Blow For Those Fighting For Justice: Indian Court Acquits 69 People Of Murder Of 11 Muslims During 2002 Gujarat Riots
New Age Islam News Bureau
21 April 2023
A police van
transports some of those convicted in 2016 in connection with the Gujarat
communal riots. Photograph: Amit Dave/Reuters
------
• 2022 Coimbatore Temple Blast: Suicide Bomber Was
Inspired By ISIS Ideology, Sermons Of Islamic Cleric, Says NIA
• Israelis, Palestinians Share West Bank Iftar ‘To End
Hatred’
• Marcos Urges Muslims To Sustain Values, Teachings
Discerned During Ramadan
• Visiting Families Of DeceasedOn Eid, An Afghan
Tradition, Un-Islamic: Scholars
India
• Shia Leader, Ruhullah Mehdi, Proposes Signature
Campaign Across J&K And Ladakh Against Abrogation Of Article 370
• WWE star Mustafa Ali visits Mecca; Speaks about how
being religious has changed him
• UP Cops Deploy Drones In Hunt For Don Atiq Ahmed's Wife
• Warmth from the hearth: Ramadan food traditions
-----
Mideast
• At Least 85 Killed In Ramadan Crush In Sanaa, Yemen
• Netanyahu Taps Far-Right Minister, May Golan, For New York Consul Post
• 120,000 people perform Eid al-Fitr prayer at Al-Aqsa
Mosque
• Survey finds Saudi Arabia more popular than Iran in 13
Muslim countries
• Dozens of Syrians expelled from Lebanon: security
officials
• Clashes in Sudan despite calls for Eid ceasefire
• Pro-Palestinian support only partly undermined
Newman’s re-election
• Ramadan brings a rare calm, familiar worries to
Jerusalem’s Old City
• Iran army gets 200 new ‘strategic’ drones: state media
• Quest for Religious War: How Israel Is Unifying Arabs
and Muslims Around Palestine
--------
Europe
• President of Ukraine: Ramadan-Bayram Holiday Deserves
Peace
• The Bulgarian President congratulated the Muslim
Community on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr
• UK Ambassador to Azerbaijan congratulates Muslims on
Ramadan holiday
• Officials congratulate Azerbaijan on Ramadan holiday
• Largest Mosque In Karakol Hosts Eid Prayer With 5000
People In Attendance
• Former prisoner reveals lessons he learnt about anger,
forgiveness and faith this Ramadan
• Chairman of Caucasian Muslims Office slams statements
of Armenian Catholicos
--------
South Asia
• SIGAR Chief Says US Aid Could Be Funding Taliban
• Taliban recognition not a focus of Afghanistan
meeting, says UN
• "Looking Positively": India Ahead Of UN
Meeting On Afghanistan In Doha
• UN chief to host May meeting on Afghanistan in Qatar
• Rana Plaza Fire: Decade after Disaster, Survivors in
Bangladesh Beg for Justice
• UNICEF is ‘Committed to Stay and Deliver’ in
Afghanistan
• More Than 3,000 Kabul Municipality Cleaners Receive
Aid Packages
--------
Pakistan
• ADIB Becomes First Islamic Bank To Go Live On The UAE
KYC Blockchain Platform
• Bilawal to become first FM to visit India in over a
decade
• Fazal rejects SC-sanctioned talks with PTI
• SECP, AAOIFI to host first international conference on
Islamic Capital Markets
• Islamic Coin: World’s first Sharia compliant
cryptocurrency to launch in May, co-founder reveals
• MIS Forward receives Sharia certification from SRB
• Nawaz, Maryam meet Saudi crown prince: Marriyum
Aurangzeb
• Eid-ul-Fitr 2023: PM felicitates overseas Pakistanis,
Muslims around world
--------
Arab World
• UAE Leaders Receive Eid Al Fitr Greetings From Heads
Of Arab, Islamic States
• Eid Mubarak meaning for Muslim-Friendly Tourism
• Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince perform
Eid Al-Fitr prayers
• Saudis serve up breakfast feast to get the Eid holiday
off to a perfect start
• Saudi Arabia’s Prince Faisal holds call with Iranian
FM
--------
North
America
• New South Wales Premier, a Catholic, Joins Thousands
At Mosque To Celebrate Eid
• Sudan’s paramilitary RSF announces 72-hour ceasefire
ahead of Muslim holiday, but fighting continues
• Muslim Student Union hosts Open Iftar for Ramadan,
celebrating community and belief
--------
Southeast
Asia
• Eid For Some Sunni Muslims Starts Today, Shiahs Wait
Another Day
• Malaysian volunteers collect food for needy to tackle
Ramadan waste
• Muslims should celebrate Eid al-Fitr in simplicity:
Minister
• DPMs Zahid, Fadillah extend Aidilfitri wishes to all
Muslims
--------
Africa
• Eid-el-Fitr: Lawmaker, Betara salutes Buhari, Tinubu,
Muslim faithful, calls for peace, unity
• Eid-el-Fitr: CDS felicitates with Armed Forces of
Nigeria, Muslims
• Plateau Governor-Elect, Mutfwang Felicitates With
Muslims As they Marks Eid-El-Fitr Celebrations
• Sallah: MorayoLebi Congratulates Muslims, Calls For
Religious Tolerance
• Eid-el-Fitr: AANI President rejoices with Muslim
faithful
• Eid-El-Fitr: Abidikugu Felicitates With Muslims, Urges
Residents To Remain Prayerful
• IBEDC introduces new metering initiative, felicitates
with Muslims
• Ayade tasks Muslims on peace, unity at Eid-el-Fitri
• YABATECH rejoices with Muslim faithful, calls for
prayer for nation
• Muslims urged to observe Islamic tenets
Compiled by New
Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/justice-indian-court-gujarat-riots/d/129620
-----
Blow For Those
Fighting For Justice: Indian Court Acquits 69 People Of Murder Of 11 Muslims
During 2002 Gujarat Riots
A police van
transports some of those convicted in 2016 in connection with the Gujarat
communal riots. Photograph: Amit Dave/Reuters
------
Thu 20 Apr 2023
An Indian court
has acquitted 69 Hindus, including a former minister from the ruling Bharatiya
Janata party (BJP), of the murder of 11 Muslims during communal riots in the
western state of Gujarat in 2002.
The case
related to the deaths of 11 Muslims who were killed after their homes in the
city of Ahmedabad were set alight by Hindu mobs who rampaged through the
streets during communal riots that took place in February 2002. According to an
investigation into the attack afterwards, “there was no police help received by
the Muslims and they were simply at the mercy of the miscreants”.
Thursday’s
verdict by the special court dealt another blow for those still fighting for
justice for the Gujarat riots. Over the past two decades, the state has been
accused of protecting alleged Hindu perpetrators – including those who now hold
some of the most powerful political offices in the country – as well as
obstructing justice, intimidating Muslim victims and recently releasing some of
the few who had been convicted of rape and violence against Muslims in the
riots.
Shamshad
Pathan, who represented the victims, said they would challenge the court’s
decision in a higher court. “Justice has eluded the victims once again,” he
said.
The Gujarat
riots began after Muslims were suspected of setting alight a train carriage
carrying Hindu pilgrims, sparking revenge attacks by Hindu groups in what
became one of the worst outbreaks of religious bloodshed in India’s
post-independence history. Officially about 1,000 people died in the violence,
mostly Muslims, but civil society groups say the number was much higher.
India’s current
prime minister, Narendra Modi, who leads the Hindu nationalist BJP government,
was chief minister of Gujarat at the time and was accused of complicity in the
bloodshed by allowing the Hindu groups to carry out the revenge attacks and
encouraging police and authorities not to intervene to stop the violence. Modi
denies any role and a supreme court panel found there was not enough evidence
to prosecute him.
In this
particular case, 86 Hindus were accused but 17 had died during the trial. Among
those acquitted was Maya Kodnani, a former minister for Modi, who was a
lawmaker at the time of the riots. She was also an accused in a case relating
to the murder of 97 people during the riots and was convicted but later cleared
by a higher court.
Those involved
in rightwing Hindu vigilante groups Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad,
which both have close links to them BJP, were also among the accused cleared of
charges. As the verdict was announced, cries of “Jai Sri Ram”, a Hindu
religious greeting that has been increasingly co-opted and weaponised by Hindu
nationalists as a battle cry, were shouted outside the court.
“We have been
saying from the first day that they were framed,” said the defence lawyer
Chetan Shah. “Some of the accused were not present at the scene on the day of
the incident.”
The acquittal
of the 69 comes after the Gujarat government, which is still ruled by the BJP,
recently decided to give early release to 11 Hindu convicts who had been
sentenced to life imprisonment for the gang-rape of a Muslim woman and the
murder of members of her family, one of the few convictions successfully made
in the Gujarat riots.
… as 2023
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Source: theguardian.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/apr/20/indian-court-acquits-69-people-of-of-11-muslims-during-2002-gujarat-riots
--------
2022 Coimbatore Temple Blast: Suicide Bomber Was Inspired By ISIS Ideology, Sermons Of Islamic Cleric, Says NIA
The case
pertains to an explosion that took place on October 23, 2022 at an ancient
temple | Representative image
------
Apr 21, 2023
NEW DELHI:
JameshaMubeen, the suicide bomber behind the October 2022 car blast at a temple
in Coimbatore, was inspired by ISIS ideology and sermons of Zahran Hashim, the
radical Islamic cleric behind the 2019 Easter blasts in Sri Lanka, and wanted
to orchestrate a similar attack against ‘non-believers’ in India. The intended
targets of Mubeen, who had taken an oath of allegiance to ISIS, included local
temples, government offices, district court and public places like parks and
the railway station.
This was stated
by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in a chargesheet filed on Thursday
in the Coimbatore blast case against six associates of Mubeen. In October last
year, an IED-fitted vehicle driven by Mubeen had blown up in front of an
ancient Temple ‘ArulmiguKottaiSangameshwararThirukovil’ at Eswaran Kovil
Street, Ukkadam, Coimbatore, killing him.
While the
charges against Mubeen are abated upon his death, the six accused -- Mohammed
Asarutheen, Mohammed Thalha, Firos, Mohammed Riyas, Navas and Afsar Khan – have
been charged under various sections of UAPA, IPC and Explosive Substances Act.
While Thalha sourced the Maruti 800 car bearing registration number
TN-01-F-6163 that served as the blast vehicle, Firos, Riyas and Navas loaded
the explosives, gas cylinders, etc. in the car. Asarutheen and Afsar, both
cousins of Mubeen procured, weighed, mixed and packed the chemical constituents
used to manufacture the vehicle-borne IED.
Investigations
had revealed that Mubeen was inspired by ISIS ideology to carry out the
Coimbatore suicide attack. He had taken ‘bayath’ or oath of allegiance to its
self-proclaimed Caliph Abu-al-Hasan al-Hashimi al-Qurashi.
The handwritten
notes recovered from Mubeen’s residence slam the existing democratic system in
India for not being “in tandem with Islamic laws” and mention government office
buildings, district court, parks and railway station, besides a few other local
temples in Coimbatore, as intended “targets”.
A pen drive
recovered from Mohammed Asarutheen contained video recordings of JameshaMubeen,
where he had identified himself as a member of Daulat-e-Islamia (or Islamic
State). He had spoken extensively on his intention to commit a suicide terror
attack against the ‘kafirs’ (non-believers) and become a martyr. Mubeen, according
to the NIA chargesheet, was inspired by the bayans (sermons) of Zahran Hashim,
who masterminded the Easter bomb attacks in 2019, killing around 260 people. He
wanted to orchestrate a similar kind of attack against the ‘kafirs’ in India.
Islamic State
of Khorasan Province’s online magazine ‘Voice of Khorasan’ had owned up the
Coimbatore attack in an article titled, ‘A Message to the Inhabitants in the
Land Occupied by Cow and Mice-Worshipping Filths’. The article stated that the
car blast was a revenge to uphold the honour of their religion and establish
Allah’s deen and his law upon his land and to terrorize the ‘kufr’ and its
followers with the threat that it was just the beginning, according to NIA.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/2022-coimbatore-temple-blast-suicide-bomber-was-inspired-by-isis-ideology-sermons-of-islamic-cleric-says-nia/articleshow/99659708.cms
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Israelis, Palestinians Share West Bank Iftar ‘To End Hatred’
Illustrative:
Cooks employed by the Islamic Charitable Society prepare portions of the daily
'iftar' (fast breaking) meal for Palestinian orphans and families in need, in
the West Bank city of Hebron, during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, on April
12, 2022. (Hazem Bader/AFP)
------
April 20, 2023
South of
Bethlehem, Palestinian Territories: Dozens gathered in the occupied West Bank
to break the fast during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, but the food is
kosher and Israelis are honouring a Palestinian guest.
At a
Palestinian property near the Gush Etzion bloc of settlements, in the southern
West Bank, an unlikely collection of guests shared a meal organized by the
“Roots” initiative.
The Iftar meal
is a rare attempt at cross-community dialogue amid a spike in violence in the
Palestinian territory, which has been occupied by Israel since the 1967 Six-Day
War.
“(We’re a)
group of people that wants to end the situation of violence and the hatred
between members of the two populations,” said Khaled Abu Awad, the Palestinian
partner in the initiative.
He has had two
brothers killed in the conflict while numerous family members have been jailed
by Israel.
Among around 50
guests were some Israeli settlers.
Alaa, a
Palestinian from Jerusalem who requested his surname not be published for
security reasons, said he was attending for the first time and did not feel
“very comfortable with the people here.”
But the
25-year-old called it a “big mistake” not to talk to Israelis, saying that
building a “relationship” may help Palestinians achieve some of their goals.
Around three
million Palestinians live in the West Bank alongside hundreds of thousands of
Israelis residing in settlements considered illegal under international law.
The “Roots”
initiative, known by its Hebrew name “Shorashim” or “Judur” in Arabic, was
founded in 2014 to foster dialogue between the two sides of the
Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The traditional
Palestinian dishes have been prepared under rabbinical supervision, so that
observant Jews who keep kosher dietary rules can enjoy the food.
Being honoured
at the Iftar is Mohammed, a 33-year-old from a nearby village who works in
construction in Israel.
He recently
rescued an Israeli couple in the West Bank when a group of Palestinians surrounded
their car and pelted them with stones.
“I spoke with
them in Hebrew, I told them to enter here (my house), I told them: ‘You’re safe
and nobody can harm you’,” he said, not giving his surname for security
reasons.
Yaakov, a medic
and the father of the man he helped, said he was attending a “Roots” event for
the first time in order to thank the person who saved his son, who is a
soldier.
“(I) think that
meetings of this kind can contribute to changing the situation,” said Yaacov,
who gave only his first name to protect his son.
ShaulJudelman,
one of the initiative’s co-directors, recognizes there is a large degree of
“resistance” to such events which can be seen as a “betrayal.”
Judelman called
for a “new discourse on the conflict,” adding that “most Palestinians are not
attacking us.”
Source: arabnews.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2290491/middle-east
--------
Marcos Urges Muslims To Sustain Values, Teachings Discerned During Ramadan
President
Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
-----
April 21, 2023
President
Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Friday urged Muslim brothers and
sisters to sustain the values and practices they embody during the Holy Month
of Ramadan.
"As you
culminate the holy month of Ramadhan by celebrating the Festival of the
Breaking of the Fast, may you sustain the values, teachings, and practices that
you have wholeheartedly discerned and embodied throughout this time,"
Marcos said in his Eid'l Fitr message.
"Let these
form the foundations of your characters as you continue to fulfill righteous
deeds and strive to live a virtuous life moving forward," Marcos added.
He also said
the entire Filipino community joins all Muslims in observing the solemn and
festive occasion "for we recognize the Islamic faith and embrace it as
part of our own collective consciousness."
"With our
many faiths informing all our actions and bridging all our differences as a
diverse set of peoples, we can transcend any challenge and still remain united
under the banners of camaraderie, respect, and love," Marcos said.
"May the
Almighty grant all of our fervent wishes and prayers. Eid Mubarak!" he
added.
Marcos had
declared April 21, 2023 as a regular holiday in observance of the Eid'l Fitr.
One of the most
important occasions in Islam, and known as the festival of the breaking of the
fast, Eid’l Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
Eid'l Fitr
comes after fulfilling the teachings of Allah. — Anna Felicia Bajo/RSJ, GMA
Integrated News
Source: gmanetwork.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/867639/marcos-urges-muslims-to-sustain-values-teachings-discerned-during-ramadan/story/
--------
Visiting Families Of Deceased On Eid, An Afghan Tradition, Un-Islamic: Scholars
Photo:
Rajhwok Afghan News Reflecting the Truth
-----
Ahmad Sohaib
Hasrat
21 Apr 2023
KABUL
(Pajhwok): Some people visit relatives who have lost loved ones on Eid days to
console them, but religious scholars call this tradition illegal and ask people
to avoid it.
Muslims around
the world on the first day of the Eid wear new cloths, perform prayers and
exchange gifts to celebrate Eid, prepare different dishes and serve and fruits
to guests because Eid are the days for happiness of Muslims.
People in
different provinces of Afghanistan have different traditions. One of the
traditions is that they visit the houses of relatives who have lost family
members and pay condolences.
A resident of
Kabul city, Shamsul Huda, told Pajhwok Afghan News that they traditionally
visited relatives of a deceased family member on the first day of Eid.
“It’s a
tradition, if you don’t visit such relatives they get sad and complain that it
was the first Eid of their deceased family members and our relatives did not
come, so when we offer the Eid prayers, we try our best to visit our relatives
whose family members had died before Eid.”
He said the
purpose of this visit was to offer condolences to the family of the deceased.
Muhibullah,
another resident of Qarabagh district of Kabul province, said this tradition
was followed in their area and people used to visit the houses of the deceased
persons on the first day of Eid and offer condolences to the family.
“This tradition
is very common. We don’t visit all villagers, but with whom we have good
relations, but we certainly visit those whose family members have died before
Eid.”
But religious
scholars consider this tradition as un-Islamic.
Religious
scholar and university teacher Noorullah Kausar told Pajhwok that visiting the
houses of relatives who had lost family members during Eid was forbidden and
illegal tradition.
He added: “It
is rejected in the light of the religion of Islam to pay condolences to the
family of the deceased.”
He added that
people should not change the joys of Eid into sadness for a family who had lost
relatives by visiting them and they should not visit the house of the deceased
person for this tradition.
He said that it
is the duty of all the people, the media, and scholars to inform the people in
this regard so that they avoid such wrong practices.
Another
religious scholar, Qari Abdul Mubeen Maher, also considers this tradition
illegal and says that it has negative effects on the society, which turns the
happiness of a house into sadness.
He says: “The
Messenger of Allah (PBUH) did not grant Fatiha to any dead person after three
days, so it is necessary that people do not renew the forgotten grief of the
families.”
Source: pajhwok.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://pajhwok.com/2023/04/21/visiting-families-of-deceased-on-eid-un-islamic-scholars/
--------
India
Shia Leader, Ruhullah Mehdi, Proposes Signature Campaign Across J&K And Ladakh Against Abrogation Of Article 370
Apr 21, 2023
Former minister
and prominent Shia leader from National Conference Ruhullah Mehdi has suggested
that all the political parties should start a signature campaign regarding
abrogation of Article 370 across the two Union territories of Jammu and Kashmir
and Ladakh and take those signatures to the Supreme as a fresh plea.
The three time
legislator from Budgam district of central Kashmir stated that a copy of the
plea should also be sent to the parliament and chief ministers of all the
states across the country. The NC leader said that the ‘signature campaign’ was
a possibility as the political parties including his own NC, have cadres on the
ground to ensure this exercise is conducted. “Campaign in all three regions of
Kashmir, Jammu and Ladakh. Go to people. Speak to them, take the signatures.
Take those signatures in the shape of a fresh plea to SC. Send a copy to the
Parliament. Take it to all the CMs of all States,” he wrote.
Mehdi said that
it should be made known that ‘the Aug 5, 2019, decision was unilateral,
illegitimate and undemocratic.’ “It did not have the will of the people. It was
approved by an individual, an employee (Governor) of GoI whose only job was to
fulfil the wish of the GoI, which he has admitted in an interview,” said Mehdi
in an exchange of words with the Mayor of Srinagar Junaid Mattu on social media.
The NC leader
said that he urged his own party to realise its responsibility and advised it
(NC) to forget about the electoral process and start a movement. “I have made
it a point for myself that I will not give the legitimacy to post Aug 5 status
of J&K & the (supposed) “Assembly” by being part of it,” he said.
The National
Conference led by Farooq Abdullah has expressed its willingness to participate
in the elections as and when it happens and categorically refused to boycott
any elections that will take place in J&K here onwards. However, Abdullah
is also leading People’s Alliance for Gupkar Declaration, an amalgam of
regional parties formed in October 2020 to strive for restoration of Article
370 , 35 (A) and statehood of J&K.
“…I see it as a
struggle for collective survival. So, it has to be a collective effort. Let the
already established political parties take the lead and start the movement and
campaign,” he said.
The NC leader
said that the only prerequisite to start this campaign that he would push for
is no association of any kind with the BJP. “You want to fight an aggression
they (BJP) were the aggressors of. So, any individual or a party in the process
has to shed off the other side,” he said.
“Get your act
together, set your priorities right,get up and start the movement for the
return of our rights and dignity. I ask the People's Democratic Party for the
same…Any other political party which wants to genuinely fight for it, should
come back to the course. It’s never too late for the correction,” he said
The NC leader
said that he had disagreement and disappointment with his party as he felt that
it didn’t do what it could, in response to ‘aggression’ on Aug 5, 2019
aggression. “It had the carder, resources and an opportunity for course correction…I
will take this opportunity to convey to them again,” he said.
Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/shia-leader-proposes-signature-campaign-across-jk-and-ladakh-against-abrogation-of-article-370/articleshow/99653206.cms
--------
WWE star
Mustafa Ali visits Mecca; Speaks about how being religious has changed him
Written by
VaishnaviShetye
Apr 21, 2023
WWE Superstar
Mustafa Ali had decided to take the holy pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Ali
will return to the WWE for Kingdom for Night of Champions on May 27.
WWE star
Mustafa Ali visits Mecca
37-year-old
wrestler Mustafa Ali has taken time out of his schedule to travel to Mecca and
perform Umrah during the Holy Month of Ramadan. A lot has changed for him in
the 6 years since he joined the company going from being the underdog in the
Cruiserweight Classic tournament to now being one of the most influential
personalities in American pop culture today. After becoming a father of three,
Ali has discovered a softer side of himself that he wasn’t aware existed. Even
after welcoming big changes in his personal life, Mustafa has managed to
maintain his determination to excel at his sport.
Mustafa Ali
talks about his Mecca visit
Mustafa spoke
about his visit mentioning that everything has been amazing, “We’re fasting
during the month of Ramadan, so the accommodations have been very, very nice.”
Ali said the reason his wife and kids could not make it was because of their
school and schedule, and the timing of the trip could not work out. He is
hopeful that the next time he visits Mecca, his kids will accompany him.
Ali said it was
“special” for him to witness Ramadan in Mecca, “I’ve never been to Umrah. I’ve
been to Riyadh to perform, but usually when we perform, it’s like we’re in and
we’re out. Now that I have a few days here I get to attend, attend these iftars
and do media and speaks to people, meet some fans, do some charitable work, and
go on some historical tours—all of that’s great.”
The wrestler
spoke about how he had expressed his wish to perform Umrah in Mecca but did not
know if he could take time away from work. What made this trip even more unique
was that he got to do it off a work-related trip. He revealed what happened
that led him to Mecca, “The wife and I were discussing Umrah a few weeks ago,
like, man, I don’t know with my schedule like it is how I’m going to make this
happen, or when I am going to have time to go. And a few days later, they call
me asking if I would you like to come to Saudi, and saying they could set up
Umrah if I’m interested. And I was like, ‘amazing. Yes. I was just talking
about this. Yes, I would love to do it’. So yes, I feel incredibly blessed and
thankful for the opportunity.”
Mustafa Ali
talks about becoming a father
Mustafa shared
how becoming a husband, and then father has helped him. He mentioned how he
doesn’t think the timing of the trip is coincidental. He believes that this is
his time for self-reflection. Ali expressed how grateful he is to have his
family, “I’ve looked at myself, and how selfish it is to not see how blessed
you already are. Look at this beautiful family, this beautiful home, this dream
job that you’ve acquired. There’s a lot of—I don’t want to say internal
conflict, but just thoughts bouncing around my head constantly.”
Mustafa Ali
talks about Cruiserweight Classic
Mustafa
admitted that the Cruiserweight Classic is very close to his heart. He spoke
about how he did not know he was an alternate in the competition at first,
which meant he got to be a part of the matches only if someone got hurt. He
narrated how he got to compete with Lince Dorado, “A spot opened up and I got
to compete with Lince Dorado in the first round, and we had like five minutes.
Like you said, I poured my heart and soul into it, and I made it the most
action packed five minutes that I could possibly think of. And one thing led to
another and, eventually, I took that opportunity and got a job here. I think
that tournament is going to remain a cult favorite. I’m proud of the work that
I’ve been put into it.”
How WWE helped
Mustafa Ali on a personal level
Mustafa
explained how lately he has been focusing on the business side of things, “This
is a business, so I’m so interested in things like digital media rights and
distribution and target audience and demographics and because these are the
things I feel can really push certain individuals or groups or stories in
certain directions, because at the end of the day, it’s a business.” Ali spoke
about how it is not just about the performance anymore, but he also tries to
focus on “how we get the most out of this, rather than just the performance
side.” The star gushed about how grateful he was to have his wife and family by
his side. He spoke about how he feels
the most confident in the ring, but now that he has a family, he has also
discovered his soft side.
He continued,
“But I also have this caring, tender side of me. I can’t wait to go home to my
family and watch movies with them and eat chocolate chip cookies. That’s a side
of me that never really existed before. So that’s how it evolved lately.”
Source: pinkvilla.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/hollywood/wwe-star-mustafa-ali-visits-mecca-speaks-about-how-being-religious-has-changed-him-1217736
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UP cops deploy
drones in hunt for don Atiq Ahmed's wife
Apr 21, 2023
PRAYAGRAJ:
Police and STF have launched a massive door-to-door search along the Ganga
Kachar area on the borders of UP's Prayagraj and Kaushambi and have also
employed drones to track down Shaista Parveen, the absconding wife of slain
don-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed, following specific inputs on her movement
along with two others, reports Kapil Dixit.
According to
police, there were at least three occasions in the past 20 days when her
whereabouts were tracked, but she managed to give the cops a slip.
A senior police
official told TOI, "We have chalked out a fresh strategy to nab Shaista
Parveen, who has been changing her hideouts frequently. She is avoiding the use
of mobile phones and is allegedly supported by a group of women to evade
cops."
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/allahabad/up-cops-deploy-drones-in-hunt-for-don-atiq-ahmeds-wife/articleshow/99651108.cms
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Warmth from the
hearth: Ramadan food traditions
21st April 2023
By Arya U RExpress
News Service
KOCHI: With
great festive fervour, April brings about a season of celebrations for many
religions. It’s a month foodies love. This weekend marks the celebration of
Eid-ul-Fitr, which calls for yet another grand feast. Ramadan food traditions
still hold the authentic flavour, with both elders and new-generation foodies
cherishing them. From crunchy samosas and soft meat cutlets to the trending
haleem, there is a lot to gorge on!
Mymoona Syed
Mohammed, a 70-year-old settled in Kochi for over four decades, insists on
serving and savouring delicacies prepared at home. This is a custom that she
cherishes. “May it be any snack, dessert
or main course, everything should be cooked by ourselves,” says Mymoona. “It is
a sign of the family’s unity. As we hail from Thalassery, Malabar specials
dominate our Ramadan feast table.”
Mymoona adds
that she keeps the main course less spicy so as to avoid irritating the stomach
lining, as most people would be feasting after a month of religious fasting.
Her family feast menu begins with thari kanji made using semolina, followed by
appetisers such as sambusa (similar to samosa), chattipathiri, kaipola,
unnakkaya and muttamala.
In the sweet
segment, Mymoona’s favourite pick is the Arab Alieesa. “It is prepared by
cooking whole husked wheat with coconut milk and meat, and seasoned with fried
shallots and ghee,” she explains.
“We can use
mutton or chicken meat while whipping the wheat. Aleesa and Haleem can be
called sisters as they are prepared similarly, but the latter is spicy. Also,
it’s a ritual to make achappam and chukkappam too during the Ramadan days.”
Other
highlights include orottipathiri, adukkupathiri, and neypathiri served with
mutton kurma, chicken roast, aaduthala curry, and aadu liver fry.“Thalassery
special must-haves at our feasts are kakkarotti made from the dried and ground
flour from mussels, kallumakkayanirachporichath, and muttayappam made using
beaten egg and flour. Chemeen appam, where the prawns roast is filled inside
the pathiri dough and then steamed, cannot be missed, along with kozhipidi and
kunjipathiri,” she says.
Appam-cutlet
sandwich, bun nirachathu…
Kochi-based
52-year-old home chef Sajana Jefferson shares some unusual Ramadan food
combinations she has witnessed in the suburbs. “One was eating parippuvada by
squeezing it inside two vellayappam pieces. The similar cutlet-vellayappam
sandwich is another must-try,” she says.
“Bun-nirachathu
has minced chicken or beef meat sautéed in mild masalas stuffed into a bun.
Served hot, it is delicious and filling.”
She also shares
that muttamala, which has been quite popular of late, is believed to be the
local version of the Portuguese dish fios de ovos aka jala mas. .Sajana notes
feasts are a great time for people to come together. “For Ramadan feast or
Iftar parties, our non-Muslim friends also drop in,” she says.
“My children
turn the Ramadan feast into their summer hangout, as they get to taste seasonal
delicacies like falafel, pazhamnirachathu, and other authentic food items with
their friends.”
Malappuram
native Abida Yosuf is equally excited to celebrate Ramadan with her children
and grandchildren for the first time after the pandemic. The 56-year-old
homemaker has planned an exhaustive menu.
“Iranipola,
chattipathiri and cutlets are popular starters. The favourite bread item
savured with non-veg dishes is pathiri. May it be beef, chicken or mutton
dishes, pathiri is the best accompaniment,” she says. “Then, of course, there
will be the usual biriyani, thengachoru, and mandi rice.”
Payasams are a
must for the feast, especially semiya and cherupayar, she adds. “This time I
will cook tapioca pudding for my grandchildren. One handful of tapioca is
cooked in 500 ml milk. After that, melt 100g of china grass and add to it along
with 1/3rd glass of condensed milk. Stir well and add sugar if needed. Set it
aside and pour the thickened solution into a bowl and refrigerate for 1 1/2
hours. Garnish with some dry fruits and serve!”
Two extremes
For
Kasaragod-based food vlogger Mohammed Jamsheed Y (‘Plates of Flavour’), Ramadan
memories revolve around distributing homemade snacks and savouring the special
gruel at the local mosque.
“The festival
is also a time to share and help the needy. There are many who are unable to
hold a feast or have food at their house due to financial constraints,” he
notes.
“Such people
will be given treats at the mosques. So I used to go to the mosque along with
snacks and juices prepared by my mother to distribute to the needy.”In
Kasaragod, he adds, the specialties are varieties of samosa, phirini, soochi
made using semolina and milk, and tharikanji.“Though there are many delicacies
like mandi, biryani, mutton and beef main course dishes, for me, the happy food
is eating a few neypathal with chicken curry garnished with fried coconut,”
says Mohammed.
Sharing his
Ramzan diaries, Thiruvananthapuram-based food vlogger Mohammed Muhusin (‘Crumbs
on my beard’) says paalaada or thin rice crepes, and orotti with mutton curry
for breakfast is “heaven”.
“Mutton curry
or kuruma paired with paalaada is the best combination to start your Ramzan
food affair in Thiruvananthapuram,” he says.
“Lunch is
mostly homemade biriyani with chicken fry, beef varatiyath, beef fry, etc. And
come evenings, we visit family members and spend dinner with a menu similar to
the breakfast menu with a lot of starters. Kinnathapam is a special Eid
delicacy of the capital city. There are many seasonal kinnathappam makers in
the Manacaud region. The latest food trend stars are the Hyderabadi Haleem and
Arab kunafa.”
Mix all the
ingredients and blend them well in a food processor or mixer. Pour the mix into
a bowl and cover the top with a cling film. Store it in a refrigerator for two
hours. Moisture your finger (dip in water) and shape the falafel into balls and
fry them for five minutes in hot cooking oil.
In a heated pot
add 250 g of oil or ghee, add whole spices in the hot oil and fry for a few
seconds. Then add the sliced onion and stir until it becomes a light golden
brown colour, next, add the mutton pieces. Mix them well then add salt. Cook
the mixture on a medium flame for 5 minutes, until the mutton changes its
colour.
Then add ginger
garlic paste and garam masala. Stir and combine it well. Cook for 15 minutes on
medium heat. Continue to stir. While cooking, add black pepper powder and 2 ltr
hot water cover the lid and put on medium flame.
The rice and
meat will be cooked in the stock in the hot pot. Once the rice is 90 per cent
cooked, splutter the raisins in ghee or oil in another pan, once it’s done,
sprinkle it on top of the mutton-rice mixture, mix it well and close. Turn off
the heat and serve after five minutes. Serve along with raita.
Source: newindianexpress.com
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https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/2023/apr/21/warmth-from-the-hearthramadan-food-traditions-2567802.html
--------
Mideast
At least 85
killed in Ramadan crush in Sanaa, Yemen
21 APRIL 2023
At least 85
people have been killed in a crush at a school in the rebel-held Yemeni capital
of Sanaa on Wednesday night (19 April). This figure is reported by The Guardian
as of Thursday afternoon, although some sources give a higher death toll.
The crush took
place at the Maeen school in central Sanaa as hundreds of people gathered in a
narrow street to get charity handouts worth $9 from a merchant to celebrate the
end of the holy month of Ramadan, known as Eid al-Fitr.
On top of the
at least 85 confirmed dead, The Guardian reports that some 322 were injured, 50
of whom critically so.
The rebel
Houthi movement has controlled Sanaa since the start of the war in Yemen in
2014. The head of their Supreme Revolutionary Council, Mohammed Ali al-Houthi,
said the merchant received people via a back gate that was reached by a narrow
street and steps, resulting in overcrowding and a crush when the gate was
opened.
The Associated
Press meanwhile have quoted two witnesses who said that the crush began after
Houthi forces fired into the air at an attempt at crowd control, allegedly
hitting an electrical wire, causing an explosion and leading to panic.
The UN special
envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, said he was "pained and deeply saddened
by the tragic stampede on the eve of Eid", adding that "my heartfelt
condolences go out to all Yemenis grieving today and I wish the injured a
speedy recovery."
The head of the
Houthis' General Zakat (Alms) Authority said it would pay $2,000 to each family
who lost a relative, while the injured would get around $400.
Source: commonspace.eu
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.commonspace.eu/news/least-85-killed-ramadan-crush-sanaa-yemen
--------
Netanyahu Taps
Far-Right Minister, May Golan, For New
York Consul Post
April 21, 2023
JERUSALEM:
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has nominated a Cabinet minister
known for inflammatory comments and for leading a grassroots campaign against
African migrants to the post of consul general in New York, a high-profile job
that deals with outreach to American Jews.
May Golan,
currently a minister without portfolio in Netanyahu’s government, built her
political career on staunch opposition to African migrants in Israel. She calls
them “infiltrators” and has portrayed the estimated 40,000 migrants, mostly
concentrated in poor neighborhoods of the southern part of the city of Tel
Aviv, as threats to security.
After a failed
bid to enter parliament with the ultranationalist Jewish Power party in 2013,
she joined Netanyahu’s ruling Likud party and was first elected to parliament
in 2019.
Netanyahu
recently promised Golan the role of the as yet uncreated Ministry for the
Status of Women. His office confirmed media reports on Wednesday that he has
offered her the consul general post, citing “her excellent explanatory
abilities in English.”
In a post on
Twitter, Golan said she was honored to be considered for the post and that she
is “completely committed to the unity of the Jewish people.”
“If appointed,
I will work with the leaders of all the Jewish organizations — as part of the
effort to strengthen the great partnership between Israel and the American
Jewish communities,” she said.
Israel’s
previous consul general, AssafZamir, resigned last month in protest over the
Netanyahu government’s controversial judicial overhaul plan.
The United
States is home to the largest Jewish community outside of Israel, with the
single largest community living in the greater New York metropolitan area.
Netanyahu’s
government is the most ultranationalist and religious in Israel’s 75-year
history. Golan is part of the ultranationalist wing of Netanyahu ‘s Likud and
her political positions, including comments disparaging the liberal Reform
Jewish movement, are likely to cause friction with American Jews, who are
overwhelmingly liberal.
Rabbi Rick Jacobs,
president of the Union for Reform Judaism, the largest Jewish movement in the
US, criticized the appointment, saying Golan’s views are “antithetical” to most
of the community.
“She will harm
not help Israel’s cause,” he wrote on Twitter.
In addition to
being a proponent of the judicial overhaul plan that has divided the country,
Golan has also advocated annexation of Israeli settlements in the occupied West
Bank, and has long campaigned for the deportation of African migrants.
The Africans,
nearly all from long-reclusive Eritrea and war-torn Sudan, say they fled for
their lives and face renewed danger if they return. Israel considers the vast
majority of the Africans to be job seekers.
In 2014, Golan
told the Haaretz newspaper that she avoided restaurants that employed African
asylum seekers out of fear of catching diseases.
“If I am racist
for wanting to defend my country and for wanting to protect my basic rights and
security, then I’m a proud racist,” she said at a rally in south Tel Aviv in
2013.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2290526/middle-east
--------
120,000 people
perform Eid al-Fitr prayer at Al-Aqsa Mosque
JERUSALEM,
Friday, April 21, 2023 (WAFA) – A total of 120,000 people today performed the
Eid al-Fitr prayer at Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied Jerusalem despite the strict
measures taken by the Israeli occupation authorities, according to the Islamic
Endowments Department.
The Department
said that 120,000 people performed the Eid prayer inside the mosque compound
and in its courtyards.
Meanwhile, WAFA
correspondent reported that the occupation forces assaulted Palestinian youths,
beating them with sticks near the Lions’ Gate in occupied Jerusalem, while they
were on their way to perform the Eid prayer.
During this
month of Ramadan, the mosque compound witnessed successive nightly incursions
by the Israeli occupation forces and attacks on worshipers and seclusion in the
mosque.
Tuesday, the
4th of April and Wednesday, the 5th of the month, marked the peak of such
incursions when the occupation forces raided al-Aqsa mosque and assaulted
worshippers in shocking scenes recorded on video and widely shared on social
media, generating international condemnation.
The police
brutalization of the worshippers was reminiscent to the 2021 Ramadan tensions
and May violence over Israeli settler takeover of Palestinian property in
Sheikh Jarrah, encroachments upon the mosque compound and settler mob violence,
culminating in Israeli onslaught on Gaza and large-scale protests throughout
historic Palestine.
For many
Palestinians in Jerusalem and across the occupied Palestinian territory,
Ramadan is directly connected to the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
The Al-Aqsa
Mosque compound houses both the Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa mosque and is
considered the third holiest site in Islam.
Al-Aqsa is
located in East Jerusalem, a part of the internationally recognized Palestinian
territories that have been occupied by the Israeli military since 1967.
Source: english.wafa.ps
Please click
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https://english.wafa.ps/Pages/Details/135429
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Survey finds
Saudi Arabia more popular than Iran in 13 Muslim countries
April 20, 2023
Approval
ratings of Saudi Arabia's leadership was found to be higher than Iran's across
all 13 Muslim-majority countries surveyed by in a poll conducted by US
analytics firm, Gallup.
Across the
countries, spanning from Morocco to Pakistan, median approval of Saudi Arabia's
leadership in 2022 was substantially higher than Iran's leadership (39 per cent
vs. 14 per cent, respectively).
The countries
surveyed were: Kuwait, Libya, Jordan, Pakistan, Morocco, Iraq, Algeria,
Tunisia, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Yemen, Palestinian Territories and Turkiye.
Only in
Pakistan does a plurality approve of Iran's leadership at 50 per cent (compared
to 83 per cent for Saudi Arabia). In no other country is there more than a
quarter of the population having positive perceptions of the Islamic Republic,
"making Iranian leadership deeply unpopular among the 12
others". Pakistan is noteworthy in
having the second largest Shia population in the world, after Iran.
Countries where
Tehran exerted the greatest influence also showed some of the lowest public perception
ratings, with large majorities disapproving of Iranian leadership in Iraq (86
per cent), Yemen (80 per cent) and Lebanon (73 per cent).
Gallup also
noted that, while Lebanon's Shia population gives Iran relatively high levels
of support (58 per cent approval vs. 39 per cent disapproval), Iraq's Shia
Muslim population does not (17 per cent vs. 83 per cent), "underscoring a
key source of Iraqi nationalist leader, Muqtada Al-Sadr's support."
Attitudes in
Turkiye were remarkable, where there was strong disapproval of both countries,
with only a three-point approval advantage for the Kingdom. In the Palestinian
Territories, the approval gap was a relatively low 12 points, "though
Palestinians' opinions of all foreign powers, including China, Russia and the
US, have remained similarly low for years."
Gallup
concluded its report on its findings by stating: "Beyond being the world's
most important oil producer, Saudi Arabia remains the Custodian of the Two Holy
Mosques and a perceived leader of the Muslim world."
"The
country's relative popularity in the immediate and surrounding regions makes it
a partner that cannot easily be dispensed."
Source: middleeastmonitor.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20230420-survey-finds-saudi-arabia-more-popular-than-iran-in-13-muslim-countries/
--------
Dozens of
Syrians expelled from Lebanon: security officials
April 21, 2023
BEIRUT: Lebanon
has deported dozens of Syrians back to the war-torn country they fled from as
anti-Syrian sentiment grows amid a dire economic crisis, security officials and
a humanitarian source said Friday.
One of the
Syrians deported was an army defector, a relative said, warning that “his life
is in danger.”
“The army has
deported more than 50 Syrians from Lebanon in the past two weeks,” an army
official told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not
allowed to speak to the press.
Another
security official said dozens of Syrians had been expelled.
They said
Lebanon’s army intelligence unit had been cracking down on undocumented
Syrians, arresting them and handing them to border guards, who then expelled
them from Lebanon.
Hundreds of
thousands of Syrians fled to neighboring Lebanon after the country’s civil war
began in 2011 with the brutal suppression of anti-regime protests.
Authorities say
Lebanon hosts around two million Syrian refugees, while nearly 830,000 are
registered with the United Nations.
Lebanese
authorities have long pushed for Syrian refugees to return, and have made
several repatriation efforts they describe as voluntary, but which rights
groups say are forced.
Rights groups
say some refugees have faced persecution, and reject the idea that refugee
returns to Syria are safe.
“The army’s
detention centers are full,” and other security agencies have refused to take
in the arrested refugees, the army official said, commenting on the move.
“So the army
had to take this measure and place them outside Lebanese borders,” he added.
The security
and army officials said that Lebanese authorities did not coordinate the effort
with Damascus, adding that some of the expelled refugees had returned to
Lebanon with the help of smugglers who charged them $100 per person.
A humanitarian
source told AFP they had noticed increased army intelligence raids on Syrian
communities in Beirut and the Mount Lebanon area since the beginning of April.
Approximately
450 Syrians had been arrested and at least 66 confirmed deported, they said.
“So far in
2023, at least five raids have taken place,” said the source, requesting
anonymity as they were not allowed to speak to the media.
Since the
Damascus regime regained control of most of Syria, some host countries have
sought to expel refugees, citing a relative end to hostilities.
Lebanon has
been mired since 2019 in an economic crisis that the World Bank said was one of
the worst in modern history.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2290666/middle-east
--------
Clashes in
Sudan despite calls for Eid ceasefire
April 21, 2023
KHARTOUM:
Sudan’s warring forces clashed again in the nation’s capital early Friday, with
bombing and shelling reported in several areas of Khartoum, as they ignored
appeals by world powers for an end-of-Ramadan cease-fire.
Both UN
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken
called separately for a cease-fire of “at least” three days to mark Eid Al-Fitr
in the mostly Muslim country, as explosions and gunfire resounded in the
capital Khartoum for the sixth straight night.
“On the night
of Eid Al-Fitr, several areas of Khartoum were bombed and are still exposed to
shelling and clashes between the armed forces and the RSF,” the Central
Committee of Sudan Doctors said in a statement.
“We call on all
citizens to exercise caution, stay home, close doors and windows and lie down.
We also call on these forces to be responsible and immediately stop fighting to
protect innocent lives.”
The capital has
borne the brunt of some of the fiercest fighting, with most of its five million
people sheltering at home without electricity, food or water.
Residents have
struggled to sleep for nearly a week and been jolted awake by “the roaring
sound of fighter jets and air strikes,” said NazekAbdalla, a 38-year-old in
southern Khartoum.
“We locked our
doors and windows, hoping no stray bullets would hit our building, Abdalla
added. “We wish the fighting would stop during Eid festivities. We know it will
not happen though.”
Blinken
“condemned the indiscriminate fighting” in separate conversations with both
Burhan and Daglo, his spokesperson said in a Friday statement.
“He urged both
military leaders to implement and uphold a nationwide cease-fire and sustain it
through at least the end of Eid Al-Fitr, Sunday, April 23,” the statement said.
As battles
raged Friday, Burhan appeared on television for the first time since
hostilities began, to deliver an Eid address as in previous years.
Sitting behind
a desk, dressed in military uniform and backgrounded by two Sudanese flags, he
made no mention of a truce.
“For Eid this
year, our country is bleeding: destruction, desolation and the sound of bullets
have taken precedence over joy,” he said.
“We hope that
we will come out of this ordeal more united... a single army, a single
people... toward a civilian power.”
After two
cease-fires failed to take hold in two days, gunfire continued Thursday night,
with columns of black smoke rising from buildings around Khartoum International
Airport and the army headquarters.
While many
sheltered at home, others were venturing out despite the risks “to protect
themselves and their families,” said architect TagreedAbdin.
Beyond
Khartoum, witnesses reported loud explosions in the city of Obeid, in the
central state of North Kordofan.
“It reeks of
death in some parts of town,” said one witness in Obeid.
Ahmed
Al-Mandhari of the World Health Organization said Thursday that “almost 330
people have died and almost 3,200 more” had been wounded in Khartoum, the
western Darfur region and other states.
The fighting
has taken a heavy toll on civilians, with the UN children’s agency UNICEF
saying “at least nine children have reportedly been killed.”
The World Food
Programme (WFP) warned that the violence could plunge millions more into hunger
in a country where 15 million people — one-third of the population — already
face food insecurity.
It has
suspended its Sudan operations after the killing of three WFP workers on
Saturday.
Burhan and
Daglo’s bitter dispute centered on the planned integration of the RSF into the
regular army, a key condition for a final deal aimed at restoring Sudan’s
democratic transition.
Around Khartoum
and elsewhere, RSF fighters in armored vehicles and pickups mounted with
machine guns have taken over the streets.
Many have
mounted checkpoints to search cars carrying civilians trying to escape the
worst battle zones to safer areas in Khartoum and beyond.
Civilians are
becoming increasingly desperate — by Tuesday, thousands had fled the capital,
with many reporting streets strewn with corpses.
Medics have
warned of a catastrophe, especially in Khartoum, where many hospitals were
reportedly caught in the crossfire.
Up to 70
percent of the hospitals in Khartoum and neighboring states have been rendered
“out of service” by the fighting, the doctors’ union said.
It has warned
the death toll is likely to be far higher than stated, with many wounded unable
to reach hospitals.
Several
countries’ evacuation plans have been put on hold, with the US Defense
Department announcing Thursday that it was deploying forces “nearby in the
region” with hopes of “securing and potentially facilitating the departure of
US Embassy personnel from Sudan.”
The Sudanese
army said 177 Egyptian soldiers were evacuated from the northern city of Meroe
to Egypt, which confirmed their arrival. The RSF said later that it handed over
another 27 Egyptian soldiers to the Sudanese Red Cross, and Cairo confirmed
their arrival at Egypt’s Khartoum embassy.
The United Arab
Emirates said it had “led” the mediation for the Egyptians held by the RSF.
Burhan and
Daglo toppled autocratic president Omar Al-Bashir together in April 2019
following massive protests against three decades of iron-fisted rule.
In October
2021, they again worked together to oust the civilian government installed
after Bashir’s downfall, derailing an internationally backed transition to
democracy.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2290541/middle-east
--------
Pro-Palestinian
support only partly undermined Newman’s re-election
RAY HANANIA
April 21, 2023
CHICAGO: Former
Congressman Marie Newman, one of the most pro-Arab and pro-Palestinian members
of Congress, lost re-election last year in part because of her criticism of
Israel’s government but also because she fought to protect health care needs
and opposed the growing influence of corporate PAC on elections.
Newman was
elected to Congress in November 2020, but served only one term representing the
3rd Illinois Congressional District, which a New York Times analysis listed as
having one of the largest concentrations of Palestinian and Arab voters.
In an interview
with Arab News, Newman said that “some leaders” of the Democratic Party establishment
targeted her in redistricting, forcing her to face-off with a more senior
congressional incumbent, Sean Casten, in the newly drawn 6th District, which
diluted Palestinian, Arab and Muslim voter support.
“The district
changed dramatically. Over 60 percent of the district was taken away from me,
meaning that we were left with 40 percent . . . there was the typical Illinois
politics shenanigans that always go on but you can’t cry in your beer about it.
You have to live with that. And I think it was that I was outspoken on a few
topics, and these are topics the party establishment does not like in general,
in the nation,” Newman said, noting that 20 to 25 percent of the former 3rd
District was Arab, Muslim and South Asian.
“I was very,
very outspoken on no corporate PAC money, and no corporate money and no
corporate influence, and that made the party establishment very angry. I was
also very outspoken on Medicare for all. The reason we don’t have Medicare for
all is that our politicians accept money from health care and pharma, and all
things attached to those topics. Another area I was very outspoken on was
humanitarian rights, among those in my district. There was a preponderance of
folks who felt very strongly. And I might add it wasn’t just Palestinian, Arab
and Muslim Americans and South Asian Americans who felt strongly on that
topic.”
During her
single two-year term in office, Newman introduced many bills supporting the
Palestinian and Arab American community and co-sponsored several that were
critical of Israel’s government.
Newman co-led
the fight with Wisconsin Congressman Mark Pocan to put a spotlight on Israel’s
home demolitions and evictions of Palestinians from the East Jerusalem
neighborhood of Sheikh Jarrah in May 2021, which was signed by nearly 30
members of Congress.
Newman also
supported blocking additional US funding for the “Iron Dome,” criticized
Israel’s targeting of Palestinian children during raids and military
operations, and endorsed the recognition of the word “Nakba,” which
commemorates the UN decision to separate Palestine into a two-state
checkerboard rather than as one democratic state for Christians, Muslims and
Jews.
As a
consequence, Newman was often attacked by pro-Israel activists, rightwing
members of Congress and even members of the Democratic Party as being
“antisemitic” because she challenged Israel’s government policies.
“It was never
that I was antisemitic or that I was putting down Jewish folks or Israeli
citizens. I was critical of the Israeli government and I was very clear on
that,” Newman told Arab News.
“But the
problem is that there were folks that didn’t like me because I was not fond of
corporatized politicians and corporatized elections. I was very strong on
Medicare for all and other matters of economic equity. There are many issues in
that basket, student debt relief and the like.”
Newman said
that she is proud of her stand on Palestinian, Arab and Muslim rights, and her
criticism of Israel’s government. “And then on humanitarian rights, I was very
strong in speaking out. Let’s be clear about what is really happening on the
ground, what the Israeli government is doing. The problem they had with me,
they being the established and the corporatized Democrats, I have a Jewish
husband. I have Jewish kids. They couldn’t call me antisemitic. That was a
problem for them.”
Newman said
that when she was accused, falsely, of being antisemitic, “They would walk away
with their tails between their legs. I just wasn’t having that and it was not
going to happen. That has stopped many people and they don’t do that as much as
they did.”
She said that
her position in support of Palestinian, Arab and Muslim rights was critical in
the opposition she faced that caused her to lose re-election in the June 28,
2022 Democratic Primary to two-term Democrat incumbent Sean Casten.
“I do think a
strong piece of it was that I was speaking out for Arabs, Muslims and South
Asian Americans in a very strong way,” Newman said.
“They (her
critics) did not enjoy a lot of my positions on that front and I do think that
made them angry and there were a lot of issues they did not like.”
Newman added,
“The first time I started to speak out on corporate money and the conditions in
Palestine and Israel, I remember I got several phone calls not just from
donors, from other electeds . . . It was warnings, threats.”
Palestinian-American
ShadinMaali, who served as Newman’s former chief of district affairs for the
3rd Congressional District, said that Newman was an “active voice” in speaking
out on humanitarian rights for all people, including Palestinians, Arabs and
Muslims, in America.
“Congresswoman
Newman reached out in a way to our community that no other elected leader had
in the past to understand our issues and to fairly represent the district on
all issues, especially human rights within our borders and abroad while she was
in Congress,” said Shadin, who is now senior director for growth and operations
for EmgageUSA, a coalition of organizations representing Muslim issues.
“The 3rd
Congressional District has the largest Palestinian constituency in the country
before it was divided. She was the first to reach out in a very positive way to
the community and attend all of the events.”
Being a woman
made her vulnerable in American politics, she said, adding, “I am just going to
say it very clearly, that white men over 50 with a lot of money always win.
They always do.”
But Newman
emphasized that she could not stand by and watch the “meanness and hatefulness
coming out of the Israeli government,” adding, “I don’t believe the Israeli
people are that way at all. I don’t believe the Jewish people are that way at
all. For me, I think we would all be wise to understand that our reputation is
at risk when we don’t pay attention to humanitarian rights.”
Under
redistricting, the former 3rd Congressional District was divided among five
congressional districts, diluting the political cohesiveness of the
Palestinian, Arab and Muslim community.
Parts of the
former 3rd Congressional District are now represented by Congressman Bill
Foster, Casten, Congressman Jesus “Chuy” Garcia, Congresswoman Lauren Underwood
and Congressman Danny Davis.
In April, 2023
Newman was appointed chief executive officer of Little City Foundation, a
social services organization serving people with intellectual and developmental
disabilities. Little City serves more than 900 people through its residential
facilities, day programs and at-home assistance in northern Illinois.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2290566/middle-east
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Ramadan brings
a rare calm, familiar worries to Jerusalem’s Old City
By Louisa
Loveluck and Sufian Taha
April 21, 2023
Palestinian
Muslim worshipers pray during Laylat al-Qadr, the “Night of Power,” in front of
the Dome of the Rock in the al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem's Old City on
Monday. Laylat al-Qadr is marked late in the holy fasting month of Ramadan and
is commemorated as the night the prophet Muhammad received the first revelation
of the Quran. (Mahmoud Illean/AP)
JERUSALEM —
There’s an energy to these Ramadan nights in Jerusalem’s Old City. As the sun
sinks and color seeps from the sky, the stream of worshipers quickens,
following the bright lanterns that light the way to al-Aqsa.
Are you on
Telegram? Subscribe to our channel for the latest updates on Russia’s war in
Ukraine.
During Islam’s
most sacred month, when worshipers fast from sunrise to sunset, there are few
places holier than this. For Muslims around the world, the al-Aqsa Mosque
compound is the location from which the prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven;
for Palestinians in Israel and the occupied territories, whose daily lives are
often shaped by Israeli government restrictions, it is also a rare place where
they can come together in large numbers and on their own terms.
Source: washingtonpost.com
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https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2023/04/21/israel-palestinians-ramadan-al-aqsa/
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Iran army gets
200 new ‘strategic’ drones: state media
April 21, 2023
TEHRAN: Iran’s
defense ministry has delivered the army with more than 200 new drones equipped
with missile capabilities and electronic warfare systems, state media reported
on Thursday.
In a ceremony
broadcast on television, Defense Minister Mohammad-Reza Ashtiani handed over
“more than 200 long-range strategic drones” to army chief Abdolrahim Mousavi,
the official news agency IRNA said.
Produced by the
Iranian defense ministry, the drones are designed for reconnaissance and strike
missions, and can carry air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles, IRNA said.
The United
States and the European Union have sanctioned Iran over its drone program,
alleging it had supplied Russia with unmanned aerial vehicles for its war on
Ukraine — a charge Tehran denies.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2290496/middle-east
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Quest for
Religious War: How Israel Is Unifying Arabs and Muslims Around Palestine
April 21, 2023
By ordering a
brutal attack against Palestinian worshipers inside Al-Aqsa Mosque on the 14th
day of the holy Muslim month of Ramadan, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin
Netanyahu knew very well that the Palestinians would retaliate.
Netanyahu’s
motive should be clear. He wanted to generate a distraction from the mass
protests that have rocked Israel, starting in January, and divided Israeli
society around ideological and political lines, in ways never witnessed before.
Unwilling to
relinquish his hard-earned achievement of finally winning a decisive election
and forming an entirely rightwing coalition, while fearing that major
concessions to his political rivals could eventually dissolve his government,
Netanyahu set his sights on the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
History has
proven that Israeli attacks on Palestinian holy places are a guarantor of a
Palestinian response. For Netanyahu, and also his National Security Minister,
Itamar Ben Gvir, the price of Palestinian retaliation was worth the political
gains of unifying Israelis of all political backgrounds behind them. For
Ben-Gvir, in particular, the attack against Al-Aqsa would reassure his
far-right religious constituency of his commitment to restoring full Israeli
Jewish sovereignty over Palestinian Muslim and Christian holy places in the
occupied city.
What Netanyahu
and his allies may have not anticipated, however, is the intensity of the
Palestinian response as hundreds of rockets were fired, not only from besieged
Gaza but, even more strategically important, from South Lebanon, towards the
northern and southern parts of the country.
Though some
damage was reported, the attacks were a political game changer, as it was the
first time in years that fighters in two Arab countries coordinated their
retaliatory action against Israel and hit back simultaneously.
It will be
difficult for Netanyahu to claim any kind of victory after this, unless he
takes his country to a major war on two fronts – three, if we are to consider
the rise of armed resistance in the Occupied Palestinian West Bank.
However, even a
major war could backfire. During the Israeli attack on Gaza in 2014, Israel
struggled to sustain a single military front as the war lasted 51 days, leading
to an Israeli munition crisis. Were it not for the decision of the Barack Obama
Administration to ship massive supplies of munition to Israel to fill its
depleted arsenal, Israel could have found itself in an unprecedentedly
difficult situation.
The United States,
however, is no longer able to play the role of the emergency weapons supplier,
at least for now, due to its own ammunition shortage resulting from the Ukraine
war. Hence, Israel was careful not to exaggerate in its response to Palestinian
and Lebanese rockets. This episode, however, shall prove decisive, as it will
empower Israel’s regional enemies, and, instead of boosting, it could
potentially undermine Netanyahu’s credibility among his own right-wing camp.
But how could
Israel’s most experienced leader in history commit such an obvious strategic
error?
Aside from
desperately making the decision to attack Al-Aqsa – and likely under pressures
from Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich – Netanyahu and other Israeli leaders often
miscalculate the significance of the spiritual component of the Palestinian
struggle, and how it ties to Arab and Muslim solidarity with Palestine.
What is
currently taking place in Palestine is not a religious war, but some Israeli
officials and political parties are keen on turning it into one.
Though warnings
against "religious wars" in Palestine – in fact, the entire region –
have been mostly linked to Israel’s current “most rightwing government in
history”, religious discourses have been the most dominant since the
establishment of Israel’s founding ideology, Zionism, in the late 19th century.
Despite the
historical fact that Zionism has been situated within a religious context, the
founders of the movement were mostly atheists. They merely used religion as a
political tool to unify Jews globally around their new ideology and to
romanticize in the minds of their followers what is essentially a violent
settler colonial movement.
Yet, over the
years, the center of power within the Zionist movement has shifted, from
liberal Zionism to Zionist Revisionism to, in the last twenty years or so,
religious Zionism. For Israel’s current generation of Zionist leaders, religion
is not a political tool, but an objective. This is precisely why, as
Palestinian men and women were being attacked with ferocity inside the holiest
of all mosques, Israeli Jews were attempting to enter the Muslim shrine to
sacrifice animals as part of the Passover tradition. Although not many of them
have succeeded in doing so, the event suggests that a new kind of conflict is taking
shape.
Historically,
Israel targeted Muslim and Christian sites to acquire political capital. Late
Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon did just that when he conducted a
provocative ‘visit’ inside Haram Al-Sharif with hundreds of soldiers in
September 2000, and when the Israeli military completely destroyed or seriously
damaged 203 mosques during its so-called "Operation Protective Edge"
against Gaza in 2014.
Christian sites
have also been attacked and oftentimes confiscated. The targeting of Palestinian
Christians led many community leaders, the likes of Archbishop Atallah Hanna,
to warn against "an unprecedented conspiracy against the Christian
existence."
The attack on
Palestinian religious symbols goes further than the Occupied Territories into
historic Palestine, today’s Israel. The 13th-century architectural marvel,
Al-Ahmar Mosque in Safad, for example, was turned by Israeli authorities into a
nightclub. A study published by the High Follow-up Committee for Arab Citizens
in Israel revealed, in July 2020, that scores of mosques were turned into
synagogues, barns, bars or restaurants.
Israel’s
targeting of the Arab and Muslim identity of Palestine is now being accelerated
under Netanyahu’s leadership. But this strategy is a double-edged sword as witnessed
in recent days.
In the video
that went viral of Israeli soldiers beating up Muslim worshipers, the
distressed pleas of a Palestinian woman groaning in pain were heard. “Oh Allah,
Oh Allah,” she repeated. Many in Palestinian media and social media have
commented that the response by Palestinian Resistance was specifically to
answer the call of the unidentified woman. This is the power of spirituality –
the kind of logic that Netanyahu and his allies cannot possibly understand.
On April 3, the
Jordanian King rightfully stressed that “it is the duty of every Muslim to
deter Israeli escalations against Islamic and Christian holy sites in
Jerusalem.” When this happens, instead of isolating and browbeating
Palestinians, it is Israel that will find itself even more isolated.
Though
Palestinians do not see themselves fighting a religious war, protecting their
religious symbols stands at the core of their larger fight for freedom, justice
and equality.
Dr. RamzyBaroud
is a journalist, author and the Editor of The Palestine Chronicle. He is the
author of six books. His latest book, co-edited with IlanPappé, is Our Vision
for Liberation: Engaged Palestinian Leaders and Intellectuals Speak Out. His
other books include My Father was a Freedom Fighter and The Last Earth. Baroud
is a Non-resident Senior Research Fellow at the Center for Islam and Global
Affairs (CIGA). His website is www.ramzybaroud.net.
Source: original.antiwar.com
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https://original.antiwar.com/ramzy-baroud/2023/04/20/quest-for-religious-war-how-israel-is-unifying-arabs-and-muslims-around-palestine/
--------
Europe
President of
Ukraine: Ramadan-BayramHoliday Deserves Peace
21 April 2023
The bright
holiday of Ramadan-Bayram deserves the peace that we strive for so much,
deserves the victory that we are all heading to, President of Ukraine
VolodymyrZelenskyy said in a video message on Thursday.
“Today, the
holy month of Ramadan for Muslims ends... And it ends for the second time
during the full-scale aggression of the evil state against Ukraine, against all
our people, all communities,” he said.
According to
him, “the bright holiday of Ramazan-Bayram deserves completely different
conditions. Deserves peace we so long for, deserves victory to which we are all
heading.”
I believe,
Zelenskyy said, “that the Lord will bless Ukraine with freedom for all our
territories and all our people. I wish our entire Muslim community and all
Muslims of the world a peaceful holiday!”
Source: en.interfax.com.ua
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the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://en.interfax.com.ua/news/general/905346.html
--------
The Bulgarian
President congratulated the Muslim Community on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr
April 21, 2023
President Rumen
Radev congratulates the representatives of the Muslim faith in Bulgaria on the
occasion of the Eid al-Fitr holiday. This was announced by the presidential
press office.
In his
greeting, the head of state emphasizes that the shared desire for good and
empathy is the strong thread that has united the Bulgarian people for centuries
and continues to lead us along the path of salvation of hope, respect and tolerance.
"In days
of trial for the whole world, let us encourage compassion and philanthropy.
More than ever, we need wisdom and foresight in order to successfully build our
joint future and preserve our common home as a place of peace and
understanding," stated President Radev in his greeting. The head of state
wishes the representatives of the Muslim faith in Bulgaria health and
prosperity.
GERB leader
BoykoBorissov congratulated the Muslim community in Bulgaria on the occasion of
Eid al-Fitr
GERB leader BoykoBorissov
congratulated the Muslim community in Bulgaria on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr.
"Happy Eid
al-Fitr to all Muslim friends! May it be health, prosperity and love for you
and your loved ones! To have strength for good and faith in its meaning,"
Borissov wrote on his Facebook profile.
The Muslim
holiday of Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The
three-day Eid al-Fitr is one of the two main Islamic holidays. On it, believers
gather for a special holiday prayer, visit each other and consume sweets.
The leader of
"Vazrazhdane" KostadinKostadinov congratulated the Bulgarian Muslims
on Eid al-Fitr
The leader of
"Vazrazhdane" (Revival) KostadinKostadinov today congratulated the
Bulgarian Muslims on Eid al-Fitr.
"Happy
holiday to these 600,000 of our compatriots who profess the Islamic faith! A
person can change everything in his life, but he cannot change the Motherland
and parents," he wrote on Facebook.
"May all
Bulgarians be alive and well, because regardless of the religion we profess, we
are one nation, and we should not allow anyone and anything to separate and
divide us!" wished KostadinKostadinov.
Source: novinite.com
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https://www.novinite.com/articles/219778/The+Bulgarian+President+congratulated+the+Muslim+Community+on+the+occasion+of+Eid+al-Fitr
--------
UK Ambassador
to Azerbaijan congratulates Muslims on Ramadan holiday
21 April 2023
BAKU,
Azerbaijan, April 21. UK Ambassador to Azerbaijan Fergus Auld congratulated
Muslims on the Ramadan holiday, via Twitter, Trend reports.
"I
congratulate the world and Azerbaijani Muslims on Ramadan holiday. May Allah
accept your fasts!", the publication says.
On the occasion
of the Ramadan holiday, a festive prayer on April 21 was performed at the Taza
Pir Mosque in Baku. The prayer was carried out with the participation of
AllahshukurPashazade, Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims' Board.
Festive prayer
was also held in Azerbaijan in 2022, while prior to last year, due to COVID-19
restrictions, the festive prayers weren't performed in the mosques for two
years.
The first and
last dates of Ramadan are determined by the lunar Islamic calendar.
Source: en.trend.az
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://en.trend.az/azerbaijan/politics/3738464.html
--------
Officials
congratulate Azerbaijan on Ramadan holiday
21 April 2023
UK Ambassador
to Azerbaijan Fergus Auld congratulated Muslims on the Ramadan holiday,
Azernews reports.
"I
congratulate the world and Azerbaijani Muslims on Ramadan holiday. May Allah
accept your fasts!", he tweeted.
Similarly, UN
Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan VladankaAndreeva also congratulated the
people of Azerbaijan on the holiday.
Source: azernews.az
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.azernews.az/nation/208956.html
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Largest Mosque
In KarakolHosts Eid Prayer With 5000 People In Attendance
AKIPRESS.COM -
The largest mosque in Karakol town hosted the Eid prayer, which was attended by
around 5,000 people.
AlmazSagyndykov,
the Qazi of the Issyk-Kul region, also participated in the prayer.
According to a
report from late May 2016, the land for the mosque's construction was allocated
in 2012, and it was built with support from the World Assembly of Muslim Youth.
The construction of the mosque took two years, from May 2014 to May 2016, and
it is now the third largest mosque in Kyrgyzstan.
The mosque can
accommodate up to 5,000 to 6,000 people praying at the same time.
Source: akipress.com
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https://akipress.com/news:704091:Largest_mosque_in_Karakol_hosts_Eid_prayer_with_5000_people_in_attendance/
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Former prisoner
reveals lessons he learnt about anger, forgiveness and faith this Ramadan
ByHusna Anjum
21 APR 2023
If you look
around at Muslims observing Itikaf in any Mosque, you will see individuals from
all walks of life. From students to shop keepers, from teachers to office
workers.
The act of secluding
yourself in a Mosque in the last ten days of Ramadan is an intense undergoing.
For one Muslim however, the solitude takes him back four years when he was
having conversations with God from a prison cell.
Arsalan Malik
is all too grateful for the chance to repent after spending two years in prison
for a violent scuffle that changed his life forever. Now the 29-year-old from
Hall Green is reformed and focussed on teaching his daughter the lessons he
learnt about anger, forgiveness and faith.
Malik, a transport
worker, had an ordinary childhood but a weakness for hot headedness. He said:
"I was born into a good family but I lived in Aylesbury where there was a
lot of racism, I had to learn how to fight my corner.
"It was a
rough area and I was fighting a lot, then a disabled member of my family was
being picked on and instead of breaking it up, I fought. They were big fellas
but I was scared for him.
"Because
of my upbringing I thought violence helps sometimes. When the police came I
tried to run and hide, this was the first time I started to repent and said
'forgive me, don't let me get caught'. But I was arrested and realised
everything is written."
The victim
received severe injuries to his face and 23-year-old Malik was sentenced to 24
months behind bars, reduced from a much longer sentence. Malik's biggest regret
was the pain it caused his family.
He said:
"It was very difficult for my family and my older brother who never cries
actually cried everyday. My mother, father, sisters, nieces and nephews all
found it hard.
"The most
difficult thing was knowing everyone was upset because of my actions, I thought
what if I lose my grandparents whilst I am inside? One person's actions can
affect so many people, especially your mother and father.
"Now I
have a baby girl, if that happened to her I would break down."
Classed as high
risk Malik was placed in a single cell but claims the solitude gave him the
opportunity to reflect on his actions. He said: "The first night was one
of the closest, intimate nights I had talking to my lord, I broke down.
"As a man
you want to be strong but with your lord you can talk about anything,
especially forgiveness. There are two options in prison; you either get worse
and go down the path further or change your life and reflect.
"All the
fights and people I hurt, I used the time to repent. I had a good upbringing
from my mother so luckily I used my time wisely."
After serving
his sentence it was a surreal transition back into life outside. His devoted
wife, who he married just before going to prison, was still waiting for him.
They only had six months of married life before he was locked up.
His family
meanwhile welcomed him with open arms. Malik said: "I had a lot of
support. It was very weird and strange as time goes slowly in prison but
outside it is so fast paced. In prison you count the time to lunch but outside
you can order a takeaway so fast.
"The new
Arsalan is calmer, the only thing that works for me is knowing anger is haram
(forbidden) and you don't do anything nice when you are angry.
"The
prophet Muhammad PBUH was patient even when he was attacked. I have been out
for four years and I don't get angry, my wife is lucky she has an anger free
Arsalan. She knew it would happen, they all saw something in me.
"Ramadan
is the best gift to get closer to your religion and spiritually cleanse. As
humans we need to forgive each other but you cannot forget.
"You have
to repent and say you will not do it again, always remember 'you did this
thing'. If you have no hope for forgiveness you have no motivation to stop what
you are doing.
"When I
was inside and finally came out I was depressed, I told someone I missed that
intimate connection with God. He said sit in Itikaf and since then I have never
missed it.
"Deep down
what we crave is solitude, we need that one to one with God as it is such a
boost."
Four years
after prison life and Malik treasures Itikaf at Masjid Esa Ibn Maryam which he
praises for its beautiful facilities, care and powerful recitations. When asked
what lesson he would pass onto young Muslims today, he laughed saying:
"Don't hit people to get your resolution, use your words."
Source: birminghammail.co.uk
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/former-prisoner-reveals-lessons-learnt-26729963
--------
Chairman of
Caucasian Muslims Office slams statements of Armenian Catholicos
BAKU,
Azerbaijan, April 21. Azerbaijan is not a country one can speak in hostile
manner with, AllahshukurPashazade, Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims' Board
(CMB) told journalists, Trend reports.
He made the
remark, responding to the recent statement of Armenian Catholicos, who called
on Armenians for a new war against Azerbaijan.
"The new
calls of the Armenian Catholicos for war stem from the fact that he became a
victim of political ambitions, and it is wrong that the clergy interfere in
politics," Pashazade said.
Following over
a month of military action to liberate its territories from the long-lasting
Armenian occupation from late Sept. to early Nov. 2020, Azerbaijan pushed
Armenia to sign the surrender document. A joint statement on the matter was
made by the Azerbaijani president, Armenia's PM, and the president of Russia.
A complete
ceasefire and a cessation of all hostilities in the zone of the Karabakh
conflict were introduced on Nov. 10, 2020.
The conflict
between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made
territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, the
Armenian Armed Forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Karabakh
region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was
followed by peace negotiations.
Source: en.trend.az
Please click the
following URL to read the full text of the original
https://en.trend.az/azerbaijan/society/3738442.html
--------
South Asia
SIGAR Chief
Says US Aid Could Be Funding Taliban
By
Fidel Rahmati
April 20, 2023
On Wednesday, the US Congress heard from the Special
Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), John Sopko. He said
he could not say with assurance that US aid to Afghanistan was “not currently
funding the Taliban.”
“While I agree,
and we all agree Afghanistan faces a dire humanitarian and economic situation,
it is critical that our assistance not be diverted by the Taliban,” SIGAR chief
John Sopko said as he testified before the US House Oversight Committee.
“Unfortunately, as I sit here today, I cannot assure this committee or the American
taxpayer we are not currently funding the Taliban,” said Sopko.
“Nor can I
assure you that the Taliban are not diverting the money we are sending from the
intended recipients, the poor Afghan people,” he added.
He added that
since Mr Biden withdrew US forces from Afghanistan in 2021 after 20 years of
fighting there, the Taliban’s attempt to retake control of Kabul has drawn more
attention to Sigar.
Meanwhile, the
Biden administration has tried to channel funding into Afghanistan through
non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the international community rather
than interacting directly with the Taliban authorities.
SIGAR warns in
its most recent report that aids to the Afghan people could be diverted before
it reaches its intended recipient if there are no US observers on the ground to
monitor the use of the cash.
Meanwhile, Mr
Biden and his Democratic Party accuse the late President Donald Trump of
reaching a deal with the Taliban that virtually guaranteed a quick withdrawal
with little time to spare.
The deal has
set the conditions that led to the disastrous 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Source: khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/sigar-chief-says-us-aid-could-be-funding-taliban/
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Taliban
recognition not a focus of Afghanistan meeting, says UN
20 Apr 2023
A UN-convened
meeting on Afghanistan next month will not focus on the possible international
recognition of the Taliban administration, a UN spokesperson has stressed after
comments by the deputy UN chief sparked concern and confusion.
UN
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is set to host a closed-door gathering in
Doha on May 1-2 of special envoys on Afghanistan from several countries. His
deputy, Amina Mohammed, suggested on Monday that the gathering “could find
those baby steps to put us back on the pathway to recognition”.
“The Doha
conference on the 1st and 2nd of May is not focusing on recognition and we
don’t want there to be any confusion about that,” said deputy UN spokesperson
Farhan Haq said on Thursday. “The point of discussion … is to build a more
unified consensus on the challenges at hand.”
The Taliban
seized power in August 2021 as US-led forces withdrew following 20 years of
war.
In December,
the 193-member UN General Assembly approved postponing, for the second time, a
decision on whether to recognise the Afghan Taliban administration by allowing
them to send a United Nations ambassador to New York.
Earlier this
month, the Taliban began enforcing a ban on Afghan women working for the United
Nations after stopping most women from working for humanitarian aid groups in
December. Since toppling the Western-backed government, they have also
tightened controls over women’s access to public life, including barring women
from university and closing most girls’ high schools.
The Taliban has
said it respects women’s rights in accordance with its strict interpretation of
Islamic law.
Source: aljazeera.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/4/20/taliban-recognition-not-a-focus-of-afghanistan-meeting-says-un
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"Looking
Positively": India Ahead Of UN Meeting On Afghanistan In Doha
April 21, 2023
United Nations:
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Thursday that India is looking
"positively" at the meeting of Special Envoys on Afghanistan to be
hosted by UN chief Antonio Guterres in Doha next month.
UN
Secretary-General Guterres will be hosting the meeting in Doha on May 1 and 2.
"We're
looking at it. We're looking at it positively, but I guess we'll take a call
closer to the time but we are looking at it," Mr Jaishankar said here in
response to a question on whether India will be participating in the meeting.
StéphaneDujarric,
Spokesman for the UN Secretary-General, said the purpose of the small group
meeting is to reinvigorate international engagement around the common
objectives for a durable way forward on the situation in Afghanistan.
"The
Secretary-General has said and continues to believe that it's an urgent
priority to advance an approach based on pragmatism and principles, combined
with strategic patience, and to identify parameters for creative, flexible,
principled, and constructive engagement.
"It is his
aim that the discussions, which will be held behind closed doors, can
contribute to a more unified consensus regarding the challenges ahead," Mr
Dujarric said.
Mr Jaishankar
is on his way to South America, beginning a nine-day trip to Guyana, Panama,
Colombia and the Dominican Republic on Friday.
Before his
visit, he arrived in New York and met Mr Guterres, discussing the situation in
Sudan with the UN chief.
Source: ndtv.com
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UN chief to
host May meeting on Afghanistan in Qatar
20 Apr 2023
The UN
secretary-general is convening an international meeting on Afghanistan next
month in Doha, Qatar, where special envoys from several countries will seek a
“durable way forward” for the war-ravaged nation, according to his
spokesperson.
Antonio
Guterres will host the closed-door gathering with special envoys from various nations
on May 1 and 2 to “clarify expectations” about issues including the Taliban
authorities’ restrictions on women, Stephane Dujarric told reporters on
Wednesday.
“The purpose of
this kind of small group meeting is for us to reinvigorate the international
engagement around the common objectives for a durable way forward on the
situation in Afghanistan,” Dujarric said at UN headquarters.
Guterres
“continues to believe that it’s an urgent priority to advance an approach based
on pragmatism and principles, combined with strategic patience, and to identify
parameters for creative, flexible, principled and constructive engagement”.
It was unclear
whether Taliban leadership would be represented at the talks.
Dujarric’s
announcement comes after UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed suggested
on Monday the gathering “could find those baby steps to put us back on the
pathway to recognition … of the Taliban, a principled recognition – in other
words, there are conditions.”
Her remarks
sparked a backlash from some countries and rights activists. The Taliban
administration’s desire for recognition has been viewed as key international
leverage to press for an inclusive government and respect for rights,
particularly for women, in Afghanistan.
“The intent and
purpose of this meeting was never to discuss recognition of the Taliban and any
discussion at the meeting about recognition would be unacceptable,” said a US
official, speaking on condition of anonymity told Reuters.
Russia’s UN
Ambassador VassilyNebenzia also told reporters the meeting was not intended to
be about recognition, but rather “be looking for the opinions of those special
envoys on how they see the way out for Afghanistan”.
A women rights
activist told Al Jazeera she is disturbed by the news of a potential
recognition of the Taliban and an EU diplomat said this is not what the UN
position was expected to be.
“The recent
decision to ban female UN staff has caused real concern here at the UN
headquarters and is interesting that in addition to the comment of the deputy
secretary general, the head of the UN developing programme recently raised the
prospect of the UN pulling out completely from the country,” said Al Jazeera’s
James Bays.
Earlier this
month, the Taliban banned Afghan women employees of the United Nations from
working throughout Afghanistan in a move defined as “disturbing” in a country
where some 23 million people, more than half the country’s population, need
help.
Since toppling
the Western-backed government, they have also tightened controls over women’s
access to public life, including barring women from university and closing most
girls’ high schools.
The Taliban has
said it respects women’s rights in accordance with its strict interpretation of
Islamic law.
Deputy
Secretary-General Mohammed told an event at Princeton University on Monday that
discussion of recognition of the Taliban administration “has to happen … The
Taliban clearly want recognition and that’s the leverage we have.”
In December,
the 193-member UN General Assembly approved postponing, for the second time, a
decision on whether to recognise the Afghan Taliban administration by allowing
them to send a UN ambassador to New York.
Source: aljazeera.com
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Rana Plaza
Fire: Decade after Disaster, Survivors in Bangladesh Beg for Justice
APRIL 21, 2023
Bangladeshi
garment worker Sumi Akhter feared for her safety, but was told to start her
shift or risk forfeiting her wages. An hour later she was pinned down under
rubble and clinging to life.
Akhter was 18
when she began working at Rana Plaza, a sprawling seven-storey factory complex
near the capital Dhaka, now remembered as the site of one of the world’s worst
industrial disasters.
More than 1,130
people died in the building’s collapse, a toll compounded by management demands
that employees keep working despite glaring signs of an imminent disaster.
“All I want is
justice," Akhter, whose mother also worked in the complex and died while
trapped under the debris, told AFP.
Both women had
been reluctant to return to work after the building was evacuated the day
before its collapse following the appearance of cracks in the structure.
“They could
have said, ‘Don’t enter the building’," she said. “It could have saved the
lives of so many people."
Monday marks
the 10th anniversary of a catastrophe that spotlighted the global fashion
industry’s reliance on developing world labour working in dangerous and
sometimes deadly conditions.
Bangladeshi
factory owners have proudly touted their efforts to overhaul the sector, and
deadly accidents have declined sharply in the decade since.
For many of the
more than 2,000 survivors of the collapse, however, their ordeal never ended.
More than half
are unemployed and many suffer from deep psychological trauma, according to a
survey by Action Aid.
Weeks after the
collapse, while still mourning her mother’s death, Akhter was told that her leg
would have to be amputated.
The procedure
has left her unable to return to work and requiring ongoing treatment with
costs exceeding what she received in compensation.
“We are alive,
but we are dying day by day," she said.
‘MAN-MADE
DISASTER’
A Bangladesh
court indicted 38 people for murder over their roles in the collapse, including
Sohel Rana, an influential former ruling party politician who owned the
factory.
The trial has
been bogged down in delays and prosecutor Bimal Samadder said he was doubtful
that a verdict would be reached in the next few years.
He told AFP
that witness accounts made it clear that many had died in the disaster because
they had been “forced" to work in the building, despite signs it was
structurally unsound.
“Managers,
factory owners and (the) building owner threatened that they won’t pay them any
salaries if they did not work," he said.
Journalist
Najmul Huda, who shot footage of cracks in the structure that presaged the
disaster, said he was frustrated that he was yet to be called to give his
account at court.
Huda was
detained by police in 2016 for reporting on wage protests in garment factories
and spent months in jail, which he believes was retribution for showing Rana
Plaza was at risk of collapse.
“If I did not
have footage of the crack, the factory owners and Sohel Rana would have claimed
that the building was structurally okay," he said.
“The footage
proved it was a man-made disaster."
‘NOBODY TALKS
ABOUT IT’
The Rana Plaza
collapse prompted foreign brands, unions and manufacturers to jointly create
watchdogs that have seen considerable success in improving safety standards.
Industrial
accidents remain common in Bangladesh, but the garment sector has seen far
fewer major incidents.
The disaster
helped create the impetus to clean up a poorly regulated industry, textile
factory owner Nafis Ud Doula told AFP.
“Afterwards,
all of us realised that the way we were running our factories, we should not
run that way," said Doula, also a member of a watchdog working to improve
safety standards.
Some labour
rights groups, however, warn that the new safety audit system has limits.
Laura Bourgeois
at advocacy organisation Sherpa warned of factory managers’ potential to
influence worker interviews, and even of “rigged audits with factories that
have been set up from scratch".
The safety
overhaul cost manufacturers more than two billion dollars, said Doula, but they
have also seen phenomenal growth in export orders from foreign brands as a
result.
Garment exports
from Bangladesh have doubled to $45 billion in the past decade, while average
wages have tripled, drawing millions of women from rural areas into the formal
workforce.
Among them is
Laxmi Soren, waiting in line alongside a dozen other women who were seeking
work at a factory, hoping to send money back to her remote village to support
her two children.
A stone’s throw
away was the empty plot where Rana Plaza once stood, bare except for patches of
wild grass and a monument to the dead workers, erected by labour unions.
“Rana Plaza is
no longer in people’s thoughts. Nobody talks about it anymore," Soren told
AFP.
“But then when
I go past the ruins, my heart aches."
Source: news18.com
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UNICEF is
‘Committed to Stay and Deliver’ in Afghanistan
By
Fidel Rahmati
April 21, 2023
The United
Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said, “Amidst increasing restrictions on
women’s and girls’ rights in Afghanistan, and in a shrinking humanitarian
space, UNICEF is committed to stay and deliver to the best of our ability,”
quoted by Tolo News.
Fran Equiza,
the organization’s representative in Afghanistan, declared that despite all the
difficulties, UNICEF stands with the women and children of Afghanistan with the
help of our donors, governmental organizations, and men and women worldwide.
“I can reassure you that UNICEF is committed
to staying and delivering to staying and delivering for the women and children
in Afghanistan. Moreover, we will take any measures to adapt our operation to
make sure we can deliver for the people,” Equiza said.
According to
the UNICEF representative in Afghanistan, 28 million people in Afghanistan
require humanitarian aid and protection assistance, including 15 million
children.
The remarks by
the UNICEF representative in Afghanistan came after the UNDP said that the UN
is ready to take the “heartbreaking” decision to withdraw from Afghanistan in
May if the Taliban does not allow female aid workers for the organizations.
“It is fair to say that where we are right now
is the entire United Nations system having to take a step back and re-evaluate
its ability to operate there,” Mr Steiner said. “But it is not about
negotiating fundamental principles, human rights.”
The de facto
government banned the UN aid workers from working, which has backlashed
globally.
The
organization said that without female aid workers, its humanitarian assistance
in the country would go slowly and called upon the Taliban to reverse the ban
on women aid workers in humanitarian organizations.
Source: khaama.com
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More Than 3,000
Kabul Municipality Cleaners Receive Aid Packages
By
Fidel Rahmati
April 21, 2023
According to representatives of the charity
organization that donated the aid, 3,200 staff members employed by the Kabul
Municipality Cleanliness Department in 22 districts of Kabul City received food
contributions worth $200,000 in the form of wheat, rice, and oil.
“We helped
3,200 personnel of the Municipality Cleanliness Department,” said Haji Mohammad
Faiq, executive director.
According to
international community reports, since the Taliban took control of the country,
the humanitarian situation has deteriorated.
The UN
Development Program recently announced that Afghanistan remains among the
world’s poorest countries due to the economic meltdown and dire humanitarian
crisis.
Meanwhile, the
organization said the suppressive policies against women in the country would
add to the crisis.
According to
the study by UNDP on Monday in Kabul, the number of impoverished people has
increased dramatically from 19 million in 2020 to 34 million in 2022.
“If foreign aid is reduced this year,
Afghanistan may fall from the cliff edge into the abyss,” said the UNDP
Resident envoy in Afghanistan, Abdullah Al Dardari.
Source: khaama.com
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Pakistan
ADIB becomes
first Islamic Bank to go live on the UAE KYC Blockchain Platform
April 21, 2023
Abu Dhabi
Islamic Bank (ADIB) has become the first Islamic bank to go live on the UAE KYC
(Know Your Customer) Blockchain Platform, a national ecosystem for the exchange
of verified KYC data between licensing authorities and financial institutions.
Dubai’s
Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) launched the initiative in 2020 in
partnership with a group of four founding member banks: Emirates NBD (ENBD),
Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD), Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), and HSBC.
Today, the platform has expanded, with DIFC, RAKEZ, RAK ICC, Mashreq Bank and
WioBank also joining the system. The UAE KYC Blockchain Platform will
facilitate a faster, more secure onboarding and exchange of digital customer
data and documents through advanced blockchain-powered distributed
technologies, a first of its kind in the region.
Ahmad Khalifa
AlFalasi, CEO, Dubai Business Licence Corporation, commented: “We are pleased
to welcome Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank to our growing blockchain ecosystem. Our
strategic partnerships with banks to launch the first KYC blockchain platform
in the UAE is an important step towards attracting global investors to this
market.
Through this
advanced mechanism, we aim to further improve the ease of doing business, and
overall, further enhance and ensure regulatory compliance in the UAE. As
blockchain is a breakthrough technology, we see tremendous potential in
streamlining services and operations, saving time, money, and resources for
everyone involved – individuals, companies, and government bodies.
“Inspired by
our visionary leadership, the blockchain KYC consortium is testament to the
positive stance adopted by the government in leveraging blockchain technology
to improve business efficiency and transparency. ADIB can now benefit from the
KYC data for their customer onboarding and receive data updates for their
existing customers,” added AlFalasi.
SamihAwadhalla,
Acting Global Head of Retail Banking at ADIB said: “When ADIB joined the UAE KYC
Blockchain Consortium, we did so with the clear goal of developing onboarding
operations and providing more secure ways of handling and exchanging data. We
are proud to support DET and collaborate with fellow banks in this important
undertaking. By advancing our ability to protect sensitive data, we hope to
provide peace of mind for our customers and enable a seamless user experience.
Astyanax
Kanakakis, CEO and Co-Founder of norbloc, said: “The continued expansion of the
UAE KYC Blockchain Platform to include key banking institutions, such as ADIB,
further strengthens the network which has been live for three years now. ADIB
is the third financial institution to join from the emirate of Abu Dhabi,
ensuring that norbloc’s Fides platform will continue to provide a significantly
better KYC experience for both financial institutions and their clients across
the UAE.”
With the launch
of the KYC Blockchain Platform, the authenticated and validated KYC data of
companies will simultaneously be shared with financial institutions of their
preference. This will expedite the opening of bank accounts for newly
registered companies and pave the way for a less cumbersome and costly process
of managing KYC data for companies that are already registered with the
system.— MENAFN
Source: pakobserver.net
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Bilawal to
become first FM to visit India in over a decade
Iftikhar A.
Khan
April 21, 2023
ISLAMABAD:
Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari will be the first Pakistani foreign
minister to visit India in nearly 12 years, as the Foreign Office confirmed on
Thursday that he would attend a meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation
Organisation (SCO) in Goa next month.
This is also
the first time since 2016 that the most senior Foreign Office representative
would visit India.
Mr
Bhutto-Zardari will be leading the Pakistan delegation to the SCO Council of
Foreign Ministers (CFM), which will take place in the Indian city of Goa on May
4 and 5, Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahrah Baloch announced at a weekly
media briefing.
She said the
foreign minister would be attending the meeting at the invitation of his Indian
counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, who currently heads the foreign ministers’
council of SCO, which is a regional political and security bloc whose members
include Russia, China, India and Pakistan.
“Our
participation in the meeting reflects Pakistan’s commitment to the SCO charter
and processes and the importance that Pakistan accords to the region in its
foreign policy priorities,” Ms Baloch said.
She recalled
that Mr Bhutto-Zardari also attended the last year’s meeting of the SCO foreign
ministers’ council held in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan.
Ms Baloch,
however, did not confirm if the foreign minister was to meet Indian Prime
Minister Narendra Modi or his Indian counterpart. She also did not reveal the
composition of the Pakistani delegation and the exact duration of Mr
Bhutto-Zardari’s stay in India.
“I have always
said that when decisions are taken, we will make formal announcements. Now that
this decision has been taken, we will be making preparations for the visit,”
she said to a question at the briefing.
“In the coming
days, as decisions are taken, we will be making further announcements. I must
underline, however, that the upcoming visit of the foreign minister is not a
bilateral visit but a visit in the SCO context,” she said.
Mr
Bhutto-Zardari’s India visit will be the first by a Pakistani foreign minister
in nearly 12 years. In 2011, the then top Pakistani diplomat, Hina Rabbani
Khar, visited India. In 2016, Foreign Secretary Aizaz Chaudhry travelled to
India on a daylong visit.
Bilawal to seek
parties’ input
Separately,
Foreign Minister Bhutto-Zardari also confirmed that he would be attending the
upcoming SCO moot in India, according to a Dawn.com report.
“It will be a
gathering of foreign ministers and I will go there as a representative of
Pakistan,” he told reporters at a press conference in Islamabad.
He said his
participation in the conference would illustrate Pakistan’s commitment to SCO
rules. He said that since he would be representing the country, he would be
contacting all political parties prior to his departure to seek their input.
To a question
about the possibility of discussing bilateral ties during the trip, he said SCO
rules and regulations clearly stated that the forum was not to be used for
raising bilateral matters.
Sudan chaos
Regarding the
“worrying” developments in Sudan, Ms Baloch told the briefing that the Foreign
Office was closely monitoring the safety and security of the Pakistani
community present there.
Last week,
violence erupted in Sudan between the forces of two generals who seized power
in a 2021 coup. The Pakistani embassy in Khartoum was hit by three bullets last
week and the chancery building was damaged as well.
The number of
Pakistanis in Sudan was somewhere around 1,500. “Our Embassy has advised them
to stay indoors for their own safety in view of the developments that are
taking place in the country right now,” she said.
CPEC ‘crown
jewel’
When asked to
comment on the impression that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC),
initially termed a ‘game-changer’, appeared to have become a burden for
Pakistan, Ms Baloch said the multibillion-dollar infrastructure project was the
crown jewel of Pakistan-China economic collaboration.
“It is an
important project to which both Pakistan and China are fully committed. We
believe that CPEC has provided enormous benefits to the people of Pakistan,”
she said.
She said the
energy projects that have come on line as a result of Chinese investments under
the CPEC framework demonstrated their importance for Pakistan’s economy and its
development.
Similarly, the
people of Pakistan were already benefiting from the road infrastructure and the
motorway projects developed under CPEC, she said, adding that anyone who
travelled on these roads could appreciate the economic significance of these
infrastructure projects.
She said the
development of Gwadar Port was also a major achievement under CPEC. “We believe
that all these projects are contributing and have the potential to further
contribute to Pakistan’s development and prosperity,” she said.
Source: dawn.com
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Fazal rejects
SC-sanctioned talks with PTI
April 21, 2023
Pakistan
Democratic Movement chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Thursday rejected the
possibility of holding negotiations with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman
Imran Khan despite the directives issued by the Supreme Court a day earlier.
Speaking at a
press conference, the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-F leader said: “Inshallah there will
be no need for any negotiations [with Imran Khan ].”
During the
presser, Fazl took a hardline against both the possibility of any negotiations
with PTI and the Supreme Court.
Accusing the
apex court of being partial to the PTI chief, the PDM head said: “If the
Supreme Court can show flexibility towards Imran Khan, then why can’t they show
flexibility towards us?”
In the
hard-hitting conference, the PDM chief slammed the court of being partial in
the matter.
He asked: “Is
this a court or a panchayat?”
Maulana Fazl
said: “The court wants us to agree on a date for the elections. According to
the Constitution, it is mandatory to hold elections within 90 days, but if
Imran Khan agrees on a date, then it is right.”
Source: pakobserver.net
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SECP, AAOIFI to
host first international conference on Islamic Capital Markets
APRIL 21, 2023
The Securities
and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and the Accounting and Auditing
Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI) are hosting first
one-day international conference on Islamic capital markets on May 29, 2023 to
define the future direction for the Islamic capital markets in light of the
recent judgment of the Federal Shariat Court (FSC) as well as the fast-changing
dynamics of the market. The conference is being organized in cooperation with
key industry players in the non-bank financial sector and capital market
infrastructure institutions, said a press release issued here Thursday.
The AAOIFI is a
Bahrain-based, renowned global standard-setting body, entrusted with ensuring
the soundness and stability of the Islamic financial services industry,
including banking, capital market, and insurance/takaful, in accordance with
Shariah. So far, it has issued more than 115 standards in the areas of Shariah,
accounting, auditing, ethics, and governance, which are adopted / adapted in
different shape and form in no less than 47 jurisdictions and 41 countries
globally.
Given the
rising need for expansion of Islamic capital markets on a global scale, the
conference has been themed “ICM developments with ecosystem completion:
innovation, growth, and transformation.”
Eminent
speakers, policymakers, and experts of the global Islamic financial services
industry from Bahrain, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, UAE and UK are expected
to participate in the conference. Leading players from the local stock market,
the mutual fund industry, non-banking financial institutions, and
representatives from the takaful industry from Pakistan will attend the
conference.
Source: dailytimes.com.pk
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Islamic Coin:
World’s first Sharia compliant cryptocurrency to launch in May, co-founder
reveals
April 21, 2023
The world’s
first Sharia compliant cryptocurrency, Islamic Coin, will be launched to the
public next month, one of its co-founders told Arabian Business.
But what makes
it halal?
Islamic Coin,
still in private sales mode, operates on the Haqq Blockchain, a network which
is compatible with thousands of applications worldwide.
Haqq, which
means ‘truth’ in Arabic, stringently abides by Islamic principles and
traditions on finance, with the Islamic Coin being its native cryptocurrency.
The currency,
still in private sales mode, has been gaining support from venture capitals and
financial institutions. According to Islamic Coin co-founder, Mohammed
AlKaffAlHashmi, this support will build the community’s trust and confidence in
the currency’s traction before its public release.
World’s first
Sharia compliant cryptocurrency to launch in May 2023
AlHashmi said
that the coin will be launched to the public in May, but did not specify a
date.
“We started
with private sales mode for a reason. We don’t want people to think that we are
using the word ‘Islamic’ to play on their emotions and then moving on to become
an investment in something they don’t know,” he told Arabian Business.
“We did some
market research and found out that Bitcoin, for example, has become the most
famous and successful coin because they have the ‘first mover’ advantage, and
it was the first coin,” said AlHashmi.
“When you look
at Ethereum, they were the first to start smart contracts. So there is a common
factor here: being a ‘first mover’ in something that addresses community needs.
I came to the conclusion that if we want to do something successful and
meaningful in the blockchain and crypto world, then we should bring something
that we are the first movers in and then it should address the needs of and add
value to the community.”
Halal: A
growing market
The global
Islamic finance market is expected to reach over $3.69 trillion by 2024,
fuelled by a growing interest in Sharia compliant finance. The Halal products market
is projected to reach more than $4 trillion.
“It’s not only
about food anymore, it’s also about healthcare products, cosmetics, how to make
sure that everything is really Halal and fits with community ethics and
values,” AlHashmi said.
The global Muslim
community has grown to over 1.8 billion people, which represents a huge
untapped and “underserved” market in the crypto world, said AlHashmi adding
that Islamic finance is being embraced by non-Muslims worldwide.
Interestingly,
at least 50 percent of private sales made in Islamic Coin came from
non-Muslims.
“There is no
clean ecosystem and environment where Muslims or people who follow Sharia
compliance can come and do their projects in.”
“By this, I
don’t mean that Bitcoin or Ethereum or other coins are not halal. I cannot
judge, but if you look at the available blockchains in the market, it will not
make sense that for example, I put a Sharia compliant project in a blockchain
that at the same time has a casino project, a gambling project, or another project
that charges interest – these would all conflict with Sharia principles.”
“There is
always a need to have a clean environment where people can put their projects
without having a doubt or thinking: is this halal? Is this haram? Is this
Sharia compliant?”
The Haqq
blockchain is eco-friendly and has been built in a way that is compatible with
Ethereum, making it easy for people who build their projects there to migrate
them somewhere else or integrate them.
Crypto startup
plans Sharia-compliant use of digital assets for expansion into the Islamic
world
Ten percent of
every minted Islamic Coin goes to Evergreen DAO, a non-profit virtual
foundation focused on long term sustainability and community impact, to fund
community projects. However, the coin’s co-founders don’t decide on what
projects should be funded.
“We don’t have
any influence over Evergreen. It has its own system, which will be launched in
Q3 of this year, and the community will be able to vote for the projects to be
funded. Then it will go to the Sharia board to make sure it is Sharia
compliant.”
Islamic coin as
appointed a Sharia board to decide whether a project is compliant with Islamic
principles, which AlHashmi said includes the “top five” experts in the region.
The board includes 40 banks, including Standard Chartered, Abu Dhabi Islamic
Bank, and Dubai Islamic Bank, among others.
“When we say
this, people think that we are trying to indirectly centralise it but that’s
not true because everything is welcome to put their project on our blockchain.
But we have created something called the Sharia Oracle,” he explained.
“Once you put
your project in our blockchain, it is decentralised, we cannot say no to anyone
so long as the project is Sharia complaint. You would need to go through the
Sharia Oracle.
First, the
community would vote for it, then it will go to the Sharia court.
Once that’s
happening, you get a badge or a sign that you’re screened and Sharia
compliant.”—Arabian Business
Source: pakobserver.net
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https://pakobserver.net/islamic-coin-worlds-first-sharia-compliant-cryptocurrency-to-launch-in-may-co-founder-reveals/
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MIS Forward
receives Sharia certification from SRB
April 21, 2023
Saudi Arabia –
MIS Forward, a provider of Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) solutions in Saudi Arabia,
has received the Sharia compliance certification from Shariyah Review Bureau,
for its MIS Forward App solution in light of Shari’a principles.
The solution
offers customers a method to pay a purchase at the partner merchants’ site
without any interest or fee for the customer. MIS Forward will be available to
online stores and merchants in Saudi Arabia.
MeshariBaselem,
the compliance Manager of MIS Forward said: “The key process of the solution
consists of 3 main steps, Onboarding through a profile check, usage and
continuously repayment. The service allows eligible customer to buy now and pay
later for goods or services that are purchased from stores and merchants listed
in MIS Forward website or App. Not every customer is approved as each
transaction is subject to a review and a detailed check.”
Commenting on
receiving the Sharia certification from Shariyah Review Bureau (SRB), he
stated: “We wanted to ensure our offering is Sharia compliant and to add value
to our payment solution we secured the advisory of Shariah Review Bureau who
are a reputable name in the region when it comes to Sharia compliance and
audit. They have the track record of supporting payment solution providers with
Sharia compliance and we stood to benefit from their service and experience.”
SRB is a
renowned global Shari’a advisory firm.
Regulated by
the Central Bank of Bahrain, it serves a diverse clientele across the financial
landscape. The firm has been engaged with many fintech and blockchain entities
with its diverse offerings.
Yasser S
Dahlawi, Founder and CEO of Shariyah Review Bureau, said: “We have seen a
predominant rise in BNPL financing players where the fintechs are capturing
value by providing to customers where traditional institutions have remained
slow to respond.” Commenting on the engagement with MIS Forward Yasser added,
“We will support and supervise our new partners as they scale their offering
and enter a competitive financing payment solution market.”—Zawya News
Source: pakobserver.net
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://pakobserver.net/mis-forward-receives-sharia-certification-from-srb/
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Nawaz, Maryam
meet Saudi crown prince: Marriyum Aurangzeb
April 21, 2023
PML-N supremo
Nawaz Sharif, along with PML-N Chief Organiser Maryam Nawaz, met Saudi Crown
Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said on
Friday.
In a tweet,
Aurangzeb said, “Muhammad Nawaz Sharif met the Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia,
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Maryam Nawaz was also present on the
occasion.
“The leaders
discussed further improving Saudi-Pak brotherly relations and solutions to the
issues Pakistan is facing. Nawaz Sharif expressed his good wishes for the Saudi
leadership,” she added.
There was no
official mention from the Saudi side about the meeting and the PML-N did not
share any photographs of it.
Source: dawn.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.dawn.com/news/1748836/nawaz-maryam-meet-saudi-crown-prince-marriyum-aurangzeb
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Eid-ul-Fitr
2023: PM felicitates overseas Pakistanis, Muslims around world
Prime Minister
Shehbaz Sharif on Friday extended greetings to the overseas Pakistanis and other
Muslims across the world celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr.
On his official
twitter handle, the premier wished them all a “very happy and blessed” Eid.
“May Allah
Kareem accept our worship and forgive our sins,” he added.
Eid-ul-Fitr is
being celebrated in the Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar,
Kuwait, Bahrain, Turkiye, Afghanistan, Yemen, Sudan, Jordan and Egypt as well
as Muslims in United Sates, England and Europe.
Source: samaaenglish.tv
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.samaaenglish.tv/news/40032529/pakistan-eid-ul-fitr-2023-pm-felicitates-overseas-pakistanis-muslims-around-world
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Arab World
UAE leaders
receive Eid Al Fitr greetings from heads of Arab, Islamic states
Fri 21-04-2023
ABU DHABI, 21st
April, 2023 (WAM) -- President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan
has received messages of congratulations on the occasion of Eid Al Fitr from
Kings, Presidents, and Emirs of Arab and Islamic countries.
His Highness
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler
of Dubai; and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President,
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court, also received
similar congratulatory messages on the occasion.
Source: wam.ae
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.wam.ae/en/details/1395303149860
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Eid Mubarak
meaning for Muslim-Friendly Tourism
Today the 2+
million members of the global eTurboNews travel and tourism-friendly family
wish to greet all readers celebrating Eid Mubarak.
Muslim-friendly
tourism refers to travel that adheres to Islamic principles. It has four
characteristics: Islamic services, Islamic morals in general, Halalness, and
the prohibition of gambling and alcohol.
Halal Tourism
is one of the fastest growing sector of the industry.
Sharia tourism
is a method of incorporating Islamic traditions into all facets of tourism
operations.
Muslims are
encouraged to travel to see the greatness of Allah’s creation, strengthen
mental health and spiritual significance, and appreciate Allah SWT’s creations.
The tourist
sector is widely recognized as one of the most critical drivers of economic
growth, with Halal and Islamic tourism emerging as a new tourism business idea
throughout the world.
Historically,
the adventure to Mecca in Saudi Arabia is regarded as a pilgrimage and ‘umrah.
Islam is the
world’s second, fastest-growing, and most widely practiced religion. Today
there are 1,703,146,000 Muslims in the world.
This religion
is based on the Quran, a religious text that followers of Islam believe is the
direct word of God.
Under Islam,
Muhammad is considered the last Prophet of God, and most believers adhere to
his teachings. Followers of Islam are called Muslims.
Friday launches
the most important holiday for the Muslim community around the world.
Historians
believe that the practice of Islam originated in Mecca and Medina of Saudi
Arabia during the early 7th century AD. Around this time, Muhammad began to
share messages from the Archangel Gabriel, who God had sent.
Muhammad
preached and spread the message from God to people in and around Mecca. He
gained a large following, and some of his followers wrote down the revelations
in what today is known as the Quran.
Political
authorities of the area persecuted Muhammad and his followers.
They feared
that Muhammad’s ideas about racial equality and a world with one God would
cause instability among the lower class and slave populations. This persecution
forced the new Muslims to migrate to Abyssinia (present-day Ethiopia and
Eritrea).
After several
years of persecution, Muhammad, his family, and the religious converts migrated
to Medina in present-day Saudi Arabia. Once in Medina, Muhammad established a
political state that adhered to the teachings of Islam. People from several
religions came together in this community, called Ummah.
After
Muhammad’s death, the religion split concerning disagreements over the proper
successors, and Islam gradually began to spread.
Today, Muslims
living in non-Muslim countries can stay connected because of advanced
communications technology. This allows them to feel they belong to a broader
Islamic identity throughout the Muslim World.
Today, Muslims
can be found in nearly every country on Earth. Some of these countries,
however, have a larger population than others. The top ten largest Muslim
populations can be found in: Indonesia (204,847,000), Pakistan (178,000,000),
India (172,000,000), Bangladesh (145,607,000), Nigeria (93,839,000), Iran
(74,819,000), Turkey (74,660,000), Egypt (73,800,000), Algeria (34,780,000),
and Morocco (32,381,000).
Of this list,
there are only two countries in which Muslims do not make up the majority of
the population: India (14.6%) and Nigeria (47.9%).
An Islamic
state is a country that uses Sharia law as the framework for designing and
implementing government, laws, and social norms. This idea comes from the
previously mentioned caliphates, which were areas ruled by religious leaders believed
to be successors of Muhammad.
Today, an
Islamic state may include modern political practices, and many include both a
parliament and a President. Even the Constitution in these countries is based
on Islamic law.
The major
Islamic countries are Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan, Mauritania,
and Yemen.
Source: eturbonews.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://eturbonews.com/eid-mubarak-meaning-for-muslim-friendly-tourism/
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Saudi Arabia’s
King Salman and Crown Prince perform Eid Al-Fitr prayers
April 21, 2023
JEDDAH: Saudi
Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman attended Eid Al-Fitr
prayers on Friday, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.
King Salman
performed the prayers with dignitaries at Jeddah’s Al-Salam Palace, while the
crown prince joined worshippers at the Grand Mosque in Makkah.
Earlier, the
king conveyed Eid wishes to Arab and Muslim nations around the world on
Twitter, sending hopes of prosperity and stability.
“May Allah
accept from all of us the fasting of Ramadan month, the prayers, and good
deeds. May Allah return to all of us Eid, as our country, the Arab and Muslim
nations, and all the countries of the world enjoy security, peace, and
tranquility,” he tweeted.
On Thursday,
King Salman offered a speech on the eve of Eid Al-Fitr delivered by the
Minister of Media, Salman bin Yousef Al-Dosari.
He said the
Kingdom had the honor of serving Umrah pilgrims during Ramadan.
“Sensing the
sacred duty and fulfilling this honorable responsibility, we exert every effort
and provide thought and money, and we continue day and night, since the
foundation of the state by the founder, the late King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman
Al Saud, through his sons, the kings. We are proud and honored to continue the
mission and will always remain on that path.”
He added,
“Millions of Umrah performers were able to perform Umrah rituals during Ramadan
this year, thanks to Allah the Almighty's uncountable blessings. This would not
have been possible without the grace of Allah and the tireless efforts of
numerous government sectors to serve Umrah performers and enable them to
perform Umrah with ease and comfort.”
Source: arabnews.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2290646/saudi-arabia
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Saudis serve up
breakfast feast to get the Eid holiday off to a perfect start
HAIFA
ALSHAMMARI
April 21, 2023
RIYADH: There
are many popular Eid Al-Fitr traditions among the people of Saudi Arabia. Some
like to hand out sweets to children, for example, while others exchange gifts.
One of the most common is for families to get together on Eid morning for a
special breakfast.
This is no
normal morning snack, it is a veritable feast many families enjoy together
after returning from the early-morning Eid prayers. In some places, such as
Hail in northern Saudi Arabia, families share their Eid breakfast with
neighbors, either by inviting them into their homes or joining together for an
outdoor street party, complete with seasonal decorations and carpets, for which
each family prepares food to share.
In the
Kingdom’s central region, and some other areas, families typically cook
mufattah, a traditional meat dish reserved for special occasions such as
weddings or the Eid holiday. Although only eaten once or twice a year, it is
highly popular in Saudi Arabia and usually made with lamb.
Asim Alotaibi,
the owner of Asim’s farm, a butcher’s shop in the Alnarjisneighborhood of
northern Riyadh, said: “The animal itself should be clean and healthy. At our
farm, we feed our animals grass and barley. The animal can either be young or
old; therefore the taste of the meat differs according to the age of the
animal.
“The most important
thing to me is the quality of meat, and you won’t fully know how good of a
quality your product is unless you fed the animal yourself, you managed the
process of feeding the animal, and know exactly what your animal is eating.”
Alotaibi said
his shop specializes in locally reared lamb and wild camel meat. He owns his
own farm in the desert outside of Riyadh, where he said it is important the
animals, especially camels, are able to roam free and graze naturally.
This style of
organic, free range farming has its challenges, however. Alotaibi told Arab
News that it means livestock is more vulnerable to theft, for example, and on
one occasion he lost 120 sheep to thieves while his business was preparing
delivery orders for a large number of customers a week or two before Eid.
When asked what
people should look for when buying meat, Alotaibi said that the way it has been
prepared and stored is no less important that the initial quality of the meat
itself. Often, people look for what they think is the freshest meat at their
local grocery store without paying any attention to how it has been stored, he
added.
Khalil
Mohammed, a butcher at a supermarket in northern Riyadh, explained how he
ensures meat remains at its best.
“We first wash
the meat immediately after we skin the lamb,” he said. “Then we wrap the meat
in a white cloth. After that, the meat must be stored in refrigerators in cool
temperatures ranging from 0 to 5 degrees Celsius.”
He said that
storage temperature is key to ensuring the quality of the meat remains high.
The lower the temperature, the better the chance it will remain fresh and
flavorful for longer.
In terms of the
quality of the meat itself, Mohammed said that “the ratio of meat to fat
matters,” along with the quality of veterinary care the animals receive.
“The animal
must be examined by the veterinarian before it is slaughtered, to ensure it is
healthy,” he explained.
Eid Al-Fitr,
which begins on Friday in Saudi Arabia, marks the end of the holy month of
Ramadan and the start of three days of celebrations and family gatherings.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2290571/saudi-arabia
--------
Saudi Arabia’s
Prince Faisal holds call with Iranian FM
April 20, 2023
RIYADH: Saudi
Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan received a call on Thursday
from the Iranian Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian.
During their
call, they discussed a number of issues of concern to the two countries. They
also discussed the next steps in the recently agreed China-brokered deal.
It is the
latest in a series of calls between the two ministers since talks hosted by
China’s President Xi Jinping in Beijing last month ended with an agreement to
restore diplomatic relations.
Iran and Saudi
Arabia spent four days in talks in Beijing between March 6 and March 10.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2290411/saudi-arabia
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North America
New South
WalesPremier, a Catholic, Joins Thousands At Mosque To Celebrate Eid
April 21 2023
Thousands of
people including politicians from all sides have marked Eid al-Fitr at Sydney's
oldest mosque as Muslims celebrate the end of Ramadan.
The festive day
marks the end of the month-long dawn-to-sunset fasting month and is one of the
two main holidays for 1.8 billion Muslims across the world.
Lebanese Muslim
Association secretary GamelKheir told crowds gathered in front of Lakemba
Mosque it is the centrepiece of Islam in Sydney and the beating heart of the
Muslim community.
With local
representative and cabinet minister Tony Burke in attendance, he urged the
federal government to uphold religious freedoms and call out "human rights
abuses" against Palestine.
"People
should be free to accept or reject standards that do not conform with their own
religious beliefs, be that in schools, in a social environment in or a work
environment," he said
Premier Chris
Minns, a Catholic, said it was "so incredible" to be with thousands
of people at the grand mosque in Sydney's inner west on Friday morning to
celebrate the end of Ramadan.
"You've
welcomed people into your homes, your mosques, your community centres," he
said.
"Your
example of hospitality is one we should all follow in Australia."
The premier
lauded the association for establishing health hubs and communicating the
importance of vaccines to the Islamic community during the pandemic.
Labor MP Jihad
Dib, NSW's first Muslim minister, said he was incredibly proud to be sworn in
on his family's holy Koran.
Liberal MPs
Mark Coure, Natalie Ward and Tina Ayyad, the first Muslim woman elected to the
state's lower house, were also among notable attendees.
More than
810,000 people nominated Islam as their religion in the 2021 Census, an
increase of 200,000 in five years.
Its fast growth
is largely attributed to recent migration from Pakistan, Afghanistan, India and
Bangladesh.
Source: canberratimes.com.au
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/8167503/nsw-premier-joins-thousands-at-mosque-to-celebrate-eid/?cs=14231
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Sudan’s
paramilitary RSF announces 72-hour ceasefire ahead of Muslim holiday, but
fighting continues
By Jessie Yeung
and CNN journalists in Sudan
Fri April 21,
2023
One of Sudan’s
two warring factions has declared a 72-hour truce after nearly a week of fierce
fighting, which has left more than 330 people dead and pushed tens of thousands
of refugees to flee the country.
Despite the
announcement from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), clashes
continued Friday north of the capital – and there has been no confirmation of a
ceasefire by its rival Sudan Armed Forces (SAF).
The
paramilitary RSF announced the ceasefire in a statement on Twitter early Friday
morning local time, saying it was due to begin at 6 a.m.
The ceasefire
comes just ahead of the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of
the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.
“The truce
coincides with the blessed Eid al-Fitr … to open humanitarian corridors to
evacuate citizens and give them the opportunity to greet their families,” the
RSF said.
SAF leader
Abdel Fattah al-Burhan released an on-camera statement Friday morning,
expressing sadness for victims of the fighting and praying for a peaceful Eid –
but he made no mention of a truce.
“The ruin and
destruction and the sound of gunfire have not allowed a space for the joy that
our people across our beloved country deserve, and we are deeply saddened by
this,” Burhan said in the statement – his first on-camera remarks since clashes
broke out on April 15.
Eyewitnesses
that CNN has spoken with said fierce fighting was still raging in Khartoum
North, an area north of the capital, on Friday.
World leaders
and international organizations have been urging the RSF and SAF to strike a
deal since clashes began, but several temporary ceasefires have repeatedly
broken down, with both sides trading blame for violating the terms.
US Secretary of
State Antony Blinken spoke to the heads of both factions earlier this week, and
again on Thursday to urge a ceasefire through at least the end of the Eid
weekend.
UN Secretary
General António Guterres also called for a ceasefire on Thursday “for at least
three days marking the Eid al Fitr celebrations to allow civilians trapped in
conflict zones to escape and to seek medical treatment, food and other
essential supplies.”
Hours before
the RSF’s announcement, the African Union called for a one-week ceasefire to
allow for the observation of Eid.
The pleas for a
truce have grown more urgent in recent days as the death toll climbs. Most
hospitals in the capital Khartoum are out of operation, with many having come
under attack by shelling; meanwhile, those still operating are rapidly running
out of supplies to treat survivors.
Residents have
been stranded at home and in shelters without food or water, surrounded by the
threat of gunfire and artillery outside.
The fighting
could force millions into hunger, the World Food Program (WFP) warned on Thursday.
“Record numbers
of people were already facing hunger in Sudan before the conflict erupted on
April 15,” it said in a statement, adding that the fighting was preventing the
organization from delivering emergency food to civilians.
Evacuation
efforts
he ceasefire
could provide a crucial window not just for aid distribution and medical care –
but for foreign governments to reach their citizens stranded in Sudan.
The US Defense
Department said on Thursday it was deploying “additional capabilities” nearby
Sudan to secure the US Embassy in the country and assist with a potential
evacuation, if the situation calls for it. It includes hundreds of Marines who
are already in nearby Djibouti, a US defense official told CNN, with aircraft
capable of bringing in ground units to secure an embassy.
US President
Joe Biden had “authorized the military to move forward with pre-positioning
forces and to develop options in case – and I want to stress right now – in
case there’s a need for an evacuation,” National Security Council spokesman
John Kirby said Thursday.
Officials told
staffers Wednesday that there are an estimated 16,000 American citizens in
Sudan, most of whom are dual nationals. Roughly 500 had contacted the US
Embassy since the outbreak of fighting, though only around 50 of those people
had asked for help, according to the staffers.
Some countries
have already begun the evacuation process, with Japan announcing it would send
its Self-Defense Forces to evacuate 60 Japanese nationals, including embassy
staff, from Sudan.
South Korea’s
defense ministry said Friday it would send a military transport plane to
evacuate its nationals from Sudan, adding that the aircraft and troops will
“watch the situation from the US military base in Djibouti” since the Khartoum
international airport remains closed. It added that all 26 South Koreans in
Sudan have been confirmed to be safe, and that their forces would “prioritize
the evacuation.”
Sudan’s army
said Thursday that 177 Egyptian soldiers who had been trapped in the country
were evacuated and safely returned to Egypt.
Local
residents, too, are fleeing the country in huge numbers. Eyewitnesses in
Khartoum describe growing lines of people at bus stops, hoping to escape the
fighting. And up to 20,000 refugees from Sudan’s Darfur region have fled to
neighboring Chad in recent days, according to a statement from the UN Refugee
Agency.
Source: edition.cnn.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://edition.cnn.com/2023/04/21/africa/sudan-fighting-ceasefire-eid-friday-intl-hnk/index.html
--------
Muslim Student
Union hosts Open Iftar for Ramadan, celebrating community and belief
April 20, 2023
Over 500
members of the Stanford community assembled at Old Union to break fast at an
Open Iftar dinner and celebration organized by the Muslim Student Union (MSU)
on Thursday.
Open Iftar took
place as part of the Muslim community’s celebrations for Ramadan. The MSU has
hosted iftars, fast-breaking evening meals, daily during the month of Ramadan
with the help of funding from the Associated Students of Stanford University
(ASSU) and volunteers from within and outside of the Muslim community.
In Islamic
tradition, Ramadan is believed to be the month when the Qur’an — Islam’s
central text — began to be revealed to the Prophet Muhammed over a 23-year long
period. Over the course of Ramadan, Muslims fast daily from sunrise to sunset,
starting with Suhoor, or their meal before sunrise, followed by Iftar, their
traditional meal after sundown to break the fast.
Students and
community members — Muslim and non-Muslim alike — came together at Old Union,
where they ate Halal (Islamically permissible) foods, listened to speakers from
the Muslim community and partook in prayers together.
Rami Awwad ’23,
an MSU associate who engaged in conversations about Islam with community
members over the course of Open Iftar, said that there are regularly
non-Muslims on campus joining them in their fast.
“I’ve always
thought that it was admirable that they wanted to go through it with us and
feel spiritually closer to us and see what it’s like to live the life of a
Muslim in Ramadan,” Awwad said.
Awwad also
helped to provide English translations of the Qur’an and other resources to
interested community members.
At 6:30 p.m. on
Thursday, volunteers assembled at Old Union courtyard, setting up tables,
prayer tarps, speakers and organizing food orders.
Mahmoud Hamdi
’24, the MSU Vice President, said that the MSU scheduled orders for up to 600
people.
The number of
people at Old Union increased to approximately 80 around 7:25 p.m. Community
members of different ages began conversing with one another. Shortly after,
members of the Muslim community at Stanford spoke about themes of belief,
discipline and diversity, with some describing Open Ifar as inviting and a show
of community.
Hamdi said the
event was “open to Muslims and non-Muslims alike.” He thanked volunteers at the
event and addressed themes of justice and human rights around the world.
“We pray that
you guide us to uphold Justice as you, oh Allah, are the most just. We pray
that you restore justice and grant ease to our Muslim brothers and sisters
suffering in Palestine, Ukraine, Sudan, Libya, Rohingya, Yemen, Syria, Turkey,
India, Kashmir, Burma and everywhere else around the world,” Hamdi said.
As Hamdi spoke,
people started to line up for dates and water, which are traditionally used to
break the fast.
Hamdi proceeded
to thank the ASSU for the attendance of its representatives, financial support
and publicity for Open Iftar. Days before the event, the ASSU and MSU sent an
email inviting Stanford students to attend.
Khandaker Aqib
’25, the MSU Public Relations officer, expressed gratitude for the ASSU’s
support in publicizing and co-sponsoring Open Iftar to the broader Stanford
student body.
“Islam is a
religion that invites everybody and is accepting to everyone, and the fact [the
ASSU] sent it out to everybody just reinforces that the Muslim community is
open to anyone,” Aqib said. He said that “anybody willing to learn” is welcome.
“The
collaboration with the MSU on the Open Iftar is what I would hope would be one
of many other collaborations with other groups to help facilitate and celebrate
their events and community with each other,” ASSU Executive President Darryl
Thompson ’23 said at the event.
Shortly before
8 p.m., a call to join the Maghrib prayer — the fourth of the five daily
prayers in Islam, taking place shortly after sunset — was made. Over 100 people
came together to pray in White Plaza near the Claw fountain. Those in prayer
directed themselves towards the city of Mecca, the holiest city in Islamic
tradition, as the Qur’an was recited in Arabic.
Hamza El
Boudali ’22 M.S. ’23, the former MSU president, spoke of the importance that
Islam ascribes to praying towards Mecca.
People began to
line up for food shortly after Maghrib was finished. People sat to eat
throughout Old Union courtyard and inside Old Union, filling the stairwell and
even extending into The Axe & Palm (TAP).
Lara Hafez ’24,
currently an MSU co-president, said that she felt hopeful that a turnout of
hundreds of community members during an event like Open Iftar, displaying
aspects of Islam, could help address misconceptions about Muslims.
Ramadan
celebrations in the country have continued as hate crimes have targeted the
Muslim community, with a Koreatown Mosque being vandalized on Easter Sunday and
a former U.S. Marine attempting to bring a bomb into an Indiana mosque. U.S.
Representative Ilhan Omar (D-MN-05) introduced a resolution in condemnation of
Islamophobia — domestically and abroad — on the first full day of Ramadan this
year.
“Being able to
actually highlight, through our actions and through this type of event, what it
means to be Muslim is I think really powerful and allows a lot of people to
feel like they can interact and coexist with people that are not Muslim,” Hafez
said.
Rev. Tiffany
Steinwert, the Dean for Religious and Spiritual Life, similarly commemorated
Open Iftar’s role in the broader community at Stanford.
“I think the
Open Iftar is one of the best examples of who we are as a Stanford community.
It embodies the best of who we strive to be because it brings people across
difference to celebrate community [and] the opportunity to be one across all of
these differences,” Steinwert said.
Source: malaymail.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://stanforddaily.com/2023/04/20/muslim-student-union-hosts-open-iftar-for-ramadan-celebrating-community-and-belief/
--------
Southeast
Asia
Eid for some Sunni
Muslims starts today, Shiahs wait another day
Friday, 21 Apr
2023
RIYADH, April
21 — Saudi Arabia, home to Islam’s holiest shrines, and other Sunni Muslim
countries announced yesterday the holiday of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of
the Ramadan fast, will begin today.
In some
countries with a Shiah Muslim majority, authorities have said the holiday will
start tomorrow.
“Tomorrow,
Friday, is the first day of Eid al-Fitr for this year,” with Thursday the last
day of the holy month of Ramadan, the official Saudi Press Agency said on its
Twitter account, citing a royal court statement.
The timing of
Eid al-Fitr is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, in accordance
with the Muslim lunar calendar.
The holiday is
normally celebrated with family gatherings.
Authorities in
the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Jordan and Sudan also announced Eid al-Fitr
will start today.
In Lebanon,
Sunni clerics said the holiday will begin today, while some Shiah leaders
announced a Saturday start to the holiday.
Libya, ruled by
two rival administrations, will mark Eid today in the country’s east and
tomorrow in areas under the control of the Tripoli-based government.
Statements from
Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Iraq’s highest Shiah
authority, Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani, said Eid would start tomorrow in their
countries.
Oman will also
start Eid tomorrow, as will Indonesia — the world’s most populous
Muslim-majority nation.
The daytime
fasting month of Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam.
Observant
Muslims refrain from eating and drinking from dawn to dusk, and traditionally
gather with family and friends to break their fast in the evening.
It is also a
time for prayer, with the faithful converging in large numbers on mosques,
especially at night.
Fasting is
widely practised in Saudi Arabia, home of the holiest shrines in Islam in Mecca
and Medina.
Saudis are
expected to observe a four-day holiday for Eid al-Fitr. — AFP
Source: malaymail.com
Please click
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2023/04/21/eid-for-some-sunni-muslims-starts-today-shiahs-wait-another-day/65823
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Malaysian
volunteers collect food for needy to tackle Ramadan waste
APRIL 21, 2023
KUALA LUMPUR -
Malaysian volunteers are tackling food waste during the Islamic fasting month
of Ramadan by collecting unsold food from vendors and distributing it to
low-income households.
According to
government data, about 112,000 tonnes of food went to waste in Muslim-majority Malaysia
during Ramadan last year, a figure that non-profit organisation GEMA is trying
to reduce.
In the first
three weeks of the fasting month, GEMA collected 20 tonnes of leftover food
from Ramadan bazaars in the capital Kuala Lumpur, volunteer UmiKelathun Abd
Ghani told Reuters, adding the organisation works across the country.
Once collected,
the food is weighed and repackaged before being handed out to those in need.
"It would
be a waste if such blessings are thrown away. Thanks to (the volunteers') efforts,
it can help the lower-income group to eat," said AbawiahSalleh, a
recipient in Kuala Lumpur.
Malaysia is
expected to see a 15 per cent increase in waste during the fasting month and
generate nearly 20 tonnes of food waste daily, according to government figures.
The fasting
month ends this week, with Eid-al Fitr expected to be celebrated at the
weekend.
Source: asiaone.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.asiaone.com/malaysia/malaysian-volunteers-collect-food-needy-tackle-ramadan-waste
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Muslims should
celebrate Eid al-Fitr in simplicity: Minister
Jakarta
(ANTARA) - Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture, Muhadjir
Effendy, appealed to Muslims to celebrate Eid al-Fitr in simplicity.
"All
Muslims do not need to show who is the most victorious. Let us celebrate Eid
al-Fitr in simplicity and welcome it with joy," Effendy stated after the
Eid prayer at the Muhammadiyah Central Executive Building in Jakarta, Friday.
In addition, he
reminded all Muslims to not be bothered about winning since it is not certain
as to whether they had conducted fasting properly during Ramadan.
"It is
better for us to stabilize ourselves to worship and surrender to God as well as
increase our hard work because one of the signs of a person who is dedicated to
God is their willingness to work hard to succeed in their life," the
minister remarked.
Effendy also
noted that during the Eid celebration, people often say
"Taqobalallahuminnawaminkum," which means "May Allah accept our
good deeds and all your good deeds."
"Hence,
through these words, before we ask for all kinds of things, we should ask God
to accept all of our prayers and worship during Ramadan," he remarked.
Earlier, the
Ministry of Religious Affairs had decided that Eid al-Fitr 1 Shawwal would fall
on April 22. However, the Muhammadiyah Central Executive (PP) had decided to
conduct Eid prayers on Friday.
The decision
was taken following an isbat (confirmation) meeting on Thursday.
"Based on
a hisab (astronomical observation), the position of the crescent moon in
Indonesia is above the horizon and does not meet the new MABIMS (the
Association of the Ministries of the Religious Affairs from Brunei Darussalam,
Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore) criteria, as well as the absence of seeing
the crescent moon. The isbat meeting determines that 1 Shawwal 1444 H falls on
Saturday, April 22, 2023," Religious Affairs Minister YaqutCholilQoumas
confirmed on Thursday.
Based on
information from Secretary of the At-Tanwir Mosque of the PP Muhammadiyah
office, Zainal Abidin, the Eid prayer held at the PP Muhammadiyah Building
field today exceeded the quota from an estimated one thousand people to around
two thousand people. Hence, some people offered the Eid prayer on the Menteng
street roadside and at the Canisius College field.
Source: en.antaranews.com
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DPMs Zahid,
Fadillah extend Aidilfitri wishes to all Muslims
Friday, 21 Apr
2023
KUALA LUMPUR,
April 21 — Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri
FadillahYusof today extended Aidilfitri wishes to all Muslims in the country
who will celebrate 1 Syawal tomorrow (April 22).
Ahmad Zahid,
who is also the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, hopes that
Aidilfitri will be celebrated with gratitude.
“I pray for all
Muslims in Malaysia to be blessed by Allah SWT. Maaf Zahir dan Batin,” said
Ahmad Zahid on his social media accounts.
Meanwhile,
Fadillah, who is also the Minister of Plantation Industries and Commodities, in
a message posted on his Facebook page, said the arrival of Syawal is the
biggest victory for every Muslim who fasts properly throughout Ramadan.
He said Ramadan
teaches the meaning of gratitude, patience and sacrifice, as well as being
grateful for the blessings that have been given and adopting simplicity in all
matters.
“Syawal also
teaches us the meaning of sharing joy with our loved ones, strengthening
existing relationships, and renewing our spirit of brotherhood.
“Selamat Hari
Raya Aidilfitri to my family and friends. For those who are returning to their
respective hometowns, may you always be careful during the journey to your
hometown,” said Fadillah who prayed that the brotherhood spirit among
Malaysians will last. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2023/04/21/dpms-zahid-fadillah-extend-aidilfitri-wishes-to-all-muslims/65820
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Africa
Eid-el-Fitr:
Lawmaker, Betara salutes Buhari, Tinubu, Muslim faithful, calls for peace,
unity
April 21, 2023
By Chika Onyesi
The Chairman,
House Committee on Appropriations at the House of Representatives,
AliyuMuktarBetara has rejoiced with President Muhammadu Buhari,
President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice-President-elect Senator
KashimShettima and all Muslim faithful on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr.
In a statement
issued to commemorate the end of the holy month of Ramadan, the Lawmaker
enjoined all Muslim Faithful to sustain the good deeds exhibited during the
holy month and continue to practice the teachings of prophet Muhammad (S. A. W)
While noting
that Ramadan has taught all Faithful how to live a selfless and Godly life,
Betara who represents
Biu/Bayo/Shani/KwayaKusar
Federal Constituency of Borno State in the House of Representatives underscored
the need for peaceful co-existence and the unity of Nigeria.
He said: “I
wish to enjoin all Muslim Faithful to moderate during the celebration of
Eid-el-Fitr and continue to extend love to one another, especially the
less-privileged in our Society.
“We should also
sustain virtues of self-discipline, sacrifice and compassion to fellow
Nigerians, irrespective of religion, tribe or race.”
Betara, one of
the aspirants for the position of Speaker in the 10th House of Representatives
also prayed for
the peace and unity of Nigeria, calling on all Nigerians to join hands in
Nation building.
“I wish to
enjoin all Nigerian Citizens to pray Almighty Allah to continue to guide and
lead our leaders aright in the journey of nation building.
Source: dailypost.ng
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://dailypost.ng/2023/04/21/eid-el-fitr-lawmaker-betara-salutes-buhari-tinubu-muslim-faithful-calls-for-peace-unity/
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Eid-el-Fitr:
CDS felicitates with Armed Forces of Nigeria, Muslims
April 21, 2023
By John Gabriel
The Chief of
Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor has felicitated with the members of the
Armed Forces of Nigeria on the occasion of Eid-El-Fitr celebration.
In a statement
by the Acting Director Defence Information, Brigadier General TukurGusau, he
congratulated Muslims all over the world for ending the month of Ramadan
successfully.
He prayed to
Almighty God to bless Nigerians through this month of Ramadan, just as he urged
the citizens to continue praying for the unity and peaceful coexistence of
Nigerians
He further
urged Nigerians to continue to uphold the lessons of patience and sacrifice
with one another as exemplified in the holy month.
While
commending the Armed Forces of Nigeria for the role played in the recently
concluded supplementary elections, he assured Nigerians of loyalty by the Armed
Forces of Nigeria to the democratic leadership.
While wishing
Nigerians a happy Sallah celebration, he expressed the commitment of the Armed
Forces of Nigeria to uphold constitutional governance in Nigeria.
Source: dailypost.ng
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://dailypost.ng/2023/04/21/eid-el-fitr-cds-felicitates-with-armed-forces-of-nigeria-muslims/
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Plateau
Governor-Elect, Mutfwang Felicitates With Muslims As they Marks Eid-El-Fitr
Celebrations
By OnojaAudu
Apr 21, 2023
JOS – Plateau
state Governor Elect Barr Caleb Mutfwang has felicitated with the Muslim
faithfuls on the Plateau as they join the rest of other Muslims in Nigeria to
celebrate this year’s Eid- El-Fitr Celebrations.
Barr Mutfwang
in a Press statement issued on Friday through his Director of media campaign
council Yiljab Abraham which he made available to Daily Independent, rejoiced
with Muslim Umma on this unique festival of breaking of the fast.
Mutfwang
commended the Muslim faithfuls for their perseverance and self-discipline all
through the Ramadan fasting period.
According to
him,by faith, ” we trust God Almighty has received your precious gifts and the
intense prayers you have offered on behalf of our State and the whole nation.”
He noted that
the 2023 Ramadan and Eid el-Fitr are particularly of great significance as they
have taken place within the period of Nigeria political transition period.
Plateau
Governor Elect reminded the people of his state that in just about a month
away, a new president, state Governors, National Assembly as well as State
legislators would be sworn into office in Nigeria’s 24 years of unbroken
Democratic journey, adding that as a result of this, the people
should heighten
their prayers for their country Nigeria and Plateau State so that all may go
well across the entire nation on May 29, 2023 and hereafter.
He charged
Citizens of Plateau state to re-commit themselves to peaceful neighborliness
stressing that Plateau communities need peace and secure environments to
concentrate on their farming and business activities.
“Without peace
and security, our communities may be driven into poverty and every form of
deprivation.”
He expressed
the redness of his incoming administration to offer quality leadership that
will unite the people of his state and as well work hand in hand with them,
security agencies and as institutions of goodwill to secure Plateau.
He wished Plateau
Muslim faithfuls a very refreshing Eid-El-Fitr celebrations .
Source: independent.ng
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://independent.ng/plateau-governor-elect-mutfwang-felicitates-with-muslims-as-they-marks-eid-el-fitr-celebrations/
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Sallah:
MorayoLebi Congratulates Muslims, Calls For Religious Tolerance
By Bolu-OluEsho
Apr 21, 2023
AKURE –
Barrister MorayoLebi has congratulated Muslim faithful, particularly those in
Ondo State, on the completion of the Ramadan season.
He urged them
to continue in the spirit of penitence and remain close to Allah for the
betterment of the society.
The All
Progressives Congress(APC) chieftain urged all Muslims in the country to
continue to pray for peace and strive to love their neighbours irrespective of
religious beliefs.
Speaking on the
importance of Ramadan, the APC candidate for Ondo South Senatorial District in
2015 explained that it afforded the Muslim faithful to pray for socio-economic
development of the nation by praying for people at the helm of affairs of the
nation for God’s guidance.
He noted that
if the nation’s leadership were God-fearing in its dealings, there would be
appreciative developments in all sectors of the economy.
The legal
luminary appealed to Muslim faithful in Ondo State to continue to pray for the
state and its leadership for sustenance of peace and harmony in the state.
Barrister Lebi,
therefore, charged the Muslim faithful to celebrate the Sallah moderately,
urging the youth to avoid whatever social engagements that could lead to crime.
Source: independent.ng
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://independent.ng/sallah-morayo-lebi-congratulates-muslims-calls-for-religious-tolerance/
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Eid-el-Fitr: AANI
President rejoices with Muslim faithful
April 21, 2023
Chimezie
Godfrey
Former
Inspector General of Police, and National President of the Alumni Association
of the National Institute (AANI), M.D Abubakar has congratulated Muslim
faithful on the completion of this year’s fasting.
In a statement,
Abubakar appreciated them for their dedication and commitment during this time
of fasting and self-restraint, which he said required a great deal of
discipline and strength.
He said,”I
would like to on behalf of the National Executive Committee of our great
Association, the Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI)
congratulate and rejoice with our Muslim colleagues on the successful
completion of this year’s fasting and sighting of the new moon today signifying
that Id-el-Fitr will be celebrated tomorrow Friday 21st April 2023. As you
celebrate Eid al-Fitr, I would like to extend my warmest greetings and
congratulations to you and your families.
“I appreciate
your dedication and commitment during this time of fasting and self-restraint,
which requires a great deal of discipline and strength. Your sacrifice has not
gone unnoticed, and witnessing your devotion to your faith is inspiring. I pray
that may Allah accepts your supplications during the holy month of Ramadan.
“May this Eid
al-Fitr bring you peace, happiness, and prosperity, and may it be a time of
renewal and rejuvenation for you and your loved ones. Let us continue to
celebrate our differences and learn from each other’s unique perspectives and
beliefs.”
The AANI
President seized the opportunity to inform members of the institute’s coming
annual general meeting and general elections.
He urged
members to turn out en-masse for both events because of their significance.
“Let me seize
this opportunity to remind all AANI members of our forthcoming Annual General
Meeting and general elections on Saturday 29th April 2023 and urge you to
please turn out en-masse for both events because of their significance. It is
an opportunity to elect new members of the National Executive Committee that
will run the affairs of our association for the next two years. It is important
that you exercise your franchise and strengthen AANI through that.
“I wish to
thank you all for your kind support and commitment to the ideals of our
association and crave your indulgence to continue to do the same, towards a
better society.
“Once again,
Eid Mubarak to our Muslim brothers and sisters,” he said.
Source: newsdiaryonline.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://newsdiaryonline.com/eid-el-fitr-aani-president-rejoices-with-muslim-faithful/
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Eid-El-Fitr:
Abidikugu Felicitates With Muslims, Urges Residents To Remain Prayerful
By RotimiAgbana
Apr 21, 2023
A Chieftain of
the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State and an House of
Representatives aspirant for Ibadan North East/South East Federal Constituency
of the state, Dr KazeemAdesinaAbidikugu has felicitated with the Muslim Ummah
in the constituency and the state as whole as they join other faithfuls the
world over in celebrating the Eid el-fitr which marks the successful completion
of the Ramadan fast.
In a goodwill
message on Friday, Abidikugu, a Nigerian UK-based medical consultant urged
Muslim Ummah to sustain the lessons of the holy month and replicate them in
their daily lives for the good of the society.
He tasked the
citizenry not to loose sight in face of the current socio-economic and security
challenges bedeviling the country but to remain resolute and prayerful with
faith that the nation’s trying moment will be over and Nigeria will emerge
stronger and more united.
Abidikugu, who
the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of DAKA Foundation, advised the
resisents not to be associated with any act that can undermine the prevailing
peace in the state so that the dividends of democracy can get to the people of
the state.
He enjoined
Muslim Ummah to sustain the devotion and other acts of worship performed during
the holy month as well as to imbibe the lessons learnt during Tafsir sessions
for the good of the religion, society and humanity, saying Nigeria is in dire
need of good people with excellent moral standings to overcome the evils being
perpetrated by some few who do not mean well for the country.
”Eid el-fitr
festival connotes sacrifice, selflessness, love and obedience to the tenets of
Islam. I therefore enjoin us to draw enduring lessons from the Ramadan and show
love to one another as well as promote harmony and peaceful coexistence among
our diverse people.
“The same way
we all remembered the less privileged and those afflicted by poverty during
Ramadan, I implore us to carry over these attributes beyond Ramadan.
“These acts are
expected to become our habitual act even beyond the Holy month. An expected end
of all religious acts is in the true reflection of the positive impacts of it
in our interactions with people even those from other faith. Let’s rise to make
our society a habitable one”.
Source: independent.ng
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://independent.ng/eid-el-fitr-abidikugu-felicitates-with-muslims-urges-residents-to-remain-prayerful/
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IBEDC
introduces new metering initiative, felicitates with Muslims
By Waliat Musa
21 April
2023
The Management
of Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) has wished all its customers
and Nigerians a peaceful and joyful Eid-el-Fitri.
The electricity
distribution company, in a statement by its Managing Director, Kingsley Achife,
congratulated Muslims for the successful completion of the Holy month of
Ramadan.
He urged
Muslims to sustain the virtues, ideals and values beyond the month of Ramadan,
considering the benefits to individuals, communities and the country at large.
Achife further
said that IBEDC would do everything within its control to ensure good service
delivery during the holidays.
Meanwhile,
Achife said that the firm had introduced a simplified way for customers to get
metered, called Easy MAPS, which will eliminate the need for physical visits to
the company’s offices or mandatory online registration to provide a more
streamlined and efficient metering process for customers.
He said: “With
the Easy MAPS, all customers need to do is to pay into the designated bank
accounts for their location and send proof of payment with their meter/account
numbers, and address to the designated WhatsApp numbers. Once the payment is
verified, a team of trained technicians will be sent to the customer’s location
for evaluation and installation.
“This process
eliminates all the initial process of registration and so on.”
Source: guardian.ng
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://guardian.ng/news/ibedc-introduces-new-metering-initiative-felicitates-with-muslims/
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Ayade tasks
Muslims on peace, unity at Eid-el-Fitri
By Tina
AgosiTodo, Calabar
21 April 2023
Cross River
State Governor, Senator Ayade, has urged the Muslim faithful in the state to
pray for peace and unity of the country as they celebrate Eid-el-Fitri.
He
congratulated them on the successful completion of the 30-day Ramadan fast.
In his message
signed yesterday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Christian
Ita, the governor charged
Nigerians to
join hands to build a greater and peaceful Nigeria, irrespective of religion,
tribe, ethnic and political affiliations.
He said:
“Ramadan is an important and reinvigorating spiritual exercise, and I,
therefore, call on Muslims, particularly in our dear state, Cross River, to, at
all times, imbibe the lessons of Ramadan, which resolves round love, sacrifice,
peace and unity.
“All our
country needs at this time is peace and unity and I urge you to make these two
items the focal point of your supplications to the Almighty Allah as you
celebrate Eid-el-Fitri,” the governor said.
While stating
the importance of abstinence and sacrifice during the 30 days fasting, Ayade
said: “I am optimistic that prayers,
abstinence and sacrifices made during the holy month will continuously reflect
in the daily life of the Muslim Ummah in Cross River State in particular and
Nigeria in general.”
He commended
the Muslim community for exhibiting high sense of patriotism and for being
partners in fostering progress.
“I want to use
this opportunity to thank the Muslim community for its support for my
administration in the last eight years,” he said.
Source: guardian.ng
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://guardian.ng/news/ayade-tasks-muslims-on-peace-unity-at-eid-el-fitri-2/
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YABATECH
rejoices with Muslim faithful, calls for prayer for nation
April 21, 2023
The Yaba
College of Technology (YABATECH) has implored Muslim faithful to use the
occasion of Eid-el-Fitr to pray for the nation as it prepares toward a new
political and democratic dispensation.
UduakInyang-Udoh,
the Acting Rector of YABATECH, in his felicitation message to the Muslim
faithful made the appeal on Thursday in a statement on the occasion of 2023
Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
Iyang-Udo,
stated that Eid-el-Fitr, also known as the ‘festival of breaking the fast’,
marked the end of a month-long period of dawn-to-sunset fasting of Ramadan.
“On behalf of
the Governing Council, Management, Staff and Students, I felicitate with staff,
students, alumni, and friends of the College and the nation at large on this
auspicious occasion of Eid-el-Fitr Celebration.
“I implore
everyone to use the occasion of the celebration to imbibe the spirit of love,
peace and sacrifice as exemplified by Prophet Mohammed.
“Also, to pray
for the College and most importantly for our dear nation, Nigeria as we match
towards a new political and democratic dispensation,” he added.
The Acting
Rector also wished the Muslim faithful a very joyful celebration, adding, “I
wish you all a very joyful celebration and may Allah fill our lives with happiness
and open doors of success in our different endeavours”.
Source: vanguardngr.com
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2023/04/yabatech-rejoices-with-muslim-faithful-calls-for-prayer-for-nation/
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Muslims urged
to observe Islamic tenets
Apr - 21 - 2023
He noted that
it was expedient to be obedient to Allah and to follow His teachings in order
to enjoy His blessings that come with the holy month.
Nana Fanyinama
said this during the annual event on the 26th night during Ramadan at Kintampo
in the Bono East Region.
The 26th night
of Ramadan, also known as Lailatul-kadr, is significant in Islam as the moment
God gave the Quran to Prophet Mohammed.
Annual ritual
As an annual
ritual, the Wangara tribe in Ghana undertakes a number of activities to observe
the night at Kintampo, which is considered their spiritual home.
During the
night, Islamic scholars gather and read the whole chapters of the Quran,
especially for the benefit of those who cannot read to listen.
The youth, in
recent times, are also allowed to take part to enable them to imbibe the
virtues embeded in the event.
This is to
encourage the younger generation to learn and perpetuate it when the baton is
eventually passed on to them.
Nana Fanyinama
explained that the ritual had a significance for the BenkadiKurubi Islamic
festival.
The event, he
said, created a platform for the women and children to have fun separately.
Legend has it
that this is where most bachelors come to choose their wives on the 27th day of
the Ramadan.
Fire Commander
Meanwhile, the
Kintampo North Municipal Fire Commander, DO3 Dominic TwumPrempeh, has made a
strong case for the service to be well resourced to discharge its mandate
effectively.
He said the
current state of logistics among other setbacks would hinder their output.
DO3 Prempeh
made the appeal when he led a delegation to introduce himself as the new Municipal
Fire Commander to the Overlord of the Wangara Tribe in Ghana, SarikiYussif Nana
Fanyinama, and his elders at Kintampo in the Bono East Region.
He took over
from DO3 AnkomahTwene.
DO3 Prempeh
said the municipal command of the service was challenged, stating that the fire
tender that served the municipality required GH¢25,000 to repair, while access
routes were a problem in the enclave.
He said he had,
however, started a fire education awareness campaign through the media
especially to impact the spate of fire disasters in the municipality.
Nana Fanyinama
expressed gratitude to the new fire command head.
He, however,
lamented the lack of access routes to help effective fire-related rescue
efforts, and urged the new commander to assist the assembly to rectify the
situation.
Source: graphic.com.gh
Please click
the following URL to read the full text of the original
https://www.graphic.com.gh/news/general-news/muslims-urged-to-observe-islamic-tenets.html
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/justice-indian-court-gujarat-riots/d/129620