'Sar Tan Se Juda' Slogan Challenges Sovereignty, Integrity Of India: HC

New Age Islam News Bureau

20 December2025

·         ‘Sar tan se juda’ slogan challenges sovereignty, integrity of India: HC

·         US military launches strikes in Syria against Daesh fighters after American deaths

·         Saudi Arabia welcomes US decision to lift Syria sanctions

·         German spy agency to be given attack powers – media

·         Twin Cities mosques increase security, lean on community amid immigration enforcement fears

·         Armed Groups Will Be Treated As Terrorists Under New Security Framework – Tinubu

·         Religious affairs minister: Divorce not a shortcut, couples should seek Shariah-based counselling first

·         UN Says 2,000 ISIS-K Fighters Active in Afghanistan, Using Children for Suicide Training

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India

·         "This Isn't Ayodhya. Nobody Can Touch Babri Here": HumayunKabirTo NDTV

·         UP Police conduct verification drive in Muzaffarnagar riots victims’ colony to identify illegal immigants

·         Accused of ‘religious fanaticism’ and suspended, Indore law college ex-principal exonerated after 3 years

·         Congress, CPI(M) leaders in Bengal say ‘rising infiltrators’ narrative of BJP proved wrong after SIR draft list

·         Naqaab controversy turns into political slugfest in Kashmir after PDP leader seeks FIR against Bihar CM

·         Hijab row: Bihar official claims Dr Nusrat will join duty on December 20

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Mideast

·         5 killed in Israeli shelling of Gaza shelter

·         Violence, extremism have no place in Islamic Establishment

·         Lebanon PM publishes long-awaited banking law draft

·         UN declares famine over in Gaza, says ‘situation remains critical’

·         Rubio says US hopes talks between Lebanon and Israel lead to strong govt, Hezbollah disarmed

·         Jerusalem’s Latin Patriarch visits Gaza for Christmas

·         Lebanon ties ceasefire talks to return of displaced residents

·         Syria welcomes lifting of US sanctions

·         Spread of Gaza famine has been averted yet strip still faces starvation, experts say

·         Muslim World League hails Caesar Act repeal as “pivotal” for Syria’s future

·         50,000 Palestinians Perform Friday Prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque

·         Massive rallies in Al‑Jawf condemn insulting Holy Qur’an crime & support Palestine

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Arab World

·         KS relief sets emergency camp for Gazans displaced by severe weather

·         Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage

·         Wrth concludes camp on Al-Uqair Beach

·         Saudi charitable foundation celebrates World Arabic Language Day with UNESCO in Paris

·         KS relief helps fight cholera in Yemen

·         Saudi, UN officials discuss trade and AI in Austria

·         Jeddah Book Fair 2025 hosts special workshops

·         Ancient rock art in Taif’s Al-Sail Al-Sagheer reveals stories of early Arabian life

·         Rajab moon sighting: What it means for the Ramadan timeline

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Europe

·         How a mosque in Ashton has helped over 50 local families

·         US to strip alleged Bosnian war criminal of citizenship

·         Issa brothers 'get away with murder' as changes to landmark mosque approved

·         Italian court blocks imam’s expulsion, deepening PM’s clash with the judiciary

·         NATO, Ukraine peace and frozen assets: Key statements from Putin’s Q&A

·         EU agrees €90bn loan for Ukraine but without using Russian assets

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North America

·         CAIR Maryland Releases 2025 Year-in-Review Highlighting Strides in Advocacy, Youth Leadership, and Civil Rights Impact

·         CAIR Condemns Shaun Maguire, Others Who Smeared and Endangered Innocent Muslim Student at Brown University

·         MAGA Blamed a Palestinian Student for the Brown University Shooting. They Were Once Again Very Wrong

·         Broken Arrow Approves Rezoning For Massive Islamic Center Despite Strong Resident Opposition

·         Elise Stefanik exits politics: Donald Trump’s ally quits New York governor race — but why?

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Africa

·         Troops rescue abducted Biu councillor, Islamic cleric in Borno

·         Tinubu Warns Governors Against Withholding Local Government Funds

·         “We Will Show No Mercy” – President Tinubu Declares During 2026 Budget Presentation

·         Sudan: UN says RSF killed 1,000 civilians in Zamzam refugee camp in April

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Southeast Asia

·         Religious affairs minister: No ban on non-Islamic festive decor in halal-certified premises, but worship items not allowed

·         From 19 years of church-led to official: Sabah holds first state Christmas celebration, vows continuity

·         MACC working with UK in probe on law firm linked to US$1b 1MDB misappropriation

·         Halal vs holidays? Umno Youth chief questions Melaka ban on Christmas decor in certified outlets (VIDEO)

·         PM Anwar welcomes IMF nod, says focus now on jobs and rebuilding public confidence

·         Speakers must act as impartial arbiters to protect democracy, says Johari

·         Anwar welcomes IMF assessment, reaffirms focus on prudent economic management

·         Police record activist’s statement over alleged insult to Johor royalty

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South Asia

·         Afghanistan’s Unemployment Soars to 75 Percent Amid Economic Crisis: UN Report

·         Attack on media an assault on freedom of expression: Jamaatameer

·         DABS, Kyrgyz Delegation discuss electricity cooperation, investment opportunities

·         Afghanistan Pursues Growth, Regional Collaboration, Muttaqi

·         Afghan Diplomat Attends Imam Khomeini Global Award Ceremony in Tehran

·         National Security, Freedom Top Priorities, Fitrat Says

·         Four Modern Warehouses Constructed at Islam Qala Border Customs

Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau

URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/sar-tan-se-juda-slogan-india-hc/d/138089

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‘Sar tan se juda’ slogan challenges sovereignty, integrity of India: HC

Dec 19, 2025

Prayagraj: In a recent observation while rejecting a man's bail plea, the Allahabad high court said that the slogan ‘gustakh-e-nabikieksaza, sar tan se juda' (the only punishment for insulting the prophet is beheading) is "a challenge to the authority of law as well as sovereignty and integrity of India" as it incites people for armed rebellion.

Justice Arun Kumar Singh Deshwal made the observation on Wednesday while hearing the bail plea of one Rihan, an accused of Bareilly violence on May 26, 2025, in which a crowd of over 500 had assembled in Biharipur on the call of MaulanaTaukir Raza and had shouted slogans against the government and indulged in arson and violence, targeting the cops.

MaulanaTaukir Raza and six others were booked in a case registered under sections 109 (attempt to murder), 118(2) (voluntarily causing hurt or grievous hurt by dangerous weapons or means), 121(1) (voluntarily causing hurt or grievous hurt to deter public servant from his duty), and other related sections of BNS, Criminal Law Amendment Act and provisions of the Prevention of Damage of Public Property Act.

While rejecting Rihan's bail plea, the court said, "Chanting the slogan ‘gustakh-e-nabikieksajasar tan se juda, sar tan se juda' which provides punishment of beheading for disrespecting the Nabi (Prophet) amounts to challenging the sovereignty and integrity of India and also the Indian legal system, which is based on solemn constitutional objective, which is rooted in democratic principles.

The court noted that the slogan did not have any trace in the Quran or any other religious text belonging to Muslims, even then this slogan is being used widely by several Muslim persons without knowing its correct meaning and effect.

"There is sufficient material in the case diary showing that the applicant was part of an unlawful assembly which not only raised objectionable slogans challenging the authority of the Indian legal system but also caused injuries to police personnel and damaged public as well as private property, which is nothing but an offence against the state and he was arrested from the spot. Therefore, this court does not find any ground to release the applicant on bail," the bench said.

Justice Arun Kumar Singh Deshwal further said, "Generally, slogans or proclamations are used in every religion, but these slogans are for the purpose of showing their respect to the God or Guru, like in Muslim ‘naara-e-takbeer' followed by ‘Allahu Akbar', which means God is the greatest and there is no dispute or objection about it. Similarly, in the Sikh religion, the slogan 'Jo bole so nihaal, Sat Sri Akal' is also an acknowledgement of God as the ultimate, timeless reality and this call was popularised by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Similarly, chanting the slogans in a cheerful and joyful moment by Hindus like ‘Jai Shree Ram' or ‘HarHarMahadev'. Therefore, raising or chanting these slogans (devotional calls or proclamations) by any person or a crowd is not an offence unless they are maliciously used to intimidate persons belonging to other religions."

The court was informed by the state that the FIR, lodged on May 26, revealed that Raza, who is the president of an organisation, namely, IttefaqMinnat Council, and its member one Nadeem Khan, had incited the Muslim community to assemble at Islamia Inter College to protest against the authorities.

"Despite the enforcement of section 163 BNSS (power to issue order in urgent cases of nuisance or apprehended danger) in Bareilly prohibiting assemblies, crowds gathered after namaz. Around 500 persons allegedly raised anti-government and provocative slogans ‘gustakh-e-nabikieksajasar tan se juda, sar tan se juda', attacked police personnel, damaged public and private property, and used stones, petrol bombs, and firing, causing injuries," the state told the court.

It was further claimed that seven persons were arrested initially, leading to an FIR against 25 named and 1,700 unknown accused persons based on statements, witnesses, and CCTV footage.

Appearing for the petitioner, advocate Akhilesh Kumar Dwivedi argued that the petitioner had been falsely implicated and was arrested at his home, but the police falsely claimed that he was arrested at the spot.

It is further submitted that the petitioner has no criminal history, and there is no incriminating material against him. Therefore, the applicant is entitled to be released on bail during the investigation/trial.

Representing the state, additional advocate general Anoop Trivedi argued that the act of the petitioner and other co-accused is not only promoting enmity between the religious communities but also against the State as well as against the unity and integrity of India.

Source: indiatimes.com

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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/sar-tan-se-juda-slogan-challengessovereignty-integrity-of-india-hc/articleshow/126082846.cms

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US military launches strikes in Syria against Daesh fighters after American deaths

December 20, 2025

In this file photo released by the US Air Forces Central Command, a pair of US Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles are shown flying over northern Iraq early in the morning of September 23, 2014 after conducting airstrikes in Syria. (AFP)

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WASHINGTON: The Trump administration launched military strikes Friday in Syria to “eliminate” Daesh group fighters and weapons sites in retaliation for an ambush attack that killed two US troops and an American interpreter almost a week ago.

A US official described it as “a large-scale” strike that hit 70 targets in areas across central Syria that had Daesh (also known as Islamic State or IS) infrastructure and weapons. Another US official, who also spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive operations, said more strikes should be expected.

The attack was conducted using F-15 Eagle jets, A-10 Thunderbolt ground attack aircraft and AH-64 Apache helicopters, the officials said. F-16 fighter jets from Jordan and HIMARS rocket artillery also were used, one official said.

“This is not the beginning of a war — it is a declaration of vengeance. The United States of America, under President Trump’s leadership, will never hesitate and never relent to defend our people,” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on social media.

President Donald Trump had pledged “very serious retaliation” after the shooting in the Syrian desert, for which he blamed Daesh. The troops were among hundreds of US troops deployed in eastern Syria as part of a coalition fighting the terrorist group.

Trump in a social media post said the strikes were targeting Daesh “strongholds.” He reiterated his support for Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, who he said was “fully in support” of the US effort to target the militant group.

Trump also offered an all-caps threat, warning the group against attacking US personnel again.

“All terrorists who are evil enough to attack Americans are hereby warned — YOU WILL BE HIT HARDER THAN YOU HAVE EVER BEEN HIT BEFORE IF YOU, IN ANY WAY, ATTACK OR THREATEN THE USA.,” the president added.

The attack was a major test for the warming ties between the United States and Syria since the ouster of autocratic leader Bashar Assad a year ago. Trump has stressed that Syria was fighting alongside US troops and said Al-Sharaa was “extremely angry and disturbed by this attack,” which came as the US military is expanding its cooperation with Syrian security forces.

Syria’s foreign ministry in a statement on X following the launch of US strikes said that last week’s attack “underscores the urgent necessity of strengthening international cooperation to combat terrorism in all its forms” and that Syria is committed “to fighting Daesh and ensuring that it has no safe havens on Syrian territory and will continue to intensify military operations against it wherever it poses a threat.”

Daesh has not claimed responsibility for the attack on the US service members, but the group has claimed responsibility for two attacks on Syrian security forces since, one of which killed four Syrian soldiers in Idlib province. The group in its statements described Al-Sharaa’s government and army as “apostates.” While Al-Sharaa once led a group affiliated with Al-Qaeda, he has had a long-running enmity with Daesh.

Syrian state television reported that the US strikes hit targets in rural areas of Deirez-Zor and Raqqa provinces and in the Jabal Al-Amour area near Palmyra. It said they targeted “weapons storage sites and headquarters used by Daesh as launching points for its operations in the region.”

Trump this week met privately with the families of the slain Americans at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware before he joined top military officials and other dignitaries on the tarmac for the dignified transfer, a solemn and largely silent ritual honoring US service members killed in action.

The guardsmen killed in Syria last Saturday were Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, 25, of Des Moines, and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, 29, of Marshalltown, according to the US Army. AyadMansoorSakat, of Macomb, Michigan, a US civilian working as an interpreter, was also killed.

The shooting nearly a week ago near the historic city of Palmyra also wounded three other US troops as well as members of Syria’s security forces, and the gunman was killed. The assailant had joined Syria’s internal security forces as a base security guard two months ago and recently was reassigned because of suspicions that he might be affiliated with Daesh, Interior Ministry spokesperson Nour Al-Din Al-Baba has said.

The man stormed a meeting between US and Syrian security officials who were having lunch together and opened fire after clashing with Syrian guards.

When asked for further information, the Pentagon referred AP to Hegseth’s social media post.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2626898/middle-east

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Saudi Arabia welcomes US decision to lift Syria sanctions

December 19, 2025

Saudi Arabia has welcomed the decision by the US to lift sanctions imposed on the Syrian Arab Republic under the Caesar Act, saying the move will support stability, prosperity and development in Syria. (AP)

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RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has welcomed the decision by the US to lift sanctions imposed on the Syrian Arab Republic under the Caesar Act, saying the move will support stability, prosperity and development in the country, and help fulfil the aspirations of the Syrian people.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Kingdom praised the positive role played by US President Donald Trump in the process, beginning with his announcement during his visit to Riyadh in May 2025 of the decision to lift all sanctions on Syria, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The statement noted that the process culminated in President Trump’s signing of the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2026, which included the repeal of the Caesar Act, SPA added.

Saudi Arabia also extended its congratulations to the Syrian leadership, government and people on the lifting of the sanctions, while expressing appreciation for the steps taken by Damascus to restore stability across the country.

The Kingdom said these efforts would help create suitable conditions for rebuilding the Syrian state and its economy, as well as facilitate the return of Syrian refugees and displaced people to their homes.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2626842/saudi-arabia

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German spy agency to be given attack powers – media

20 Dec, 2025

FILE PHOTO: Former BND head Bruno Kahl (L), BND chief Martin Jager (M) and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (R) in Berlin, Germany, September 11, 2025. © Getty Images / Kay Nietfeld/picture alliance

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The Chancellery in Berlin has proposed granting Germany’s currently mostly surveillance-focused foreign intelligence agency powers to carry out sabotage and other offensive operations abroad, SueddeutscheZeitung reported on Friday.

The Federal Intelligence Service (BND) was created in 1956 in post-war West Germany and, like the armed forces, was initially limited in its powers. Until now, the BND has only been allowed to gather and analyze information.

A new draft bill seen by German media would allow the spy agency to act far more aggressively, granting permission to conduct cyberattacks, acts of sabotage, and other offensive operations, according to the report.

If adopted, the legislation would also expand the BND’s domestic surveillance powers, allowing agents to enter suspects’ homes to secretly install spyware on computers and other devices. It would further expand the use of facial recognition technology and the collection data on vehicle locations and travel routes.

Under the proposed rules, intelligence officers would apparently be allowed to use the new powers only if Germany’s recently established National Security Council determines that a “systematic threat” exists. A parliamentary committee overseeing the intelligence services would then have to approve the measure by a two-thirds majority.

Government officials are “working intensively together in a preliminary consultation” to advance the proposal, the newspaper quoted a spokesperson as saying.

The intelligence agency was granted broader authority earlier this year to monitor the opposition Alternative for Germany (AfD) party after Berlin officially designated it as an ‘extremist’ group, after it secured more than 20% of the vote in the federal election.

Senior officials in the administration of US President Donald Trump have criticized the move as a crackdown on free speech. US Vice President J.D. Vance has compared the German government’s actions against the AfD, which he called “the most popular party in Germany,” to rebuilding the Berlin Wall.

Source: rt.com

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https://www.rt.com/news/629800-germany-bnd-sabotage-attacks/

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Twin Cities mosques increase security, lean on community amid immigration enforcement fears

Mohamed Ibrahim

DEC 20, 2025

Imam Asad Zaman at Al Rahman mosque in Bloomington, Minn., on Dec. 5, 2025. Credit: Dymanh Chhoun | Sahan Journal

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An uneasiness lingered among attendees at a meeting earlier this month at the ZawadiCenter in Bloomington.

About 70 imams and community members gathered at the event space to discuss what to do about federal immigration officials arriving in Minnesota to target the Somali community.

“The mood was very tense, extremely difficult and emotional,” attendee Yusuf Abdulle, executive director of the Islamic Association of North America, told Sahan Journal.

The first hour-and-a-half consisted of numerous community members recounting interactions with agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the impact of increased enforcement action that began the first week of December.

Small Somali-owned businesses are closing or reducing hours because their employees are too scared to come into work, and several other community members have not left their homes for fear of being arrested, Abdulle said. One man told the group that he was picking up his 17-year-old son from high school and had to intervene when federal agents approached the boy, explaining to the masked men that his son was born in the United States.

“They’re stopping people who are citizens and permanent residents, asking them for their names, asking them where they were born, sometimes … looking for an accent,” Abdulle said. “People who are undocumented are fearful of this, but so is the whole community.”

Effect on mosques

Dozens of worshippers piled into Dar Al-Hijrah mosque in Cedar-Riverside on a recent Friday afternoon like they do at the end of every week. Imam Asad Zaman said he’s seen no discernable decrease in attendance at his mosque, Al-Rahman in Bloomington, where Somali congregants make up about a third of the attendance.

But there have been unsettling signs that President Donald Trump’s rhetoric criticizing Somali Minnesotans is impacting mosques across the Twin Cities: The first Friday of the federal enforcement, organizations like the Immigrant Defense Network put out calls for citizen witnesses to show up at mosques because community members were reporting a heightened sense of fear.

Abdulle said he’s already noticed the chilling effect at Abubakr As-Saddique mosque in south Minneapolis, where numbers are beginning to dwindle the longer federal immigration officials remain in town.

“At least one quarter was missing,” Abdulle said of attendance at last week’s Friday prayer. “People used to wait outside. That’s how full it used to be.”

Zaman said a man and his children were headed to one of the mosques’s other locations in Rosemount and were detained by federal immigration agents for 10 minutes. They were eventually released.

“Yesterday, a mother was sharing with me that her children were asking her, ‘Mom, do we have to carry our passports and our citizenship papers to school?’” said Khalid Omar, a community organizer with ISAIAH, a statewide coalition of faith communities.

MunirMaalim, 26, who has attended Ar-Rahman for Friday prayer since moving to Bloomington in 2018, said there’s a sense of fear among some members of the Somali community, namely those who fled the civil war in Somalia. The prospect of immigration raids and arrests could force them to relive traumatic experiences from that past, he said.

“(Trump) has tried to strike fear into the hearts of our community, specifically our elders, who have faced war,” Maalim told Sahan Journal. “For them to escape, and after 30 years for them to face the same fear that they faced back home, it’s absolutely despicable.”

How mosques are protecting worshippers

Due to high rates of citizenship among the Somali community in Minnesota, which number about 80,000, some are less concerned about interactions with federal authorities. But that hasn’t stopped mosques from beefing up security and raising awareness at and around their buildings.

Abdulle said many mosques are installing cameras, hiring private security and fortifying relationships with local police departments. They are also mobilizing their neighbors, he said, who have come out in support of their local mosques by bringing food and keeping watch.

“They connected with their neighbors, and the neighbors really showed up … by helping each other and being strong together,” he said.

Some worshippers said they aren’t as concerned about the ICE presence.

“We’re in good spirits. We just got done praying, nobody’s worried about ICE,” University of Minnesota student Hamza Ahmed said after praying at Dar Al-Hijrah mosque in Minneapolis’ Cedar-Riverside neighborhood. “Somalis here are mostly U.S. citizens, so I don’t know what ICE is looking for. Somalis are here to stay.”

FalmataElemo, Ammed’s classmate at the university and a worshipper at Dar Al-Hijrah, expressed the same sentiment.

“The first floor (of the mosque) was full like it always is, and people were still filling up the upstairs,” he said.

But, Elemo said, people can’t help but talk about sightings of federal agents on the University of Minnesota campus, as well as in suburbs like Burnsville.

“Given the circumstances, and because people are talking about it, it is getting a little tense,” Elemo told Sahan Journal. “Of course, if people are being profiled and stopped and harassed. We should raise awareness and concern for our community, but we shouldn’t lose hope either.”

Mohamed Mohamud, who also prayed at Dar Al-Hijrah mosque on a recent Friday, immigrated to the United States when he was four years old and has been a citizen for nearly a decade. Now 23, he said he’s not concerned about being targeted, but said it’s hard to escape the vitriol directed at Somalis online.

“People are looking down on a group of people because of the actions of a small minority,” Mohamud said, referencing local criminal fraud cases involving some East African defendants. “A lot of people online are bashing Somalis, making threats, and they’re happy Trump is saying all of this.”

Dozens of faith leaders from different religions, elected officials and worshippers gathered at Ar-Rahman mosque two weeks ago to denounce Trump’s comments and express support for Somali and community members. Zaman asked the community to stay vigilant and not succumb to attempts to spread fear.

“The Muslim community and the Somali community that is being subjected to this fear campaign, I urge you to not be afraid,” Zaman said. “We are greater than fear.”

Source: sahanjournal.com

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https://sahanjournal.com/immigration/twin-cities-mosques-minnesota-ice-immigration-enforcement/

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Armed Groups Will Be Treated As Terrorists Under New Security Framework – Tinubu

December 19, 2025

By EnioluwaAdeniyi

President Bola Tinubu has declared that bandits, violent cult groups, kidnappers, foreign‑linked mercenaries, and other armed non‑state actors will be treated as terrorists under a new security doctrine his administration is rolling out.

Tinubu made the declaration on Friday while presenting the 2026 budget proposal to a joint session of the National Assembly in Abuja. He emphasised that the government will pursue not only perpetrators of crimes but also those who finance and enable them.

“Under this new architecture, any armed group or gun‑wielding non‑state actors operating outside state authority will be regarded as terrorists,” the former Lagos State governor told the lawmakers.

He listed the groups to be targeted: “Bandits, militias, armed gangs, armed robbers, violent cults, forest‑based armed groups, and foreign‑linked mercenaries”, all of whom he said will be pursued under the revised security framework.

“We will go after all those who perpetrate violence for political or sectarian ends, along with those who finance and facilitate their evil schemes,” Tinubu added.

Addressing the rising tide of insecurity characterised by mass abductions and banditry, the President said his administration remains steadfast in its resolve to restore peace.

“We will usher in a new era of criminal justice. We will show no mercy to those who commit or support acts of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping for ransom, and other violent crimes,” he said.

Tinubu said the new doctrine will “fundamentally change how we confront terrorism and other violent crimes,” signalling a tougher stance against violent non‑state actors.

To support the enhanced security strategy, Tinubu announced plans to invest heavily in the defence and security sector.

Out of the proposed ₦58.1 trillion 2026 budget, ₦5.41 trillion has been earmarked for security and defence, the largest allocation among all sectors.

“Our priority will remain on increasing the fighting capability of our armed forces and other security agencies and boosting the effectiveness of our fighting forces with cutting‑edge equipment and other hardware,” the President said.

Despite recent violent incidents, the President expressed optimism about the future, assuring Nigerians that better days are ahead as his government intensifies efforts to secure the nation.

Source: naijanews.com

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https://www.naijanews.com/2025/12/19/armed-groups-will-be-treated-as-terrorists-under-new-security-framework-tinubu/

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Religious affairs minister: Divorce not a shortcut, couples should seek Shariah-based counselling first

20 Dec 2025

PUTRAJAYA, Dec 20 — Divorce should not be seen as a shortcut, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Zulkifli Hasan, urging couples in marital crisis to seek help through authorised professional channels.

He said the government regards marriage in Islam as sacred and stressed that all narratives or terms related to divorce must be handled carefully, ethically and responsibly.

He said the emergence and promotion of services branded as “divorce coach” has sparked public confusion over Islam’s proper approach to marital conflicts and crises, emphasising that marriages, as a religious trust, play a vital role in the emotional, social and spiritual well-being of couples and their children.

“Any effort that eases divorce without the process of islah (reconciliation), structured counselling or negotiation risks normalising it as a shortcut, undermining the patience and responsibility emphasised in Islam,” he said in a statement yesterday.

Zulkifli said state Islamic departments provide couples with counselling and advice through certified counsellors and authorised Islamic affairs officers.

“Marital conflicts should be resolved gradually and in accordance with Shariah, including advice, sulh (resolution) mediation, appointment of intermediaries from both families, and Shariah-based counselling before any major decision, such as divorce, is made.

“The service is available at state Islamic religious offices or Shariah Lower Court,” he said, adding that among the initiatives provided by the religious affairs agencies, such as the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), is KSKCare Centre (KSKCC).

“It offers structured, professional, Shariah-based counselling to help couples identify conflict sources, improve communication and find fair solutions,” he said.

He added that JAKIM and the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (JAWI) offer a post-marriage course to strengthen the understanding of marital responsibilities and household harmony.

Local media portals reported that the Malaysian Muslim Lawyers Association (PPMM) has condemned and opposed individuals branding themselves as “divorce coach”, saying it confuses and undermines the reconciliation process for couples facing marital issues. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/12/20/religious-affairs-minister-divorce-not-a-shortcut-couples-should-seek-shariah-based-counselling-first/202586

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UN Says 2,000 ISIS-K Fighters Active in Afghanistan, Using Children for Suicide Training

ByFidel Rahmati

December 20, 2025

The United Nations reports that ISIS-K maintains around 2,000 fighters in Afghanistan, indoctrinating children under 14 and threatening regional security with ongoing terrorist operations.

The United Nations Security Council (UNCS) has estimated that ISIS-K, the Khorasan branch of the Islamic State, maintains roughly 2,000 fighters in Afghanistan, according to a recent report. Leadership is dominated by Afghan Pashtuns, while many fighters come from Central Asian countries.

The report says ISIS-K’s primary objectives include executing large-scale attacks globally and demonstrating its capacity to recruit fighters and attract financial support. Analysts warn that the group’s reach poses a continued threat to both Afghanistan and the wider region.

According to the UN, Afghanistan hosts more than 20 regional and international terrorist organizations, including ISIS-K, Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, Al Qaeda, the East Turkestan Islamic Movement, JamaatAnsarullah, and the United Mujahideen Front of Pakistan. These groups have been linked to attacks both inside Afghanistan and in neighboring countries.

Taliban intelligence officials have repeatedly asserted that ISIS-K has no permanent bases inside Afghanistan, claiming that recent attacks are planned from outside the country. However, UN findings and international media reporting contradict this, indicating that militant networks remain active domestically.

UN monitors described Taliban claims that no terrorist organizations operate within Afghanistan as “unsubstantiated.” The Security Council report notes that multiple countries consistently confirm the active presence of extremist groups, undermining assurances offered by the Taliban.

Of particular concern, ISIS-K has reportedly established schools in parts of northern Afghanistan and areas near the Pakistan border, where children under 14 are indoctrinated and trained for suicide missions. The UN described this use of minors as deeply alarming.

Pakistan media reported that the country’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) recently arrested Sultan Aziz Azzam, a key ISIS-K spokesperson, near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, highlighting regional counterterrorism efforts. Analysts note this demonstrates Islamabad’s ongoing focus on preventing cross-border attacks.

The report also details that ISIS-K and allied groups, including Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, have carried out attacks against Pakistan from Afghanistan territory, intensifying tensions between Kabul and Islamabad.

Experts say the UN report underscores Afghanistan’s continuing role as a safe haven for multiple extremist groups. Regional and international authorities are increasingly concerned that without concerted counterterrorism measures, these organizations could expand their influence and carry out further attacks across the region.

Source: khaama.com

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https://www.khaama.com/un-says-2000-isis-k-fighters-active-in-afghanistan-using-children-for-suicide-training/

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India

 

"This Isn't Ayodhya. Nobody Can Touch Babri Here": HumayunKabirTo NDTV

Dec 19, 2025

Suspended Trinamool Congress MLA HumayunKabir has said that a mosque named the Babri Masjid will be constructed in West Bengal's Murshidabad district within three years, and that no authority or political force will be able to prevent it. Speaking in an exclusive interview with NDTV after his suspension from the Trinamool Congress, Kabir said construction would begin in February and that the project was already financially and logistically prepared.

"This is not Ayodhya. This is Murshidabad. This is my challenge. No one can come here and touch the Babri Masjid," Kabir claimed.

The 64-year-old said his decision to build a mosque named Babri Masjid was rooted in the events of 1992, when the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya was demolished, and in the Supreme Court's 2019 verdict awarding the disputed site to the Ram Temple. He said that while he accepted the court's decision, it had convinced him that the mosque must now be built elsewhere.

"I took the decision in 1992 when the Babri Masjid was demolished. But when the Supreme Court gave the land to the Ram Temple in 2019 and not to the Babri Masjid, I firmly resolved that the Babri Masjid would now be built in Murshidabad. I have no connection with Babar. I named it Babri Masjid because people still feel pain. If chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' during elections is right, then chanting 'Allah hu Akbar' is also right," he said.

The suspended MLA claimed that substantial funds had already been collected for the construction and that the money was being kept at his residence. He said more than Rs 20 crore had been received from supporters and donors and that the amount would be used entirely for the mosque.

"So far, more than two crore rupees has been received for the construction of the mosque. All of this money is locked inside one room in my house. We have acquired 25 bighas of land and the paperwork is being done. Preparations will begin in February and the mosque will be completed in three years. Friday prayers will be offered here every week and millions of bricks have already arrived," Kabir said.

Kabir said his actions had led to a widening rift with the Trinamool Congress, culminating in his suspension. He said he did not leave the party voluntarily and that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had expelled him by accusing him of anti-party activities.

"Mamata Banerjee expelled me. There is a huge difference between Mamata Banerjee of the past and Mamata Banerjee of today. Earlier, she used to listen to everyone and understand people's problems. Today she has become distant from the public. My district leaders debated with me, but Mamata Banerjee did not listen to me," he said.

Kabir alleged that the Trinamool Congress was now effectively run by political consultants rather than its elected leadership.

"Today the Trinamool Congress is run by IPAC. Earlier it was Prashant Kishor, now it is Prateek Jain. Decisions are taken on who will stay in the party and who will be removed based on their advice," Kabir said.

The Trinamool Congress has rejected Kabir's claims and mocked his political ambitions. Party leaders have said Kabir is making unrealistic claims and accused him of trying to remain politically relevant.

Despite his suspension, Kabir said he would not resign as an MLA and would instead launch a new political party later this month. He said the formal announcement would be made on December 22 at a public meeting in Berhampore, where he claimed one lakh people would gather. He said the new party would contest elections in 135 assembly constituencies and would prevent both the BJP and the Trinamool Congress from securing a majority on their own.

Source: ndtv.com

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UP Police conduct verification drive in Muzaffarnagar riots victims’ colony to identify illegal immigants

20 Dec 2025

MUZAFFARNAGAR: Muzaffarnagar (UP), Dec 20 (PTI) Police have carried out door-to-door verification in a Muzaffarnagar riots victims' colony in Kairana town of Shamli district as part of a drive to identify illegal immigrants, officials said on Saturday.

The verification exercise was conducted Friday in Nahid Colony, where around 300 families displaced during the 2013 Muzaffarnagar riots from villages such as Lank, Bahawdi and Phugana were resettled, police said.

During the exercise, police checked Aadhaar cards, mobile numbers and family details of residents.

Circle Officer (Kairana) Hemant Kumar told reporters that the verification was aimed at identifying any illegal Rohingya or Bangladeshi nationals, but no such person had been found so far.

A resident of the colony, Noor Hasan, said all families living there had already filled out their Special Intensive Revision (SIR) forms and submitted them to the booth level officer (BLO) in Kairana.

Meanwhile, police in neighbouring Muzaffarnagar district have also intensified verification in industrial areas, focusing on labourers working in factories, officials said.

Circle Officer Siddharth Mishra said police teams checked records of workers at several paper mills and steel factories in the district.

Factory owners have been directed to maintain registers containing complete details of their workers, he added.

The verification drives are part of a broader exercise to ensure proper documentation and to identify any illegal immigrants, police said.

In 2013 Muzaffarnagar in western Uttar Pradesh witnessed a series of communal clashes that left over 60 people dead and displaced thousands, largely from rural areas of the district.

Source: newindianexpress.com

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Accused of ‘religious fanaticism’ and suspended, Indore law college ex-principal exonerated after 3 years

by Anand Mohan J

December 20, 2025

The Madhya Pradesh government has closed a departmental inquiry against Dr Inamur Rahman, former in-charge principal of Government New Law College in Indore, concluding that allegations of promoting religious extremism and administrative negligence could not be proved due to insufficient evidence.

The Higher Education Department’s order, issued December 8, brings an end to a three-year ordeal that began with accusations by the AkhilBharatiyaVidyarthiParishad (ABVP) in December 2022 and left Dr Rahman suspended until his retirement in May 2024.

The ABVP had filed a complaint on December 1, 2022, alleging that the college had become a site of religious fanaticism, faculty members were biased and that students were being misled against government policies. The allegations triggered an immediate inquiry by the Commissioner of Higher Education.

An inquiry committee’s preliminary report dated December 7, 2022, made strong observations against Dr Rahman, accusing him of negligence in maintaining a harmonious academic environment and recommending disciplinary action. Within two days, on December 9, 2022, the Higher Education Department suspended him.

A formal charge-sheet followed on January 30, 2023, specifically accusing Dr Rahman of failing to maintain social harmony and take action against indiscipline among teaching staff. After his written defense was deemed unsatisfactory, the government ordered a full departmental inquiry on May 11, 2023.

The inquiry officer, appointed from the Regional Additional Director’s office in Ujjain, submitted the final report on March 25, 2025, nearly 10 months after Dr Rahman had retired. According to the government order, the inquiry concluded that “statements of witnesses and adequate documentary evidence were not produced during the proceedings”.

“Due to non-submission of sufficient records and witness statements, the charge levelled against the delinquent officer has not been found proved,” the order states.

The closure order also noted that a parallel criminal case registered at Bhanwarkuan police station under IPC sections 153-A (promoting enmity between groups) and 295-A (outraging religious feelings) had already been quashed by the Supreme Court on May 14, 2024, following Dr Rahman’s petition.

The government has now ordered that Dr Rahman’s suspension period  spanning from December 9, 2022, until his retirement on May 31, 2024 be treated as duty for all purposes, regularising his service record.

Dr Rahman expressed that the vindication, while welcome, came too late. “By the time I got justice I was already retired. This cannot compensate for the immense mental anguish I have suffered after being suspended on baseless allegations,” he said.

Rahman had told The Indian Express that he spent his life teaching students and was “never involved in any communal thought”.

Rahman had been the principal of the Government Law College in Dewas for seven years and the Chairman and Dean in the Department of Law at Ujjain’s Vikram University and Devi AhilyaVishwavidyalaya in Indore for over a decade.

Before Rahman was booked by the police, protests had rocked the college in December 2022 after members of the ABVP alleged that the college administration was condoning religious fundamentalist thoughts being promoted by some Muslim teachers. Rahman had recommended a probe led by a retired district court judge and removed the accused professors from academic work for five days, until the investigation was concluded.

He has now expressed sadness over taking action against the teachers who he claimed had a “clean record”.

Source: indianexpress.com

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Congress, CPI(M) leaders in Bengal say ‘rising infiltrators’ narrative of BJP proved wrong after SIR draft list

December 20, 2025

SHRABANA CHATTERJEE

Congress and Communist Party of India (Marxist) leaders in West Bengal came down heavily on the BharatiyaJanta Party on Friday (December 19) and said that the “increasing illegal infiltrators” narrative developed by the BJP was proved wrong after the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process draft roll was published.

CPI(M) State secretary Mohammad Salim said that the BJP leadership’s “excitement to throw out illegal infiltrators in West Bengal fell flat” after the draft electoral roll was published and most Muslim-dominated areas were mapped better in the State.

 Around 4,000 micro-observers to scrutinise SIR hearing process in West Bengal

“This is the reason they (BJP government) are not doing a national census because it a general census which includes all Indians. That is why calling Muslims infiltrators or Rohingyas is a way for the BJP to dehumanise the people. This is not a Hindu-Muslim issue. There are many marginalised in India who are vulnerable and have no documents,” Mr Salim said. He added that many vulnerable people from tribal communities, women, rented accommodation holders, street dwellers stand a chance to be omitted in the SIR process due to lack of concrete documents and should be looked into.

He raised questions about how people who have not been named in the draft electoral roll but are legal Indian citizens will be included in the list. He accused that BJP and RSS are not only against Muslims, but are against all minorities and marginalised, including caste minorities and women.

Ghulam Ahmad Mir, MLA from Jammu and Kashmir, said that the rumour that the BJP leadership had spread in West Bengal that there are over a crore of “infiltrators” in the State has been proved wrong. “Among the 58 lakh deletions in the Bengal draft electoral rolls, 24 are deceased. I ask them (BJP), how many are the “infiltrators” among this list?” Mr Mir asked. He said that even if some undocumented people are found in Bengal, most of them are minorities from nearby Bangladesh and they have all come under humanitarian causes.

Mr Mir added that no one is against SIR, rather they are only against the “hurried” process the Election Commission of India (ECI) followed to do the SIR process is questionable. 

The draft electoral roll was published on Tuesday (December 16), where 58 lakh deletions were marked in the list. Around 24.16 lakh electors were identified as deceased, 32.65 lakh electors as shifted and absent, and 1.38 lakh electors were found to have duplicate enrolments in multiple places.

The final voter list will be published on February 14, 2025.

West Bengal is set to hold the State Legislative Assembly in mid-2026. 

Source: thehindu.com

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Naqaab controversy turns into political slugfest in Kashmir after PDP leader seeks FIR against Bihar CM

December 19, 2025

Apolitical slugfest erupted in Kashmir on Friday after the PDP leader Iltija Mufti moved a police complaint seeking an FIR against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar over the alleged removal of a Muslim woman’s naqaab. The move immediately drew a counterattack from the ruling National Conference, with party spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar accusing Mufti of selective outrage and political grandstanding, turning the issue of women’s dignity into a partisan battleground.

Dar asked Iltija to seek similar legal action against her own mother for an alleged similar incident of 2004. He said justice must remain blind to personal and political ties.

Earlier, PDP leader Iltija Mufti lodged a complaint at the KothiBagh Police Station, seeking registration of an FIR against Nitish Kumar for “violating the dignity of a Muslim woman by forcibly removing her naqaab”.

However, there was no word from the police on whether an FIR has been registered against Nitish or not.

“I’m writing to bring to your attention a vile incident which has caused immense distress and hurt among Muslims, especially women. A few days ago, we watched with shock, horror and worry as Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar pulled down the naqab’ of a young Muslim doctor in full public glare at a government function,” Iltija said in her complaint to the SHO.

She added that what made “matters worse was the unsettling reaction of the people around, including the deputy chief minister, who chuckled and watched with glee”.

“The forceful stripping of her ‘naqab’ wasn’t just a brutal assault on a Muslim lady but on the autonomy, identity and dignity of every Indian woman,”, she said.

The incident, a video clip of which has been circulated widely, sparking a major political row, took place on Monday in Patna where Ayush doctors gathered to receive their appointment letters.

Iltija said in the days following the “shameful” incident, “we have witnessed with abject horror videos of miscreants pulling off the naqabs of Muslim women across the country”.

“Perhaps a chief minister engaging in this vulgar act of indecency has now emboldened such lumpen elements, giving them carte blanche (complete freedom) to humiliate and attack Muslim women,” she alleged.

“BJP ministers and the men in power are justifying Kumar’s indecency. On the contrary, they are condoning and celebrating it. I am sure you will agree that the rule of law must be applied uniformly and unequivocally to every Indian citizen”.

“Being a chief minister doesn’t exonerate an individual just because he enjoys political power and patronage,” Iltija said, and urged police to immediately file an FIR against Kumar.

Meanwhile, PDP President Mehbooba Mufti strongly criticised Union Minister Giriraj Singh over his recent statement, alleging it has created an atmosphere of hate and harmed social harmony. She welcomed the FIR lodged by PDP leader Iltija Mufti against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, saying it reflects the party’s commitment to accountability through legal and democratic means.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah yesterday said “An India where an elected Chief Minister can pull off the face covering of a young woman on a whim and not face any blowback. It is deeply distressing. Nobody should do that”.

On Giriraj Singh’s statement, Omar said “This is exactly what we can expect from BJP”.

Source: thestatesman.com

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Hijab row: Bihar official claims Dr Nusrat will join duty on December 20

Ramashankar

19 Dec 2025

PATNA: The ongoing hijab controversy involving Bihar CM Nitish Kumar is likely to be resolved after an official said on Friday that the Muslim woman doctor, whose hijab was pulled off by Nitish, would join the duty on Saturday (December 20).

Principal of Government Tibbi College and Hospital in Patna, Dr Mahfoozur Rahman, claimed that Ayush doctor NusratParveen’s family confirmed that she would join the duty.

Dr Nusrat is a first-year postgraduate student in the same college.

Dr Ramman told media persons that Praveen’s family had confirmed that she would join the duty on Saturday.

“I spoke to Parveen’s husband, relatives and her classmates. They told me that she would join duty on December 20. She has to first join the Government Tibbi College and Hospital, and later she will be shifted to her place of posting. Her family members and classmates have assured me that she would join duty,” Rahman said.

A day earlier, Bihar health minister Mangal Pandey said that he had not known that the concerned female doctor might not join her duty.

“I have no such information,” was the terse reply of Pandey when journalists asked about reports that the AYUSH doctor NusratParveen, who hails from Kolkata, has declined the government job following the hijab incident.

Pandey, however, sought to put a lid on the controversy by asserting that the NDA in the State has always worked for the empowerment of women.

He said that the issue was being blown up proportionately by the media and some organisations.

A major political row was triggered after Nitish, while distributing appointment letters to doctors, pulled down the hijab of Parveen. The video capturing those moments went viral on social media.

Parveen was among 10 Ayush doctors who had turned up at the Chief Minister's Secretariat on Monday to receive their letters of appointment.

When Parveen's turn came, the 75-year-old CM pointed towards her veil (Hijab) and exclaimed 'What is this?' before pulling it down and exposing her face.

Later, there were rumours that Parveen had declined the job.

Meanwhile, the health department has given a 15-day ultimatum to 19 AYUSH doctors who have not joined since July. NusaratParveen is among them.

The department clarified that those who would not join within the stipulated period would be construed as not wanting to join.

“We can not keep the post vacant for long as it was hampering the work and people were made to suffer due to the shortage of manpower,” a senior health department official said.

Nitish’s security has been tightened in the wake of a video threat message from a Pakistan-based underworld don over the controversy. The Cyber police station in Patna has registered a case against the underworld don and initiated a probe.

Director General of police Vinay Kumar said that the case has been handed over to Patna Inspector General of Police Jitendra Rana to monitor the investigation. “Since the case is sensitive, we have entrusted Patna IG to monitor the investigation,” he told the media.

The incident has drawn criticism from far and wide, including many West Asian countries, and the JD (U) president is facing accusations of disrespecting Muslim traditions, allegedly in line with the 'RSS agenda'.

Union minister and BJP MP Giriraj Singh, however, defended Nitish’s action and said that it does not matter whether she joins duty or not. “Woh refuse kareyajahannummeinjaye (She can refuse or go to hell),” Singh told reporters on the Parliament premises on Thursday when asked about the doctor’s reported decision not to take up the job.

Source: newindianexpress.com

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Mideast

 

5 killed in Israeli shelling of Gaza shelter

December 19, 2025

GAZA CITY, Palestinian Territories: Gaza’s civil defense agency said Israeli shelling on a school-turned-shelter killed five people on Friday, while the military said it had fired at “suspicious individuals.”

Spokesman for the agency, Mahmud Bassal, told AFP that “five martyrs have been recovered as a result of the Israeli shelling of the shelter at the Gaza Martyrs School,” in the Tuffahneighborhood east of Gaza City.

When asked by AFP about the incident, the Israeli military said that “during operational activity in the area of the Yellow line in the northern Gaza Strip, a number of suspicious individuals were identified in command structures west of the Yellow line.”

Under the US-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, Israeli forces have withdrawn to positions east of the so-called Yellow Line.

“Shortly after identification, the troops fired at the suspicious individuals to eliminate the threat,” the military said, adding that it was “aware of the claim regarding casualties in the area, and the details are under review.”

“The (Israeli military) regrets any harm to uninvolved individuals and operates to mitigate harm to the extent possible,” it said.

The ceasefire, which came into effect in October, remains fragile with both sides alleging violations, and mediators fearing that Israel and Hamas alike are stalling.

US President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, was to meet officials from Qatar, Egypt and Turkiye in Florida on Friday, hoping to salvage efforts to reach the second stage of the deal.

“Our people expect these talks to result in an agreement to put an end to ongoing Israeli lawlessness, halt all violations and compel the occupation to abide by the Sharm El-Sheikh agreement,” Hamas political bureau member BassemNaim told AFP.

The health ministry in Gaza said on Thursday that at least 395 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in the territory since the ceasefire came into effect on October 10.

Israel has also repeatedly accused Hamas of violating the ceasefire, with the military reporting three soldiers killed in the territory since the truce entered into force.

Source: arabnews.com

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Violence, extremism have no place in Islamic Establishment

Dec 19, 2025

Speaking at the meeting of the headquarters for 1500th birthday anniversary of Holy Prophet of Islam, Hazrat Muhammad (S), he pointed to the Day of Unity between Seminary and University, stating that naming the Unity Day is deep rooted in the movement of founder of the Islamic Revolution the late Imam Khomeini (RA).

At this historical juncture, both seminary and the university in tandem with each other followed the guidelines and instructions of the late Imam Khomeini (RA), Aref underlined.

Elsewhere in his remarks, the vice president pointed to the oppressive US sanctions imposed against the country, stressing that the noble nation of Islamic Iran managed to overcome sanctions with their unity and amity.

Although sanctions cost dearly for the country in economic terms, these pressures brought about eye-catching advancements and progresses for the country, he said, adding that the country’s industry would not have achieved this level of progress if it weren’t for sanctions. 

He then pointed to the International Day of Violence and Extremism, emphasizing that violence and extremism have no place in Islam and the Islamic Establishment.

Source: mehrnews.com

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Lebanon PM publishes long-awaited banking law draft

December 19, 2025

BEIRUT: Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam published on Friday a long-awaited banking draft bill, which distributes losses from the 2019 economic crisis between banks and the state.

The draft law is a key demand from the international community, which has conditioned economic aid to Lebanon on financial reforms.

In a televised speech, Salam said “this draft law constitutes a roadmap to getting out of the crisis” that still grips Lebanon.

The draft will be discussed by the Lebanese cabinet on Monday before being sent to parliament, where it could be blocked.

The law stipulates that each of the state, the central bank, commercial banks and depositors will share the losses accrued as a result of the financial crisis.

Depositors, who lost access to their funds after the crisis, will be able to retrieve their money, with a limit of $100,000, over the course of four years.

Salam said that 85 percent of depositors had less than $100,000 in their accounts.

The wealthiest depositors will see the remainder of their money compensated by asset-backed securities.

“I know that many of you are listening today with hearts full of anger, anger at a state that abandoned you,” Salam said.

“This bill may not be perfect... but it is a realistic and fair step toward restoring rights, halting the collapse.”

- ‘Banks are angry’ -

The International Monetary Fund, which closely monitored the drafting of the bill, had previously insisted on the need to “restore the viability of the banking sector consistent with international standards” and protect small depositors.

The Associations of Banks in Lebanon criticized the draft law on Monday, saying in a statement that it contains “serious shortcomings” and harms commercial banks.

“Banks are angry because the law opens the door to them sharing any part of the losses,” said Sami Zougheib, researcher at The Policy Initiative, a Beirut-based think tank.

He told AFP that banks would have preferred that the state bear full responsibility.

The text provides for the recapitalization of failing banks, while the government’s debt to the Central Bank will be converted into bonds.

Salam said that the bill aims to “revive the banking sector” which had collapsed, giving free rein to a parallel economy based on cash transactions, which facilitate money laundering and illicit trade.

According to government estimates, the losses resulting from the financial crisis amounted to about $70 billion, a figure that is expected to have increased over the six years that the crisis was left unaddressed.

Since assuming power, Salam and President Joseph Aoun have pledged to implement the necessary reforms and legislation.

In April, Lebanon’s parliament adopted a bank restructuring law, as the previous legislation was believed to have allowed a flight of capital at the outbreak of the 2019 crisis.

The new bill stipulates that politically exposed persons and major shareholders who transferred significant capital outside the country from 2019 onwards — while ordinary depositors were deprived of their savings — must return them within three months or face fines.

The draft law could still be blocked by parliament even if the cabinet approves it.

“Many lawmakers are directly exposed as large depositors or bank shareholders, politically allied with bank owners, and unwilling to pass a law that either angers banks or angers depositors,” Zougheib said.

Politicians and banking officials have repeatedly obstructed the reforms required by the international community for Lebanon to receive financial support.

Source: arabnews.com

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UN declares famine over in Gaza, says ‘situation remains critical’

December 19, 2025

ROME: A famine declared in Gaza in August is now over thanks to improved access for humanitarian aid, the United Nations said on Friday, but warned the food situation in the Palestinian territory remained dire.

More than 70 percent of the population is living in makeshift shelters, it said, with hunger exacerbated by winter floods and an increasing risk of hypothermia as temperatures plummet.

Although a ceasefire between Israel and militant group Hamas that took effect in October has partially eased restrictions on goods and aid, delivery fluctuates daily and is limited and uneven across the territory, it said.

“No areas are classified in Famine,” said the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification Initiative (IPC), a coalition of monitors tasked by the UN to warn of impending crises.

But it stressed that “the situation remains critical: the entire Gaza Strip is classified in Emergency.”

The US-sponsored ceasefire halted two years of fighting, sparked by Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

Yet the deal remains fragile as Israel and Hamas accuse each other almost daily of violations.

“Following the ceasefire... the latest IPC analysis indicates notable improvements in food security and nutrition compared to the August 2025 analysis, which detected famine,” the IPC said.

However, around 1.6 million people are still forecast to face “crisis” levels of food insecurity in the period running to April 15, it said.

And under a worst-case scenario involving renewed hostilities and a halt in humanitarian aid and commercial goods, the territories of North Gaza, Gaza Governorate, Deir Al-Balah and Khan Younis risk famine, it said.

- ‘Alarmingly high’ -

The UN’s agencies said that despite the roll-back of famine, hunger, malnutrition, disease and the scale of agricultural destruction remains “alarmingly high.”

“Humanitarian needs remain staggering, with current assistance addressing only the most basic survival requirements,” the food, agriculture, health, and childrens’ agencies said in a joint statement.

“Only access, supplies and funding at scale can prevent famine from returning,” they said.

The UN’s declaration of famine in August — the first time it has done so in the Middle East — infuriated Israel, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu slamming the IPC report as “an outright lie.”

On Friday, foreign ministry spokesman Oren Marmorstein said on X that faced with “overwhelming and unequivocal evidence, even the IPC had to admit that there is no famine in Gaza.”

But he also accused the IPC of continuing to present a “distorted” picture by relying “primarily on data related to UN trucks, which account for only 20 percent of all aid trucks.”

Oxfam said that despite the end of the famine, the levels of hunger in Gaza remain “appalling and preventable,” and accused Israel of blocking aid requests from dozens of well-established humanitarian agencies.

“Oxfam alone has $2.5m worth of aid including 4,000 food parcels, sitting in warehouses just across the border. Israeli authorities refuse it all,” said Nicolas Vercken, Campaigns and Advocacy Director at Oxfam France.

- ‘Rapidly deteriorating’ -

The IPC said hunger was not the only challenge to those in the Palestinian territory.

Access to water, sanitation and hygiene is severely limited, it said, with open defecation and overcrowded living conditions increasing the risk of disease outbreaks.

Over 96 percent of cropland in the Gaza Strip is either damaged, inaccessible, or both, it said, while livestock has been decimated.

“It breaks my heart to see the ongoing scale of human suffering in Gaza,” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Friday.

“We need more crossings, the lifting of restrictions on critical items, the removal of red tape, safe routes inside Gaza, sustained funding, and unimpeded access — including for NGOs,” he said.

Guterres also urged the world “not lose sight of the rapidly deteriorating situation in the West Bank,” where Palestinians “face escalating Israeli settler violence, land seizures, demolitions and intensified movement restrictions.”

Source: arabnews.com

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Rubio says US hopes talks between Lebanon and Israel lead to strong govt, Hezbollah disarmed

December 19, 2025

WASHINGTON: Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Friday the US hoped talks between Lebanese authorities and ⁠Israel would lead to a strong Lebanese government and see the ⁠Hezbollah militant group disarmed.

“We are hopeful that talks between Lebanese authorities and Israelis will create outlines and a ⁠way forward that prevents further conflict,” Rubio told a press conference.

Source: arabnews.com

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Jerusalem’s Latin Patriarch visits Gaza for Christmas

December 19, 2025

JERUSALEM: Jerusalem’s Latin Patriarch, Cardinal PierbattistaPizzaballa, arrived in Gaza Friday for Christmas Mass at the Holy Family Parish in Gaza City, which hosts the Palestinian territory’s only Roman Catholic church.

The senior churchman “arrived in Gaza today for a pastoral visit to the Holy Family Parish, on the eve of the Christmas celebrations,” his office said in a statement.

It said the visit “reaffirms the enduring bond of the Holy Family Parish in Gaza with the wider Diocese of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem.”

During his visit, Pizzaballa will review developments in humanitarian response on the ground in the Gaza Strip as well as rehabilitation efforts.

He will also lead an anticipated Christmas Mass at the Holy Family Parish on Sunday, the statement said.

During his last visit to Gaza in July, Pizzaballa brought in 500 tons of food for residents suffering from shortages caused by Israeli restrictions on goods entering the devastated territory.

Pizzaballa and his Greek Orthodox counterpart, Theophilos III, were visiting after Israeli fire hit the Holy Family Church, killing three people.

A famine declared in Gaza in August is now over thanks to improved access for humanitarian aid, the United Nations said on Friday, also warning that the food situation there remained “critical.”

About 1,000 of 2.2 million Gaza inhabitants are Christians, most of them Orthodox.

The Latin Patriarchate says 135 Catholics live in Gaza. They sought shelter inside the compound of the Holy Family Church in the first days of the war between Israel and Hamas.

Some members of the Greek Orthodox church joined them in the compound owned by the Roman Catholic church.

Source: arabnews.com

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Lebanon ties ceasefire talks to return of displaced residents

NAJIA HOUSSARI

December 19, 2025

BEIRUT: Lebanon has made the return of displaced residents to their border villages a prerequisite for further discussions in ceasefire mechanism talks with Israel, Arab News has learned.

President Joseph Aoun instructed Lebanon’s civilian representative, former ambassador Simon Karam, to raise the return of civilians to their homes and lands in southern Lebanon as a top priority during Friday’s meeting of the Military Technical Committee in Naqoura.

The talks, attended by Lebanese and Israeli military and civilian representatives, are part of a UN-backed mechanism responsible for monitoring the implementation of the Lebanon-Israel ceasefire.

According to the US Embassy in Beirut, the civilian participants, who attended the 15th MTC meeting, focused on “setting conditions for residents to return safely to their homes, advancing reconstruction, and addressing economic priorities.”

While Karam raised the issue of safe civilian return during the meeting, no official response was issued by the Israeli delegation. However, an official source told Arab News that the atmosphere was “positive,” and no objections were recorded.

All parties agreed that “a strengthened Lebanese Armed Force, the guarantors of security in the South Litani Sector, is critical to success,” according to a statement from the US Embassy in Beirut.

In parallel, the military participants presented operational updates and focused on “deepening the cooperation by finding ways to increase coordination through the mechanism,” according to the embassy’s statement.

The Lebanese army is scheduled to complete the disarmament south of the Litani River by the end of this month, according to the set plan, and will begin the next phases north of the river at the start of the new year.

The official source told Arab News that the Lebanese army will not seek an extension beyond the end of this month to place all weapons south of the Litani River under its control.

The source added that the army will present progress at Monday’s Cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace.

“Hezbollah is not expected to comment on the handover of its weapons south of the Litani River, having agreed to the army’s plan. The responsibility now lies entirely with the official military institution,” the official source said.

The Lebanese army organized a tour for Arab and foreign ambassadors south of the Litani River last week after Israeli skepticism regarding the Lebanese army’s slow progress in implementing its mission.

The diplomatic delegation visited a Hezbollah facility that the Lebanese army had seized as part of its verification process. The visit aimed to ensure that the area was cleared of Hezbollah military infrastructure and to confirm that it was now under the army’s full control, except for positions occupied by the Israeli military.

The US Embassy in Beirut said the mechanism committee aimed to advance coordinated efforts toward stability and a lasting cessation of hostilities.

During the meeting, all participants reaffirmed that progress on the “security and political tracks” are “essential to ensuring long-term stability and prosperity” for Israel and Lebanon, with the next round of meetings to be held in 2026.

French envoy Jean-Yves Le Drian, who had planned to travel to Lebanon for the mechanism committee meeting on Friday, decided to postpone his participation to a session scheduled for Jan. 7. US envoy Morgan Ortagus will also attend, according to media reports.

A four-party meeting was held in Paris on Thursday, bringing together representatives of France, the US, Saudi Arabia, and Lebanon.

The meeting reviewed the work of the mechanism committee and explored ways to expand its scope following the inclusion of civilian representatives —Karam for Lebanon and Uri Resnik for Israel.

Participants agreed to form a tripartite working group to prepare for a conference in February aimed at supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces and Internal Security Forces, although the venue has yet to be announced.

A statement from the Elysee Palace said the US, Saudi, and French envoys to Lebanon met with Gen. RodolpheHaykal, Lebanon’s army commander, who briefed them on the implementation of the “Homeland Shield” plan, aimed at placing all weapons under state control. The envoys voiced their support for the Lebanese Armed Forces and praised the sacrifices made by its personnel.

French Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pascal Confavreux said that Gen. Haykal outlined the progress made on disarmament efforts and detailed the army’s needs to fulfill the mission.

In a significant development, Israeli army spokesperson AvichayAdraee revealed for the first time the fate of ImadAmhaz, a Lebanese sea captain abducted by an Israeli commando unit from the coast of Batroun nearly a year ago.

Adraee said the covert naval operation, carried out about 140 km from Israel’s northern border under the direction of the Israeli Navy’s Intelligence Division, targeted Amhaz due to his alleged role in Hezbollah’s maritime operations.

He described Amhaz as a key figure in the group’s “secret maritime file” and a member of Hezbollah’s coast-to-sea missile unit, known as Unit 7900.

According to the Israeli narrative, Amhaz received military training in Iran and Lebanon and had acquired significant maritime expertise intended for naval operations.

During interrogation in Israel, Amhaz allegedly confessed to holding a central role in Hezbollah’s covert maritime program and provided what Adraee described as “sensitive intelligence” about one of the group’s most classified projects — the establishment of a civilian-front infrastructure aimed at carrying out maritime attacks on Israeli and international targets.

Adraee claimed that Amhaz’s information, along with the targeted killing of other leaders linked to the file, had “crippled the project at a critical stage and prevented its advancement.”

The Israeli military also accused Iran of supplying strategic guidance and material support for the development of Hezbollah’s maritime capabilities, vowing to “continue operating on multiple fronts and through various means to eliminate threats against Israeli citizens.”

Adraee published a video clip allegedly showing Amhaz’s confessions and footage of the abduction operation.

Meanwhile, Egypt’s Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly held talks with senior Lebanese officials on Friday during a two-day official visit aimed at reinforcing bilateral ties and supporting Lebanon’s stability.

During a joint press conference with his Lebanese counterpart Nawaf Salam, Madbouly reaffirmed Cairo’s support for the Lebanese government’s efforts to extend state authority across all national territory.

He commended the government’s efforts in consolidating internal stability, stating: “Egypt views Lebanon as a cornerstone of stability in the Middle East, and we are committed to helping keep it clear of any escalation.”

Madbouly emphasized that “a strong state is the source of legitimacy,” reiterating Egypt’s firm support for Lebanon in the face of ongoing challenges. He condemned continued Israeli violations of Lebanese sovereignty and the occupation of Lebanese territory, calling for “an immediate and unconditional withdrawal from all Lebanese land.”

He also underlined the need for full, impartial implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and respect for the Nov. 27 ceasefire agreement.

Source: arabnews.com

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Syria welcomes lifting of US sanctions

December 19, 2025

DAMASCUS: Syria’s foreign ministry on Friday welcomed the permanent ending by the United States of the so-called Caesar sanctions, paving the way for the return of investment to the war-ravaged nation.

The US Congress on Wednesday permanently ended the sanctions imposed on Syria under Bashar Assad, who was ousted in December last year.

The Caesar Act, named after an anonymous photographer who documented atrocities in Assad’s prisons, severely restricted investment and cut off Syria from the international banking system.

A foreign ministry statement in Damascus “welcomed” the step, calling it “an entrance to the phase of reconstruction and development.” It urged “all Syrians in the country and abroad to contribute in national recovery efforts.”

US President Donald Trump had already twice suspended the implementation of sanctions against Syria in response to pleas from Saudi Arabia and Turkiye, allies of the new government headed by former jihadist Ahmed Al-Sharaa.

But Sharaa had sought a permanent end to the sanctions, fearing that as long as the measures remained on the books they would deter businesses wary of legal risks in the United States, the world’s largest economy.

Source: arabnews.com

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Spread of Gaza famine has been averted yet strip still faces starvation, experts say

December 19, 2025

TEL AVIV: The spread of famine has been averted in Gaza yet the situation remains critical with the entire strip still facing starvation, the world’s leading authority on food crises said Friday.

The new report by The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, or IPC, comes months after the group said famine was occurring in Gaza City and likely to spread across the territory without a ceasefire and an end to humanitarian aid restrictions.

There were “notable improvements” in food security and nutrition following an October ceasefire and no famine has been detected, the report said. Still, the IPC warned the situation remains “highly fragile” and the entire Gaza Strip is in danger of starvation with nearly 2,000 people facing catastrophic levels of hunger through April.

In the worst-case scenario, including renewed conflict and a halt of aid, the whole strip is at risk of famine. Needs remain immense and sustained, expanded and unhindered aid is required, the IPC said.

The Israeli military agency in charge of coordinating aid to Gaza, known as COGAT, said Friday it strongly rejected the findings.

The agency adheres to the ceasefire and allows the agreed amount of aid to reach the strip, COGAT said, noting the aid quantities “significantly exceed the nutritional requirements of the population” in Gaza according to accepted international methodologies, including the United Nations.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry said Friday it also rejects the findings, saying the IPC’s report doesn’t reflect reality in Gaza and more than the required amount of aid was reaching the strip.

Israel’s government has rejected the IPC’s past findings, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calling the previous report an “outright lie.”

The report’s findings come as the shaky US-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas reaches a pivotal point as Phase 1 nears completion, with the remains of one hostage still in Gaza. The more challenging second phase has yet to be implemented and both sides have accused the other of violating the truce.

The IPC in August confirmed the grim milestone of famine for the first time in the Middle East and warned it could spread south to Deir Al-Balah and Khan Younis. More than half a million people in Gaza, about a quarter of its population, faced catastrophic levels of hunger, with many at risk of dying from malnutrition-related causes, the August report said.

Friday’s report said the spread of famine had been offset by a significant reduction in conflict, a proposed peace plan and improved access for humanitarian and commercial food deliveries.

There is more food on the ground and people now have two meals daily, up from one meal each day in July. That situation “is clearly a reversal of what had been one of the most dire situations where we were during the summer,” Antoine Renard, the World Food Program’s director for the Palestinian territories, told UN reporters in a video briefing from Gaza City Thursday.

Food access has “significantly improved,” he said, warning that the greatest challenge now is adequate shelter for Palestinians, many of whom are soaked and living in water-logged tents. Aid groups say nearly 1.3 million Palestinians need emergency shelter as winter sets in.

Displacement is one of the key drivers behind the food insecurity, with more than 70 percent of Gaza’s population living in makeshift shelters and relying on assistance. Other factors such as poor hygiene and sanitation as well as restricted access to food are also exacerbating the hunger crisis, the IPC said.

While humanitarian access has improved compared with previous analysis periods, that access fluctuates daily and is limited and uneven across the strip, the IPC said.

To prevent further loss of life, expanded humanitarian assistance including food, fuel, shelter and health care is urgently needed, according to the group’s experts, who warned that over the next 12 months more than 100,000 children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years are expected to suffer from acute malnutrition and require treatment.

Figures recently released by Israel’s military suggest it has not met the ceasefire stipulation of allowing 600 trucks of aid into Gaza each day, though Israel disputes that finding. American officials with the US-led center coordinating aid shipments into Gaza also say deliveries have reached the agreed levels.

Aid groups say despite increase of assistance, aid is still not reaching everyone in need after suffering two years of war.

“This is not a debate about truck numbers or calories on paper, it’s about whether people can actually access food, clean water, shelter and health care safely and consistently. Right now, they cannot,” said BushraKhalidi, Oxfam’s policy lead for Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory.

People must be able to rebuild their homes, grow food and recover and the conditions for that are still being denied, she said.

Source: arabnews.com

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Muslim World League hails Caesar Act repeal as “pivotal” for Syria’s future

20/12/2025

Jeddah, Dec. 19 (SANA) The Muslim World League welcomed Friday the United States’ decision to repeal the “Caesar Act,” describing it as a pivotal step toward a more promising future for the Syrian people.

In a statement posted on the League’s official website, Secretary-General Muhammad bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa said the historic move by U.S. President Donald Trump reflects Syria’s right to move forward on its new path.

Al-Issa added that he hoped the Syrian government’s efforts would succeed in meeting the aspirations of its people for stability and prosperity, and he praised Saudi Arabia’s support for Syria during this critical juncture.

On Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump signed the Department of Defense budget law for 2026, which includes a provision fully repealing the Caesar Act, imposed on Syria since 2019, making the repeal effective.

Source: sana.sy

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50,000 Palestinians Perform Friday Prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque

19 Dec 2025

Tens of thousands of Palestinians performed Friday prayers today at the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque and its courtyards, despite the restrictions and tightening of measures imposed by the Zionist enemy on worshippers.

Sources in Al-Quds indicated that approximately 50,000 worshippers performed the prayers in the mosque and its courtyards, while enemy forces intensified their presence in the Old City of Al-Quds and its surroundings, especially near the Lions' Gate and Damascus Gate, where they erected numerous checkpoints, according to the Sanad News Agency.

Source: saba.ye

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Massive rallies in Al‑Jawf condemn insulting Holy Qur’an crime & support Palestine

20 Dec 2025

Al‑Jawf Governorate witnessed large‑scale marches and sit‑ins expressing a state of general mobilization in defense of the Holy Qur’an, reaffirming a firm and supportive stance toward the Palestinian people , their resistance, rejecting the crimes of the Zionist enemy and the ongoing violations against Islamic holy sites.

Participants in the mass march in Al‑Hazm District raised slogans condemning the insult to the Holy Qur’an and renewing their pledge to stand with Palestine, stressing that the Qur’an is a red line and that the nation’s battle is one against its enemies.

Al‑Matun District saw a notable public turnout, with participants voicing anger over Zionist crimes and their readiness to shoulder responsibility in supporting the causes of the Ummah, affirming that silence over what is happening in Palestine is a betrayal of Islamic values.

Residents of Al‑Zaher organized large marches, with speeches affirming that repeated targeting of the Qur’an is an attack on the nation’s identity, and that the response lies in steadfastness, awareness, and serious action in support of the oppressed in Palestine.

Marches also took place in Al‑Ghayl with high spiritual morale, renewing the close link between supporting the Qur’an , supporting Palestine, rejecting all forms of normalization and submission to the Zionist enemy.

In Al‑Matammah, strong marches expressed full readiness to face challenges, emphasizing that what Gaza is facing is a humanitarian crime requiring a sincere and effective stance from all.

Al‑Khalaq District witnessed wide popular marches whose statement affirmed that a nation that abandons the Qur’an will see its sanctities violated, and that a sincere return to the Book of God is the path to victory and dignity.

Residents of Al‑Sail marched in a display of unity, chanting slogans condemning occupation crimes and affirming full support for the Palestinian people until their full rights are achieved.

Marches were also organized in Khab and Al‑Sha‘f, stressing that popular mobilization is a clear message to the enemy that the nation is alive and that Palestine will remain the central cause.

Al‑Marashi saw strong mass marches affirming readiness to support the Qur’an and Palestine and rejecting any insult to Islamic sanctities, while reaffirming a steadfast faith‑based position.

In Al‑‘Anan, participants expressed awareness of the scale of conspiracies targeting the Ummah, affirming that Palestine is not alone and that the Yemeni people are present in stance and word.

Rajuzah organized popular marches embodying the spirit of mobilization, with participants stressing that what is happening in Palestine requires serious action and that silence amounts to complicity.

Al‑Hamidat witnessed broad public participation expressing steadfastness, commitment to supporting the Qur’an, and rejection of all attempts to break the will of the nation.

Residents of Rahub affirmed during a strong march that the Qur’an is the source of dignity and that supporting Palestine is a religious and moral duty that allows no complacency.

The marches across Al‑Jawf’s districts presented a unified national and faith‑based scene reflecting general mobilization, reaffirming that the Yemeni people will remain steadfast in supporting the Holy Qur’an and defending Palestine, regardless of challenges.

A statement issued by the marches said that the repeated, systematic campaigns insulting the Holy Qur’an—Islam’s most sacred text—are part of a comprehensive Zionist war targeting Islam, Muslims, and their sanctities, led by the United States, Israel, and Britain, along with their followers.

The statement called on the Islamic Ummah to mobilize and express strong anger and categorical rejection of this heinous crime, stressing the continuation of boycotting American and Israeli products.

It reaffirmed commitment to the path of faith, steadfastness, and support for the Palestinian people, readiness for the next phase of confrontation with enemies, and facing all schemes targeting Yemen and the region, relying on God and preparing with all available means through mobilization and various activities.

The statement strongly condemned what it described as the largest gas deal in the history of the enemy, concluded by the Egyptian authorities with the Zionist entity, considering it a reward for crimes against the Palestinian people and a disregard of declared hostile intentions toward Egypt and other Arab and Islamic countries under the “Greater Israel” plan.

It called for canceling the deal and avoiding offense to Egypt’s history and the struggle of the Egyptian people against the Zionist enemy, warning that the revenues would provide the enemy with significant funds to be used against Egypt first and then other Arab and Islamic countries.

Source: saba.ye

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Arab World

 

KSrelief sets emergency camp for Gazans displaced by severe weather

December 20, 2025

RIYADH: The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) has set up a new emergency camp in the central Gaza Strip, providing shelter to hundreds of families forced from their homes in recent weeks.

More than 250 tents have been installed to meet immediate needs, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The camp was established after severe weather destroyed large numbers of temporary shelters across the area.

Aid workers say powerful storms and flooding have swept through central Gaza, flattening hundreds of tents and deepening an already severe humanitarian crisis.

Families who have taken shelter in the camp said the new tents have eased some of the immediate strain of displacement. After weeks of exposure to rain and cold, many said the shelters have offered basic protection and a degree of comfort as winter conditions continue.

The camp is part of broader Saudi led efforts to respond to urgent humanitarian needs in Gaza.

Source: arabnews.com

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Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage

December 19, 2025

AlUla: The Winter at Tantora Festival launched on Thursday in AlUla. It runs until Jan. 10 and presents a cultural season which celebrates the region’s rich civilizational, cultural, and historic legacy.

The festival’s program includes a wide array of cultural, artistic, and traditional activities, reported the Saudi Press Agency.

Attractions include Old Town Nights, ShorfatTantora, When Shadow Tracks Us, and the Al-Manshiyah Carnival.

In addition, there are guided tours of street art through the Old Town, special events commemorating the Year of Handicrafts, culinary experiences, and artistic and musical performances.

The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities. The modern festival honors this tradition by marking the onset of winter and the start of the planting season.

This year’s edition offers a range of experiences to celebrate heritage, genuine local culture, and traditional craftsmanship.

As part of AlUla Moments, the Winter at Tantora Festival supports efforts to boost cultural and tourist engagement while enhancing the visitor experience.

The initiative reflects Saudi Vision 2030’s commitment to advancing cultural tourism and promoting the Kingdom’s historic landmarks.

The festival has established itself as one of AlUla’s premier annual events, consistently attracting both domestic and international audiences.

Source: arabnews.com

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Wrth concludes camp on Al-Uqair Beach

December 19, 2025

RIYADH: The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts, also known as Wrth, concluded its second annual Wrth Camp training and educational program, held on Al-Uqair Beach in Al-Ahsa from Nov. 17 to Dec. 17.

The 30-day program offered a blended learning and practical experience, combining craftsmanship, design, and hands-on learning.

The camp is a unique program designed to provide a practical educational model that connects trainees with the local traditional arts of the regions where it is held, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Through Wrth Camp, more than 50 participants from various regions of the Kingdom were able to participate in an integrated educational experience that combined theoretical and practical training. The program was conducted under the supervision of a select group of experts and trainers from Wrth.

The experience resulted in the production of three joint artworks, all executed by hand and rooted in the traditional arts associated with the identity of Al-Ahsa governorate. These included a mural of the Al-Ahsabisht, which was executed at the Emirate of Al-Ahsa Governorate, as well as the plaster sculptures created in Al-Hofuf.

The program produced a work at Al-Ahsa International Airport that combines plaster with Al-Ahsa doors.

Source: arabnews.com

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Saudi charitable foundation celebrates World Arabic Language Day with UNESCO in Paris

December 19, 2025

RIYADH: The charitable Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud Foundation and the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization celebrated World Arabic Language Day with an event in Paris this week under the theme “Innovative Pathways for Arabic: Policies and Practices for a More Inclusive Linguistic Future.”

Organized in collaboration with the Kingdom’s permanent delegation to UNESCO, it brought together a distinguished group of international leaders, policymakers, experts, intellectuals and specialists in linguistic and cultural affairs from around the globe, organizers said, to underscore the global standing of the Arabic language and its pivotal role in promoting cultural diversity and dialogue among civilizations.

The participants included Khaled Ahmed El-Enany, director general of UNESCO; AbdulelahAltokhais, Saudi Arabia’s permanent delegate to the organization; and Saleh Ibrahim Al-Kholaifi, the foundation’s director general.

In his speech at the event, El-Enany highlighted the importance of the partnership between UNESCO and the foundation, which he said allows the organization to increase the scale of its ambition in the work it does. A number of key projects are planned as part of the collaboration, he added.

Source: arabnews.com

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KSrelief helps fight cholera in Yemen

December 19, 2025

ADEN: The Emergency Response Project for Cholera in Yemen for 2025–2026, supported by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, has provided medical services to 2,069 individuals from Dec. 3 to 9.

The project targeted areas most affected by the outbreak, aiming to reduce infection rates and curb the spread of cholera through preventive measures, including the deployment of specialized medical teams to screen and monitor travelers at air and land entry points.

These efforts come as an extension of the Kingdom’s humanitarian role, through KSrelief, in supporting Yemen’s health sector and limiting the spread of epidemics and infectious diseases.

Meanwhile, the center’s mobile medical clinic provided treatment services at the Waalan Camp for displaced persons in the Haradh region of Yemen during November.

Medications were dispensed to 247 individuals, while the nursing services department received 242 patients. The surgery and dressing clinic treated 45 people, and eight waste disposal activities were carried out.

Source: arabnews.com

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Saudi, UN officials discuss trade and AI in Austria

December 19, 2025

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia and UN officials held discussions in Vienna, Austria, on Dec. 18 and 19, on international trade rules and artificial intelligence.

Participants at the meeting included representatives of the Kingdom’s National Competitiveness Center and the UN Commission on International Trade Law, or UNCITRAL, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The workshop was a part of the NCC’s efforts to contribute to the development of legislative and regulatory frameworks for trade, keeping pace with global digital transformations, and enhancing the competitiveness of the national economy.

The Kingdom’s delegation was led by Commerce Minister Majid Al-Qasabi, who is the chairman of the NCC. Also present were Iman bint Habas Al-Mutairi, CEO of the NCC, 39 government officials, and Anna Jobin-Bret, secretary of UNCITRAL.

In his opening speech, Al-Qasabi spoke about the connection between technology and consumer behavior and its impact on the future of global trade.

The workshop included seven specialized sessions, which addressed AI in international trade, focusing on how it can improve the efficiency of supply chains, logistics operations, and e-commerce.

In a session, “Digital Platforms for Cross-Border Trade,” panelists addressed the legal and regulatory frameworks for using digital platforms.

Other sessions reviewed UNCITRAL’s perspective on the UN@80 initiative. Jobin-Bret spoke about the commission’s efforts and role in the world body’s reform process.

The workshop concluded with a session addressing preparations for joining the new Convention on Commercial Registers, emphasizing the importance of UNCITRAL’s efforts to ensure reliable digital trade.

Source: arabnews.com

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Jeddah Book Fair 2025 hosts special workshops

December 19, 2025

JEDDAH: The Jeddah Book Fair is maintaining its momentum with a diverse lineup of special workshops that highlight intellectual content and thoughtful cultural perspectives.

These sessions form part of a broader program organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

A standout workshop titled “The Global Value of Arabian Peninsula Heritage: Understanding Our Shared Human Legacy” examined the region’s archaeological treasures as integral to worldwide human history.

Participants explored the developmental journey of Arabian societies, from the establishment of early settlements and the transformation of lifestyles — shifting from hunting and gathering to agricultural practices and livestock domestication.

The session highlighted tangible evidence of this evolution, including pottery, metalwork, rock engravings and sculptural works, all serving as markers of advancing human intellect and adaptation to the environment.

Discussion also centered on the Arabian Peninsula’s pivotal geographical location, which has historically positioned it as a cultural hub where diverse civilizations converged, trade flourished, and populations migrated.

Source: arabnews.com

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Ancient rock art in Taif’s Al-Sail Al-Sagheer reveals stories of early Arabian life

December 19, 2025

RIYADH: Carved into mountain walls in Al-Sail Al-Sagheer, a district in Taif governorate, ancient rock engravings offer a rare glimpse into the lives of early inhabitants who once roamed western Arabia.

These historical markings serve as compelling evidence of human presence in the region spanning multiple generations and civilizations.

Speaking to the Saudi Press Agency, heritage researcher and Taif historian Manahi Al-Qathami described the rock art as a crucial visual archive documenting shifts in environment, economy, and society over time.

According to Al-Qathami, the engravings support the theory that Al-Sail Al-Sagheer served as a key corridor for ancient communities, who settled there either temporarily or permanently, drawn by abundant natural resources and protective rock shelters.

Dr.Mastoura Al-Arabi, a professor of literature and modern criticism at Taif University, highlighted the governorate’s growing recognition among heritage preservation authorities for its wealth of historically significant archaeological sites.

In her remarks to the SPA, she characterized the rock art as an integral component of the Kingdom’s cultural heritage and a pillar of national identity.

The preservation efforts, Al-Arabi noted, align closely with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals of safeguarding archaeological treasures and boosting cultural tourism.

She called for urgent measures to protect the engravings from damage or vandalism, emphasizing the need for rigorous scientific documentation and research that honors their civilizational significance as records of humanity's enduring bond with the land over millennia.

Source: arabnews.com

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Rajab moon sighting: What it means for the Ramadan timeline

December 20, 2025

Dubai: Most Islamic countries are expected to observe the crescent moon marking the start of Rajab 1447 AH on Saturday, according to the International Astronomical Centre.

Rajab is the seventh month of the Hijri calendar and one of Islam’s four sacred months. It holds special importance as it signals the final phase leading up to Ramadan, which traditionally begins after Rajab and Sha’ban.

When could Ramadan begin?

If Rajab starts on Sunday, December 21, and both Rajab and Sha’ban run their usual 29 or 30 days, Ramadan is expected to begin in about 60 to 61 days. However, the exact date will depend on official moon sightings closer to the time.

Engineer Mohammed ShawkatOdeh, Director of the International Astronomical Center, said the moon’s central conjunction will occur at 01:43 GMT on Saturday. He added that the visibility of the crescent after sunset will vary widely by region.

Where the crescent may be seen

According to Odeh, the crescent may be visible with telescopes from parts of southern and south-western Africa, as well as South America. Naked-eye visibility is expected only from western South America and the Pacific Ocean.

Because the crescent can be seen from some parts of the Islamic world, many official calendars have already listed Sunday, December 21, as the first day of Rajab.

Despite astronomical predictions, Odeh stressed that the official start of Rajab remains subject to confirmation by religious authorities in each country, based on verified crescent sighting reports.

Visibility ruled out in many Arab capitals

Astronomical calculations show that crescent visibility will be impossible on Saturday evening in several Arab and Islamic capitals, whether by telescope or with the naked eye.

In Jakarta, the moon will set 18 minutes after sunset, at an age of 11 hours and 16 minutes. In Abu Dhabi, moonset will occur 10 minutes after sunset, with the moon aged 13 hours and 30 minutes. In Riyadh, it will set after 11 minutes, at 13 hours and 55 minutes old.

In Amman, the moon will set 8 minutes after sunset, aged 14 hours and 9 minutes. In Cairo, it will set after 10 minutes, at 14 hours and 24 minutes. In Rabat, moonset will occur 12 minutes after sunset, with the moon aged 16 hours and 3 minutes.

In all these locations, Odeh said, crescent sighting will not be possible by any conventional means.

Better chances in Southern Africa

More favourable conditions are expected in Maputo, Mozambique, where the moon will set 39 minutes after sunset at an age of 16 hours and 8 minutes, making telescope observation possible.

Odeh noted that advanced astronomical imaging techniques could, in theory, detect the crescent across much of the Islamic world. However, such methods remain religiously disputed and are not accepted by many countries for declaring the start of lunar months.

He added that the shortest moonset interval ever observed by the naked eye was 29 minutes, while the youngest visible crescent was recorded at 15 hours and 33 minutes.

Even then, he said, visibility is not guaranteed and also depends on factors such as the moon’s angular distance from the sun and its height above the horizon.

Source: gulfnews.com

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Europe

 

How a mosque in Ashton has helped over 50 local families

 Adam Higgins

December 19, 2025

MORE than 50 families in Ashton-under-Lyne have received direct financial support through a community-led initiative run in partnership with Ashton Central Mosque.

In just one month, the mosque helped distribute £7,900 in Zakat to 56 Muslim families facing financial hardship, working alongside UK charity the National Zakat Foundation (NZF).

The scheme operates at a neighbourhood level, with Ashton Central Mosque acting as a Community Zakat Hub. This allows people in need to access support face-to-face, rather than relying solely on online applications.

Mosque representatives say the local approach has helped ensure assistance reaches people quickly and with dignity, particularly those who may struggle with digital systems or complex forms.

Feedback from recipients has been overwhelmingly positive. One person said: “This initiative is very helpful, and the entire process was detailed and all the concerns/issues were heard completely and provided help, as necessary. Thank you so much.”

Another added: “Thank you for your kind treatment of me and your concern. You were at the peak of ethics. May Allah reward you with all good for what you have provided us and put it in the balance of your good deeds.”

Dr SohailHanif, CEO of the National Zakat Foundation, said the programme is designed to strengthen local support networks by working directly with mosques and community organisations.

“Our Community Zakat in Action works to strengthen local connections across the UK and focuses on localised distribution of Zakat through community-based hubs. This empowers grassroots organisations such as mosques, charities, and community centres to provide swift, dignified support to Muslims in need,” he said.

Dr Hanif added: “By decentralising the process, we aim to simplify the process for individuals who find online applications challenging and provide immediate financial relief to those experiencing hardship.

“We also want to encourage recipients to engage with wider community services for holistic support and strengthen the sense of belonging within local Muslim communities.”

Explaining why the local model is important, Dr Hanif said there were “three key points as to why local distribution matters within communities”.

“The first being that it fosters faith and community spirit, by receiving Zakat from their local mosque or community centre, those helped can discover and benefit from wider support services. This enriches their faith and personal well-being,” he said.

“Secondly, it helps to build strong ties by encouraging community members to connect with one another, fostering mutual support and a shared sense of responsibility.

“It also helps those in need to be helped with both dignity and speed. The personal, localised approach enables Zakat to be distributed faster and in a more dignified and respectful manner.”

Ashton Central Mosque continues to act as a local access point for residents seeking support, with the partnership highlighting the role community spaces can play in responding to cost-of-living pressures at a neighbourhood level.

Source: tamesidecorrespondent.co.uk

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https://www.tamesidecorrespondent.co.uk/2025/12/19/how-a-mosque-in-ashton-has-helped-over-50-local-families/

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US to strip alleged Bosnian war criminal of citizenship

20 Dec, 2025

Jack Burgess

The US justice department has launched a civil legal case against a man accused of being a Bosnian war criminal to revoke his citizenship.

Kemal Mrndzic did not disclose during his US immigration process that he served as a guard at Bosnia's notorious Celebici prison camp, where atrocities were committed, the department said.

A UN war crimes tribunal found that people held in the camp during the Bosnian war were killed, tortured, sexually assaulted, beaten and subjected to cruel and inhuman treatment.

US President Donald Trump's administration would not allow people who "persecute others" to "reap the benefits of refuge in the US", justice department official Brett Shumate said.

The assistant attorney general added that the legal case showed the value that the US government placed on "the integrity of its naturalisation process".

Mrndzic was found guilty by a jury in October 2024 on several counts of criminal fraud and misrepresentation in relation to his successful application for a US passport and naturalisation certificate.

He failed to disclose to immigration authorities the nature and timing of his military service, or that "he persecuted Bosnian-Serb inmates as a prison guard", the justice department said.

Mrndzic was sentenced in January 2025 to more than five years in prison.

The Bosnian war followed the break-up of Soviet Yugoslavia in the early 1990s and led to the Srebrenica massacre in July 1995.

Srebrenica, recognised by the UN as a genocide, became known as Europe's worst mass atrocity since World War Two, after Bosnian-Serb forces systematically murdered more than 8,000 Bosniak Muslim men and boys.

The Celebici prison camp was operated by Bosniak and Bosnian-Croat forces, who were also responsible for widespread killings in areas they controlled.

Serbian leader Slobodan Milosevic was tried for war crimes and genocide, and the massacre led to the US-brokered Dayton Peace Agreement on 14 December 1995.

Source: bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c2k422e7ykvo

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Issa brothers 'get away with murder' as changes to landmark mosque approved

Bill Jacobs

19 Dec 2025

Changes to an entrance at the Issa brothers’ £5 million landmark mosque in Blackburn have been approved by councillors, despite one member accusing their companies of “getting away with murder”.

Blackburn with Darwen Council’s planning and highways committee heard that access to the new Masjid E Vali, off Billinge End Road, had been altered and improved. The changes were submitted retrospectively by Monte Group, the property arm of billionaire brothers Mohsin and Zuber Issa.

The mosque, being built on the former Westholme Nursery School site, is being developed by the Issa Foundation, the family’s charitable organisation. The main vehicle entrance will remain from Preston New Road, while the Billinge End Road access serves as a secondary route.

At Thursday evening’s meeting, councillors approved a change to a condition attached to the original planning permission granted in March 2021, which related to the secondary access. However, Conservative group growth spokesman Cllr Paul Marrow raised concerns about the safety of the entrance, citing its proximity to the traffic light-controlled junction with Preston New Road.

He suggested vehicles leaving the mosque via Billinge End Road should be restricted to left turns only and said sightlines for drivers exiting the car park were poor. Cllr Marrow also expressed concern that this was another retrospective application by a company controlled by the brothers.

The backdated nature of the application was also raised by Cllr Khan who said: “They get away with murder every time.” He also asked what guarantees there were that a promise to marshal the vehicles using the new mosques two car parks and entrances would be honoured in the long-term.

Borough planning manager Gavin Prescott said the marshalling requirement was a condition of the approval and could be monitored and enforced. Highways manager SafAlam said her department had worked closely with the mosque to produce a scheme that was a betterment of the junction and that visibility for drivers coming on to Billinge End Road had been significantly improved.

The alterations also include modifications to the car parking arrangements.

A report to the committee by Mr Prescott said: “The site access to Billinge End Road has been amended by means of removing a section of the stone wall fronting the carriageway and formation of widened splays.”

A spokesman for the Issa Foundation and Monte Group said: “We have followed due process and would like to respectfully decline to comment.”

Source: lancs.live

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

https://www.lancs.live/news/lancashire-news/issa-brothers-get-away-murder-33091646

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Italian court blocks imam’s expulsion, deepening PM’s clash with the judiciary

19 December 2025

*updates with quote from law enforcement source*

An Italian court has blocked the expulsion of a Turin-based imam accused by the government of having links to Hamas, a decision Prime Minister GiorgiaMeloni says effectively shields those who legitimise or enable terrorist groups.

The ruling has intensified a growing clash between Italy’s executive and judiciary.

Issued on 15 December, the court’s decision suspends a 24 November decree from the Interior Ministry ordering the removal of Mohamed Shahin, an Egyptian-born imam who has lived in Italy for more than two decades and serves at Turin’s Omar Ibn Khattab mosque.

The ministry justified the expulsion on national security grounds, citing Shahin’s public statements on the war in Gaza, his alleged connections to Hamas-linked networks, and his influence within local Muslim communities.

Shahin came under scrutiny after emerging as a leading organiser of pro-Gaza demonstrations in Turin.

At several rallies, he described Hamas’s 7 October 2023 attack on Israel as an act of “resistance” — language the government argues amounts to legitimising terrorist violence amid heightened social tension.

Interior Ministry officials said Shahin’s position as a religious leader amplified the potential impact of his messages, increasing the risk of radicalisation even without direct operational ties to extremist groups.

The Turin court, however, ruled the government’s case insufficient, finding no concrete or immediate security threat. Shahin’s long-term residency, clean criminal record, and lack of evidence of violent activity were key factors.

The judges also noted that his alleged links to networks associated with Hamas were not considered sufficient to justify expulsion. They emphasised that even deeply divisive or inflammatory speech does not, by itself, meet the legal threshold for removal.

The ruling allows Shahin to continue as imam, where he remains a prominent and influential figure within Italy’s Muslim communities.

“This is a boundary we have to consider in our future investigations,” a law enforcement source told Brussels Signal. “The ruling highlights that, in monitoring and tackling networks linked to Hamas, our actions must stay within the legal limits defined by the judiciary.”

These limits are sparking intense debate in Italy over the balance between security and human rights, further inflaming tensions between the government and sections of the judiciary that the executive accuses of political bias.

The decision prompted an unusually direct response from Meloni, who accused parts of the judiciary of undermining the state’s ability to tackle extremism.

On social media, the prime minister said it was “legitimate to ask” how Italy can protect its citizens if judges overturn measures targeting individuals who frame Hamas’s actions as resistance rather than terrorism.

Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi echoed her criticism, calling the ruling “disheartening” and warning that it risks weakening preventive security measures.

He noted that the government has issued more than 200 expulsions on security grounds since taking office and indicated that the Interior Ministry would pursue the case through all available legal channels.

The Shahin ruling feeds into a broader narrative promoted by Meloni’s government: that parts of the judiciary are limiting executive authority on migration, extremism, and public order.

This tension has already surfaced in other high-profile cases, most notably the government’s plan to process migrants in offshore repatriation centres in Albania.

The initiative, based on a 2023 bilateral agreement and expanded by a 28 March 2025 decree, has faced repeated legal challenges, with courts questioning its compatibility with Italian and European law.

All of this is unfolding ahead of a highly politicised referendum on judicial governance, requested by the government and scheduled for early 2026.

Meloni’s allies argue that ideologically motivated magistrates have gained outsized influence over security-related policy.

Critics, including opposition parties and legal associations, warn that the referendum risks undermining judicial independence.

What began as an administrative decision to expel a single imam has now become a symbol of a deeper struggle over power and prerogatives — crystallising a question likely to dominate Italy’s political debate in the run-up to 2026: who ultimately decides on security — elected governments or the courts?

Source: brusselssignal.eu

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https://brusselssignal.eu/2025/12/italian-court-blocks-imams-expulsion-deepening-pms-clash-with-the-judiciary/

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NATO, Ukraine peace and frozen assets: Key statements from Putin’s Q&A

19 Dec, 2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin held his annual Direct Line end-of-year press conference in Moscow on Friday, addressing a broad range of issues in the four-and-a-half-hour Q&A session with citizens and journalists.

Among the topics, Putin talked about the EU’s failed attempts to tap Russia’s frozen central bank assets, warnings against further NATO expansion, and security guarantees to facilitate potential elections in Ukraine amid peace talks.

Here are the key statements:

On hopes for peace

“We, too, would very much like to live in peace next year, free of any military conflicts… and we strive to resolve all contentious issues through negotiations,” he said.

“We need to eliminate the root causes of the conflict so that nothing similar happens again, so that peace is long-lasting, strong, and sustainable.”

On NATO and future coexistence

“There won’t be any [military] operations if you treat us with respect and respect our interests, just as we’ve constantly tried to respect yours,” Putin said, citing NATO’s broken promises regarding eastward expansion.

“We are not demanding anything unusual. We are not saying that no country has the right to choose its own method of defense, but it must be a method that does not threaten anyone, including us.”

International cooperation

“We are ready to work with... the UK, with Europe as a whole, and with the United States, but on an equal footing, with mutual respect,” he said.

“If we ultimately reach this point, everyone will benefit.”

On a possible blockade of Kaliningrad

“If we are threatened in this way, we will eliminate these threats,” he said. “Actions of this kind will lead to an unprecedented escalation of the conflict, take it to another level, and expand it to a full-scale armed conflict.”

On the US-brokered peace talks

“The ball is entirely in the court of our Western opponents, primarily the leaders of the Kiev regime, and above all, their European sponsors,” Putin said.

“We are ready for both negotiations and a peaceful resolution to the conflict.”

On weapons in space and 3I/ATLAS comet conspiracy theories

The Russian president jokingly addressed the conspiracy theories surrounding the 3I/ATLAS comet, which is currently passing through our solar system.

“It’s our secret weapon, but we’ll only use it as a last resort. Because we’re against placing weapons in space in general,” he said.

“But seriously, it’s a comet. Our scientists know what’s going on there. Moreover, this comet is from another galaxy, so it behaves differently.”

On the front line and Russian troops in the Ukraine conflict

“We’ve become the undisputed leader in drone numbers,” Putin said. “Over 400,000 people… signed up for military service this past year,” with the numbers of those seeking to join the drone pilot branch so high that the Defense Ministry had to instate an entry competition, he stated.

Russian soldiers are “itching” to advance further and “finish off the viper” after seeing the atrocities by Ukrainian troops against civilians. “They shot elderly women, killed them with drones.”

On Ukrainian elections

“We stated the possibility of our assistance… when Ukraine decides to organize presidential or parliamentary elections.”

On failed EU attempts to tap frozen Russian assets

“Theft is the wrong definition, theft is done in secret. But here they are trying to do it openly. It’s robbery,” Putin said.

“It’s not just a blow to their image; it’s an erosion of trust in, in this case, the Eurozone,” he added. “Most importantly, whatever they steal, no matter how they do it, will have to be repaid someday.”

On Russia’s demographic problems

“It’s important for [starting a family] to become fashionable, for people to understand the joys of motherhood and fatherhood.”

On God and Russia

“I believe in God, who is with us and will never abandon Russia,” Putin said.

Source: rt.com

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

https://www.rt.com/russia/629791-nato-ukraine-peace-putin-key-statements/

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EU agrees €90bn loan for Ukraine but without using Russian assets

20 Dec, 2025

Paul Kirby

European Union leaders have struck a late-night deal to lend Ukraine €90bn (£79bn; $105bn) over the next two years, after failing to agree on using frozen Russian assets.

Ukraine was set to run out of cash by next spring, and European Council chief António Costa said the loan would be paid back only when Russia paid reparations for its full-scale war.

"We committed, we delivered," said Costa, while Ukrainian Prime Minister YuliyaSvyrydenko praised the deal as "a decisive step for economic resilience".

A bid to use €210bn in Russian cash frozen in the EU, mainly in Belgium, ultimately failed as leaders could not convince Belgium's prime minister his country would be protected from Russian retaliation.

The bulk of the cash is held by Brussels-based Euroclear and interest from the frozen assets is already being paid to Ukraine. Russia has already launched legal action against the clearing house.

Russian President Vladimir Putin accused EU leaders of attempted robbery on Friday and Kirill Dmitriev, his envoy in talks with the US, claimed their failure to agree on using the assets was a "fatal blow".

However, Belgium's Bart De Wever said the deal eventually agreed after almost 17 hours of negotiations was a "victory for Ukraine, a victory for financial stability... and a victory for the EU". EU ⁠leaders had avoided "chaos and division", he added.

Ukraine needs an estimated €137bn over the next two years to cover both its military and its public services, and the EU plan is to cover two-thirds of that.

The €90bn that the EU will raise on the capital markets as part of the loan deal will be "backed by EU budget headroom" - the margin between actual EU contributions by member states in a year and the maximum the European Commission can spend as part of the budget.

Ukrainian President VolodymyrZelensky said he was grateful to European leaders for the "significant support that truly strengthens our resilience".

Germany's Friedrich Merz had been a strong supporter of the plan to use Russia's frozen assets. Although the idea has not been dropped, the decision to borrow the money against the EU budget instead is seen as a setback for him. Nevertheless, he declared that it "sends a clear signal from Europe to Putin".

Two countries, Hungary and Slovakia, refused to back the compromise deal, while the Czech Republic said it would not guarantee the loan.

Hungary's Viktor Orban, seen as Vladimir Putin's closest partner in the EU, has opposed handing any more money to Ukraine, arguing it prolongs the war, and he has condemned the deal.

"It looks like a loan, but the Ukrainians will never be able to pay it back," he told reporters. "It is basically losing money."

Like Orban, Slovakia's Robert Fico refused to back more funding to allow Ukraine to continue its defence against Russia, but Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis was careful to point out he agreed to the summit's conclusions "on condition we don't guarantee the loans".

Billionaire populist Babis only just formed a government this week, and his stance is a signficant departure from the previous government's staunch support for Ukraine.

The EU summit took place as US talks with Russia were set to continue, spearheaded by US President Donald Trump, who said this week that a solution was closer than ever.

Dmitriev is expected to meet Trump envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in Miami at the weekend, according to reports.

Meanwhile, a Ukrainian delegation is also due in Miami for talks with their US counterparts, days after Kushner and Witkoff met them and European leaders in Berlin.

European allies have made a series of proposals to end the war that include a multinational force as part of "robust security guarantees" for Ukraine.

Putin has criticised the European approach, saying he had already agreed to several compromises at his meeting with Trump in Alaska in August.

Praising Trump's "serious efforts to end this conflict", the Russian leader said "the ball is entirely and fully in the court of our Western opponents... the head of the Kyiv regime and its European sponsors".

Putin's demands were largely reflected in an initial US peace plan and include Ukraine handing over large areas of its own territory.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said the deal agreed by the EU boosted the Ukrainian position: "There is a chance that these negotiations will be about peace not on Russian terms, but on terms that can somehow be accepted and considered acceptable by all parties to this conflict."

Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron said he believed it would be "useful" for Europe to re-engage with Putin.

"I believe that it's in our interest as Europeans and Ukrainians to find the right framework to re-engage this discussion," he said, adding that Europeans should find the means to do so "in coming weeks".

Source: bbc.com

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

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3e025vyppeo

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North America

 

CAIR Condemns Shaun Maguire, Others Who Smeared and Endangered Innocent Muslim Student at Brown University

December 19, 2025

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned false allegations by Sequoia Capital partner Shaun Maguire and others who smeared and endangered an innocent Muslim student and anti-genocide activist at Brown University by raising suspicion that he was responsible for the deadly shooting on campus.

In a statement, CAIR National Deputy Director Edward Ahmed Mitchell said

“We strongly condemn anti-Muslim, pro-Israel extremists who rushed to blame the recent campus shooting on an innocent Brown University student who is Muslim and an advocate for Palestinian human rights. The remarks that Shaun Maguire and other bigots made about this student were irresponsible, dangerous, and, sadly, predictable.

“The Israel First movement has been desperately looking for any opportunity to stoke anti-Muslim hysteria in order to silence Americans, especially American Muslims, who opposed the genocide in Gaza. Mr. Maguire and others who risked endangering this innocent student must be held accountable and no one should take them seriously in the future.”

Earlier this year, CAIR reiterated its call for the firing of Maguire after he accused a US veteran of lying about Israeli forces killing a child in front of him.

CAIR previously called for the firing of Shaun Maguire over racist, anti-Muslim remarks posted on social media.

Source: cair.com

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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-condemns-shaun-maguire-others-who-smeared-and-endangered-innocent-muslim-student-at-brown-university/

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MAGA Blamed a Palestinian Student for the Brown University Shooting. They Were Once Again Very Wrong

TEAM ZETEO

DEC 20, 2025

In the immediate aftermath of the Brown University shooting, before investigators had identified the suspect or established a motive, a familiar pattern took hold. Right-wing figures, including Laura Loomer, rushed to social media with claims that the gunman was Muslim or that it was the result of left-wing violence.

There’s just one problem: there is nothing indicating the suspect shooter was Muslim, and he certainly wasn’t a Palestinian, as some conspiracy theorists wanted you to believe. He was a 48-year-old former Brown University student and Portuguese national who was found dead late Thursday of apparent suicide. There is no evidence that the killer shouted “Allahu Akbar.” He wasn’t a Palestinian student, whom conspiracy theorists dangerously named and circulated a photo of. We still don’t know the motive, but there’s nothing at this point that suggests he targeted one of the victims because she was a Republican.

Here’s a look at the dangerous anti-Muslim and anti-Palestinian hate that these figures spread:

Even after the suspected shooter’s identity became clear, Loomer still spread dangerous conspiracies:

Dangerously, right-wing influencers and conspiracy theorists attempted to link the shooting to a Palestinian student, including some naming him and using his photo. Others shared social media posts or online articles with the misinformation, including questioning why Brown had removed information about the student from its website (Brown condemned the “harmful doxxing” of the student and said “It is not unusual as a safety measure to take steps to protect an individual’s safety when this kind of activity happens, including in regard to their online presence.”)

Other right-wing public figures immediately rushed to blame “left-wing” violence for the shooting, despite there being no evidence to support the claims. They were quick to say one of the victims, Ella Cook, was a Republican, but they neglected naming the other student killed: MukhammadAzizUmurzokov, an 18-year-old US dual citizen from Uzbekistan, in his first semester. Nor did they name any of the nine people who were injured in the shooting.

While authorities are still working to determine a motive for the shooting, which they also linked to the killing of MIT professor NunoLoreiro at his home, all these figures should learn to wait for the evidence before jumping to conclusions that seem to have more to do with their prejudice or political needs than facts.

Source: zeteo.com

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

https://zeteo.com/p/maga-blamed-a-palestinian-student

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Broken Arrow Approves Rezoning For Massive Islamic Center Despite Strong Resident Opposition

DEC 19, 2025

The Broken Arrow Planning Commission in Oklahoma has voted to approve rezoning for a proposed 38,000-square-foot Islamic religious center, despite vocal opposition from residents who raised concerns about cultural integration, economic impacts, and infrastructure.

The 15-acre property, located just south of the Creek Turnpike along Olive Avenue in Broken Arrow — a suburb of Tulsa — has been owned by the North American Islamic Trust since 2014.

The Islamic Society of Tulsa (ISOT) plans to rezone the land, which is currently used primarily for agriculture, to commercial-general.

The proposal includes the construction of a mosque, beginning with a prayer hall and later expanding to include classrooms, a women’s prayer area, and a gym, totaling approximately 38,000 square feet and accommodating up to 700 parking spaces.

Future phases could also include retail development, according to project materials.

ISOT representatives describe funding as entirely private and drawn from community donations, with organizers stating that no taxpayer dollars would be used.

The meeting at Broken Arrow City Hall drew a packed audience, with more than 70 speakers participating in over four hours of public comment.

While a handful spoke in favor of the project, the majority — reflected in 144 opposition emails and dozens of phone calls to the city, according to the BA Sentinel — raised concerns about the project’s compatibility with the surrounding area.

Opponents, including many residents who filled the standing-room-only meeting — a turnout rarely seen at planning commission hearings — were quick to voice concerns about what they described as an imposition on the community. Some pointed to practical issues, such as inadequate traffic infrastructure and potential floodplain problems near White Horse Creek.

Cultural concerns were also a prominent theme, with some speakers warning of broader societal changes and comparing the proposal to growth patterns in communities such as Dearborn, Michigan.

Resident Sean Murray expressed concerns about future generations, stating, “We don’t want that imposed on our kids. I have a daughter who’s fifteen years old, and I don’t want this ideology imposed on her.”

Supporters of the proposal framed the project as an expansion of religious liberty and community diversity.

Phil Armstrong, president of the Oklahoma Center for Community Justice, described the project as a symbol of inclusion, stating, “Approving this project says Broken Arrow is a city where diversity is not something to overcome, but to embrace.”

Despite public comments strongly opposed to the request, the commission approved the rezoning request by a 4–1 vote and granted the conditional use permit for a place of assembly by a 3–2 vote.

The proposal now moves to the Broken Arrow City Council, with a review slated for early January, potentially as soon as January 6.

If greenlit, additional studies on traffic and construction plans will be required before shovels officially hit the ground.

Source: dallasexpress.com

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

https://dallasexpress.com/state/broken-arrow-approves-rezoning-for-massive-islamic-center-despite-strong-resident-opposition/

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Elise Stefanik exits politics: Donald Trump’s ally quits New York governor race — but why?

Dec 20, 2025

US President Donald Trump’s ally Elise Stefanik has opted to leave politics and said she will no longer run for New York governor.

House Republican Conference chair and fourth-ranking member in the House of Representatives, Stefanik said on Friday she was bowing out of politics to spend more time with family.

She added that she would halt the gubernatorial campaign, that was launched in November, and would not seek re-election to Congress.

When her current term representing New York’s upstate 21st congressional district expires in January 2027, she will have served 12 years in office on Capitol Hill.Stefanik’s decision followed a holiday advertising blitz by her Republican rival in the gubernatorial primary, Nassau County executive and fellow Trump ally Bruce Blakeman, who paid to air campaign ads on Fox News in West Palm Beach, Florida, the home of Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence.

President Donald Trump has previously expressed consternation at having to choose between two allies to challenge New York’s incumbent Democratic Governor, Kathy Hochul, next November. “They’re two fantastic people, and I always hate it when two very good friends of mine are running, and I hope there’s not a lot of damage done,” the New York Times quoted him as telling reporters recently.

While voicing confidence that she would have “overwhelmingly won” that race, Stefanik said in her announcement, “it is not an effective use of our time or your generous resources to spend the first half of next year in an unnecessary and protracted Republican primary, especially in a challenging state like New York.”

Stefanik went on to say that throughout her time in Congress, her “most important title is Mom.” “I believe that being a parent is life’s greatest gift and greatest responsibility,” she wrote. “I have thought deeply about this and I know that as a mother, I will feel profound regret if I don’t further focus on my young son’s safety, growth, and happiness - particularly at his tender age.”

Shortly after Stefanik bowed out, President Trump acknowledged her announcement on his Truth Social platform, writing “Elise is a tremendous talent, regardless of what she does. She will have GREAT success, and I am with her all the way!”

Stefanik, the youngest woman ever elected to the House in 2014, moved sharply to the right after Trump’s first presidential victory in 2016. She has led efforts to expose how elite U.S. colleges, including New York’s Columbia University, responded to campus protests over the Gaza war. At the start of Trump’s second term in January 2025 he nominated her as Ambassador to the United Nations, but he withdrew her name amid concerns about Republicans’ narrow House majority.

While Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris won New York by a comfortable 12-point margin over Trump in 2024, the state shifted more towards Trump than any other in the nation from 2020 to 2024. Despite this, Democrats dominated several high-profile elections in November, including in New York City and nearby New Jersey.

Stefanik’s district is not seen as competitive in next year’s midterm elections, when Democrats will seek to take control of the House. Incumbent Presidents’ parties typically lose House seats in midterm elections.

Hochul, 67, became Governor in 2021 after then-Governor Andrew Cuomo resigned amid sexual harassment allegations and won a full four-year term in 2022.

Source: indiatimes.com

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

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/elise-stefanik-exits-politics-donald-trumps-ally-quits-new-york-governor-race-but-why/articleshow/126088298.cms

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Africa

 

Troops rescue abducted Biu councillor, Islamic cleric in Borno

December 19, 2025

By Hadiza Musa

Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Hadin Kai have rescued a serving councillor from Biu Local Government Area and an Islamic cleric who were abducted by suspected terrorists in Borno State.

The development was contained in a post shared on X on Thursday by security analyst, ZagazolaMakama.

According to the post, the victims were kidnapped along the BuniGari–Buratai road on Tuesday evening when armed men abducted seven civilians travelling on the route.

Makama reported that troops of the 27 Task Force Brigade, working with the 135 Special Forces Battalion and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), launched a search-and-rescue operation early Wednesday morning after receiving information about the abduction.

During the operation, the troops discovered two of the kidnapped victims who had been abandoned by the terrorists near Mangari village after the assailants noticed the movement of security forces towards their location.

The rescued victims were identified as Alhaji Mohammed Ali Maiakachi, a councillor representing Zera/Wuyep Ward in Biu Local Government Area, and MallamAliyu Yusuf, an Islamic scholar and Chairman of Shuaaraul Islam in Borno State.

The troops were said to have pursued the fleeing terrorists for several kilometres, but no contact was made.

According to information provided by the rescued victims, five other civilians are still being held captive.

“Those still in captivity reportedly include the immediate past and current Vice Chairmen of Biu Local Government Area, as well as three women,” Makama wrote.

The rescued victims were taken to a medical facility for treatment before being moved to Biu, where they were reunited with their families.

Makama added that efforts by the military and other security operatives to rescue the remaining abducted persons are ongoing.

Source: dailypost.ng

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

https://dailypost.ng/2025/12/19/troops-rescue-abducted-biu-councillor-islamic-cleric-in-borno/

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Tinubu Warns Governors Against Withholding Local Government Funds

December 19, 2025

By EnioluwaAdeniyi

President Bola Tinubu has issued a stern warning to state governors that he may be compelled to issue an Executive Order to enforce direct allocations to local governments if they fail to comply with a recent Supreme Court ruling affirming financial autonomy for Nigeria’s third tier of government.

Tinubu spoke on Friday during the 15th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.

In a veiled but pointed message to governors accused of withholding statutory allocations meant for local councils, Tinubu warned that non‑compliance could force him to directly allocate local council funds from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC).

Addressing NEC members, including governors, National Working Committee members, and other party leaders, the President said, “The Supreme Court has capped it for you again, saying, ‘give them their money directly.’ If you wait for my Executive Order, because I have the knife, I have the yam, I will cut it.”

He added, “I’m just being very respectful and understanding with my governors. Otherwise, if you don’t start to implement it, fact after fact, you will see.”

Tinubu’s remarks follow the July 11, 2024 landmark judgment by the Supreme Court, which upheld the Federal Government’s suit seeking to enforce financial independence for local governments.

In a unanimous decision, a seven‑member panel of the apex court declared that it is unconstitutional for state governments to retain or manage funds meant for local councils.

The court ordered that allocations from the Federation Account be paid directly to local governments, as provided in Section 162(5–8) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). However, many states have continued to channel the funds through joint accounts.

In his speech, Tinubu reiterated the necessity for governors to abide by the apex court’s directive, warning that further violations could invite federal intervention.

“The ultimate goal is our Supreme Court. We have to comply. We have to respect the judgment,” he insisted.

Source: naijanews.com

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https://www.naijanews.com/2025/12/19/breaking-tinubu-warns-governors-against-withholding-local-government-funds/

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“We Will Show No Mercy” – President Tinubu Declares During 2026 Budget Presentation

December 19, 2025

By OladipoAbiola

President Bola Tinubu, on Friday, presented a ₦58.47 trillion 2026 federal budget proposal to a joint session of the National Assembly.

The 2026 Budget is christened Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity, according to the President.

He added that the 2026 budget will witness a hard reset because, from April 2026, Nigeria will operate a single budget and there will be no rollover.

“This is a reset. A very hard one…By March 2026, all capital liabilities from the previous years will be fully funded. From April 2026, we will operate a single budget. No roll over…” he said.

Speaking during the budget presentation, Naija News reports that President Tinubu vowed that the government will show no mercy in the fight against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and all other forms of criminality, promising to deal with them decisively.

“We will show no mercy to all those who commit acts of terrorism, banditry and kidnapping. We will fundamentally change how we confront terrorism and violent crimes…” President Tinubu declared.

A breakdown of the President’s presentation shows that the budget is anchored on a crude oil production of 1.84 million barrels per day, and an exchange rate of ₦1,400 to the US Dollar for the 2026 fiscal year.

In terms of sectoral allocation, defence and security took the lion’s share with ₦ 5.41 trillion, followed by infrastructure at ₦3.56 trillion.

Education got ₦3.52 trillion, just as health took ₦2.48 trillion in the proposal tagged, “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity”.

Source: naijanews.com

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Sudan: UN says RSF killed 1,000 civilians in Zamzam refugee camp in April

December 19 2025

A UN report released on Thursday said that the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) had killed at least 1,000 civilians during a three-day attack on the Zamzam refugee camp in Sudan's Darfur region last April.

It's yet another accusation of serious human rights violations for the RSF: the UN Human Rights Office released a report on Thursday detailing an attack on the Zamzam refugee camp in Darfur, western Sudan, in April 2025, costing the lives of at least 1,000 civilians.

The Rapid Support Forces attacked the camp as part of their siege on el-Fasher, the provincial capital of North Darfur state.

Hundreds of civilians were reportedly the victims of summary executions, and sexual violence including rape was also documented.

Zamzam refugee camp was the largest displacement camp in Sudan with more than 500,000 people there prior to the April attacks. RSF blocked entry of food and other essential goods to the camp for months ahead of the attack, the UN report said.

Source: africanews.com

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Southeast Asia

 

Religious affairs minister: No ban on non-Islamic festive decor in halal-certified premises, but worship items not allowed

20 Dec 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 20 — There is no ban on Malaysian Halal Certification (SPHM) holders using images, illustrations or decorations linked to non-Islamic religious celebrations, as long as they meet the required conditions and do not compromise the principle of halalanthoyyiban.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan said temporary decorations, images and illustrations linked to non-Islamic religious celebrations on food products are permitted.

However, he stressed that the use of worship-related items is strictly prohibited.

In addition, decorations within premises must not involve the display of the SPHM or the Malaysian Halal logo.

“This is in line with the decision made by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) in 2023, which states that there is no ban on SPHM holders using images, illustrations or decorations associated with religious celebrations other than Islam.

“As such, this decision also applies to festive decorations in hotel kitchens or outlets that hold SPHM,” he said in a statement today.

Zulkifli said mutual respect for Malaysia’s diverse cultures and religions is an integral part of the nation’s multicultural identity.

He encouraged industry players to continue adhering to existing halal standards while upholding racial and religious harmony.

Hotel operators and food premises holding SPHM were also advised to regularly consult the relevant halal certification authorities to obtain accurate and up-to-date guidance, ensuring continued compliance with national halal standards.

According to him, close cooperation between state Islamic religious authorities, Jakim and industry players is crucial to ensure halal policies and guidelines are implemented prudently, taking into account the interests of Muslims as well as overall societal harmony.

The approach, he added, reflects the Madani Government’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding the integrity of Malaysia’s halal certification while strengthening interfaith and cultural harmony. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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From 19 years of church-led to official: Sabah holds first state Christmas celebration, vows continuity

 20 Dec 2025

KOTA KINABALU, Dec 20 — Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk EwonBenedick has proposed that the concept used for this year’s State-level Christmas celebration be retained for 2026, continuing the collaborative approach between the State Government, Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) and the Sabah Council of Churches (SCC).

Ewon, who is also Minister of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport, said the 2025 celebration marked a historic milestone as the first officially organised State Christmas event, and reflected Sabah’s commitment to guaranteeing freedom of religion as enshrined in the Federal Constitution.

“I will propose to the Chief Minister and the Sabah Cabinet that we maintain the same concept for the State-level Christmas celebration next year.

“The Sabah Government has elevated a celebration that was previously organised for 19 years by the Sabah Council of Churches, in collaboration with DBKK, into an official State event.

“This is a manifestation of the constitutional guarantees and the conditions of Malaysia’s formation that respect the right of the people to practise their respective religions,” he said.

Ewon was speaking to reporters after the official closing ceremony of the Sabah State Christmas celebration at Padang Merdeka here on Friday night.

The ceremony was officiated by Deputy Chief Minister I cum Minister of Works and Utilities Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam, who represented the Chief Minister.

As organising chairman of the celebration, Ewon expressed hope that the event would continue to serve as a platform to strengthen unity and harmony among Sabah’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious society.

“We live in a plural society, with Christians, Muslims, Buddhists and followers of other faiths. If not us, who else will safeguard this harmony?

“With mutual respect, tolerance and togetherness, I am confident we can preserve peace in this state,” he said.

He also voiced confidence that under the Chief Minister’s leadership, the State Government would continue to steer Sabah towards a better future founded on unity and social harmony.

Ewon recorded his appreciation to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport Datuk Thomas Logijin, DBKK and SCC as members of the organising committee, as well as all parties involved in ensuring the success of the celebration. — The Borneo Post

Source: malaymail.com

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MACC working with UK in probe on law firm linked to US$1b 1MDB misappropriation

By Malay Mail

20 Dec 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 20 — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission is reportedly coordinating with UK authorities as part of an investigation into an international law firm over alleged links to misappropriated 1MDB funds.

According to a New Straits Times report, MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri AzamBaki said the collaboration focuses on sharing intelligence related to cross-border financial flows and the involvement of professional service providers.

It was previousLy reported that an international law firm is suspected of being connected to the alleged misappropriation of about US$1 billion (about 4.08 billion), including some US$700 million channelled to an offshore entity beyond 1MDB’s control.

Azam was quoted as saying international cooperation has become essential to advance investigations and support asset recovery efforts linked to 1MDB.

MACC has previously estimated that up to RM42 billion was siphoned off from the state fund, with about 70 per cent of the stolen assets recovered so far.

Source: malaymail.com

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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/12/20/macc-working-with-uk-in-probe-on-law-firm-linked-to-us1b-1mdb-misappropriation/202589

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Halal vs holidays? Umno Youth chief questions Melaka ban on Christmas decor in certified outlets (VIDEO)

By Malay Mail

19 Dec 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 19 — Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh has called on the Melaka Islamic Religious Department (Jaim) to reconsider a directive reportedly prohibiting decorations in kitchens and outlets that have already obtained halal certification.

In a reel posted on his official Facebook account, the Merlimau assemblyman said halal status for food and beverages is “100 per cent based on the source of the ingredients and the method of preparation, not on the decoration in the kitchen or at the dining outlet.”

The call comes amid controversy over an alleged ban on Christmas decorations in halal-certified hotels and food premises in Melaka.

According to Free Malaysia Today, Ayer Keroh assemblyman Kerk Chee Yee questioned the state government on whether the circular, purportedly issued by Jaim, forbids such decorations because Christmas is a religious celebration.

Kerk described the move as a backward step and urged the state to retract the directive, highlighting that hotels and restaurants regularly decorate for various festivities to welcome all guests.

He said the ban risks creating confusion for businesses and could affect Melaka’s tourism-driven economy and reputation as an inclusive destination.

Dr Akmal’s statement adds to growing calls for clarity, stressing that halal certification should focus solely on ingredient sources and preparation methods rather than decor, which has no bearing on the religious compliance of food.

Source: malaymail.com

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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/12/19/halal-vs-holidays-umno-youth-chief-questions-melaka-ban-on-christmas-decor-in-certified-outlets-video/202542

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PM Anwar welcomes IMF nod, says focus now on jobs and rebuilding public confidence

20 Dec 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 20 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has welcomed the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) assessment of Malaysia’s economic performance, emphasising that the government’s priority remains ensuring economic stability is managed responsibly.

Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said the government will continue to ensure that economic stability is not only managed prudently, but is also felt by the people through secure and fair job opportunities, as well as sustained confidence in the future.

“The Madani Government will continue to manage public finances prudently and accelerate reforms under the 13th Malaysia Plan, so that the growth we build is truly strong, resilient, and delivers meaningful benefits to all Malaysians,” he said in a social media post.

Earlier yesterday, IMF Mission Chief for Malaysia Masahiro Nozaki said Malaysia has shown notable resilience against global trade tensions and policy uncertainty, with the economy growing at a healthy pace this year, supported by strong domestic consumption and investment, solid employment growth, and a global technology-sector upcycle.

“The strong performance in part reflects sound economic policies, the authorities have maintained prudent macroeconomic and financial policies,” Nozaki said after consultations with Malaysian authorities and other stakeholders.

Malaysia’s economic resilience is expected to continue in the near term, supported by strong domestic demand, with IMF staff projecting growth to ease marginally from 4.6 per cent in 2025 to 4.3 per cent in 2026, mainly reflecting the impact of higher United States tariffs on the country. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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Speakers must act as impartial arbiters to protect democracy, says Johari

20 Dec 2025

Dewan Rakyat Speaker says Speakers must be fair, non-partisan referees to uphold legislative integrity and public trust in democratic institutions.

MELAKA: The role of Speakers of state legislative assemblies and Parliament as wise, fair and impartial arbiters must be strengthened to ensure that legislative institutions remain respected and public confidence continues to be upheld.

Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul said the House must function as a true ‘house of democracy’, serving as the primary platform for orderly democratic practice while also acting as a training ground for future leaders.

“The legislative institution is crucial as it reflects our position at the centre of the nation’s law-making process. For this reason, the Speaker must be seen as an impartial referee, not aligned to any political party, and must act fairly to ensure decisions made ultimately benefit the people,” he said.

He was speaking at a press conference after attending the Conference of Speakers of Parliament and State Legislative Assemblies, themed ‘Representatives for the People: A Reflection of Legislative Leadership’ in Banda Hilir here today.

The four-day conference, which began yesterday, was officiated by Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh earlier.

Johari said at a time when public trust in institutions is frequently tested, the Speaker must serve as a bulwark in safeguarding the integrity of the House as a check-and-balance mechanism against the executive.

He said every ruling, reprimand and allocation of speaking time from the Speaker’s Chair contributes to strengthening public confidence in the democratic system.

Johari said the four-day conference also serves as a platform to reshape the mindset of assembly members so they better understand their true role beyond partisan politics.

“Once elected, a member no longer represents a party or personal interests, but the voice of the people they serve. Political contestation should remain outside the House, because inside it, discussions must focus solely on the people, regardless of party background,” he said.

He said another key focus of the conference is to achieve uniformity in understanding and practice among the states, given Malaysia’s diverse demographic landscape.

“We want to ensure a common understanding of the role of the House, whether in Johor, Kelantan, Pahang or any other state, because the democratic principles we uphold must be consistently understood and applied nationwide,” he said. – Bernama

Source: thesun.my

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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/speakers-impartial-arbiters-democracy/

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Anwar welcomes IMF assessment, reaffirms focus on prudent economic management

20 Dec 2025

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim welcomes the IMF’s positive assessment of Malaysia’s economy, reaffirming a commitment to prudent fiscal management and inclusive growth.

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has welcomed the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) assessment of Malaysia’s economic performance, emphasising that the government’s priority remains ensuring economic stability is managed responsibly.

Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said the government will continue to ensure that economic stability is not only managed prudently, but is also felt by the people through secure and fair job opportunities, as well as sustained confidence in the future.

“The MADANI Government will continue to manage public finances prudently and accelerate reforms under the 13th Malaysia Plan, so that the growth we build is truly strong, resilient, and delivers meaningful benefits to all Malaysians,” he said in a social media post.

Earlier on Friday (December 19), IMF Mission Chief for Malaysia Masahiro Nozaki said Malaysia has shown notable resilience against global trade tensions and policy uncertainty, with the economy growing at a healthy pace this year, supported by strong domestic consumption and investment, solid employment growth, and a global technology-sector upcycle.

“The strong performance in part reflects sound economic policies, the authorities have maintained prudent macroeconomic and financial policies,” Nozaki said after consultations with Malaysian authorities and other stakeholders.

Malaysia’s economic resilience is expected to continue in the near term, supported by strong domestic demand, with IMF staff projecting growth to ease marginally from 4.6 per cent in 2025 to 4.3 per cent in 2026, mainly reflecting the impact of higher United States tariffs on the country. – Bernama

Source: thesun.my

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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/anwar-imf-review-prudent-economic-management/

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Police record activist’s statement over alleged insult to Johor royalty

19 Dec 2025

Police seize phone and record activist Fahmi Reza’s statement over a viral social media post allegedly insulting the Johor Royal Institution.

KUALA LUMPUR: Police have recorded the statement of activist and graphic designer MohdFahmi Reza MohdZarin over an allegedly defamatory social media post.

The post is said to have insulted the Johor Royal Institution.

Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk M. Kumar said a mobile phone believed used to upload the post was also seized.

The case is being investigated under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act 1948 and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

Police have so far received 284 reports nationwide regarding the issue.

“Firm and uncompromising action will be taken against any individual who insults the Royal Institution in accordance with existing laws,” Kumar said.

The viral Facebook post by Fahmi Reza had prompted reports from state leaders, NGOs and Johor lawmakers.

Source: thesun.my

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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/police-record-activists-statement-over-alleged-insult-to-johor-royalty/

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South Asia

 

Afghanistan’s Unemployment Soars to 75 Percent Amid Economic Crisis: UN Report

By Fidel Rahmati

December 20, 2025

The United Nations reports that Afghanistan’s economy is in crisis, with unemployment reaching 75 percent and over 90 percent of the population living below the poverty line.

A recent United Nations report highlights Afghanistan’s deepening economic crisis, with unemployment reaching 75 percent and more than 90 percent of the population living below the poverty line.

Declining per capita income, a shrinking GDP, and reduced humanitarian aid have painted a bleak picture of the country’s economy, the report says. Afghanistan’s GDP fell 6.5 percent in the first half of 2025, while monthly per capita income dropped to around $100.

More than 70 percent of Afghans rely on humanitarian assistance, which has sharply decreased in recent months. Border closures with Pakistan are estimated to cost the economy roughly $1 million daily, while the forced return of citizens from neighboring countries adds further strain on public services and social cohesion.

The UN Security Council described Afghanistan’s economy as “relatively resilient” but “fragile,” warning that the Taliban’s ambitious infrastructure development plans lack clarity on funding without fundamental reforms.

Analysts say the combination of unemployment, poverty, and reduced aid threatens Afghanistan’s stability and underscores the urgent need for international support and regional cooperation.

Separately, the UN Security Council estimates that ISIS-K maintains approximately 2,000 fighters in Afghanistan, posing a major threat to both national and regional security. Leadership is dominated by Afghan Pashtuns, while many members come from Central Asian countries.

The report also highlights that ISIS-K has established schools for children under 14 in northern Afghanistan and near the Pakistan border, indoctrinating minors and training them for suicide attacks, raising serious humanitarian and security concerns.

Experts warn that the country’s economic fragility is compounded by ongoing security challenges, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to stabilize Afghanistan’s economy and counter extremist threats.

Without urgent measures to address unemployment, poverty, and the presence of extremist groups, Afghanistan risks further humanitarian crises and potential destabilization across the region.

Source: khaama.com

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https://www.khaama.com/afghanistans-unemployment-soars-to-75-percent-amid-economic-crisis-un-report/

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Attacks on media outlets, cultural orgs spark outrage

Dec 20, 2025

Journalist organisations, rights bodies, cultural groups and members of civil society yesterday strongly condemned the attacks, arson and looting at the offices of ProthomAlo and The Daily Star, and the vandalism of cultural organisation Chhayanaut, saying they were a direct assault on press freedom and the public's right to information.

They also demanded that those responsible be identified and brought to justice.

Transparency International Bangladesh Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said the aggressive and vengeful conduct of some forces, claiming victory after the fall of authoritarian rule, is giving rise to new forms of repression. "The direct victims of this are free media, dissent, and freedom of expression… The government has failed to take effective measures to confront or prevent such situations."

He added that vandalism and arson attacks on ProthomAlo and The Daily Star, the harassment of New Age editor NurulKabir, the attack on Chhayanaut, and the lynching of Dipu Chandra Das, followed by the burning of his body on allegations of hurting religious sentiments, must not be treated as isolated incidents.

The Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST) described the attacks as "planned disinformation and hate campaigns". In a statement, it said these campaigns, following the death of July frontliner Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of InqilabMoncho, incited unlawful attacks, vandalism and arson targeting media and cultural institutions.

LAST demanded prompt and independent investigations into all incidents linked to Hadi's killing and the subsequent violence.

Bangladesh UdichiShilpigosthi, whose office was also attacked with arson yesterday, linked the violence to attempts to exploit Hadi's death. In a statement, it said dark reactionary forces are conspiring to turn Bangladesh into a failed state, adding that the targeting of media and cultural institutions, [despite having no connection to Hadi's death, shows the attackers did not want peace, security or democratic order to return to the country.

Dhaka Union of Journalists said attacks on media offices can never be justified. They also condemned the attack on NurulKabir and the killing of Khulna journalist ImdadulHaqueMilon, who was shot dead on December 18.

Dhaka Reporters Unity demanded thorough, impartial and swift investigations, saying, "Such actions [attacks] run completely counter to media freedom, the constitutional right to freedom of expression, and the rule of law."

PROTEST PROGRAMMES

Meanwhile, a group of Jahangirnagar University students staged a protest against Hadi's killing and condemned attacks on media outlets and cultural organisations. They also demanded the resignation of the home adviser.

Employees of ProthomAlo formed a human chain in front of their office in the capital's Karwan Bazar, where they termed the day a dark one for the country's media, freedom of expression and democracy.

It's Executive Editor Sajjad Sharif said "ProthomAlo believes that a vested interest group carried out this planned attack by exploiting the killing of Osman Hadi, a face of the July uprising. This organised attack was carried out in a planned manner.

"We have reasonable grounds to believe that this incident was orchestrated to derail the upcoming election and to damage the image of Bangladesh and the government globally."

The newspaper's Editor Matiur Rahman, Managing Editor AnisulHoque, and employees from all departments were present, while journalists from various media outlets joined the human chain.

Also yesterday, members of civil society said they believe the attacks on media offices and cultural organisations were planned.

They held protest rallies in front of The Daily Star's office on KaziNazrul Islam Avenue, Chhayanaut in Dhanmondi and the ProthomAlo office.

Demanding that the attackers be identified and brought to justice, Dhaka University teacher SaminaLuthfa described the attacks as clearly planned and a despicable attempt to destabilise the country. She also expressed discontent at the failure to arrest Hadi's killers even a week after he was attacked.

Those present included Supreme Court lawyer Sara Hossain; professors Mohammad Tanzimuddin Khan and Asif Mohammad Shahan; lawyer Manzur-ul-Matin and others.

The Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST) strongly condemned the attacks, describing them as "planned disinformation and hate campaigns." BLAST said these campaigns, following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of InqilabMoncho, incited unlawful attacks, vandalism, and arson targeting media and cultural institutions.

 BLAST demanded prompt, independent investigations into all incidents related to Hadi's killing and the subsequent violence, and said those responsible must face the full force of the law.

Reminding the government of its constitutional obligations, it said the safety and access to justice of victims' families, journalists, cultural activists, and ordinary citizens must be ensured. Dissenting views must be respected, and clear boundaries enforced to prevent hate speech and incitement to violence, it added.

Bangladesh UdichiShilpigosthi also slammed the attacks, linking the violence to attempts to exploit Hadi's death.

In a statement, Udichi Central Parliament Acting President Mahmud Selim and General Secretary Amit RanjanDey said dark reactionary forces are conspiring to turn Bangladesh into a failed state. They said the targeting of media and cultural institutions, despite having no connection to Hadi's death, showed that the attackers did not want peace, security, or democratic order to return to the country.

Condemning the incidents, Dhaka Union of Journalists (DUJ) President SazzadAlam Khan Tapu and General Secretary Akhtar Hossain, said vandalism, arson, and looting of media offices could never be justified.

The statement also condemned the attack on NurulKabir and the killing of journalist ImdadulHaqueMilon, president of the Sholua Press Club in Dumuriaupazila of Khulna, demanding swift justice. Milon was shot dead on December 18.

Dhaka Reporters Unity strongly protested the attacks and demanded thorough, impartial, and swift investigations.

DRU President Abu Saleh Akon and General Secretary Mainul Hasan Sohel said the media is the fourth pillar of the state and a key foundation of democracy. "Violence, intimidation, attacks, or harassment aimed at silencing the media are unacceptable. Such actions run completely counter to media freedom, the constitutional right to freedom of expression, and the rule of law," they said.

Among others, Reporters Against Corruption, the Jahangirnagar University Journalists' Association, a coalition of newly formed media outlets --Centrist Nation TV, Dhaka Stream, The Deltagram, The Dessent, and The Post -- as well as the Rajshahi University Journalist Association, Dhaka University Journalist Association, Economic Reporters' Forum, Jagannath University Journalists' Association, and Reporters for Rail and Roads, strongly condemned the attacks on ProthomAlo and The Daily Star and the harassment of NurulKabir.

Meanwhile, a group of Jahangirnagar University students staged a protest against Hadi's killing and condemned nationwide attacks on media outlets and cultural institutions. They also demanded the resignation of the home adviser for failing to ensure state security and called for those involved in Hadi's murder to be brought to justice immediately.

Source: thedailystar.net

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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/attacks-media-outlets-cultural-orgs-spark-outrage-4062256

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DABS, Kyrgyz Delegation discuss electricity cooperation, investment opportunities

December 20, 2025

KABUL: Chief Executive Officer of Da Afghanistan BreshnaSherkatDr. Abdul Bari Omar, met with a delegation from Kyrgyzstan to discuss electricity cooperation and investment opportunities.

The meeting covered Afghanistan’s electricity import situation, progress on the CASA-1000 project, and Kyrgyzstan’s hydropower capacity and grid modernization, the DABS said in a statement the other day.

The Kyrgyz side pledged technical cooperation and invited Breshna representatives to visit their power facilities.

Both sides agreed to strengthen technical collaboration and capacity building in the energy sector.

Source: thekabultimes.com

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https://thekabultimes.com/dabs-kyrgyz-delegation-discuss-electricity-cooperation-investment-opportunities/

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Afghanistan Pursues Growth, Regional Collaboration, Muttaqi

December 20, 2025

KABUL: The country’s Foreign Minister Mawlavi Amir Khan Muttaqi, in a meeting with Mohammad Reza Bahrami, Director General for South Asia and Special Envoy of Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in Kabul, discussed bilateral cooperation and regional collaboration.

During the meeting, Bahrami delivered an official invitation for Minister Muttaqi to visit Tehran, the ministry said in a statement the other day.

He also provided detailed updates on the recent high-level meetings in Tehran, emphasizing Iran’s appreciation for its ties with Afghanistan and expressing hope that the Islamic Emirate will play a constructive role in regional cooperation.

Minister Muttaqi described the relations between Afghanistan and Iran as positive and shared the Islamic Emirate’s position on recent discussions in Tehran.

He stated that Afghanistan has emerged from a difficult period and is taking rapid steps toward development.

The foreign minister added that the country should no longer be viewed as a “problem” and affirmed that Afghanistan’s foreign policy prioritizes active, cooperative relations with regional nations.

Both sides highlighted the growing bilateral relationship and stressed the importance of continued high-level contacts, delegation exchanges, and strengthened cooperation across multiple sectors.

Source: thekabultimes.com

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https://thekabultimes.com/afghanistan-pursues-growth-regional-collaboration-muttaqi/

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Afghan Diplomat Attends Imam Khomeini Global Award Ceremony in Tehran

December 20, 2025

TEHRAN: MawlaviFazl Mohammad Haqqani, Ambassador of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan to Iran, attended the first Imam Khomeini Global Award ceremony in Tehran, the embassy said in a statement on the other day.

The event was held in the presence of Iranian President Dr.MasoudPezeshkian, senior Iranian officials, foreign diplomats, and international cultural and academic figures.

The Imam Khomeini Global Award is an international initiative aimed at honoring individuals and institutions for contributions to humanitarian values, cultural dialogue, and social justice inspired by the legacy of Imam Khomeini.

Source: thekabultimes.com

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https://thekabultimes.com/afghan-diplomat-attends-imam-khomeini-global-award-ceremony-in-tehran/

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National Security, Freedom Top Priorities, Fitrat Says

December 20, 2025

KABUL: Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Islamic Emirate, Qari Mohammad FasihuddinFitrat, said national security and freedom remain top priorities, according to a statement from the ministry the other day.

In a coordination meeting with media representatives, political analysts, and senior defense officials to strengthen cooperation, Fitrat emphasized the armed forces’ role in safeguarding territorial integrity, responding to natural disasters, and serving the public, while underscoring the importance of unity, media cooperation, and national self-reliance.

He praised the media’s supportive role and stressed the importance of self-reliance.

Participants expressed their support for the Ministry of National Defense and national values.

Source: thekabultimes.com

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https://thekabultimes.com/national-security-freedom-top-priorities-fitrat-says/

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Four Modern Warehouses Constructed at Islam Qala Border Customs

December 20, 2025

KABUL: Four standard warehouses worth 78.7 million Afghanis have been inaugurated at the Islam Qala border customs in Herat province, the Ministry of Finance said in a statement on Friday.

Each warehouse has the capacity to store approximately 8,000 metric tons of goods, significantly improving the safe storage of commercial products, the statement said.

The project was funded through the ministry’s development budget and implemented by an Afghan company.

Officials reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to modernizing customs facilities nationwide.

Source: thekabultimes.com

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https://thekabultimes.com/four-modern-warehouses-constructed-at-islam-qala-border-customs/

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