Ancient Egyptian Noble Tombs of Qubbet Al-Hawwa, 'Virgin Site' Looted
New Age Islam News Bureau
18 Jun 2013
Photo: Ancient Egyptian Noble Tombs of Qubbet Al-Hawwa, 'Virgin Site' Looted
Arab World
• Ancient Egyptian Noble Tombs of Qubbet Al-Hawwa, 'Virgin Site' Looted
• Suicide attacks in and around a Shiite mosque kill 24 people in Iraq
• Army Kills Notorious Al-Qaeda Ringleader in Northern Syria
• Iraqi Shiite cleric warns al-Qaeda ringleader 'Ayman al-Zawahiri' over Syria
• Imperialist Fatwas against Hezbollah have no teeth
• Syrian warplanes hit rebel’s positions in north
• Who Killed the Syrian Peace Talks?
• Hezbollah leader scorns the people like Qaddafi
• Elbaradei Condemns Morsi Calls 150 Million Shia Muslims Unclean and Impure
• Al-Azhar Quran Teacher Fired for Converting to Shia Islam
• Assad says Europe would 'pay price' for arming rebels
• Saudi extremist cleric's controversial trip to London following his call for "jihad" in Syria
• Hezbollah trains Assad forces for Aleppo offensive
• Lebanese singer-turned Islamist will sell home to back FSA
• Lebanese Mufti: Imam Khomeini drew a red line on the domination of the arrogant powers
• 70 Saudi fighters’ dead bodies back from Syria
• Egypt seen to give nod toward jihad in Syria
Southeast Asia
• Robbery to fund terrorism is not jihad: Indonesian Ulema Council
• Sampang Sunnis: ‘No problem with Shiites’
• Indonesian leader vows to punish those who target minorities
• Indonesia steps in to help ease Deep South conflict
• University holds puppetry festival to preserve local culture
• Suhakam out to ratify 6 UN rights conventions
• Facebook has 64m active Indonesian users
• Lessons from Turkey for Muslim Democrats in M'sia
Pakistan
• Pakistan's Punjab Government Allocates 61 mn Funds for Saeed’s JuD Centre
• Attacks inside Pak not ‘jihad’, says Hafiz Saeed
• Suicide blast at Mardan funeral kills 20, including PTI lawmaker
• Five killed in incidents of violence in Karachi
• Senators want civilian control over agencies
• Asma Jahangir to lead Balochistan HRCP fact finding mission
• Terror threat: Prisons in Balochistan put on high alert
• A British Pakistani journalist tells Pakistan's 'whole' story
• Pakistan Working On New Policy to Stop US Drones Strikes: Advisor to PM
India
• Jamat-E-Islami to Pay Monthly Allowance to the Family of Framed Innocent Muslims
• Ulema Should Come Forward and Provide Leadership to the Community
• IB Special Director quizzed in Ishrat case
• JKLF chairman Yasin Malik, 12 supporters detained at Sangam
• Kashmir University pupils insult national anthem
• India wary of China arms firm’s invite to Sharif
• India moves closer to hosting a Pakistani panel in connection with 26\11 probe
Europe
• Sex Grooming: Muslims To Hear Hard-Hitting Sermon In British Mosques
• Ramadan Quranic Course Planned in France
• Putin, Obama agree to keep pushing Syrians to negotiate
• G8 challenges Russia to sign up to Syria peace plan
• G8 leaders agree to stamp out terror ransom payments: Britain
North America
• NSA secret data gathering 'transparent': Obama
• ‘Let Allah deal with it’: Sarah Palin’s solution to the Syrian conflict
• Bill Cosby asks Americans to take parenting tips from Muslims
• NJ wants notice of outside agencies' surveillance
• US Cold War Ally in the Docks at Guantanamo for USS Cole Bombing
• Why the Spying Scandal Is a Serious Racial Justice Issue
• US unveils $300 million in new aid for Syrian refugees
• Barack Obama: Iranian people want a 'different direction'
• US whistleblower Snowden says he cannot get a fair trial on NSA leaks
• 9/11 accused due back in court at Guantanamo
South Asia
• Kabul blast kills three amid security transition
• Myanmar monks back down from law seeking to restrict interfaith marriages
• Taliban 'set to open office in Qatar'
• Afghan Refugees in Pakistan await extension of repatriation deadline
• Hamid Karzai announces transfer of security from NATO to Afghan control
• Afghanistan to hold formal talks with Taliban in Qatar - Karzai
• A Japanese Muslim on Islam Mission
• Amended anti-terror act in Bangladesh to gag freedom of expression
• Jumhoree Party Leader confident of securing Bangladesh presidential election in first round
• Maldives achieves 5 of 8 Millennium Development Goals
Mideast
• 'No alternative' to Palestinian state: Bill Clinton in Israel
• US must recognise Iran's nuclear rights: Rouhani
• Iran’s new President vows moderation
• US right to arm Syrian rebels, says Israeli president
• Iran nuclear program advances despite sanctions: IAEA chief
• Turkey warns it may use army to end protest unrest
• Turkey summons UK charge d'affaires over spying claims
• Arab village in Israel targeted in racial attack
Africa
• Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi's son to stand trial in August: Libya prosecutor
• Shiite school of Fudiyyah conducts graduation ceremony in Zaria
• Tunis holds summit on Internet freedom after Arab Spring
• Al-Jazeera crew detained in Niger on assignment
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/ancient-egyptian-noble-tombs-qubbet/d/12142
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Arab World
Ancient Egyptian Noble Tombs of Qubbet Al-Hawwa, 'Virgin Site' Looted
Nevine El-Aref
June 18, 2013
Three dozen members of an armed gang invaded and stole the contents of five tombs from the Qubbet Al-Hawa (The Dome of The Winds) ancient Egyptian necropolis on Aswan's west bank.
The lack of security in Egypt continues to negatively affect archaeological sites, especially those located in remote areas.
The Qubbet Al-Hawa necropolis is named after the domed tomb of a Muslim Sufi cleric located at the crest of the hill. The area consists of a large collection of rock-hewn tombs of ancient Egyptian nobles who ruled Aswan throughout the Old, Middle and New Kingdoms.
The tombs’ walls are decorated with vivid paintings as a sort of biography that depicts scenes of its owners’ daily life as well as their different titles. It also includes of hieroglyphic texts showing the noblemen’s journey to Africa.
"This is not the first time to have such an intrusion," an archaeologist in Aswan tells Ahram Online, who insisted on anonymity, fearing the gang members would attempt to assassinate him.
Our source reveals that since March the necropolis has been subjected to looting, as the archaeologists discovered on a routine tour.
Since Egypt's 2011 revolution there are no longer permanent Tourism and Antiquities Police security guards. Furthermore, antiquities guards are not well-armed to stand against these gangs of looters.
"We are asking the police to guard the necropolis permanently in order to protect a very distinguished archaeological site," assert the archaeologists.
Ministry of State for Antiquities archaeology consultant, Mohamed Hamada tells Ahram Online that the Aswan inspectorate reported the case to the police, who came the site, but the criminal still escaped. The ministry, he went on, sent an archaeological committee to inspect the invaded tombs in order to report on any loss.
Investigations are now taking place, said Hamad, and more procedures will be taken to protect the highly-distinguished ancient Egyptian site.
Former head of the ancient Egyptian sector at the ministry Mohamed El-Beiyali tells Ahram Online that the Qubbet Al-Hawa necropolis is a virgin site, which has not yet been totally excavated and its looting is a great loss, not only to humanity but to ancient Egyptian history.
The walls of these tombs, he added, bear scenes that relate the development of life of the nobles along the ancient Egyptian history and their relation with Africa
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/9/40/74010/Heritage/Ancient-Egypt/Ancient-Egyptian-noble-tombs-of-virgin-site-looted.aspx
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Suicide attacks in and around a Shiite mosque kill 24 people in Iraq
June 18, 2013
Two suicide bombers blew themselves up in and around a Shiite mosque in Baghdad on Tuesday, killing 24 people and injuring 32 others, according to Iraqi authorities.
The coordinated blasts are the latest in a string of attacks rippling across Iraq that is reviving fears the country is headed back toward the widespread sectarian bloodshed that pushed it to the brink of a civil war in 2006 and 2007.
Police and hospital officials provided the casualty numbers for the blasts, which happened near and inside the mosque in Baghdad’s northern Qahira neighbourhood.
The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not authorised to speak to the media.
Police said the first bomber detonated his explosives at a security checkpoint near the mosque in an apparent attempt to distract the authorities. The district is a middle class, Shiite-majority neighbourhood.
Amid the commotion, a second bomber slipped into the mosque and blew himself up while worshippers were performing midday prayers, according to police.
Violence has surged in Iraq in recent months, along with sectarian and political tensions. Insurgents frequently attack Shiites deemed by Sunni extremists as infidels and non-Muslims.
There was no immediate claim of responsibility, but suicide bombings and attacks against Shiite worshippers are frequently the work of al-Qaida’s Iraq arm.
The bloodshed roiling Iraq has risen to levels not seen since 2008. Nearly 2,000 have been killed since the start of April, including more than 220 this month.
On Sunday, a wave of apparently coordinated bombings and a shooting killed at least 51 people. Another 15 people were killed in bomb attacks on Monday, including one caused by a suicide bomber who set off his explosives-laden belt among a group of policemen in Fallujah, west of Baghdad.
http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/suicide-attacks-kill-24-people-in-iraq/article4826899.ece
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Army Kills Notorious Al-Qaeda Ringleader in Northern Syria
June 18, 2013
(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - The army today killed Ahmad al-Jarrad who was the al-Qaeda ringleader in al-Reqqa. The Syrian army also killed 36 of al-Jarrad's companions in Reqqa city today.
Meantime, the Syrian army repelled attacks by the armed rebels on the army's Reqqa Battalion killing 30 of the rebels and injuring dozens more.
Syria has been experiencing unrest since March 2011 with organized attacks by well-armed gangs and terrorists against Syrian forces and civilians being reported across the country.
The US and its western and regional allies have long sought to topple Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his ruling system. Media reports said that the Syrian rebels and terrorist groups have received significantly more and better weapons, a crime paid for by the Persian Gulf Arab states and coordinated by the United States.
The US daily, Washington Post, reported in May 2012 that the Syrian rebels and terrorist groups battling Assad's government have received significantly more and better weapons in recent weeks, a crime paid for by the Persian Gulf Arab states and coordinated by the United States.
The newspaper, quoting opposition activists and US and foreign officials, reported that Obama administration officials emphasized the administration has expanded contacts with opposition military forces to provide the Persian Gulf nations with assessments of rebel credibility and command-and-control infrastructure.
Opposition activists who several months ago said the rebels were running out of ammunition said last May that the flow of weapons - most bought on the black market in neighboring countries or from elements of the Syrian military in the past - has significantly increased after a decision by Saudi Arabia, Qatar and other Persian Gulf states to provide millions of dollars in funding each month.
http://abna.ir/data.asp?lang=3&Id=430815
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Iraqi Shiite cleric warns al-Qaeda ringleader 'Ayman al-Zawahiri' over Syria
June 18, 2013
(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - Iraqi cleric Moqtada al-Sadr has issued a stern warning to the ringleader of al-Qaeda against the terrorist group’s further intervention in Syria.
Sadr said Monday that Ayman al-Zawahiri needs to stay away from Syria’s affairs and allow Sunnis and Alawites to live peacefully in Syria as they always did.
He condemned al-Qaeda’s killing of Muslims and said the group and its extremist ways have no place in Islamic nations.
Zawahiri recently said that the notorious Al-Nusra Front in Syria “is an independent branch of Al-Qaeda". The militant group has carried out a range of atrocities in the Arab country.
The remarks by the influential Iraqi cleric come a day after a spate of violent bomb attacks that killed scores of people across Iraq.
Full report at:
http://www.abna.co/data.asp?lang=3&id=430614
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Imperialist fatwas against Hezbollah have no teeth
New Age Islam News Bureau, June 18, 2013
Bierut: The head of Hezbollah, Lebanon, Hasan Nasrullah has criticized the fatwas by Egyptian and Saudi clerics particularly the fatwas issued by Al Qaradhawi against Hezbollah and Shias saying that these are imperialist fatwas issued to please the imperialist masters of the Wahhabi-Salafi clerics and said that these fatwas will make no difference to the power and zeal of Hezbollah. He further said that the US and Israel were supporting the terrorists in Syria, and the Islamic forces and the people of Lebanon were helping and defending the Syrian people and government. Nasrullah said, ‘We have been living in Lebanon for thousands of years and we are Lebanese. Those who are issuing fatwas of destruction against us are living in another planet. They should remember that Hezbollah, Lebanon had historically defeated Israel in Bint Jabeel and Maron and encouraged Muslims to fight against Israel. We are ready to sacrifice everything for the protection of our country and our dignity’. Terming the Salafi-Wahhabi fatwas against Hezbollah as imperialistic and spineless, Hasan Nasrullah said, ‘If their fatwas had any iota of Islamic, moral and human colour, they would have been issued against the aggressive Zionist government of Israel and in favour of the Palestinian Arabs. But the truth is that their fatwas have the seal of the US and Israel and so they have no value and importance in the eyes of Muslims’. He said that those issuing fake and baseless fatwas agains Hezbollah were committing a grave historical mistake and aiding the US and Israel.
Hasan Nasrullah further said that the fatwas issued by the Salafi-Wahhabi muftis of Qatar and Saudi Arabia are only meant to drive a wedge between different sects of Muslims and to please the US. He observed that if such fatwas had been issued against Israel, the Aqsa Mosque would have long been freed and Palestinians would have returned to their homes. Those fighting according to these misleading fatwas may only go to hell, he said.
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Syrian warplanes hit rebels positions in north
June 18, 2013
Syrian warplanes hit rebel positions near a contested military air base in the north on Tuesday, activists said, while President Bashar Assad’s forces nearby pressed ahead with an offensive against Opposition fighters in the country’s largest city, Aleppo.
The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that fighter jets struck near the Kweiras air base near the Turkish border early on Tuesday. Opposition forces fighting to oust Assad’s regime for more than two years have been trying for months to take Kweiras and two other military air bases nearby.
Full report at:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/world/syrian-warplanes-hit-rebels-positions-in-north/article4826738.ece
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Who Killed the Syrian Peace Talks?
16 June 2013
The long awaited Syrian peace talks - instigated by power brokers Russia and the United States - had already passed their initial due date, and are now officially stillborn.
The peace talks are dead because the U.S.-backed rebels are boycotting the negotiations, ruining any hope for peace, while threatening to turn an already-tragic disaster into a Yugoslavia-style catastrophe...or worse.
The U.S. backed rebels are not participating in the talks because they have nothing to gain from them, and everything to lose.
In war, the purpose of peace negotiations is to copy the situation on the battlefield and paste it to a treaty: the army winning the war enters negotiations from a dominant position, since its position is enforceable on the ground.
Full report at:
http://truth-out.org/opinion/item/17005-who-killed-the-syrian-peace-talks
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Hezbollah leader scorns the people like Qaddafi
ABDULRAHMAN AL-RASHED
16 June 2013
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah has become so accustomed to years of glorification and praise, he can’t imagine anyone telling him he is wrong and that he should be condemned for his militia killing thousands of Syrians. The Arab media has been singing his praises and justifying his mistakes and sins, with no one daring to criticize him.
So it is not strange for him to be angry at millions of Arabs for pointing out his organization's crimes and questioning his intentions.
His troops have killed many Syrians, occupied their villages and displaced thousands. In our view, he is not a Shiite but a radical like Osama Bin Laden and Al-Zawahiri. Hezbollah is exactly like Al-Qaeda, Alnasrah Front and other terrorist organizations.
Full report at:
http://www.arabnews.com/news/455158
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Elbaradei Severely Condemns Egyptian President Morsi Calls 150 Million Shia Muslims Unclean and Impure
June 18, 2013
(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - Egypt’s prominent opposition leader Mohamed ElBaradei has condemned the recent anti-Shia comments made at a pro-government conference in Cairo.
Addresing a rally of people who staged a sit-in protest outside the Egyptian ministry of culture, ElBaradei said a regime which insults the opposition and calls 150 million Shia Muslims ‘najis’ (unclean and impure) has no way but to relinquish power immediately.
The leader of the Addustour party said Egypt’s revolution has not ended yet and Egyptians will continue their revolutions to achieve their objectives.
Full report at:
http://abna.co/data.asp?lang=3&id=430632
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Al-Azhar Quran Teahcer Fired for Converting to Shia Islam
June 18, 2013
(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - Egypt’s Administrative Prosecutor’s Office ordered a Quran teacher to be fired from Al-Azhar religious center.
The office in a verdict said Muhammad Usfour should be sacked because of embracing Shia Islam, Akhbar-al-Aan daily reported.
The verdict has been sent to the Sheikh of Al-Azhar, Ahmed Al-Tayyeb, to be confirmed.
Al-Azhar’s legal committee in Al-Gharbiya province had referred the case to the central legal affairs committee to see whether it is authorized for this Quran teacher to continue his work at Al-Azhar or not.
Full report at:
http://abna.ir/data.asp?lang=3&Id=430581
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Assad says Europe would 'pay price' for arming rebels
June 17, 2013
Syrian president Bashar al-Assad warned Monday that European powers would "pay the price" if they sent weapons to rebel forces seeking to topple him.
"If the Europeans deliver weapons, then Europe's backyard will become terrorist, and Europe will pay the price for it," he was quoted as saying by German daily Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung.
Sending weapons to rebels would lead to terrorism in Europe, he said according to an interview to appear in Tuesday's edition of the newspaper.
"Terrorists will return, battle-hardened and with an extremist ideology," he was quoted as saying.
Full report at:
http://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/europe/Assad-says-Europe-would-pay-price-for-arming-rebels/Article1-1077927.aspx
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Saudi extremist cleric's controversial trip to London following his call for "jihad" in Syria
Fars News Agency
June 18, 2013
TEHRAN (FNA)- Saudi Salafist cleric Muhammad al-Arifi has taken a trip to London, following his call for "jihad" in Syria.
Images on Twitter show the Takfiri mufti's arrival at a hotel in the British capital on Sunday.
The trip has sparked hot debates online, with many Twitter users slamming the radical Saudi cleric for journeying overseas while making divisive comments against Muslims and calling for action in Syria, Alalam reported.
Full report at:
http://english.farsnews.com/newstext.php?nn=9203183742
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Hezbollah trains Assad forces for Aleppo offensive
June 18, 2013
Some 80 thousand military forces trained by Lebanese Hezbollah were preparing to launch a ground offensive to recapture Syria’s commercial city of Aleppo.
According to a report in the UK-based Sunday Times, a Hezbollah commander said the fighters belonging to Syria’s National Defense Force (NDF) have been taught “to fight street by street.”
The fighters were also trained by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, the newspaper added.
The commander on Sunday said Hezbollah will not deploy its fighters in Aleppo, but will only provide tactical support for forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Full report at:
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2013/06/16/Hezbollah-trains-Assad-forces-for-Aleppo-offensive-.html
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Lebanese singer-turned Islamist will sell home to back FSA
17 June 2013
A famed Lebanese singer, who has turned into a self-proclaimed Sunni Islamist, will put his home up for sale to back the Free Syrian Army (FSA) battling the Syrian regime, he said during an interview with a Lebanese TV channel this week.
“I would rather sleep on the ground just for the Syrian revolution’s sake,” Fadhel al-Shaker told the al-Jadeed TV channel, adding “whoever attacks us (Sunnis), we will do the same.”
The conflict in Syria has become increasingly sectarian with fighters from the Lebanese Shiite group Hezbollah, an ally of the Syrian regime, joining the fight against the rebels.
Full report at:
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2013/06/17/Lebanese-singer-turned-Islamist-says-will-sell-his-home-to-back-FSA.html
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Lebanese Mufti: Imam Khomeini drew a red line on the domination of the arrogant powers
June 18, 2013
(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - A Sunni scholar and the head of the “Unity and Reform” movement in Lebanon, Sheikh Maher Abdol-Razaq considered the appearance of Imam Khomeini in the Islamic society as a turning point in the lifetime of the Islamic Ummah and said: “Imam Khomeini could revive the holy religion of Islam with his sayings and actions.”
“Islamic revolution in Iran with the leadership of Imam Khomeini is a revolution for all of the Islamic and Arab countries and also a suitable criterion for the further actions and movements all around the world. The revolution could open a new door for the Muslims and oppressed in the world.” Said the Sunni scholar.
Full report at:
http://abna.ir/data.asp?lang=3&Id=430908
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70 Saudi fighters dead bodies back from Syria
June 18, 2013
(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - According to a report by mirataljazeera.net published on Friday, a Saudi source said the bodies were delivered to the country in King Fahad International Airport.
The source said the Saudi regime had sent a number of diplomats to Turkey in order to facilitate the transfer process.
According to the source, the Saudi regime did not dispatch anyone to fight in Syria, and that the 70 people had been fighting on their own will.
Full report at:
http://abna.ir/data.asp?lang=3&Id=430727
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Egypt seen to give nod toward jihad in Syria
By The Associated Press
June 18, 2013
CAIRO — Under Hosni Mubarak’s rule, Egypt’s authorities took a tough line on Egyptians coming home after waging “jihad” in places like Afghanistan, Chechnya or the Balkans, fearing they would bring back extremist ideology, combat experience and a thirst for regime change. In most cases, they were imprisoned and tortured.
But after Mubarak’s overthrow and his replacement by an elected Islamist president, jihad has gained a degree of legitimacy in Egypt, and the country has become a source of fighters heading to the war in Syria.
Full report at:
http://enidnews.com/state/x1885648843/Egypt-seen-to-give-nod-toward-jihad-in-Syria
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Southeast Asia
Robbery to fund terrorism is not jihad: Indonesian Ulema Council
By Andhika Bhakti for Khabar Southeast Asia in Jakarta
June 08, 2013
A recent spate of heists and robberies to fund terrorism has highlighted the sinister nexus between violent extremism and crime. In May, Indonesian counterterrorism police broke up a cell led by Abu Roban, who was slain during the raids.
The group was linked to Santoso, leader of the Islamic Mujahid in Eastern Indonesia, and relied on fa'i – stolen money – to support their activities in Poso, National Police spokesman Boy Rafli Amar said.
According to Boy, Abu Roban obtained billions of rupiah from robberies, including Rp 500m ($51,200) from the BRI Bank in Grobogan, Central Java, Rp 500m from the BRI Bank in Batang, Central Java, and Rp 450m ($46,000) from BRI Bank Lampung.
Police seized 4 kg gold and Rp 30m ($3,100) cash during their raid of his hideout in Batang, Central Java.
Full report at:
http://khabarsoutheastasia.com/en_GB/articles/apwi/articles/features/2013/06/08/feature-02
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Sampang Sunnis: ‘No problem with Shiites’
June 18 2013
The Sunni majority in Sampang, Madura, East Java, had no problem welcoming the return of ostracized Shia community members; the main issue that bars them from returning to their homes is the local government’s intransigence, a rights group has said.
The Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (Kontras) said the local government had disseminated false information about members of the Sunni and Shia communities being in conflict.
Full report at:
http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2013/06/18/sampang-sunnis-no-problem-with-shiites.html
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Indonesian leader vows to punish those who target minorities
June 18, 2013
JAKARTA, Indonesia – President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono pledged Saturday (June 15th) to punish those responsible who target religious minorities, The Jakarta Post reported.
"We will not tolerate senseless violence committed in the name of religion or identity," Yudhoyono said in his speech opening the Bali Arts Festival. "We will make sure those who harm the characteristics of unity and harmony or commit intolerant acts will be brought to justice."
Zafrullah Ahmad Pontoh, spokesperson for the Ahmadiyah Indonesia congregation, said Sunday that he hoped Yudhoyono's words would be backed up by action.
"We hope the president will punish those who commit violence and discrimination towards minority groups," the Post quoted him as saying.
http://khabarsoutheastasia.com/en_GB/articles/apwi/articles/newsbriefs/2013/06/18/newsbrief-07
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Indonesia steps in to help ease Deep South conflict
The government is sending preachers to Thailand and providing scholarships for Thai Muslim students.
By Okky Feliantiar for Khabar Southeast Asia in Yogyakarta
June 12, 2013
In an effort to help Thailand quell insurgency in its Muslim-majority southern provinces, Indonesia has stepped in to provide scholarships for 50 Thai Muslims to study at Islamic universities in Indonesia, officials announced during a two-day visit by a delegation from southern Thailand to Yogyakarta, Central Java.
The 65-member group, led by Southern Border Provinces Administration Centre (SBPAC) Secretary General Lertkiat Wongpotipun, consisted of government officials, local leaders and educators from Pattani, Songkhla, Yala, Narathiwat and Satun provinces.
Full report at:
http://khabarsoutheastasia.com/en_GB/articles/apwi/articles/features/2013/06/12/feature-03
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University holds puppetry festival to preserve local culture
Traditional Indonesian puppetry brings alive timeless stories, with plenty of lessons for contemporary life.
By Ismira Lutfia Tisnadibrata for Khabar Southeast Asia in Jakarta
June 17, 2013
The University of Indonesia (UI) in Depok, West Java is known for its long-established "Jazz Goes to Campus," shows. But another arts festival draws audience members to campus with traditional performances.
The university held its 13th "Wayang Goes to Campus" festival April 4th and 5th, with an array of performances, featuring wayang kulit (two-dimensional leather puppets), wayang potehi (Chinese puppets), wayang golek (three-dimensional wooden puppets) and wayang orang (classical dance theatre).
Full report at:
http://khabarsoutheastasia.com/en_GB/articles/apwi/articles/features/2013/06/17/feature-07
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Suhakam out to ratify 6 UN rights conventions
JUNE 18, 2013
Suhakam is up for the challenge to get the government to ratify six core United Nations (UN) Human Rights conventions, including the International Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Racial Discrimination; the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and the UN Convention against Torture.
Malaysia had ratified three Conventions. They are the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and Convention On The Elimination of All Forms Of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), both in 1995; and Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2010).
Full report at:
http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/suhakam-out-to-ratify-6-un-rights-conventions/
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Facebook has 64m active Indonesian users
Mariel Grazella
June 18 2013
Facebook has revealed it has 64 million users in Indonesia who actively access their accounts on a monthly basis and says this number puts the country in the social networking site’s top five largest markets.
It also plans to monetize this huge market by inviting small and medium-sized businesses to advertise on the popular site. “Those are our internal figures on monthly ‘actives’ as of March,” Dan Neary, Facebook vice president for Asia Pacific, said recently.
The Internet company, headquartered in Menlo Park, California, had 1.1 billion global users in the first quarter of this year. “We have 390 million active users in Asia Pacific. So, that gives you an idea of how important Indonesia is in the region,” he told The Jakarta Post.
Full report at:
http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2013/06/18/facebook-has-64m-active-indonesian-users.html
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Lessons from Turkey for Muslim Democrats in M'sia
Ahmad Farouk Musa & Ahmad Fuad Rahmat
Jun 17, 2013
The Islamic Renaissance Front is observing the protests in Turkey very closely.
We believe there is much at stake in how AKP (The Justice and Development Party) will engage with the demonstrators at this point, especially with regards to the relationship between Islam and democracy.
It is well known that the AKP, under the leadership of Reccep Tayyip Erdogan, rose to power with ideas for a modern and inclusive balance between politics and Islam.
Despite its official ideology as a conservative party, it has nonetheless assured the Turkish people and the international community that it will abide by principles of transparency and openness in governing.
Full report at:
http://www.malaysiakini.com/letters/233128
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Pakistan
Pakistan's Punjab Government Allocates 61 mn Funds for Saeed’s Jud Centre
June 18, 2013
The Punjab government has allocated millions of rupees to Jamaat-ud-Dawah, a front of the banned LeT, for various development initiatives.
The government of Pakistan’s Punjab province has allocated millions of rupees in its budget for fiscal 2013-14 for the largest centre of the Jamaat-ud-Dawah, considered a front for the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Besides a grant-in-aid of over Rs. 61 million for the JuD centre known as ‘Markaz-e-Taiba’, the provincial government has allocated Rs. 350 million for setting up a “Knowledge Park” at the centre and other development initiatives.
Full report at:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/south-asia/pakistans-punjab-government-allocates-funds-for-jud-centre/article4826052.ece
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Attacks inside Pak not ‘jihad’, says Hafiz Saeed
June 18, 2013
Lashkar-e-Taiba founder Hafiz Saeed has given a ‘fatwa’ that militant activities within Pakistan cannot be considered a part of ‘jihad’ and asked terrorists to desist from carrying out attacks in the country. “Militant activities in Pakistan do not fall in the category of jihad. I appeal to all Jihadi organisations not to carry out attacks inside Pakistan as it is not jihad (holy war). America and India are taking benefit from their activities,” Saeed alleged in a statement.
Saeed, the 2008 Mumbai attacks mastermind who heads the Jamaat-ud-Dawah, issued the statement militant attacks in the south-western province of Balochistan.
http://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/pakistan/Attacks-inside-Pak-not-jihad-says-Hafiz-Saeed/Article1-1078011.aspx
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Suicide blast at Mardan funeral kills 20, including PTI lawmaker
ZAHIR SHAH SHERAZI
Jun 18 2013
PESHAWAR: At least twenty people, including a provincial lawmaker of the Pakistan Tehrik-i-Insaf (PTI), were killed Tuesday when a suicide bomber detonated his explosives during a funeral procession near Mardan in restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
At least 30 other people were also injured in the blast, said KP Information and Health Minister Shaukat Yousafzai.
The provincial information minister confirmed that Imran Khan Mohmand, a PTI lawmaker for provincial PK-27 seat, was also killed in the blast at the funeral procession.
Mohmand is the second PTI lawmaker to be killed this month in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where the party is leads a coalition provincial government.
Full report at:
http://dawn.com/news/1019076/suicide-blast-at-mardan-funeral-kills-20-including-pti-lawmaker
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Five killed in incidents of violence in Karachi
June 18, 2013
KARACHI: Five people were killed in incidents of violence in different areas of Karachi, DawnNews reported on Tuesday.
A body bearing marks of torture was found near Park Towers in Clifton. In a separate incident, another body bearing torture marks was found near Karimabad.
One person was killed in a firing incident in Garden’s Usmanabad locality.
Separately, another person was killed when unknown assailants opened fire on him in Karachi’s Liaquatabad area.
In another separate incident, a man was shot dead near Karachi’s Banaras Chowk.
http://dawn.com/news/1019070/five-killed-in-incidents-of-violence-in-karachi
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Senators want civilian control over agencies
AMIR WASIM
June 18, 2013
ISLAMABAD: Senators from both treasury and opposition benches called on Monday for bringing the security apparatus and intelligence agencies under civilian and parliamentary control to improve the law and order situation in the country.
Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan triggered a debate on the issue of civil-military relationship when he admitted in the Senate that Saturday’s terrorist attacks on Ziarat Residency and Bolan Medical Complex in Quetta were result of “serious security lapse” and “lack of coordination” between security and law enforcement agencies.
Full report at:
http://dawn.com/news/1018926/senators-want-civilian-control-over-agencies
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Asma Jahangir to lead Balochistan HRCP fact finding mission
June 18, 2013
LAHORE: Asma Jahangir will lead the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) high level fact finding mission to Balochistan in light of Saturday’s terrorist attacks in Quetta and Ziarat.
In the press statement made on Tuesday, HRCP strongly condemned the attacks and went on to add that the attacks have greater significance in light of the recent political changes in the country.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/564800/asma-jahangir-to-lead-balochistan-hrcp-fact-finding-mission/
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Terror threat: Prisons in Balochistan put on high alert
June 18, 2013
QUETTA: The federal as well as Balochistan provincial government have put the prison authorities of all the major and sensitive prisons in Balochistan on high alert in the wake of threats by banned religious outfits.
Balochistan Acting Inspector-General (IG) of Prisons Shujah Kasi confirmed this while talking to The Express Tribune here on Monday.
“We have received instructions from the federal government and later on from the provincial home department to put all the sensitive prisons on high alert where important and dangerous criminals, belonging to banned religious outfits are detained,” the IG Prisons said.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/564676/terror-threat-prisons-in-balochistan-put-on-high-alert/
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A British Pakistani journalist tells Pakistan's 'whole' story
June 18, 2013
Almeena Ahmed talks about her Pakistani identity and the media’s portrayal of Pakistan over the years.
A British Pakistani, who works for BBC London and visited Islamabad during the recent elections held in Pakistan, speaks of her excitement prior to the visit, having never visited the place before.
Ahmed particularly focuses on being able to pitch stories that are not in line with the stereotypes created by the media and its focus on what ‘bleeds’. Women in Pakistan make it to the top of her list.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/564813/a-british-pakistani-journalist-tells-pakistans-whole-story/
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Pakistan Working On New Policy to Stop US Drones Strikes: Advisor to PM
PTI | Jun 18, 2013
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is working on a new policy to stop US drone strikes, which are a contravention of the country's sovereignty and counter-productive for the campaign against terrorism, a top aide to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said on Tuesday.
A new policy is being evolved to stop drone attacks and Pakistan is hopeful that it will succeed in ending the campaign by the spy planes, said Sartaj Aziz, advisor to Prime Minister on foreign affairs and national security.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/pakistan/Pakistan-working-on-new-policy-to-stop-US-drone-strikes-Aziz/articleshow/20645376.cms
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India
Jamat-E-Islami To Pay Monthly Allowance To The Family Of Framed Innocent Muslims
New Age Islam News Bureau, June 18, 2013-06-18
New Delhi: Jamat Islami has come forward to help the helpless families of the Muslim youth who have been framed in terrorist cases. The Jamat has not only planned to provided legal aid to 250 families of Muslim youth framed in false terror charges but also to pay monthly allowance of Rs 5000 to them for six months. According to the social service department of Jamat, Shafi Madani, the department wants to help the families of the innocent Muslim youth implicated in terror cases and the funds for the 250 affected families of Delhi, Karnataka, Bihar and Madhya Pradesh have already been released. Mr Shaif further said that the Jamat had also the plan to give huge financial aid to the affected families to get them employment. Besides, their children are also being helped to get education. The Jamat will also help them to start businesses. Md Shafi said that among the families receiving aid, 32 were from Madhya Pradesh, 35 from Karnataka, 6 from Delhi and 14 from Bihar.
It should be noted here that about 500 Muslim youth from various states are lodged in different jails under false terror charges and their families are facing social boycott and stigma and the governments do not help them in any way, Madani said.
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Ulema Should Come Forward and Provide Leadership To The Community
New Age Islam News Bureau, June 18, 2013
Kolkata: An all Bengal Muslim convention was held in Kolkata on Sunday by the Majlis Ulema-e-Islam in which religious scholars from all over India participated. The convention resolved that Ulema should provide leadership to the community as they had led the war of independence. Speaking to the audience in the Muslim Institute, the President of the Majlis, Maulana Qasim Alwi said that the Muslims of West Bengal were backward in social, educational and economic development and we should march forward as well as create pressure on the government in this regard. The former central minister and TMC leader Sultan Ahmad said that now the Muslims were in a position to make or break a government and so they were a need of the political parties. Mr Ahmad also lamented the poor educational standards of Urdu medium schools. He also appealed to the Ulema to come forward and lead the fight against social evils. ’Ulema should come out of the confines of the mosque and the pulpit and provide leadership to the community’, he said.
The general secretary of the state Congress, Khalid Ebadullah also said that if Ulema take the reins of social and political leadership, problems will be solved.
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IB Special Director quizzed in Ishrat case
June 18, 2013
Rajinder Kumar, a 1979 Batch IPS officer, is questioned by the CBI for his alleged role in the fake encounter
The CBI on Tuesday questioned Intelligence Bureau Special Director Rajinder Kumar in connection with the Ishrat Jahan fake encounter case at its office in Gandhinagar.
This is the second time the IB officer has been grilled by CBI sleuths probing his alleged role in the fake encounter in which 19-year old Jahan was killed along with four others on June 15, 2004 by a team of Crime Branch officials on the outskirts of Ahmedabad.
Full report at:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ib-special-director-quizzed-in-ishrat-case/article4826796.ece?homepage=true
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JKLF chairman Yasin Malik, 12 supporters detained at Sangam
PTI | Jun 18, 2013
SRINAGAR: JKLF chairman Yasin Malik and his 12 supporters were on Monday detained at Sangam on Jammu-Srinagar National highway when they was heading to earthquake-hit Doda region to distribute relief material, police sources said.
A spokesman of the separatist outfit said, "Yasin Malik and 12 other JKLF leaders and activists were detained by police at Sangam (in Anantnag district) and lodged at Awantipora police station."
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/JKLF-chairman-Yasin-Malik-12-supporters-detained-at-Sangam/articleshow/20645864.cms
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Kashmir University pupils insult national anthem
TNN | Jun 18, 2013
SRINAGAR: Some Kashmir University faculty members and students remained seated when the national anthem was played much to the embarrassment for authorities after the arrival of Chief Justice of India Altamas Kabir on the campus on Monday.
The Chief Justice visited the university to address the faculty and students of the Law department
Officials refused to comment on the incident.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Kashmir-University-pupils-insult-national-anthem/articleshow/20639860.cms
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India wary of China arms firm’s invite to Sharif
Shishir Gupta
June 17, 2013
Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s invitation to China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO) to ostensibly help Islamabad in energy infrastructure development has raised eyebrows in South Block given the company’s alleged involvement in supplies to India’s northeast insurgent groups.
One of the largest state run companies, NORINCO makes toys to short range ballistic missiles and was sanctioned by Bush administration in 2003 for missile related supplies to Iran.
India formally raised the NORINCO issue with China and asked it to desist from dabbling in the northeast.
Full report at:
http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/newdelhi/India-wary-of-China-arms-firm-s-invite-to-Sharif/Article1-1077468.aspx
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India moves closer to hosting a Pakistani panel in connection with 26\11 probe
Vishwa Mohan, TNN | Jun 18, 2013
NEW DELHI: Moving closer to host a Pakistani judicial commission, which will cross-examine four witnesses in the 2611 Mumbai terror attack case, New Delhi has sent copies of the Bombay high court order in this regard and statements of the witnesses, to Islamabad.
"Pakistan will produce these documents before its anti-terror court in Rawalpindi and decide on the date of visit of its judicial commission", said a senior home ministry official.
He said Islamabad was likely to take a decision on this soon, as there had been no issue pending before it or India, in this regard. "Since the Bombay high court has already given its approval, we don't expect any obstacle from Pakistani court now," he added.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/India-moves-closer-to-hosting-a-Pakistani-panel-in-connection-with-2611-probe/articleshow/20649296.cms
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Europe
Sex Grooming: Muslims To Hear Hard-Hitting Sermon In British Mosques
The Huffington Post UK | By Jessica Elgot
14/06/2013
Thousands of Muslims will hear a hard-hitting sermon condemning sex grooming in mosques at the end of June, emphasising strict Koranic messages on respect and morality.
The message, known as a Khutba, could be heard in as many as 500 mosques across Britain, with 50 imans already agreeing to preach the sermon.
The sermon was drafted by Imam and Bradford council Respect councillor Alyas Karmani, according to the Bradford Telegraph and Argus, opening with a reminder that the Koran “forbids sexual indecency, wickedness and oppression of others – He admonishes you that you may take heed.”
The sermon continues: “Allah commands us to undertake all matters to the highest standard of excellence.
“As Muslims we are commanded to be just, fair and shun evil, wrongdoing and all forms of indecent and immoral behaviour.
Full report at:
http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2013/06/14/muslims-grooming-mosques-sermon_n_3440034.html
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Ramadan Quranic Course Planned in France
June 18, 2013
(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - According to Saphirnews website, the educational course will be organized by the district's mosque in three stages for men.
The first stage will include theoretical issues and an introduction to the basic principles of Quran recitation.
In the second stage, the participants will be taught Tajweed principles. They will begin to memorize the Holy Quran’s verses individually in the third stage.
The mosque will hold the course in July and August on Mondays and Thursdays from 9 to 12 a.m. local time.
http://abna.ir/data.asp?lang=3&Id=430676
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Putin, Obama agree to keep pushing Syrians to negotiate
June 18, 2013
Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Barack Obama made little headway on Monday in solving their differences over the conflict in Syria.
After a meeting on the sidelines of the G8 summit in Enniskillen, Northern Ireland, Mr. Obama said Washington and Moscow have “differing perspectives on the problem.” Mr. Obama said he and Mr. Putin share an interest in reducing violence, securing chemical weapons and resolving the conflict through political means. Both leaders agreed that bringing the Syrian regime and rebels to the negotiating table remained the goal.
Full report at:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/world/putin-obama-agree-to-keep-pushing-syrians-to-negotiate/article4825956.ece
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G8 challenges Russia to sign up to Syria peace plan
AFP | Jun 18, 2013
ENNISKILLEN, United Kingdom: World leaders were to fight for a consensus on Syria on the final day of the G8 summit on Tuesday, after challenging Russian President Vladimir Putin to get on board or be left out in the cold.
The meeting of world leaders in Northern Ireland was also due to seek a deal on tax evasion but it was the divisions over the civil war in Syria that threatened to overshadow the second day of the gathering.
Presidents Barack Obama and Vladimir Putin struggled to hide their sharp differences on the conflict although they agreed they would push the fragile drive for a peace conference in Geneva.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/G8-challenges-Russia-to-sign-up-to-Syria-peace-plan/articleshow/20643596.cms
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G8 leaders agree to stamp out terror ransom payments: Britain
AFP | Jun 18, 2013
ENNISKILLEN, United Kingdom: G8 leaders have agreed to stamp out the payment of ransoms for hostages kidnapped by "terrorists", British PM David Cameron's office said on Tuesday.
Downing Street said the world leaders meeting at a summit in Northern Ireland would also call on companies to follow their lead in refusing to pay for the release of abductees.
"Leaders agree to stamp out payment of ransoms to terrorists and call on companies to follow their lead," Cameron's office said on its Twitter feed.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/uk/G8-leaders-agree-to-stamp-out-terror-ransom-payments-Britain/articleshow/20647811.cms
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North America
NSA secret data gathering 'transparent': Obama
AP | Jun 18, 2013
WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama defended top secret National Security Agency spying programs as legal in a lengthy interview, and called them transparent - even though they are authorized in secret.
"It is transparent," Obama told Public Broadcasting Service's Charlie Rose in an interview broadcast late Monday. "That's why we set up the FISA court," he added, referring to the secret court set up by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act that authorizes two recently leaked programs: one that gathers US phone records and another that is designed to track the use of US-based Internet servers by foreigners with possible links to terrorism.
Obama added that he has set up a privacy and civil liberties oversight board to help in the debate over just how far government data gathering should be allowed to go - a discussion that is complicated by the secrecy surrounding the FISA court, with hearings held at undisclosed locations and with only government lawyers present. The orders that result are all highly classified.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/NSA-secret-data-gathering-transparent-Obama/articleshow/20642782.cms
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‘Let Allah deal with it’: Sarah Palin’s solution to the Syrian conflict
17 June 2013
Former vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin said that “Allah” should be the one to deal with the Syrian crisis, criticizing the Obama administration’s policy on the war-town country.
“We’re talking now more new interventions,” said Palin, who is former governor of Alaska, during a conference in Washington. “Until we have a commander in chief who knows what he’s doing... I say let Allah sort it out.”
U.S. President Barack Obama is scheduled to hold a sit-down on Syria with his Russian counterpart. This comes after British Prime Minister David Cameron held a joint press conference with Russia’s Vladamir Putin on Sunday, highlighting differences between the West and Russia.
Full report at:
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2013/06/17/U-S-Palin-on-Syria-conflict-Let-Allah-sort-it-out-.html
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Bill Cosby asks Americans to take parenting tips from Muslims
By Markirah Shaw, 6/16/2013
Beloved comedic actor Bill Cosby wrote an op-ed piece in which he bemoaned the apathetic mindset of today’s Americans who fail to raise their children with ideas of respect and good health.
In the op-ed entitled “The Plague Called Apathy,” Cosby wrote that Americans suffer from a victim complex which causes us to simply sit back and accept a destiny of life-long health issues, economic strain, and bad manners.
But, he writes, these issues can be resolved with genuine effort.
“When you have all of these things going wrong, we go back to the drink and the cigarette smoking. There are things that, if we behave better, eat better, we will feel better, think clearly. We will begin to challenge the apathy.”
Full report at:
http://thecelebritycafe.com/feature/2013/06/bill-cosby-says-americans-are-too-apathetic-raising-their-children-we-should-take-pa
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NJ wants notice of outside agencies' surveillance
Jun 17, 2013
TRENTON, N.J. (AP) - New Jersey lawmakers are trying to require law enforcement agencies from elsewhere to tell local authorities before conducting counterterrorism surveillance in the state.
The proposal comes after a series of articles by The Associated Press revealed that New York City's police department operated secretly in New Jersey neighborhoods where Muslims lived and worked. Officers spied on Muslim organizations, infiltrated Muslim student groups and videotaped mosque-goers.
Full report at:
http://www.nbc40.net/story/22609783/nj-senate-panel-to-consider-surveillance-measure
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US Cold War Ally in the Docks at Guantanamo for USS Cole Bombing
17 June 2013
By Adam Hudson
On the morning of October, 12, 2000, the USS Cole, a US Navy Destroyer, docked in the Aden harbor of Yemen. What would seem like a normal refueling of a naval ship turned tragic. That morning, a small boat headed toward the destroyer's port side and exploded, blasting open a 40-foot-wide hole. It left 17 sailors dead and injured 39 others.
It was later learned that the Islamic terrorist group al-Qaeda was responsible for the suicide attack. Several individuals were suspected of masterminding the attack. Abu Ali al-Harithi, a Yemeni citizen and al-Qaeda leader, was one suspect. On November 3, 2002, he was killed by a CIA drone strike in Yemen, along with Kamal Derwish, a US citizen traveling with him. This was the first time a drone strike was used to kill suspected terrorists outside of Afghanistan. Full report at:
http://truth-out.org/news/item/17024-us-cold-war-ally-in-the-docks-at-guantanamo-for-uss-cole-bombing
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Why the Spying Scandal Is a Serious Racial Justice Issue
by Imara Jones
17 June 2013
Given the massive investment in national security after 9-11, recent news that the federal government is spying on hundreds of millions of people in the United States and around the world may not have come as a surprise. Polls suggest that a majority of Americans are shrugging their shoulders at the revelations of a government espionage effort against them. But an uncomfortable reality of the once secret scheme is the degree to which people of color are disproportionately caught up in the government’s dragnet. That’s because the routine, legal activities of blacks, Latinos and immigrants—96 percent of whom are people of color—make them targets for monitoring in a way not true for whites.
Full report at:
http://www.commondreams.org/view/2013/06/17-6
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US unveils $300 million in new aid for Syrian refugees
June 18, 2013
ENNISKILLEN: US President Barack Obama will tell G8 leaders Monday that Washington is offering a new $300 million aid package for refugees inside and outside Syria, a senior official said.
The new donation will bring the total of US humanitarian aid to Syrian refugees over $800 million (600 million euros) and will include food, water and materials for shelter, deputy national security advisor Ben Rhodes told reporters.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/564699/us-unveils-300-million-in-new-aid-for-syrian-refugees/
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Barack Obama: Iranian people want a 'different direction'
AP | Jun 18, 2013
WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama said Monday that Iran's election of a relative moderate shows that the country's people want to change course. But he stressed that Tehran still needs to show the international community that it's not pursuing a nuclear weapon.
Obama said in an interview with PBS' Charlie Rose airing on Monday night that the Iranian election of cleric Hasan Rowhani showed that "the Iranian people want to move in a different direction."
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/Barack-Obama-Iranian-people-want-a-different-direction/articleshow/20642297.cms
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US whistleblower Snowden says he cannot get a fair trial on NSA leaks
Reuters | Jun 17, 2013
WASHINGTON: The former National Security Agency contractor who revealed the government's top-secret phone and internet surveillance programmes said in an online forum on Monday that he did not expect to get a fair trial in the United States.
In a question-and-answer session with readers on the website of Britain's Guardian newspaper, Snowden said his disappointment with President Barack Obama helped spur his decision to reveal the monitoring of Americans' phone and internet data kept by big companies such as Google Inc and Facebook Inc.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/US-whistleblower-Snowden-says-he-cannot-get-a-fair-trial-on-NSA-leaks/articleshow/20636380.cms
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9/11 accused due back in court at Guantanamo
AP | Jun 17, 2013
GUANTANAMO BAY NAVAL BASE: Five Guantanamo Bay prisoners accused of helping orchestrate the September 11 terrorist attacks are due back in court as the US government tries to push the long-stalled case forward.
The men are to face a judge Monday for the start of five days of pretrial hearings. A judge is considering a long list of procedural issues that include whether the defense can have access to confidential records of the International Committee of the Red Cross.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/9/11-accused-due-back-in-court-at-Guantanamo/articleshow/20632420.cms
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South Asia
Kabul blast kills three amid security transition
AP
June 18, 2013
KABUL: A large bomb exploded in the Afghan capital on Tuesday, killing at least three people on the day the international military coalition hands over responsibility for fighting the Taliban insurgency to the nascent national army and police they have been training.
Kabul deputy police chief Mohammad Daoud Amin said the blast was in the Pul-i-Surkh area of the western part of the city, which is miles away from the site of the handover ceremony attended by Nato chief Anders Fogh Rasmussen and Afghan President Hamid Karzai.
A police officer named Asadullah said the target was the convoy of Mohammed Mohaqiq, a prominent ethnic Hazara lawmaker who is a former Cabinet member.
Asadullah, who like many Afghans uses just one name, said he saw two dead bodies lying in the street and a police vehicle was destroyed in the blast.
Full report at:
http://dawn.com/news/1019055/kabul-blast-kills-three-amid-security-transition
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Myanmar monks back down from law seeking to restrict interfaith marriages
17 Jun 2013 M
Author: Thomson Reuters Foundation Correspondent
BANGKOK (Thomson Reuters Foundation) – A two-day convention of some 200 monks in Myanmar ended on Friday with a call for peace and communal harmony but with no mention of a draft law that would restrict marriages between Buddhist women and Muslim men, Burmese news website The Irrawaddy reported.
The monks on Thursday unveiled a proposed law that would require any Buddhist woman seeking to marry a Muslim man to gain permission from her parents and local government officials and any Muslim man wanting to marry a Buddhist woman to convert to Buddhism,
Those who didn't follow the new rules could face up to 10 years in prison and could have their property confiscated, it said, adding the monks planned to collect signatures to lobby parliament to adopt the law.
Full report at:
http://www.trust.org/item/20130617144607-qzf6i/?source%20=%20hpbreaking
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Taliban 'set to open office in Qatar'
June 18, 2013
Sources tell Al Jazeera that Afghan armed group will open political office in Doha on Tuesday.
Taliban will open a political office in the Gulf state of Qatar on Tuesday, Al Jazeera has learned.
The office of the Afghan armed group in Doha will aim at facilitating peace talks.
In March, Hamid Karzai, the Afghan president, met the emir of Qatar to discuss plans for the Taliban to open an office in the Gulf state.
Full report at:
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/asia/2013/06/201361711334158797.html
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Afghan Refugees in Pakistan await extension of repatriation deadline
June 18, 2013
PAKISTAN: The deadline imposed by Pakistan on its 1.6 million registered and 0.6 million unregistered Afghan refugees approaches with the current government showing no intentions of providing more time for the process. The proof of registration cards held by these refugees will not be recognized come July 1 and all refugees risk arrest and deportation.
Earlier this month, it was said by the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Home and Tribal Affairs Department that the deadline was expected to be extended further as the matter was under discussion. The first deadline was set for December 31, 2012, before former prime minister Raja Pervaiz Ashraf postponed it to June 30 following the Pakistan, Afghanistan and UN Refugee Agency tripartite agreement regarding Afghan refugees.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/564806/afghan-refugees-in-pakistan-await-extension-of-repatriation-deadline/
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Hamid Karzai announces transfer of security from NATO to Afghan control
AP | Jun 18, 2013
KABUL: Afghan President HamidKarzai announced at a ceremony on Tuesday that his country's armed forces are taking over the lead for security nationwide from the US-led NATO coalition.
The handover of responsibility is a significant milestone in the nearly 12-year war and marks a turning point for American and NATO military forces, which will now move entirely into a supporting role. It also opens the way for their full withdrawal in 18 months.
"This is a historic moment for our country and from tomorrow all of the security operations will be in the hands of the Afghan security forces," Karzai said at the ceremony, held at the new National Defense University built to train Afghanistan's future military officers.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/south-asia/Hamid-Karzai-announces-transfer-of-security-from-NATO-to-Afghan-control/articleshow/20644502.cms
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Afghanistan to hold formal talks with Taliban in Qatar - Karzai
June 18, 2013
Afghanistan will send representatives to Qatar soon to discuss peace with the Taliban, President Hamid Karzai said on Tuesday, in a step towards reaching a brokered ceasefire in the 12-year-old war. "Afghanistan's High Peace Council will travel to Qatar to discuss peace talks with the
Taliban," Karzai said in Kabul, referring to the council he formed in late 2010 to pursue talks with the insurgents.
Full report at:
http://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/afghanistan/Afghanistan-to-hold-formal-talks-with-Taliban-in-Qatar-Karzai/Article1-1078265.aspx
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A Japanese Muslim on Islam Mission
June 18, 2013
(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - Finding Islam thousands of miles away from his home, a Japanese Muslim has devoted his life to spread the correct Islamic teachings and present the true image of Islam to his fellow citizens.
“I think Japan inherited a somewhat biased European view of Islam, and this has exacerbated this tendency,” Shimoyama Shigeru, a Japanese Muslim who works at Tokyo Camii mosque and Turkish Culture Centre, told Nippon website on Monday, June 17.
“For instance, a lot of people in Japan became familiar with the expression “Either the Qur’an or the sword,” and this has gotten in the way of a proper understanding of Islam.
“Particularly after 9/11, the impact of media coverage has made Islam seem an intimidating and “scary” religion to a lot of people.”
Full report at:
http://abna.ir/data.asp?lang=3&Id=430734
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Amended anti-terror act in Bangladesh to gag freedom of expression
Say Int'l Federation for Human Rights, Odhikar
June 18, 2013
The International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and its member organisation in Bangladesh, Odhikar, have expressed deep concern about the recently passed Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2013, saying it would limit the freedom of expression.
In a joint statement published on the FIDH website on June 14, the organisations said the amendments which would allow the courts to accept videos, still photographs and audio clips used in Facebook, twitter, Skype, and other social media for trial cases widened the scope of sanctions provided in the Anti-Terrorism Act 2009.
Full report at:
http://www.thedailystar.net/beta2/news/amended-anti-terror-act-to-gag-freedom-of-expression/
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Jumhoree Party Leader Gasim Ibrahim confident of securing presidential election in first round
By Mohamed Naahee | June 17th, 2013
Business tycoon and leader of the government-aligned Jumhoree Party (JP), MP Gasim Ibrahim, has expressed confidence he will win the upcoming presidential election in the first round of voting.
Speaking at a rally in the party’s Male’ headquarters yesterday (June 16), Gasim was quoted in local media as claiming that he was well placed to become the Maldives’ next president based on a recent spike in the JP’s membership.
According to the latest statistics from the Elections Commission (EC), the JP’s current membership stands at 12,154 members (five percent of eligible voters) with a further 1,374 membership forms pending approval.
Full report at:
http://minivannews.com/politics/jumhoree-party-leader-gasim-ibrahim-confident-of-securing-presidential-election-in-first-round-59641
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Maldives achieves 5 of 8 Millennium Development Goals
By Minivan News | June 18th, 2013
The Maldives has achieved all but three of the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), local media has reported.
However, the country must do more to promote gender equality and empowering women, ensuring environmental sustainability, and creating global partnerships for development, according to Haveeru.
Full report at:
http://minivannews.com/category/news-in-brief
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Mideast
'No alternative' to Palestinian state: Bill Clinton in Israel
AFP | Jun 18, 2013
JERUSALEM: Former US president Bill Clinton said during a visit to Israel on Monday that he saw "no alternative" to a Palestinian state.
Speaking at an event in honour of President Shimon Peres' 90th birthday later this year, Clinton said: "I'm with Shimon on this, I don't think that in all these years a credible alternative to the creation of a Palestinian state has been presented."
The two-state solution is the only one "that will preserve the essential character of the state of Israel as a Jewish but democratic state where minorities can vote," Clinton said in the speech at the Peres Academic Centre in Rehovot, near Tel Aviv.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/No-alternative-to-Palestinian-state-Bill-Clinton-in-Israel/articleshow/20641361.cms
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US must recognise Iran's nuclear rights: Rouhani
AFP
June 18, 2013
TEHRAN: Hassan Rouhani on Monday said the United States must recognise all the rights of the Islamic republic, including its nuclear rights, in his first press conference since being elected Iran's new president.
“Any dialogue with the United States must be based on equality and mutual respect and on conditions. The US should not interfere in our internal affairs, recognise the rights of Iran including nuclear rights and stop its unilateral policies and pressure,” the cleric said.
Full report at:
http://dawn.com/news/1018868/us-must-recognise-irans-nuclear-rights-rowhani
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Iran’s new President vows moderation
June 18, 2013
Iranian president-elect Hassan Rouhani vowed to pursue moderate policies during his first press conference on Monday.
Iranian president-elect Hassan Rouhani vowed to pursue moderate policies during his first press conference on Monday, after beating hardliners close to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
“This was more than an election, it was a call by the majority of the people for moderation and respect, and against extremism. Iran has started a new chapter of moderation,” Mr. Rouhani told reporters in Tehran.
Full report at:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/world/irans-new-president-vows-moderation/article4823724.ece
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US right to arm Syrian rebels, says Israeli president
June 18, 2013
JERUSALEM: Israeli President Shimon Peres has thrown his weight behind US plans to arm Syrian rebels, shrugging off fears the weapons could be turned on Israel and exacerbate the conflict.
In a wide-ranging interview with Reuters before his 90th birthday, Peres dismissed the idea that Israel could launch a unilateral military strike against Iran’s nuclear facilities and urged Palestinians and Israelis to forge immediate peace.
Looking at the many problems besetting the Middle East, Israel’s elder statesman, who is a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, said terror groups were ripping apart the Arab world.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/564782/u-s-right-to-arm-syrian-rebels-says-israeli-president/
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Iran nuclear program advances despite sanctions: IAEA chief
By Reuters
June 18, 2013
VIENNA: Iran is making “steady progress” in expanding its nuclear program and international sanctions do not seem to be slowing it down, the UN nuclear agency chief told Reuters on Monday.
Yukiya Amano’s comments underlined the difficult challenges facing world powers in seeking to persuade the Islamic state to scale back nuclear activities they suspect could be used to make atomic bombs, a charge Tehran denies.
The surprise victory of moderate cleric Hassan Rohani in Iran’s presidential election last Friday has raised hopes for an easing of tension in the decade-old nuclear dispute.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/564592/iran-nuclear-program-advances-despite-sanctions-iaea-chief/
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Turkey warns it may use army to end protest unrest
June 18, 2013
Turkey warned on Monday it may bring in the army to help quell nearly three weeks of nationwide anti-government protests as two major union federations went on strike over police violence against demonstrators.
The government raised the threat of putting soldiers on the streets after a weekend of violent clashes sparked by the eviction of campers occupying Istanbul's Gezi Park, the epicentre of the protest movement.
Police "will use all their powers" to end the unrest, deputy prime minister Bulent Arinc said in a televised interview. "If this is not enough, we can even utilise the Turkish armed forces in cities."
Full report at:
http://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/restofasia/Turkey-warns-it-may-use-army-to-end-protest-unrest/Article1-1078107.aspx
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Turkey summons UK charge d'affaires over spying claims
AFP | Jun 17, 2013
ANKARA: Ankara on Monday summoned Britain's charge d'affaires to demand an explanation over newspaper allegations that Britain spied on the Turkish finance minister's emails and phone calls during a G20 meeting in London in 2009, a foreign ministry diplomat told AFP.
In the absence of the ambassador, the ministry summoned the charge d'affaires "to express our concerns over the allegations", the diplomat said on condition of anonymity, adding that Ankara was expecting an "official and satisfying
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/Turkey-summons-UK-charge-daffaires-over-spying-claims/articleshow/20635132.cms
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Arab village in Israel targeted in racial attack
Reuters | Jun 18, 2013
JERUSALEM:Vandals daubed "Arabs out" graffiti and punctured tyres in an Arab village near Jerusalem on Tuesday, targeting a community widely seen in Israel as a showcase for Jewish-Arab coexistence.
Unlike similar attacks that have damaged Arab mosques, homes, vehicles and olive groves, the vandalism took place in an Arab village in Israel popular with Jewish visitors, rather than in a Palestinian community in the occupied West Bank.
Abu Ghosh, where the tyres of 28 cars were punctured and anti-Arab slogans scrawled on walls, is located along the main Tel Aviv-Jerusalem highway and is well liked among Jewish visitors for its Middle Eastern restaurants.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/Arab-village-in-Israel-targeted-in-racial-attack/articleshow/20647838.cms
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Africa
Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi's son to stand trial in August: Libya prosecutor
AFP | Jun 17, 2013
TRIPOLI: Seif al-Islam, the son of slain Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi, and other former top regime officials will stand trial in August for crimes committed during the 2011 uprising, an aide to the prosecutor said on Monday.
Former spy chief Abdullah al-Senussi will be among those whose trial will begin in the first half of August, said Al-Seddik Al-Sur, a member of the prosecutor's office.
They are accused of "crimes committed against the Libyan people during the revolution" of 2011 that toppled Kadhafi's regime, he said.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/Libyan-dictator-Muammar-Gaddafis-son-to-stand-trial-in-August-Libya-prosecutor/articleshow/20634010.cms
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Shiite school of Fudiyyah conducts graduation ceremony in Zaria
June 18, 2013
(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - The graduation ceremony of the Shiite students of Fudiyyah Primary/Secondary school took place on Saturday 15 June 2013, at the Premises of the School in Zaria.
The ceremony was attended by students, parents, teachers as well as the general public. It was ceremony to mark the graduation of elementary students as well students of the Secondary section. The secondary section comprises of students of Junior Secondary School (JSS) who are preparing for entry into senior classes, and the students of the senior section of the School who are preparing to gain admission into universities and other higher institutions of learning.
Full report at:
http://abna.ir/data.asp?lang=3&Id=430591
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Tunis holds summit on Internet freedom after Arab Spring
17 June 2013
Global advocates of freedom of expression in cyberspace gathered in Tunis on Monday for the third Freedom Online Coalition conference to push for more Internet openness amid concerns of increased state surveillance.
The coalition was launched in December 2011 during a conference in The Hague, during which former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton gave a keynote speech.
This year, the event is set to address three major issues: Internet freedom and security, digital development and openness and online privacy and transparency.
Full report at:
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2013/06/17/Tunis-holds-summit-on-Mideast-battle-for-cyberspace-freedom.html
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Al-Jazeera crew detained in Niger on assignment
AP | Jun 17, 2013,
DAKAR: The Al Jazeera network says a team of its journalists has been held for three days in eastern Niger where they had gone to film a news story.
The Qatar-owned network said they are not currently charged with any crime, yet remain detained in harsh conditions after they were arrested in the town of Zinder.
Niger's justice minister Marou Amadou told The Associated Press that Al Jazeera had failed to get the proper accreditation, which includes not just a visa but also an authorization from the ministry of communication.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/rest-of-world/Al-Jazeera-crew-detained-in-Niger-on-assignment/articleshow/20632943.cms
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/ancient-egyptian-noble-tombs-qubbet/d/12142