiming to uphold Hadis teachings, enhance appreciation among teachers, and provide Muslim students with a reference for cultivating virtuous character.
The three-day programme, which began today, is being held in collaboration with various parties, including the Perlis State Mufti Department, the Perlis Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council, the Perlis State Islamic Religious Affairs Department and the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the programme aims to foster discussions and enhance the implementation of the Imam Nawawi 40 Hadis Appreciation Module introduced by the MOE.
According to her, the programme also aims to assist teachers in gaining a deeper appreciation and effectively teaching Muslim students about the module in their respective schools.
“This programme is essential for ensuring that students can fully appreciate and better understand Hadis 40...this daurah will feature a range of academic speakers,” she told a press conference after attending the event here.
Also present was Perlis mufti Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin.
Fadhlina said the programme is participated by school representatives who will serve as trainers, guiding the ustaz and ustazah in their respective schools to foster an appreciation of the hadis.
Meanwhile, Mohd Asri said the organisation of the daurah demonstrates the government’s commitment to listening to diverse viewpoints, which contributes to the effective appreciation of Imam Nawawi’s 40 hadis.
He believed that if the hadith appreciation programme succeeds and becomes an educational legacy, it will be one of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s greatest contributions to the country’s education sector.
“I would like to thank the Education Minister and the government for selecting Perlis as one of the places to discuss Hadis 40. I am confident that the MOE will continue this initiative in other states, allowing for a diversity of views that will enhance its effectiveness,” he said.
Meanwhile, the MOE, in a statement today, said that it has selected 44 schools to participate in a nationwide tour series to promote the hadis appreciation module.
These schools will act as references for implementing the hadis appreciation programme at the state level, it said.
“It will be implemented by incorporating innovation and best practices, as well as utilising digital technology to foster the appreciation of the hadis.
“The appreciation activities for Imam Al-Nawawi’s 40 Hadis are actively being implemented across all MOE educational institutions,” according to the statement.
According to the MOE, the implementation of the module is in line with the concept of human dignity, emphasising aspects such as manners, morals, humane values, and integrity in daily life.
“Its implementation also reflects the MOE’s strong commitment to upholding the teachings of Islam and, at the same time, producing human capital that is knowledgeable, faithful, righteous, and of noble character,” it said.
The Prime Minister during the Muzakarah Ulama-Umara held in conjunction with the Selangor Turath Islami Festival on May 25, 2023, said the government would republish the collection of 40 hadis compiled by Imam Nawawi and distribute it to all schools.
Source: thesun.my
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://thesun.my/local-news/daurah-hadis-402024-moe-s-initiative-to-enhance-teachers-appreciation-FE12700162
---------
Four S’poreans involved in gambling activities handed over to S’pore cops
09-07- 2024
JOHOR BAHRU: Four Singaporeans detained by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) for involvement in illegal gambling on July 1 here, were handed over to the Singapore Police Force (SPF) today.
Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said the four suspects aged 41 to 60 have prior criminal records in Singapore.
He said police also detained two local women aged 29 and 34, believed to be managing gambling transactions, as a result of information shared by the Singapore authorities.
“All six individuals were charged yesterday under Section 6(1) of the Betting Act 1953. They were fined and paid the fines,” he said, adding that they were handed over to SPF for further investigations.
He spoke to reporters during a joint media conference between PDRM and SPF at Bangunan Sultan Iskandar customs, immigration and quarantine complex, attended by SPF’s Acting Deputy Commissioner of Investigation and Intelligence concurrent Director of Criminal Investigation Department.
Mohd Shuhaily said investigations revealed that the six individuals were involved in an online 4D gambling syndicate and illegal betting on horse racing operating in Singapore including the players, and all bets were counted and recorded in Malaysia.
He said the syndicate used phone lines registered in Singapore and several websites to evade the authorities, including the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
Meanwhile, Zhang said SPF is working closely with PDRM at strategic and operational levels in tackling transnational organised crime groups who perpetuate crimes in Singapore.
He also thanked the Malaysian police for their help in the joint enforcement.
From June 30 until July 1, the authorities of both countries busted the operations of an organised crime group and arrested 43 individuals aged 34 and 82 believed to be involved in illegal gambling activities.
Singapore police also issued prohibition of disposal orders for seven properties with an estimated value of over SGD10.7 million (RM37.02 million), cash, jewellery, luxury watches and more than 40 bank accounts estimated to be worth nearly SGD4 million (RM13.84 million) seized during the operation.
Source: thesun.my
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://thesun.my/local-news/four-s-poreans-involved-in-gambling-activities-handed-over-to-s-pore-cops-NM12699994
--------
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/muslims-hindu-religious-selling-puja/d/132672