Beijing Mosques Host Eid Al-Adha Prayers
New Age Islam News Bureau
2
Aug 2020
• Erdogan: Eid More Joyous with Hagia Sophia Mosque
• Victorian Muslims Get Creative with Eid al-Adha by
Distributing Eid Gifts to Every Household
• Delhi High Court Notice to Police on Petitions
Seeking to Quash FIRs Against Foreign Tablighi Jamaat Members
• Support to FATF Bills Was Meant to Get Pakistan Out
of Grey List: PML-N
• How One Business Is Modernizing the Islamic Wall Art
Scene in Chicago
• By Introducing Local Lockdowns Three Hours Before
Eid, The Government Unfairly Penalised Muslims in Northern England
--------
South Asia
• Beijing Mosques Host Eid Al-Adha Prayers
• Afghan troops kill senior Islamic state militant
• Eid-ul-Adha - Facilities for Muslims to engage in
religious observance: Prez
--------
Mideast
• Erdogan: Eid More Joyous with Hagia Sophia Mosque
• Iran Says It Arrested U.S.-Based Terror Leader
Linked to Mosque Bombing
• Erdoğan Extends Eid Greetings to Muslim Leaders
• Imam Khamenei: Time between Eid Al-Adha to Eid
Al-Ghadir an epoch of Imamate
• Iran elected to chair Executive Board of United
Nations Human Settlements Program despite US obstruction
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Australia
• Victorian Muslims Get Creative with Eid al-Adha by
Distributing Eid Gifts to Every Household
------
India
• Delhi High Court Notice to Police on Petitions
Seeking to Quash FIRs Against Foreign Tablighi Jamaat Members
• Mosques in Hyderabad Asked to Limit Visitors To
5-At-A-Time
• Hyderabad Shorn of Its Vibrant Eid-Al-Adha
Celebrations Owing to Coronavirus Outbreak
• Muslims In Kashmir Valley Offer Eid Prayers While
Maintaining Social Distancing
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Pakistan
• Support to FATF Bills Was Meant to Get Pakistan Out
of Grey List: PML-N
• 'Observe Sops, Take Care of The Needy': Pakistani Leaders
Wish Nation On Eidul Azha
• Call to observe Kashmir annexation day
• KP amends law to regularise those working for
absentee Khasadars
------
North America
• How One Business Is Modernizing the Islamic Wall Art
Scene in Chicago
• AHCEC Developed Reality Model of Second-holiest City
in Islam
• WHO warns coronavirus pandemic will be lengthy
--------
Europe
• By Introducing Local Lockdowns Three Hours Before
Eid, The Government Unfairly Penalised Muslims in Northern England
• Preston's Mosques Go 'Above and Beyond' To Keep
Communities Safe During Eid Celebrations
• Ireland's Muslims Flock to Sporting Grounds to
Celebrate Eid
• 'Iconic' Croker shows religious unity on Muslims'
special day
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Africa
• Lagos Eases Coronavirus Lockdown, Reopening
Churches, Mosques
• President Akufo-Addo joins Muslims to celebrate Eid
in Kumasi
• Governor Yahaya, others observe Eid prayers at Gombe
Juma’at mosque
• Bauchi Chief Imam appeals to govt to pay salaries
• Muslim leaders call for peace
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Arab world
• Muslims Worldwide Celebrate Eid Al-Adha
• Coronavirus amid Hajj: Mecca security use 6,250
cameras to monitor holy sites
• Nearly 2,400 liters of sanitizers used daily to
clean Grand Mosque
• Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Congratulates
President of Niger on Independence Day
• Muslim World League inaugurates project to
distribute meat in Pakistan
• Egyptian battalions arrive at Yemen western coast,
Arab countries fears Turkey's control Bab el-Mandeb Strait
--------
Southeast Asia
• Islamic Finance Seen As Driver For FDI Inflow To
Philippines, Say Govt Officials
• Bank Islam Offers Targeted Repayment Assistance for
Customers
• Karak, East Coast highways operator pleads with
Muslim motorists not to pray on emergency lanes
• IRF appoints new chief amid investigation into
alleged sexual assault by director
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/beijing-mosques-host-eid-al/d/122521
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Beijing mosques host Eid al-Adha prayers
August 1, 2020
Mosques in
the Chinese capital of Beijing hosted Eid al-Adha prayers on Friday.
------
Mosques in the Chinese capital of Beijing hosted Eid
al-Adha prayers on Friday.
The mosques had been reopened a day earlier after the authorities’
success in containing the coronavirus outbreak.
The ritual of sacrifice (slaughter of animals),
however, was cancelled in order to prevent the spread of the disease.
The worshippers were all wearing masks and observing
social distancing. Their body temperature was also measured before entering
mosques.
The Islamic Association of China in a statement
congratulated Muslims on Eid and called for solidarity and cooperation in the
fight against the coronavirus.
Eid al-Adha is one of the greatest celebrations of
Muslims all over the world and is celebrated from 1 to 4 days depending on
different countries.
Also known as the sacrifice feast, it is celebrated to
honor the dedication and willingness of Prophet Abraham (AS) to sacrifice his
son as an act of submission on God’s command.
Usually, on Eid people wear their best clothes and go
to meet friends and relatives and have fun after saying special prayers.
This year, however, the celebrations were held in a
limited manner in order to prevent further spread of COVID-19.
https://en.abna24.com/news//beijing-mosques-host-eid-al-adha-prayers_1059192.html
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Erdogan: Eid more joyous with Hagia Sophia Mosque
Merve Yildizalp Ozmen
01.08.2020
The
president of Turkey on Aug. 1 said the reopening of the Hagia Sophia as a
mosque made the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha even more joyous.
-------
The president of Turkey on Saturday said the reopening
of the Hagia Sophia as a mosque made the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha even
more joyous.
"The reopening of the Hagia Sophia grand Mosque
-- an 86-year wound in the heart of our nation -- has added to the joy of our
Eid," Recep Tayyip Erdogan said, greeting local officials of his ruling
Justice and Development (AK) Party for the holiday via video-link.
Erdogan said he sought to hold an upcoming party
congress as a "new resurrection, a new rising milestone."
The next AK Party congress is expected to be held
towards the end of 2020 while observing health and safety measures against the
novel coronavirus.
Erdogan said those who "see themselves above the
nation" could not be a member of the AK Party.
"We'll increase our friends, we'll reduce our
enemies," he said. "The reason for the existence of the AK Party, the
reason why we take on these duties and the reason for people's hope in us are
the same."
On July 24, Friday's prayers in the Hagia Sophia Grand
Mosque marked the first acts of worship there in 86 years.
The Hagia Sophia served as a church for 916 years
until the conquest of Istanbul, and a mosque from 1453 to 1934 -- nearly 500
years -- and most recently as a museum for 86 years.
In 1985, Hagia Sophia was added to the UNESCO World
Heritage List.
Besides being a mosque, the Hagia Sophia is also among
Turkey's top tourism destinations and will remain open for domestic and foreign
visitors.
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/culture/erdogan-eid-more-joyous-with-hagia-sophia-mosque/1929024
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Victorian Muslims Get Creative with Eid al-Adha by
Distributing Eid Gifts to Every Household
AUGUST 2 2020
Eid
al-Adha gift bags made by youth volunteers for public housing residents across
nine Melbourne buildings. Source: AMSSA YOUTH CONNECT
------
Victorian Muslims have been creative this weekend as
they celebrate the festival of Eid al-Adha.
Typically marked with mosque visits and family
get-togethers, the annual 'Festival of Sacrifice' is the last of two annual
holidays celebrated by Muslims everywhere.
Melbourne residents in the nine towers subject to
strict lockdown orders in early July house many members of the Islamic faith.
On Saturday, there were 311 active cases across the
North Melbourne and Flemington public housing buildings meaning many residents
continue in isolation.
The Australian Muslim Social Services Agency, which
has been tirelessly providing for residents since strict lockdowns were
enforced, decided at the last minute to bring Eid gifts to every household.
Volunteers packed 1500 bags with traditional middle
eastern sweets, arts, crafts and toys and delivered them on Friday to all nine
towers, including to the non-Muslim residents.
AMSSA Youth Connect project manager Abdiqafar Ururshe
said it was special to see the excitement on faces of the children.
"Their parents were just saying 'thank you so
much for bringing Eid to our homes'," he told AAP.
In pre-pandemic times, up to 2000 of these residents
would congregate downstairs from the Flemington towers for annual Eid al-Adha
celebrations, so a quiet Eid had an element of sadness.
But Mr Ururshe said people's efforts to stay home at
this time were an act of sacrifice for the greater good - a fitting parallel
with the themes of the festival.
Muslims believe the Prophet Abraham was tested by God
who commanded him to sacrifice his first-born son Ishmail. Abraham showed his
commitment to God by being prepared to do as he was told. Instead, God told him
to sacrifice a lamb.
Eid al-Adha also marks the culmination of the hajj - a
spiritual pilgrimage - to Mecca in Saudi Arabia.
The Preston Mosque community in the city's north is
embracing video conferencing for Eid family catch-ups, the chair of the mosque
building Moustafa Fahour OAM said.
It was sad not to be able to attend the mosque, but
more quality time with family was a plus, he said.
"It's part of our religion to abide by these
lockdowns to protect our community and our country," Mr Fahour said.
The Islamic community in Bendigo in central Victoria
is not yet subject to stage three restrictions but restrictions on gatherings
mean limitations on celebrations are the same.
Community spokesman Heri Febriyanto said prayers and
speeches were broadcast to members, many of whom are healthcare workers, via
Zoom.
The Department of Health and Human Services on
Saturday urged Victorians to protect their community during Eid al-Adha.
"We understand this is a sacrifice for Victorian
Muslims, but while we may be physically apart, we can be spiritually
connected," Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton said.
https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/6860018/vic-muslims-get-creative-with-eid-al-adha/?cs=14231
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Delhi High Court Notice To Police On Petitions Seeking
To Quash FIRs Against Foreign Tablighi Jamaat Members
August 01, 2020
New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Friday issued a
notice to Delhi Police on two petitions filed by some foreign Tablighi Jamaat
members seeking to quash FIRs registered against them as they are unable to fly
back due to it.
These foreign members have already entered plea
bargaining in similar charges related to the congregation at Nizamuddin Markaz
in the national capital.
A single-judge bench of Justice Anup Jairam Bhambhani
asked the government and Delhi Police to file a reply on the two petitions
filed by some foreign members of Tablighi Jamaat and listed the matter for August
10.
The High Court observed that the petitioners are
unable to travel back to their countries due to these FIR.
The petitioners were represented by senior advocate
Rebecca M John.
In the two petitions filed by advocates Ashima Mandla
and Mandakini Singh, the petitioners told the court that the foreign nationals
have been charged in these FIRs under the same sections as in FIR registered at
police station crime branch in Markaj matter, for which majority of them
entered plea bargaining and paid fines.
Now, when the time for their deportation has come,
they are unable to fly back due to FIRs, the petitioners said.
The petitioners have sought quashing of two FIRs
registered at police station Seelampur under various sections of the Indian
Penal Code (IPC) and the Epidemic Diseases Act.
Petitions stated that the FIRs registered at Seelampur
are untenable in law as they have already entered plea bargaining in the same
charges registered by Crime Branch.
They have also sought directions to the respondents to
close the LoC (lookout circular) issued qua foreign national petitioners.
In the case being probed by Crime Branch, the foreign
national petitioners have duly entered plea bargaining and consequent
deportation orders have been issued by the court.
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They said that the FIRs before this court are similar
to the FIR of Crime Branch, in which 911 of the 955 foreigner jamaatis have
concluded plea bargaining.
"Under the law, second FIR is impermissible and
there is an operational bar from prosecution of same offences arising out of
the corresponding cause of action under Article 20(2) of the constitution of
India (widely known as the doctrine of double jeopardy) as well as section 300
of the CrPC," the petitioner said.
https://www.ndtv.com/delhi-news/delhi-high-court-notice-to-police-on-petitions-seeking-to-quash-firs-against-foreign-islamic-sect-members-2272320
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Support to FATF bills was meant to get Pakistan out of
grey list: PML-N
Zulqernain Tahir
02 Aug 2020
LAHORE: Giving reasons behind ‘unconditional’ support
of the FATF-related bills in the Senate, a close aide to former premier Nawaz
Sharif said the opposition did so to get Pakistan out of the grey list.
“Had we not supported the Financial Action Task Force
(FATF) related bills (the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill, 2020, and the United
Nations Security Council Amendment Bill, 2020) and if Pakistan was put in the
black list subsequently, the opposition would have been blamed for it,” PML-N
Senator Pervaiz Rashid told Dawn on Friday.
Senator Rashid said it was not only this reason but
also both laws existed here in some form and there was nothing objectionable in
them. “The opposition voted for both the bills on merit. Now after the passage
of these bills it is the test for the PTI government to pull the country out of
the grey list,” he said.
The government on Wednesday last got both the bills
passed through a majority voice vote amid opposition protest as the amendments
it had proposed were not accommodated. The opposition, mainly comprising PML-N
and PPP, has majority in the Senate and however on Thursday it supported both
bills after ‘some’ of its amendments were adopted.
The Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI-F), another opposition
party, protested against the act of the PML-N and the PPP for helping the
government in getting the FATF-related bills passed in parliament.
Pervaiz Rashid said the opposition had not supported
both bills in the National Assembly because the government had not adopted a
laid-down procedure.
“We supported it after the government adopted the
procedure and sent the bills to the standing committee before its laying in the
Senate,” he said.
To a question about the future of the opposition
alliance to oust the Imran Khan government as claimed by Opposition Leader in
National Assembly and PML-N president Shahbaz Sharif after the JUI-F’s
annoyance, Mr Rashid said: “The JUI-F is not going anywhere. It had
reservations for not being consulted by the PML-N and PPP over this matter. We
have tendered an apology to it (JUI-F) and it will be with us in any movement
against the PTI government,” the PML-N Senator said.
According to sources, the establishment remained in
contact with both the PML-N and PPP regarding the passage of the FATF-related
bills.
“And this contact helped the passage of the two
bills,” they said and added that the JUI-F was not contacted by the
establishment for the purpose.
Meanwhile, PML-N secretary general Ahsan Iqbal told a
presser in Model Town that the government wanted to put Pakistanis in jail and
target the opposition in the name of FATF which it did not allow.
“Ministers and advisers created confusion over this
matter, even Prime Minister Imran Khan Niazi tried to give some other colour to
the opposition’s amendments,” Mr Iqbal said, adding whenever the opposition
exposed the government’s corruption, incompetence and failures on all fronts Mr
Niazi would start the rant that he would not give NRO to it.
“Who is seeking NRO from him,” he asked and said the
PML-N leadership would not budge from its principles and was not afraid of
going to jail.
The former interior minister said the government was
keen to frame new laws keeping in view Nawaz Sharif and Ishaq Dar.
https://www.dawn.com/news/1572290/support-to-fatf-bills-was-meant-to-get-pakistan-out-of-grey-list-pml-n
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How One Business Is Modernizing The Islamic Wall Art
Scene in Chicago
Aug 1, 2020
Sakina Akbar empowers moms through her small business
known as Khitati. A family-run business based out of the suburbs of Chicago,
Khitati provides innovative yet elegant handcrafted Islamic art pieces to
beautify homes. From designing sketches to moulding and painting, all their
manufacturing is handmade. Sakina helps to oversee that each piece is created with
care and perfection while maintaining high quality standards. The experience
and knowledge of working with composite material comes from Khitati’s parent
company, US Railings, which has been producing construction material for North
America for the past several years.
The true inspiration behind starting Khitati was
through Sakina’s father’s vision. While a physician by profession, Shahzad
Akbar is an inventor by heart. Khitati’s products are made with resin. He used
his expertise to make sculptural Islamic wall art as an experiment. The goal
was to make souvenirs for retailers in Saudi Arabia to be sold to people who
visited the area from all across the globe. Sakina loved how the experiment
worked out and admired his craftsmanship. Having recently bought a new home,
she knew that modern and high-quality Islamic wall art pieces that can
complement contemporary interior styles come with a hefty price tag. Sakina and
her father wanted to develop products that would unite faith and modern design
in harmony. They wanted to feature art pieces that display verses from the
Quran to serve as daily reminders for themselves and the next generation.
Living in the United States, it was important for Sakina to highlight these
elements of her religion to bring blessings to homes.
“Coming from a long line of business owners from both
sides of the family, I have entrepreneurship in my blood. I started dipping my
hands in business from a young age,” Sakina says. She wanted to find a way for
stay at home moms to earn. “I was familiar with the struggles and how important
having a small source of income for yourself can be. We provide them with
flexibility and a wholesome working environment where they know the time they
are spending away from family and commitments is toward something meaningful.”
With Sakina’s interior design background along with
her father's creativity, Khitati uses their collaborative knowledge to fall
back on when it comes to design input. As a family-run business, Sakina’s
mother, Samira Shahzad also contributes by making exclusive canvas art that
integrates Khitati pieces. She uses her natural talent for blending
aesthetically pleasing colors together to make textured canvas art that
compliments Khitati’s products and adds to their product range.
Fervent about promoting God’s name in homes, Sakina
believes that there are miracles that happen and doors of opportunities open.
Khitati does just that for its customers. “We started with next to no
investment and by the grace of Allah (God) slowly and steadily, Khitati started
standing on its own. If you have the drive and determination and work your
hardest, Allah takes care of the rest,” Sakina elaborates.
Sakina’s brother, Abdullah Akbar, co-owner of US
Railings, heads their newly operational unit in Pakistan where Khitati helps
provide training and jobs to the underprivileged. Their Pakistani unit caters
to the Middle Eastern and Asian market.
Khitati supports numerous charitable organizations run
by Shahzad in Pakistan. A percentage of their sales goes a long way in helping
educate and providing healthcare for the impoverished abroad. “As you support
Khitati, your money is used to support numerous platforms,” Sakina says. She is
excited for what Khitati has to offer in the future for all. Keeping quality and
craftsmanship at their forefront they work together towards a common goal of
making Khitati a globally renowned brand.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/tasmihakhan/2020/08/01/how-one-business-is-modernizing-the-islamic-wall-art-scene/#33cc5a1860d9
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By Introducing Local Lockdowns Three Hours Before Eid,
The Government Unfairly Penalised Muslims in Northern England
1 Aug 2020
Zoya Raza-Sheikh
Then, suddenly, an influx of messages come in asking
if you’ve seen the new announcement. It all feels a bit off: a new lockdown
announcement over Twitter? Surely not. Health Secretary Matt Hancock took to
the social media site on July 30 to unveil new restrictions that impact
Northern England. In his tweets, Hancock marked out Greater Manchester, East
Lancashire and parts of West Yorkshire as areas covered by the new lockdown
regulations, barely hours before these new guidelines would come into play at
midnight. In a matter of minutes, the
new announcement made my family and I reconsider all our Eid al-Adha plans, one
of the holiest days in the Islamic calendar. ADVERTISEMENT Top articles by
Metro Hundreds of protesters march through Brixton to mark Afrikan Emancipation
Day READ MORE SKIP AD What would have been a small, socially distanced
get-together in open space, sharing stories and food quickly fell apart.
Instead, we had a chat full of questions and confusion. Visit our live blog for the latest updates:
Coronavirus news live Even though I don’t live in the North, so wasn’t
personally impacted by these new lockdowns, our family felt the pressure to
reconsider our plans because of the rising infections across England. I watched as messages and voice notes were
traded in an effort to figure out what the safest legal option was. In the end,
our plans were called off and we chose to celebrate separately. Uncertainty
around whether we would be allowed groups of up to six people from different
households or groups of 30 became a fresh talking point and the lack of clarity
around Government guidelines had never been so evident. We knew, in the end, it was safer to avoid
socially distanced meet up at the risk of becoming used as an example by the
public or worse. I can’t help but think that if this were Christmas, we
wouldn’t be hearing about a surprise change on guidelines with three hours
notice. Now, a day later, I’m still in shock and disbelief at the Government’s
strategy, but more than anything I’m angry. Don’t get me wrong, I can
understand the logic behind a local lockdown and with the BAME population being
at a greater risk from coronavirus, I see sense in the need to focus efforts on
specific areas, but the Government’s impromptu strategy was not only
outrageous, but grossly timed. Nazra,
30, lives in Leicester and explains how her plans for Eid were thwarted as the
city was put under local lockdown in late June. ‘We had made arrangements to
have a small meet up and we were hoping restrictions would be loosely lifted to
allow us to celebrate,’ she says. 1/4
We’re constantly looking at the latest data on the spread of coronavirus, and
unfortunately we’ve seen an increasing rate of transmission in parts of
Northern England.— Matt Hancock (@MattHancock) July 30, 2020 ‘In the end the
whole process has been very confusing and so disheartening. My friends and I have
felt neglected by the Government in that we weren’t provided information soon
enough or clearly enough, so we decided to postpone celebrations. I’ve been at
home by myself, which hasn’t been nice.’ Iqra, 26, lives in Manchester and
described the announcement as a ‘farce’ and continues to question why there was
no press conference. As three of her family members are at risk, they decided
to celebrate indoors as a single household, adding: ‘Announcing three hours
before Eid is bad planning at best and discriminatory at worst, considering
that the Northern cities locking down have huge Muslim populations’. To hear my
friends in Manchester and Leicester be forced to cancel plans or call off
celebrations during such an emotionally difficult time was heartbreaking. While
the Government aims to usher as much of the public as possible into busy bars
or entice them with money off vouchers towards restaurants, we’re left in a
pool of guilt being lectured about Covid-19 transmissions due to the same
socially distanced family and friend visits that help our community get
by. Craig Whittaker, Tory MP of the West
Yorkshire constituency, stated: ‘It is the BAME community that are not taking
this seriously enough.’ To hear
Whittaker’s comments on the day the new restrictions were announced was like
rubbing salt into the wound. It was an appalling remark by the MP and is one
that feeds into the double standards existing around lockdown. It felt like an
obvious attempt to stigmatise an entire community. To be called out specifically, ahead of Eid,
while rules of social distancing are flagrantly ignored by many was painful.
It’s a double standard that continues to edge closer towards scapegoating a
religious celebration as an opportunity to fault Muslims and ethnic minority households,
as if they are responsible for the rising infections. If anything, I ask, where was this energy
during the Veteran’s Day street parties, during the Leeds United football
open-top bus celebration (which drew in hundreds of fans), or during late May
when the public flocked to beaches ignoring social distance regulations despite
lockdown? What feels like blatant
hypocrisy continues to make many of us feel like a targeted community. If, as
the Government says, large gatherings of people are what led to a spike in
transmissions, then why not close the spaces like bars, restaurants, or pubs
that encourage large groups? Instead, we are left a ridiculous attempt to
justify our history of safe social distancing during a unique holiday
celebration. It’s either this, or it means group meetings are fine as long as
we cash out for our economy.
https://metro.co.uk/2020/08/01/introducing-local-lockdowns-three-hours-before-eid-government-unfairly-penalising-muslims-13068795/
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South Asia
Afghan troops kill senior Islamic state militant
2 August 2020
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) - The Afghan intelligence
service says it has killed a high ranking official with the Islamic State
affiliate in an operation in eastern Afghanistan.
A statement released by the National Directorate of
Security late Saturday said Assadullah Orakzai was an intelligence leader for
the Islamic State and special forces killed him near Jalalabad.
Orakzai was suspected of being involved in several
deadly attacks against both military and civilian targets in Afghanistan.
Last week, a United Nations report said Afghanistan
saw a 13% drop in the number of civilians killed and wounded in violence across
the country in the first six months of the year, compared to the same period
last year.
The report credited the drop in casualties in part to
the reduction of operations by international forces - which now only act when
called upon and in support of the Afghan forces - and also to a decrease in the
number of attacks by the Islamic State group.
The report said the U.N. had recorded 17 attacks by IS
causing civilian casualties during the first six months of 2020, down from 97
attacks in the same period last year. Overall, the U.N. said 1,282 people were
killed in violence in the first six months of 2020 in Afghanistan and 2,176
were wounded.
In March, a lone Islamic State gunman rampaged through
a Sikh house of worship in the heart of the Afghan capital, killing 25
worshipers and wounding eight.
The gunman held many worshipers hostage for several
hours while Afghan special forces, helped by international troops, tried to
clear the building. At least one of the dead was a child.
Within hours, the Islamic State group claimed
responsibility for the attack.
The Afghan special forces rescued at least 80
worshipers who had been trapped inside the Sikh house of worship, known as a
Gurdwara, as the gunman lobbed grenades and fired his automatic rifle into the
crowd.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-8584883/Afghan-troops-kill-senior-Islamic-state-militant.html
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Eid-ul-Adha - Facilities for Muslims to engage in
religious observance: Prez
1 August 2020
In his Hajj Message, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said
the Government has provided all necessary facilities to the Muslim community to
engage in their religious observances.
In his message, he said, “It is with pleasure that I
offer my felicitations to Sri Lankan Muslims and their fellow devotees the
world over on this occasion of Eid-ul-Adha.
On this day of Hajj, Muslims commemorate the immense
sacrifices made by Nabi Ibrahim and his family members in honour and respect of
God.
During this season a large number of Muslims from
around the world gather in Mecca for the Hajj pilgrimage considered as the
fifth pillar of the Islamic faith.
Although the Muslim devotees are compelled to refrain
from visiting Holy Mecca due to the COVID-19 pandemic which has enveloped the
globe, I believe that the Hajj festival this year too will be an occasion for
them to embrace the greatness of Allah and the spirit of peaceful coexistence.
The Government of Sri Lanka being aware of the
significance of Hajj festival has provided all necessary facilities for the
Muslim community to engage in their religious observances.
I am confident that the Muslim community in Sri Lanka
which lived in peace and harmony with all the other communities throughout our
history in accordance with the teachings of the Holy Quran and contributed to
the prosperity of this nation would continue that tradition in future as well.
I wish every Muslim of Sri Lanka a happy Eid-ul-Adha
festival.”
http://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking_news/Eid-ul-Adha-Facilities-for-Muslims-to-engage-in-religious-observance-Prez/108-193036
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Mideast
Iran says it arrested U.S.-based terror leader linked
to mosque bombing
ByChristen McCurdy
AUG. 1, 2020
Aug. 1 (UPI) -- Iran's Intelligence Ministry said
Saturday that it arrested the leader of what it describes as a terror group
based in the United States.
In its announcement, the ministry said its forces have
dealt a "heavy and serious blow" to the group known as Tondar, which
translates as Thunder.
A statement read on Iran state television said
Thunder's leader, Jamshid Sharmahd, is now "in the powerful hands" of
Iran's security forces but did not offer detail as to how he was taken into
custody.
Thunder, also known as the Kingdom Assembly of Iran,
seeks to restore monarchy in the country.
Social media accounts for Sharmahd describe him as a
broadcaster for the organization and say he lived in Los Angeles.
The group has been accused of bombing a mosque in 2008
that killed 14 people and injured more than 200 others in Shiraz, a city in the
south of Iran.
Iran's government said Saturday that the group was
planning other violent attacks.
Iran's monarchy ended when Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi
fled the country in 1979 just before the Islamic revolution.
https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2020/08/01/Iran-says-it-arrested-US-based-terror-leader-linked-to-mosque-bombing/7611596310864/?ur3=1
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Erdoğan extends Eid greetings to Muslim leaders
August 02, 2020
Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday
held a phone talk with his counterparts from Kazakhstan and Tajikistan on the
occasion of Eid al-Adha, one of the two most important Muslim holidays.
According to a statement by Turkey's Directorate of
Communications, Erdogan extended Eid greetings to Kazakhstan’s President
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kazakhstan’s founding President Nursultan Nazarbayev and
Tajikistan’s Emomali Rahmon on the second day of the Eid al-Adha.
Most of the Muslim-majority countries around the
world, including Turkey, are observing the four-day holiday that started on
Friday.
https://www.yenisafak.com/en/news/erdogan-extends-eid-greetings-to-muslim-leaders-3535910
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Imam Khamenei: Time between Eid Al-Adha to Eid
Al-Ghadir an epoch of Imamate
August 1, 2020
I would also like to congratulate the entire Iranian
nation and all Muslims throughout the world on Eid al-Adha.
The next occasion is the Day of Arafat and Eid
al-Adha. In fact, the period from Eid al-Adha to Eid al-Ghadir is associated
with the issue of imamate [leadership]. Allah the Exalted says in the Holy
Quran, "And when his Lord tried Ibrahim with certain commands he fulfilled
them. He said: Surely I will make you a leader of men." [The Holy Quran, 2:
124] Ibrahim was selected by God to be an Imam [leader]. Why? Because he
underwent difficult tests. We can think of the period between Eid al-Adha and
Eid al-Ghadir - when Ali ibn Abi Talib (a.s.) became an Imam - as the beginning
of this. Imam Ali was also appointed as leader after he went through difficult
tests. The Commander of the Faithful underwent different tests throughout his
life and managed to emerge victorious out of all these tests. From the age of
11 or 13 when he accepted prophethood to the time when the Holy Prophet
(s.w.a.) immigrated to Medina, Imam Ali (a.s.) was a selfless young man who was
prepared to lay down his life for the sake of the Holy Prophet - and he proved
this on the night the Holy Prophet left Mecca for Medina. Afterwards, he went
through those difficult tests in such battles as Badr, Uhud, and Khaibar. His
high position was the result of those tests. Therefore, people feel in their
hearts that there is a connection between Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Ghadir. Some
people have appropriately named the period between these two occasions as
"the imamate period".
If we pay attention to the philosophy inherent in Eid
al-Adha, many paths will be opened up for us. A select Messenger of the
Righteous One, Prophet Ibrahim (a.s.), made a sacrifice on Eid al-Adha. In some
cases, sacrificing your loved ones is beyond sacrificing your life. Prophet
Ibrahim was about to sacrifice a loved one in the way of God - a young child
whom Allah the Exalted had bestowed on him at an old age after a lifetime of
waiting. "Praise be to Allah, Who has given me in old age Ismail and
Ishaq. Most surely my Lord is the Hearer of prayer." [The Holy Quran, 14:
39] Allah the Exalted had bestowed these two sons on him at an old age,
probably after a lifetime of impatient waiting. He had no hope of getting
another child at that age. The Master of the Martyrs of the entire world, Imam
Hussein (a.s.), who is the symbol of sacrifice and martyrdom, remembers this
event in the holy prayer of Arafah: "And Ibrahim decided to sacrifice his
son at an old age after waiting a lifetime." This is part of a dua by Imam
Hussein (a.s.) in Arafah, a dua that was recited by hajjis yesterday.
This sacrifice is a symbol for the faithful people who
want to tread the path of truth, transcendence and perfection. This is
impossible without a sacrifice. In fact, all the tests that we go through
involve one essential element - all tests involve a sacrifice. Sometimes this
involves sacrificing your life and wealth. Other times it involves forgiving
somebody for a comment he makes and insists on stubbornly. Yet other times it
involves sacrificing your dear ones - your children and your loved ones. Being
tested means going through hardships. When a hardship is placed in the way of
an individual or a people, going through this hardship is a test. If they go
through this hardship, they will reach the desired destination. And if they
fail - if they fail to utilize the talent within them, if they fail to overcome
their passions - they will fall by the wayside. This is what a test is. God
does not put us through divine tests in order to get to know us and see at what
level we are. Divine tests are in fact a step towards one's destination. When
we are tested and we manage to go through the hardships of tests, we enter a
new situation, a new stage of life. A nation and an individual are not
different from one another in this regard.
https://en.abna24.com/news//imam-khamenei-time-between-eid-al-adha-to-eid-al-ghadir-an-epoch-of-imamate_1059172.html
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Iran elected to chair Executive Board of United
Nations Human Settlements Program despite US obstruction
02 August 2020
Iran has been elected to chair a council at the United
Nations program for human settlements and sustainable urban development for one
year despite opposition and obstruction from the United States.
According to a statement released by the Foreign
Ministry on Saturday, Iran was voted by consensus and without any opposition as
the chair of the Executive Council of the United Nations Human Settlement
Program (UN-Habitat) from 2020 to 2021.
The statement said US representatives tried to
challenge the consensus among members of the council, and disrupted the
election process to stonewall Iran’s presidency.
Washington even threatened to withdraw from UN-Habitat
and cut all US funding for the United Nations program if Iran were elected to
the council.
"Even though the United States used all available
financial, political and organizational mechanisms, including pressure on the
Secretariat and other countries, Iran pursued diplomatic and rational
channels" to gather support for the chair, the statement said.
The US finally had no option but to retreat from its
position and the Islamic Republic of Iran was selected as the chair of the
Executive Council of UN-Habitat in a separate online meeting, it added.
UN-Habitat is mandated by the UN General Assembly to
promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities with the goal
of providing adequate shelter for all.
The main documents outlining the mandate of the
organization are the Vancouver Declaration on Human Settlements, Habitat
Agenda, Istanbul Declaration on Human Settlements, the Declaration on Cities
and Other Human Settlements in the New Millennium, and Resolution 56/206.
Tensions between Iran and the United States have been
soaring after President Donald Trump on May 8, 2018 officially announced
Washington's unilateral withdrawal from the landmark 2015 nuclear deal
officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
Following its withdrawal, the US unleashed the
so-called maximum pressure campaign against Iran and targeted the Iranian
nation with the “toughest ever” economic sanctions.
https://www.presstv.com/Detail/2020/08/02/630901/Iran-elected-to-chair-Executive-Board-of-United-Nations-Human-Settlements-Program-despite-US-obstruction
-------
India
Mosques in Hyderabad Asked to Limit Visitors To
5-At-A-Time
02nd August 2020
HYDERABAD:
Keeping in mind the spread of Covid-19, the police have served notices
to several mosques in the city to allow only five persons to offer prayers at a
time.
Following the notices, some persons approached police
officials to consider allowing 50 persons for offering prayers. Citing the
order of Telangana State Waqf Board to allow 50 persons at a time to mosques,
one Syed Ali Jaffry requested police officials to relax the restriction and
allow more devotees to enter mosques.
Chikkadpally police have served a notice to a mosque
management stating that it must take precautionary measures to maintain social
distancing, and mandate visitors to wear masks while offering prayers. Police
also requested members of several committees to co-operate with them to enforce
rules during Bakrid.
https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/hyderabad/2020/aug/02/mosques-asked-to-limit-visitors-to-5-at-a-time-2177928.html
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Hyderabad Shorn Of Its Vibrant Eid-Al-Adha
Celebrations Owing To Coronavirus Outbreak
Aug 2, 2020
Hyderabad: The city was shorn of its vibrant
Eid-al-Adha celebrations this year owing to social distancing norms in view of
the coronavirus outbreak. Hyderabad had not seen such low-key Bakrid
celebrations in recent decades as roads, idgahs and mosques remained empty
across the city.
“Every year, there are at least 25,000 to 30,000
people offering prayers at Mecca Masjid alone,” Mohammad Yousuf, a resident of
Shalibanda. “The entire road from Shalibanda, Gulzar Houz and Mecca Masjid used
to be filled with people every year. The number of people who visited the mosques
for prayers was nothing compared to what it was earlier.” A few mosques at
Nampally, Red Hills and Lakdikapul organised multiple ‘jamaats’ (prayer
congregations) to limit large gatherings at one place at the same time, and to
observe social distancing. After offering prayers, some people symbolically
sacrificed a goat or a sheep as an act of ‘qurbani’. While traditionally the
sacrificed meat is divided into three equal parts, out of which one portion is
kept for the family, the second goes to friends and relatives, and rest is
distributed among the poor, this year, in view of the Covid-19 situation,
people donated the entire portion to the poor.
“Most confined the festivities to their homes, and
donated the entire portion of meat to the poor,” said Zubair Ahmed, a resident
of Mehdipatnam. “People also avoided hugging each other, and extended Eid
greetings orally.”
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/covid-shadow-on-eid-mosques-streets-empty/articleshowprint/77309334.cms
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Muslims in Kashmir Valley offer Eid prayers while
maintaining social distancing
Aug 1, 2020
SRINAGAR: Eid al-Adha celebrations in Kashmir on
Saturday were a low-key affair as most of the faithful marked the festival of
sacrifice by offering prayers in small groups and observing social distancing
in view of the Covid-19 pandemic. No Eid prayers were offered in major mosques
and shrines of Kashmir as police enforced the strict restrictions in most parts
of the valley, including Srinagar city, officials said.
Concertina wires and barricades were placed at many
intersections in the city to prevent free movement of people, they said.
People preferred to offer Eid prayers at home --
either individually or in small groups consisting of family members only, the
officials said.
They said, however, reports of congregation Eid
prayers being offered in the mosques located in the interior parts of cities
and towns have been received.
Police personnel made announcements early in the
morning on public address systems, appealing to people not to congregate for
Eid prayers as the threat of coronavirus was still prevalent in the valley.
Thousands of sheep and goats were sacrificed by the
Muslims across the valley to mark the tradition of Prophet Ibrahim, the
officials said.
They said, however, the number of animals sacrificed
this year was much lesser than usual in view of Covid threat.
While Eid al-Fitr prayers could not be offered in May
this year due to the coronavirus lockdown, Eid al-Azha prayers could not be
offered last year in Kashmir as authorities had imposed restrictions in the
wake of abrogation of Article 370 and division of the erstwhile state of Jammu
and Kashmir into two Union Territories.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/muslims-in-kashmir-valley-offer-eid-prayers-while-maintaining-social-distancing/articleshowprint/77297810.cms
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Pakistan
'Observe SOPs, take care of the needy': Pakistani
leaders wish nation on Eidul Azha
01 Aug 2020
As the country celebrates Eidul Azha amid declining
coronavirus cases on Saturday, Pakistani leaders took to Twitter to wish the
nation on the occasion and to remind them to follow standard operating
procedures (SOPs) and to take care of people around them, especially those who
were less well-off.
New coronavirus cases in Pakistan have continued to
decline in the past weeks — a development the government of Prime Minister
Imran Khan dubbed as the result of its "successful" anti-Covid-19
strategy.
However, experts have warned against declaring an
early victory with many fearing another spike in cases after Eidul Azha,
similar to what happened in June in the aftermath of Eidul Fitr.
People are seen offering Eidul Azha prayers, without
observing precautionary measures, in Karachi on August 1, 2020. — AFP
Despite repeated warnings and requests to follow
standard operating procedures set by authorities to avoid a second spike in
cases, large gatherings, with little to no social distancing measures, were
seen across the country.
Some mosques, like Lahore's Badshahi Mosque that sees
huge gatherings, installed santiser gates for worshippers.
People walk through a sanitiser tunnel while entering
the historical Badshahi Mosque to offer Eidul Azha prayers, in Lahore on August
1, 2020. — AP
In his message to the nation, Prime Minister Imran
Khan said that the day was a reminder to reiterate resolve for facing all
problems with strong determination and without evading greater sacrifices in
its way.
He added that the country was passing through a
critical phase due to the coronavirus pandemic, which he said had emerged as a
great challenge to humanity. He appealed to the nation to observe all SOPs
while sacrificing animals and to take special care of the needy and poor on the
occasion.
While wishing the nation "Eid Mubarak",
President Arif Alvi prayed for the well-being of the people and the country.
"I pray that you remain happy and far from
worries, illnesses and difficulties ... May Allah make my country a centre of
progress, prosperity and peace," he tweeted.
Meanwhile, Army Chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa visited
troops deployed in the Khuiratta Sector along the Line of Control.
"Eidul Azha epitomises the essence of
unconditional sacrifice. No one understands this spirit of sacrifice better
than a soldier," Gen Bajwa was quoted as saying by the ISPR director
general's official Twitter account.
PML-N chief and Leader of the Opposition in the
National Assembly Shehbaz Sharif tweeted: "Eidul Azha Mubarak to you and
your family!"
Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi wished everyone
a "peaceful Eid", adding that people must "exercise [their]
collective responsibility to ensure a safe & healthy Eid, continuing to
flatten Pakistan’s Covid-19 curve".
Federal Minister for Planning and Development Asad
Umar also took to Twitter to wish the nation on the occasion. "May Allah
grant you all the opportunity to celebrate a happiness-filled Eid," he
said.
Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar wished "all
Muslims a very happy and safe Eidul Azha".
Meanwhile, PPP Senator Sherry Rehman advised people to
celebrate Eid with simplicity. "Help those who are in difficulty. Keep
your mind, house and neighbourhoods clean. Don't forget to be careful. Take
care of yourself and your family by staying at home," she said.
https://www.dawn.com/news/1572299/observe-sops-take-care-of-the-needy-pakistani-leaders-wish-nation-on-eidul-azha
--------
Call to observe Kashmir annexation day
01 Aug 2020
ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on
Friday called for observing the first anniversary of annexation of Kashmir on
August 5 as Yaum-i-Istehsal (Day of Exploitation) with full enthusiasm as he
rolled out a range of activities planned by the government for the occasion.
Mr Qureshi was speaking at a press conference
alongside Information Minister Shibli Faraz and Special Assistant to the Prime
Minister on National Security Moeed Yusuf.
India, he said, tried to break the resolve of the
Kashmiris through its oppressive tactics, but it failed to achieve its goal.
“My Kashmiri brothers and sisters we can feel your
difficulty, we realise the oppression that you have endured. But, remember you
are not alone. Every Pakistani is standing by your side and is raising voice
for your cause,” the foreign minister said.
The highlight of the annexation anniversary observance
would be Prime Minister Imran Khan’s visit to Muzaffarabad and his speech at
the AJK Assembly in which he will reiterate solidarity with the people of
Kashmir and reaffirm Pakistan’s support for their struggle for freedom from
India.
He announced the renaming of Islamabad’s Kashmir
Highway as Srinagar Highway and said Pakistan’s eyes were on Srinagar and the
day was not far away when “we will offer prayers in the mosque of Srinagar with
our Kashmiri brothers”.
A commemorative postal stamp bearing the picture of
Sopore toddler sitting on the bullet-ridden body of his grandfather is being
issued. The picture had sparked outrage when it got published in international
media.
A visit of a parliamentary delegation to villages
along the Line of Control that have been suffering from ceasefire violations by
India was being planned, Mr Qureshi said.
He said the one-minute silence would be observed
throughout the country on Aug 5 as silence often sent a powerful message.
Solidarity walks are also being held across the country.
The foreign minister said diplomatic outreach was
being intensified. Letters would be written to world leaders and Op-Eds would
be published in international publications highlighting the plight of Kashmiris
during the past year. A social media campaign would also be launched in
parallel.
He urged Pakistani diplomats abroad to plan
engagements in host countries including media interviews and appearances at
think-tanks.
Mr Qureshi said he realised difficulties in organising
street protests for Kashmiris in other countries because of Covid-19 pandemic
and asked overseas Pakistanis to plan activities while observing local
restrictions.
The foreign minister also sought to address criticism
at home that the government’s strategy on Kashmir has been ineffective. He
tried to reject this impression by recalling the communications and
interactions with the international community, PM Khan’s speech at UNGA, his
own nine letters to the Security Council, and the issue being thrice taken up
at the UNSC.
“Through this activity our position has become part of
the UN record. It will contribute to attainment of our goal,” he said, adding
that the issue had been internationalised.
Information Minister Shibli Faraz said lack of
determination in pursuing the issue in the past emboldened India to annex
Kashmir. He said enthusiastic participation in the upcoming observance would
convey to India that it would not be like before anymore.
https://www.dawn.com/news/1572236/call-to-observe-kashmir-annexation-day
--------
KP amends law to regularise those working for absentee
Khasadars
Mohammad Ashfaq
01 Aug 2020
PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly on Friday
amended the Khasadar Force Act, 2019, regularising those working illegally for
absentee Khasadar personnel.
The law was enforced last year for the reconstitution
of the Khasadar Force functioning in the merged tribal districts and their
absorption in the regular police force.
After the legislation, the government faced problems
as there were many, who worked as illegal proxies for the enrolled Khasadars,
many of whom had already died or worked somewhere else.
The amendment was tabled in the house by social
welfare minister Hisham Inamullah.
The session was chaired by Deputy Speaker Mahmud Jan.
The people illegally serving in Khasadar Force has
been defined in a new clause inserted in the law’s Section 2, after Clause (e),
which states: “Iwazi” means a surrogate member of the Khasadar Force, who is
actually performing duties in place of a member of the Khasadar Force and is
getting full or split remuneration for the services rendered, whereas the
salary is still drawn in name of the one in whose place he is performing such
duties in the Khasadar Force.”
Minister proposes powers for CM to fill finance
commission vacancies
The legalisation of the “Iwazi” proxies would pave the
way to their merger with the regular police force.
The provincial government has so far merged many
Khasadar officials with KP police into in the seven tribal districts after the
region’s merger with KP, while the merger of the rest is in progress.
The house passed the amendment bill unanimously.
Mr Inamullah also proposed an amendment into the KP
Local Government Act, 2013, to empower the KP chief minister to fill the
vacancy in the Provincial Finance Commission in the absence of the tehsil local
council’s chairman.
Through the proposed amendment, a provision has been
added in Clause (i) sub-section (1) of Section 52, which states: “Provided that
if elections are not held to the office of Chairman Tehsil Local Government,
then the vacancy in the Provincial Finance Commission shall be filled by the
Chief Minister.”
Besides other members in the PFC, there are also five
chairmen of the tehsil local governments as members of the PFC.
The amendments were introduced to the law as elections
for the tehsil local council were not in sight.
The provincial government is intending to hold local
body elections in two phases.
In the first phase, it wants to hold elections for the
village and neighbourhood councils to be held on a non-party basis, while in
the second phase, elections will be held for the tehsil council on party basis.
Through a calling attention notice, MPA Ranjeet Singh
drew the house’s attention towards non-implementation of the five per cent
quota for the religious minorities in the in the government jobs.
He said many government departments were even unaware
of the five per cent quota fixed by the provincial government for the
minorities and didn’t mention it in the advertisement for jobs on the vacant
posts.
Responding to the calling attention notice, labour
minister Shaukat Yousafzai asked the mover to name departments not following
government criteria so that the matter could be taken up with them.
He said all rights of religious minorities were
protected and the minorities lived happily in the country.
“All problems of minorities would be resolved on
priority basis,” he said.
The lawmakers also criticised the Peshawar Electric
Supply Company over unscheduled loadshedding saying the outages had made the
lives of the people miserable in hot weather.
They asked the speaker to arrange a meeting of MPAs
with federal power minister Umar Ayub to resolve the issue and warned if that
didn’t happen, they would launch extensive protests across the province.
The chair adjourned the session until next Monday due
to incomplete quorum.
https://www.dawn.com/news/1572229/kp-amends-law-to-regularise-those-working-for-absentee-khasadars
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North America
AHCEC Developed Reality Model of Second-holiest City
in Islam
August 1, 2020
Each year, a significant number of the world’s 1.8
billion Muslims visit the city of Al-Madinah in Al-Munawwarah, Saudi Arabia. It
is the second-holiest city for Muslims and was the first Islamic capital.
Pilgrims come to visit the city’s three prominent mosques and other areas of
religious and historical significance.
Over the years, the number of pilgrims has increased
exponentially. To accommodate the growing numbers, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
wanted to increase the capacity of annual visitors from 8 million to 30 million
by 2030. The kingdom planned a SAR 7 million project to build museums and plan
routes to historical, culture, and tourist sites. With more than 55 years of
experience, Ala Abdulhadi & Khalifa Hawas Consulting Engineering Company
(AHCEC) was
tasked with designing the plan, which included
expanding transportation systems and hospitality facilities while preserving
historical sites.
AHCEC worked with the Madinah Development Authority to
create strategic execution plans for the project. For example, the city wanted
to implement reality modeling practices to help plan the development of the
55-square-kilometer historical area of the city, allowing the team to gather
all the proper resources and streamline the project timeline. This model would
be used to create a digital twin for the central part of the city.
AHCEC was also asked to help conduct mobile mapping
for the 700-square-kilometer road network, which includes 7,900 kilometers of
roads. The team needed to build a comprehensive application that contained 3D
mobile mapping and reality mesh data to support the urban planning team. With
this large area to cover and the deadline shortened from two years to one,
AHCEC turned to an innovative and interoperable digital solution.
To begin, the project team captured LiDAR data to
create a hybrid model that also included unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) data.
Other team members drove through the streets to capture data for the model.
AHCEC divided the city into 2.25-hectare cells and used six UAVs in the field.
The team established 1,038 control points around the city, which allowed them
to ensure accuracy and finish data capture in 85 days with 7,033 UAV flights.
Using ContextCapture, the project team processed
nearly 750,000 images, about 13.7 terapixels, to create a realistic 3D model of
the city. AHCEC also used a 3D mapping solution to manage the large amounts of
mobile mapping data. Orbit, Bentley’s 3D mapping solution, helped effectively
manage and feature extract content, as well as publish mobile mapping data. The
application was able to manage and extract the large amounts of drone data and
create panoramic images for the model. The interoperability of the applications
also allowed the model to be exported in web-ready formats for easier approvals
from the government and other stakeholders.
By using ContextCapture and Orbit, AHCEC was able to
document each historical spot in the city using realistic and detailed models.
These models were used to help develop new roads through the city,
superimposing other models on the reality model so designers and engineers
could see everything accurately and clearly laid out.
The model captured every feature of the highly
congested area, including trees and the texture of the buildings. Even narrow,
dark alleys were modeled in great detail with a combination of laser scanning
and photogrammetry. The team also implemented data from existing point clouds.
The model provided a single location where the
multidiscipline site planning and engineering teams could find information that
they needed. It is now easy to share the models with other departments, as well
as visualize and measure without having much experience in 2D or 3D modeling.
Lastly, the team conducted a feasibility study for a 3-kilometer walkway
between two important mosques, as well as conduct shading analyses to allow for
maximum walking comfort between the mosques and surrounding facilities.
Reality modeling provided the team with a reliable
survey technique that minimized modeling time and costs while streamlining
decision-making and visualization. AHCEC’s reality model helped the team
complete the project 15 months ahead of schedule while still creating a design
that facilitates pilgrim access to Al-Madinah. Using ContextCapture and Orbit,
the project team completed the objective in nine months, saving over a year in
surveying time and more than SAR 42 million. The team captured more than
750,000 images, modeled 41,672 buildings, and surveyed more than 7,000
kilometers of roads in high definition.
This project was the first of its scale in Saudi
Arabia to use consumer UAVs in such a short timeframe. Moving forward, the team
will use Bentley’s iTwin® Services to create a digital twin. AHCEC plans to
collect information from utilities, including environmental sensors, to add to
the reality model. The team plans to implement AssetWise and ProjectWise,
creating a single source for all project information that can be contained in
the reality model.
Aude Camus is a senior solution marketer with Bentley
Systems, responsible for ContextCapture, Orbit 3DM, OpenCities Planner,
Descartes, and Pointools. She is part of Bentley’s digital cities business unit
and focuses on Bentley’s reality modeling products. Graduated from SKEMA
Business School in France, Camus has nearly 15 years of experience in selling
and marketing engineering and geospatial software.
https://csengineermag.com/ahcec-developed-reality-model-of-second-holiest-city-in-islam/
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WHO warns coronavirus pandemic will be lengthy
02/08/20
The World Health Organization on Saturday warned the
coronavirus pandemic was likely to be "lengthy" after its emergency
committee met to evaluate the crisis six months after sounding the
international alarm, AFP reported.
The committee "highlighted the anticipated
lengthy duration of this COVID-19 pandemic", the WHO said in a statement,
and warned of the risk of "response fatigue" given the socio-economic
pressures on countries.
The panel gathered Friday for the fourth time over the
coronavirus crisis, half a year on from its January 30 declaration of a public
health emergency of international concern (PHEIC), the WHO's highest level of
alarm.
"WHO continues to assess the global risk level of
COVID-19 to be very high," said its latest statement.
"The committee highlighted the anticipated
lengthy duration of this COVID-19 pandemic, noting the importance of sustained
community, national, regional, and global response efforts."
The novel coronavirus has killed at least 680,000
people and infected at least 17.6 million since the outbreak emerged in China
last December, according to a tally from official sources compiled by AFP.
The panel, comprising 18 members and 12 advisers,
unanimously agreed that the pandemic still constituted a PHEIC.
The committee urged the WHO to provide nuanced,
pragmatic guidance on COVID-19 reactions "to reduce the risk of response fatigue
in the context of socio-economic pressures".
The panel urged the WHO to support countries in
preparing for the rollout of proven therapeutics and vaccines.
It also urged the agency to accelerate research into
the remaining "critical unknowns" of the virus, such as the animal
source and potential animal reservoirs.
Going into the meeting, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom
Ghebreyesus said the pandemic's effects would be long-lasting.
"It's sobering to think that six months ago, when
you recommended I declare a PHEIC, there were less than 100 cases and no deaths
outside China," he said Friday.
"The pandemic is a once-in-a-century health
crisis, the effects of which will be felt for decades to come," he added.
http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/284573
--------
Europe
Preston's mosques go 'above and beyond' to keep
communities safe during Eid celebrations
1st August 2020
By Matthew Calderbank
There might be a new lockdown in parts of Lancashire,
but community leaders say mosques across the county are going 'above and
beyond' the Government guidance to keep communities safe.
Ismail Timol, from Preston Muslim Cultural Centre in
Fishergate Hill, said he's never seen a "better example of social
distancing".
"We are doing everything and more to keep people
safe," said Ismail.
"But we are making the best of it whilst keeping
everyone safe.
"We have mapped out our prayer rooms to make sure
we have 2 metres between people, instead of the 1 metre that the Government
recommends.
"We have a number of volunteers on duty at every
prayer, who enforce social distancing and make sure everyone sanitises their
hands before they enter.
"There is a one-way system in and out and
everyone must bring their own prayer mats.
"We really are going above and beyond to make sure
this Eid is safe for everyone."
But Ismail has questioned the timing of Lancashire's
new lockdown measures on the eve of Eid.
He said there is a feeling among the county's Muslim
communities that they have been unfairly singled out for criticism over the
recent spike in coronavirus infections.
"We must question the Government's decision to
impose the lockdown in Blackburn and other parts of Lancashire the night before
Eid.
"It really didn't give people much notice and it
feels a bit like they are indirectly aiming it at us.
"It's a shame because we are all in this
together, but it feels like the timing of it suggests we're to blame.
"Even the text message from my local surgery
singled out mosques, but didn't mention other places where people can
meet."
Ismail was referring to a text message sent to
hundreds of households from a Preston GP on Friday (July 31).
The message said: "'Preston has had a spike of
coronavirus; please avoid visitors in your home, wear face coverings in
enclosed public spaces/to mosque. Get tested if you have symptoms."
Ismail added: "This is something we are going to
have to investigate and get to the bottom of, because why they thought it was
acceptable to single out mosques without mentioning any other public and social
spaces is troubling.
"I don't think that was an appropriate way to put
the message across and it could lead to ill feeling against Lancashire's Muslim
communities at a time when we should all be working together to fight this
virus."
On Friday, Lancashire Resilience Forum - the
organisation tasked with leading the county's response to coronavirus - urged
Muslim communities to take "effective action" to prevent further
outbreaks.
It said: "There has been an increase in
coronavirus infections in parts of Lancashire, with a prevalence in some of our
Muslim communities, for social and economic reasons.
"It's important that we all take effective action
to protect all of our communities as we approach Eid Al-Adha.
"People are reminded to follow the coronavirus
guidance to keep themselves safe this weekend."
But Angie Ridgwell, chief executive of Lancashire
County Council and chair of the Lancashire Resilience Forum, followed this by
praising Lancashire's Muslims for their "outstanding" efforts in
tackling the spread of the virus.
She said: "Our Muslim communities in Lancashire
have been outstanding throughout the coronavirus crisis, playing a huge role in
helping us to control the virus in the county.
"We would like to pass on our heartfelt thanks
for this and ask you to keep this up, not least this weekend.
"Eid Al-Adha will be different this year, but it
will still be a time of joy and celebration. We wish you all a safe and happy
time."
https://www.lep.co.uk/health/coronavirus/prestons-mosques-go-above-and-beyond-keep-communities-safe-during-eid-celebrations-2930577
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Ireland's Muslims flock to sporting grounds to
celebrate Eid
by Shane Raymond
02-08-2020
Dublin, Ireland - On a crisp, bright morning in
Dublin, worshippers sit on prayer mats spaced across a sport pitch, listening
to a woman dressed head-to-toe in white recite the Quran.
From over the looming, concrete walls of the stadium,
Catholic prayers barked into a microphone can be heard from the "rosary
rally" protest outside.
Ireland's hallowed sporting grounds, Croke Park,
opened its doors to Muslims this Eid al-Adha so that they could gather in large
numbers for the first time since the country's coronavirus lockdown put strict
limits on all indoor religious services.
Initially, the organisers had hoped 500 worshippers
could attend Friday's event, but a surge in new COVID-19 cases delayed an
expected easing of restrictions.
Instead, only 200 people were allowed on the field,
suitably spaced apart, aside from some children who stayed close to their
parents, running around the prayer mats in circles or waving miniature Irish
flags.
For many of the worshippers, Friday's event was also a
cherished opportunity to celebrate their dual identities - they are Muslim and
Irish, and proud to be both.
"The Kaaba is the pulse and heart of the Muslim
world," said Karen Kirwan, the ceremony's MC. "Well, Croke Park is
the heartbeat of all the Irish people here in Ireland. It's where we are drawn
to."
More than a stadium, Croke Park dominates a central
position in Ireland's psyche.
"Croke Park has been a physical expression of a
nationalist, cultural, sporting organisation. And it's freighted with
history," historian Tim Carey said.
The stands are named for historical figures or
insurrections, such as Hill 16, said - falsely - to be built on rubble from the
1916 Rising, a failed rebellion that reignited the Irish independence struggle
(the stand was built the previous year).
The arena is also the site of the most notorious
atrocity of the Irish War of Independence, the Bloody Sunday massacre, in which
14 people were shot dead by police who swarmed the field during a match.
"To have a sporting venue attacked in such a
manner by the state really put Croke Park in a different league in terms of
symbolism," Carey says.
After independence, the stadium was seen as a
reflection of the new, often insular and deeply Catholic nation.
"The bishops threw the ball in at every major
match in Croke Park until the 1970s," Carey says.
But on Friday, as protesters - some carrying prayer
beads or anti-Islam signs - screamed through a line of police officers at an
anti-racism counterprotest outside the stadium walls, the highest-ranking
Catholic in Ireland, Diarmuid Martin, spoke along with Anglican and Jewish
representatives to the hundreds of Muslims gathered on the field, expressing
support for the Eid celebration.
Protesters, some carrying prayer beads or anti-Islam
signs, scream through a line of police officers at an anti-racism
counterprotest outside the stadium walls [Shane Raymond/Al Jazeera]
Aside from the few dozen protesters outside, an online
petition to stop the event, described as an "attack" on Christian
culture, accumulated more than 24,000 signatures, according to the
anti-immigration activists who organised it.
When the event was first announced, an article from a
fringe news site falsely reported that animals would be slaughtered in Croke
Park during the Eid celebrations as part of a "large blood
sacrifice". The claim was quickly debunked.
However, Carey said he reaction has been
overwhelmingly positive inside the Gaelic Athletic Association community and
the event's organisers say that, while Irish Muslims still face Islamophobia,
Irish society has been largely accepting.
"Ireland is the country of cead mile failte - a
hundred thousand welcomes - and Ireland is a country that, in many ways, leads
in embracing diversity," said Umar al-Qadri, the Chair of the Irish Muslim
Peace and Integration Council.
"Irish people have shown that, no matter the
past, no matter what prejudices you have, you can reconcile and have peace.
"Having Eid in Croke Park is very historic. It's
very symbolic. For Muslims, it's a sense of pride and the wider community have
expressed their happiness."
Ireland's 2016 census says more than 63,000 Muslims
lived in the country that year, up from less than 4,000 in 1991. However,
al-Qadri estimates that the figure is now probably higher than 100,000.
Al-Qadri was born in the Netherlands but moved to
Pakistan as a teenager. When he returned, he found that right-wing parties were
on the rise in the Netherlands, as was rhetoric against foreigners, Jews and
Muslims.
"As with most immigrant communities, they were
too busy at building their own lives and looking after their families back
home," al-Qadri said.
"That created fear that translated into
anti-Muslim sentiments. And I wanted to avoid that in Ireland."
Al-Qadri set up the Irish Muslim Peace &
Integration Council to build bridges with the wider society, as well as to
tackle "extremism" within the Muslim community.
During the coronavirus lockdown, al-Qadri issued a
fatwa, an order by a Muslim leader, allowing adherents to gather online to say
Friday prayers on sites that facilitate video streaming such as Facebook. Then,
while watching a video showing German Muslims praying in an Ikea car park, he
was inspired - or rather, he thought: "We can do better than that."
Among the speeches at the Croke Park event - said in a
mix of English, Arabic and Irish - was a talk by 21-year-old Abood Aljumaili,
encouraging the attendees to try out the native Irish sport played at the
stadium, like hurling.
Aljumaili, 21, more commonly called Bonnar
O'Loingsigh, fled Iraq as a child with his family in 2008. He started learning
to play hurling a few years later.
"I didn't even know how to hold the hurl
properly," Aljumaili said of the long wooden sticks used by players.
It was his second time in Croke Park and, once the
ceremony ended, he took advantage of it, smacking a ball a quarter of the way
across the pitch and chasing after it towards the goalposts.
Omayma Madani, 17, was not able to get a ticket to the
event. Speaking in the accent of the south Dublin area where she grew up, she
talked about how she has been made to feel uncomfortable travelling in some
European countries as a Muslim, but rarely in Ireland.
She spoke about having to buy a specially-made hijab
to go with the uniform of the Catholic school she attended and not being able
to eat with her community during Ramadan and how her mosque was still eerily
quiet when she last visited.
Madani was born in Ireland to parents who had
immigrated from Algeria but, when asked how she saw her own identity, she did
not answer with nationality or religion.
Instead, she said: "I'm an artist. I'm a boxer. I
teach Arabic. I enjoy teaching, but I wouldn't want to do it forever. I want to
be a lawyer. And, one day, I want to be the prime minister of this
country."
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/ireland-muslims-flock-sporting-grounds-celebrate-eid-200801125724436.html
--------
'Iconic' Croker shows religious unity on Muslims'
special day
Michael McHugh
August 01 2020
Holding Eid prayers at Dublin's "iconic"
Croke Park is a powerful symbol of religious unity during the pandemic, an
Islamic leader has said.
Two hundred worshippers - socially distanced and
surrounded by empty terraces - rolled out their prayer mats at the
82,000-seater stadium synonymous with Irish identity.
Shaykh Dr Umar Al-Qadri, from the Irish Muslim Peace
and Integration Council, delivered part of his speech in Irish and paid tribute
to Ireland's tradition of welcome and inclusivity, with "cead mile
failte".
At the manicured grass pitch normally used to host
major matches, he said: "This pandemic has brought with it some blessings.
"If not for this pandemic, we probably would not
have been here. If it was not for this pandemic our communities would not have
been united. We understand as humans we are in this together and we are having
the same challenges."
Croke Park was made available by the GAA to facilitate
social distancing on a special religious day for Muslims.
Leaders of Catholic, Protestant and Jewish faiths in
the city attended, as well as senior Government officials.
"We are all showing together a message of peace,
a message of unity, a message of humanity," Dr Al-Qadri said.
He added that many people are putting their lives at
risk working in the health service, and paid tribute to Dr Syed Waqqar Ali, the
eighth healthcare worker in the State to die from Covid-19, earlier in July.
It commemorates the willingness of the prophet Ibrahim
(Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.
The religious leader said Ireland had demonstrated it
is an open and accepting society following his request to use Croke Park.
"This is a country that is proud of its diversity
and embraces those who become part of the society. Which place is most iconic
and symbolic? Of course it is Croke Park," he added.
He said the ceremony had sent out a strong message
that Ireland is a country of cead mile failte - 100,000 welcomes.
"No matter your differences, no matter how
different you are, once you come and live here and become part of the society,
this island of Ireland has this unique ability to adopt you in a way that you
become part of society," he said.
He referred to St Patrick, the Romano-British
missionary who spread Christianity and has become synonymous with Irishness.
Dr Al-Qadri said Croke Park is part of Ireland's DNA,
something every person has been brought up with.
He added that yesterday's event was the first complete
broadcast on state television, RTE, of Eid in a non-Muslim majority country.
https://www.herald.ie/news/iconic-croker-shows-religious-unity-on-muslims-special-day-39414703.html
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Africa
Lagos eases coronavirus lockdown, reopening churches,
mosques
02-08-2020
The governor of Nigeria's commercial capital Lagos
said on Saturday churches and mosques would reopen next week as the authorities
move to ease the lockdown over the coronavirus pandemic.
"Places of worship in Lagos will now be opened
from Friday, the 7th of August for our Muslim worshippers, and on Sunday, the
9th of August for our Christian worshippers," Babajide Sanwo-Olu said in a
statement.
But the numbers of worshippers will be limited as a
measure to prevent further infections.
"We will only allow 50% of their maximum
capacities, either at the church or at the mosque," he said.
"For the avoidance of doubt, there will be Friday
worships for our Muslim followers and Sunday worships for our Christian
followers," the governor said.
But night vigils and other services are still not
allowed, he added.
Sanwo-Olu also advised elderly worshippers from 65
years to stay at home.
Lagos, the country's largest city, is the epicentre of
the outbreak in Nigeria, with more than 15 000 confirmed cases and 192 deaths.
https://www.news24.com/news24/Africa/News/lagos-eases-coronavirus-lockdown-reopening-churches-mosques-20200802
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Governor Yahaya, others observe Eid prayers at Gombe
Juma’at mosque
August 1, 2020
Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya,
on Friday joined other Muslims in the state to observe the Eid prayer with the
strict adherence to Covid-19 safety protocol.
The Eid prayer, which took place at the central
Jumma’at mosque, Emir’s Palace, Gombe was led by the Deputy Chief Imam of
Gombe, Ustaz Aliyu Hammari, and was also attended by the Emir of Gombe Alhaji
Abubakar Shehu Abubakar lll, top government functionaries and faithful Muslems.
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya had, earlier in a
goodwill message, enjoined the people of the state to imbibe the lessons of
Eid-el Kabir which connote sacrifice, love, unity and obedience and demonstrate
same in their daily lives for the good of the society and humanity at large.
Fielding questions after the two raka’at prayers,
Governor Yahaya said Eid-el Kabir is a period of sharing and caring and
therefore enjoined the citizenry to continue to show love , compassion and
support to those in need, especially at this trying period of Covid-19
pandemic.
He called on the diverse people of the state to
continue to live in peace with one another regardless of the differences, just
as he called for sustained prayers for peace, security and an end to the global
pandemic of Covid-19.
https://thenationonlineng.net/governor-yahaya-others-observe-eid-prayers-at-gombe-jumaat-mosque/
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Bauchi Chief Imam appeals to govt to pay salaries
August 1, 2020
As Muslims celebrate Eid-el Kabir across the country,
the Chief Imam of Bauchi Central Mosque, Malam Bala Baban Inna, has appealed to
the state government to pay workers their July salaries in order to ease their
burden.
The Nation gathered that many state workers were not
paid July salary as at Friday.
The imam made the appeal yesterday while delivering
his Sallah sermon.
He felicitated with the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu
Suleimanu Adamu, for marking his 10th anniversary on the eve of Eid-el Kabir .
https://thenationonlineng.net/bauchi-chief-imam-appeals-to-govt-to-pay-salaries/
--------
Muslim leaders call for peace
August 1, 2020
The call came as the Muslim community on Friday joined
their counterparts across the world to observe the Eid-el Kabir prayers.
The prayers held in partial compliance with Covid 19
protocols.
Governor Seyi Makinde had on Thursday announced the
reopening of praying grounds across the state, but with the warning that the
prayers must held in compliance with Covid-19 protocols.
The Nation, which moved around some praying grounds in
Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, observed that the worshippers complied with the
washing of hands and wearing of face masks but social distancing was difficult
to enforce.
Muslims, who started thronging the prayer grounds
around Alakia and Agodi, mostly came with their face masks and sachets of water
for ablution and washing of hands.
https://thenationonlineng.net/muslim-leaders-call-for-peace/
-------
Arab world
Muslims worldwide celebrate Eid al-Adha
01 Aug 2020
DUBAI : Muslims worldwide marked the start of the Eid
al-Adha holiday amid a global pandemic that has impacted nearly every aspect of
this year's pilgrimage and celebrations.
The last days of the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in
Saudi Arabia coincide with the four-day Eid al-Adha, or “Feast of
Sacrifice," in which Muslims slaughter livestock and distribute the meat
to the poor.
The pandemic has pushed millions of people around the
world closer to the brink of poverty, making it harder for many to fulfill the
religious tradition of purchasing livestock.
In Somalia, the price of meat has slightly increased.
Abdishakur Dahir, a civil servant in Mogadishu, said
that for the first time he won't be able to afford goat for Eid because of the
impact of the virus on work.
“I could hardly buy food for my family," Dahir
said. “We are just surviving for now. Life is getting tougher by the day."
In some parts of West Africa, the price for a ram has doubled.
Livestock sellers, used to doing brisk business in the
days before the holiday, say sales have dwindled.
“The situation is really complicated by the
coronavirus, it's a tough market," Oumar Maiga, a livestock trader in
Ivory Coast said. “We are in a situation we've never seen in other years."
The hajj pilgrimage has also been drastically impacted
by the virus. Last year, some 2.5 million pilgrims took part, but this year it
was limited to as few as 1,000 already residing in Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi Health Ministry said there have been no
cases of the COVID-19 illness among this year's pilgrims.
Government precautions included testing pilgrims for
the virus, monitoring their movement with electronic wristbands and requiring
them to quarantine before and after.
Pilgrims were selected after applying through an
online portal, and all had to be between 20 and 50 years of age.
Just after dawn Friday, small groups — masked and
physically distancing — made their way toward the massive, multistory Jamarat
Complex in the Saudi valley area of Mina.
There the pilgrims cast pebbles at three large
columns. It is here where Muslims believe the devil tried to talk the Prophet
Ibrahim, or Abraham, out of submitting to God's will.
Muslims commemorate Ibrahim's test of faith by
slaughtering livestock and animals and distributing the meat to the poor.
During the last days of hajj, male pilgrims shave
their heads and remove the terrycloth white garments worn during the
pilgrimage. Women cut off a small lock of hair in a sign of spiritual rebirth
and renewal.
The hajj, both physically and spiritually demanding,
intends to bring about greater humility and unity and is required of all
Muslims to perform once in a lifetime.
Sheikh Abdullah al-Manea, member of the Supreme
Council of Senior Scholars of Saudi Arabia, used the hajj sermon Friday to
praise the kingdom for limiting the number of pilgrims and protect human life.
“We thank the positive role of Muslims around the
world that have complied with the regulations of the country to protect them
from the spread of this virus, which leads to the protection of Mecca and
Medina," the sheikh said.
Around the world, Muslims gathered with relatives or
remained at home to mark the start of Eid.
In Baghdad, streets were largely empty due to a 10-day
coronavirus lockdown imposed by authorities. Eid prayers in mosques were
canceled.
“We had hoped that the curfew would be lifted during
the Eid period. ... We were surprised that the lockdown period included the Eid
holiday and more," cafe owner Marwan Madhat said. “This will cause
losses." Kosovo and the United Arab Emirates have also closed mosques to
limit the spread of the virus.
In Lebanon, worshippers prayed in mosques under tight
security, despite a partial lockdown imposed Thursday that will continue
through Aug. 10. Worshippers at the Mohammad al-Amin Mosque in Beirut, spilled
outside onto the street to maintain social distancing.
In Indonesia, home to the world's largest population
of Muslims, people attended Eid prayers in mosques under strict guidelines,
including that they bring their own prayer mats and pray several feet apart
from one another. Worshippers had to wear masks and were not allowed to shake
hands or hug.
Authorities also ordered that meat be delivered
door-to-door to the poor to avoid long lines.
“This outbreak has not only changed our tradition
entirely, but has also made more and more people fall into poverty," said
Agus Supriatna, an Indonesian factory worker laid off this year because of the
pandemic.
In the United States, some attended prayers under
similar distancing and safety rules, while others prayed at home.
At the Muslim Education Center in Morton Grove,
Illinois, about 100 worshippers had their temperatures taken before entering
and spacing themselves out on the floor. The imam's voice was slightly muffled
as he preached through a mask about sacrifice and its relevance to the holiday.
And in Los Angeles, Arfa Faiz and a small group of
friends were planning to take part in a socially distanced picnic at a park — a
far cry from previous Eids when large groups would congregate on the beach or
at a hall.
“Usually in L.A. the Eid things are really big. They
are very social, there's a lot of stuff going on," Faiz said.
“Eid is a time to celebrate and be with the
community," she continued. “It does feel a little sad." Ahead of the
holiday, Alioune Ndong, a tailor in Mbour, Senegal, said he did not know how
he'd afford an Eid feast and urged the government to help struggling families.
https://www.livemint.com/news/world/muslims-worldwide-celebrate-eid-al-adha-11596273575036.html
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Coronavirus amid Hajj: Mecca security use 6,250
cameras to monitor holy sites
02 August 2020
Ismaeel Naar
Over 6,250 CCTV cameras were used this year to monitor
the holy sites in Mecca during the Hajj pilgrimage that has been held in a
limited capacity due to the coronavirus pandemic, according to authorities.
The Hajj monitoring center is linked to about 772 of
those cameras at any given time to ensure security forces are able to monitor
and respond to the movements of all Hajj pilgrims, according to Brigadier
Abdulrahman al-Qahtani, the commander in charge of monitoring the Jamaraat
Bridge where pilgrims have been performing the symbolic stoning of the devil
ritual as the Hajj draws to a close.
“These cameras are being used from the control center
to assist with our security forces on the field to help them with the movement
of pilgrims throughout their pilgrimage across the holy sites,” al-Qahtani told
Al Arabiya.
The control center is primarily concerned with
providing a wider picture to the general field officers on what is happening on
the sites, where officers at the headquarters are able to adjust and zoom in on
footage using the CCTV cameras.
For all the latest headlines follow our Google News
channel online or via the app.
Sunday marks the final day of Hajj and Eid al-Adha.
Pilgrims will now perform the “stoning the devil” ritual one last time at the
Jamaraat Bridge in Mecca during the day. They will then head back to the Grand
Mosque for a final time to circle the Kaaba, known as the “farewell” tawaf, set
to take place at 4 pm local time.
https://english.alarabiya.net/en/coronavirus/2020/08/02/Coronavirus-amid-Hajj-Mecca-security-use-6-250-cameras-to-monitor-holy-sites.html
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Nearly 2,400 liters of sanitizers used daily to clean
Grand Mosque
August 1, 2020
MAKKAH — Approximately 2,400 liters of sanitizers are
being used daily to clean and disinfect the Grand Mosque during this year’s
Hajj season as part of precautionary measures to curb the spread of
coronavirus, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday citing officials.
Out of the total 2,400 liters, around 1,500 liters of
sanitizers are being used for surfaces and the remaining 900 liters as manual
sterilizers, in addition to more than 1,050 liters of luxurious perfumes meant
for the carpets and prayer rugs.
The extraordinary sanitization drive is being carried
by the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques as it has
intensified its efforts to ensure the utmost safety of the guests of God and
its staff.
As part of the drive, the Grand Mosque and its
premises were completely cleaned and sterilized, which included mataf (area for
circumambulation around the Holy Kaaba), mas’a (area for the ritual of sai
between Safa and Marwah), and outer courtyards after the pilgrims’ performance
of Tawaful Ifadah and sa’i, two of the four pillars of Hajj, on Friday.
The presidency, represented by the general department
for technical and service affairs and the department of cleaning, has mobilized
more than 3,500 male and female workers to clean and sterilize the entire
premises of the holy mosque at least 10 times on a daily basis.
They use the best quality of environment-friendly
cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization materials and air fresheners
especially brought for the Grand Mosque. Approximately 54,000 liters of
disinfectants were used by 95 modern cleaning and washing equipment.
https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/596188/SAUDI-ARABIA/Nearly-2400-liters-of-sanitizers-used-daily-to-clean-Grand-Mosque
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Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Congratulates
President of Niger on Independence Day
2020/08/02
Riyadh, August 02, 2020, SPA -- The Custodian of the
Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has sent a cable of
congratulations to President Mahamadou Issoufou of the Republic of Niger on the
anniversary of his country's Independence Day.
In his cable, the King wished the President constant
good health and happiness and the Government and people of Niger steady
progress and prosperity.
https://www.spa.gov.sa/viewfullstory.php?lang=en&newsid=2116901
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Muslim World League inaugurates project to distribute
meat in Pakistan
August 02, 2020
The Muslim World League (MWL) inaugurated a project in
Pakistan on Eid Al-Adha aimed at slaughtering animals and distributing their
meat to the poor and those in need, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
A ceremony to mark the launch was held at the MWL’s
regional office in Islamabad in the presence of Punjab minister of literacy and
nonformal basic education, Raja Rashid Hafeez, the deputy head of mission at
Saudi Arabia’s embassy in Pakistan, Mohammed bin Khalaf Al-Enzy, and Pakistani
officials.
Saad bin Massoud Al-Harthi, the MWL’s regional
director in Pakistan, said the project was part of the organization’s
humanitarian efforts provided each year in several countries in cooperation
with local authorities.
Speaking on behalf of the government and the Pakistani
people, Hafeez extended his thanks to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin
Salman for the support provided for the needy in Pakistan.
He also praised the humanitarian efforts of the MWL
and for caring for needy Pakistanis.
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1713336/saudi-arabia
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Egyptian battalions arrive at Yemen western coast,
Arab countries fears Turkey's control Bab el-Mandeb Strait
August 1, 2020
A leader in ousted Hadi’s government in Taiz revealed
that a number of Egyptian battalions had arrived western coast of Yemen.
Mo’en Abdulmalik’s, Prime Minister of fugitive Hadi’s
government, concluded his visit to Cairo, where he signed an agreement give
Egypt the right to a military presence in Yemen.
Abdo Noman al-Zuraqi, a leader of the so-called
“resistance” in the southwestern countryside of Taiz, said the Egyptian
battalions were transported aboard Saudi aircraft to Aden to support Tariq
forces (loyal to Hadi) in Taiz.
Al-Zuraqi confirmed on Twitter that the third batch
arrived on Thursday and transferred to Macha district.
A few days ago, Egypt summoned the fugitive Hadi to
sign a secret agreements give Cairo the right to build military bases at Bab
el-Mandeb Strait.
On last Sunday, Turkey announced its preparation for
sending a military frigate to support its forces off the Yemeni coast, in a
sign of Turkish entrance in Yemen like Libya.
Turkey has a major base on Somali coast near Yemen.
This announcement comes after increasing tension between the pro-Brotherhood
factions loyal to it and other factions loyal to the Saudi-Emirati alliance in
Taiz overlooking Bab el-Mandeb.
The Turkish move indicates that Istanbul, which was
recently sent a message to the United Nations Security Council to condemn the
UAE moves on Socotra island, is seeking a military intervention to support
loyal factions on ground, especially in Shabwah, Taiz and Socotra.
The Turkish moves raised concerns of Arab countries,
especially Egypt, which summoned ousted Prime Minister of Hadi’s government.
Egypt fears that Turkey will control Bab el-Mandeb Strait, because it has six
ports on the Red Sea.
https://en.abna24.com/news//egyptian-battalions-arrive-at-yemen-western-coast-arab-countries-fears-turkeys-control-bab-el-mandeb-strait_1059175.html
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Southeast Asia
Islamic finance seen as driver for FDI inflow to
Philippines, say govt officials
August 01 2020
The Philippines is looking at Islamic finance as a
platform to attract and encourage partners in the Middle East, such as Qatar,
to expand their footprint in the Southeast Asian nation, particularly in the
field of Islamic banking, according to government officials during a
recently-held webinar.
The virtual conference, organised by the Philippine
Economic Zone Authority (Peza), in co-operation with the Banko Central ng
Pilipinas (BSP), tackled the theme ‘Islamic Finance as a Vehicle to Economic
Recovery’, and highlighted discussions on foreign investment opportunities in
the Philippines via Islamic finance.
This is the third in a series of ‘Business Continuity
Forums’ held by Peza, in collaboration with the Institute for Autonomy and
Governance (IAG), and in co-operation with Peza’s Investment Promotions
Partners in the Middle East.
Peza director general Charito B Plaza underscored the
importance of Republic Act (RA) 11439 or ‘An Act Providing for the Regulation
and Organisation of Islamic Banks’ signed by President Rodrigo R Duterte on
August 22, 2019, which will maximise the full potential of Islamic financing in
promoting inclusive economic growth.
Plaza emphasised that the Philippines, being a
multi-cultural and democratic country, “strongly cares for the inclusion of our
Muslim brothers and sisters” in the large Islamic financial framework in the
global market.
“Islamic banking will surely help Peza achieve its
vision in promoting economic growth in the countryside,” Plaza pointed out.
Plaza’s remarks during the webinar reiterated the
statements delivered by Abdulgani M Macatoman, the undersecretary of the
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Trade Promotions Group (TPG), who was in
Qatar earlier this year during the Doha leg of the DTI’s ‘Outbound Business
Matching Mission (OBMM) to GCC 2020’.
Macatoman stressed that the Philippines is keen to
partner with Qatar in the development of its Islamic banking system, and that
the Southeast Asian country could benefit from Qatar’s expertise in Islamic
banking and Shariah-compliant policies.
Lawyer Arifa A Ala, managing director at the BSP,
highlighted that RA 11439 was created as an expanded Islamic banking system
that involves tax neutrality, stronger risk management, ethical financial
stability, further establishment of Islamic banks, and other Islamic financial
activities, as well as the imposition of principle-based rules and standards,
in addition to strict Shariah law compliance.
“Philippine Islamic banking is an alternative
product/service available in the market and is not exclusive to Muslims. As
such, foreign Islamic banks and investors, especially from the Middle East, are
welcome to expand their operations in the Philippines. Meanwhile, local
commercial banks may also open an Islamic bank and/or Islamic banking
units/windows,” Ala stressed.
Peza also recently launched an online job expo titled
‘Development Outreach for Labour, Livelihood, and Advancement of Resources’
(Dollar), which offered 69,081 jobs and online skills training for displaced
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWS) and unemployed Filipinos. The jobs are
available at www.workbank.com/dc/peza-online-job-fair.
The programme was held with the support of the
Philippines’ Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Labour and
Employment (Dole), and the Office of Senator Bong Go.
DTI secretary Ramon Lopez said Peza’s online job fair
and skills training are very much aligned with DTI initiatives and other
agencies to aid repatriated OFWs and locally-unemployed Filipinos.
Dole secretary Silvestre Bello III said, “The role of
service providers and investment promoters of our economic zones cannot be
over-emphasised…the active engagement of these key pillars is the fuel to rev
up our workforce.”
https://www.gulf-times.com/story/669686/Islamic-finance-seen-as-driver-for-FDI-inflow-to-P
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Bank Islam offers targeted repayment assistance for
customers
02 Aug 2020
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 2 — Bank Islam Malaysia Bhd has
strongly urged vulnerable customers impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic to
approach its officers and staff for the best repayment arrangement as the
current moratorium period ends on Sept 30.
Customers may visit the bank’s network of branches
from Aug 7 onwards to discuss solutions that best fit their financial situation
and complete the application form to enjoy this facility.
“With the moratorium period set to end on Sept 30,
this additional assistance is meant to help customers alleviate financial
constraints and stabilise their cash flow,” its chief executive officer, Mohd
Muazzam Mohamed said in a statement today.
He said the bank has initiated contact with all its customers
via text messages and periodical updates across different communication
platforms.
Under the targeted repayment assistance, Bank Islam
offers three months moratorium extension from the end of the existing
moratorium period to those who lost their jobs in 2020 and currently
unemployed.
Individuals, who are still working but suffered a
significant loss in income as a result of reduced working hours and pay cuts,
will be offered reduce monthly instalment commensurate to salary reduction,
depending on types of financing.
They will also be offered payment flexibility up to
six months from the end of the existing moratorium period.
https://www.malaymail.com/news/money/2020/08/02/bank-islam-offers-targeted-repayment-assistance-for-customers/1890331
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Karak, East Coast highways operator pleads with Muslim
motorists not to pray on emergency lanes
02 Aug 2020
BY YISWAREE PALANSAMY
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 2 — Anih Bhd, the concessionaire for
the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway (KLK) and the East Coast Expressway 1 (LPT1),
today pleaded with motorists against performing prayers on emergency lanes as
they would risk traffic accidents.
“We truly appreciate the patience of KLK Highway users
and also the obedience of the Muslims to perform their prayers while traveling
to the East Coast, during every festive season and public holidays.
“However, we as the KLK Highway operators, also seek
patience and reasonableness from road users so as not to perform their prayers
on the roads; that is on the emergency lane, for safety factors,” it said in a
statement.
The company’s response came following a viral photo on
social media showing Muslim travellers performing the early “subuh” prayer on
Km32 on the KLK, owing to the traffic congestion caused by the “balik kampung”
exodus for Aidiladha celebrations.
The photo showed long lines of cars parked on an
emergency lane with Muslims praying on the tarmac between the cars, while
congested traffic continues on the KLK Highway.
“This may cause [accidents] involving motorists and
vehicles that are not aware of the static presence of individuals who are on
the emergency lanes,” it added.
The concessionaire also advised road users to plan
their journey and stop for prayers in designated places such as the rest and
recreation (R&R) stops along LPT1 and the KLK Highway, while returning to
the Klang Valley, taking into consideration another bout of traffic congestion.
Traffic is reported slow-moving on several major
expressways this morning as more people are making their return trip home after
being away for the Aidiladha celebrations.
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2020/08/02/karak-east-coast-highways-operator-pleads-with-muslim-motorists-not-to-pray/1890316
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IRF appoints new chief amid investigation into alleged
sexual assault by director
02 Aug 2020
BY ZURAIRI AR
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 2 — The Islamic Renaissance Front
(IRF) has announced the appointment of a new executive director, following a
criminal investigation against one of its senior directors for alleged sexual
assault.
In an email to its network of collaborators last night
sighted by Malay Mail, the think tank’s staff member announced Azrul Asmadi as
its new leader, citing “unforeseen circumstances of two major surgeries on its
founder and director” instead.
Its website has also been updated with the details of
the new appointment.
It had previously listed three directors before being
wiped clean following news reports of the alleged sexual assault and
harassments involving one of the directors.
The website now only lists Azrul as its executive
director, with no mention of other directors.
According to IRF, Azrul is a social researcher and a
qualified green building consultant, with in-depth interest in “the difference
between the East and West civilisation, values, social and economic impacts”.
The email did not address the allegations, nor the
police investigation against the director. Formed in 2009, IRF describes itself
as a movement to empower youth and promote Muslim intellectual discourse, and
has advanced local discourse involving Islam and the enforcement of Shariah
laws in Malaysia through its events, talks and commentaries.
Last month, Malay Mail quoted three former members
about the sexual harassment they allegedly faced from one of the think tank’s
directors, following a call by women’s rights groups for an independent
investigation into these allegations.
One of the accusers had lodged the abovementioned
police report.
The director in question has since said he is a victim
of a “concerted effort” to tarnish his name, and denied one of the two other
allegations as malicious, baseless and fabrications. He did not address the
third allegation.
This comes as the police said a 56-year-old activist
and NGO leader had been apprehended for questioning in relation to a report
lodged against him for alleged sexual harassment that happened in November last
year.
The case is being investigated under Section 354 of
the Penal Code for assault or use of criminal force to a person with intent to
outrage modesty.
The Joint Action Group for Gender Equality had
initially urged lRF to initiate an independent investigation into the
allegations after four of IRF activists publicly dissociated themselves from
the group as long as the director remains.
The coalition of 14 women’s rights groups said
appropriate steps must be taken to secure the confidentiality of the
complainants and their protection against any intimidation.
Following news reports on the issue, more than 30
local civil society organisations said they are standing in solidarity with all
sexual harassment survivors, expressed their concern about the allegations, and
affirmed their zero tolerance of sexual harassment at the workplace.
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2020/08/02/irf-appoints-new-chief-amid-investigation-into-alleged-sexual-assault-by-di/1890299
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URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/beijing-mosques-host-eid-al/d/122521