'Fault Lies In Family': Mohan Bhagwat On Love Jihad Cases; Cites Lack Of 'Sanskaar'And "Maryada"

New Age Islam News Bureau

10 November2025

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat (File photo

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·         'Fault Lies In Family': Mohan Bhagwat On Love Jihad Cases; Cites Lack Of 'Sanskaar'And "Maryada"

·         ‘Can’t Allow Second Jinnah To Take Birth’: UP CM On Opposition To Vande Mataram

·         Muslims In Ireland are “On Edge” And “Living In Fear” Of Far-Right Extremists'

·         U.S. Action Against Islamic Jihadists Should Be In Collaboration With Nigeria

·         Saudi Chief Of General Staff Presents Pakistan’s Chairman Of Joint Chiefs Of Staff Committee With Medal

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India

·         Over 580 Houses Demolished As Assam Resumes Eviction Drive; Bengali-Speaking Muslims Affected Most

·         Kerala Orders Probe Into RSS Anthem Sung By Schoolchildren On Vande Bharat Express

·         ‘No One Is Ahindu In Bharat’: Mohan Bhagwat Says Every Indian Is Hindu By Ancestry And Culture

·         Muslims Becoming Wealthier May Signal Start Of ‘Surrender Of Assamese People’: Assam CM

·         Can’t Put All Muslims In One Bracket, Must Segregate Between Good And Bad: Mohan Bhagwat

·         Centre Extends Panel Tenure On SC Status For Dalit Muslims And Dalit Christians

·         J&K police foil major terror plot, recover 2,900 kg of explosive material in multi-state raids

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Europe

·         Attacks on Sharia expose attitudes to Islam from Devon County Councillor

·         British anti-drone unit deployed to Belgium – defence minister

·         EU member vows to oppose seizure of Russian assets

·         US Senate advances bill to end government shutdown

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Africa

·         ICD Closes €20m Shariah-Compliant Syndicated Facility For AKLease To Boost Private Sector Growth

·         FG Silent As INEC Chair’s 2020 ‘Genocide’ Brief Sparks Fresh Outrage

·         Escalating crisis in Sudan: Military chief visits displacement camp amid rising atrocities

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Arab World

·         Saudi Chief Of General Staff Presents Pakistan’s Chairman Of Joint Chiefs Of Staff Committee With Medal

·         Live surgeries and cadaver demonstrations at Riyadh aesthetic medicine conference

·         Saudi, Indian Ministers Discuss Strengthening Cultural Ties

·         Film Critics Explore Cinema, Place At Riyadh Conference

·         Saudi Arabia promotes cultural heritage, commitment toward handicraft education

·         Prince Abdulaziz re-elected president of Arab Olympic Union for 2025–2029

·         Saudi, Sri Lankan foreign ministers review ties in Riyadh meeting

·         More than 11,000 Saudi families have adopted orphans, charity says

·         KSrelief expands aid efforts in Syria, Gaza, Yemen

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North America

·         ‘Racial Profiling’: Indian-Origin ManAsked If He’s ‘Aware’ Of Mamdani, Grilled While On Duty

·         Trump promises $2,000 ‘tariff dividend’ for every American

·         US shutdown stalls arms deliveries to Ukraine – Axios

·         Watch: Donald Trump booed at Commanders NFL game; netizens call moment ‘brutal’ and ‘humiliating’

·         Five wounded in shooting outside San Francisco Safeway; Mayor Daniel Lurie says city ‘will never tolerate it’

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South Asia

·         Iran Urges Afghans to Replace Handwritten Passports with Electronic Ones

·         Border Closure Between Pakistan and Afghanistan Causes $200 Million Trade Loss

·         Iran Offers to Mediate Between Kabul and Islamabad to Revive Stalled Peace Talks

·         UNDP Says Over 6,400 Facilities in Afghanistan Now Powered by Solar Energy

·         Austria Expels Afghan Man After Serving Prison Term

·         Teachers withdraw suspension, vow to continue protest

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Southeast Asia

·         ‘I Personally Tend To Avoid Appealing,’ Says Anwar On Sabah’s 40pc Ruling — But Govt To Weigh AGC, Cabinet Views

·         Malaysia surpasses forest preservation target, maintains 54pc of land area under forest cover, says minister

·         Saifuddin seeks detailed police briefing on Amri, Koh disappearances after court orders fresh investigations

·         Anwar stresses state-federal cooperation for public facility development

·         Malaysia’s economic diversity efforts show strong results in Q3

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Mideast

·         Lebanon Fighting ‘Terror Financing’, President Tells US

·         Dam Reservoir Levels Drop Below 3 Percent In Iran’s Mashhad City

·         Israeli Forces Evict 3 Palestinian Families From Homes In Jerusalem

·         Israeli forces arrest 442 Palestinians in West Bank in October

·         833 Settlers Storm Al-Aqsa Mosque

·         Malaysian state of Selangor wins bid to host 2029 Islamic Solidarity Games

·         Syria and Iraq are building a “security framework” after Assad

·         HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad visits Sixth Islamic Solidarity Games sports village

Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau

URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/love-jihad-cases-sanskaar-maryada/d/137586

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'Fault Lies In Family': Mohan Bhagwat On Love Jihad Cases; Cites Lack Of 'Sanskaar'And "Maryada"

Nov 9, 2025

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat (File photo

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NEW DELHI: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said instances of "love jihad" stem from Hindu families failing in their responsibility to impart "Sanskaar" and "Maryada" to their children.

Bhagwat said that if a child raised with Hindu Sanskaar goes astray due to "petty attractions" from someone outside, then the fault lies with the family.

"Love Jihad, how can that be? A girl or boy reared in our Hindu sanskaars as our own, blood of our blood, is led astray by someone outside due to petty attractions. That is our lack. Giving 'sanskaars' and 'maryada' to our children is our responsibility. We have faltered in it, and the result is the success of Love Jihad," the RSS chief said.

He further said: "When we see these activities, we bracket the entire Muslim society into one category. That is not good. We are Hindus. We do not think like that."

Bhagwat also indirectly responded to Congress leaders questioning the organisation’s legal status, saying the Sangh is recognised as a “body of individuals”.

Speaking at an internal question-and-answer session, Bhagwat said the issue of registration did not arise when the RSS was formed. "RSS was established in 1925, so do you expect us to have registered with the British government?" he asked.

He said that after Independence, the Government of India did not make registration mandatory. "We are categorised as body of individuals, and we are a recognised organisation," he explained.

Bhagwat claimed that the Income Tax department and courts have described the RSS as a body of individuals, allowing it exemption from income tax.

Referring to past government actions, he said, "We were banned thrice. So government has recognised us. If we were not there, whom did they ban?"

Bhagwat also compared the Sangh’s status to religious traditions. "There are many things, which are not registered. Even Hindu Dharma is not registered," he remarked.

Responding to allegations that the RSS respects only the saffron flag and not the national flag, Bhagwat said saffron is revered as a Guru within the organisation, but the tricolour holds high regard. "We always respect, offer tribute and protect our tricolour," he said.

Bhagwat’s comments come after Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge recently said the RSS should be banned. His son and Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge also demanded a ban on RSS activities in government spaces and questioned the organisation’s registration status and funding.

Source: indiatimes.com

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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/fault-lies-in-family-mohan-bhagwat-on-love-jihad-cases-cites-lack-of-sanskaar/articleshow/125199835.cms

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‘Can’t Allow Second Jinnah To Take Birth’: UP CM On Opposition To Vande Mataram

by Maulshree Seth

November 10, 2025

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that a clear message is slowly being sent to “these anti-Ram forces that the rise of Ramrajya is about to take place in Bihar”. (Source: PTI)

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In a message to all those who oppose singing Vande Mataram, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Monday alleged that such attempts are part of a “conspiracy to give birth to a new Jinnah”. He also said the national song will be made compulsory in all schools and colleges across the state.

“We are going to make singing of Vande Mataram compulsory in every school and educational institution in the state so that it generates a feeling of respect among every citizen… towards ‘Bharat Mata’, the mother land,” he said.

Citing recent attempts to oppose reciting the national song, especially by Samajwadi Party MP from Sambhal, Zia-ur-Rehman Barq, Adityanah alleged: “Yehnaye Jinnah kopaidakarnekisajishkahissahai. Humeinyaadrakhnahoga ab Bharat keandarphir se koi Jinnah paidahonapaye. Agar paida hone kasahaskartahau to isasepehleki who Bharat kiakhandatakochunauti de, usasepehle hi dafankarkedenahoga. (This is part of a conspiracy to create new Jinnahs. The country cannot allow a second Jinnah to take birth. If attempts are made to revive Jinnah then such attempts should be buried).”

Calling opposition against the national song “unjustified”, he added that faith is secondary to the country’s unity.

Adityanath also hit out at the Congress, alleging that its failure to remove Mohd Ali Jauhar as president of the party after he opposed singing Vande Mataram in 1923 led to division of the country. “Opposition to Vande Mataram is unjustified. In 1923, when Mohd Ali Jauhar became Congress President, he left the meeting when singing of Vande Mataram began. It is this opposition of Vande Mataram that later led to division of the country,” he claimed.

Mohammad Ali Jinnah served as the leader of the All-India Muslim League from 1913 until the inception of Pakistan on 14 August 1947. He became Pakistan’s first governor-general until his death in 1948. Mohammad Ali Jauhar was the co-founder of the All-India Muslim League.

Adityanath also stated that no individual, caste or religion is bigger than the country. “… While our faith is on one side, if it becomes a hurdle in the unity and harmony of the country, then it would have to be sidelined,” he added.

“We should always remember that Vande Mataram was the song that was sung by every freedom fighter before entering the fight to save the country and became the mantra for independence. Now… some people are trying to label it as ‘sampradayik (communal)’,” he further said.

Later in the day, while speaking to the media in Gorakhpur after participating in the Ekta March to mark the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and a community recitation of Vande Mataram, the CM announced, “Har school, college mein is geetkavachanhosamuhikgayanho (There should be community recitation of this song in every school and college).”

Maintaining that there is need to stop all those who are trying to weaken the unity of the country, Adityanath said such an attempt is necessary “so that no second Jinnah can take birth to challenge the unity of the country in the future”.

On Sunday, Barq, the SP MP from Sambhal, had said he has never sung the national song and it cannot be used to question his “deshbhakti (patriotism)”.

“Mere dada… Barq sahab ne hameshaiskimukalafatkihai… Aur kabhiiskonahigaya… Na hi main gatahun. Is cheez se merideshbhakti par koi unglinahiuthasakta (My grandfather, Barq sahab, always opposed it and never sang it. Nor did I ever sing it. But no one can raise a question on my patriotism because of it),” he said.

The MP had said no one can force Muslims to sing the national song as some words in it are against the preachings of their religion.

Source: indianexpress.com

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https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/lucknow/adityanath-vande-mataram-uttar-pradesh-schools-colleges-10356481/

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Muslims In Ireland are “On Edge” And “Living In Fear” Of Far-Right Extremists'

10 NOV, 2025

Imam Ibrahim Michael Noonan: 'All our members, and Muslim people generally in Ireland, are on edge now — they are living in fear. We do not know what is coming next.' File picture: Ray Ryan

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Irish Muslim leaders say their congregations are “on edge” and “living in fear” following revelations of an alleged plot by far-right extremists to bomb a mosque.

Imams told the Irish Examiner that the Government must “urgently” lead a national campaign to tackle the spread of hatred, to reassure targeted communities they are safe, and to prevent possible attacks on places of worship and centres for asylum seekers.

It comes as gardaí and the PSNI are continuing a cross-border investigation into the emergence of a violent right-wing extremist organisation, identified as the Irish Defence Army (IDA).

This organisation is considered small, with some eight members. It is understood that almost all of them are known to the authorities.

It is believed security agencies have rendered the organisation “impotent” after arrests last week.

The IDA recently broke away from a wider group, which also sees itself as “self defence against foreign and domestic threats”.

Security sources believe the second group has, so far, not taken the step from extremist ideology to violent extremism — but agencies are not complacent and suspect there will be more such groups. Garda HQ has devoted more resources to the Garda Crime and Security Intelligence Service to focus its units on this area.

The Irish Examiner revealed on Thursday that two men had been arrested in the early hours of Wednesday in Abbeyleix, Co Laois, on suspicion of being members of an unlawful organisation.

The arrests were part of a cross-border operation which involved the discovery by the PSNI of suspect devices.

In a court appearance last Friday, details were heard of an alleged intention by a violent right-wing group to bomb a mosque in Co Galway.

Imam Ibrahim Noonan, of Galway Mosque, described the alleged intention to bomb his mosque as “shocking”. He said:

“There is a very high state of anxiety.

“Every prayer that we have now, we will be looking over our shoulder. We will have to put security on our front gates, tell people not to walk here but to drive. But I don’t want to turn the mosque into a fortress.”

Praise for gardaí and Galway's mayor and deputy mayor

He said local gardaí were “always good”, calling to the mosque on Friday evening to “reassure” them, and that the crime prevention officer was due this week.

He praised a visit by the Galway mayor Mike Cubbard and deputy mayor Alan Cheevers to the mosque on Saturday.

At the Dublin Mosque, on South Circular Rd, senior member FazelRyklief said the developments brought back the heightened state of alert they felt during the Citywest rioting.

“When we had Citywest, we had to lock up and bring the shutters down,” he said.

“We are right on the main road and we feel very helpless if someone wanted to do something. The women say the abuse has gotten a lot worse. But now we hear they are making bombs. That is a lot more scary. All we can do is mind ourselves and depend on the Government and gardaí to protect us.”

He said they have sought to have their monthly garda clinic in the mosque every two weeks.

'New phenomenon'

Imam Umar Al-Qadri, the chairperson of the Irish Muslim Peace and Integration Council, said the emergence of a violent far-right group was “a completely new phenomenon”, and he praised the actions of the gardaí.

He said the Government has to act: “Now is the time for policy-makers and the Government. They must act and stop extremism and prevent violence.

"The Government needs to meet all the faith communities publicly and ensure them of security. We need the public engagement of gardaí.

“We need a high-level approach, translated into policy and laws and practical solutions.

Imam Noonan strongly agreed: “We can’t have far-right terror groups emerging in Ireland. It will embolden other people.

"Many politicians are keeping quiet, but if society does not stand up now after this warning it could happen again, and it will happen again.

The Government, all parties, TDs, and councillors, need to stand up and speak out and say clearly ‘we will not allow far-right violence’.”

A statement from Garda HQ said: “The Garda National Community Engagement Bureau has a good relationship and engages with the Muslim community in Ireland on an ongoing basis, and continues to liaise with the Muslim community at this time.”

Community gardaí and crime prevention officers also engage with them.

Source: irishexaminer.com

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https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41739591.html

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U.S. Action Against Islamic Jihadists Should Be In Collaboration With Nigeria

10 November 2025

Whatever action the United States (U.S.) could be planning against the Islamic Jihadists perpetrating genocide in Nigeria, it is strongly advised that it should be carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian government so as not to run afoul of international laws that forbid interference in the internal affairs of any sovereign nation, and to prove that the plan is purely on humanitarian ground, not shrouding any hidden agenda as it is already being alleged.

Except to the Islamic Jihadists themselves, their sponsors and some privileged Nigerians, inside and outside the government, who are benefitting immensely from the trillions of naira the Federal Government has been spending to curb this scourge with little or no success, it became obvious that Nigeria is in dire need of assistance in the form of superior power to end terrorism long before it was recently declared a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) by the United States.

Essentially, external assistance in the war against the Islamic Jihadists became crucial in the face of the seemingly intractable level that their madness has assumed. And a distressing impression is already being created that the hoodlums, most of whom reportedly came from outside the country, are successfully overrunning some parts of sovereign Nigeria, with some states and local governments in the northern parts of the country now signing peace deals with terrorists who levy them heavily to guarantee the safety of the residents.

There are states where the Jihadists have taken full control of some local government areas, imposing levies on farmers which must be paid before they can go to their farms to produce food. Those who dare flout their orders are sent to an early grave. No consequences for their cruelty. It is unimaginable that all of these are happening in the most populous African nation that boasts of many agencies, including the police and military, in its security apparatus.

Nigeria must be saved from these devils, and we may need foreign assistance to achieve this successfully. We only admonish that any such action should be jointly planned and executed by both countries, and in a way that the sovereignty of Nigeria is not undermined and the sanctity of the life of every Nigerian and foreign national living in Nigeria is perfectly protected.

President Donald Trump of the United States recently declared Nigeria a CPC over allegations of intermittent genocide against Christians in the country, without tangible commitment by the Nigerian government to end the atrocity and bring the perpetrators to justice. But the Nigerian government has rejected the allegation, claiming that it is not only Christians who are being killed and that the atrocity cannot be said to be targeted at Christians.

However, as a country of particular concern, Nigeria will now be perceived as a nation where some atrocities that are against the interests of the United States are being perpetrated. It goes beyond label to official classification of Nigeria, under the U.S. International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA) of 1998, as a country found to be engaging in or tolerating ‘systemic, ongoing and egregious violations of religious freedom.’

This is the second time that Nigeria will be designated as a CPC. It happened during the first term in office of Trump as U.S. president in December 2020, but his successor, Joe Biden, delisted Nigeria in 2021 on the claim that progress had been made and that ongoing engagement was a more effective approach to resolving the matter. In the latest declaration, the U.S. announced readiness to crush the Islamic Jihadists whom it identified as the killers of innocent Nigerians, particularly Christians. The situation can lead to the imposition of sanctions on Nigeria in economic and security areas, among others.

It was actually a U.S. lawmaker, Riley Moore, who drew the attention of the U.S. government this time to what he described as ‘systemic persecution and slaughter of Christians in Nigeria.’ He called Nigeria the deadliest place in the world for followers of the Christian faith, urging the Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, to take immediate diplomatic action on the matter and redesignate Nigeria as a CPC.

He also called for suspension of arms sales to Nigeria until the Nigerian government ‘demonstrates tangible commitment’ to ending the violence against Christians. ‘Nigeria has become the deadliest place in the world to be a Christian, and the United States cannot stand idly by,’ Moore wrote in his statement.

The American lawmaker cited figures from Open Doors and other reports, stating that thousands of Christians have been killed in 2025 alone and thousands of churches have been attacked and destroyed since 2009. He alleged that corrupt cells within the Nigerian government might be complicit.

Moore also alleged that in states like Kano, the government has closed Christian orphanages and forced the children to be re-educated as Muslims, just as he cited harsh anti-blasphemy laws to which some Christians have fallen victim. The U.S. lawmaker, who acknowledged that Nigerians of all faiths face terrorism, said Christians are far and away the most targeted for persecution and violence.

The statement by Moore followed a similar one by a U.S. Senator, Ted Cruz, in late September this year, which alleged that Nigerian officials were ‘ignoring and even facilitating mass murder of Christians by Islamic Jihadists’.

What further stirred global attention was a viral video by a Plateau-based cleric, Ezekiel Dachomo, which showed the mass burial of victims of a recent attack in the Heipang community near Jos. In his comment on the circumstances surrounding the video, Dachomo, who is the regional head of the Church of Christ in Nations (CCIN), spoke on the repeated killings in Plateau communities and the government’s inaction, calling for global intervention to stop what he described as genocide against Christians in Nigeria.

To be blunt, the solution to the confrontation with the United States over alleged genocide against Christians in Nigeria does not lie in the reactions we have seen by some Nigerians, which can only be perceived as an exhibition of theoretical knowledge of the law and international politics, unmindful of the unfortunate fact that sometimes some laws are seen broken and the unexpected happens, and the victim becomes helpless.

Granted that it is not only Christians who are being killed, which has been the kernel of most of the reactions, even from the government circles, to America’s threat, we can ask ourselves: Is genocide not being perpetrated in Nigeria? Can we truly say that Nigeria is a safe place to live in? Are we winning the war against these terrorists? Are we being honest with ourselves? What nobody or the government has been able to deny is the fact that a significant number of Nigerians, both Christians and Muslims, are being killed almost daily by Islamic Jihadists who are members of different terror groups now operating freely in Nigeria.

Source: guardian.ng

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

https://guardian.ng/opinion/editorial/u-s-action-against-jihadists-should-be-in-collaboration-with-nigeria-1/

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Saudi chief of general staff presents Pakistan’s chairman of joint chiefs of staff committee with medal

November 09, 2025

Saudi Arabia’s Chief of General Staff Lieutenant-General Fayyad bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili presented Pakistan’s Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza with a King Abdulaziz Medal of the Excellent Class in Riyadh on Saturday. (Screenshot)

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RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Chief of General Staff Lieutenant-General Fayyad bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili presented Pakistan’s Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza with a King Abdulaziz Medal of the Excellent Class in Riyadh on Saturday.

The award was made in recognition of Mirza’s efforts to consolidate the bonds of friendship and joint cooperation between the Kingdom and Pakistan and strengthen Saudi-Pakistani relations, the Saudi Press Agency said.

The medal was given to Mirza during a meeting with Al-Ruwaili and in accordance with a royal directive from King Salman.

The two officials reviewed aspects of cooperation in the defense and military fields between their countries and ways to strengthen and develop them in the meeting.A number of topics of common interest were also discussed, SPA said.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2622004/saudi-arabia

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India

 

Over 580 houses demolished as Assam resumes eviction drive; Bengali-speaking Muslims affected most

09 Nov 2025

GUWAHATI: The Assam government on Sunday resumed its eviction drive against illegal settlers on forest land. The drive, carried out in some eastern, western and northern Assam districts earlier, was halted in the aftermath of music icon Zubeen Garg’s mysterious death in Singapore.

It was resumed in western Assam’s Goalpara district. The forest department demolished 588 houses spread across 153 hectares at the Dahikata Reserve Forest.

“Eviction notices were served on 588 households, days ahead of the drive,” Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Goalpara, TejasMariswami told TNIE.

He also said that upon receiving the notices, 30 to 40 per cent of the illegal settlers had vacated their houses by taking along valuables. “There was no major resistance or confrontation as such. Everything passed off peacefully,” Mariswami said.

A large majority of the evicted people are Bengali Muslims. The Dahikata Reserve Forest is an important elephant habitat.

“We will revive this elephant habitat through a plantation drive which will be launched in March or April next year. The plantations will help curb incidents of human-elephant conflict which is common in some parts of Goalpara,” the DFO said.

“We are going reserve forest by reserve forest. We have cleared encroachment at eight reserve forests. There are some more areas where encroachment has to be cleared,” he further stated.

Authorities deployed a large number of security personnel and heavy machinery, including excavators and tractors, for the eviction drive. Goalpara District Magistrate ProdipTimung told the media that the drive was carried out in accordance with the directions of Gauhati High Court.

An evicted person told the media that the state government would not be able to divert people’s attention from the “Justice for Zubeen Garg” demand by carrying out eviction drive.

A few days ago, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had stated that the eviction drive would continue across the state. He asserted that “illegal Miyas” would not have peace as long as he remained in office. Miya is a pejorative term used in Assam to refer to Bengali Muslims.

Source: newindianexpress.com

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https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2025/Nov/09/over-580-houses-demolished-as-assam-resumes-eviction-drive-bengali-speaking-muslims-affected-most

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Kerala orders probe into RSS anthem sung by schoolchildren on Vande Bharat Express

Cynthia Chandran

10.11.25

The Kerala government has ordered an inquiry into the singing of the RSS anthem by schoolchildren aboard the Ernakulam-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express during its inaugural run on Saturday.

State general education minister V. Sivankutty on Sunday termed it a “serious issue” and said he would take it up with Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, with whom he is scheduled to meet in New Delhi on Monday over the PM-SHRI scheme.

Sivankutty has directed the director of public education to submit a detailed report on the incident.

Talking to reporters in New Delhi, Sivankutty said using children to promote the communal agenda of any particular group at government events was a violation of constitutional principles. "The state government will ensure the protection of the country's secular values and take action based on the report. The inquiry will examine whether there were any lapses in involving students in the official event,” Sivankutty said.

The two Union ministers from Kerala, George Kurian and Suresh Gopi, defended the students. Kurian said it was a "simple group song".

"The first line of GanaGeetham talks about sacred rivers, trees and orchards, followed by offering flowers to the motherland. I can't understand how communalism can be linked to this? The song also mentions Bhagat Singh, the Rani of Jhansi, Sree Narayana Guru and Swami Ramdas. There is no reference to Hinduism in it," he said in Kochi.

Gopi told a news channel that the students performed sincerely as part of a celebration. "It's not a song of terrorism, so there's no need to overreact," he added.

Source: telegraphindia.com

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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/kerala-orders-probe-after-rss-anthem-sung-by-students-on-vande-bharat-express-prnt/cid/2132109

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‘No one is Ahindu in Bharat’: Mohan Bhagwat says every Indian is Hindu by ancestry and culture

09.11.25

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat said there is “no Ahindu” in Bharat, asserting that everyone living in the, including Muslims and Christians, are descendants of the same ancestors who share a common cultural root.

“They probably don’t know it, or they are made to forget it,” Bhagwat said, while addressing a lecture titled ‘100 Years of Sangh Journey: New Horizons’.

He added that knowingly or unknowingly, everyone in the country follows Bharateeya culture, and hence, “nobody is Ahindu.”

“Every Hindu must realise he is a Hindu because being Hindu means being responsible for Bharat,” Bhagwat said, describing Hindu culture as synonymous with India’s national identity.

Expanding on the RSS’s century-long mission, Bhagwat said the organisation’s goal is not to seek power but to “serve and organise society for the glory of Bharat Mata.” He maintained that the Hindu society’s organisation was essential as Hindus are “responsible for Bharat.”

“It is not that the British gave us nationhood; we are an ancient nation,” he said, adding that every country has a core culture and India’s core culture is “Hindu.”

Bhagwat said this concept of Hindu Rashtra is “not contradictory” to the Constitution but rather conforms to it. “Sanatana Dharma is Hindu Rashtra, and the progress of Sanatana Dharma is the progress of Bharat,” he said.

Defending the RSS’s ideological position, Bhagwat said that Hindu Rashtra does not imply religious exclusivity. “Organisation of a society is not against anyone, it is not a reaction,” he said, rejecting the notion that the RSS was born in opposition to any community or ideology.

The RSS chief added that over the past century, the organisation faced bans, criticisms, and violent opposition but continued to grow stronger “because swayamsevaks give their all to the Sangh and expect nothing in return.”

‘All parties are ours, we support policies, not politics’

Clarifying the RSS’s relationship with political parties, Bhagwat said the organisation supports “policies, not politics.” He added that RSS swayamsevaks supported the BJP over the Ram Mandir issue because the party aligned with that policy — not because of any political loyalty.

“If Congress had supported it, our swayamsevaks would have voted for that party,” he said, underlining that the RSS has no “special affinity” for any political outfit.

On whether people of other faiths can join the RSS, Bhagwat said, “No one is excluded by caste or creed. People from different denominations, Muslims or Christians, can come to the Sangh, keeping their separateness out. When you come to a shakha, you come as a son of Bharat Mata.”

He added that RSS does not count members based on religion. “We don’t ask who they are,” he said.

‘RSS not born as reaction, not unconstitutional’

Responding to criticism from Congress leaders, Bhagwat said that the RSS is a “body of individuals” recognised under Indian law and not required to register as an organisation. “If we were not there, who did they ban?” he quipped, referring to the three bans imposed on the RSS over the decades.

He said each time the ban was overturned by courts, proving that the organisation was not unconstitutional. “Even Hindu Dharma is not registered — does that make it illegal?” Bhagwat asked.

Bhagwat said the Sangh’s work in its centenary year focuses on reaching every village and social stratum, “across all castes and classes.” He emphasised that unity must coexist with diversity — a cornerstone of Indian tradition.

“Our tradition is to create unity without disturbing diversity. Diversity is the decoration of unity,” he said.

Bhagwat’s remarks come amid renewed political heat between the RSS and the Congress. Party chief Mallikarjun Kharge recently said that, in his personal opinion, the RSS should be banned. a comment that has drawn strong reactions from Sangh leaders.

Despite the criticism, Bhagwat said the RSS “gets stronger whenever there is opposition.”

Source: telegraphindia.com

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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/no-one-is-ahindu-in-bharat-mohan-bhagwat-says-every-indian-is-hindu-by-ancestry-and-culture/cid/2132054

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Muslims Becoming Wealthier May Signal Start Of ‘Surrender Of Assamese People’: Assam CM

November 10, 2025

Scroll Staff

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday claimed that the state was witnessing not just demographic change, but an “economic shift”, with Muslims growing richer.

This, the Bharatiya Janata Party leader claimed, could mean that the “surrender of the Assamese people” had begun.

During a press conference in Guwahati, Sarma claimed that the population growth rate among Hindus was reducing, while that of Muslims was increasing.

“I have data of the growth of the Hindu and Muslim populations between 2001 and 2011,” the chief minister said. “You will see that everywhere, the population growth among Hindus is coming down and the Muslim population is increasing in every block of Assam.”

According to the 2011 Census, Hindus constitute 61.47% of Assam’s population, while Muslims constitute 34.22%. The 2001 Census stated that Hindus comprised 64.89% of the population, while Muslims were 30.92%.

Sarma has repeatedly alleged that undocumented immigration in Assam from Bangladesh has been leading to demographic change, with the share of the Muslim population increasing. However, academicians and experts have maintained that higher birth rates, and not undocumented immigration from Bangladesh, were responsible for the increase.

Despite this, Sarma claimed on Sunday that rapid demographic change had taken place in Assam. “In a way, a chapter of the Assamese people's surrender has begun,” he was quoted as saying by PTI.

The BJP leader said that the government noticed the number of instances of the sale of land from Hindus to Muslims was very high, whereas the reverse scenario was less frequent.

In August 2024, the Assam Cabinet approved a proposal under which the government would scrutinise all land transfers between individuals of different religions.

Sarma said that several permissions for land transfers pertained to Assamese and indigenous Muslims, to which the government did not have any objection. However, there has been a shift not just in the state’s demographics, but also in wealth creation, he claimed.

“So far, we were thinking that only the numbers have risen, but now see that even the wealth pattern has changed.” the BJP leader claimed, according to PTI.

Sarma said he will hold a detailed press conference on the topic at a later date.

However, he said: “You can sometimes accept the demographic change in population, but witnessing an economic shift signals destruction. Earlier, we did not know about this. But now, we are getting the data as government permission is required [for the sale of land].”

Source: scroll.in

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https://scroll.in/latest/1088427/muslims-becoming-wealthier-may-signal-start-of-surrender-of-assamese-people-himanta-biswa-sarma

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Can’t put all Muslims in one bracket, must segregate between good and bad: Mohan Bhagwat

November 10, 2025

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat said on Sunday that majority of Muslims in the country did not approve of ‘love jihad’ or Ghazwa-e-Hind (an alleged holy war against India), but there was also a sizable section of ‘kattarpanthis’ (fundamentalists) in the community. “Good people, we have to segregate from the mob of bad people,” he said in Bengaluru while responding to questions during the ‘New Horizons’ lecture session held to mark the centenary year of the RSS.

“…the ‘sanskar’ in our households, the ‘maryada’ of behaviour… Giving them to our children is our responsibility. We have faltered and the result is (the) success of ‘love jihad’. Secondly, don’t put everybody into (a) single bracket,” he said, adding that there is a section among Muslims that deplores the perpetrators of Ghazwa-e-Hind and ‘love jihad’.

“We should know them. We should keep them in contact,” Bhagwat said. The RSS chief said even as there is a “sizeable section of fundamentalists”, we put the entire Muslim community in one bracket whenever instances of ‘love jihad’ or other such happenings surface. “That is not good. We are Hindus, we don’t think like that,” he said, adding that the number of fundamentalists increases if the entire community is blamed.

“‘Sama neeti’ (policy of conciliation) is required. We have to fortify ourselves, so, ‘dandneeti’ (policy of punishment) is also required… Good people, we have to segregate from the mob of bad people… There should be a distinction between the good and the bad. They should be separated. We can’t treat everyone equally. Treatment should be different for different people. We should do this,” he told the gathering.

He brushed aside the recent controversy over RSS registration in Karnataka. This is not the first time the question is raised, he said, asking whether anyone expected it to register with the British government in 1925. “After Independence, the laws did not make registration compulsory. We are categorised as (a) body of individuals. We are (a) recognised organisation,” he said.

Recalling a court judgement after the Income Tax Department asked RSS to pay taxes, he said that the court recognised it as “a body of individuals and our ‘guru dakshina’ was exempted from the income tax. We were banned thrice. Each time courts dismissed the ban and recognised RSS as a legal organisation,” Bhagwat said.

On Karnataka Minister PriyankKharge’s recent pitch for regulating RSS activities in the state, Bhagwat said: “We need not answer them. We have other important work to do… The criticism makes us more famous. We have just witnessed (it) here in Karnataka. We will encourage them to raise more questions.”

On whether the RSS would hold outreach programmes for minorities, he said, “No Brahmin is allowed in Sangh. No other caste is allowed in Sangh. No Muslim is allowed… No Christian… No Shaiva… Only Hindu is allowed. People with different denominations, Muslims… Christians can come to Sangh… Your speciality is welcome. But, when you come inside ‘Shakha’, you come as the son of ‘Bharat Mata’…. a member of the broader Hindu society,” he said.

Source: indianexpress.com

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https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/bangalore/cant-put-all-muslims-in-one-bracket-bhagwat-10355813/

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Centre extends panel tenure on SC status for Dalit Muslims and Dalit Christians

Basant Kumar Mohanty

10.11.25

The Centre has extended for the second time the tenure of a commission set up to examine the grant of Scheduled Caste (SC) status to Dalits who have converted to Islam and Christianity, prompting some activists to doubt the government’s intention.

Through a gazette notification issued last week, the ministry of social justice and empowerment granted a six-month extension to the three-member commission under former Chief Justice of India K.G. Balakrishnan.

The commission was set up in October 2022 for two years. It was granted a one-year extension last year after it failed to complete its report.

Social activist Gurindar Azad, who has been working with Pasmanda Muslims

who face discrimination within the Muslim community, said granting a second extension meant the government was not serious about the issue.

“The Dalit Christians and Dalit Muslims deserve SC status. They face discrimination within their communities. Their socio-economic condition is poor. It is a good thing that a commission has been set up, but repeated extensions give the impression that the action was taken out of political compulsion without any real intent,” Azad said.

Azad also demanded an increase in the overall SC quota from 15 per cent to

reflect the combined population of Dalit Christians and Dalit Muslims.

He said the 15 per cent quota was not being filled in government educational institutions and government jobs.

“The government must ensure that affirmative actions are implemented, too,” he said.

The Constitution provides for affirmative actions like reservation for the SCs among Hindus and Sikhs. In 1991, the benefits were extended to SCs among Buddhists, but the Dalit Muslims and Dalit Christians were excluded.

In 2008, the National Commission for Minorities set up a committee to study the issue. The panel had recommended SC status for both the communities.

A professor of Delhi University, who did not wish to be identified, said the demand for SC status for the converted Dalits had often been opposed by Dalits themselves.

“Another issue is regional disparity in the education and economic condition of Dalit Christians and Dalit Muslims. The Dalit Christians and Dalit Muslims in southern states are educationally and economically better off and may take greater advantage of the benefits. However, the most backward among them may still remain deprived and marginalised,” he said.

Source: telegraphindia.com

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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/centre-extends-tenure-of-panel-reviewing-sc-status-for-dalit-muslims-and-dalit-christians-prnt/cid/2132105

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J&K police foil major terror plot, recover 2,900 kg of explosive material in multi-state raids

Fayaz Wani, Harpreet Bajwa

10 Nov 2025

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Monday claimed a major success against militancy by busting an inter-state militant module of the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH) outfits and arresting seven persons, including two doctors. The police stated that 2,900 kg of IED-making material had been recovered.

A police spokesperson, while giving details of the anti-militancy operation, said that on October 19, multiple JeM posters were found pasted at different locations in Bunpora, Nowgam, on the outskirts of Srinagar, threatening and intimidating police and security forces.

“Accordingly, FIR No. 162/2025 under Sections 13, 16, 17, 18, 18-B, 19, 20, 23, 39, and 40 of the UAPA Act; Sections 61(2), 147, 148, 152, and 351(2) of the BNS; Sections 4/5 of the Explosive Substances Act; and Sections 7/25/27 of the Arms Act was registered at Police Station Nowgam, Srinagar, and investigation taken up,” the spokesperson said.

According to the police, the investigation has revealed a “white-collar terror ecosystem” involving radicalized professionals and students in contact with foreign handlers operating from Pakistan and other countries.

“The group was using encrypted channels for indoctrination, coordination, fund movement, and logistics. Funds were raised through professional and academic networks under the guise of social and charitable causes. The accused were found involved in identifying individuals for radicalization, initiating and recruiting them into militant ranks, raising funds, arranging logistics, and procuring arms, ammunition, and materials for preparing IEDs,” the spokesperson said.

During the course of the investigation, police arrested seven persons namely, Arif Nisar Dar alias Sahil, resident of Nowgam, Srinagar, Yasir-ul-Ashraf, resident of Nowgam, Srinagar, Maqsood Ahmad Dar alias Shahid, resident of Nowgam, Srinagar, Molvi Irfan Ahmad (Imam of a Masjid), resident of Shopian, Zameer Ahmad Ahanger alias Mutlasha, resident of Wakura, Ganderbal, Dr. Muzammil Ahmad Ganaie alias Musaib, resident of Koil, Pulwama, Dr. Adeel, resident of Wanpora, Kulgam.

According to the police spokesperson, the role of a few more individuals has surfaced during the investigation, and efforts are underway to trace and apprehend them.

“During the ongoing investigation, searches were conducted at multiple locations by J&K Police in Srinagar, Anantnag, Ganderbal, and Shopian. Similarly, searches were also conducted in Faridabad in coordination with Haryana Police and in Saharanpur with UP Police,” the spokesperson said.

The police further stated that the investigation has so far led to the recovery of incriminating documents, electronic devices, arms, ammunition, and IED-making materials, including: One Chinese Star pistol (with ammunition), one Beretta pistol (with ammunition), one AK-56 rifle (with ammunition) and, one AK Krinkov rifle (with ammunition).

The spokesperson added that 2,900 kg of IED-making material — including explosives, chemicals, reagents, inflammable materials, electronic circuits, batteries, wires, remote controls, timers, and metal sheets — have been recovered.

“Financial investigations regarding the flow of funds are ongoing, and all linkages are being traced and addressed expeditiously,” the police spokesperson said, adding that the investigation stands as a testimony to the diligent efforts and unflagging determination of the team involved.

Dr Mujahil Shakil used to teach at Al-Falah University in Dhauj

Meanwhile, addressing the media on Monday, Faridabad Police Commissioner Satender Kumar Gupta said that during a joint operation between the J&K Police and Haryana Police a doctor working with a university in Faridabad was arrested. Police recovered 360 kg of inflammable material suspected to be ammonium nitrate. The police also seized an assault rifle, a pistol, a large cache of ammunition, a walkie-talkie set, and electric wiring from a rented accommodation in Dhauj village of Faridabad.

The accused has been identified as Dr. Mujahil Shakil. He was arrested. Acting on further intelligence, raids were conducted on Sunday, during which 360 kg of inflammable material — possibly ammonium nitrate — was recovered from eight large and four small suitcases and one bucket. I want to clarify that it is not RDX,” Gupta said.

He added, “Several other materials used in terror activities were also recovered, including 20 timers, four timers with batteries, 5 kg of heavy metal, 24 remote controls, a walkie-talkie set, electric wiring, batteries, and other contraband material. Firearms recovered include one Carom Cok assault rifle with three magazines and 83 live rounds, one pistol with eight live rounds, two additional magazines, and two empty cartridges. The joint police operation is still underway.”

Gupta further said that the joint team of Faridabad and Jammu and Kashmir Police arrested the Kashmiri doctor for allegedly putting up posters supporting the terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad in Srinagar. The accused has been identified as Dr. Mujammil Shakeel, a physician.

“Shakeel used to teach at Al-Falah University in Dhauj, Faridabad, and had taken a room on rent there to store his belongings," Gupta said.

A senior police officer said that security agencies are now scrutinizing other medical professionals from Jammu and Kashmir who are working in private hospitals across northern states.

According to sources, Shakeel, originally from Jammu and Kashmir, had been living on rent in a house in Dhauj village, Faridabad, for about three months. The seized materials are suspected to have been used for assembling improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Shakeel was taken into custody by the Jammu and Kashmir Police on October 30, following the arrest of Dr. Adil Ahmad Rather, another accused linked to the same terror network. After sustained interrogation, Shakeel was brought back to Faridabad on Sunday morning to identify and recover the materials that had been hidden, sources said.

The seized items have been sent for forensic examination, and intelligence agencies are investigating the network’s funding sources and possible cross-border connections.

Source: newindianexpress.com

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https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2025/Nov/10/jk-police-foil-major-terror-plot-recover-2900-kg-of-explosive-material-in-multi-state-raids

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Europe

 

Attacks on Sharia expose attitudes to Islam from Devon County Councillor

November 10, 2025

The anti Islamic Facebook posts continue from the Devon County Councillor who told the whole chamber, she had no intention of “being racist or otherwise”.

Maybe it is unintentional, or maybe Devon County Councillor for Newton Abbot Jackie Fry doesn’t see attacks on the Islamic faith as either ‘racist’ or ‘otherwise’.

Jackie told us she didn’t “subscribe to the concept of ‘Islamophobia’ as it is often portrayed. I am not phobic of Islam, nor have I posted anything that I believe is hostile or discriminatory toward the religion or its followers. My concern is not with any faith or community, but with how certain media outlets can misrepresent individuals who speak in support of British values, traditions, and the right to free speech.”

But when more anti-Islamic stuff appeared on her Facebook, we asked again – what is her concept of Islamophobia? Afterall, she had stood up and said she had no intention of “being racist or otherwise”.

Jackie told us: “We could go back and forth with emails until the cows come home, but I’m not going to—because my time is best spent helping people in my community.

“I’ll leave you with one final comment regarding Sharia: we are in Britain, and as I’ve stated before, we are a Christian country with one legal system—British law. I do not believe Sharia has any place in our country, and I hope this clarifies my position on the matter.

“This will be my final communication with you on this subject.”

So she does have a problem with Islam… or at least the Sharia Law of Islam. Not Halakah, “the collective body of Jewish religious laws that are derived from the Written and Oral Torah” (thank you Wikipedia).

Nor with Hinduism, the third-largest religious group in the UK. But Hinduism doesn’t have the same prescriptive nature as the Abrahamic religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

But we’re no religious scholars, so we spent an afternoon with the chief Imam at Exeter Mosque to talk about Sharia Law – the Islamic law of divine guidance.

Guidance for each part of a religious life

He helped create the context with a whistle-stop tour of the history of Islam and the Koran. He highlighted that Sharia Law is the guidance for each part of a religious life.

We talked about the 5 pillars of of Islam. (3 and 4 stood out for us – the obligatory charitable giving of 2.5%, and fasting to create empathy for those with less.) We talked about the 6 articles of faith, which includes a deep understanding and appreciation of all the prophets and messengers, including Jesus.

Sharia is the establishment of justice for those who follow a religious life. It all sounded a key part of the religion.

A lack of knowledge

Why, then, all the bad press for Sharia Law? we asked. A lack of knowledge of Islam, he said. And that lack of knowledge has been exacerbated by news stories of extremist behaviours that ties itself to the religion.

Jackie Fray said ‘we are a Christian country’. How accurate is that?

On October 28, anthropologist Alice Roberts responded to a claim that the country is Anglo Saxon and Christian. As part of that response she pointed out:

“… with 53% of respondents in the British Social Attitudes survey recording themselves as “no religion”, it’s hard to argue that we are a Christian country. The country is what it is now; not what it was 100 years ago.”

What of Reform’s attitude to Christian leadership?

When the Archbishop of York commented on Reform’s immigration policy, Deputy Leader Richard Tice said: “I enjoy the church, I believe in God. But the role of the archbishop is not actually to interfere with international migration policies.”

Commenting on this, economist Richard Murphy said: “if politicians want to claim Christian values, they must be judged by this standard: how do they treat the most vulnerable, including the migrant? On that test, then almost all of our current politics fails, and the Church not only has the right but also the duty to say so.”

But where does this leave us with the Devon Reform Councillor who says she has no intention of “being racist or otherwise” then slamming Islam?

Open and informed

It leaves us wanting to know more about religions in the county and beyond, to make open and informed interaction. To connect and explore.

Devon Reform have been making much of the Hate Speech debate where Jackie Fry said she wasn’t racist or otherwise. The Lib Dem who called for the debate, they say, claimed it would see who was racist. At that suggestion some walked out.

Clarity of actions

Jackie – who makes much of her honesty and integrity – has demonstrated what she thinks with what she shares on her Facebook page. And she has told us in no uncertain terms that she wants an end Sharia Law in the UK. The Exeter Imam told us how Islam hinges on Sharia Law.

We can’t ask for more clarity – she’s said she wouldn’t tell us anyway, but maybe she already has.

top image: Devon County Councillor Jackie Fry standing up in Devon County Council chamber saying she has no intention of being racist or otherwise, yet continues to share anti-Islamic Facebook posts

Source: theprsd.co.uk

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https://www.theprsd.co.uk/2025/11/10/attacks-on-sharia-expose-attitudes-to-islam-from-devon-county-councillor/

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British anti-drone unit deployed to Belgium – defence minister

9 Nov, 2025

A British anti-drone unit has arrived in Belgium to counter “hybrid threats,” Defense Minister Theo Francken announced on Sunday in a post on X.

London confirmed the deployment, citing several drone sightings reported over Belgium last week. Sir Richard Knighton, head of the British Armed Forces, acknowledged that the origin of the unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) spotted over the area remains unknown.

Francken recently caused a stir by threatening to “wipe Moscow off the map” in an interview with Belgian outlet De Morgen last month. He later sought to clarify his remarks, claiming that they had been made in the context of NATO’s principle of deterrence. He maintained that the bloc was “not at war with Russia,” but added that he would not “take back a single word” from the controversial interview.

Moscow condemned his remarks as “irresponsible” and called them an example of “military psychosis.”

Several Western officials have recently accused Russian aircraft and drones of violating EU airspace, labeling the incidents part of an alleged “hybrid war” by Moscow. The Kremlin has denied the allegations and accused the West of fostering anti-Russia “hysteria.”

The EU has increasingly used anti-Russian rhetoric to justify massive military expenditures. The ReArm Europe package, presented in March, aims to mobilize up to €800 billion ($933 billion) to expand the EU’s military under the pretext of countering the alleged “Russian threat.”

The bloc also unveiled a plan to create a “drone wall,” prompted by UAV sightings in several member states. The incidents were immediately blamed on Russia. Moscow dismissed the claims as false accusations.

Last month, the EU Commission also revealed plans to establish a ‘space shield’ to protect its satellites from an alleged Russian threat, but have not disclosed a budget.

Source: rt.com

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https://www.rt.com/news/627543-british-anti-drone-unit-belgium/

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EU member vows to oppose seizure of Russian assets

9 Nov, 2025

Slovakia will not support an EU initiative to use frozen Russian assets to cover Ukraine’s military expenses, Prime Minister Robert Fico said on Saturday. Bratislava has refused to send military aid to Kiev, instead calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Western nations have frozen around $300 billion in Russian sovereign assets since 2022 and used interest from the funds last year to raise $50 billion in loans for Ukraine. The EU is now seeking to raise €140 billion ($160 billion) more using Russian assets as collateral. The scheme is based on the presumption that Moscow would eventually pay reparations to Kiev as part of a peace settlement.

EU leaders failed to reach an agreement on the confiscation during a summit in October, effectively postponing a final decision until a European Council meeting in December.

In an interview with the Saturday Dialogues show, Fico questioned whether Brussels is seeking to end the hostilities or continue fueling the conflict, suggesting that providing an additional $160 billion to Kiev could prolong the fighting for another two years.

“I said this very clearly: the Slovak Republic, as long as I am prime minister, will not participate in any legal or financial mechanisms whose goal would be the confiscation of frozen assets and which are intended to end up as military expenditures in Ukraine,” Fico said.

He warned that tapping the frozen funds could trigger billion-euro arbitrations, causing enormous difficulties for EU member states. He also pointed to Belgium, whose government has cautioned that the move could provoke severe retaliatory measures from Moscow.

Most of the frozen assets are held at the Euroclear clearinghouse in Belgium. The country has repeatedly said that the EU proposal undermines trust in European financial institutions.

Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken warned in October that retaliation from Russia could cost the EU more than $170 billion. “Of course, this money will not rebuild Ukraine but will continue the war,” he added.

Moscow has warned that using its frozen assets would amount to theft. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said channeling the funds to Ukraine would “boomerang” and that anyone attempting to seize Russian assets would face legal prosecution.

Source: rt.com

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https://www.rt.com/news/627530-fico-russian-assets-fuel-war/

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US Senate advances bill to end government shutdown

10 Nov, 2025

The US Senate has approved a bipartisan deal to end the federal government shutdown, clearing a major hurdle after more than five weeks of political deadlock that furloughed hundreds of thousands of workers, disrupted key public services, and rattled the wider economy.

In an initial test vote late Sunday night – the first in a series of procedural steps – the Senate voted 60-40 to advance a compromise bill. Senate Majority Leader John Thune said it “remains to be seen” when the chamber will be able to vote on the final passage of the measure to reopen the government, though he said he hopes it will pass early this week.

The agreement was hammered out after intense talks between a small group of Republican and Democratic negotiators, who faced mounting pressure from business leaders, governors, and frustrated federal employees. The bill provides back pay for furloughed workers, ensures continued funding for critical programs, and includes limited policy concessions designed to give both sides something to claim as a win.

The move comes amid increasingly dire warnings about the shutdown’s economic toll. Earlier this week, White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett said the impact was “far worse” than initially estimated and could slash fourth-quarter GDP growth in half.

Beyond the domestic fallout, the political gridlock in Washington has delayed more than $5 billion in arms exports to European NATO members – including AMRAAM air-to-air missiles, HIMARS systems, and other weapons which are often subsequently transferred to Ukraine.

Supporters of the Senate deal framed it as an imperfect but necessary step to restore basic functions of government and limit further damage.

Opponents on both the left and right have criticized the compromise. Some conservatives argue that it does too little to rein in spending and misses an opportunity to force deeper cuts, while progressive Democrats complain that it fails to lock in stronger protections for social programs and only temporarily addresses key disputes over priorities at home and abroad, including Ukraine funding.

Source: rt.com

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https://www.rt.com/news/627554-us-senate-government-shutdown/

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Africa

 

ICD Closes €20m Shariah-Compliant Syndicated Facility For AKLease To Boost Private Sector Growth

November 10, 2025

The Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD), the private sector arm of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, has successfully closed a €20 million Shariah-compliant medium-term syndicated financing facility for AkFinansalKiralama A.Ş. (AKLease), one of Türkiye’s leading leasing companies.

The facility, structured as a three-year Commodity Murabaha, is aimed at strengthening leasing activities and supporting private sector businesses across Türkiye, with a particular focus on empowering corporates and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). ICD acted as the Mandated Lead Arranger, Bookrunner, and Investment Agent for the transaction, while Al Salam Bank B.S.C. joined as a Joint Lead Arranger.

Announcing the closure of the deal, Dr. Khalid Khalafalla, Acting CEO of ICD, emphasized that the transaction reflects ICD’s commitment to driving inclusive economic development through innovative Islamic finance solutions.

> “ICD is proud to launch a new medium-term facility dedicated to promoting economic development and expanding leasing in Türkiye,” Dr. Khalafalla said. “Our focus is on empowering private sector enterprises, particularly corporates and SMEs, that are catalysts for meaningful economic progress.”

For AKLease, the partnership reinforces its strategic commitment to facilitating access to finance for Turkish businesses and enhancing their competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.

 “AKLease is a key enabler of private sector growth and innovation in Türkiye,” said Mr. EserOkyay, General Manager of AKLease. “We remain committed to supporting Turkish businesses and strengthening their competitiveness. We consider ICD a strategic partner in this endeavor and look forward to continuing our cooperation in the future.”

The new financing is expected to help AKLease broaden its customer base and provide tailored leasing solutions across critical sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, construction, and renewable energy. By supporting businesses in acquiring essential capital equipment and assets, the facility is positioned to stimulate investment, productivity, and job creation in Türkiye’s real economy.

The transaction also aligns with ICD’s broader mandate to expand access to Shariah-compliant financing across its member countries. As part of the IsDB Group, ICD focuses on fostering private sector development as a key driver of sustainable economic growth and poverty alleviation.

Since its establishment, ICD has played a pivotal role in providing innovative Islamic finance instruments, supporting financial institutions, and mobilizing resources to catalyze private investment across emerging and developing economies.

With this latest collaboration, ICD and AKLease reaffirm their shared vision of promoting ethical financing, inclusive growth, and economic resilience — values that underpin the growing global appeal of Islamic finance.

Source: independent.ng

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https://independent.ng/icd-closes-e20m-shariah-compliant-syndicated-facility-for-aklease-to-boost-private-sector-growth/

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FG Silent As INEC Chair’s 2020 ‘Genocide’ Brief Sparks Fresh Outrage

November 10, 2025

By EnioluwaAdeniyi

The Federal Government has remained silent over a resurfaced 2020 legal brief reportedly authored by the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor JoashAmupitan, in which he described Boko Haram attacks and alleged killings by “Fulani herdsmen” as part of a coordinated anti-Christian campaign amounting to genocide.

The document, which formed part of a publication titled Nigeria’s Silent Slaughter: Genocide in Nigeria and the Implications for the International Community, has triggered renewed debate over the INEC boss’ views on the security crisis.

According to Daily Trust, efforts to obtain an official response from the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, were unsuccessful as calls and messages were not acknowledged as of press time.

Similarly, Amupitan has yet to react to the report since SaharaReporters first published the story on Friday. Multiple calls were placed to his phone, as well as a text message, which he did not answer. His Chief Press Secretary, DayoOketola, was also unreachable.

Sources within the commission told Daily Trust that the INEC chairman was “preoccupied with the Anambra governorship election” held over the weekend.

Amupitan, who contributed an 80-page chapter titled Legal Brief: Genocide in Nigeria, was sworn in as INEC chairman on October 23 following Senate confirmation.

Senate Denies Knowledge Of Amupitan’s Position

When contacted, the Senate spokesman, YemiAdaramodu, said the upper chamber was unaware of the 2020 publication before screening Amupitan.

Adaramodu said, “I have never seen it. We are not privy to it. Something that the Senate has never seen. This is something that is not before us; something we don’t know.”

The publication, produced by the International Committee on Nigeria (ICON) and the International Organisation on Peace-building & Social Justice (PSJ), chronicled alleged systematic killings of Christians across Nigeria.

Amupitan’s legal argument reportedly claimed that the pattern and scale of attacks met the threshold for genocide under international law.

The brief also accused the Federal Government of complicity through alleged failure to protect affected communities and prosecute perpetrators.

The controversy comes days after the Federal Government dismissed similar genocide allegations following former U.S. President Donald Trump’s re-designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), with threats of military action.

The government insisted that insecurity affects Muslims and Christians alike, blaming terrorism, banditry and socio-economic factors, not religious persecution.

Amupitan’s resurfaced position, which contradicts the government’s long-standing stance, has prompted the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria (SCSN) to call for his removal as INEC chairman.

Amupitan’s Stand On Genocide In Nigeria

In the paper, Amupitan, who was then a faculty member at the University of Jos, Plateau State, said, among other things, that “it is a notorious fact that there is perpetration of crimes under international law in Nigeria, particularly crimes against humanity, war crimes and genocide.

“One word that the Nigerian authorities and international investigators and rapporteurs have not mentioned (or simply refuse to mention) in respect of the protracted violence in Nigeria is ‘genocide.’ Is this a deliberate omission or an oversight?”

He added that the “alleged involvement of the state and non-state actors in the commission of crimes under international law in Nigeria has complicated an already complex situation. Consequently, the situation beckons the urgent need for a neutral and impartial third-party intervention, especially the UN and its key organs, the military and economic superpowers, and regional or sub-regional international organisations of intergovernmental character.

“In a globalised world, international law serves as a binding cord; state sovereignty diminishes to accommodate the common interests of the global community concretised by a mixture of consent, consensus and compelling norms.”

He added that “Boko Haram sect is a desire for the Islamisation of Nigeria. The Fulani ethnic militants, on their part, have engaged in the same anti-Christian violence as their Boko Haram counterparts.

“Since it is the agenda of the Fulani to Islamise the whole of Nigeria, they have used the machinery of the State, deliberately handed over to them by the colonialists, to advance their course at all times. The period of the military regime was used maximally to create states and LGAs, and set boundaries, in a manner that gives economic and political advantages to the Hausa-Fulani ethnic group. The military regime ensured that major strategic appointments went to the Hausa-Fulani group, while their promotions in the public service, especially in the military, police, and customs, were accelerated. The well-orchestrated plan paid off for them because the other ethnic groups did not realise their agenda to Islamise the whole of Nigeria, and by the time the plan was being understood by some, though not all, of the other ethnic groups, the damage had already become too much. The military, police, customs, and the public service as a whole have been taken over completely, with Islamic fundamentalists planted in strategic positions to supervise the final phase of the agenda.”

In his legal brief, Amupitan had advised that the U.S. Department of State refer the case to the Criminal Division of the Department of Justice.

He had also called on the United Nations Security Council, its relevant organs, and major world powers to, among other recommendations, urge contracting parties to the Genocide Convention to sue Nigeria before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for failing to prevent and punish genocide as required under Articles 8 and 9 of the Convention; and consider military intervention by the UN, the African Union (AU) or ECOWAS forces as a last resort, in line with Article 42 of the UN Charter.

Source: naijanews.com

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https://www.naijanews.com/2025/11/10/fg-silent-as-inec-chairs-2020-genocide-brief-sparks-fresh-outrage/

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Escalating crisis in Sudan: Military chief visits displacement camp amid rising atrocities

November 10, 2025

Sudan's military chief visited a displacement camp on Saturday, hosting people who fled the city of el-Fasher after a paramilitary force captured the city.

General Abdel-Fattah Burhan was greeted by people and surrounded by military personnel.

Tens of thousands of Sudanese have fled to overcrowded camps to escape reported atrocities by the Rapid Support Forces since it captured el-Fasher in the western Darfur region, an aid group said Saturday.

The U.N. human rights chief warned that many others are still trapped.

The RSF and the Sudanese army have been at war since April 2023, following simmering tensions over control of Africa's third-largest nation.

At least 40,000 people have been killed, according to the World Health Organization, though the actual toll might be many times higher.

Some 12 million people have been displaced, and nearly half the population is facing acute food insecurity.

Last week, the RSF seized eEl-Fasherafter an 18-month siege.

The paramilitary rampaged through the Saudi Hospital in the city, killing over 450 people, according to the WHO, and went house to house, killing civilians and committing sexual assaults.

The RSF has denied killing anyone at the Saudi hospital, but testimonies from those fleeing, online videos and satellite images offer an apocalyptic vision of the attack.

Source: africanews.com

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https://www.africanews.com/2025/11/09/escalating-crisis-in-sudan-military-chief-visits-displacement-camp-amid-rising-atrocities/

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Arab World

 

Saudi chief of general staff presents Pakistan’s chairman of joint chiefs of staff committee with medal

November 09, 2025

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Chief of General Staff Lieutenant-General Fayyad bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili presented Pakistan’s Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza with a King Abdulaziz Medal of the Excellent Class in Riyadh on Saturday.

The award was made in recognition of Mirza’s efforts to consolidate the bonds of friendship and joint cooperation between the Kingdom and Pakistan and strengthen Saudi-Pakistani relations, the Saudi Press Agency said.

The medal was given to Mirza during a meeting with Al-Ruwaili and in accordance with a royal directive from King Salman.

The two officials reviewed aspects of cooperation in the defense and military fields between their countries and ways to strengthen and develop them in the meeting.A number of topics of common interest were also discussed, SPA said.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2622004/saudi-arabia

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Live surgeries and cadaver demonstrations at Riyadh aesthetic medicine conference

RAHAF JAMBI

November 09, 2025

RIYADH: A Riyadh conference on aesthetic medicine featured live-streamed operations and cadaver demonstrations, giving participants practical exposure to cutting-edge techniques in the field on Friday and Saturday.

Dr. Naif Al-Numair, head of the organizing committee for the Scientific Academy of Aesthetic Medicine Conference and Exhibition, told Arab News that the 2025 edition introduced new interactive features aimed at bridging the gap between theory and practice.

“We had two major new components this year,” he said. “The first was a live surgery broadcast streamed directly from a hospital to the conference hall, allowing doctors and attendees to interact in real time with the surgeon. This was the first time such a format was introduced at SAAM.

“The second addition was a live cadaver demonstration, streamed from King Saud University, where experts explained facial anatomy, injection sites, and skin layers with full audience participation,” he added.

Cadaver surgeries are typically used by clinicians to train and to test the effectiveness of new techniques in a risk-free setting.

The fourth edition of SAAM was held at the Fairmont Riyadh Hotel, bringing together experts from Saudi Arabia, the wider Arab region, Europe, South Korea and Turkiye.

Topics included exosome therapy, laser acne treatments, fillers, toxins, biostimulators and other emerging technologies and devices used in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.

Dr. Mohammed bin Saleh Al-Khuwailid, chairman of the conference, spoke to Arab News about how SAAM has grown significantly since its inception, both in its scale and reputation.

“We were proud to welcome more than 3,200 attendees, reflecting the Kingdom’s growing role as a regional leader in aesthetic medicine,” he said.

“The conference covered a wide range of subjects, from injectables and energy-based devices to the newest skin regeneration techniques.

“Each year, SAAM strengthens its international partnerships and expands its reach to new audiences.”

He added that the scientific program was accredited by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties, offering 20 Continuing Medical Education hours to participants.

Before the official start of the conference, attendees participated in a series of workshops led by experts from Saudi Arabia, Europe, Korea, Turkiye and Egypt, focusing on the latest cosmetic procedures, clinical safety standards and patient care in aesthetic practice.

Dr. Saad Al-Tahlab, head of the advisory board of the Saudi Academy of Aesthetic Medicine, highlighted the event’s continued success and its role in advancing medical standards in Saudi Arabia.

“SAAM continues to raise the bar every year,” he said. “This year, we had over 3,000 registered participants and 40 parallel workshops taking place simultaneously, reflecting how dynamic and fast-growing the aesthetic medicine field has become.

“Attendees didn’t just come to see new products; they came for the scientific knowledge. The lecture halls were filled with practitioners eager to learn what’s safe, effective, and innovative in today’s market.”

He noted that SAAM remains the first conference in the region fully dedicated to aesthetic medicine, bringing together dermatologists, plastic surgeons, ENT specialists, and international speakers under one platform for cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2621980/saudi-arabia

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Saudi, Indian ministers discuss strengthening cultural ties

November 09, 2025

RIYADH: Saudi Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan met Indian Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in Riyadh on Sunday.

Held on the sidelines of the 26th session of the UN Tourism General Assembly, the meeting discussed ways to strengthen cultural cooperation across various fields.

Shekhawat also held bilateral talks with tourism ministers from Sri Lanka, the Maldives and South Africa during the event.

In a post on X, he said India continues to expand tourism cooperation and cultural partnerships worldwide.

Shekhawat also attended a dinner hosted by Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb for ministers taking part in the UN event.

The Indian minister said: “Grateful for the warm hospitality and the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions on advancing global tourism cooperation.”

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2622006/saudi-arabia

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Film critics explore cinema, place at Riyadh conference

November 09, 2025

RIYADH: The final session of the Film Criticism Conference, organized by the Film Commission at Riyadh’s Cultural Palace, brought together critics, academics, and filmmakers from Saudi Arabia and abroad to enrich the country’s cinematic dialogue.

The Riyadh event is the third in a series, following successful gatherings in Asir and Qatif, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

This edition focused on the relationship between cinema and place, highlighting location as a key element of visual storytelling and cultural identity.

The three-day conference, which ended on Sunday, featured sessions, workshops, and presentations on the roles of place, memory, and displacement in cinema.

Discussions examined how artists’ experiences abroad influence their narratives and visual styles, the SPA reported.

Workshops explored cultural memory, cinematic expression, and the fundamentals of film criticism, including practical techniques to enhance analytical skills.

A session also addressed the evolving role of film festivals in the digital era and their importance in preserving cultural memory.

More than 30 speakers and experts examined place in cinema as a space reflecting identity, memory, and social transformation.

The conference included a screening of “News from Home,” a 1976 documentary that features messages from Brussels and long shots of New York to convey alienation, nostalgia, and complex family ties.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2621977/saudi-arabia

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Saudi Arabia promotes cultural heritage, commitment toward handicraft education

November 09, 2025

RIYADH: Handicrafts are a key component of cultural heritage, showcasing inherited skills, creativity, and aesthetic values.

They represent Saudi identity by connecting the past to the present, playing a vital role in the economy by diversifying income sources and enhancing cultural visibility, in line with Vision 2030.

In a significant shift, the Kingdom has established handicrafts as a national cultural project supported by official bodies, particularly the Ministry of Culture.

Saudi Arabia declared 2025 as the Year of Handicrafts to promote this rich heritage both locally and internationally.

Handicrafts involve individual skill and creativity which transform local raw materials into practical and aesthetic products, often made without modern machinery, resulting in unique items imbued with a personal touch.

The sector includes specialized artisans, amateurs, and researchers, all of whom contribute to the preservation and transmission of this legacy to future generations.

The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts enhances the preservation of authentic Saudi cultural heritage and promotes innovation in handicrafts and arts.

It offers educational and training programs that preserve national heritage and boost creativity through specialized courses.

The Ministry of Culture and the Heritage Commission are implementing training programs, exhibitions, and competitions to reinforce handicrafts as a living heritage and a part of contemporary life.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2621979/saudi-arabia

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Prince Abdulaziz reelected president of Arab Olympic Union for 2025–2029

November 09, 2025

RIYADH: The General Assembly of the Union of Arab National Olympic Committees unanimously reelected Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal as president for a four-year term from 2025 to 2029, during its 23rd regular meeting in Riyadh.

Prince Abdulaziz, also Saudi minister of sport, thanked the leadership for its steadfast support of Arab sports and youth, and its continued efforts to advance the regional sports sector, which have produced positive results across numerous initiatives.

He highlighted the union’s solidarity with Palestine and full support for Palestinian athletes, and added that the Palestinian cause remains deeply rooted in the hearts of Arab peoples.

The assembly also approved Bahrain’s request, in coordination with Saudi Arabia, to host the 18th Arab Games in 2027, while the 19th edition will take place in Saudi Arabia in 2031.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2622029/saudi-arabia

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Saudi, Sri Lankan foreign ministers review ties in Riyadh meeting

November 09, 2025

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan held talks in Riyadh on Sunday with VijithaHerath, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Overseas Employment, and Tourism of Sri Lanka.

During the meeting, the two ministers discussed relations between their countries and exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual concern, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Prince Faisal presented Herath with a commemorative postage stamp marking 50 years of diplomatic relations between the Kingdom and Sri Lanka.

The Director of the South Asia Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Majid bin Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi, also attended the meeting, SPA added.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2621992/saudi-arabia

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More than 11,000 Saudi families have adopted orphans, charity says

November 09, 2025

RIYADH: More than 11,000 Saudi families have fostered orphaned children, the national foster care association announced on World Adoption Day on Sunday.

The figure was released by the Al-Wedad Charity Association, the only organization authorized by the Kingdom’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development to oversee the national foster care program for orphaned children of unknown parentage, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

The association also launched a new publicity campaign to highlight the heartfelt stories of foster parents and their children.

In a video published by Al-Wedad on X, one adoptive parent said of her child: “When she hugs me, I feel like she’s hugging my heart.”

Another parent said: “I’ve never been as happy in my life, nor heard a word that made me happier than the word ‘Mama’.”

One of the parents who took part in the adoption program described it as “the most beautiful feeling I’ve ever experienced in my life.” Another said: “We thank the Al-Wedad Association for giving us this chance.”

The charity’s CEO, Dhaif Allah Al-Nami, said that the campaign is an extension of Al-Wedad’s efforts to spread awareness and promote social acceptance of adoption, highlighting the mutual feelings of love and belonging between child and family, the SPA reported.

The SPA also highlighted the importance of adoption in the Islamic tradition, citing a hadith of the Prophet Muhammad, who said: “I and the person who looks after an orphan and provides for him, will be in Paradise like this,” putting his index and middle fingers together.

As well as spreading awareness, Al-Wedad provides a range of services to support orphaned children and their foster families, including social, psychological and educational counseling to families to help them care for their children throughout their lives.

The association provides temporary accommodation for orphaned children, and assists foster families in breastfeeding.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2621989/saudi-arabia

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KSrelief expands aid efforts in Syria, Gaza, Yemen

November 09, 2025

RIYADH: The Saudi aid agency KSrelief continues to make an impact by providing critical assistance to some of the world’s most vulnerable communities.

The organization has implemented five week-long medical projects in Damascus in the Syrian Arab Republic, covering cardiac and catheterization procedures, orthopedic and joint surgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery, pediatric surgery, and blindness prevention.

Its team examined 5,300 patients, distributed 710 prescription glasses, and performed 473 eye surgeries, 106 pediatric surgeries, 117 plastic and reconstructive surgeries, 63 orthopedic surgeries, 51 open-heart surgeries, and 54 therapeutic catheterizations.

KSrelief also distributed 820 food baskets in the Rif Dimashq governorate, helping 820 families, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The 72nd KSrelief aircraft, coordinated with the Ministry of Defense and the Saudi Embassy in Cairo, delivered food baskets, shelter kits, and electric wheelchairs to Palestinians in Gaza via El-Arish International Airport in Egypt.

KSrelief’s prosthetics and rehabilitation center in Seiyun in the Hadramout governorate of Yemen offered medical services to 519 amputees over one month, providing a total of 1,925 services including prosthetic manufacturing, fitting, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and specialized consultations.

The agency also distributed 1,000 cartons of dates in Marib governorate, benefiting 6,000 individuals, including displaced persons and people with disabilities.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2621984/saudi-arabia

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North America

 

‘Racial Profiling’: Indian-Origin ManAsked If He’s ‘Aware’ Of Mamdani, Grilled While On Duty

Nov 10, 2025

Illinois governor JB Pritzker has accused Donald Trump's administration of racial profiling after ICE agents stopped interrogated an Indian-origin man about his immigration status and if he was "aware" of the Zohran Mamdani's mayoral election in New York City.

Pritzker condemned the federal action, calling it an example of authorities questioning US citizens “apparently based on the colour of their skin.”

I am appalled they would stop and question a state employee working hard on the job to help improve our state’s roads and infrastructure,” Pritzker said in a statement.

“Our state employees should be able to go to work and do their jobs without masked agents targeting them for no legitimate reason,” he added.

According to Chicago Sun Times, the employee who is Indian and a US citizen, was stopped by agents while working on the Busse Highway resurfacing project.

Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security denied that the agents were from the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement or US Customs and Border Protection. The governor’s office did not immediately provide further details.

Residents of Park Ridge grew anxious after reports of federal agents in the area prompted local schools to go into lockdown. Students and teachers in Park Ridge–Niles School District 64 were told to remain indoors, Superintendent Ben Collins confirmed, citing reports of immigration agents near several campuses.

The incident follows months of intensified federal immigration activity under the Trump administration’s MAGA crackdown, fueling concerns among civil rights groups about racial and nationality-based targeting.

Amid the broader enforcement drive, the GOP-led government moved to deploy the National Guard in Chicago as part of “Operation Midway Blitz.” Illinois officials challenged the decision as unconstitutional, and a federal appeals court blocked the deployment last month.

Source: indiatimes.com

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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/racial-profiling-indian-origin-man-grilled-on-immigration-status-while-on-duty-asked-if-hes-aware-of-mamdani/articleshow/125214214.cms

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Trump promises $2,000 ‘tariff dividend’ for every American

9 Nov, 2025

US President Donald Trump has promised that every qualifying American will receive a $2,000 dividend funded by revenue from his tariff policy, the legality of which is currently under review by the Supreme Court.

The president has imposed sweeping tariffs on imports from US trade partners in several waves over the past year to address what he called unfair trade imbalances. Critics argue that the tariffs have driven up prices for US consumers.

“People that are against Tariffs are FOOLS!” Trump wrote on Truth Social on Sunday, insisting that the policy is contributing “trillions of dollars” to the US budget and will help reduce the nation’s $37 trillion national debt.

“A dividend of at least $2,000 a person (not including high-income people!) will be paid to everyone,” he added.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told ABC News shortly after the post that the tariff dividend could come “in lots of forms,” including tax breaks.

The legality of Trump’s tariff policy is being challenged in a Supreme Court case brought by several states and a number of small businesses.

At a press briefing in the Oval Office on Wednesday, Trump was asked about one judge’s comment that tariffs are essentially taxes paid by the people.

“I don’t agree,” he replied. “I think that they might be paying something... But when you take the overall impact, Americans are gaining tremendously.”

A Supreme Court ruling against the tariff policy would be “devastating for our country,” the president said. “I also think that we’ll have to develop a ‘game two’ plan.”

Source: rt.com

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https://www.rt.com/news/627547-trump-tariff-dividend-americans/

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US shutdown stalls arms deliveries to Ukraine – Axios

9 Nov, 2025

The US government shutdown has delayed more than $5 billion in arms exports to European NATO members and subsequent transfers to Ukraine, Axios reported on Sunday.

A budget standoff between Democrats and Republicans in Congress has dragged the shutdown out for 40 days, making it the longest in US history.

“This is actually really harming both our allies and partners and US industry to actually deliver a lot of these critical capabilities overseas,” Axios cited a senior State Department official as saying.

More than $5 billion in arms exports – including AMRAAM air-to-air missiles, HIMARS, and other weapons for European NATO members – have been affected, the outlet added.

The source did not specify the final destination of the arms, but US exports to NATO countries are often transferred to Ukraine, Axios reported.

The delay stems from a lag in congressional approval, as the State Department bureau that normally briefs lawmakers on arms exports is operating with only a quarter of its usual staff, according to the outlet.

The shutdown has also frozen talks between Washington and Kiev on future arms shipments, The Telegraph reported last month.

US President Donald Trump has increasingly pushed European NATO states to take over the burden of supporting Ukraine by buying American-made armaments.

“We send weapons to NATO, and NATO is going to reimburse the full cost of those weapons,” Trump said earlier this year, shortly after European members of the US-led military bloc committed to a 5% of GDP military spending target.

Russia has long condemned the supply of weapons to Ukraine by Western nations, arguing it makes them party to the conflict, which Moscow sees as a NATO-led proxy war. Such supplies only prolong the fighting but cannot change its outcome, Russia has said.

Source: rt.com

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https://www.rt.com/news/627536-us-shutdown-stalls-arms-ukraine/

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Watch: Donald Trump booed at Commanders NFL game; netizens call moment ‘brutal’ and ‘humiliating’

Nov 10, 2025

Donald Trump attended the Washington Commanders’ game against the Detroit Lions at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, on Sunday, marking the first appearance by a sitting US president at an NFL game since Jimmy Carter in 1978.

Trump arrived with a display of presidential pageantry, including an Air Force One flyover and a ceremonial swearing-in of a group of military recruits as part of the league’s annual Salute to Service tribute.

But his first appearance didn't seem go well with the audience. There were boos from large sections of fans in the stands as well as scattered cheers when he was shown on the videoboard late in the first half of the Washington Commanders’ game on Sunday at Northwest Stadium.

The videoboard image showed him standing in a suite with House Speaker Mike Johnson, and the reception repeated when the stadium announcer introduced the president at halftime, AP news reported.

The jeering continued while Trump read an oath for members of the military to recite as part of an on-field ceremony during the break in the game.

“I’m a little bit late,” Trump told reporters earlier when he got off Air Force One after landing at Joint Base Andrews, following a flyover of Northwest Stadium during the game. He then got in his armoured car for the drive to the arena.

“We’re gonna have a good game. Things are going along very well. The country’s doing well. The Democrats have to open it up,” he said, a reference to the govt shutdown.

The Washington DC area has strong Democrat support, while Trump’s cuts to the govt have affected many workers in the vicinity of the Commanders’ stadium.

Sunday was not the first time Trump received a hostile reception from a Washington sports crowd: he was greeted with “lock him up” chants at the Washington Nationals’ home stadium during the 2019 World Series.

Trump left before Sunday’s game ended.

How internet reacted?

The videos of Trump being booed gone viral on internet. One of the users on X said, "HOLY SHIT!!! Drop everything you're doing and watch this two-minute clip of Donald Trump being BOOED MERCILESSLY at the Commanders game."

Another user said, "This is brutal. Trump just got LOUDLY booed at the Commanders game. Americans hate him. So humiliating for Trump."

Several MAGA fans felt the boos was disgusting and disrespectful.

One of them said, "Wow. Doesn’t get much more disrespectful than this. Fans can be heard booing President Trump during the swearing in of U.S. military members at Lions vs. Commanders game."

Source: indiatimes.com

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

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/watch-trump-booed-at-commanders-nfl-game-netizens-call-moment-brutal-and-humiliating/articleshow/125211912.cms

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Five wounded in shooting outside San Francisco Safeway; Mayor Daniel Lurie says city ‘will never tolerate it’

Nov 10, 2025

At least five people were wounded, one seriously, in a weekend shooting outside a Safeway supermarket in the Outer Richmond neighbourhood of San Francisco. Police are investigating. Officers responding to reports of gunfire around 9 pm Saturday found multiple victims near the store, the San Francisco Police Department said in a statement. A man with life-threatening injuries and four juveniles with non-life-threatening injuries were rushed to hospital.

Police Capt. Kevin Lee told the San Francisco Chronicle at the scene that the shooting stemmed from a fight. There were no arrests and investigators did not immediately release suspect information.

“A fight broke out shortly before 9 p.m. which resulted in the shooting. So far we have five victims that were transported to San Francisco General Hospital,” SFPD Capt. Kevin Lee said on the scene.

“This kind of violence does not represent who we are as a city, and we will never tolerate it,” San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie said in a statement.

The shooting sent bystanders scattering. Tommy Corcoran, 19, told the Chronicle that he was walking through Golden Gate Park near the beach when he heard what sounded like a car backfiring, then a flurry of gunfire, and suddenly saw everyone scattering, some running toward the Safeway.

Corcoran slid behind a log and tried to hide, losing his phone in the process.

“I’m gonna get home,” he said.

Detectives urged witnesses or anyone with information to call the police department.

Source: indiatimes.com

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

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/five-wounded-in-shooting-outside-san-francisco-safeway-mayor-lurie-says-city-will-never-tolerate-it/articleshow/125211827.cms

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South Asia

 

Iran Urges Afghans to Replace Handwritten Passports with Electronic Ones

By Fidel Rahmati

November 10, 2025

Iran’s immigration authority has directed all Afghan residents with handwritten family passports to obtain electronic ones within six months to ensure documentation compliance.

Iran’s Bureau for Foreign Nationals and Immigrants Affairs has announced that all Afghan residents in the country holding handwritten family passports must switch to electronic passports within six months.

Nader Yar Ahmadi, the bureau’s director, made the remarks during a meeting in Tehran with Fazel Mohammad Haqqani, the acting Taliban envoy, to discuss migration management and border cooperation.

According to Iran’s Tasnim news agency, Ahmadi also stressed the need for stricter border control between Iran and Afghanistan to curb illegal crossings.

Haqqani pledged his administration’s cooperation in facilitating the return of undocumented Afghan migrants and assisting with the transition to electronic passports.

He also briefed Iranian officials on efforts to verify the identity of Afghans in Iran who hold registration cards.

Iran hosts millions of Afghan nationals, many living without legal documentation. Authorities say the growing pressure on infrastructure and public services has forced them to tighten migration controls.

Ahmadi said earlier that 1.45 million undocumented Afghans were expelled from Iran in the first half of this year, and another large-scale deportation is expected soon.

Source: khaama.com

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https://www.khaama.com/iran-urges-afghans-to-replace-handwritten-passports-with-electronic-ones/

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Border Closure Between Pakistan and Afghanistan Causes $200 Million Trade Loss

By Fidel Rahmati

November 10, 2025

Trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan has suffered losses exceeding $200 million as all border crossings remain shut for more than three weeks.

Cross-border trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan has come to a near standstill after Islamabad closed all eight crossing points following deadly clashes earlier in October. Officials and traders say the ongoing shutdown has caused severe disruptions to the movement of goods and commercial vehicles.

Business sources estimate that between October 12 and 31 alone, the closure caused $50 million in direct losses, while the total damage to trade has now reached nearly $200 million. Thousands of trucks loaded with perishable goods, fuel, and construction materials remain stranded on both sides of the frontier.

Traders say that before the border tensions, Afghanistan imported about $150 million worth of goods and exported roughly $60 million each month, much of it agricultural produce and minerals. The prolonged suspension has not only halted Afghan exports but also affected Pakistan’s trade routes to Central Asia that pass through Afghan territory.

Officials in both countries acknowledge that the dispute has crippled one of South Asia’s busiest trade corridors. Merchants warn that prices of essential commodities — including flour, fuel, and vegetables — have surged sharply in Afghanistan border provinces due to supply shortages.

Observers say the closure has deepened economic pressure on Afghanistan’s fragile economy, which relies heavily on cross-border commerce for revenue and employment. Pakistan’s exporters, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, are also reporting mounting financial losses and logistical bottlenecks.

Regional analysts warn that the continuing deadlock risks long-term damage to bilateral economic relations. Both countries have urged dialogue but no breakthrough has been achieved yet.

Economists say reopening the crossings is critical to restoring trade flows and regional stability, noting that prolonged restrictions could further weaken Afghanistan’s already struggling economy and hurt Pakistan’s access to Central Asian markets.

Source: khaama.com

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https://www.khaama.com/border-closure-between-pakistan-and-afghanistan-causes-200-million-trade-loss/

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Iran Offers to Mediate Between Kabul and Islamabad to Revive Stalled Peace Talks

By Fidel Rahmati-

November 9, 2025

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed readiness to mediate between Kabul and Islamabad after their recent peace talks in Istanbul collapsed.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has called for continued dialogue between Kabul and Islamabad to ease rising tensions along the Afghanistan–Pakistan border. In a phone call with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Araghchi said Tehran is prepared to assist both sides through diplomatic mediation.

According to a statement from Iran’s Foreign Ministry, Araghchi voiced concern over the deteriorating situation and urged “sustained dialogue with the cooperation of regional powers” to resolve disputes peacefully. He emphasized Iran’s willingness to provide any support necessary to help restore stability.

Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar briefed Araghchi on the outcome of recent talks held in Istanbul, stressing the importance of maintaining regional peace and preventing further escalation. The discussions, hosted with Turkish and Qatari support, ended without agreement on border security or militant activity.

Iranian media outlets, reported that Tehran views regional diplomacy—particularly cooperation between Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey—as essential to curbing extremism and preserving border stability. Analysts in Tehran have also warned that prolonged tensions could threaten trade and security across the region.

The mediation offer follows comments from Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, who described the Istanbul talks as “a complete deadlock,” adding that even mediators had lost faith in progress. His remarks reflected deep frustration within Islamabad over Kabul’s handling of cross-border militancy.

Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed that the Istanbul negotiations had produced “no results,” though he reiterated that Afghanistan would not allow its soil to be used against neighboring states.

Regional observers believe Iran’s initiative could help rebuild communication between Kabul and Islamabad, but success will depend on whether both sides show genuine willingness to compromise amid a climate of mistrust.

Source: khaama.com

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UNDP Says Over 6,400 Facilities in Afghanistan Now Powered by Solar Energy

By Fidel Rahmati

November 10, 2025

The UN Development Programme said over 6,400 facilities, including schools and clinics, across Afghanistan have been equipped with solar energy since 2021.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) said more than 6,400 facilities across Afghanistan have been equipped with solar energy since 2021.

In a statement on X on Monday, the agency said these include 5,462 healthcare centers and 153 schools now operating with renewable power.

UNDP added that 854 small businesses—many led by women—are also benefiting from clean energy, helping drive economic resilience in local communities.

According to the agency, more than two million women have gained access to safe and sustainable energy through these initiatives.

The program, it said, aims to create a brighter and more sustainable future for Afghan families, especially in rural and underserved regions.

UNDP previously reported that Afghanistan remains one of the world’s most energy-insecure countries, with over 80% of its population lacking reliable electricity.

Experts say such renewable energy projects are crucial to addressing Afghanistan’s power crisis, boosting livelihoods, and reducing dependency on costly fuel imports.

Source: khaama.com

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Austria Expels Afghan Man After Serving Prison Term

By Fidel Rahmati

November 10, 2025

A convicted Afghan drug trafficker has been deported from Austria to Kabul, marking the latest forced return amid rising criticism from rights groups.

Austrian authorities said an Afghan national was deported to Kabul this week after completing a prison sentence for drug trafficking. Officials described the move as part of Vienna’s tougher stance on removing foreign nationals convicted of serious crimes.

According to European media reports, the man was flown to Afghanistan on a special charter flight shortly after serving his sentence in an Austrian detention facility. The Interior Ministry said maintaining public security in Austria remains a top priority.

Officials stressed that while deportations to Afghanistan are rare due to the volatile situation there, exceptions are made in cases involving individuals deemed a “security or criminal threat.” The ministry noted that such decisions are taken following a case-by-case assessment.

Since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, most European countries have suspended repatriations to Afghanistan, citing fears of persecution and instability. However, Austria has continued limited deportations, particularly in criminal cases, arguing that public safety outweighs diplomatic and humanitarian concerns.

Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have condemned the practice, warning that deported Afghans face potential detention, torture, or persecution upon arrival. They have urged European governments to respect international non-refoulement obligations and halt forced returns to Afghanistan.

Analysts say Austria’s latest deportation underscores the growing divide in Europe over migration and asylum policy, as governments balance domestic security with humanitarian responsibility.

With increasing pressure from right-wing political groups, Austria’s hardline migration stance is expected to remain a point of contention within the European Union, especially amid ongoing instability in Afghanistan.

Source: khaama.com

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Teachers withdraw suspension, vow to continue protest

Nov 10, 2025

An hour after announcing the suspension of their work abstention, government primary school teachers last night declared that they would continue their protest.

Around 10:30pm, KhayrunNaharLipi, general secretary of the Bangladesh Primary Teachers' Association, made the announcement before hundreds of teachers gathered at the Central Shaheed Minar.

She claimed that the earlier suspension had been made "under pressure" from the authorities.

"My job may be at risk, but I am withdrawing the suspension of the strike," she said, adding that teachers would continue their sit-in at the Central Shaheed Minar.

Earlier, around 9:30pm, following a meeting at the Secretariat between ministry officials and teacher leaders, Shamsuddin Masud, another leader of the movement, announced that teachers were suspending their work abstention after the government assured them that their demands would be reviewed with the finance ministry.

Meanwhile, with annual exams barely three weeks away, classrooms across the country fell silent yesterday as teachers launched a nationwide strike demanding pay hikes and promotions.

Classes at 65,567 government primary schools remained suspended throughout the day due to the abstention. More than 3.83 lakh assistant teachers stopped taking classes, disrupting lessons at nearly every government primary school in the country.

The protest followed a police action at Shahbagh on Saturday, where law enforcers baton-charged, fired sound grenades, and used water cannons to disperse teachers marching from the Central Shaheed Minar. Over 100 were injured, according to organisers.

Teachers have been demanding an upgrade of their pay scale from grade-13 to grade-10, along with promotion parity and equal status with secondary-level teachers.

Police action on non-MPO teachers

 Meanwhile, police yesterday used water cannons and sound grenades to disperse non-MPO teachers demonstrating in front of the Jatiya Press Club.

The protesters, who have been demanding the inclusion of their institutions under the Monthly Pay Order (MPO) scheme since November 2, attempted to march towards the Secretariat around 4:00pm.

Several were injured and a few detained, witnesses said.

Rights organisations Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) and Rashtra Sangskar Andolan condemned the use of force, calling it a violation of citizens' constitutional right to peaceful assembly.

They demanded punishment for those responsible, medical care for the injured, and urged the government to resolve the issue through dialogue.

Source: thedailystar.net

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Southeast Asia

 

‘I personally tend to avoid appealing,’ says Anwar on Sabah’s 40pc ruling — but govt to weigh AGC, Cabinet views

By Muhammad Yusry

10 Nov 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 10 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today indicated that he is personally not inclined to appeal the High Court’s ruling that affirmed Sabah’s right to 40 per cent of federal revenue collected from the state.

He said, however, that the federal government will only make a final decision after receiving advice from the Attorney General.

“Any High Court judgment, especially when there are some gaps or weaknesses, should be appealed.

“But in this case, because the mandamus involves negotiations, there may be some room. So, we have discussed it in the Cabinet,” he told reporters after attending the Malaysia Digital roadshow in Tawau, Sabah.

“We will finalise it, I say, this week, after hearing from the Attorney General and the Cabinet. Personally, I tend to avoid appealing,” he added.

Anwar said the current administration’s implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) is “stronger and more secure”, and once again pointed to the history of federal allocations to Sabah.

He stressed the importance of following proper legal processes.

“We must listen and understand the concerns from Sabah, but we must also respect the Constitution. And the process must be followed… read it first.

“We only received the judgment three days ago. And we see there are strengths and weaknesses,” he said.

On October 17, the Kota Kinabalu High Court ruled that the federal government had acted unlawfully and exceeded its constitutional powers by failing to fulfil Sabah’s entitlement to 40 per cent of federal revenue for nearly five decades.

Judge Datuk CelestinaStuelGalid, who delivered the decision, described the special grant arrangement between the federal and Sabah governments as “invalid, ultra vires, and irrational”, and in breach of the Federal Constitution.

The court also ordered the federal government to conduct a revenue review with the Sabah government under Article 112D of the Federal Constitution to reinstate Sabah’s 40 per cent entitlement for each financial year from 1974 to 2021.

Under the order, the review must be completed within 90 days, with both governments required to reach a mutual agreement within 180 days.

The ruling has stirred strong sentiments in Sabah ahead of its 17th state election, putting pressure on the federal government and national-based parties to show their commitment to the state’s rights.

Source: malaymail.com

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Malaysia surpasses forest preservation target, maintains 54pc of land area under forest cover, says minister

10 Nov 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 10 — Malaysia remains committed to sustainable forestry, maintaining 54 per cent of its total land area under forest cover, surpassing its pledge to preserve at least 50 per cent of its landmass as forest reserves.

Plantations and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said that the country is committed to striking a balance between economic activity and environmental protection, while promoting sustainable forest management.

“Malaysia has committed that we will take care of our forests, and that is why we have preserved more than 50 per cent of our forest area,” he said.

“So, the number is still maintained, and as of now, we have 54 per cent,” he told reporters after officiating the Malaysian Wood Expo (MWE) 2025 here today.

He said this reflects Malaysia’s dedication to responsible forest management, ensuring that growth in the timber sector is aligned with sustainability principles.

Johari said to remain competitive, the wood industry must focus on creativity, quality craftsmanship and sustainability.

“What is important in the wood industry is, first, we must be creative; secondly, our craftsmanship must be good.

“Third, we must practise sustainability in the products we sell, and if we have these three, that is a winning formula to export our products abroad,” he said.

Earlier, in his speech, Johari highlighted that the Industrial Tree Plantation (ITP) programme plays a vital role in ensuring a long-term and renewable raw material supply for Malaysia’s timber industry while reducing dependency on natural forests.

“The ITP programme is essential to provide a steady and sustainable source of raw material. This not only reduces pressure on natural forests but also supports the growth of our downstream industry,” he said.

He added that as of October 2025, a total of 5.85 million hectares of Malaysian forests have been certified under the Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme (MTCS), endorsed by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), placing Malaysia among the top 10 countries globally with the largest PEFC-certified forest area.

“Malaysia stands ready to serve as your trusted gateway to the dynamic Asean timber market, with strong trade links, a credible certification system and a solid reputation for sustainability,” he said. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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Saifuddin seeks detailed police briefing on Amri, Koh disappearances after court orders fresh investigations

10 Nov 2025

PUTRAJAYA, Nov 10 — Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said he has asked police for a detailed briefing on the cases of missing social activist AmriChe Mat and Pastor Raymond Koh, following recent court rulings ordering further investigations.

Speaking at a press conference after the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons event today, Saifuddin said he wanted to be fully briefed on the chronology of both cases before making further statements.

“I’ve met with the Attorney General’s Chambers and the investigation team to understand the facts of the case. The court has clearly directed the police to do two things — reopen investigations and reveal the truth behind the incidents,” he said.

He added that while the cases were inherited from his predecessors, his ministry was committed to following up on the court’s decision and ensuring accountability.

“This is about justice and transparency. If there were any failures, the government must be responsible,” Saifuddin said.

The minister also spoke about ongoing government efforts to strengthen Malaysia’s fight against human trafficking, saying a new National Action Plan on Anti-Trafficking in Persons (2026–2030) was being drafted and is expected to be launched in February next year.

He said the new plan will build on the current 2021–2025 framework and focus on five key areas: governance, law enforcement, victim protection, prevention, and international cooperation.

Among its priorities are improving coordination among enforcement agencies, enhancing prosecution and conviction rates, and recognising victims in high-risk sectors such as domestic work and agriculture. It will also include measures to improve language access for victims, strengthen data integration across agencies, and deepen collaboration with NGOs.

“The government is committed to a zero-tolerance policy towards human trafficking. We want to build a national response ecosystem that is more effective, transparent, and centred on human rights,” Saifuddin said.

Malaysia, he noted, has shown steady improvement in the US State Department’s annual Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, having moved up from Tier 3 to Tier 2 in recent years.

Source: malaymail.com

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Anwar stresses state-federal cooperation for public facility development

10 Nov 2025

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim highlights vital state-federal cooperation for public facilities, focusing on healthcare and education under MADANI framework

TAWAU: Close cooperation between state and federal governments is crucial for developing better public facilities, including hospital construction in Sabah, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.

He emphasised that elected representatives who genuinely care about people’s interests and understand community problems are essential for development continuity.

“Cooperation between the state government and the Federal government is extremely important,” Anwar stated during the Tawau Hospital new block launch ceremony.

He noted the MADANI government has prioritised completing previously delayed projects over the past three years.

The Prime Minister highlighted that the MADANI national development framework focuses on education and health as primary sectors.

“Many other countries focus on defence or other aspects, such as mega projects, high-rises, long bridges that are a source of pride, but in the MADANI government, we focus on the two most important areas: education and healthcare,” he said.

Anwar revealed he instructed the Health Ministry to add more facilities after learning Tawau Hospital had reached full capacity.

He also addressed the contract doctor issue inherited from the previous administration, affecting approximately 10,000 doctors.

“We have a plan and I am grateful that with the help of the Health Ministry and Public Service Department, we have resolved almost all of the problems related to contract doctors, as well as their allowances,” Anwar said.

The Prime Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing civil servants’ workload and welfare.

This includes implementing salary revisions after 12 years without adjustments. – Bernama

Source: thesun.my

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Malaysia’s economic diversity efforts show strong results in Q3

10 Nov 2025

Malaysia’s economy shows resilience with 5.2% Q3 growth projection, construction up 11%, and RM190 billion investments from January to June 2024

KUALA LUMPUR: The government’s efforts to enhance Malaysia’s economic diversity have proven successful based on third quarter performance indicators.

Finance Minister II and acting Economy Minister Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan cited the initial 5.2% GDP growth projection for Q3 as evidence of economic resilience.

He highlighted the construction sector’s projected 11% growth alongside private consumption and mining sector expansions exceeding 5% and 10% respectively.

“Our country’s economy is still resilient, taking into account the diverse economic segments that we have,” Amir Hamzah said during the Innovathon Programme launch.

“Our markets are also diversified and we are not dependent on just one market,” he added.

The minister noted foreign investor confidence remains strong with RM384 billion in approved investments last year.

Approved investments reached nearly RM190 billion for the January to June 2024 period, particularly in high-growth, high-value segments.

The Innovathon Programme saw participation double to 2,032 participants in 2025 compared to 1,003 in 2024.

Prize value for the programme’s Business Development Support Fund increased from RM1 million to RM1.65 million.

Fifty-six local innovators will compete for the RM100,000 grand prize plus RM500,000 in business development support.

This season’s innovations focus on technology-based solutions for automotive, industrial and health equipment applications. – Bernama

Source: thesun.my

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Mideast

 

Lebanon fighting ‘terror financing’, president tells US

November 09, 2025

BEIRUT: Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun told US officials on Sunday his country was tackling money laundering and the financing of terrorism, days after Washington imposed sanctions on three Hezbollah members.

The trio were accused of money laundering to fund Lebanon’s Hezbollah militant group, designated a terrorist organization by the United States and other Western powers.

The US delegation’s visit to Beirut, headed by senior director for counterterrorism Sebastian Gorka, came as Washington works to cut off Iran-backed Hezbollah’s funding and Lebanon’s government tries to disarm it.

The group was severely weakened in its most recent war with Israel, which was halted by a November 2024 ceasefire.

“Lebanon strictly applies the measures adopted to prevent money laundering, smuggling, or its use in financing terrorism, and severely punishes financial crimes of all kinds,” Aoun said he had told the delegation.

On Thursday, the US imposed sanctions on three Hezbollah members allegedly involved in the transfer of tens of millions of dollars from Iran, the group’s main sponsor.

Part of the funding was via money exchange businesses that operate in cash, said a US Treasury statement.

Since January 2025, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have “transferred over $1 billion” to Hezbollah, “mostly through money exchange companies,” it added.

“Lebanon has an opportunity to be free, prosperous and secure — but that can only happen if Hezbollah is fully disarmed and cut off from Iran’s funding and control,” deputy director for counter-terrorism John Hurley said Thursday.

Hurley later posted on X that he, Aoun and Gorka had “discussed ways in which we can partner together to stop the flow of money from Iran to Hezbollah and create a safer and more prosperous Lebanon.”

Israel on Sunday carried out new strikes in south Lebanon, killing two people according to the health ministry, putting the toll from Israeli strikes since Saturday at five.

Aoun called on Sunday for “pressure on Israel to stop its ongoing attacks.”

Source: arabnews.com

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Dam reservoir levels drop below 3 percent in Iran’s Mashhad city

November 09, 2025

TEHRAN: Water levels at the dam reservoirs supplying Iran’s northeastern city of Mashhad plunged below three percent, media reported on Sunday, as the country suffers from severe water shortages.

“The water storage in Mashhad’s dams has now fallen to less than 3 percent,” said Hossein Esmaeilian, the chief executive of the water company in Iran’s second largest city by population.

He added that “the current situation shows that managing water use is no longer merely a recommendation — it has become a necessity.”

Mashhad, home to around 4 million people, relies on four dams for its water supply.

Esmaeilian said consumption in the city had reached around “8,000 liters per second, of which about 1,000 to 1,500 liters per second is supplied from the dams.”

It comes as authorities in Tehran warned over the weekend of possible rolling water supply cuts in the capital amid what officials call the worst drought in decades.

In the capital, five major dams supplying drinking water are at “critical” levels, with one empty and another at less than eight percent of capacity, officials say.

“If people can reduce consumption by 20 percent, it seems possible to manage the situation without rationing or cutting off water,” Esmaeilian said, warning that those with the highest consumption could face supply cuts first.

Nationwide, 19 major dams — about 10 percent of the country’s reservoirs — have effectively run dry, AbbasaliKeykhaei of the Iranian Water Resources Management Company said in late October, according to Mehr news agency.

President Masoud Pezeshkian has cautioned that without rainfall before winter, even Tehran could face evacuation, though he did not elaborate.

The water crisis in Iran follows a month of drought across the country.

Authorities over the summer announced public holidays in Tehran to reduce water and energy consumption, as the capital faced almost daily power outages during a heatwave.

Local papers on Sunday slammed what they described as the politicization of environmental decision-making for the water crisis.

The reformist Etemad newspaper cited the appointment of “unqualified managers ... in key institutions” as being the main cause of the crisis.

Shargh, another reformist daily, said that “climate is sacrificed for the sake of politics.”

Source: arabnews.com

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Israeli forces evict 3 Palestinian families from homes in Jerusalem

November 09, 2025

LONDON: Israeli forces forcibly evicted three Palestinian families from their homes in the Batn Al-Hawa neighborhood of Silwan, located in occupied Jerusalem, in a measure to seize their properties.

The Al-Shweiki and Odeh families were evicted from an area south of the walled city of Jerusalem. Israeli security forces cordoned off the area and blocked roads. Asmahan Al-Shweiki, one of the homeowners, fainted and was hospitalized during the eviction, according to Wafa news agency.

“We were surprised today when Israeli police stormed the house and emptied its contents,” Ahmed Al-Shweiki, whose home was also seized, told Wafa.

He added that he was also physically assaulted, and suffered bruises and injuries during the incident.

AteretCohanim, an Israeli settler group founded in 1978, claims ownership of about 0.5 hectares and 200 sq. meters in Batn Al-Hawa.

About 750 Palestinians from 87 families reside in Batn Al-Hawa. All face eviction orders from Israeli courts. Similarly, dozens of families face evictions in the adjacent Silwan, where Israeli authorities have been building an underground route in the neighborhood as part of the “City of David” tourist attraction.

The Palestinian Authority’s Jerusalem governorate said the evictions are “part of a systematic Judaization plan supervised by settler organizations with direct support from the occupation government, aimed at forcibly displacing Palestinians and expanding settlements in the heart of the neighborhood.”

Since the Israeli occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem in 1967, authorities have allowed Jewish settlers to reclaim properties that were historically owned by Jews during Ottoman and British rule, including in Sheikh Jarrah and the Old City.

However, it denies Palestinians their right to return, as outlined in a UN resolution, or to reclaim their private properties that their families left during the 1948 war.

Source: arabnews.com

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Israeli forces arrest 442 Palestinians in West Bank in October

November 09, 2025

LONDON: In October, Israeli forces detained 442 Palestinians throughout the occupied West Bank, including Jerusalem, according to Palestinian prisoners’ organizations.

Most detentions occurred in the Bethlehem governorate, south of the West Bank, including three women and 33 children.

The Commission of Detainees and Ex-Detainees Affairs, the Palestinian Prisoner’s Society, and Addameer Prisoner Support and Human Rights Association reported that widespread field interrogations in various parts of the West Bank accompanied Israeli raids and arrests.

The organizations reported last week that over 9,250 prisoners and detainees are in Israeli occupation prisons, mostly held without charge or trial under administrative detention or pending investigation.

The figure does not include detainees arrested from the Gaza Strip and held in detention camps, including the infamous SdeTeiman site.

The exchange of Palestinian prisoners for Israeli hostages and bodies was one of the primary terms for the Israel-Hamas ceasefire in October. Prominent Palestinian political and military figures have passed through the gates of Israeli prisons since 1967, including former Hamas chief militant Yahya Sinwar and Palestinian Vice President Hussein Al-Sheikh.

Source: arabnews.com

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833 Settlers Storm Al-Aqsa Mosque

10 Nov 2025

833 Zionist settlers stormed the courtyards of the Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied Quds on Sunday, under the protection of Israeli occupation forces.

Jerusalem sources reported that the settlers entered the mosque in groups, conducted provocative tours of its courtyards, and performed Talmudic rituals, all under the protection of the occupation forces.

Source: saba.ye

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Malaysian state of Selangor wins bid to host 2029 Islamic Solidarity Games

09 Nov 2025

The Islamic Solidarity Sports Federation (ISSF) announced that the seventh edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games, scheduled for 2029, will be held in the state of Selangor, Malaysia.

This announcement was made during the ISSSF's 14th General Assembly meeting in Riyadh, on the sidelines of the sixth edition of the Games, which are being held from November 7 to 21.

Source: saba.ye

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Syria and Iraq are building a “security framework” after Assad

09/11/2025

Syria and Iraq are currently discussing the need to bolster security cooperation following the fall of the Assad regime, driven by shared challenges topped by confronting the Islamic State group (ISIS). Despite its territorial losses, the organization still poses a serious threat, particularly in the desert regions stretching between the two countries.

This threat is pushing Baghdad and Damascus to study joint security strategies, especially as the role of the international coalition in Iraq wanes, according to a report by the Washington Institute for Near East Policy published on Friday, November 7.

The report said the meetings that have taken place between the two countries since the fall of the Assad regime reflect a mutual recognition that security cooperation is essential to ensure internal stability.

Iraqi officials stress the need for direct coordination with Damascus and intensified counterterrorism efforts to contain the threat and build trust between the two sides.

Concerns on both sides

Baghdad fears that the security vacuum created by the fall of the Assad regime could be exploited by thousands of the organization’s fighters and their families currently residing in al-Hol camp (al-Hasakah, northeastern Syria), the report said.

It added that Baghdad is keen to cooperate in monitoring vast desert areas that have become a main corridor for drug and weapons smuggling between the two countries. Reports point to large quantities of captagon pills and light weapons being smuggled between DeirezZor (eastern Syria) and Iraq’s al-Anbar province, according to the report.

Damascus, for its part, is cautious, fearing that any security agreement with Baghdad could renew the influence of Iraqi “militias” inside Syria through support for Syrian “Shia” groups along the coast. Since 2013, Iraqi factions, most prominently Kataib Hezbollah and Harakat al-Nujaba, have fought alongside the Syrian government under the pretext of protecting religious shrines.

In coordination with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ Quds Force, these factions contributed to expanding Iranian influence in areas such as DeirezZor (eastern Syria), al-Bukamal (DeirezZor, eastern Syria), and al-Qusayr (Homs, central-western Syria near the Lebanese border), as part of securing the “Shia Crescent,” a land corridor running from Tehran to Beirut via Baghdad and Damascus, the report explained.

A window opened by a coalition withdrawal

The report argues that the imminent withdrawal of international coalition forces from Iraq, including American forces, marks a significant turning point. As a result, cooperation with Damascus is no longer a mere diplomatic or political option, but a security necessity to pre-empt “terrorist attacks.”

The coalition’s departure offers Iraq an opportunity to recalibrate its regional alignments. In the absence of direct Western presence, outreach to Syria’s new leadership could give Baghdad a way out of its current geopolitical isolation, especially if it manages to balance competing power blocs in the region.

Some Iraqi political factions view the coalition’s exit as a chance to rebuild a regional security framework between Baghdad and Damascus, free from external dictates. However appealing, this vision faces major obstacles, notably deep-rooted mistrust between the countries’ security institutions, differing priorities, and clashing regional alliances.

Regional influence network: Turkey, the Gulf, and Iran

The report shows that Iraqi-Syrian rapprochement cannot be read in isolation from the regional scene, especially Turkey, Gulf states, and Iran. Turkey is watching any coordination between Baghdad and Damascus with caution, seeing the resumption of ties as an opportunity for Iran to restore its sway in Syria. Ankara also fears that reviving the Kirkuk–Baniyas pipeline could threaten the Kirkuk–Ceyhan line, a strategic pillar of Iraq–Turkey economic relations. Baniyas (Tartus, coastal Syria).

Meanwhile, Gulf states have stepped in. Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE are trying to push Syria toward an Arab track independent of Tehran. Doha has floated economic initiatives to supply Syria with energy and reduce its dependence on Iraqi oil, while Riyadh and Abu Dhabi are working to reintegrate Damascus into the Arab fold on terms that curb Iranian influence.

Iran, which lost a substantial part of its influence in Syria after the fall of the Assad regime, has begun repositioning itself through a trilateral coordination mechanism with Tehran, Baghdad, and Damascus under the banner of “counterterrorism.” According to Iraqi sources, Tehran is leveraging its political influence in Baghdad to secure a central role in any forthcoming security arrangements with Damascus.

A domestic split in Baghdad

Regional struggles are directly reflected in Iraq’s political landscape. While some Iraqi politicians call for normalizing relations with the new Damascus leadership based on security interests, others flatly reject any engagement with a “regime that emerged from the ruins of a strategic ally of Iran,” the report noted.

This split came into sharp focus when former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki refused to invite Syria’s transitional president, Ahmad al-Sharaa, to the Arab League summit in Baghdad, claiming that al-Sharaa is “involved in supporting terrorism,” a claim other Iraqi officials denied, affirming there are no arrest warrants or judicial rulings against him.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, for his part, emphasized the importance of Syria’s participation in the summit “to present a vision for the new Syria,” considering that moving past the Syrian crisis serves regional and Arab security.

Likely scenarios

According to the report, several scenarios could shape future Iraqi-Syrian relations:

• The first scenario depends on Baghdad’s ability to overcome regional pressures and internal divisions. If successful, this could pave the way to expand the partnership between Baghdad and Damascus, including joint border coordination centers, security campaigns against the organization, rehabilitation of the Kirkuk–Baniyas pipeline, and other economic projects. This would require a strong, politically cohesive Iraqi umbrella able to balance international relations.

• Given regional complexities, the second and more likely short-term scenario is continued limited security cooperation, including intelligence sharing and covert field operations that fall short of formal partnership or full normalization. If relations sour, both sides could relapse into the border crises that characterized the pre-2014 period, with attendant security turmoil and economic risks.

Caveats in the Syria–Iraq relationship

In the post-Assad phase, the Syria–Iraq relationship is a complex overlap of a legacy of grievances and security anxieties on one side, and opportunities for economic cooperation alongside geopolitical challenges on the other.

Syria, after the downfall of the deposed Assad regime, is concerned about Iraq’s growing ties with Iran, which it sees as a threat to its new governance.

Iraq’s cautious stance toward Syria is shaped by external geopolitical pressures. Baghdad must balance relations with Iran, maintain positive ties with the United States, and avoid becoming a battleground for proxy conflicts among regional powers such as Iran, the United States, and Israel.

This dynamic has led both neighbors to proceed cautiously in restoring political relations, moving slowly toward limited security and economic understandings, according to a study by the HarmoonCenter for Studies.

Source: enabbaladi.net

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https://english.enabbaladi.net/archives/2025/11/syria-and-iraq-are-building-a-security-framework-after-assad/

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HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad visits Sixth Islamic Solidarity Games sports village

09 Nov 2025

Riyadh, Nov. 9 (BNA): His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports (SCYS), President of the General Sports Authority (GSA), and President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee (BOC), visited the sports village for the Sixth Islamic Solidarity Games hosted in Riyadh until November 21.

HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad met with members of the Bahraini delegation and national teams participating in the Games.

HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad was accompanied by His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Vice President of the BOC, Fajr Jassim, Board Member of the BOC, and several members of the administrative delegation.

HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad expressed pride in the Kingdom of Bahrain’s participation in this major Islamic sports event, commending the efforts of the national teams in representing Bahrain in various competitions. His Highness also commended the volleyball team’s outstanding performance against the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, wishing them continued success.

HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad also encouraged the karate and weightlifting teams to intensify efforts to deliver their best results. His Highness checked on the preparations and the morale of the other Bahraini teams, who are gearing up for their competitions with strong determination to succeed.

HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad said that this participation continues the support received by Bahraini sports from His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the follow-up of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad commended the attention of His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, His Majesty the King’s Representative for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs and Chairman of the SYCS, noting that this support is the greatest motivation for further achievements.

HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad expressed pride in meeting the athletes at this important event, noting that it gathers top athletes from various friendly countries. His Highness expressed confidence in the national teams' ability to perform well, reflecting the progress of Bahraini sports, and wished all teams success in representing Bahrain with distinction.

HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad extended appreciation to Saudi Arabia for its hosting and organisation of the Sixth Islamic Solidarity Games, emphasising that the standard of organisation reflects the Saudi Arabia’s leading position in hosting major sports events.

Source: bna.bh

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https://www.bna.bh/en/news?cms=q8FmFJgiscL2fwIzON1%2bDldxQ%2fJ82xVZObO3wr1YfUA%3d

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