Nagpur violence: Police file sedition case against Fahim Khan, five others
New Age Islam News Bureau
21 March 2025
Fahim Khan
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· Nagpur violence: Police file sedition case against Fahim Khan, five others
· Fatwa committee in Malaysiaendorses Home Ministry’s ban of 12 books for detriment to Islam
· 10 terrorists killed in DI Khan IBO as army officer embraces martyrdom
· UN official bemoans ‘endless’ suffering in Gaza after renewed Israeli strikes
· How AI is transforming music discovery and production in Saudi Arabia
· Third mosque targeted in online Islamophobic threats
· Florida man sentenced for threatening to kill Muslims in Michigan
· Baba Adinni accuses stakeholders of fuelling crisis in Central Mosque
· Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan Releases American Prisoner in Humanitarian Gesture
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India
· Nagpur violence: Muslim leaders call for peace, blame police for inaction
· "Does He Think Muslims Know Only Jihad?" Omar Abdullah On Opposition Leader
· Resolution on Waqf Act sparks political firestorm
· Video: Is calling an Indian Muslim ‘Pakistani’ a criminal offence?
· Ex-MLA and BJP leader Faqeer Mohammad Khan dies by suicide in Srinagar
· India will become the country with the largest Hindu and Muslim populations in the world by 2050
· 'Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, PT Usha, Sudha Murthy': Political leaders feast together at IUML's Iftar amid Ramzan celebrations
· With focus on OBCs & Muslims, Cong appoints 133 dist, city chiefs
· Remembering Bismillah Khan, the sultan of shehnai
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Southeast Asia
· Two-term limit for PM: A short story — Hafiz Hassan
· Terengganu bans busking during last 10 nights of Ramadan
· Selangor Sultan Graces Opening Of Kampung Klang Gate Baru Mosque
· Malaysia’s aviation on solid foundation for expansion on back of ‘total regional recovery’ - PM Anwar
· Gobind calls for restraint amid Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman temple relocation talks
· Malaysia Aviation Group expands fleet with 30 new Boeing 737 aircraft, with option for 30 more
· Multi-storey school initiative to be introduced to address overcrowding - PM Anwar
· Businessman loses RM89,000 in survey equipment scam in Miri
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Pakistan
· FIA detains journalist Farhan Malick for alleged Peca law breaches
· No objection if court releases Imran Khan, says PM’s aide
· PTI steps up efforts to win over Fazlur Rehman for grand alliance
· Pakistan firm on March 31 deadline for foreigners’ exit
· Govt rules out fresh military offensive amid terror wave
· Protesters take away bodies from Quetta hospital morgue
· Govt, foreign donors reaffirm commitment to end polio
· Deputy speaker wraps up NA sitting over truancy of ministers
· FO rubbishes India’s ‘unwarranted assertions’, says it has no right to blame UNSC for Kashmir resolutions
· Residents block Karachi’s Mauripur Road against anti-encroachment operation
· Afghan FM calls for ‘gradual’ repatriation of Afghan refugees
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Mideast
· A month-old girl is pulled from the rubble in Gaza after an airstrike killed her parents
· UN’s inaction in face of crimes against Yemenis shameful, unjustifiable: Iran
· Iran to overcome ‘complexities’ of US policies: FM Araghchi
· Hamas calls on Arab, Islamic countries to take immediate action to stop Zionist genocide in Gaza
· Fight against disinformation to continue, says Turkish official
· Netanyahu government approves firing of Shin Bet head amid protests
· Israel’s president says worried over steps taken by Netanyahu’s government
· Qatar helps in release of US citizen from Taliban’s detention in Afghanistan
· Lebanon committed to regaining confidence of Arab countries: Aoun
· Israel says struck military sites in east, south Lebanon
· Houthi militant media reports fresh US strikes on Yemen
· Israel says it intercepted two missiles launched from Yemen
· EU leaders deplore breakdown of the ceasefire in Gaza
· Chief justice vows providing protection for investments
· Ibb holds seminars commemorating Imam Ali's martyrdom
· Sana'a district event honours battle of Badr, Imam Ali's martyrdom
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Arab World
· Ramadan’s spirit of giving reflected in SR1.4bn donation to Saudi housing campaign
· Initiative promotes Arabic language among international scholarship students
· Haram authority gears up to receive huge influx of worshipers during last 10 days of Ramadan
· ‘Walking Guide’ volunteer service introduced for Grand Mosque pilgrims
· KSrelief concludes open-heart surgery project in Yemen
· Eastern Province carries out health inspections
· KSrelief distributes 400 food baskets in South Africa
· Al-Najdi Mosque on Farasan Island undergoes phase two restoration in crown prince’s project
· Faith and festivity shape Ramadan’s final nights
· Saudi Arabia takes part in celebrations for International Day of Happiness
· Over 320 million phone calls made in Makkah and Madinah during first half of Ramadan
· Electronic booking required for golf carts at Grand Mosque starting 20 Ramadan
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Europe
· UK anti-Muslim activist 'Tommy Robinson' challenges jail segregation
· Zelensky tells Russia to drop 'unnecessary' demands ahead of peace talks
· Hungary refuses to support EU call to send more military aid to Ukraine
· Muslim lads leading Birmingham running revolution on an empty stomach during Ramadan
· Reassurance, not peacekeeping: What Ukraine coalition force will and won't do
· Finland named as happiest country for eighth year
· Thousands gather to mourn North Macedonia nightclub fire dead
· British Museum most visited UK attraction in 2024
· EU feeding Ukraine with ‘empty promises’ – Orban
· Ukraine attacks Russian gas pipeline – reports
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North America
· 'Fear is definitely present': Muslim students react to Trump campus detentions
· CAIR-NJ Responds to Release of Video in Imam Hassan Sharif’s Murder Investigation, Renewing Call for Justice
· Trump signs order to begin dismantling of US education department
· Carney to call snap election as Canada faces trade war with US - reports
· US court blocks deportation of Georgetown University researcher
· Tesla makes largest ever Cybertruck recall
· Tesla vandals face up to 20 years in prison, says attorney general
· Trump says judge in migrant deportations case is 'Grandstander'
· Two convicted in murder-for-hire plot of US-Iranian journalist
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Africa
· Islam religion of peace, says Ladoja
· Ramadan: Foundation launches ‘Iftar’ meal in five northern states
· How muslims write will
· Ramadan: Dangote foundation donates 25,000 bags of rice to Bauchi residents
· NYSC: Corps Members Will Start Receiving N77k This Month
· Abba to inaugurate Sanusi, three other Emirs in Kano after Ramadan
· Gunmen kill Miyetti Allah chairman, Adamu in Plateau
· Abuja National Mosque backs Nigeria’s open defecation-free goal
· Betta Edu Hosts Emir Of Kano, Others For Iftar In Calabar
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South Asia
· Kabul Meeting Marks a Step Toward Improved US-Islamic Emirate Ties
· Mawlavi Zakir Calls for Islamic World’s Involvement in Afghanistan’s Key Projects
· Solar year 1403: Another year in isolation for Afghanistan
· US welcomes interim govt steps for citizen safety
· Protest at DU over ‘obscene remarks’ on religion
· Government employees to enjoy 9-day Eid holiday
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/nagpur-violence-police-fahim-khan/d/134942
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Nagpur violence: Police file sedition case against Fahim Khan, five others
March 20, 2025
Fahim Khan
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The Nagpur Police have registered a sedition case against Fahim Khan, Police said, he was the mastermind of the March 17 violence, and five others. Khan has already been arrested and the court has sent him to judicial custody till March 20.
The Nagpur Cyber Crime Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Lohit Matani said, “A case of sedition has been registered against six persons, including Fahim Khan. Some people supported the violence against the police and praised it. The number may increase further. Some comments were made while supporting this attack, which further fuelled the riots. A case of sedition has been registered against the people who made such comments.“
He said that more than 300 social media accounts have been investigated in connection with the riots that broke out in Nagpur. Out of these, 140 accounts have been found to have objectionable posts and videos. He added that the process of registering a case against all of them is underway.
The DCP said the objectionable content was circulated from an account outside Nagpur. “Support for the riots has been expressed through some posts. This account is being investigated and it is also being looked into if they are from outside the country.
Along with this, the social media account of the main accused, Fahim Khan, has also been investigated. Objectionable content was found on his account and the cyber department has registered a case in this regard also,” he added.
He said that the police are probing to find out the Bangladesh angle to the Nagpur violence. “Just because someone wrote Bangladesh in a post does not mean that it is linked to Bangladesh. A thorough investigation will have to be done for that,” he remarked.
He also said that four FIRs have been filed so far in the Nagpur riots case, containing more than 50 allegations. More FIRs will be filed. Earlier, the office of the Additional Director General of Police, Maharashtra State Cyber Department a media release issued on Wednesday night said more than 140 instances of objectionable content across Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube have been identified and reported.
In response, notices under Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000 have been issued to facilitate the immediate takedown of such content.
Additionally, notices under Section 94 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 have been issued to uncover the real identities of the individuals operating these accounts. Strict legal action will be taken against those responsible for spreading such provocative content, he said. — IANS
Source:muslimmirror.com
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Fatwa committee in Malaysiaendorses Home Ministry’s ban of 12 books for detriment to Islam
21 Mar 2025
Muslims perform prayers at the Putra Mosque in Putrajaya on June 29, 2023. — Picture by Hari Anggara
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KUALA LUMPUR, March 21 — The 125th Meeting of the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI) Muzakarah Committee has agreed to a prohibition order to be issued by the Home Ministry against 12 books deemed harmful to the Muslims in the country.
The 12 titles are The Goal of The Wise by Abdullah Hashem Aba al-Sadiq (2022); Memahami dan Menyingkapi Tradisi Tuhan – Kebangkitan yang Dibenci tapi Dirindui by Ahmad Mesiyyakh (2022); Manusia Sebelum Adam by Luqmanul Hakim Abdul Razak (2023); Suhuf Abraham (without author and year of publication); Suka Duka Perjalanan Dhul Qarnain (without author and year of publication); and Islam, Autoritarianisme dan Kemunduran Bangsa by Ahmet T. Kuru (2024).
Perikatan Ulama Negara Punca Autoritatianisme dan Kemunduran Dunia Muslim by Ahmet T. Kuru (2022); Golongan Muslim Pertama, Sejarah dan Memori by Asma Afsaruddin (2018); Jalan Kebenaran Universal (without author and year of publication); Duhai Hati – Menarilah Bersamaku by Ismail Ariffin @ Lepat (2023); Kaidah Moral dan Disiplin (without author and year of publication); and Penemuan Terbaru Akidah Bersanad Imam AI-Shafi’I by Sadr al-Din Abu al-Wafa’ Sulayman bin Yusuf al-Tasufi (2024).
“All 12 books presented contain teachings and ideologies that are contrary to the beliefs of Ahl Sunnah Wal Jamaah (AI-Asya’irah AI- Maturidiyyah), Syariah laws and morals, which can also confuse the Muslims.
“Therefore, the books in question should be banned,” MKI Muzakarah Committee chairman Datuk Dr Nooh Gadot said in a statement today.
Nooh also reminded all Muslims that it is prohibited to own, print, sell, as well as share any parts of the content of the books.
The decision was made at the MKI Muzakarah Committee meeting which took place from Sept 24 to 26 last year to discuss the decision of the 96th Islamic Media Advisory Committee (JPMBI) Meeting. — Bernama
Source:malaymail.com
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10 terrorists killed in DI Khan IBO as army officer embraces martyrdom
By Zarmeen Zehra
March 21, 2025
Martyred army officer, Captain Hasnain Akhtar. — ISPR/File
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RAWALPINDI: Security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Dera Ismail Khan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and neutralised at least ten terrorists, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Thursday.
A statement from the military’s media wing said security forces conducted an operation based on the reported presence of terrorists on March 20, 2025.
"During the conduct of the operation, own troops, after stealthily surrounding the khwarij location, effectively engaged them and resultantly all ten khwarij were sent to hell," the ISPR said.
It also said that during the intense fire exchange, Captain Hasnain Akhtar, who was leading his troops from the front, having fought gallantly, paid the ultimate sacrifice and embraced Shahadat.
The 24-year-old martyred army officer was a resident of the Jhelum district.
Captain Husnain was a brave officer and renowned for his courage and bold and daring actions during previous operations.
"During the operation, weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the killed khwarij, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities against the Law Enforcement Agencies as well as target killing of innocent civilians," the statement said.
It further said that a sanitization operation is being conducted to eliminate any other Kharji found in the area, as the security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country and such sacrifices of our brave young officers further strengthen our resolve.
The country has been reeling under increased terrorist attacks targeting especially the law enforcers and security forces since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan in 2021, particularly in the bordering provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
The country witnessed a sharp increase in terror attacks in January 2025, surging by 42% compared to the previous month, according to data released by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), a think tank.
The data revealed that at least 74 militant attacks were recorded nationwide, resulting in 91 fatalities, including 35 security personnel, 20 civilians, and 36 militants. Another 117 individuals sustained injuries, including 53 security forces personnel, 54 civilians, and 10 militants.
KP remained the worst-affected province, followed by Balochistan. In KP's settled districts, militants carried out 27 attacks, resulting in 19 fatalities, including 11 security personnel, six civilians, and two militants.
The tribal districts of KP (erstwhile Fata) witnessed 19 attacks, leading to 46 deaths, including 13 security personnel, eight civilians, and 25 militants.
Source:thenews.com.pk
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UN official bemoans ‘endless’ suffering in Gaza after renewed Israeli strikes
March 21, 2025
The bodies of victims of an Israeli army airstrike are prepared for burial on March 19, 2025, at Indonesia Hospital in Beit Lahia, northern Gaza Strip. AP)
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JERUSALEM: The head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) said Thursday there were fears “the worst is yet to come” in Gaza, denouncing “endless” suffering after Israel renewed deadly air and ground operations.
“Israeli Forces bombardment continues from air & sea for the third day,” Philippe Lazzarini wrote on X.
“We are fearing that the worst is yet to come given the ongoing ground invasion separating the north from the south.”
Israel announced renewed ground operations in Gaza on Wednesday and issued what it called a “last warning” to residents of the territory to return hostages and remove Hamas from power.
Heavy air strikes began pounding Gaza early on Tuesday, killing at least 504 people including more than 190 children, according to the civil defense agency in the Hamas-run territory.
Gaza rescuers said at least 10 more people were killed in a pre-dawn bombing near Khan Yunis on Thursday.
“Under our daily watch, people in Gaza are again & again going through their worst nightmare,” Lazzarini wrote, condemning an “endless unleashing of the most inhumane ordeals.”
The Israeli army said on Thursday it had banned traffic on the Palestinian territory’s main north-to-south artery.
“Evacuation orders forcing people to flee were issued impacting tens of thousands of people,” Lazzarini said, adding that “the vast majority have been already displaced, treated like ‘pinballs’ since the war began nearly 1.5 years ago.”
Israel’s renewed offensive shattered a relative calm in Gaza that had pervaded since a fragile truce took hold in mid-January.
The UNRWA chief also decried Israel’s blockade on humanitarian aid entering Gaza which has been in place since early March.
“No time left, we need now: a renewal of the ceasefire, a dignified release of all the hostages in Gaza, an unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid & commercial supplies,” he said.
The first stage of the Gaza ceasefire, which largely halted more than 15 months of fighting, expired early this month amid deadlock over next steps.
Israel rejected negotiations for a promised second stage, calling instead for the return of all of its remaining hostages under an extended first stage.
That would have meant delaying talks on a lasting ceasefire, and was rejected by Hamas as an attempt to renegotiate the original deal.
Source:arabnews.com
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How AI is transforming music discovery and production in Saudi Arabia
JASMINE BAGER & HAJAR ALQUSAYER
March 20, 2025
A robot plays the piano at the Apsara Conference, a cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) conference, in Hangzhou, in China's eastern Zhejiang province on October 19, 2021. (AFP file)
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RIYADH: As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, its influence in Saudi Arabia and globally extends far beyond personalizing music experiences. It is reshaping how music is created, consumed, and taught, revolutionizing the industry.
Musicians across the Kingdom are embracing new technology, with major local initiatives such as MDLBEAST Records leading the charge.
“MDLBEAST Records believes AI is a powerful tool for sparking initial creative inspiration in music production — whether generating a first beat, a musical bar, or a legitimate sample,” Matthew Dicks, executive director of music and talent at MDLBEAST Records, told Arab News.
“We encourage our artists to explore these possibilities within a framework of creative freedom.”
Launched in 2020, MDLBEAST Records is a Saudi Arabia label that promotes and develops talent from the Middle East and North Africa region.
Part of MDLBEAST entertainment, its roster includes local stars Cosmicat and Dish Dash, among others, along with international names including Salvatore Ganacci.
While embracing AI’s creative potential, he emphasized the importance of ethics. “We also recognize the ethical complexities surrounding AI in music,” said Dicks. “It is paramount that the rights of original songwriters and rights holders are always respected.
“Copying, ripping, replicating, or infringing on intellectual property is strictly unacceptable. We are committed to navigating the evolving landscape of AI in music responsibly, ensuring its use enhances human creativity while upholding the integrity of artistic ownership.”
Beyond MDLBEAST Records, Saudi Arabia is making strides in preserving its musical heritage while fostering innovation. In late 2024, the Saudi Music Commission launched MusiqAI, an initiative integrating AI-driven interactive learning to teach both Arab and Western instruments.
Unlike global platforms such as Suno, AIVA and Soundful, MusiqAI prioritizes Saudi sounds and Arab musical heritage, offering lessons on traditional instruments including the oud and qanun alongside the piano and guitar.
In line with Vision 2030, the platform nurtures musical talent through AI-powered real-time feedback, personalized lesson plans, and accredited certifications.
By blending cultural preservation with advanced technology, it aims to set a new standard for digital music education both regionally and globally.
AI has also been used to enhance music discovery by adapting to individual preferences in real time, striking a balance between familiarity and exploration.
“AI and personalization help you listen to more of what you like,” Akshat Harbola, managing director of Spotify MENA, told Arab News. “And then what we try to do is introduce you to something you haven’t been exposed to in the past, but you might like it.”
As generative AI advances, the cost of developing innovative listening experiences is falling — a shift that Harbola believes is transformative for the industry.
“If we were to try to do something like this maybe five years back, it would be impossible because the cost would be so high,” he said. “You would have had to hire transcribers, producers, and you just wouldn’t be able to do it.
“But now we are able to deliver these personalized sessions to millions of users.”
Despite AI’s growing influence, Harbola said human expertise will remain essential. “The role of humans in AI, and when it comes to personalization, is actually going to increase over time — especially in music,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of cultural nuances in AI-driven recommendations, noting that even shared musical tastes can differ by location.
“Even if you have the same music taste, what makes sense for somebody in Jeddah may not make sense for somebody in Sao Paulo,” he said. “So it’s very important that human and cultural expertise is built into what the machines are recommending and the products we’re rolling out.”
Nevertheless, as AI continues to reshape the music industry, ethical concerns surrounding copyright and artistic integrity remain a significant topic of debate among musicians and creators.
Addressing these concerns, Harbola emphasized the platform’s strict stance on copyright compliance. “We are very clear that any content that infringes copyright cannot be on Spotify,” he said.
Siddiq “Sidney” Malik, a filmmaker and user of AI in music, echoed this sentiment. “We’re at the intersection of creativity and technology,” he told Arab News. “We’re sort of working to adapt the future of entertainment while we’re actively shaping it.”
Malik views AI as an empowering tool that is cost-effective, innovative, and cutting-edge, particularly in breaking linguistic barriers. “This allows for a new era of accessibility and artistic expression,” he said. “It’s more than just a basic tool.”
Malik said it is not just about typing a prompt into a platform like ChatGPT — it is about creating an entire ecosystem.
“We’re deeply invested in the transformative power of AI music, but the key thing is that we believe it’s not about replacing human creativity — it’s about amplifying it,” he said.
However, he warned that musicians who resist AI adoption could later face competition from advanced tools. “It’s a critical moment for creators whereby if they do not embrace and collaborate with AI, they run the risk of competing with AI — which will be impossible.”
Drawing parallels to shifts in the film industry, Malik noted how creatives have adapted before and must do so again to embrace AI’s possibilities.
“I think we have had these shifts — analog to digital to virtual and now artificial,” he said. “AI gives artists the power to be the masters of their own destiny, which is very important in the music industry.”
Riyadh-based musician Lun encapsulates the cautious yet curious approach many artists are taking toward the rapidly evolving music landscape shaped by AI.
“I have not used AI before in my own music because I never thought I needed to. But as a tool, it can be of help,” he told Arab News.
While intrigued by AI’s potential, Lun highlighted ethical concerns that remain central to discussions across the industry.
“If an artist uses it to help with something they’re stuck on — to compile ideas so they can come up with an original part on their own — then I don’t see any harm in it,” he said.
“But if they use the tool to write the entire thing from A to Z, then I think we have a problem because it is no longer the artist who composed it, regardless of how they spin it.
Source:arabnews.com
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Third mosque targeted in online Islamophobic threats
Mar 21, 2025
A day after a mosque was threatened with a reference to a bloody terrorist attack, a nearby place of worship has also become a target of online hate.
NSW Premier Chris Minns has promised to apply the full force of the law to tackle the “odious racism”, dismissing suggestions officials have been slow to react to concerns from the Muslim community.
Police said on Friday that a mosque at Padstow, in south-west Sydney, had been the target of online hate.
The day before, a user made a comment referring to the notorious Christchurch terror attack, on a social media post from the Lakemba Mosque.
Investigators believe the incidents might be linked.
Lakemba Mosque was the second to be targeted with an online comment invoking an Australian’s 2019 terrorist assault in New Zealand that left 51 worshippers dead.
A Perth teenager was recently charged over an earlier incident, in which he allegedly threatened to “Christchurch 2.0” the Australian Islamic House, also in south-west Sydney.
Minns said he was appalled when the latest taunt came to light.
“I can only imagine what members of Muslim communities are going through who are in the middle of Ramadan, maybe celebrating iftar … the last thing they need to do is deal with this kind of odious racism,” he said on Friday.
But he rejected accusations his government had been indecisive in tackling hatred towards Muslims, despite moving quickly to introduce legal changes after a spate of antisemitic incidents.
“If you look at the track record of both the government and NSW Police, where there’s been these threats, actions have taken place, arrests have been made, charges have been laid against those individuals,” Minns said.
Laws rushed through state parliament in February have been criticised for singling out race-based hate speech but failing to extend the same protections to religious communities.
“Sometimes the government’s legislation is being characterised as only applying to one community, as if it’s only there to protect one community … it applies to every community,” Minns said.
Many of the antisemitic incidents, including the discovery of an explosives-laden caravan with references to Jewish sites, were later revealed to have been orchestrated by organised criminals to further their own ends, rather than for ideological reasons.
Gamel Kheir, secretary of the Lebanese Muslim Association, which is the custodian of the Lakemba mosque, said the community was experiencing “a sense of heightened alarm”.
“The Christchurch tragedy rings in our ears as it is and the community really is on edge over [the conflict in] Gaza … their nerves are frayed,” he said.
Source:thenewdaily.com.au
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Florida man sentenced for threatening to kill Muslims in Michigan
Mar. 20, 2025
DETROIT, MI – A Florida man was sentenced to 18 months behind bars for threatening to kill Muslims in Michigan.
Michael Shapiro, 73, was sentenced to prison on Thursday, March 20, for making death threats against members of the Council on American-Islamic Relations Michigan Chapter in 2023, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced.
Court documents show Shapiro, of West Palm Beach, Florida, made three separate phone calls to the Michigan chapter, located in Canton, according to the release. The voicemails contained the following threats:
Dec. 8, 2023: “I’m going to kill you bastards. I’m going to kill you bastards.”
Dec. 14, 2023: ““I’m going to kill you mother f*****g bastards. Muslims! I’m going to kill you mother f*****s. I’m going to kill you! I’m going to kill you! I’m going to kill you!”
Dec. 15, 2023: “You’re a violent people. Why do you come to America? Why do you come to Europe? Mother f*****s. You’re violent. You’re killers. You’re rapists. I’m going to kill you mother f*****s!”
Shapiro pleaded guilty to transmitting a threat in interstate commerce on Dec. 3, 2024, according to the U.S. attorney’s office.
The Florida man also admitted to prosecutors that he intentionally chose to threaten the Council on American-Islamic Relations because of the religion and national origin of the people who are associated with the group.
Source:mlive.com
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Baba Adinni accuses stakeholders of fuelling crisis in Central Mosque
March 21, 2025
The Baba Adinni of Lagos, Alhaji Sikiru Alabi-Macfoy, has accused some elderstatemen in the state of fuelling crisis in the Lagos Central Mosque.
Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy said since he defeated the candidate they presented to emerge the Baba Adinni of Lagos, they had vowed not to recognize him and make the mosque administration ungovernable for him.
He added that several moves made by the elderstatemen to remove him as the Baba Adinni of Lagos were unsuccessful.
Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy accused them of dragging him to various police stations on fictitious allegations.
He said: “Today (yesterday), I was at the State Criminal Investigation Department, (SCID), Panti, to honour their invitation. On getting there, I was accused of disrupting Ramadan Lecture organized by the Chief Imam of Lagos, Sheikh Sulaiman Abou-Nolla at the Central Mosque. I told the officer that I wasn’t at the Central Mosque when the event was held. How will I disrupt such an event? Apparently acting under instruction, my explanation fell on the police deaf ears and they decided to charge me to court.
The Nation learnt that the court granted Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy a bail after pleading not guilty to the charge.
The matter was adjourned till April 16th.
Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy described the series of activities happening since his emergence as the Baba Adinni of Lagos as unfortunate and laughable.
“I’m a peace-loving person; I have been one of the longest serving administrators of the Lagos Central Mosque with unblemished records. I will continue to maintain peace with the aggrieved stakeholders,” he said.
Source:thenationonlineng.net
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Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan Releases American Prisoner in Humanitarian Gesture
2025-03-21
KABUL(BNA): The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan announced the release of American prisoner George Gleizman today, Thursday describing the act as a humanitarian gesture. This release underscores the Islamic Emirate’s intention to foster goodwill and engage in dialogue, mainly with the United States.
The U.S. State Department welcomed the decision, emphasizing that it reflects a commitment to building mutual respect and understanding between the two nations. Officials noted that this step is a positive sign of the Islamic Emirate’s willingness to engage with all parties involved.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate expressed gratitude to the United Arab Emirates and Qatar for their instrumental roles in facilitating the negotiations that led to Gleizman’s release.
Source:bakhtarnews.af
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India
Nagpur violence: Muslim leaders call for peace, blame police for inaction
21.03.25
Members of the Muslim community in Nagpur have condemned the violence in Vidarbha’s largest city earlier this week and sought an impartial probe into it, claiming that timely action by police could have prevented it.
Addressing a press conference on Thursday, they said Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis should meet representatives of both communities in a bid to establish peace.
Large-scale stone pelting and arson were reported in several parts of Nagpur on Monday evening after rumours began circulating about a ‘chadar' with holy inscriptions being burnt during protests led by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) seeking the removal of Aurangzeb's tomb.
“Efforts are being made to provoke the Muslim community through various means in the last two to three years. A minister has been continuously raising the topic of Aurangzeb. The Muslim community has no connection to Aurangzeb and has remained calm,” Dr Mohammad Awes Hasan said at the press conference.
He alleged that right-wing outfits burnt a ‘chadar’ with Islamic verses on it which prompted members of the Muslim community to approach the police demanding action against them. However, when police did not take any step, some of them became agitated, he said.
A few of those who spoke at the press conference appreciated the efforts made by the police to restore normalcy but alleged that some innocent persons had been arrested as part of the probe into the violence.
Meanwhile, Maharashtra State Minorities Commission chief Pyare Khan held a meeting on Thursday, which was attended by the police commissioner and district collector, among others.
No action should be taken against innocent persons, he urged police.
He also asked the administration to relax curfew in Mominpura and nearby localities as Ramzan is underway and business was being affected.
Thirty-three police personnel, including three DCP rank officers, were injured in Monday's violence.
Police have booked Fahim Khan, the key accused in the violence, and five others on charges of sedition and spreading misinformation on social media, as per police. Curfew was lifted or relaxed in parts of the city three days after the violence.
Source:telegraphindia.com
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"Does He Think Muslims Know Only Jihad?" Omar Abdullah On Opposition Leader
Mar 20, 2025
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has sharply criticised Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma.
Speaking to the media in Jammu on Thursday, Omar Abdullah remarked, "He uses the word 'jihad' in everything. He gets angry when some other member talks about his religion. Is he trying to prove that Muslims don't know anything except 'jihad'? This is wrong."
The Chief Minister's comments came shortly after he addressed the demise of Gurez leader Faqir Mohammad Khan, a former BJP MLA who allegedly took his own life.
Omar Abdullah expressed his condolences, stating, "He broke the cupboard and used the gun of his PSO. I convey my deep condolence to the family members of the deceased."
Earlier on Thursday, LoP Sunil Sharma accused National Conference (NC) leader Omar Abdullah and his party of promoting "two-nation theory" and opposing the right of outsiders to buy land in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking on the issue, Mr Sharma questioned the Opposition from NC and Congress, asserting that land ownership should be equal for all Indians.
"If a Kashmiri can buy land in Maharashtra, why can't a Maharashtrian buy land in Kashmir? If Kashmiri can buy land in Haryana, why can't the people of Haryana buy land in Jammu and Kashmir? India is unbreakable. It was treated as a state within a state. The National Conference had embraced the idea of the two-nation theory--Jinnah's theory. There is one Constitution, one sign, and one identity, as per the slogan of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee. This will not happen," he said.
Targeting the NC, Mr Sharma further stated, "Are you looking for a different status based on your religion over here? Should the entire Constitution of India not be implemented here just because there is a Muslim majority? We will not let this happen."
This development come after Chief Minister claimed land crises in Kashmir citing population concerns.
Source:ndtv.com
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Resolution on Waqf Act sparks political firestorm
Mar 20, 2025
Bengaluru: Opposition BJP lashed out at the govt over the resolution against the Centre's proposed amendments to the Waqf Act, accusing it of appeasement politics and triggering a political slugfest with Congress defending the move. BJP accused the govt of shielding "illegal encroachments and land grabbers", but the govt said the decision is aimed at "protecting Karnataka's rights".
BJP state president BY Vijayendra alleged the resolution is an attempt to cover up corruption. "Chief minister Siddaramaiah wants to protect land grabbers and the land mafia, who have looted farmers in the name of the Waqf Board," he said.
He accused Congress functionaries of being involved in the "waqf scam" and vowed BJP would "expose them". "Several Congress functionaries have misused the Waqf Act," he said. "Under the guise of the Waqf Board, a gang of Congress politicians is set to illegally acquire properties worth thousands of crores, and the govt is shielding them — there is no doubt about it."
On the issue of reservation, Vijayendra said, "Mandating 4% reservation for Muslims in govt contracts is very unfortunate. Doesn't the CM see people in the Hindu community? Why this appeasement politics? The state's law and order situation is deteriorating by the day due to this appeasement. BJP will take to the streets on issues of waqf and reservation for Muslims."
However, health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao shrugged off the remarks as an attempt to target minorities. "BJP is using every possible means to discriminate against and harass minorities. This is blatant and deliberate," Rao said.
He said the state govt had every right to oppose the Centre's amendments. "The Waqf Act allows decisions to be made at the state level, but the central govt is now taking away these powers. This is not correct. So, we have expressed serious reservations on the issue," he said.
Medical education minister Sharan Prakash Patil also criticised the Centre, stating that its proposed legislation "deliberately targets minorities" and is aimed at creating mistrust among people.
BJP also took aim at the govt for hiking electricity tariffs, accusing it of burdening citizens while focusing on appeasement politics. "Ever since Congress formed the govt, its only contribution to the people has been inflation. That is the only guarantee they have implemented," Vijayendra said.
The first-time MLA also claimed that while the govt promises free electricity, it is increasing tariffs, impacting farmers and businesses. "Farmers are facing a crisis as the govt cannot ensure seven-hour supply of three-phase power," he said.
But Congress functionaries defended the govt, stating that 85% of consumers would not be affected since they receive free electricity under the Gruha Jyothi scheme. "BJP lacks common sense. More than 85% of consumers fall under the free power scheme, yet they are speaking on behalf of the rich who own industries," Sharan Patil said.
Source:indiatimes.com
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Video: Is calling an Indian Muslim ‘Pakistani’ a criminal offence?
Vineet Bhalla & Kritika Pant
Mar 21, 2025
The term "Pakistani" is often used as a communal slur to target Muslims in India.
However, is it illegal?
In February, the Supreme Court ruled that calling someone “Pakistani” in private may be in poor taste but does not amount to the offence of hurting religious sentiments.
However, on March 7, a Delhi court held that Bharatiya Janata Party leader Kapil Mishra’s statements referring to people protesting against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act as “Pakistanis” “appear[ed] to be a brazen attempt to promote enmity on the grounds of religion”.
A real hurt
Legal experts argue that calling an Indian Muslim a "Pakistani" carries significant implications.
"It is a way of saying that Muslims don’t belong in India. The implication, therefore, is not only that you’re a traitor who does not have the interest of India at heart, but that you can never be Indian," said Prateek Chadha, a Delhi-based Advocate on Record at the Supreme Court.
This suggests that the slur could indeed be considered an offence under Indian law.
"Given the geopolitical history of tension between Indian and Pakistani national identities, calling Indian Muslims 'Pakistani' could be seen as suggesting they do not 'bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India as by law established or uphold the sovereignty and integrity of India'," explained Sumit Baudh, a professor and executive director at the Centre on Public Law and Jurisprudence at OP Jindal Global University.
Despite being a widespread slur, there have been no convictions for using it against Indian Muslims. In 2022, a Muslim government official from Jharkhand filed a case after being called a "Pakistani,"but the Supreme Court dismissed his complaint, and ruled that while it may be in poor taste, the word Pakistani does not amount to hurting religious sentiments.
So, what is the solution?
Experts suggest that a strong cultural, political, and social response is necessary to address the issue.
“Because such prejudice about national loyalty and belonging builds up slowly, over time, you can't throw somebody in jail for simply calling somebody else a ‘Pakistani’,” said Shah Rukh Alam, a Delhi-based lawyer. “This is not a law and order problem alone but that of an individual or group being targeted or discriminated against. It must not be treated as a criminal law problem, but as a constitutional problem,” she added.
Source:scroll.in
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Ex-MLA and BJP leader Faqeer Mohammad Khan dies by suicide in Srinagar
Fayaz Wani
20 Mar 2025
SRINAGAR: Former legislator and BJP leader Faqeer Mohammad Khan allegedly died by suicide on Thursday, shooting himself in his government quarters in Tulsi Bagh, Srinagar.
Khan, who had contested the 2024 Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections from Gurez on a BJP ticket, was found dead at the residence. The reason behind his extreme step remains unknown.
A former independent MLA, Khan was elected to the J&K Assembly in 1996. He later joined the BJP ahead of the 2024 polls and contested the elections but lost to NC’s Nazir Ahmed Gurezi.
Expressing grief over his demise, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said, "Deeply saddened by the passing of former legislator Faqeer Mohd Khan. He was a true grassroots leader. My heartfelt condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace."
The J&K Assembly also observed a two-minute silence in his honour.
Source:newindianexpress.com
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India will become the country with the largest Hindu and Muslim populations in the world by 2050
March 20, 2025
New Delhi: India will become the country with the largest Hindu and Muslim populations in the world by 2050. According to the report by the Pew Research Center, India’s Muslim population is growing rapidly and will be significantly higher by 2050 compared to the present time. The report further adds that India will remain the largest center of Hinduism, but at the same time, it will also have the highest Muslim population compared to any other country. However, India will continue to be a multicultural and multi-religious nation where followers of various religions will be able to live in peace.
It is important to note that India is the primary hub for the majority of the world’s Hindus. In 2010, 94% of the global Hindu population resided in India, and this trend is expected to continue until 2050. It is estimated that by 2050, India will have 1.3 billion Hindus.
Meanwhile, India’s Muslim population is projected to reach 311 million (31.1 crore) by 2050, accounting for about 11 percent of the global Muslim population. This will make India the country with the largest Muslim population in the world, whereas currently, Indonesia has the highest number of Muslims.
Here are some of the key details:
In India, the Muslim population is expected to grow faster than the Hindu population
This is primarily due to their lower median age and higher fertility rate.
In 2010, the average age of Indian Muslims was 22 years, compared to 26 years for Hindus and 28 years for Christians.
The fertility rate among Muslim women was 3.2 children per woman on average, while it was 2.5 among Hindu women and 2.3 among Christian women.
Due to these factors, the Muslim population in India is projected to increase from 14.4% in 2010 to 18.4% by 2050.
Hindus will still make up more than three-quarters (76.7%) of India’s population in 2050.
By that time, the number of Hindus in India will be greater than the total Muslim population of the world’s five largest Muslim-majority countries (India, Pakistan, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Bangladesh) combined.
India also has several small religious minority communities. In 2010, Christians made up approximately 2.5 percent of the country’s total population. By 2050, the Christian population in India is expected to decline to 2.2 percent. However, the report also states that religious diversity in India will persist, and the presence of all communities will continue to strengthen the country’s cultural identity.
Source:india.com
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'Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, PT Usha, Sudha Murthy': Political leaders feast together at IUML's Iftar amid Ramzan celebrations
Mar 21, 2025
NEW DELHI: The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) organised an Iftar gathering in the national capital on Thursday, attended by leaders from different political parties.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, and Congress parliamentary party chairperson Sonia Gandhi were among those in the Iftar party.
Speaking on the occasion, Tharoor reaffirmed IUML's position as a key ally of the Congress.
"The Indian Union Muslim League are our allies and they have got a very strong presence here through Parliament in the Upper and the Lower house. Their senior leaders have come from Kerala and the national IUML establishment. We are delighted to be here to participate in this event and wish the IUML all the very best for Ramzan. May everyone have a blessed Ramzan," Tharoor said.
Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav and SP Member of Parliament Jaya Bachchan were amongst the prominent dignitaries who participated in the occasion.
Extending her wishes, Indian Olympic Association President PT Usha expressed gratitude for being invited. "I am happy that they invited me. I am happy to celebrate with them," she said.
Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murthy conveyed her best wishes, stating, "I wish a very happy, peaceful Ramzan. We all should enjoy every festival."
Shama Mohamed, a prominent figure in the Congress party, emphasised the importance of the assembly.
"Ramzan is a holy month and today is a great day as the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has organised a fantastic Iftar where people from across the parties have come here. Iftar is about peace, love," she said.
AAP leader Sanjay Singh also extended greetings, stating, "Today, this Iftar party is being organised by IUML. I wish Ramzan Mubarak to the people of their party and all those who are here today and I appeal to everyone to pray for peace, tranquility and prosperity in the country."
Former Union Minister M Shankar Aiyar made his way to the Pakistan High Commission to join the Iftar celebration.
Ramzan, occurring in the ninth month of the Hijri calendar, holds the highest religious significance in Islam. Muslims practise Roza, a fundamental pillar of their faith, which involves fasting from sunrise to sunset throughout this sacred period. This religious observance emphasises dedication, self-discipline and spiritual reflection.
Source:indiatimes.com
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With focus on OBCs & Muslims, Cong appoints 133 dist, city chiefs
Mar 21, 2025
Lucknow: As part of the exercise to strengthen its district level organisational structure in Uttar Pradesh, the Congress appointed 133 district and city presidents on Thursday with focus on OBCs and Muslims.
Of the total appointees, 35 are OBCs, 30 Muslims, 29 Brahmins. Other castes in the list are Dalits (15), Thakurs (12), Baniyas (7), Kayastha and tribals (two each) and Sikh (one). Six women also found a place in the organisational set up.
Sources said the appointments were a part of a larger exercise to rejuvenate the organisation with greater power and mandate to make districts the hub of campaign and decisions of the party.
Sources added that the organisational rejig had been discussed in the Congress Working Committee recently in the presence of party leadership including Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and senior functionaries of UP Congress.
The list was finalised after a series of interactions between the key contenders from each district and a panel appointed by the party brass.
Led by AICC in-charge for UP, Avinash Pande, the panel held deliberations in the state capital for a week before submitting its recommendations to the leadersip.
UP has 75 districts and party has ensured a district and a city chief in each of them. Prayagraj is the only exception that will have three representatives – one each in Gangapar, Yamunapar and city areas.
Lucknow will have three functionaries but the unit will remain divided into city and district sections. While district unit would be represented by Rudra Daman Singh Bablu, the city unit will have two representatives — Dr Shehzad and Amit Tyagi.
Pankaj Tiwari and Dhiraj Srivastava have been given the responsibility to represent Rae Bareli district and city units while Pradeep Singh will continue to represent Amethi.
Kanpur will be represented by Sandeep Shukla in the rural area while Pawan Gupta would represent the city area. Sources said only 10 functionaries have been reappointed.
Releasing the order, All India Congress Committee general secretary KC Venugopal said it comes into immediate effect. The district and city units of UP Congress were dissolved in Dec last year.
Source:indiatimes.com
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Remembering Bismillah Khan, the sultan of shehnai
Mar 20, 2025
Varanasi: The stairs are crumbling to dust, the walls ravaged by the passage of time and just beyond flows the Ganga as if in eternal serenity. It was here that a young Bismillah Khan practiced for hours, from 4am till the sun came up and again in the afternoon till it went down.
The strains of his shehnai have long faded away from the Naubat Khana but the Ustad, who took the instrument to the world stage and became synonymous with it, lives on somewhere in its recesses. And outside it too.
On his 109th birth anniversary on Friday, memories of the man counted as one of India's greatest musicians linger in the corners of the temple town where he lived, learnt and played. He was the classical musician who famously heralded India's independence on Aug 15, 1947 by playing Raag Kafi from the ramparts of the Red Fort ahead of Jawaharlal Nehru's momentous ‘Tryst with Destiny' speech. Anecdotes from the life of the sultan of shehnai, born Qamaruddin Khan in Bihar's Dumraon on March 21, 1916, abound around the ghats and narrow gullies of the ancient city of Varanasi, or Banaras as it was known. For the residents of the town, some who knew him and others who grew up on stories about him, he was the world renowned musician and also a beacon of the Hindu-Muslim syncretic culture - the "Ganga Jamuni tehzeeb". The Naubat Khana, at the intersection of the Balaji and Mangala Gauri temples, was perhaps his first stage. Nearly 20 years since his passing in 2006, the floor of the room and the passage to it has fallen through. "This is the place where he used to sit. His meditation was of four phases. He would light a diya in the alcove inside and sit down to play the shehnai at 4am, then in the noon, then in the evening and later in the night," Pandit Narayan Guru, head priest of the Mangala Gauri temple, told PTI. The routine he followed for more than three years as a young student was an odd mix of Hindu and Muslim morning rituals, starting from taking a dip in the Ganga, followed by morning namaz at Alamgir mosque nearby and then settling down to play at the Naubat Khana after lighting an earthen lamp.
"He would play the shehnai at the Naubat Khana and also at the entrance of the temple but never inside. He was a devout Muslim but never looked differently at any Hindus he met, asking for their and their family's well being," recalled Prabhat Kumar Sharma, who manages the Balaji temple. Remembering the shehnai maestro as the best example of the culture of harmony for which the land was known for, Sharma said Khan would also donate money for the temple's food offerings. Khan, who was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2001, passed on the baton of his music and his values of tolerance and harmony to his grandchildren. Many of them play the shehnai though they haven't reached the heights of fame he did.
"Dada ji never believed in the difference of Hindu or Muslim. ‘Music is the same for everybody', he would say. ‘Music is my god and I have faith only in that'," said one of his grandsons, 62-year-old Mohammed Shibtain.
Another grandson Afaq Haidar added, "He used to say go to a clean and holy place if you want to learn music."
"This instrument has its roots in 'fakeeri' (mendicancy), the more you drown in it the more efficacy the almighty will bestow upon your music," the 36-year-old said. Away from the Naubat Khana, Khan's home, hidden in a maze of narrow lanes in Hadha Sarai area of Banaras, is evidence to the ‘fakeeri'. It is testament to his dedication to the craft, more often than not at the expense of materialistic wealth.Now turned into a shrine of sorts with his photos, awards, and shehnai, the room on the terrace, painted a bright green, is where Khan spent most of his time when at home.
He would help everyone for the last rites of someone in the area, for medical aid or for a wedding. "Be it Muharram or Eid, people used to wait for him to help them get through the hard times. They used to pray for his health," remembered Zarina Begum, one of his three daughters. He also had five sons. Even though Khan was not keen on teaching music to the women of his family, he admired Zarina's natural talent. She recalled with affection one particular incident.
"I was preparing food in the kitchen and Abba left to meet some people downstairs. I did not know when he came back with his entire party. Lost in my thoughts, I was singing ‘Laagi Charan Tumri Khwaja Moinuddin'. Abba then scolded my brothers, ‘I have been wasting my lessons on you and here she is who has learnt it all while cooking'," the 70-year-old said with a smile. pti
Source:indiatimes.com
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Southeast Asia
Two-term limit for PM: A short story — Hafiz Hassan
21 Mar 2025
MARCH 21 — On December 3, 2019, the Constitutional (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill 2009 was tabled by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Liew Vui Keong in the Dewan Rakyat for its first reading.
The Bill sought to amend Article 43(2) of the Federal Constitution by substituting for paragraph (a) the following paragraph:
(a) the Yang di-Pertuan Agong shall first appoint as Perdana Menteri (Prime Minister) to preside over the Cabinet a member of the House of Representatives —
(i) who in his judgment is likely to command the confidence of the majority of the members of that House; and
(ii) who has not at any time held the office of Prime Minister for two terms of Parliament.
The Explanatory Statement to the Bill explained the above paragraph as seeking “to provide for additional criteria in relation to the qualification of a member of the House of Representatives to be appointed as Prime Minister.”
Through the proposed amendment, “a member of the House of Representatives shall not be appointed Prime Minister if he has held the office of Prime Minister for two terms of Parliament.”
The Bill (DR 42/2019) is available on the official website of Parliament.
The government then was the Pakatan Harapan (PH) government with Dr Mahathir Mohamad the prime minister for the second time.
Eight months later on August 26, 2020, the Bill was withdrawn by Takiyuddin Hassan who succeeded Liew. The withdrawal was made under Clause 62 of the Dewan Rakyat Standing Orders.
The government then was the Perikatan Nasional (PN) government with Muhyiddin Yassin the prime minister.
A year later on August 13, 2021, Muhyiddin said he would table two Bills in Parliament should the government manage to get more than two-thirds bipartisan support from the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara.
One of the Bills would introduce a two-term limit for a prime minister. He announced this in a special televised address.
Three days later on August 16, 2021, Muhyiddin resigned as prime minister together with his Cabinet.
Four years on, on Sunday (March 16), DAP Secretary General Anthony Loke, who is also Minister of Transport, said it would like the federal government to amend the Federal Constitution to limit the prime minister’s tenure to a maximum of 10 years.
He said it at the DAP’s 18th national congress.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim responded to Loke’s hope by saying he agreed that a Malaysian prime minister’s term should be capped at a maximum of 10 years, but that he still needed to get the support of two-thirds of MPs to amend the Federal Constitution.
The next day on March 17, PAS Youth chief Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden responded to DAP’s push for a prime minister term limit with a racially charged response. Instead of seeing it as a democratic reform, Afnan viewed it as an attempt by the “minority” to dictate the “majority” by dismantling the Federal Constitution.
Later in the day, PAS assistant secretary-general 3 Syahir Sulaiman indicated the party’s willingness to discuss limiting the prime minister’s tenure, but with a condition: only a Muslim could hold the position.
Shortly earlier, Anwar had urged Opposition leaders to engage in a healthy debate when discussing the plan to limit the prime minister’s tenure to two terms. According to Anwar’s senior press secretary Tunku Nashrul Abaidah, the prime minister wished to remind them not to turn the well-intended reform into a shallow racial issue.
Two days later on March 19, PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang took a swipe at DAP over its suggestion to limit the prime minister’s term to 10 years, saying “it goes against God’s will”.
A few hours later, Anwar instructed the Cabinet to study a proposal to limit the prime minister’s time in office to only two terms. According to government spokesperson Fahmi Fadzil, the prime minister conveyed the order at the Cabinet meeting.
Another study? The PH cabinet in 2019 could not have proceeded with the Bill (DR 42/2019) without a study.
The next day (March 20) Dr Mahathir expressed his disagreement with the proposal to limit the prime minister’s time in office to only two terms.
Dr Mahathir, who served as prime minister from 1981 to 2003 and again from 2018 to 2020, and who was the prime minister when the Bill (DR 42/2019) to provide for a two-terms limit was introduced in Parliament on December 3, 2019, said a decade “is not enough to implement successful progress”.
So, there you have it – a short story of a two-term limit for the prime minister in Malaysia.
Who needs a long story when there are enough twists and turns in the short story.
Source:malaymail.com
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Terengganu bans busking during last 10 nights of Ramadan
Bernama
21-03- 2025
KUALA TERENGGANU: The Terengganu government has banned all street music performances or busking during the last 10 nights of Ramadan.
State Local Government, Housing and Health Committee chairman Datuk Wan Sukairi Wan Abdullah said the ban, in effect from yesterday until March 30, aims to honour and preserve the sanctity of the last 10 nights of Ramadan.
“This directive has been communicated to all owners of business premises and supermarkets that host busking performances across Terengganu.
“In addition, letters have been sent to all organisers of Ramadan bazaars, moreh festivals, and Aidilfitri bazaars throughout the state,“ he said when contacted today.
Wan Sukairi said any party found violating the regulation would face legal action by the local authorities (PBT).
Previously, Terengganu had mandated that all street music performances could only be held after tarawih prayers, with song selections limited to religious themes.
Additionally, only male singers were allowed to perform, while women were strictly prohibited from participating in such activities.
Source:thesun.my
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Selangor Sultan Graces Opening Of Kampung Klang Gate Baru Mosque
20/03/2025
KUALA LUMPUR, March 20 (Bernama) -- Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah today officiated the opening of the Kampung Klang Gate Baru Mosque and broke fast with around 1,000 residents of Gombak in conjunction with the monarch's Ihya Ramadan event with the people. The mosque, built on a 0.8-hectare plot of land, was completed in 2021 at a cost of RM19.5 million and can accommodate a congregation of 2,000 people. Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin also graced the event.Also present was Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari. During the event, His Royal Highness presented Hari Raya contributions to the underprivileged in the Gombak district, including 110 hardcore poor, 317 poor and 65 converts, with a total contribution amounting to RM246,000. The Ruler also received business tithe (zakat) payments amounting to RM4.18 million from the Land Surveyors Board Malaysia, Jakel Shah Alam, and Bank Muamalat Malaysia Berhad. His Royal Highness then performed the Maghrib, Isha, and Tarawih prayers in congregation. -- BERNAMA Source:bernama.com
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Malaysia’s aviation on solid foundation for expansion on back of ‘total regional recovery’ - PM Anwar
Bernama
21-03- 2025
PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia’s aviation industry is set to recover and establish a solid foundation for continued growth and expansion, in line with the total recovery in the region’s airline sector.Malaysian cuisine recipes
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim noted that Asia Pacific airlines led by a large margin in terms of annual growth, achieving a 16.9 per cent year-over-year increase in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK).
“This year marked a total regional recovery in the airline industry, as all regions have outperformed their pre-pandemic levels. With Malaysia strategically located at the heart of ASEAN, we are a gateway to Asia and beyond.
“In the Visit Malaysia Year 2026, we are determined to foster a high-value, sustainable economy, one that supports innovation, attracts investment, and elevates our global standing,“ he said in his speech at the Document Exchange Ceremony for Malaysia Aviation Group’s (MAG) Narrowbody Aircraft Replacement Order here today.
MAG today announced the acquisition of 30 new aircraft directly from The Boeing Company as part of its fleet modernisation strategy.
Source:thesun.my
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Gobind calls for restraint amid Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman temple relocation talks
By Malay Mail
20 Mar 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, March 20 — Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo has appealed for composure over the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple’s relocation, saying it would not be demolished pending a solution to the impasse.
The DAP national chairman noted that Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Maimunah Mohd Sharif has assured the temple committee of this decision during a visit to the site.
“I urge all parties to remain calm and continue engaging constructively as we work towards a solution,” Gobind said in a statement.
Concerns arose when reports suggested the temple site would be cleared for a proposed mosque project by the private landowner, Jakel Trading Sdn Bhd.
Gobind said both he and Batu MP P. Prabakaran have been working closely with the temple committee for a fair resolution.
“I have also raised this matter in Cabinet several times to ensure that all avenues for an amicable solution are explored,” he said.
Earlier today, Jakel Trading head of legal and corporate communications Aiman Dazuki said the firm would be willing to pay for the relocation of the 130-year-old temple.
Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) announced earlier that a new site had been identified, and demolition would not proceed until relocation was completed.
However, Aiman clarified that while DBKL has suggested multiple relocation sites, the temple committee has not accepted these.
Lawyers representing the temple committee said today they would rather the temple remain in its present location, but were willing to work out an amicable solution with Jakel and DBKL.
Source:malaymail.com
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Malaysia Aviation Group expands fleet with 30 new Boeing 737 aircraft, with option for 30 more
By Yiswaree Palansamy
21 Mar 2025
PUTRAJAYA, March 21— Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) today announced the acquisition of 30 new aircraft as part of its fleet modernisation strategy.
The order includes 18 Boeing 737-8 and 12 Boeing 737-10 aircraft, with an option to purchase 30 more 737 aircraft. The jets are purchased from The Boeing Company and are powered by CFM International’s LEAP-1B engines.
“The Boeing 737 has been a cornerstone of our fleet since 1969, with the introduction of the first 737-100 during the Malaysia-Singapore Airlines era. It has since played a vital role in supporting the growth of our national airline. The selection of the 737-8 and 737-10 reflects a careful evaluation of our long-term growth strategy, ensuring we have the right aircraft to meet evolving market demands,” MAG’s Group Managing Director, Datuk Captain Izham Ismail said.
Source:malaymail.com
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Multi-storey school initiative to be introduced to address overcrowding - PM Anwar
Bernama
21-03- 2025
KUALA LUMPUR: A multi-storey school initiative will be introduced in collaboration with the corporate sector, to address overcrowding in urban schools, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said that the initiative would not only optimise the use of educational resources and infrastructure but also ensure a more conducive learning environment for students and teachers.
“Initiatives such as foster schools, with the support of strategic corporate partners, will be expanded to open up more learning opportunities for students, especially in the fields of digital skills and creativity,” he said in a Facebook post tonight.
The Prime Minister discussed this matter with the top leadership of the Ministry of Education during a meeting in Putrajaya today.
In the era of digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI), he said the country’s education system must keep pace with technological changes, with continued efforts to strengthen digital education and equip students with the skills required for the future.
In addition, Anwar said that the mastery of Bahasa Melayu as the national language must be further promoted, while also emphasising the importance of English as an international language, to ensure students have a global advantage.
Increasing enrolment in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), was also a main focus, he said.
Anwar said that this move was important to ensure that the country’s workforce remained relevant to the needs of the industry and to enhance the marketability of graduates.
“The government is also determined to expand the TVET programme to full boarding schools (SBP) to produce more skilled workers in various strategic sectors,” he said.
Anwar said that the government was committed to carrying out comprehensive education reforms to ensure that every student had access to a quality education system, relevant to current needs, and capable of shaping them as future leaders.
The prime minister said that priority would also be given to empowering teachers as agents of change who played an important role in shaping the future of national education.
More comprehensive training, improved pedagogical skills, and the use of technology in the classroom had also been strengthened to ensure that every student had a more effective learning experience, he said.
Source:thesun.my
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Businessman loses RM89,000 in survey equipment scam in Miri
Bernama
21-03- 2025
KUCHING: A businessman in his 30s has lost more than RM89,000 after trying to procure survey instruments for what he believed was a government project, only to discover it was a scam.
Miri district police chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu said the victim had been approached by an individual claiming to be an officer from the Sarawak Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT).
“The individual instructed the victim to procure survey instruments from a company called M.N Seven Trading. However, after making the payment, the company’s agent became uncontactable,” he said in a statement today.
The businessman only realised he had been deceived after verifying with KPKT, which confirmed that no such procurement had been made.
In a separate case, a local woman in her 40s lost more than RM78,000 to a fraudulent job offer.
Alexson said she had been promised commission returns of 10 to 20 per cent for booking hotel reservations through a job offer received via WhatsApp.
“She made several bank transfers but never received the promised commission, resulting in a total loss of RM78,823,” Alexson said.
Both cases are being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code, which carries between one- and ten-years imprisonment, with a fine and caning, upon conviction.
Source:thesun.my
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Pakistan
FIA detains journalist Farhan Malick for alleged Peca law breaches
By Zeeshan Shah
March 20, 2025
Journalist Farhan Malick has been detained by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) over alleged violations of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), sources said on Thursday.
They also added that the mobile phones belonging to Malick, a former news director of a private TV channel, were also confiscated.
A message on X, uploaded on the handle of the YouTube channel run by Farhan Malick, claimed: "Yesterday evening, FIA officials visited the channel office without prior notice. They harassed our team, provided no explanation for their visit, and verbally summoned Mr Malick to their office for a hearing today at 1 PM."
The post further alleged: "In compliance, Mr Malick appeared at the designated office at the required time. However, after making him wait for hours without cause, the authorities arrested him at 6pm."
Condemning the arrest, the X post added: "We are deeply concerned by this blatant intimidation of independent journalism. The channel stands for truth, accountability, and the right to report freely without fear. The lack of transparency in this situation raises serious questions about press freedom and the targeting of independent voices."
The statement concluded with a demand for action: "We demand immediate clarity on Mr Malick’s arrest and call for the protection of journalists and media professionals from unjust harassment."
A more powerful Peca
Pakistan introduced and passed the amendments to the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act in January 2025.
Under the new regulations, a social media regulatory authority will be set up that will have its very own investigation agency and tribunals.
Such tribunals will be able to try and punish offenders with prison sentences of up to three years and fines of two million rupees ($7,200) for dissemination of "false or fake" information.
Journalist bodies across the country since have been protesting the law, saying the government had not consulted any of their representatives before introducing the law, and dubbed it an attempt to gag freedom of speech and intimidate newspersons and their media outlets.
Malick's is not the first arrest under the amended Peca law.
The Rawalpindi Police on Wednesday registered the first case under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) against a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) activist on the charges of spreading misinformation and negative propaganda.
The case was filed following a social media post that was allegedly based on misinformation. According to a police spokesman, the suspect, identified as Muhammad Rehan, was arrested for posting inappropriate content online.
Source:thenews.com.pk
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No objection if court releases Imran Khan, says PM’s aide
March 20, 2025
The PML-N-led coalition government would not have any objection if the court releases incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder Imran Khan, said Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political and Public Affairs Rana Sanaullah on Thursday.
The development comes as the key opposition party, the PTI, is gearing up for a countrywide protest drive after Eid ul Fitr against what the former ruling party said is a “stolen mandate”, to restore the supremacy of the rule of law and Constitution and the release of political prisoners in the country.
In addition to this, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman last week said that the religio-political party was planning to protest against the federal government’s policies after the Eid, along with the PTI.
During his interaction with journalists today, the PM’s aide said that the PTI founder was in jail due to the cases he was convicted in.
The 71-year-old cricketer-turned-politician has been behind bars since August 2023 after he was booked in multiple cases ranging from corruption to terrorism since his ouster from power via the opposition's no-trust motion in April 2022.
Responding to another question regarding the recent in-camera meeting of the Parliamentary Committee on National Security, the former security czar said that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur was asked to strengthen the capability of the police and the CTD amid rising incidents of terrorism.
NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq convened the high-level national meeting on the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif amid rising incidents of terrorism in the country in general and in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan in particular.
NA Opposition Leader Omar Ayub and PTI members skipped the high-level huddle. However, the KP CM was among the attendees of the meeting. He attended the huddle in his capacity as the province's representative.
Major cases keeping Khan in prison
Cipher case
On March 27, 2022, Khan — less than a month before his ouster in April 2022 via a no-trust motion — while addressing a public rally waved a letter before the crowd, claiming that it was a cipher from a foreign nation that had conspired with his political rivals to have PTI government overthrown.
A few days later, he accused the US of conspiring against him and alleged that then assistant secretary of state for South and Central Asia Affairs Donald Lu had sought his removal. The cipher was reportedly on former Pakistan ambassador to the US Majeed's meeting with Lu.
In August 2023, the Federal Investigation Agency filed a first information report (FIR) against Imran and Qureshi under the Official Secrets Act.
Special court judge Abul Hasnat Zulqarnain handed down a sentence of 10 years each to Khan and Qureshi.
The IHC, however, annulled the PTI leaders’ conviction in the cipher case containing charges of misusing and misplacing the classified diplomatic document in June, 2024.
Iddat case
The PTI founder and his wife were sentenced to seven years in prison and awarded a fine of Rs500,000 each, in February 2024, after a trial court found their nikah to be fraudulent as Khawar Maneka, Bushra's ex-husband, moved the court against the couple's marriage.
After months of their continuing legal woes, Khan and his got much relief as a district and sessions court in July 2024 accepted their pleas seeking annulment of their conviction in the iddat case.
Stressing Maneka's failure to prove his case against both Khan and Bushra, the court said: "They [Khan and Bushra] are directed to be released forthwith if not required to be detained in any other case."
GHQ attack case
Khan — the founding chairman of PTI — is facing a string of cases, including those related to the May 9 mayhem across the country. Dozens of cases were filed against Khan and the PTI leadership after the violent protests that shocked the country.
The May 9 riots were triggered almost across the country after the deposed prime minister's arrest in the £190 million settlement case. Hundreds of PTI workers and senior leaders were put behind bars for their alleged involvement in violence and attacks on military installations.
During the protests, the miscreants targeted the civil and military installations including — Jinnah House and the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi. The military termed May 9 "Black Day" and decided to try the protesters under the Army Act.
The PTI founder, however blames the “agencies men” for arson and shooting in some areas during the May 9 violent protests.
Toshakhana case-I
The 70-year-old cricketer-turned-politician was accused of misusing his 2018 to 2022 premiership to buy and sell gifts in state possession that were received during visits abroad and worth more than Rs140 million ($635,000).
The gifts included watches given by a royal family, according to government officials, who have alleged previously that Khan's aides sold them in Dubai.
Moreover, seven wristwatches, six made by watchmaker Rolex, and the most expensive a "Master Graff limited edition" valued at Rs85 ($385,000), were also among the gifts.
A reference was forwarded by then National Assembly speaker Raja Pervez Ashraf to the Election Commission asking it to probe the matter.
The electoral body then declared the former premier guilty of corrupt practices and filed a complaint in an Islamabad court.
On July 31, 2024, the accountability court in the federal capital sentenced the former prime minister and his spouse to 14 years in prison with rigorous punishment in the state gifts case. In addition to this, the court disqualified the former prime minister for 10 years while handing over a fine of Rs1.57 billion — Rs787 million each — to the couple.
he ECP has de-notified Khan as the “returned candidate” from NA-45 Kurram-l
£190m Al-Qadir Trust case
After delaying the verdict three times, an accountability court in the federal capital, in January this year, convicted Pakistan the PTI founder and his wife, Bushra Bibi, in the £190 million case.
Accountability Court Judge Nasir Javed Rana handed down a 14-year sentence to the PTI founder and a seven-year sentence to his wife, while also slapping heavy fines on them during a proceeding held inside a makeshift court at Adiala jail.
The PTI founder will have to pay a fine of Rs1 million and his wife has been slapped with a fine of Rs0.5 million. In case they fail to pay the fine, the ex-prime minister will serve six months more and Bushra three months.
Source:thenews.com.pk
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PTI steps up efforts to win over Fazlur Rehman for grand alliance
By Web Desk
March 20, 2025
PESHAWAR: Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Omar Ayub on Wednesday said talks were in progress to bring Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman into the grand alliance.
Speaking to Geo News, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader expressed optimism that Fazl-ur-Rehman would soon become part of the opposition bloc. He added that engagements with the JUI-F chief were ongoing to solidify the alliance.
Since the imprisonment of its founder, Imran Khan, the PTI has been struggling on multiple fronts. Its bid to form a grand opposition alliance has faltered, and its strained ties with the establishment have further narrowed its options.
Meanwhile, PTI has expedited efforts to form a grand opposition alliance to launch an anti-government movement after Eid ul Fitr, following the party founder’s directives.
Incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan had asked his party leaders to approach every political party to form a grand opposition alliance and launch an anti-government movement after Eid ul Fitr.
A key move in this regard was to unite the opposition against the government, but internal discord and political missteps have stalled progress.
Efforts to bring JUI-F on board have also been undermined by mixed signals from PTI’s own leadership.
Earlier this month, PTI leader Asad Qaiser suggested that talks with the JUI-F were ongoing and that a national agenda would be announced after Fazl’s return from a private overseas visit.
On the other hand, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur took a confrontational approach, openly criticising Fazl, which the JUI-F strongly objected to, questioning the PTI’s sincerity in forging alliances.
In April last year, the PTI formed the Tehreek-i-Tahaffuz-i-Ayeen-i-Pakistan (TTAP), a multi-party opposition alliance comprising the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP), Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M), Jamaat-i-Islami (JI), and Majlis Wahdat-i-Muslimeen (MWM).
After talks between the government and the opposition collapsed in January, the PTI made another push to establish a joint front against the ruling coalition by roping in ex-premier Shahid Khaqan Abbasi earlier this month to become part of its movement.
Last month, TTAP leaders also held their two-day conference, which held the "rigged" February 8, 2024, general elections responsible for the ongoing economic, political, and social crises facing the country.
The opposition’s moot called for the abolition of all amendments that contradict the spirit of the Constitution. The conference called the “rampant violation of constitutional and human rights” a complete negation of the rule of law in the country.
Source:thenews.com.pk
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Pakistan firm on March 31 deadline for foreigners’ exit
Baqir Sajjad Syed
March 21, 2025
• Afghan diplomat was summoned for protest over terrorist attacks, FO confirms
• Muttaqi calls for gradual repatriation of Afghan refugees
• Rejects Indian remarks about UNSC resolutions on Kashmir
ISLAMABAD: The Foreign Office on Thursday insisted that the deadline for the Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders and undocumented foreigners to leave the country remains unchanged, dismissing concerns raised by the United Nations agencies over the repatriation process.
“Authorities have informed that there is no change in the deadline,” FO spokesman Shafqat Ali Khan said during the weekly media briefing.
The government had set March 31 as the deadline for ACC holders and illegal foreigners to leave Pakistan voluntarily. Afterwards, mass deportations will begin as per an official warning issued by the ministry of interior.
Mr Khan also dismissed concerns raised by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and other agencies regarding the mass repatriation of Afghan refugees and asylum-seekers.
“We are not bound to consult UNHCR. First of all, Pakistan is not a member of the Refugee Convention. So, anything we have done for the Afghan refugees was done voluntarily for the past 50 years. So, with regards to international obligations, we have fulfilled more than our share, by offering this kind of hospitality to Afghans, and we continue to welcome them. But they should have Pakistani visas on their passport, and then they will be more than welcome,” he said.
His remarks came after Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi called for the gradual repatriation of Afghan refugees, from not just Pakistan, but also the rest of the world, Dawn.com reported.
The Afghan foreign minister was addressing an Iftar gathering for diplomats based in Kabul on Wednesday, where Pakistani Charge d’affaires Ubaidur Rehman Nizamani was also present.
He said that over the past four decades, millions of Afghans have migrated to different countries, including Pakistan and Iran.
“Refugees should be respected and their return should be gradual and dignified. We have no security problems throughout the country, but there are some problems that make it difficult to prepare for the arrival of refugees all at once. It is hoped that this work will be implemented gradually,” he told the diplomats.
Pakistan’s Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Programme has been in effect since Nov 1, 2023. The interior ministry stated that sufficient time has been provided for the dignified return of illegal foreigners.
Earlier this year, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved a multistage plan targeting nearly three million Afghan citizens residing in Pakistan.
While the move has drawn criticism from international humanitarian organisations, Islamabad has reiterated its stance on ensuring compliance with local immigration laws.
The government has allowed registered Afghan refugees holding Proof of Registration cards to stay until June 30. However, PoR card holders residing in Islamabad and Rawalpindi will be relocated to other areas.
In reply to a question, the spokesman confirmed that Afghan charge d’affaires was summoned to the Foreign Office for protest over use of Afghan soil for terrorist attacks in Pakistan.
“Our position on this issue has consistently been conveyed to Afghan authorities through a number of channels. Indeed, terrorist threat against Pakistan from terrorist entities including TTP, BLA and [IS-K] is our foremost concern. We continue to impress upon interim authorities to take visible and verifiable action against them, keeping in view their commitments given to the international community to dismantle terrorist infrastructure and groups from the Afghan soil,” he maintained.
Welcoming the reopening of Torkham border crossing that had been closed because of Pakistan’s concerns about the construction of a building, he said the current arrangement has been arrived at through mutual consultations.
The spokesman said this understanding will remain in place till April 15 and hoped that by then a permanent system ensuring continuous operation of the Torkham border would have been put in place.
Regarding the inclusion of Pakistani nationals in certain visa restriction categories by the US, the spokesperson said that both the FO and State Department had refuted the reports on social media.
Reaction to Indian statement
The FO spokesman also said India had “no right” to blame the UN Security Council and its members for their resolutions on the Kashmir dispute when it was the one to originally approach the global body about the issue in 1948, Dawn.com reported.
Mr Khan made the remarks while responding to a journalist’s question about Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s statement in New Delhi on Tuesday.
The spokesman said that the “repetition of baseless claims” by India could not deny the fact that Jammu and Kashmir was an internationally recognised disputed territory whose final status was to be determined by its people through a UN-supervised plebiscite, as stipulated in the relevant UNSC resolutions.
Source:dawn.com
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Govt rules out fresh military offensive amid terror wave
Iftikhar A. Khan
March 21, 2025
• Tallal Chaudhry says existing counter-terror frameworks, including Azm-i-Istehkam and NAP, to be utilised
• State minister for interior says around nine attacks occur daily; over 1,000 casualties in this year alone
• Urges provinces to rise to the challenge; alleges PTI, Gandapur consider militants their ‘constituency’
ISLAMABAD: Days after a high-level security moot decided to root out terrorism through the implementation of existing counter-terrorism frameworks, Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudhry has ruled out a fresh military offensive to rein in the surge in terrorism.
In a press conference held on Thursday, the minister said the option of a new military operation was not even discussed during the parliamentary security moot, which was attended by the prime minister and the army chief among others.
According to the minister, Azm-i-Istehkam and the National Action Plan (NAP) will be enforced to root out terrorism from the country.
The PML-N leader’s statement seemingly came in response to the remarks made by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur — who had also attended the huddle — in which the CM reportedly said that the KP government would not allow a new offensive.
He slammed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur for allegedly creating ambiguity and stirring controversy about decisions taken in the security meeting held earlier this week in the wake of the attack on Peshawar-bound Jaffar Express. Mr Chaudhry said the statement made by the KP CM was “deeply concerning” and alleged that its purpose was to undermine the war on terror.
He asked CM Gandapur not to stand with the terrorists, even if he could not stand against them. He accused the CM of telling some police officers not to act against terrorists as the ANP and PPP had ‘destroyed themselves’ fighting against them. The minister challenged CM Gandapur to deny these remarks on oath.
The PML-N leader blamed the PTI government for the recent surge in terrorism, saying the militants were resettled here during its tenure. He noted that PTI did not attend the key meeting despite a spike in terrorist threats across the country. The minister dubbed the incarcerated PTI founder ‘patron-in-chief of terrorists’ and claimed that the latter took almost a week to condemn the Jaffar Express hijacking.
The minister also took exception to the PTI founder’s statement in which he said that the Jaffar Express incident was the result of the failure of intelligence and security agencies. Mr Chaudhry, however, contested this claim and said that the security agencies do issue alerts but institutions in KP and Balochistan “were not efficient enough” to act on the intelligence provided by the agencies.
He said the PTI had been ruling KP for the past 13 years but spent ‘very little money’ on the provincial police and the Counter-Terrorism Department out of a total of Rs800 billion it received from the federation under the National Finance Commission Award. He said the CTD operates from a rented building. “Where has that money gone,” he asked. The minister further also criticised Levies. He said 80 per cent of Balochistan falls under the ‘B’ area managed by Levies and pointed out that the attendance of Levies was merely 45pc.
‘Nine attacks daily’
In his presser, the state minister for interior also shared statistics about terrorism. He said Pakistan was witnessing nine terrorist attacks daily, adding that three law enforcers and two civilians were losing their lives due to these attacks, while seven troops and four civilians were sustaining injuries.
He said from Jan 1 to March 16, 1,141 people either lost their lives or sustained injuries in these attacks, adding that 1,127 such victims were from KP and Balochistan. The minister said there was a 30 per cent rise in terrorism in February compared to the same month in 2024, and 95 per cent of the attacks occurred in Balochistan and KP. “If KP and Balochistan are not ready to fight, how can we end the menace of terrorism,” he asked.
“The provinces will have to fight this war in the same way the army and the federal government are fighting it,” he said, underscoring that every province would have to perform its duty in this connection, but the state has decided that this war would be fought without waiting for anyone. “Our security forces are alert, and they are conducting around 180 intelligence-based operations daily and they are arresting suspects,” he said.
About Imran Khan’s idea of peace through talks, he said, “We are ready to talk only with those who have not taken up arms.”
He alleged that the PTI and the party’s chief minister in KP did not openly talk against militants because both leaders ‘thought of them as their constituency’. Asked as to why Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi was not in the limelight, he said Mr Naqvi was performing his duties efficiently and could not attend the security moot due to bad health.
Source:dawn.com
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Protesters take away bodies from Quetta hospital morgue
March 21, 2025
QUETTA: Relatives of missing persons, who had been demanding they be allowed to identify dead bodies brought to the Civil Hospital, managed to take away a number of corpses from the hospital morgue.
While it was not clear whether they had positively identified the bodies as belonging to their missing loved ones, hospital officials told Dawn that protesters linked to the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) forced their way into the morgue and took away at least five bodies.
Images and videos posted to social media showed a number of men and women gathered at the Civil Hospital to stage a demonstration. Some clips showed masked individuals retrieving bodies, encased in burial shrouds, and placing them in coffins.
BYC activists confirmed that protesters had taken away a number of bodies from the morgue. They claimed that these bodies had been at the Civil Hospital for some time, and the relatives of missing people had gathered there in the hopes of being able to identify whether any of their loved ones were among them.
On the other hand, authorities claimed the bodies that were taken away were brought to the hospital following the attack on the Jaffar Express and were the unidentified bodies of terrorists who were killed in a military operation.
Police subsequently carried out raids in different parts of Quetta and managed to recover at least three of the bodies, but they had not been returned to the Civil Hospital until going to press.
A BYC spokesperson told Dawn that protesters had been trying to gain access to the morgue for two days to satisfy themselves that the bodies kept there were not of their loved ones.
He claimed that police baton-charged protesters, injuring two women and arresting several individuals, including women. However, authorities were eventually overwhelmed by the sheer number of protesters on the scene, who were eventually able to gain access to the morgue and took away the bodies.
He also claimed that police later recovered most of the bodies from protesters in areas like Secretariat Chowk and Sariab Road. A number of people have also been arrested in connection with the incident.
Source:dawn.com
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Govt, foreign donors reaffirm commitment to end polio
Ikram Junaidi
March 21, 2025
ISLAMABAD: Global donors and partners have reaffirmed their commitment to fully eradicate poliovirus from Pakistan.
The government, alongside international donors and development partners, gathered in Islamabad to reaffirm their commitment to collaborative efforts to ensure a polio-free future for children.
Organised by the Pakistan Polio Eradication Initiative, the review meeting updated stakeholders on the progress, ongoing challenges and strategic interventions to eliminate the virus.
Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio Eradication Ayesha Raza Farooq thanked the donor for their support.
“Your steadfast commitment and continued engagement have been instrumental in driving Pakistan’s progress toward polio eradication,” she said.
“This year presents a critical opportunity to interrupt virus transmission and with your support, we are implementing a robust and targeted strategy to close immunity gaps and protect every child.”
She added that the government was working with local influencers to enhance vaccine acceptance through community engagement along with digital media initiatives to combat misinformation and strengthen public trust.
The World Health Organisation representative in Pakistan, Dr Dapeng Luo, said that for over three decades, the global health body has partnered with Pakistan to reduce the number of polio cases by more than 99pc.
Melissa Corkum, the Unicef chief of polio in Pakistan, emphasised the importance of integrating virus eradication with broader child health initiatives.
“Polio eradication is not just about delivering vaccines; it is about ensuring every child has access to the healthcare they need to thrive,” she remarked.
Minister’s meeting
Separately, Federal Minister for Health Syed Mustafa Kamal met Michael Galway, the deputy director for polio at the Gates Foundation, to discuss polio eradication efforts.
An official statement said they discussed polio eradication strategies and future action plans.
The health minister praised Bill Gates and his team for their support in polio eradication efforts.
“Polio eradication is a national priority,” Mr Kamal stated.
He added that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was “personally overseeing the progress” through regular review meetings.
“My first meeting with the prime minister was also focused on polio, which reflects our unwavering commitment to eliminating this disease.”
Source:dawn.com
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Deputy speaker wraps up NA sitting over truancy of ministers
March 21, 2025
ISLAMABAD: In a rare move to protest the absence of ministers from the National Assembly, Deputy Speaker Ghulam Mustafa Shah adjourned house proceedings on Thursday without taking up any agenda items.
Presiding over one of the briefest sittings of the lower house of parliament, the deputy speaker said it was unacceptable that ministers failed to attend the session, despite clear instructions from the prime minister.
He noted that the ministers were not taking their responsibilities seriously, terming their attitude unfortunate. Recalling the recent expansion of the federal cabinet, Mr Shah regretted that collective responsibility was being collectively ignored.
He said that a letter had also been written to the prime minister conveying the displeasure of the house over the absence of ministers.
The house was supposed to take up questions related to the ministries of energy and communications, but Deputy Speaker Shah regretted that both concerned ministers — Sardar Awais Leghari and Abdul Aleem Khan — were not present in the house. Besides this, he said, no other minister was ready to respond in their stead.
An angry deputy speaker said that proceedings could not continue without the ministers’ participation and adjourned the house to meet again on Friday (today).
This was not the first time that Deputy Speaker Shah had voiced his displeasure over the absence of ministers from the house.
Earlier, on Dec 12, 2024, he had warned the government on the issue. Back then, the session had started with PTI lawmaker Asad Qaiser pointing to the empty seats on the treasury benches, particularly those of federal ministers.
Attempting to give the government a chance, the deputy speaker had adjourned the session for 15 minutes to allow time to the ministers to arrive in the house.
However, when the session resumed, the cabinet members were still missing, further escalating tensions in the house.
At the outset of Thursday’s sitting, the house offered fateha for the departed soul of JUI-F leader and seasoned politician Hafiz Hussain Ahmed, who remained a member of both houses of parliament in the past.
Source:dawn.com
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FO rubbishes India’s ‘unwarranted assertions’, says it has no right to blame UNSC for Kashmir resolutions
Abdullah Momand
March 20, 2025
The Foreign Office (FO) on Thursday said India had “no right” to blame the UN Security Council and its members for their resolutions on the Kashmir dispute when it was the one to originally approach the UN about the issue in 1948.
FO Spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan uttered the comments while responding to a journalist during his weekly press briefing about Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar’s remarks on the second day of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi on Tuesday.
In his remarks, the Indian foreign minister had said: “After the Second World War, the longest standing illegal presence and occupation of a territory by another country pertains to India, what we saw in Kashmir. Now we went to the UN, what was an invasion was made into a dispute. So the attacker and the victim were put on par, who were the culpable parties? [the] UK, Canada, Belgium, Australia and [the] USA.”
He had said there was a need for a “strong” UN and that required a “fair” UN.
Responding to the remarks, the FO spokesperson said: “We are alarmed that the frequency of Indian leadership’s unwarranted assertions about Jammu and Kashmir has increased. In this context, we wish to make a few things clear, especially with regard to the remarks made by the Indian EAM at the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi.
“It was India that took the Jammu and Kashmir issue to the United Nations in 1948. Today, it has no right to blame the Security Council and its erstwhile members for the resolutions that were subsequently adopted.”
Khan said that the “repetition of baseless claims” could not deny the fact that Jammu and Kashmir was an internationally recognised disputed territory whose final status was to be determined by its people through a UN-supervised plebiscite, as stipulated in the relevant UNSC resolutions.
He said Pakistan believed in peaceful co-existence, adding that a peaceful settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, under the relevant UNSC resolutions and aspirations of Kashmiris was essential for a lasting peace in South Asia.
Earlier this month, the FO spokesperson had similarly rejected remarks made by Jaishankar on Azad Jammu and Kashmir as “baseless claims” while asking his country to vacate occupied areas of the region.
Speaking during a session at the Chatham House think-tank in London, Jaishankar had said: “I think the path we are waiting for is the return of the stolen part of Kashmir, which is under illegal Pakistani occupation. When that’s done, I assure you, Kashmir [issue is] solved.”
The comments came in response to a query by a journalist — who said India was occupying Kashmir illegally — about the possibility of India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking US President Donald Trump’s involvement to solve the dispute.
“I think we have done a good job solving most of [the problem],” Jaishankar said, insisting that the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 and the polls in the region in October 2024 were part of that.
He had added that “restoring growth, economic activity and social justice” was another step towards purported efforts to solve the Kashmir issue.
Responding to those statements, the FO spokesperson had said: “Instead of making baseless claims about Azad Jammu and Kashmir, India should vacate the large territories of Jammu and Kashmir under its occupation from the last 77 years.”
Noting that India-occupied Kashmir was an internationally recognised disputed territory, the FO official said Jaishankar’s remarks “misrepresent the ground realities and contravene the international law”.
Indian involvement in Jaffar Express attack
Questioned about reports of Indian involvement in last week’s Jaffar Express train attack in Balochistan’s Bolan district, as well as generally in Pakistan, the FO spokesperson said: “Indian involvement is clear. They have been involved in terrorism in Pakistan. And secondly, it’s not just Pakistan. They have been trying to destabilise the entire region, all South Asian countries. And they also have been running, a global assassination campaign sponsored by their country, and their involvement is very clear to us.
“Regarding the issue of flagging it, this is an ongoing process. Our embassies are active on this. We continue to highlight it. And you may also have noticed that India never condemned this attack on Jafar Express also. That is also a point worth noting.”
Reiterating his point, Khan said: “India’s involvement in fanning terrorism in Pakistan, and its involvement in destabilising Balochistan, is very clear to us.”
‘No information’ of Pakistani delegation’s visit to Israel
The FO spokesperson was also hounded by multiple questions on alleged reports of a Pakistani delegation, including journalists, visiting Israel amid the country’s devastating military campaign in Gaza that has killed over 49,000 Palestinians.
Khan said the FO had “no foreknowledge or information” of the visit.
“We found out about the visit through the same media reports that you are alluding to. We do not have any details about who visited except for one individual who posted on Twitter. Since we do not know their details, we cannot comment on what kind of passports were they carrying or were they dual nationals or not.”
Khan said Pakistan’s position regarding Israel was “very unambiguous”.
“There is no question of a change in Pakistan’s position on the question of recognition of Israel or on the question of Palestine or the Arab Israel problems. It remains unwavering, very clear and very firm.”
He said the FO was in the process of gathering information and he would be able to comment further once the ministry had more clarity about the matter.
A similar matter had occurred in May 2022 when a delegation of Pakistani expats, who lived in the US, visited Israel, including an anchor of the Pakistan Television Corporation who was subsequently terminated.
Sharaka — an Israeli non-government organisation — had organised the visit of the Pakistan-American delegation. It also organised last week’s alleged trip, according to Israeli media reports.
Source:dawn.com
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Residents block Karachi’s Mauripur Road against anti-encroachment operation
Imtiaz Ali
March 20, 2025
KARACHI: At least three residents of the Younisabad area were taken into custody when they blocked the Mauripur Road and put up resistance against an anti-encroachment operation launched by the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) on Wednesday.
A spokesperson for the KPT said that the operation at Younisabad was launched under the supervision of Pakistan Rangers, Sindh.
DIG-South Syed Asad Raza told Dawn that police and district administration were not informed about the action.
He said area residents pelted KPT administration and law enforcers with stones and blocked the main Mauripur Road. He said that three suspects were briefly detained.
A Rangers spokesperson told Dawn that the paramilitary force had been taking part in the anti-encroachment drive on the directives of the federal government.
He said the prime minister had directed all law enforcement agencies, including Rangers, to ‘facilitate’ the KPT to get their 1,100 acres of encroached lands vacated.
“The KPT conducted the operation on illegally encroached land and did not disturb the allottees of Younisabad. The fishermen, who were allotted land in 1993, were not disturbed,” the spokesperson said, adding that during the operation, “a recovery of seven acres illegally encroached by land mafia has been made”.
The spokesperson clarified that the operation was carried out against two land grabbers, who cut mangroves and reclaimed land from the sea to set up illegal housing schemes.
“In the last two and a half months, about 80 acres of prime land worth Rs 60 billion has been recovered,” he claimed.
MNA condemns action
Pakistan Peoples Party MNA from the area Abdul Qadir Patel condemned the action against the residents including women.
In a statement, he said that he contacted the KPT chairman and Karachi commissioner and asked them to call a meeting to this effect immediately.
He said any action without giving a legal notice to the residents would be deemed as “illegal”.
He added that local administration should be taken into confidence prior to such an operation.
“The KPT should get its land vacated but people should not be displaced from their homes,” he said.
Source:dawn.com
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Afghan FM calls for ‘gradual’ repatriation of Afghan refugees
Tahir Khan
March 20, 2025
Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi on Thursday called for the gradual repatriation of Afghan refugees, from not just Pakistan but the rest of the world.
Earlier this month, the federal government “advised” Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders, as well as all illegal foreigners, to leave the country by March 31 as part of its repatriation drive. The Foreign Office has confirmed that the deadline is still in place.
The ACC is an identification document issued to registered Afghan nationals by Nadra. According to the UN’s International Organisation for Migration (IOM), the ACC gives temporary legal status to Afghans during their stay in Pakistan.
According to UN data, there are over 800,000 ACC holders in Pakistan.
The minister was addressing an iftar gathering for diplomats based in Kabul on Wednesday, at which Pakistani Charge d’Affaires Ubaidur Rehman Nizamani was present. He stated that over the past four decades, millions of Afghans have migrated to different countries, including Pakistan and Iran.
“Our hope is that, just as the hospitality shown so far has been met, the appreciation shown to refugees in the future will continue to be the same, and their return will be gradual and peaceful,” he said.
“Refugees should be respected and their return should be gradual and dignified,” Muttaqi emphasised. “We have no security problems throughout the country, but there are some problems that make it difficult to prepare for the arrival of refugees all at once.
“It is hoped that this work will be implemented gradually,” Muttaqi told the diplomats.
He also sought assistance from international organisations with refugee arrivals and called for countries to be patient and ensure the good treatment of refugees. “We hope that everyone will cooperate in this regard,” he added.
Muttaqi also mentioned the reopening of the Torkham border crossing during his speech, insisting that problems between Pakistan and Afghanistan should be resolved through dialogue.
“The Torkham border crossing, which was closed for three weeks, was reopened yesterday through talks and understanding with the Pakistani side,” he said.
“Both countries should try to resolve their problems through understanding and negotiations and avoid taking any steps that harm the common people and nations,” he added.
Muttaqi meets US delegation
Muttaqi also held a rare meeting with US officials in Kabul, where they discussed detainees, his office said.
“Bilateral relations, the release of prisoners and consular services for Afghans in the United States” were discussed in the meeting between Muttaqi and US official Adam Boehler, the Afghan foreign ministry said on X.
Boehler, who has been handling hostage affairs for the White House, was accompanied by Washington’s former envoy to Kabul, Zalmay Khalilzad.
The delegation is the first from Washington since US President Donald Trump took office in January, ministry spokesman Hafiz Zia Ahmad told AFP.
Afghanistan and the US “must emerge from the effects of 20 years of war and have political and economic relations”, Muttaqi said as he appealed for “dialogue to resolve problems”.
Boehler, who has been working on returning hostages held in Gaza, reported “progress” on prisoners and welcomed the “positive step to build confidence”, the Afghan ministry said.
Later, Taliban authorities freed US citizen George Glezmann after more than two years of detention, in a deal brokered by Qatar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced.
“Today, after two and a half years of captivity in Afghanistan, Delta Airlines mechanic George Glezmann is on his way to be reunited with his wife, Aleksandra,” Rubio said in a statement.
“George’s release is a positive and constructive step.It is also a reminder that other Americans are still detained in Afghanistan,” he added.
Glezmann was en route to Qatar, a source with knowledge of the release told AFP.
The Taliban government said its decision demonstrated its openness to dialogue, especially with Washington.
The release Glezmann reflects “Afghanistan’s readiness to genuinely engaging all sides, particularly the United States of America, on the basis of mutual respect and interests”, the foreign ministry posted on X.
The government in Kabul is not recognised by any country and has expressed hopes for “a new chapter” with the administration of Trump, who signed a peace deal with the Taliban during his first term in office.
Source:dawn.com
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Mideast
A month-old girl is pulled from the rubble in Gaza after an airstrike killed her parents
March 20, 2025
GAZA: As rescuers dug through the remains of a collapsed apartment building in Gaza’s Khan Younis on Thursday, they could hear the cries of a baby from underneath the rubble.
Suddenly, calls of “God is great” rang out. A man sprinted away from the wreckage carrying a living infant swaddled in a blanket and handed her to a waiting ambulance crew. The baby girl stirred fitfully as paramedics checked her over.
Her parents and brother were dead in the overnight Israeli airstrike.
“When we asked people, they said she is a month old and she has been under the rubble, since dawn,” said Hazen Attar, a civil defense first responder. “She had been screaming and then falling silent from time to time until we were able to get her out a short while ago, and thank God she is safe.”
The girl was identified as Ella Osama Abu Dagga. She had been born 25 days earlier, in the midst of a tenuous ceasefire that many Palestinians in Gaza had hoped would mark the end of a war that has devastated the enclave, killed tens of thousands and displaced nearly its entire population.
Only the girl’s grandparents survived the attack. Killed were her brother, mother and father, along with another family that included a father and his seven children. Rescuers digging through the rubble could be seen pulling out the small body of a child sprawled on the mattress where he had been sleeping.
The girl’s grandmother, Fatima Abu Dagga, sat with a group of other women in a relative’s house Thursday, taking turns cradling the infant. Her sons and their wives and eight grandchildren died in the bombing, and only the baby survived. She wept over the loss, and the return to the devastation of war.
“We weren’t really living in a truce,” she said. “We knew that at any moment the war might return. We never felt that there was stability, not at all.”
Israel resumed heavy strikes across Gaza on Tuesday, shattering the truce that had facilitated the release of more than two dozen hostages. Israel blamed the renewed fighting on Hamas because the militant group rejected a new proposal for the second phase of the ceasefire that departed from their signed agreement, which was mediated by the United States, Qatar and Egypt.
Nearly 600 people have been killed in Gaza since then, including more than 400 on Tuesday alone, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Health officials said most of the victims were women and children.
The strike that destroyed the infant girl’s home hit Abasan Al-Kabira, a village just outside of Khan Younis near the border with Israel, killing at least 16 people, mostly women and children, according to the nearby European Hospital, which received the dead.
It was inside an area the Israeli military ordered evacuated earlier this week, encompassing most of eastern Gaza.
Nabil Abu Dagga, a relative of Ella’s family who lives nearby, rushed to the scene of the strike.
“People were sitting together and enjoying themselves on a Ramadan night, staying up together as a family,” he said. “... No one was expecting it and no one would imagine that a human could kill another human in this way.”
He and others started pulling out bodies. Then they heard the baby girl’s cries.
The Israel military says it only targets militants and blames civilian deaths on Hamas because it is deeply embedded in residential areas. The military did not immediately comment on the overnight strikes.
Hours later, the Israeli military restored a blockade on northern Gaza, including Gaza City, that it had maintained for most of the war, but which had been lifted under the ceasefire deal.
Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians had returned to what remains of their homes in the north after a ceasefire took hold in January.
The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people and taking 251 hostage.
Israel’s blistering retaliatory air and ground offensive has killed nearly 49,000 Palestinians since then, more than half of them women and children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. It does not say how many were militants. Israel says it has killed around 20,000 militants, without providing evidence.
Source:arabnews.com
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UN’s inaction in face of crimes against Yemenis shameful, unjustifiable: Iran
March 20, 2025
Baghaei said the inaction of the UN Security Council and other international bodies regarding these atrocities in Yemen are “shameful and unjustifiable”.
The spokesman also pointed to the massacre of hundreds of Palestinian women and children during the past few days in various areas of the Gaza Strip, saying those who back the Zionist regime militarily, financially, and politically are complicit in these crimes.
The simultaneous U.S. attacks on Yemen, that began during the administration of Democratic president Joe Biden, along with the intensification of genocide in Gaza leave no doubt about the joint American-Zionist conspiracy to weaken the Islamic Ummah and suppress any voice in solidarity with the oppressed Palestinian people, Baghaei pointed out.
Baghaei said the Islamic Ummah share common responsibility to halt the crimes of the Zionist regime and U.S. aggressions against the Palestinian people and Islamic countries and called for comprehensive and effective action from Islamic governments and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to prevent these atrocious acts.
The United States struck targets in the Yemeni capital of Sanaa on Wednesday, Ansarallh-run Al Masirah TV reported, the latest in a wave of strikes carried out against the country as Yemen has said it will target ships linked to the Israeli regime for blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Three residents told Reuters that the strikes had hit the Al-Jarraf district of Sanaa, close to the city's airport.
The strikes also hit an under-construction occasions hall in a residential neighborhood in Al-Thawra directorate in Sanaa, injuring nine people, mostly women and children, Anees al-Asbahi, spokesperson for the Health Ministry said in a post on X.
Al Masirah said the strikes also targeted Al-Suwaidia directorate in Yemen's al-Bayda province in southern Yemen.
The U.S. began the current wave of strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen last Saturday, killing at least 31 people in the biggest such operation since President Donald Trump returned to the White House in January.
Unfazed by the U.S. strikes and threats, Ansarallah have said they will escalate their attacks, including on Israel, in response to the U.S. campaign.
On Tuesday, Ansarallah said said they had fired a ballistic missile towards Israel and would expand their range of targets in that country in coming days in retaliation for renewed Israeli airstrikes in Gaza after weeks of relative calm.
Source:tehrantimes.com
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Iran to overcome ‘complexities’ of US policies: FM Araghchi
Mar 20, 2025
Speaking on national television as the Persian New Year turned, Araghchi said that as far as US President Donald Trump’s policies vis-à-vis Iran were concerned, the times had not changed.
“The situation brought about by America’s new president is not new to us; we experienced this ‘maximum pressure’ in [his] last term in office. Some are [now] calling it — jokingly or not — ‘maximum pressure 2.0,’” the foreign minister said.
“By the grace of God, and blessings of Laylat al-Qadrs [Nights of Power], we will overcome the complexities of US politics and navigate those complexities to secure the interests and national security of Iran,” he said.
US President Donald Trump sent a letter to Iran via an emissary from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on March 12. Days earlier, Trump had himself revealed that he had penned a letter to Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, asking that negotiations be reopened into negotiating a new deal.
Ayatollah Khamenei has reiterated that Iran will not negotiate with the United States because Tehran does not trust that Washington would adhere to any contractual obligations. The Leader has referred to Iran’s experience in negotiating and making a deal with the United States and other governments in the 2010s — an agreement that Trump himself unilaterally withdrew the US from in 2018.
Source:mehrnews.com
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Hamas calls on Arab, Islamic countries to take immediate action to stop Zionist genocide in Gaza
20 Mar 2025
Hamas has called on Arab and Islamic countries to take urgent action at international forums, especially the UN Security Council, and to take immediate measures to halt the aggression and genocide being perpetrated by the Zionist enemy against the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip.
The movement said in a press statement Thursday evening that the Zionist enemy's continued perpetration of massacres in the Gaza Strip places a direct political and moral responsibility on the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to stop the genocide being perpetrated before the eyes of the entire world.
The movement renewed its call to the Arab and Islamic nations, and free peoples around the world, to take action in all arenas and arenas to pressure the criminal Zionist enemy and its supporters, led by the US administration, and to support the Palestinian people by all means until the aggression is halted and their legitimate aspirations for freedom and self-determination are achieved.
Source:saba.ye
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Fight against disinformation to continue, says Turkish official
PROF. DR. FAHRETTIN ALTUN
March 20, 2025
ANKARA: Following the decision to detain Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality officials and other suspects within the scope of a series of investigations conducted by the Istanbul Public Prosecutor's Office, we note that some parties, especially leaders of the main opposition party, are making efforts to undermine the integrity of the investigations with political and ideological motives.
Among the political and ideological assessments made without familiarity with the content and details of the investigations that have begun, we are also witnessing irrational slanders against our president.
We will continue to stand firmly against such endeavors aimed at undermining the independence of our judiciary, which exercises its authority on behalf of the Turkish nation, as well as putting our president under suspicion, and will continue to protect the rights of our president against these ideological slander campaigns.
We emphasize our belief that all decisions of an impartial judiciary should be respected by all groups, and we would like to state that we will continue our fight against disinformation as the Communication Directorate in this process.
We ask our valued citizens to support this fight by dealing cautiously with unconfirmed and suspicious content and, as always, please rely on the statements of official institutions and authorities.
Source:arabnews.com
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Netanyahu government approves firing of Shin Bet head amid protests
March 21, 2025
JERUSALEM: The Israeli cabinet voted early on Friday to dismiss the head of the Shin Bet domestic intelligence service effective April 10, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said, after three days of protests against the move.
Netanyahu said this week he had lost confidence in Ronen Bar, who has led Shin Bet since 2021, and intended to dismiss him.
Bar did not attend the cabinet meeting but in a letter sent to ministers said the process around his firing did not comply with rules and his dismissal was predicated on baseless claims.
Late on Thursday, police fired water cannon and made numerous arrests as scuffles broke out during the protests in Tel Aviv and close to the prime minister’s residence in Jerusalem, where police said dozens of protesters tried to break through security cordons.
Over the past three days, demonstrators protesting the move to sack Bar have joined forces with protesters angry at the decision to resume fighting in Gaza, breaking a two-month-old ceasefire, while 59 Israeli hostages remain in the Palestinian enclave.
“We’re very, very worried that our country is becoming a dictatorship,” Rinat Hadashi, 59, said in Jerusalem. “They’re abandoning our hostages, they’re neglecting all the important things for this country.”
The decision followed months of tension between Bar and Netanyahu over a corruption investigation into allegations that a number of aides in Netanyahu’s office were offered bribes.
Netanyahu has dismissed the accusation as a politically motivated attempt to unseat him, but his critics have accused him of undermining the institutions underpinning Israel’s democracy by seeking Bar’s removal.
In his letter to the government, Bar said the decision to fire him was “entirely tainted by ... conflicts of interest” and driven by “completely different, extraneous and fundamentally unacceptable motives.”
He had already announced that he intended to step down early to take responsibility for the intelligence lapses that failed to prevent the attack on Israel by Palestinian militant group Hamas on October 7, 2023.
Deep divisions
The angry scenes on Thursday highlighted divisions that have deepened since Netanyahu returned to power as head of a right-wing coalition at the end of 2022.
Even before the war in Gaza, tens of thousands of Israelis were joining regular demonstrations protesting a government drive to curb the power of the judiciary that critics saw as an assault on Israeli democracy but which the government said was needed to limit judicial overreach.
On Thursday Yair Golan, a former deputy chief of staff in the military who now leads the opposition Democrats party, was pushed to the ground during a scuffle, drawing condemnation and calls for an investigation by other opposition politicians.
Former Defense Minister Benny Gantz said the clashes were a direct result of divisions caused by “an extremist government that has lost its grip.”
In Tel Aviv, demonstrators rallied outside the Kirya military headquarters complex as ministers met to formally approve the dismissal of Bar.
Since the start of the war, there have also been regular protests by families and supporters of hostages seized by Hamas during the October 7 attack that have sometimes echoed the criticisms of the government.
With the resumption of Israel’s campaign in Gaza, the fate of 59 hostages, as many as 24 of whom are still believed to be alive, remains unclear and protesters said a return to war could see them either killed by their captors or accidentally by Israeli bombardments.
“This is not an outcome the Israeli people can accept,” The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a group representing hostage families, said in a statement.
Source:arabnews.com
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Israel’s president says worried over steps taken by Netanyahu’s government
March 20, 2025
JERUSALEM: Israel’s President Isaac Herzog on Thursday expressed concern over steps being taken by the government, hours before the cabinet was due to fire the domestic security chief in an unprecedented move.
“It is impossible not to be deeply troubled by the harsh reality unfolding before our eyes,” Herzog said in a video statement, stopping short of mentioning Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by name.
Earlier this week, Netanyahu announced a return to the war in Gaza, sending in ground troops, after talks on extending the truce with Palestinian militant group Hamas reached an impasse.
“It is unthinkable to resume fighting while still pursuing the sacred mission of bringing our hostages home,” said Herzog, whose role is largely ceremonial.
His unusual statement also comes ahead of a state budget vote expected late this month, in which the government proposes raising taxes and cutting education and health funding while ramping up spending in the ultra-Orthodox Jewish sector — a plan that has drawn criticism as many ultra-Orthodox do not serve in the army.
“Thousands of reserve duty call-ups have recently been issued, and it is inconceivable to send our sons to the front while simultaneously advancing divisive and controversial initiatives that create deep rifts within our nation,” Herzog said.
Calling on decision-makers to “carefully weigh every step and assess whether it strengthens national resilience,” the president criticized the decision to resume fighting in Gaza while Israeli hostages, including some who are known to be alive, remain in Gaza.
On Thursday, thousands of Israelis braved the rain and plunging temperatures in Jerusalem to protest the decision to return to war which they see as forsaking the hostages.
The protesters also voiced opposition to Netanyahu’s bid to oust Ronen Bar, head of the Shin Bet internal security agency.
Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, the government’s legal adviser threatened by a separate bid to remove her from her watchdog role, said the plan to dismiss Bar was likely illegal.
Bar was meant to end his tenure only next year, and if approved by the government, he would become the first Shin Bet chief in Israel’s history to be dismissed early.
“Unfortunately, we are witnessing a series of unilateral actions, and I am deeply concerned about their impact on our national resilience,” Herzog said, calling on the government to take note of the thousands protesting.
Source:arabnews.com
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Qatar helps in release of US citizen from Taliban’s detention in Afghanistan
March 20, 2025
LONDON: Qatar facilitated on Thursday the release of a US citizen in Afghanistan who had been in detention since December 2022.
George Glezmann is the third US citizen to be released by the Taliban government since January. The Taliban’s intelligence agency detained Glezmann, an airline mechanic from Atlanta, in December 2022.
He arrived in Doha on Thursday and will depart for his home country later, the Qatar News Agency reported. A date was not specified.
The Taliban government’s release of the detainee was a “gesture of goodwill,” reflecting its willingness to engage in dialogue with the international community, the QNA added.
The Taliban have been in control of Afghanistan since the summer of 2021, following the withdrawal of US and Western troops from the Central Asian country.
Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Mohammed Al-Khulaifi said that cooperation with the mediation process involving the US and the “Afghan caretaker government” had led to the release of Glezmann.
He added that Qatar was dedicated to mediation efforts to find peaceful solutions to conflicts, disputes, and complex international issues.
Qatar has taken a leading role in mediating during some of the most contentious conflicts, including its recent efforts to help end the Israeli conflict in the Gaza Strip and to facilitate the release of Israeli captives held by the militant group Hamas.
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Lebanon committed to regaining confidence of Arab countries: Aoun
NAJIA HOUSSARI
March 20, 2025
BEIRUT: Lebanon is committed to regaining the confidence of Arab countries and the world through reforms, President Joseph Aoun said on Thursday.
He was speaking at a meeting of Lebanese businessmen based in Saudi Arabia.
The president thanked the Kingdom for embracing expatriates and their families.
Addressing the delegation of the Lebanese Executives Council in the Kingdom, Aoun said: “It is unacceptable to cover the repercussions of financial and economic mismanagement using depositors’ funds, which have been frozen in Lebanese banks since 2019.”
The issue requires a solution in cooperation with economic bodies, banks, the central bank, depositors and the state as soon as possible, Aoun said.
“Boosting the economic cycle and investment flow requires a trustworthy banking sector,” he added.
“This was a commitment in the oath speech and is at the core of the government’s work, and we look forward to helping the parliament by accelerating the process of issuing the necessary laws.”
The Lebanese president on Wednesday had informed German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock that Israel’s occupation of areas in the south of the country hindered the implementation of UN Resolution 1701 and contradicted the agreement reached last November.
His remarks came during the German official’s visit to Beirut.
Baerbock was then to head to Damascus on Thursday to reopen the German Embassy in Syria.
Aoun said that the Lebanese army, which has been deployed in all areas vacated by Israeli forces, was carrying out its duty to enforce security and seize weapons.
He told the German minister that Israel had rejected all Lebanese proposals to evacuate the five hills it still occupies and replace its forces with international troops.
Diplomatic efforts and negotiations are continuing in a bid to find a solution to the issue, the president said.
Aoun also told Baerbock that Israel continues to hold several Lebanese prisoners and had only released five nationals, an issue that the government is “determined” to resolve.
Also on Thursday, Hezbollah reacted to Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji’s statements a day earlier, accusing the party of “reneging on the ceasefire agreement between it and Israel, despite the agreement being clear on which groups are allowed to bear arms.”
During a meeting with the Maronite League, Rajji highlighted “diplomatic efforts to end the Israeli occupation,” and said that “Lebanon’s goal is to return to the 1949 Armistice Agreement, and the only solution is international pressure, particularly from the US.
“The conditions are clear: The full implementation of Resolution 1701 and the cessation of military operations. These are tough conditions caused by the party that entered the war and delayed acknowledging the necessity of a ceasefire,” he added.
However, Rajji said that Lebanon “will not accept any direct political negotiations with Israel.”
In response, Hezbollah MP Ibrahim Al-Moussawi said on Thursday that the foreign minister’s remarks harmed national interests and distorted facts, “ultimately providing Israel with additional justifications for its aggression.”
Al-Moussawi added that Hezbollah remained committed to “what the Lebanese government agreed upon through UN Resolution 1701.”
He said the foreign minister should have condemned Israel’s crimes and highlighted them to the international community, instead of directing accusations at Hezbollah.
Al-Moussawi urged the government to correct the “irresponsible statements” made by Rajji.
Similarly, Hezbollah Secretary-General Sheikh Naim Qassem accused the foreign minister of “providing Israel with an excuse to continue its aggression, a stance that is inappropriate for any Lebanese government official.
“We have adhered to the agreement while Israel continues to violate it,” he added.
Source:arabnews.com
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Israel says struck military sites in east, south Lebanon
March 20, 2025
JERUSALEM: Israel’s military said it struck military sites in east and south Lebanon on Thursday, in its latest attack despite a November ceasefire that ended a war against militant group Hezbollah.
“A short while ago, the IDF (military) struck a military site containing an underground terrorist infrastructure site in the Bekaa area in Lebanon, as well as a military site containing rocket launchers in southern Lebanon in which Hezbollah activity has been identified,” the military said in a statement.
Lebanese state media on Thursday reported Israeli strikes on the country’s south and east.
The state-run National News Agency said “enemy aircraft” struck “the eastern slopes of the mountain range within the town of Janta in the Bekaa,” as well as “the outskirts of the town of Taraya, west of Baalbek,” also in the east.
Four missiles were fired in the Nabatiyeh area of southern Lebanon, NNA said.
No casualties were immediately reported.
The November 27 truce largely halted more than a year of fighting between Iran-backed Hezbollah and Israel, including two months of open war during which Israel sent in ground troops.
Hezbollah had said it was acting in support of Hamas militants fighting Israel in Gaza.
Israel has continued to carry out strikes on Lebanese territory since the truce agreement took effect.
Under the agreement, Israel had been expected to withdraw from Lebanon by February 18 after missing a January deadline, but it has kept troops at five locations it deems “strategic.”
The ceasefire also required Hezbollah to pull back north of the Litani River, about 30 kilometers (20 miles) from the border, and to dismantle any remaining military infrastructure in the south.
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Houthi militant media reports fresh US strikes on Yemen
March 20, 2025
SANAA: Fresh attacks hit two areas of militant-held Yemen, the Iran-backed Houthis’ Al-Masirah TV station reported on Thursday, blaming “US aggression.”
Four strikes hit Hodeida governorate on the Red Sea, and a further attack hit Saada in the north, the birthplace of the Houthi movement, Al-Masirah said.
The attacks came around the same time that Israel’s military said it intercepted a missile launched from Yemen for the second time in a day.
The Houthis have reported several rounds of US attacks since Saturday, when a heavy bombardment targeting senior figures killed 53 people, according to the militant group.
In return, the Houthis have repeatedly attacked a US aircraft carrier battle group and twice announced missile launches at Israeli targets.
The US attacks are aimed at stamping out months of strikes by the Houthis on Red Sea shipping during the Gaza war that have crippled the vital trade route.
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Israel says it intercepted two missiles launched from Yemen
March 20, 2025
JERUSALEM: Israel’s military said it intercepted two missiles launched from Yemen on Thursday after US President Donald Trump threatened to punish Iran over its perceived support for Yemeni Houthi militants.
Warning sirens sounded in Jerusalem and the nearby Israeli-occupied West Bank after the second missile was fired later in the day, the military said, adding that it was intercepted before it entered Israeli territory.
The military said it also downed a missile launched from Yemen earlier in the day after sirens blared in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
Israel’s national ambulance service Magen David Adom said it received no reports of casualties following both launches.
The Houthis, undeterred by waves of US strikes since Saturday, fired a ballistic missile toward Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv, the group’s military spokesperson said in a televised statement earlier on Thursday.
The group has recently vowed to escalate attacks, including those targeting Israel, in response to the US campaign.
US strikes that began on Saturday over Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping amount to the biggest US military operation in the Middle East since President Donald Trump took office in January. The US attacks have killed at least 50 people.
Yemen’s Houthi-affiliated Al Masirah TV reported at least four US strikes on the Al Mina district of the Red Sea city of Hodeidah on Thursday, an area which houses a major port and the headquarters of Houthi naval forces.
Al Masirah TV reported another strike on Al-Safra district of Saada which, according to Yemeni sources, houses weapons storage and training sites, and is considered one of the group’s most important and heavily fortified military strongholds.
Trump threatened on Monday to hold Iran accountable for any future Houthi attacks, warning of severe consequences. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said the Houthis were independent and took their own strategic and operational decisions.
On Tuesday, the Houthis said they had fired a ballistic missile toward Israel and would expand their range of targets in that country in coming days in retaliation for renewed Israeli airstrikes in Gaza after weeks of relative calm.
The Houthis have carried out over 100 attacks on shipping since Israel’s war with Hamas began in late 2023, saying they were acting in solidarity with Gaza’s Palestinians.
The attacks have disrupted global commerce and prompted the US military to launch a costly campaign to intercept missiles.
The Houthis are part of what has been dubbed the “Axis of Resistance” — an anti-Israel and anti-Western alliance of regional militias including Hamas, Lebanon’s Hezbollah and armed groups in Iraq, all backed by Iran.
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EU leaders deplore breakdown of the ceasefire in Gaza
March 20, 2025
BRUSSELS: EU leaders said on Thursday that they deplore the breakdown of the ceasefire in Gaza and Hamas’ refusal to hand over remaining hostages.
“The European Council deplores the breakdown of the ceasefire in Gaza, which has caused a large number of civilian casualties in recent air strikes. It deplores the refusal of Hamas to hand over the remaining hostages,” it said in a statement.
Source:arabnews.com
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Chief justice vows providing protection for investments
Mar 20, 2025
In a message on the occasion of the Persian New Year on Thursday, Mohseni-Ejei referred to the designation of the new year by Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei as year of “investments for production” and said the Judiciary will do its part to help facilitate such investments.
“We are determined to execute plans and measures designed to help swiftly materialize this crucial task, and to that end, we will engage in full cooperation with other government branches,” Mohseni-Ejei said.
“We shall inform all those seeking to transform the country’s economy and production with their capital and henceforth enhance the livelihood of the people of the good news that they will be given a sanctuary,” he said.
“On the other hand, we warn all elements who would seek to abuse the situation and carry out acts of corruption that, as per the law, they will be subjected to definitive and harsh treatments,” he added.
In a message on the start of the Persian New Year, Ayatollah Khamenei designated the calendar year 1404 as the “Year of Investment for Production” and said the government is responsible to remove barriers to economic progress and citizens are expected to actively contribute by stepping up their investments to drive economic growth.
Source:mehrnews.com
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Ibb holds seminars commemorating Imam Ali's martyrdom
21 Mar 2025
Cultural seminars were held throughout Ibb province to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, under the slogan "I have won, by Allah of the Kaaba."
The Guidance Office organized a seminar at Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque in Ibb city, where Abdulfattah Ghallab, head of General Mobilization, emphasized the importance of remembering Imam Ali's martyrdom to draw lessons and moral guidance.
Province undersecretary Yahya al-Qasimi and Guidance Office Director Ahmed al-Muhajir discussed Imam Ali's life and legacy, highlighting his position as a prominent figure in Islam after Prophet Muhammad.
Similar seminars were held in Yarim, Ba'adan, Jeblah, al-Shaer, al-Makhader, al-Radmah, and Mudhaikherah districts, focusing on Imam Ali's virtues and his close relationship with the Prophet.
Speakers stressed the importance of commemorating his martyrdom to strengthen resolve against "aggression."
Source:saba.ye
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Sana'a district event honors battle of Badr, Imam Ali's martyrdom
21 Mar 2025
Al-Sabeen district in the capital Sana'a has held a cultural event, commemorating the Battle of Badr and the martyrdom of Imam Ali, under the slogan "On the Day of Criterion, I Have Won, by Allah of the Kaaba."
Hussein al-Jubain, Director of the Jihad Cultural Department at the Ministry of Defense, spoke about the Battle of Badr, highlighting it as a pivotal moment between "truth and falsehood." He emphasized the divine support given to Prophet Muhammad and his followers against the "forces of unbelief."
He stressed the importance of learning from the Battle of Badr's victory over "polytheists and tyrants," and praised Imam Ali's life, courage, and dedication to Islam and the oppressed. He urged attendees to emulate Imam Ali's path in the face of "aggression" and to support the Palestinian cause.
Al-Jubain called on the public to utilize these commemorative events to increase awareness and fulfill their duty in confronting "America and Israel" and supporting Gaza.
Source:saba.ye
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Arab World
Ramadan’s spirit of giving reflected in SR1.4bn donation to Saudi housing campaign
March 20, 2025
RIYADH: The Kingdom’s Jood Regions 2 housing campaign has exceeded a total of SR1.4 billion $373 million) in donations and agreements received and made, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Thursday.
The program aims to provide adequate housing for families across the country and has received support from King Salman in the form of SR100 million donation, and a SR50 million donation from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The donations underscore the Saudi leadership’s commitment to supporting national initiatives aimed at strengthening and providing housing stability for 8,690 families.
Noting that the campaign’s donations reflect the cohesion between the leadership and the community, and all parties’ commitment to support sustainable development efforts, minister of municipalities and housing and chairman of the board of trustees of the Sakani Foundation, Majid bin Abdullah Al-Hogail, expressed his pride in this national achievement.
Sakani Secretary-General Abdulaziz Al-Kraidis, emphasized that this achievement reflects the power of serving the community and its members’ awareness of the value of contributing to improving each other’s lives.
Al-Kraidis explained that the campaign embodies the commitment of various government, private, and civil society sectors to promoting charitable and housing work.
He said the Sakani Foundation’s continued efforts in strengthening partnerships to ensure the sustainability of these initiatives and work toward providing more quality of life-improving programs.
The Wad Al-Iskan platform, another Sakani initiative, which aims to engage all people in supporting and enabling deserving families to obtain adequate housing by submitting contributions online, played a pivotal role in the success of the Jood Regions campaign and enhances social solidarity in Saudi Arabia, according to Al-Kraidis.
The Jood Regions campaign was first launched during Ramadan 2024 to provide more than 10,000 housing units for the most needy families across the Kingdom’s 13 provinces.
The initiative includes events to raise awareness and encourage community participation, bringing together entrepreneurs, leaders and others to ensure citizens can access suitable housing with ease and reliability, fulfilling the goals of developmental housing initiatives.
Source:arabnews.com
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Initiative promotes Arabic language among international scholarship students
HEBSHI ALSHAMMARI
March 20, 2025
RIYADH: Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University has begun a new initiative to develop the Arabic language skills of non-native speakers on international scholarships at the university.
The initiative, called “Sofara Al-Arabiya” (Ambassadors of Arabic), aims to help students use the Arabic language effectively in various cultural and professional settings, officials at IMSIU told Arab News.
Dr. Ahmed Al-Ameri, president of IMSIU, emphasized the importance of the initiative in strengthening the cultural identity of the Arabic language and its role in achieving the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.
“This initiative comes within the framework of the university’s commitment to supporting initiatives that contribute to highlighting the status of the Arabic language and its culture globally,” he said.
“The university is working to employ interdisciplinary academic disciplines to serve the Arabic language and provide language services to government and private sectors, enhancing institutional and cultural communication.”
Dr. Abdullah Al-Asmari, vice rector of IMSIU for education affairs, told Arab News: “Investing in Arabic language education represents a cultural responsibility that requires continuous interaction with changing circumstances of the era.”
“The initiative aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 to enhance the status of the Arabic language as an essential part of national and cultural identity,” he said.
Dr. Khaled Al-Khara’n, dean of the College of Arabic Language at IMSIU, explained that the initiative targets international scholarship students from around the world.
“It seeks to promote the learning of Arabic as a living language capable of expressing authentic Arab culture,” he said.
“The initiative includes a set of enrichment programs aimed at developing students’ linguistic and creative skills, including training them in creative writing, publishing poetry collections, and engaging them in national and international events.”
Mohammed Al-Ammar, director of the initiative, said that it is part of the university’s efforts to prepare a generation of students proficient in Arabic language skills capable of communicating globally in creative and influential ways.
“IMSIU is working to expand the scope of the Arabic language’s influence academically and culturally, reflecting its commitment to representing national cultural identity,” Al-Ammar said.
“The initiative seeks to build bridges of communication with scholarship graduates to enhance the future impact of the Arabic language in their countries.
“With such steps, IMSIU is contributing to consolidating the status of Arabic as a global language and enhancing its presence in the international cultural scene,” he said.
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Haram authority gears up to receive huge influx of worshipers during last 10 days of Ramadan
March 21, 2025
MAKKAH — The General Authority for the Care of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque started implementing its operational plans featuring a diverse and integrated system of facilities and services to receive a huge influx of the faithful during the last ten days of Ramadan.
The authority has intensified its operational efforts to ensure the readiness of prayer areas, including the availability of carpets, sanitation, cleaning, fumigation, and the provision of Zamzam water for worshippers. Additionally, the authority is extending environmental protection services, maintaining facilities and restrooms, preventing negative occurrences, and offering cart services. A well-equipped monitoring and reporting system is also in place to ensure visitor satisfaction.
The initiatives reflect the authority's commitment to operational services, maintenance, crowd management, and social services within the mosque.
The authority has significantly increased service capacity at the Grand Mosque in preparation for the last 10 days of Ramadan. Thousands of personnel and equipment have been deployed to ensure the highest quality services for worshippers within the mosque and its courtyards.
The authority has stationed teams at 38 locations to answer inquiries and deployed specialized personnel to clean the mosque in just 35 minutes. Each day, 20 rounds of perfuming are carried out using over two kilograms of oud.
It has prepared 428 escalators, 28 elevators, 1,300 electric speakers, and power sources of up to 90,000 tons to cool the Grand Mosque. It also offers free luggage storage and designated prayer areas for the elderly and people with disabilities to ensure maximum comfort.
The authority has set up a 24/7 childcare center, carts to assist with rituals, special prayer areas for itikaf during the last 10 days of Ramadan, as well as a unified platform for reserving transportation, ensuring a seamless experience for all worshipers.
Source:saudigazette.com.sa
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‘Walking Guide’ volunteer service introduced for Grand Mosque pilgrims
TAREQ AL-THAQAFI
March 20, 2025
MAKKAH: A new volunteer assistance service has been introduced at Saudi Arabia’s two holy mosques to aid pilgrims, particularly the elderly and disabled.
The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques announced the program as part of broader efforts to improve the pilgrimage experience.
Speaking to Arab News, the initiative’s director, Bassem Wahbo, explained that guides are identifiable through prominent signage and floor markers that pinpoint their locations.
“This system creates effective connections between locations and nearby services, representing a critical advancement in our visitor assistance capabilities, supporting the initiative’s goals of providing effective and direct assistance to (visitors),” Wahbo said.
“We provide precise guidance to ensure all visitors enjoy a comfortable and smooth experience, with special focus on elderly and disabled pilgrims by directing them to dedicated pathways and services that facilitate easy access to their destinations,” he added.
The initiative serves multiple purposes, mainly facilitating movement throughout the mosque complex, providing assistance to worshippers navigating to prayer areas and services, supporting vulnerable visitors to ensure their comfort during religious rituals, and directing people to optimal routes and available amenities.
The authority emphasized its ongoing commitment to supporting elderly and disabled visitors through specialized guidance services to help them reach their destinations with ease.
Hajj and Umrah specialist Saad Al-Sharif praised the initiative as “exceptional,” noting its comprehensive approach to visitor assistance.
“The guides provide crucial field direction to circumambulation areas, Sa’i, prayer halls, entrances, exits, and service locations. They reunite lost individuals — particularly children and elderly pilgrims — with their proper destinations and offer multilingual assistance to international visitors,” Al-Sharif explained.
Umrah performer Abdulrahman Faisal highlighted the teams’ importance in emergency response situations.
“They provide immediate assistance to visitors experiencing difficulties such as heat stress or exhaustion and coordinate with relevant authorities when necessary,” he said.
He explained that it is particularly important to guide Umrah performers and tourists toward correct behaviors inside the mosque to preserve the sanctity of the place and maintain orderly movement, which the authorities are working hard to achieve.
Faisal noted that guides operate within a mobile system, patrolling the mosque complex with identification badges and communication devices.
They are strategically positioned at key locations including entrances, the Tawaf area, the Sa’i walkway, and main gates.
“Their use of smart applications and digital mapping technology to deliver accurate, instant information is particularly impressive,” he added.
The service has already reportedly reduced instances of disorientation among visitors while improving the ritual experience and enhancing overall organization.
Source:arabnews.
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KSrelief concludes open-heart surgery project in Yemen
March 21, 2025
ADEN, Yemen: A KSrelief medical mission has successfully performed free 25 open-heart surgeries in Yemen's Aden governorate, the Saudi Press Agency reported Thursday.
The mission, which took place from March 11 to 18, also performed 65 cardiac catheterization procedures and six transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) procedures.
Twelve volunteers participated in the mission, a joint project of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center and the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen (SDRPY).
It was an extension of the volunteer medical initiatives carried out by Saudi Arabia's aid agency to assist those in need worldwide, the SPA report said.
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Eastern Province carries out health inspections
March 21, 2025
DAMMAM: Eastern Province Municipality carried out 10,540 inspections of commercial and food establishments in Dammam this month. It is part of the municipality’s plans to ensure compliance with health and municipal regulations, while also promoting food safety in markets, restaurants and shops.
Inspectors identified 931 violations, including cases of noncompliance with municipal and health regulations, improper food handling and storage, failure to meet hygiene and safety standards, and noncompliance with activity and operating licenses.
The municipality said that it will increase inspections of all commercial and food establishments, and encouraged the public to report any health or regulatory violations by contacting the dedicated complaints center (940).
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KSrelief distributes 400 food baskets in South Africa
March 21, 2025
PRETORIA: The Saudi aid agency KSrelief has distributed 400 food baskets to families most in need in Bakerton, South Africa. The move will benefit 2,400 individuals as part of the Etaam Ramadan Food Basket Distribution Project in the country.
The scheme aims to distribute more than 390,000 food baskets to 2,304,104 individuals across 27 countries during the month at a total cost of more than SR67 million ($17.88 million).
The initiative is part of the Kingdom’s humanitarian and relief effort to assist people and nations in need worldwide.
The center also distributed 1,500 food baskets in the Bahri locality of Khartoum State in Sudan, benefiting 10,182 individuals from displaced families. This forms part of the third phase of KSrelief’s food security support project in Sudan.
The project aims to distribute 30,000 food baskets to displaced people returning to their homes under the voluntary return program in different parts of Sudan.
Source:arabnews.com
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Al-Najdi Mosque on Farasan Island undergoes phase two restoration in crown prince’s project
March 20, 2025
RIYADH: The Al-Najdi Mosque is undergoing phase two restoration as part of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historic Mosques.
Al-Najdi Mosque, constructed in 1929, is one of the oldest worship sites on Farasan Island in the Jazan region, southwest of Saudi Arabia.
It is currently undergoing restoration as part of the crown prince’s project to open it to the public and to preserve its architectural beauty through plant decorations, artistic formations, and glass voids.
Following the renovation, Al-Najdi Mosque will cover an area of 609.15 square meters and will be able to accommodate 248 worshipers.
The mosque, which took 13 years to build, features paintings and inscriptions brought from India. It is named after Sheikh Ibrahim Al-Tamimi, known as Al-Najdi, the founder of the mosque.
The mosque features a unique pulpit, mihrab, and arches supporting a ceiling adorned with 12 ornate and colorful domes, showcasing a distinctive architectural style, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Al-Najdi Mosque is one of 30 mosques that will be renovated as part of the crown prince’s project, which spans all 13 regions of Saudi Arabia.
This includes six mosques in Riyadh, five in Makkah, four in Madinah, three in Asir, and two each in the Eastern Region, Al-Jouf, and Jazan. Additionally, one mosque will be renovated in each of the Northern Borders, Tabuk, Al-Baha, Najran, Hail, and Al-Qassim.
Source:arabnews.com
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Faith and festivity shape Ramadan’s final nights
WASAN ALMAKHLAFI
March 20, 2025
RIYADH: As Ramadan nears its end, the rhythm of life across Saudi Arabia begins to shift. For some, the last ten nights bring an intense focus on worship and prayer, while for others, they are marked by preparations for Eid Al-Fitr, the festival that signals the end of fasting.
The change is noticeable, but how people experience it varies depending on their priorities, routines and even where they live.
“The last ten nights have a different feeling — everything becomes calmer and more peaceful,” said Albendri Al-Majlad, a recent university graduate based in Riyadh.
“Even people’s hearts feel lighter. The atmosphere in mosques is completely different compared to the beginning of Ramadan.
“At first, we are busy with iftars, gatherings and social events, but in the last ten nights, the focus shifts entirely to worship, anticipation and quiet reflection,” she said.
During these final nights, mosques across Saudi Arabia become increasingly crowded as people dedicate themselves to prayer, hoping to witness Laylat Al-Qadr, the Night of Decree.
In Islam, this night is believed to be when God determines the fate of all creation for the coming year, decreeing matters of life, death and destiny.
Because its exact date is unknown, Muslims devote themselves to intense worship throughout the last ten nights in the hope of witnessing its blessings.
For many, this period is marked by additional prayers, including Taraweeh, a set of special evening prayers performed after the evening Isha prayer throughout Ramadan.
Another important form of worship is Qiyam Al-Layl, otherwise known as TaHajjud, a voluntary night prayer that takes place in the final third of the night.
Ali Al-Therwi, a systems engineer based in Jeddah, described how his routine shifts during this period.
“Since these nights might contain Laylat Al-Qadr, I dedicate more time to the prayers of Taraweeh and TaHajjud. I try to spend this holy month making the most of this opportunity,” Al-Therwi said.
“My focus remains on reciting the Qur’an, prayer, fasting, charity and other acts of worship. In general, I’ve noticed that people around me become more engaged in both religious and social activities during this period,” he added.
In addition to worship, many also spend these nights preparing for Eid, bringing a different kind of movement in the city as markets and shopping centers see an influx of shoppers looking for clothing, decorations and sweets.
“When it comes to movement in the city, I’ve noticed that traffic increases in the streets and markets, especially as Eid approaches. People rush to buy gifts, new clothes and food, preparing for the celebrations,” Al-Therwi said.
“The last ten nights feel different from the rest of Ramadan, not only because of the spiritual significance but also because of the excitement leading up to Eid.
“The atmosphere is filled with anticipation, as people are eager to both experience Laylat Al-Qadr and welcome Eid with joy,” he said.
Although the exact date of Eid has not yet been determined, many are already preparing for its arrival while making the most of the final nights of Ramadan — whether through worship, family gatherings or community traditions.
Source:arabnews.com
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Saudi Arabia takes part in celebrations for International Day of Happiness
March 20, 2025
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is taking part in global celebrations for the International Day of Happiness held annually on March 20.
The day was proclaimed by the UN in 2012.
The Kingdom launched the Quality of Life Program in 2018, a key element of Vision 2030, to promote balanced lifestyles and create supportive cultural, recreational and sporting environments that enhance the happiness of Saudi citizens.
The International Day of Happiness highlights the need for global cooperation to improve social, economic and environmental well-being, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The theme for this year’s event is “Caring and Sharing,” highlighting the importance of benevolence, empathy, and trust as vital drivers of both individual and national happiness.
International and regional organizations, civil society and individuals can work through educational activities to promote a shift toward prioritizing human happiness, the SPA added.
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2594261/saudi-arabia
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Over 320 million phone calls made in Makkah and Madinah during first half of Ramadan
March 21, 2025
JEDDAH — The Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST) reported robust telecommunications network performance in Makkah and Madinah during the first half of Ramadan. Over 320 million calls were made in both the holy cities, with Makkah accounting for 184 million local and 21 million international calls, while Madinah recorded 107 million local and 10 million international calls.
According to the commission statistics, 5G coverage reached 98 percent in Makkah and 99 percent in Madinah. Average daily data consumption per capita significantly surpassed global averages, reaching 1190MB in Makkah (three times the global average) and 1495MB in Madinah (four times the global average). Mobile internet speeds averaged 210 Mbps in Makkah and 278 Mbps in Madinah.
The communications and technology sector is meeting high consumption demands with exceptional quality, aligning with leadership's goals. Through advanced technology and dedicated personnel, the sector ensures high download speeds and seamless local and international call connectivity for worshipers.
Source:saudigazette.com.sa
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https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/650312/SAUDI-ARABIA/Over-320-million-phone-calls-made-in-Makkah-and-Madinah-during-first-half-of-Ramadan
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Electronic booking required for golf carts at Grand Mosque starting 20 Ramadan
March 20, 2025
RIYADH — The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques has announced that manual bookings for golf carts at the Grand Mosque will no longer be available, with all reservations to be made exclusively through the Unified Transport Platform starting 20 Ramadan.
The authority emphasized that elderly individuals over the age of 65 are encouraged to book electronically. However, if they face difficulties, they can access designated service points within the Grand Mosque for assistance.
Additionally, individuals with disabilities will be able to use the golf cart service free of charge along with a companion, without the need for prior electronic booking.
To ensure smooth operations, visitors must arrive on time and present their reservation ticket and valid identification.
The golf carts will be available at several locations within the Grand Mosque, including Ajyad Bridge at Gate 3 in front of Al Safwa Hotel, the first mezzanine level near Ajyad Stairs at Gate 2 next to King Abdulaziz Gate, the first and second mezzanine levels, and the Shubaika Bridge entrance near Dar Al Tawhid Hotel.
Source:saudigazette.com.sa
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https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/650309/SAUDI-ARABIA/Electronic-booking-required-for-golf-carts-at-Grand-Mosque-starting-20-Ramadan
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Europe
UK anti-Muslim activist 'Tommy Robinson' challenges jail segregation
20 March 2025
LONDON (Reuters) - British anti-Muslim activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, who counts U.S. billionaire Elon Musk among his supporters, on Thursday challenged a decision to hold him in segregation in prison, arguing it was because of his political beliefs.
Yaxley-Lennon, known by the pseudonym Tommy Robinson, was jailed for 18 months last October after admitting contempt of court by breaching an injunction made after he was successfully sued for libel.
He has been kept apart from other prisoners at Woodhill Prison in central England for more than 140 days since then because the governor said he was at risk of being attacked.
The government said the prison had received intelligence that two inmates planned to assault him, and that he might be killed by another prisoner if moved elsewhere in the jail.
"I believe this is politically motivated because of my activism and my beliefs," his lawyer Alisdair Williamson quoted Yaxley-Lennon as telling London's High Court.
Williamson said there was no doubt that Yaxley-Lennon's mental health was suffering, and that he feared he would relapse into substance abuse on his expected release in July.
The government responded that his bespoke regime included being allowed more visits than any other prisoner, more time out of his cell, and up to four hours a day of telephone calls.
"I don't accept there has been ... direct discrimination," said government lawyer Tom Cross.
Musk has regularly interacted with Yaxley-Lennon on his social media platform, X, and called for his release.
Yaxley-Lennon's account said in January that the U.S. billionaire was paying some of his legal fees, though Musk has not confirmed this.
To critics, Yaxley-Lennon, who appeared by videolink, is a far-right rabble rouser who has become a flag-bearer for some British nationalists and anti-immigration campaigners.
Some media and politicians accused him of peddling misinformation to stoke tensions that led to rioting last July after the murder of three young girls.
He says the media lie about him, and that he is a journalist exposing wrongdoing.
The judge said he would give his decision on Friday.
Source:yahoo.com
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https://uk.news.yahoo.com/uk-anti-muslim-activist-tommy-154243483.html
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Zelensky tells Russia to drop 'unnecessary' demands ahead of peace talks
21 March 2025
Volodymyr Zelensky has said Ukrainian and US officials will meet for peace talks in Saudi Arabia next Monday, after the Kremlin confirmed US-Russia talks there the same day.
Ukraine's leader said Russian President Vladimir Putin "must stop making unnecessary demands that only prolong the war". Moscow's demands include a complete end to military assistance for Ukraine.
Zelensky also warned that taking Nato membership for Ukraine off the table - something Putin has said was non-negotiable for peace - would be a "big gift to Russia".
He also rebuffed claims by the White House that he discussed ceding ownership of Ukraine's nuclear power plants to the US during a call with President Donald Trump.
The latest talks come as the US attempts to broker a ceasefire between the two nations after more than three years of fighting.
Both Zelensky and Putin have agreed to a ceasefire in principle during conversations with the US - but one has yet to materialise due to conflicting conditions.
The Russian leader most recently agreed to a halt to air strikes on energy infrastructure - but such strikes from both sides have continued.
Zelensky said a Ukrainian delegation would hand the US a list of infrastructure facilities it wants to be protected from Russian strikes at Monday's talks.
Asked about the White House touting the possible US ownership of Ukraine's nuclear power plants at a joint news conference with Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in Oslo, Zelensky ruled this out entirely.
He said that the two had discussed the Zaporizhia power plant - which is currently under Russian control - in his phone call with Trump, but stressed that "all nuclear power plants belong to the people of Ukraine".
However, he said he was open to the US taking the plant from Russia to invest in or modernise.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had earlier said that US ownership "would be the best protection for that infrastructure".
Asked if he was ready to make territorial concessions to Russia, particularly Crimea, which has been in Russian hands since 2014, Zelensky said: "That is a Ukrainian peninsula," adding that Crimea was an "integral part" of his country.
Crimea is internationally recognised as part of Ukraine, despite Russia's occupation and claimed annexation.
When asked what a ceasefire might look like, Zelensky said the first stage would have to be a ceasefire by land and sea, as Ukraine sees this as the only way to stop Russian aggression.
Trump was able to extract an agreement for a ceasefire on energy infrastructure - which Russia has repeatedly targeted - from Putin in a call on Tuesday, but nothing more.
Russia's deputy foreign minister, Alexander Grushko, said earlier this week that Moscow will seek guarantees that Nato would exclude Ukraine from membership and that Ukraine would remain neutral in any peace deal.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has downplayed the prospect of Ukraine joining the military alliance, saying it was "not a realistic outcome of a negotiated settlement".
In the meantime, the war - which began with Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022 - continues. Strikes overnight killed two people in Ukraine, while Ukrainian drone attacks injured 10 and set an airfield on fire in Russia.
Speaking to EU leaders via video link at a meeting in Brussels, Zelensky reiterated calls for military aid to continue, asking European leaders for at least €5bn (£4.18bn) for artillery shells "as soon as possible", and said that continued support for Ukraine was "crucial".
He also said the EU must be involved in peace talks, and urged Europe not to "ease pressure on Russia over the war".
After Trump and Zelensky engaged in a public shouting match in the Oval Office over the war, the White House announced a pause to military aid for Ukraine.
The pause from Ukraine's main military backer was lifted a few days later after talks between the US and Ukraine, which also saw the backing of the proposed 30-day ceasefire.
Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said that any peace deal would "only be lasting" if there were "security arrangements in place", after proposing a "coalition of the willing" to enforce peace in Ukraine following a deal.
His comments came during a visit to a military base in London, after holding a closed-door meeting with senior military officers of more than 20 countries involved in plans for the coalition.
Sir Keir said the UK and its allies were moving from "political momentum" to "military planning", which he said had "to be done now" before a deal was agreed.
He said: "It is vitally important we do that work because we know one thing for certain, which is a deal without anything behind it is something that Putin will breach.
"We know that because it happened before. I'm absolutely clear in my mind it will happen again."
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c234y2e9kzlo
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Hungary refuses to support EU call to send more military aid to Ukraine
20 Mar, 2025
The European Commission (EC) has published a joint declaration calling for an increase in the flow of military aid to Ukraine without the unanimous support of EU leaders, following a summit in Brussels on Thursday. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, however, has once again refused to sign the document.
EC rules state that such documents require the unanimous support of all 27 EU members. Thursday’s joint statement was published as a short, three-sentence document, with the lengthy declaration calling for more military aid to Kiev added as an appendix, bypassing Orban’s veto. The subject will be raised again on Friday, it said.
Orban explained that he was opposed to the bloc’s “pro-war” position on the Ukraine conflict.
“We will not allow a common European position to be formed that includes Hungary and is pro-war,” Orban said in a statement after the meeting.
Earlier this month, Orban vetoed €30 billion (£32 billion) in proposed EU military aid for Kiev, arguing that would only result in the prolongation of the Ukraine conflict.
Commenting on the decision in an interview with the media, the Hungarian leader insisted that the bloc cannot afford to bankroll its eastern neighbor in its entirety. On top of funding its military, the EU would have to support all civic government in the country, as “Ukraine, as a state, is not functioning,” he said.
Moscow has repeatedly argued that the supply of Western arms to Ukraine only serves to prolong hostilities, while effectively making its foreign backers party to the conflict.
Source:rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/news/614560-hungary-blocks-call-military-ukraine/
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Muslim lads leading Birmingham running revolution on an empty stomach during Ramadan
20 Mar 2025
Husna Anjum
Kids, families and the elderly are joining a group of running lads who are leading a fitness revolution in their community.
The Road Raptors from Aston are a running club consisting of friends and cousins who dash through marathons and races across the UK.
Aware of the health issues plaguing the South Asian community, the runners aim to raise awareness of the benefits of running to combat obesity, heart disease and diabetes.
The Road Raptors are so committed they even run throughout Ramadan on empty stomachs.
This year is poignant for their mission as one of their members, 36-year-old Ateek Ebrahim, survived a heart attack two months ago due to smoking and an unhealthy lifestyle.
He said a bad diet and lack of exercise caused the heart attack, and it also heavily impacted his friends and family many of whom quit smoking and began attending the gym.
He said he has completely changed his diet and stopped smoking, whilst walking as much as he can.
The Road Raptors are now expanding their running revolution as their local community, from kids to people as old as 70, are joining them for runs.
The group also plan to host health and nutrition workshops with Masjid Al Falaah to educate the community on healthier life choices.
BirminghamLive joined them on a chilly morning in Perry Hall Park where the lads were full of energy.
Bilal Dalvi, 30, said: "As you know we are from the South Asian community and a lot of our elders have diabetes and heart attacks, a lot of things.
"We thought enough is enough, the buck stops with us so we started getting fitness orientated and thought running and walking was a good idea.
"It grew from there and then we started getting everyone included from young people to women, then it became a way of life.
"You can run all you want but you can't outrun a bad diet, if you eat oily foods, paratha and ladoos everyday you can't outrun that.
"Definitely run but educate yourself on a healthy lifestyle first."
On running whilst fasting Niyaz Parkar, 35, said: "It is tough and you have a choice, either do it while fasting or during the night.
"At night it is freezing cold and I have layers on and the car is icy, and during the day after an hour and a half it gets tough.
"There have been times I have had to stop because I get too dizzy and your health comes first.
"Start off small and don't do everything all at once, listen to your body and do what works best for you.
"It is definitely manageable."
Source:birminghammail.co.uk
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https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/muslim-lads-leading-birmingham-running-31240206
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Reassurance, not peacekeeping: What Ukraine coalition force will and won't do
21 March 2025
The potential Western troop deployment to Ukraine being discussed in London should be described as a "reassurance force" rather than a "peacekeeping force", defence and diplomatic sources say.
Currently dubbed the Multinational Force Ukraine or MFU, it would be sent to the country to cement any ceasefire and encourage long-term confidence in the country.
The focus would be on providing Ukraine with air cover to keep its skies safe and a naval presence in the Black Sea to encourage trade.
The deployment of so-called "boots on the ground" - probably about 20,000 strong - would in terms of size not be big enough to enforce any peace.
Instead, the troops - provided by a so-called "coalition of the willing" - would most likely be deployed to protect cities, ports and major energy infrastructure.
One option being considered is that the MFU might not operate in the east of Ukraine near the front line to try to reassure Russia it poses no offensive threat.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Kremlin have said repeatedly they would not agree any ceasefire if European and other forces were deployed to Ukraine.
The sources say any multinational operation in Ukraine would not be a "peacekeeping force" and should not be described as such.
Peacekeeping forces - under the aegis of either the United Nations or Nato - traditionally are impartial, operate with the consent of both parties and use force only to defend themselves. The multinational force being discussed would very much be on Ukraine's side, there to help deter future Russian aggression.
At the moment, it is not expected that the multinational force on the ground would monitor any ceasefire. That would be done by Ukrainian troops on the frontline and Western surveillance assets in the air and space.
The sources also say the coalition troops would not be deployed to provide a so-called "tripwire force" - meaning a force smaller than that of the opponent, designed to deter an attack without triggering escalation - if Russia resumed its invasion of Ukraine.
They say the military impact of any allied deployment of about 20,000 troops would be limited compared to the number of troops on either side of the front line.
Ukraine has almost a million military personnel, Russia's army is even larger.
Much of the focus of Thursday's discussions is on how best any international force can provide Ukraine with assets it does not have, especially capability in the air.
So, there will be discussions about which countries can provide warplanes to keep Ukraine's skies safe during a ceasefire.
There will also be discussions about how to make the Black Sea safe for shipping. That may involve two components: how best to keep shipping lanes clear of mines and what kind of naval task force could provide a security presence in the sea.
The key uncertainty is whether the United States would provide any air, satellite or intelligence cover for any European force on the ground.
The US has thus far said it would not be willing to provide any military "backstop".
The European strategy for now is to stop asking the US and instead organise the best force and capability it can to ensure the security of Ukraine in the future. Once the details are agreed, then the UK, France and others would see if the European offer was substantial enough for the US to have a change of heart and agree to play some kind of role.
What all this planning depends on, of course, is some kind of ceasefire being agreed in Ukraine.
While the US remains optimistic, many in Ukraine remain sceptical that Russia even wants to end the fighting.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ckgz8jlxlk3o
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Finland named as happiest country for eighth year
21 March 2025
Finland has been ranked as the world's happiest country for the eighth successive year, with experts citing access to nature and a strong welfare system as factors.
It came ahead of three other Nordic countries in this year's UN-sponsored World Happiness Report, while Latin America's Costa Rica and Mexico entered the top 10 for the first time.
Both the UK and the US slipped down the list to 23rd and 24th respectively - the lowest-ever position for the latter.
The study also found strangers are about twice as kind as people think. It measured trust in strangers by deliberately losing wallets, seeing how many were returned and comparing that with how many people thought would be handed in.
The rate of wallets returned was almost twice as high as people predicted and the study, which gathered evidence from around the world, found belief in the kindness of others was more closely tied to happiness than previously thought.
John F. Helliwell, an economist at the University of British Columbia and a founding editor of the report, said the wallet experiment data showed "people are much happier living where they think people care about each other".
The 13th annual World Happiness Report, released to mark the UN's International Day of Happiness, ranks the world's happiest countries by asking people to evaluate their lives.
Finland again took top spot with an average score of 7.736 out of 10, with Denmark in second.
Experts said family bonds were a factor in Costa Rica's and Mexico's rise in the rankings.
The study, published by the University of Oxford's Wellbeing Research Centre, asked people to rate their own lives on a scale of 0-10 - zero being the worst possible life and 10 being the best possible life.
Country rankings are based on a three-year average of those scores. The top 10 are:
1. Finland
2. Denmark
3. Iceland
4. Sweden
5. Netherlands
6. Costa Rica
7. Norway
8. Israel
9. Luxembourg
10. Mexico
The 2025 World Happiness Report also found:
declining happiness and social trust in the US and parts of Europe combined to explain the rise and direction of political polarisation;
sharing meals with others was strongly linked with wellbeing across the globe;
household size was closely linked to happiness, with four to five people living together enjoying the highest levels of happiness in Mexico and Europe
Jeffrey D. Sachs, president of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, said the findings reconfirmed "happiness is rooted in trust, kindness and social connection".
"It is up to us as virtuous individuals and citizens to translate this vital truth into positive action, thereby fostering peace, civility, and wellbeing in communities worldwide," he said.
Jan-Emmanuel De Neve, director of Oxford's Wellbeing Research Centre, added: "In this era of social isolation and political polarisation we need to find ways to bring people around the table again - doing so is critical for our individual and collective wellbeing."
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cr72xep44kdo
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Thousands gather to mourn North Macedonia nightclub fire dead
21 March 2025
Thousands have gathered at cemeteries across North Macedonia for the funerals of dozens of people killed in a nightclub fire on Sunday.
The blaze tore through the small Pulse club in the town of Kocani, killing 59 and injuring scores more.
Officials say the club illegally obtained its licence, that it lacked sprinklers, and that the venue was a converted carpet warehouse, whose single emergency exit was locked at the time of the fire.
More than 20 people have been detained, including government officials, police officers and the manager of the club, as anger has grown.
Funerals took place across the country on Thursday for the dead.
The funeral procession in Kocani was long - and understandably sombre. This small town of fewer than 30,000 people lost dozens of its young people.
Many mourners held portrait photographs of the people they had lost. Some teenagers tried to hide their tears behind sunglasses, but others wept openly.
The dead were buried side-by-side in Kocani's cemetery. An Orthodox Church service was to follow.
In Skopje, around 1,000 people gathered for the funeral of Andrej Gorgieski, a 43-year-old singer in the band DNK that was performing at the club when the fire broke out.
While the day is for mourning, anger is growing over corrupt practices that allowed the Pulse nightclub to operate.
Protests against corruption have taken place across the country this week.
On Monday, some in Kocani even vandalised a pub which they said the Pulse nightclub owner had also run. Others threw rocks and smashed windows at the mayor's office the same night.
The anger and the grief have prompted government inspections of cafes and nightclubs across North Macedonia for any possible safety violations.
Investigators have now named all 59 people killed in the blaze - most of them teenagers and young people.
The deadly fire began around 02:30 local time (01:30 GMT) on Sunday and spread rapidly as the ceiling was made of flammable material, Interior Minister Pance Toskovski said earlier this week.
He said there were 500 people inside the venue at the time, well over capacity for the 250 tickets sold, and that there were "grounds for suspicion that there is bribery and corruption" linked to the fire.
More than 160 people were injured in the blaze, including 45 suffering very serious injuries. Many were flown to hospitals in neighbouring Bulgaria, Greece, Serbia and Turkey for specialist treatment.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cewkq7xg0zeo
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British Museum most visited UK attraction in 2024
21 March 2025
The most-visited attraction in the UK for the second year in a row was the British Museum, according to official figures.
The famous London museum saw 6,479,952 visitors through its doors in 2024, an 11% increase on 2023 numbers.
There was also good news for the capital's Natural History Museum, which enjoyed an 11% increase in visitors (6,301,972), claiming second spot.
Overall, the UK's most popular attractions saw an uplift of 3.4% in visitor numbers year-on-year, according to Alva (Association of Leading Visitor Attractions).
The total number of visits to 400 Alva sites in 2024 was 157.2 million but that was still a decline of 8.8% on the 169.7 million visits in 2019.
Windsor Great Park (part of the Crown Estate) was the most visited outdoor attraction, welcoming 5,670,430 visitors last year, a 3% increase, which placed it in third.
Alva director Bernard Donoghue said last year was "a year of steady but not significant growth", citing the "the long economic recovery" from Covid lockdown and "the effects of the cost-of-living crisis", as well as "modest inbound visitor numbers to the UK".
"The recovery of visitor attractions and the broader cultural and heritage economies remains fragile", he noted, "but visitors have shown that in their leisure spending they still prioritise day trips to loved attractions."
The top 20 UK visitor attractions 2024
British Museum (6,479,952)
National History Museum (6,301,972)
Windsor Great Park (5,670,430
Tate Modern (4,603,205)
Southbank Centre (3,734,075)
V&A South Kensington (3,525,700)
National Gallery (3,203,451)
Somerset House (3,074,736)
Tower of London (2,902,385)
Science Museum (2,827, 242)
National Museum of Scotland (2,314,974)
Kew Gardens (2,273,976)
Royal Museums Greenwich (2,255,753)
National Galleries Scotland: National (1,999,196)
Edinburgh Castle (1,981,152)
Royal Albert Hall (1,753, 371)
Westminster Abbey (1,717,296)
National Portrait Gallery (1,578,065)
The Barbican Centre (1,541,194)
St Paul's Cathedral (1,493, 184)
In Scotland, Edinburgh's National Museum of Scotland remained the country's most visited attraction. It also moved up to 11th in the UK table with 2,314,974 visitors (a 6% increase).
National Galleries Scotland's National site welcomed 1,999,196 people, seeing a 9% increase, while Edinburgh Castle was close behind, with 1,981,152 visitors.
In Northern Ireland, Titanic Belfast continued to be the most-visited attraction with a 10% increase to 881,573 visitors (35th place overall).
In Wales, Cardiff's St Fagans National Museum of History was the most visited, with 600,690 visits (62nd place).
Other notable successes included London's National Portrait Gallery, which reopened in summer 2023 after a three-year redevelopment, and saw a 36% increase in visitors (1,578,065), presumably eager to see the revamp. It took seventh place on the list.
The Museum of Liverpool saw a 19% increase and moved 12 places to 41st with 829, 692 visitors; Pitt Rivers in Oxford gained a 27% increase to 509,703 visitors (80th spot) with The Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge enjoying a 25% uplift to 506,428 visitors (81st place).
The Young V&A, based in the capital, saw 596,100 visitors come through its doors. That marked an increase of 47% in its second year of reopening and placed it 18th on the list. It was also named Museum of the Year in 2024.
Buckingham Palace (which only opens to visitors for a few weeks each summer) received 646,832 visitors, the most its ever had in the history of its summer opening, which began in 1993. Despite its limited opening period, it was 59th on the list.
The UK Parliament was visited by 560,317 people, a 196% increase (67th most visited).
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c39v2ddn4p4o
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EU feeding Ukraine with ‘empty promises’ – Orban
21 Mar, 2025
The EU does not have the means to realistically support Ukraine during its conflict with Russia, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has said. He made his comments on Thursday, following a contentious meeting of EU leaders in Brussels.
“The EU doesn’t have a single penny left. It has spent all of its money,” Orban told the YouTube channel Patriota. “[The EU] talks about wanting to continue arming Ukraine, maintaining the Ukrainian army, and funding the functioning of the Ukrainian state… but can’t find any money in its pockets. I think it’s empty promises,” the PM added.
Orban stressed that the conflict has taken a toll on the economies of EU members. He urged Brussels to support US President Donald Trump’s efforts to mediate a peace between Russia and Ukraine. “We must not allow Hungarian families to continue to continue to pay for the economic consequences of the war,” he said.
On Thursday, Hungary refused to sign a joint EU communique calling for an increase in military aid to Kiev. “We will not allow a common European position to be formed that includes Hungary and is pro-war,” Orban told reporters following the meeting of EU leaders. Budapest has repeatedly exercised its veto powers to block or delay aid packages while arguing that the bloc must avoid further escalation with Russia and focus on diplomacy.
The EU members have failed to agree on €40 billion ($43 billion) in additional military support for Ukraine. Italy and Spain reportedly rejected the plan spearheaded by the EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, as too costly.
According to Politico, diplomats from “half a dozen countries” privately bashed Kallas’ proposal on Wednesday, with one diplomat calling the plan “botched.” Euronews reported that some officials declared the plan “dead” after it failed to gain traction during a meeting in Brussels.
Source:rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/news/614564-orban-ukraine-eu-empty-promises/
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Ukraine attacks Russian gas pipeline – reports
20 Mar, 2025
Ukrainian troops have attacked a key gas pipeline in western Russia that was previously used to deliver gas to the EU, Telegram news channels have claimed.
According to the news channels Mash and Baza, Kiev’s forces damaged the Sudzha gas metering station in the Kursk Region overnight on Friday.
Videos circulating online show a large fire at the facility. It is unclear whether the station was hit by a kamikaze drone or artillery. The authorities have not commented on the reported incident.
Ukraine invaded parts of the Kursk Region in early August, capturing the town of Sudzha and dozens of villages. The Russian troops liberated Sudzha and its surroundings earlier this month.
Some Russian military bloggers suggested that the Ukrainians may have rigged the gas equipment with explosives before retreating.
The metering station is part of the Urengoy-Pomary-Uzhgorod pipeline, which for decades had been delivering gas from Russia to the EU through Ukrainian territory. The flow did not stop even after the Ukrainians captured the station during their incursion last year.
Kiev, however, has refused to renew the contract with the Russian operator Gazprom and, starting from January 1, stopped the transit.
Following a phone call with US President Donald Trump on Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to a 30-day pause on strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky said on Thursday that Kiev would also honor the agreement. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the same day, however, that Ukraine had “violated the truce proposed by the US president.”
Source:rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/russia/614562-ukraine-attacks-sudhza-gas-equipment/
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North America
'Fear is definitely present': Muslim students react to Trump campus detentions
Dilshad Ali
March 20, 2025
(RNS) — A journalism student studying for her master’s degree at Columbia University, a young woman who asked to be identified simply as Elena, expected to be pushed by her professors to vigorously report the news on campus and beyond. But after fellow Columbia graduate student Mahmoud Khalil was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement on March 8, despite having a green card, her professors have warned Elena, and others like her who are in the country on student visas, not to report on Khalil’s case for safety reasons.
“[Our professors] are trying really hard to allow us to do our own jobs, but this is new territory,” Elena told me. “The J-school told us this for our own safety, and those of us who are here on visas are scared.”
Acknowledging the bizarre limbo that journalism students like Elena are caught in, adjunct professor of media law Stuart Karle urged students to “exercise more caution while reporting.”
Khalil, who has not been charged with any crime, is at the center of a firestorm over the Trump administration’s targeting of students who participated in pro-Palestinian protests on numerous college and university campuses last spring, accusing them of supporting terrorism or promoting antisemitism.
At the heart of the debate is what constitutes free speech and the right to protest in this country, as well as the administration’s apparent stripping of due process in the detention of Khalil and, this week, Badar Khan Suri, a Muslim scholar at Georgetown University, who was detained on Wednesday (March 19).
Khan Suri has had his student visa revoked based on the same rarely used immigration law that gives the secretary of state power to deport noncitizens deemed a threat to American foreign policy.
The detentions have left students across the country feeling grim about not only their right to disagree with U.S. policy and support for Israel, but their ability to engage in academic discourse when, at the whim of the current administration, they could be arrested, deprived of degrees, deported.
Bilal Irfan, who graduated from the University of Michigan last year and is currently studying for a master’s in bioethics at Harvard University, has been researching the devastating collapse of Gaza’s health care system from non-stop targeted bombing and its impact on maternal health, orthopedics, otolaryngology, sleep health and more. “There’s a heightened sense of fear and a great insecurity that if speech is criminalized, then what else can be criminalized? And retroactively, who else can they go after?” Bilal said.
I gave Irfan, whom I’ve interviewed in the past, the option to disguise his identity in this column for his safety, as I’ve done with other students in my coverage of campus protests. But he told me there was no point. “I frequently get death threats [now],” he said. “I even got an email from a cardiologist who called me a Neanderthal and suggested I go back to Afghanistan. At a certain point you get numb to it.” He added: “Witnessing what my colleagues are facing in Gaza, it feels foolish to be scared.”
Irfan is a U.S. citizen, but Elena is not, a distinction that amps up the stakes when it comes to what a student may report, protest, publish, post on social media, or even perhaps just say in class. But who is to say this targeting of anti-Israel or pro-Palestinian (or even pro-Palestinian-adjacent, as seems to be the case with Suri) speech — or speech in favor of anything that isn’t within the presidential administration’s purview — won’t move from visa and green card holders, to naturalized citizens, to born citizens?
At the University of Michigan, which also has been the site of numerous forms of student protests against Israel’s bombing campaigns, some faculty took it upon themselves last spring to survey 1,453 students, alumni, administrators, and parents and community members deemed to be part of the school’s “anti-Islamophobia and pro-Palestinian communities.”
The survey, called the “U-M Community Assessment on anti-Palestinian Bias and Islamophobia,” was conducted to address Michigan administrators’ “repeated institutional failures in its crisis response and communications regarding campus-wide experiences, needs, and rights of Palestinian, Arab, and Muslim students, staff, and faculty,” its organizers said. They argued that the school’s responses had been one-sided, fostering “an environment where anti-Palestinian and anti-Arab sentiments are normalized while structural Islamophobia is allowed to proliferate unchecked.”
Michigan economics professor Basit Zafar helped facilitate the survey questions. “We were in this climate where communication from the university was … talking about how the campus climate is not safe for a certain set of students, and there was no mention of how things were like for Arab, Muslim and, broadly speaking, pro-Palestinian communities,” he told me this week.
But instead of going by anecdotes that foregrounded the loudest and most influential voices, Zafar wanted data. The survey showed that 90% of respondents felt that institutional communications and responses to the terrible events of Oct. 7, 2023, and ensuing horrific bombing of Gaza were slanted and dehumanizing. Nearly as many deemed the school’s efforts to combat Islamophobia inadequate, while “conversely, only a quarter of respondents perceive the university’s efforts to address antisemitism negatively.”
After the report was released, Zafar said university administrators had one meeting with the stakeholders. “These are all smart people. It’s not that they saw the report and thought, ‘This is how these people feel? These are things that are happening?’ Everyone on college campuses knows what is going on.” It was something to be acknowledged, he said.
What has happened since then? Nothing, Zafar said. A year later, the survey is being conducted again. Students are even more scared and exhausted now. Across the country, “students have been suspended, their degrees have been withdrawn. There has been incremental regress, and people have been paying the price for some time, only that the price is much higher now. There’s even more suppression, it’s even more blatant now. It’s not hidden,” Zafar said.
And what people aren’t realizing is that it’s not only Arab and Muslim students who are suffering, Zafar said. “Eleven students at the University of Michigan have been criminally charged. Four of them are Jewish students. So when the Trump administration tries to paint [protesters] as brown people or foreign-funded [agitators who support terrorism or are antisemitic], that’s not the case.”
At nightly Ramadan prayers and iftar events in homes and across American college campuses as Ramadan enters its final days, the worry is palpable.
Source:religionnews.com
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CAIR-NJ Responds to Release of Video in Imam Hassan Sharif’s Murder Investigation, Renewing Call for Justice
March 20, 2025
The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ) today renews its call for justice following the recent release of a video by authorities showing a potential suspect involved in the tragic killing of Imam Hassan Sharif.
Imam Sharif, a respected community leader, was fatally shot outside Masjid Muhammad in Newark on January 3, 2024, while preparing to lead Fajr (pre-dawn) prayers.
The release of this new footage marks a potential significant development in the investigation, and CAIR-NJ is urging the public to closely examine the video and come forward with any information that could assist in identifying the person responsible for this senseless act of violence.
In a statement, CAIR-New Jersey Executive Director Selaedin Maksut said:
“We welcome that law enforcement is taking steps to move this investigation forward, but we remain deeply concerned that the person responsible for Imam Hassan Sharif’s murder has still not been brought to justice.
The video provides a long-awaited lead, and we hope the public will step up to help bring closure to this heartbreaking case.
Imam Hassan Sharif was a respected and deeply revered pillar of his Newark community, and it is crucial that justice is served. This release of the video is an important step in ensuring that the person who took his life is held accountable. We urge anyone with information to come forward immediately.”
Imam Sharif was shot outside the mosque as he prepared to lead early morning prayers, and he died later that day in the hospital. His death has left the Newark Muslim community in mourning and has heightened concerns about the safety of Muslims in the area, especially amid rising incidents of anti-Muslim violence.
In response to the killing, CAIR-NJ and CAIR National offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrator. This reward is separate from the $25,000 offered by Essex Crime Stoppers.
CAIR-NJ continues to stand in solidarity with Imam Sharif’s family, his congregation, and the Newark Muslim community, and will not rest until justice is served.
“We pray for Imam Sharif’s family and loved ones during this difficult time,” CAIR-New Jersey Communications Manager Aya Elamroussi said. “We also urge law enforcement to keep the public informed as the investigation progresses and to continue their efforts in bringing the responsible party to justice.”
Anyone with information about the suspect shown in the released video is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477) or submit tips online at Newark Public Safety.
Source:cair.com
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Trump signs order to begin dismantling of US education department
MARCH 21, 2025
US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to dismantle the Department of Education, fulfilling a campaign pledge and a long-cherished goal of some conservatives.
Accusing the agency of "breath-taking failures", the Republican president vowed to return the money it controls to individual states.
"We're going to shut it down as quickly as possible," Trump said, although the White House acknowledged that closing the agency outright would require an act of Congress.
The move is already facing legal challenges from those seeking to block the agency's closure as well as sweeping cuts to its staff announced last week.
Surrounded by children seated at school desks in the White House on Thursday, Trump said "the US spends more money on education by far than any other country", yet he added that students rank near the bottom of the list.
The White House stated that his administration would move to cut parts of the department that remain within legal boundaries.
The executive order is likely to face legal challenges, like many of the Trump administration's efforts to shrink the size of the federal government.
At the signing ceremony, Trump praised Linda McMahon, whom he appointed to lead the department, and expressed his hope she would be the last secretary of education.
He said he would find "something else" for her to do within the administration.
After Trump signed the order, Louisiana Republican Senator Bill Cassidy announced plans to bring legislation aimed at closing the department.
But Republicans hold a slim 53-47 majority in the Senate, and closing a federal department would require 60 votes, making such a goal a longshot.
But even if the department is not formally closed, the Trump administration could decimate its funding and staff as it has done with the US Agency for International Development (USAID), which subsequently stopped many of its programmes and humanitarian work.
The text of the executive order does not include specifics on what actions the administration will take and which programmes might be axed.
It orders McMahon to "take all necessary steps to facilitate the closure" of the department and give authority of such matters to state and local governments.
It also directs her to ensure "the effective and uninterrupted delivery of services, programs, and benefits on which Americans rely".
Established in 1979, the education department administers student loans and runs programmes that help low-income students.
But Trump has accused it of indoctrinating young people with racial, sexual, and political material.
Most US children attend public schools, which are free and run by local officials. A common misconception is that the federal education department operates US schools and sets curriculum, but that is primarily done by states and local districts.
And a relatively small percentage of funding for primary and secondary schools - about 13% - comes from federal funds. Most of the money comes from state and local taxes.
The agency also plays a prominent role in administering and overseeing the federal student loans used by millions of Americans to pay for higher education.
Soon after she was sworn in, McMahon sent the department's 4,400 employees a memo titled "Our Department's Final Mission", a possible reference to Trump's aim to shut the department.
"This is our opportunity to perform one final, unforgettable public service to future generations of students," she wrote.
"I hope you will join me in ensuring that when our final mission is complete; we will be able to say that we left American education freer, stronger, and with more hope for the future."
Earlier reports suggested Trump would look to end some of the department's programmes and send others to different departments, such as the Treasury, something that still may happen but wasn't made clear in his executive order.
America's largest teachers' union recently decried Trump's plans, saying he "doesn't care about opportunity for all kids".
In its statement, the American Federation of Teachers said: "No-one likes bureaucracy, and everyone's in favour of more efficiency, so let's find ways to accomplish that.
"But don't use a 'war on woke' to attack the children living in poverty and the children with disabilities."
For more than 40 years, conservatives have complained about the department and floated ideas to abolish it.
Just two years after it was established by Democratic President Jimmy Carter, his Republican replacement, Ronald Reagan, led calls to undo it.
It is the smallest agency in the president's cabinet and takes up less than 2% of the total federal budget.
Some of those staff have already been affected by the Trump administration's sweeping workforce cuts, led by the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge).
Nearly 2,100 people at the agency are set to be placed on leave from Friday.
Efforts by Doge to slash federal spending and radically restructure - or simply abolish - many government agencies have been overseen by tech billionaire Elon Musk.
Source:bbc.com
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Carney to call snap election as Canada faces trade war with US - reports
MARCH 21, 2025
Canada's new Prime Minister Mark Carney is likely to call a national election for 28 April, potentially as soon as this Sunday, multiple news outlets report.
With Canada's businesses reeling from a trade dispute with the US, Carney - a former two-time central banker - is expected to pitch himself as the candidate best equipped to take on Donald Trump.
The 60-year-old political newcomer took over as leader of the Liberal Party after former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stepped down from his nine-year term.
The prime minister's announcement to call an election and request the dissolution of Parliament will kick off a five-week campaign for Carney and his political opponents.
While the timing of the request to dissolve parliament is clear - the exact election date is not.
The prime minister is leaning towards setting April 28 as the voting date, the Globe and Mail and the Associated Press reported on Thursday, citing sources in the government.
Some suggest a shorter campaign could work in Carney's favour, since much of the current national discourse revolves around the ongoing trade war between the US and Canada, particularly after President Trump's threats and actions.
The election is "almost certain to focus on US President Donald Trump's trade war and his talk of making Canada the 51st state", The Globe and Mail wrote.
Carney has promised to uphold Canada's reciprocal tariffs, if Trump maintains 25% universal tariffs on Canadian goods not covered by the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) trade deal.
Trump has vowed to impose a sweeping range of tariffs on 2 April on top of the 25% tariffs already imposed on Canada's steel and aluminium.
The race will likely come down to a choice between Carney and Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.
Before the threat of tariffs, Conservatives enjoyed a 20-point lead in some election polls. Now polls are indicating a much closer race.
When Canadians next go to the polls, the Liberals will face not only the Conservatives - who are the official opposition with 120 seats in the House of Commons - but also the Bloc Quebecois, who have 33 seats, and the New Democrats (NDP), who have 24.
Source:bbc.com
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US court blocks deportation of Georgetown University researcher
MARCH 21, 2025
A US court has blocked the Trump administration from deporting a Georgetown University researcher who was detained by immigration authorities earlier this week.
Badar Khan Suri, an Indian national, is a postdoctoral fellow studying and teaching at the prestigious Washington DC institution on a student visa.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) accused him of "spreading Hamas propaganda" and having "close connections to a known or suspected terrorist".
Mr Suri's lawyer and employer have denied the allegation. His lawyer said in a court filing that his client was targeted because of his wife's "identity as a Palestinian and her constitutionally protected speech".
In an order on Thursday, Judge Patricia Tolliver Giles said Mr Suri "shall not be removed from the United States unless and until the Court issues a contrary order".
In a sworn statement, his wife Mapheze Saleh said the detention "has completely upended our lives" and appealed to the court to allow Mr Suri to return home to his family.
"Our children are in desperate need of their father and miss him dearly," she said. "As a mother of three children, I desperately need his support to take care of them and me."
His arrest follows the detention or deportation of other foreign students and academics, including Columbia graduate Mahmoud Khalil, a prominent Palestinian activist.
Mr Suri was arrested outside his home in northern Virginia on Monday night by masked immigration agents, according to legal filings seen by CBS News, the BBC's US partner.
He was told the agents were with DHS, the filings say, and they informed him the government had revoked his visa and he was now facing expulsion from the country.
Mr Suri was taken to Alexandria Staging Facility in Louisiana where he is being held, according to US Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary at DHS, said on X that Mr Suri was "actively spreading Hamas propaganda and promoting antisemitism on social media".
She accused him of having "close connections to a known or suspected terrorist, who is a senior adviser to Hamas" without providing any further detail.
Mr Suri's father-in-law is a former adviser to killed Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, the Washington Post and New York Times reported.
In her court statement, Ms Saleh said her father lived in the US for nearly 20 years while pursuing a master's and PhD. "Afterward, he served as political advisor to the Prime Minister of Gaza and as the deputy of foreign affairs in Gaza," she said.
Ms Saleh said he left the Gaza government in 2010 and "started the House of Wisdom in 2011 to encourage peace and conflict resolution in Gaza".
Mr Suri's court filings allege that he and his wife Mapheze Saleh - a US citizen of Palestinian descent - had "long been doxxed and smeared" online by an "anonymously-run blacklisting site".
The BBC has contacted Mr Suri's lawyer for more details.
A spokesman for Georgetown University told the BBC that Mr Suri had been "granted a visa to enter the United States to continue his doctoral research on peacebuilding in Iraq and Afghanistan".
The institution was "not aware of him engaging in any illegal activity, and we have not received a reason for his detention".
"We support our community members' rights to free and open inquiry, deliberation and debate, even if the underlying ideas may be difficult, controversial or objectionable," the spokesman said. "We expect the legal system to adjudicate this case fairly."
In her post on X, Ms McLaughlin said Secretary of State Marco Rubio "issued a determination on March 15, 2025 that Suri's activities and presence in the United States rendered him deportable".
The BBC has contacted DHS to request more detail on the allegations against Mr Suri, and also asked the Indian embassy in Washington DC for comment.
Several students and academics have been investigated by US immigration officials in recent weeks, accusing them of advocating for "violence and terrorism".
Khalil, a Columbia graduate and permanent US resident, was arrested on 8 March after being involved in pro-Palestinian protests on campus. He was accused of having ties to Hamas, which he denies.
Columbia student Leqaa Kordia, who is a Palestinian from the West Bank, was arrested for "overstaying her student visa". She had previously been arrested in April 2024 for taking part in protests at Columbia University, according to DHS.
Ranjani Srinivasan, another Columbia University student, chose to "self-deport". Officials said her student visa was revoked on 5 March. Her lawyers say she attended a handful of protests and had shared or liked social media posts related to Palestinians in Gaza.
Brown University professor and kidney transplant specialist Rasha Alawieh, who is Lebanese, was deported after arriving at Boston airport. US officials said they found "photos and videos" on her cell phone that were "sympathetic" to the former longtime leader of Hezbollah and militants.
According to a transcript of her interview reviewed by Reuters, she told customs officials she did not support Hezbollah but had high regard for its leader because of her religion.
"I'm not a political person," she said. "I'm a physician. It's mainly about faith."
Source:bbc.com
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Tesla makes largest ever Cybertruck recall
MARCH 21, 2025
Thousands of Tesla Cybertrucks have been recalled in the US due to concerns about part of the electric car's trim falling off in the model's eighth and largest ever recall.
The issue affects more than 46,000 trucks made starting in November 2023, which analysts say amounts to nearly all Cybertrucks.
It comes as Tesla, which did not respond to a request for comment, grapples with falling sales amid a backlash against the firm and its boss Elon Musk.
On Thursday, US Attorney General Pam Bondi said three unnamed people would face charges for setting fire to Tesla cars and charging stations, accusing them of "domestic terrorism".
Tesla does not break out sales of the Cybertruck, but car tech firm Cox Automotive has estimated roughly 39,000 were sold in the US last year.
Prior Cybertruck recalls involved failing windshield wipers, trapped accelerator pedals, possible loss of drive power to the wheels, and other issues.
Tesla started investigating the latest issue, involving a piece formally known as the cant rail, in January, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
"The cant rail, a stainless-steel exterior trim panel, can delaminate and detach from the vehicle," the notice said.
"A detached panel can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash."
Tesla told NHTSA it had received about 150 claims from drivers about the issue but was not aware of any accidents caused by the problem.
It estimated that the issue affected about 1% of vehicles involved in the recall.
The issue is covered under a warranty for new owners, and the company will replace the piece free-of-charge.
'Tornado crisis'
Tesla's shares have dropped nearly 40% since January, erasing the jump in value that it enjoyed after the 2024 US election.
The fall has been significantly more than the overall drop in the US stock market over that period.
Dan Ives, an analyst who has historically been very pro-Tesla, said on Thursday the firm was facing a "tornado crisis moment" due to brand damage from Musk's political role.
The political backlash adds to the challenges the company had already been facing from increased competition and an ageing line-up of offerings.
The Cybertruck was supposed to help reignite buzz around the brand and help it break into the lucrative market for pickup trucks in the US.
It hit the roads in late 2023 and carries a starting cost of more than $72,000 (£55,500).
Source:bbc.com
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Tesla vandals face up to 20 years in prison, says attorney general
MARCH 21, 2025
US Attorney General Pam Bondi said Thursday that three defendants accused of vandalism targeting Elon Musk's Tesla electric vehicle company could face up to 20 years in prison.
Bondi said the damage to Tesla cars, dealerships and charging stations amounted to domestic terrorism.
Arrests and charges against the three suspects were previously announced by prosecutors.
Tesla dealerships across the country have been targeted in a wave of protests, but also vandalism and arson attacks, in response to Musk's influence over the Trump administration.
There is no specific US law against domestic terrorism, but prosecutors can request longer prison sentences if convicted criminals have a terror-related motive.
Trump and Musk have called the attacks domestic terrorism, too. Supporters of the administration have also reportedly been "swatted" – subjected to armed police raids after hoax emergency calls.
A statement from the Department of Justice on Thursday did not name the suspects in the Tesla vandalism, however, the details of the three cases outlined in the news release match arrests and charges previously announced by prosecutors.
The suspects include Lucy Nelson, 42, who was charged with possession of a destructive device and malicious destruction of property after being spotted near the site of a Tesla dealership in Colorado.
The dealership had been targeted with a Molotov cocktail attack and graffiti which caused damage of between $5,000 and $20,000, according to a criminal complaint. That suspect has pleaded not guilty.
Adam Matthew Lansky, 41, was charged with possession of a destructive device after Molotov cocktails were thrown at a Tesla dealership in Salem, Oregon. He has yet to enter a plea and will face a preliminary hearing in April.
The third, 24-year-old Daniel Clarke-Pounder, was charged with arson after allegedly throwing Molotov cocktails at Tesla charging stations in North Charleston, South Carolina, and spray-painting the car park.
In a statement, Bondi said: "The days of committing crimes without consequence have ended.
"Let this be a warning: if you join this wave of domestic terrorism against Tesla properties, the Department of Justice will put you behind bars."
The attorney general said the three suspects could face between five and 20 years in prison if convicted.
The BBC attempted to contact lawyers for the three defendants.
Source:bbc.com
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Trump says judge in migrant deportations case is 'Grandstander'
MARCH 21, 2025
President Donald Trump has accused a federal judge of attempting to usurp White House authority after he dismissed a government court filing on migrant deportation flights as "woefully insufficient".
Judge James Boasberg, the top federal judge in Washington DC, said the government had "evaded its obligations" to answer his questions about how alleged Venezuelan gang members were flown to an El Salvador mega-prison last weekend.
Trump earlier this week called for Judge Boasberg to be impeached, labelling him a "troublemaker and agitator", although he did not name him in that social media post.
Those remarks had led to Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts Jr issuing a rare rebuke, saying impeachment is "not an appropriate response to disagreement" with a judge.
Judge Boasberg had asked the government last Saturday to halt the deportation flights, but the White House said it was too late.
On Thursday, government attorneys provided a six-paragraph declaration from an immigration official, but the judge said they did not supply the flight information he had requested.
In response, Judge Boasberg gave justice department lawyers a new deadline to submit the requested information. He also accused the Trump administration of continuing to withhold information from the court.
Trump hit back at the judge in a Truth Social post later on Thursday.
"Judge James Boasberg is doing everything in his power to usurp the Power of the Presidency," he wrote.
"He is a local, unknown Judge, a Grandstander, looking for publicity, and it cannot be for any other reason, because his "Rulings" are so ridiculous, and inept. SAVE AMERICA!"
In another Truth Social post, Trump called for a stop to "nationwide injunctions" against his administration's policies, calling such court rulings "unlawful".
He also said "our country is in very serious trouble", urging Chief Justice Roberts and others on the Supreme Court to "fix this toxic and unprecedented situation immediately".
In the Venezuelan migrants deportation case, government lawyers submitted a six-paragraph declaration from an immigration official.
They also told the court they needed another day to consider whether to invoke a state secrets clause that allows federal authorities to withhold sensitive national security information in lawsuits.
But Judge Boasberg was not satisfied.
"To begin, the Government cannot proffer a regional ICE official to attest to Cabinet-level discussions of the state-secrets privilege," he wrote.
The judge initially gave a deadline of Wednesday, before extending it to Thursday. Now he has given the Trump administration until Friday morning to provide a sworn declaration from a cabinet-level official.
Judge Boasberg will also hold a previously scheduled hearing on Friday about Trump's invocation of the Alien Enemies Act.
The president last weekend cited the 18th Century measure to deport more than 200 Venezuelans, alleging almost all were members of the gang Tren de Aragua.
But an immigration attorney working on behalf of one of the deported men told a court on Thursday that her client was a professional soccer player in Venezuela without a criminal record, CBS News, the BBC's US news partner, reported.
The man, Jerce Reyes Barrios, had applied for asylum to escape political persecution, his attorney argued, saying that he was falsely accused of being connected to Tren de Aragua because of a tattoo on his arm.
The attorney said the tattoo honoured the football team Real Madrid.
The flights - which Mr Barrios and others were aboard - were halted by Judge Boasberg verbally over the weekend. Any flights currently in the air were to be turned back.
But the White House said the planes were already in international airspace, arguing that the judge's order was therefore invalid.
Source:bbc.com
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Two convicted in murder-for-hire plot of US-Iranian journalist
MARCH 21, 2025
Two men have been convicted in a murder-for-hire scheme targeting an Iranian-American journalist at her Brooklyn home.
A federal jury in New York found Rafat Amirov and Polad Omarov guilty of plotting to assassinate reporter Masih Alinejad in July 2022. They face decades in prison.
Prosecutors said Iran's government funded the plot and targeted Ms Alinejad over her campaigns against the mandatory wearing of headscarves for Iranian women.
Iran's government, which has been accused in several plots targeting Ms Alinejad, has called such allegations "ridiculous and baseless".
The two men, who prosecutors said were Russian mobsters, were found guilty on charges that included murder for hire, firearms possession and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
The Manhattan jury returned their verdict after deliberating for just over three hours following a two-week trial.
Prosecutors said Iran attempted several times over the years to silence and threaten Ms Alinejad, including a failed kidnap plot that led to the arrest of four Iranian intelligence officials in 2021.
When those efforts failed, they put a $500,000 (£385,793) bounty out for her killing, the US government said.
After the verdict, Ms Alinejad, who worked for Voice of America after leaving Iran in 2009, said she was "bombarded with emotions".
"I have cried, I have laughed, I have even danced. Because today is not just about my survival; it is about the defeat and humiliation of a regime that believes it can silence its critics with bullets," said Ms Alinejad, who was not in court, in a statement.
"They failed. I am still here. And I will keep fighting until every criminal in that regime faces their reckoning."
Source:bbc.com
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Africa
Islam religion of peace, says Ladoja
March 21, 2025
by Segun Showunmi, Ibadan
The Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Rasheed Ladoja, said Islam is a religion of peace.
He spoke at a Ramadan lecture organised by an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Oyo State, Oyedele Alao, an engineer.
Ladoja, the chairman at the event, hailed the guest lecturer, a renowned cleric, Shaykh Sulaimon Amubieya, for his thought-provoking lecture titled: ‘Mirror of Life and the aftermath’.
Ladoja, former governor of Oyo State, said human beings must be careful so as not to be the architects of their misfortunes.
Shaykh Amubieya says each individual is the mirror of himself or herself, noting that destiny is older than the world itself.
He said the blessings of God in the lives of His creations could not be tampered with, noting that the relationship one had with God would determine the success one would attain in life.
The cleric urged Muslim faithful to always put their trust in God.
Alao thanked Ladoja for accepting to be the chairman, noting his presence portrayed him as a statesman and a leader to all, irrespective of status in the society.
He also appreciated the Alajia of Ajia, Oba Nureni Adegbenro, for gracing the event.
Also present at the lecture were Sen. Yunus Akintunde, APC Chairman in Oyo State, Olaide Abas, ex-lawmaker, Adepeju Esan and Prof. K. K. Oloso.
Others are Oyo State APC Woman Leader, Alhaja Tinuade Adigun, Prince Gbade Lana, Mogaji Abass Oloko, Ganiyu Lawal, an architect and Remi Sodiq, among others.
Source:thenationonlineng.net
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Ramadan: Foundation launches ‘Iftar’ meal in five northern states
21st March 2025
By Tunde Oyekola
As part of its annual tradition, the Abubakar Bukola Saraki Foundation is to commence the sharing of Iftar meals across selected mosques in five states across the North.
A statement signed by Hon. Musa Aliyu, the North Central Regional Director, ABSFoundation and made available to the press in Ilorin, Kwara State on Wednesday, stated that the Foundation Ramadan Iftar programme is to run through the last 10 days of the holy month of fasting.
The statement clarified that the Iftar program would be distributed in Kwara, Niger, Borno, Kano, and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
According to him, “the foundation will accommodate over 100 people per mosque with over 50 mosques being targeted across Kwara State.
“The iftar welfare programme will also hold at selected mosques in Niger, Borno, Kano, and the FCT.
Aliyu added that the gesture, “which is an annual practice, is to extend love to the Muslim Ummah, and ensure that the needy also participate in the fasting without any lack.”
The former Senate President and founder, ABS Foundation, Dr Bukola Saraki, harped on the importance of togetherness, giving, and supplication during the month of Ramadan and beyond.
He said, “All Nigerians across religious divides must devote the fasting period to pray for Nigeria and seek Allah’s intervention.”
Saraki who spoke while reacting to the commencement of the iftar meal sharing in some states of the federation by his Foundation, said “privileged individuals must endeavor to make the fasting season comfortable for the less privileged, especially because of the economic situation in the country.”
Source:punchng.com
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https://punchng.com/ramadan-foundation-launches-iftar-meal-in-five-northern-states/
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How muslims write will
March 21, 2025
by Femi Abbas
One of the obligatory Islamic duties which most Muslims take for granted is the writing of will. For every Muslim adult, male or female, writing a will is not a matter of choice. It is statutorily obligatory. But not many Muslims know this.
The general thinking is that writing a will is only for old people who are close to death or those who are very rich. This does not only contradict the concept of Islam about death, it also contravenes the principle laid down in Islam about will writing. No one knows when death will come. An octogenarian may continue to live while a man or woman of twenties or thirties may die. The healthy may die while the sick lives.
The circumstances of life in this age of technology which cause death are very unpredictable. Thus, death may come to anybody at any time.
One of the advantages of Tafsir in the sacred month of Ramadan is to disseminate knowledge especially on sensitive but fundamental issues often over-sighted by most Muslims. Writing a will is one of such issues. Will in Islam is called wasiyyah. It is a very significant means of providing a flexible instrument of transferring estate or a fraction of it to those who not heirs.
Wassiyyah basically means a bequest of assets and debts to others after one’s death. It depicts the differences between gift given out personally and one’s behave. Unlike hibah which means a gift in one’s life time, wasiyyah is a gift delivered to the beneficiary after the death of the giver.
In Islam, writing a will is not about bequeathal of wealth per se. It is rather more about the explanation of certain things in the life of the will writer which were not known to his or her family members, relatives and close associates. For instance, if the concerned will writer did not pay Zakah when he was able to pay it, or he was indebted but did not disclose it to his relatives or if something is entrusted to him in confidence or even if he made a promise to someone without the knowledge of his relatives, it is incumbent upon him to include such matters in his will. This is to clear any possible ambiguity or doubt about his relationship with other people while alive.
Writing of will by Muslims is ordained by the Almighty Allah in Q.2:180 thus:
“It is decreed that when death approaches, those of you that leave wealth shall bequeath it equitably to parents and kindred. This is a duty incumbent upon the righteous. He that alters that (the will) after hearing it shall be accountable for his crime. Allah is all-Hearing, all-knowing.”
Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was also reported by Bukhari and Muslim as saying that “Any Muslim who has something to bequest should not pass two nights without writing his will”. And Ibn Majah also reported a narration from Jabir quoting the Prophet as saying those who die leaving will behind died in the path truth and righteousness and they shall receive the forgiveness of Allah”
Ordinarily, in Islam, a Muslim has no right to share his property among his off springs or relatives by his own whim. The Islamic way of bequeathing inheritance has been divinely spelt out clearly in the Qur’an. And that is a different topic entirely not to be lumped with the issue of writing will.
Who should write a will and how?
If a will must be written according to Islamic prescription then the writer of such a will must be a Muslim. He must have attained the age of maturity. He must be sane. He must use an understandable language and clearly identify himself in his will. He must also append his signature and date to every page of such will. There must be witnesses to the writing of the will and those witnesses must also identify themselves clearly and duly sign the space left for them in the will.
But if the will is to be orally recorded, the voice of the will recorder must be very audible with understandable language. The executors as well as the trustees of the will must be clearly named and if necessary, described to avoid any confusion that may arise from similarity of names. In the case writing, four original copies must be produced. And one each must be given to the four appointed executors. No one of the executors must know another and no photocopy should be produced for any reason. This is to prevent any possible leakage or connivance that may lead to betrayal of trust. Every appointed executor must be an acknowledged trustworthy person of integrity.
An Islamic will should contain the following facts as a matter of necessity:
•Listing the all assets
•Listing all liabilities including debts, unpaid Zakah, promises made but not yet fulfilled, entrusted property, illegal acquisition in the possession of the bequether.
•Listing the wives, the children and other legitimate beneficiaries including the parents and siblings. All these must be clearly spelt out without mentioning the amount or share due to each beneficiary.
•Listing of special bequest and testamentary transfer and endowment as well as the names of the beneficiaries. All these must be clearly spelt out.
•Appointing a guardian or trustee for minor children until such children attain maturity
•Specific sections of the will may be addressed to the wife/wives and children
•The will must be updated from time to time and each latest copy must be given to the trustees and the old ones withdrawn for destruction.
•The executors must not know the trustees. And the trustees must not take part in the execution of the will. Their duty is to ensure that the executors comply with the letters of the will.
Outside the will
Some facts not to be included in the inheritance aspect of the will of a Muslim are as follows:
A non-Muslim child of a Muslim will-maker or an illegitimate child or a murderer (one who kills his parent) should not be included in the list of those to inherit because they are not qualified to inherit a Muslim parent under Islamic law. If, however, the will maker feels strongly about giving his non-Muslim child something from his estate, this may be contained in the aspect concerning testamentary transfer. Ditto the non-Muslim wife and illegitimate child. But the total aggregate of what a Muslim can will out to those not qualified for inheritance should not exceed one third of the entire estate after the deduction of debts.
The idea of one third came about from a conversation between Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and Sa’d bn Abi Waqqas. The latter had sought the Prophet’s permission to bequest his entire estate to certain people and groups. The Prophet said ‘NO’. He, (Waqqas), then said what of half? And the Prophet said ‘NO’. Then he said what of half? The Prophet at that stage reluctantly gave a go ahead indicating that even the one third was too much concluding that “it is better to leave your heirs rich than poor”. Thus, the final approval became a Prophetic tradition which Muslim must abide by. This means that one third is the maximum a Muslim can bequest to anybody in his will outside the inheritance bracket.
Islam does not allow Muslims to write bequest or make will for those who are legitimately eligible as heirs. Therefore, anybody who is qualified to inherit cannot be included in the will for any gift.
The copies of the will may be given to banks or any other corporate institutions like courts for safe keeping without the knowledge of the beneficiaries. But there must be witnesses to the keeping of such document in bank or court. A Muslim must not wait until death approaches before he writes his will. Neither should he wait until he becomes rich before doing same. Writing a will for a Muslim must begin as soon as he marries. And what is applicable to men in this case is equally applicable to women.
Source:thenationonlineng.net
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https://thenationonlineng.net/how-muslims-write-will/#google_vignette
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Ramadan: Dangote foundation donates 25,000 bags of rice to Bauchi residents
21st March 2025
By Umar Sani
The Aliko Dangote Foundation has donated a total of 25,000 bags of rice as palliatives to the less privileged in Bauchi State.
Speaking during the distribution of the 10-kilogram bags of rice in Bauchi on Tuesday, the representative of the Dangote Foundation, Ahmed Hashim said the rice which was provided to ease hardship during the Ramadan fast, were also to be distributed to some privileged members of the society.
According to him, the foundation has made it incumbent upon itself to distribute food items to both the privileged and less privileged people across the country during the holy month of Ramadan.
Hashim explained, “This is the second edition. Last year, all the local government areas in Nigeria through their state governments were given one million bags of Nigerian rice of 10 kg. This year again, we are doing the same thing.”
He explained that after Kano State, Bauchi was the second state to respond when letters to this effect were sent to the states from Abuja to their respective liaison offices.
Hashim noted that “The foundation has also been intervening in the provision of medicals, the building of hostels in universities, faculties, and even contributed a lot during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This was the foundation’s token contribution apart from what the state governments were doing to alleviate the suffering of the people, especially amidst economic crunch.”
On her part, the state’s Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Hajara Wanka, hailed the Dangote Foundation for the kind gesture.
She disclosed that “Out of the 25,000 10kg bags of rice, 500 would be distributed to each of the 20 Local Government Areas of the state.
“10,000 bags would be allocated to mosques and churches, as the Christian community were also performing their annual fasting while revealing that 5,000 would go to some critical stakeholders in the state,” she noted.
Source:punchng.com
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https://punchng.com/ramadan-dangote-foundation-donates-25000-bags-of-rice-to-bauchi-residents/
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NYSC: Corps Members Will Start Receiving N77k This Month
20 Mar 2025
By Balarabe Alkassim
Members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) will begin to enjoy the newly reviewed federal allowance of N77,000.00 monthly from March, 2025.
The Director General (DG) of NYSC, Brig. Gen. Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, disclosed this while addressing Corps members serving in the Federal Capital Territory, at NYSC Zonal Office, Wuse Zone 3 and Old Parade Ground, Garki Area respectively on Thursday.
He informed them that the Ministry of Finance had communicated to the scheme that the funds were ready for disbursement .
He explained that the delay of the new allowance implementation was a result of the late signing of 2025 appropriation bill .
While appreciating the Corps members for keeping faith with the objectives of NYSC’s founding fathers by fostering national unity, integration and development, the NYSC helmsman implored them to equally imbibe the wording of the NYSC Anthem.
Brig. Gen. Nafiu equally urged the Corps members to utilize all communication channels availed by the Scheme to relate any complaints and/or suggestions that would improve its operations.
Source:dailytrust.com
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https://dailytrust.com/nysc-corps-members-will-start-receiving-n77k-this-month/
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Abba to inaugurate Sanusi, three other Emirs in Kano after Ramadan
Adeola Ajakaiye
March 20, 2025
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has concluded plans to inaugurate the new Kano State Emirate Council led by Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II and three other Emirs, a statement from Kano State Government has said.
The statement issued by Sanusi Bature, Governor Yusuf’s Spokesperson, noted that after Ramadan, Governor Abba would inaugurate the Emirs in their various kingdoms and domains.
According to the statement, the inauguration of the Emirs is aimed at sustaining the supportive role that traditional institution usually plays in the development of the State.
The other Emirs to be inaugurated with Sanusi, include Emir of Karaye, Muhammad Muhammad Maharaz; the Emir of Rano, Muhammad Isa Umaru; and the Emir of Gaya, Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, the statement disclosed.
The governor was said to have hinted that the guidelines, and, ethics that would guide the operation of the new Traditional Council in the State, would be communicated on the day of the inauguration through to the Chairman of the Council.
In addition, the governor was said to have directed all four Kano State Emirs, to commence full preparations for this year Sallah durbar celebration in order to ensure that citizens and visitors to the State enjoy the festive period.
Source:businessday.ng
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https://businessday.ng/news/article/abba-to-inaugurate-sanusi-three-other-emirs-in-kano-after-ramadan/
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Gunmen kill Miyetti Allah chairman, Adamu in Plateau
March 20, 2025
By Hadiza Musa
Gunmen have assassinated Muhammad Adamu, the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Plateau State, in an attack on his residence in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
The incident occurred on Wednesday night, shortly after Adamu had broken his fast.
The Plateau State MACBAN Chairman, Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, confirmed the attack, condemning the killing and calling for a thorough investigation.
“This is a great loss to the Fulani community and the entire state. We urge security agencies to swiftly investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice,” Babayo said.
A local youth leader, Alhaji Danjuma Ibrahim, also confirmed the assassination, revealing that Adamu had been targeted in previous attacks.
“This was the third attempt on his life. Unfortunately, this time, the gunmen succeeded. They shot him multiple times before fleeing the scene,” he said.
According to Danjuma, security forces, including the police and military, responded quickly to the incident, and Adamu’s body was taken to Barkin Ladi General Hospital.
“His remains are scheduled for burial on Thursday,” he added.
Describing Adamu’s death as a tragic loss, Danjuma highlighted his contributions to peacebuilding in the community.
“He played a crucial role in maintaining harmony between different groups in Barkin Ladi. His absence will be deeply felt,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Plateau State Police Command has yet to officially respond to inquiries regarding the incident.
Source:dailypost.ng
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https://dailypost.ng/2025/03/20/gunmen-kill-miyetti-allah-chairman-adamu-in-plateau/
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Abuja National Mosque backs Nigeria’s open defecation-free goal
By Favour Lashem -
March 20, 2025
By Tosin Kolade
The Murshid of the Abuja National Mosque, Prof. Shehu Galadanchi, on Thursday pledged support for Nigeria’s efforts to end open defecation before 2030.
Galadanchi made this commitment while receiving the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, and his delegation, who were on an advocacy visit for the Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign.
Represented by Prof. Kabir Adam, he assured the government of the mosque’s full support in raising awareness about proper sanitation.
He noted that the mosque’s sanitation facilities currently cater to 5,000 to 6,000 worshippers daily and include toilets and ablution areas capable of serving 300 people simultaneously.
He further emphasised that the mosque maintains designated spaces for funeral rites, ensuring the proper cleansing and preparation of the deceased before burial.
Adam stressed that proper sanitation aligns with Islamic teachings, stating that every household is religiously obligated to have a toilet, while open defecation is strictly discouraged.
He attributed its persistence to cultural practices rather than religious beliefs.
“The National Mosque will continue to promote this message, not only within this mosque but across other mosques in Nigeria.
“We will encourage Imams nationwide to incorporate this campaign into their sermons and community engagements,” he said.
He noted the visit as a sign of growing collaboration between religious institutions and government agencies, acknowledging that secularism had previously created a disconnect between places of worship and public health campaigns.
He however noted that such divisions were no longer sustainable, as achieving national development goals required cooperation across all sectors.
“This campaign is a shared responsibility, and we are committed to playing our part in ensuring Nigeria becomes open defecation-free by 2030,” he affirmed.
He assured the minister that the National Mosque and the wider Muslim community stood ready to support the initiative for the benefit of all Nigerians.
Earlier, Utsev called for greater collaboration between religious institutions and government agencies in advancing the Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign.
He highlighted the Tinubu administration’s dedication to public health and sanitation, stressing their importance to food security and economic growth.
He explained that the campaign, first launched in 2019, was re-inaugurated under Vice President Kashim Shettima, who now chairs its steering committee.
Utsev noted that 142 local government areas had already been declared open defecation-free, with Jigawa being the only state to have fully achieved this status.
He reaffirmed the government’s determination to extend this success nationwide.
The minister noted the influence of Imams and religious leaders in shaping public behaviour, emphasising the role of the Abuja National Mosque in spreading awareness.
“Through sermons, public teachings, and community engagement, the mosque can serve as a powerful platform to promote hygiene and sanitation practices across the country,” he stated.
He urged religious leaders to incorporate sanitation messages into their teachings, ensuring that worshippers understand the importance of hygiene and the dangers of open defecation.
He also called for mosques to lead by example by providing adequate and accessible toilet facilities, setting a standard for cleanliness within religious institutions.
“Beyond places of worship, we encourage individuals to take responsibility for sanitation in their homes and workplaces, fostering lasting behavioural change”.
Utsev thanked the Murshid, Imams, and staff of the National Mosque, as well as the media and other stakeholders, for their support in advancing the campaign.
He expressed confidence that, with unity, commitment, and action, Nigeria could achieve its goal of becoming open defecation-free by 2030.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Clean Nigeria Campaign seeks to end open defecation by promoting sanitation through community and government efforts. (NAN)
Source:newsdiaryonline.com
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https://newsdiaryonline.com/abuja-national-mosque-backs-nigerias-open-defecation-free-goal/
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Betta Edu Hosts Emir Of Kano, Others For Iftar In Calabar
Mar 20, 2025
Dr. Betta Edu, as part of her remarkable demonstration of unity and interfaith harmony hosted His Highness Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, the 15th Emir of Kano to an Iftar (breaking of fast) gathering at her residence in Calabar.
The Emir, who is also the Chancellor of the University of Calabar, was accompanied by his distinguished entourage.
Also present at the event was Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, the Deputy Governor of Cross River state who represented the Governor alongside the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Professor Florence Obi. The Vice Chancellor led a delegation comprising the Chairman and members of the University’s Governing Council, the University Management, and the wider University Community, including students to the programme.
The gathering also witnessed the presence of the leadership of the Muslim Community in Cross River State and other devoted Muslim faithful, all uniting in the spirit of Ramadan.
The interfaith gathering took place at a symbolic moment, coinciding with the Christian observance of Lent. It was a reflection of Nigeria’s rich cultural and religious diversity, reaffirming the nation’s long-standing values of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
Edu, while speaking commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for its unwavering commitment to fostering national unity, cultural appreciation, and interfaith harmony in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
She extended her heartfelt wishes to the Muslim faithful during this sacred season of Ramadan, while also celebrating the Golden Jubilee of her alma mater, the University of Calabar.
“I want to say Ramadan Kareem to all Muslim faithfuls, and happy 50th anniversary to my alma mater, the University of Calabar,” she said.
Source:independent.ng
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https://independent.ng/betta-edu-hosts-emir-of-kano-others-for-iftar-in-calabar/
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South Asia
Kabul Meeting Marks a Step Toward Improved US-Islamic Emirate Ties
2025-03-21
KABUL(BNA): Acting Foreign Minister Mawlavi Amir Khan Muttaqi met with US President’s Special Representative Adam Boehler and former ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad in Kabul.
The meeting, which took place in Kabul focused on several key issues, including the release of prisoners, the enhancement of bilateral tieals, and the provision of consular services.
Minister Muttaqi highlighted the necessity of fostering positive relations and maintaining open dialogue to address ongoing challenges. He expressed optimism that such discussions could pave the way for future cooperation.
Adam Boehler characterized the meeting as a constructive step toward rebuilding trust between the two parties. He emphasized the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation in navigating complex issues that affect both nations.
Source:bakhtarnews.af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/kabul-meeting-marks-a-step-toward-improved-us-islamic-emirate-ties-2/
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Mawlavi Zakir Calls for Islamic World’s Involvement in Afghanistan’s Key Projects
2025-03-20
KABUL (BNA): Mawlavi Zakirullah Zakir, the General Director of Deputy Prime Minister Office, met with Mohammad Saeed Al-Ayash, the Ambassador of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and emphasized that the Islamic world should participate in Afghanistan’s fundamental, religious, scientific, and cultural projects.
According to a statement released from Deputy Prime Minister Office, during the meeting, discussions were held regarding cooperation between the Islamic Emirate and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. Mohammad Sayeed Al-Ayash expressed the organization’s willingness to collaborate and assist Afghanistan.
He appreciated the good relations and cooperation of the Islamic Emirate and noted that the OIC is currently working on several development projects in Afghanistan. He also stated that efforts are being made to participate in major infrastructure projects.
Mawlavi Zakirullah Zakir thanked the Organization of Islamic Cooperation for its various contributions in Afghanistan and referred to it as a symbol of unity in the Islamic world.
Zakir further stated that the Islamic Emirate, in accordance with Islamic principles, supports positive relations with all countries and encourages the Islamic world to contribute to Afghanistan’s fundamental, religious, scientific, and cultural projects. During the meeting, an agreement was signed for a water supply network and the completion of an unfinished mosque based on the proposal of local elders from the Chahar Asiab district of Kabul province. This agreement, facilitated by Deputy Prime Minister Office was signed by the OIC ambassador and Mawlavi Zakirullah Zakir. According to the agreement, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation will complete the mentioned project.
Source:bakhtarnews.af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/mawlavi-zakir-calls-for-islamic-worlds-involvement-in-afghanistans-key-projects/
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Solar year 1403: Another year in isolation for Afghanistan
March 20, 2025
Solar year 1403 (March 21, 2024 to March 20, 2025) has been yet another year of political isolation and non-recognition for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) government.
It was also another year that the United Nations refused to hand over Afghanistan’s seat at the UN.
Despite this however, the Islamic Emirate views 1403 as a year with many achievements.
Officials have said the government has made good progress in many sectors. They feel they have strengthened ties and expanded interaction with many countries in the region and around the world.
The IEA has in fact said that relations which many countries have with Afghanistan are tantamount to them recognizing the Islamic Emirate.
Establishing an inclusive government, respecting human rights, especially the rights of women and minorities, and combating terrorist groups and drugs have always been considered important preconditions for the international community to recognize the Islamic Emirate.
In addition to the Islamic Emirate’s failure to achieve global legitimacy, the pressures and sanctions of the international community against the Islamic Emirate continued.
During this year, for the first time, Karim Khan, the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, submitted a request to the court to arrest the leader of the Islamic Emirate and the head of Afghanistan’s Supreme Court.
The request, which the Islamic Emirate considered to be without a fair legal basis, resulted from political moves,they said. This led the IEA to cancel Afghanistan’s ICC membership.
During 1403, however, high-level delegations from a number of countries continued to visit Afghanistan, and delegations from the Islamic Emirate also traveled to neighboring countries and the region.
Late this year, Iran’s Foreign Minister led a high-level delegation to Kabul and met with the Prime Minister and a number of other senior officials. This was a visit that both sides declared the start of a new chapter in relations between Kabul and Tehran.
On the other hand, former government officials, lawyers and some politicians who fled Afghanistan when the former government collapsed, continued to return home.
But, the IEA’s cabinet remained in a caretaker capacity in 1403.
The Supreme Leader of the IEA Hibatullah Akundzada meanwhile visited the northern provinces of the country for the first time since August 2021 and encouraged local officials to serve the people honestly.
Many meetings held in Kabul and in provinces about the need for officials and people to support the system.
The Deputy Prime Minister for Economics said at a recent meeting of the Shiite community in Kabul that the Islamic Emirate respects ethnic diversity and considers it a symbol of unity in the country.
Nevertheless, the Islamic Emirate considers the year 1403 to be a year of achievements in the political sphere and emphasizes that good progress has been made during the year in the field of expanding diplomatic relations with countries in the region and the world.
The Islamic Emirate meanwhile continues to call on the international community and countries to abandon the politics of force and pressure and instead establish interactive relations with the Islamic Emirate.
The IEA continues to emphasize that it has fulfilled all the conditions of a legitimate state, but the United Nations is making excuses in the matter of handing over Afghanistan’s seat at the UN.
Source:ariananews.af
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https://www.ariananews.af/solar-year-1403-another-year-in-isolation-for-afghanistan/
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US welcomes interim govt steps for citizen safety
Mar 21, 2025
The United States has said that it welcomes measures taken by Bangladesh's interim government to ensure safety and security for all citizens.
Tammy Bruce, spokesperson for the US Department of State, made this remark during a press briefing yesterday.
She was responding to questions regarding recent comments made by US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard about "Islamist extremism in Bangladesh" and alleged efforts to establish an Islamist caliphate.
"We condemn any instances of violence or intolerance directed toward members of minority communities in any country," Tammy Bruce said.
She added that the US is closely monitoring the situation in Bangladesh and emphasised that Washington has taken note of the interim government's efforts to maintain stability.
"That's what we're watching. That's what we expect. And that will be what continues," she added.
Source:thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/diplomacy/news/us-welcomes-interim-govt-steps-citizen-safety-3853201
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Protest at DU over ‘obscene remarks’ on religion
Mar 21, 2025
A group of Dhaka University (DU) students demonstrated on campus today, protesting derogatory remarks about Hinduism and a deity made by a fellow student on social media.
They also demanded his suspension.
Witnesses said students, under the banners of Hindu Students of Dhaka University and the Bangladesh United Sanatani Awakening Alliance, held a protest rally at the Raju Sculpture around 7:20pm. After a brief rally, they marched through VC Chattar and Fuller Road, concluding at Jagannath Hall.
During the protest, they demanded exemplary punishment for the accused and urged the university to take institutional measures to prevent misinterpretation of Sanatan Dharma in classrooms. They also called for monitoring and action against derogatory posts in DU-based Facebook groups regarding gender, ethnicity, and religious minorities.
Earlier, the protesters filed a complaint with DU Vice-Chancellor Prof Niaz Ahmed Khan. In response, the administration formed a fact-finding committee led by Assistant Proctor Dr Shantu Barua to investigate the matter.
The complaint, filed today (March 20), accused Md Abu Sayem, a 2019-20 academic session student from the Department of Bangla.
Meanwhile, the accused student has apologised on social media for his comments.
Source:thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/education/news/protest-du-over-obscene-remarks-religion-3853686
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Government employees to enjoy 9-day Eid holiday
Mar 21, 2025
The government has declared a public holiday on April 3 through an executive order to ensure smooth travels for Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations.
The advisory council made the decision at a meeting yesterday, meaning the official Eid holiday is now effectively from March 28 to April 3.
March 28 marks Shab-e-Qadr, a public holiday and is also Friday.
March 26 is a public holiday for Independence Day, making March 27 the only working day before the extended Eid holidays. Offices will reopen on April 6 as there is a two-day weekly holiday on April 4 and 5.
After assuming office, the interim government extended the Eid holidays from three days to five days.
Eid-ul-Fitr is expected to be celebrated on either March 31 or April 1, depending on the sighting of the moon in the country's sky.
Source:thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/govt-employees-enjoy-9-day-eid-holiday-3853226
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/nagpur-violence-police-fahim-khan/d/134942