BJP Youth Wing Functionary Held For Sharing Fake News About Rape-Murder Of Hindu Girl By Muslim Man

New Age Islam News Bureau

18 December2025

BJYM functionary Shaurya Mishra after being arrested by the Gurugram Cyber Crime Police | By special arrangement

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·         BJP youth wing functionary held for sharing fake news about rape-murder of Hindu girl by Muslim man

·         UN, aid groups warn Gaza operations at risk from Israel impediments

·         Philippines denies being terrorist training ground after Bondi Beach shooters’ visit

·         Young Pole held for allegedly planning terror attack on Christmas market

·         CAIR Expresses Solidarity with Muslim Community in Russia After Bias-Motivated Killing of Tajik Schoolboy by Neo-Nazi Student

·         Saudi outdoor skiing and hiking destination Trojena covered in snow

·         ‘Banditry Allegations Against Matawalle Political, Baseless’

·         Hanafi Calls for Quality Education in Universities

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India

·         Muslim objections to Vande Mataram are about faith, not rejection of India

·         Nitish’s act sets off hijab row in J&K; Omar, PDP trade fire

·         Police file chargesheets in three more cases against Tauqeer Raza in Bareilly violence

·         Hijab incident: Pakistan-based gangster issues video threat to Bihar CM Nitish Kumar

·         'Md Salim Awasthi': CPM Leader, A Muslim, Becomes Brahmin In SIR Draft Roll

·         Indian Muslim groups in Australia distance themselves from Bondi Beach accused

·         "Muslims Should Do 'Surya Namaskar', Worship Rivers": RSS Leader's Remark

·         Waqf Tribunal akin to Civil Court, prescribed court fees applicable: Gujarat High Court

·         Normalisation with Pakistan ‘difficult to imagine’, says J&K CM Omar Abdullah

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Mideast

·         Israel fires mortar into Gaza residential area, wounding at least 10

·         US Senate votes to end ‘Caesar’ sanctions against Syria

·         Sites that remind Syrians of Assad brutality become sets for TV series

·         What’s next for the Gaza ceasefire and will the truce last?

·         Israel’s Netanyahu says approved $35bn gas deal with Egypt

·         Syria seizes large weapons shipment destined for Lebanon

·         Palestinians retrieve belongings from West Bank camp before home demolitions

·         Over 600 Israeli settlers storm Al-Aqsa on 4th day of Hanukkah

·         Lebanon judge to question shipowner linked to port blast

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Southeast Asia

·         Malaysia's Islamic authority declares cultivated meat can be halal

·         Anwar defends Malaysia’s RM100 million humanitarian aid to Gaza

·         Azerbaijan’s Central Bank, Malaysian Al-Hidayah Group discuss development of Islamic finance

·         Indonesia Secures Mecca Hotel, Land for 23,000 Pilgrims Under Hajj Village Plan

·         ‘Rahmah’ and inclusivity to guide Malaysia’s religious affairs administration

·         Are Malaysians really feeling better about the economy? Latest Ipsos data says yes

·         At Kuskop, Sim rolls out interest-free loan freeze and expanded MSME financing

·         ‘Atrocious’: Anwar hits back at race-based attacks on Hannah Yeoh’s Cabinet appointment

·         PM Anwar urges stronger government communication, says team has limitations

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Europe

·         Cut green spending to make UK ready for war, Tories say

·         Ukrainian drones kill civilians in southern Russia

·         Parents told to lead by example and turn off phones this Christmas

·         Teacher discussed cocaine with pupils and called Islam 'satanic'

·         Russian assets not up for grabs – Orban

·         Russia’s Oreshnik missile system to enter service this year – Putin

·         Majority of Belgians oppose theft of Russian assets to fund Ukraine – poll

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North America

·         CAIR Opposes Latest Expansion of Muslim and African Travel Ban, Unprecedented Targeting of Families of U.S. Citizens

·         Anti-corruption authority holds protest condemning American insults to Qur’an

·         Mayor Signs Proclamation: No Recognition for Sharia or Any Foreign Law in Keller, TX

·         'We never gave up hope.' Bethpage Muslims settle mosque expansion lawsuit

·         CAIR Md. Calls on Congressional Delegation to Strongly Reject Repugnant Anti-Muslim Bigotry from Rep. Randy Fine, Sen. Tommy Tuberville

·         CAIR Welcomes New Hampshire City Council Adding Eid Holidays to Calendar

·         CAIR-NY Condemns Anti-Semitic Stabbing in Brooklyn

·         Six Canadian MPs denied entry by Israel to occupied West Bank

·         Muslim rights group sues Florida Gov. DeSantis over 'foreign terrorist' label

·         New strain in ties? US clears $10bn arms sale to Taiwan; China voices opposition

·         Trump's travel ban on 39 countries: Who are exempt from the new visa rules? What about the fiance visa?

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Arab World

·         ‘I was motivated by solving problems the world didn’t care about,’ first Saudi Nobel laureate Omar M. Yaghi tells Arab News

·         Saudi leaders send condolences to Kuwaiti emir after death of royal

·         Saudi FM receives telephone call from French counterpart

·         Indonesia, Saudi Arabia trade reaches $6.6 billion, ambassador says

·         Saudi deputy ministers receive Japanese, German envoys

·         Saudi Arabia celebrates World Arabic Language Day with global outreach, local engagement

·         King Abdulaziz Camel Festival sees unprecedented demand

·         Jeddah fair blends fun, learning for children

·         Deal signed to boost hospitality, heritage studies

·         Makkah crafts exhibit showcases Kingdom’s heritage

·         Saudi Arabia charts new heights in quality of life

·         8 Saudi biotech startups complete accelerator program in US

·         Saudi navy launches first Tuwaiq Project combat ship in US

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Africa

·         How we are deepening Arabic Language, role in science, by institute

·         Nigeria labour union protest insecurity in Lagos

·         ‘I Guarantee You, We Will Win’ – Tinubu Assures Nigerians On Fight Against Terrorism, Banditry

·         VIDEO: ‘Bamayi’ – Angry Mob Attack, Beat Up ‘House Of Representatives’ Member In Zamfara

·         Many Feared Dead As Petrol Tanker Explodes In Edo

·         Stop Invoking Buhari’s Name For Self-justifications, Let Him Rest In Peace – El-Rufai

·         Nigeria Customs Takes Action Against Banks For Failing To Remit Revenue

·         Burkina Faso Reportedly Releases 11 Nigerian Air Force Personnel

·         Peter Obi Queries Nigeria-France Tax Deal, Demands Full Disclosure Of MoU Terms

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South Asia

·         Secretariat protest: Govt suspends 14 arrested employees

·         Victory Day play halted after Jamaat leaders’ protest in Lakshmipur

·         Election to be tough for BNP, bigger test if voted to power

·         Afghan Cultural Artifacts to Be Featured in Joint Islamic Museums Exhibition in Qatar

·         Beradar Calls for Protection of Islamic System, National Interests

·         Kyrgyzstan Ready to Support Afghanistan in Humanitarian, Digital Initiatives, Sydykov

·         Plans for Construction of Commercial Markets in Sar-e-Pul and Jawzjan Discussed

Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau

URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/rape-murder-hindu-girl-muslim-man/d/138058

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BJP youth wing functionary held for sharing fake news about rape-murder of Hindu girl by Muslim man

SUSHIL MANAV

17 December, 2025

BJYM functionary Shaurya Mishra after being arrested by the Gurugram Cyber Crime Police | By special arrangement

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What You Need to Know

Gurugram cyber police arrested Shaurya Mishra, a BJYM leader from UP, for sharing inflammatory and false social media content. He posted about a non-existent rape and murder, falsely claiming a Muslim youth killed a Hindu girl to incite communal tensions. Despite police warnings, he didn't delete it and faces charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and IT Act.

*AI-generated summary. Check context in original text.

Summary

Gurugram: The Gurugram cyber police have arrested Shaurya Mishra, a leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s youth wing (Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha or BJYM) from Uttar Pradesh, for allegedly sharing inflammatory and misleading content on social media on a Muslim girl’s rape and murder—which never happened.

Sandeep Singh, spokesperson of the Gurugram police, told ThePrint that Mishra posted objectionable images along with false claims about an alleged murder involving a young woman from Gurugram. The post claimed that a Muslim youth had raped and murdered a Hindu girl, describing the incident in communally divisive terms.

The Gurugram cyber crime police station registered a case after the post went viral on social media platforms, triggering concerns about potential law and order issues. Investigators found that the images shared were obscene and the accompanying text contained false and fabricated information allegedly designed to inflame communal tensions.

“The accused deliberately misrepresented facts and used inappropriate content to spread hatred on religious lines. Such posts can create serious disturbances in society, and the police take these matters very seriously,” said the police spokesperson.

A police team travelled to Uttar Pradesh and apprehended Mishra, bringing him back to Gurugram for questioning. He has been charged under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act for spreading fake news, sharing obscene content, and promoting enmity between different groups.

He was produced before a local court by the police Tuesday, and sent to a judicial lock-up.

Shaurya Mishra, whose social media X handle describes him as an advocate and district vice president of the BJYM, had shared the post on 9 December.

On 11 December, Gurugram police wrote in the comment section of this post that no such incident had occurred in Gurugram. “The facts being circulated are completely false. Legal action may be taken for spreading false news,” the comments by the police warned.

However, the post was not deleted.

ThePrint contacted Varun Goel, general secretary of the Uttar Pradesh unit of the Bhartiya Janata Yuva Morcha. Goel sought a few hours to confirm Mishra’s official position in the BJYM and Wednesday evening he confirmed that Shaurya Mishra was vice president of the BJYM in the Kaushambi district of UP.

Mishra’s official X handle shows that he has been posting multiple posts, often 30 to 40, every day and almost all posts target people from a particular religion or are aimed at spreading rumours.

Providing details of the case, the Gurugram police spokesperson told ThePrint that on 11 December, a person submitted a written complaint to the Cyber Crime Police Station West, Gurugram, stating that an individual had posted objectionable content on social media/Twitter in a manner that disturbed social and religious harmony. On the basis of the complaint received, a case was registered.

“Under the leadership of Priyanshu Diwan, Assistant Commissioner of Police (cyber crime), Gurugram, a police team led by Inspector Sandeep Kumar, Station House Officer, Cyber Crime Police Station West, Gurugram, took action and successfully apprehended the accused on 15 December from Kaushambi (Uttar Pradesh) for posting objectionable content from a Twitter account in the above-mentioned case, which hurt religious and social sentiments. The accused has been identified as Hariom Mishra alias Shaurya Mishra (aged 25 years, LLB), resident of village Charwa, district Kaushambi (Uttar Pradesh),” the spokesperson said.

He added that during police interrogation, it was revealed that the accused is a resident of village Charwa, Kaushambi district of UP. While using social media, he came across a post, which he copied and reposted, despite knowing that the post was objectionable and would hurt social and religious sentiments.

He said that the police team has seized one mobile phone used in the commission of the offence from the accused.

Source: theprint.in

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://theprint.in/politics/bjp-youth-wing-functionary-held-for-sharing-fake-news-about-rape-murder-of-hindu-girl-by-muslim-man/2807771/

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UN, aid groups warn Gaza operations at risk from Israel impediments

December 18, 2025

Displaced Palestinians gather to receive donated food portions at a charity kitchen in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on December 17, 2025. (AFP)

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UNITED NATIONS: The United Nations and aid groups warned on Wednesday that humanitarian operations in the Palestinian territories, particularly Gaza, were at risk of collapse if Israel does not lift impediments that include a “vague, arbitrary, and highly politicized” registration process.

Dozens of international aid groups face de-registration by December 31, which then means they have to close operations within 60 days, said the UN and more than 200 local and international aid groups in a joint statement.

“The deregistration of INGOs (international aid groups) in Gaza will have a catastrophic impact on access to essential and basic services,” the statement read.

“INGOs run or support the majority of field hospitals, primary health care centers, emergency shelter responses, water and sanitation services, nutrition stabilization centers for children with acute malnutrition, and critical mine action activities,” it said.

SUPPLIES LEFT OUT OF REACH: GROUPS

While some international aid groups have been registered under the system that was introduced in March, “the ongoing re-registration process and other arbitrary hindrances to humanitarian operations have left millions of dollars’ worth of essential supplies — including food, medical items, hygiene materials, and shelter assistance — stuck outside of Gaza and unable to reach people in need,” the statement read.

Israel’s mission to the United Nations in New York did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the statement. Under the first phase of US President Donald Trump’s Gaza plan, a fragile ceasefire in the two-year-old war between Israel and Palestinian militants Hamas began on October 10. Hamas released hostages, Israel freed detained Palestinians and more aid began flowing into the enclave where a global hunger monitor said in August famine had taken hold.

However, Hamas says fewer aid trucks are entering Gaza than was agreed. Aid agencies say there is far less aid than required, and that Israel is blocking many necessary items from coming in. Israel denies that and says it is abiding by its obligations under the truce.

“The UN will not be able to compensate for the collapse of INGOs’ operations if they are de-registered, and the humanitarian response cannot be replaced by alternative actors operating outside established humanitarian principles,” the statement by the UN and aid groups said.

The statement stressed “humanitarian access is not optional, conditional or political,” adding: “Lifesaving assistance must be allowed to reach Palestinians without further delay.”

Source: arabnews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2626656/middle-east

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Philippines denies being terrorist training ground after Bondi Beach shooters’ visit

17 Dec 2025

Police conducted a sweep outside the Chabad of Bondi Synagogue in Sydney today during the funeral of rabbi Eli Schlanger, who was killed in the December 14 Bondi Beach mass shooting. — AFP pic

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MANILA, Dec 17 — The Philippines said Wednesday today was no evidence that the country was being used for terrorist training, a day after it was revealed the men behind Australia’s Bondi Beach mass shooting had spent November on a southern island known for Islamist insurgencies.

“(President Ferdinand Marcos) strongly rejects the sweeping statement and the misleading characterisation of the Philippines as the ISIS training hotspot,” presidential spokeswoman Claire Castro said at a press briefing.

“No evidence has been presented to support claims that the country was used for terrorist training,” she added, reading from a National Security Council statement.

“There is no validated report or confirmation that individuals involved in the Bondi Beach incident received any form of training in the Philippines.”

On Tuesday, the country’s immigration office confirmed that Sajid Akram and his son Naveed, who killed 15 people and wounded dozens of others at a Hanukkah celebration on Sydney’s Bondi Beach, entered the country on November 1 headed for the southern province of Davao.

The island of Mindanao, where Davao is located, has a long history of Islamist insurgencies against central government rule.

Australian authorities are investigating whether the two men met with extremists during the trip.

The Philippine military, however, said Wednesday that armed Muslim groups still operating on Mindanao had been largely degraded in the years since the siege of Marawi.

The five-month battle for the city that pitted government forces against pro-Islamic State Maute and Abu Sayyaf militants claimed more than 1,000 lives and displaced hundreds of thousands of people.

“We have not recorded any major terrorist operations or training activities... since the beginning of 2024,” Philippine military spokeswoman Colonel Francel Padilla said at a morning press briefing.

“They are fragmented, and they have no leadership,” she added of the insurgent groups.

Colonel Xerxes Trinidad told reporters the father-and-son duo’s November trip to the Philippines would not have provided adequate time for significant training.

“Training cannot be acquired in just 30 days... especially if you are to undergo marksmanship (training),” he said.

But Rommel Banlaoi, a Manila-based security analyst, told AFP that while many insurgent groups were “on the run”, they were far from eradicated.

“There are still many active training camps in (central) Mindanao. Those did not disappear,” he told AFP, adding even weakened insurgent movements maintained connections “locally and globally online”. —

Source: malaymail.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2025/12/17/philippines-denies-being-terrorist-training-ground-after-bondi-beach-shooters-visit/202252

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Young Pole held for allegedly planning terror attack on Christmas market

17 December 2025

Christmas market in Krakow. The popular market has introduced concrete barriers in the wake of security concerns, validated by the recent detention of a radicalized student who was allegedly planning a terrorist attack on one of Poland's many Christmas markets. EPA/LUKASZ GAGULSKI

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A student has been arrested for allegedly planning an Islamic State attack on a Christmas market in Poland.

Jacek Dobrzyński, the spokesman for the security services, announced yesterday that the detained suspect is a first-year law student at the Catholic University of Lublin in eastern Poland whose surname, in accordance with Polish privacy laws, cannot be published.

Dobrzyński revealed, though, that the man is a 19-year-old Pole who comes from a devoutly Catholic family who allegedly became “deeply infatuated with Islam” and had “fallen in love with terrorism” before seeking to establish contact with Islamic State.

According to the security services the man who was arrested on November 30 is “suspected of preparing a mass attack at a Christmas market, which he planned to carry out using explosive materials”.

The suspect had allegedly been acquiring knowledge about how to independently produce materials that could be used for such an attack.

“He also planned to join a terrorist organisation to obtain assistance in implementing the intended actions. His goal was to kill and intimidate people, as well as to support Islamic State,” the security services spokesman alleged.

Prosecutors overseeing the case have confirmed that the detained student had been engaging in conversations and establishing contacts with representatives of Islamic State but admitted that his actions had not gone beyond the preparation phase.

The man’s phone records allegedly suggest he was planning an attack in a public space such as a Christmas market but no specific location had been cited.

Security services have seized devices belonging to the suspect, including literature and items relating to Islam. Should he be convicted, he could serve a jail sentence of up to 12 years.

Appealing to parents for vigilance, the security services spokesman said: “If you see your children interested in Islam, communism, or fascism and collecting all sorts of information and items on the subject, that’s the first sign.

“Take care of your own children, because things can only get worse from there”.

Poland has a growing migrant population but one which is still dominated by Ukrainians and Belarusians rather than any significant Muslim community.

Christmas markets are highly popular in Polish towns and cities and the authorities have long suspected that they could become a prime target for any future terrorist attacks.

Poland has thus far been able to stop any terrorist attacks but this year, for the first time, the city of Kraków has felt forced to install concrete barriers around the market square. That is to protect its Christmas market from potential attack by car or truck, of the kind that has taken place in western Europe.

The organisers of Warsaw’s main Christmas market have also decided to use concrete barriers in the aftermath of the detention of the Lubin suspect.

They assured those wishing to visit the market that it has a 24-hour security system including electronic monitoring in place to ensure safety.

Source: brusselssignal.eu

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://brusselssignal.eu/2025/12/young-pole-held-for-allegedly-planning-terror-attack-on-christmas-market/       

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CAIR Expresses Solidarity with Muslim Community in Russia After Bias-Motivated Killing of Tajik Schoolboy by Neo-Nazi Student

December 17, 2025

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today expressed solidarity with the Tajik and Russian Muslim community in the wake of an apparently bias-motivated killing of a 10-year-old Tajik schoolboy in Russia.

The alleged attacker reportedly subscribed to neo-Nazi channels and sent his classmates a racist manifesto before the incident.

In a statement, Washington, D.C., based CAIR said:

“We express solidarity with the Tajik and Russian Muslim community in the wake of this horrifying act of violence against a child, which appears to be driven by the same racist and neo-Nazi ideologies that have fueled attacks on ethnic, religious, and immigrant communities around the world. The targeting of a young Tajik Muslim schoolboy underscores the deadly consequences of hate-filled and extremist propaganda.”

Source: cair.com

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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-expresses-solidarity-with-muslim-community-in-russia-after-bias-motivated-killing-of-tajik-schoolboy-by-neo-nazi-student/

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Saudi outdoor skiing and hiking destination Trojena covered in snow

December 18, 2025

RIYADH: Snow blanketed parts of northern Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, as cold weather and heavy rain affected several cities and other parts of the Kingdom.

Trojena, a mountain destination for hiking and skiing that is located on Jebel Al-Lawz in Tabuk Province and reaches an elevation of up to 2,600 meters, was covered in snow and experienced some light rainfall.

Light-to-moderate rain also fell in Bir Bin Hermas, Al-Ayinah, Ammar, and Shaqra and its suburbs, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The National Center for Meteorology said there was a chance of more snow on Thursday in northern parts of Riyadh region and Al-Qassim Province, following the snowfall in Tabuk and Hail regions on Wednesday.

Source: arabnews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2626644/saudi-arabia

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‘Banditry Allegations Against Matawalle Political, Baseless’

December 17, 2025

By Richard Ogunsile

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has dismissed allegations linking the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, to banditry, describing the claims as baseless, unfounded and politically motivated.

The student body said the former Zamfara State governor was being unfairly targeted at a time the country required unity and collective resolve to confront worsening insecurity.

In a statement issued on Wednesday (today), the President of the Senate, NANS Headquarters, Comrade Usman Adamu Nagwaza, said the allegations formed part of a deliberate campaign to politicise national security for selfish interests.

Nagwaza explained that following extensive consultations and internal reviews, the association had passed a vote of confidence on Matawalle, insisting that the minister was a victim of media blackmail and political persecution.

According to him, claims alleging that Matawalle had links with terrorist commanders or provided support to bandits had been thoroughly investigated and found to be without merit.

Naija News reports that the NANS leader said the association, working alongside independent investigators and journalists, established that the accusations lacked credible evidence and were driven largely by political motives.

“NANS does not represent barbarism or criminality. Our concern is Nigeria, especially students, who are directly affected by insecurity,” the statement read.

He added that it was irresponsible for individuals to exploit the nation’s security challenges to launch attacks on public office holders without proof.

NANS urged President Bola Tinubu to continue to support the Minister of State for Defence and protect him from what it described as campaigns of calumny by “charlatans”.

The association also called on the President to declare a state of emergency on insecurity and further empower the armed forces to intensify operations against criminal elements across the country.

The student body appealed to Nigerians to rally behind the Ministry of Defence and reject what it termed the politics of character assassination.

It maintained that Matawalle remained a dedicated public servant, warning that Nigeria could not afford to lose “its best hands” to political battles at a time when national security required focus, cooperation and sincerity.

Source: naijanews.com

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https://www.naijanews.com/2025/12/17/banditry-allegations-against-matawalle-political-baseless/

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Hanafi Calls for Quality Education in Universities

December 18, 2025

KABUL: Mawlavi Abdul Salam Hanafi, Deputy Prime Minister for Administrative Affairs of the Islamic Emirate, has emphasized the vital role of universities and academic centers in the country’s development, calling for strict adherence to quality education standards.

Speaking during a meeting with officials of Ibn Sina Private University, Mawlavi Hanafi reaffirmed the Islamic Emirate’s commitment to providing quality education and a suitable academic environment for students, according to a statement from Arg the other day.

He stressed that all public and private universities are required to deliver high-quality academic services in line with established scientific and educational standards.

He noted that strengthening higher education institutions is essential for national progress and urged academic centers to maintain professionalism, improve capacity, and ensure compliance with approved regulations.

Meanwhile, university officials expressed appreciation for the support of the Islamic Emirate for both public and private academic institutions and highlighted the importance of adhering to modern scientific and research standards.

They stated that Ibn Sina University remains committed to observing established principles, regulations, and academic standards and will continue efforts to enhance capacity.

Source: thekabultimes.com

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https://thekabultimes.com/hanafi-calls-for-quality-education-in-universities/

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India

 

Muslim objections to Vande Mataram are about faith, not rejection of India

HASNAIN NAQVI

17 December, 2025

What You Need to Know

This article refutes Ibn Khaldun Bharati's claim that Muslim objections to 'Vande Mataram' indicate a rejection of Indian nationhood. It argues that opposition stems from Islamic monotheism, conflicting with the song's deification of the nation. The author criticizes Bharati for a polarizing narrative, misrepresenting religious concerns, distorting facts, and undermining genuine pluralism.

*AI-generated summary. Check context in original text.

Summary

In a recent opinion piece in ThePrint, Ibn Khaldun Bharati seeks to explain the long-standing Muslim objections to ‘Vande Mataram’, framing them not as matters of faith or conscience but as evidence of a deeper rejection of Indian nationhood. He suggests that critics of the song—largely Muslims—are animated by separatist impulses, masked behind theological reasoning, and rooted in a historical elitism, allegedly inherited from “invader” ancestors.

Presented as a meditation on history and semantics, the argument ultimately advances a reductive and polarising narrative—one that risks reinforcing communal suspicion rather than illuminating India’s pluralist compact. Bharati’s core claim—that Muslim resistance to ‘Vande Mataram’ reflects an unwillingness to merge into an “organic whole” with Hindus—ignores both historical context and the legitimate religious concerns involved, while homogenising a diverse community into a permanent category of doubt. This framing deserves correction.

Faith is not obfuscation

Bharati dismisses Muslim objections as “beyond comprehension”, couched in “abstruse theological terms” that even educated Muslims allegedly fail to understand. This is a patronising simplification. The objection is neither obscure nor manufactured; it rests squarely on tawhid, Islam’s foundational belief in the absolute oneness of God, which proscribes any act resembling shirk—the association of divinity with created forms.

The lyrics of ‘Vande Mataram’, embedded in Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s 1882 novel Anandamath, go well beyond geographic or emotional attachment to land. Its later stanzas personify the nation as a divine mother figure, explicitly invoking imagery associated with Durga and Lakshmi. For many Muslims, saluting (vande) such a figure crosses a doctrinal line. This concern was articulated clearly by leaders like Muhammad Ali Jinnah as early as 1937 and debated extensively within the All-India Muslim League.

The objection sharpened not in 1896, when the song was sung at Congress sessions, but after the 1937 provincial elections, when Congress ministries made the song compulsory in schools and official functions. To ridicule this as defying “common sense” is to misunderstand pluralism itself, which rests on respecting religious limits, not deriding them.

Pluralism cannot be enforced

Bharati also argues that emphasising Islam’s opposition to idol worship undermines diversity and peaceful coexistence—values in which Muslims are said to have a “greater stake.” This logic inverts the meaning of pluralism. An inclusive society does not compel participation in symbols that violate conscience; it allows space for principled abstention.

Compulsory patriotism—whether around ‘Vande Mataram’ or any other symbol—has historically alienated minorities rather than integrated them. That many Muslims have expressed deep patriotism through other cultural forms, including AR Rahman’s ‘Maa Tujhe Salaam’, undermines the claim that dissent here signals disloyalty. The insinuation that Muslims must constantly demonstrate a “greater stake” in India subtly casts them as probationary citizens—an idea corrosive to democratic belonging.

Distorting Mahmood Madani

The article’s portrayal of Islamic scholar Mahmood Madani’s recent speech is exaggerated. Bharati presents Madani’s remarks as a ferocious invocation of “jihad” against the revival of ‘Vande Mataram’. In reality, speaking in Bhopal in November 2025, Madani explicitly clarified that jihad denotes a moral and spiritual struggle against injustice—not violence or war.

Madani’s remarks were directed at cultural imposition: “Dead communities don’t face any difficulty since they surrender readily. When asked to chant Vande Mataram, they willingly do that.” This was not a call to arms but a warning against the erosion of religious conscience. Madani repeatedly stressed that no one should be compelled to recite the song. His subsequent clarifications to ANI and The Economic Times, reiterating the non-violent meaning of jihad within Indian democracy, are conspicuously absent from Bharati’s account. Sensationalism here substitutes for accuracy.

Context, not semantics alone

Bharati points to Bihar Governor Arif Mohammed Khan’s Urdu rendering of the first two stanzas—approved by Nadwatul Ulama—as proof that objections are politically motivated. This inference ignores context. The ulema’s approval concerned a decontextualised text, detached from Anandamath and its ideological load.

The novel portrays a Hindu ascetic rebellion against Muslim rulers in 18th-century Bengal, casting Muslims as oppressive outsiders and invoking vows to eradicate “Muslim tyranny.” Scholars writing in Eurasia Review, JSTOR-indexed journals, and other academic forums have long noted Anandamath’s role in shaping an exclusionary Hindu nationalist imagination. Khan’s exercise does not negate this history; it underscores that objections arise from the song’s narrative and symbolic associations, not merely from vocabulary.

Selective history and sweeping claims

Bharati’s semantic analysis of vande and mataram, alongside Quranic references and examples of Muslim nationalisms elsewhere, tells only part of the story. While the idea of a motherland is not alien to Islam, the complete text of ‘Vande Mataram’ explicitly equates the nation with Hindu deities. Even Muhammad Iqbal’s early patriotic poetry—invoked approvingly—belongs to a phase he later moved beyond, rejecting religious syncretism.

Equally untenable is the assertion that Muslims exhibit nationalism only where they are a majority. India’s history offers ample counterexamples, from Maulana Abul Kalam Azad’s unwavering commitment to composite nationalism to the everyday patriotism of millions of Indian Muslims who sing the national anthem without hesitation.

Inflammatory assumptions

Most troubling is the claim that Muslim resistance flows from elitist descendants of “invaders” who view India as vanquished territory. This is historically inaccurate and needlessly provocative. Opposition to the song crystallised around fears of majoritarian overreach in 1937, not civilisational contempt.

Bharati’s attempt to recast Anandamath as a class struggle against oppressors also falters. The novel’s antagonists are Muslims not merely as rulers but as a religious community—a point acknowledged even by sympathetic critics. Analogies with Marxist interpretations of the Moplah rebellion obscure the text’s explicit communal framing.

Accommodation is not appeasement

The lament over the Congress Working Committee’s 1937 decision to limit official use of ‘Vande Mataram’ to its first two stanzas—portrayed as appeasement leading to Partition—echoes contemporary political rhetoric rather than historical evidence. Jawaharlal Nehru and his colleagues acted on Rabindranath Tagore’s own caution that the full song risked division. Partition was the product of structural forces—colonial policies, economic inequalities, political breakdowns—not the truncation of a song.

Unity without coercion

Finally, Bharati’s suggestion that Muslims are now embracing national symbols due to a “conducive atmosphere” since 2014 implies that pressure yields patriotism. This view overlooks the long-standing contributions of Muslims across India’s civic, cultural, and military life. Unity forged through compulsion is brittle; unity sustained through dialogue endures.

For all its rhetorical flourish, Bharati’s argument ultimately casts Muslims as permanent outsiders, their dissent read as a deficiency. India’s constitutional strength lies precisely in its refusal to equate uniformity with unity. A confident nation does not demand identical gestures of belonging; it accommodates difference without suspicion. To insist otherwise is to risk reproducing the exclusions we claim to have transcended.

Source: theprint.in

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Nitish’s act sets off hijab row in J&K; Omar, PDP trade fire

Dec 18, 2025

SRINAGAR: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar’s act of removing the face veil of a Muslim woman during a public function has set off a war of words far away in J&K, where CM Omar Abdullah has accused former CM Mehbooba Mufti of committing similar “unsecular act” by removing the burqa of a legitimate voter years ago.

“Have you forgotten the way Mehbooba Mufti removed the burqa of a legitimate voter inside a polling station years ago. The Bihar CM’s act is a continuation of that. We have seen it before. That incident was regretful, and this too is regretful,” Omar told reporters on the sidelines of a tourism conference here.

“Earlier, Nitish Kumar was considered a secular leader, but he is now slowly showing his true colours,” the CM said.

The PDP was quick to react to Omar’s comment on Mehbooba. Spokesperson Mohit Bhan said, “Nitish Kumar humiliates a Muslim woman in public and Omar responds by attacking Mehbooba Mufti. This is his complicity.”

PDP’s Iltija Mufti described Omar’s comments as “shameful.” “How shameful stepping in to defend a man who pulls a Muslim woman’s niqaab in full public view. Complicit and covert allies working in tandem. India’s only Muslim majority state’s CM openly advocating for Indian Muslims to be second class citizens,” Iltija said.

Source: indiatimes.com

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Police file chargesheets in three more cases against Tauqeer Raza in Bareilly violence

Namita Bajpai

17 Dec 2025

LUCKNOW: Police have filed chargesheets in three more cases against Ittehad-e-Millat Council president Tauqeer Raza, the main accused in the September 26, 2025 violence in Bareilly district, officials said on Wednesday.

With this, chargesheets have now been filed in seven of the 10 cases registered in connection with the incident, while investigations are under way in the remaining three cases. Raza, a cleric, has been named as an accused in all the cases.

As per Bareilly Senior Superintendent of Police Anurag Arya, chargesheets had earlier been filed in four cases. On Tuesday, chargesheets were submitted in three more cases registered at the Cantonment, Qila and Premnagar police stations.

According to police investigations, Raza allegedly hatched a conspiracy to trigger violence and tasked his close aides, including IMC general secretary Nafees Khan, former district president Nadeem Khan and Munir Idrisi, with mobilising a crowd and allegedly inciting an attack on police personnel.

The violence erupted on September 26 under the pretext of protests linked to a controversy in Kanpur over posters bearing the words “I Love Muhammad”.

During the unrest, mobs allegedly opened fire, pelted stones and indulged in looting at five locations across the city.

Five cases were registered at the Kotwali police station, two at Baradari, and one case each at the Premnagar, Qila and Cantonment police stations on the night of the incident.

Raza was arrested the same night and was later shifted to Fatehpur jail on administrative grounds. Subsequently, Nafees Khan, Nadeem Khan and around 90 other accused were lodged in the Bareilly district jail.

According to police authorities, the chargesheet filed at the Cantonment police station named Maulana Tauqeer Raza, along with Nafees Khan, Farhan Raza, Safi alias Safile Ahmed, Faizal Navi, Afzal Beg, Munir Idrisi, Anees Saklaini, Moin Khan, Nadeem Khan, Mohammad Mehtab, Faizan, Moin alias Sajle, Zaki, Arif and Farhad.

In the Premnagar case, the chargesheet names Raza, Nafees Khan, Munir Idrisi, Nadeem Khan, Imtiyaz Ali, Mohammad Imran, Musir Alam, Firoz Hussain, Anwar Hussain, Asif, Sameer Ali, Aman Hussain, Kasan Hussain, Faizan Saklaini, Farhan Khan, Faizul Nabi Khan, Anees Saklaini, Arif, Junaid Ali Khan, Afzal Beg, Farhat and Safile alias Safi Ahmed.

At the Qila police station, the chargesheet has been filed against Raza, Farhan Khan, Afzal Beg, Ayan, Hassan, Rizwan and Shan.

Police said chargesheets were yet to be filed in three cases, two of which are being investigated by the crime branch.

Source: newindianexpress.com

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Hijab incident: Pakistan-based gangster issues video threat to Bihar CM Nitish Kumar

Ramashankar

17 Dec 2025

PATNA: A Pakistan-based underworld don has triggered a controversy by objecting to the removal of a woman doctor’s hijab by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar during an official function held in the state capital on Monday.

The underworld don, Shahzad Bhatti, has demanded an apology from the Chief Minister over the incident. In a video message circulated on social media, Shahzad questioned how a man “at the helm of affairs” could behave in such a manner with a Muslim woman at a public function.

“He should immediately tender his apology for his action,” Shahzad said, adding that he should not be blamed if anything “untoward” happened to the offender. The video message is being viewed as an alleged threat to the Chief Minister.

Shahzad, a native of Pakistan’s Punjab province, has been involved in alleged anti-India campaigns on social media. He is also reportedly associated with terrorist organisations operating from Pakistan. He claims to be a true soldier of Pakistan and an adherent of Islamic thoughts.

Bihar police officials have remained tight-lipped over the video message and are not willing to comment on the issue.

The controversy erupted after Nitish Kumar removed the hijab of a woman doctor while distributing appointment letters to newly recruited AYUSH doctors at a function in Patna. A video showing the Chief Minister removing the hijab of the woman doctor went viral on social media.

The incident took place during the appointment letter distribution ceremony for 1,283 newly recruited AYUSH doctors, including 685 Ayurvedic, 393 Homoeopathic and 205 Unani practitioners.

During the event, Nitish Kumar handed an appointment letter to Dr Nusrat Parveen, who was wearing a hijab. After giving her the letter, he reportedly noticed the hijab and asked, “What is this?” When Dr Nusrat replied that it was a hijab, the Chief Minister told her to remove it.

He then removed the hijab himself in full public view. Dr Nusrat was hastily pulled aside by an official present at the venue, while Deputy Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Samrat Chaudhary, who was standing beside Nitish Kumar, was seen tugging at the latter’s sleeve in an apparent attempt to restrain him.

Meanwhile, RJD spokesperson Ejaz Ahmed alleged that Nitish Kumar insulted women by removing a Muslim woman’s hijab while distributing appointment letters to doctors at a function in Patna.

“This clearly reveals the NDA government’s mindset towards the Muslim community. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has become engrossed in politics aimed at pleasing the BJP and RSS,” he claimed.

“When a person holding the position of chief minister commits such an act, it appears that the government in Bihar is now completely implementing the ideology of the RSS. Nitish should apologise for this act, as he has insulted the entire women’s community,” the RJD leader alleged.

This is not the first time Nitish Kumar has drawn flak for his actions in full public view. Ahead of the Assembly elections, he had sparked a controversy after he began clapping while the national anthem was being played at a function held at the Patliputra Sports Complex in Patna.

That action had drawn sharp criticism from Opposition leaders, who demanded a medical check-up of the Chief Minister by a medical board. The JD(U), however, dismissed the Opposition’s demand and maintained that the Chief Minister was performing his duties as usual.

Source: newindianexpress.com

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'Md Salim Awasthi': CPM Leader, A Muslim, Becomes Brahmin In SIR Draft Roll

Dec 17, 2025

In an epic error during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists in West Bengal, CPM's state general secretary and former MP, Mohammed Salim, and his son, Atish Aziz, have been given a Brahmin last name -- Awasthi -- in the draft voter roll published yesterday.

In a Facebook post, Aziz said the Election Commission of India has "made me a Brahmin, and Mohammed Salim too," and shared a photograph of his voter information. 'Awasthi' is written in Bengali in the section for 'last name'. Aziz's information mentions his father, Mohammed Salim, as a relative. The 'last name' section next to Salim's name also mentions 'Awasthi'.

"My father has been a politician for decades. If such an error can happen in his case, one can only imagine what might have happened to others," news agency PTI quoted Aziz as saying.

Salim used the opportunity to launch an attack on the Election Commission. "The error shows that a serious exercise like the SIR has been taken very lightly by the Election Commission. It did not take adequate preparations and did not impact the necessary training of officials undertaking the job," he told The Telegraph newspaper, adding that the Chief Electoral Officer and the Chief Election Commissioner have turned SIR into a "farcical officer".

Atish has said he will get in touch with the CPM's Booth Level Agent to get the corrections made. Sources at the office of Bengal's Chief Electoral Officer downplayed the error and said mistakes such as these will be corrected before the final list is published in February.

The Election Commission yesterday published the draft voter roll after the Special Intensive Revision exercise in the poll-bound state. A total of 58 lakh names have been deleted, with 24 lakh voters marked as "dead", 19 lakh "permanently shifted", and 12 lakh "missing".

Source: ndtv.com

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Indian Muslim groups in Australia distance themselves from Bondi Beach accused

Dec 18, 2025

Hyderabad: Distancing themselves from the two accused in the Bondi Beach attack, the Indian community in Australia said that they knew nothing about Sajid Akram and Naveed Akram. Speaking to TOI from Sydney, Muhammad Arshad Khan, chairman of the Indian Muslim Association of Australia, said that despite being actively involved in the community for decades, he had never encountered the accused or their family.

"I migrated here in Feb 1998 and have been part of the community since. But I had never heard of them [before the attack]. They are not even registered with us," said Khan, adding, "Such people always live in isolation. We condemn this and stand with our fellow Australians."

On Dec 16, the Telangana police confirmed that Sajid was originally from Hyderabad and migrated to Australia 27 years ago.

Other Indian associations echoed concerns about such incidents tarnishing the image of the Indian diaspora, which has largely coexisted peacefully with the Australian community for decades — even amid recent protests around immigration. "Violence has no place in our society, and attacks on public spaces strike at the very heart of community safety and trust," read a statement issued by the Indian Crescent Society of Australia which estimates that around 1.2 lakh Indian Muslims live in Australia.

Hyderabadi group plans blood donation camp

Meanwhile, many community groups in Australia have stepped forward to support victims and their families. The Deccan Australian Welfare Association (DAWA), for instance, has planed a blood donation drive. "The impact of this tragedy has been felt deeply across the entire DAWA Hyderabadi community. In response, and as a tangible expression of our solidarity and shared humanity, DAWA is taking the initiative to organise a blood donation drive for the victims. We will be liaising with the Australian Red Cross to facilitate this drive, so that we may offer practical support to those who are injured and in need," said Mustafa Mohiuddin, president of DAWA.

He urged all community members to come forward and participate.

Source: indiatimes.com

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"Muslims Should Do 'Surya Namaskar', Worship Rivers": RSS Leader's Remark

Dec 18, 2025

The Hindu religion is "supreme" and Muslims in India should "worship rivers and the Sun for environmental reasons", senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh leader Dattatreya Hosabale declared Tuesday at an event in Uttar Pradesh's Sant Kabir Nagar.

"Nothing will go wrong for them… if our Muslim brothers also perform 'surya namaskar', what harm will come to them? It doesn't mean they will be prevented from going to the mosque," he said, "Our Hindu religion is supreme. It speaks for everyone."

Describing 'surya namaskar', a sequence of yoga poses, as a "scientific and health-oriented practice", Hosabale said, "What harm will it do to Muslims? Is it wrong if those who pray do 'pranayama'? We won't say 'if you do this, you give up namaz'. We will not say that."

"People are free to follow any faith by they should prioritise 'human religion'," he said at an event attended by lawmakers from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party – the RSS' political protege, while also speaking darkly of the Partition; 'what happened to Hindus is known to all', Hosabale said.

The RSS leader also declared Hindu philosophy teaches 'non-violence towards all living beings and nature', and highlighted India's unique tradition of naming children after deities.

Hosabale's comments have been seen by many as reframing practice of the Hindu religion as a standard of environmental common sense, linked to culture and health-related practices, which makes following it less about faith and more about a 'civilisational inheritance'.

The "Hindu religion is supreme" remark also raised eyebrows, as did "won't be prevented from going to the mosque". The former was seen as underlining the superiority of one faith over the other and the latter with a subtext of 'assimilation', indicating that Muslims can 'remain' Muslims, so long as they accept Hindu-majority symbols as normative public culture.

In June Hosabale demanded a 'debate' on retaining the words 'secular' and 'socialist' in the Constitution. "During Emergency, these were added… were not part of the original Preamble."

The demand drew fierce pushback from the opposition and civil society; Congress MP Rahul Gandhi said on X, "The mask of the RSS has come off again. The Constitution irks them because it speaks of equality, secularism, and justice. The RSS-BJP want the Manusmriti."

Source: ndtv.com

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Waqf Tribunal akin to Civil Court, prescribed court fees applicable: Gujarat High Court

by Aditi Raja

December 18, 2025

Stating that the Waqf Tribunal was akin to a Civil Court and thus justified to pass orders to rectify the valuation of suits and pay the deficit court fees, the Gujarat High Court on Wednesday dismissed over 100 clubbed Civil Revision Applications filed by Waqf institutions, challenging respective individual orders of the Tribunal rejecting their individual plaints due to the “valuation and court fees” calculated as per the provisions of the Civil Procedure Code.

Justice JC Doshi of the Gujarat High Court was hearing the petitioners, divided into three groups – the Sidhpur Group, Sarkhej Group and the Vadodara Group – who had originally sought recovery of possession of Waqf property from tenants or illegal encroachers along with ancillary relief including ‘mesne profits’ (recovery of losses caused by wrongful possession of property with encroacher). The petitioners had challenged the decision of the Waqf Tribunal of rejecting their individual plaints after their failure to “rectify the valuation of suits and pay the deficit court fees” within a stipulated time.

While passing a 57-page judgement on Wednesday, the HC noted that the petitioners had not challenged the first order passed by the Waqf Tribunal directing the correction of the valuation of the suit for the purpose of the court fee, until their pleas were rejected by the tribunal as the fees had not been paid. The petitioners had contended that the “foundational order” of the Tribunal, delivered in the cases of the Sidhpur group had “incurable jurisdictional defect” as it had been passed by the Tribunal without the statutory quorum of three members and therefore, the subsequent orders of the Tribunal rejecting other pleas must also be set aside.

Considering the submissions by the petitioner as well as the State Government, represented by Government Pleader GH Virk, the court delved into the question of law if the Waqf Tribunal was equal to a Civil Court and thus governed by the provisions of CPC, which could only be applicable in case of “suit proceedings”. The petitioners had contended that under the provisions of the Waqf Act, the proceedings of the Tribunal are styled as “applications”. The Government Pleader had submitted that the proceedings before the Waqf Tribunal involve restoration of property to the Waqf institutions and “merely describing such proceedings as an “application” cannot absolve the Waqf from the statutory obligation of paying court fees.”

The court judgement states, “The contention (of the petitioners is that) since the Waqf Act does not employ the expressions ‘plaint’ or ‘suit’, the provisions of the Court Fees Act are not attracted… (The Government Pleader)further submitted that prior to the amendment of the Waqf Act, claims relating to recovery of possession of leased Waqf properties were required to be instituted before the Civil Court, and at the relevant point of time, such proceedings indisputably attracted payment of court fees…”

The court also rejected the contention of the petitioners that as per section 83(6) of the Waqf Act, CPC is not applicable to the Tribunal proceedings and Waqf Rules do not provide for payment of court fees.

In its judgement the HC stated that Sections of the Waqf Act “unequivocally” provide that the Tribunal “shall be deemed to be a Civil Court and shall exercise the same powers, as well as discharge the same duties, as are vested in a Civil Court under the CPC while trying a suit or executing a decree or order”. The court stated that although the Waqf Act “stipulates that the Tribunal may regulate its own procedure, as may be prescribed, provided such procedure is consistent with the provisions of the CPC” and that “a decision rendered by the Tribunal shall have the force and effect of a decree of a Civil Court”.

The HC said, “It is clear that in deciding any dispute relating to the procedure specially provided by the act i.e. Waqf Act or the Waqf rules the tribunal shall be guided by provision contained in the CPC as far as possible…. the provisions of the Gujarat State Waqf Rules, 2023, make it pellucidly clear that the provisions of the CPC, as well as the Gujarat High Court Rules, are applicable in addition to the Waqf Rules, 1998…”

Dismissing the petitions as being “devoid of any merit”, the HC said, “In view of foregoing reasons, this Court does not discern any palpable illegality, jurisdictional infirmity, or error of law in the impugned orders warranting interference in exercise of revisional jurisdiction.”

The court also rejected the submission of the petitioners pertaining to matters of “Sidhpur group” that had contended that the initial order passed by the Waqf Tribunal of rejecting pleas should be declared ‘coram non judice’ (lacking proper authority) due to the fact that it was passed by only the Chairman and one member, as against the Waqf Act provision that prescribes that the Tribunal must consist of three members. The court order held that as per the amended Gujarat State Waqf Rules, 2023, the Tribunal shall not be rendered coram non judice if another member other than the Chairman is absent.

Source: indianexpress.com

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Normalisation with Pakistan ‘difficult to imagine’, says J&K CM Omar Abdullah

17.12.25

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said that any normalisation of relations with Pakistan is currently “difficult to imagine”, citing a rise in terror incidents and the absence of a credible civilian interlocutor in Islamabad.

Speaking at the Express Adda organised by The Indian Express, Abdullah said that while dialogue remains the only viable path forward, the necessary “conducive environment” for talks is missing.

He placed the responsibility for creating such an environment squarely on Pakistan.

Referring to recent security breaches, including attacks in Pahalgam and Delhi, Abdullah said these incidents underline a hostile ground reality that India cannot be expected to overlook.

“When incidents like Delhi keep happening, it’s difficult to imagine a normalisation of relations,” he said, stressing that Pakistan must take concrete steps before any progress is possible.

He said Pakistan needs to ensure that those responsible for the Mumbai attacks are brought to justice, halt the orchestration of attacks within Indian territory and prevent non-state actors from undermining regional peace.

Beyond terrorism, Abdullah questioned the effectiveness of diplomatic engagement with Pakistan’s current civilian leadership.

He argued that real power continues to lie with the Pakistani military, making talks with the civilian government largely symbolic.

“What purpose would be served by Prime Minister Modi talking to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif? None whatsoever,” Abdullah said, adding that as the Pakistani Army chief consolidates power, the civilian government lacks the authority to deliver on any peace commitments.

Reflecting on history, Abdullah said the decision of a Muslim-majority Jammu and Kashmir to accede to India in 1947 remains a source of deep resentment for Pakistan.

“There was a reason why a Muslim-majority Jammu and Kashmir chose not to go with Pakistan. That is something Pakistan has never forgotten and never forgiven us for,” he said, warning that this unresolved grievance continues to drive the conflict.

On the internal security situation in the Union Territory, Abdullah said that despite claims of improvement, the nature of recent attacks is alarming.

Referring to the attack in Pahalgam earlier this year, he described it as a “nature of violence” not witnessed in the past 35 years of unrest, indicating persistent challenges for the security apparatus in countering terror threats.

While reiterating his long-held view that “dialogue is the way forward”, Abdullah maintained that India cannot shoulder the responsibility for peace alone.

“The onus doesn’t just rest on the Government of India,” he said, adding, “Pakistan has a huge responsibility.”

Source: telegraphindia.com

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Mideast

 

Israel fires mortar into Gaza residential area, wounding at least 10

December 17, 2025

JERUSALEM: Israeli troops fired a mortar shell over the ceasefire line into a Palestinian residential area in the Gaza Strip, in the latest incident to rock the tenuous ceasefire with Hamas. Health officials said at least 10 people were wounded, and the army said it was investigating.

The military said the mortar was fired during an operation in the area of the “Yellow Line,” which was drawn in the ceasefire agreement and divides the Israeli-held majority of Gaza from the rest of the territory.

The military did not say what troops were doing or whether they had crossed the line. It said the mortar had veered from its intended target, which it did not specify.

Fadel Naeem, director of Al-Ahli Hospital, said the hospital received 10 people wounded in the strike on central Gaza City, some critically.

It was not the first time since the ceasefire took effect on Oct. 10 that Israeli fire has caused Palestinian casualties outside the Yellow Line. Palestinian health officials have reported over 370 deaths from Israeli fire since the truce.

Israel has said it has opened fire in response to Hamas violations, and says most of those killed have been Hamas militants. But an Israeli military official, speaking on condition of anonymity in line with military protocol, said the army is aware of a number of incidents where civilians were killed, including young children and a family traveling in a van.

Palestinians say civilians have been killed in some cases because the line is poorly marked. Israeli troops have been laying down yellow blocks to delineate it, but in some areas the blocks have not yet been placed.

Ceasefire’s next phase

The Israel-Hamas ceasefire is struggling to reach its next phase, with both sides accusing each other of violations. The first phase involved the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners. The second is supposed to involve the deployment of an international stabilization force, a technocratic governing body for Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas and further Israeli troop withdrawals from the territory.

The remains of one hostage, Ran Gvili, are still in Gaza, and the militants appear to be struggling to find it. Israel is demanding the return of Gvili’s remains before moving to the second phase.

Hamas is calling for more international pressure on Israel to open key border crossings, cease deadly strikes and allow more aid into the strip. Recently released Israeli military figures suggest it hasn’t met the ceasefire stipulation of allowing 600 trucks of aid into Gaza a day, though Israel disputes that finding.

Humanitarian groups say the lack of aid has had harsh effects on most of Gaza’s residents. Food remains scarce as the territory struggles to bounce back from famine, which affected parts of Gaza during the war.

The toll of war

The vast majority of Gaza’s 2 million people have been displaced. Most live in vast tent camps or among the shells of damaged buildings.

The initial Hamas-led Oct. 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel killed around 1,200 people and took 251 hostages. Almost all hostages or their remains have been returned in ceasefires or other deals.

Israel’s two-year campaign in Gaza has killed more than 70,660 Palestinians, roughly half of them women and children, according to the territory’s Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between militants and civilians in its count. The ministry, which operates under the Hamas-run government, is staffed by medical professionals and maintains detailed records viewed as generally reliable by the international community.

Source: arabnews.com

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US Senate votes to end ‘Caesar’ sanctions against Syria

December 17, 2025

LONDON: The removal of tough US sanctions against Syria moved a step closer on Wednesday when the US Senate voted overwhelmingly in favor of a sweeping defense bill.

The National Defense Authorization Act, which sets out plans for a record $901 billion in annual military spending, includes measures to repeal the financial restrictions placed on Damascus as part of the “Caesar Act.”

The sanctions were imposed in 2020 against former President Bashar Assad’s regime over human rights abuses carried out during the civil war in the country.

Assad was driven from power a year ago and the new government has been working to end Syria’s international isolation, winning the support of President Donald Trump for its efforts. Removal of the US restrictions on trade and investment is seen as a crucial step in helping the country recover from the effects of the devastating 13-year conflict.

The legislation will now proceed to the president, and the White House has said he will sign it into law.

Syria’s foreign minister, Asaad Al-Shaibani, welcomed the progress of the bill.

“We express our sincere gratitude to the US Senate for its support of the Syrian people through its vote to repeal the Caesar Act,” he wrote on social media platform X.

“We consider this step a positive development that opens new horizons for cooperation and partnership between our country and the world.”

The Senate backed the bill by 77 votes to 20, with strong support from both Republicans and Democrats. When the House of Representatives passed the bill last week, Syria’s foreign ministry described it as a pivotal moment for the country.

Syria’s new president, Ahmad Al-Sharaa, who led opposition forces in the offensive that finally succeeded in toppling Assad, traveled to Washington in September to meet Trump. After their talks, the US president said his administration would do “everything we can to make Syria successful.”

Trump had said in May that he planned to lift all sanctions on Syria, and many have already been removed or suspended.

The Caesar Act targeted individuals, companies and institutions linked to the Assad regime, and prevented foreign entities from funding them. It was named after the code name given to a Syrian military photographer who smuggled out of the country thousands of photos documenting the Assad regime’s war crimes.

Removing the restrictions will allow foreign investment to flow into a country in which the World Bank estimates the cost of rebuilding will be more than $200 billion.

The US legislation also requires the White House to confirm that Syria’s government is fighting Daesh and upholding the rights of religious and ethnic minorities.

The National Defense Authorization Act, which covers the fiscal year 2026, provides large sums to aid Europe’s defense, including $800 million for Ukraine and $175 million to support Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia’s defenses, Reuters reported.

Source: arabnews.com

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Sites that remind Syrians of Assad brutality become sets for TV series

December 17, 2025

DAMASCUS: At a Damascus air base once off-limits under Bashar Assad, a crew films a TV series about the final months of the ousted leader’s rule as seen through the eyes of a Syrian family.

“It’s hard to believe we’re filming here,” director Mohamad Abdul Aziz said from the Mazzeh base, which was once also a notorious detention center run by Assad’s air force intelligence branch, known for its terrible cruelty.

The site in the capital’s southwestern suburbs “used to be a symbol of military power. Now we are making a show about the fall of that power,” he said.

Assad fled to Russia as an opposition-led offensive closed in on Damascus, taking it without a fight on Dec. 8 last year after nearly 14 years of civil war and half a century of Assad dynasty rule.

The scene at the Mazzeh base depicts the escape of a figure close to Assad, and is set to feature in “The King’s Family” filmed in high-security locations once feared by regular Syrians.

The series is to be aired in February during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, primetime viewing in the Arab world, when channels and outlets vie for the attention of eager audiences.

Dozens of actors, directors and other show business figures who were opposed to Assad have returned to Syria since his ouster, giving the local industry a major boost, while other series have also chosen to film at former military or security sites.

“It’s a strange feeling ... The places where Syria used to be ruled from have been transformed” into creative spaces, Abdul Aziz said.

Elsewhere in Damascus, his cameras and crew now fill offices at the former military intelligence facility known as Palestine Branch, where detainees once underwent interrogation so brutal that some never came out alive.

“Palestine Branch was one of the pillars of the security apparatus — just mentioning its name caused terror,” Abdul Aziz said of the facility, known for torture and abuse.

Outside among charred vehicles, explosions and other special effects, the team was recreating a scene depicting “the release of detainees when the security services collapsed,” he said.

Thousands of detainees were freed when jails were thrown open as Assad fell last year, and desperate Syrians converged on the facilities in search of loved ones who disappeared into the prison system, thousands of whom are still missing.

Assad’s luxurious, high-security residence, which was stormed and looted after he fled to Russia, is also part of the new series.

Abdul Aziz said he filmed a fight scene involving more than 150 people and gunfire in front of the residence in Damascus’s upscale Malki district.

“This was impossible to do before,” he said.

The series’ scriptwriter Maan Sakbani, 35, expressed cautious relief that the days of full-blown censorship under Assad were over.

The new authorities’ Information Ministry still reviews scripts but the censor’s comments on “The King’s Family” were very minor, he said from a traditional Damascus house where the team was discussing the order of scenes.

Sakbani said he was uncertain how long the relative freedom would last, and was waiting to see the reaction to the Ramadan productions once they were aired.

Several other series inspired by the Assad era are also planned for release at that time, including “Enemy Syrians,” which depicts citizens living under the eyes of the security services.

Another, “Going Out to the Well,” directed by Mohammed Lutfi and featuring several prominent Syrian actors, is about deadly prison riots in the infamous Saydnaya facility in 2008.

Rights group Amnesty International had called the facility a “human slaughterhouse.”

“The show was written more than two years ago and we intended to film it before Assad’s fall,” Lutfi said.

But several actors feared the former authorities’ reaction and they were unable to find a suitable location since filming in Syria was impossible.

Now, they plan to film on site.

“The new authorities welcomed the project and provided extensive logistical support and facilities for filming inside Saydnaya prison,” Lutfi said.

As a result, it will be possible “to convey the prisoners’ suffering and the regime’s practices — from the inside the actual location,” he said.

Source: arabnews.com

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What’s next for the Gaza ceasefire and will the truce last?

December 17, 2025

GAZA: More than two months after Israel and Hamas agreed a ceasefire halting two years of devastating warfare in Gaza, most fighting has stopped. However, both sides accuse each other of major breaches of the deal and look no closer to accepting the much more difficult steps envisaged for the next phase.

Ceasefire steps are outlined in three different documents. The most detailed is a 20-point plan issued by US President Donald Trump in September for an initial truce followed by steps toward a wider peace. It ultimately calls for Hamas to disarm and have no governing role in Gaza and for Israel to pull out of the territory. The sides have not fully agreed to everything in it.

On October 9 Israel and Hamas did sign a more limited ceasefire deal involving only the first parts of Trump’s plan – a hostage and prisoner release, a halt to warfare, partial Israeli withdrawal and a surge in aid. The Trump plan was then endorsed by a third document, a United Nations Security Council resolution that also authorized a transitional governing body and international stabilization force in Gaza.

All 20 remaining living hostages were returned, as well as hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and detainees. Returning dead hostages has taken longer, with one body remaining in Gaza and 27 returned. Palestinian bodies have been returned in exchange for each Israeli body. There’s a dispute over aid. Hamas says fewer trucks are entering Gaza than was agreed. Aid agencies say there is far less aid than required, and that Israel is blocking many necessary items from coming in. Israel denies that and says it is abiding by its obligations under the truce.

The Rafah border crossing into Egypt was meant to be opened in the first phase of the ceasefire. It remains closed and Israel has said it will only be opened for Palestinians entering and leaving Gaza when the body of the last hostage is returned. Gaza remains in ruins, with residents pulling bars from the rubble to construct tents. The UN children’s agency said in December that a “shockingly high” number of Gazan children were still acutely malnourished, while heavy rain has flooded thousands of tents and swept sewage and garbage across the territory, adding to a health crisis.

Some violence has continued. Palestinian militants have launched attacks on Israeli forces in Gaza, killing at least three. Israeli fire at people near the demarcation line, and during operations that Israel says are targeting Hamas, has killed around 400 Palestinians, according to Gaza health officials.

An international stabilization force is supposed to ensure security and peace inside Gaza but its composition, role and mandate are all up in the air.

Indonesia and Pakistan may play a role. Israel wants any such force to disarm Hamas, a job few countries would relish handing their troops.

A technocratic Palestinian body without Hamas representation is meant to govern for a transitional period but there have been no public announcements about how or when it will be formed. The Palestinian Authority, which governs parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank, is supposed to carry out unspecified reforms before ultimately taking a role in Gaza. But these have not been announced either.

The Gaza government should be overseen by an international Board of Peace chaired by Trump. He has said this will be announced early in 2026 but its composition remains unclear. Under the Trump plan, Hamas is meant to disarm but the group has not agreed to that, saying it will only give up its weapons once there is a Palestinian state. Further Israeli pullbacks within Gaza are tied to disarmament.

WILL THE CEASEFIRE LAST?

Israel has repeatedly indicated that if Hamas is not disarmed peacefully, it will resume military action to make it do so, though a return to full-blown war does not look close.

However, many Israelis and Palestinians suspect the Trump plan will never be fully realized and that the current frozen conflict will continue indefinitely.

Israelis fear Hamas could rearm and threaten another attack like that of October 7, 2023.

Palestinians fear Israel will never finish pulling out of Gaza or allow full reconstruction, leaving the territory in ruins and its people without a future. Military deployments and construction plans point to a possible de facto partition of the enclave into a zone directly controlled by Israel where it has been cultivating anti Hamas groups, and a Hamas-held area without reconstruction or services.

WHAT ARE THE CHANCES OF LONG-TERM PEACE?

Israelis and Palestinians have rarely trusted each other less and the two-state solution, seen by most countries as the best chance of a lasting peace, has never looked so remote — despite growing international recognition for a Palestinian state.

The Trump plan recognizes self-determination and statehood as the aspiration of the Palestinian people but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly ruled this out.

Elections are due in Israel in 2026 but there is no indication that any potential new government would accept Palestinian independence.

Source: arabnews.com

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Israel’s Netanyahu says approved $35bn gas deal with Egypt

December 17, 2025

JERUSALEM: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he approved on Wednesday a major gas export deal with Egypt worth nearly $35 billion.

“Today, I approved the largest gas deal in Israel’s history. The deal is worth 112 billion shekels ($34.7 billion). Of this total, 58 billion shekels ($18 billion) will go to the state coffers,” Netanyahu said during a televised address.

“The agreement is with the American company Chevron, with Israeli partners who will supply gas to Egypt,” Netanyahu added.

Energy Minister Eli Cohen, who was present during the address, said it was the “largest export deal in the state’s history.”

Netanyahu said the money would “strengthen education, health care, infrastructure, security, and the future of the next generations,” as well as bolster “Israel’s status as a regional energy power.”

Israeli firm NewMed Energy announced in August the signing of a $35 billion deal to provide Egypt with natural gas.

The deal would increase the total volume of gas supplied to Egypt to 130 billion cubic meters, according to a report published by the firm.

In a statement issued late on Wednesday, NewMed CEO Yossi Abu said it was “a historic day for the natural gas sector, one that guarantees continued investment in Israel and creates regulatory stability for years to come.”

But Israeli NGO Movement for Quality Government, which advocates for greater state transparency, said it was “deeply concerned about how the largest gas deal in the country’s history was approved.”

It called on the government to make the details of the agreement public, and to explain its implications for long-term reserves and consumer prices.

Source: arabnews.com

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Syria seizes large weapons shipment destined for Lebanon

December 17, 2025

LONDON: Syrian authorities foiled a smuggling attempt of a large quantity of weapons bound for Lebanon in the countryside of the capital, Damascus, on Wednesday.

Security forces intercepted the shipment in Zabadani region, a fertile valley area near the Lebanese border. The Ministry of Interior said that security forces ambushed the smugglers in the border town of Serghaya and seized the shipment.

Authorities found and confiscated a large quantity of RPG shells concealed in an organized manner, intended for illegal transport across the border, according to the Arab Syrian News Agency.

The operation highlights the ministry’s continued efforts to combat smuggling, secure the borders of the Syrian Arab Republic, and maintain national security and stability, SANA added.

Source: arabnews.com

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Palestinians retrieve belongings from West Bank camp before home demolitions

December 17, 2025

NUR SHAMS, Palestinian Territories: Dozens of residents from the West Bank’s emptied Nur Shams refugee camp returned on Wednesday to retrieve belongings ahead of the Israeli military’s demolition of 25 residential buildings there.

Early this year, the military launched an ongoing operation it said was aimed at rooting out Palestinian armed groups from camps in the northern occupied West Bank — including Nur Shams, Tulkarem and Jenin.

Loading furniture, children’s toys and even a window frame onto small trucks, Palestinian residents hurried Wednesday to gather as much as they could under the watchful eye of Israeli soldiers, according to an AFP journalist at the scene.

Troops performed ID checks and physical searches, allowing through only those whose houses were set to be demolished.

Some who were able to enter salvaged large empty water tanks, while others came out with family photos, mattresses and heaters.

More than 32,000 people remain displaced from the now-empty camps, where Israeli troops are stationed, according to the UN’s agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA.

Mahmud Abdallah, who was displaced from Nur Shams and was able to enter a part of the camp on Wednesday, said he witnessed for the first time the destruction that had taken place after he was forced to leave.

“I was surprised to find that there were no habitable houses; maybe two or three, but they were not suitable for living,” he said.

“The camp is destroyed.”

‘Determined to return’

The demolitions, affecting 25 buildings housing up to 100 families, were announced earlier this week and are scheduled for Thursday.

They are officially part of a broader Israeli strategy of home demolitions to ease its military vehicles’ access in the dense refugee camps of the northern West Bank.

Israel has occupied the Palestinian territory since 1967.

Ahmed Al-Masri, a camp resident whose house was to be demolished, told AFP that his request for access was denied.

“When I asked why, I was told: ‘Your name is not in the liaison office records’,” he said.

UNRWA’s director for the West Bank and east Jerusalem, Roland Friedrich, said an estimated 1,600 houses were fully or partially destroyed during the military operation, making it “the most severe displacement crisis that the West Bank has seen since 1967.”

Nur Shams, along with other refugee camps in the West Bank, was established after the creation of Israel in 1948, when hundreds of thousands of Palestinians were displaced from their homes in what is now Israel.

“We ask God to compensate us with palaces in paradise,” said Ibtisam Al-Ajouz, a displaced camp resident whose house was also set to be destroyed.

“We are determined to return, and God willing, we will rebuild. Even if the houses are demolished, we will not be afraid — our morale is high.”

Source: arabnews.com

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Over 600 Israeli settlers storm Al-Aqsa on 4th day of Hanukkah

December 17, 2025

LONDON: Israeli settlers entered the courtyards of the Al-Aqsa Mosque in the walled city of occupied East Jerusalem on Wednesday, the fourth day of the Jewish Hanukkah holiday.

Settlers toured the compound with Israeli forces, who imposed strict restrictions to hinder Palestinian access to the holy site. The Palestinian Authority-affiliated Jerusalem Governorate reported that 689 settlers stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque in groups, conducting provocative tours of its courtyards and performing Talmudic rituals, according to Wafa news agency.

In the northern West Bank, Israeli forces shot four Palestinians during a raid in the city of Nablus on Wednesday. The Palestinian Red Crescent reported that the injuries included a gunshot wound to the chest, a knee injury, a shrapnel wound, and fragments lodged in the head.

Forces raided the Aqaba neighborhood in the walled city of Nablus, as well as the vicinities of Ras Al-Ain, Khan Al-Tikar and Al-Shuhada. The operation resulted in confrontations with Palestinians, during which Israeli forces used live bullets and tear gas.

Source: arabnews.com

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Lebanon judge to question shipowner linked to port blast

December 17, 2025

BEIRUT: Lebanese judge Tarek Bitar headed to Bulgaria on Wednesday to question a shipowner wanted in connection with a catastrophic 2020 Beirut port blast, a judicial official told AFP.

The long-awaited questioning comes after a court this month refused Lebanon’s request to extradite Igor Grechushkin, a 48-year-old Russian-Cypriot who was arrested in September at Sofia airport.

Authorities in Lebanon say the August 4, 2020 explosion was triggered by a fire in a warehouse where tons of ammonium nitrate fertilizer had been stored haphazardly for years, despite repeated warnings to senior officials.

Beirut authorities have identified Grechushkin as the owner of the Rhosus, the ship that brought the ammonium nitrate into the port.

The blast was one of the world’s largest non-nuclear explosions, destroying swathes of the Lebanese capital, killing more than 220 people and injuring more than 6,500.

The Lebanese judicial official told AFP on condition of anonymity that “Bitar headed to Sofia on Wednesday” and is expected to question Grechushkin the following day.

The Lebanese embassy in Sofia is arranging for a translator and a clerk to record the minutes of the questioning, which Bulgarian judicial officials are to attend, the official said.

According to Bulgarian prosecutors, Grechushkin is accused by Lebanese judicial authorities of “introducing explosives into Lebanon — a terrorist act that resulted in the death of a large number of people.”

The Lebanese judicial official told AFP that authorities are relying on Grechushkin’s testimony and the information he has about the ammonium nitrate shipment “and the party that ordered and financed it,” and to determine if Beirut was the ship’s destination.

Bitar resumed his investigation this year as Lebanon’s balance of power shifted following a war between Israel and Hezbollah that weakened the militant group, which had spearheaded a campaign against him.

A travel ban imposed on Bitar as part of a judicial battle related to the case was recently lifted.

President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, who both took office this year, have vowed to uphold the independence of the judiciary in a country plagued by official impunity.

Officials named in the port explosion investigation had filed a flurry of lawsuits seeking to hamper its progress.

Source: arabnews.com

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Southeast Asia

 

Malaysia's Islamic authority declares cultivated meat can be halal

Rafaela Sousa

17 December 2025

Malaysia’s Islamic authority has issued a landmark ruling allowing cultivated meat to be considered halal, marking a first for a Muslim-majority country.

The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia, JAKIM), through its National Muzakarah Committee, released a fatwa stating that cultivated meat is permissible under Islamic law if certain conditions are met.

These include sourcing cells from animals slaughtered according to Shariah and ensuring that all growth media and biological components come from halal sources, avoiding substances such as blood serum or other haram ingredients.

The announcement follows Malaysia’s recently completed National Cultivated Meat Feasibility Study, part of a broader government initiative, supported by the prime minister, to explore 'the potential of future foods'.

The ruling aligns with similar decisions by Singapore’s Islamic council, the Korean Muslim Federation, and the International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA), signalling growing regional consensus on the permissibility of cultivated meat.

The Good Food Institute (GFI) APAC contributed to the deliberations by providing technical presentations on the science of cultivated meat and sharing industry survey data showing that 87 percent of producers prioritise compliance with halal standards.

Mirte Gosker, CEO of The Good Food Institute APAC, said: “As one of the world’s largest halal markets and an influential voice in multilateral standard-setting, Malaysia’s fatwa will have far-reaching implications and signals an emerging global consensus on the permissibility of cultivated meat".

"By providing clear guidance for start-ups, scientists and regulators, this ruling sets the stage for greater collaboration between Malaysia, Singapore and other forward-looking countries as we build a more secure and sustainable protein supply for Asia and beyond.”

Source: foodbev.com

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Anwar defends Malaysia’s RM100 million humanitarian aid to Gaza

18 Dec 2025

PM Anwar Ibrahim slams critics of Malaysia’s Gaza aid, citing humanitarian grounds and ongoing Israeli violations of ceasefire agreements

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has condemned criticism of Malaysia’s humanitarian assistance to Gaza as lacking in humanitarian values.

Anwar said Malaysia has channelled about RM100 million in aid to Gaza over the past two to three years, even during US-led peace initiatives.

He stated the assistance was provided on humanitarian grounds due to continuous Israeli violations of ceasefire agreements and crimes against Palestinians.

“Continuous violations, hundreds of breaches of agreements have been carried out by the Israeli regime,” he told editors-in-chief of local and international media.

“Small children and women continue to be killed… most mosques and churches have also been destroyed.”

Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to support Gaza through both humanitarian aid and political advocacy for Palestinian rights.

He recounted explaining Malaysia’s position to former US President Donald Trump during a car ride in late October.

“I told (Trump) why I chose to defend the rights of Gaza and Palestine and why we have remained so consistent in our support,” Anwar said.

“He did not get angry.”

The Prime Minister expressed difficulty understanding critics who raise religious and human issues yet lack compassion.

Anwar noted an invitation from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to attend a Gaza reconstruction summit.

He said the meeting has not yet occurred due to difficulties assembling Arab and Islamic leaders late in the year. – Bernama

Source: thesun.my

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Azerbaijan’s Central Bank, Malaysian Al-Hidayah Group discuss development of Islamic finance

17.12.2025

Tarlan Rasulov, Executive General of the Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA), met with a Malaysian delegation led by Dato’ Ku Jaafar Ku Shaari, Chairman of the Al-Hidayah Group.

The sides discussed the development of Islamic finance, the expansion of the product range in this area, as well as institutional cooperation.

They also exchanged views on initiatives aimed at developing Islamic banking and on issues of mutual interest within the “Strategy for the Development of the Financial Sector for 2024–2026” adopted by the Central Bank.

Source: azertag.az

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Indonesia Secures Mecca Hotel, Land for 23,000 Pilgrims Under Hajj Village Plan

December 17, 2025

Jakarta. The Indonesian government has officially acquired a hotel and land in Thakher City, Mecca, in a deal worth $500 million, a move expected to accommodate up to 23,000 Indonesian Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani said on Wednesday that the Novotel Thakher City hotel purchased by Indonesia has a total capacity of nearly 4,400 rooms.

“We have acquired a hotel in the Thakher area with three towers, each consisting of 1,461 rooms,” Rosan said at the presidential palace in Jakarta.

In addition to the hotel, the government has also secured about five hectares of land directly opposite the property for future development. The site is planned to host additional hotels as well as a shopping center dedicated to serving the needs of Indonesian Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.

Once all planned developments are completed, the total accommodation capacity is expected to reach around 6,000 rooms, with the ability to house more than 23,000 pilgrims, Rosan said.

The acquisition forms part of President Prabowo Subianto’s broader plan to establish an Indonesian “Hajj Village” in Saudi Arabia, aimed at improving comfort, safety, and logistical efficiency for Indonesian pilgrims.

“The distance from this area to the Grand Mosque is only about 2.5 kilometers,” Rosan said.

He added that access to the Grand Mosque is expected to improve further with the construction of the Al-Hujun tunnel or bridge, which is targeted for completion in 2026 and will directly connect the Indonesian Hajj Village area with Masjidil Haram.

Indonesia sends more than 200,000 Hajj pilgrims to Saudi Arabia each year, the largest contingent of any country. In addition, more than 2 million Indonesians perform Umrah annually.

The acquisition of the hotel and land was carried out by the state investment body, Danantara Indonesia. Rosan also serves as chief executive of Danantara, which was established earlier this year.

Source: jakartaglobe.id

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‘Rahmah’ and inclusivity to guide Malaysia’s religious affairs administration

17 Dec 2025

PUTRAJAYA, Dec 17 — An Islamic approach grounded in rahmah (mercy), inclusivity and progressiveness will form the foundation of the nation’s religious affairs administration, in line with the role of religion as an important component in societal and national development.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan said that His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, had conveyed tausiyah and messages to him and his deputy, Senator Marhamah Rosli, urging them to discharge their responsibilities to the best of their ability in the interest of the nation.

Zulkifli said the effort was not merely aimed at strengthening Islamic outreach, but also at presenting an image of Islam that brings compassion to all segments of society.

“At the same time, we want to show everyone that Islam is rahmah, that Islam brings mercy to all, not only to Muslims but to everyone, lil ‘alamin,” the newly appointed minister told reporters here today.

Commenting on the initial direction of his administration, he stressed that religious affairs play a significant role in society and in the overall development of the nation.

According to him, the image of Islam to be highlighted is one that is peaceful, moderate and embraces diversity within Malaysia’s plural society.

“What we want to project is an image of Islam that is rahmah, inclusive and peaceful, guided by maqasid syariah and wasatiyah, that celebrates diversity and, at the same time, is progressive,” he said.

He added that such an approach is important in presenting Islam as a beautiful religion that benefits all Malaysians regardless of background.

Meanwhile, Zulkifli said Malaysia is on a strong footing in the halal industry, with an impressive record of international recognition.

“In fact, we already have a very strong track record. Our country has been recognised as among the best in the world. We have recognised more than 92 halal bodies worldwide from 47 countries,” he said.

According to him, the achievement demonstrates Malaysia’s strong standing, but continuous efforts are needed to ensure the country remains at the forefront globally.

On his appointment and the trust placed in him, Zulkifli stressed that the responsibility must be carried out with sincerity and commitment.

“We would like to express our gratitude to the prime minister and other leaders for choosing the two of us to lead religious affairs,” he said.

Earlier, Zulkifli and Marhamah clocked in at the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) at 12.20pm. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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Are Malaysians really feeling better about the economy? Latest Ipsos data says yes

By Malay Mail

18 Dec 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 18 — Growing confidence among Malaysians reflects stronger faith in recent policy measures and economic management, according to Ipsos’ latest survey.

In the firm’s latest Cost of Living Monitor, 69 per cent of Malaysians now believe the country is heading in the right direction, up from 66 per cent last year.

Malaysians were also increasingly optimistic about the country’s economic future, with 73 per cent saying they considered the trajectory to be “good/very good”, an increase from 6 per cent previously and bucking regional and global trends.

“National confidence in the country’s direction is strengthening, reflecting growing positive sentiment towards recent policy measures.

“Malaysia now stands as the most economically optimistic nation in the region, in contrast to declining confidence across several Southeast Asian countries,” Ipsos said in the report.

In the region, Malaysia surpassed Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand for optimism, with the last also being the most pessimistic at 42 per cent.

Economic growth, a firmer ringgit and steady investment were cited as key factors shaping sentiment.

Concerns about corruption, unemployment and inequality have eased, pointing to increased trust in stability.

Ipsos observed that fewer Malaysians now rank these issues among their top national worries, both from last year and earlier in 2025.

This national confidence is translating into a more positive outlook at the household level.

The report noted that fewer Malaysians now anticipate sharp increases in their essential expenses over the next six months, partly due to the effects of targeted government support in easing daily financial stress.

Malaysians also expect higher disposable incomes and better living standards in 2026.

Ipsos said continued focus on income growth and cost management could help sustain these gains.

“Looking ahead, [the 13th Malaysia Plan’s] emphasis on income growth, social protection and cost-of-living management is expect

Source: malaymail.com

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At Kuskop, Sim rolls out interest-free loan freeze and expanded MSME financing

By Muhammad Yusry

18 Dec 2025

PUTRAJAYA, Dec 18 — Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong today announced a six-month, interest-free loan moratorium for flood-affected businesses and a significant RM600 million boost in financing for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Speaking after meeting the ministry’s top management, Sim said these decisions were part of a broader strategy to strengthen the domestic business ecosystem.

“To demonstrate Kuskop’s commitment, on this first day, I have made three decisions that will take effect immediately,” Sim said in his inaugural press conference, using the abbreviation of the ministry’s name in Malay.

The most immediate measure is a six-month moratorium on loan repayments for all MSMEs and cooperatives affected by floods nationwide.

The interest-free pause will apply to loans from seven agencies under the ministry, including Tekun Nasional, SME Corp, Bank Rakyat, and SME Bank.

Sim also announced a major expansion of financing schemes for 2026. Bumiputera financing under Tekun will be increased from RM300 million to RM500 million.

The scheme for Indian entrepreneurs (SPUMI) will be boosted from RM30 million to RM50 million, and a new RM50 million financing scheme for Chinese MSMEs will be launched in January.

The third immediate action is a directive to the ministry’s top management to review all processes and procedures to reduce costs and processing times for businesses, with the goal of creating a more “business-friendly environment.”

Sim, the former Human Resources Minister, outlined his new “ABCD Strategy” for the ministry, which focuses on Accelerating productivity, reducing Bureaucracy, improving Capital accessibility, and Developing market access.

The Bukit Mertajam MP was appointed to the role as part of the recent Cabinet reshuffle, replacing Datuk Ewon Benedick.

Source: malaymail.com

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‘Atrocious’: Anwar hits back at race-based attacks on Hannah Yeoh’s Cabinet appointment

By Malay Mail

17 Dec 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 17 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has condemned criticism of Hannah Yeoh and Lo Su Fui’s appointments to the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), saying it was “atrocious” to reject leaders purely on the basis of race.

Speaking to editors and senior journalists during a briefing at Seri Perdana today, Anwar said it was unacceptable — and incomprehensible — that such views were still being expressed in contemporary Malaysian politics.

“To reject a person because of her colour and race, this is atrocious in this day and age.

“Sometimes, I just can’t understand the level of tolerance of some people.

“Some groups, considered most corrupt in decades, they got away because of sympathy,” he said, as reported by The Star.

Anwar was responding to remarks by PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan, who criticised the appointments of Yeoh as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) and Lo as her deputy, arguing that the move would strengthen DAP’s influence in Kuala Lumpur and other urban areas.

The prime minister rejected that framing, stressing that Cabinet members serve the government rather than individual parties.

“She (Yeoh) represents government policies, and not DAP. She represents the government.

“I don’t represent PKR, but the government and its policies,” Anwar said, according to The Star.

Anwar added that the racial background of a minister was irrelevant to their ability to serve, describing objections rooted in ethnicity as politically misplaced and damaging.

The latest Cabinet reshuffle yesterday saw Yeoh moved from her previous role as youth and sports minister, while Lo, 44, was appointed deputy minister. Lo was formerly a special officer to the Sabah chief minister and is the current Tawau MP.

The reshuffle came amid vacancies in several key portfolios, including the Economy Ministry, Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Entrepreneurship Development and Cooperatives, and the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry.

Source: malaymail.com

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PM Anwar urges stronger government communication, says team has limitations

18 Dec 2025

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim calls for a more effective government communication machinery, acknowledging current limitations and mistakes

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has emphasised the need to further strengthen the government’s communication machinery.

He made the remarks during a briefing session with editors-in-chief of local and international media at his office.

Anwar said he had reminded Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil of the importance of improving these efforts.

“We need a great deal of courage and, of course, effective communication,” he said.

“The major criticism is that our communication team is not that strong.”

He acknowledged that the administration constantly strives to do its best but has limitations and perhaps makes mistakes.

The Prime Minister stressed that the media could advise the government on delivering more effective communication.

He clarified that the objective was not to engage in propaganda.

“It is not a propaganda machinery, just telling what is actually at stake in this country,” Anwar said.

“What we are doing, and possibly even our limitations and what we have not done.”

He added that improving communication was critically important for the nation’s fabric.

“It is not just a matter of facing elections, but more critically the fabric of this nation,” he stated.

“Because whatever is being done, if you want to be a national party working with the people and you must be able to express it.”

On a separate matter, Anwar said it was important for all Malaysians to enhance their proficiency in the Malay language.

The session was also attended by Bernama’s Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin and Editor-in-Chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj.

A total of 92 local and international media personnel were present. – Bernama

Source: thesun.my

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Europe

 

Cut green spending to make UK ready for war, Tories say

18 December 2025

Becky Morton

The Conservatives have promised to cut funding for green energy projects to boost defence spending and ensure the country is ready for war.

Leader Kemi Badenoch said if her party won power it would reallocate £17bn to invest in the UK's military because "defence of the realm must be the first priority of any government".

Alongside investment from the private sector, the Tories said their proposals for a new Sovereign Defence Fund would mobilise up to £50bn.

Labour accused the Tories of "fantasy figures" and of leaving the armed forces "hollowed out and underfunded" when they were in government.

"Look at their record: their time in office starved our forces of funding, drove down morale and left Britain less safe. They did it before, and they'd do it again," a party spokesperson said.

"With Labour, the UK armed forces will see a record £270bn investment in this Parliament through our historic defence spending uplift."

The government has promised to increase defence spending to 2.5% of gross domestic product (GDP) by 2027 and 3.5% by 2035.

However, the Tories are calling for the government to move faster and commit to 3% by the end of the decade.

The Conservatives say the fund would invest in UK defence start-ups and reduce reliance on hostile states in supply chains, while allowing the armed forces to obtain new technologies like drones.

Under the party's plans, £6bn would be reallocated from the government's research and development budget to the Ministry of Defence.

Meanwhile, the National Wealth Fund, which was launched by the government last year, would become the National Defence and Resilience Bank.

The fund was set up to invest in projects which support economic growth and the push for clean energy but in March its remit was expanded to also consider investments in sectors which support the UK's defence and security.

The Conservatives said £11bn from the fund allocated to "costly eco-projects" would be redistributed to defence, with the remainder used for national resilience like water and transport.

Badenoch said: "The next Conservative government will move funding from [Energy Secretary] Ed Miliband's vanity Net Zero projects and use it to back our military to accelerate their war readiness.

"We must ensure our armed forces are equipped and ready to defend our country."

The Conservative leader added: "In the face of growing threats we should be investing more in defence, yet all we see from this Labour government is heel dragging and vague promises."

A recent report by MPs warned the UK was "nowhere near" where it needs to be to defend itself and the country's allies at a time of growing threats.

The Commons Defence Committee said the UK was too reliant on the US and was not spending enough on its own security.

Earlier this week the head of the military said more people needed to be "ready to fight for their country", as the UK faces the risk of confrontation with Russia.

Chief of the Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton also said the pace of private investment in the defence industry was "painfully slow" and more young people needed to take up careers in the sector.

Earlier this year the government launched UK Defence Innovation, an organisation with an annual budget of at least £400m, to invest in new technologies and boost jobs.

However, a defence investment plan, which had been expected in the autumn, has been delayed.

Source: bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1kprwgzlm0o

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Ukrainian drones kill civilians in southern Russia

18 Dec, 2025

Ukrainian drones have attacked multiple cities in Rostov Region in southern Russia, killing civilians and damaging residential and port infrastructure, Governor Yury Slyusar has said.

According to the regional head, the cities of Rostov-on-Don, Bataysk, and Taganrog came under attack early Thursday morning. “Unfortunately, as a result of the UAV strikes, civilians were killed and injured,” Slyusar wrote on social media.

In Rostov, a drone strike on the city’s port set a cargo vessel on fire. Two crew members were killed and three others were injured. The blaze was extinguished after spreading across an area of about 20 square meters, the governor said.

In the nearby city of Bataysk, two private houses caught fire following drone strikes. Seven people were wounded, with three rushed to hospital. One of them later died from their injuries, Slyusar said.

Emergency services also reported damage to civilian infrastructure in both cities. In Rostov, a newly built high-rise apartment complex in the western part of the city was damaged, though no casualties were recorded.

The governor offered condolences to the families of those killed and wished a speedy recovery to the injured. He said municipal commissions would document all damage and that the authorities would provide assistance to those affected.

The Russian Defense Ministry said air defense systems intercepted and destroyed 77 Ukrainian drones overnight between 11pm and 7am Moscow time. Of these, 31 were shot down over Bryansk Region, 11 over Crimea and the Black Sea, four over Belgorod, and three over Rostov.

Russian officials have previously accused Kiev of deliberately targeting civilian sites, linking the surge in Ukrainian attacks to growing US pressure on Vladimir Zelensky to accept a peace deal with Russia that would require concessions Kiev has so far refused to make.

Russia has conducted its own strikes on military-related Ukrainian infrastructure for months, saying the attacks are retaliation for Kiev’s “terrorist” raids and aim to degrade Ukraine’s drone and weapons production capabilities.

Source: rt.com

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https://www.rt.com/russia/629578-rostov-ukrainian-drone-strikes/

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Parents told to lead by example and turn off phones this Christmas

18 December 2025

Laura Cress

Parents should lead by example this Christmas and turn their phones off during family time, the children's commissioner for England has said.

Dame Rachel de Souza told the Press Association children were "crying out" for engagement with their relatives over the festive break, and urged them to have "phone-free time".

Nearly half of parents with children aged 18 or younger plan to allow phones at the Christmas dinner table this year, according to a recent survey.

"I can't tell you how many children tell me about sitting at dinner and the parents are on the phone," Dame Rachel said. "So this Christmas, let's turn them off."

Research by More in Common for Yondr found nearly four in 10 adults say smartphones have disrupted their Christmas in some way.

The children's commissioner said while she had been guilty of using her phone at meal times in the past, setting clear guidelines for everyone, not just children, was key.

"We have to lead as adults," Dame Rachel said. "We can't talk about banning for the kids if we're not doing it ourselves."

Her comments came as she launched a new guide offering tips for children's safety online and how to set boundaries for screen time.

Pete Etchells, psychology professor at Bath Spa University, told BBC News Christmas is a good time to lean into conversations with children about developing healthy relationships with tech.

"It's not about feeling guilty or ashamed of our tech use, but noticing it more," he said.

"And striking up conversations about what we're happy with, and what we would like to be doing differently."

'Talk early and often'

The new guide by the commissioner, available online, has been released to support parents who "may feel overwhelmed" by "mixed messages" around online safety, and is informed by child focus groups.

In it, parents can find "practical tips" and "conversation starters" on how to talk around topics such as managing screen time, dealing with negative online experiences, and the use of artificial intelligence (AI).

Teenagers aged 13 to 18 told Dame Rachel they accepted bad things can happen online, feeling it was an inevitable part of the online world.

They also shared how they had been contacted by strangers, seen pornography, and were aware of intimate images of their peers being shared.

Dame Rachel said it was essential for parents to "talk early and talk often" with their children about their presence online.

Arabella Skinner from Health Professionals for Safer Screens told BBC News simple rules can make a difference.

She suggested creating a family plan around device use, or designing a box to store mobiles during meals.

"Children feel most secure and content when they have our full attention, eye contact, and presence," she said.

"It is so important that we, as adults, spend time with our children and not always looking at screens."

A report published by the regulator Ofcom earlier this month highlighted concerns children had over the negative impacts of endless screentime and "brain rot".

It found that children aged between eight and 14 are spending an average of nearly three hours online each day, and that up to a quarter of that time was between 2100 and 0500.

Source: bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1dz9nnp52eo

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Teacher discussed cocaine with pupils and called Islam 'satanic'

December 18, 2025

Ben Summer

A teacher who described Islam as "satanic" and told pupils that "cocaine was purer back in the day" has been found guilty of professional misconduct.

The Teaching Regulation Agency panel heard that Patrick Lawler, who taught in Northumberland and Bristol, also brought the teaching profession into disrepute.

Mr Lawler previously featured in an undercover BBC Wales investigation into extreme far-right views among a group's members in Wales and England, in which he said race war was "inevitable".

Mr Lawler replied to the BBC's request for comment but did not address the points raised in the hearing, instead giving his own criticism of the BBC.

The teacher's views appeared in BBC Wales documentary Unmasked: Extreme Far Right, in which an undercover reporter infiltrated far-right group Patriotic Alternative (PA) and met members in parts of south Wales, and in England.

Speaking in 2024 to the undercover reporter at an event held by the group, he said a race war was "absolutely inevitable".

He told the reporter that "all" foreigners had no right to be in the UK and said if any refused to leave "the only way to get rid of them will be to kill every single one of them. And we will have to have hearts of steel to do that."

When asked about his comments afterwards, Mr Lawler accused the BBC of having an anti-white bias and "persecuting ordinary British people who care deeply about the safety and wellbeing of our indigenous people".

He appears to still be involved with his regional branch of the group, recently being pictured on the PA Telegram channel attending a Christmas dinner.

The panel, which considered allegations predating BBC Wales' investigation, found that Mr Lawler "authored or co-authored" a series of online newsletters saying Islam was "demonic" and "satanically inspired".

It also heard that his posts stated that sex between two men was an "unnatural, unhealthy, disgusting perversion".

The panel found Mr Lawler was entitled to hold his own beliefs, but the newsletters were "not just advancing strongly held opinions" but were "attacks" on positions that Mr Lawler "sought to denigrate".

In 2019, Mr Lawler was employed by Bede Academy in Northumberland, and during what was due to be a class on medieval history, he instead started to discuss American civil rights activists, the panel heard.

It found that he told a visiting group of year six children that Rosa Parks "did not exist", and that Martin Luther King was guilty of plagiarism.

His comments were ruled "inappropriate and unprofessional", with the panel noting pupils of that age did not have the ability to challenge minority views presented in an "unbalanced fashion".

In a discussion about the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020, Mr Lawler was found to have told pupils that "BLM" stood for "burn, loot, murder".

'Back in the day cocaine was purer'

He was also found to have said in December 2020 that "back in the day, you used to be able to get cocaine, purer", or words to that effect.

A pupil said Mr Lawler started talking about the drug of his own volition and it was in no way related to the lesson.

The panel also found him to have told pupils that they should all be "hanging from lampposts" because of poor performance in their mock exams.

The hearing was told this was while the class were discussing mental health and life expectancy, with one pupil "taken aback" as she was "going through struggles" at the time.

The panel heard Mr Lawler was warned about his conduct by his employer at the time.

Bede Academy, having received advice in April 2019, sent a warning letter in July 2019, and Mr Lawler was the subject of disciplinary action in December 2020.

But he later resigned his position during the course of that investigation, going on to work for a supply teaching agency in Bristol, in September 2022.

The hearing concluded that he engaged in further inappropriate or unprofessional behaviour in a lesson at Bristol Brunel Academy, stating that there was "no scientific proof of Covid-19" in September 2022.

When further concerns were raised, the agency he worked for later referred him to the Teaching Regulation Agency.

The panel found that Mr Lawler had simply "moved into advancing his own controversial views and did so in an unbalanced fashion".

Chairwoman Louisa Munton said his actions "could not be reasonably considered as trivial, inconsequential or a mere temporary lapse" and constituted "unacceptable professional conduct and or conduct that may bring the profession into disrepute".

She added the panel will now consider in private whether to make a recommendation to the secretary of state that Mr Lawler should be banned from teaching.

Source: bbc.com

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Russian assets not up for grabs – Orban

17 Dec, 2025

The EU will not discuss plans to seize Russian assets during Thursday's summit in Brussels, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced on Wednesday, calling it a “victory.”

The bloc has temporarily immobilized roughly $230 billion in Russian central bank assets by invoking Article 122, an emergency treaty clause that allows approval by a qualified majority rather than unanimity despite objections from some member states, including Hungary and Slovakia. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed using the funds to back a so-called ‘reparations loan’ to Ukraine – a plan that was expected to be discussed at EU leader’s gathering on Thursday.

Orban wrote on X that “the Brusselians had backed down” and that the Russian assets “will not be on the table” at the summit, calling it a “victory” for his PatriotsEU bloc.

”The Commission now pushes joint loans, but we will not let our families foot the bill for Ukraine’s war. Not on our watch,” he said.

Politico also reported that Belgium’s EU ambassador, Peter Moors, told his peers on Wednesday during closed-door talks that negotiations on the issue were “going backward.”

Orban has previously accused EU officials of “raping European law in broad daylight” by invoking the clause to sidestep Hungary’s potential veto, adding that Budapest would take the matter to the bloc’s top court.

Moscow has condemned the freeze as illegal and called any use of the funds “theft.” Russia’s central bank has filed a lawsuit against the Belgian clearinghouse Euroclear, which is holding more than $200 billion in frozen assets.

The EU claims the freeze is in line with international law, but Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever warned that using the money to back a loan to Kiev would undermine trust in the EU financial system and expose Belgium to legal risks.

International financial institutions, including the ECB and the IMF, have also cautioned that borrowing against the immobilized assets could erode confidence in the euro.

Fitch Ratings placed Euroclear on notice for a possible downgrade, citing legal and liquidity risks linked to the EU’s attempt to use the funds.

Source: rt.com

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Russia’s Oreshnik missile system to enter service this year – Putin

17 Dec, 2025

Russia’s newly developed medium-range Oreshnik missile system will enter combat before the end of the year, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday during a keynote speech to the Defense Ministry.

The Russian leader was reporting military achievements over the year and outlined policy goals, including military research. He named Oreshnik alongside other weapons meant to “ensure the strategic parity, security and global positions of Russia for decades to come.”

The other systems he mentioned are the unlimited-range cruise missile Burevestnik and the underwater Poseidon drone, both powered by miniaturized nuclear reactors, which he said reached development milestones this year.

”We will keep working on those systems. Tune them and improve them, but we already have them,” Putin stressed.

Moscow revealed the Oreshnik system with a strike on a weapons plant in Ukraine in November 2024, which it described as a successful “combat test.” The missile is understood to carry multiple nuclear-capable individually targetable warheads.

Putin previously compared the conventional variant used in the Ukraine attack to a low-yield nuclear weapon in terms of destructive power. Russia has since announced plans to deploy some Oreshnik systems in Belarus, its key military ally.

During the meeting, Putin outlined progress in modernizing the Russian army, directed the military to study the  experience of the Ukraine conflict in developing new weapons, addressed the issues of medical rehabilitation and the provision of social services to soldiers, and warned Western leaders seeking to escalate tensions that their position is “irresponsible.”

Russia “has been seeking diplomatic resolutions to contradictions and conflicts as long as there is the slimmest hope of success. Those who convinced themselves that Russia can be spoken to in the language of force are fully responsible for those missed opportunities,” Putin stressed.

Source: rt.com

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Majority of Belgians oppose theft of Russian assets to fund Ukraine – poll

17 Dec, 2025

Around 67% of Belgians oppose the EU scheme to use frozen Russian central bank assets to back a ‘reparations loan’ to prop up Ukraine, according to a recent poll conducted by Ipsos and Belgian news outlets published on Monday.

The bulk of sovereign Russian assets frozen in the West are held in the Belgian clearinghouse Euroclear. Prime Minister Bart De Wever has steadfastly opposed EU moves to “steal” the funds, citing disproportionate legal risks to Belgium, despite mounting pressure from the European Commission.

EU leaders were set to vote on using the assets to back a controversial €90 billion ($106 billion) ‘reparations loan’ to help cover Ukraine’s floundering budget, which faces an estimated $160 billion shortfall over the next two years.

However, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said the EU leadership “backed down” and that “Russian assets will not be on the table” at Thursday’s European Council meeting. The council “pushes joint loans, but we will not let our families foot the bill for Ukraine’s war,” he wrote on X on Wednesday.

Last week, the EU tightened its grip on the frozen Russian assets by invoking Article 122, an economic emergency treaty clause, to bypass the need for a unanimous decision amid opposition from a number of member nations.

By using the mechanism, the bloc stripped “Hungary of its rights,” Orban said at the time.

Belgium, Slovakia, Italy, Bulgaria, Malta, and the Czech Republic joined Hungary to oppose raiding the Russian assets to finance Ukraine.

Last week, the Russian central bank sued Euroclear in a Moscow court, accusing it of the “inability to manage monetary assets and securities” entrusted to it. The firm estimates that it holds nearly $19 billion in client assets in Russia, which could become targets for legal retaliatory measures.

Source: rt.com

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North America

 

CAIR Opposes Latest Expansion of Muslim and African Travel Ban, Unprecedented Targeting of Families of U.S. Citizens

December 17, 2025

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today expressed strong opposition to the Trump administration’s decision to expand its discriminatory 2025 Muslim and African travel ban by adding seven more countries to the fully-banned list, imposing full restrictions on people traveling with Palestinian Authority-issued documents, and limiting the ability of U.S. citizens to reunite with their immediate family members from targeted countries.

The administration announced the expansion, naming Burkina Faso, Laos, Mali, Niger, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, and Syria to the list of fully banned countries and fully restricts entry for individuals using Palestinian Authority-issued/endorsed travel documents. It also imposed partial restrictions on the entry of nationals from Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Dominica, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Tonga, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The administration announced that it would no longer exempt the family members of U.S. citizens in targeted countries from the ban.

This latest action follows the administration’s unjust move earlier this month to ban immigration and visa processing for Afghan nationals.

In a statement, CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad said:

“Banning American citizens from welcoming their spouses and other family members to America if they happen to be citizens of a banned nation is an unprecedented and unacceptable step. So is expanding the Muslim and Africa travel bans, a xenophobic and bigoted policy that primarily targets Black, African, and Muslim communities, and separates families based on national origin, race, and religion.

“The restriction placed upon travelers with Palestinian-Authority-issued documents is a particularly cruel and unprecedented punishment, especially given how many Palestinian-Americans have family members in the West Bank and how thoroughly vetted those Palestinians are. Enabling a genocide against Palestinians and then banning Palestinians from visiting their relatives in America adds insult to injury.

“Our nation already has extreme vetting procedures for all immigrants and banning entire nations does not make America safer; it only tears families apart and diminishes our standing as a nation of welcome.”

Washington, D.C., basedCAIR urged all allies to join us in demanding that Congress pass the NO BAN Act immediately to permanently end this discriminatory practice.”

Source: cair.com

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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-denounces-latest-expansion-of-muslim-and-african-travel-ban-targeting-families-of-u-s-citizens-and-palestinians/

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Anti-corruption authority holds protest condemning American insults to Qur’an

17 Dec 2025

The National Anti-Corruption Authority organized a protest on Wednesday condemning the American insult to the Holy Qur’an.

Participants, including Authority members Dr. Abdulaziz al-Kumaim and Engineer Harith al-Omari, department heads, general directors, and staff, denounced the reprehensible act committed by a U.S. election candidate, which was used as a political campaign tool.

A statement issued during the protest described the act as an offense against one of the most sacred religious symbols, framing it within the ongoing Zionist-Jewish war, supported by the U.S., Britain, and their allies.

The statement emphasized that such insults are a clear expression of hostility toward Islam and Muslims, aiming to diminish the Qur’an’s standing in the eyes of believers.

The statement condemned the behavior as a humiliating challenge to billions of Muslims worldwide, violating ethics, values, dignity, and humanity. It called upon all Muslims—governments, peoples, and intellectuals—to assume religious and human responsibility in confronting the oppressive forces behind these actions.

The protest statement urged Islamic nations, particularly the Yemeni people, to continue boycotting American, Israeli, Swedish, Danish, and any other products from countries that disrespect the Qur’an or Islamic sacred symbols.

It also criticized the complicity of certain Islamic regimes and called on them to acknowledge their shameful stances.

Finally, the statement called on the Yemeni people to demonstrate their stance through broad participation in protests and activities, culminating in mass demonstrations on the upcoming Friday, affirming Yemenis’ steadfast faith and commitment to defending the Qur’an against American and Israeli aggression.

Source: saba.ye

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https://www.saba.ye/en/news3609352.htm

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Mayor Signs Proclamation: No Recognition For Sharia Or Any Foreign Law In Keller, TX

 December 17, 2025

The City of Keller has reaffirmed its commitment to constitutional governance through a mayoral proclamation rejecting the recognition of any foreign law, including Sharia law, within the city’s jurisdiction.

Mayor Armin Mizani signed the proclamation earlier this week, declaring that Keller is governed by the United States Constitution, the Texas Constitution, and laws formally approved at the federal, state, and local levels. The proclamation states that Sharia law, Sharia courts, and foreign or religious-based legal systems have no authority within the city.

The proclamation reiterates that any legal authority outside of state and federal law will not be tolerated or negotiated in Keller. “No parallel legal systems have any standing or authority within the city,” Mizani said in a press release announcing the proclamation.

Mizani said the proclamation reflects the foundational principles of American government and provides clarity on where the city stands now and in the future.

“The City of Keller exists under the supreme authority of the Constitution,” the proclamation states. Mizani said Americans’ constitutional rights are protected, including First Amendment rights to freedom of religion, belief, expression, and peaceful worship. According to the proclamation, those protections apply “while making clear that religious belief does not confer authority to establish parallel legal systems or supersede civil law.”

Mizani said the proclamation represents “the first step” in establishing the city’s position and that he plans to bring the issue before the City Council to pursue more permanent action.

The proclamation was officially signed and sealed on December 16, 2025.

As debate continues across Texas and the nation over foreign legal systems, local authority, and constitutional governance, Mizani said Keller’s position should not be misunderstood.

Source: dallasexpress.com

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https://dallasexpress.com/metroplex/mayor-signs-declaration-no-recognition-for-sharia-or-any-foreign-law-in-keller-tx/

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'We never gave up hope.' Bethpage Muslims settle mosque expansion lawsuit

By Amen Galinato

December 17, 2025

When Masjid Al-Baqi submitted its plan to expand its cramped one-story mosque facilities in 2018, they desired practical renovations to support the needs of their growing congregation.

But instead, they’d fight a seven-year multi-million dollar legal conflict against the affluent suburb of Oyster Bay, one in which the town they called home for the past 22 years would challenge their religious freedom through the use of zoning laws. The town and Masjid Al-Baqi reached a settlement in November of this year, finally granting the small but resilient mosque the opportunity to expand under scaled-back terms.

A WSHU investigation has found over 70 instances of anti-mosque development opposition across the country within the last 20 years, according to data compiled by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Pew Research Center and independent research.

These instances have arisen either from organized community opposition or administrative roadblocks in the approval process. Of these, more than 50 instances have occurred due to municipal authorities stonewalling mosques. The decades-long pattern has illuminated how zoning laws have been increasingly employed to discriminate against religious groups, but especially toward Muslim Americans.

On Long Island, the number of mosques has soared from two dozen a decade ago to roughly forty now. With Zohran Mamdani making history as the first Muslim American to lead New York City, the monumental impact of the event begs the question of how representation could shape acceptance of Muslims and Islam.

LEGAL OBSTACLES

More washing areas and sinks to use for Wudu, an Islamic ritual done before prayer, designated classrooms to teach children about their faith and a room for congregants to celebrate Iftbar, a fast-breaking meal during Ramadan, were some of the spaces Masjid Al-Baqi hoped to provide with the expansion.

The Bethpage mosque, owned and operated by Muslims of Long Island (MOLI), an Islamic nonprofit organization, sought to tear down its separate two existing facilities and renovate it into a single three-story mosque.The mosque is located at an intersection between Stewart and Central avenues.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Imran Makda has attended the mosque weekly since 2001. As a member of the mosque’s Board of Trustees and one of the two individual plaintiffs in the lawsuit, he expressed that the choice to pursue the case was one they felt was necessary.

“That decision wasn’t really made until we were officially told that the town [had] rejected our application right up until that time,” Makda said.

The mosque overcame several obstacles along the way. The first hurdle is the Town’s Department of Environment Resources’ (DER) years-long regulatory review. Minor mistakes including having to resubmit applications after using the wrong acronym, “TUB” instead of “TOB” delayed the application process. Despite the significant delays, Masjid Al-Baqi was ultimately found not to create new issues with parking.

During the process, the town issued a parking ordinance in 2022 that stonewalled the mosque from expanding. The law changed to require places of worship to have more parking spaces than before. Instead of mandating religious organizations to have one parking space per 100 sq. ft. of floor space, places of worship were now expected to have a minimum of 155. At that time, the mosque had only 86 parking spaces, a long way away from the recently required amount.

In November 2024, the town’s Planning Advisory Board (PAB) voted unanimously to deny Masjid Al-Baqi’s application, despite passing the DER and also gaining the approval of several members of the Nassau County Department of Public Works (DPW).

According to the complaint filed, the PAB’s denial of the mosque since 2018 was the only time the board had denied an application.

In January 2025, Masjid Al-Baqi filed a lawsuit against the town, claiming the obstacles blocking the mosque from expansion were due to religious discrimination. They sued on the basis of the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA), a federal law aimed at granting houses of worship land protection rights at the local government level.

Muhammad Faridi, an attorney of Linklaters LLP law firm representing the mosque, emphasized the impact the town’s zoning denials and delays had on the mosque.

“The Islamic community at Bethpage feels like outsiders that they're not welcome there,” he said. “These are folks who are committed to the town. They're committed to raising their families there. They love their neighbors. They love the town.”

According to a 2015 report by the Pew Research Center, Muslims composed roughly 1% of the U.S. population. In their 2020 report, the U.S. Department of Justice discovered that the religious group filed the most RLUIPA lawsuits and amicus filings, a finding that has “significantly exceeded” the Muslim population in the United States.

In August of this year, the town and Masjid Al-Baqi reached an agreement. According to Makda, congregants broke out in tears upon hearing the news. Although less than two weeks later, the town had abruptly backed out of the agreement.

“We were really utterly disappointed at that point in time,” Makda said.

Unusual challenges later on catapulted the lawsuit to the top of national headlines. The town’s usage of a testimony of an imaginary grandma and a self-described bigoted traffic expert who was found to have anti-Muslim remarks on his social media was reported by multiple media outlets and became an epicenter of controversy.

After two proposed settlements and one U.S. Department of Justice investigation into their case, the Bethpage mosque secured a long-sought-after $3.95 million settlement in November 2025.

“We never gave up hope,” Makda said. “You're not supposed to give up hope. You just keep fighting and you just keep doing the things that you think are right for yourself and your community.”

“I feel like it’s a better settlement than what we had before,” Moeen Qureshi, a member of MOLI’s construction committee and congregant of Masjid Al-Baqi since 2015.

Under the settlement, the mosque was allowed to create a single three-story mosque consisting of 9,950 sq. feet at ground level or above, down 1,150 fewer square feet than the original settlement. The mosque will also have a maximum occupancy of 295 people, instead of the originally proposed occupancy of 464 people. According to Makda, the mosque gained roughly 25 new parking spaces. The town issued a new traffic light and an enhanced parking lot and required the mosque to pay for a crossing guard over the course of 18 months. As part of the settlement, the town repealed the parking ordinance that they previously imposed on Masjid Al-Baqi.

In response to a request for comment, the spokesperson for the town of Oyster Bay responded with the town’s statement from the settlement agreement.

According to the written statement, Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino said, “This agreement resolves planning concerns and allows us to move forward as one community – with a smaller facility, less occupancy, improved traffic safety, added on-site parking and a shared commitment to safety, quality of life and mutual respect in Bethpage.”

COMMUNITY RESISTANCE

Faridi believed the town’s sudden withdrawal from the agreement was driven by opposition from its residents.

“What happened after the settlement was announced is that some of the residents who have very problematic and bigoted views towards Muslims, Islam and immigrants came out of the woodwork,” he added. “They began writing to the town leadership, sending emails [to] leadership on Facebook and other social media outlets,”he said.

On August 19, amid news of the settlement breaking out, a Change.org petition was created where over two thousand people signed, urging town leaders to vote no on the settlement.

A paragraph from the petition read, “Supervisor Joe Saladino and the Town of Oyster Bay Town Board are planning to hold an emergency meeting to approve a settlement to allow a monstrosity of a Mosque to be built in our community.”

The comment section included concerns from community members over potential traffic issues, but it also contained comments with Islamophobic remarks and slurs.

Makda said the petition did not dissuade their mission to expand.

“We are living in a different age of social media, and sometimes, these types of things sort of take a life of their own, and the negative commentary then takes hold….We don't know whether these are our neighbors or not. Maybe they are, maybe they're not,” he said.

“We actually brought the town officials in here, and they were shocked to see how we were operating,” he said about the mosque’s motivation to pursue a lawsuit. “I'm not saying it's our fault or their fault that communication never happened, or that physical communication never happened, but that's something we all could work on.”

“We sort of showed them and said, ‘Listen, of course, the town residents are concerned about the parking issue. Maybe there's an avenue for us if you're able to get access to that water basin, perhaps that would add another 25 [or] 30 parking spots.’ It sort of opened their eyes. And they said, ‘Yeah, this is definitely something that we can look into.’ They actually started making phone calls as soon as they left.”

Masjid Al-Baqi is not the only religious organization that has battled Oyster Bay on the basis of RLUIPA. In 2016, the Guru Gobind Singh Sikh Center filed a lawsuit against the town.

Daisy Khan, a staunch advocate for Muslim representation and women’s rights, said anti-Mosque sentiment often stemmed from bigotry. In 2010, Khan and her husband, Imam Feisal Adbul Rauf faced national controversy for their mosque project Cordoba House, which opened up two blocks away from the World Trade Center site of the September 11, 2001 attacks.

“The backlash to the project taught me that the resistance to Muslim institutions isn't really about that particular building. It's about not wanting to accept them as your neighbor or full citizen and ultimately it's about preventing Muslims from belonging,” she said.

Khan expressed how she believed anti-mosque opposition often stemmed from bias.

“I think that all of these zoning disputes are not isolated at all. It's actually part of a long-documented pattern when Muslim communities across America face barriers when they try to build or expand their houses of worship. From Tennessee to New Jersey to California, projects have been installed, denied and dragged [on],” she said.

Khan called them “the modern tools that are used to religious[y] discriminate. They are applied very selectively [and] inconsistently.”

A SECOND MOSQUE TAKES ITS ZONING FIGHT TO COURT

Less than 12 miles away from Masjid Al-Baqi, Hillside Islamic Center has also filed a lawsuit against the Town of North Hempstead for denying their proposal to expand their facilities. The proposal included adding a third story to their building and demolishing two other buildings for an additional parking lot.

In February of 2024, the New Hyde Park mosque sued the town on the basis of Article 78, a procedure that allows individuals and entities to challenge administrative decisions. In January 2025, the state Supreme Court sided with the Center, allowing it to expand and create an additional parking lot.

A spokesperson for the Town of North Hempstead and the town’s attorney did not respond to requests for comment.

In a Nassau County Planning Commission (NCPC)’s July 2024 meeting, Commissioner Reid Sakowich alluded to his experience living in New Hyde Park and seeing the Hillside Islamic Center, which informed his experience with Masjid Al-Baqi.

“I’ve lived this experience in New Hyde Park…. I’ve seen Hillside Avenue in New Hyde Park shut down on many, many, many times by people just being late for services and just leaving the cars out on the roads,” he said.

Despite improvements in Masjid Al-Baqi’s safety issues, Sakowich implied his opposition towards the expansion wouldn’t change, although the two are separate buildings.

“Their fix of the traffic flow, they’ve definitely increased it, but I live in New Hyde Park, and it’s just horrendous,” he said.

Abdul Aziz Bhuiyan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Center, said he felt the denial was rooted in bias against Muslim Americans.

“The expansion that we were looking for was all within our zoning. In other words, zoning allows us to expand the square feet that we're asking for. We didn't ask anything beyond that,” Bhuiyan said. "I mean, the community feels betrayed, that elected officials will be biased against the community.”

As of now, that fight is still ongoing.

MUSLIM REPRESENTATION

Next door in New York City, residents elected Zohran Mamdani as their first Muslim-American mayor.

New York is reported to have the largest population of Muslim Americans in the country, with over 700,000 residents living within the state.

Qureshi expressed the positive impact Mamdani's recent mayoral win had on new generations.

“It's breaking barriers for my kids to see that first Muslim American mayor for New York,” he said.

Qureshi described Mamdani as being an example of how Muslim Americans could follow different paths than those previously stereotyped.

“We're at this point where we need to start making a change. And if Mamdani is there, then tomorrow, my daughter or my son can say the same thing that I, you know, what I could earn for politics,” he said.

Musa al-Gharbi, a professor at Stony Brook University’s School of Communication and Journalism, said the politics of Long Island has played a part in shaping the outcome of anti-mosque development cases.

“It's that the political constitution of Long Island is a little bit more right of center compared to New York City, but it's also the case that demographically Long Island is different from New York City. It's changing, and it's changing in ways that sometimes some of the existing population are uncertain about or uncomfortable,” he said.

In a study by POLITICO, researchers found that Nassau County, where Masjid Al-Baqi and the Hillside Islamic Center are located, was one of the only areas across the state where a red wave emerged during this year’s November elections.

SHIFTING DEMOGRAPHICS

From 2010 to 2020, Long Island experienced a dramatic shift in its racial demographics. Research from Molloy University has found that Long Island has become more diverse, with the percentage of residents of Hispanic and Asian descent increasing significantly. From 2010 to 2020, the percentage of Asian residents jumped from 5% to 8%.

Khan explained that Mamdani’s win emphasized a positive shift towards representation and Muslim acceptance.

“It's very clear that it's part of the larger shift and how Muslim Americans are asserting their right at every level,” she said. “Their right to serve, their right to be in leadership, their right to their religious freedom, their right to speech. And they want to be visible, and he is proof that Muslims are stepping into leadership.”

For Makda, the stereotype of Muslims being “outsiders” doesn’t align with reality.

“When we pray, it's a different type of prayer. When we dress up, it's a different type of dress. But at the same time, we're normal human beings,” Makda said.

Qureshi described his hopes for the future of Muslim Americans and the societal ideals he hopes will change.

“There's a lot of political noise that happened in the background, especially over the last, I don't know, maybe 10,15 [or] 20 years,” he said. “It has become polarizing. But it's not polarizing when I'm talking to my neighbor, right? It's not polarizing when I'm talking to my co-workers that I've known for so many years. So when we establish relationships and bonds at a local level, at a personal level, it's a beautiful country, right? It's a beautiful place to live in.”

Source: wshu.org

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https://www.wshu.org/long-island-news/2025-12-17/bethpage-muslims-mosque-expansion-lawsuit

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CAIR Md. Calls on Congressional Delegation to Strongly Reject Repugnant Anti-Muslim Bigotry from Rep. Randy Fine, Sen. Tommy Tuberville

December 17, 2025

Civil Rights Group Welcomes Sen. Chris Van Hollen’s (D-Md.) Forceful Denunciation of Hateful Rhetoric

The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) strongly condemns the morally repugnant and dangerous Islamophobic rhetoric from Rep. Randy Fine (R-Fla.) and Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and is calling on Maryland’s congressional delegation to join U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) in speaking out forcefully against the calls for mass expulsion and collective punishment of American Muslims.

In a statement, CAIR’s Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry said:

“Fine and Tuberville’s reprehensible comments represent an alarming escalation of anti-Muslim extremism in American political discourse. These views fuel Islamophobia and the dehumanization of Muslims, and echo some of the darkest chapters of U.S. history. This kind of talk is fundamentally incompatible with the responsibilities of public office and would rightfully not be tolerated against any other community. Constituents deserve to know that our representatives and senators have our communities’ backs. Calls to expel, exclude, or collectively punish American Muslims are not policy positions; they are expressions of deep-rooted bigotry that fuel violence and have no place in a democratic society.”

CAIR has called on Congress to censure Fine for his repeated Islamophobic statements and efforts to portray American Muslims as a collective threat. These patterns reflect not isolated missteps, but a sustained embrace of hate-based politics that undermines constitutional values and endangers real communities.

TAKE ACTION: Join CAIR in Urging Congress to Censure Anti-Muslim Extremist Rep. Randy Fine

https://action.cair.com/a/nohateincongress

CAIR recently designated Tuberville as an anti-Muslim extremist for repeatedly invoking George Wallace-era bigotry and celebrating discrimination against Muslim students, including remarks praising the denial of educational access to Muslim children.

SEE: CAIR Designates Sen. Tuberville as Anti-Muslim Extremist, Condemns Use of ‘George Wallace-Era’ Bigotry

Read CAIR OP-ED: Senator Tuberville casts George Wallace’s shadow over Alabama Muslims: op-ed – AL.com

CAIR thanks Senator Van Hollen for his consistent, clear and principled condemnation of Islamophobic hate, noting that his response demonstrates moral clarity at a moment when silence is complicity.

The civil rights group noted that at a time when anti-Muslim bigotry is being openly voiced from the halls of Congress, Senator Van Hollen’s willingness to call it out reflects leadership rooted in basic human decency and respect for the Constitution. His statement affirms that hatred, fear-mongering, and religious discrimination have no place in our nation’s governing institutions. American Muslims contribute substantially every day to our nation. Attempts to single out Muslim communities for exclusion or expulsion are an attack on the foundational principles of religious freedom, equal protection, and pluralism.

CAIR urges congressional leaders from both parties to hold accountable those who promote hate.

CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.      

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos. 

Source: cair.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-md-calls-on-congressional-delegation-to-strongly-reject-repugnant-anti-muslim-bigotry-from-rep-randy-fine-sen-tommy-tuberville/

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CAIR Welcomes New Hampshire City Council Adding Eid Holidays to Calendar

December 17, 2025

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed a decision by the city council of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, to add two Islamic holidays, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, to the city calendar.

[NOTE: Eid ul-Fitr (EED-al-FITTER), or “feast of fast-breaking,” is the first of the two major Muslim holidays after the end of the month-long fast of Ramadan. During this holiday, Muslims greet each other by saying “Eid Mubarak” (EED-moo-BAR-ak), meaning “blessed Eid,” and “taqabbalallah ta’atakum,” or “may God accept your deeds.” Many communities also hold multicultural bazaars and other family activities following the prayers. The second holiday, Eid ul-Adha (EED-al-ODD-ha), comes near the end of the Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca.]

In addition to voting to recognize the two Eid holidays, the Portsmouth City Council resolved not to schedule meetings the night before Eid al-Fitr during the breaking of the Ramadan fast.

SEE: Portsmouth City Council adds 2 Muslim holy days to city calendar

“We welcome this vote by the Portsmouth City Council and encourage other cities in New Hampshire and nationwide to ensure that people of all faiths have their holidays recognized and respected,” said CAIR National Communications Manager Ismail Allison.

He noted that CAIR previously welcomed other cities recognizing the Eid holidays.

Source: cair.com

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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-welcomes-new-hampshire-city-council-adding-eid-holidays-to-calendar/

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CAIR-NY Condemns Antisemitic Stabbing in Brooklyn

December 17, 2025

The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned a reported stabbing in Brooklyn on Tuesday that is being investigated as a possible antisemitic attack.

In a statement, Afaf Nasher, Esq., CAIR-NY Executive Director, said:

“We strongly condemn this reported stabbing and any act of violence motivated by antisemitism or any other form of bigotry. Our thoughts are with the victim and their loved ones. Hate has no place in our communities, and violence driven by prejudice threatens the safety and dignity of us all. We urge law enforcement to conduct a full and transparent investigation and to hold the perpetrator accountable.”

She said CAIR and the American Muslim community stand in solidarity with all those challenging antisemitism, systemic anti-Black racism, xenophobia, anti-Muslim hate, white supremacy, and all other forms of bigotry.

CAIR-NY’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.

La misión de CAIR-NY es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.

Source: cair.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-ny-condemns-antisemitic-stabbing-in-brooklyn/

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Six Canadian MPs denied entry by Israel to occupied West Bank

December 18, 2025

Nadine Yousif

Six Canadian members of parliament, along with a delegation of 24 other people, have been denied entry by Israel to the occupied West Bank while trying to cross the border from Jordan.

The group was attempting to enter as part of a trip to Israel and the West Bank sponsored by non-profit organisation The Canadian-Muslim Vote (TCMV).

The Israeli ambassador to Canada said the group had been denied entry because TCMV had links to Islamic Relief Worldwide, a non-governmental organisation proscribed by Israel as a terrorist group.

Islamic Relief Worldwide and its Canadian affiliate both strongly deny that characterisation. TCMV also hit out, saying its funding came from qualified donors only.

Israeli military body Cogat, which oversees the Allenby border crossing, told CBC News that the group of 30 had been denied entry on Tuesday "for security reasons", after they arrived at the Allenby border crossing "without prior co-ordination".

The denial was described as "deeply troubling" by the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM), who said its staff members and community leaders were in the delegation alongside the MPs.

Five of the six MPs who were denied entry were from the governing Liberal Party. They were Fares Al Soud, Iqra Khalid, Aslam Rana, Gurbux Saini and Sameer Zuberi.

The sixth MP was Jenny Kwan, from the left-leaning New Democratic Party. Kwan called the situation "completely unacceptable" and rejected the suggestion that the lawmakers posed a public safety risk.

The NCCM said the goal of the trip was "observing conditions on the ground and engaging directly with Palestinian and international stakeholders".

Stephen Brown, the CEO of the NCCM, criticised the Israeli government, saying the denial of entry was part of a "broader pattern" to restrict access "to those seeking to independently witness the realities in the occupied territories".

Iddo Moed, the Israeli ambassador to Canada, told CBC that the reason for denial was due to TCMV's links to Islamic Relief Worldwide. "The issue really is the link to a terrorist organisation," he said.

A spokesperson for Islamic Relief Worldwide described it as a "false allegation" that it had attempted to challenge in the Israeli courts. "Our work in Gaza has been audited by donor governments and global audit firms, and all have confirmed that our work is purely humanitarian," they added.

In its own statement to Canadian media, Islamic Relief Canada CEO Tufail Hussain said: "Claims that our charitable resources support terrorism are baseless and dangerous and they place aid workers and the beneficiaries we serve at risk."

Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand confirmed the delegation had been denied entry in a statement on X on Tuesday afternoon.

She added that her ministry "expressed Canada's objections regarding the mistreatment of these Canadians while attempting to cross".

A different group of MPs were permitted to travel on a similar trip in 2024, also organised by TCMV.

Tensions between the Canadian and Israeli governments have risen in recent months after Canada - alongside the UK, France and other Western nations - formally recognised a Palestinian state in September.

At the time, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticised the recognition as "disgraceful".

Earlier this year, two MPs from the UK's governing Labour Party were also denied entry by Israel after crossing from Jordan during a visit organised by the Council for Arab-British Understanding (CAABU).

Simon Opher and Peter Prinsley were travelling in a parliamentary delegation in September to see medical and humanitarian work being carried out by organisations, including Medical Aid for Palestinians.

A spokesperson for the UK Foreign Office said at the time that the incident was "totally unacceptable and deeply concerning".

Two other Labour MPs, Abtisam Mohamed and Yuan Yang, had earlier been denied entry to Israel in April on another visit organised by the same organisation.

Source: bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c30j90m09g8o

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Muslim rights group sues Florida Gov. DeSantis over 'foreign terrorist' label

17 December, 2025

A leading Muslim civil rights group in the U.S. has sued Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis over his order designating it and another organization as a “ foreign terrorist organization,” saying the directive was unconstitutional.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations, known as CAIR, has more than 20 chapters across the United States and its work involves legal actions, advocacy and education outreach.

The lawsuit was filed late Monday by the CAIR-Foundation and CAIR-Florida, its affiliate in the state. The suit asked a federal judge in Tallahassee to declare DeSantis' order unlawful and unconstitutional and prevent it from being enforced.

“He has usurped the exclusive authority of the federal government to identify and designate terrorist organizations by baselessly declaring CAIR a terrorist organization,” the lawsuit says.

DeSantis' order was among a series of recent actions or statements made by Republican elected officials which target U.S. Muslims or their groups.

U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., on Sunday posted on social media that “Islam is not a religion. It's a cult.”

A day later, CAIR designated Tuberville, who is running for Alabama governor, as an anti-Muslim extremist for his “increasingly hateful and dangerous attacks on Alabama Muslims.” The group said it was the first time it had given a U.S. senator that designation. Tuberville responded on social media that it was a “badge of honor.” When asked Tuesday about his statements, Tuberville spokesman Mallory Jaspers repeated what Tuberville had said.

U.S. Rep. Randy Fine, R-Fla., also posted Monday on social media about his support for “a Muslim travel ban, radical deportations of all mainstream Muslim legal and illegal immigrants, and citizenship revocations wherever possible.”

"Mainstream Muslims have declared war on us. The least we can do is kick them the hell out of America," Fine wrote.

Anti-Muslim bias has persisted in different forms since Sept. 11, 2001, and there’s been a rise in Islamophobia during more than two years of war in Gaza.

During a news conference about the Florida lawsuit, Charles Swift, a lawyer for the Muslim Legal Fund of America, called the elected officials' statements dangerous and bigoted.

“The Constitution protects people’s rights to be bigoted, not the government’s rights,” said Swift, whose group is one of the legal organizations representing CAIR. “When a governor issues an executive order to silence Muslims, that’s a different question altogether because if you can do that, you can silence anyone.”

CAIR said in the Florida lawsuit that it has always condemned terrorism and violence. The lawsuit alleges DeSantis targeted the group for defending the free speech rights of people in cases where state officials and officials elsewhere tried to punish or silence those who expressed support for Palestinian human rights.

The order by DeSantis last week also gives the same “foreign terrorist” label to the Muslim Brotherhood, a pan-Arab political movement. President Donald Trump last month issued an executive order that sets in motion a process to designate certain chapters of the Muslim Brotherhood as a foreign terrorist organization.

The governor’s order instructs Florida agencies to prevent the two groups and those who have provided them material support from receiving contracts, employment and funds from a state executive or cabinet agency.

Florida has an estimated 500,000 Muslim residents, according to CAIR.

When reached by email for comment on Tuesday, the governor's press secretary, Molly Best, referred to DeSantis' recent social media posts on the topic in which he said he looked forward to a trial. In one post, DeSantis said, “I look forward to discovery — especially the CAIR finances. Should be illuminating!”

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has issued a similar proclamation in Texas. CAIR last month asked a federal judge to strike down Abbott’s proclamation, saying in a lawsuit that it was “not only contrary to the United States Constitution, but finds no support in any Texas law.”

Source: newarab.com

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https://www.newarab.com/news/muslim-rights-group-sues-desantis-over-foreign-terrorist-label

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Trump's travel ban on 39 countries: Who are exempt from the new visa rules? What about the fiance visa?

Dec 18, 2025

The Donald Trump administration, in an expected move, widened the travel ban to include more African countries from which people can't now travel to the US, even for studying. The list now has 39 countries and is effective from January 1, 2026. But there are various degrees of travel ban -- full and partial -- and a lot to decode.

Full travel ban

In July, the administration announced 12 countries that are under a full travel ban which means the US completely blocks the entry of people from these countries, no matter who they are, what their purpose of visit is. Only a very few exceptions are allowed, depending on the case. These countrymen can not apply for any visa and even if someone has a valid visa, it is considered suspended. No new visa is issued. But it does not mean that people from these countries who have obtained US citizenship will be stripped of their citizenship.

Afghanistan

Burma

Chad

Republic of Congo

Equatorial Guinea

Eritrea

Haiti

Iran

Libya

Somalia

Sudan

Yemen

Trump added seven countries to this list

Burkina Faso

Laos (previously on the June travel ban “partially restricted” list)

Mali

Niger

Sierra Leone (previously on the June travel ban “partially restricted” list)

South Sudan

Syria

This category also includes foreign nationals using Palestinian Authority-issued or endorsed travel documents.

List of countries under partial restriction

Angola

Antigua and Barbuda

Benin

Burundi (remains on the partial restriction list from the June travel ban)

Cote d’Ivoire

Cuba (remains on the partial restriction list from the June travel ban)

Dominica

Gabon

The Gambia

Malawi

Mauritania

Nigeria

Senegal

Tanzania

Togo (remains on the partial restriction list from the June travel ban)

Tonga

Venezuela (remains on the partial restriction list from the June travel ban)

Zambia

Zimbabwe

Nationals from these countries will not be able to come to the US for travel purposes or to study. H-1B work visas are not suspended but consular officers have been asked to reduce the validity of any visa.

Turkmenistan got some restrictions lifted as its nationals can now apply for B, F, M and J categories of visa.

Who are exempt from this wide travel ban?

People who are inside the US with a valid visa on or before January 1, 2026 are exempt from the travel ban. Existing visas will not be revoked. Athletes, coaches traveling for the World Cup, Olympics are exempt as determined by the State Department.

What about fiance visa?

"Fiancé visas (K-1) are being treated like immigrant visas (generally non-immigrant) for the proclamation. So if you are filing for a fiancé in one of the 39 banned countries, they are being treated like spouses of US citizens and they are also banned," immigration attorney Brad Bernstein said.

Source: indiatimes.com

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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/trumps-travel-ban-on-39-countries-who-are-exempt-from-the-new-visa-rules-what-about-the-fianc-visa/articleshow/126044684.cms

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Arab World

 

‘I was motivated by solving problems the world didn’t care about,’ first Saudi Nobel laureate Omar M. Yaghi tells Arab News

MUSTAFA ABU SNEINEH

December 17, 2025

STOCKHOLM: Saudi-American scientist Omar M. Yaghi’s career has been shaped by a rare combination of intellectual audacity and personal history — a lifelong drive to push science beyond known limits, while never losing sight of its capacity to serve humanity.

In 2025, that journey culminated in global recognition when Yaghi became the first Saudi national to receive a Nobel Prize, and only the second Arab-born laureate to be awarded the chemistry prize, after the Egyptian-American scientist Ahmed Zewail in 1999.

Yaghi shared the Nobel Prize in Chemistry with British-Australian scientist Richard Robson and Japanese scientist Susumu Kitagawa.

Together, the three were recognized for more than half a century of contributions to the development of metal-organic frameworks, or MOFs — porous, sponge-like materials with vast internal spaces capable of storing carbon dioxide or harvesting water from the air.

They will also share the 11 million Swedish krona (about $1 million) prize.

Once a niche academic pursuit, MOF science is now studied in more than 100 countries and applied at industrial scale, with uses ranging from climate change mitigation to addressing water scarcity.

Yaghi’s rise to the pinnacle of global science began far from elite laboratories. He grew up in a Palestinian refugee family of 10 children, living on the outskirts of the Al-Wehdat refugee camp in the Jordanian capital, Amman.

The family’s single-room home had no electricity. Water arrived only once a week — sometimes once every two weeks — prompting residents to rush to fill every available bucket before the next long wait.

“It’s not the poetic idea that because I had hardship with water when I was a child that I was determined to solve the problem,” Yaghi told Arab News.

“I was much more motivated by solving problems that the world didn’t really care about. That’s basic science, which is about going to the frontiers of knowledge and being brave enough to solve problems.

“Once you make that great discovery, then it leads to much more benefit than you would have achieved had you done it by initially answering the problems of society,” he said.

His childhood revolved around three defining spaces: the family home near Al-Wehdat, where livestock were raised; the butcher shop his father, Mounes, ran on King Talal Street; and the private Bishop’s School in the historic Jabal Amman district.

The Yaghi family originally came from Al-Masmiyya, a Palestinian village between Jerusalem and Jaffa that was depopulated and destroyed after being occupied by the Zionist paramilitary group Haganah in 1948.

In 2018, Yaghi made a homage visit to Al-Masmiyya, searching for specific locations preserved in family stories of life before the Nakba.

After displacement, the family settled in Amman, where Omar was born in 1965 and where his father built a cattle and butchery business that left a lasting impression on his son.

“This shop figured prominently in my life. There, I learned the power of a work ethic. I learned that when you have a transaction with other people, you should be honest, the power of honesty and of hard work,” he said.

Yaghi watched his parents work relentlessly to support their children’s education. His father rose before dawn and worked until after sunset, while his mother baked fresh bread, prepared meals, cared for the household, and tended the cows.

“I was shy and quiet. And had done my homework separately from the other kids, and didn’t play the games that they were playing, and it seems like I spent most of my childhood sitting in a corner, reading or writing, and observing what was happening around me,” he said.

Although the family was registered as refugees with the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, his father opted against enrolling his children in UNRWA schools.

“We didn’t go to UNRWA schools because my father felt that he needed reporting on our performance in school on a regular basis,” Yaghi said. UNRWA provided reports only once a term — too infrequent for his father’s liking.

At Bishop’s School, Yaghi studied English and some French alongside mathematics and science, subjects the school emphasized strongly. “Math and science were topics that my father absolutely wanted to see us do very well at,” he said.

At the age of 10, a chance encounter with molecular drawings in the school library proved transformative. He was captivated by their beauty and mystery, later learning that these shapes formed the basic building blocks of all matter, living and non-living alike.

In 1980, aged just 15, Yaghi travelled alone to the US, enrolling at Hudson Valley Community College in Troy, New York, where he studied English, science, and mathematics.

The family’s savings — nearly $9,000 — sustained him for about two years. To survive, he worked odd jobs in supermarkets and tutored fellow students in math.

Although he could read and write English, he soon realized he was unprepared for the speed and idiom of American speech.

He immersed himself in the language, watching news broadcasts and soap operas, speaking with classmates, reading at least one full newspaper story every day, and consulting a dictionary he had brought from Amman.

“Most words that were in the newspaper were not in this dictionary, but I managed to get at least a few new words,” he said. Within three to six months, he had mastered American English.

In 1985, he earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the State University of New York at Albany. Five years later, he completed his PhD at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

After academic appointments at Arizona State University, the University of Michigan, and UCLA, Yaghi joined UC Berkeley in 2012, where he holds the James and Neeltje Tretter Chair.

He is also the founding director of the Berkeley Global Science Institute and has taught students from 15 countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, China, and the UK.

Source: arabnews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2626637/saudi-arabia

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Saudi leaders send condolences to Kuwaiti emir after death of royal

December 17, 2025

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent messages of condolence and sympathy to Kuwait’s emir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, on Wednesday following the death on Tuesday of Sheikh Jaber Mubarak Sabah Al-Nasser Al-Sabah at the age of 67.

They also offered their condolences to the family of the deceased, and the crown prince sent a separate message of sympathy to his Kuwaiti counterpart, Sheikh Sabah Khalid Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

On Tuesday, Kuwait marked the second anniversary of the death of former Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who ruled from Sept. 29, 2020, until his death on Dec. 16, 2023, at the age of 86.

Source: arabnews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2626622/saudi-arabia

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Saudi FM receives telephone call from French counterpart

December 17, 2025

RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan received a telephone call from France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot on Wednesday.

During the call, the two ministers discussed Saudi-French relations and the latest regional and international developments, Saudi Press Agency reported.

Source: arabnews.com

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Indonesia, Saudi Arabia trade reaches $6.6 billion, ambassador says

RASHID HASSAN

December 17, 2025

RIYADH: The trade between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia has shown a positive trend over the past five years, growing by about 12 percent annually, and there is still a significant potential to further enhance this bilateral cooperation, said Indonesian Ambassador in Riyadh Dr. Abdul Aziz Ahmad.

The envoy, in his opening remarks at the Indonesian Trade and Cultural Promotion 2025 forum at the Cultural Palace in the Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh on Wednesday, said: “Last year, total trade between our two countries reached $6.6 billion, with Indonesia’s exports to Saudi Arabia amounting to $2.6 billion, while imports from Saudi Arabia to Indonesia reached more than $4 billion.”

He said that Indonesia is one of the most dynamic economies in Asia, supported by a population of more than 280 million people and a strong commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth.

“Through this event, which will take place today and tomorrow, we are showcasing a small part of Indonesia’s potential across various sectors, as well as our rich cultural heritage,” the envoy said.

“As you can see, we have invited several Indonesian companies, as well as Saudi businesses that import Indonesian products. We hope this event will introduce you to the wide range of Indonesian products and services, from food and beverages, construction, fashion, and personal care, to strategic industries,” he said.

There will also be a business forum following the opening, where two Indonesian companies will display their products and services in more detail, he said.

“In addition, we are pleased to present Indonesia’s culture through a fashion show, traditional dances, music performances, and a selection of Indonesian snacks,” he added.

“Through this forum, we hope to strengthen the presence of Indonesian products in the Saudi market and to connect businesses with Indonesia’s vast potential,” the ambassador said.

The event will present various cultural performances on Wednesday and Thursday, and the event is open to the public and free of charge, according to the embassy.

“Join us for two vibrant days featuring: trade promotion booths showcasing Indonesian products and services, cultural performances representing Indonesia’s rich heritage, and delicious Indonesian snacks,” Sugiri Suparwan, the deputy chief of mission at the Indonesian Embassy, told Arab News.

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Saudi deputy ministers receive Japanese, German envoys

December 17, 2025

Saudi Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Economic and Development Affairs Abdullah bin Zarah received Ambassador of Japan to the Kingdom Yasunari Morino in Riyadh on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Saudi Deputy Minister for International Multilateral Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Rassi received Michael Kindsgrab, the German ambassador to Saudi Arabia, in Riyadh on Wednesday, the Foreign Ministry wrote in a post on X.

During the meetings, all sides discussed bilateral relations and various issues of common concern.

Source: arabnews.com

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Saudi Arabia celebrates World Arabic Language Day with global outreach, local engagement

HEBSHI ALSHAMMARI

December 17, 2025

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is marking World Arabic Language Day 2025 with a series of cultural, educational and academic initiatives across the Kingdom and abroad, reinforcing its commitment to promoting Arabic as a language of heritage, innovation and global communication.

Celebrated annually on Dec. 18, World Arabic Language Day commemorates the adoption of Arabic as the sixth official language of the UN in 1973.

This year’s global observance is held under the theme “Innovative Pathways for Arabic: Policies and Practices for a More Inclusive Linguistic Future,” highlighting the role of education, media, technology and public policy in shaping accessible and dynamic uses of the language.

The King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language launched its World Arabic Language Day celebrations earlier this month at the UN’s headquarters in New York City.

Held from Dec. 2 to 4 and sponsored by Culture Minister Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, the event reflected the Kingdom’s leading role in supporting Arabic and strengthening its status as an official UN language.

Organized in partnership with Saudi Arabia’s permanent mission to the UN, the celebration featured cultural and interactive programs showcasing the beauty, history and global influence of Arabic.

As part of its annual campaign, the academy also released the fifth edition of its digital toolkit, “Proud of It,” providing government entities, private institutions and individuals with digital content to enrich nationwide celebrations.

Dr. Abdullah Al-Washmi, secretary-general of the King Salman Global Academy for the Arabic Language, spoke to Arab News about how language is an integral part of the strength of national identity.

He said that the academy has programs and initiatives in more than 60 countries, working in partnership with more than 10 international organizations in education, linguistic computing, cultural content and language policies.

“The academy works to target diverse groups, starting with children in their early learning, progressing through students and researchers, and reaching media outlets and institutions in their daily operations.

“This is an extension of our collective responsibility toward our Arabic language, which originated in our land, was spoken by our ancestors, and in which the Holy Qur’an was revealed. It is worthy of the concerted efforts of all institutions to preserve it.”

Yasser Al-Juwaisser, director of public relations and media at the academy, spoke about the events planned to mark the day, including an event with the League of Arab States.

Al-Juwaisser added that the academy has recently produced new lexicographical publications, such as the Dictionary of Financial and Economic Terms and the Dictionary of Behavioral Sciences.

In Riyadh, the General Department of Education is marking the occasion under the theme “We Take Pride in It.” Abdul Salam Al-Thumairi, spokesperson for Riyadh Education, said a comprehensive plan has been prepared featuring programs and activities designed to highlight the Kingdom’s role in serving Arabic through the education system.

He added that schools across the region will observe the day through educational events, classroom activities and school radio programs aimed at reinforcing students’ awareness of the Arabic language, its civilizational role and its esteemed status locally and internationally.

Meanwhile, the National Museum in Riyadh, in collaboration with the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, is hosting a cultural program running until Dec. 20. The initiative includes intellectual dialogues exploring the human and cultural dimensions of Arabic, including sessions on traditional folk songs and the role of language in preserving heritage and linking crafts to the living culture of Saudi communities.

Visitors can also engage directly with authors through conversational-style book signings, while workshops and musical performances highlight the richness of traditional arts and crafts, offering an immersive cultural experience that blends knowledge, discovery and celebration.

The Islamic University of Madinah is also organizing a series of events under the theme “We Take Pride in It.” The program opened with a seminar titled “Deep-Rooted Origins and Global Horizons,” where academics discussed the cultural and civilizational significance of Arabic, its role in preserving identity in the digital age, and ways to leverage modern technologies in teaching the language.

An accompanying exhibition at Al-Salam Hall showcases student-created artworks and Arabic calligraphy, featuring Qur’anic verses, poetry and literary texts that reflect the language’s richness and diversity. The celebrations include competitions in poetry, public speaking and calligraphy, alongside contributions from academics and students of various nationalities.

Source: arabnews.com

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King Abdulaziz Camel Festival sees unprecedented demand

December 17, 2025

RIYADH: The 10th annual King Abdulaziz Camel Festival held in Al-Sayahid, north of Riyadh, has seen unprecedented demand this year, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

It has become a major economic engine for the camel breeding industry in Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf, with prices reaching over SR100,000 ($27,000) at auction for the best specimens.

Auctioneer Mubarak Al-Ghannami told the SPA that around 200 camels are entered into the daily auction, with prices starting at around SR4,000.

The festival supports economic activity beyond just the auctions, however, with job opportunities in camel transportation and related auxiliary sectors.

Veteran transporter Abu Naif Al-Mutairi highlighted the potential for seasonal profit and encouraged young Saudis to engage in the industry.

Organizers Saudi Camel Club have set up a 500-meter corridor of tents and pens for breeders and buyers.

High-stakes sales take place on specialized auction platforms and main exhibition areas, drawing global attention to the quality of Saudi livestock.

Industry experts and participants have reported a significant shift in market dynamics, with attendee Dr. Daghash Al-Masradi noting that the festival attracts buyers now seeking the highest-quality camels.

He noted that the organized environment allows owners to operate with greater freedom and energy.

The festival is a key initiative of Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to promote cultural tourism and showcase Saudi heritage to an international audience.

Featuring traditional crafts and cuisine, visitors are offered a glimpse into the Kingdom’s culture.

It also serves as an important platform to highlight the significance of the camel in the history of Saudi Arabia.

This year’s festival began on Dec. 1 and runs until Jan. 3, with prices for admission starting at SR500.

Source: arabnews.com

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Jeddah fair blends fun, learning for children

December 17, 2025

JEDDAH: In the kids’ area of the Jeddah International Book Fair, children and their families gathered to watch an interactive play that combined entertainment with education in an age-appropriate way.

The boy Jalal appears on stage as a young fisherman returning from the sea empty-handed, holding small seashells. Through his determination, he transforms these shells into necklaces, bracelets and handmade ornaments.

Subsequent scenes use movement, color and sound to capture children’s attention, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The performance emphasizes the value of manual labor as both an emotional and educational pursuit, teaching patience, perseverance and pride in one’s creations.

Meanwhile, Mishkat Interactive Center, an initiative of the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy, is taking part in the fair through an interactive science exhibit for children.

The center aims to connect science to daily life, explain energy concepts, raise awareness, and support the development of a generation informed about energy issues and their impact on future growth.

The exhibit offers interactive activities, experiments and presentations for children aged 7 to 12, creating a hands-on, engaging learning environment.

It reflects King Abdullah City’s efforts to promote knowledge in atomic and renewable energy, and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a leader in science and sustainable energy.

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Deal signed to boost hospitality, heritage studies

December 17, 2025

Riyadh: Boutique Group, a hospitality company owned by the Public Investment Fund, has signed a memorandum of understanding with King Saud University in Riyadh to strengthen collaboration between the hospitality and academic sectors, promote heritage and cultural activities, and support scientific research.

The MoU was signed by Boutique Group CEO Christophe Maris and Ali Al-Mismali, acting president of the university, according to a press release.

Maris said the partnership supports the group’s vision of creating a Saudi model of luxury hospitality rooted in the Kingdom’s values and heritage.

“At Boutique Group, we are building a Saudi model of luxury hospitality that draws on the Kingdom’s values and heritage and presents them to the world at global standards,” he said.

“The palaces we revive are not just hospitality destinations; they are cultural masterpieces that preserve regional memory. This partnership empowers national talent and advances research and practical specializations that safeguard Saudi heritage while delivering refined, contemporary hospitality experiences.”

Salman Al-Otaibi, dean of the College of Tourism and Archeology, said the agreement aligns with the college’s strategy to build impactful partnerships.

“Collaboration with Boutique Group is a key pillar in advancing applied education and enhancing our students’ readiness for national and international markets,” he said.

“This partnership will strengthen the university’s role in preserving and revitalizing historical palaces, support Saudi Vision 2030, and reinforce the college’s leading position in developing the Kingdom’s heritage and hospitality sectors.”

Under the agreement, both parties will exchange expertise in preserving rare artifacts and developing academic competencies to safeguard national heritage and prepare future specialists.

The collaboration also includes architectural surveys and documentation of historical palaces in line with the highest scientific standards.

The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation across educational and professional tracks, including programs related to heritage, museums, crafts, and traditional industries, as well as cultural activities that enrich visitor experiences.

It also includes joint efforts to develop specialized training programs aligned with future market needs.

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Makkah crafts exhibit showcases Kingdom’s heritage

December 17, 2025

Makkah: The Makkah crafts exhibition is spotlighting one of Saudi Arabia’s most significant heritage arts: the crafting of Arabian swords and daggers.

The showcase is a key feature of the Handicrafts Conference: Identity and Creativity, organized by Umm Al-Qura University to honor traditional arts.

Sword and dagger making is among the Kingdom’s oldest and most respected handicrafts, requiring exceptional skill and precision to balance strength with beauty, according to a Saudi Press Agency report.

Historically, these weapons reflected regional identities across Saudi Arabia, each marked by distinct styles and decorations.

Beyond their practical use, swords and daggers symbolize cultural identity. Once vital for defense, they now represent strength, courage and valor, and remain central to national celebrations and traditional attire.

The exhibition pieces feature diverse, refined designs, with each handmade weapon forged from high-quality steel and often adorned with gold or silver.

Their intricate engravings and filigree are more than decoration; they express Saudi Arabia’s rich history and artistic heritage, the SPA added.

The exhibition also highlights Sadu weaving, one of the Kingdom’s oldest traditional crafts, valued for its deep ties to the land and its role in Saudi cultural identity.

More than 100 artisans take part in live demonstrations, offering visitors an immersive glimpse into the nation’s collective memory.

Sadu weaving is a meticulous craft using natural materials and inherited techniques to produce textiles once central to daily life, from homes and desert tents to everyday essentials.

Beyond culture, the Makkah crafts exhibition supports the creative economy by helping artisans market their work and adapt traditional designs for modern demand.

These efforts strengthen handicrafts as a pillar of cultural and tourism development, enabling artisans to balance heritage with commercial sustainability.

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Saudi Arabia charts new heights in quality of life

December 17, 2025

Riyadh: The Quality of Life Program Center has released its latest report, “Cities of Possibility: The Evolution of Quality of Life in Saudi Arabia.”

Based on surveys of citizens, residents, and visitors, the report provides a detailed look at the Kingdom’s progress in building human-centric urban environments under Vision 2030.

Focusing on Riyadh, Jeddah, Alkhobar, Madinah, and Abha, the report introduces a pioneering assessment framework, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

The model evaluates urban success across four pillars: prosperity and opportunity, personal and social growth, lifestyle and recreation, and sustainable and safe foundations.

It offers a data-driven analysis of Saudi Arabia’s transformation, highlighting milestones that surpass many original Vision 2030 targets, the SPA added.

Economically, the labor market has improved dramatically, with unemployment falling from 12.3 percent in 2016 to 6.8 percent in the first quarter of 2025.

Women’s economic empowerment has surged, with female workforce participation reaching 36.4 percent in the first quarter of 2025, surpassing the 2030 target of 30 percent, the report stated.

Beyond the labor market, Saudi Arabia is strengthening its position in investment and infrastructure. A 67 percent year-on-year increase in investment licenses helped the Kingdom rank 13th globally in the 2025 Kearney FDI Confidence Index.

These economic gains are matched by improvements in human development: life expectancy has risen from 74 to 79 years, and rapid digital transformation puts the Kingdom second among G20 nations in the International Telecommunication Union’s 2024 ICT Regulatory Tracker Index.

With a trillion-dollar national investment in the tourism and entertainment sectors, the Kingdom has greatly expanded access to world-class culture, sports, and leisure.

Hosting the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, the Esports World Cup, and the Dakar Rally has cemented the Kingdom’s global reputation, paving the way for mega-events such as Expo 2030 Riyadh and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

Quality of Life Program Center CEO Khalid Al-Baker highlighted the strategic importance of these developments, saying that quality of life is a national priority and a driver for social cohesion, global talent attraction, and sustainable prosperity.

Al-Baker said this progress reflects the leadership’s commitment to putting people at the center of development.

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8 Saudi biotech startups complete accelerator program in US

December 17, 2025

RIYADH: The Kingdom’s Ministry of Health recently held an accelerator program in Boston to support the work of eight Saudi Arabia biotechnology and life sciences startups.

The first cohort of the program, carried out in partnership with BioLabs, had direct exposure to advanced global research and development environments, the ministry said in a statement.

It is a milestone in the Kingdom’s efforts to localize health innovation and strengthen its biotechnology and life sciences ecosystem, the ministry added.

The startups include Plansulin that is developing plant-based insulin, cellNUA offering nano-therapies derived from bees, SAGEbio focusing on next-generation vaccines, and Novo Genomics working on precision diagnostics.

In addition, MammoStem explores regenerative medicine, NanoPalm targets genetic disorders, KaRama Bio specializes in early disease detection, and PhageTech is working to combat antibiotic resistance.

Throughout the accelerator, the startups engaged with international experts, investors and strategic partners, gaining insights into regulatory frameworks, commercialization pathways, and scalable business models.

The closing week featured workshops and bilateral meetings focused on enhancing the companies’ operational, technical and investment readiness.

The companies progressed through advanced assessment stages over seven months.

They received tailored advisory support to refine research strategies, strengthen regulatory compliance, and develop commercialization roadmaps from laboratory settings to healthcare markets.

The ministry said the accelerator will help to support local content development, improve the competitiveness of Saudi Arabia’s health economy, and attract high-value investment opportunities.

The initiative aligns with the Health Sector Transformation Program under Vision 2030 and reflects the Kingdom’s broader ambition to position itself as a regional and global hub for biotechnology and life sciences innovation.

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Saudi navy launches first Tuwaiq Project combat ship in US

December 17, 2025

RIYADH: The Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) have launched His Majesty King Saud ship, the first of four multi-mission combat vessels under the Tuwaiq Project, in Wisconsin, USA.

The launch ceremony was attended by Chief of Naval Staff Lieutenant General Mohammed Al-Ghuraibi, senior Saudi and US military officials, and representatives from Lockheed Martin and Fincantieri, the companies overseeing the ship’s construction.

Speaking at the event, Al-Ghuraibi welcomed the successful launch and praised the strong support provided by the Kingdom’s leadership to the armed forces, particularly the RSNF, which has driven significant progress in naval modernization and development.

He described the Tuwaiq Project as a strategic cornerstone of the RSNF’s development, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s ambition to build a modern and professional naval force supported by advanced military technologies and comprehensive training programs for its personnel.

Al-Ghuraibi added that the project will enhance the navy’s operational readiness to safeguard the Kingdom’s strategic interests and protect vital maritime routes. He highlighted that the new ships are equipped with advanced combat systems capable of conducting a wide range of naval operations against aerial, surface, and subsurfac

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Africa

 

How we are deepening Arabic Language, role in science, by institute

by Faruq Durosinmi

December 18, 2025

The second edition of the annual public lecture organised by Ma’hdu Diraasaatil Qur’an Wal-Lugha (Institute of Qur’an and Language Studies) has further strengthened awareness of the importance of the Arabic language, with participants reporting growing public interest, improved student engagement and renewed commitment to Arabic learning among parents and students.

The lecture, held in commemoration of 2025 World Arabic Day, aligned with global efforts to promote Arabic as one of the official languages of the United Nations, which is observed annually on December 18.

Speaking on the impact of the programme over the last two years, Imam Ridwan Ibrahim, Mudir of Ma’hdu Diraasaatil Qur’an Wal-Lugha, said the initiative has played a significant role in raising public consciousness about Arabic language education.

According to him, many people were previously unaware that the United Nations had designated a day to recognise and promote the Arabic language. He noted that increasing public curiosity—particularly inquiries about when the lecture would hold this year—demonstrates sustained growth in awareness and public engagement.

Imam Ibrahim explained that the impact of the lecture has gone beyond awareness, translating into noticeable improvement among students. He recalled that during the previous edition, students struggled to respond to Arabic questions, but observed that many of them confidently engaged in discussions and translations at this year’s lecture, describing the progress as encouraging.

He also used the occasion to urge parents to take a more active role in their children’s Arabic education, stressing the need to strike a balance between Western education and Arabic learning. According to him, Arabic civilisation has made immense contributions to global knowledge, including foundational concepts such as the discovery of zero, without which modern mathematics would be incomplete.

He called on parents to support their children by sponsoring their Arabic education, providing textbooks and learning materials, and offering consistent encouragement, noting that proficiency in both Arabic and Western education helps to produce well-rounded individuals.

The keynote lecture was delivered by Director of Walking Quran, Ash-Sheikh Ismail Adebayo, who spoke extensively on the theme: “Arabic: The Language of Knowledge and Civilization,” with a focus on the topic: “The Contribution of Arabic to Science and Civilization.”

He explained that the revelation of the Qur’an in Arabic not only enriched the language but also inspired scientific inquiry among early Muslim scholars. According to him, the Qur’an repeatedly draws attention to nature and creation, prompting Muslims to observe, investigate and develop knowledge across various fields.

Source: thenationonlineng.net

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Nigeria labour union protest insecurity in Lagos

December 18, 2025

Members of Nigeria’s main labour union took to the streets of Lagos on Wednesday to protest rising insecurity, calling on the government to take urgent action to protect lives and property.

Hundreds of members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) marched through major roads in the commercial capital, carrying placards and chanting slogans against kidnappings, armed robberies, and killings across the country.

The protesters said worsening insecurity was affecting workers’ safety and livelihoods, with many afraid to commute or travel for the festive season.

Labour leaders accused the government of failing to address the situation despite repeated warnings.

Security has remained a major challenge in Nigeria, with kidnappings for ransom and bandit attacks reported in several parts of the country.

Police officers were deployed to monitor the protest, which remained peaceful.

The federal government has repeatedly said it is committed to tackling insecurity through military operations and police reforms, but labour unions and civil society groups say more concrete action is needed.

Source: africanews.com

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‘I Guarantee You, We Will Win’ – Tinubu Assures Nigerians On Fight Against Terrorism, Banditry

December 18, 2025

By Richard Ogunsile

President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s resolve to defeat banditry and terrorism, assuring Nigerians that security forces are intensifying efforts to restore peace and stability across the country.

The President gave the assurance on Wednesday night at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, while receiving leaders of the Ogbia community of Bayelsa State.

He said, despite the numerous security challenges confronting parts of the country, the Federal Government was not relenting in its push against violent groups.

His remarks come amid persistent insecurity in the North-West, North-East and North-Central, where insurgency, banditry, kidnappings and attacks on rural communities have continued, even as the government maintains that security operations are yielding results through arrests and the disruption of criminal networks.

Addressing the delegation, Tinubu acknowledged the scale of the challenge but stressed that troops were making progress against terrorists and bandits.

“We cannot excuse the neglect of the past, but living in the past do us no good except take it and run with it. Now, part of Nigeria is challenged by terrorism and banditry, and the challenges are numerous,” he said.

The President added that while incidents often attract public attention, the armed forces were recording steady successes on the ground.

“You know, a little accident makes a bigger noise in terrorism or banditry, no matter how long success is being achieved. We are prosecuting them. We are arresting them. We are neutralising some of them who continue to do that,” Tinubu said.

Armed Forces Fighting Hard, We Will

Tinubu further assured that the military and other security agencies were working tirelessly to bring lasting peace, expressing confidence that victory was inevitable.

“Men and women of armed forces are fighting very hard to bring peace and stability to the country, and I can guarantee you we win,” he said, adding, “That’s all I can promise at this stage.”

Niger Delta Development Commitments

Beyond security, the President pledged that his administration would sustain development efforts in the Niger Delta, noting that the region would not be abandoned despite past failures by successive governments.

He praised the Niger Delta Development Commission, particularly its Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, for what he described as improved performance and visible impact.

“It’s a joy to listen to the good history of our discovery. Unfortunately, we have not done well in the past to cater for the goose that lays the golden egg, the Niger Delta,” Tinubu said.

“But fortunately, recently, God had given us the opportunity. We will continue with that, and we won’t let you down.”

According to him, the focus of his government was on “progress, determination and constructive engagement” with oil-producing communities and the nation at large.

Tinubu cited interventions such as solar-powered street lighting, saying they were already improving community life and economic activity in areas that previously shut down early due to darkness and poor infrastructure.

Responding to requests from the Ogbia delegation, the President promised to look into ecological challenges, particularly erosion, and to consider infrastructure proposals, including the construction of a bridge he described as critical to economic growth.

“What can I promise you? You mentioned the erosion. We will look into that. We will take it,” he said.

“You didn’t ask for too much on the bridge; that is an infrastructure that elicits the economy and progress and development of the area, we’ll see to that… and other areas of collaboration, education.”

The President also appealed for cooperation from the National Assembly, saying lawmakers had a role to play in sustaining economic recovery and speeding up project delivery.

He said while the economy had passed through a difficult phase, the task ahead was to ensure that improvements translate into real relief for ordinary Nigerians.

“When we took over, the economy of this country was in a very difficult situation. But I can tell you today that we are out of the tunnel of depression and economic disaster, and the economy has turned the corner for good,” Tinubu said.

“It is left for us to ensure that the ordinary people at the bottom of the ladder… feel the benefit of this economy, working on that, and Dr Ogbuku has been very instrumental to that.”

Meanwhile, leaders of the Ogbia community pledged political support for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections, praising his appointment of Ogbuku as Managing Director of the NDDC.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Robert Enogha said the visit was primarily to appreciate the President for what he described as visible changes in the Niger Delta since Ogbuku’s appointment.

“And so the Ogbia Kingdom only came to thank Mr President in one breath, to say, ‘we are behind you.’ We are renewing your mandate, to say, Mr President, come 2027, we are with you,” he said.

Enogha also disclosed that the delegation invited Tinubu to the community for what he described as an “initiation,” a major socio-cultural institution.

“In fact, we had even used the opportunity to invite the President himself, so that he would come for what we call initiation. It’s one of the foremost social, cultural groups, organisations in the country. And once we speak, we speak in one voice. There is no division,” he said.

Source: naijanews.com

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VIDEO: ‘Bamayi’ – Angry Mob Attack, Beat Up ‘House Of Representatives’ Member In Zamfara

December 18, 2025

By George Oshogwe Ogbolu

A member of the House of Representatives from Zamfara State was on Tuesday assaulted by an enraged crowd in Dansadau town.

Residents reportedly beat and dragged the lawmaker on the ground, citing deep frustration over his “poor performance” since taking office.

In a video obtained by SaharaReporters, the lawmaker was seen being slapped and manhandled by a mob. Some security operatives were captured struggling to shield him as he was pulled in different directions.

The crowd could be heard chanting “bamayi” – a Hausa term signifying rejection or lack of support – as they expressed their anger toward the representative.

Constituents in the area claimed the attack was triggered by long-standing grievances, alleging that the lawmaker had abandoned the community following his election victory.

They alleged that repeated appeals for development, empowerment programmes and constituency presence were ignored.

Security personnel eventually managed to overpower the attackers, forcing the visibly shaken lawmaker into a waiting vehicle before escorting him away from the scene.

As of the time of this report, the specific identity of the lawmaker has not been officially confirmed, and neither the Nigeria Police Force nor the House of Representatives has issued a formal statement regarding the incident.

Source: naijanews.com

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Many Feared Dead As Petrol Tanker Explodes In Edo

December 17, 2025

By George Oshogwe Ogbolu

Many people have been feared dead after a tanker filled with premium motor spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, crashed along the Benin–Auchi Road in Edo State on Wednesday evening.

According to Sahara Reporters, the tanker spilled fuel into drainage channels linking several communities around Auchi, causing the flames to spread rapidly along the paths created by the escaping PMS.

As the vehicle was engulfed in fire, the inferno travelled through the drainages, igniting areas along the connected routes and escalating the incident.

Speaking to Sahara Reporters, an eyewitness said: “People certainly died but the number is unknown yet.”

It was learnt that several houses were affected by the fire, while the source added that traffic along the road was disrupted due to the incident, with motorists advised to seek alternative routes.

One of the videos of the incident showed local residents scooping petrol that had spilled onto the ground from the tanker.

Source: naijanews.com

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Stop Invoking Buhari’s Name For Self-justifications, Let Him Rest In Peace – El-Rufai

December 18, 2025

By Oladipo Abiola

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has called for an end to what he described as the politicization of the legacy of former President Muhammadu Buhari, following the recent launch of a book about his lifetime and time in office.

The book, titled Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, has sparked fresh debate about the late president’s record and reignited divisions among members of his former inner circle.

In a statement released on Wednesday titled, “Let President Muhammadu Buhari Rest in Peace”, El-Rufai, expressed concern that the book launch event reflected the same factional lines that existed during Buhari’s lifetime. He noted that one camp was prominently represented at the book launch, while other associates who were equally close to the late president were conspicuously absent.

“Having followed the headlines and images from the event, I felt compelled to make a simple but urgent appeal: let us allow President Buhari to rest in peace,” he wrote.

He cautioned that some of those present at the book launch were long-time critics of Buhari, who now hold high government office, and delivered glowing, but fake tributes during the event.

El-Rufai submitted that the individuals who once blamed Buhari’s administration for nearly every challenge facing Nigeria now appear eager to revise history, perhaps to deflect responsibility for present failures and for their own political gains.

He added that some individuals celebrating Buhari in death, neither had his trust nor his respect in life.

“A careful look at those who dominated the book launch revealed the same factional lines that existed during Buhari’s lifetime,” the statement read, adding that the selective engagement and choice of venue raised red flags about whether the former president’s legacy is being shaped to serve narrow interests rather than historical truth.

While acknowledging that he has not yet read the book and that some media reports may lack context, the former Governor expressed concern that many of the revelations attributed to the late president appear one-sided and unfair, particularly as Buhari is no longer alive to respond.

“Explaining the thoughts and motivations of a complex leader through selective anecdotes risks distorting, rather than preserving, his legacy,” he warned.

El-Rufai further added that while Buhari himself was not perfect, much of his administration’s shortcomings stemmed from the actions and failures of a powerful inner circle, including relatives, advisers, and officials who did not always share the president’s commitment to integrity and public service.

“Buhari himself remained, to the end, a man of deep faith, personal discipline, and unquestioned patriotism,” the statement read, adding that “Those now invoking his name for self-justification should reflect on whether they can claim the same standards.”

El-Rufai, who once served as a Minister, also cautioned against selective storytelling about the life and times of Buhari, calling on Nigerians to let history judge him fairly, without opportunism or revisionism.

“Buhari himself remained, to the end, a man of deep faith, personal discipline, and unquestioned patriotism. Those now invoking his name for self-justification should reflect on whether they can claim the same standards.”

“My appeal here is simple: to all Nigerians: admirers and critics alike—let President Muhammadu Buhari rest in peace. Let history judge him fairly, without opportunism or revisionism. The truest way to honour him is not through selective storytelling, or attempting to exhibit new-found love, but by upholding the values he embodied: simplicity, integrity, humility, and service to Nigeria with all he had, he submitted.

Source: naijanews.com

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Nigeria Customs Takes Action Against Banks For Failing To Remit Revenue

December 18, 2025

By Oladipo Abiola

The Nigeria Customs Service has accused some banks of delay in remitting customs revenue at the appropriate times.

The service, in a statement by its National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, noted that such action constituted a breach of remittance obligations and negatively impacts the efficiency, transparency, and integrity of government revenue administration.

It warned that designated banks found to be in breach of the service level agreement, will be liable to penalty interest calculated at three percent (3%) above the prevailing Nigerian Interbank Offered Rate (NIBOR) for the duration of the delay, Naija News reports.

According to the statement by Maiwada on Wednesday issued on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs, affected banks would get a notification in writing, and subsequent breach of agreement would attract additional sanctions, including regulatory and administrative measures, as provided under the Agreement and relevant laws guiding Customs revenue collection.

“The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has noted instances of delayed remittance of Customs revenue by some Designated Banks following reconciliation of collections processed through the B’odogwu platform. Such delays constitute a breach of remittance obligations and negatively impact the efficiency, transparency, and integrity of government revenue administration.

“In line with the provisions of the Service Level Agreement (SLA) executed between the Nigeria Customs Service and Designated Banks, the Service hereby notifies stakeholders of the commencement of enforcement actions against banks found to be in default of agreed remittance timelines.

“Accordingly, any Designated Bank that fails to remit collected Customs revenue within the prescribed period shall be liable to penalty interest calculated at three percent (3%) above the prevailing Nigerian Interbank Offered Rate (NIBOR) for the duration of the delay. Affected banks will receive formal notifications indicating the delayed amount, applicable penalty, and the timeline for settlement.

“The Service further notes that persistent or repeated non-compliance with the terms of the SLA may attract additional sanctions, including regulatory and administrative measures, as provided under the Agreement and relevant laws guiding Customs revenue collection.

“The NCS reiterates that prompt, accurate, and complete remittance of Customs revenue is a fundamental obligation of Designated Banks. Any payment of collected revenue into unauthorised accounts, whether deliberate or erroneous, will be treated as a serious violation and addressed in accordance with the SLA and applicable legal frameworks.

“Designated Banks are therefore advised to strengthen internal controls, ensure strict adherence to remittance timelines, and comply fully with the provisions of the SLA. The Service remains committed to enforcing accountability, safeguarding government revenue, and promoting a transparent and predictable financial system in support of national economic development,” the full statement read.

Source: naijanews.com

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Burkina Faso Reportedly Releases 11 Nigerian Air Force Personnel

December 17, 2025

By George Oshogwe Ogbolu

Burkina Faso has reportedly released 11 Nigerian Air Force (NAF) pilots and crew members nine days after their detention, following high-level diplomatic intervention by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

Naija News understands that the release came shortly after a Nigerian delegation led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, concluded engagements with the Burkinabè authorities in Ouagadougou, including talks with President Ibrahim Traoré.

The delegation comprised senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence and the NAF Headquarters, and was mandated to pursue a peaceful and constructive resolution to the matter through dialogue.

A senior official familiar with the mission told Zagazola Makama that the engagement was aimed at fostering mutual understanding, de-escalating tensions and securing the release of the detained NAF personnel, while reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to regional cooperation and adherence to international aviation and military protocols.

“The mission point to Nigeria’s preference for diplomacy and neighbourly engagement. It was a confidence-building visit designed to strengthen trust and reaffirm shared responsibilities in addressing the complex security challenges confronting the Sahel,” the source said.

According to the official, the Nigerian delegation also conveyed Abuja’s enduring commitment to regional security collaboration, dialogue and respect for international norms, noting the long-standing history of cooperation between Nigeria, Burkina Faso and other members of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

Nigeria and Burkina Faso have traditionally collaborated in security training, intelligence sharing and regional stabilisation efforts, particularly in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism across West Africa.

Officials expressed optimism that the successful resolution of the incident would deepen bilateral understanding and reinforce collective efforts to promote peace, stability and security in the region.

Source: naijanews.com

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https://www.naijanews.com/2025/12/17/breaking-burkina-faso-reportedly-releases-11-nigerian-air-force-personnel/

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Peter Obi Queries Nigeria-France Tax Deal, Demands Full Disclosure Of MoU Terms

December 17, 2025

By Justina Otio

Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has reacted to recent reports concerning a tax cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Nigeria and France.

Speaking via a statement on 𝕏, Obi warned that international collaboration requires a high level of trust and transparency.

He expressed concern that the agreement on the collaboration was completed without the full terms being made public.

Obi argued that Nigeria has a strong pool of qualified tax professionals, advisory firms, and globally recognised consultancies that are not lacking in tax expertise, and wondered why the country had to seek external partnerships instead of banking on its existing local capacity.

He said, “It is therefore worrisome that an agreement of this significance appears to have been concluded without the full terms being made public, and without a clear effort to explain its objectives, scope, and expected outcomes to Nigerians. Transparency is essential in matters that directly affect public revenue and institutional credibility.

“That said, I am not opposed to engaging foreign expertise. However, such engagements must be clearly justified, with a transparent explanation of the specific gaps they are intended to fill, why those gaps cannot be addressed locally, and, above all, the concrete benefits to Nigerians.

“This is especially important because Nigeria is not lacking in tax expertise. The country has a strong pool of qualified tax professionals, advisory firms, and globally recognised consultancies already operating locally, with the capacity to support tax reform and modernisation.

“In light of this, it is reasonable for Nigerians to question why external partnerships are made a priority instead of strengthening and leveraging existing local capacity. Sustainable reform should build institutions from within.

“These concerns arise at a time of significant economic strain. Over 60 per cent of Nigerians live in multidimensional poverty. Youth unemployment remains widespread. Small and medium-scale enterprises are burdened by multiple taxes, while government borrowing continues to rise without commensurate gains in productivity.

“In such circumstances, policy attention should focus on simplifying the tax system, closing revenue leakages, broadening the tax base fairly, and ensuring prudent use of public resources.

“Any agreement or policy initiative that lacks transparency, public confidence, and clearly defined, measurable benefits risks further eroding trust in government. It is therefore imperative that the Federal Government publishes the full MoU, clearly explains its rationale, and outlines the mutual benefits, particularly the tangible advantages Nigeria stands to gain.

“Leadership demands openness, accountability, and commitment to the interests of the Nigerian people. Decisions of this nature must always be guided by what best serves the nation.”

Source: naijanews.com

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South Asia

 

Secretariat protest: Govt suspends 14 arrested employees

Dec 18, 2025

The government has suspended 14 employees from four ministries and the Cabinet Division after police arrested and sued them under the Anti-Terrorism Act for protests at the Secretariat.

The 14 employees, including four leaders of Bangladesh Secretariat Officers and Employees Unity Council, were arrested on December 11 afternoon while protesting for the second consecutive day, demanding a 20 percent Secretariat allowance.

According to the ministry notifications, the suspension orders took effect from December 12, the day the case was filed.

Of the 14, the public administration ministry suspended personal officer Badiul Kabir and office assistants Kamal Hossain, Mohammad Alimuzzaman and Nazrul Islam, citing their arrest in a criminal case.

Health ministry administrative officers Roman Gazi, Golam Rabbani Shahin and Bikash Chandra Roy; personal officers Islamul Haque, Mohsin Ali and Taiful Islam; and office assistant Abu Belal; finance ministry office assistant Bipul Rana Biplob, information ministry office assistant Mizanur Rahman Sumon and Cabinet Division office assistant Nasirul Haque Nasir are among the suspended.

According to the case documents, Badiul is the president of the unity council, while Rabbani and Nazrul are vice-presidents and Sumon is the publicity secretary.

Meanwhile, the Inter-Ministry Employees Association has filed applications with the relevant ministries, seeking a meeting with several advisers and secretaries.

The applications, signed by Nazrul Islam, coordinator of the association, stated, "The employees are deeply ashamed and saddened by these short-sighted actions. Because of these activities, many innocent and low-paid employees and their families are living in fear -- a situation that must be resolved urgently."

Contacted, Nazrul said, "Behaving in an unprofessional manner while protesting for fair demands is not acceptable; it cannot be supported. Because some individuals crossed the line during that day's protest, the leaders of the movement are now in a difficult position."

Assistant Sub-Inspector Hafizur Rahman filed the case with Shahbagh Police Station on December 12 against the 14 employees and 200 to 250 unnamed persons.

The case document said, "With the intent to endanger the integrity, solidarity, public safety or sovereignty of the country, the accused conspired to create panic among the officials and employees, to confine the finance adviser, and to cause damage to Secretariat property."

The forwarding report submitted to the court mentioned that the accused confined Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed inside the Secretariat on the first day of protests on December 10.

It said the accused also conspired, aided, or instigated acts "to engage in terrorist and subversive activities".

Citing sources, the case's investigator Sub-inspector KM Rezaul Karim claimed the accused reportedly colluded with absconding fascist Awami League criminals and unlawfully assembled inside the Secretariat to render the interim government and the Secretariat ineffective.

"They did it to thwart the upcoming election," he said.

Source: thedailystar.net

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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/crime-justice/news/secretariat-protest-govt-suspends-14-arrested-employees-4061136

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Victory Day play halted after Jamaat leaders’ protest in Lakshmipur

Dec 17, 2025

A Victory Day play at a college playground in Ramgati upazila of Lakshmipur was halted on Tuesday (December 16, 2025) after local Jamaat leaders protested, alleging that certain scenes "hurt religious sentiments".

The incident occurred at the field of Alexander ASM Abdur Rob Government College, where 12 to 15 students were staging a play titled "Muktijuddher Golpe Razakarer Path" as part of the Victory Day programme.

Witnesses said the college principal, Ramgati upazila nirbahi officer (UNO), local Jamaat leaders, freedom fighters and others were present at the venue when the protest erupted.

According to those present, a scene in the play depicted razakars torturing a woman. At that point, Ramgati upazila Jamaat Ameer Maulana Abdur Rahim, municipal unit Jamaat Ameer Abul Khair, and several others objected, claiming that portraying violence against women while actors were dressed in panjabi and tupi was offensive to religious sentiments.

The objection quickly led to a heated exchange involving the students, the college principal, the UNO, and Jamaat leaders. In response, students were heard chanting slogans against "razakars."

The performance was ultimately not resumed, Ramgati Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Liton Dewan confirmed.

Speaking to reporters, Jamaat leader Abdur Rahim said, "As a Muslim, I could not accept acting done while wearing panjabi and tupi. That is why we protested and sought an explanation. Later, the issue was resolved through mediation by the UNO and the OC."

College Principal Ashraf Uddin described the incident as a "minor misunderstanding" that was later resolved.

Repeated attempts to contact UNO Nilufa Yasmin Nipa by phone were unsuccessful.

Source: thedailystar.net

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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/victory-day-play-halted-after-jamaat-leaders-protest-lakshmipur-4060876

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Election to be tough for BNP, bigger test if voted to power

Dec 18, 2025

The next national election will be tough for the BNP, but the bigger test will come for the party if it is voted into power, said BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman yesterday.

"We strongly believe that, with people's support, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party will be able to form the government. The problem comes after that, the danger comes after that… The path ahead is extremely, extremely hard," he said at an event organised by the London Chapter BNP on the occasion of Victory Day.

The programme turned into a farewell event ahead of his return to Bangladesh.

At the event, Tarique confirmed that he is returning to Bangladesh from London on December 25. He urged party leaders and supporters not to gather at the airport on the day of his departure.

Stating that conspiracies are underway centring the polls, Tarique called on leaders and activists to keep the people of Bangladesh aware and alert against such efforts.

"Those who plotted in 1971 and were involved in conspiracies in November 1975, 1981, 1996 and at different later times remain active."

At the event, Tarique also laid out concrete plans before the people for rebuilding the country.

"This election is not an experiment or an experience. It is an opportunity for change, and we must use it wisely."

The BNP does not believe in dreams but concrete plans, he said.

"We do not want to live in dreams. While dreaming, 16 billion has been smuggled out of the country. While dreaming, the country's economic condition, education system, agriculture system, roads have all been completely broken."

Outlining his party's plans to make Bangladesh a happy and welfare-oriented country, he emphasised initiatives such as family cards, farmer's cards, health cards and steps to reduce unemployment.

Meanwhile, the BNP has formed a reception committee ahead of Tarique's return to Bangladesh.

The committee was formed with BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed as the convener and BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi as the member secretary, said BNP Media Cell member Shairul Kabir Khan.

The committee includes the party's 10 divisional organising secretaries, the presidents and general secretaries of BNP front organisations and the conveners and member secretaries of BNP's Dhaka North and South city units.

The party has appointed Brigadier General (retd) AKM Shamsul Islam as the chief security officer to oversee the security of Tarique and his mother, the party Chairperson Khaleda Zia.

Source: thedailystar.net

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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/politics/news/election-be-tough-bnp-bigger-test-if-voted-power-4061006

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Afghan Cultural Artifacts to Be Featured in Joint Islamic Museums Exhibition in Qatar

December 18, 2025

KABUL: Afghan cultural and historical artifacts are set to be showcased in a joint exhibition of Islamic countries’ museums in Qatar.

The initiative was discussed during a meeting between Mardef Al-Qashouti, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Kabul, and Shaikh Shir Ahmad Haqqani, Minister of Information and Culture of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, the ministry said in a statement on Wednesday.

Ambassador Al-Qashouti shared details about the exhibition, which is scheduled to open in the second month of the coming Gregorian year, noting that officials from various Islamic countries will attend the inauguration.

He emphasized that the exhibition will serve as a platform to strengthen cultural ties among Islamic nations and promote their historical heritage.

Minister Haqqani highlighted the importance of cultural, scientific, and historical exchanges and proposed organizing joint programs, exhibitions, and conferences.

According to the statement, the MoIc has selected 36 historical artifacts for the exhibition, with administrative and logistical arrangements underway to ensure their timely transfer to Qatar.

Source: thekabultimes.com

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https://thekabultimes.com/afghan-cultural-artifacts-to-be-featured-in-joint-islamic-museums-exhibition-in-qatar/

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Beradar Calls for Protection of Islamic System, National Interests

December 18, 2025

KABUL: Mullah Abdul Ghani Beradar Akhund, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs of the Islamic Emirate, attended the turban-awarding ceremony at Jamia Fath-ul-Uloom Kabul Madrasa, calling on the scholars to promote the protection of the Islamic system and national interests.

Addressing the gathering, Mullah Beradar said that madrasas are sacred foundations of religious knowledge, jihad, Prophetic ethics, spiritual and intellectual training, and Islamic revival in Muslim societies, according to a statement from his office on Wednesday.

He emphasized that religious scholars should soften their tone in sermons and, alongside explaining religious obligations, strengthen the spirit of protecting the Islamic system and national interests among the public.

“In Afghanistan, the Islamic narrative of the obligation of jihad emerged from madrasas, spread to villages and cities, and turned into practical resistance that defeated large foreign forces,” he said, highlighting the role of madrasas in intellectual reform, eliminating un-Islamic practices, and preserving Islamic values, stressing that they must remain steadfast on their core mission under all circumstances.

Mullah Beradar congratulated the graduating memorizers of the Holy Quran and their families and urged them to practice their knowledge, teach others, and interact with people in accordance with Prophetic ethics.

Source: thekabultimes.com

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https://thekabultimes.com/beradar-calls-for-protection-of-islamic-system-national-interests/

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Kyrgyzstan Ready to Support Afghanistan in Humanitarian, Digital Initiatives, Sydykov

December 18, 2025

KABUL: The Kyrgyz Republic has expressed its readiness to support Afghanistan in both humanitarian and digital development initiatives, Hamdullah Fitrat, the Deputy Spokesman of the Islamic Emirate, said in a statement on Wednesday.

A high-level delegation from the Kyrgyz Republic, led by Minister of Economy and Trade Bakyt Sydykov, met with Mawlavi Abdul Salam Hanafi, Deputy Prime Minister for Administrative Affairs of the Islamic Emirate, and reaffirmed their country’s commitment to continuing humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan.

The delegation highlighted plans for cooperation in areas such as e-governance, printing of secure documents, establishment of banking relations, and electronic payment systems.

Hanafi welcomed the initiative, emphasizing that such partnerships strengthen bilateral ties and contribute to the country’s development.

He expressed appreciation for Kyrgyzstan’s humanitarian support and stated that the Islamic Emirate is prepared for all forms of cooperation, emphasizing the importance of digitizing institutions and establishing banking channels between the two countries.

The deputy PM Hanafi concluded by reaffirming that the Islamic Emirate seeks positive relations with all countries based on mutual respect and will not allow any individual or group to use Afghan soil against the security of other nations.

Source: thekabultimes.com

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https://thekabultimes.com/kyrgyzstan-ready-to-support-afghanistan-in-humanitarian-digital-initiatives-sydykov/

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Plans for Construction of Commercial Markets in Sar-e-Pul and Jawzjan Discussed

December 18, 2025

KABUL: The meeting of the Inter-Ministerial Investment Committee was held on Wednesday at the Marmarin Palace, discussing plans for the construction of commercial markets in Sar-e-Pul and Jawzjan provinces, the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs said in a statement.

According to the statement, the proposed plans for the construction of commercial markets in the Gusfandi district of Sar-e-Pul province and in Sheberghan city, the center of Jawzjan province, were presented for discussion.

Following detailed deliberations, designated committees were tasked with conducting comprehensive analyses of the proposals and submitting their reports to the Inter-Ministerial Investment Committee within a specified timeframe.

Source: thekabultimes.com

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https://thekabultimes.com/plans-for-construction-of-commercial-markets-in-sar-e-pul-and-jawzjan-discussed/

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