Aurangzeb row: 30 injured in violent clashes in Nagpur, 65 rioters detained
New Age Islam News Bureau
18 March 2025
· Aurangzeb row: 30 injured in violent clashes in Nagpur, 65 rioters detained
· Those responsible for Afghanistan withdrawal will be held accountable: Pentagon
· Balochistan govt to set up counter-terror wing in Levies Force
· Activists urge lawmakers to help reduce anti-Muslim incidents
· PM Anwar extends Nuzul Quran greetings, urges Muslims to reflect on holy book’s teachings
· Jordan’s FM says Syria’s reconstruction must preserve security, unity
· Nearly 11m iftar meals served at Two Holy Mosques during first half of Ramadan
· Azerbaijani FM calls for solidarity, regional stability at iftar with Muslim diplomats
· Those who sabotaged El-Rufai undermined our mission to liberate Yoruba Muslims – MURIC
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India
· Sambhal police deny permission to hold Neja Mela in memory of Syed Salar Masud Ghazi
· Why selective queries on visits to Muslim events: CM; CPM, Cong see politics in trip
· Ismaili volunteers spread compassion during Ramadan, serve 1,200 meals in Hyderabad and Secunderabad
· 33 houses, ‘illegal mosque’ might be demolished as per law: Sambhal DM
· Muslim youth on Ramzan fast donates blood for Hindu patient
· BJP MLA raises concerns over Muslim quota
· Rajiv Menon opens up about AR Rahman's conversion to Islam and facing a lot of pressure from family: 'They didn’t know Hindi, I became the translator'
· BJP to challenge Karnataka’s 4% Muslim reservation in court, calls it ‘unconstitutional misadventure’
· Two BJP MLAs move pvt bill against love jihad, SP calls it jumping the gun
· United Opposition support for Muslim board on Waqf Bill; TDP, JD-U stay away from protest
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South Asia
· WHO warns: 80% of Health Centers in Afghanistan at risk of closure due to funding shortage
· Covid-19 vaccine: ACC to probe Tk 22,000cr ‘graft’ scheme
· Attacks on July uprisers: DU suspends 128 students
· Visa suspension puts Umrah pilgrims in limbo
· DMP announces road diversions to tackle Ramadan traffic
· Ministry of Interior Denies Resignation of Khalifa Sirajuddin Haqqani
· Kazakh Diplomats Express Interest in Investing in Afghanistan’s Mining Sector
· Seventh Batch Completes Military, Tactical Training
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Pakistan
· Security forces eliminate three terrorists in Khyber IBO
· Govt seeks to reduce weightage of population size in NFC share
· Local PPP leader shot dead in Karachi’s Dalmia: police
· PTI insists on meeting Imran Khan before key in-camera session on national security
· Biological father responsible for financially supporting a child: LHC
· Civil-military leadership to discuss strategy to prevent Kabul from becoming proxy: Sanaullah
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North America
· Every Ramadan, more US schools are embracing the needs of fasting Muslim students
· Why Muslim-American Nonprofits Are Taking Steps to Build Trust With Donors During Ramadan
· No evidence for Trump claim about 'void' Biden pardons and autopen
· 'Oopsie, too late' - US courts tested by Trump's latest deportations
· Texas authorities arrest midwife for allegedly providing abortions
· White House denies defying judge's order over deportations to El Salvador
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Southeast Asia
· Jakim: Facebook user ‘Ainon Mohd’ reprimanded, apologises over post allegedly insulting Prophet Muhammad
· Over 60 tonnes of surplus food saved from landfills during Ramadan last year through MySaveFood programme
· Mimifly's 'Serumpun' music video un-Islamic: Amanah Women leader
· Hindu mum seeks to remove Muslim status from 2 kids' Mykad
· Term limits can be discussed but PM must be Muslim, says PAS leader
· Mohd Na’im calls for global condemnation over attack on humanitarian workers
· Senior citizen loses over RM60,000 to investment scam
· Who will be the next IGP? Could Ayob Khan be the front-runner after Razarudin’s tenure ends in June?
· PM Anwar: Foreign State Immunity Act key to boosting investor confidence, protecting national security
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Mideast
· Israel strikes southern Syria: state media, monitor
· Israel hits Gaza with new airstrikes that kill at least 200 after truce talks stall
· Settlers storm Al-Aqsa Mosque, perform Talmudic rituals
· 70,000 Perform Isha, Tarawih prayers at al-Aqsa Mosque
· Some 150,000 benefit from Awqaf's Iftar tables during Ramadan
· North Korea condemns US strikes against Yemen, KCNA says
· Iran-backed Houthis claim third attack on US ships in 48 hours
· Tunisia says 612 migrants rescued, 18 bodies recovered at sea
· Lebanon and Syria agree to ceasefire after 2 days of border clashes, defense ministry says
· Palestinian detainees ministry warns of virus outbreak in Israeli Megiddo Prison
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Arab World
· 421,144 worshipers use electric golf carts at Grand Mosque during Ramadan
· Palestinian, Egyptian envoys awarded with King Abdulaziz Sash of the Second Class
· Saudi Culinary Arts Academy receives full institutional accreditation
· Restoration for Jouf’s Al-Saidan Mosque in crown prince’s project
· Prophet’s Mosque’s AI-driven medical capsules enhance healthcare
· Ramadan in Qatif showcases Saudi small town spirit
· KSrelief food parcels aid vulnerable communities
· Program assists female visitors at Grand Mosque
· King Salman reserve records Nubian ibex birth
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Europe
· Coventry Morrisons pork items display next to Ramadan sign accused of 'mocking' Muslims
· Germany set to vote on historic increase in defence spending
· The importance of writing a will in Islam: reflecting on faith and the future
· Arrest made after attack on Aberdeen mosque
· Southampton Muslims gather at Medina Mosque to celebrate Iftar
· Trump says 'many elements' agreed to ahead of Putin call
· Local hero or Russian ally? The billionaire dividing Georgians
· King meets Carney in symbolic support for Canada
· Putin unlocks trading in Russian assets
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Africa
· Many Injured, Houses Burnt In Clash between Traditional Worshippers and Muslim Youths
· Sudan army inches closer to retaking Khartoum
· Ramadan: Buni donates food items to Yobe inmates
· President’s Son Pays Medical Bills of Some Nigerians to Mark Ramadan
· Court To Decide On Legality Of Obasa’s Removal From Office
· ‘Obasanjo Might Find Himself Culpable Of Arresting Union Leaders, Killing Protesting Workers’ – NLC
· At least 11 bodies discovered in well in Sudan's Fayhaa neighborhood
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/aurangzeb-violent-clashes-nagpur-rioters/d/134909
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Aurangzeb row: 30 injured in violent clashes in Nagpur, 65 rioters detained
Mar 18, 2025
Violent clashes erupted in Nagpur hours after Hindu outfits led a protest in the city demanding removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb's tomb in Maharashtra's Sambhaji Nagar.
Nearly 60 to 65 rioters have been taken into custody, 25 to 30 personnel have been injured, and about 25 bikes and three cars were set on fire, 17 people were detained, and prohibitory orders were issued in the city following a massive clash between two groups in the Mahal area of the city.
Amidst the ongoing violence, another clash broke out in the Hansapuri area in Nagpur between 10:30 pm to 11:30 pm on Monday. An unruly mob burnt several vehicles, and vandalised houses and a clinic in the area, as reported by the news agency PTI.
The clashes come amid a massive controversy over the Aurangzeb tomb in Sambhaji Nagar, with Hindu outfits like Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) seeking its demolition. The two groups also held protests in Nagpur on Monday morning, hours before the clashes broke out.
Top Points
The Maharashtra Chief Minister's Office said the police are managing the situation following stone-throwing incidents and rising tensions in Nagpur's Mahal area. "Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has appealed to citizens to fully cooperate with the administration," the statement said.
Nagpur Police Commissioner Dr Ravinder Singal said the situation in the city is currently peaceful. He explained that the unrest began after a photo was burned, which led to people gathering and raising concerns. The violence occurred around 8 to 8:30 p.m., during which two vehicles were torched and incidents of stone-pelting were reported. Dr Singal said the police are conducting combing operations to identify and arrest those involved.
"We have imposed Section 144 and everyone has been told to not step out unnecessarily or take the law in their hands. Do not believe rumours," he said.
The Nagpur rural police have been called in for assistance, and cyber police are working to curb the spread of rumours. The violence resulted in the burning of 25 to 30 two-wheelers and 2 to 3 cars.
Nagpur MP Nitin Gadkari urged residents to remain calm following tensions in the city. "Due to certain rumours, a situation of religious tension has arisen in Nagpur," he said. Gadkari added that the government would take action against those responsible for any wrongdoing. "The Chief Minister has already been informed about the situation, so I request everyone to ignore rumours," he said.
Maharashtra Congress chief Harshvardhan Sapkal blamed the state home department for Monday's violence in Nagpur, calling it a failure on their part. He also accused ministers of "deliberately making provocative speeches" in recent days.
Maharashtra Minister and State BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule has urged residents to prioritise peace and avoid rumours following the unrest in Nagpur. He emphasised that while an investigation will determine the cause of the violence, people should support the police in their efforts to maintain order. Bawankule called on political parties and leaders in Maharashtra to unite in promoting calm and reassuring the public that those responsible will be identified. He cautioned against politicising the incident, stressing the need to uphold Nagpur's reputation.
Eyewitnesses said tensions escalated quickly, with public property damaged and vehicles set on fire as the situation worsened. Videos from the scene showed burning vehicles and debris scattered across the area. Another video showed a JCB machine was set on fire during the protests.
Police along with fire officials arrived at the scene soon after the clashes began to contain the violence and restore order. Additional personnel have been deployed to prevent further unrest. Police used tear gas and carried out a baton charge to disperse the crowd in Chitnis Park and Mahal areas, officials said.
Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray, Congress leader Pawan Khera, and Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi criticised the state government over the law and order situation in Nagpur following the violent clashes.
Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and other video clips to identify those involved, and an FIR is being registered.
Source:indiatoday.in
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https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/clashes-in-nagpur-after-muslim-groups-allege-holy-book-burnt-at-aurangzeb-tomb-protest-2694889-2025-03-17
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Those responsible for Afghanistan withdrawal will be held accountable: Pentagon
By Fidel Rahmati
March 18, 2025
Sean Parnell, the new spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Defense, stated that all those responsible for the withdrawal from Afghanistan will be held accountable.
On Monday, in his first press briefing, he told reporters that witnessing the surrender of Afghanistan to the Taliban in that manner was very difficult for him. He stated that the human costs of the Afghanistan war had been heavy. He added, “I lost 30 of my friends in this war. Now, I ask myself, what was all this sacrifice for?”
He emphasized that the U.S. must decisively win any war. According to him, otherwise, the new generation of American soldiers will ask what the war’s achievements were.
Parnell called the withdrawal of U.S. troops “irresponsible.” He criticized the previous administration’s strategy and said that President Donald Trump and the new Secretary of Defense emphasized clear objectives, a specific exit strategy, and a precise definition of victory.
He also called for accountability from senior officials. Parnell stated, “If a soldier loses their weapon, they are held accountable. Senior officials must also be held accountable for such critical decisions.”
The events surrounding the withdrawal from Afghanistan continue to generate debate, with many calling for greater transparency and responsibility from those in charge. As the spokesperson for the Department of Defense, Parnell’s statements mark the beginning of a renewed effort to address the consequences of the withdrawal.
The U.S. military’s withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021 led to the fall of Kabul and the return of the Taliban to power. This decision sparked widespread criticism, with the Biden administration accused of lacking a proper plan. Now, the new Pentagon spokesperson emphasizes the need for accountability regarding the withdrawal.
Source:khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/those-responsible-for-afghanistan-withdrawal-will-be-held-accountable-pentagon/
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Balochistan govt to set up counter-terror wing in Levies Force
Saleem Shahid
March 18, 2025
QUETTA: The Balochistan government will establish a counter-terrorism wing of the Balochistan Levies Force to enable the security force to face all challenges relating to acts of terrorism in different parts of the province.
The Director General of Balochistan Levies Force, Abdul Ghaffar Magsi, on Monday announced the establishment of a Special Counter-Terrorism Wing within the Levies Force.
“The initiative aims to enhance the force’s capabilities to fight acts of terrorism more effectively,” he said, adding that this wing will focus on strengthening collaboration with other security forces and agencies during operations against terrorists to improve security situation in Balochistan.
Mr Magsi emphasised that the establishment of this wing will empower the Levies Force, enhance its operational strength and ensure better coordination among security agencies.
The wing is expected to play a significant role in dismantling terrorist networks and fortifying the overall security posture in Balochistan.
The DG Levies reaffirmed the commitment to use all available resources and capabilities to continue the fight against terrorism and maintain peace for the people of Balochistan.
Officials said that the counter-terrorism wing of Levies Force would be given special training in fighting terrorists and their activities, and the wing would also be provided with latest weapons and equipment.
The decision of establishing the wing was taken in view of some recent incidents in which the Levies Force personnel deployed at the check posts and Levies Force stations did not put up resistance when they were attacked and their weapons taken away by militants.
Taking serious notice of these incidents, the DG Levies decided to establish the wing in the force.
Source:dawn.com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1898616/balochistan-govt-to-set-up-counter-terror-wing-in-levies-force
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Activists urge lawmakers to help reduce anti-Muslim incidents
MARCH 17, 2025
At a time when bias incidents are on the rise, advocates gathered outside the Statehouse on Monday to commemorate the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
“Islamophobia kills,” said Imam Saffet Catovic, operations director for Justice for All. “It is the primary driver of persecution and genocide worldwide. Its effects are devastating,”
The number of Islamophobic incidents is at its highest point since 1996, even topping the anti-Islam climate following Sept. 11th attacks, according to a report recently released by CAIR-NJ, the Council on American-Islamic Relations, which hosted Monday’s event.
CAIR’s executive director Salaedin Maksut listed a few examples of the 8,658 incidents reported nationally in 2024, including 290 in New Jersey.
“Rutgers New Brunswick Muslim prayer hall was vandalized and trashed on Eid day,” she began. “There was an unprovoked physical assault of a Muslim protestor which landed him in the hospital and he had to receive stitches. A café owner was harassed and threatened for her public expression of support for the Palestinian cause. There was physical assault of a Muslim woman wearing a hijab in Jersey City leaving the Newport Mall.”
Advocates called for several specific actions to help reduce these bias incidents.
“Public officials use this opportunity to speak up and condemn harm against our Muslim community,” said Maksut. “And to also, when speaking about foreign issues, to use a balanced narrative and bring humanity to Palestinian cause. Also, for the Trump administration to suspend the FBI’s use and dissemination of the watch list. This list is almost entirely a list of Arabic and Muslim names.”
Several speakers also urged the Legislature to reject a bill that would adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance or IHRA, definition of antisemitism.
“The IHRA definition of antisemitism is a tool to silence criticism about Israel, not protect Jews,” said Raz Segal, professor of Holocaust and genocide studies for Stockton University. “Everyone in the U.S. has a first Amendment right to free speech, including criticizing the policies of any state.”
The Senate version of that bill [S-1292] moved out of committee, although the Assembly version hasn’t had a hearing yet. In the meantime, a coalition of Jewish and Muslim scholars have put together an alternative definition that they hoped would be considered.
“Our document recognizes that the fight against Islamophobia is intertwined with the fight against antisemitism,” said Segal.
Added Sahar Aziz, director of center for security, race and rights for Rutgers Law School: “Today the most pervasive form of Islamophobia occurs on American college campuses, where Muslim, Arab, Palestinian and South Asian students are denied their right to exercise free speech. They are punished for partaking in a proud American tradition, one that distinguishes our democracy from authoritarian states: the right to non-violent protest to dissent against American policies.”
The advocates called for the Legislature to hold hearings on the rise of Islamophobia on college campuses.
Source:njspotlightnews.org
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https://www.njspotlightnews.org/video/anti-muslim-incidents-highlighted-on-international-day-to-combat-islamophobia/
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PM Anwar extends Nuzul Quran greetings, urges Muslims to reflect on holy book’s teachings
18 Mar 2025
In a Facebook post, the Prime Minister took the opportunity to remind himself and all Muslims to engage in tadabbur (engaging with the Quran on a deeper level) and seek Allah SWT’s forgiveness during this blessed month of Ramadan. — Bernama file pic
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KUALA LUMPUR, March 18 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim extended his Nuzul Quran greetings to all Malaysians, wherever they may be, in observance of Nuzul Quran today.
In a Facebook post, the Prime Minister took the opportunity to remind himself and all Muslims to engage in tadabbur (engaging with the Quran on a deeper level) and seek Allah SWT’s forgiveness during this blessed month of Ramadan.
“May Allah SWT bless us with the opportunity to experience Lailatul Qadr, a night greater than a thousand months.
“Alhamdulillah, on this blessed day, we have the opportunity to collectively commemorate Nuzul Al-Quran, marking the moment when the first revelation was bestowed upon Prophet Muhammad SAW in the Cave of Hira,” the Prime Minister said.
Anwar highlighted that the first revelation, Iqra (Read), marked the beginning of an age centred on knowledge and served as a beacon for justice and kindness in elevating human dignity.
The Prime Minister added that the Quran serves as a guiding light for the righteous, and only those who observe Ramadan with unwavering faith and sincerity will attain the true essence of piety.
Nuzul Quran marks the moment when the first verse of the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad SAW on Friday night, 17th of Ramadan, in the Cave of Hira, Makkah. — Bernama
Source:malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/03/18/pm-anwar-extends-nuzul-quran-greetings-urges-muslims-to-reflect-on-holy-books-teachings/169968
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Jordan’s FM says Syria’s reconstruction must preserve security, unity
March 17, 2025
LONDON: Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi met his Syrian counterpart, Asaad Al-Shaibani, in Brussels on Monday on the sidelines of an international conference to support Syria’s political transformation.
Ties between the neighboring countries have improved since the fall of the Bashar Assad regime in December. Interim president of the Syrian Arab Republic, Ahmad Al-Sharaa, visited Amman in late February.
In Brussels, the ministers discussed the most recent developments in Syria. Safadi said that Jordan supports Syria’s reconstruction on the basis of preserving its security and unity while protecting the rights of Syrians, the Petra agency reported.
On Monday, the EU hosted the ninth international conference to support Syria. Representatives from the new interim government were invited to attend for the first time, including Al-Shaibani.
The event aims to bolster international support for Syria’s transition and recovery following more than 13 years of civil war.
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2593916/middle-east
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Nearly 11m iftar meals served at Two Holy Mosques during first half of Ramadan
March 17, 2025
MAKKAH: Saudi authorities provided almost 11 million iftar meals to Umrah pilgrims and other worshippers at the Two Holy Mosques in Makkah and Madina during the first half of Ramadan.
The General Authority for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque said on Monday, the 17th day of Ramadan, it has provided 10,822,999 iftar meals and 10,290,000 packets of dates so far during the holy month, which is a time of worship for Muslims during which they fast from sunrise to sunset.
The authority said the number of iftar meals it provides during Ramadan to pilgrims performing Umrah, and other visitors to the mosques, has increased this year due to growth in the number of pilgrims, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The food is served in designated iftar areas at the mosques, in adherence with strict health standards to ensure the safety of worshippers, it added.
In the run-up to the holy month, the authority introduced an online service through which individuals, charitable organizations and endowments could submit requests to donate iftar meals at the Grand Mosque, the SPA added.
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2593936/saudi-arabia
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Azerbaijani FM calls for solidarity, regional stability at iftar with Muslim diplomats
17 March 2025
Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov participated in an iftar event organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for ambassadors of Muslim countries accredited to Azerbaijan, in celebration of the holy month of Ramadan.
During the event, Minister Bayramov extended his heartfelt congratulations to the attendees, emphasizing the significance of Ramadan as a time that unites the Muslim world through its shared spiritual values, Caliber.Az reports via Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry.
He underlined the importance of solidarity and unity in the face of contemporary challenges, such as religious discrimination and Islamophobia.
Bayramov also addressed the ongoing post-conflict developments in the South Caucasus region. He highlighted the successful conclusion of negotiations on the peace treaty and the establishment of diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
However, he reiterated Azerbaijan's stance on the need for constitutional amendments in Armenia to remove territorial claims against Azerbaijan. Additionally, he called for the dissolution of the OSCE Minsk Group and related structures, which Azerbaijan views as irrelevant to the current peace process.
The event concluded with a prayer led by a representative of the Caucasus Muslims Office, followed by an iftar meal shared by the participants.
Source:caliber.az
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https://caliber.az/en/post/azerbaijani-fm-calls-for-solidarity-regional-stability-at-iftar-with-muslim-diplomats
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Those who sabotaged El-Rufai undermined our mission to liberate Yoruba Muslims – MURIC
By Danlami Nmodu -
March 17, 2025
An Islamic human rights organization, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), has revealed that it solicited for the help of the former governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, to mobilise the North towards the realization of the presidential ambition of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The group alleged that those who sabotaged the attempt to make Mallam Nasir El-Rufai a minister in the present administration undermined MURIC’s mission to liberate Yoruba Muslims from economic impoverishment, social ostracization and political marginalization. It also called on President Tinubu to create an enabling environment for constructive dialogue between him and the former governor.
The statement reads: “Recent events on the political front has compelled us to speak up once again on the involvement of the former governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, in the political campaigns that preceded the 2023 presidential election.
“We affirm that the Executive Director of MURIC was part of a team of Islamic scholars who visited the former governor and solicited for his help to mobilise the North towards the realization of the presidential ambition of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We know the North listens to El-Rufai. Therefore, we decided to reach out to that strategically important region through him.
“We were also convinced, at the time, that South West Muslims needed a Yoruba Muslim as president in their struggle against the persecution of the Yoruba Muslim majority by an elitist Christian minority who took control of the paraphernalia of authority in all sectors in the region from the colonial masters.
“Although our first objective was realized as a Yoruba Muslim, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, won the election, those who sabotaged the attempt to make Mallam Nasir El-Rufai a minister in the present administration undermined MURIC’s mission to liberate Yoruba Muslims.
“These powerful forces have so far made it impossible to emancipate Yoruba Muslims from educational backwardness, economic impoverishment, social ostracization and political marginalization.
“While the latter (i.e. political marginalization) holds the key to the rest, it is sad that it is even worse in the present dispensation as the same elements who sabotaged the attempt to make El-Rufai a minister, ensured that the names of true and practicing Yoruba Muslims do not get to President Tinubu for political appointments.
“As a result of this, it is the names of Yoruba Muslims who have converted to Christianity (either willingly or unwillingly) but who retained their Muslim names in their official documents that are allowed to reach the president. Only two or three real Yoruba Muslims have succeeded in getting political appointments.
“Yoruba Christians are stealing the identities of Yoruba Muslims, usurping the roles of Muslims and swapping slots meant for Muslims. It is fraudulent but religious impersonation has always been the stock in trade of those who believe in going all out to use fair or foul means to achieve their objectives. The end justifies the means. Niccolo Machiavelli could not have done better.
“As matters stand today, most Islamic organisations in Yorubaland (including MURIC) have no access, direct or otherwise, to the presidency. Neither do we have any minister with whom we have established rapport. We have been shut out.
“For mobilizing the whole North to support the incumbent, for going to court to challenge the emefialisation of the naira (which was aimed at sabotaging the emergence of Tinubu as president), efforts should be made to close the gap between El-Rufai and the president.
“We therefore call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to create an enabling environment for constructive dialogue between him and the former governor. It is crystal clear that a caucus is bent on edging out El-Rufai and the widening gulf between the two is being encouraged by the same people.
“Finally, Mr. President is advised to review the methodology for identifying true Muslims with the right qualifications to fit into the president’s vision. Cross-checking with the right quarters will go a long way in stemming the incident of identity stealing and religious impersonation.”
Source:newsdiaryonline.com
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https://newsdiaryonline.com/those-who-sabotaged-el-rufai-undermined-our-mission-to-liberate-yoruba-muslims-muric/
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India
Sambhal police deny permission to hold Neja Mela in memory of Syed Salar Masud Ghazi
by Amit Sharma
March 18, 2025
The Uttar Pradesh government has denied permission for the annual Neja Mela in Sambhal district this year, with the police citing public objections to organising an event in the memory of Syed Salar Masud Ghazi, who allegedly played a role in looting Somnath temple in Gujarat in the 11th century.
The Neja (javelin) Mela is traditionally held in a few places in Sambhal, a week after Holi, to commemorate Syed Salar Masud Ghazi, the nephew of Mahmud of Ghazni, the Turkish ruler who invaded India 17 times. Mahmud of Ghazni had raided the Somnath temple in 1025 CE and was reportedly accompanied by Ghazi at the time.
“The Neja Mela has been traditionally organised in Sambhal. However, some people have raised objections saying that it is held in the memory of Syed Ghazi, a looter involved in the plundering of Somnath,” Shirish Chand, Additional Superintendent of Police, Sambhal, told the members of the fair planning committee who met him on Monday. He also warned the committee members that action would be taken if any attempt was made to erect a memorial, terming it an “evil practice and not a tradition”.
“The fair was held for the last several years. By digging the Neja in the ground, we symbolise the beginning of the week-long fair. Various social and cultural events are held. The government has denied permission this year so we have no choice,” Chaudhary Shahid Ali, the chairman of the Neja Committee, said.
The Neja Mela was postponed last year due to Ramadan.
The members of the committee had earlier met Vandana Mishra, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Sambhal, to seek permission to hold the event but she had refused to okay it. ”A decision was taken to rebrand the event as Sadbhavna Mela to maintain social harmony during a meeting last year but the Neja Committee members insisted on holding it in the traditional format, saying it should not be altered,” Mishra told the local media.
Sambhal had witnessed large-scale violence last year over a court-directed survey of the local Shahi Jama Masjid. The survey was ordered after a priest and six others filed a civil suit claiming that a temple once stood at the site of the mosque.
Source:indianexpress.com
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https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/lucknow/sambhal-police-permission-neja-mela-syed-salar-masud-ghazi-9892141/
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Why selective queries on visits to Muslim events: CM; CPM, Cong see politics in trip
Meghdeep Bhattacharyya
18.03.25
Mamata Banerjee on Monday visited Furfura Sharif in Hooghly’s Jangipara, and participated in meetings and an iftar gathering while demanding answers on why questions weren’t raised when she visited places of worship of any other religion.
The chief minister, who had last visited the shrine — deemed holy by countless Bengali Muslims — in 2016, was mocked earlier in the day by the BJP, the Congress and the Left for allegedly participating in communal politics ahead of next year’s Assembly elections.
“I saw somewhere on social and mainstream media, my coming here is being questioned with regard to whether this is some electoral equation. But when I go to Kashi’s Vishwanath temple, or the Pushkar, or gurdwaras, attend Durga Puja, Kali Puja, or the Midnight Mass of Christians, no such questions are raised. I go everywhere,” said Mamata, attacked repeatedly by the BJP and others over her alleged priority of tushtikaran (appeasement).
Monday was the death anniversary of Pir Saheb Mohammad Abu Bakr Siddique whose mazar is situated at Furfura Sharif.
“I go to Christian festivals, I attend Ids, iftar. The way I extended my best wishes for Dol and Holi this month, I did so with equal enthusiasm for the ongoing month of Ramzan. I pray for everyone. So that everyone stays blessed, happy, in peace. The soil of Bengal is of harmony… the message from this platform is of harmony, unity, and peace for all,” added the chief minister, going on to recall how she had visited the shrine at least 15 times (thrice as chief minister).
Muslims and other minorities form about a third of the Bengal electorate and have largely been siding with Mamata election after election since the general election of 2009. With the rise of the BJP as the principal Opposition in the state, minority support goes a long way in helping the Trinamool Congress ward off the saffron threat, as minorities determine the electoral outcome in at least 120 of the state’s 294 Assembly seats.
Mamata’s visit came exactly a week after a 20-minute discussion on “development” at Nabanna with ISF chairperson Nawsad Siddique that triggered substantial speculation in the state’s corridors of power. But he wasn’t present during her visit on Monday.
The CPM saw in the visit her “electoral necessity”.
CPM central committee member Sujan Chakraborty said: “Why now, after almost a decade? Is it because Trinamool is in a tight spot a year before the Assembly polls?”
“So she needs the help of (Pirzada) Taha Siddique, and decided to visit Furfura Sharif as elections are a year away,” he added, referring to one of Nawsad’s uncles, who is believed to wield considerable clout as an opinion-builder among sections of followers.
Taha, who often courts controversy with political remarks, was one of many from the Siddique clan whom Mamata met on Monday.
Responding to Taha’s recent remark, demanding a mosque at Digha in the context of the state government funding the construction of a Jagannath temple there, Chakraborty blamed Mamata.
“We are firmly against governments building places of worship and have stated that repeatedly. She has opened a Pandora’s box by using government money to build the Jagannath temple. Now it is for her to figure out how she will deal with the likes of Taha Siddique,” he said.
Earlier in the day, the Congress’s Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury tore into Mamata for the visit.
“The reason she went is clear as daylight. Her political compulsion led her there. The Congress leaders’ visit, for instance, was with no such objective,” said the former state Congress president, not long after the current state unit chief Subhankar Sarkar, along with the party’s Bengal minder Ghulam Ahmad Mir, Bengal observers Assaf Ali Khan and Amba Prasad, paid a visit to the shrine. This was hours before Mamata’s visit.
The BJP’s Suvendu Adhikari alleged that Mamata went to the shrine solely to consolidate her “vote bank”.
“She did that the last time she was worried ahead of an Assembly election (2016), she is doing this now… which shows she is worried. She only knows the politics of appeasement, so she went there…. I would urge every Hindu from Bengal to
watch her (Facebook) live,” said the leader of the Opposition.
Source:telegraphindia.com
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https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/why-selective-queries-on-visits-to-muslim-events-cm-cpm-cong-see-politics-in-trip-prnt/cid/2089393
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Ismaili volunteers spread compassion during Ramadan, serve 1,200 meals in Hyderabad and Secunderabad
Mar 18, 2025
HYDERABAD: In a heartfelt display of generosity during Ramadan, Ismaili CIVIC organised a Ramadan Food Service Day over the weekend, distributing 1,200 food packets across Hyderabad and Secunderabad. This marks the fourth such initiative in the city.
The food distribution took place at three locations including Home for the Disabled, Jira, Devnar School for the Blind, Begumpet and Niloufer Hospital, Nampally.
Throughout Saturday and Sunday, Ismaili CIVIC volunteers—including children as young as six—actively participated in packing and distributing meals to those in need.
The initiative was jointly organised by Ismaili CIVIC India, an outreach effort of the Ismaili Muslim Community, in association with the Aga Khan Social Welfare Board and The United Bakers Cooperative Society Limited.
A key highlight of the initiative was the preparation of fresh pulav by Ismaili Muslim women who had previously undergone professional culinary training as beneficiaries of the Aga Khan Social Welfare Board. These women, who have since become financially independent entrepreneurs, contributed their time and skills to prepare the meals. The food packets also included snacks from UBCL, which also facilitated logistics support.
Amin Ladha, president of the Ismaili Council for Southern India, emphasised the deeper impact of such efforts: "Ramadan calls upon us to reflect on those less fortunate and to extend generosity. The women who cooked over a thousand meals today were once recipients of community support. Now, they have built businesses of their own and are giving back by serving others. This initiative is a testament to how a community can uplift itself and, in turn, support others in need."
The event reinforced Ismaili CIVIC's broader mission of civic engagement. Shameer Malani, president of the Ismaili Council for Hyderabad, highlighted the organisation’s commitment to social welfare beyond Ramadan: "Our efforts extend throughout the year, with initiatives such as health check-up camps, blood donation drives, and environmental programs. Even the smallest step can create a ripple effect of positive change."
Since its global expansion in 2021, Ismaili CIVIC has significantly contributed to areas such as health, education, economic development, and environmental sustainability.
Iqbal Mandani, president of the Ismaili Council for Secunderabad, shared the impact of the organization’s recent efforts: "In 2024 alone, Ismaili CIVIC India collected over 3,000 pints of blood, gathered 250 kilograms of waste through clean-up drives, and planted over 400 trees. In Kompally, we also conducted a free medical camp for 550 construction workers, providing essential medicines to those in need."
Source:indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/ismaili-volunteers-spread-compassion-during-ramadan-serve-1200-meals-in-hyderabad-and-secunderabad/articleshow/119148080.cms
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33 houses, ‘illegal mosque’ might be demolished as per law: Sambhal DM
Mar 17, 2025
As many as 33 houses and an illegal constructed mosque on municipal land in the Chandausi town of Uttar Pradesh's Sambhal district may be demolished in accordance with legal procedures, a senior official said on Monday.
The Sambhal district has been embroiled in tense situations since clashes broke out in November last year during protests over a court-ordered survey of a Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid.
The mosque has been at the centre of the entire row, with a petition claiming that an ancient Hindu temple was at the site before it, a news agency PTI report said. At least four people were killed and several others injured in the clashes in Sambhal.
Sambhal district magistrate Rajender Pensiya visited a municipal land in Waris Nagar under the Chandausi Municipal Corporation during an inspection on Tehsil Diwas and there he found unauthorised constructions.
"The land belongs to the municipal council. Illegal registries were done without any ownership. A total of 34 structures, including 33 houses and a mosque, have been built illegally," Pensiya said.
He further added that the matter was pending verification by the tehsildar for some time and reports were earlier submitted to the sub-divisional magistrate (SDM).
"During Tehsil Diwas, we visited two sites against which complaints were made. We inspected this location today and will now visit another. Any encroachment found will be demolished according to the law," he said.
The disputed land measures approximately 6.5 bighas (around 4.02 acres in UP).
Meanwhile, after receiving permission from the Allahabad high court, authorities began the whitewashing of the Shahi Jama Masjid on Sunday.
The contractor assigned for the work by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) said the work is expected to be completed within a week, with a team of eight people working on it.
The high court also allowed for decorative lighting, ensuring no tampering takes place during the whitewashing process.
Security has also been tightened in the mosque area, with a three-member committee overseeing the painting work ahead of Ramzan.
Source:hindustantimes.com
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https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/33-houses-illegal-mosque-might-be-demolished-as-per-law-sambhal-dm-101742230171010.html
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Muslim youth on Ramzan fast donates blood for Hindu patient
Mar 18, 2025
Kalyani: A young Muslim man, Nasim Malita (27), donated blood to a Hindu woman while observing his ‘roza' (fast). The recipient, Sangeeta Ghosh, who suffers from kidney ailments since 2017-18, requires periodic blood transfusions. Nasim donated blood at a private medical facility in Kalyani on Sunday, exemplifying how humanitarian values transcend religious boundaries.
Ghosh is a resident of Majdia in Nadia. She manages kidney-related health issues requiring regular blood transfusions and needed an immediate transfusion on Sunday.
The Emergency Blood Service (EBS) organisation contacted Malita, a resident of Palashi, Murshidabad, who currently resides in Kalyani for his studies. Upon receiving the request on Sunday afternoon, he promptly responded to help the woman. Nasim immediately proceeded to donate blood, without enquiring about the recipient's identity or religious background.
With only five members, EBS started functioning from 2016. Subir Sen, secratary of Emergency Blood Service said, "Now there are 15 thousand members in the organisation. He added, "We started the organisation with a view to remove ‘brokers' in the field. Now we encourage people to arrange for low cost blood donation camps at various places. Sanju Ghosh, the patient's son, also donates blood through the same organisation and knows Nasim. Similarly, Sanju responds to donation calls from their social organisation without questioning the recipient's background. This instance of a Muslim youth donating blood to a Hindu woman whilst fasting highlights genuine human kindness in contemporary times.
Sanju, whose mother received the blood, belongs to the same donation network as Nasim, where both regularly contribute without considering religious affiliations. He expressed sincere appreciation to Nasim for his prompt help.
Source:indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/muslim-youth-on-ramzan-fast-donates-blood-for-hindu-patient/articleshow/119129450.cms
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BJP MLA raises concerns over Muslim quota
Mar 18, 2025
Hyderabad: BJP MLA Payal Shankar on Monday said state govt should look at the Supreme Court stay on Muslim reservations provided in Telangana. Speaking during the assembly session on BC reservation bill, he said the BJP supports the bill but the state govt must carefully consider the technicalities.
"The bill provides 42% BC reservation, but if a percentage is already allocated to one religion, what will the majority BCs get from the bill? The high court has already struck down these reservations," he said.
He called for the immediate implementation of reservations within the state govt's jurisdiction and urged chief minister A Revanth Reddy to demonstrate sincerity through appropriate orders. Shankar also alleged that injustice had taken place regarding the names sent to the collegium for judicial appointments.
Addressing the plight of BCs, Shankar emphasised that despite their contributions to society, opportunities were not reaching them. He criticised previous govts for incurring a debt of over Rs 7 lakh crore and claimed that the current Congress govt had further exacerbated the financial burden on BCs.
Shankar demanded more representation for BCs in local bodies, stating that the 60% quota was not sufficient. He stressed that they also need proper representation in the legislative assembly and the legal system.
MIM refutes allegations
Refuting the BJP's stance on reservations for Muslims, AIMIM floor leader Akbaruddin Owaisi countered claims that granting reservations to BCs among Muslims would reduce the share for Hindu BCs. "Such statements are untrue. These reservations have been given even in states under BJP rule, so why oppose them now," he wondered.
Akbaruddin also suggested that Telangana should aim for a total reservation of 79% to support all marginalised communities.
Source:indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/bjp-mla-raises-concerns-over-muslim-quota/articleshow/119129285.cms
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Rajiv Menon opens up about AR Rahman's conversion to Islam and facing a lot of pressure from family: 'They didn’t know Hindi, I became the translator'
Mar 18, 2025,
Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman and director-cinematographer Rajiv Menon share a longstanding bond, built on years of collaboration. Recalling their early days, Rajiv reminisced about working with a young Dileep Kumar (Rahman’s birth name) in advertisements.In a recent interview with O2 India, Rajiv shared insights into their journey, which began long before Rahman’s breakthrough with 'Roja'. “He was very shy, and he was a man of few words. Now, he writes long emails, gives numerous interviews, and is very well-spoken,” Rajiv stated.
According to Rajiv, Rahman’s drive stemmed from his deep devotion to his mother, which also inspired his dream of creating a world-class institution for teaching Western classical music in India. “I’m sure her loss is deeply affecting Rahman,” Rajiv reflected. He emphasised Rahman’s unparalleled contribution to Western music in India, noting that his music school operates with a higher purpose than just profitability. He also commended Rahman for experimenting extensively with VR and for taking on offbeat stories as a film producer.
Rajiv further added that from being a young boy playing with a few keyboards, Rahman has grown into an institution and an icon. He attributed Rahman’s success to his humility, honesty, and deep spiritual connection to music.
Rajiv also recounted Rahman’s personal journey of embracing Islam, revealing his role as a translator when fakirs from Gulbarga visited Rahman’s home to guide the family’s conversion. “There was a time they didn’t know Hindi, so I became the translator. I have witnessed this period of transition and gravitation towards religion and faith. I have seen Rahman deal with immense pressure from within the family, especially regarding his sisters' marriages. It was music that helped him brave the storm,” he shared.
Rajiv highlighted that music served as Rahman’s solace during tough times, helping him find clarity through divine connection. His spiritual journey into Sufism deepened his exploration of Hindustani music and Qawwalis, enriching his compositions. Unlike many South Indian composers, whose exposure to North Indian ragas was limited, Rahman’s versatility gave him a distinct advantage in Bollywood.
Rahman was in the news recently after he was admitted to a hospital on Sunday due to dehydration. He was discharged some hours later after doctors gave him a clean bill of health. The music director's sister, earlier refuted reports that Rahman was hospitalised after he complained of chest pain. "Nothing happened. He had dehydration and gastric problems," Reihana told PTI Videos.
Source:indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/rajiv-menon-opens-up-about-ar-rahmans-conversion-to-islam-and-facing-a-lot-of-pressure-from-family-they-didnt-know-hindi-i-became-the-translator/articleshow/119127959.cms
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BJP to challenge Karnataka’s 4% Muslim reservation in court, calls it ‘unconstitutional misadventure’
Mar 17, 2025
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday announced that it would challenge the Karnataka government’s proposal to provide 4 per cent reservation for Muslims in government contracts in court, calling the move an "unconstitutional misadventure."
The party vowed to oppose the decision at all levels—inside the legislature, on the streets, and in Parliament—until it is rolled back.
The controversy erupted after the Karnataka Cabinet on Friday approved an amendment to the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurements (KTPP) Act. The amendment reserves 4 per cent of government contracts in civil works valued up to ₹2 crore and good/services contracts up to ₹1 crore for Muslims.
Addressing a press conference at the BJP headquarters, Bangalore South MP Tejasvi Surya strongly criticized the decision, alleging that the Congress-led Karnataka government was indulging in "blatant appeasement politics" at the behest of senior party leaders, particularly Rahul Gandhi.
“This patently unconstitutional and prima facie illegal act will be challenged in court. The BJP will fight against this inside the assembly and outside, on the streets, and will also raise the issue in Parliament,” Surya said.
He further accused the Siddaramaiah-led government of jeopardizing national integrity and vowed that the BJP would take its fight directly to the people of Karnataka. “Until and unless this unconstitutional move is rolled back, our fight will continue,” he asserted.
Asserting that the BJP is not against Muslims, Bharatiya Janata Party Karnataka President BY Vijayendra on Monday said that the BJP will oppose Congress's Muslim "appeasement politics."
"BJP is not against Muslims, but we are against Congress's Muslim appeasement politics... Yesterday, I was watching Dy CM DK Shivakumar. He challenged the BJP to give plump posts to the Muslim community. He had challenged the BJP to give MLC and Rajya Sabha MPs to the Muslim community. I want to remind him that it is the BJP who appointed Dr Abdul Kalam as the President and Najma Heptulla, Justice S. Abdul Nazeer and Mohammad Arif Khan as the governors of states," Vijayendra said addressing the reporters.
Source:hindustantimes.com
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https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/bengaluru-news/bjp-to-challenge-karnataka-s-4-muslim-reservation-in-court-calls-it-unconstitutional-misadventure-101742203874248.html
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Two BJP MLAs move pvt bill against love jihad, SP calls it jumping the gun
Mar 17, 2025
Mumbai: At a time when the state govt has formed a high-level committee under state police chief Rashmi Shukla to prepare a draft for a law "to prevent love jihad and fraudulent or forced conversions", two BJP MLAs have moved a private members' bill to prevent love jihad or religious conversions through force, allurement, or fraudulent means.
The bills were moved by Sudhir Mungathiwar and Atul Bhatkhalkar.
Samajwadi Party legislator Rais Shaikh wrote to the legislature secretariat demanding the rejection of these bills stating that while the govt had announced its intent to bring a law, the introduction of a private members' bill by ruling party MLAs showed lack of trust in their own govt's intentions.
In his letter to the legislature secretariat, Shaikh said the govt constituted a seven-member panel headed by the director general of police Shukla in Feb to study and explore legal provisions and frame a law to prevent forced conversions, either through coercion or deceit.
The panel includes senior officials from key departments, such as women and child welfare, minority affairs, law and Jjudiciary, social justice, special assistance, and home. Shaikh marked a copy of his letter to chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar.
"However, while the govt established this committee to study the legal framework, two MLAs from the ruling BJP moved private members' bills on the issue of forced religious conversions just last week. This seems to be an attempt to politicise the issue and create animosity between the two communities," Shaikh said.
"When the govt already announced its intent to frame a law against forced conversions, the introduction of private members' bills by ruling party members indicates a lack of trust in their own govt's intentions. Therefore, I request that these bills be rejected," Shaikh said.
Shaikh said that when a committee was formed to study the matter, it was expected that members would submit its concerns and suggestions to the committee. "However, the introduction of private members' bills appears to be an effort to distort the issue and gain publicity," Shaikh said.
Source:indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/two-bjp-mlas-move-pvt-bill-against-love-jihad-sp-calls-it-jumping-the-gun/articleshow/119123717.cms
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United Opposition support for Muslim board on Waqf Bill; TDP, JD-U stay away from protest
March 17, 2025
Ziya Us SalamZIYA US SALAM
The Opposition parties, led by the Congress, on Monday (March 17, 2025) lent their voice to the All India Muslim Personal Law Board’s last-ditch attempt to foil the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024.
The Board organised a protest to draw attention to what it called “a clear attempt to intimidate Muslims” and “take away the rights granted to them by Articles to 12 to 35 of the Constitution”. Most Opposition parties, including the Congress, Trinamool Congress, Aam Aadmi Party, Communist Party of India, CPI (Marxist), CPI (Marxist–Leninist), Nationalist Congress Party, and the Indian Union Muslim League were represented at the protest.
Congress will follow 'all democratic routes' to oppose Waqf bill, coordinate with INDIA allies: Jairam Ramesh
Significantly, the Biju Janata Dal joined hands with the Opposition at the meet. The BJP’s allies, notably the Telugu Desam Party, Janata Dal (United) and Lok Janshakti Party, stayed away.
Leading the attack was All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi who launched a tirade against BJP allies, the TDP and JD(U), for supporting the government on the Waqf issue. “We are raising questions on Chandrababu Naidu, Chirag Paswan sahib, and Nitish Kumar. Remember, if you support this unconstitutional Bill at this critical time, Muslims will never forgive you. Your support will enable this law,” Mr. Owaisi said before pointing out some alleged fundamental anomalies in the Bill.
“If non-Sikhs cannot be members of gurdwaras and non-Hindus cannot be part of temple trusts, how can non-Muslims be included in Waqf boards,” Mr. Owaisi asked. The Bill introduces the entry of non-Muslims on the Waqf which can in some cases even translate to a non-Muslim majority in the Waqf board.
Opposition must debate Waqf bill, not walk out: Bengal’s Muslim leaders urge
“I am here to support you. They want to usurp Muslim properties. We will do all we can to defeat this Bill,” said Mohammed Jawaid, the Congress’s Kishanganj MP, adding, “The law they want to pass, is totally unconstitutional, hence everyone is worried. It is a responsible organisation [AIMPLB], on which there is a lot of pressure from the society, hence they are protesting to let the government know about their pain.”
Incidentally, Mr. Jawaid was a member of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on Waqf Bill, which submitted its findings to the Speaker last month. His colleague, former Union Minister Salman Khurshid alerted the gathering that the “struggle would be long” and require efforts ‘both inside the Parliament and the judiciary”.
Samajwadi Party MP Muhibullah Nadvi echoed the sentiments, stating, “The Bill is an interference in Muslim matters. People of all religions are allowed to run their endowment boards but an attempt is being made to weaken the Waqf Boards. It will endanger the Muslim properties in the years to come.” His party colleague Dharmendra Yadav too talked of being “ready to resist the Bill at all cost”.
The participation of leading Muslim bodies, the Jamaat-e-Islami Hind and Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, represented by their chiefs, lent the protest greater acceptance among the community. “Waqf grants Muslims the same rights that other religions enjoy over their institutions. If every faith has the right to administer its affairs, why are Muslims being singled out,” said Syed Sadatullah Husaini, president of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind and vice-president of AIMPLB, adding, “Efforts are being made to suggest Muslims have been given special rights through the Waqf Act. The rights given to Muslims are identical to those given to other communities.”
Jamiat chief Mahmood Madani remarked, “Bulldozers are being used against our homes, mosques and madrasas. Now an attempt is being made to bulldoze the Constitution. It is no longer about the Muslim community. The Waqf Bill is an attack on the Constitution.”
“The protest marks the beginning of a countrywide protest,” the AIMPLB president, Khalid Saifullah Rehmani summed up.
Source:thehindu.com
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https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/united-opposition-support-for-muslim-board-on-waqf-bill-tdp-jd-u-stay-away-from-protest/article69341072.ece
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South Asia
WHO warns: 80% of Health Centers in Afghanistan at risk of closure due to funding shortage
By Fidel Rahmati
March 18, 2025
The WHO has warned that 80% of health centers in Afghanistan could close due to a severe funding shortage.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that 80% of health centers in Afghanistan under its support are at risk of closure by June due to funding shortages. This serious concern was raised in a report published on Monday, March 17. The WHO highlighted the potential consequences of these closures, especially for vulnerable populations.
According to the WHO, the closure of these centers would leave millions of people, including women, children, the elderly, displaced persons, and returnees, without access to essential health care. The report stressed that these centers provide vital services, and their shutdown would lead to a catastrophic loss of healthcare access.
As of March 2025, 167 health centers have closed due to financial shortages, disrupting care for 1.6 million people across 25 provinces. The WHO warns that without immediate action, another 220 centers could close by June, worsening the crisis.
Edwin Salvador, WHO’s representative in Afghanistan, emphasized that these closures are not just statistics—they represent mothers unable to give birth safely, children missing life-saving vaccinations, and communities without protection from deadly diseases. He stated that this is not just about funding, but a human crisis that threatens to undo years of progress in strengthening Afghanistan’s health system.
The closures have been particularly severe in northern, western, and northeastern Afghanistan, where more than a third of the health centers have shut down. This has raised concerns about an impending humanitarian crisis, with many communities facing increased vulnerability to diseases and lack of medical treatment.
Recently, Save the Children Fund also reported the closure of 18 health centers in Afghanistan, adding that 14 more centers will likely close in the next month due to a reduction in foreign aid. These closures highlight the severe impact of reduced international assistance on health services in the country, especially for vulnerable children suffering from malnutrition.
The lack of foreign aid has led to the suspension of critical programs, such as treatment for malnourished children, further deepening the health crisis. These challenges underscore the urgency of securing long-term funding to sustain essential health services in Afghanistan.
As the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, it is clear that without immediate financial intervention and international support, Afghanistan’s health infrastructure will face even more widespread collapse, leaving millions without access to life-saving healthcare.
Source:khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/who-warns-80-of-health-centers-in-afghanistan-at-risk-of-closure-due-to-funding-shortage/
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Covid-19 vaccine: ACC to probe Tk 22,000cr ‘graft’ scheme
Mar 18, 2025
The Anti-Corruption Commission has launched an investigation into an alleged Tk 22,000 crore corruption scheme involving Beximco Pharma's Vice-chairman Salman F Rahman and former health minister Zahid Maleque over the procurement of Covid-19 vaccines.
A four-member probe team, led by Deputy Director Afroza Haque Khan, was formed after initial evidence of irregularities and graft was found in intelligence inquiries, ACC Director General Md Akhtar Hossain told reporters at its headquarters yesterday.
Other team members are Assistant Director Bilkis Akter, deputy assistant directors Md Jewel Rana, and Kazi Hafizur Rahman. They already started collecting relevant documents, sources said.
According to the complaint, a syndicate led by Salman, who was also an adviser to deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina, misappropriated Tk 22,000 crore in the name of Covid-19 vaccine procurement.
Besides Salman and Zahid, other syndicate members included Lokman Hossain, former health secretary, Modasser Ali, chairman of Bangladesh Medical Research Council, and Ahmad Kaikaus, former principal secretary to ousted PM Hasina, the complaint said.
In another development, the anti-graft body filed two cases against former lawmaker Shahin Chakladar and his wife Farhana Jahan Mala for illegally acquiring assets worth Tk 53.67 crore, said ACC DG Akhtar.
In the cases, Shahin has been accused of obtaining illegal wealth worth Tk 42.47 crore. Additionally, he allegedly conducted suspicious transactions amounting to Tk 341.62 crore in 29 bank accounts under his name.
His wife Farhana has been accused of amassing illegal assets worth Tk 11.20 crore.
Source:thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/covid-19-vaccine-acc-probe-tk-22000cr-graft-scheme-3850556
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Attacks on July uprisers: DU suspends 128 students
Mar 18, 2025
Dhaka University yesterday suspended 128 students over their alleged involvement in attacks on protesters during the student-led mass uprising from July 15 to August 5 on the university campus.
The decision was made at a syndicate meeting based on the report of a fact-finding committee formed to investigate the attacks.
A new probe committee has also been formed to further scrutinise the initial report to finalise a decision regarding the punishment of the students.
The committee, led by syndicate member Professor Tajmeri SA Islam, includes DU Faculty of Arts Dean Mohammad Siddiqur Rahman Khan, Sir AF Rahman Hall Provost Kazi Mahfuzul Islam Supon, DU Proctor Saifuddin Ahmed and others.
The suspension is not being considered a punishment, but a "measure" to ensure further investigations are conducted without interruption, according to Kazi Mahfuzul Islam Supon, convener of the fact-finding committee.
"The number of attackers mentioned in the fact-finding report is more than 128. The syndicate decided to suspend 128 DU students initially. A new probe committee has been formed to scrutinise the fact-finding report. The final decision on their punishment will come after the new committee submits its report," Supon told The Daily Star.
On March 13, when the fact-finding committee handed over the report to the DU vice-chancellor, Supon had told reporters that 122 DU students were found to be involved in the attacks.
The suspended students are reportedly affiliated with the banned student organisation Chhatra League. However, their names and identities could not be immediately confirmed.
Asked about the involvement of teachers, DU Proctor Saifuddin Ahmed said a separate committee is investigating their role in the attack.
Further action will be taken once their report is submitted.
Source:thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/education/news/attacks-july-uprisers-du-suspends-128-students-3850751
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Visa suspension puts Umrah pilgrims in limbo
Mar 18, 2025
Several thousand Umrah pilgrims and hajj agencies are facing major disruptions as the Saudi government has almost completely stopped issuing Umrah visas without prior notice.
This sudden decision has left thousands of pilgrims stranded, while many travel agencies are facing huge losses, said the Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAAB).
The abrupt policy change has created uncertainty for those planning to perform umrah.
Many Bangladeshi pilgrims are now in limbo due to the visa situation.
Amid this situation, the Religious Affairs Ministry will hold a press conference on Umrah visas at its office at the Secretariat office today.
The Saudi government had opened Umrah visas through the Nusuk app, allowing millions of pilgrims to travel.
However, due to overcrowding, particularly in Makkah and Madinah, visa issuance has been reduced by 90 percent, sources at the ministry said.
This situation is not limited to Bangladesh, as other countries are also facing similar issues.
According to ministry sources, Saudi Arabia is currently seeing a lot of visitors, more than it sees even during the Hajj season, making it difficult for people to worship properly.
The Saudi government may have temporarily halted visa issuance due to the overwhelming number of pilgrims during Ramadan, they added.
Farid Ahmed Majumder, secretary general of HAAB, said around 45,000 to 50,000 Bangladeshis travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah during Ramadan.
"The sudden visa halt has put these people in uncertainty," he said, adding that many have already purchased airline tickets and booked hotels, which has put them in trouble.
"In previous years, Saudi authorities informed us in advance before reducing or stopping visa issuance, but this time, they didn't give any prior notice," he added.
Farid also mentioned that around 30,000 to 33,000 Bangladeshis have already bought air tickets for Umrah.
The Religious Affairs Ministry has already written to the Saudi ambassador expressing concerns but has not yet received a response.
Regarding ticket refunds, a ministry official said they are in contact with the respective airlines to ensure refunds.
Unlike Hajj, there is no formal agreement between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia for Umrah.
Source:thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/visa-suspension-puts-umrah-pilgrims-limbo-3850856
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DMP announces road diversions to tackle Ramadan traffic
Mar 17, 2025
The Dhaka Metropolitan Police will implement road diversions on some roads to facilitate Eid shoppers and ensure smooth traffic flow around market areas.
As there are huge crowds for shopping in various malls in the capital on the occasion of Ramadan and the upcoming holy Eid-ul-Fitr, diversions may be implemented at several crossings on March 21 and 22 and from March 26 to before Eid from 1:00pm to 10:00pm every day in order to control the traffic that areas, according to a public notice signed by DMP commissioner SM Sazzat Ali.
According to the notice, vehicles going to Panthapath area, New Market area, Dhanmondi, Mohammedpur, Jhigatla, or Mirpur from Sonargaon crossing will be diverted towards Farmgate or Shahbagh.
In another diversion plan, vehicles going to Sonargaon crossing from the Panthpath Green Road crossing (including u-turning vehicles on Panthapath) will be diverted to Green Road/Russell Square or Farmgate.
New Market-bound vehicles (except city buses) coming from Mirpur Road and Dhanmondi via Science Lab intersection will be diverted to take a left turn and diverted to Elephant Road or Kataban Road or Palashi crossing.
Mirpur road-bound vehicles (except city buses) passing the New Market crossing will be diverted from New Market crossing to Nilkhet crossing or Azimpur crossing or the New Market-Pilkhana Road.
The above diversion on those roads will be enforced from time to time, considering the traffic pressure in those days.
In order to facilitate the Eid shopping of the people of Dhaka city, vehicles other than those transporting to shoppers are requested to avoid the roads adjacent to various markets as much as possible on those days, said the police notice.
From New Market crossing to the Science Lab crossing, separate lanes for rickshaws are being constructed on both sides of Mirpur Road and rickshaw pullers and passengers are specially requested to move within the said lanes.
Dhaka Metropolitan Police sought everyone's cooperation in this regard.
Source:thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/transport/news/dmp-announces-road-diversions-tackle-ramadan-traffic-3850756
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Ministry of Interior Denies Resignation of Khalifa Sirajuddin Haqqani
2025-03-17
KABUL(BNA): The Ministry of Interior has categorically dismissed reports claiming that Khalifa Sirajuddin Haqqani, the acting leader of the ministry, has resigned from his position.
In a statement to the media, spokesperson Mufti Abdul Matin Qane emphasized that these reports are both incorrect and untrue. He urged media outlets to verify facts before publishing and to avoid spreading rumors that could mislead the public and create unnecessary concerns.
This clarification comes in response to recent contradictory information circulating on social media regarding Haqqani’s status within the ministry. The Ministry of Interior remains committed to transparency and accurate communication with the public.
Source:bakhtarnews.af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/ministry-of-interior-denies-resignation-of-khalifa-sirajuddin-haqqani/
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Kazakh Diplomats Express Interest in Investing in Afghanistan’s Mining Sector
2025-03-17
KABUL(BNA): Mullah Hedayatullah Badri, the acting Minister of Mines and Petroleum, held a meeting today, Saturday with a delegation of Kazakh diplomats.
During the meeting, the Kazakh representatives conveyed their keen interest in investing in Afghanistan’s mining sector, specifically in areas such as oil, gas, lead, and zinc. This interest marks a potential boost for the country’s economy, which has been seeking foreign investment to revitalize its resource-rich sectors.
The diplomats announced plans for a technical team from Kazakhstan to visit Afghanistan in April 2025, aiming to explore investment opportunities and assess the practicalities of collaboration.
Minister Badri welcomed this interest and assured the diplomats of Afghanistan’s commitment to facilitating investments in accordance with the nation’s mining laws. This cooperation could pave the way for enhanced economic ties between Afghanistan and Kazakhstan, fostering a partnership that benefits both nations.
Source:bakhtarnews.af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/kazakh-diplomats-express-interest-in-investing-in-afghanistans-mining-sector/
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Seventh Batch Completes Military, Tactical Training
2025-03-17
KABUL(BNA): After completing an intensive two-and-a-half-month training program covering military tactics, strategy, and ideological instruction, 950 young personnel officially graduated today from the 209th Al-Fatah Corps Regional Training Center. The ceremony marked the successful conclusion of their preparation for service.
According to the Ministry of National Defense, the graduation ceremony was attended by Sheikh Noor Mohammad Haqqani, Deputy Minister for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice; Maulavi Rahmatullah Mohammad Aka, Commander of the 209th Al-Fatah Corps; Sheikh Abdul Jalil Shahidkhil, Head of the Ulema Council of Balkh Province; and other officials and personnel from the northern zone.
Sheikh Noor Mohammad Haqqani praised the efforts of the personnel during the holy month of Ramadan and described the National Islamic Army as a strong shield against enemies and a protector of the country’s territorial integrity and independence.
This marks the seventh batch of graduates from the 209th Al-Fatah Corps Regional Training Center, where personnel receive training in military, tactical, and ideological fields before graduating.
Source:bakhtarnews.af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/seventh-batch-completes-military-tactical-training/
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Pakistan
Security forces eliminate three terrorists in Khyber IBO
By Web Desk
March 17, 2025
Security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Khyber district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and eliminated three terrorists, the military’s media wing said on Monday.
In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said security forces conducted the IBO in general area Tor Darra of Khyber district on reported presence of terrorists.
“During the conduct of operation, own troops effectively engaged the khwarij [terrorists] location, as a result of which, three khwarij were sent to hell,” it added.
Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from killed terrorists, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area, the ISPR added.
Sanitisation operation was launched to eliminate any other terrorists found in the area as the “security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country”.
The Pakistan Army on Thursday thwarted a terrorist attack on checkpost and killed 10 militants following a suicide attack in the Jandola area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's South Waziristan district, said the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The military's media wing said that the attempt to enter the post was effectively thwarted by the troops, forcing the terrorists to "ram an explosive laden vehicle into the perimeter wall".
The country witnessed a sharp increase in terror attacks in January 2025, surging by 42% compared to the previous month, according to data released by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), a think tank.
The data revealed that at least 74 militant attacks were recorded nationwide, resulting in 91 fatalities, including 35 security personnel, 20 civilians, and 36 militants. Another 117 individuals sustained injuries, including 53 security forces personnel, 54 civilians, and 10 militants.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) remained the worst-affected province, followed by Balochistan. In KP’s settled districts, militants carried out 27 attacks, resulting in 19 fatalities, including 11 security personnel, six civilians, and two militants.
The tribal districts of KP (erstwhile Fata) witnessed 19 attacks, leading to 46 deaths, including 13 security personnel, eight civilians, and 25 militants.
Balochistan also experienced a surge in militant activity, with at least 24 attacks, which claimed 26 lives, including 11 security personnel, six civilians, and nine militants.
The month also saw two suicide bombings, both in Balochistan. The banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan claimed responsibility for one, while the proscribed Balochistan Liberation Army took credit for the other.
Source:thenews.com.pk
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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1292753-security-forces-eliminate-three-terrorists-in-khyber-ibo
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Govt seeks to reduce weightage of population size in NFC share
Khaleeq Kiani
March 18, 2025
ISLAMABAD: The federal government is seeking to disincentivise population growth by drastically reducing its heavy weightage in the formula used for resource allocation to the provinces under the National Finance Commission (NFC), as health experts warn serious consequence of broken health infrastructure incapable to handle emerging diseases.
“The use of population as a criterion for the distribution of resources must be examined holistically,” Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb while presiding over a meeting on National Health and Population Policy (NHPP) for the 2025-34 period, on Monday.
The meeting was apprised that current system of distribution of resources among the federating units under the constitutional scheme of NFC envisaged an incentive for population growth, as 82pc weight was given to population and 18pc to all other factors like area, poverty and revenue generation etc.
A three-member NHPP team, led by Dr Sameen Siddiqi of Aga Khan University, and also comprising Dr Tayyeb Masud and Dr Noorul Huda Shah, sensitised the meeting about the dilapidated profile of the country’s health system.
They noted that despite the priority receipts on the basis of population, the health conditions of the population were not on the top priority of all provinces when it came to financial allocations for health sector. As such, the financial allocations for the health and population segments remained insufficient, while the centre, too, was left with fewer resources to spend on devolved subjects.
The team members said financial allocations required to be improved to address a crumbling health infrastructure, while the traditional diseases were being taken over by new waves of global health challenges. However, they noted, Pakistan’s health profile had not adjusted to new challenges.
The NHPP team advocated improved allocations for health and population and emphasised that this was not possible without the federal government’s leading role notwithstanding isolated responsibilities in the provinces, the centre and regional areas.
Policy for next decade
During the meeting, the NHPP team provided an update on the formulation of the policy, which is set to guide the country’s health and population strategies for the next decade. The team emphasised that the policy was being developed with a focus on evidence-based decision-making and prioritising critical health issues, all within the context of the fiscal constraints.
The NHPP team outlined the broader goals of the policy, which include reorganising and restructuring the existing health infrastructure, addressing the challenges posed by high population growth, integrating health and population strategies, and leveraging political capital to increase public sector financing for the health sector. This should lead to creating a health system that works efficiently and effectively to meet the needs of a growing population, particularly the most vulnerable sectors of society.
The minister asked the team to formally submit their recommendations and proposals to the Ministry of Finance for review and action, while acknowledging the significant challenges posed by climate change, rapid population growth, and associated issues such as child stunting and learning poverty.
Successive governments have not been able to deliver an NFC award for resource distribution among the centre and its federation units since the expiry of the previous one in December 2014, though the constitution makes it mandatory to have a fresh NFC every five years.
Source:dawn.com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1898588/govt-seeks-to-reduce-weightage-of-population-size-in-nfc-share
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Local PPP leader shot dead in Karachi’s Dalmia: police
Imtiaz Ali
March 17, 2025
A local PPP leader was gunned down in a suspected targeted attack in Karachi’s Dalmia on Monday night, according to police.
Aziz Bhatti police Station House Officer (SHO) Saeed Ahmed Dharejo told Dawn.com, “PPP leader Faiq Khan, 40, was standing outside his home in Shanti Nagar when unknown suspects shot and killed him.”
He added that the body was taken to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre.
The officer said he suspected some personal enmity was behind the murder. However, PPP Sindh General Secretary Waqar Mehdi told Dawn.com, “It was a targeted killing as the suspects shot the deceased in the head.”
Mehdi said Khan had worked against anti-social elements in the area and was a former councillor and presently, the PPP president of Union Council Dalmia. Mehdi demanded the arrest of the killers.
Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hasan Lanjar took notice of the murder and directed the authorities to ensure the arrest of the killers while ascertaining the incident’s exact motive.
The incident comes a day after PPP lawmaker Jam Mehtab Hussain Dahar narrowly escaped death in an indiscriminate firing on the vehicle he was travelling in on Sunday. One of his bodyguards was killed and three other persons were wounded in the attack, which took place on a link road near the Batri Wahi area in Ubauro taluka of Ghotki district.
Source:dawn.com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1898524/local-ppp-leader-shot-dead-in-karachis-dalmia-police
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PTI insists on meeting Imran Khan before key in-camera session on national security
By Haider Sherazi
March 18, 2025
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced that it will not attend today’s in-camera meeting of the Parliamentary Committee on National Security unless its leaders are granted permission to meet the party’s founder, Imran Khan, ahead of the crucial session.
The decision was made during a late-night meeting of the PTI’s political committee, which issued a statement demanding that its representatives be allowed to consult with Imran Khan before participating in the high-level discussions.
The development comes after a multi-party opposition alliance, the Tehreek-e-Tahaffuz-e-Ayeen-e-Pakistan (TTAP), led by Mahmood Khan Achakzai, announced that it would not attend the session.
Later, Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M) chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal also decided to stay away from the meeting. Another opposition leader, Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM) Chairman Allama Raja Nasir Abbas also announced that the opposition parties would not attend the meeting on national security.
Sheikh Waqas Akram, PTI’s Information Secretary, confirmed that PTI's committee had held an emergency meeting to deliberate on the matter. He said, “Our participation in the meeting depends on being granted permission to meet our founder, Imran Khan. Without his guidance, we cannot proceed.”
Sources within the party revealed that several members of PTI’s core committee had raised objections to the initial decision to submit names for the meeting without proper consultation. They specifically criticised the decision, saying Chief Whip Aamir Dogar should have discussed the issue with both the political and core committees beforehand.
Earlier, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq and Federal Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry had approached the former ruling party, requesting names for the meeting. In response, the party submitted a list of 14 representatives, including Barrister Gohar Khan, Asad Qaiser, Zartaj Gul, Aamir Dogar, Ali Muhammad Khan, Barrister Ali Zafar, and Sahibzada Hamid Raza.
On Monday, Aamir Dogar met with the NA Speaker and insisted that a three-member parliamentary delegation be allowed to meet Imran Khan before the national security session to receive his instructions.
Dogar claimed that the Speaker and other ministers had assured him they would facilitate the meeting, but no progress has been made so far.
In-camera session
The in-camera rare session of parliament is scheduled to take place on Tuesday at 11am wherein military officials will brief the lawmakers on prevailing security situation in the country in the backdrop of recent deadly terror attacks. Prime Minister's aide on Political and Public Affaris Rana Sanaullah said that the civil and military leadership would deliberate on a strategy to prevent Afghanistan from becoming a "proxy" state.
Speaking on Geo News programme 'Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath', the ruling PML-N leader noted that the session will not only focus on convincing Afghanistan to maintain neutrality but also discuss future course of action if Kabul refuses to accept Pakistan's demand to deny militants space to operate on its soil.
The in-camera session comes against the backdrop of rising terrorism in Pakistan, including a major terrorist attack on a passenger train in the Mushqaf area of the Bolan district in Balochistan.
Dozens of militants, affiliated with the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), blew up a railway track and assaulted Jaffar Express on Tuesday, carrying more than 440 passengers — who were taken hostage.
The security forces, after a complex clearance operation, neutralised 33 attackers and rescued the hostage passengers.
Apart from five operational casualties, as many as 26 passengers were martyred by the terrorists, of which 18 were security personnel belonging to the Pakistan Army and the Frontier Corps (FC), three were officials from Pakistan Railways and other departments, and five were civilians.
Speaking to the media following the culmination of the security forces' operation, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry revealed that the terrorists were in contact with their handlers in Afghanistan.
Lt-Gen Chaudhry's remarks reflect Islamabad's stance which has time again urged Kabul to prevent its soil from being used by terrorist organisations against Pakistan — something which has been backed by statistics from a recent Global Terrorism Index 2025 report.
During Monday's programme, Sanaullah said that the interim Afghan government provided the terrorists with safe havens, where they train, plan and carry out attacks. "These terrorists receive funds from India," he said, vowing that their safe havens would be eliminated in a few weeks and months.
When asked about Afghanistan's cooperation in countering terrorism, he said that the military leadership is pursuing a multi-dimensional policy and would seek input from civil leadership on how to dissuade Afghanistan from acting as a proxy or becoming a weapon in India's hands.
However, he said that the issue will be resolved one way or another, noting that Afghanistan's refusal to comply does not equate to a dead end. "There are many way-outs at our disposal," he stated.
In response to a question, Sanaullah said that Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir and his team, including Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director-General (DG) Asim Malik and others will attend the meeting and one of the team's members would brief the lawmakers.
Furthermore, the PM's aide noted that the military leadership would also receive input from the civil leadership during the meeting. "If anything emerges in the meeting that requires [PML-N President and three-time Prime Minister] Nawaz Sharif to play a role, he is fully ready to do so," he added.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, both of which share borders with neighbouring Afghanistan, have faced the brunt of the terrorist attacks — with both provinces accounting for over 96% of terrorist attacks and deaths in Pakistan in 2024 as per a Global Terrorism Index 2025 report.
Source:thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1292958-pti-insists-on-meeting-imran-khan-before-key-in-camera-session-on-national-security
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Biological father responsible for financially supporting a child: LHC
By Duaa Mirza
March 17, 2025
LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) has ruled that once paternity is confirmed through established methods, a biological father must financially support a child born out of wedlock or as a result of sexual assault.
The ruling states that under the law of the land, once paternity is confirmed, financial responsibility for the child cannot be denied by the biological father.
A written verdict to this effect was issued in a case concerning the financial maintenance of a minor girl, whose mother had accused Muhammad Afzal of raping her in 2020, leading to her pregnancy and the birth of a daughter.
A first information report (FIR) was registered against Afzal under Sections 376 (rape) and 109 (abetment) of the Pakistan Penal Code.
The mother later filed a lawsuit with the court demanding financial maintenance (child support), claiming Afzal was the biological father of the baby girl, which the accused rejected, vehemently denying paternity and refusing to provide support.
A trial court ruled in the child’s favour, ordering the rapist to pay Rs3,000 per month in maintenance. However, Afzal challenged the decision in LHC, which resulted in the latest ruling.
The LHC’s Justice Ahmad Nadeem Arshad in his ruling wrote: “Consequently, the matter is remanded to the learned Trial Court with the direction to record the plaintiff's evidence regarding the specific claim made in the plaint that the petitioner/defendant is the biological father of respondent No. 2..."
“If, after recording the evidence, the Court concludes that the minor is indeed the biological child of the defendant, the proceedings may continue for the determination of the maintenance allowance,” it added.
The ruling however made it clear that the burden of proving paternity lies on the mother.
"In the case where a woman claims maintenance for her child against the defendant/biological father, who denies the version, the woman would first need to establish, through trustworthy evidence, that the defendant is indeed the biological father of the child.
"The burden of proving that the defendant is the biological father of the child lies on the woman who claims the maintenance. "
The high court also drew attention to Islamic legal principles, referencing historical perspectives on child maintenance.
It noted: “In view of the above discussion, equity, fair play and justice demands that respondent No.2, if proves to be a biological child of the petitioner, then she must be compensated and maintained by him.
"The person, having begotten the child, is bound to provide for its maintenance. The biological father is also morally under obligation to maintain his illegitimate child. "
The court in its ruling also remanded the matter back to the trial court, directing it to first establish paternity before enforcing maintenance payments.
"Once paternity is established, the defendant would then be legally obligated to provide maintenance for the child. The court would assess the defendant's financial capacity and the child's needs to determine the appropriate maintenance allowance. “
The ruling further said: “... the [trial] court has erred in law by granting maintenance for the child without first ensuring, through the proper process of evidence, that the child is indeed the biological offspring of the petitioner.
“In cases where paternity is disputed, it is essential for the Court to first establish, beyond a reasonable doubt, the biological relationship between the child and the defendant.
“Without recording sufficient evidence, the Court's decision to grant maintenance prematurely bypasses a critical step in determining legal responsibility. This failure undermines the principles of fairness and due process in family law proceedings.”
Source:thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1292750-biological-father-responsible-for-financially-supporting-a-child-lhc
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Civil-military leadership to discuss strategy to prevent Kabul from becoming proxy: Sanaullah
March 17, 2025
A day before the high-level in-camera session on national security, Prime Minister's aide on Political and Public Affairs, Rana Sanaullah said that the meeting will focus on strategising ways to prevent Afghanistan from being used as a proxy, particularly by India, against Pakistan.
Speaking on Geo News programme 'Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath', the ruling PML-N leader noted that the session will not only focus on convincing Afghanistan to maintain neutrality but also discuss future course of action if Kabul refuses to accept Pakistan's demand to deny militants space to operate on its soil.
The in-camera rare session of parliament is scheduled to take place on Tuesday at 11am wherein military officials will brief the lawmakers on prevailing security situation in the country in the backdrop of recent deadly terror attacks.
In one of the terror incidents lately, dozens of militants, affiliated with the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), blew up a railway track and assaulted Jaffar Express on Tuesday, carrying more than 440 passengers — who were taken hostage in the Mushqaf area of the Bolan district in Balochistan.
The security forces, after a complex clearance operation, neutralised 33 attackers and rescued the hostage passengers.
Apart from five operational casualties, as many as 26 passengers were martyred by the terrorists, of which 18 were security personnel belonging to the Pakistan Army and the Frontier Corps (FC), three were officials from Pakistan Railways and other departments, and five were civilians.
Speaking to the media following the culmination of the security forces' operation, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry revealed that the terrorists were in contact with their handlers in Afghanistan.
Lt-Gen Chaudhry's remarks reflect Islamabad's stance which has time again urged Kabul to prevent its soil from being used by terrorist organisations against Pakistan — something which has been backed by statistics from a recent Global Terrorism Index 2025 report.
During today's programme, Sanaullah said that the interim Afghan government provided the terrorists with safe havens, where they train, plan and carry out attacks. "These terrorists receive funds from India," he said, vowing that their safe havens would be eliminated in a few weeks and months.
When asked about Afghanistan's cooperation in countering terrorism, he said that the military leadership is pursuing a multi-dimensional policy and would seek input from civil leadership on how to dissuade Afghanistan from acting as a proxy or becoming a weapon in India's hands.
However, he said that the issue will be resolved one way or another, noting that Afghanistan's refusal to comply does not equate to a dead end. "There are many way-outs at our disposal," he stated.
In response to a question, Sanaullah said that Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir and his team, including Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director-General (DG) Asim Malik and others will attend the meeting and one of the team's members would brief the lawmakers.
Furthermore, the PM's aide noted that the military leadership would also receive input from the civil leadership during the meeting. "If anything emerges in the meeting that requires [PML-N President and three-time Prime Minister] Nawaz Sharif to play a role, he is fully ready to do so," he added.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, both of which share borders with neighbouring Afghanistan, have faced the brunt of the terrorist attacks — with both provinces accounting for over 96% of terrorist attacks and deaths in Pakistan in 2024 as per a Global Terrorism Index 2025 report.
PTI demands meeting with Imran Khan
Separately, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has demanded a meeting with its incarcerated founder Imran Khan to consult on the high-level in-camera meeting scheduled for Tuesday (March 18).
In this regard, PTI Chief Whip Amir Dogar met the NA speaker, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar and Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry and demanded that a three-member parliamentary delegation should be allowed to meet PTI founder for instructions.
In a statement, Dogar said that Sadiq and other ministers assured them of contacting authorities concerned and of arranging meeting with party founder Imran Khan incarcerated in Adiala jail. "No successful policy can be chalked out without Imran's support," he added.
He noted that the PTI seeks a policy on terrorism and foreign affairs, which has the backing of the incarcerated PTI founder. "Imran has always had a clear stance on terrorism, military operations, and foreign policy," he added.
However, Dogar said, the PTI would not leave the field empty for the government if the meeting is not arranged.
Similarly, Leader of Opposition in National Assembly Omar Ayub also wrote a letter to NA speaker, demanding a meeting with Imran.
Source:thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1292762-civil-military-leadership-to-discuss-strategy-to-prevent-kabul-from-becoming-proxy-sanaullah
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North America
Every Ramadan, more US schools are embracing the needs of fasting Muslim students
Dilshad Ali
March 17, 2025
(RNS) — On a Tuesday night at J.R. Tucker High School in Richmond, Virginia, parents and faculty guided students as they put final touches on simple tablescapes and two buffet tables. Last-minute stragglers carrying trays of food were directed to one of two tables: dates and other snacks to break the day’s Ramadan fast over here, bigger plates for dinner over there.
I walked in with a large tray of keema thahari, a rice and spiced ground beef dish, but minus my own son, a junior at a different school, who had chosen to stay home because he was feeling under the weather and wanted to conserve energy to finish his fast. Minutes later a student called the “adhan” (call to prayer) in the far side of the commons area, and students lined up to grab a date and some snacks and break their fast.
This was the second year Tucker High School hosted an iftar — the Arabic name for the meal that breaks the fast during Ramadan. It is open to all Muslim and non-Muslims students at the high schools (many of which have high school Muslim associations) around Richmond. Deep Run High School, in Virginia’s Henrico County School District, has also hosted iftars to help local Muslim students build community and practice their faith comfortably in a public school setting.
Teachers, librarians and administrators at several Richmond-area schools have also been supportive, finding space for students to pray during the day, find each other during lunch periods and to perform their ‘Jummah” prayers on Fridays.
Once upon a time, Richmond’s acknowledgement of Ramadan would be an anomaly. Today it is part of a widespread effort in school districts across the country to build inclusivity and recognize diversity. It’s all the more remarkable given that diversity, equity and inclusion programs have been in the crosshairs of the current Trump administration.
It’s impossible to say how widespread these sorts of efforts are in the U.S. However, it’s clear that every year more and more individual schools and school districts are accommodating Muslim students, making it easier to fast within the structure of the school day and fostering an atmosphere where students can be their Muslim selves without disrupting the flow of the school day.
The Fairfax County Public School District, close to Washington in northern Virginia, took up a new program made possible by the Virginia Department of Education, offering meal kits for students who are fasting, containing a protein, fruit, vegetables, low-fat milk and whole grains to be picked up at the end of the school day and eaten as soon as the fast is over at sunset.
St. Paul Public Schools in Minnesota, San Diego Unified School District and the Garden Grove Unified School District in California provide similar meals. In their email to families, Garden Grove school officials wrote that their goal was to ensure that “students can observe their religious practices while still having access to nutritious meals after their period of fasting ends.”
On the East Coast, on the same night as the iftar event at Tucker High School, my niece pitched in to facilitate the first-ever iftar at her private school, the Barrie School, in Glenmont, Maryland. The purpose? To educate and inform her fellow classmates, teachers and school administrators about Ramadan, fasting and what it’s like to be a Muslim student on campus.
In nearly every case, the motivators of these effects have been dedicated students advocating for themselves or a Muslim teacher making sure students are accommodated. In Richmond, Tucker art teacher Javaria Masroor has been instrumental in creating safe spaces for Muslim students, including an influx of Afghan refugees at the school.
“Mrs. Masroor was instrumental in getting our MSA (Muslim Student Association) going,” Nazifa Chowdhury, a senior at Tucker, told me recently. “We’re the first class to graduate with all four years of MSA,” she said.
School administrators allow fasting students to hang out in their library during lunch periods and, under Mrs. Masroor’s guidance, dedicated a small room where students can go for daily prayers between classes and assemble in small groups to perform Friday prayers together. “Mrs. Masroor has specifically opened up safe spaces for us to have conversations,” Chowdhury said.
Simal Imran, another Tucker senior, said a smart board in the library has featured Ramadan facts this month, and in what was a pleasant surprise to the students, another smart board seen by all students in the main entrance of the school also has featured interesting facts about Muslims and Ramadan.
I have known Masroor for years. Our kids have grown up around each other at various school, community, religious and cultural events in and around the Richmond area. She is fiercely dedicated to the educational and mental wellbeing of all her students. Students in her classes — and some she doesn’t teach — congregate in her classroom during their lunch periods. “I really want my students to feel safe and empowered to be themselves, to be who they are, whether they are Muslim or not,” she told me.
She credits fellow teachers, administrators and Tucker’s principal, Art Raymond, for encouraging her efforts to create the prayer spaces and educate all students about Ramadan in ways that don’t proselytize or distract from the school day.
With the Trump administration’s anti-DEI crackdown in the federal government and by extension other areas of public life, schools that embrace Ramadan are doing something brave. Public universities around the country have dismantled DEI programs under threat of losing federal funding, and according to the latest reports, 52 universities in 41 states are being investigated by the U.S. Department of Education for using “racial preferences and stereotypes in education programs and activities.”
Muslim Americans and other minority groups, meanwhile, are feeling uncertainty as several administration executive orders and policies have targeted immigration, DEI and pro-Palestinian student activists. In such times, stories of iftar events and school districts accommodating fasting students are a balm to the soul.
The strength of this country and of public schools comes in empowering students to live authentic lives in a way that is pluralistically respectful, Masroor said. “If my students are comfortable in their own skin in a school setting, it opens them up to really learn from each other and their teachers and to prioritize their education,” she said.
As I sat in the commons at Tucker and spoke with students, they had me thinking back to my high school days in North Dakota, when I tended to keep the Muslim parts of me on the down low (though it was fairly obvious my family was different). I told the Tucker students how Ramadan, fasting and what it all means was rarely discussed at my school. Even though I fasted, asking for a prayer space did not occur to me. Instead, I made up for my missed prayers after I got home.
“It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t know about Ramadan now,” Imran told me, explaining how her friends encourage her when she is tired at track practice or during weight training. “If they see me struggling, they’ll say, ‘Only one more hour to go!’ and cheer me on.”
Source:religionnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://religionnews.com/2025/03/17/every-ramadan-more-us-schools-are-embracing-the-needs-of-fasting-muslim-students/
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Why Muslim-American Nonprofits Are Taking Steps to Build Trust With Donors During Ramadan
by Shariq Siddiqui
March 17, 2025
As Muslims fast from dawn to dusk during Ramadan, an important aspect of their faith is their role as stewards of God on Earth. One way Muslims do this is through the practice of Zakat, an obligatory kind of charity that’s one of the five pillars of Islam.
Zakat requires Muslims to give 2.5% of their wealth to eight prescribed categories: the poor; the needy; Zakat administrators; those whose hearts can be reconciled; to free the enslaved; to help those in debt; for travelers; and for the sake of God.
Muslims, however, worry that they are responsible to God to ensure that their Zakat is used by institutions in ways that would do good, while adhering to the theological requirements of this religious practice. Yet, my research shows that Muslim American nonprofits are taking steps to build trust with donors.
Zakat as a Communal Practice
Muslims see themselves as custodians of whatever they possess as gifts from God.
During their lifetime, they must use wealth responsibly and for good; upon their death, the Quran prescribes who can inherit their wealth.
One important aspect of how Muslims are supposed to use their wealth is through charity. Zakat is an obligatory charitable practice in which donations are traditionally channeled through institutions.
According to research my team conducted, nearly 70% of Muslims in the United States report giving Zakat during Ramadan. Ramadan is thus a critical time for nonprofits to solicit Zakat funds.
Historically, Zakat was given through central Zakat collection agencies, or “bait-ul-maals.” For example, at the time of the Prophet Muhammad and early Islamic rulers, Zakat collection and distribution was carried out by the government.
Today, Zakat collection and distribution varies from place to place. In six of the 47 Muslim-majority countries – Libya, Malaysia, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Sudan and Yemen – Zakat is obligatory and collected by the state. In Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait, Lebanon and Bangladesh, Zakat is regulated by the state, but contributions are voluntary.
Most countries do not have a formal Zakat collection agency and rely upon local nonprofits or individuals for the collection and distribution of Zakat.
Over time, due to distrust in Zakat collecting institutions and perceived corruption, the practice of Zakat has become more individual and less communal. The vast majority of Zakat across the globe is collected and distributed individually rather than through institutions. Scholars have argued that many fear that Zakat collecting institutions may not be using the funds ethically, impactfully and in accordance with Islamic requirements.
For example, according to the Hanafi school of thought, a Zakat collection agency can spend up to 12.5% of donation money on administrative costs; other schools of thought argue that Zakat should be administered at no cost.
Building Trust Through Transparency
Nonprofits are taking steps to build trust. For example, Muslim American charities were among the first to embrace Charity Navigator as a way to evaluate their impact.
Charity Navigator is a U.S.-based nonprofit that rates nonprofits. Many Muslim-led charities in the United States proudly display their “Four Star” Charity Navigator status.
My team has found that Muslim Americans are more likely to donate to nonprofits that the Internal Revenue Service has granted 501(c)(3) status. This is true even if they don’t claim the charitable deduction on their taxes and therefore cannot get tax breaks for their donations.
More recently, in my conversations with leading Muslim-led nonprofits, I learned that they are seeking to respond to Muslim concerns about how these nonprofits use Zakat funds. It is important for them that funds are used in compliance with Islamic religious requirements.
For example, they are looking at how nonprofits interpret what it means to be “needy,” “the poor,” “the enslaved” or “for the sake of God” in the contemporary context.
Many nonprofits are adopting Zakat policies that explain how they define these terms and how much of their budget covers their administrative costs. These include international organizations that are not led by Muslims, like the U.N. refugee agency, UNHCR, Save the Children, and the anti-poverty group Oxfam.
A Case Study
The Muslim Philanthropy Initiative at Indiana University, which I lead, convened a group of scholars in November 2024 to discuss challenges of collecting and distributing Zakat in the U.S. This discussion resulted in a report that sums up these conversations and examines the Zakat policy of the largest U.S. Muslim-led nonprofit: Islamic Relief USA.
Islamic Relief USA’s Zakat policy limits its administrative costs to 12%; it permits funding for both immediate and long-term projects and allows Zakat to be distributed not just as cash payments but also as goods and services. It does not discriminate on the basis of religion.
While not all scholars at the convening agreed with every aspect of the Islamic Relief USA Zakat policy, they accepted that diversity in Islamic thought permitted various approaches to Zakat. They also concurred that Islamic Relief USA’s process was likely the best framework for how nonprofits should approach the development of Zakat policies.
Ultimately, there was consensus that nonprofits seeking Zakat should have Zakat policies; should make them available on their websites; should state the process through which it was developed; and name the scholars and other experts who took part in the process.
Since a majority of American Muslims prefer to donate their Zakat during Ramadan, perhaps this might be the time when nonprofits can build trust through adopting more transparent Zakat policies.
Source:mississippifreepress.org
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https://www.mississippifreepress.org/opinion-why-muslim-american-nonprofits-are-taking-steps-to-build-trust-with-donors-during-ramadan/
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No evidence for Trump claim about 'void' Biden pardons and autopen
March 18, 2025
President Trump has said "many" pardons issued by Joe Biden are void because the former president signed them with "autopen" - a device which reproduces a person's signature - rather than by hand.
Trump did not provide evidence for his claim - which was posted on Truth Social.
BBC Verify has found several instances of Biden signing pardons by hand rather than by autopen.
And a sample presidential signature is used on US government documents when they are stored in the Federal Register - a digital archive. This was the case under Trump as well as under Biden.
Legal experts also told us that there is nothing in US law which would invalidate pardons signed by autopen.
Did Biden sign pardons using autopen?
On Truth Social, Trump said that: "The 'Pardons' that Sleepy Joe Biden gave to the Unselect Committee of Political Thugs, and many others, are hereby declared VOID, VACANT, AND OF NO FURTHER FORCE OR EFFECT, because of the fact that they were done by Autopen. In other words, Joe Biden did not sign them but, more importantly, he did not know anything about them!".
Trump didn't specify which pardons he was referring to but he has previously referred to the house select committee investigating the 6 January riots as the "unselect committee", and has criticised Biden for pardoning family members.
BBC Verify looked through official photographs of Biden in the White House and ones posted on the official White House X account and found a number of examples of him signing pardons by hand.
In October 2022, Biden was pictured signing an order pardoning those in jail for marijuana possession.
In the same year, he also signed a pardon for non-violent offenders.
It is not known whether Biden has signed any pardons only using autopen.
In May last year, CNN did report that he signed a bill for a one-week extension for federal aviation funding using autopen.
BBC Verify has asked Biden's office for his record of using autopen and the White House for the evidence behind Trump's claim.
Trump appears to have taken his cue from the Oversight Project - part of the Conservative think tank The Heritage Foundation - which has claimed that Biden's 19 January pardons - of some family members and political figures including Anthony Fauci - all had the same autopen signature.
We have asked the Heritage Foundation for its workings. Previously, it has highlighted other Biden documents which it says had autopen signatures, along with screenshots taken from the Federal Register.
The register is the official, daily publication of various presidential and other government documents - which all have a standard signature created from a single sample.
A National Archives spokesperson told the fact-checking website Snopes that: "At the beginning of each administration, the White House sends a sample of the President's signature to the Federal Register, which uses it to create the graphic image for all Presidential Documents published in the Federal Register,"
We looked through presidential documents archived by the Federal Register under both Trump administrations and found identical signatures on documents.
That includes Trump's pardons for the 6 January rioters.
Trump had already signed these pardons by hand, as this video showed in January.
Presidential pardons are also published by the US Department of Justice. We have asked it how these documents are archived.
Are documents signed with autopen legally binding?
Legal experts who we spoke to told us that there is nothing in US law which says official documents signed by US presidents - including pardons - are not legally binding if they were signed with autopen.
Andrew Moran, a politics professor at London Metropolitan University, says that previous presidents have used autopen before.
"On lower-level importance documents, it's not unusual for an autopen to be used.
"But I would have thought that with something as serious as a pardon Biden would have actually signed it [by hand]", he said.
A 2005 memo from the Department of Justice during the Bush administration stated that the President does not have to physically sign a bill for it to become law.
"The President may sign a bill within the meaning of Article I, Section 7 by directing a subordinate to affix the President's signature to such a bill, for example by autopen", the memo said.
Although George W. Bush did not use autopen himself, President Obama used it in 2011.
Autopen has also been used by earlier presidents including JFK and Harry Truman.
Can presidents declare pardons void?
Professor Erin Delaney, director of the Global Centre for Democratic Constitutionalism at UCL, says that an attempt by Trump to rescind Biden's pardons would be a "violation of unwritten constitutional norms".
Critically, he would not be able to pursue this action without prosecuting, or re-prosecuting the individuals who were given immunity, she argues.
Legally challenging Biden's pardons because of autopen would also call into question other aspects of US governance that use automatic signatures, such as bills passed by Congress and signed into law by the president, she added.
Professor Moran says that a president revoking his predecessor's pardon is extremely rare.
"Historically, the only example I'm aware of is towards the end of Andrew Johnson's presidency in the 1860s, when he issued some pardons which were revoked before they were accepted. But that's a very small number.
"If he [Trump] decides that he wants to go after the people who were pardoned, that will end up in the courts and then that would become the point where the constitution is really tested", he said.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdxqk1x0n5lo
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'Oopsie, too late' - US courts tested by Trump's latest deportations
March 18, 2025
On Saturday, the US government put hundreds of Venezuelans on planes which swiftly took off for the accused gang members' ultimate destination: an El Salvadorean mega-prison.
A judge then ordered the planes back, telling the government's lawyers verbally that they should do so "however that's accomplished — whether turning around the plane or not."
But the court order was never heeded, the planes stayed the course.
"Oopsie…too late," El Salvador's president, Nayib Bukele, posted on X after the deportees landed in his country. He included an emoji crying with laughter. The post was reshared by the White House's director of communications, Steven Cheung.
Little information has been provided about the identities of those detained, but a large number were Venezuelan and the Trump administration alleges the deportees – apparently rounded up at the weekend - are all members of Tren de Aragua, a notorious transnational criminal gang. Attorneys for some of the deportees refute that claim and human rights groups have raised concerns about the lack of due process.
This incident has ignited fears that the White House is willing to openly defy a federal court order, setting it on a potential collision course with America's judicial branch.
In America's system of government checks and balances, federal courts in the judicial branch have the responsibility of reviewing actions by the president and the government agencies in the executive branch tasked with enacting laws passed by Congress. An order issued by a judge is binding - and noncompliance can result in civil and criminal sanctions.
It very rarely gets that far, however, as involved parties traditionally defer to a judge's ruling.
White House officials said it did not purposely ignore a court ruling. They argued, in part, that because Judge James Boasberg's order was made orally rather than in written form, it was not enforceable - and that the planes had already left the US by the time it was issued.
Legal scholars have kept a close eye on the White House's reaction to judges across the country who have paused or blocked its actions, including the mass firings of federal employees and broad freezing of federal funds. Several of Donald Trump's early moves in his second term indicate a willingness to test the limits of presidential power, and constitutional scholars have watched for signs the president will openly defy the nation's courts.
"The Trump administration is pushing the bounds of executive authority, especially on immigration issues," said Elora Mukherjee, director of the Immigrants' Rights Clinic at Columbia Law School.
"When the executive branch wilfully disregards clear and specific court orders, as the administration did with the [Venezuelan] deportation flights, the checks-and-balances system established by the U.S. Constitution is at risk, and our constitutional democracy is threatened," she said.
The federal judge involved in Saturday's ruling – Judge Boasberg – made his order after five Venezuelans in federal custody filed a lawsuit challenging their removal under an 18th century law that has not been used since World War Two. The Alien Enemies Act of 1798 allows the president sweeping powers to order the detention and deportation of natives or citizens of an "enemy" nation without following the usual processes.
According to US officials, more than 130 of those on the Venezuelan deportation flights were also expelled under that law, a move seemingly crafted to move quickly and evade immediate judicial review.
Lee Gelernt, deputy director of the American Civil Liberties Union's Immigrant's Rights Project, told the BBC this weekend that he believed the Trump administration had improperly invoked the 1798 act.
"The other dangerous part of this is that the government is saying the federal courts have no role in this, that the federal courts in the United States can't review what President Trump has done," he added. "That's a very, very dangerous argument."
At a Monday hearing, Judge Boasberg demanded answers about the timing of the flights in relation to his order that the planes return to the US. Trump administration officials asserted that they respected court orders and followed the law, arguing that "an oral directive is not enforceable as an injunction". The judge ordered further details about the flights by noon Tuesday and another hearing Friday.
There is also growing frustration within the White House, and among conservatives in general, over what they view as lower-level judges overstepping their authority in delaying or suspending the implementation of the president's executive orders. A ruling by a federal judge in one state can put an immediate hold on a policy being implemented across the country.
"It's a judge that's putting himself in the position of the president of the United States, who was elected by close to 80 million votes," Trump said on Sunday in response to a federal judge's order to suspend his firing of thousands of federal workers. "That's a very dangerous thing for our country. And I would suspect that we're going to have to get a decision from the Supreme Court."
The nine-member US Supreme Court, with its conservative majority, including three justices appointed by Trump in his first term, could be poised as the ultimate arbiter of this growing number of legal battles.
Last week, the Trump administration asked the high court to step in and overturn a lower court's suspension of an order revoking automatic citizenship for the children of undocumented migrants born on US soil. That request is still pending.
Trump's efforts to downsize the federal workforce, shutter federal agencies, suspend refugee admissions and asylum claims, and freeze government loans and grants are all working their way through the US court system at varying speed. Each has its own distinct legal issues, but all also involve the ability of judges to delay, and scrutinise, presidential action.
With the Venezuelan deportees already in El Salvador, Judge Boasberg may have limited ability to address their fate - but he could attempt to sanction Trump administration officials if he determines they defied his order.
That may be a legal fight Trump is happy to wage, confident that the political benefit of being seen removing what he argues are dangerous criminal gang members will outweigh any legal setbacks along the way.
"A single judge in a single city cannot direct the movements of an aircraft carrying foreign alien terrorists who were physically expelled from U.S. soil", White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Monday in response to the furore.
Previous presidents, both Democratic and Republican, have frequently complained of being hampered by low-level judges that issue sweeping rulings undermining their policy-making efforts. Some have questioned their authority to do so. In the months ahead, Trump may be the one who pushes this conflict to a more definitive resolution.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9wpek7p0kno
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Texas authorities arrest midwife for allegedly providing abortions
March 18, 2025
A midwife in Texas has been arrested for allegedly providing illegal abortions and operating a network of unlawful clinics in the Houston area.
Maria Margarita Rojas has been charged with providing an abortion and practising medicine without a licence, according to the office of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.
Authorities accused Ms Rojas, 48, of operating multiple clinics in Houston where she allegedly performed illegal abortions in her clinic, violating the state's restrictive abortion laws.
Ms Rojas faces second-degree felony charges, which carry a sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $10,000 (£7,700) if convicted.
Under the Texas Human Life Protection Act - a 2021 law that bans abortion in most cases - state authorities can also fine Ms Rojas at least $100,000 "per violation".
In a news release on Monday announcing the arrest, Attorney General Paxton said that "Texas law protecting life is clear, and we will hold those who violate it accountable".
"I will always do everything in my power to protect the unborn, defend our state's pro-life laws, and work to ensure that unlicensed individuals endangering the lives of women by performing illegal abortions are fully prosecuted," Paxton said.
He added that Texas law holds abortion providers, not patients, "criminally responsible" for unlawful procedures.
In Texas, physicians are barred from performing an abortion once a foetal heartbeat is detected, usually around six weeks into a pregnancy - before many realise they are pregnant. There are exceptions if the life or health of the pregnant patient is at risk, but not in cases of rape or incest.
The state's supreme court unanimously rejected a challenge last year from 20 women who said they were denied medically necessary abortions under Texas law.
Paxton's office said Ms Rojas, who they allege is known as "Dr Maria", operated multiple clinics in north-west Houston.
She employed "unlicensed individuals" and performed "illegal abortion procedures", according to the allegations.
Authorities said they have filed a temporary restraining order to shut down the clinics.
Holly Shearman, a midwife who runs a birth centre where Ms Rojas worked part-time, told the Texas Tribune that she was "shocked" by news of the arrest.
According to the Texas-based news website, Ms Shearman said Ms Rojas was a devout Catholic who provided prenatal care to a primarily Spanish-speaking, low-income community.
"I don't believe it for one second," she said of the allegations.
Ms Rojas' arrest is believed to be one of the first criminal prosecutions under the Texas abortion ban. The state attorney general's office said she was taken into custody in Waller County, and it is unclear if she has a lawyer yet.
Last year, Paxton's office filed a lawsuit against a New York-based abortion provider for allegedly posting abortion pills to a Texan. That same doctor was indicted earlier this year in the state on a charge of criminal abortion.
New York has shield laws, which aim to protect providers who provide abortion to patients in other states. New York Gov Kathy Hochul has said the state has no plans to allow for Dr Margaret Daley Carpenter's extradition to Texas.
She called the case "outrageous" and said Republicans were trying to stymie access to abortion across the US.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c74kr8vp4w0o
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White House denies defying judge's order over deportations to El Salvador
March 18, 2025
The White House has denied an accusation from rights groups that it flouted due process by defying a judge's order while carrying out deportations at the weekend.
A group of 238 alleged Venezuelan gang members, plus 23 alleged members of the international MS-13 gang, were sent from the US to a prison in El Salvador. Some were removed from the country under a law not invoked since World War Two.
The move came despite a temporary block issued by a judge. The White House said the judge's order itself was not lawful and was issued after the group was deported.
Neither the US government nor El Salvador has identified the detainees, or provided details of their alleged criminality or gang membership.
Announcing the move on Saturday, the day after he signed it, Trump accused the gang Tren de Aragua (TdA) of "perpetrating, attempting, and threatening an invasion or predatory incursion against the territory of the United States".
He cited the Alien Enemies Act - a piece of legislation that dates to 1798, which was designed to allow non-citizens to be deported in times of war or invasion. Campaigners have questioned Trump's justification.
The act was used to process 137 of the total of 261 people who were deported, the White House said on Monday.
The basis on which the other deportees were removed from the US remains unclear, and details of the group as a whole have not been disclosed.
Several relatives of men believed to be among the group told the New York Times that their loved ones did not have gang ties.
The White House, for its part, has insisted that authorities are "sure" that the detainees were gang members, based on intelligence.
The case raises constitutional questions since, under the US system of checks and balances, government agencies are expected to comply with a federal judge's ruling.
A hearing to ascertain more information about the Trump administration's use of the Alien Enemies Act is taking place on Monday afternoon.
The order to halt the deportations came from US District Judge James Boasberg on Saturday evening, who demanded a 14-day pause pending further legal arguments.
After lawyers told him that planes with deportees had already taken off, the judge reportedly gave a verbal order for the flights to turn back, although that directive did not form part of his written ruling.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt denied the court ruling had been broken.
"The administration did not 'refuse to comply' with a court order," she said. "The order, which had no lawful basis, was issued after terrorist TdA [Tren de Aragua] aliens had already been removed from US territory."
The justice department echoed Leavitt, saying the deportees had already left before the judge's ruling - which it has appealed against.
But a timeline of events reported by US media suggests the Trump administration appears to have had the opportunity to stop at least some of the deportations.
A reported timeline of the 15 March deportations
17:25 EDT: A first flight believed to be carrying deportees leaves Texas, according to data from tracking site Flightradar24. Takeoff happens while a hearing held by Judge Boasberg is paused. Earlier that afternoon, the White House said Trump was invoking the Alien Enemies Act
17:44 EDT: A second flight believed to be carrying deportees leaves Texas, according to Flightradar24
18:05 EDT: Boasberg's hearing resumes and the government declines to say if deportations are ongoing, according to ABC News
18:46 EDT: Boasberg orders the government to turn around the two planes if they are carrying non-citizens, according to ABC
19:26 EDT: Boasberg issues his written order for a temporary restraining order, according to ABC
19:36 EDT: A third flight believed to be carrying deportees leaves Texas, according to Flightradar24
Trump's border tsar, Tom Homan, told reporters at the White House on Monday that Trump did "exactly the right thing".
"The plane was already over international waters with a plane full of terrorists and significant public safety threats," he said. "We removed terrorists. That should be celebrated in this country."
El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele confirmed the arrival of deportees. "Oopsie... Too late," he said of the judge's order, writing on social media. His team also published footage of some of the men inside one of its mega-jails.
According to the White House, El Salvador's government received $6m (£4.62m) to take the detainees, which Leavitt said "is pennies on the dollar" compared to the cost of confining them in US prisons.
Rights groups accused Trump of using a 227-year-old law to circumvent due process.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) questioned Trump's use of a sweeping wartime authority which allows fast-track deportations. "I think we're in very dangerous territory here in the United States with the invocation of this law," said Lee Gelernt from the organisation.
The Alien Enemies Act only allowed deportations when the US was in a declared war with that foreign government, or was being invaded, Mr Gelernt said. "A gang is not invading," he told BBC News.
The act was last used during World War Two to intern Japanese-American civilians.
Making matters worse was the fact "the administration is saying nobody can review what they're doing", Mr Gelernt added.
Meanwhile, Amnesty International USA said the deportations were "yet another example of the Trump administration's racist targeting" of Venezuelans "based on sweeping claims of gang affiliation".
Venezuela itself criticised Trump, saying he "unjustly criminalises Venezuelan migration".
The latest deportations under Trump's second term are part of the president's long-running campaign against illegal immigration.
The US president has also moved to strengthen ties with El Salvador.
The two gangs targeted with the weekend deportations were declared "foreign terrorist organisations" by Trump after returning to the White House in January.
Source:bbc.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cr5219ezjrpo
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Southeast Asia
Jakim: Facebook user ‘Ainon Mohd’ reprimanded, apologises over post allegedly insulting Prophet Muhammad
18 Mar 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, March 18 — The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) today summoned the owner of the Facebook account “Ainon Mohd” over a post allegedly insulting Prophet Muhammad.
In a Facebook post, the department said officers from the Federal Territories Mufti Office and the Selangor State Mufti Department were also present at the meeting.
“JAKIM reprimanded her, urged her to remove the post, and advised her to be cautious when sharing content related to Islam, while recommending that she consult authorities to avoid disseminating inaccurate information.
“She agreed to take down the post from social media, apologised, and promised not to do it again, assuring that she would be more careful with her writing,” said the post.
JAKIM also urged all parties to refrain from raising issues that could cause confusion or public anxiety, tarnish the dignity of Prophet Muhammad as the messenger of Allah SWT, or disrupt harmony among Muslims in the country.
“JAKIM appreciates the efforts of those in Malaysia’s book publishing industry in engaging with the public through this medium, which also serves as a platform for dakwah.
“However, JAKIM urges all parties to exercise caution and avoid arbitrarily attributing matters to Prophet Muhammad SAW, to uphold the sanctity of his name and his dignity as the messenger of Allah SWT,” read the post.
Earlier, the media reported that police had received 13 reports nationwide against a book author, who is also an entrepreneur, over a Facebook post allegedly insulting Prophet Muhammad.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said police had referred the case to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to remove the post from the woman’s Facebook account, as it could mislead readers. — Bernama
Source:malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/03/18/jakim-facebook-user-ainon-mohd-reprimanded-apologises-over-post-allegedly-insulting-prophet-muhammad/169963
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Over 60 tonnes of surplus food saved from landfills during Ramadan last year through MySaveFood programme
18 Mar 2025
MELAKA, March 18 — A total of 60.7 tonnes of surplus food, valued at an estimated RM726,000 was saved from being discarded through the MySaveFood Programme during Ramadan last year.
Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation (SWCorp) chief executive officer Khalid Mohamed said the initiative was carried out at 149 Ramadan bazaars in Perlis, Kedah, Pahang, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Johor and the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur.
He said the surplus food saved involved unsold food by the Ramadan bazaar traders which was then distributed to various parties including students at institutions of higher learning, surau, mosques and housing estates.
“This year, we anticipate saving a similar amount of food as last year. In Melaka alone, within just a few days, 4.8 tonnes of surplus food and beverages have already been salvaged from being disposed of.
“The surplus food and beverages will be distributed to the needy, helping to reduce waste,” he told reporters after the Ramadan MySaveFood Programme at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) Ramadan Bazaar here last night.
Also present were SWCorp deputy chief executive officer (Technical) Zulkifli Tamby Chik and its Melaka director Nor Zaki Md Nor.
Khalid highlighted that the MySaveFood Ramadan Programme not only helps prevent food waste but also reduces the volume of solid waste sent to landfills in the participating states.
“Overall, we found that the amount of waste disposed of at landfills in the seven states involved has decreased by 2.7 per cent during Ramadan compared to other months.
“This reduction demonstrates the success of the Ramadan MySaveFood Programme in minimising waste while benefiting both traders and recipients of the surplus food,” he said.
Meanwhile, he said that in Melaka alone, the average daily surplus food and beverages saved at the four Ramadan bazaars involved, namely MITC, Peringgit, Jasin Bestari and Alor Gajah, is 600 kilogrammes (kg) per day.
He said that a total of 5,304 kg of food and beverages were saved at the four Ramadan bazaars since the programme was carried out last March 10. — Bernama
Source:malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/03/18/over-60-tonnes-of-surplus-food-saved-from-landfills-during-ramadan-last-year-through-mysavefood-programme/169977
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Mimifly's 'Serumpun' music video un-Islamic: Amanah Women leader
Mar 17, 2025
An Amanah women’s wing leader has condemned the music video of local pop singer Mimifly’s Aidilfitri song “Serumpun” for being un-Islamic.
Federal Territories Amanah Women chief Rafiza Askolani called on the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) and Communications Ministry to meet Mimifly and her production team to reprimand them.
“Federal Territories Amanah women’s wing also suggests that the music video be taken down from social media because it is clearly insulting and misleading to the community.
“Although the singer has already made an apology, the music video remains on social media platforms and it will give the wrong impression about the sanctity of Islam and the celebration of Aidilfitri,” she added.
The title “Serumpun” refers to a Malay and Indonesian saying which means “of the same root”, alluding to the two cultures' shared roots.
Mimifly, a 38-year-old whose name is Shamimi Amalina Norisham, uploaded the two-minute and 53-second video on YouTube on March 14.
Earlier today, Harian Metro reported that the singer had apologised for her video.
Rafiza also commented on Mimifly’s wardrobe in the music video, saying the singer was dressed “berkemban”.
This refers to a style in which a sarong is tied at chest level, leaving the shoulders bare. The sarong was used like a towel to cover the body before and after baths back when showers were conducted outside the home.
In her apology, Mimifly explained that she was drawn to the comfort and aesthetic style of Malay clothing from the past.
Hindu goddess-like dance
Besides that, Rafiza criticised Mimifly for a section in the video in which the singer was in the foreground and a few dancers were hidden behind her, stretching out their arms.
This dance technique focuses on the person in front and makes them look as if they have many extra arms. It references the Dance of Thousand-hand Guanyin.
Rafiza claimed this made Mimifly look like the Hindu goddess Durga, who is depicted with many arms.
Before Islamisation during the sultanate era, some Malays were Hindu due to South Asian influence.
Hindu and South Asian influences can still be seen in traditional Malay dances and attire, along with Sanskrit words in the Malay language.
Rafiza went on to highlight Aidilfitri’s religious significance.
“Hari Raya Aidilfitri is not a cultural or racial celebration. Hari Raya Aidilfitri itself in Islam is a day to magnify Allah,” she asserted.
She urged all artists to consider all sensitivities, including those related to Islam, before producing their work.
Source:malaysiakini.com
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Hindu mum seeks to remove Muslim status from 2 kids' Mykad
Mar 17, 2025
A mother has turned to the civil court to reverse the National Registration Department’s (NRD) alleged refusal to remove the Muslim status from her two children’s MyKad, even though a Syariah High Court had affirmed that she was never a Muslim.
The 47-year-old’s judicial review application said her two children were each born with birth certificates stating their religion as Islam on March 11, 2009, and March 1, 2012, to a Hindu man whom she ended up marrying two years ago.
In her affidavit sighted by Malaysiakini, the Muar-born said that in 2017 she turned to the religious court for a declaration she was never a Muslim, which was granted on May 23, 2023 (she married her husband six months later).
(Among the enclosed exhibits in the judicial review leave application were copies of the two children’s birth certificates, which stated their religion as Islam while the name of their father was stated as information not obtained.)
The mother claimed that the issue started last year when the NRD allegedly refused to allow her applications to amend her two children’s MyKad to remove their Muslim status.
The applicant questioned this as the NRD had no issue amending her own MyKad to remove her Muslim status as well as change her name from an Islamic name to a Hindu name, following the Syariah Court ruling.
She pointed out that the NRD’s refusal to amend her two children’s MyKad amounted to a violation of her fundamental right to determine the religion of her children aged below 18, which is safeguarded by Article 12(4) of the Federal Constitution.
“Therefore, the first respondent’s (NRD) decisions (to refuse her two applications to amend her children’s MyKad) are neither reasonable nor rational when the first respondent failed to fully give effect to my right under the Federal Constitution, especially Article 12(4),” the mother contended in the civil action against NRD, the home minister, and the federal government.
When contacted by Malaysiakini, the mother’s counsel Rajesh Nagarajan reiterated that it is his client’s constitutional right to determine the religion of her children as it is guaranteed under Article 12(4).
“It is irrelevant what the religion may be. The right is constitutional and cannot be derogated upon,” the lawyer said.
Malaysiakini is attempting to contact the Attorney-General’s Chambers, which normally represents the three respondents in similar past actions, for a response.
Source:malaysiakini.com
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Term limits can be discussed but PM must be Muslim, says PAS leader
Mar 17, 2025
A senior PAS leader today indicated willingness to discuss limiting the prime minister’s tenure, but with a condition: only a Muslim can hold the position.
PAS assistant secretary-general 3 Syahir Sulaiman said the condition is justified and necessary given the status of Islam as the religion of the federation.
“Constitution: Limiting PM (tenure) to two terms, can be discussed.
“Set (a condition) that the prime minister must be a Muslim, we can discuss this too.
“This is sensible and based on necessity; Islam is the official religion of the federation,” the Bachok MP said on Facebook.
It is believed that he was responding to DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke, who yesterday suggested the government implement several promised reforms which have yet to be fulfilled, including limiting a prime minister’s term in office, and separation of judicial powers.
Syahir was the second prominent PAS leader to have openly commented about the matter after PAS Youth chief Afnan Hamimi Hamimi Taib Azamudden.
Afnan in a Facebook post yesterday made a racially charged response towards Loke’s suggestion, which he viewed as an attempt by the “minority” to control the “majority” by allegedly dismantling the Constitution.
Source:malaysiakini.com
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Mohd Na’im calls for global condemnation over attack on humanitarian workers
Bernama
18-03- 2025
KUALA LUMPUR: The attacks on humanitarian workers delivering aid are unacceptable crimes that must be condemned by the global community, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar.
Expressing his deep sorrow and strong condemnation of the tragic incident involving humanitarian workers from the Malaysian Consultative Council of Islamic Organisation (MAPIM), Mohd Na’im said that the cruel and inhumane act was a blatant violation of fundamental human principles.Malaysian tourism guides
“This act by Israel is a blatant violation of international law and the Geneva Convention, which explicitly safeguards humanitarian workers in conflict zones,” he said in a statement today.
He stressed that agencies under his ministry will continue to support Palestine. At the same time, he urged the global community not to remain silent in the face of these ongoing atrocities, which only deepen the suffering of the long-oppressed Palestinian people.
As such, he encouraged Malaysians to pray and recite Qunut Nazilah for Palestine’s success while maintaining their support for the cause.
“Let us unite in providing donations and humanitarian aid to help ease the hardships faced by our brothers and sisters in Gaza amid ongoing oppression.
“Together, let us pray for the protection and well-being of the Palestinian people and the brave humanitarian workers who risk their lives to help them,“ he said.
On Saturday (March 15), eight MAPIM humanitarian workers were killed in an airstrike by the Israeli regime in Beit Lahiya, northern Gaza.
MAPIM chief executive officer Datuk Dr Sani Araby Abdul Alim Araby announced that the attack occurred at 1.30 pm, when the workers were setting up tents to house families displaced by the ongoing Israeli attacks.
The eight humanitarian workers who died were identified as Mahmoud Yahya Al-Sarraj, Bilal Hossam Oqeila, Mahmoud Samir Oselim, Mahmoud Khaled Oselim, Mohammed Al-Ghafeer, Hazem Ghareeb, Bilal Abu Matar and Ahmad Hamad, all of whom were Palestinians.
Source:thesun.my
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Senior citizen loses over RM60,000 to investment scam
Bernama
18-03- 2025
KUALA TERENGGANU: A senior citizen lost RM62,109 after falling victim to a non-existent investment syndicate.
Kuala Terengganu police chief ACP Azli Mohd Noor said the 73-year-old man received a text message on Feb 28 from an unknown number promoting an attractive investment opportunity.
Through the advertisement, the victim was offered an investment scheme requiring an initial deposit of RM400, with a promised return of RM8,500 within 48 hours.
“After making the initial investment, the victim was instructed to make additional payments, purportedly for wages and processing fees related to the profit payout.
“Believing the scheme to be genuine, he used his savings from his time working at a newspaper company to make 18 transactions to nine different bank accounts, amounting to RM62,109,” he said in a statement today.
However, upon realising he had been scammed, the victim lodged a police report at the Kuala Terengganu district police headquarters (IPD) at 1 pm yesterday.
Azli added that the case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code.
Source:thesun.my
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Who will be the next IGP? Could Ayob Khan be the front-runner after Razarudin’s tenure ends in June?
18 Mar 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, March 18 — Tan Sri Razarudin Husain is set to conclude his tenure as Inspector-General of Police (IGP) this June after serving for two years.
It remains uncertain whether his contract will be extended or if he will be succeeded by his deputy, Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, as reported by Berita Harian (BH) today.
As the second-in-command of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Ayob Khan, 59, is widely seen as the leading candidate to succeed the 62-year-old Razarudin. However, the final decision will only be confirmed in June, when the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim, approves the candidate recommended following a meeting of the Police Force Commission (SPP).
BH also reported that, in addition to the change in the IGP position, PDRM will undergo a major leadership reshuffle, with six department directors at Bukit Aman retiring this year.
On March 14, Datuk Seri Khaw Kok Chin, the Director of the Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (NCID), retired. The next director set to retire is Datuk Seri Ramli Mohamed Yoosuf, the Director of the Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID), who will complete his service on Thursday.
The other directors scheduled for retirement include Datuk Seri Azri Ahmad, Director of the Integrity and Standards Compliance Department; Datuk Seri Sahabudin Abd Manan, Director of the Logistics and Technology Department; Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail, Director of the Special Branch, and Datuk Seri Azmi Abu Kassim, Director of the Internal Security and Public Order Department.
According to BH, if Ayob Khan, who turns 60 next year, is appointed as the new IGP, his current deputy position will likely be filled by Azmi Abu Kassim.
Source:malaymail.com
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PM Anwar: Foreign State Immunity Act key to boosting investor confidence, protecting national security
18 Mar 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, March 18 —In a Facebook post, the prime minister said the enforcement of the Act on Aug 30 last year also reflects the principles of public international law concerning state immunity.
He said the Act is crucial to ensuring Malaysia remains competitive on the international stage, ultimately boosting the economy and safeguarding national security. It is also a step toward increasing investor confidence in Malaysia’s legal framework, which offers them protection.
“This is also part of institutional reform efforts, where Malaysia formally adopts customary international law, which establishes that a state is protected from legal actions and proceedings in foreign courts,” he said.
Earlier, the prime minister chaired the first Foreign State Immunity Council Meeting for 2025, following the enactment of the Jurisdictional Immunities of Foreign States Act 2024 (Act 853).
He said the meeting aimed to provide an overview of the council’s functions, powers and membership while also discussing the process of applying for immunity under Act 853. — Bernama
Source:malaymail.com
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Mideast
Israel strikes southern Syria: state media, monitor
March 17, 2025
DAMASCUS: Israel struck the area of Syria’s southern city of Daraa, the state news agency SANA reported, with a war monitor saying the latest Israeli attack targeted a military site.
“Israeli occupation jets launch air strikes targeting the surroundings of Daraa city,” said Damascus’s official news agency SANA, without immediately providing further details.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor said Israel targeted a military site once belonging to ousted president Bashar Assad’s army but now used by the forces of Syria’s new authorities.
The Britain-based Observatory reported that a fire broke out, with ambulances rushing to the scene amid reports of casualties.
Since Assad’s overthrow in December, Israel has carried out hundreds of air strikes in Syria and deployed troops to a UN-patrolled buffer zone on the strategic Golan Heights.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said the air force conducted a strike on Damascus on Thursday, with the military saying it had hit a “command center” of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group.
The Observatory reported one fatality in that strike, with SANA saying it targeted a building in the capital.
The Israeli military said the “command center was used to plan and direct terrorist activities by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad” against Israel.
A source in Islamic Jihad said a building belonging to the group had been hit by Israeli jets, adding there were “martyrs and wounded” in the strike.
Ismail Sindawi, Islamic Jihad’s representative in Syria, told AFP the targeted building had been “closed for five years and nobody from the movement frequented it.” Israel was just sending a message, Sindawi said.
Even before Assad’s fall, during the Syrian civil war that broke out in 2011, Israel carried out hundreds of strikes in the country, mainly on government forces and Iranian-linked targets.
Source:arabnews.com
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Israel hits Gaza with new airstrikes that kill at least 200 after truce talks stall
March 18, 2025
DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip: Israel launched a wave of airstrikes across the Gaza Strip early Tuesday, saying it was striking dozens of Hamas targets in its heaviest assault in the territory since a ceasefire took effect in January. Palestinian officials reported at least 200 deaths.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he ordered the strikes because of a lack of progress in talks to extend the ceasefire. Officials said the operation was open-ended and was expected to expand. The White House said it had been consulted and voiced support for Israel’s actions.
“Israel will, from now on, act against Hamas with increasing military strength,” Netanyahu’s office said.
The surprise attack shattered a period of relative calm during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and raised the prospect of a full return to fighting in a 17-month war that has killed tens of thousands of Palestinians and caused widespread destruction across Gaza. It also raised questions about the fate of the roughly two dozen Israeli hostages held by Hamas who are believed to still be alive.
Hamas accused Netanyahu of upending the ceasefire agreement and exposing the hostages “to an unknown fate.” In a statement, it called on mediators to hold Israel “fully responsible for violating and overturning the agreement.”
In the southern city of Khan Younis, Associated Press reporters saw explosions and plumes of smoke. Ambulances brought wounded people to Nasser Hospital, where patients lay on the floor, some screaming. A young boy sat with a bandage around his head as a health worker checked for more injuries, a young girl cried as her bloody arm was bandaged.
Many Palestinians said they had expected a return to war when talks over the second phase of the ceasefire did not begin as scheduled in early February. Israel instead embraced an alternative proposal and cut off all shipments of food, fuel and other aid to the territory’s 2 million Palestinians to try to pressure Hamas to accept it.
“Nobody wants to fight,” Palestinian resident Nidal Alzaanin said by phone from Gaza City. “Everyone is still suffering from the previous months,” he said.
US backs Israel and blames Hamas
The White House sought to blame Hamas for the renewed fighting. National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes said the militant group “could have released hostages to extend the ceasefire but instead chose refusal and war.”
US envoy Steve Witkoff, who has been leading mediation efforts along with Egypt and Qatar, had earlier warned that Hamas must release living hostages immediately “or pay a severe price.”
An Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the unfolding operation, said Israel was striking Hamas’ military, leaders and infrastructure and planned to expand the operation beyond air attacks. The official accused Hamas of attempting to rebuild and plan new attacks. Hamas militants and security forces quickly returned to the streets in recent weeks after the ceasefire went into effect.
Israel’s defense minister, Israel Katz, said the “gates of hell will open in Gaza” if the hostages aren’t released. “We will not stop fighting until all of our hostages are home and we have achieved all of the war goals,” he said.
Explosions could be heard throughout Gaza. Khalil Degran, a spokesman for the Health Ministry based at the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in central Gaza, said at least 200 people had been killed. The territory’s civil defense agency said its crews were having a difficult time carrying out rescue efforts because various areas were being targeted simultaneously.
Talks on a second phase of the ceasefire had stalled
The strikes came two months after a ceasefire was reached to pause the war. Over six weeks, Hamas released 25 Israeli hostages and the bodies of eight more in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners in a first phase of the ceasefire.
But since that ceasefire ended two weeks ago, the sides have not been able to agree on a way forward with a second phase aimed at releasing the 59 remaining hostages, 35 of whom are believed to be dead, and ending the war altogether.
Hamas has demanded an end to the war and full withdrawal of Israeli troops in exchange for the release of the remaining hostages. Israel says it will not end the war until it destroys Hamas’ governing and military capabilities and frees all hostages.
Netanyahu has repeatedly threatened to resume the war.
“This comes after Hamas repeatedly refused to release our hostages and rejected all offers it received from the US presidential envoy, Steve Witkoff, and from the mediators,” Netanyahu’s office said early Tuesday.
Taher Nunu, a Hamas official, criticized the Israeli attacks. “The international community faces a moral test: either it allows the return of the crimes committed by the occupation army or it enforces a commitment to ending the aggression and war against innocent people in Gaza,” he said.
Gaza already in a humanitarian crisis
The war erupted when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking 251 hostages. Most have been released in ceasefires or other deals, with Israeli forces rescuing only eight and recovering dozens of bodies.
Israel responded with a military offensive that killed over 48,000 Palestinians, according to local health officials, and displaced an estimated 90 percent of Gaza’s population. The territory’s Health Ministry doesn’t differentiate between civilians and militants, but says over half of the dead have been women and children.
The ceasefire had brought some relief to Gaza and allowed hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians to resume to what remained of their homes.
A renewed Israeli ground offensive could also be especially deadly now that so many Palestinian civilians have returned home. Before the ceasefire, civilians were largely concentrated in tent camps meant to provide relative safety from the fighting.
The return to fighting could also worsen deep internal fissures inside Israel over the fate of the remaining hostages. Many of the hostages released by Hamas returned emaciated and malnourished, putting heavy pressure on the government to extend the ceasefire.
The released hostages have repeatedly implored the government to press ahead with the ceasefire to return all remaining hostages, and tens of thousands of Israelis have taken part in mass demonstrations calling for a ceasefire and return of all hostages.
Source:arabnews.com
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Settlers storm Al-Aqsa Mosque, perform Talmudic rituals
17 Mar 2025
Dozens of Zionist settlers stormed Al-Aqsa Mosque this Monday morning, through the Mughrabi Gate, under heavy guard from Israeli occupation forces.
The Islamic Endowments Department in occupied Quds told the Palestinian Safa News Agency that dozens of settlers stormed Al-Aqsa Mosque through the Mughrabi Gate and toured its courtyards.
The department explained that the intruders performed Talmudic rituals in the eastern area of the mosque.
Source:saba.ye
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70,000 Perform Isha, Tarawih prayers at al-Aqsa Mosque
17 Mar 2025
70,000 Palestinian worshippers performed Isha and Tarawih prayers on the 17th day of the holy month of Ramadan at al-Aqsa Mosque, despite the strict military measures imposed by the Zionist enemy authorities.
The Islamic Endowments Department in al-Quds stated in a brief statement that approximately 70,000 worshippers performed Isha and Tarawih prayers at al-Aqsa Mosque, the majority of whom were residents of the Holy City and from within the 1948 territories.
The Zionist enemy authorities prevent thousands of Palestinians from the West Bank governorates from reaching al-Quds to perform prayers at al-Aqsa Mosque.
Source:saba.ye
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Some 150,000 benefit from Awqaf's Iftar tables during Ramadan
18 Mar 2025
Doha: The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs (Awqaf) revealed that 150,000 fasting individuals have incredibly benefited from Iftar tables organized at the Thursday and Friday Souq, Al Wakrah, Al Khor, and Al Sailiya, with four tables for each.
In a statement on Monday, Awqaf highlighted that these tables are served as part of the Iftar project for fasting individuals it organizes with the intent of helping those in need, pointing out that such a project this year draws approximately 300,000 fasting individuals, distributed to a variety of regions statewide, in pursuit of promoting the precepts of social interdependence and mercy among the community members.
Chairman of the Iftar committee at Awqaf, Muhammad Yaqoub Al Ali, said the project seeks nearness to Allah, the Almighty, through this charitable work, revives the Prophetic Sunnah in feeding fasting individuals, offers the chance for benefactors to earn virtuous deeds, helps those in need perform the prescribed fasting pillar, and operationalizes endowments and contributions of benefactors through secure channels.
Iftar tables incredibly provide the opportunity for individuals to get familiarized with educational contents that are profoundly beneficial for the Qatari community, in addition to forging effective partnerships with official entities in the State of Qatar to serve the community, as well as reinvigorating the domestic economy, Al Ali said.
He highlighted that the project offers the highest quality of integrated meals, which are prepared in comfortable, air-conditioned places to ensure a serene and joyful experience, emphasizing that Iftar tents are organized through a specialized committee, from which task forces are formed, with some responsible for managing and organizing the site, while others are dedicated to meal preparation and catering services.
Al Ali stated that Awqaf collaborates with relevant public agencies such as the Ministry of Municipality and the Ministry of Interior to ensure success, affirming that the project has been receiving contributions from benefactors, stemming from the Sharia evidence that confirms serving Iftar meals to achieve nearness to Allah, the Almighty, and ultimately earn the intended charitable deeds during this holy month.
He added that those who wish to contribute to these Iftar tables can choose the area they would like to support and participate through the projects online link:
Source:awqaf.gov.qa
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North Korea condemns US strikes against Yemen, KCNA says
March 18, 2025
SEOUL: North Korea condemned recent US strikes on Yemen as an act violating international law and a country’s sovereignty and said such a move could never be justified in any way, the North’s state media quoted on Tuesday its ambassador to Yemen as saying.
The large-scale US strikes were launched by President Donald Trump last week targeting Iran-aligned Houthis over the group’s attacks on Red Sea shipping. The Houthi-run health ministry said the strikes killed at least 53 people including women and children.
The North Korean ambassador, Ma Dong Hui, who the KCNA state news agency said was also Pyongyang’s envoy to Egypt, said Washington “indiscriminately” targeted civilians and property by mobilizing air and navy forces including an aircraft carrier.
“The military attack by the United States is a violent violation of the UN Charter and international law, and is a blatant infringement on the territorial sovereignty of another country that cannot be justified by any means,” Ma said.
“I express grave concern about the illegal and reckless military actions by the United States, which is obsessed with realizing geopolitical ambitions ... and I strongly condemn and reject them.”
The US Defense Department said the strikes hit more than 30 sites and involved fighter jets launched from a carrier in the Red Sea.
Source:arabnews.com
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Iran-backed Houthis claim third attack on US ships in 48 hours
March 18, 2025
SANAA: Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed responsibility on Tuesday for a third attack on an American aircraft carrier group in 48 hours, calling it retaliation for US strikes.
The Houthis said in a Telegram post that they targeted the USS Harry S. Truman carrier group with missiles and drones, making the attack the “third in the past 48 hours” in the northern Red Sea.
Source:arabnews.com
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Tunisia says 612 migrants rescued, 18 bodies recovered at sea
March 18, 2025
TUNIS: Tunisia’s national guard said on Monday its forces had rescued 612 migrants and recovered the bodies of 18 others in several operations overnight off the country’s Mediterranean coast.
Sharing images of some of those rescued, including women and children, after their boats capsized, the force said they were all migrants from sub-Saharan African countries attempting to cross the sea to Europe.
The survivors were rescued in several operations in the Sfax region to the east of the center of the country after their boats capsized or broke down, according to the national guard.
Exhausted people including women and children, some of whom appear to be dead, can be seen in the images. Some are pictured clinging on to large buoys.
In another image, a woman struggles to hoist a child, his body rigid and apparently lifeless, aboard the rescue boat.
Maritime guard members “succeeded in thwarting several separate attempts to reach Europe clandestinely,” the national guard said in a press release.
Along with Libya, Tunisia has in recent years become a key departure point in north Africa for migrants making the perilous Mediterranean Sea crossing in hopes of reaching a better life in Europe.
Its coastline in some places lies fewer than 150 kilometers (90 miles) from the Italian island of Lampedusa, often their first port of call.
Each year, tens of thousands of people attempt to make the crossing.
Source:arabnews.com
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Lebanon and Syria agree to ceasefire after 2 days of border clashes, defense ministry says
March 18, 2025
BEIRUT: Lebanese and Syrian defense officials reached an agreement late Monday for a ceasefire to halt two days of clashes along the border, Syria’s state-run SANA news agency reported.
The agreement also stipulates “enhanced coordination and cooperation between the two sides,” the statement from the Syrian Ministry of Defense said.
Lebanon’s president earlier Monday ordered troops to retaliate against the source of gunfire from the Syrian side of the border after more deadly fighting erupted overnight along the frontier. Lebanon’s Health Ministry reported that seven Lebanese citizens were killed and another 52 injured in the clashes, including a 4-year-old girl.
The fighting happened after Syria’s interim government accused militants from Lebanon’s Hezbollah group of crossing into Syria on Saturday, abducting three soldiers and killing them on Lebanese soil. Hezbollah denied involvement and some other reports pointed to local clans in the border region that are not directly affiliated with Hezbollah but have been involved in cross-border smuggling.
It was the most serious cross-border fighting since the ouster of former Syrian President Bashar Assad in December.
Syrian News Channel, citing an unnamed Defense Ministry official, said the Syrian army shelled “Hezbollah gatherings that killed Syrian soldiers” along the border. Hezbollah denied involvement in a statement on Sunday.
Information Minister Paul Morkos said Lebanon’s defense minister told a Cabinet meeting that the three killed were smugglers.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, said five Syrian soldiers were killed during Monday’s clashes. Footage circulated online and in local media showed families fleeing toward the Lebanese town of Hermel.
Lebanon’s state news agency reported that fighting intensified Monday evening near Hermel.
“What is happening along the eastern and northeastern border cannot continue and we will not accept that it continues,” Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun said on X. “I have given my orders to the Lebanese army to retaliate against the source of fire.”
Aoun added that he asked Lebanon’s foreign minister, who was in Brussels for a donors conference on Syria, to contact Syrian officials to resolve the problem “and prevent further escalation.”
Violence recently spiked in the area between the Syrian military and armed Lebanese Shiite clans closely allied with the former government of Assad, based in Lebanon’s Al-Qasr border village.
Lebanese media and the observatory say clans were involved in the abductions that sparked the latest clashes.
The Lebanese and Syrian armies said they have opened channels of communication to ease tensions. Lebanon’s military also said it returned the bodies of the three killed Syrians. Large numbers of Lebanese troops have been deployed in the area.
Lebanese media reported low-level fighting at dawn after an attack on a Syrian military vehicle. The number of casualties was unclear.
Early on Monday, four Syrian journalists embedded with the Syrian army were lightly wounded after an artillery shell fired from the Lebanese side of the border hit their position. They accused Hezbollah of the attack.
Meanwhile, senior Hezbollah legislator Hussein Hajj Hassan in an interview with Lebanon’s Al Jadeed television accused fighters from the Syrian side of crossing into Lebanese territory and attacking border villages. His constituency is the northeastern Baalbek-Hermel province, which has borne the brunt of the clashes.
Lebanon has been seeking international support to boost funding for its military as it gradually deploys troops along its porous northern and eastern borders with Syria as well as its southern border with Israel.
Speaking from the southern border on Monday, UN envoy Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert also warned the Security Council that the sustained presence of Israeli forces on Lebanese territory, alongside ongoing Israeli strikes, could easily lead to “serious ripple effects.”
On Monday, Israeli strikes hit several sites in southern Syria, including in the city of Daraa. The Israeli military said it was hitting “command centers and military sites containing weapons and military vehicles belonging to the old Syrian regime, which (the new army) are trying to make reusable.” Since the fall of Assad, Israeli forces have seized territory in southern Syria, which Israel said is a move to protect its border.
Syria’s Civil Defense said that three people were killed and 14 injured in the strikes, including four children, a woman and three civil defense volunteers.
Source:arabnews.com
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Palestinian detainees ministry warns of virus outbreak in Israeli Megiddo Prison
March 17, 2025
LONDON: The Palestinian Authority warned on Monday of a virus outbreak among Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails that could severely affect their health and well-being.
The PA’s Ministry of Detainees and Ex-Detainees Affairs reported that prisoners in Megiddo Prison in northern Israel have been suffering from diarrhea and vomiting in the past 10 days. It reported that nearly 90 percent of the prisoners experienced these issues, and some lost consciousness due to the severity of the illness, particularly among the elderly.
The ministry accused the Israel Prison Service of medical negligence for not providing adequate treatment. Megiddo Prison is the second-largest Israeli prison, following the notorious Negev Desert Prison.
Since October 2023, the ministry has recorded the deaths of 53 Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails, with the most recent being Moataz Abu Zneid from Dura, south of Hebron, in the occupied West Bank.
By the end of December, Israel had detained 9,619 Palestinians, including 2,216 from the Gaza Strip. However, Tel Aviv released around 600 Palestinians in a ceasefire and captive exchange deal with Hamas in early 2025.
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2593913/middle-east
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Arab World
421,144 worshipers use electric golf carts at Grand Mosque during Ramadan
March 18, 2025
MAKKAH — The number of beneficiaries of transportation services at the Grand Mosque in Makkah stood at 522,634 during the first 15 days of Ramadan.
This marked a season of significant advancements in facilitating movement for Umrah pilgrims and worshippers. These included 86,399 faithful who used the newly upgraded paid carts while 421,144 worshipers used electric golf carts, in addition to 15,091 worshipers who benefited from the free manual carts.
The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has enhanced accessibility by enabling users to reserve carts in advance through the "Unified Transportation" platform. The system allows beneficiaries to select their preferred mode of transport —golf carts, paid manual carts, or free carts — while specifying their destination, date, and time, with the added convenience of electronic payment and technical support.
Source:saudigazette.com.sa
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https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/650211/SAUDI-ARABIA/421144-worshipers-use-electric-golf-carts-at-Grand-Mosque-during-Ramadan
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Palestinian, Egyptian envoys awarded with King Abdulaziz Sash of the Second Class
March 17, 2025
RIYADH: The Palestinian and Egyptian ambassadors to Saudi Arabia were awarded with the King Abdulaziz Sash of the Second Class on Monday.
Basem Al-Agha and Ahmed Farouk Tawfiq were given the awards for their efforts to strengthen relations between their countries and the Kingdom, Saudi Press Agency reported.
Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Al-Khuraiji awarded the sashes on the directive of King Salman, SPA added.
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2593929/saudi-arabia
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Saudi Culinary Arts Academy receives full institutional accreditation
March 17, 2025
RIYADH: The Saudi Culinary Arts Academy (ZADC) was awarded a full institutional accreditation certificate on Sunday, with the support of Prince Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Governor of the Eastern Province.
The recognition was granted during the inauguration ceremony of the academy’s new building on March 16.
The accreditation follows an agreement signed on March 10 between the academy and the Education and Training Evaluation Commission to implement institutional accreditation processes.
The achievement underscored ZADC’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and excellence in culinary education and training.
By equipping national talents with specialized skills, the academy aims to contribute to the growth of Saudi Arabia’s tourism and hospitality sector.
The achievement also aligns with the broader efforts of the Education and Training Evaluation Commission to ensure quality and excellence in education and training institutions across the Kingdom.
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2593918/saudi-arabia
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Restoration for Jouf’s Al-Saidan Mosque in crown prince’s project
March 17, 2025
RIYADH: The Al-Saidan Mosque is undergoing a restoration as part of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historic Mosques.
The site is a significant landmark in Dumat Al-Jandal, the location of several battles in early Islamic history. It is the second oldest mosque in the Jouf region in northern Saudi Arabia, after the Omar bin Al-Khattab Mosque.
It is currently undergoing expansion and restoration as part of the project, which focuses on preserving historic sites in the Jouf region.
Its area is to be extended from 179 to 202 sq. meters to accommodate 68 worshippers, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The mosque was constructed by the Saidan tribe and features the Aba Al-Jibal well and an elaborate staircase leading to the ablution area. It used to be a place for Friday prayers, a courthouse, and a school for Qur’anic studies.
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2593908/saudi-arabia
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Prophet’s Mosque’s AI-driven medical capsules enhance healthcare
March 17, 2025
RIYADH: The Madinah Health Cluster has launched two smart medical capsules in the northern central area of the Prophet’s Mosque to enhance healthcare for visitors and pilgrims, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
The “Tabah and Tibabah” capsules use advanced technologies and artificial intelligence to detect chronic diseases, conduct rapid tests, measure vital signs, and perform electrocardiograms.
They are linked to the Seha Virtual Hospital for specialized support, according to the SPA.
The capsules expand healthcare services, complementing existing facilities including the Al-Salam Endowment and Al-Haram hospitals.
The capsules are operated during peak times by trained medical workers and serve over 576 patients daily. They reflect the collaboration between the government and private sector.
Meanwhile, the Saudi Red Crescent Authority teams in Madinah transferred an emergency cardiac patient for treatment through their Cardiac Attacks pathway in 56 seconds.
Dr. Ahmed bin Ali Al-Zahrani, director of the authority’s regional branch, explained that the Medical Transfer Center received a call via the 997 hotline about a patient in his 60s experiencing severe chest pain at the Prophet’s Mosque.
An advanced care team that was dispatched performed an electrocardiogram and diagnosed an acute heart attack. This was communicated to the on-duty physician, who activated the Cardiac Attack pathway protocol.
The patient was transported to the Hayat National Hospital’s cardiac catheterization lab via a special route, where the medical team was ready for immediate intervention.
Al-Zahrani said the rapid response and coordination by the emergency teams helped prevent complications and led to a successful outcome for the patient.
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2593906/saudi-arabia
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Ramadan in Qatif showcases Saudi small town spirit
SULAFA ALKHUNAIZI
March 17, 2025
RIYADH: Locals in Qatif practice Ramadan traditions by reconnecting with relatives, keeping the community spirit of small Saudi towns alive.
Like other regions of the Kingdom during Ramadan, families and friends gather to scope for the best markets, cafes and restaurants as Qatif’s days turn into nights.
But for many locals, Ramadan is about staying in and reconnecting with relatives in the tight-knit locale.
Dana Al-Awamy, a university student from Qatif, told Arab News that her Ramadan routine “feels like a celebration because everyone is fasting together and breaking their fast together.
“The food we eat is always the same so it is kind of ritualistic ... my favorite part about Ramadan is the community and feeling the spiritual connection to God.”
Having lived abroad, Al-Awamy had a foreign concept of Ramadan, but coming back home has given her the chance to immerse herself in the holy month, surrounded by the warmth of her family.
During the month, Al-Awamy honors her late grandmother, who was the heart of past celebrations.
“She was an amazing chef and it was her that would cook most of the food and make specific dishes only in Ramadan.
“I miss that now. I really believe because of that, it made me enjoy Ramadan as a kid and grow to love it even more as an adult,” she said.
Sara Al-Awami shares her treasured moments with family, highlighting that the holy month brings a beautiful balance of spirituality, family and community, making it her favorite time of the year.
“We have a daily walk before iftar, which has become a small but meaningful tradition. The evenings are filled with gatherings, game nights, and, of course, enjoying all the delicious food,” she said.
“I also love wearing traditional clothing during Ramadan — it adds to the festive and cultural spirit of the month. And while I’d love to say I help with the cooking, my real specialty is showing up just in time for iftar ... especially for dessert.”
“One of my favorite things about Ramadan is the strong sense of community and generosity that fills the month.”
Having lived in different places, Al-Awami realized that while there may be slight cultural differences, Ramadan is celebrated in a very similar way in countries across the Gulf.
“The essence of the month is always about family, loved ones and coming together. The Eastern Province, like many other regions, is full of vibrant Ramadan traditions — whether it’s the communal iftars, the traditional fashion, the late-night outings, or the spiritual gatherings,” she said.
“But overall, across the Gulf, the core of Ramadan remains the same: A time of faith, family and generosity.”
Having spent many years celebrating Ramadan abroad and alone, she has come to appreciate the time spent with family even more.
“Nothing compares to the warmth of breaking your fast with loved ones, the conversations that last late into the night and the shared traditions that make this month so special,” she said.
“Now, I cherish these moments even more because I know what it’s like to experience Ramadan without them.
“Whether in the Eastern Province, Kuwait, London, or the US, what makes Ramadan truly meaningful is the connection — with family, with the community and with faith.”
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2593896/saudi-arabia
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KSrelief food parcels aid vulnerable communities
March 17, 2025
Riyadh: Saudi aid agency KSrelief has delivered thousands of food parcels to some of the world’s most vulnerable people, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
In South Africa, 400 packages were given to families in need as part of the Etaam Ramadan food distribution project.
In Somalia, 1,390 parcels were handed out across multiple governorates, while in Nigeria, 613 parcels were provided in Adamawa state, benefiting 3,678 people.
In Djibouti, 700 parcels helped 4,200 people in Balbala, while 250 were given out in Bangladesh’s Bagerhat district.
In northern Montenegro, 300 packages were given to help 1,500 vulnerable people that included widows and orphans.
In Romania, 530 parcels were distributed in Bucharest and Constanta, with 379 baskets given to Syrian refugees in the Miniyeh district of Lebanon.
Now in its fourth phase, the Etaam project aims to distribute 390,109 food parcels across 27 countries during Ramadan, benefiting 2.3 million people at a cost of over SR67 million ($17.8 million).
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2593885/saudi-arabia
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Program assists female visitors at Grand Mosque
March 17, 2025
MAKKAH: The Presidency of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, through the Women’s Affairs Agency, has launched a program to answer visitors’ questions about rituals during Ramadan, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
The “Answering and Guiding Female Inquirers” program at the Grand Mosque in Makkah was introduced to accommodate the expected rise in attendance during the last 10 days of the holy month.
Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, head of the presidency, emphasized the agency’s commitment to the initiative, highlighting its role in providing guidance to female visitors.
The program aims to enrich their experience by promoting authentic Islamic knowledge, offering reliable religious guidance and fostering greater awareness in a supportive environment, the SPA reported.
To facilitate inquiries, two dedicated locations have been designated: Women’s Prayer Area 74 on the ground floor and Women’s Prayer Area 84 on the first floor.
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2593880/saudi-arabia
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King Salman reserve records Nubian ibex birth
March 17, 2025
RIYADH: The field team at the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Natural Reserve recorded the birth of a Nubian ibex in March, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
The reserve’s development authority said that over time, more than 81 mountain ibexes have been reintroduced across various areas of the reserve.
This effort aligns with its commitment to protecting wildlife, including endangered species, and providing a thriving environment for their growth and reproduction, the SPA reported.
The authority added that the reproduction of animals within the reserve reflects the quality and suitability of its natural habitats for wildlife.
The reserve has recorded over 120 mammal births, including the Arabian oryx, sand gazelle, Nubian ibex, and Arabian gazelle, across its designated areas.
As the largest terrestrial nature reserve in the Middle East, the reserve spans 130,700 sq. km across four administrative regions: Jouf, Hail, Northern Borders, and Tabuk. The reserve features diverse habitats, terrains, and unique geographic formations.
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2593879/saudi-arabia
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Europe
Coventry Morrisons pork items display next to Ramadan sign accused of 'mocking' Muslims
ByJaspreet Kaur
17 MAR 2025
A Coventry Morrisons which displayed pork products next to Ramadan items has been accused of 'mocking' Muslims. Staff had reportedly made the blunder at Morrisons on Skipworth Road in Binley.
In an image obtained by CoventryLive, £1.50 'Mr Porkys Crispy Strips' were displayed next to a stand containing 'Ramadan Stickers.' Muslims are forbidden by the Quran from eating pork.
Shoppers slammed Morrisons on Facebook, with one saying they were 'deliberately mocking' Muslims. Another said they would be 'boycotting' the major chain and described the move as 'passive-aggressive.'
CoventryLive contacted Morrisons, who confirmed that the issue had been rectified. Staff also apologised for any offence caused.
A spokesman for Morrisons said: “We take this really seriously and can confirm this has been rectified. Whilst it was an isolated incident, we apologise for any offence caused and are working hard to ensure this does not happen again.”
Source:coventrytelegraph.net
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https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/coventry-morrisons-pork-items-display-31215219
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Germany set to vote on historic increase in defence spending
18 MAR 2025
What happens today, here in Berlin, will impact the entire future of Europe's defence and its ongoing support for Ukraine.
Germany's Parliament, the Bundestag, is voting on whether to take the brakes off defence spending. This could pave the way for a massive uplift in military investment just as Russia makes gains in Ukraine and Washington signals that Europe can no longer rely on US protection.
"This vote in the Bundestag is absolutely crucial," says Prof Monika Schnitzer, who chairs Germany's Council of Economic Experts.
"After the Munich Security Conference, then the Trump-Zelensky row, Europe got a wake-up call. For the first time Europeans may not be able to rely on Washington. A lot of people had sleepless nights after that."
"The outlook for European defence spending hinges on developments in Germany, as the holder of the region's largest defence budget," agrees Dr Fenella McGerty, senior fellow for defence economics at the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies.
Defence spending in Germany rose by 23.2% last year, helping to drive a record 11.7% rise in European defence outlay.
"The remarkable initiatives announced in Germany are key to enabling further growth," adds Dr McGerty.
"Without them, any progress made on strengthening Germany's military capability may have stalled."
Germany's incoming new Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, is in a race against time.
The new parliament convenes on 25 March and not everyone is in favour of all this money being spent, especially on defence.
Both the far-right AfD party and the far-left Linke have vowed to oppose it. The vote needs two-thirds in favour to go through, so Merz has a better chance of this happening today, under the existing (old) parliament. It then needs to be approved by Germany's upper house.
Meanwhile Europe is still coming to terms with the shock of announcements coming from the Trump administration.
At last month's Munich Security Conference I watched as delegates sat open-mouthed listening to US Vice-President JD Vance's blistering attack on Europe's policies on migration and free speech.
This was preceded days earlier by US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth telling Nato members that America's 80-year-long defensive umbrella for Europe should no longer be taken for granted.
Defence strategists in Europe are already planning for the unthinkable: a semi-victorious Russia making gains in Ukraine, then rebuilding its army and threatening Nato's eastern members, such as the Baltic states, within three years or less.
This, at a time when the US commitment to Europe's defence is looking extremely shaky. President Trump is being urged by some in his circle to pull US troops out of Europe and even to withdraw from Nato altogether.
Historical caution
There is talk of France extending its national nuclear deterrent to cover other European nations.
Meanwhile, most European governments are under pressure to raise defence spending after years of cuts.
The British Army has now shrunk to its smallest size since the Napoleonic Wars, over 200 years ago, and experts predict it would run out of ammunition within two weeks of fighting a full-scale conventional war in Europe.
Germany has long been cautious about defence spending, not just for historical reasons dating back to 1945, but also due to the global debt crisis of 2009.
Which brings us back to today's crucial vote in the Bundestag. It is not just about defence. One part is about freeing up €500bn (£420bn) for German infrastructure – fixing things like bridges and roads, but also to pay for climate change measures, something the Green Party insisted on.
The other part is about removing the restrictions in the constitution on borrowing that could, in theory, free up unlimited billions of euros for defence spending, both for Germany's armed forces and for a pan-European defence fund. On 4 March European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen announced plans for an €800bn defence fund called The ReArm Europe Fund.
The proposal being voted on in Berlin is that any spending on defence that amounts to more than 1% of Germany's GDP (national wealth) would no longer be subject to a limit on borrowing. Until now this debt ceiling has been fixed at 0.35 pct of GDP.
Other countries will be watching closely to see if this proposal passes. If it does not, then the EU Commission's 'ReArm Europe' project could be off to a shaky start.
The challenge today for Europe's security is a stark one. If the US no longer has its back, or at the very least cannot be relied upon to come to Europe's defence, then what does the continent need to do to fill the gap?
Let's start with the numbers. According to the Kiel Institute, which meticulously tracks these things, Europe spends just 0.1% of its wealth on helping to defend Ukraine, while the US has been spending 0.15%.
"That means," says the Kiel Institute's Giuseppe Irto, "that if Europe is to make up the shortfall then it needs to double its contribution to 0.21%."
But regardless of what happens today in Berlin this is not just about money.
Many of the most sought-after weapons in Ukraine's armoury have come from the US, like Patriot air defence and long-range artillery systems like Himars. The Kiel Institute puts the proportion of Ukraine's rocket artillery at 86% coming from the US, with 82% of its howitzer ammunition also being US-sourced.
Then there is the whole question of US intelligence aid for Kyiv, much of it derived from satellites and geospatial imagery. If Washington were to permanently switch that off, then Ukrainian forces risk being partially blinded.
If America's nuclear arsenal is taken out of the equation then there is a massive disparity between Russia's 5,000-plus warheads and the combined total of Britain and France's nukes which amount to less than a tenth of that. But that still theoretically leaves enough to act as a nuclear deterrent.
Culture shift
When it comes to "conventional", ie. non-nuclear arms, Western defence chiefs are fond of saying that Nato's combined forces are superior to Russia's.
Maybe, but if there is one glaring lesson to come out of the Ukraine war it is that "mass" matters. Russia's army may be of poor quality but President Putin has been able to throw such huge numbers of men, drones, shells and missiles at Ukraine's front lines that the Russians are inexorably advancing, albeit slowly and at huge cost.
This should not come as a surprise. Moscow put its economy on to a war footing some time ago. It appointed an economist as its defence minister and retooled many of its factories to churn out vast quantities of munitions, especially explosive-tipped drones.
While many European nations have dragged their feet over raising defence spending much above the Nato-mandated 2% of GDP, Russia's is closer to 7%. Around 40% of Russia's national budget is spent on defence.
So Europe has a fair bit of catching up to do if it is to even come close to shoring up its defence and security.
"If the vote passes then it will be significant for Germany and for Europe," says Ed Arnold, senior research fellow for European security at the Royal United Services Institute think tank.
"It will set a precedent and allow others to follow... However, three years on from the invasion of Ukraine the case of Germany is a reminder that more money for defence is necessary but not sufficient.
"Europe needs defence and security leaders who are able to navigate a rapidly deteriorating Euro-Atlantic security environment. Cultural, rather than financial reform, would be most valuable to Europe right now."
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvg102564g2o
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THE IMPORTANCE OF WRITING A WILL IN ISLAM: REFLECTING ON FAITH AND THE FUTURE
18 Mar, 2025
For Muslims it is a deeply spiritual and highly recommended obligation to write a Will and in some legal jurisdictions, such as England & Wales, it is an absolute necessity to protect faith-based instructions. This ensures justice and fairness to those left behind and is one of the only ways to secure the continuation of good deeds after one's passing.
It is not just Muslims but the population generally where people delay or leave it too late to write a Will-they may assume it can get taken care of, or they are not proactive in finding out the legal consequences relevant to their own circumstances. Islam has made it obligatory for Muslims to engage in preparation for where and how their body, belongings and assets-even if it is £1 or a mobile phone. As such it is an essential part of planning for the hereafter to write a Will and Muslims are advised “not to let two nights pass without writing a Will [Sahih Bukhari]’’.
A Will not only serves as a means of distributing wealth but also allows Muslims to leave behind a legacy of goodness and charity. One of the most profound aspects of writing a Will is its potential to be a form of Sadaqah Jariyah (known as a perpetual and continuous charity).
THE ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE ON LEAVING A LEGACY
Leaving a legacy is a key principle in Islam. Believers are encouraged to contribute positively to the world, both in their lifetime and beyond, and each pillar of faith encourages us to reflect on the legacy we are to leave behind. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasised the importance of ensuring that one’s deeds continue to benefit others even after death.
One of the most well-known hadiths regarding one’s legacy states: "When a man dies, his deeds come to an end except for three things: ongoing charity (Sadaqah Jariyah), knowledge that is benefited from, and a righteous child who prays for him." [Sahih Muslim]
Writing a Will can play a crucial role in ensuring that one’s wealth is directed toward ongoing charitable causes, as the Sharia-compliant aspect of inheritance enables up to one third (or a sum not exceeding 33.33% of the estate) to be dedicated to Sadaqah Jariyah, allowing the rewards to persist and provide great results and meaningful impact.
Some of the key elements to note on the importance of writing a Will in Islam is that the Quran specifically commands believers to make arrangements for inheritance:
In Muslim-majority countries the relevant state laws will impose varying extents of the Quranic succession rules which are fixed shares for the eligible inheritors, with each share coming with its own set of terms and obligations to adhere to.
In Muslim-minority countries it is essential to work within the law of the land and seek expert support to ensure both the legal aspects of Will writing and the religious components can be fulfilled.
Within the jurisdiction of England and Wales there is full testamentary freedom, which means the state does not impose any fixed succession rules (unless there is no Will in place in which case, the Rules of Intestacy will apply). As such, it is not only a hugely rewarding opportunity to achieve the lasting legacy successfully through writing a Will, it is also one of the only ways to have peace of mind that your religious faith-based instructions have been accurately captured for those left behind and to fulfil charitable contributions for your own Sadaqah Jariyah.
One of the primary benefits of writing a Will, is that it prevents disputes among those left behind. In many cases, when a person passes away without a clear Will, confusion and conflict may arise among family members regarding inheritance. A well-documented professionally advised Will ensures clarity, minimising potential disagreements and ensuring that wealth is distributed according to Islamic principles to achieve the faith-based rewards.
Additionally, a Will allows for specific bequests to be made beyond the standard inheritance distribution, and this is where there is the greatest opportunity for legacy giving. This ensures that a person’s wealth benefits not only their family but also their community and the less fortunate, developing a long-term eco-system of giving and positive change towards alleviating poverty and injustice.
PRACTICAL STEPS TO WRITING AN ISLAMIC WILL
Given the religious and practical significance of writing a Will in Islam, it is essential to approach it with diligence and sincerity. Below are some practical steps to ensure that an Islamic Will is written correctly:
Understanding both Islamic inheritance laws and the legal requirements of the country where one resides is crucial. Including professional legal input in harmony with expert scholar input ensures that the Will is valid and compliant with both Islamic teachings and local laws.
Before writing a Will, one should review their assets, including properties, bank accounts, investments, and valuable possessions. At the same time, any outstanding debts and liabilities should be noted, as they will need to be settled before distributing the inheritance.
Islamic teaching has clear guidelines on inheritance distribution, ensuring fairness among heirs. While one third of the estate can be designated for specific bequests or charity, the remainder must be distributed according to Quranic injunctions.
Choosing a trustworthy executor to carry out the Will’s instructions is essential. This person should be knowledgeable about Islamic principles and committed to ensuring that the deceased’s wishes are fulfilled correctly, if there is a risk here, then serious consideration should be given to appointing a professional executor who can be independent and objective, to ensure the right pathway of distribution is followed but bear in mind that these may incur additional cost to the estate.
A Will provides an opportunity to leave a lasting impact through charitable giving. Whether supporting a charity, like Oxfam which has a dedicated Sharia-compliant Zakat fund, the aim of these acts of charity are to ensure that rewards continue even in the afterlife.
Life circumstances change and this can alter any applicable Sharia-compliant distribution, for Muslims they should be looking at their Wills annually to ensure all is well as to the named inheritors and on any updated calculations for Zakat or other religious components. A regular review is useful to reflect on any new financial situations, family additions, or charitable intentions.
FAITH AND THE FUTURE
Writing a Will in Islam is not just a financial decision but a deeply personal and faith-based spiritual, act covering multiple aspects to reflect on requiring responsibility, foresight, and concern for the well-being of loved ones and the broader community. By taking the time to prepare a Will, a Muslim believer fulfils an important religious duty, prevents disputes, and ensures that their wealth is used in ways that benefit others long after they are gone, the emphasis is on completing this as early as possible.
Furthermore, by incorporating Sadaqah Jariyah into a Will, you can leave behind a legacy of continuous charity, securing blessings and reward in the hereafter. Whether by supporting family, funding education, establishing a Waqf, or donating to causes like Oxfam, Will-writing becomes a powerful means of ongoing goodness.
Source:oxfam.org.uk
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https://www.oxfam.org.uk/oxfam-in-action/oxfam-blog/the-importance-of-writing-a-will-in-islam-reflecting-on-faith-and-the-future/
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Arrest made after attack on Aberdeen mosque
MARCH 17, 2025
ATEENAGER has been charged after an attack on an Aberdeen mosque branded a hate crime by Police Scotland.
Spital Mosque was daubed with white paint on Saturday evening and later had a rock thrown through a window, shattering the glass on worshippers gathered inside who escaped shaken, but physically unharmed.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Following an investigation into reports of vandalism at a mosque in Spital, Aberdeen, officers have arrested and charged a 17-year-old male.
“Police are treating the incident as a hate crime.”
The attacks, during the holy month of Ramadan, come weeks after posters in the city for an Islamic charity were similarly defaced with white paint.
Aberdeen Labour councillor Nurul Hoque Ali warned of increasing hate crime and discrimination, citing “the rise of far-right extremism and Islamophobic rhetoric from politicians and media.”
But “kind neighbours helped clean up the mess, and others sent messages of support,” he added. “We are very grateful to them.”
In a joint statement on social media, the mosque and Islamic centre said: “We are very grateful to our neighbours and well-wishers in these difficult times.”
“The mosques in Aberdeen would like to assure all members of the community that, in light of these incidents, all the mosques are taking additional security measures as well as being assured of support from the police.
“The police will be performing additional patrols around the mosques during prayer and other busy times.
“We would ask all attendees and worshippers to please be alert and remain vigilant. However, do not be alarmed and continue with your efforts and prayers.”
Source:morningstaronline.co.uk
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https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/arrest-made-after-attack-aberdeen-mosque
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Southampton Muslims gather at Medina Mosque to celebrate Iftar
17TH MARCH
By Ross Marshall
The Muslim community in Southampton has come together to celebrate Iftar - marking the halfway point through Ramadan.
Organised by the Muslim Council of Southampton, hundreds of Islamic brothers and sisters - and guests - gathered at the Medina Mosque on Compton Walk to break their fast at sundown.
The celebration of Iftar starts when the call to prayer is heard, marking the end of the day's fast.
During Sunday night's celebration, Muslim brothers at the Medina Mosque ate a mix of traditional Iftar cuisine such as dates and samosas as well as rice, pizza and chicken wings.
Chair of the Muslim Council of Southampton, Parvin Damani, said: “Ramadan is a really important month in the Islamic year and it’s an instruction from God too fast.
“One of the reasons that we fast is to understand the plight of those people who have nothing and cannot get food or water.
“It’s also very good for your health and very spiritual - it’s not just about fasting it’s about your attitude and behaviour.
“For our community is a period of kindness and harmony amongst one another.”
The meal is enjoyed inside the mosque and while sitting on the floor - reflecting the Islamic values of modesty and gratitude.
After breaking the fast, the group perform the Maghrib prayer, which is one of the five daily prayers.
Parvin added: “On Saturday, it was the international day to combat Islamophobia - but how can we do this for our community here in Southampton?
“One of the ways we do this is by inviting people outside of our community to join us and celebrate Iftar - that way there is intercultural and multi faith dialogue that will help us create peace and understand each other.
“There are no winners in conflict, and we need to make sure that our children grow up with security and stability in a peaceful environment.
“We are always facing the stereotype that Muslims are terrorists and by doing things like we have here today we are breaking down that stereotype.
“This year, Ramadan started on February 28 and lasts 30 days.”
Also joining in on the meal was Lord Mayor of Southampton, Cllr Dave Shields, and former MP for Southampton Test, Alan Whitehead.
Cllr Shields said: “Celebrating all our amazing cultures in Southampton is so important for me – in these troubled times when there is so much division, its so good to come together.”
Source:dailyecho.co.uk
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https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/25012748.southampton-muslims-gather-medina-mosque-celebrate-iftar/
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Trump says 'many elements' agreed to ahead of Putin call
18 MAR 2025
US President Donald Trump says "many elements" of a peace agreement in Ukraine have been agreed with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, ahead of their much anticipated phone call.
Trump posted on Truth Social that he will speak with Putin on Tuesday morning.
He said that while there have been agreements, "much remains" to be worked upon.
"Each week brings 2,500 soldier deaths, from both sides, and it must end NOW. I look very much forward to the call with President Putin," Trump wrote.
He earlier told reporters that "we're going to see if we can work a peace agreement, a ceasefire and peace, and I think we'll be able to do it".
In his nightly address on Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Putin of prolonging the war.
"This proposal could have been implemented long ago," he said, adding that "every day in wartime means human lives".
There have been inconsistencies from within the Trump administration over how advanced the ceasefire talks are.
Speaking after his meeting in Jeddah with Ukrainian officials, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the "bulk" of the conversation had been "what a negotiation process would look like" and not "the specific conditions".
US envoy Steve Witkoff, who met with Putin on Thursday in Moscow, has also struck a more measured tone.
Meanwhile, the UK and France have urged Putin to prove he wants a peace deal with Ukraine.
French President Emmanuel Macron hailed the "courage" of Zelenksy in agreeing to a ceasefire proposal, and challenged Russia to do the same.
"Enough deaths. Enough lives destroyed. Enough destruction. The guns must fall silent," Macron said in a post on X.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy said Putin should agree to a "full and unconditional ceasefire now", telling MPs he had seen "no sign" that Putin was serious about a peace deal.
He warned that the UK and its allies have "more cards that we can play" to help force Russia to negotiate "seriously".
The White House sounded a more upbeat note on the eve of the Trump-Putin talks, which will take place by phone, saying peace in Ukraine has "never been closer".
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Monday that Trump was "determined" to secure the peace deal.
On what the talks might cover, she said: "There's a power plant that is on the border of Russia and Ukraine that was up for discussion with the Ukrainians, and he will address it in his call with Putin tomorrow."
The facility is likely to be the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, the largest in Europe. It has been occupied by Russian forces since March 2022, and fears of a nuclear accident have persisted due to fighting in the area.
Asked on Sunday what concessions were being considered in the ceasefire negotiations, Trump said: "We'll be talking about land. We'll be talking about power plants [...] We're already talking about that, dividing up certain assets."
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on what the leaders would discuss, responding, "we never do that".
While Putin has previously said he supports a ceasefire, he also set out a list of conditions for achieving peace.
One of the areas of contention is Russia's Western Kursk region, where Ukraine launched a military incursion last August and captured some territory.
Russia had pushed to recapture it in recent weeks, and Putin now claims it is fully back in control of Kursk.
He has also raised numerous questions about how a ceasefire could be monitored and policed along the frontline in the east, and has said he would not accept Nato troops on the territory.
The peace proposal on the table was discussed by Ukrainian and American delegates in Saudi Arabia last week.
After hours locked away in a room, they announced proposals for a 30-day ceasefire, which Ukraine said it was ready to accept.
France's President Macron and newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who met on Tuesday, stressed their nations would continue their "unwavering" support of Ukraine and demand "clear commitments" from Russia.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn8rplmk728o
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Local hero or Russian ally? The billionaire dividing Georgians
18 MAR 2025
Most of the villagers in Chorvila in north-west Georgia adore Bidzina Ivanishvili, their proudest son who's widely seen as the country's real man in power.
It's a picture postcard settlement where the roads are good, the houses well-maintained and there are plenty of blue and yellow flags of the ruling Georgian Dream party.
"All this area where you can see new houses and roads was made by our man. There was nothing without him and he did everything for us," says resident Mamia Machavariani, pointing at the village from a nearby forest.
Ivanishvili founded Georgian Dream (GD) and the party has been in power for 12 years.
For more than four months, Georgians have taken to the streets across the country to accuse Ivanishvili's party of rigging elections last October and accusing GD of trying to move the country away from its path to the EU and back into Russia's sphere of influence.
GD denies that and in Chorvila you will not find anyone with a bad word to say about its billionaire son.
Ivanishvili made his fortune in Russia in the 1990s, after the collapse of the Soviet Union, first by selling computers before he acquired banks and metal assets. He returned to Georgia in 2003.
Every newlywed couple in Chorvila receives a cash gift of $3,000 (£2,300) from Ivanishvili, according to Temuri Kapanadze, who teaches history at the village school where Ivanishvili went as a boy.
Unlike most schools in rural Georgia, it has its own swimming pool and an indoor basketball court.
"He reconstructed the hospital, he built two churches, he fixed all the roads, he made all roofs across the region," Temuri says.
"I personally received a refrigerator, TV, a gas stove and for five years Mr Bidzina has been helping us by paying 200 laris (£55) every month."
Here they accuse the opposition of orchestrating the pro-EU anti-government protests and using young people as their "tools".
"We also want Europe but with our traditions, and that's what the government wants too," says resident Giorgi Burjenidze. "We are a Christian country, and our traditions means that men must be men, and women must be women. President Trump thinks like us too."
The view that Europe has been trying to impose values alien to Georgian traditions, such as gay rights, is often repeated by state ministers and pro-government media.
They have also been dismissive of the daily protests sparked by the Georgian Dream's decision to suspend talks with the European Union on the country's future membership.
"Fire to the oligarchy" has become one of the main slogans at the ongoing protests to address what people say is the overwhelming influence of Bidzina Ivanishvili on the country's politics.
"Georgia currently is ruled by an oligarch who has a very Russian agenda," says Tamara Arveladze, 26, who has joined the protests in the capital Tbilisi almost every day, to fight what she sees as Ivanishvili's overwhelming influence.
"He owns everything, all the institutions and all the governmental forces and resources. He sees this country as his private property, and he is ruling this country as if it were his own business."
Last month, Tamara and her boyfriend were caught up in an incident which was captured on mobile phones and went viral. They were driving towards the protest site, and shouted the words "fire to the oligarchy" when a number of masked policemen surrounded the car and tried to break in.
"It happened in seconds, but it felt like hours. I was shocked how aggressively they were trying to do this, if they'd happened to take us out of the car I don't know what would have happened."
Tamara's boyfriend has had his driving license revoked for a year and could face a jail term for swearing at police. She has been fined $3,600, an enormous sum in Georgia, where the average monthly salary is closer to $500.
Since the disputed parliamentary election, criticised by international observers, the Georgian opposition has been boycotting the parliament, leaving the ruling Georgian Dream to rubber stamp any proposed changes to law.
"We are witnessing the abuse of the law-making," says Tamar Oniani, human rights programme director at the Georgian Young Lawyers' Association.
"First it was banning the face masks, and then they deployed the face recognition cameras in Tbilisi. So it makes it easier for them to detect who is appearing at the rally and then order high fines."
Last month fines went up ten-fold for blocking the road or disobeying the police and Tamar Oniani says in one day alone they received 150 calls from protesters who had been fined.
Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has recently denounced the protesters as an "amorphous mass" and sarcastically thanked them for "replenishing the state budget" with heavy fines.
Tamar Oniani says the "judiciary is fully captured" and acts as one of the instruments against the demonstrators, who she says have been beaten in custody.
"They were tortured just for being part of the protest and being a supporter of Georgia's European future."
The government denies these allegations.
Since the protests began last November, hundreds of civil servants have lost their jobs after they signed petitions criticising the government's decision to suspend talks with the EU.
"The government decided to cleanse the public sector of employees who were not loyal to them," says Nini Lezhava, who was among those to lose their jobs.
She was in a senior position in Georgia's parliamentary research centre, which had been tasked with providing unbiased reports for members of parliament and has since been abolished.
"They don't need it anymore. They have their own policy and they do not want anyone with independent analytical capacity," she says.
Nini says a similar "cleansing" has been taking place at the defence and justice ministries, and other government institutions: "It is happening in the entire public sector of Georgia".
"They are trying to create another Russian satellite in this region. And that goes beyond Georgia and beyond the Black Sea, beyond the South Caucasus, because we see what is happening in the world. And that is a bigger geopolitical shift."
In Chorvila, history teacher Temuri Kapanadze sees the government's approach towards Russia very differently: "There are no friends and enemies forever. Yesterday's enemy can become today's friend."
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c7vzqgq5139o
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King meets Carney in symbolic support for Canada
18 MAR 2025
King Charles gave a warm welcome to the new Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney when he visited Buckingham Palace.
It was another symbolic gesture of support for Canada from a King, wearing a red tie, who has to send coded signals rather than spell things out in words, as Canada faces threats from US President Donald Trump.
But the King has sought to make clear his commitment to Canada - and if it had not been for his cancer diagnosis, the BBC understands he would have travelled there for an intended visit in 2024.
There are also suggestions that once Canada's election is out the way, a visit to Canada will be a priority, where he can further demonstrate his support.
The new Canadian prime minister told the King that his Order of Canada pin had broken this morning. The King joked: "Do you want another one?"
"There's much to catch up on," said the King, ushering Carney to a seat, and perhaps hoping that the broken pin was not a symbol of a Commonwealth relationship under strain.
"These are important matters," said the King, ahead of a 30-minute conversation with no one else in attendance.
Carney later went on to meet UK prime minister Sir Keir Starmer at Downing Street.
Sir Keir hailed the relationship between the two countries and said they had "so much in common - shared history, shared values, shared King."
Carney said he was "grateful for the welcomes and the constructive discussions" with Starmer and French president Emmanuel Macron - whom he had met earlier in the day.
At a news conference, he was asked if he felt let down by the lack of public support for Canada from other allies, given Trump's trade war with Canada, and his remarks about making Canada the 51st state of the US.
"We don't need another country to validate our sovereignty, we are sovereign, we don't need praise from another country, we are proud in and of ourselves," he said, adding that Sir Keir had made a point of referring to Canada's sovereignty and to "our shared sovereign in King Charles III."
Symbolic displays
The meeting with Carney is the latest scene in an intricate diplomatic balancing act for a King who is head of state of both the UK and Canada.
King Charles has to show solidarity with Canada without disrupting the UK's relationship with Trump.
The King also has to avoid getting directly involved in politics - and has to speak on advice of ministers. Whatever he might personally believe about Trump's comments about taking over Canada, the King has to keep his thoughts to himself.
Adding to this complicated choreography is that the royals are one of the strongest cards the UK can play with President Trump. He seemed delighted by his second state visit invitation from the King.
So messages from the King are sent in symbolic displays. In case anyone missed the signs over Canada, there have been multiple moments. And then some more.
When the King visited aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales, he appeared wearing a set of Canadian medals.
The 60th anniversary of Canada's maple leaf flag might usually have passed without any royal intervention, but there was a fulsome message sent by the King, praising the "proud, resilient and compassionate country".
A ceremonial sword for Canada became an event at Buckingham Palace with a formal presentation by the King.
At a tree planting ceremony in Buckingham Palace, the tree chosen was a maple. And when the King sat down at the Commonwealth Service last week, it was on a Canadian chair.
If any of these moments were accidental, they were not being rejected by Buckingham Palace, with royal sources emphasising the King's commitment to Canada.
But there is no avoiding the tensions and contradictions in this balancing act. Emails from Canadians to the BBC's Royal Watch newsletter show that many want a much more robust defence from the King.
"What a cop out! Throw Canada to the wolves. Giving us back pats for our flag's anniversary doesn't quite cut it. Here sits a monarchist who is seriously rethinking his allegiance to the crown!" emailed Brian, a Canadian military veteran.
Carol in Vancouver was unhappy at the invitation from the UK for a second state visit by President Trump.
"I feel ashamed for the Brits feeling they have to follow through with inviting such a boor for dinner. For the life of me I do not understand why he has this power over you," she wrote.
"As a Canadian, the invitation is a slap in the face to the people of Canada. If the King is our King (as we are a Commonwealth country), and Trump is basically at war with us, how dare King Charles give him any credence?" emailed Patricia.
"As a Canadian I am saddened, appalled, disgusted and angry that King Charles appears to be joining the conga line of supplicants," said Jo-Ann in Ontario.
But King Charles will have to keep to the line set by ministers, and if that means maintaining good relations with Trump, he is unlikely to be saying anything more outspoken.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c78el01zd03o
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Putin unlocks trading in Russian assets
17 Mar, 2025
Moscow has given an American hedge fund permission to buy securities in Russian companies from certain foreign stakeholders, thus easing restrictions imposed in response to the Ukraine-related sanctions. The move comes amid signs of a potential thaw between Russia and the US.
President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on Monday authorizing New York-based hedge fund 683 Capital Partners to acquire the securities of Russian companies owned by about a dozen Western financial entities. Among them are Jane Street, Grantham, Mayo, Van Otterloo & Co., Templeton Asset Management, Franklin Advisers, Highmark Limited, and Carrhae Capital.
The decree then authorizes 683 Capital Partners to sell the securities to two Russian companies, Cepheus-2 and Modern Real Estate Funds, without having to apply for additional permissions.
The document is aimed at easing the restrictions imposed in September 2022, which prohibited companies from “unfriendly” countries from engaging in transactions with Russian securities in the energy and finance sectors. Any such deals required a presidential approval. The step, aimed at protecting Russia’s national interests, came in response to Western sanctions.
683 Capital Partners LP invests and trades across numerous asset classes. As of December 31, 2024, its portfolio was valued at approximately $1.61 billion.
President Donald Trump’s return to the White House in January has brought about something of a thaw in relations with Russia. Washington and Moscow have launched negotiations aimed at ending the Ukraine conflict, while Trump also indicated that sanctions against Russia could be lifted if peace is achieved.
The Kremlin has confirmed that Putin and Trump are scheduled to have a phone conversation on Tuesday. The call is expected to focus on the prospects of a peace agreement in the Ukraine conflict.
It would be the second call between the two leaders in just over a month. US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff visited Moscow last week to discuss a proposed 30-day ceasefire with Putin. The US and Russian delegations also held high-profile talks in Saudi Arabia and Türkiye in February.
Source:rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/news/614363-putin-decree-trade-russian-securities/
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Africa
Many Injured, Houses Burnt In Clash Between Traditional Worshippers And Muslim Youths
17 March 2025
By Justina Otio
Houses have been burnt and many people have sustained injuries due to a disagreement between traditional worshippers and Muslim youths in Shimankar community, Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Naija News understands that religious and business centres were set ablaze due to the incident.
Sources from the community told Daily Trust that the violence which started on Sunday night, continued into Monday morning, as the arrival of police officers and soldiers in the community failed to prevent it from escalating.
The sources said the incident began when traditional worshippers were passing through and a disagreement ensued between them and some Muslim youths, leading to violence.
Residents including women and children were seen fleeing for their lives, while business activities were shut down.
As of the time of filing this report, DSP Alabo Alfred, spokesperson of the state police command, had yet to respond to inquiries about the development.
However, Major Samson Zhakom, spokesperson of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), a multi-security task force maintaining peace in Plateau, promised to communicate with the relevant authorities on the matter.
Residents said the violence was ongoing and called for the deployment of security forces in the area.
Source:naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2025/03/17/many-injured-houses-burnt-in-clash-between-traditional-worshippers-and-muslim-youths/
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Sudan army inches closer to retaking Khartoum
March 18, 2025
OMDURMAN: Shelling by Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces killed six civilians, including two children, in Khartoum’s twin city of Omdurman, a doctor said Monday, as the army inched closer to the capital’s presidential palace.
Sunday’s attack also wounded 36 civilians, half of them children, the doctor at Al-Nao Hospital said.
The bombardment struck residential areas in northern Omdurman, hitting civilians inside their homes and children playing on a football field, the Khartoum regional government’s media office said.
The war between the RSF and the army, which began in April of 2023, has escalated recently, with army forces seeking to reclaim territory lost to the RSF early in the conflict in the capital, Khartoum, and beyond.
The army says its units are now less than a kilometer from the presidential palace, which the RSF seized at the war’s outset. In a video address shared on Telegram on Saturday, RSF commander Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo vowed his troops “will not leave the Republican Palace.”
AFP journalists saw thick plumes of smoke rising over central Khartoum as fighting raged across the capital, with gunfire and explosions heard in several areas.
Nationwide, the conflict has killed tens of thousands, uprooted more than 12 million, and created the world’s largest hunger and displacement crises.
In Khartoum alone, at least 3.5 million people have been forced from their homes due to the violence, according to the UN.
Further southwest, in the North Kordofan state capital of El-Obeid — roughly 400 km from Khartoum — two civilians were killed and 15 others wounded after RSF forces shelled residential neighborhoods on Monday morning, a medical source at the city’s main hospital said.
Last month, the military broke through a nearly two-year RSF siege of the southern city, a key crossroads linking Khartoum to the vast Darfur region, which is under near-total RSF control.
Across North Kordofan, more than 200,000 people are currently displaced, while nearly a million are facing acute food insecurity, according to UN figures.
Clashes have also erupted in Blue Nile state, which borders South Sudan and Ethiopia, and where the RSF claimed Sunday to have destroyed military vehicles and taken prisoners from the army and allied forces.
In almost two years, the war has nearly torn Sudan into two, with the RSF in control of almost all of Darfur in the west and parts of the south, while the army holds the country’s north and east.
The army has made gains in central Sudan and Khartoum in recent months and appears to be on the verge of reclaiming the entire capital.
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2593940/middle-east
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Ramadan: Buni donates food items to Yobe inmates
18th March 2025
Ahmed Amshi
In what has been widely hailed as a demonstration of his commitment to the welfare of Yobe Correctional Facilities inmates, Governor Mai Mala Buni on Friday donated food items to all prisoners serving various terms in the state.
Arewa PUNCH gathered that the donation was part of the state’s Ramadan palliatives, which aims to support the inmates’ iftar during the Holy Month of Ramadan.
Barrister Ali Adam Musa, the Executive Secretary of the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, presented the items on behalf of the state government while also announcing that, “the council is also organising counselling sessions for the inmates during this period.”
Musa, who commended the state government for its continued support, noted that the gesture was not the first of its kind extended to correctional facilities in Yobe.
He urged the inmates to use the Ramadan period for self-reflection and repentance, reminding them that “Allah loves those who sincerely seek forgiveness and strive to follow the right path.”
One of the inmates, Sarki Gida, expressed gratitude to Governor Buni for his support. Gida assured the governor of their commitment to reform and reintegration into society as responsible citizens and offered prayers for the success of the Buni-led administration.
Our correspondent reports that the donated items included essential food supplies such as bags of rice, sugar, and vegetable oil.
“This act of kindness is in line with Governor Buni’s previous gestures, including pardoning 33 inmates in Yobe State correctional facilities as part of Ramadan celebrations,” a Prison warder who wanted his identity shielded disclosed to Arewa PUNCH.
Source:punchng.com
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https://punchng.com/ramadan-buni-donates-food-items-to-yobe-inmates/
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President’s Son Pays Medical Bills of Some Nigerians to Mark Ramadan
18th March 2025
Daji Sani in Yola
The son of President Bola Tinubu, Mr. Seyi Tinubu, has paid the medical bills of some Nigerians to mark the Ramadan fast, in demonstration of the virtues of togetherness and unity
While in Adamawa State, Seyi took time to extend philanthropic gestures, including a visit to the Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital, Yola, where he toured some wards and settled the bills of patients.
He was also at a number of mosques and orphanage homes, where he gave out food items and other valuables
Seyi told the youth drawn from across Adamawa State that the national students loan scheme and some other youth-centred programmes of the federal government were products of his father’s passion for the good of young people
Seyi, who was in Yola late in the evening of Sunday, March 16, when he observed the day’s breaking of Ramadan fast with some youths, stressed that his father wanted Nigerian children to thrive.
He said, “This is the only president that conceived students’ loan programme, the only president that created platform for young people to thrive, the only president who creates economy that benefits everybody.”
Seyi added that his father was the sort of president who did not seek to enrich his pockets but strove always to reposition the country for national prosperity.
He explained that he was in Yola for iftar (Ramadan fast-breaking meal) and to generally mix with his peers.
Source:thisdaylive.com
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https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2025/03/18/presidents-son-pays-medical-bills-of-some-nigerians-to-mark-ramadan/
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Court To Decide On Legality Of Obasa’s Removal From Office
18 March 2025
By Enioluwa Adeniyi
Justice Yetunde Pinheiro of the Ikeja High Court has reserved judgment in the suit filed by the reinstated Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, challenging the legality of his initial removal as Speaker.
The case, which has garnered considerable attention, centres on the allegations of fraud, high-handedness, abuse of office, and gross misconduct that led to Obasa’s ousting from the position.
The judgment was deferred after Justice Pinheiro heard not less than 15 preliminary applications from the respondents in the case.
These applications were presented by the defence team, which includes some members of the state assembly and former speaker Mojisola Meranda.
After the hearing, the judge announced that the date for the delivery of the judgment would be communicated to the parties involved at a later date.
At the beginning of the hearing, Prof. Joshua Olatoke (SAN), who represented Obasa, argued that the court should assume jurisdiction over the case.
Olatoke contended that the action taken by the assembly on January 13, when the lawmakers convened during a recess, was improper, as neither Obasa nor the majority leader were properly notified.
The majority leader, Olatoke emphasized, had the authority to reconvene any session during the legislative recess.
Source:naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2025/03/18/court-to-decide-on-legality-of-obasas-removal-from-office/
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‘Obasanjo Might Find Himself Culpable Of Arresting Union Leaders, Killing Protesting Workers’ – NLC
18 March 2025
By Enioluwa Adeniyi
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on Monday strongly refuted former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s accusations of betrayal against Nigerian workers in the wake of the ₦70,000 minimum wage settlement offered by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
In a statement titled “Under Saint Matthew of Owu,” NLC President Joe Ajaero criticized Obasanjo’s comments, calling them uncharitable and misleading, particularly the claim that labour leaders had prioritised personal interests over the welfare of workers during negotiations.
Ajaero took aim at Obasanjo’s assertions in his new book, Nigeria: Past and Future, where the former president argued that labour leaders had allowed themselves to be bought off, causing them to fail in defending workers’ rights.
Ajaero responded by clarifying that the NLC’s demand had always been a minimum of ₦610,000, but the government and the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) countered with a significantly lower offer of ₦50,000, leading to a deadlock.
“We had asked for ₦610,000, which we had described as the barest acceptable minimum, complete with a breakdown. The government’s counteroffer of ₦50,000 was made without an explanation of how it would be distributed,” Ajaero said.
The deadlock led to strike action, which was suspended only after President Tinubu intervened and offered the ₦70,000 wage.
Ajaero pointed out that while the ₦70,000 was still insufficient, it was accepted to minimise the pain of the workers, considering that other alternatives would have imposed greater hardship on Nigerians.
Obasanjo’s Criticism Of Labour Leaders’ Political Ambitions
In his book, Naija News reports that Obasanjo suggested that many union leaders were motivated by personal political ambitions and had become ineffective compared to the expectations of the founding fathers of the labour movement.
Ajaero, however, rejected this, explaining that the NLC’s decision to accept the ₦70,000 offer was a necessary compromise given the circumstances.
He said, “It was a difficult decision, but we opted for the ₦70,000 to avoid greater hardship. It came with promises of incentives, such as the introduction of CNG buses for workers and free conversion kits for workers’ vehicles, among others.”
Ajaero took issue with Obasanjo’s critique of labour leaders, urging the former president to reflect on his own past actions, which included suppressing union activities during his time in office.
He accused Obasanjo of being part of the system that undermined labour unions, citing instances where Obasanjo’s administration had attacked union leaders, imprisoned them, and even attempted to proscribe the NLC.
“If Chief Obasanjo has noticed an erosion in the powers of the trade unions, he should do a soul search. Who knows, he might find himself culpable right from arrest and detention of union leaders, killing of protesting workers, and his national broadcast wherein he accused the unions ‘of conducting themselves like a parallel government,” Ajaero said.
He further recalled how Obasanjo’s government attempted to create a parallel labour centre after failing to dissolve the NLC.
The NLC President said, “And above all, his vengeful plan and mission to proscribe the Nigeria Labour Congress. When the plot failed, he created a parallel labour centre. We recall the punishment he meted out to parliamentarians like Honourable Obete Obete for not playing his script
“Given this historical fact, it is uncharitable of Chief Obasanjo to turn on the unions. But then, we respect our elders here.”
Ajaero concluded by calling for governments to stop undermining the unions for selfish political reasons. He urged the public to recognize the historical struggles of the unions and their leaders who have endured attacks while fighting for workers’ rights.
He said, “Governments should stop undermining the unions for their selfish interests. We have faced harassment, intimidation, and litigation, but we will continue to fight for workers’ rights.”
Source:naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2025/03/18/obasanjo-might-find-himself-culpable-of-arresting-union-leaders-killing-protesting-workers-nlc/
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At least 11 bodies discovered in well in Sudan's Fayhaa neighborhood
18 March 2025
Sudanese officials announced on Sunday that numerous bodies have been discovered at the bottom of a well in Khartoum, just days after the military expelled a notorious paramilitary group from the area.
Police reported that 11 bodies, including those of women and children, were retrieved from the deep well located in the Fayhaa neighborhood on Saturday.
Col. Abdul-Rahanan Mohamed Hassan, who leads the civil defense team in Khartoum, stated that the search was initiated after residents alerted authorities about a dead body found in the well.
"We discovered various bodies inside this well, including males, females, adults, and children," Hassan noted, adding that the search for more remains was ongoing.
Authorities believe the victims were killed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and subsequently disposed of in the well while the paramilitary group controlled the area.
The military regained control of the region earlier this month as part of its broader offensive in Khartoum and Omdurman.
There has been no immediate response from the RSF.
Afraa al-Hajj Omar, a resident of the nearby Hajj Youssef neighborhood, claimed that the RSF had killed many individuals in the area, leaving their bodies on the streets for days.
She mentioned that numerous bodies were discarded in the well. "They robbed us, beat us, and tortured us," she recounted.
The conflict has resulted in at least 20,000 deaths, though the actual figure is likely much higher.
Over 14 million people have been displaced, with parts of the country facing famine.
The fighting has devastated Khartoum and other urban centers, marked by horrific acts such as mass rape and ethnically targeted killings, which have been classified as war crimes and crimes against humanity, particularly in the western region of Darfur, according to the United Nations and international human rights organizations.
The violence has escalated in recent months, with the military making consistent progress against the RSF in Khartoum and other areas.
Source:africanews.com
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https://www.africanews.com/2025/03/17/at-least-11-bodies-discovered-in-well-in-sudans-fayhaa-neighborhood/
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/aurangzeb-violent-clashes-nagpur-rioters/d/134909