Army Captain Killed In J&K Encounter, 1 Terrorist Eliminated, 3 Remain
New Age Islam News Bureau
14 Aug 2024
Captain Deepak Singh of Rashtriya Rifles Killed in
Doda encounter; M4 rifle recovered by Army near the encounter site. (ETV
Bharat)
-----------
·
Army Captain Killed In J&K Encounter, 1
Terrorist Eliminated, 3 Remain
·
Masjid-e-Madina on Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, To
Open Doors to One and All On Independence Day
·
Reaching Out to Bangla Hindus, Muhammad Yunus
Visits Dhakeshwari Temple, Underlines Equal Rights
·
Teen Wearing 'Neo-Nazi' Bulletproof Vest Stabs
5 In Live-Streamed Attack Near MosqueOn Social Mediain Turkey: Officials
·
Far-Right Minister Leads Israelis in Prayer at
Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound
·
Pakistan: Mujeeb Qadir Memon, Accused of
Calling Himself a Prophet, Jailed in Hyderabad for 25 Years in Blasphemy Case
India
·
Assam CM Gave It ‘Flood Jihad’ Tag, N-E University
Gets National Rank Honour
·
Only Instantaneous & Irrevocable Forms of
Talaq Punishable Under Muslim Law: Himachal Pradesh HC
·
EC to meet Home Secretary to review Jammu and
Kashmir security situation
·
‘Breakthrough’ after recent attacks in Jammu
region: 9 arrested as police bust ‘terror module’
--------
South Asia
·
Senior Congressional investigator resigns,
citing inadequate probe into Afghanistan withdrawal
·
Regional and International engagement voids in
Afghanistan over the past three years
·
Qani says: Border clash in Torkham destroys two
Pakistani posts
·
Trump criticizes Biden’s Afghanistan policy as
‘Greatest Folly’
·
Hundreds of Minority Rohingya Muslims Killed in
Burma’s Rakhine State
--------
Europe
·
Over 1,000 arrested in UK over violent rioting,
targeted attacks against Muslims
·
Newport man in court accused of attacking city
mosque
·
Second man arrested over attack on mosque in Co
Down
--------
Mideast
·
Fearing Iran attack, Israeli museum hides top
artworks
·
Islamic Resistance announces attacks against
Zionist military sites
·
Churches Supreme Council condemns Israeli
persistent assaults on Aqsa Mosque
·
Hamas: Ben Gvir, Goldknopf storming Al-Aqsa
Mosque courtyards insistence on aggression
·
Arab League, Egypt condemns storming of Al-Aqsa
Mosque by Israeli ministers and extremists
·
US, EU condemn far-right Israeli minister’s
prayer at Al-Aqsa mosque
·
Iran Leader, Haniyeh shared goal of unifying
Muslims: Haniyeh’s son
--------
Pakistan
·
Pakistan urges India to probe 'theft and
illicit sale' of radioactive materials
·
Army chief General Asim Munir sees foreign hand
in ‘digital terrorism’
·
‘Army’s internal matter’: Imran distances PTI
from ex-DG ISI Faiz Hameed after arrest
·
Panjgur DC killed in attack on Quetta-Karachi
highway
·
Pakistan celebrates 77 years of independence
·
Negative forces can’t break people-army bond:
COAS
·
PM Shehbaz announces Rs150 million reward for
Arshad Nadeem
·
New policy to waive visa fee for 126 countries
comes into effect
·
Citizens can apply for passport from any city
as govt 'moves to amend rules'
--------
Arab World
·
Yazidi Genocide Survivors in Iraq Recall
Horrors of Daesh’s Siege of Kocho
·
Saudi Arabia Slams Israeli Officials, Settlers
for Storming Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound
·
Cabinet reaffirms Saudi support for Gaza
ceasefire efforts
·
Iraq's top Shia cleric Ali al-Sistani declares
zero tolerance on drugs amid growing use and trade
·
Saudi crown prince receives group of princes,
scholars, and citizens in Jeddah
·
Deputy FM receives US ambassador to Saudi
Arabia
·
Saudi crown prince receives written message
from Guinea president
--------
North America
·
CAIR Calls on Biden Admin to Stop Attempts to
Spark Global Religious War; Condemns Israeli Minister’s Al-Aqsa Mosque Assault
·
CAIR Issues ‘Know Your Rights’ Travel Advisory
Following Recent Reports of Palestinian-American Muslims Interrogated, Detained
at US Border
·
Authorities investigate series of threatening
calls made to Minneapolis mosque
·
CAIR-Florida Urges Community to Call for
Accountability for Doctor in Alleged Racist Harassment of Muslim Family
·
CAIR SFBA: City of San Ramon to Recognize
American Muslim Appreciation and Awareness Month
·
CAIR Calls on West Virginia High School, School
District to Accommodate Muslim Students’ Prayer Requests
·
Biden says Gaza ceasefire could stop Iran
attacking Israel
·
Blinken postpones Mid East trip amid
‘uncertainty,’ approves $20bn Israel weapons package
·
US approves $20 billion weapons package for
Israel
·
US advocacy group files anti-govt. lawsuit over
blacklisting pro-Palestinians
--------
Africa
·
Troops Neutralise 5 Terrorists in Borno,
Recover Bombs, Arms, Rustled Cattle
·
Tunisians Rally for Release of Women Detained
Over Criticism ofPresident Saied
·
Abuja Muslim Forum Donates Maiden Zakat
·
Sudan's economy battered by conflict
·
Sierra Leone's president uses UN Security
Council presidency to urge more seats for Africa
·
Zambia and Congo reopen their border after
resolving a trade dispute
·
Council of State Passes Vote Of Confidence In
Tinubu — Kwara Gov
·
‘We Have Powers To Burst Anywhere We Want To
Burst’ – Police
--------
Southeast Asia
·
Catholic Group Endorses Minister Yaqut’s Plan
to Streamline Worship Site Approvals
·
Muhammad Yunus assures to protect the rights of
all Bangladeshis, including minorities - PM Anwar
·
Claims of Holding Political Talk In Rawang
Mosque: Fahmi Applies For Joint Trial Of Suits Against Papagomo, Two Others
·
Selangor Islamic bodies want seven Federal
Court judges recused from SIS's fatwa challenge; appeal hearing now pushed to
Nov 14
·
Former mosque officer gets jail for pocketing
over S$13,000 in 'zakat' donations
·
Cops arrest ‘paderi’ in Puchong after
13-year-old boy claims sexual assault in church bedroom
·
Youth urged to embrace patriotism ahead of 2024
National Day
·
Malaysia needs to continue as ‘Neutral’ country
to become primary investment destination - Tengku Zafrul
·
Indonesian Police to Bolster Security for Pope
Francis' Visit
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL:
Army
Captain Killed In J&K Encounter, 1 Terrorist Eliminated, 3 Remain
August
14, 2024
Captain
Deepak Singh of Rashtriya Rifles Killed in Doda encounter; M4 rifle recovered
by Army near the encounter site. (ETV Bharat)
------------
New
Delhi: An Army officer - Captain Deepak Singh - was killed in action Wednesday
after an encounter - sources say with a group of four terrorists - in the Assar
area of Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district. A civilian was also injured. An op
has been launched to capture the terrorists, one of whom has been eliminated.
The Army
has offered its deepest condolences to Captain Singh's family.
"He
suffered gunshot injuries due to firing by terrorists and was evacuated to a
hospital. However, the captain succumbed to serious injuries and made a supreme
sacrifice for the nation," the Army said.
"He
fired at the terrorist group last night as well as this morning. In spite of
gunshot wounds, he kept directing his men as long as he could," the Army
said.
The
encounter was in a forested area during a cordon-and-search operation, or CASO,
launched by a joint security team to track down the terrorists hiding in the
Shivgarh-Assar belt, sources said.
The
security forces managed to recover a United States-made M4 assault rifle and
three blood-soaked rucksacks, containing equipment and logistics, from the
encounter site, sources added.
Sources
said the Army had been tipped off to the terrorists' hideout last evening,
after which they engaged the enemy. There was a brief exchange of fire that
night and the op resumed this morning.
This
latest terror attack in the Jammu region comes a day before Independence Day
celebrations and as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chairs a meeting - attended
by senior figures, including Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi and National
Security Advisor Ajit Doval - to review the security situation.
Former
J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has expressed sorrow over Captain Singh's
death.
"No
words will suffice to express the tragedy at Doda today where Captain Deepak
Singh was killed during an encounter. The endless cycle of violence and mayhem
in J&K continues to devour the lives of innocents despite tall claims of
normalcy by the administration. My deepest condolences to his family."
There
has been a spurt in terror activities in the Jammu region - particularly in the
southern reaches of the Pir Panjal range, which contains many thick forests and
steep mountains that provide cover for terrorists - in recent months, raising
fears about the revival of militancy in the region.
The
spectre of terrorism had long lain dormant in this area.
Earlier
this month the government said it is rolling out a new security matrix for
Jammu and Kashmir to counter increased targeting of civilians and military
personnel and camps by terrorists, including an encounter in Anantnag district
on Sunday in which two soldiers died for their country.
Two
civilians were also hurt in that gun battle, in which an Army patrol on a
routine anti-terror operation in the forests of Kokernag was targeted. In the
same area in September last year a Commanding Officer, a Major, and a Deputy
Superintendent of Police were killed by terrorists.
Last
month one soldier was killed in action and another injured in an encounter in
Kupwara district, in which the Army said a "Pakistani intruder" was
eliminated. That attack came a day after Kargil Vijay Diwas, when Prime
Minister Narendra Modi said the Army would defeat every terror challenge.
Last
month PM Modi chaired a meeting of his own to assess the J&K security
situation. Sources told NDTV then that PM had directed full deployment of armed
forces' counter-terror capabilities.
A senior
official told NDTV the increased number of military casualties is the forces'
"primary concern" and this is why deployment in the area is being
rationalised with specific goals in mind, including stopping cross-border
infiltration, focus on human intelligence and tactical efficiency.
Source: ndtv.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/army-officer-injured-in-encounter-during-search-operation-in-j-ks-doda-6334173#pfrom=home-ndtv_topscroll
---------
Masjid-e-Madina
on Banjara Hills, Hyderabad,To Open Doors To One And All On Independence Day
Aug 14,
2024
Hyderabad:
In a bid to build a bridge of understanding among all religions, the
Masjid-e-Madina on Road No. 10, Banjara Hills here will be open to people of
all religions, irrespective of gender, this Independence Day. This is the fifth
mosque in Hyderabad that has decided to open its doors to people of all faiths
from 11am to 5pm.
On Aug
15, visitors will be able to see what a mosque looks like from the inside and
meet experts on Islam.
Mosque
to open doors to one and all on I-Day
In the
past, four city mosques have opened their doors to an interfaith audience on
Independence Day.
Key role
in 1857 revolt
The
choice of Aug 15 is significant as the historic Mecca Masjid played a key role
in the 1857 revolt against the British. Moulvi Alauddin of the Mecca Masjid,
along with Turrebaz Khan, had led the armed rebellion against the British by
attacking the residence at Koti.
While
Turrebaz Khan was hanged from a lamppost in Hyderabad, Moulvi Alauddin spent a
little over two decades in a cell in the Andaman Islands. He was the first
Indian freedom fighter from these parts to be imprisoned in the Andamans. He
died while serving his sentence.
“We
encourage citizens to welcome people of all faiths to the mosque and give them
a glimpse of Islamic culture, religious practices and beliefs,” Mohsin Ali of
Masjid-e-Madina told TOI.
Unity
& friendship
He said
the ‘Visit My Mosque’ concept enables fellow citizens to know more about
Muslims and their belief system. “It promotes national integrity. It enables
peace, brotherhood, unity and harmony in the neighbourhood,” he said, adding
that it was a celebration of unity and friendship.
Educationist
Zakir Hussain said that besides answering questions about Islam and Muslims,
visitors could also learn about the contribution of the largest minority
community to the freedom movement.
Helps to
dispel misconceptions
Though
the Hyderabad state under the Nizam was an ally of the British, many religious
leaders fought against the British. They had to fight on two fronts — the Nizam
on one side and the British on the other, he said.
Munawar
Hussain, philanthropist, said the previous ‘Visit My Mosque’ programmes in
Hyderabad were very successful and people of different faiths were able to get
an insight into the mosque, Islam and Muslims. The events also helped dispel
misconceptions and promote brotherhood and communal harmony in the city, he
said.
We also
published the following articles recently
Mandir-masjid
row: ASI says Madhya Pradesh's Vidisha temple is a mosqueA new dispute has
arisen in Madhya Pradesh over the Vijay Surya Mandir in Vidisha, resembling the
new Parliament building. Hindu groups sought permission for puja, denied due to
its classification as a mosque. They have appealed to PM Modi for its
reopening. MLA Mukesh Tondon proposed a survey to confirm its status and allow
worship.112385063
SC
extends till November stay on Eidgah mosque surveyThe Supreme Court extended
its stay on the Allahabad HC's order to appoint a commission for inspecting the
Shahi Eidgah mosque in Mathura near Krishna Janambhoomi. The SC noted the
application for the commission was vague, and the HC should not have passed the
order. The HC can still hear the ongoing civil suit on this dispute.112412041
Birthday
throwback: When Sara Ali Khan said she remains "unfazed by other peoples
opinions" on her choice of religious beliefsSara Ali Khan, in an interview
with Vogue India, discussed dealing with criticism on her religious beliefs.
Growing up in a diverse religious family, she embraces a secular outlook. Sara
stressed the importance of internal validation and staying true to oneself. She
frequents various religious places and remains unfazed by others' opinions on
her personal choices.112454525
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/mosque-opens-doors-to-all-on-independence-day-in-hyderabad/articleshow/112507269.cms
--------
Reaching
Out to Bangla Hindus, Muhammad Yunus Visits Dhakeshwari Temple, Underlines
Equal Rights
Written
by Shubhajit Roy
August
14, 2024
Muhammad
Yunus at the Dhakeshwari Temple in Dhaka. (PTI)
---------------
WITH THE
Hindu minority in Bangladesh facing attacks in the last week, after Sheikh
Hasina resigned as Prime Minister and fled to India on August 5, Chief Advisor
Muhammad Yunus, who is heading the interim government, reached out on Tuesday
with a visit to the Dhakeshwari Temple where he met community leaders and
assured “justice” and “equal rights” for all.
“Rights
are equal for everyone. We are all one people with one right. Do not make any
distinctions among us. Please assist us. Exercise patience, and later judge —
what we were able to do and not do. If we fail, then criticise us,” Yunus said,
after meeting minority leaders. He said the administration would work towards a
situation where Hindus and other minorities don’t have to fear for their
safety.
According
to minority organisations, there have been at least five deaths and 205
incidents of attacks on Hindus in over 50 districts since the fall of the
Hasina government on August 5.
On
August 8, as Yunus was sworn in, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had extended his
best wishes and urged him to ensure “the safety and protection of Hindus and
all other minority communities”. This direct reference to the safety of Hindus
and other minorities in Bangladesh underlined Delhi’s expectations from the new
players in Dhaka.
“In our
democratic aspirations, we should not be seen as Muslims, Hindus or Buddhists,
but as human beings. Our rights should be ensured. The root of all problems
lies in the decay of institutional arrangements. That is why such issues arise.
Institutional arrangements need to be fixed,” Yunus said on Tuesday. “We have
to establish human rights and freedom of speech. That is our prime goal,” he
said.
Addressing
the Hindu community, he said: “You just say you are human, you are citizens of
Bangladesh, this is my constitutional right, and you have to ensure it. You
just demand this, nothing else… I am here to say we are all equal, there is no
scope to create any differences here.”
The
interim government has set up a hotline for people to provide information about
attacks on Hindu temples, churches, pagodas or any other religious
institutions.
Hindu
community leaders said Yunus assured that “justice will be given to all” and he
will work towards a situation where Hindus and other minority communities don’t
have to fear for their safety.
Speaking
to The Indian Express, Basudeb Dhar, president of Bangladesh Puja Udjapan
Parishad and one of the top Hindu minority leaders, said Yunus conveyed that
the administration would ensure justice for those from the community who faced
attacks, and work towards creating an atmosphere where Hindu temples,
businesses and houses don’t have to look for additional security.
Sitting
at the Dhakeshwari Temple, one of the most revered temples in Bangladesh, Dhar
said the attacks on Hindu establishments began on August 4 evening, and
intensified the next day. He said the attacks were widespread, as over 50 of
the total 64 districts of Bangladesh were affected.
“The
number of 205 (incidents of attacks) is also expected to increase since more
incidents are being reported…we are compiling the list,” Dhar said. In many
places, local Muslim groups were taking the “initiative” to protect some
temples, including the Dhakeshwari Temple in Dhaka, he said. “These are
positive developments and will help secure the peace,” Dhar said.
While
Dhaka has witnessed some attacks, most have happened in villages and in the
hinterland, especially in the border areas.
A key
reason behind the attacks was the absence of the police over the last week —
most have abandoned the police stations for fear of retribution by student
protesters. The result: no police FIRs or complaints could be filed in many
cases, and the community was left defenceless.
The
reports of attacks have reinforced a sense of insecurity and foreboding among
the Hindu community which, at about 8 per cent, is the largest minority
population in the country of 170 million people. About 91.04% of Bangladeshis
are Muslims, and the remaining 9 per cent comprises Hindus (7.95%), Buddhists
(0.61%), Christians (0.30%) and others (0.12%), as per the 2022 Census.
There is
also a political dimension to the issue. Speaking to The Indian Express, a
Hindu minority leader said that many of the Hindu families were targeted for
being politically affiliated with the Awami League; some were attacked because
people were looking for an “opportunity” in the absence of law and order; and
they looted and robbed households. There were some incidents that were traced
back to old property disputes as well.
Community
leaders said they are going to “observe” the situation over the next few weeks
and months, since fear may lead people to migrate to India. “That is a real
possibility in the future,” a Hindu leader said.
Source: indianexpress.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/express-in-dhaka-reaching-out-to-bangla-hindus-muhammad-yunus-visits-temple-underlines-equal-rights-9512716/
--------
Teen
Wearing 'Neo-Nazi' Bulletproof Vest Stabs 5 In Live-Streamed Attack Near
MosqueOn Social Mediain Turkey: Officials
August
13, 2024
The
18-year-old, pictured, broadcast the knife rampage on social media through a
camera attached to his vest, HaberTurk television reported. (Ali Yerlikaya/X)
-------------
A
teenager wearing a helmet and a neo-Nazi-styled bullet-proof vest randomly
stabbed five people near a mosque in Turkey on Monday while live-streaming the
attack on social media, according to officials and local media.
The
18-year-old, identified as Arda K., broadcast the knife rampage on social media
through a camera attached to his vest, HaberTurk television reported.
The
teenager, who also wore safety goggles, gloves and a skull half-mask, was
detained following a police chase, with Turkey’s interior minister posting a
video of the suspect being bundled into the back of a police vehicle. The
suspect’s bulletproof vest had a "black sun" symbol, which originated
in Nazi Germany and is used by neo-Nazis.
The
victims had been relaxing at an open-air café after prayers at a mosque in
Eskisehir, in northern Turkey, about 143 miles west of the capital Ankara.
The
attack video was circulating on X on Tuesday and showed several men crying out
after being stabbed. Many of the victims appeared to be elderly men and were
attacked from behind.
Other
footage online shows men and police standing over the suspect after he was
apprehended.
The five
wounded individuals were hospitalized and two of them were in serious
condition, according to the state-run Anadolu Agency. The assailant was also
carrying an ax but did not appear to have used it.
Interior
Minister Ali Yerlikaya said an investigation had begun, while HaberTurk and
other media reported the assailant is believed to have been influenced by a
video game and that he dressed like a video game character.
The interior
minister also posted an image showing the items the suspect had on him,
including a bloodied knife, a second knife with a swastika symbol with the
letters "KKK" written on the weapon.
Yerlikaya
also released an image of the suspect in handcuffs lying face down on the
floor.
The
official wrote on X that he wished a speedy recovery to the victims injured in
the attack.
Source: foxnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.foxnews.com/world/teen-wearing-neo-nazi-bulletproof-vest-stabs-5-live-streamed-mosque-attack-officials
--------
Far-Right
Minister Leads Israelis in Prayer at Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound
13
August 2024
Israeli
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visits Al-Aqsa compound also known
to Jews as the Temple Mount, in Jerusalem's Old City August 13, 2024, in this
screengrab obtained from a handout video. (Temple Mount Administration/Handout
via Reuters)
--------------
Far-right
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir led hundreds of Israelis into the Al-Aqsa
Mosque compound in annexed east Jerusalem Tuesday and performed prayers marking
a Jewish holiday, sources said.
Ben-Gvir,
who has often defied the Israeli government's longstanding ban on Jewish prayer
at the mosque compound, vowed to "defeat Hamas" in Gaza in a video he
filmed during his visit.
The
compound is Islam's third holiest site and a symbol of Palestinian national
identity, but it is also Judaism's holiest place, revered as the site of the
ancient temple destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD.
While
Jews and other non-Muslims are allowed to visit the mosque compound in
Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem during specified hours, they are not permitted
to pray or display religious symbols.
In
recent years, the restrictions have been increasingly flouted by hardline
religious nationalists like Ben-Gvir, prompting sometimes violent reactions
from Palestinians.
On
Tuesday morning, Ben-Gvir and some 2,250 other Israelis walked through the
compound in groups, singing Jewish hymns, under the protection of Israeli
police, an official from the Waqf, the Jordanian body that is custodian of the
site, told AFP.
"Minister
Ben-Gvir, instead of maintaining the status quo at the mosque is supervising
the Judaization operation and trying to change the situation inside Al-Aqsa
Mosque," the official said on condition of anonymity, as he was not
authorized to speak on the issue.
Israeli
police also "imposed restrictions" on Muslim worshippers trying to
enter the mosque, he said.
-
'Flagrant violation' -
Jordan's
foreign ministry condemned the "storming" of the mosque, calling it a
"flagrant violation of international law".
"The
continual violations of the historical and legal status quo in Jerusalem and
its sanctities require a clear and firm international position that condemns
these violations," ministry spokesperson Sufyan al-Qudah said in a
statement.
Images
posted on social media networks showed Ben-Gvir inside the compound while
several Israelis lay on the ground performing Talmudic rituals.
Ben-Gvir
released a video statement on social media platform X, which he filmed inside
the compound himself, renewing his opposition to any truce in the war in Gaza.
"We
must win this war. We must win and not go to the talks in Doha or Cairo,"
he said, referring to the US-backed negotiations for a truce and hostage
release deal for Gaza to resume on Thursday.
"We
can defeat Hamas... we must bring them down to their knees," Ben-Gvir
said.
The
office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Ben-Gvir's visit
"deviated from the status quo".
"Israel's
policy on the Temple Mount has not changed; this is how it has been and this is
how it will be," a statement said.
Tuesday's
entry into the Al-Aqsa compound comes on the Jewish mourning day of Tisha Be'Av
that commemorates the destruction of the ancient temple.
Last
month too, Ben-Gvir, who is known for provocative gestures, said he had prayed
inside the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, defying the longstanding rules that permit
Jewish visits but forbid prayer.
Source: english.aawsat.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://english.aawsat.com/arab-world/5050315-far-right-minister-leads-israelis-prayer-al-aqsa-mosque-compound
--------
Pakistan:
Mujeeb Qadir Memon, Accused of Calling Himself a Prophet, Jailed in Hyderabad
For 25 Years In Blasphemy Case
August
14, 2024
HYDERABAD:
An additional district judge on Tuesday sentenced an accused in a blasphemy
case to 25 years of rigorous imprisonment after a trial conducted inside
Hyderabad central jail.
The
judge stated in the judgment that accused was convicted under Section 265-H (2)
of Cr.PC. Besides the jail term the convict would also have to pay a fine of
Rs500,000.
In case
of default on the payment of the penalty, the convict would undergo another
three months in prison, said the judgement.
The
judge said the sentence was awarded on the basis of mitigating circumstances
and the accused “shall be entitled to benefit under Section 382-B of CrPC” as
no concrete proof was found for awarding him death sentence.
According
to state counsel, Mujeeb Qadir Memon, the case against the accused was lodged
by a complainant Mehboob Ali at Mirpur Sakro police station, Thatta, vide crime
(No. 53/2018) under Section 295-C PPC.
The
complainant said that on April 1, 2018, the accused claimed himself to be a
prophet in his presence at main bus stop in Buhara town. Ali Khan, Mohammad
Anwar, Shahzad and Aslam Arain were witnesses in the case. The accused asked
the complainant and the witnesses to recognise him as a prophet, he claimed in
the FIR.
Source: dawn.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.dawn.com/news/1852113/man-jailed-in-hyderabad-for-25-years-in-blasphemy-case
--------
India
Assam CM
gave it ‘flood jihad’ tag, N-E university gets national rank honour
On
Tuesday afternoon, the university administration held a short celebration in
its 5000-seat auditorium.
Written
by Sukrita Baruah
August
14, 2024
Himanta
Biswa Sarma, fertilizer jihad, flood jihad, Bengali-origin Muslim, Muslim-owned
university, assam government, Guwahati, Indian express news, current
affairsUSTM Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque addresses students and faculty on Tuesday
The mood
at the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya was upbeat Tuesday. A day
earlier, the Ministry of Education had announced the National Institutional
Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024 and the institute had featured in the list of top
200 universities — the only private university from the Northeast to make it to
the list. The same day, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had launched
another tirade against the university after having accused it of “flood jihad”
the previous week.
On
Tuesday afternoon, the university administration held a short celebration in
its 5000-seat auditorium. Addressing the students, faculty and members of the
administration gathered there, Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque began by commenting on
the timing of the good news: “Kabhi aankh jalne se, upar paani daalne se achha
lagta hai, hai na? (Sometimes when your eyes burn, doesn’t it feel good when
water is put on it?)”. This drew cheers and hoots from the students.
In the
past week, Hoque has been at the receiving end of vitriol from the Assam Chief
Minister, ranging from accusations that he was responsible for flash floods in
Guwahati last week because of deforestation and hill-cutting for construction
work on the campus – it is located on the outskirts of Guwahati but uphill in
the descending hills of Meghalaya – and that he is waging “flood jihad”; to
saying that the architecture of the university’s main gate, which has three
domes atop, is a sign of “jihad”.
In fact,
the auditorium in which Hoque was addressing his students had also been a
target of attack. The large auditorium is a popular venue for major events and
Sarma claimed that he is building a “bigger hall” in Guwahati so “nobody will
have to go to USTM”. He had even called on students and staff from Assam to not
work and study there.
Wearing
his white cap and dressed in a white kurta-pyjama set, Hoque told his students
and staff, “I am away from all politics. I am aware that I look like a
religious man, but I am very much away from all religious activities. I only
see the students’ faces… The students make this institution. I never thought
that we would be facing such negativity at any point of our journey.”
Hoque, a
Bengali Muslim from Assam’s Karimganj district, began his career by starting a
computer training centre under the Manipal Group and went on to establish the
Education Research and Development Foundation. Over the years, he gathered
recognition for his work in the field of education. In 2022, he received the
Governor’s Award for Excellence in Public Service by then Meghalaya Governor
Satya Pal Malik.
While
the foundation runs a network of institutions across Assam and Meghalaya, the
USTM is his crown jewel. It was established through a 2008 Act passed in the
Meghalaya Legislative Assembly and became functional in 2011.
Its
growth has been rapid and it secured an ‘A’ grade accreditation from the NAAC
in 2021 in its first cycle of accreditation and it has been in the top 150-200
band of universities under the NIRF for the last three years.
Speaking
to The Indian Express about Sarma’s offensive against him and the university,
Hoque said, “Is there any other private university from the Northeast in the
ranking? We are the only university. If we have disturbed education in any way,
will we get a ranking? And ranking is not for any one thing. It includes all
parameters. Quality education, in practice, outreach, collaboration, research.
We have more than 150 patents. I love competition and sometimes I love jealousy
also. But you must be constructive, na? This is our agenda and this is how we
will be working… If you feel you have some personal competition with me, you
are most welcome to compete. But don’t compete with an institution because it
is a temple of knowledge. That must be protected by everyone.”
Asked if
he is aware of why he has attracted Sarma’s ire, he said he is “totally
ignorant about it.”
“We are
a green campus. We have our drainage, we have a big water reservoir inside
which we accumulate water. We are doing a lot of plantation, so we need water.
If people are saying that this small campus is giving water for Guwahati’s
artificial flood, it is their intelligence, it is their thoughts. But I cannot
accept all these things… Being academicians engaged in our activities, we are
not in a position to give replies and dragging on the issue. We are not
interested in that. We are under the government of Meghalaya. If they are
asking anything, if they want to visit, inspect, let them come. And if there is
something wrong we have done, we will correct it,” he said.
After
his statements, Sarma’s political opponents have pointed out that he himself
has attended multiple events at the university and in 2021 had even inaugurated
a new block there. Hoque pointed at this as an instance of what he said was the
university’s non-partisan nature.
“We say
that this is a people’s university. Everyone comes. If any place becomes
aligned with a particular party, other political parties do not go there. But
we as a university are away from religious activities, we are away from
politics. That’s why people of all religions, all political parties have come
here to organise their functions and attend various functions. Two Presidents
of India have come here. All Governors and Chief Ministers of the Northeast
have visited. More than 700 vice-chancellors have visited this institute ( the
institute hosted a conference of vice-chancellors last year). And we have
students from all the Northeastern states,” he said.
Source: indianexpress.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/assam-cm-gave-it-flood-jihad-tag-n-e-university-gets-national-rank-honour-9512751/
--------
Only
Instantaneous & Irrevocable Forms of Talaq Punishable Under Muslim Law:
Himachal Pradesh HC
AUGUST
13, 2024
Citing
judgments from the apex court and other high courts, the Himachal Pradesh High
Court (HC) recently held that while Talaq-e-Biddat is unconstitutional and
illegal, other forms of talaq remain valid under Muslim personal law.
The
Himachal Pradesh High Court has clarified that the Muslim Women (Protection of
Rights on Marriage) Act, 2019 criminalises Talaq-e-Biddat, popularly known as
triple talaq, or similar forms of talaq that have the effect of instantaneous
and irrevocable divorce, and not other forms recognised under the Muslim
Personal Law.
Justice
Rakesh Kainthla, presiding over the court, noted that Muslim law recognises
multiple modes of talaq, including Talaq-e-Ahasan and Talaq-e-Hasan, which
differ from Talaq-e-Biddat and thus, not criminalised. Talaq-e-Ahsan involves a
single pronouncement of divorce made during a period of purity (tuhr) and can
be revoked during the Iddat period, while Talaq-e-Hasan involves three
pronouncements made over successive periods of tuhr. Both forms allow for
reconciliation and are not deemed irrevocable immediately.
The
court observed : “The pronouncement of talaq-e-sunnat either by Ahsan form or
Hasan form has not been made penal in the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on
Marriage) Act, 2019. Talaq-e-hasan or talaq-e-ahsan are legal and valid under
the Muslim Personal Law.”
The High
Court’s observation came while hearing a petition seeking to quash an FIR
registered against a Muslim man under Section 4 of the Act. The man
(petitioner) had sent a written divorce notice to his wife on April 25, 2022,
which was claimed to be in violation of the Act. The petitioner argued that his
notice did not constitute Talaq-e-Biddat, but rather a different form of talaq
that is not penalised under the Act.
The
court ruled that the petitioner’s written notice did not fall within the
definition of Talaq-e-Biddat as outlined in Section 2(c) of the Act, which
specifies that only forms of talaq that result in instantaneous and irrevocable
divorce are punishable. The court found that the notice sent by the petitioner
did not constitute an instant or irrevocable divorce.
Citing
previous judgments, including the Kerala High Court’s decision in ‘Saheer v.
State of Kerala’ (2023) and the Supreme Court’s ruling in ‘Shayara Bano v.
Union of India’ (2017), which have established that only Talaq-e-Biddat is
unconstitutional and illegal, while other forms of talaq remain valid under
Muslim personal law.
“The
Mohamedan law does not provide a single mode of Talaq but multiple modes and
out of these modes, the legislature has only prohibited Talaq-e-Biddat or any
other similar form of Talaq having the effect of instantaneous and irrevocable
divorce pronounced by a Muslim husband,” the court held. Ultimately, the court
concluded that the FIR did not disclose any offence under the Act as the notice
in question was not Talaq-e-Biddat.
The
court, however, noted that while exercising extraordinary jurisdiction under
Section 482 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (Cr.P.C.), under which the
application for quashing of a case was filed, it is not permitted to conduct a
mini-trial or engage in a detailed evaluation of the evidence in a specific
case.
The
court rejected the plea, stating that the chargesheet had already been filed
and the competent court was seized of the matter. It further noted “This Court
cannot say anything about the truthfulness of the statement and it is a matter
of trial to be determined by the learned Trial Court.”
Therefore,
the petition to quash the FIR was dismissed.
Source: news18.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.news18.com/india/only-instantaneous-irrevocable-forms-of-talaq-punishable-under-muslim-law-himachal-pradesh-hc-9014097.html
--------
EC to
meet Home Secretary to review Jammu and Kashmir security situation
The
Commission, comprising Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, Election
Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and Election Commissioner Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, had
visited the Union Territory last week to review poll preparations.
August
13, 2024
Election
Commission, Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla,The Commission, comprising Chief
Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and
Election Commissioner Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, had visited the Union Territory
last week to review poll preparations. (Express Archives)
The
Election Commission will meet Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla on Wednesday to review
the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, where Assembly elections are
expected soon, according to EC sources.
The
Commission, comprising Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, Election
Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and Election Commissioner Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, had
visited the Union Territory last week to review poll preparations. Addressing a
press conference in Jammu on August 9, the CEC had said the EC was committed to
holding Assembly elections at the earliest.
He said
that the poll panel would assess the security situation and availability of
forces upon their return to Delhi. “No internal or external power can derail
the election process,” the CEC said.
The
Amarnath Yatra is scheduled to end on August 19 and the publication of the
electoral roll is scheduled for August 20. As per the Supreme Court’s order
last year, the EC has to complete the Assembly election process by September
30.
Source: indianexpress.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/ec-home-secretary-review-jk-security-situation-9512141/
---------
‘Breakthrough’
after recent attacks in Jammu region: 9 arrested as police bust ‘terror module’
Police
said more than 50 people living in temporary ‘dhoks’ (shelters) used by nomads
in mountainous areas have been investigated for coming in contact with foreign
militants, either providing them food, shelter, or help with communication.
Written
by Arun Sharma
August
13, 2024
jammu
kashmir terror attacksIndian Army soldiers patrol near the Line of Control
(LOC) ahead of Independence Day, in Rajouri district, Monday, Aug. 12, 2024.
(PTI Photo)
In what
they called a breakthrough in efforts to counter militancy after recent attacks
on security forces in Jammu and Kashmir, police on Monday said they busted a
terror module with the arrest of nine people who allegedly facilitated movement
of militants infiltrating from Pakistan in the upper reaches of Doda, Udhampur
and Kathua districts.
Those
arrested were identified as Mohammad Lateef and Akhter Ali of Ambe Naal in
Kathua; and brothers Saddam, Khadim and Kushal of Bhaddu Billawar in Kathua
district; Noorani of Juthana under the Rajbagh police jurisdiction, Maqbool of
Soffain, Liaquat and Kasim Din.
Sources
said the module was busted on the basis of leads from central intelligence
agencies following the killing of three foreign militants in Doda district’s
Gandoh area last month.
The
police described Lateef as the kingpin of the module, saying that he acted as a
guide and arranged logistics for militants passing through the area. “Lateef
was in active communication with terrorist handlers across the border and
played a crucial role in receiving foreign terrorists who illegally entered
India via the Samba-Kathua sector,” a police spokesperson said.
The
module, according to the police, had helped the three militants killed in the
Gandoh encounter.
Police
said more than 50 people living in temporary ‘dhoks’ (shelters) used by nomads
in mountainous areas have been investigated for coming in contact with foreign
militants, either providing them food, shelter, or help with communication.
“Only a few did not report (contact with militants) to the police, and some had
accepted money from the terrorists,” police said, adding that those who
informed on time are “being treated as innocent”.
The
liability of others, however, is being examined, police said.
Last
month, nine soldiers, including an Army Captain, died in terror attacks in Doda
and Kathua districts of Jammu region.
Five
militants were also killed by security forces and police in two separate
encounters in Kathua’s Saida village and Doda’s Gandoh area on the intervening
night of June 11-12 and June 26 afternoon, respectively.
According
to police, these militants have been moving in the upper reaches of Doda,
Udhampur and Kathua districts. Police and security forces have launched massive
combing operations from all sides to trap the militants.
Police
have released sketches of over half a dozen militants and announced a cash
reward of Rs 5 lakh each for information leading to their capture or killing.
Source: indianexpress.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/j-k-police-bust-terror-module-that-helped-infiltrators-from-pakistan-9510824/
--------
South Asia
Senior
Congressional investigator resigns, citing inadequate probe into Afghanistan
withdrawal
August
13, 2024
Jerry
Donnelly criticized the committee for its insufficient efforts to examine the
deaths of 13 American soldiers in Kabul.
Donnelly
accused Michael McCaul, the Republican chair of the House Foreign Affairs
Committee, of failing to hold the Biden administration accountable despite
Republican control of Congress and available evidence.
The
August 26, 2021, ISIS suicide attack on Kabul’s Abbey Gate, occurring during
the U.S. withdrawal, killed at least 182 people, including 169 Afghan civilians
and 13 U.S. soldiers.
The
senior investigator believes the Biden administration is responsible for the
“horrific” events related to the withdrawal and their “dangerous global”
consequences.
In his
resignation letter, Donnelly stated that McCaul and his team failed in their
duty to investigate the Biden administration’s failures, particularly the Abbey
Gate explosion.
Donnelly
also criticized McCaul and the committee for not fulfilling their promises to
the families of the fallen soldiers, known as the “Gold Star Families,” and
felt his conscience could no longer allow him to remain silent.
He
pointed out that witnesses like Zalmay Khalilzad, the former U.S. special
representative for Afghanistan peace, had not been thoroughly questioned,
suggesting Khalilzad was not honest in his explanations about the Taliban. Donnelly
believes Khalilzad’s handling of the Taliban was a clear failure.
Donnelly’s
resignation highlights the deep dissatisfaction with the oversight and
accountability regarding the Afghanistan withdrawal. His departure underscores
ongoing frustrations with how critical issues are being handled by
congressional committees and government officials.
As the
investigation into the withdrawal continues, Donnelly’s criticisms and
resignation may prompt renewed scrutiny and calls for a more thorough
examination of the events surrounding the U.S. exit from Afghanistan.
Source: khaama.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.khaama.com/senior-congressional-investigator-resigns-citing-inadequate-probe-into-afghanistan-withdrawal/
--------
Regional
and International engagement voids in Afghanistan over the past three years
August
13, 2024
After
the events of August 2021, Afghanistan experienced significant political
isolation. This isolation can be defined by the breakdown in Afghanistan’s
interactions with regional and global countries.
However,
three years have passed since August 2021, and the spokesperson for the Taliban
recently claimed that “the Taliban regime is no longer isolated.”
Zabihullah
Mujahid, marking the third anniversary of the Taliban’s rise to power, stated
to Agence France-Presse that their commercial and diplomatic interactions have
increased with many countries over the past three years. This, he argued,
indicates that “the Taliban regime is no longer isolated.”
However,
these interactions are primarily on an individual and informal level,
influenced significantly by regional and global competition rather than formal
diplomatic relations. Afghanistan’s role as a member of the international
community further underscores the complexity of these engagements.
Over the
past three years, China, Russia, Iran, and Pakistan have had the most
significant multilateral interactions with the Taliban. These countries were
also among the first to hand over the Afghan embassies in Beijing, Moscow,
Tehran, and Islamabad to the Taliban’s representatives.
Other
regional countries, including Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and
Kyrgyzstan in Central Asia, as well as the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi
Arabia, and Turkey in Western Asia, have notably increased their level of
engagement with the Taliban.
Initially,
after the Taliban came to power, Afghanistan was in absolute isolation, and
countries had specific stances regarding the Taliban’s rule. However, after three
years, the Taliban has managed to emerge from this “political isolation.”
Agence France-Presse has described this aspect of the Taliban’s policy as a
“diplomatic success.”
According
to Mujahid, “about 40 countries have embassies or consulates in Afghanistan,”
reflecting the level of diplomatic relations between these countries and the
Taliban. Yet, no country has yet recognized the Taliban as the legitimate
government of Afghanistan.
According
to Fidel Rahmati, a geopolitical expert on Afghanistan, the engagement with the
Taliban is driven by both regional and global geopolitical competition. Nations
are compelled to address their security concerns by interacting with the
Taliban, a strategy that helps mitigate competitive threats and manage
relations with various groups.
The
diplomatic void that the Taliban has not yet overcome is the revival of
Afghanistan’s international relations. Major global countries have emphasized
several conditions for normalizing relations with the group, and if the Taliban
accepts these conditions, the path to gaining legitimacy could be paved.
These
conditions include full respect for human rights, especially women’s rights,
which the Taliban has thus far refused to accept. The formation of an inclusive
government, which the group could not accept, and claiming the regime was
complete.
Combating
threats arising from the rise of terrorism in Afghanistan and addressing drug
trafficking are also conditions set by the international community for
normalizing relations with the Taliban. However, the group has responded to
these issues by stating that no threats emanate from Afghanistan’s soil and
describing their efforts against drug trafficking as “ongoing.”
Failure
to meet these conditions, especially the first two, may hinder the Taliban’s
progress toward international engagement, and this gap could persist.
Source: khaama.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.khaama.com/regional-and-international-engagement-voids-in-afghanistan-over-the-past-three-years/
--------
Qani
says: Border clash in Torkham destroys two Pakistani posts
August
13, 2024
Abdul
Mateen Qani, the spokesperson for the Interior Ministry of the interim
government, announced that during a clash with Pakistani border guards in
Torkham, Afghanistan border forces destroyed two Pakistani border posts.
On
Monday night, August 12, Qani posted on X (formerly Twitter) that a woman and
two children were killed when a mortar shell fired by Pakistani border guards
hit a house.
According
to the spokesperson, the clash in the “Ghurki” area of Torkham began after
Pakistani forces attacked border posts along the Afghanistan border.
Qani
added that Pakistani military forces targeted civilian homes in the “Ghurki”
area of Torkham with rocket attacks.
Yesterday,
the Bakhtar News Agency reported on the clash between the border forces of the
Taliban and Pakistan. The report emphasized that the conflict began when
Pakistani forces attacked the Afghanistan side, which was working on expanding
a security post in the “Buklin Permit” area.
So far,
Pakistani authorities have not commented on the incident.
Previously,
in a separate incident, five people, including women and children, were killed
during a clash between Pakistani forces and the Taliban forces in the Dand
Patan district of Paktia province.
The
frequent clashes between the border forces of Taliban and Pakistani soldiers at
the Torkham border have resulted in numerous casualties and financial losses.
The ongoing tensions highlight the fragile security situation along the border,
with repeated incidents leading to a cycle of violence and instability in the
region. The lack of official response from Pakistani authorities further
complicates efforts to de-escalate these conflicts.
Source: khaama.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.khaama.com/qani-says-border-clash-in-torkham-destroys-two-pakistani-posts/
--------
Trump
criticizes Biden’s Afghanistan policy as ‘Greatest Folly’
August
13, 2024
On
Monday evening, August 12th, former US President Donald Trump criticized the
policies of current President Joe Biden regarding the Taliban during a public
discussion on X. He described the transfer of Afghan funds to the Taliban as
“the greatest folly in U.S. history.”
Meanwhile,
Trump labeled the Taliban as the “largest illegal arms dealer” in the world.
Trump’s
remarks appear to reference Afghanistan’s foreign assets in the U.S., which are
currently held in a Swiss bank under the supervision of the Afghan trust fund,
with the Taliban not having access to them.
Trump
has previously claimed that the Biden administration left behind approximately
$85 billion worth of U.S. military equipment in Afghanistan, which he asserts
fell into the hands of the Taliban.
In his
acceptance speech at the Republican National Convention, where he formally
accepted the party’s nomination for the upcoming presidential election, Trump
stated that the Taliban had become the world’s largest seller of American
weapons through their sales of these arms.
While
Trump did not specify which countries or groups the Taliban might be selling
American weapons to, there have been prior reports of such equipment being
spotted in Pakistan, Kashmir, and even Palestine.
U.S.
forces withdrew from Afghanistan following the signing of the Doha Agreement on
February 2020, which was signed by Trump’s administration and implemented
during Biden’s presidency.
Trump’s
statements bring renewed attention to the controversial aspects of the U.S.
withdrawal from Afghanistan and the ongoing impact of the Taliban’s access to
American military equipment.
As the
debate over the handling of Afghanistan assets and military resources
continues, these issues remain a significant point of contention in U.S. political
discourse.
Source: khaama.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.khaama.com/trump-criticizes-bidens-afghanistan-policy-as-greatest-folly/
--------
Hundreds
of Minority Rohingya Muslims Killed in Burma’s Rakhine State
AUG 13,
2024
In
Burma, there are reports hundreds of Rohingya Muslims were killed, including
children, in drone strikes last week in western Rakhine state. The attacks last
Monday targeted members of the Rohingya community as they attempted to flee to
Bangladesh via the Naf River. Others drowned while they tried to cross the
river. Survivors and activists say the Arakan Army was behind the assault,
while the AA says the military junta, which overthrew the elected government in
2021, is to blame. A new report from Human Rights Watch finds both parties
guilty of extrajudicial killings, unlawful recruitment for combat, and
widespread arson against Rohingya, Rakhine and other civilians in recent
months.
Source: democracynow.org
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.democracynow.org/2024/8/13/headlines/hundreds_of_minority_rohingya_muslims_killed_in_burmas_rakhine_state
--------
Europe
Over
1,000 arrested in UK over violent rioting, targeted attacks against Muslims
Aug 14,
2024
British
authorities have now arrested more than 1,000 people following days of rioting
involving violence, arson and looting as well as racist attacks targeting
Muslims and migrants, a national policing body said on Tuesday.
The
riots, which followed the killings of three young girls in the northern English
town of Southport, began after the July 29 attack was wrongly blamed on an
Islamist migrant based on online misinformation.
Violence
broke out in cities across England and also in Northern Ireland, but there have
been fewer instances of unrest since last week after efforts to identify those
involved were ramped up.
Many
have been swiftly jailed, with some receiving long sentences.
The
National Police Chiefs' Council said in its latest update that 1,024 had been
arrested and 575 charged across the UK.
Those
arrested include a 69-year-old accused of vandalism in Liverpool and a
11-year-old boy in Belfast.
A
13-year-old girl pleaded guilty to violent disorder at Basingstoke Magistrates'
Court, prosecutors said, having been seen on July 31 punching and kicking the
entrance to a hotel for asylum seekers.
"This
alarming incident will have caused genuine fear amongst people who were being
targeted by these thugs – and it is particularly distressing to learn that such
a young girl participated in this violent disorder," prosecutor Thomas
Power said.
The last
time Britain witnessed widespread rioting was in 2011, when the fatal shooting of
a Black man by police triggered several days of street violence.
Fast and
tough judicial action was viewed as helping quell the unrest in 2011, when
around 4,000 people were arrested over several weeks.
Source: indiatoday.in
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.indiatoday.in/world/uk-news/story/uk-riot-arrests-misinformation-southport-stabbing-migrants-muslims-united-kingdom-2581882-2024-08-14
--------
Newport
man in court accused of attacking city mosque
13th
August
Luke
Baulch is accused of damaging a window worth around £1,000 at the
Faizan-e-Madina mosque on Newport’s Shaftesbury Street at around 7am on
Thursday, August 1.
The
defendant, aged 43, of Durham Road, Newport pleaded not guilty to religiously
aggravated criminal damage.
He is
due back at the magistrates' court on November 22.
Baulch
was granted conditional bail by District Judge Sophie Toms.
Source: southwalesargus.co.uk
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/24515337.newport-man-court-accused-attacking-city-mosque/
--------
Second
man arrested over attack on mosque in Co Down
13 Aug
2024
A SECOND
MAN has been arrested in connection with an attack on a mosque in county Down.
PSNI
detectives are investigating the attack on the mosque in Greenwell Street in
Newtownards, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, 10 August.
Police
said the man, aged 46, was arrested on suspicion of a number of offences,
including attempted arson with intent to endanger life, making a petrol bomb
and criminal damage.
He has
since been released on police bail.
A
42-year-old man arrested on Sunday in relation to the attack was also released
on bail to allow for further enquiries.
“Enquiries
are continuing and anyone with any information or footage that could assist the
investigation is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference 53 of
10/08/24,” the PSNI said.
Alternatively,
information can be provided anonymously to the independent charity
Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.
On
Saturday, up to 15,000 people took part in a peaceful anti-racism rally in
Belfast after a week of anti-immigrant protests and disorder in the city.
Source: thejournal.ie
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.thejournal.ie/second-man-arrested-attack-mosque-newtownards-down-6462457-Aug2024/
--------
Mideast
Fearing
Iran attack, Israeli museum hides top artworks
August
13, 2024
TEL
AVIV: An Israeli museum that hid some of its most valuable artworks after the
October 7 attack has now stashed away even more, fearing a strike by Iran.
Paintings
by Pablo Picasso and Gustav Klimt are among the treasures moved by Tel Aviv
Museum of Art to the “safe” — a secured basement meant to shield them from
missiles.
Museum
staff moved many of the masterpieces at the start of the Gaza war, which was
triggered by the Palestinian group Hamas’s unprecedented attack on Israeli soil
on October 7.
Now, as
Israel braces itself for a threatened bombardment by Iran and its proxies,
including Lebanon’s Hezbollah, they have moved other pieces that were at risk.
It has
left some galleries vacant, with blank walls decorated only with empty hooks
and the small, printed descriptions for the artworks that previously hung
there.
“In the
last three, four, five days, when this new threat from Hezbollah and from Iran
came on the table again, we understood that we needed to take other
precautions,” said museum director Tania Coen-Uzzielli.
“So, we
took down several other works of art and the ones we felt that were most in
danger.
“And
since the situation is not going to be clear, and this threat is always there,
we feel that the safe place for them is downstairs in the shelters.”
Some
items are on display in a protected space on a lower level, but the most
valuable pieces are stored in rows of large, metal grills in the “safe.”
“We have
some works by Picasso... from different periods,” said Nathalie Andrijasevic,
assistant curator of modern art, rolling out one storage rack.
“They
are all usually in the gallery, they are all usually hung right next to each
other. Here they are still next to each other, but in a completely different
setting.”
The
October 7 attack resulted in the deaths of 1,198 people, mostly civilians,
according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures.
Militants
also seized 251 people, 111 of whom are still held captive in Gaza, including
39 the military says are dead.
Israel’s
retaliatory military offensive in Gaza has killed at least 39,929 people,
according to the health ministry of the Hamas-run territory, which does not
provide a breakdown of civilian and militant deaths.
“On
October 7, we didn’t know what’s going on. We just knew that something horrible
was going on throughout the country,” Andrijasevic said.
“Rockets
were firing non-stop. And we were just super-scared that rockets will penetrate
the ceiling of the galleries and cause damage to our works.
“And
recently, during the past week, we’ve been taking down some more because of the
imminent attack that is supposed to happen. Hopefully it will not happen.”
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2567316/middle-east
--------
Islamic
Resistance announces attacks against Zionist military sites
13 Aug
2024
BEIRUT
August 13. 2024 (Saba) - The Islamic Resistance in Lebanon, led by Hezbollah,
said on Tuesday that it fired artillery shells at Zionist soldiers positioned
in the vicinity of the Al-Samaqa site in the occupied Lebanese hills of Kfar
Shouba.
"In
support of our steadfast Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and their valiant
and honorable resistance, our fighters targeted with artillery shells a
deployment of Zionist enemy soldiers in the vicinity of the Al-Samaqa site, and
they hit it directly," the Resistance added in a statement.
In
another statement, the Islamic Resistance said its fighters "targeted a
gathering of soldiers of the Zionist enemy in the vicinity of the Mitat
barracks with rocket weapons and hit it directly."
Earlier
on Tuesday, the Lebanese resistance targeted with appropriate weapons and
rockets the sites of the Zionist enemy in Miskaf Aam.
"In
support of our steadfast Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and their valiant
and honorable resistance, the mujahedeen of the Islamic Resistance targeted at
08:35 am on Tuesday, the spy equipment at the Miskaf public site with
appropriate weapons and directly hit them."
Source: saba.ye
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the text of the original Story
https://www.saba.ye/en/news3358743.htm
---------
Churches
Supreme Council condemns Israeli persistent assaults on Aqsa Mosque
13 Aug
2024
OCCUPIED
QUDS August 13. 2024 (Saba) - The Supreme Presidential Committee for Church
Affairs in Palestine on Tuesday condemned the persistent aggression by Zionist
forces and the settlers, led by ministers and members of the Knesset, against
sanctity of Al-Aqsa Mosque and its supreme religious status, dubbing the step
as a provocation and disdain for the sentiments of more than two billion
Muslims around the world.
The
committee confirmed in statement by its chairman, member of Executive Committee
of the Palestine Liberation Organization, Dr. Ramzi Khoury, on Tuesday, that
these raids on anniversary of the alleged so-called “destruction of the Temple”
come in context of the attempts of the extremist enemy government, led by the
racist trio Netanyahu, Smotrich and Ben Gvir, to implement their project.
Judaization
and colonialism, not only in Jerusalem city and its sanctities, but in rest of
the occupied Palestinian territories.
She
noted that this renewed aggression against Al-Aqsa Mosque by Jewish extremists,
their desecration of its courtyards, their performance of Talmudic rituals, and
the raising of the Zionist flag, is considered a dangerous escalation,
targeting the occupied city of Jerusalem and its sanctities, and an attempt to
impose a new reality that violates international law, international legitimacy
resolutions, and the historical and legal status of the city of Jerusalem and
its sanctities.
The
Committee called on the relevant international institutions and all churches of
the world to condemn this aggression and provide protection for Al-Aqsa Mosque
and the rest of the Islamic and Christian holy sites, in commitment to their
legal, political and moral responsibilities in maintaining international peace
and security.
Source: saba.ye
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https://www.saba.ye/en/news3358738.htm
--------
Hamas:
Ben Gvir, Goldknopf storming Al-Aqsa Mosque courtyards insistence on aggression
13 Aug
2024
OCCUPIED
QUDS August 13. 2024 (Saba) - The Islamic Resistance Movement Hamas said that
the storming of the courtyards of the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque by the two
extremist terrorist ministers Ben Gvir and Goldknopf at the head of groups of
settler herds, and their provocative tour after emptying it of worshipers and
worshipers, is an insistence on the extended aggression against our Palestinian
people, their land and their sanctities, and a provocation of the feelings of
Muslims everywhere, through the desecration of the first of the two Qiblahs and
the third of the two Holy Mosques.
The
movement stressed in a statement today that the repeated timing of settlers'
storming with Jewish holidays, performing Talmudic prayers, and raising flags
in Al-Aqsa Mosque will not succeed in Judaizing it or imposing a new reality on
it and tampering with its Arab and Islamic identity.
It
stressed that the behavior of the extremist Zionist government and its members
are war criminals; By continuing the massacres and the war of extermination
against our Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip, the killings and terrorism in
the West Bank, and the systematic violations in Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque,
including raids, Judaization attempts, and changing the facts on the ground, it
is only pouring oil on the fire in the region and directly threatening regional
and international peace and security.
The
Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Arab League called for serious
action to stop these systematic violations against Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Source: saba.ye
Please click the following URL to read
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https://www.saba.ye/en/news3358736.htm
--------
Arab
League, Egypt condemns storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque by Israeli ministers and
extremists
August
13, 2024
CAIRO:
The storming of Al-Azsa Mosque by Israeli extremists, led by Minister of
National Security Ben Gvir, has been vehemently condemned by Arab League
Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit.
Gheit
accused the extremists of recklessly pushing the situation to the brink,
deliberately inciting millions of Muslims around the world.
Gamal
Roshdy, the secretary-general’s spokesman, said the storming was carried out
under the protection of Israeli police, who transformed the Old City into a
militarized zone and imposed severe restrictions on the entry of worshippers.
As such, he added, the occupation government bore full responsibility.
Roshdy
emphasized that repeated incursions into Al-Aqsa Mosque violated the historical
and legal status quo in Jerusalem and formed part of a systematic Israeli
policy aimed at the site’s temporal and spatial division. He warned that
exploiting religious sensitivities to score political points was a perilous and
reprehensible tactic.
Meanwhile,
in a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Arab Republic of
Egypt said it condemned the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque courtyards and the
raising of the Israeli flag inside it.
Egypt stressed
that such irresponsible and provocative acts constituted a violation of
international law and the historical and legal status quo in Jerusalem.
It also
emphasized the necessity for the international community to play an active role
in confronting such violations and stressed Egypt’s commitment to seeking a
just, lasting and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue, including
establishing an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its
capital, and the restoration of the rights of Palestinian people.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2567295/middle-east
--------
US, EU
condemn far-right Israeli minister’s prayer at Al-Aqsa mosque
August
13, 2024
BRUSSELS:
The EU condemned “provocations” by Israel’s far-right National Security
Minister Itamar Ben Gvir after officials said he performed prayers at the
Al-Aqsa mosque compound in annexed east Jerusalem.
“The EU
strongly condemns the provocations by Israeli Min. Ben Gvir who, during his
visit to the Holy Sites, advocated for the violation of the status quo,” EU
foreign policy chief Josep Borrell wrote on X.
On
Tuesday morning, Ben Gvir and some 2,250 other Israelis walked through the
compound in groups, singing Jewish hymns, under the protection of Israeli
police, an official from the Waqf, the Jordanian body that is custodian of the
site, told AFP.
Ben
Gvir, who has often defied the Israeli government’s longstanding ban on Jewish
prayer at the mosque compound, vowed to “defeat Hamas” in Gaza in a video he
filmed during his visit.
The
compound is Islam’s third holiest site and a symbol of Palestinian national
identity but it is also Judaism’s holiest place, revered as the site of the
ancient temple destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD.
While
Jews and other non-Muslims are allowed to visit the mosque compound in
Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem during specified hours, they are not permitted
to pray or display religious symbols.
The
latest incident comes as the EU and other international powers are trying to
calm tensions in the region as Iran warns of retaliation against Israel after
the killing of a Hamas leader in Tehran.
The US
also criticized the minister for leading prayers at the flashpoint mosque
compound, saying he had hurt efforts for talks toward a Gaza ceasefire.
“The
United States stands firmly for preservation of the historic status quo with
respect to the holy sites of Jerusalem and any unilateral action, which this
would be..., that jeopardizes such a status quo is unacceptable,” State
Department spokesman Vedant Patel told reporters.
“Not
only is it unacceptable, it detracts from what we think is a vital time, as we
are working to get this ceasefire deal across the finish line,” he said,
referring to a US-led push for talks Thursday to stop the Israel-Hamas war.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2567290/middle-east
--------
Iran
Leader, Haniyeh shared goal of unifying Muslims: Haniyeh’s son
August
13, 2024
TEHRAN –
The eldest son of Martyr Ismail Haniyeh has reaffirmed the unique and warm
relationship between Ismail Haniyeh and the Leader of Islamic Revolution,
underpinned by their shared goal of fostering unity among the Islamic nations
for the sake of Palestine’s liberation.
“The
bond between the two leaders was not just personal, but also symbolic of a
broader alignment in the struggle against oppression and occupation,” Abdul
Salam Haniyeh said in an interview with Al Mayadeen on Monday.
During
the interview, he spoke extensively about his father's unwavering commitment to
the Palestinian cause.
Ismail
Haniyeh, the former head of the Hamas political bureau, was martyred in a
terrorist attack in Tehran. His son, in an interview with Al-Mayadeen, shed
light on the life and moral character of his father, emphasizing the deep
connections that shaped his journey of Resistance.
The
funeral of Ismail Haniyeh, which saw millions of mourners from Tehran to Doha,
was a powerful testament to the significance of the Palestinian cause within
the Islamic world. Abdul Salam Haniyeh recounted the overwhelming turnout,
noting that the massive participation was a clear message from the Islamic
Ummah and all freedom-loving people around the globe: Palestine is an issue
that belongs to everyone.
He
emphasized that Ismail Haniyeh maintained a close and affectionate relationship
with the Leader of the Islamic Revolution in Iran. This bond, he explained, was
rooted in a shared vision of uniting the Islamic Ummah in the fight for the
liberation of Palestine. According to Abdul Salam, this unity was a cornerstone
of the relationship between his father and the Ayatollah Khamenei, reflecting
their mutual commitment to the Palestinian cause.
He
further added that the enormous crowd, gathered to bid farewell to the martyred
leader, reinforced the idea that no matter the challenges, Palestine and
Jerusalem will always be the guiding compass for the Islamic Ummah. This
belief, Abdul Salam explained, was the driving force behind his father's
lifelong work—ensuring that the Islamic world remains united in its quest to
liberate Palestine.
Source: tehrantimes.com
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--------
Pakistan
Pakistan
urges India to probe 'theft and illicit sale' of radioactive materials
August
13, 2024
ISLAMABAD:
Expressing grave concerns over the reports of highly radioactive and nuclear
substances being stolen in India repeatedly, Islamabad suspects that there is a
black market for such sensitive materials in the neighbouring country, saying
it is "dangerous" that such incidents are frequently taking place.
"Pakistan
is gravely concerned at the reports of recurring incidents of theft and illicit
sale of nuclear and other radioactive materials in India. In the latest
incident, a gang of individuals were found in illegal possession of a highly
radioactive and toxic substance Californium, worth $100 million in
quantity," Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said this in
response to a question on Tuesday.
The
Indian media reported last week about the arrest of another gang possessing a
highly radioactive and toxic substance Californium.
Islamabad
demanded New Delhi conduct a probe into the frequent instances of “theft and
illicit sale” of nuclear and other radioactive materials in India.
"Three
incidents of theft of Californium were also reported in 2021," the FO
spokesperson said, adding that five individuals with a radioactive device
reportedly stolen from Bhabha Atomic Research Center (BARC) were also found
from Dehradun last month.
Islamabad
also called into question the measures taken by New Delhi for the safety and
security of nuclear and other radioactive substances, stressing that these
incidents also suggest the existence of a black market for sensitive, dual-use
materials inside India.
After
the substance was seized from the smugglers, the Indian authorities informed
the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) — the central authority responsible for
overseeing nuclear materials in India — to step in for a thorough
investigation, given the critical nature of the substance, according to NDTV.
In its
reaction, Islamabad reiterated its call for a thorough investigation of these
incidents and for adequate measures to prevent their recurrence.
"The
international community seeks an earnest disclosure from the Indian authorities
as to how a sealed Radioactive Source (SRS) material, like Californium, was in
the possession of the apprehended individuals. It is dangerous for such
sensitive material in India to routinely be found in the wrong hands," the
FO statement added.
Source: thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read
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--------
Army
chief General Asim Munir sees foreign hand in ‘digital terrorism’
August 14, 2024
• In
address at Kakul, Gen Munir says Constitution guarantees free speech, but
within limits
• Calls
Azm-i-Istehkam ‘need of the hour’; tells Kabul not to ‘choose TTP over
Pakistan’
• Says
govt, military united against elements trying to destabilise Balochistan
KARACHI:
Army Chief Gen Asim Munir on Tuesday blamed foreign powers for a wave of
‘digital terrorism’, which he said aimed to create a gulf between state
institutions and the people of Pakistan.
Calling
anti-terror activities under the umbrella of vision ‘Azm-i-Istehkam’ the need
of the hour, Gen Munir vowed that elements trying to create such rifts would
only reap disappointment.
In a
wide-ranging speech at a parade held to mark Independence Day at the Pakistan
Military Academy in Kakul, he addressed key issues, such as the situation on
the Western border with Afghanistan, the threat posed by the outlawed
Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the situation in Balochistan.
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In
recent statements, the military has taken a harsh line against criticism on
social media, with Gen Munir himself warning that it was being used as a tool
to spread anarchy and false information targeting the armed forces.
The term
‘digital terrorism’ is increasingly being used by the military to describe the
use of online spaces by its harshest critics — including PTI activists — whom
it accuses of spreading falsehoods.
A number
of PTI figures, such as party spokesperson Raoof Hasan and other social media
activists, have also been detained and face charges related to ‘digital
terrorism’.
On
Tuesday, while quoting a verse from Surah Al Hujurat, Gen Munir stressed the
importance of investigating and verifying information so as not to cause
consternation among the people.
He also
said that while the Constitution allows for freedom of speech, it also contains
clear limits to what constitutes free speech.
“To the
inimical forces, let it be clear; that regardless of the multilayered and
multidimensional threats piled up against us we stand united and reassured.
Traditional or non-traditional, dynamic or proactive, whatever form of warfare
is applied against us, our retribution will be sharp and painful and we will
certainly strike back.
“For
indeed, we know that freedom is not for free, it costs many great sons and
daughters, and we are always ready for that. I have full faith and confidence
that the people of Pakistan and its security forces will never relent and let
anyone cast an evil eye on this great country,” he said.
Kabul,
TTP and Balochistan
Maintaining
that Pakistan desired good relations with its Western neighbor, Gen Munir
called on the Afghan Taliban not to prefer the banned terror group TTP over its
long-standing and brotherly neighbor to the east.
The
chief of army staff also assailed the TTP — which he referred to as Fitna
al-Khawarij — for its “anti-state and anti-Sharia activities” in Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa, saying that it had reared its head once again in the province.
Paying
tribute to the sacrifices and patriotism of the Pakhtuns, he declared that
since these terrorist groups did not accept Sharia or the Constitution of
Pakistan, the country also would not consider them Pakistani.
Referring
to the situation in Balochistan, which has witnessed a wave of protests
organized by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) in recent weeks, Gen Munir
vowed that the army and the governments at the Centre and in the province were
committed to ensuring the security and welfare of the Baloch people.
Some
elements, who are trying to destabilise the province, should know that they
will not be allowed to weaken the country, he said.
This was
an apparent reference to the BYC protests. In a recent press conference, the
military’s spokesperson denounced the BYC as a “proxy of terrorist
organisations and criminal mafias”, saying that it was spreading propaganda
against law enforcement agencies who were taking action against smugglers and
criminals.
International
concerns
While
most of his speech was in Urdu, the army chief switched to English to thank
friendly countries such as China, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar and Turkiye for
standing by Pakistan in trying times.
He also
called attention to the plight of the Kashmiris, whose efforts to free
themselves from the yoke of Indian oppression could never be forgotten.
“We
stand rock solid with them for their indelible right to self determination… and
reassure our full political, diplomatic support to the valiant people of
Kashmir.”
Calling
attention to the reality of the horrendous genocide being perpetrated against
the people of Gaza, he said it was a blemish on the world’s conscience that
Pakistan would continue to oppose at every forum in the world.
Source: dawn.com
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--------
‘Army’s
internal matter’: Imran distances PTI from ex-DG ISI Faiz Hameed after arrest
August
13, 2024
PTI
founder Imran Khan has distanced the party from former intelligence chief Lt
Gen (retired) Faiz Hameed, with whom he had close ties, a day after the
latter’s arrest and termed the issue the “army’s internal matter”, a PTI lawyer
said on Tuesday.
In an
unprecedented step, the army on Monday announced Gen Hameed’s arrest, the
previous head of the premier Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency, on
allegations of violating the Army Act. According to a source, Gen Hameed was
taken into custody a few days back from Rawalpindi when he was summoned for a
meeting by a senior military official.
The
move, prompted by allegations of misconduct levelled by the owner of a private
housing society, shattered the long-standing perception that spy chiefs were
untouchable in the country where generals have long wielded unparalleled
influence.
The army
cited a November 2023 directive from the Supreme Court of Pakistan, which
instructed Kanwar Moeez Khan, owner of Islamabad’s Top City housing
society, to seek redressal of grievances against Gen Hameed through relevant
channels, including the Ministry of Defence, as the basis for initiating action
against the former spymaster.
PTI
lawyer Intezar Panjutha held a meeting with the incarcerated party founder
today in Adiala Jail and briefed the media regarding the talks, as well as the
former premier’s thoughts on Gen Hameed’s arrest.
“Khan
sahib said just this that ‘it is the army’s internal matter’ and that whatever
action the army has taken has nothing to do with the PTI or Khan sahib.”
Gen
Hameed’s background is equally significant in the political landscape of
Pakistan. He served as the director general of the ISI from 2019 to 2021 and
was frequently criticised by the PTI’s opposition for his alleged support of
and ties with Imran.
His
removal from the ISI chief position in 2021 is believed to have resulted in the
rift between Imran and the military establishment, which culminated in the
ex-prime minister’s ousting in 2022 through a vote of no-confidence.
Questioned
about the former spymaster’s arrest related to the housing society and whether
the PTI would be linked to it, Panjutha said Imran was “clear on this matter
and has said: ‘We never had a political relationship with Gen Faiz or anyone.
My relationship with him was till October 2021 when he was changed [as ISI
chief]’”.
At this,
Panjutha said Imran alleged that former army chief Gen (r) Qamar Javed Bajwa
“changed him (Gen Hameed as ISI chief) for the sake of his extension in a deal
with Nawaz Sharif”.
The
lawyer reiterated that Imran said: “I only had a professional relationship with
Gen Faiz till he was working under me as the DG ISI and I had no other
association apart from that.”
The PTI
lawyer further said: “Khan sahib said just one thing that ‘if these
developments are connected with May 9 then it is a very good opportunity.’”
Panjutha
said the party had always maintained that there should be a judicial commission
set up to investigate the events of the violent nationwide protests last year
after Imran’s arrest and it should determine two things which the party had
been demanding since the first day.
“Who
ordered the abduction of Khan sahib from the Islamabad High Court? Whoever gave
the order [also] planned the May 9 conspiracy.”
He
further said that Imran also called for CCTV footage of the day, particularly
incidents of arson and vandalism, to be made public and those involved to be
held responsible. Panjutha said the PTI had nothing to do with the
aforementioned events.
The PTI
lawyer reiterated that Imran said if Gen Hameed indeed had any alleged role in
the events of May 9, as claimed by many government ministers, then a judicial
commission should be set up to determine roles and responsibilities.
Source: dawn.com
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--------
Panjgur
DC killed in attack on Quetta-Karachi highway
August
13, 2024
QUETTA:
The Panjgur deputy commissioner was killed and four others injured in an attack
on the Quetta-Karachi National Highway, near Mastung, on Monday, according to
officials.
DC Zakir
Hussain Baloch was on his way to Quetta along with the Panjgur Municipal
Committee chairman when unknown assailants opened fire on his official vehicle
near Khadkocha, Mastung.
According
to security officials, at least 15 armed men had blocked the road and were
checking vehicles passing through the area.
They
also tried to stop the deputy commissioner’s vehicle and opened fire when it
sped away.
Two
officials were seriously injured in the attack and shifted to the Shaheed Nawab
Ghous Bakhsh Memorial Hospital in Mastung, where Mr Baloch succumbed to his
injuries, according to the hospital’s chief executive, Dr Saeed Ahmed.
The
deceased was hit by bullets in the chest and stomach, which caused internal
bleeding, resulting in his death, said Dr Ahmed.
The
Panjgur Municipal Committee chairman, Abdul Malik Baloch, also received
multiple bullet injuries and has been shifted to Quetta for treatment.
He is
the younger brother of National Party Balochistan’s chapter president Rehmat
Baloch.
Security
forces have launched a search operation in the area to arrest the attackers. No
group has so far claimed responsibility for the attack.
Eight
injured in grenade attack
In
another attack, eight people, including a woman, were injured when a grenade
exploded in Satellite Town, Quetta.
Officials
said unknown armed men riding a motorcycle hurled the hand grenade at a police
patrol vehicle in the Chalo-Barvri area.
The
vehicle remained safe in the attack. The injured have been shifted to the Civil
Hospital.
Another
hand grenade attack was also reported in the city’s Sariab area late on Monday.
According to officials, unknown motorcyclists attacked the Government Girls
College in Sariab Mills area. The explosion damaged the window panes of the
college and nearby buildings.
Source: dawn.com
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---------
Pakistan
celebrates 77 years of independence
August
14, 2024
ISLAMABAD:
The nation is celebrating its 78th Independence Day with traditional zeal and
fervour on Wednesday, with commemorative ceremonies being held across the
country.
ISLAMABAD:
The 78th Independence Day is being celebrated with a renewed pledge to work
with the spirit of Pakistan Movement to make the country a true Islamic welfare
state.
The day
dawned with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and a 21-gun salute in the
provincial headquarters. Special prayers were offered in mosques for peace,
solidarity and prosperity of the country.
The main
event of the celebrations was a national flag-hoisting ceremony in Islamabad,
which Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attended. Similar ceremonies will also held
in provincial, divisional and district headquarters.
The
country then resounded with sirens at 7:58am, heralding the grand flag-hoisting
ceremony at 8am.
The
change of guard ceremonies were held at the mausoleums of Allama Iqbal in
Lahore and Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi.
In major
cities, the authorities have chalked out various programs to celebrate
Independence Day in a most befitting manner.
As the
country marks the day with a national holiday, various public and private
sector departments are geared up to host a range of special functions and
activities, including seminars, discussions, photographic exhibitions, artistic
displays of paintings and poetry, national song renditions, and vibrant debate
competitions to reflect on the monumental feat achieved 77 years ago.
The
spotlight today will be on recognising the tireless contributions of the
leaders of the Pakistan Movement and the sacrifices made by national heroes and
ordinary people as they fought for sovereignty and a right to
self-determination in a time, even when the odds were against them.
Streets
and avenues of the federal capital and other cities have already turned into a sea
of colours — especially green — and people adorn their houses, cars, and
streets with flags, banners, and buntings, creating an ambience of festivity
that is sorely needed.
Prominent
public and private edifices are aglow with illuminations, commemorating this
significant occasion.
Police
across the country have finalised traffic management plans for the convenience
and safety of the general public as people throng public spaces such as parks,
malls, markets, and beaches to celebrate the day, mingling with each other.
However,
no one is as excited on this day as children, the country's biggest asset and
its future.
Cities
across the country have turned green and white colour with Jashan-i-Azadi
stalls carrying dresses, flags, buntings, pin badges, toys, and other
decorative accessories to attract youngsters and children.
Moreover,
different brands, online retailers, eateries, cab-hailing services, and even
electronics companies have offered exciting discounts, adding to the festivity.
President
Zardari stresses unity
President
Asif Ali Zardari, felicitated the nation on the 78th Independence Day,
emphasised unity, integrity, and economic stability, urged following
Quaid-e-Azam’s teachings, called for investment in youth and women, and
reaffirmed support for Kashmiris and Palestinians.
In his
message on the occasion of the Independence Day, the president said that the
creation of Pakistan through peaceful and democratic means was a unique chapter
in history, with homage paid to the leaders, workers of the Pakistan movement,
and forefathers, who made countless sacrifices for the nation.
Zardari
stressed the need to set aside differences and work with dedication for the
unity, integrity, and economic stability of the country to cope with current
challenges.
He noted
that Pakistan was blessed with abundant human and natural resources, and it was
the responsibility of all to utilize those for the welfare of the people. He
also stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law, strengthening
democratic institutions, and working in the public interest to meet the high
expectations of the nation.
The
president urged drawing inspiration from Quaid-e-Azam’s leadership, emphasizing
the importance of focusing on the well-being of the people, particularly the
masses and the poor, to ensure Pakistan’s prosperity. He highlighted the need
to invest in youth and women, enhance service delivery, and foster a
business-friendly environment to build a stronger nation.
“We need
to draw inspiration from the words of our Quaid and if we want to make this
great State of Pakistan happy and prosperous, we should wholly and solely
concentrate on the well-being of the people, especially of the masses and the
poor. It is time to invest in our youth and women, improve service delivery, and
create a business-friendly environment to make Pakistan a great nation,” he
added.
The
president called for remembering the struggles of the people of Indian
Illegally occupied Kashmir and Palestinian people, who have been fighting for
their freedom and right to self-determination for over seven decades. He
reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the legitimate rights of those in
the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine.
Zardari
also urged a collective commitment to uplift the nation and work towards making
Pakistan a prosperous country, concluding with a prayer for Allah’s guidance
and support.
US,
Russian officials congratulate Pakistanis
Prime
Minister Shehbaz Sharif vowing to work collectively for an inclusive and
prosperous Pakistan, said that the government’s efforts for economic growth and
stability had started yielding positive results.
“In a
short span, our efforts have started yielding positive results. The economy is
on its path to stability. The high inflation of 38% has come down to 11.1%
(July) and shall be brought down to single digit soon Inshallah,” the prime
minister said in his message to the nation on the Independence Day.
Extending
heartfelt felicitations to the countrymen, the prime minister paid homage to
the immense sacrifices of forefathers and countless unsung heroes of the
Pakistan Movement which led to the creation of Pakistan as an independent and
sovereign state on August 14, 1947 through the unwavering and steadfast
leadership of the Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and unmatched sacrifices of
our ancestors.
He said
that over the decades, Pakistan had achieved significant milestones as the
resilience of Pakistani people had been tested through natural disasters and
economic and social challenges, yet the spirit of determination and unity has
always prevailed.
He
expressed confidence that the nation would make collaborative efforts with the
spirit of independence for the benefit and welfare of the citizens.
Also
acknowledging the key role of overseas Pakistanis in the progress and
prosperity of Pakistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz said that the country was proud
of their hard work and achievements and considered them as true Ambassadors of
Pakistan to project its positive image to the world.
He also
expressed gratitude to the Pakistan armed forces, who safeguarded the country’s
borders and protected its sovereignty.
“While
we celebrate our freedom, we also remember the brave people of the Indian
Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK) and Palestine who have been
fighting for their right to self-determination for over seven decades and are
facing the worst form of state atrocities,” he remarked and reiterated
Pakistan’s continuous moral, political and diplomatic support to the Kashmiri
people in their struggle their universal right to self-determination.
The
prime minister said that Pakistan would also continue its support for the
oppressed Palestinians for their legitimate rights.
“Pakistan
stands at a crossroads today. While the common values, rich cultural heritage
and diverse traditions continue to bind us together, our economy continues to
face significant challenges in the shape of inflation, high-energy costs,
unemployment and a growing debt burden.”
He said
that since assuming power after the February 2024 elections, the government’s
consistent focus was on creating the right conditions for economic growth and
stability.
He said
that Pakistan’s rich natural resources and a youthful workforce were true
assets.
He said
the government was taking steps to attract investments to take full advantage
of these resources to create job opportunities, speed the pace of
industrialization, and bring economic prosperity.
The
government’s focus is also on education and skill development that will further
empower our youth and equip them with the tools needed in the competitive
global economy, he added.
“I am
personally supervising the national drive to digitize the entire ecosystem and
broaden the tax base so that we can provide relief to those already paying
taxes…The government is working hard to bring down the prices of electricity
and the nation will see the results soon,” he remarked.
Source: thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read
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---------
Negative
forces can’t break people-army bond: COAS
August
14, 2024
Chief of
Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir has said that no force can break the
relationship of trust and love between the people and the armed forces, terming
the nation’s trust in the military as the most valuable asset.
He
stated this while addressing the Azadi Parade at Pakistan Military Academy
(PMA) in Kakul on the eve of Independence Day late Tuesday.
The
parade was held at Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul to mark the 78th
Independence Day.
The army
chief said weakening the armed forces is tantamount to weakening the country,
pledging that the military will not allow let its sacrifices to go in vain.
“We
emerge as a strong nation after trial and tribulations. To weaken Pakistan's
armed forces is tantamount to weakening the country itself."
He said
the armed forces will not let sacrifices of their martyrs to go waste and added
that the nation's unwavering trust in the Pakistan Army is the military's most
valuable asset.
“Neither
any negative force has ever been able to weaken this relationship of trust and
love nor can it do so in future,” he said adding that the armed forces have
taken an oath to defend the country internally and externally.
Referring
to the crises being faced by the country, the COAS said: “Historically, we as a
nation have always emerged stronger after every hardship.”
Mutual
trust between the nation and the armed forces played key role in this regard,
he added.
The army
chief was of the view that internal conflicts and chaos weakened the country
and paved the way for external aggression.
“Pakistan
came into being to stand out among the comity of nations. Pakistan is a fait
accompli and it cannot be undone,” the army chief stated.
Gen
Munir said the country's people “are living as a free nation owing to the
martyrs' sacrifices”.
Gen
Munir said that the base of our national consciousness is the ideology of
Pakistan, which stands on the two-nation theory.
“May the
Almighty Allah grant us the courage and strength to defend the country and make
it a successful and great example for future generations.”
The army
chief said that the two-nation theory provided an opportunity to the Muslims of
the subcontinent to have separate identity, culture and civilization.
The COAS
said the menace of terrorism was once again rearing head in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
due to the anti-state activities of “Fitna-ul-Khawarij”.
In a
move to shift its war on terror from a physical to an ideological front, the
government last month categorised the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)
as “Fitna ul-Khawarij”.
Gen
Munir said he had earlier said about the fitna that "If you do not follow
the Sharia and the Constitution of Pakistan, then we also do not consider you
as a Pakistani”.
Lauding
the sacrifices rendered by the people in KP, the COAS said: “The entire nation
salutes them and is indebted to them.”
Lauding
the brotherly countries for their continuous economic and moral support on
international forums, the army chief remarked: “We are grateful to China, Saudi
Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Turkey, who always support Pakistan in
every difficult time.”
In a
strong and clear message to Pakistan’s enemies, the COAS said: “Whether it is
conventional or unconventional war, dynamic or proactive war strategy, our
response will be swift and painful.”
Moving
on to Kashmir issue, the army chief reiterated Pakistan's moral, political and
diplomatic support to the oppressed people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu
and Kashmir in their legitimate struggle for right to self-determination.
The army
chief was the chief guest of the Azadi Parade ceremony.
The
cadets of the Pakistan Military Academy presented a spectacular demonstration
of their skills in the drill parade.
On this
occasion, a special tribute was presented to the martyrs of the land.
Source: thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read
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--------
PM
Shehbaz announces Rs150 million reward for Arshad Nadeem
August
13, 2024
ISLAMABAD:
A lavish dinner was hosted by the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday for
the country’s pride and ace javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem, who won a gold medal
at Paris Olympics 2024.
In the
final quest of the Paris Olympics 2024, Nadeem lauched a massive javelin throw
of 92.97-metre and secured the first-ever individual gold medal in Olympics for
Pakistan, maiden athletics and first gold in any discipline in the last 40
years.
Nadeem
along with his mother and family received a grand welcome by PM Shehbaz when
they reached the Prime Minister House for the feast.
While
addressing a ceremony after the dinner, the prime minister announced a prize of
Rs150 million, one of the many rewards to honour the Pakistani star as the
country’s citizens continue to celebrate the high feat achieved he achieved
prior to the festivities of Independence Day on Wednesday.
The
esteemed reward was declared by the premier in regards to Nadeem's incredible
performance at the sports event setting a new record and securing a gold medal.
Expressing
his delight by the javelin ace's accomplishment, PM Shehbaz also announced the
decision of naming the road leading to Islamabad’s F9 from F10 sector after the
Nadeem and called it a splendid gift for the nation ahead of the Independence
Day (August 14).
The
premier also announced to honour the athlete with the second highest civilian
award, Hilal-i-Imtiaz.
Disclosing
his plans for the 2028 Olympics, the prime minister said that youth and
athletes will receive training at a sports academy, which will soon be
established inside the Jinnah Stadium Islamabad. The training centre will be
named "Arshad Nadeem High Performance Academy".
"Young
athletes will be trained to participate in the next Olympics by receiving
training in this academy," PM Shehbaz added.
Moreover,
the premier also announced a sports endowment fund worth Rs1 million for the
prosperity of the players, needs of the retired players and provision of better
training opportunities for them.
Addressing
the event, Arshad expressed gratitude towards his family and the nation for
their prayers, which he said had enabled him to break the Olympic record for
the javelin throw event.
He also
thanked public for the welcome upon his arrival to Pakistan, saying it was
“even more so than my medal”.
Arshad
pledged to "train fully for all upcoming competitions" and make another
world record.
Earlier,
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar acorded a warm welcome to Nadeem and his
family, who arrived in Islamabad on a charter plane, at the Nur Khan Airbase.
Nadeem's entourage were given state protocol.
Talking
to the media on the occasion, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, who
received Nadeem, said that the gold medallist is a national hero and a state
guest.
He said
that besides the banquet hosted at the PM House in Arshad's honour, the athlete
has been invited to the main Independence Day ceremony, where he would unfurl
the Pakistani flag alongside PM Shehbaz in the flag hoisting event.
Source: thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read
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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1219587-pm-shehbaz-announces-rs150-million-reward-for-arshad-nadeem
--------
New
policy to waive visa fee for 126 countries comes into effect
August
13, 2024
Launch
of a new visa policy was announced by Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on
Tuesday under which visa fee for the nationals of 126 countries would be waived
in order to boost tourism and attract foreign investment in the country.
The
minister said this while addressing a news conference that Prime Minister
Shehbaz Sharif would launch the new visa policy tonight which would allow 126
countries’ residents to visit Pakistan in hassle-free manner.
"The
new visa policy which is aimed at simplifying the visa process would come into
effect tonight," Tarar said.
According
to him, the nationals of these countries would get their visas within 10
minutes after filling an online form which had only 30 questions.
"The
visa would be valid for 3 months and could be renewed in no time," he
added.
The
minister said the residents of gulf countries would get visa on arrival, while
pilgrims would also be facilitated in this regard to boost the religious
tourism in the country.
"The
beauty and infrastructural development of Pakistan stunned the foreign tourists
who left the country with sweet memories," he said, urging them to visit
the country which has opened its doors to the world including travellers,
businessmen and investors.
He
further added that Pakistan had vast tourism potential and the government
wanted the foreigners to witness its beauty which is endowed with stunning
green valleys, famous deserts, beautiful oceans and mesmerising landscapes.
In
response to a query, he said all provincial governments and the secretary
interior were informed that dedicated desks would be established to welcome
tourists at the airports.
"All
the stakeholders were taken on the board to ensure safety and security of
tourists in the country," Tarar added.
Moreover,
he said Gilgit Baltistan received massive inflow of foreign tourists that even
surpassed the number of domestic visitors every year.
The
minister said the government had encouraged the investors in Saudi Arabia,
United Arab Emirates and other countries to invest in the tourism sector of
Pakistan which would further bring down lodging prices, and also improve
facilities for the tourists.
He added
that the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation in collaboration with
provincial governments would encourage the private sector to invest in
Pakistan.
Source: thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read
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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1219580-new-policy-to-waive-visa-fee-for-126-countries-comes-into-effect
--------
Citizens
can apply for passport from any city as govt 'moves to amend rules'
August
13, 2024
ISLAMABAD:
The federal government has moved to introduce change in passport rules under
which citizens can apply for travel document from any city across the country,
as per the sources.
The
government has taken the new decision to make it easier for the citizens to get
their passports.
The passport
fee can be submitted in any branch of the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP)
present across the country in light of the new amendment, the sources added.
Moreover,
the Ministry of Interior has sent the summary of the new amendment in the
passport rules to the cabinet.
Once the
cabinet approves the summary, new changes in the passport rules’ will be made
official.
Earlier
on August 6, addressing prolonged delays in the issuance of passports leading
to increasing complaints, Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar
informed the National Assembly that the issue would be resolved by the end of
September after the installation of new machinery and software.
In
response to a Calling Attention Notice regarding delays in issuing passports,
the federal minister expressed optimism that the introduction of the new system
would also help clear the existing backlog of passport applications.
He said
that the new system will be installed soon which will increase the daily
capacity for issuing passports from 26,000 to 60,000.
Source: thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read
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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1219559-citizens-can-apply-for-passport-from-any-city-as-govt-moves-to-amend-rules
--------
Arab World
Yazidi genocide
survivors in Iraq recall horrors of Daesh’s siege of Kocho
August
13, 2024
LONDON:
For 12 days in August 2014, the lives of the inhabitants of the Yazidi village
of Kocho hung in a fearful balance.
In the
early hours of Aug. 3, Daesh fighters had swept west from Mosul, attacking the
town of Sinjar and the dozens of Yazidi villages scattered to the south of
Mount Sinjar in the Nineveh Governorate of northern Iraq.
The
approximately 1,200 residents of Kocho were woken at about 2 a.m. by the sound
of gunfire coming from surrounding villages. At any moment, they feared, their
turn would come.
It
would, indeed, come, and in the most brutal fashion. But Kocho would experience
a fate unique among the suffering of the 80-plus Yazidi villages in the region.
For
reasons that remain largely unclear to this day, Daesh commanders chose to keep
the surrounded villagers of Kocho suspended between hope and fear for almost
two dreadful weeks.
And on
Aug. 15, 2014, 10 years ago this week, hope gave way to horror.
The Yazidis,
an ethno-religious minority indigenous to northern Iraq and parts of Syria and
Turkiye, had suffered centuries of persecution, but nothing on the scale of
what they were about to experience.
The
leadership of the so-called caliphate that had been proclaimed two months
earlier by Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi regarded the Yazidis as infidels, and in August
2014, their objective was nothing less than genocide.
Thousands
of men, women and children would be murdered, their bodies thrown into dozens
of hastily dug mass graves scattered across a wide area.
More
than 6,000 women and young girls were taken into slavery and subjected to
physical and sexual abuse. Ten years on, 2,600 remain missing.
Driven
from their homes, survivors sought sanctuary first on the barren heights of
Mount Sinjar, where many young children would die from dehydration, and later
in the camps for internally displaced persons that sprang up in Iraqi
Kurdistan.
Ten
years on from the massacres, 200,000 Yazidis remain in those camps, refugees in
their own country, unable or afraid to return to their ruined homes.
But in
Kocho, a small village 15 km south of Sinjar, things were different — at first.
On the
morning of the attack, a unit of the Peshmerga, the army of Iraq’s autonomous
Kurdistan Region that was stationed in the village school, fled the village in
the face of the Daesh advance. It was a similar story across Sinjar.
A couple
hundred residents of Kocho left at the same time as their supposed defenders,
hoping to reach the relative safety of Mount Sinjar to the north. Some made it.
Others were captured en route.
What
happened next reflected one of the lesser-known tragedies of the genocidal
attack by Daesh on the Yazidis.
There is
a general perception that the Daesh fighters who swept through Sinjar in 2014
were all foreigners, mainly overseas volunteers who had flocked to Syria in
answer to Daesh’s murderous call.
In fact,
far from being foreigners, or even strangers, many of the Daesh fighters who
would commit such terrible crimes against the Yazidis were their neighbors.
“It’s
hard to have accurate statistics,” said Natia Navrouzov, a Georgia-born Yazidi
and lawyer who headed up Yazda’s legal advocacy efforts and documentation
project, gathering evidence of Daesh crimes, and is now the nongovernmental
organization’s executive director.
“But in
terms of what survivors have described in the testimonies we have collected,
they often say that Daesh members came mainly from Al-Ba’aj, which is a region
under Sinjar, and then a lot of neighbors joined.”
The town
of Al-Ba’aj is barely 20 km to the southwest of Kocho.
Although
many of the Daesh attackers wore masks, when Yazda was collecting testimonies,
“survivors were able to identify them really clearly by name, based on their
tribes and on their dialects, because the accent they were speaking with was
clearly from a certain tribe or village in Sinjar.
“When it
comes to foreign fighters, they were mainly present in Raqqa in Syria, and the
Daesh attacks on Yazidis in Sinjar in the first days were really locally led.”
Many of
the Yazidis also had economic and social relations with the neighbors who
turned against them.
“We have
testimonies of survivors who say that even before Aug. 3, they already felt
some movement from these neighbors, who were looting their belongings or were
watching them.
“Some
neighbors even called some of the Yazidi people they knew and liked to tell
them, ‘You should go because something’s going to happen.’ But I think the
Yazidis just didn’t realize that it would be a genocide; they just thought
something political was happening.”
The
worst betrayal came at the hands of people who had been intimately involved
with Yazidi families.
“There
were social connections,” said Navrouzov. “For example, when a Yazidi child is
born, they get an equivalent of the Western godfather, called a ‘kreef.’ The kreef is often an Arab. A lot of Yazidis
had these almost family connections with their neighbors, and yet even those
people attacked them.”
It
should not, said Navrouzov, have come as a great surprise, “because in the
past, we have often been attacked by our neighbors,” motivated by enduring
misconceptions about the faith of the Yazidis, including that they are devil
worshippers — a lie exploited by Daesh propaganda.
Yet even
now, “10 years after the genocide, and with all this documentation we have
gathered and the advocacy work we and others have done, a lot of people in
Iraqi society still think that we are exaggerating, that Daesh did not commit
the crimes that we are describing.”
Worse
than such denial, “some people still think that what Daesh did was right
because the ideology behind it is so deeply rooted in the society.”
According
to some reports, the leader of the Daesh attack on Kocho may have been a local
man, initially hesitant to carry out the orders from above. Others think local
kreefs may have intervened to try to have the village spared.
Either
way, Kocho, uniquely among the 80-plus Yazidi villages in the area that were
simply overrun, was subjected to a 12-day siege.
“The devastating
thing is that the village was surrounded for about two weeks, from Aug. 3 until
Aug. 15,” said Abid Shamdeen, who was studying in the US at the University of
Nebraska at the time and helped to mobilize support among the Yazidi diaspora.
“We knew
that Daesh had killed the men that they captured on Aug. 3, and that in other
villages, they had taken women and children into captivity.
“We were
communicating with US officials, with Iraqi officials and Kurdish officials,
trying to communicate the message that Daesh will commit a massacre in Kocho.
But they didn’t get any help.”
Daesh
had first entered the village, delivering its usual ultimatum — convert to
Islam or die — on Aug. 3. But over the next 12 days, the Daesh commander, “Abu
Hamza,” sat down for a series of negotiations with village leaders, including
headman Sheikh Ahmed Jasso.
Whatever
the reason for the 12 days of reprieve, on Aug. 15, 2014, the talking ended and
the remaining 1,200 inhabitants of Kocho were herded into the village school.
What
happened next was described in distressing detail in the book, “The Last Girl —
My Story of Captivity and My Fight Against the Islamic State,” by Nadia Murad.
At the
school, the men and boys deemed to be adolescents were separated from the
women, loaded onto trucks and driven away to be murdered. In all, 600 people
died, including six of Murad’s brothers and half-brothers. The women in the
school could hear the gunshots that killed their sons, brothers and husbands.
Dozens
of older women who were considered too old to be sold as sex slaves were also
killed, including Murad’s mother, Shami.
The fate
that awaited Murad and many other young women from Kocho, including underage
girls, was sexual slavery. They were driven to Mosul and sold to Daesh fighters
and supporters. In all, an estimated 3,000 Yazidi women were enslaved.
Murad’s
ordeal continued until November 2014, when she managed to escape her captor,
found her way to a camp for displaced people and from there applied
successfully to become a refugee in Germany, where she arrived in 2014.
She went
on to found the NGO Nadia’s Initiative and, for her “efforts to end the use of
sexual violence as a weapon of war and armed conflict,” in 2018 was awarded the
Nobel Peace Prize.
The
dreadful story of the genocidal Daesh attack on the Yazidis, the battle for
justice and the search for the missing that continues a decade later, is told
in an Arab News Minority Report, published online here.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2567308/middle-east
--------
Saudi
Arabia Slams Israeli Officials, Settlers for Storming Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound
Saudi
Arabia strongly condemned on Tuesday Israeli officials and settlers for
storming the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound.
The
Foreign Ministry slammed the blatant and repeated violations committed at the
holy site by Israeli officials and settlers.
It
underscored the importance of respecting religious sanctities, reiterating the
Kingdom's warning of the repercussions of the ongoing violations of
international law and the historical status of the city of Jerusalem.
Such
violations could provoke millions of Muslims around the world, particularly in
light of current war on Gaza and the plight of the Palestinian people.
The
Kingdom reiterated its call for the international community to assume its
responsibility in halting the ongoing Israeli violations of international law
and relevant international resolutions.
Source: english.aawsat.com
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--------
Cabinet
reaffirms Saudi support for Gaza ceasefire efforts
August
13, 2024
RIYADH:
The Cabinet on Tuesday reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s support for efforts aimed at
reaching a ceasefire in Gaza.
It
stressed the need to move forward to end Israel’s occupation of Palestinian
land, achieve peace, and give the Palestinians their legitimate rights, Saudi
Press Agency reported.
The
Cabinet also praised the efforts and contributions of the Arab Parliament at
international forums, and affirmed the Kingdom’s keenness on consolidating
cooperation with Arab countries in a way that contributes to consolidating
security and stability and provides conditions for development and sustainable
growth.
The
Cabinet also discussed the meeting between Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and
the Speaker of the Arab Parliament Adel bin Abdulrahman Al-Asoumi in Jeddah
last week during which Al-Asoumi presented Prince Mohammed with the Leader’s
Medal.
The
medal was awarded in appreciation of Prince Mohammed’s “pioneering positions in
defending Arab issues and strengthening joint Arab action.”
The
Cabinet also reviewed the Kingdom’s efforts to enhance its global efforts in
the field of sustainability and environmental conservation.
These
efforts include working to develop and expand royal reserves according to
strategic targets that focus on protecting wildlife and supporting
afforestation and ecotourism.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2567280/saudi-arabia
--------
Iraq's
top Shia cleric Ali al-Sistani declares zero tolerance on drugs amid growing
use and trade
13
August, 2024
Iraq's
most senior Shia cleric, Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, issued an influential
directive condemning the use and trade of drugs, urging the Iraqi population to
distance themselves from traffickers.
The
directive, released on Monday, comes as Iraq grapples with an alarming rise in
drug consumption and trafficking, with the country increasingly becoming a key
transit route for illicit drugs entering from neighbouring Iran and
Afghanistan.
In
recent years, Iraq has seen a sharp increase in domestic drug use, particularly
of captagon and crystal meth. Reports suggest that various militia groups have
become deeply involved in the lucrative drug trade, exacerbating the crisis.
In a
detailed religious directive, Ayatollah Sistani's office responded to numerous
questions from his followers, explicitly condemning the drug trade. He declared
it strictly forbidden (haram) in all its forms and methods of consumption, and
urged the public to avoid any dealings with those involved in drug trafficking.
The Ayatollah emphasised that any money obtained through such illegal
activities is impure and must not be used.
Ayatollah
Sistani also called on Iraqis to report drug traffickers to the authorities,
stressing that combating this growing menace is not only a legal duty but also
a moral and religious obligation. He issued a stern warning to law enforcement
and judicial authorities, urging them to remain vigilant and resolute in their
efforts against the drug trade, and cautioned that those who neglect their
responsibilities are committing a serious sin.
He also
condemned corruption within security forces, particularly those who accept
bribes to overlook drug trafficking activities, equating such acts with major
sins.
Al-Sistani
called on parents to take all necessary measures to protect their children from
the dangers of drug addiction, even if it means moving out of the family home.
He also underscored the role of cultural and religious centres, educators, and
media professionals in raising awareness about the dangers of drugs, urging
them to participate in the fight against this issue actively.
Furthermore,
the directive highlighted the importance of rehabilitation over imprisonment
for addicts and affirmed that repentance is accepted if the addict is sincere
and committed to quitting.
"The
fatwa will have a significant impact on Iraqi security forces and society as a
whole," said Abdul Ghani al-Ghadban, an Iraqi political analyst, in an
interview with The New Arab. "Security forces will be motivated to
intensify their efforts in combating drugs, knowing that any lapses in their
duties will be closely watched by their fellow officers."
He added
that the fatwa would also mobilise Iraqi tribes to monitor their communities,
keep an eye on their areas and children, and take action against any suspected
drug traffickers by reporting them to the authorities.
The
Iraqi Interior Ministry also welcomed Ayatollah Sistani's directives,
recognising the crucial role it plays in bolstering the government's ongoing
fight against drug-related crimes. The ministry highlighted several key
initiatives, including the establishment of 16 compulsory rehabilitation
centres for addicts, as part of a comprehensive strategy to curb the spread of drugs
within the country. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to relentlessly
pursuing drug traffickers and ensuring that justice is served.
Meanwhile,
the Parliamentary Committee to Combat Drugs has also expressed strong support
for al-Sistani's directive, describing it as a "roadmap" for
addressing the drug crisis in Iraq. The committee has pledged to incorporate
the Ayatollah's guidance into its legislative and oversight work, ensuring that
the fight against drugs remains a top priority for the government. The
committee has also urged all branches of government to intensify their efforts
in this critical area.
The
scale of the drug problem in Iraq was highlighted in May when authorities
announced the seizure of 2.5 million captagon pills in a single day. Iraq,
which serves as a key conduit for the amphetamine-type drug, regularly reports
large hauls of captagon, much of it trafficked across its porous 600-kilometre
border with war-torn Syria.
This
unified stance from Iraq's religious leadership, government, and parliament
underscores the urgent need for collective action to protect Iraqi society from
the devastating impact of drugs.
Source: newarab.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.newarab.com/news/iraqs-top-shia-cleric-ali-al-sistani-declares-war-drugs
--------
Saudi
crown prince receives group of princes, scholars, and citizens in Jeddah
August
13, 2024
RIYADH:
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman hosted a group of princes, scholars, and
citizens who came to greet him on Tuesday.
The
guests were hosted at Al-Salaam Palace in Jeddah and the gathering started with
recitation from the holy Qur’an.
Earlier
on Tuesday, the crown prince chaired the weekly Cabinet meeting.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2567296/saudi-arabia
--------
Deputy
FM receives US ambassador to Saudi Arabia
August
13, 2024
RIYADH:
Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Elkhereiji received US Ambassador to the
Kingdom Michael Ratney in Riyadh on Tuesday.
During
the meeting, the two sides discussed bilateral relations, ways of enhancing
them and other issues of common concern, the Foreign Ministry reported on X.
They also reviewed regional and international developments.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2567313/saudi-arabia
--------
Saudi
crown prince receives written message from Guinea president
August
13, 2024
RIYADH:
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received a written message from the
President of Guinea Mamadi Doumbouya on Tuesday, Saudi Press Agency reported.
The
message addressed relations between Saudi Arabia and Guinea and ways to enhance
coordination and consultation in various fields.
The
letter was received by Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Al-Khuraiji during
a meeting with Guinea’s Minister of Planning and International Cooperation
Ismael Nabe in Riyadh.
During
the meeting, the officials discussed relations between their countries and
regional and international developments.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2567286/saudi-arabia
--------
North America
CAIR
Calls on Biden Admin to Stop Attempts to Spark Global Religious War; Condemns
Israeli Minister’s Al-Aqsa Mosque Assault
August
13, 2024
The
Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil
rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the storming of the Al-Aqsa
Mosque, one of Islam’s holiest sites, by mobs of Israelis led by Israeli
national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, and called on the Biden
administration to stop enabling this “increasingly radical and openly
genocidal” government’s attempts to spark global religious war.
Israeli
crowds stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem, as well as
villages in the occupied West Bank, as they marked a Jewish holiday. Itamar
Ben-Gvir led a crowd of thousands into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound and
performed prayers. Israeli police reportedly offered protection to those who
stormed Al-Aqsa and to illegal Israeli settlers involved in violence in the
West Bank.
In a
statement, CAIR National Deputy Director Edward Ahmed Mitchell said:
“The
Biden administration must condemn the Israeli government’s brazen assault on
one of Islam’s holiest places, which flagrantly violated international
agreements governing the site.
“Backed
by the Israeli military, far-right terrorist sympathizer and Israeli government
minister Ben-Gvir is trying to spark a religious war in the heart of Jerusalem
and prolong the genocide in Gaza.
“Unless
the Biden administration stops enabling this increasingly radical and openly
genocidal government, Ben-Gvir may soon get his terrible wish.”
In June,
CAIR condemned the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque by Israeli extremists ahead
of the Israeli Flag Day parade.
Washington,
D.C., based CAIR also condemned racist chants, including “Death to Arabs,” by
Israeli extremists in Jerusalem and assaults on journalists during the Flag Day
parade.
Source: cair.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-condemns-far-right-israeli-ministers-al-aqsa-mosque-assault-calls-on-biden-admin-to-stop-attempts-to-spark-global-religious-war/
--------
CAIR
Issues ‘Know Your Rights’ Travel Advisory Following Recent Reports of
Palestinian-American Muslims Interrogated, Detained at US Border
August
13, 2024
Civil
Rights Group Announces New Lawsuit Against FBI for Using Illegal, Racist
Watchlist Against Palestinian-Americans
The
Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil
rights and advocacy organization, today issued a precautionary travel advisory
to Palestinian-American Muslim travelers in light of some recent reports of
community members being detained or subjected to invasive questioning by
federal agents at US borders.
“We
encourage community members, especially Palestinian-American Muslims advocating
for Palestinian human rights, to review this advisory to ensure they can
properly respond to any discriminatory harassment while traveling through
airports,” said CAIR National Executive Director Edward Ahmed Mitchell. “It is
essential to stay informed and know your rights – and report when those rights
have been violated.”
The
civil rights and advocacy group advises travelers to be prepared and informed
of their rights before traveling to empower them with the knowledge necessary
to navigate challenging situations confidently and safely.
Know
Your Rights While Traveling:
TSA and
CBP cannot target you for additional screening or questions based on religious,
racial, or ethnic profiling.
CBP can
physically take possession of your electronic items, but they cannot force you
to unlock them. There are limits on how much data CBP can examine. Contact CAIR
for more information.
US
citizens cannot be denied entry for refusing to answer questions. However,
invoking your rights may result in delays.
Green
card holders cannot be refused entry unless their travel was not brief and
innocent per USC 1101(a)(14). However, invoking your rights may result in
delays.
Non-citizen
visa holders can be denied entry into the country for refusing to cooperate.
Speak to an attorney prior to exiting the country.
Contact
CAIR to report discrimination or harassment while traveling.
As an
airline passenger, you are entitled to courteous and respectful treatment by
airline and security personnel. You have the right to complain about the
treatment that you believe is discriminatory. If you believe you have been
treated in a discriminatory manner, immediately:
Ask for
the names and ID numbers of all persons involved in the incident. Be sure to
write this information down.
Ask to
speak to a supervisor
Ask if
you have been singled out because of your name, appearance, dress, race,
ethnicity, faith or national origin.
Ask
witnesses to give their names and contact information
Write
down a statement of facts immediately after the incident. Be sure to include
the flight number, the flight date, and the name of the airline
Contact
CAIR to file a complaint
An
airline pilot may refuse to fly a passenger if they reasonably believe, based
on observation, that the passenger is a threat to flight safety. A pilot may
not, however, question you or refuse to allow you on a flight because of biased
stereotypes, including any based on your religion, national origin, gender,
ethnicity, or political beliefs.
CBP
Agents can:
Ask
about:
Your
citizenship
The
nature or purpose of your trip
Anything
you are bringing back to the United States that you did not have with you when
you left
Examine
your baggage and everything in it
Physically
take possession of your electronic items, but they cannot force you to unlock
them. There are limits on how much data CBP can examine. Contact CAIR for more
information.
CBP
Agents cannot:
Target
you for additional screening or questions based on religious, racial or ethnic
profiling
Ask you
general questions without reliable information that leads them to believe you
are breaking a law. For example, they cannot question you about your personal
life, where you spend time, work, or worship.
TSA
Screeners cannot:
Target
you for additional screening or questions based on religious, racial or ethnic
profiling.
Ask you
general questions without reliable information that leads them to believe you
are breaking a law. For example, they cannot question you about your personal
life, where you spend time, work, or worship.
Handcuff
you or strip search you
How Your
Immigration Status Can Impact You When You Invoke Your Rights at the Border:
US
citizens cannot be denied entry for refusing to answer questions. However,
invoking your rights may result in delays.
Green
card holders cannot be refused entry unless their travel was not “brief and
innocent” per USC 1101(a)(14). However, invoking your rights may result in
delays.
Non-citizen
visa holders can be denied entry into the country for refusing to cooperate.
Speak to an attorney prior to exiting the country.
Download,
Print, Save CAIR’s ‘Know Your Rights While Traveling’ Guide
Additional
Guidance for Travelers:
Be
Prepared: Travel with a fully charged phone and have CAIR/your attorney’s
contact information readily available. Carry a “Know Your Rights” card to
present to agents, which asserts your rights without you needing to speak.
Remain
Calm and Respectful: Interactions with federal agents can be stressful, but
it’s important to remain calm and respectful. Do not physically resist, even if
you believe your rights are being violated.
Report
Incidents: If you experience any form of detention, invasive questioning, or
other troubling encounters, or you believe your rights were violated, report
the incident to CAIR as soon as possible. Your report can help protect others
and provide a basis for legal action.
Earlier
this week, CAIR and CAIR’s Greater Los Angeles chapter announced the filing of
a lawsuit against the federal government for placing one Palestinian American
on the No-Fly List and seizing the electronic device of another, while
interrogating him about his lawful organizing against Israel’s genocide in
Gaza.
Since
Oct. 7, CAIR has received reports from Americans across the country who have
been questioned and harassed by federal law enforcement officials for their
activism in support of Palestine and against the United States’ complicity in
Israel’s genocide in Gaza.
This
lawsuit is among the first to challenge the FBI’s apparent decision to aim its
vast apparatus at innocent people who speak up for Palestine and criticize
Israel’s violence in Gaza. CAIR is challenging the mistreatment of these
Palestinian American activists on constitutional grounds.
CAIR is
America’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization. Its mission is
to enhance the understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice,
and empower American Muslims.
Source: cair.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-issues-know-your-rights-travel-advisory-following-recent-reports-of-palestinian-american-muslims-interrogated-detained-at-us-border/
--------
Authorities
investigate series of threatening calls made to Minneapolis mosque
August
13, 2024
MINNEAPOLIS
— A Minneapolis mosque said it received more than a dozen threatening, hateful
phone calls this weekend.
Leaders
at Dar Al-Qalam in northeast Minneapolis said the 14 calls were made from a St.
Cloud area code number and contained slurs and threats.
"Islamophobia,
bigotry, and hate has no place in Minnesota," Dar Al-Qalam Executive
Director Abdifatah Mursal Abdi said.
At one
point, they said the caller texted a video of the 2019 deadly mosque shooting
in New Zealand.
"This
was not only a threat, but a clear intimidation targeting of our mosque. This
is not only unacceptable, but it's alarming to our community,"
CAIR-Minnesota Executive Director Jaylani Hussein said.
Minneapolis
Police Chief Brian O'Hara said police responded immediately and began an
investigation. O'Hara said while no one was in custody as of Tuesday evening,
investigators submitted a case to the Hennepin County Attorney's Office for a
charging decision.
I'm
certain cowards like this will be less of a bully when they get a chance in
front of a judge than they are when they're hiding in a room threatening others
in front of technology," O'Hara said.
CAIR-MN
said since 2021, there have been 33 incidents targeting mosques in Minnesota.
This summer alone, the site of a new Muslim community center and mosque in St.
Anthony was hit eight times, causing more than $20,000 in damage.
Muslim
leaders said election years often bring a rise in Islamophobia and
anti-immigrant rhetoric. While they try to boost security at mosques statewide,
they urge people to report hate whether it's in person or online.
"Words
have consequences. Messages have consequences. And we cannot take this
lightly," said Islamic Association of North America Executive Director,
Imam Yussuf Abdulle.
O'Hara
said police will continue to have an increased presence near places of worship.
Source: cbsnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/news/authorities-investigate-series-of-threatening-calls-made-to-minneapolis-mosque/
--------
CAIR-Florida
Urges Community to Call for Accountability for Doctor in Alleged Racist
Harassment of Muslim Family
August
13, 2024
The
Florida chapter Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Florida), the
state’s largest civil rights and advocacy organization, today issued a call to
action asking residents of Manatee County and all Floridians to contact Manatee
County Sheriff Rick Wells and Florida State Attorney Ed Brodsky’s offices to
hold Dr. Douglas Grierson, a Florida dentist, accountable for his alleged
harassment and threats targeting a Muslim family last Mother’s Day.
WATCH A
VIDEO OF THE INCIDENT
CAIR-Florida
Media and Outreach Director Wilfredo Amr Ruiz stated: “Racial harassment and
intimidation have no place in Florida, and it is crucial that justice is served
to send a clear message that such public behavior is not tolerated here.” Ruiz
added: “We are calling on all Floridians to stand up for justice by joining
this call to action, asking Manatee County Sheriff Wells and State Attorney
Brodsky to take immediate action to investigate this incident and hold the
alleged perpetrator accountable.”
CAIR-Florida
is the state’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its
mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, foster dialogue, safeguard civil
liberties for all, empower American Muslims, and form coalitions that promote
justice and mutual understanding.
La
misión de CAIR-Florida es mejorar la comprensión del Islam, fomentar el
diálogo, proteger las libertades civiles, capacitar a los musulmanes
estadounidenses, y construir coaliciones que promuevan la justicia y la
comprensión mutua.
Source: cair.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-florida-urges-community-to-call-for-accountability-for-doctor-in-alleged-racist-harassment-of-muslim-family/
--------
CAIR
SFBA: City of San Ramon to Recognize American Muslim Appreciation and Awareness
Month
August
13, 2024
This
evening, the City of San Ramon will commemorate the month of August as American
Muslim Appreciation and Awareness Month (AMAAM) with a special proclamation
presentation at its 7 p.m. city council meeting.
The
proclamation highlights the community’s efforts in fostering engagement,
promoting interfaith dialogue, and supporting various civic initiatives that
have positively impacted the lives of San Ramon residents. The presentation
will take place during the first few minutes of the meeting.
WHAT:
City of San Ramon AMAAM proclamation presentation
WHEN:
Tuesday, Aug. 13 | 7 p.m.
WHERE:
San Ramon City Hall, 7000 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon
WHO: The
proclamation will be presented to Tehseen Khan, president of the San Ramon
Valley Islamic Center, who will accept the recognition on behalf of the
American Muslim community in San Ramon.
AGENDA:
San Ramon City Council Meeting
CAIR-SFBA
is an office of CAIR, America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy
organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, protect
civil rights, promote justice, and empower American
Source: cair.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-sfba-city-of-san-ramon-to-recognize-american-muslim-appreciation-and-awareness-month/
--------
CAIR
Calls on West Virginia High School, School District to Accommodate Muslim
Students’ Prayer Requests
August
13, 2024
The
Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil
rights organization, today called on Morgantown High School in Morgantown, West
Virginia, and Monongalia School District to provide Muslim students an adequate
place to pray congregational Friday (Jummah) prayers on campus as they had in
previous years.
With one
week left before school begins, CAIR is calling on administrators to institute
a clear Islamic Friday prayer policy and communicate it to students and
parents.
In a
statement, CAIR National Community Advocacy Director Nicole Fauster-Bradford
said:
“The
school district’s representatives have refused to explain to us why Muslim
students can no longer pray in the space they had prayed in for years without
incident. Even if their original location is no longer feasible, the students
have communicated with several teachers who are willing to volunteer their
empty classrooms during the prayer time, which coincides with their lunch
period. The closet-sized space district representatives have offered the
students is unacceptable and unworkable due to the nature of the prayer.
“Without
the ability to properly perform Friday congregational prayers on campus, the
students must travel to nearby mosques to pray. The added travel time and
traffic causes the students to miss instructional time. With one week left
before school begins, the district needs to communicate with its students so
those who believe that praying the Friday congregational prayer is required of
them can make appropriate arrangements.”
She
noted that CAIR offers information for Muslim parents who are seeking advice on
religious accommodations, parental involvement in schools and parental
notification.
CAIR’s
advisory, titled “The Right to Participate in Your Child’s School, Education,
and to be Informed,” includes sections on “The Right to Participate in Your
Child’s School, Education, and to be Informed” and “The Right to a Reasonable
Accommodation.”
Washington,
D.C., based CAIR also offers a booklet, called “An Educator’s Guide to Islamic
Religious Practices,” designed to help school officials provide a positive
learning environment for Muslim students.
BACKGROUNDER:
At the
beginning of the Fall 2023 school semester, Morgantown High School
administrators denied the Muslim students’ renewed request to pray afternoon
congregational Friday prayers on campus. The school administrator’s denial was
a departure from the status quo, in which students prayed in the school’s
computer lab in past years without issue.
It was
only after CAIR intervened in April 2024 that Monongalia School District
representatives offered the students a closet-sized space that could
accommodate three students at a time. Such an arrangement would be impractical
because of the nature of the Islamic Friday congregational prayer: an
individual delivers a brief sermon and then leads the group, seated in rows, in
a prayer that involves bending and prostrating, which must be completed in
unison. It would be infeasible to conduct the prayer properly in a closet-like
space.
In a
June 2024 correspondence to school and district representatives, CAIR explained
the nature of the prayer and provided feasible alternatives, including the
unoccupied classrooms of teachers who have already volunteered their spaces. A
local Imam (Islamic religious leader) met with district representatives to
explain how easily Morgantown High School could accommodate the students.
To date,
neither district nor high school representatives have communicated with
students or their advocates as to whether they will accommodate the students in
the way that would be necessary to perform their sincerely held religious
beliefs. With only one Friday left before students return to class, the
district’s representatives have left students uncertain of how they should
proceed.
Source: cair.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-calls-on-west-virginia-high-school-school-district-to-accommodate-muslim-students-prayer-requests/
--------
Biden
says Gaza ceasefire could stop Iran attacking Israel
August
13, 2024
GAZA
STRIP, Palestinian Territories: US President Joe Biden said Tuesday that a
ceasefire deal in Gaza could deter Iran from attacking Israel in retaliation
for the killing of a Hamas leader that sent regional tensions soaring.
His
remarks came after Iran rejected Western calls to “stand down” its threat of
reprisals.
The
Islamic republic and its allies have blamed Israel for Ismail Haniyeh’s killing
on July 31 during a visit to Tehran for the swearing-in of Iranian President
Masoud Pezeshkian. Israel has not commented.
Iran has
vowed to avenge the death, which came hours after an Israeli strike in Beirut
killed a senior commander of Hezbollah, the powerful Iran-backed militant group
in Lebanon.
Asked if
a truce between Israel and Hamas could stave off an Iranian assault, Biden
said: “That’s my expectation.”
He told
reporters in New Orleans that while negotiations were “getting hard” he was
“not giving up.”
Western
diplomats have scrambled to prevent a major conflagration in the Middle East,
where tensions were already high due to the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.
“Ten
months since the start of the war, the threat of further regional escalation is
more palpable, and chilling, than ever,” said Rosemary DiCarlo, United Nations
undersecretary general for political and peacebuilding affairs.
She called
on all parties to “end all escalatory rhetoric and actions.”
In a
statement on Monday, the United States and its European allies urged Iran to
de-escalate.
The
White House warned that a “significant set of attacks” by Iran and its allies
was possible this week, saying Israel shared the same assessment.
The
United States has deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and a guided
missile submarine to the region in support of Israel.
On
Tuesday, Washington approved weapons sales of more than $20 billion to Israel
including F-15 fighter-jets and nearly 33,000 tank cartridges.
Iran’s
foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani criticized the Western call for
restraint.
“The
declaration by France, Germany and Britain, which raised no objection to the
international crimes of the Zionist regime, brazenly asks Iran to take no
deterrent action against a regime which has violated its sovereignty and
territorial integrity,” he said in a statement.
The
United States and its European allies also called for a ceasefire between
Israel and Hamas in Gaza, with truce talks to resume on Thursday.
The Gaza
war began with Hamas’s October 7 attack on southern Israel which resulted in
the deaths of 1,198 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of
Israeli official figures.
Militants
also seized 251 people, 111 of whom are still held captive in Gaza, including
39 the military says are dead.
Israel’s
retaliatory military offensive in Gaza has killed at least 39,929 people,
according to a toll from the territory’s health ministry, which does not
provide a breakdown of civilian and militant deaths.
Far-right
parties in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ruling coalition strongly oppose
any ceasefire in Gaza, a point rammed home by firebrand National Security
Minister Itamar Ben Gvir on a visit to Jerusalem’s flashpoint Al-Aqsa Mosque
compound.
The
visit was swiftly condemned by Al-Aqsa’s custodian Jordan, as well as world
powers including the United States, the European Union and the United Nations.
Defying
longstanding rules that allow Jews and other non-Muslims to visit the compound
but not to pray there, Ben Gvir led thousands of Israelis in singing Jewish
hymns and performing Talmudic rituals.
In a
video filmed inside the compound, Ben Gvir renewed his opposition to any let-up
in the Gaza war.
“We must
win and not go to the talks in Doha or Cairo,” the minister said, referring to
the truce talks planned for Thursday.
US State
Department spokesman Vedant Patel nonetheless said Washington remained hopeful
that talks would move forward.
Netanyahu
has already confirmed Israel’s participation and “our Qatari partners have
assured us that they are working to ensure that there is Hamas representation
as well,” Patel told reporters.
Hamas
has urged mediators to implement a truce plan presented earlier by Biden
instead of holding more talks.
Despite
more than 10 months of fighting in Gaza, Hamas has still on occasion been able
to fire rockets into Israel.
On
Tuesday the militants said they had fired two rockets at Tel Aviv in their first
attack on the city in months.
The
Israeli army said a rocket from Gaza fell into the sea, while another was
identified but “did not cross into Israeli territory.”
On
Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin met Palestinian Authority president
Mahmud Abbas in Moscow and told him he was “concerned” about civilian deaths in
Gaza.
Putin
called for a ceasefire and the “creation of a fully-fledged Palestinian state,”
according to images shown on Russian state television.
In the
latest Gaza violence, an Israeli strike killed two parents and eight children
in Abassan in the southern district of Khan Yunis, a medic from Nasser Hospital
told AFP on condition of anonymity.
The sole
survivor from the Abu Haya family was a three-month-old girl named Rim, he said.
“This
little girl was pulled out of the rubble. Her whole family is dead. Who will
take care of her now?” asked Ibrahim Barbakh, a resident of Khan Yunis, as he
held the baby.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2567325/middle-east
--------
Blinken
postpones Mid East trip amid ‘uncertainty,’ approves $20bn Israel weapons
package
August
13, 2024
WASHINGTON:
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has postponed his trip to the Middle East,
delaying his planned Tuesday departure, Axios reported ahead of planned Gaza
ceasefire talks this week.
The top
US diplomat’s travel was delayed over “uncertainty about the situation,” Axios
said, citing two unnamed sources.
On
Tuesday, Hamas fired two rockets aimed at Tel Aviv for the first time in months
while Israel launched separate deadly airstrikes in Gaza.
On
Monday, US officials had said they expected Thursday’s talks to continue as
planned.
Also on
Tuesday, Blinken approved the possible sale to Israel of fighter jets and other
military equipment worth over $20 billion, the Pentagon said.
In a
statement, the Pentagon said Blinken approved the possible sale of F-15 jets
and equipment worth nearly $19 billion. He also approved the possible sale of
tank cartridges worth around $774 million and army vehicles worth $583 million,
the Pentagon said.
The tank
rounds would be almost immediately available for delivery. The Boeing Co. F-15
fighter jets would take years to produce and deliver.
The US
has staunchly supported Israel as its top Middle East ally prosecutes a war in
the Gaza Strip that has devastated the Palestinian enclave. The war was set off
by the militant group Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack in southern Israel.
While
approving weapons to Israel, Washington has also tried to arrange a ceasefire
deal in Gaza that would potentially stave off a wider Middle East war.
Fears of
a broader war have increased since the recent killings of Hamas leader Ismail
Haniyeh in Iran and Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut. Both
drew threats of retaliation against Israel.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2567297/middle-east
--------
US
approves $20 billion weapons package for Israel
14
August 2024
The
United States is sending a new multi-billion dollar military package for Israel
amid the regime’s genocidal war against Palestinian civilians in the besieged
Gaza Strip.
The US
State Department told Congress on Tuesday that it had approved a sale of 50
F-15 fighter jets to Israel for $18.82 billion.
Israel
will also buy some 33,000 tank cartridges, up to 50,000 explosive mortar
cartridges and new military cargo vehicles.
"The
United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to US
national interests to assist Israel to develop and maintain a strong and ready
self-defense capability," the State Department said in its notice on the
F-15s, which are made by Boeing.
In
total, US President Joe Biden's administration on Tuesday approved more than
$20 billion in weapons sales to Israel.
According
to the Pentagon, part of these arms would be immediately available for
delivery.
The new
US military aid comes despite claims by Washington that it is supporting a
ceasefire in the Gaza Strip where Israel has been waging a genocidal war since
early October.
The
Israeli regime’s Washington-backed bloody onslaught on Gaza has so far killed
nearly 40,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured 92,152 others.
Thousands more are also missing and presumed dead under rubble.
Fears
are also increasing over a broader war in the region as Israel keeps near-daily
cross-border strikes in Lebanon and also its attacks on Yemen.
Source: presstv.ir
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2024/08/14/731320/US-approves--20-billion-weapons-package-for-Israel
--------
US
advocacy group files anti-govt. lawsuit over blacklisting pro-Palestinians
13
August 2024
An
American Muslim advocacy group has filed a lawsuit against the US government
agencies after two Palestinian-American men were blacklisted due to their
pro-Palestine activism.
The
Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) filed the lawsuit in response to a
discriminatory and racist placement of the two.
Aside
from the FBI, other defendants named in the lawsuit are the leaders of
government agencies, including the State Department and the Homeland Security
Department.
Filed in
the US District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia on Monday, the
lawsuit stated that “CAIR is challenging the mistreatment of these activists on
constitutional grounds”.
It
asserts that their blacklisting is based on discrimination and racism rather
than actual criminal or national security concerns.
The duo
put on a watch list by US federal authorities were identified as Osama Abu
Irshaid and the California-based Mustafa Zeidan.
According
to the lawsuit, Irshaid, the executive director of American Muslims for
Palestine, traveled to Qatar from the US in late May and returned in early
June.
Upon his
return, federal agents forced him to undergo extra screening and questioning
while seizing his phone, which has not yet been returned.
The
agents reportedly kept focusing on his activism against Israel’s campaign of
death and destruction in Gaza.
Zeidan,
who often visits his ailing mother in Jordan, was not allowed to board a flight
on his way to the country earlier this year. The authorities later informed him
that he was placed on the no-fly list.
“Neither
Dr. Abu Irshaid nor Mr. Zeidan have ever been charged or convicted of a violent
crime,” CAIR said.
CAIR
said in July that discrimination and attacks against Muslims and Palestinians
in the US had increased by about 70% in the first half of 2024, amid
Washington’s support for Israel's genocidal war.
Human
rights advocates have reported a global rise in Islamophobia and
anti-Palestinian bias since October 2023.
The
report also pointed to numerous protests in the United States against the war
in Gaza since October, but highlighted the crackdown by US police and
university authorities on pro-Gaza protests and encampments on campuses in
particular.
Source: presstv.ir
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2024/08/13/731313/CAIR-Palestinians
--------
Africa
Troops
neutralise 5 terrorists in Borno, recover bombs, arms, rustled cattle
The
Nigerian Army, said its troop in a raid operation on an Islamic West Africa
Province (ISWAP) terrorists’ enclave in the Bama Local Government Area of Borno
State, have killed five terrorists following a shootout.
The Army
said several of the terrorists
surrendered to the troops, who recovered bombs, arms, ammunition, and
rustled cattle by the terrorists.
They
equally arrested some criminal suspects during the operations.
The army
said,“On August 12 , 2024, troops
conducted raid operation on an Islamic
West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists’ enclave in the Bama Local Government
Area of Borno State. In the operation troops neutralized five terrorists and
recovered two Rocket Propel Gun (RPG) Bombs, two Dane guns, one RPG Bomb
Charger, one AK-47 Rifle Magazine, 23 rounds of 7.62 x 54 mm ammunition, six
motorcycles and assorted medications.
“Meanwhile,
following sustained offensive operations against terrorist groups in the North
East theatre, 44 Boko Haram terrorists and their families have surrendered to
troops deployed at Bama, Dikwa and, Gwoza Local Government Areas of Borno
state.
“In
Plateau state, troops have arrested a notorious cattle rustler, Mallam Maawuya
Shuaibu, at Mararaban Kantom in Barkin Ladi LGA of the state. The suspect who
has been on the watchlist of the security agencies in connection with criminal
activities in the general area of Barikin Ladi, Riyom and Mangu LGAs of the
state, was nabbed as the vigilant troops responded to credible intelligence on
the suspect’s illicit activities. The troops recovered 32 rustled cows from the
suspect.
“In
Bayelsa state, troops conducted raid operations into suspected criminal
hideouts in Korokorosie Community of Southern Ijaw LGA. During the operation,
troops arrested Mr Donald Emason and recovered one Revolver pistol and two locally
fabricated guns concealed by the suspect.
“Similarly,
troops deployed at Akinyele LGA of Oyo state have arrested a suspected gun
runner, Mohammed Bello, 33. The suspect, who was picked up from his hideout,
confessed to be one of the couriers supplying arms and ammunition to Bello
Chikidawoje’s kidnap syndicate operating in the general area.
“These
successful operations demonstrate the Nigerian Army’s commitment to combating
terrorism, criminalities, and other security challenges across the country”.
Source: thesun.ng
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://thesun.ng/troops-neutralise-5-terrorists-in-borno-recover-bombs-arms-rustled-cattle/
--------
Tunisians
Rally for Release Of Women Detained Over Criticism Of President Saied
August
14, 2024
TUNIS:
Hundreds of Tunisians demonstrated Tuesday in the capital Tunis marking
National Women’s Day and demanding the release of women detained for
criticizing President Kais Saied, an AFP reporter saw.
Since a
sweeping power grab in 2021 by Saied, a number of his critics, including women,
have been arrested.
“Unfortunately,
today is a day of anger for the women jailed because of their political views
(and) their activism in society,” said Karima Brini, leader of the Women and
Citizenship Association.
“We are
angry and we demand freedom for the detained women.”
Chaima
Issa, an opposition figure and member of the National Salvation Front coalition
who was also imprisoned under Saied, deplored the arrests and conditions behind
bars.
“I can
only be in solidarity with them, because I experienced what they are currently
experiencing,” she said, joining the rally that drew together factions from
across the political spectrum.
Supporters
of the Free Destourian Party also gathered near the Tunisian women’s ministry
earlier in the day, calling for the release of the party’s leader, Abir Moussi,
who has been jailed since October.
A
staunch critic of Saied, Moussi was sentenced to two years in prison last week,
two days after she submitted her candidacy for the presidential elections
scheduled for October 6.
She was
sentenced under Decree 54, a law enacted by Saied in 2022 to combat “false
news.”
In July,
lawyer Sonia Dahmani was sentenced to one year in prison over comments she had
made about Tunisia in response to a TV pundit’s claim that sub-Saharan migrants
were seeking to settle in the country.
She was
also sentenced under Decree 54 after a court said her comments came in response
to remarks by Saied.
In May,
Saadia Mosbah, head of the Mnemty anti-racism association, was arrested and
detained, hours after Saied lashed out at organizations helping migrants and
called them “traitors and mercenaries.”
Mosbah
has defended sub-Saharan African migrant rights after Saied said last year
“hordes of illegal migrants” posed a demographic threat to Tunisia.
Rights
groups have recently denounced an “authoritarian drift” and a “rollback” on
freedoms in Tunisia, the birthplace of the Arab Spring uprisings.
Seeking
a second term, Saied is set to face only two presidential challengers this fall
after 14 hopefuls were rejected by the electoral authority and others were
arrested.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2567327/middle-east
--------
Abuja
Muslim Forum Donates Maiden Zakat
13 Aug
2024
The
Abuja Muslim Forum (AMF) has donated the first zakat of the organisation in the
territory.
Speaking
on the modality for the disbursement of the zakat, Mallam Ibrahim Idris, Coordinating
Secretary of AMF, said that they got some amount of money, but took a different
style in disbursing the monies.
“Instead
of just gathering poor people to distribute the money, we divided it according
to how Allah divided it into the eight categories. So we shared the money
equally among the eight categories.
“One of
the categories is poor. Another category are needy. That is why the Glorious
Qur’an separated between masakin (poor) and fakir (needy). Another category is
those working for the collection and disbursement of the zakah. Allah has said we should give them even if
they are rich. Another category are those whose heart has turned to Islam; that
is new converts, new reverts in Islam.
“Another
category is fisabilillah (giving for Allah sake). Anyone in the course of
da’wah (Islamic propagation). Another category is somebody who is in debt,
cannot pay back. Another category is somebody who is in shackles, bondage, like
prisoners.
“Another
category is those who are wayfarers. They are on their way to their homes or
from their homes, and they are stranded. These are the eight categories, and we
share this money equally,” he said.
He also
said that the amount shared was N88,000 to each category and that for the
needy, the poor, and those in debt, were combined together and look for 13
indigent members of AMF and share N20,000 each to them.
He said
that, the wayfarer share was given to the National Union of Road Transport
Workers (NURTW) from Mabushi Branch, to be shared to those who may be stranded
and that they were also given a logbook to record those they assisted till the
N88,000 is exhausted.
A former
Ameer of the AMF, Alhaji Lukman Amoo, who is currently the Chairman of the
Zakat Team, said that it is incumbent on the wealthy to take care of the needy
and that zakat alone would not eradicate poverty if other measures of
empowerment are not entrenched.
Source: dailytrust.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://dailytrust.com/abuja-muslim-forum-donates-maiden-zakat/
--------
Sudan's
economy battered by conflict
13-08-24
The
conflict in Sudan has displaced millions and left many in the country grappling
with a deteriorating economy.
The
northeastern African nation plunged into chaos in April last year when tensions
between the military and a notorious paramilitary group, the Rapid Support
Forces, turned into open fighting in the capital, Khartoum, before spreading
across the country.
The
fighting has killed thousands of people and pushed many into starvation.
The
country's humanitarian crisis is at "a catastrophic breaking point"
amid fighting and devastating flooding, the U.N. migration agency said Monday,
ahead of peace talks planned for later this week.
"When
it comes to these negotiations, we always say that reconciliation is
better," said Aly Mohamed, a displaced resident, as he commented on the
planned talks whilst visiting a local market.
"We
have reached a stage where it's as if the people don't exist."
Sudan’s
war has created the world’s largest displacement crisis.
More
than 10.7 million people have been forced to flee their homes since fighting
began, according to the International Organization for Migration.
Over 2
million of those fled to neighbouring countries.
Last
month, global experts also confirmed that starvation at a massive camp for
displaced people in Darfur has grown into famine.
And
about 25.6 million people — more than half of Sudan’s population — will face
acute hunger, the experts from the Famine Review Committee warned.
According
to the Central Bureau of Statistics in Sudan, the inflation rate in the country
has recently hit 159%.
"We
want reform for our country, we want the Rapid Support Forces to go away and we
want prices in this market to go down," said local Hanan Ahmed as she
visited Omdurman market.
"There
are poor people who cannot buy the food they need, they can't afford bread...We
have not received any help from anyone," she added.
Fighting
rages in Darfur’s city of al-Fasher and the southeastern province of Sennar,
where clashes forced over 700,000 people to flee last month, according to the
IOM.
The
peace talks face uncertainty as Sudan’s military has yet to confirm its
participation in the meeting in Switzerland brokered by the United States and
Saudi Arabia.
Source: africanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.africanews.com/2024/08/13/sudans-economy-battered-by-conflict/
--------
Sierra
Leone's president uses UN Security Council presidency to urge more seats for
Africa
After
decades of seeking a bigger voice in the United Nations ' most powerful body,
Africa "cannot wait any longer,” Sierra Leone's president told the
Security Council on Monday.
Chairing
a meeting that his country convened, President Julius Maada Bio pressed a
longstanding bid for African countries to get more council seats, including two
permanent and potentially veto-wielding spots.
“The
time for half-measures and incremental progress is over. Africa must be heard,
and its demands for justice and equity must be met,” Bio said, calling his
continent the “unquestionable victim” of an imbalanced, outdated and
unrepresentative Security Council structure.
It
wasn't the first time the council has heard calls for expanding and reshaping
its membership — and African countries aren't the only ones that want more
representation. While there's a general sense that the council needs to change,
discussions have bogged down over differences on how much to expand the group,
what countries to include and what powers it should have.
But
Bio's presence put an exclamation point on the issue ahead of a U.N.
"Summit of the Future” and the annual General Assembly gathering of
presidents, prime ministers and monarchs. Both gatherings are scheduled next
month.
Some
countries are hoping for momentum from the summit, which is meant to generate a
wide-ranging new vision of what international cooperation should look like in
this century. The latest draft of the summit's potential “Pact for the Future”
terms Security Council reform a priority and pledges an “ambitious"
result, with specific language still to come.
“We are
sure it is a matter of time. Because the gatekeepers will find it difficult to
let us in,” Bio said at a news briefing Monday, but “we have a genuine and
compelling case.”
Set up
in 1945 to try to maintain peace in the wake of World War II, the Security
Council can levy sanctions, deploy peacekeeping missions and otherwise pass
resolutions that are legally binding, if sometimes ignored.
Its
composition reflects the postwar power structure, and a time when most of
Africa was under European control.
The
United States, Russia, China, Britain and France are permanent, veto-wielding
members. Ten other seats — originally six, until a 1965 expansion — go to
countries that get two-year council terms, without veto power. The broader
General Assembly elects them by region, with three seats for Africa.
African
countries, and many others, have argued that the arrangement shorts the
continent with the world's fastest-growing population, now at 1.3 billion. The
continent's 54 countries make up 28% of the U.N.‘s member states. Five of the
U.N.’s 11 current peacekeeping operations are in Africa, as are four of the top
10 countries in terms of sending troops.
The
African Union, a regional group, has called for two additional elected seats —
yielding a total of five — and two permanent ones for countries on the
continent.
The
permanent seats, in particular, must “be urgently addressed,” Namibia’s foreign
minister, Peya Mushelenga, told the council Monday.
Any
changes to the council's composition would be up to the General Assembly, which
has held negotiations for years. Assembly President Dennis Francis said Monday
that Africa is “manifestly underrepresented” on the council and that the status
quo is “simply wrong."
But the
U.N.'s member countries have floated many different ideas for changing the
council, and any move to accommodate Africa would likely stir pressure to
consider other proposals. The United States, for instance, backs adding
permanent seats for countries in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, among
others.
“Let’s
stop admiring the problem here. We need to move to solutions,” U.S. Ambassador
Linda Thomas-Greenfield, whose prior postings include multiple African
countries, told the council.
Bio,
whose nation currently holds the council's rotating presidency, urged the group
to get behind giving his continent priority in any structural changes.
“Africa cannot
wait any longer,” he said.
Source: africanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.africanews.com/2024/08/13/sierra-leones-president-uses-un-security-council-presidency-to-urge-more-seats-for-africa/
--------
Zambia
and Congo reopen their border after resolving a trade dispute
13-08-24
Zambia
and Congo agreed to reopen their border on Monday after resolving a trade
dispute between the countries that led to Zambia closing the border over the
weekend.
“The
Zambian party informed the Congolese party that the border will be reopened, to
allow the free movement of people and goods between the Democratic Republic of
Congo and the Republic of Zambia,” said the ministers of commerce of the two
countries in a joint statement.
Zambia's
commerce, trade and industry minister Chipoka Mulenga had met with Congolese
officials in Lubumbashi near the border.
Zambia
announced on Sunday it had closed its border with its northern neighbour after
Congo imposed a ban on the import of soft drinks and beer from Zambia. That
resulted in protests by Congolese truckers near the border town of Kasumbalesa.
Zambian business groups also criticized the ban.
The
Zambian Association of Manufacturers said it could set a “dangerous precedent
for future trade relations.”
Zambia's
decision to shut its border threatened Congo's ability to export its minerals.
Landlocked Congo has huge gold, copper and cobalt reserves in its mineral-rich
east. Much of it passes through Zambia on its way to the coast for shipping.
Congo is
by far the world's biggest producer of cobalt, which is in high demand and used
in batteries that power electric vehicles, smartphones and computers.
Zambia
is also a key gateway for Congo's imports.
Congo's
trade ministry said it had not received a formal complaint from Zambia before
the border was closed and questioned the move. It said it hoped the talks in
Lubumbashi would result in "a lasting solution."
Source: africanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.africanews.com/2024/08/13/zambia-and-congo-reopen-their-border-after-resolving-a-trade-dispute/
--------
Council
Of State Passes Vote Of Confidence In Tinubu — Kwara Gov
13
August 2024
The
National Council of State has reiterated that any change in government in
Nigeria must adhere strictly to constitutional procedures, dismissing calls
from some protesters for the resignation of President Bola Tinubu.
The
council also passed a vote of confidence in the President, commending his
achievements since assuming office last year.
The
council’s stance comes in response to the recent #EndBadGovernance protests,
where certain groups demanded the President’s resignation.
In a
meeting held on Tuesday, the council expressed disapproval of these calls and
emphasized the importance of upholding constitutional governance in the
country.
The
meeting was attended by key national figures, including former Presidents
Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari, who were present physically, while former
Heads of State Generals Yakubu Gowon and Abdulsalami Abubakar joined virtually.
Other
attendees included state governors, deputy governors, ministers, former Chief
Justices of the Federation, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation,
and the National Security Adviser.
Speaking
to State House correspondents after the meeting, Governor Abdulrahman
Abdulrasaq of Kwara State highlighted the council’s commendation of President
Tinubu’s policy decisions over the past year.
“The
Council commended the President for the policy decisions he has taken since
assuming office,” Abdulrasaq said.
In a
separate executive meeting between the governors and President Tinubu, the
governors also passed a vote of confidence in the President, further
solidifying their support for his administration.
During
the meeting, the council received a report from the National Security Adviser,
Nuhu Ribadu, on the current security situation in the country, along with a
preliminary report on the recent protests.
The
council expressed concern that the protests were viewed as a disguised attempt
to disrupt the activities of the current administration.
Minister
of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, who joined Governor Abdulrasaq in briefing the
press, emphasized the council’s appreciation for Nigerians who have resisted
any unconstitutional move to change the government.
“The
council thanked Nigerians at large for resisting any unconstitutional move to
change government,” Alake stated.
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2024/08/13/council-of-state-passes-vote-of-confidence-in-tinubu-kwara-gov/
--------
‘We Have
Powers To Burst Anywhere We Want To Burst’ – Police
13
August 2024
The
Nigeria Police has said they have the power to burst anywhere in the country as
far as they have certain information indicting criminal activities in such
places.
The
Nigeria Police Public Relations Officer, Olumuwiya Adejobi, said the raid by a
combined team of police and personnel of Department of State Service (DSS) at
the vicinity of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) was crucial.
Adejobi
said the NLC was not the suspect in the operation that has generated
condemnation from the labour union leadership.
In an
interview on Channels TV on Monday, the Police PRO said the suspect was a
terrorist who had engaged in foreign travel for 13 times.
Adejobi
said, “The NLC is not a suspect here. By the time we get the man and those we
have that confess to us, we know we are not chasing any shadow here. We had a
target, we went for our target, we have made recoveries and we’re going to get
the man.
“Whatever
it goes to say because we are going to do it. You can only run, you can not
hide when it comes to issues like this. All I know is that we must get him by
all means.
“Whatever
it is going to cost us. This man travels out of this country. Within two
months, I think he made trips for more than 13 or 14 trips to some nations, to
some countries.”
He
explained that the information they have on the undisclosed terrorist required
that the NLC must allow them to carry out their investigation.
He added
that NLC would not accuse the police after the terrorist has been arrested.
“So it
is somebody we have placed on under surveillance for a very long time and we
went for our target. So my job here is to tell Nigerians to tell the whole
world that contrary to what the NLC is saying, we are not indicting the NLC,
but we have certain information that we wouldn’t want NLC to come close to us.
“Let us
investigate this man. Let us get to the root of this matter. Let us forget
about, he went to our secretariate, he went to do this. We have powers to burst
anywhere we want to burst. Once we know that criminals are hiding here or there
are certain criminal items in a particular place, the powers are there for us.
“And we
didn’t do it alone. Police officers were not there alone. It was a joint
operation and well-coordinated. So we are inviting the leadership of NLC to
even come forward. By the time they know what we have, the information we have
attached, NLC will not indict the police again. They will not indict the
government,” he added.
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2024/08/13/we-have-powers-to-burst-anywhere-we-want-to-burst-police/
--------
Southeast Asia
Catholic
Group Endorses Minister Yaqut’s Plan to Streamline Worship Site Approvals
August
13, 2024
Jakarta.
Vox Point Indonesia supports Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas’s
proposal to eliminate the Forum for Religious Harmony (FKUB) recommendation
requirement for building places of worship, arguing that it will streamline the
process and enhance religious freedoms.
The
Catholic organization sees the minister’s plan as a crucial move to simplify
the often bureaucratic and lengthy process of constructing places of worship.
“This is
a long-awaited development. Many cases have seen the establishment of places of
worship obstructed for various reasons, including recommendations from multiple
parties. This plan is vital for making the process more straightforward and
expedient,” said Yohanes Handojo Budhisedjati, Chairman of Vox Point Indonesia,
to reporters in Jakarta on Tuesday.
Handojo
views the proposal as a significant gesture of respect toward religious
communities, aligning with the 1945 Constitution which guarantees the right to
practice and worship freely.
“The
state guarantees everyone’s freedom to practice their religion and worship
according to their beliefs. Therefore, the government’s involvement through the
Ministry of Religious Affairs in this initiative is very appropriate and should
be supported by all Indonesian citizens,” Handojo explained.
He also
praised the minister’s proposal as a groundbreaking move that could foster a
more harmonious and peaceful society, reflecting the principles of religious
moderation.
“This is
an extraordinary breakthrough. This idea represents a realization of religious
moderation for the Indonesian nation,” Handojo concluded.
Minister
Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has proposed removing the FKUB recommendation requirement
for establishing places of worship, replacing it with a recommendation solely
from the Ministry of Religious Affairs. This change is expected to be
formalized through a presidential decree.
Building
places of worship for minorities in Indonesia can be challenging due to
resistance from local communities or leaders, particularly in areas where the
majority religion is dominant. For instance, the Yasmin Church Congregation in
Bogor, West Java, faced a 15-year struggle, from 2007 to 2022, to build their
church due to opposition from hardline Muslim groups in the town.
Source: jakartaglobe.id
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://jakartaglobe.id/news/catholic-group-endorses-minister-yaquts-plan-to-streamline-worship-site-approvals
--------
Muhammad
Yunus assures to protect the rights of all Bangladeshis, including minorities -
PM Anwar
14-08-
2024
KUALA
LUMPUR: Chief Advisor for the Interim Government of Bangladesh Prof Muhammad
Yunus has given his assurance to protecting the rights of all Bangladeshis
including minorities, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Pleased
with the assurance, Anwar said he also assured Muhammad Yunus that Malaysia
stands ready to help the interim government in rebuilding and restoring peace
and security in Bangladesh.
“Yesterday
I made a phone call to my old friend, Prof Muhammad Yunus to congratulate him
personally on his recent appointment as the Chief Advisor for the Interim
Government of Bangladesh.
“Prof
Muhammad Yunus has long-standing good ties with Malaysia. Thus, I assured him
that Malaysia stands ready to help and support the interim government in
rebuilding and restoring peace and security in Bangladesh,” Anwar said in his
Facebook post today.
The
Prime Minister said Muhammad Yunus also has invited him to undertake a short
visit to Bangladesh as soon as possible to further strengthen the brotherly
relationship between the two countries.
The
84-year-old Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus took the oath of office on Thursday
(Aug 8) to lead a 17-member transitional government in Bangladesh.
This
development followed weeks of protests that led to the fall of Prime Minister
Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government.
Source: thesun.my
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://thesun.my/local-news/muhammad-yunus-assures-to-protect-the-rights-of-all-bangladeshis-including-minorities-pm-anwar-JO12859123
--------
Claims
of holding political talk in Rawang mosque: Fahmi applies for joint trial of
suits against Papagomo, two others
14 Aug
2024
KUALA
LUMPUR, Aug 14 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil will apply to have his
suits against Wan Muhammad Azri Wan Deris, also known as Papagomo, Ahmad Dusuki
Abd Rani and Mohd Fauzan Madzlan be heard jointly.
Lawyer
Asheeq Ali Sethi Alivi, representing Fahmi, told Judicial Commissioner Roz
Mawar Rozain this during the case management today.
“We will
file the application next week,” said the lawyer.
Lawyer
Nur Naqibah Sakinah Abdul Razak, representing Mohd Fauzan and lawyer Mohd Jamil
Yaacob, representing Ahmad Dusuki, did not object to it.
Roz
Mawar then set October 7 to hear the application and ordered the parties
involved to file their witness statements by September 27.
Fahmi
had filed separate suits against the three defendants on September 5 last year
over an allegation that he gave a political speech at a mosque in Rawang,
Selangor.
According
to his statement of claim, Fahmi alleges Wan Muhammad Azri, independent
preacher Ahmad Dusuki and Mohd Fauzan, who is the owner of the Facebook account
“N13 Kuang”, of publishing defamatory statements accusing him of misusing a
place of worship, namely a mosque, for election campaigning purposes and acting
contrary to the decrees and orders of the Sultan of Selangor.
Fahmi
claims that the defamatory statements were published on Mohd Fauzan’s Facebook
account, as well as on Ahmad Dusuki’s Facebook and Instagram accounts on July
31, 2023, and on Wan Muhammad Azri’s TikTok and Facebook accounts on August 1,
the same year.
According
to Fahmi, the statements by the defendants are baseless, and the Selangor
Islamic Religious Council has confirmed that he did not make any political
speech as alleged by the defendants.
He is
seeking general, aggravated, or exemplary damages and an injunction to prevent
all defendants from repeating or causing the republication of the defamatory
statements. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/08/14/claims-of-holding-political-talk-in-rawang-mosque-fahmi-applies-for-joint-trial-of-suits-against-papagomo-two-others/146989
--------
Selangor
Islamic bodies want seven Federal Court judges recused from SIS's fatwa
challenge; appeal hearing now pushed to Nov 14
14 Aug
2024
KUALA
LUMPUR, Aug 14 — Ahead of the Federal Court’s hearing of Sisters in Islam’s
(SIS) appeal in its court challenge against a 2014 fatwa in Selangor which
labelled it as deviant, Selangor’s Islamic bodies want seven Federal Court
judges to be excluded from hearing the case.
The
Federal Court was initially scheduled to hear the women’s rights group’s appeal
on August 19, but the hearing date has now been rescheduled to November 14,
SIS’s lawyer Surendra Ananth told Malay Mail when contacted today.
According
to Surendra, it was mentioned during the Federal Court’s case management
yesterday that the Selangor fatwa committee wanted seven Federal Court judges
to not be part of the panel that will hear the case.
The
Selangor fatwa committee’s argument was that the seven judges had previously
been part of a nine-judge panel which decided on a related legal question on
the constitutionality of a 2003 Selangor state law’s Section 66A.
Surendra
said the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (Mais) and the Selangor state
government also supported the Selangor fatwa committee’s request to exclude the
seven judges.
According
to Surendra, Selangor and the two Selangor bodies’ position is that this matter
should be brought to the seven judges’ attention for them to decide on whether
to recuse themselves.
Surendra
said SIS had objected to the bid to recuse six of the seven judges, as it
argued that there is no basis to exclude them. However, it did not object to
one judge being excluded, as this judge had previously decided in a lower court
on this case that is now being appealed.
Surendra
said the court has yet to decide on the request to recuse the seven judges.
The
panel of judges hearing a case would usually be known to the public on the day
of the hearing.
Currently,
the Federal Court has 13 judges, including the top three in the judiciary (as
the Chief Judge of Malaya position is still vacant). The Federal Constitution
also enables Court of Appeal judges to sit as a Federal Court judge in panels
at the Federal Court if required for the interests of justice.
Typically,
appeals at the Federal Court would be heard and decided by a panel of five
judges. The Federal Court would have panels of seven judges for cases of public
interest and panels of nine judges for cases of constitutional importance.
What is
this case about?
In the
upcoming appeal by SIS, the Federal Court is being asked to hear and decide on
10 main legal and constitutional questions, including whether a court can treat
a company incorporated under the Companies Act 1965 or Companies Act 2016 “as a
person professing the religion of”.
Those 10
questions also include whether a fatwa becomes a form of subsidiary law or
delegated legislation once it is published in the gazette under the
Administration of the Religion of Islam (State of Selangor) Enactment 2003’s
Section 48(6); and if that’s the case, whether the civil court has the
jurisdiction to judicially review the making of a fatwa or gazetting of a
fatwa, including on the grounds of constitutionality and illegality.
The
Federal Court’s expected hearing in November of SIS’s appeal would be part of
its 10-year-long legal battle to challenge the Selangor fatwa committee’s 2014
fatwa.
SIS
operates via the company SIS Forum (Malaysia) Bhd, and this company is the one
carrying out the legal and constitutional challenge in court.
The 2014
fatwa had labelled SIS Forum (Malaysia) and any individuals, organisations or
institutions holding on to liberalism and religious pluralism beliefs as
deviant from the teachings of Islam. The fatwa did not explain or define the
phrase “liberalism and religious pluralism”.
The
fatwa had also said any publications with elements of liberalism and religious
pluralism should be declared “haram” (forbidden) and can be seized, and that
the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) should block any
social websites which goes against the teachings of Islam and Shariah codes,
and also declared that any individuals holding on to liberalism and religious
pluralism beliefs should repent and return to the path of Islam.
In the
protracted and lengthy legal battle, the High Court had on August 27, 2019
dismissed SIS Forum’s legal challenge of the fatwa as it decided that the
Shariah courts should hear and decide the case.
The
Court of Appeal in a 2-1 ruling on March 14, 2023 decided to dismiss SIS
Forum’s appeal. The appeal that the Federal Court is scheduled to hear on
November 14 is on this Court of Appeal decision.
Source: malaymail.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/08/14/selangor-islamic-bodies-want-seven-federal-court-judges-recused-from-siss-fatwa-challenge-appeal-hearing-now-pushed-to-nov-14/146961
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Former
mosque officer gets jail for pocketing over S$13,000 in 'zakat' donations
SINGAPORE:
A man who was hired by a mosque to be a "zakat" officer in charge of
donations from the public instead took the money for himself.
Muhammad
Hafiz Mohd Yusof, 28, was sentenced to eight months' jail on Tuesday (Aug 13).
He
pleaded guilty to three counts of criminal breach of trust as an employee, with
another three charges taken into consideration.
The
court heard that Hafiz was employed as a zakat officer at Al-Istiqamah mosque,
located at 2 Serangoon North Avenue 2.
He was
tasked to collect zakat payments from members at the public at the mosque.
According to Zakat.sg, zakat is a fund for the poor and needy that the Muslim
community contributes to.
Muslims
could make zakat payments in cash over the counter at the mosque, with Hafiz
being required to issue a computer-generated receipt to payors before keeping
the cash in a safebox.
If there
were errors, Hafiz was to retrieve the issued receipts from the payors, void
them and indicate this in the system, before issuing a new receipt with the
correct details.
In April
2022, a believer went to the mosque to make zakat payment, handing over S$5,100
(US$3,873) in cash to Hafiz.
He
issued a receipt for S$5,100 to the victim, but later voided it and registered
the payment as S$100 instead, pocketing the rest.
He
repeated this multiple times, pocketing a total of S$13,514 in zakat funds for
his own personal use.
Sometime
before Aug 8, 2023, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) detected
irregularities in six receipts of payments which were voided by Hariz.
Investigations
revealed that the actual payments made were much higher than the amounts stated
in the new receipts Hafiz had issued.
A police
report was lodged against him.
The
prosecutor sought nine to 12 months' jail for Hafiz, noting his
"protracted and repeat offending" that went on over more than a year.
Hafiz
submitted a written mitigation plea but did not say anything in open court.
In
sentencing, District Judge Kok Shu-En said to him: "When you say you did
this because you were struggling financially in your life, and you want me to
consider this is your first offence ... you must also realise that the offences
you have committed are serious."
The
judge continued: "And I'm sure you appreciate this more than I do, the
significance of the monies you took. These (are) not just transactional monies
that people pay - these were zakat monies. And you didn't just take it once or
twice, you did it over a period of time, over and over again."
She said
she sincerely hoped that Hafiz would do as he said in his mitigation plea and
turn the page.
"I
sincerely hope you will do that. You are still young, there's a long road ahead
of you," she said, allowing him to defer his jail term to September.
For
criminal breach of trust as an employee, he could have been jailed for up to 15
years and fined.
Source: channelnewsasia.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/zakat-donations-funds-tithes-al-istiqamah-mosque-officer-muis-criminal-breach-trust-jail-4545616
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Cops
arrest ‘paderi’ in Puchong after 13-year-old boy claims sexual assault in
church bedroom
14 Aug
2024
KUALA
LUMPUR, Aug 14 — Subang Jaya police arrested a Christian religious leader at a
restaurant in Puchong yesterday after a 13-year-old boy claimed he was sexually
assaulted by the man in the bedroom of a church in Bandar Bukit Puchong in June
and July.
“The boy
claimed that he was sexually assaulted by the male suspect who worked as a
‘paderi’ between June and July 2024,” Subang Jaya district police chief
Assistant Commissioner Wan Azlan Wan Mamat said in a statement today.
The word
‘paderi’ in Malay does not make a distinction between a priest or pastor for a
Christian religious leader. In Malaysia, priests commonly refer to clergymen in
the Catholic Church who are not allowed to be married, while pastors are
commonly used by Protestant and Evangelical Churches where marriage is allowed.
According
to the police statement, the offence allegedly took place in the bedroom of a
church in Bandar Bukit Puchong, Puchong, Selangor.
“We will
be obtaining a remand order for the suspect,” Wan Azlan said.
The case
is being investigated under Section 14(a) of the Sexual Offences Against
Children Act 2017, which carries a jail term of up to 20 years, and whipping,
on conviction.
Wan
Azlan called on those with information on the case or other criminal activities
to contact the Subang Jaya police at 03-78627222 or to go to the nearest police
station.
Source: malaymail.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/08/14/cops-arrest-paderi-in-puchong-after-13-year-old-boy-claims-sexual-assault-in-church-bedroom/146937
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Youth
urged to embrace patriotism ahead of 2024 National Day
14-08-
2024
PUTRAJAYA:
The young generation should use the 2024 National Day celebration as an
opportunity to strengthen their sense of identity and commitment to nationhood,
said National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang.
He
called on the youth to not only embrace a patriotic spirit but also to deeply
understand and appreciate the true significance of independence
“This is
the duty of every patriotic citizen. It is important that Independence Day is
not seen merely as a public holiday for leisure or shopping,“ he said in a
statement today.
The 67th
National Day celebration, set for Aug 31, will take place in Putrajaya with the
theme “MADANI Malaysia: Jiwa Merdeka.”
Aaron
emphasised the importance of quickly embracing and embodying the meaning of
independence and honouring the sacrifices of national heroes.
He encouraged
Malaysians to display the Jalur Gemilang proudly, whether at home, in
workplaces, or on vehicles, as a symbol of their commitment to the nation.
“Let us
decorate our surroundings with the Jalur Gemilang. It’s time for the young
generation to uphold the legacy of our nation’s independence and show our love
for Malaysia,“ he added.
Source: thesun.my
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://thesun.my/local-news/youth-urged-to-embrace-patriotism-ahead-of-2024-national-day-JO12859440
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Malaysia
needs to continue as ‘Neutral’ country to become primary investment destination
- Tengku Zafrul
14-08-
2024
KUALA
LUMPUR: Malaysia needs to continue playing its role as a ‘neutral’ country with
a strong ecosystem in the technology sector to ensure the country remains an
investment destination.
Investment,
Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said Malaysia’s
economy is open and has established cooperative relations with all countries.
“Southeast
Asia is neutral, has good demographics, a growing, stable and peaceful economy.
“Malaysia
and Singapore are two countries that have been involved in the semiconductor
sector for a long time — Malaysia is over 50 years old and we have a good
ecosystem, almost complete and mature.
“So,
that’s one of the reasons we see investment also increasing in this sector,” he
said on the Agenda Awani programme titled ‘Tech War’, Tesla and Investment
Magnet broadcast by Astro Awani on Tuesday.
He said
the increase in investment inflows was also supported by recent data which
showed Malaysia recorded approved investments of RM83.7 billion in various
fields in the first quarter, representing an increase of 13 per cent from
RM74.1 billion in the same period last year.
“We
expect the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to grow 5.8 per cent in the second
quarter of 2024 with the manufacturing sector growing by 4.7 per cent, boosted
by the electrical and electronics (E&E) sector, especially semiconductors,”
he said.
Tengku
Zafrul said that in terms of trade, Malaysia has 16 Free Trade Agreements
(FTAs) including multilateral and bilateral, including the Comprehensive and
Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Regional
Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
“We have
various FTAs with all groups, for example the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India,
China and South Africa) is not an economic block but a grouping that discusses
global south issues.
“We are
also together with the United States in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework
(IPEF). Recently we are looking to start discussions with the European Union on
the Malaysia-EU Free Trade Agreement (MEUFTA).
“In my
opinion, almost all of our blocs are together because our country is a country
with an open economy and is also small compared to its main trading partners,
the United States and China,” he said.
Source: thesun.my
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://thesun.my/local-news/malaysia-needs-to-continue-as-neutral-country-to-become-primary-investment-destination-tengku-zafrul-MO12858501
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Indonesian
Police to Bolster Security for Pope Francis' Visit
August
13, 2024
Jakarta.
The National Police will deploy thousands of personnel to ensure security
during Pope Francis' visit to Indonesia, scheduled for September 3-6.
Police
spokesman Brigadier General Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko announced on Tuesday that
3,443 officers from the Jakarta Police will be on standby, supported by an
additional 1,077 personnel from the National Police headquarters, bringing the
total to more than 4,500 officers.
The
security operation, dubbed Operation Tribrata Jaya, will be activated on
September 2, one day before the Pope’s arrival.
Pope
Francis will be welcomed by President Joko Widodo at the Merdeka Palace in
Jakarta on September 4. The following day, he is scheduled to attend an
interfaith dialogue at the Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta.
Later on
September 5, he will meet with Indonesian church authorities.
"In
the afternoon of September 5, the Pope will lead a mass service at Bung Karno
Stadium in Jakarta, which is expected to draw thousands of Catholic
followers," Trunoyudo said. "The National Police will take charge of
security arrangements to ensure that the Pope’s activities in Indonesia proceed
safely and smoothly."
The
Vatican has released the itinerary for Pope Francis’ trip from September 2-13,
which includes visits to Indonesia, East Timor, Papua New Guinea, and
Singapore.
The
87-year-old pontiff will be the third pope to visit Indonesia, following Pope
Paul VI in 1970 and Pope John Paul II in 1989.
Source: jakartaglobe.id
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://jakartaglobe.id/news/indonesian-police-to-bolster-security-for-pope-francis-visit
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/army-captain-killed-terrorist-eliminated/d/132941