Al Qaeda in Yemen Vows Revenge for Shia Rebel Attack on Salafis
The wreckage of car after a suicide bombing in Iraq — File Photo
Mideast
Al Qaeda in Yemen vows revenge for Shia rebel attack on Salafis
Netanyahu cancels plan to build 20,000 new settler homes
Netanyahu: Wave of terrorism disturbs 'quietest year in a decade'
PM says Israel will not 'sit on hands' as Gaza rearms behind civilian shield
Turkey asks NATO to extend Patriot deployment near Syria border
Israeli settlers storm Aqsa Mosque again
Turkey: Autonomy cannot be declared unilaterally
Arab World
Violence across Iraq kills 23 on eve of Ashura
Private Donors’ Funds Add Wild Card to War in Syria
Australia's first suicide bomber: Video shows 'Brisbane man' preparing for attack
Syrian Kurdish party plans transitional administration
No stability in Egypt unless coup is reversed: Morsy
Egypt's human rights council calls for testimonies on violent incidents
Army of Islam rejects Geneva-2 conference
India
Freeze Kashmir-Related CBMs, Radical Outfit, Dukhtaraan-e-Millat Urges Pak
Taliban leader hints at India's hunt for new allies in uncertain Afghan scenario
Salman Khurshid talks tough with Sartaj Aziz on ceasefire violations
Patna serial blasts: retired Bihar cop under scanner
Pakistan's Sartaj Aziz meets Manmohan Singh
Europe
Russia to Focus on Fight against Racism, Xenophobia in UNHRC
Britain: Scandal-Plagued Muslim School "Dysfunctional"
Russia may give $2 million for Syrian chemical disarmament
Anti-Semitism on rise again in Germany - EU agency
Africa
US 'to name Boko Haram as a terrorist group'
Libya security dependent on Islamic law
Libya ex-rebels blockade oil refinery
North America
US analyst lauds India's military restraint, but cautions against 'position of weakness'
Kerry to warn US Senate off new Iran sanctions
US welcomes Syrian rebels' decision to attend mooted peace talks
Groups urge U.S. not to return Jewish artefacts to Iraq
Pakistan
Sunni Tehreek rallies in support of army
Martyrdom of soldiers undisputed, says Baloch
Real power rests with the establishment, says Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl
At least three 'Taliban militants' shot dead in Karachi
Kashmiri leaders should be part of dialogue with India: Pakistan
‘TTP planned kidnap of Shias, Ahmadis for ransom’
Security forces kill one, arrest seven militants in Balochistan
Police check-posts in Jamrud, Bannu attacked by militants
Pakistan’s release of Taliban prisoners - an empty deal
Southeast Asia
PPP Seeks New Islamic Coalition for Next Year’s Presidential Election
We’re ready to implement Hudud, says Kelantan Syariah chief judge
Right to use “Allah” among Sarawak churches’ three requests to Putrajaya
South Asia
Afghan elders to meet on US security deal despite Taliban threats
Muhammad Yunus Shines and Inspires at Global Social Business Summit
Islamic organization arrives in Myanmar amid protests
China pressures Muslim Uighur lawyer families
Two school children die in Afghanistan blast
Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami leader Azhar indicted for war crimes
Khaleda to face trial for killings: Says PM slating Hartal violence
Haqqani Leader Nasiruddin’s death a big loss: Afghan Taliban
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/al-qaeda-yemen-vows-revenge/d/24408
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Mideast
Al Qaeda in Yemen Vows Revenge for Shia Rebel Attack on Salafis
November 13, 2013
RIYADH: Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) has pledged revenge against Shia Houthi rebels in northern Yemen for their assault on a Salafi school in Dammaj, Site Monitoring Service reported late on Tuesday, citing a statement from the group.
Fighting between Houthis and Salafis in the traditional Dammaj School, in the heart of Shia territory, caused more than 100 deaths over the past two weeks and threatens to cause more sectarian tensions in Yemen.
The impoverished Arabian Peninsula state faces a host of political troubles, including the Houthi rebellion, an al Qaeda uprising, splits in the military and a southern separatist movement.
Western countries fear further turmoil could create more space to operate for AQAP, already seen as one of the most dangerous al Qaeda branches after it plotted attacks on international airliners, in a country that sits alongside big oil shipping routes.
AQAP’s warning it would seek revenge was contained in the transcript of a video recording by Harith bin Ghazi al-Nadhari, a religious official in the militant group, and posted by Yemeni journalist Abdul Razza al-Jamal on his Facebook page, Site reported.
“We declare our total solidarity with our Sunni brothers in the centre in Dammaj, and in other Sunni areas that the Houthi group had attacked,” said Harithi’s statement.
“Your crimes against the Sunni people will not pass without punishment or disciplinary action,” it added.
The statement also attempted to place the fighting in northern Yemen in the context of a wider Middle East sectarian struggle, comparing it to the war in Syria where Sunni rebels are fighting the government of President Bashar al-Assad, who belongs to the Alawi sect, a Shia offshoot.
“It is a siege no different than that imposed upon Gaza or Homs or the Damascus countryside,” Harithi said.
Salafis in Dar al-Hadith, the Dammaj school, have previously distanced themselves from al Qaeda and criticised Osama bin Laden, but the seminary has also educated Muslims who later became prominent militants.
The Houthi rebel movement emerged in the early 2000s, claiming it would fight against what it saw as the marginalisation of Shias of the Zaydi sect, which prevails in the Yemeni highlands. One of its grievances was the incroachment of Salafi doctrine in Zaydi areas.
http://tribune.com.pk/story/631405/al-qaeda-in-yemen-vows-revenge-for-shia-rebel-attack-on-salafis/
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Netanyahu cancels plan to build 20,000 new settler homes
13 November 2013
Staff writer, Al Arabiya
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday withdrew a plan to build 20,000 more settler homes in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, according to an official statement.
Anti-settlement group Peace Now had said earlier that the Housing Ministry had issued tenders late last month for drawing up construction plans, but that no building work was imminent.
“With tenders for planning, what we are seeing is a very early stage that can open the door for construction not in the short term, but several years down the road,” Peace Now said in a statement.
But it said the potential projects for 19,786 housing units in the West Bank and 4,000 in East Jerusalem were an important indicator of where the government stands on future building, even as it engages the Palestinians in land-for-peace talks.
Peace Now said one plan called for construction in a highly sensitive area sandwiched between Jerusalem and Ramallah, the Palestinian seat of government, and could impede any efforts to reach an agreement on the future of the holy city.
“The issuing of tenders for planning is unequivocal evidence that Netanyahu intends to prevent the real chances of a
negotiated agreement and a two-state solution,” Peace Now said.
It said the tenders included planning for 1,200 additional housing units for the E-1 area near Jerusalem, where under U.S. pressure Israel has suspended previous projects to build more than 3,000 settler homes.
Israeli political sources said Netanyahu, after learning of the new plans for E-1, swiftly ordered they also be frozen, according to Reuters.
In a statement issued late Tuesday evening, Netanyahu said the plan would make “no contribution” to settlements and would only hurt the cause, Associated Press reported.
He said the announcement had caused “unnecessary conflict” with the international community just at a time when Israel is trying to rally pressure to halt Iran’s nuclear program.
The statement said his Housing Minister Uri Ariel had accepted the request.
The Palestinians claim the West Bank, east Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip, territories captured by Israel in 1967, for an independent state. They say Israeli settlement construction on the lands they claim is a sign of bad faith.
More than 500,000 Israelis now live in the West Bank and east Jerusalem. Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005. The international community, including the U.S., rejects settlements as illegal or illegitimate.
In Washington, State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said the White House had been caught off guard by the earlier announcement to study settlement expansion.
“We were surprised by these announcements, and are currently seeking further explanation from the government of Israel,” she said.
“Our position on settlements is quite clear - we do not accept the legitimacy of continued settlement activity. We’ve called on both sides to take steps to create a positive atmosphere for the negotiations,” she added.
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2013/11/13/Netanyahu-cancels-plan-to-build-20-000-new-settler-homes.html
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Netanyahu: Wave of terrorism disturbs 'quietest year in a decade'
Nov 13 2013
Prime minister lauds IDF intelligence work, aggression against terror in exposing alleged Gaza terror tunnel.
The relative silence of the "quietest year in over a decade" has been disturbed by the increase of terrorist activities in recent weeks, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu told his cabinet on Sunday morning, just after a Palestinian tunnel from Gaza into Israel was uncovered.
"I want to commend the IDF for exposing the terror tunnel," Netanyahu said.
"Its part of our policy, a policy of aggression against terror, with elimination, with intelligence work, with activities that we initiate and react to and of course with Operation Pillar of Defense," Netanyahu said.
Separately, security forces are investigating the murder of Col (res.) Sraya "Yaya" Ofer, Netanyahu said.
Ofer was killed early Friday morning outside his home in Brosh Habika in the Jordan Valley.
Last Saturday, a nine-year-old girl was wounded in a suspected terror attack at her home in the West Bank settlement of Psagot.
In September, two IDF soldier were killed in the West Bank. "The suffering over the loss of your son is difficult. The criminal incident proves once again that the fight against terrorism is constant," Army Radio quoted Netanyahu as saying to the family of slain IDF soldier Sgt. Tomer Hazan.
In light of the IDF's exposure of the tunnel leading from Gaza, the Coordinator of Activities in the Territories, Major-General Eitan Dangot, called for Israel to stop the transfer of construction materials to the enclave, Israel Radio reported.
Leaders from communities near the Gaza border called for the IDF to revoke a previous decision to pull soldiers out from deployments on frontline communities near the northern and southern borders.
Haim Yalin, head of the Eshkol Regional Council said the discovery of the tunnel prevented disaster, according to the radio station.
Meanwhile, MK Omer Bar-Lev (Labor) on Sunday called on the IDF to provide maximum security to residents of communities near the border with the Gaza Strip.
"This morning we received a reminder that terrorism exists and that it could erupt at any moment," Bar-Lev said in response to an announcement earlier in the day of the IDF's discovery of a Palestinian terrorist tunnel.
http://www.jpost.com/Defense/Netanyahu-Wave-of-terrorism-disturbs-quietest-year-in-a-decade-328593
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PM says Israel will not 'sit on hands' as Gaza rearms behind civilian shield
Nov 13 2013
Hamas is manufacturing and storing rockets in Gaza residential areas, and although Israel will strictly uphold international law, it will not “sit on its hands” in the face of terrorist threats, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu said Tuesday.
Netanyahu’s words came during a visit to the IDF Gaza Division to mark one year since Operation Pillar of Defense, the eight-day IDF operation in Gaza last November brought on by a sharp uptick in Hamas rocket fire.
Netanyahu said that Hamas was prepared to fire on Israeli cities and hide behind civilians in Gaza, which amounts to “two war crimes at the same time.”
“It is our full legal and moral right to direct fire – that is as precise as possible – at those who fire indiscriminately at our people,” he said. “The responsibility for any collateral damage that is liable to be caused to the residents of Gaza lies squarely on Hamas’s shoulders.”
Netanyahu said Operation Pillar of Defense has significantly improved the security situation in the area. Since the operation, there has been a 98 percent decline in rocket and missile attacks from Gaza, he said.
“It seems that most of the firing has been ineffective; there have been 35 instances. There is no doubt that significant deterrence has been achieved,” he said.
Netanyahu said that despite the relative quiet, “we are not deluding ourselves.” He stated that Hamas was continuing to arm in various different ways and was trying to develop an “underground track,” through the use of tunnels, to carry out attacks on Israel.
He said that while Israel must find a response to those threats, in the final analysis “deterrence is achieved by the enemy’s knowing that we will not tolerate attacks on our communities and our soldiers, and that we will respond in great strength.”
Netanyahu said that in addition to deterring attacks from Gaza, the country has also succeeded – “even to an absolute degree” – in closing its border with Sinai. He said there has not been a single penetration of the Sinai border in the last three months.
Netanyahu was briefed on the situation in the South by Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon, Deputy IDF Chief-of- Staff Maj.-Gen. Gadi Eisenkot and OC Southern Command Maj.-Gen. Shlomo Turgeman.
http://www.jpost.com/Diplomacy-and-Politics/PM-says-Israel-will-not-sit-on-hands-as-Gaza-rearms-behind-civilian-shield-331504
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Turkey: Autonomy cannot be declared unilaterally
World Bulletin/News Desk
Nov 13, 2013
Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said one of the most important outcomes of his recent Iraq visit was that "it highlighted the need for great cooperation between Turkey and Iraq against the Sunni-Shiite conflict, the stirring of which has been attempted in the context of Syria."
Addressing the Syrian conflict in an interview to Turkish NTV, Davutoglu emphasized that "Turkey has never been a part of the Syrian conflict based on a sect or ethnic group."
Davutoglu also rejected claims suggesting Turkish relations with Al Qaeda by saying, "Turkey has not taken any step that will put the country in a wrong position in front of the Syrian people."
Full report at:
http://www.worldbulletin.net/?aType=haber&ArticleID=122798
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Israeli settlers storm Aqsa Mosque again
World Bulletin / News Desk
Nov 13, 2013
Scores of Israeli settlers and intelligence agents on Wednesday stormed the Aqsa Mosque compound in the city of Al-Quds (East Jerusalem), in the latest violation of Islam's thirst holiest site.
"The Aqsa Mosque is under violent attack led by extremist [Jewish] settlers backed by Israeli police," Sheikh Azzam al-Khatib, director of Islamic Religious Endowments in Jerusalem, told Anadolu Agency.
"Al-Aqsa is in serious danger," he said. "The Islamic world should act in order to defend the holy mosque."
Full report at:
http://www.worldbulletin.net/?aType=haber&ArticleID=122813
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Turkey asks NATO to extend Patriot deployment near Syria border
Nov 13 2013
Turkey has asked NATO to extend for another year the deployment of surface-to-air Patriot missiles to protect its troubled border with Syria because of a continuing "serious" threat, officials said on Wednesday.
"We have received a letter from the Turkish government requesting the continuation of the Patriot mission," a NATO official told AFP on condition of anonymity.
"The North Atlantic Council has regularly assessed the situation and the implementation of the Patriot mission. It is clear that the overall risks and threats to Turkey remain serious," the official said.
Full report at:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/86338/World/Region/Turkey-asks-NATO-to-extend-Patriot-deployment-near.aspx
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Arab World
Violence across Iraq kills 23 on eve of Ashura
2013-11-13
BAGHDAD: Violence across Iraq, including bombings against Shias killed 23 people on Wednesday as worshippers massed in a shrine city on the eve of major commemoration rituals often targeted by militants.
The bloodshed was the latest in a months-long surge in unrest that has forced Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki to appeal for Washington's help in combatting militancy as Iraqi action has failed to stem the unrelenting wave of attacks.
Bombings on Wednesday mostly struck north and west of Baghdad, targeting Shia Muslims and members of the security forces.
On the outskirts of Baquba, north of the capital and one of Iraq's most violent areas, three coordinated bombs struck a gathering of Shia pilgrims marking Ashura.
Overall, eight people were killed and 25 others were wounded in the blasts, security and medical officials said.
Full report at:
http://www.dawn.com/news/1056098/violence-across-iraq-kills-23-on-eve-of-ashura
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Private Donors’ Funds Add Wild Card to War in Syria
By BEN HUBBARD
2013/11/13
The money flows in via bank transfer or is delivered in bags or pockets bulging with cash. Working from his sparely furnished sitting room here, Ghanim al-Mteiri gathers the funds and transports them to Syria for the rebels fighting President Bashar al-Assad.
Mr. Mteiri — one of dozens of Kuwaitis who openly raise money to arm the opposition — has helped turn this tiny, oil-rich Persian Gulf state into a virtual Western Union outlet for Syria’s rebels, with the bulk of the funds he collects going to a Syrian affiliate of Al Qaeda.
One Kuwait-based effort raised money to equip 12,000 rebel fighters for $2,500 each. Another campaign, run by a Saudi sheikh based in Syria and close to Al Qaeda, is called “Wage Jihad With Your Money.” Donors earn “silver status” by giving $175 for 50 sniper bullets, or “gold status” by giving twice as much for eight mortar rounds.
Full report at:
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/13/world/middleeast/private-donors-funds-add-wild-card-to-war-in-syria.html?hpw&rref=world
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Australia's first suicide bomber: Video shows 'Brisbane man' preparing for attack
13 November 2013
New video has emerged of the man claimed to be Australia's first suicide bomber.
The video appears to be published by the Al Qaeda-linked group, Jabhat al Nusrah, which has previously said the Australian blew himself up in an attack on an army checkpoint in north-eastern Syria in September.
It is the most revealing insight yet into the man's last hours and shows the group preparing the massive truck bomb used in the attack.
The video shows the jihadist, identified in a previous internet posting as Abu Asma al Australi, standing on the tray of the truck used in the suicide bombing.
However, because the face in the video is obscured it is impossible to be sure who it shows, but the bomber is suspected of being a Brisbane man named Ahmed.
Full report at:
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-11-12/new-video-man-australia-syria-suicide-bomber/5084664
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Syrian Kurdish party plans transitional administration
Nov 13 2013
Syria's largest Kurdish party has said it plans to form an transitional administration.
The administration would rule Kurdish-majority areas in the northeast until the broader conflict is over.
Kurdish groups in northern Syria have tried to stay out of the civil war between the government and rebels.
However, Islamist rebels have moved into Kurdish-controlled areas in recent months, causing increasing clashes between them and Kurdish militias.
The Democratic Union Party (PYD) announced the move after two days of talks in the town of Qamishli in north-eastern Syria.
Full report at:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-24918265
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No stability in Egypt unless coup is reversed: Morsy
Nov 13, 2013
The ousted leader has been moved to a regular prison after the first session of his trial on charges of inciting murder.
Egypt’s ousted President Mohamed Morsy accused the military chief who deposed him of treason in a message from prison read by lawyers on Wednesday, saying the country cannot return to stability until the coup is reversed and those behind it are tried.
The statement was part of a bid by Mr. Morsy to rally his supporters since his emergence from the secret military detention where he had been held, with virtually no contact with the outside world, since his July 3, 2013 ouster.
Mr. Morsy was moved to a regular prison last week after the first session of his trial on charges of inciting murder. There, he had his first extensive meeting with a team of lawyers from his Muslim Brotherhood and other allies on Tuesday, dictating the “message to the Egyptian people” to them.
Full report at:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/world/no-stability-in-egypt-unless-coup-is-reversed-morsy/article5347378.ece
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Egypt's human rights council calls for testimonies on violent incidents
Nov 13, 2013
The National Council for Human Rights called on Wednesday for citizens to submit their testimonies related to violent incidents that have taken place since the ouster of Islamist president Mohamed Morsi in July.
Egypt's security situation has been volatile in the months since Morsi's removal.
Protests calling for Morsi’s reinstatement have often escalated into street clashes between Morsi supporters and security forces. In mid-August, security forces violently dispersed to main Islamist sit-ins set up in Cairo’s Rabaa Al-Adawiya and Nahda squares. Hundreds of protesters died in the intervention.
Full report at:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/86337/Egypt/Politics-/Egypts-human-rights-council-calls-for-testimonies-.aspx
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Army of Islam rejects Geneva-2 conference
Nov 13, 2013
The Army of Islam, which includes 60 of Syrian opposition groups fighting against Bashar Al-Assad’s regime, has reaffirmed its objection to participate in the US, Russia and UN backed Geneva-2 conference.
The faction’s political coordinator, Mohammed Alloush, told Asharq Al-Awsat on Monday that “any political solution should be imposed from the field, not from foreign parties.”
Zahran Alloush was elected as the commander the Army of Islam, which was formed in September, having already led the Liwa Al-Islam group.
Full report at:
http://www.worldbulletin.net/?aType=haber&ArticleID=122740
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India
Freeze Kashmir-Related CBMs, Radical Outfit, Dukhtaraan-e-Millat Urges Pak
AHMED ALI FAYYAZ
13 November 2013
Dukhtaraan-e-Millat becomes first "designated terrorist organisation" to deal with Pakistani officials in New Delhi
Radical women’s outfit Dukhtaraan-e-Millat has urged the Nawaz Sharif government to freeze all Kashmir-related Confidence Building Measures [CBMs] with India to resolve the Kashmir issue.
The Dukhtaraan — known for shutting cinemas, video libraries, beauty parlours and wine shops in 1988-89, and coercively implementing the Islamic dress code in 1992 in Kashmir — had a 60-minute session with Sartaj Aziz, Mr. Sharif’s adviser on national security and foreign affairs, at the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi last Sunday.
Full report at:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/freeze-kashmirrelated-cbms-radical-outfit-urges-pak/article5344640.ece
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Taliban leader hints at India's hunt for new allies in uncertain Afghan scenario
TNN | Nov 13, 2013
NEW DELHI: Taliban leader Mullah Abdul Salam Zaeef who made an appearance at an event in Goa is no stranger to track II efforts having been courted by Western intelligence agencies, including the British MI 6 in the past.
Efforts to reach out to Taliban leaders like Zaeef began as Western governments, in their hunt for a safe exit from Afghanistan, began exploring accommodation with Taliban elements amenable to a peace deal.
As the US and the Hamid Karzai government explore contacts with the Taliban, Indian agencies are seeking allies in a highly fluid political scenario marked by shifting alliances ahead of next year's presidential election in Afghanistan.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Taliban-leader-Mullah-Abdul-Salam-Zaeef-hints-at-Indias-hunt-for-new-allies-in-uncertain-Afghan-scenario/articleshow/25664429.cms
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Salman Khurshid talks tough with Sartaj Aziz on ceasefire violations
TNN | Nov 13, 2013
NEW DELHI: India took up the issue of ceasefire violations with Pakistan during a meeting between Salman Khurshid and Sartaj Aziz, on the sidelines of the ASEM foreign ministers' meeting, here on Tuesday.
The atmosphere for the meeting soured after Aziz held talks with Kashmiri separatist leaders prior to his government interactions. However, both sides agreed the DGMOs should meet soon to calm down the border violence.
In the evening, Aziz met national security adviser (NSA) Shivshankar Menon, but there is no sign of PM Mamohan Singh agreeing to meet him. Both Pakistan and Indian government have come under popular fire for allowing Aziz to meet the Kashmiri separatists.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Salman-Khurshid-talks-tough-with-Sartaj-Aziz-on-ceasefire-violations/articleshow/25664869.cms
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Patna serial blasts: retired Bihar cop under scanner
November 12, 2013
A retired deputy superintendent of police (DSP) rank officer of Bihar is under the scanner for possible links with October 27 Patna blasts suspects Tehsheen Akhtar and Haider Ali, according to a Jharkhand police official.
“Arrested suspect Imtiaz Ansari had met Akhtar and Ali, believed to be Indian Mujahideen operatives, at this retired officer’s residence in Ranchi,” an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer who did not want to be named said on Tuesday.
Full report at:
http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/patna-serial-blasts-retired-bihar-cop-under-scanner/article1-1150434.aspx
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Pakistan's Sartaz Aziz meets Manmohan Singh
PTI | Nov 13, 2013
NEW DELHI: Pakistan Prime Minister's foreign affairs adviser Sartaj Aziz on Wednesday met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the two are understood to have talked about bilateral relations.
Officials described it as a courtesy call by Aziz on the Prime Minister.
Aziz, who is here to attend the 11th Asia-Europe Foreign Minister (ASEM) conference, had on Tuesday met external affairs minister Salman Khurshid.
During the meeting between Khurshid and Aziz on the margins of the ASEM meet, India told Pakistan that its "sentiments and sensitivities" have to be respected for meaningful dialogue.
The two stressed the need for their DGMOs to meet at an early date and discuss ways to retain peace and tranquillity along the Line of Control.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Pakistans-Sartaz-Aziz-meets-Manmohan-Singh/articleshow/25687480.cms
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Europe
Russia to focus on fight against racism, xenophobia in UNHRC
13 November 2013
As a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council, Russia will pay top priority attention to the fight against racism, xenophobia and other manifestations of intolerance and to the protection of traditional values, Russia’s Permanent Representative at the United Nations Vitaly Churkin told reporters on Tuesday.
“As for top priority concerns, they include first of all counteracting racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and intolerance,” he said. “Also in focus are such problems as preventing trade in humans, businesses and human rights, traditional values, the judicial system integrity, etc.”
Full report at:
http://voiceofrussia.com/news/2013_11_13/Russia-to-focus-on-fight-against-racism-xenophobia-in-UN-Human-Rights-Council-6815/
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Britain: Scandal-Plagued Muslim School "Dysfunctional"
13 November 2013
In a separate but related matter, the Al-Madinah School is being investigated by the government over alleged financial irregularities.
A taxpayer-funded Muslim school in England that was recently exposed for operating according to Islamic Sharia law has been condemned by government inspectors as being "dysfunctional" and "in chaos."
Ofsted, the official agency for inspecting British schools, launched an urgent investigation into the Al-Madinah School in Derby, an industrial city in central England, after it emerged that Islamic fundamentalists running the school ordered all female teachers -- including those who are not Muslim -- to cover their heads and shoulders with a hijab, an Islamic scarf.
In addition to the strict dress code, pupils at the school, have been banned from singing songs, playing musical instruments, or reading fairy tales, activities deemed to be "un-Islamic," according to non-Muslim staff members at the school.
Full report at:
http://www.gatestoneinstitute.org/4025/derby-al-madinah-school
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Russia may give $2 million for Syrian chemical disarmament
Nov 13 2013
Russia may donate $2 million toward eliminating Syria's chemical weapons and is ready to offer expert help to the body tasked with the mission, a senior official said on Wednesday.
The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), which won the Nobel Peace Prize last month, has raised about 10 million euros ($13.5 million) to inspect Syrian chemical arms sites under a U.S.-Russian agreement reached in September.
But it needs more funds to destroy more than 1,000 tonnes of chemical weapons declared by Syria.
"Russia, in principle, is ready to offer technical assistance, experts and perhaps financial assistance. This issue is being discussed, but the amount is somewhere around $2 million," Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Gennady Gatilov was quoted by the state-run RIA news agency as saying.
Full report at:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/86353/World/Region/Russia-may-give--million-for-Syrian-chemical-disar.aspx
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Anti-semitism on rise again in Germany - EU agency
13 November 2013
75 years after the notorious Kristallnacht pogrom in Germany, Europe’s Jewish population fears anti-Semitism is once again on the rise. A survey by the EU’s Agency for Fundamental Rights reveals deep-rooted unease among European Jews, who say the proliferation of anti-semitic material online is a particular concern. VoR's Tom Spender reports.
Seventy-five years after the notorious Kristallnacht pogrom in Germany, Europe’s Jewish population fears anti-Semitism is once again on the rise.
A survey by the EU’s Agency for Fundamental Rights reveals deep-rooted unease among European Jews, who say the proliferation of anti-Semitic material online is a particular concern.
Full report at:
http://voiceofrussia.com/uk/news/2013_11_12/Anti-semitism-on-rise-again-in-Germany-EU-agency-4058/
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Africa
US 'to name Boko Haram as a terrorist group'
Nov 13 2013
The US state department is expected to designate the Nigerian Islamist militant group, Boko Haram, as a foreign terrorist organisation.
The move, expected to take place on Wednesday, means US regulatory agencies are instructed to block business and financial transactions with Boko Haram.
It will become a crime under US law to provide material support to the group.
Boko Haram wants to impose Islamic law in northern Nigeria and has been blamed for thousands of deaths.
The group began its insurgency in 2009, and targets both the military and civilians, including schools, and frequently clashes with the Nigerian armed forces.
While Boko Haram's main focus is Nigeria, the US has cited links to the al-Qaeda affiliate in West Africa, and extremist groups in Mali.
Full report at:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-24922833
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Libya security dependent on Islamic law
13 November 2013
Libya's top jihadist group, blamed for deadly unrest that includes attacking a US mission, said Tuesday there will only be security in the increasingly lawless country if Islamic law is introduced.
"Stability and security are dependent on the application of sharia (Islamic law)," Ansar Al-Sharia said, explaining that this was its position in light of the "political bickering" in Libya.
At the same time, it said it does not recognise state institutions, including the security services, accusing them of apostasy and of being "taghuts," or evil forces at the service of tyranny.
Full report at:
http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/afp/131112/libya-security-dependent-islamic-law
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Libya ex-rebels blockade oil refinery
Nov 13 2013
Former rebels demanding medical care are blockading a Libyan oil refinery that produces around a fifth of the country's fuel, a spokesman for the facility said Wednesday.
"Men wounded in the revolution (that toppled Muammar Gaddafi in 2011) have stopped all production at the refinery" at Zawiya, Ihab al-Hmidi told AFP.
He said the protest at the facility that produces 18 percent of the North African nation's domestic fuel needs began late on Monday.
"They have blocked two entrances with mounds of sand and posted men outside a third, who are preventing anyone from coming in or leaving," he added.
The Zawiya refinery produces some 120,000 barrels a day of fuel and derivatives. In addition to its national role, its output also covers some 70 percent of western Libya's needs. Production "is currently halted", Hmidi said.
Full report at:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/86339/World/Region/Libya-exrebels-blockade-oil-refinery.aspx
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North America
US analyst lauds India's military restraint, but cautions against 'position of weakness'
Nov 13 2013
Washington : Endorsing the policy of "military self-restrain" of successive Indian governments in the face of provocation from Pakistan, a top American analyst has said that henceforth India must ensure that it does not act from a "position of weakness".
"The use of military force to counter terrorism is an especially tempting solution because it can be enacted very quickly. But it also can quickly escalate to overreaction," George Perkovich said on Tuesday.
"This is another reason why the Indian tradition of strategic nonviolence, however imperfect, is less risky and more conducive to long-term success than a militaristic strategy to counter terrorism in a nuclearised environment," Perkovich said.
Full report at:
http://www.indianexpress.com/news/us-analyst-lauds-indias-military-restraint-but-cautions-against-position-of-weakness/1194366/
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Kerry to warn US Senate off new Iran sanctions
November 13, 2013
WASHINGTON: Secretary of State John Kerry faces a potentially hostile reception Wednesday when he urges skeptical US lawmakers not to proceed with proposed new sanctions aimed at halting Iran’s nuclear drive.
Senate Republicans and Democrats who are convinced that tighter sanctions against Tehran could bring about a long-sought resolution to its disputed atomic program bristled when the White House warned Tuesday that such action could trigger a “march to war.”
The administration’s remarks Tuesday marked a significant toughening of President Barack Obama’s stance towards Congress on sanctions as Washington prepares to resume high-stakes nuclear diplomacy with Iran later this month.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/631414/kerry-to-warn-us-senate-off-new-iran-sanctions/
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US welcomes Syrian rebels' decision to attend mooted peace talks
Nov 13 2013
The United States Tuesday welcomed the decision by Syria's rebel Opposition National Coalition to take part in mooted Geneva peace talks.
"This is a significant step forward in the process to convene the Geneva conference, the goal of which is... establishing by mutual consent of the two negotiating delegations a transitional governing body exercising full executive powers," said State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki.
"We also welcome the inclusion of representatives of the Kurdish National Coalition within the Syrian Coalition, ensuring the Coalition is more inclusive of Syria's diversity," she stressed.
Syria's main opposition grouping said Monday it will attend peace talks but only on the condition that President Bashar al-Assad transfers power and is excluded from any transition process.
Full report at:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/86324/World/Region/US-welcomes-Syrian-rebels-decision-to-attend-moote.aspx
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Groups urge U.S. not to return Jewish artefacts to Iraq
13 November 2013
More than 40 Jewish organizations urged Washington on Tuesday not to return a trove of Jewish artefacts back to Iraq, a newspaper reported.
The artefacts were discovered by U.S. troops in the basement of former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein’s intelligence headquarters, after they toppled his Baathist government in 2003.
“We are deeply troubled by the prospect that at the end of this long journey the U.S. government plans to return all of these items to Iraq,” The Times of Israel quoted the U.S.-based NGO Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations and 41 other groups as saying in a statement.
Full report at:
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/life-style/art-and-culture/2013/11/13/Groups-urge-U-S-not-to-return-Jewish-artifacts-to-Iraq-.html
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Pakistan
Sunni Tehreek rallies in support of army
November 13, 2013
LAHORE: Supporters of the Sunni Tehreek (ST) expressed solidarity with the Pakistan Army and condemned Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) chief Munawar Hassan’s statement about martyrdom in protests across the country on Tuesday.
The ST held rallies in Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Multan, Peshawar, Abbottabad, Muzaffarabad, Quetta and Lahore to observe ‘Solidarity Day with the Pakistan Army’.
Addressing a group of chanting protesters at the Lahore Press Club, ST divisional president Mujahid Abdul Rasool said that the JI chief should be tried for treason over his statement suggesting that those who died fighting the Taliban alongside the Americans did not deserve to be called martyrs. He said that Hassan’s remarks had plunged the country into a new and unhelpful debate. They had also exposed the JI’s true face to the nation. The party had opposed the creation of Pakistan and was now conspiring to weaken the state, he said.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/631163/martyrdom-question-sunni-tehreek-rallies-in-support-of-army/
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Martyrdom of soldiers undisputed, says Baloch
November 13, 2013
LAHORE: The Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) upped the ante in its war of words with the military’s media arm on Tuesday, terming the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) statement a ‘violation’ of the Constitution.
Addressing a press conference at Mansoora, the party’s secretary general Liaquat Baloch said that since a political [civilian] government was in place “the armed forces had no right to serve a notice to the head of a political party”.
The ISPR statement had censured JI chief Munawar Hassan over who could and could not be called a martyr and demanded an ‘unconditional apology’ from him.
The JI secretary general stoutly defended Hassan, insisting that as the head of a politico-religious party he had a right to air his criticism. The nation, according to him, is aware of their party’s views about the armed forces and their institutions expressed from time to time.
He added that there were no two opinions with regard to the martyrdom of military personnel.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/631296/clearing-the-air-martyrdom-of-soldiers-undisputed-says-baloch/
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Real power rests with the establishment, says Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl
November 13, 2013
ISLAMABAD: In a candid assessment, leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, said on Tuesday that politicians were virtually powerless in the country and that the ‘establishment’ wielded actual control.
In an exclusive interview with the Daily Express, Maulana Fazl said that Pakistani politicians should realise that no matter how many times they are elected to power, they have virtually no power.
Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan had said that Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) chief Hakimullah Mehsud was killed in a US Predator strikes hours before a team of government negotiators was to meet the Taliban to kick-start peace talks.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/631292/speaking-out-real-power-rests-with-the-establishment-says-jui-f-chief/
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At least three 'Taliban militants' shot dead in Karachi
Nov 13 2013
At least three suspected Taliban militants have been killed along with a member of the Pakistani security forces in a shootout in the southern city of Karachi, officials say.
The shootings began when members of the Pakistan Rangers paramilitary force carried out a raid in the city's Gulshan-i-Buner area.
In a separate raid, several militants were arrested and weapons confiscated.
Media reports say that an ambulance was also seized.
It is thought that the militants may have been planning to use the vehicle to gain access to high security areas in order to carry out bombings.
Full report at:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-24922932
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Kashmiri leaders should be part of dialogue with India: Pakistan
2013-11-13
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Wednesday said it wanted resumption of dialogue with India for the resolution of all outstanding issues including Kashmir.
Foreign Office spokesman Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry in his weekly briefing said Kashmir is the core issue between the two countries and its solution lies in the dialogue process.
However, the spokesman urged that the Kashmiri leadership should also be part of the dialogue.
The comments from the Foreign Ministry spokesman comes after Advisor on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz met Hurriyat leaders on his visit to the Indian capital.
Full report at:
http://www.dawn.com/news/1056121/kashmiri-leaders-should-be-part-of-dialogue-with-india-pakistan
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‘TTP planned kidnap of Shias, Ahmadis for ransom’
MOHAMMAD SALEEM
2013-11-13
FAISALABAD: The banned Pakistan Tehreek-i-Taliban’s local militants had allegedly been assigned the task of kidnapping members of Shia and Ahmadi communities for ransom for fundraising.
The plan, according to sources, was revealed by five militants during their interrogation by intelligence agencies.
The five alleged TTP terrorists -- Usman Ghani alias Talha of Jameel Town, Ghulam Mohammadabad, Ali Azam alias Farooq of Razabad, Mubashar Nadeem alias Bao of Chak Jhumra, Usman of Lahore and Shahzad Ali of Gurunanakpura – had been produced before the media by the police at a press conference on Nov 5.
Full report at:
http://www.dawn.com/news/1055989/ttp-planned-kidnap-of-shias-ahmadis-for-ransom
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Security forces kill one, arrest seven militants in Balochistan
SYED ALI SHAH
2013-11-12
QUETTA: Security forces killed a militant and arrested seven others in Pishin district of Pakistan’s restive Balochistan province on Tuesday, an intelligence official said.
The operation was conducted in Barshore area of Pishin bordering Afghanistan.
An intelligence official, on condition of anonymity since he was not authorised to speak to the media, told Dawn.com that security forces conducted the operation against the militants upon intelligence of their presence in the area.
Full report at:
http://www.dawn.com/news/1055888/security-forces-kill-one-arrest-seven-militants-in-balochistan
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Police check-posts in Jamrud, Bannu attacked by militants
November 13, 2013
JAMRUD / BANNU: Three suspected militants were killed and two police officials injured in an attack on a police check-post in Hawaid area of Bannu on Wednesday.
Gul Raoof Khan, an official of Hawaid police said that three armed militants attacked Sheikh Landak police check-post at around 2:30am. He added that the militants first fired rockets at the check-post and then opened fire using assault rifles.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/631365/jamrud-blast-kills-2-khasadar-personnel/
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Pakistan’s release of Taliban prisoners - an empty deal
November 13, 2013
Last month, the Pakistani government quietly let seven captured Taliban combatants walk out of prison, ostensibly to breathe new life into peace talks. This was the second such release of Taliban prisoners in two months and one of many that has occurred over the past year.
In total, Islamabad has reportedly released almost 40 Taliban combatants at the request of Afghan officials - including a senior Taliban commander, Mansoor Dadullah, and one of the Taliban’s founding members, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. While these prisoner releases have gone largely unnoticed in the United States, they are important reminders of broader problems with ongoing attempts to negotiate with the Taliban. The Taliban get something they want - legitimacy and the release of senior leaders - and provide nothing in return, slighting the Afghan public in the process.
Full report at:
http://www.nation.com.pk/pakistan-news-newspaper-daily-english-online/international/13-Nov-2013/pakistan-s-release-of-taliban-prisoners-an-empty-deal
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Southeast Asia
PPP Seeks New Islamic Coalition for Next Year’s Presidential Election
Nov 13 2013
The United Development Party (PPP) on Tuesday said it would actively approach other major Islamic parties to form a coalition to support a presidential candidate ahead of Indonesia’s 2014 election.
PPP deputy secretary general Arwani Thomafi said that his party would approach other Islamic parties in the House of Representatives: the National Mandate Party (PAN), the National Awakening Party (PKB) and the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS), along with the Crescent Star Party (PBB), which occupied legislative seats during the 2004-2009 period but was ousted from the House in the 2009 elections.
Full report at:
http://www.thejakartaglobe.com/news/ppp-seeks-new-islamic-coalition-for-next-years-presidential-election/
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We’re ready to implement hudud, says Kelantan Syariah chief judge
NOVEMBER 13, 2013
The Kelantan Syariah courts are capable of managing the implementation of hudud law if the Pas-led state government is able to enforce the law in the state, said the state's Syariah Chief Judge today.
Datuk Daud Muhammad said this was because the facilities needed to implement the Islamic (hudud) law were complete, including the availability of judges.
"Insha Allah (God willing), Kelantan is able to implement hudud. The law is already there and if there's a need for more judges, we will add."
Full report at:
http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/were-ready-to-implement-hudud-says-kelantan-syariah-chief-judge
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Right to use “Allah” among Sarawak churches’ three requests to Putrajaya
Nov 13 2013
Sarawak churches have urged Putrajaya to show more commitment to religious freedom in Sabah and Sarawak in a three-point request unveiled at a forum in Kuching today.
According to the three-point request, read by Association of Churches Sarawak chairman Archbishop Datuk Bolly Lapok to more than 1,000 people at the forum, Putrajaya should:
recognise that the word "Allah" is inherent to the practice of the Christian faith by Bahasa Malaysia-speaking and other native language speaking churches in Sarawak and Sabah; honour the guarantee of religious freedom in the federal constitution; and reaffirm and recognise the 10-point agreement by Putrajaya in April 2011.
Full report at:
http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/right-to-use-allah-among-sarawak-churches-three-requests-to-putrajaya
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South Asia
Afghan elders to meet on US security deal despite Taliban threats
13 November 2013
The grand assembly of Afghan tribal elders, due to consider a security deal with the United States beyond 2014, will go ahead despite threats from the Taliban, the organizers said Wednesday.
Some 2,500 elders and local strongmen were expected to take part in the Loya Jirga, or Grand Assembly, scheduled for November 21.
The four-day assembly is to decide whether to accept the draft Bilateral Security Agreement between Afghanistan and the US, which will decide the scope of military engagement, the number of troops and bases, among other things, after the withdrawal of the NATO-led international troops in 2014.
Full report at:
http://voiceofrussia.com/news/2013_11_13/Afghan-elders-to-meet-on-US-security-deal-despite-Taliban-threats-1360/
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Muhammad Yunus Shines and Inspires at Global Social Business Summit
Nov 13 2013
Kuala Lumpur. The 73-year-old Muhammad Yunus stopped occasionally on his way to the conference room to get his pictures taken by his admirers. He was selected to be the keynote speaker at the fifth Global Social Business Summit at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center in Malaysia.
Despite his age, the Nobel Laureate is an energetic man. He smiled gracefully whenever someone approached him to praise his work or answering questions from the conference delegates.
Around 600 people from more than 50 nations attended the three-day event in early November.
After earning his Ph.D. in Economics from Vanderbilt University in the United States, Yunus returned to Bangladesh with a clear aim — to fight poverty. During the early years of his return home, he used to visit the poorest areas in Bangladesh and examine the lives of communities living below the poverty line.
Full report at:
http://www.thejakartaglobe.com/business/muhammad-yunus-shines-and-inspires-at-global-social-business-summit/
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Islamic organization arrives in Myanmar amid protests
13 November 2013
Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) delegates arrived in Myanmar Wednesday for a five-day visit to assess anti-Muslim violence in the predominantly Buddhist country.
The delegation, led by OIC Secretary General Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, was met by about 20 protesters at Yangon International Airport, including 10 monks, carrying signboards saying "OIC Get Out."
On Tuesday about 300 protesters, including about 200 Buddhist monks, marched in Yangon to oppose the OIC's visit, accusing the group of interfering with Myanmar's internal affairs.
The delegation was scheduled to travel to Naypyitaw, the capital, where they will meet government officials and legislators from Rakhine State. Sectarian fighting broke out in the state last year leaving more than 167 dead, primarily Muslims.
Full report at:
http://voiceofrussia.com/news/2013_11_13/Islamic-organization-arrives-in-Myanmar-amid-protests-6945/
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China pressures Muslim Uighur lawyer families
Nov 13, 2013
China's far-flung western region of Xinjiang (East Turkestan) is demanding that lawyers guarantee family members don't wear burqas or grow long beards, the latest government move critics say unfairly targets the region's Muslim Uighur ethnic community.
Lawyers in Turpan, an oasis city southeast of the regional capital, Urumqi, have to sign a pledge denouncing "extremism and participation in illegal religious activities", the Xinjiang judicial affairs department website said on Tuesday.
"Lawyers must commit to guaranteeing that family members and relatives do not wear burqas, veils or participate in illegal religious activities, and that young men do not grow long beards," the statement said.
Full report at:
http://www.worldbulletin.net/?aType=haber&ArticleID=122799
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Two school children die in Afghanistan blast
Nov 13, 2013
A blasts in the Farah province of Afghanistan has killed two school children and wounded three others.
Speaking to Anadolu Agency, the Farah Governorate spokesman Abdul Rahman Jowanday said on Wednesday that the bomb had been put under a bridge close to a primary school in the Posht Rod town.
http://www.worldbulletin.net/?aType=haber&ArticleID=122809
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Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami leader Azhar indicted for war crimes
Nov 13 2013
The International Crimes Tribunal on Tuesday indicted ATM Azhar ul Islam, assistant secretary general of Jamaat-e-Islami, on six charges of committing crimes against humanity during the 1971 Liberation War.
The charges include abduction, confinement, murder, genocide, looting and arson.
After framing charges against Azhar, tribunal 1 set December 5 for beginning trial with the prosecution’s opening statement. The tribunal also asked Azhar’s counsel to submit documents and evidence within this time.
Full report at:
http://www.dhakatribune.com/law-amp-rights/2013/nov/12/atm-azhar-indicted#sthash.moNp8yNI.dpuf
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Khaleda to face trial for killings: Says PM slating hartal violence
Nov 13 2013
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday warned that opposition leader Khaleda Zia would have to face trial for killing more than 20 people during hartal hours.
“By the grace of Allah, the trial of those killings will be held,” she said, adding that the opposition leader has to take the responsibility for the killings.
Addressing a mammoth rally at Kotalipara in Gopalganj, the premier also expressed her apprehension that the opposition leader might try again to kill her.
Full report at:
http://www.thedailystar.net/beta2/news/khaleda-to-face-trial-for-killings/
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Haqqani Leader Nasiruddin’s death a big loss: Afghan Taliban
November 13, 2013
KABUL: The Afghan Taliban on Tuesday condemned the killing of senior Haqqani Network leader Nasiruddin Haqqani but said his death would not have any impact on the insurgency.
“We condemn the cowardly act of the defeated enemy and tell them that these kinds of terrorist actions will not have any negative impact on the current jihadi activities,” the Taliban said in a statement. “His death is a big loss for Islamic Emirate and all Afghanistan,” it said.
Unidentified gunmen shot down Nasiruddin, the eldest son of the group’s founder, as he bought bread at a bakery in Bhara Kahu on Sunday evening. Nasiruddin was the chief financier of the Haqqani militant network affiliated with the Afghan Taliban, which is the most feared group fighting US-led and Afghan forces in Afghanistan.
There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the killing, which came less than two weeks after a US drone strike killed TTP chief Hakimullah Mehsud in North Waziristan Agency.
http://tribune.com.pk/story/631280/nasiruddins-death-a-big-loss-afghan-taliban/
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/al-qaeda-yemen-vows-revenge/d/24408