Fri Apr 03 2026, 01:39 PM

Islamic World News ( 25 Aug 2025, NewAgeIslam.Com)

Comment | Comment

CISF To Raise First All-Women Commando Unit For Counter-Terror Operations

New Age Islam News Bureau

25 August 2025

X/@CISFHQrs

--------

· CISF to raise first all-women commando unit for counter-terror operations

· “Islamic Jihad” condemns treacherous Zionist aggression against Yemen

· Anwar urges continued global pressure on Israel over Palestine crisis

· Rights Groups Urge Germany to Relocate Over 2,000 Afghan Refugees from Pakistan

· CAIR-MI to Designate Wayne State U as ‘Hostile to Free Speech’ Over Targeting of Free Speech of Muslim, Palestinian, Arab, and Anti-Genocide Voices

· ‘Don’t threaten us’ – EU state to Zelensky

· ADC seeks state of emergency in Katsina, Zamfara over murder of mosque worshippers

· Saudi Arabia’s aid reaches needy families in Gaza

------

India

· Activist Syeda Hameed faces backlash after ‘Bangladeshis can live in Assam’ remarks

· Why D K Shivakumar singing RSS anthem points to Congress’s ideological dilemma in Karnataka

· Asaduddin Owaisi at Idea Exchange: ‘For so-called secular parties, we are only good for iftar parties, Ajmer chadar… (today) anyone can marginalise the Muslim community’

· J&K: Half-a-dozen drones from Pakistan sighted near LoC; believed to be launched for surveillance

· Fresh FIR against Chhangur Baba and 13 others for rape, wrongful confinement

· Why AAP has stepped up Hindu outreach in Punjab: Promising Temple Act to setting up caste boards

· Supreme Court stays trial against Ashoka University professor over Operation Sindoor post

· Despite Indus Waters Treaty freeze, India shares flood warning with Pakistan

· Himanta accuses activist, Congress, foreign elements of bid to destabilise Assam

· New book highlights Shabbir Ali’s political journey

· Mumbai court accepts police closure report in Islam Gymkhana molestation case

-------

Mideast

· Israel strikes on Yemeni capital Sanaa kill six, wound 86

· Frankly Speaking: How former Israeli PM Olmert views the war

· Israeli bulldozers uproot hundreds of trees in West Bank village

· Jihad: Israeli aggression on Yemeni civilian sites backed by US

· Jordan’s King Abdullah, foreign minister hold talks with US Congress delegation

· President, cabinet members renew allegiance to Imam Khomeini

· Ansar Allah Political Office Zionist Aggression Desperate Attempt to Deter Yemen from Continuing Support for Gaza

· FM meets representative of Islamic Relief Organization

-------

Southeast Asia

· ‘Voice of the Malaysian people’: Anwar announces extra RM100m aid for Palestine at KL rally

· From cracked windows to health risks – East Java says no to loudspeaker chaos

· Dataran Merdeka turns into sea of teddy bears in show of solidarity with Palestine

· Minister says Education Act update underway to strengthen school discipline in crackdown on bullying cases

· Malaysia ramps up large-scale solar projects to hit 40pc renewable energy target

· Sultan of Brunei arrives in Malaysia for four-day state visit

· Malaysia hosts 18th Asean environment meeting in Langkawi this September

· Tabung Haji to carefully assess Saudi land purchase proposal

· Klook and Hong Kong Tourism Board Launch First Multi-Market Partnership to Enhance the Muslim Travel Experience

--------

South Asia

· US Senator Urges Congress to Pass Bill Protecting Former Afghan Allies

· 2nd Deputy Minister of National Defense Visits Helmand Border Posts

· Islamic Emirate Begins Pension Payments to Retired Employees

· Islamic Emirate Approves Draft National Minerals Policy

· Historic Mosque in Ghazni Reopens After Restoration

· Religious Affairs Advisor Khalid says building mosque at Chandranath Hill is ‘out of question’

· Kamil (Masters) examination begins under Islamic Arabic University

· Discussion on biotechnology pioneer Prof Ahmad Shamsul held at DU

------

North America

· Trump threatens to deploy troops to Baltimore to 'clean up' crime

· National Guard in DC: Donald Trump’s crackdown escalates; troops begin carrying weapons

· Islamic schools prepared to start year in new Amherstburg building

· ABC and NBC should be taken off air – Trump

· ‘Do they teach history in Ohio?’: JD Vance mocked over 'wars end with negotiation’ remarks; netizens remind him WWII ended with unconditional surrender

· Harvard making changes Trump officials want, even without a deal

· Zohran Mamdani's bench press episode turns awkward: Mayor Eric Adams takes a jab at the Men's day viral video - Watch

· Flightmare: Passenger’s device catches fire on American airlines flight; smoke fills cabin, plane diverted

------

Europe

· 'Once-in-a-lifetime chance': Gaza scholars await UK evacuation to pursue studies

· Zelensky vows to continue fighting as Ukraine marks Independence Day

· Racist abuse arrest after flags painted on homes

· France summons US envoy over anti-Semitism claims

· Pub and travel bans proposed under sentencing rule changes

· Boy and man held over restaurant 'arson attack'

· Do you really believe a Ukrainian on a yacht took out Nord Stream?

· Territory is not what Russia is interested in – Lavrov

· Nearly 300 soldiers freed in latest Russia-Ukraine swap

------

Africa

· JNI condemns Katsina mosque terror attack

· Nigeria says air force has rescued 76 kidnap victims in the north-west

· Tinubu will win 2027 election via Muslim-Muslim ticket – APC chieftain insists

· Egyptian farmers behind world’s perfumes face climate fight alone

· Sudan’s RSF shells hospital, abducts 8 in El Fasher: rescuers

· Eswatini government faces court challenge over US deportees

· Libya: Delayed municipal elections held in seven north-western municipalities

· 6.5 Billion: EFCC, ICPC Probe Top Government Official

· NLC Warns RMAFC Over Plan To Increase Tinubu, Political Office Holders’ Salary

· ‘I Didn’t Abuse Alaafin’ – Sunday Igboho Speaks After Visiting Ooni

· ‘Christians Have Received Majority Of Donations, Visits From First Lady’ – Shehu

-------

Arab World

· Record sightings of seabirds, large marine animals on Saudi coasts

· National emblem exhibition opens at Al-Masmak Palace

· King Salman receives letter from Egyptian president El-Sisi

· Saudi minister receives Chinese ambassador

· Saudi project clears 828 explosive devices in Yemen

· Falcon sells for SR1.2m at Riyadh auction

· Expo 2025 Osaka spotlights Saudi handicrafts

· 24 Arabic tales reach global readers

· Millions of students across Saudi Arabia begin new school year

· Regional leaders take part in blood donation campaign

Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau

URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/women-commando-counter-terror-operations/d/136591

------

CISF to raise first all-women commando unit for counter-terror operations

24.08.25

X/@CISFHQrs

--------

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has decided to create an all-women commando team for conducting specialised counter-terrorist operations, officials said on Sunday.

A group of 100 female personnel deployed across the country as part of the aviation security group (ASG) guarding civilian airports are the first to be trained for the task.

The about 1.70 lakh-strength CISF is primarily tasked to guard 69 civil airports, the Delhi Metro and a number of other vital installations in the government and private domain.

"The training for the first batch of the women personnel in commando skills has been started at a training centre located in Barwaha, Madhya Pradesh.

"This eight-week advanced commando course will prepare women personnel for quick reaction team (QRT) and special task force (STF) duties at high-security establishments and plants," a CISF official said.

The personnel will be trained in physical fitness and weapons training, live-fire drills under stress, endurance-building exercises like running, obstacle courses, rappelling, survival training in forests, and a 48-hour confidence-building exercise designed to test decision-making and teamwork under adverse conditions, he said.

The central armed police force, which functions under the Union home ministry, has 12,491 women (8 per cent of its strength) in its ranks at present.

In 2026, 2,400 more women staff will be recruited and in the coming years, recruitment will be structured in such a way that women consistently make up at least 10 per cent of the force as per the directions of the home ministry, the official said.

Source: telegraphindia.com

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

https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/cisf-to-raise-first-all-women-commando-unit-for-counter-terror-operations/cid/2119533

-------
“Islamic Jihad” condemns treacherous Zionist aggression against Yemen

24 Aug 2025

The Islamic Jihad Movement in Palestine today, Sunday, condemned the treacherous Zionist aggression on civilian facilities in brotherly Yemen, carried out with full American encouragement and support.

The movement described it as a new war crime committed by the enemy entity and the U.S. administration, adding to their long-standing record of crimes against Arab and Muslim peoples.

In a press statement received by the Yemeni News Agency (SABA), the movement affirmed that the brave and steadfast Yemeni people, along with their armed forces, will remain a thorn in the side of Zionist illusions in the region. Yemen pays the price for its firm stance in supporting the Palestinian people and striving to halt the aggression on the Gaza Strip and lift the siege on its people, despite repeated attacks and threats.

The movement also expressed high appreciation for the sacrifices made by the Yemeni people and their armed forces, praying for God’s mercy on the righteous martyrs and a swift recovery for the wounded.

It saluted the resilience, courage, and steadfastness of the Yemeni people in confronting this aggression until victory is achieved over Zionist barbarism, as they previously triumphed over American barbarism.

Source: saba.ye

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

https://www.saba.ye/en/news3540680.htm

------

Anwar urges continued global pressure on Israel over Palestine crisis

theSun Local

2025-08-24

- BERNAMApix

----------

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called upon Muslims and the international community to maintain pressure on Israel to halt its atrocities against Palestine.

He described the ongoing cruelty in Palestine as a significant test for the entire Muslim ummah and global peace advocates.

“We must continue to take steps forward,” Anwar stated during his special keynote lecture titled “Malaysiaku Bersama Gaza” at Dataran Merdeka.

He acknowledged the emotional toll of the situation, noting “Yes, it is exhausting, sometimes disappointing, sometimes it feels hopeless... believe in Allah’s help.”

The event attracted thousands of Muslims who gathered for the “Malam Himpunan dan Selawat Malaysiaku Bersama Gaza.”

Several government officials attended, including Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar.

Also present were Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.

The gathering featured representatives from various organisations, including Sumud Nusantara director-general and Cinta Gaza Malaysia chief executive officer Muhammad Nadir Al-Nuri Kamaruzaman.

Malaysian Consultative Council of Islamic Organisations chief executive officer Datuk Dr Sani Araby Abdul Alim Araby also participated in the event. – Bernama

Source: thesun.my

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

https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/anwar-urges-continued-global-pressure-on-israel-over-palestine-crisis-NH14754485

-------
Rights Groups Urge Germany to Relocate Over 2,000 Afghan Refugees from Pakistan

By Fidel Rahmati

August 25, 2025

Over 2,000 Afghan refugees in Pakistan face deportation. Rights groups urge Germany to act quickly, reduce visa delays, and ensure safe relocation to avoid further danger.

Over two thousand Afghan refugees currently residing in Pakistan are at risk of being deported back to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, prompting urgent appeals from several prominent human rights organizations for their relocation to Germany.

Organizations such as Amnesty International, Reporters Without Borders, Caritas, the German Bar Association, and Doctors Without Borders have jointly addressed a letter to Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt. They have called for immediate action to ensure the safe transfer of these vulnerable individuals.

The signatories are urging the German government to drastically shorten the duration of security screenings and visa processing. They are also demanding the rapid evacuation of Afghan refugees who have already been promised protection and resettlement in Germany.

According to the organizations, Germany holds a special responsibility toward these individuals. Many of the refugees are under threat due to their past involvement in promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in Afghanistan. Their trust in Germany, the letter states, must not be betrayed.

The letter also calls for closer cooperation between Germany, Pakistan, international partners, and civil society organizations to prevent further deportations and arbitrary detentions. It stresses the importance of securing a safe and humane exit for those facing imminent danger.

Despite these calls, Germany’s Interior Minister has cited security concerns as a reason for delaying immediate relocations. Meanwhile, reports indicate that Pakistani police have raided refugee shelters and forcibly returned some Afghans to Afghanistan, putting them at serious risk.

The situation demands swift and compassionate action from the German government. As a leading democratic nation, Germany has both a moral and political obligation to protect those who stood for its shared values in Afghanistan. Delays could mean life or death for many, and history will judge how responsibly the country responds to this humanitarian crisis.

Source: khaama.com

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

https://www.khaama.com/rights-groups-urge-germany-to-relocate-over-2000-afghan-refugees-from-pakistan/

--------
CAIR-MI to Designate Wayne State U as ‘Hostile to Free Speech’ Over Targeting of Free Speech of Muslim, Palestinian, Arab, and Anti-Genocide Voices

August 24, 2025

On Monday, August 25, the Michigan chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MI), a local chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, plans to hold a press conference to announce its designation of Wayne State University (WSU) as a “hostile campus for free speech” over is targeting of targeting Muslim, Palestinian, Arab, and anti-genocide voices.

CAIR-MI staff will be joined by students from Wayne State to highlight what they describe as a troubling pattern of suppressing free expression at the university—particularly targeting Muslim, Palestinian, Arab, and allied voices advocating for human rights and justice.

“Our organization has a long history of defending the rights of students and community members at Michigan’s universities.” Said CAIR-MI Executive Director Dawud Walid. “It is deeply concerning that in 2025 we are still witnessing the same discriminatory tactics used to silence student voices—particularly those advocating for social justice and human rights. WSU must change course and respect the First Amendment rights of all its students.”

“Wayne State University should be a place where students can express themselves freely without fear of retaliation or selective enforcement of policies,” said CAIR-MI Lead Staff Attorney Amy?V.?Doukoure. “This designation by our national office underscores the seriousness of WSU’s failure to uphold free speech principles, and we will continue to stand with students whose rights are being violated.”

Earlier this year, CAIR released its 2025 Civil Rights Report “Unconstitutional Crackdowns,” which reveals that Islamophobia continues to be at an all-time high across the country. CAIR said viewpoint discrimination against those speaking out against genocide and apartheid was a key factor in many cases.

This announcement is part of CAIR’s broader Unhostile Campus Campaign, a nationwide initiative aimed at fostering campus environments where Palestinian, Muslim, Arab, Jewish, and allied students, faculty, and staff who oppose genocide or express dissent can freely speak and engage without fear of state force or disciplinary retaliation. More information about the campaign—including resources, guides, and how to get involved—can be found here: https://islamophobia.org/category/hostile-campuses/

Washington, D.C., based CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization, working to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.

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

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

Source: cair.com

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

https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-mi-to-designate-wayne-state-u-as-hostile-to-free-speech-over-targeting-of-free-speech-of-muslim-palestinian-arab-and-anti-genocide-voices/

------
‘Don’t threaten us’ – EU state to Zelensky

25 Aug, 2025

Hungary has warned Ukraine to stop disrupting its energy supply from Russia after Kiev targeted a key pipeline delivering oil to Central Europe.

Ukrainian forces struck the Soviet-era Druzhba (Friendship) pipeline three times this month, sparking outrage in both Hungary and neighboring Slovakia. The flow through the pipeline was last halted on Friday.

At a press conference during Independence Day celebrations in Kiev on Sunday, a reporter asked Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky how the attacks relate to Hungary’s opposition to his country’s EU and NATO ambitions.

“We have always supported friendship with Hungary, but now the very existence of this friendship depends on Budapest’s position,” Zelensky replied with a smile and a play on the pipeline’s name.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto issued a sharp rebuke on X. “Zelensky used Ukraine’s national holiday to threaten Hungary. We firmly reject the Ukrainian President’s intimidation,” Szijjarto wrote. He described the strikes on Hungary’s energy supply as “an attack on sovereignty.”

“A war which Hungary has nothing to do with can never justify violating our sovereignty. We call on Zelensky to stop threatening Hungary and to end the reckless attacks on our energy security!” he added.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrey Sibiga responded on X, writing to Szijjarto: “You don’t need to tell the Ukrainian President what to do or say, and when.” He urged Budapest to “diversify and become independent from Russia, like the rest of Europe.”

Szijjarto shot back: “Stop attacking our energy security! This is not our war!”

Unlike many EU countries, Hungary has refused to send weapons to Kiev and has heavily criticized Brussels for imposing sanctions on Moscow. The country maintains that Ukraine’s NATO membership could trigger an all-out conflict with Russia.

Source: rt.com

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

https://www.rt.com/news/623484-hungary-zelensky-stop-threats/

-------
ADC seeks state of emergency in Katsina, Zamfara over murder of mosque worshippers

AUGUST 24, 2025

The African Democratic Congress has called for an immediate declaration of a state of emergency in Katsina and Zamfara states, following the recent killing of mosque worshippers.

The party made the call in a statement on Sunday in Abuja by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, following the murder of some worshippers in the two states.

Mr Abdullahi said the ADC was deeply concerned about the recent killings in Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, where worshippers were shot dead in a mosque during dawn prayers, while others were killed in their homes across villages.

He said, “In view of the foregoing, ADC therefore calls for an immediate declaration of a state of emergency in Katsina and Zamfara states until the government is able to stem the tide of bloodshed in those places and restore some order.’’

He also called on President Bola Tinubu to embark on total re-evaluation of Nigeria’s national security architecture to adequately protect the lives and property of Nigerians.

He stated, “The recent call by the chief of defence staff for citizens to acquire self-defence skills is perhaps the most honest indicator yet that there is a need to rethink the entire internal defence system.’’

Mr Abdullahi decried what he described as the insensitivity of both the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party to the plight of citizens, saying the two dominant parties were only concerned about power and politics.

He faulted the decision of the PDP governors to hold a political meeting in Zamfara State just days after the killing of residents in the state, describing the action as “grossly insensitive.”

Source: gazettengr.com

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

https://gazettengr.com/adc-seeks-state-of-emergency-in-katsina-zamfara-over-murder-of-mosque-worshippers/

-------
Saudi Arabia’s aid reaches needy families in Gaza

August 24, 2025

RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief continued distributing food baskets to thousands of Palestinian families in Gaza as part of its public relief campaign, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

The Saudi Center for Culture and Heritage, KSrelief’s implementing partner in Gaza, distributed thousands of food baskets, prioritizing households headed by women and large families with more than five members to ensure aid reaches the neediest.

This initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to provide relief to Gaza’s residents, particularly in food security, amid the severe conditions faced by the population.

The UN recently declared that Gaza has officially entered the famine phase, with acute food shortages caused by the ongoing war and blockade.

Beneficiary families expressed deep gratitude to the Kingdom, noting that the aid serves as a lifeline, providing essential food amid harsh circumstances in the Gaza Strip.

Muslim World League Secretary-General Dr. Mohammad Al-Issa renewed the league’s urgent call for the international community to fulfill its moral and legal responsibilities and take swift action to end the famine and genocide in Gaza.

The World Assembly of Muslim Youth also voiced concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, worsened by famine in several areas due to the blockade and severe shortages of food and medical supplies.

The assembly stressed the urgent need for international and humanitarian action to save innocent lives, the SPA reported.

The organization commended Saudi Arabia for its continued support of the Palestinian people, including relief airlifts, donation campaigns, and urgent medical and food assistance facilitated by KSrelief.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2612862/saudi-arabia

------

India

Activist Syeda Hameed faces backlash after ‘Bangladeshis can live in Assam’ remarks

25 Aug 2025

GUWAHATI: Activist and former Planning Commission member Syeda Saiyidain Hameed has stirred a hornet's nest by suggesting that Bangladeshis can live in Assam. Speaking to the media in Guwahati on Sunday on the sidelines of an event, she said, "What’s wrong if they are Bangladeshis? Bangladeshis are also humans. The world is so large. Bangladeshis can also be here. Not depriving anyone’s rights."

"To say that (they are) depriving the rights of others is troublesome, extremely mischievous and detrimental to humanity. God has created this earth for humans," she further said. The remarks, made amid eviction drives by the Assam government, triggered outrage.

"People like Syeda Hameed, a close confidant of the Gandhi family, legitimise illegal infiltrators, as they seek of to realise Jinnah's dream of making Assam a part of Pakistan. Today, Assamese identity is on the brink of extinction because of the tacit support of people like her," Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma posted on X.

"But we are the sons and daughters of Lachit Barphukan, WE WILL FIGHT till the last drop of our blood to save our State and our identity. Let me make it very clear, Bangladeshis are not welcome in Assam, it is not their land. Anyone sympathising with them may accommodate them in their own backyards. Assam is not up for grabs by illegal infiltrators, NOT NOW, NOT EVER," he further wrote.

Source: newindianexpress.com

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

https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2025/Aug/25/activist-syeda-hameed-faces-backlash-after-bangladeshis-can-live-in-assam-remarks

--------

Why D K Shivakumar singing RSS anthem points to Congress’s ideological dilemma in Karnataka

JOHNSON T.A.

August 25, 2025

“This is a society in which no single caste can be dominant and the source of any kind of power will have to be some form of multi caste alliance,” political theorist K Raghavendra Rao noted about Karnataka in the 1983 book Shift in Indian Politics.

The book came at a time after the Congress Chief Minister Devaraj Urs (1972-1980) upended a traditional power alliance between dominant castes in the state — Lingayats, Vokkaligas, and Brahmins — and established a Congress base among the backward castes (OBCs), Scheduled Caste (SC) groups, and Muslims.

While the Congress’s vote base expanded beyond dominant castes during the Urs period, there has been a growing sense in the party in recent times, especially among younger leaders and following the rise of the BJP on the Hindutva plank in the 1990s, that the social justice plank alone will not help it win Assembly elections in the future.

There is a constant ideological struggle within the state Congress at present on whether the party should rely only on its tried-and-trusted vote base or attempt the Hindutva game played by the BJP, which has ruled the state twice since 2008.

Many of the older generation Congress leaders, who draw their support from the backward castes, Dalits, and minorities, believe the party will end up diluting its social justice and secular credentials if it were to dabble in Hindutva politics. At the same time, there is also a new generation of leaders who do not have any clear mass base among the socially backward who believe that mimicking the BJP will not hurt the Congress on account of the vote base the party has established starting in the 1980s.

Many Congress leaders believe that one of the underlying truths of the electoral math in Karnataka is that to win a clear majority of 113 in the 224-member Assembly, the party needs the support of at least one of the dominant communities: the Lingayats or the Vokkaligas who have drifted to the BJP.

Since 1999, the Congress has been the only one to win a clear majority in Karnataka (1999: 132 seats; 2013:122 seats, and 2023:135 seats). The BJP has come close (2008: 110 seats; 2018: 104) but has not won an outright majority. The last time a non-Congress party won a clear majority was in 1994, when the then united Janata Dal bagged 115 constituencies.

A lot of the politics in Karnataka in recent weeks has to be seen through the context of the Congress’s need to ensure that its traditional vote base does not drift towards the BJP and the dominant communities that tend to feel the pull of the BJP do not perceive it as being anti-Hindu or opposed to them in the long run.

Recent decisions by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, 77 — fulfilling a long-pending wish of a section of Dalits for internal reservations, passing a Bill for the protection of the shepherd community to which the CM belongs, and the constant outreach towards Muslims — are all seen as part of the Congress’s efforts to retain its vote base.

On the other hand, the actions of Deputy CM and state Congress president D K Shivakumar, 63, to speak the Hindutva language are seen as efforts to say the Congress is not anti-Hindu as portrayed by the BJP during the Dharmasthala temple town imbroglio. Shivakumar has questioned people who sought an investigation into alleged murky events in Dharmasthala and last week sang the RSS anthem in the state legislature.

Siddaramaiah’s moves

Although a Karnataka Socio Economic and Educational Caste survey report of 2015 to establish the numbers and reservations for the backward castes in the state, Siddaramaiah had commissioned, was nixed by the Congress high command for being outdated (following the objections of some OBC groups), the CM enjoys widespread support among his own sizable Kuruba OBC group and Muslims.

On August 20, on the occasion of the 110th birth anniversary of Devaraj Urs, the Siddaramaiah Cabinet approved a long-pending demand for an internal reservation system for the 17% Dalits in the state. The Congress had promised to provide these internal quotas ahead of the 2023 state polls after Siddaramaiah hesitated in his first tenure from 2013 to 2018.

The following day, the legislature passed the Karnataka Traditional Migratory Shepherds (Welfare measures and protection against atrocities) Bill, 2025. It was part of an assurance the CM had given to the backward community of shepherds (Kurubas) to which he belongs.

Earlier this year, the government had also passed legislation to provide 4% reservation to Muslims in government contracts, with a value of up to Rs 2 crore.

Shivakumar’s signals

Shivakumar who has never been averse to displaying his faith and religiosity in public, with numerous visits to temples and religious leaders, has continued to display his religious streak in recent weeks.

The first instance was when he took cudgels for the administration of the Dharmasthala Temple in Dakshina Kannada district amid an investigation, ordered by the Congress government itself, into alleged secret burials and secondly by singing the RSS theme song in the legislature.

“The Dharmadhikari of Dharmasthala is doing yeoman service, we have no doubt about it. Someone has alleged crimes due to an internal feud. When many complaints have come, the home minister or the government can’t ignore them. We believe in the holiness of Dharmasthala more than you,” Shivakumar told the Assembly.

“A conspiracy has been hatched to destroy hundreds of years of legacy. It is not correct to tarnish someone just like that. It has all happened due to one complainant … Many members have spoken about this issue. I have told them that action must be taken against those who are misleading the investigation. The CM has also said action must be taken. Dharma must not be tarnished. Culprits must be punished,” he said.

On August 21, Home Minister G Parameshwara was responding to a discussion on the stampede at M Chinnaswamy stadium in June when BJP leader R Ashok reminded Shivakumar that he had once worn the RSS uniform. The Deputy CM then responded by reciting a few lines of “Namaste Sada Vatsale”, the Sangh anthem. This created a furore on social media.

This row came amid the Congress dilemma on following a soft-Hindutva policy. “While Rahul Gandhi makes no qualms about targeting RSS as an ideological opponent, some of our leaders are practising a softer version of Hindutva. This is a headache,” a minister said.

Shivakumar responded by stating, “My blood is Congress and my life is Congress .. I am given the responsibility of leading the party in the state and I firmly stand with the party.”

“There is no question of my joining hands directly or indirectly (with the BJP). I keep researching the BJP and JD(S) as a political leader. Similarly, I have researched the RSS too,” he said.

“I may have political differences, but as a political leader, it is important to understand who my friends and foes are. I have learnt about RSS history for the same reason. Any organisation will have some positives and we need to observe and study them,” Shivakumar said.

Given Shivakumar’s tussle with Siddaramaiah since 2023 for the CM’s post and efforts to become the CM by the end of the year, his singing of the Hindutva tune has been seen in some quarters as a hint to moving on from the Congress if he were continuously denied access to the top job.

Source: indianexpress.com

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

https://indianexpress.com/article/political-pulse/why-d-k-shivakumar-singing-rss-anthem-points-to-congresss-ideological-dilemma-in-karnataka-10210146/

-------

Asaduddin Owaisi at Idea Exchange: ‘For so-called secular parties, we are only good for iftar parties, Ajmer chadar… (today) anyone can marginalise the Muslim community’

August 25, 2025

AIMIM Party Chief and MP Asaduddin Owaisi on allegations of vote chori, Modi 3.0 and lack of Muslim leadership at the national level. The conversation was moderated by Manoj CG, Chief of Bureau (Politics), The Indian Express.

Manoj CG: On the last day of the Monsoon session, except for the debate on Operation Sindoor, there was not much business. The disruptions continue while the government passes bills without taking question hours or where the MPs have an opportunity to grill the government.

If the Parliament functions, it is good for our democracy. We owe our duty to the people of India who voted for us and made us MPs. So the Opposition has a very important role to play in asking pointed questions to the government and exposing it. And if Parliament doesn’t function, the biggest beneficiary is the ruling party. But sometimes the Opposition will have to oppose certain important issues even if the government does not want to debate. When this discussion on Operation Sindoor took place, after all the debates and speeches, the government was on the backfoot. It was unable to answer certain questions. It is unfortunate that Parliament has not functioned and this government has an expertise in passing important bills in the dead of the night because of their majority.

Manoj CG: Do you see any difference in Modi 3.0 in Parliament?

There’s no difference whether it is 2014, 2019 or 2024. They are as aggressive in terms of implementing their ideology and achieving their Hindutva goals. The reason is that the parties that are supporting the BJP, whether it is TDP, JDU, Chirag Paswan’s party( (Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas)) — they are not able to establish their importance. That is why BJP feels that it can go ahead. In fact, I read today that even their allies didn’t know that they were going to bring those three bills.

Manoj CG: You were one of the MPs who raised objections to the introduction of the three bills — The Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, Government of Union Territories (Amendment) Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill. What are your main concerns?

This practice of sending bills to the MPs at12.30 am should change. To sit and read and then speak to some lawyers who know what it is and then file a notice to oppose their introduction — it becomes very difficult. But the important thing, for which I had given a notice to oppose, was that this violates the theory of separation of powers. The Executive would be taking over the role of Legislature. These three bills are making the Executive very powerful. Secondly, it undermines our democracy, wherein as a minister one is answerable to the people of that state. Now here you are answerable to, what I call the unelected dictators — the bureaucrats. And thirdly, can any state government take a decision, which, in their opinion, is a populist decision? The bureaucrats will refuse. And lastly, you have Article 74(1) in the Constitution that says that the President should act on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers. The Constitution says this. This bill says that the President can remove the PM. And wherever the governor is appointed by the Executive and any decision which any government takes, which is unpalatable to the Executive, then you have ED, CBI, IT entering into it. The main heads of all these organisations are appointed by the Executive. So you can expect disaster. This was the 1933 Gestapo moment in Indian political history.

Vikas Pathak: There is a line of thought that Muslims in India feel cornered but your politics ends up in seats where Muslims are in good population and divides the Muslim vote. Do you agree?

No, I am ready to debate with anyone who is making this claim. How is it that my contesting is helping X or Y? It has no role. The data tells you that the NDA Alliance is getting 50 per cent of the polled Hindu votes. Muslims are not only marginalised socially and educationally but also politically. The real question is how do you stop BJP from getting that much of the majority community votes? It is not me but if they want to give me the credit, I am ready to accept it because that makes me more important in Indian politics. But the real issue is this: even in Seemanchal last time, we were part of this alliance with Babu Singh Kushwaha. We were given 19 seats. We won five. In the remaining six, the RJD alliance won. And even if you add up the votes which our candidate got, that would not have helped the NDA alliance.The remaining nine were won by the NDA alliance. Our votes would not have really helped the RJD alliance to win. Now we have this debate about chori. Who stole my four MLAs? And when the same thing happened to the Shiv Sena and then in Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, it was called a murder of democracy. But you take away my four MLAs. Is that an act of Gandhianism?

Asaduddin Owaisi ‘Muslims are not only marginalised socially and educationally but also politically’

Asad Rehman: Rahul Gandhi has been raising allegations of vote chori. There was a large protest in Delhi. Where is your party on these allegations?

Our state president in Bihar, Akhtarul Iman, is a petitioner in the Supreme Court. Before the campaign started, all Opposition parties, including the BJP candidate and some Congress leaders, went to the Election Commission (EC) and said that in Hyderabad Parliament constituency and one Assembly segment, where our MLA was there, these things have happened. So the EC took the media to three places with video cameras. There were more than 96 per cent voters living there and EC wrote a letter saying that you have given a false complaint. So I used that letter in the election campaign to show them what they are doing. If SIR (Special Intensive Revision) happens and if names of genuine voters are not included, then there will be questions raised about their citizenship. If you read the instructions given by the EC to Electoral Registration Officer (ERO), they are that if you find someone suspicious or you don’t find them after three visits, you give it to the ERO and he in turn can inform the competent authority under the Citizenship Act 1955. So, for me, SIR is important. And our experience of Bihar tells us that the majority of Muslim names are being excluded or not included. That is very worrisome.

Jatin Anand: You were part of the international delegations post Operation Sindoor. There have been questions on whether India was able to sustain the narrative of war against Pakistan after the Pahalgam attack.

Indian government should have spoken to international journalists immediately after May 7. They didn’t do it for reasons better known to them. The delegation, which I was part of, was headed by Baijayant Panda and wherever we went — from Bahrain and Kuwait to Saudi Arabia and Algeria — we were very well received. All these countries were telling us, why don’t you speak to Pakistan? So we told them that we had spoken to them in the past — after 26/11 and then during the attack on Air Force base (2016 Pathankot attack). In fact, I criticised the PM for inviting ISI to the air base but nothing came out. I cannot speak of the others but in our delegation, we were successful in putting forward India’s viewpoint.

On the recent bills | These three Bills are making the Executive very powerful, violating the principle of separation of powers, which is part of the basic structure… I feel this was the 1933 Gestapo moment in Indian political history

Deeptiman Tiwary: Most parties, in the past 10 years, have been shy of talking about Muslims. Do you think BJP’s Hindu politics has changed Hindi heartland’s minority politics? Or has talking about minorities become difficult for mainstream parties?

This whole politics, unfortunately, didn’t start from 2014. It has always been there. But after 2014, it took a very definite and concrete shape. So in the present political environment, many parties who call themselves secular are very reluctant to talk about the issues pertaining to the biggest minority of this country. And you don’t find them talking about the verdict that came on the train blast. In fact, some leaders of the Congress party said that the government should appeal. You don’t find them talking about the second Malegaon verdict or the recent Nagpur exoneration of those eight youths. If you are reluctant to talk about injustice, then it shows what kind of politics you are doing. It’s not a question of marginality. You don’t talk about Muslims because you might antagonise and will not get the majority community vote. But if you are not talking about injustice, then what do you stand for?

Deeptiman Tiwary: Why hasn’t an enlightened Muslim leadership risen at the national level?

How do you make a leadership? You make leadership by encouraging the community. Whether it is upper caste leadership, Dalit leadership, backward class leadership, the parties encourage them. You bring them to the forefront. But if you don’t do it, BJP will never do it. They don’t even have a Muslim MP. The other parties have only made us showboys. We are only there to show that these people are secular. And we are only good for holding iftar parties, taking a chadar of flowers to Ajmer Sharif. We have been reduced to this symbolism. That is why I had said in UP ‘Kab tak aap dari bichhayenge? Neta baniye’ (Till when will you lay out the durries? Become a leader). No one wants to. When I talk of political empowerment of Muslims, it is looked at in a very weird way. Why is it that you have fewer number of Muslim MPs? It is not because of Muslims who don’t have enlightened leadership, it is because some people are not enlightened in terms of accepting the spirit of the Constitution.They have forgotten the independence struggle. We are living in an age wherein anyone can discard, marginalise the Muslim community.

Liz Mathew: What do you make of India’s response to Gaza’s situation?

We are just keeping quiet. This Modi-led government is not condemning Israel’s killing of over 62,000 Palestinians. You have 20,000 children who are dead over there. Every day people are shot just because they are going to collect food and not a single word is uttered by the PM or by his government. And then you stand up and say, we stand for a two-state solution. If they come out openly and condemn it, which other global south countries have done, then that would be a great change. But if you want the global south to listen to India, then you have to also listen to what they are doing. Now is the time for Mr Modi to be on the right side of history.

Asaduddin Owaisi ‘This Modi-led government is not condemning Israel’s killing of over 62,000 Palestinians. You have 20,000 children who are dead over there’

Aakash Joshi: What do you make of the relative silence of the national parties on the Bangladeshis issue, where a poor Bengali, often Muslim, is picked up without due process.

Why are we keeping that deposed leader in our country? Send her back. We will then have good relations with the present regime. You have these poor Bengali-speaking Indians who happened to be from Malda or Murshidabad, who were put on an aircraft and sent from Pune to Kolkata airport and then they were dumped in no man’s land. And what right does the police have? Anyone who speaks Bengali becomes a Bangladeshi? This shows the xenophobia which has penetrated.

Shahid Pervez: After Pahalgam attack, many of your statements on Pakistan went viral and various quarters on the Right started seeing you in a new light. Why do you think this happened?

You don’t speak for a country so that some Johnny would like you. You don’t speak against a barbaric attack, which happened in Pahalgam, to appease some leader or some organisation. But if this brings them to, ‘Oh, we didn’t know this side of him’, I cannot blame them. In 2012-13, too, I was part of a delegation which went to Pakistan along with Mani Shankar Aiyar and Yashwant Sinha. And in that group, there was Kirti Azad, who was in the BJP then; Supriya Sule was there. We said the same thing in Pakistan. Now they have been hating me for opposing the Bill. In a democracy, everyone has the right to criticise.

On developing muslim leadership | You make leadership by encouraging the community. You bring them to the forefront. But if you don’t do it, BJP will never do it. They don’t even have a Muslim MP

Vandita Mishra: The BJP’s majoritarian politics excludes minorities in a very real sense, but what about the hesitation of the so-called secular parties in speaking up?

The so-called secular parties have just abdicated their responsibility. They have realised that we should talk less about Muslims and more about development issues and progress. How do you accept the marginalisation of 15-16 per cent of the population and talk about progress? The problem is with the Muslim community as well. They should do a political suicide by not voting for this party completely. Because even if you vote for them, BJP is still winning or some communal guy is still winning. Muslims should realise enough is enough, You have to assert yourself and assertion does not mean helping the BJP. It means that you believe in the constitutional message that you must attain your rights. You have to achieve those liberties, that objective of fraternity, justice, equality. No one is going to come and give it to you on a platter.

Asaduddin Owaisi

Vandita Mishra: Whenever an election comes around, there is a conspiracy theory about you helping the BJP.

I want to ask them: give me proof. During elections, there are many theories which suddenly emanate and these theories start 48 hours before the polling day. How long can one talk about this nonsense when the reality is completely different?

Shalini Langer: The new NCERT module holds Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Congress and Lord Mountbatten responsible for Partition. Why is Partition still a debate?

The BJP uses Partition because they don’t have a single individual who participated in the freedom movement. They can’t show one photograph, one name. They’re very good at appropriating Subhash Chandra Bose and Baba Saheb Ambedkar. Ninety per cent Muslims didn’t have the right to vote. It is only the jagirdar or the zamindars who did. To blame Partition on Muslims is completely wrong. That’s why I said I’m going to write a letter to the NCERT that please include Shamsul Islam’s book, Muslims Against Partition, so that people know how Partition really happened. We lost one million lives. RSS has nothing to show. Yes, that country (Pakistan) was given a religion, but this country stood for pluralism and diversity.

Sameeksha Mishra: BJP often talks of appeasement politics . How does one talk about rights of the Muslim community but also not give in to their narrative of appeasement politics?

BJP does not believe in any kind of justice to the Muslim community because of their ideology of Hindutva. How you deflate this argument and expose BJP is by giving empirical evidence. For example, what the PM said about infiltration. Demography is changing. It’s completely rubbish. The population decadal growth in Bihar and Assam is lower than the state… In one place it’s lower than the national decadal population growth. They refuse to give a number on infiltration. How is it that Muslim numbers have increased in self-employement and have come down in labour? So one will have to speak and expose BJP.

Source: indianexpress.com

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

https://indianexpress.com/article/idea-exchange/asaduddin-owaisi-at-idea-exchange-for-so-called-secular-parties-we-are-only-good-for-iftar-parties-ajmer-chadar-today-anyone-can-marginalise-the-muslim-community-10209185/

------
J&K: Half-a-dozen drones from Pakistan sighted near LoC; believed to be launched for surveillance

Aug 25, 2025

NEW DELHI: Security forces on Monday launched a search operation after sighting half-a-dozen drones from Pakistan over several forward areas along the Line of Control.

According to officials, the movement of the drones from across the border was picked up over Balakote, Langote and Gursai nallah in Mendhar sector at 9.15 pm on Sunday.

The drones which is believed to be launched for surveillance, were seen flying very high and returned to the Pakistani side within five minutes.

However, the area was cordoned off and a search was launched with the first light of the day in several areas where the movement of the drones was picked up to ensure that there was no air dropping of weapons or narcotics, the officials said.

Source: indiatimes.com

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

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/jk-half-a-dozen-drones-from-pakistan-sighted-near-loc-believed-to-be-launched-for-surveillance/articleshow/123499236.cms

--------
Fresh FIR against Chhangur Baba and 13 others for rape, wrongful confinement

August 25, 2025

Around a month after the Anti Terrorism Squad (ATS) of UP Police arrested 65-year-old Jamaluddin alias Chhangur Baba for running an anti-conversion racket, Kushinagar police on Sunday lodged a fresh case against him and 13 others on charges of rape, wrongful confinement, and violation of the anti-conversion law.

Chhangur Baba, a resident of Balarampur, is currently in jail.

Police said the fresh case was lodged after a woman, who belongs to the Hindu community, alleged that she was sexually assaulted by Chhangur Baba and forcefully converted to Islam before she was married off to a Muslim man.

“The medical examination of the victim and her statement before a magistrate are yet to be conducted, and no arrests have been made so far in the case,” the local station officer said, adding that the alleged offences occurred over eight years, from 2017 to 2025.

According to police, the woman alleged that she first came in contact with one Rafi Khan in 2017, who sexually exploited her. Rafi then introduced her to one Naushad Khan, also known as Nata Nawab, who “lured her with promises of marriage”. “The woman alleged that Naushad and his associates took her to Balrampur, where she was forced to embrace Islam by Neetu and Jamaluddin (Chhangur Baba), and her marriage to Naushad was solemnised,” said the officer.

Police said the woman said that she moved to Mumbai with Naushad, where she was “repeatedly raped and subjected to sexual acts against her will”.

“Naushad then brought her back to Kushinagar and left her at the house of another accused, who arranged work for her. She alleged that this man also sexually assaulted her. The woman accused more men of sexual violence before she managed to escape and move to another location,” the officer added.

According to police, she earlier went to a local police station to seek help, but the officer was reportedly close to the accused and handed her complaint to them. “She was assaulted and left for dead. After regaining consciousness and fearing further victimisation and lack of police support, she did not immediately return to the police station. She has now lodged the complaint,” the officer said.

Source: indianexpress.com

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

https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/lucknow/fresh-fir-against-chhangur-baba-and-13-others-for-rape-wrongful-confinement-10209178/

-------

Why AAP has stepped up Hindu outreach in Punjab: Promising Temple Act to setting up caste boards

KANCHAN VASDEV

August 24, 2025

With the BJP registering a steady increase in vote share across Punjab, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has shifted its focus to reaching out to Hindus in the state.

In its bid to expand its footprint among Hindus, the AAP has promised to enact a Hindu Temple Act and launched a Sanatan Seva Samiti headed by Hindu leader Deepak Bali. The party has also been running other faith-based initiatives apart from handing over the reins of the state unit to a Hindu face, Aman Arora. Arora was picked to lead the state unit last November, marking a departure from the party’s stance of appointing a Sikh at the helm in Punjab.

These moves come after the AAP saw its vote share dip to 26.2% in last year’s Lok Sabha elections from the 42% it secured in the 2022 Assembly polls. In contrast, the BJP’s vote share grew from 6.6% in 2022 to 18% in the Lok Sabha polls. “Since then, the AAP has been trying to woo the Hindu voter base as it is confident that it can depend on rural voters,” an AAP leader said.

“The efforts are seen as calculated moves ahead of the 2027 Assembly polls and are intended to chip away at the BJP’s gains among the Hindus while tackling anti-incumbency. The BJP’s good showing has heightened the jostling to consolidate Hindu votes,” a source said.

According to the 2011 Census, Sikhs make up 57.69% of Punjab’s population while Hindus, Muslims, and Christians account for 38.49%, 1.93% and 1.26% of the population, respectively.

What the party has been doing

In May, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said his government would soon enact the Hindu Temple Act, a law that will give Hindu temples the right to manage their own affairs without government “interference”. If enforced, the law will fulfill a long-pending demand of the state Hindu Welfare Board.

The CM’s announcement came after chairman of the board Mahant Ravikant Muni repeatedly raised the demand. This move was widely seen as a strategic attempt to extend AAP’s appeal among Hindu voters, particularly in urban centers such as Amritsar, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, and Patiala, where mismanagement of temple affairs has been a long-standing grievance.

Source: indianexpress.com

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

https://indianexpress.com/article/political-pulse/temple-act-caste-boards-aap-stepped-up-hindu-outreach-punjab-10208387/

-----

Supreme Court stays trial against Ashoka University professor over Operation Sindoor post

25.08.25

The Supreme Court on Monday restrained the trial court from taking cognisance of the chargesheet filed against Ashoka University professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad for his social media posts on Operation Sindoor.

The bench of Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi also told Haryana Police's Special Investigation Team (SIT) that it cannot frame charges against the professor till the next hearing.

The Haryana police told the court that it had filed a closure report in one of the cases filed against Mahmudabad, as reported by multiple websites.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Mahmudabad, termed the filing of the chargesheet as "most unfortunate" and said they have booked him under section 152 of BNS (sedition), whose validity is under challenge.

The bench asked Sibal to go through the chargesheet and prepare a chart of the alleged offences, saying it would consider the submissions on the next date of hearing.

The top court noted that in one FIR against Mahmudabad, a closure report has been filed and directed for quashing all the proceedings related to the case.

On May 21, the top court had granted interim bail to the professor but refused to stay the investigation against him. It had directed the setting up of a three-member SIT to look into the FIRs lodged against him.

"He will not write any article or online post or deliver any speech related to the case, he won't comment on the April 22 Pahalgam attack or Operation Sindoor, and he will surrender his passport," the top court said in its earlier order.

Haryana police had arrested Mahmudabad, associate professor of Political Science at Ashoka University, on May 18 after the state women’s commission summoned him over a Facebook post commenting on the media coverage of Operation Sindoor.

Ashoka University had distanced itself from the views of the professor. “Comments made by a faculty member on his personal social media pages do not represent the opinion of the university,” the statement read.

The charges against him include sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) that relate to inciting communal disharmony, rebellion and insulting religious beliefs, a move that has triggered outrage across academic and activist circles.

Here's what Mahmudabad had written on Facebook: “Lastly, I am very happy to see so many right wing commentators applauding Colonel Sophia Qureishi but perhaps they could also equally loudly demand that the victims of mob lynchings, arbitrary bulldozing and others who are victims of the BJP’s hate mongering be protected as Indian citizens. The optics of two women soldiers presenting their findings is important but optics must translate to reality on the ground otherwise it’s just hypocrisy.”

He added: “Perhaps they could also equally loudly demand that the victims of mob lynchings, arbitrary bulldozing and others who are victims of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s hate mongering be protected as Indian citizens.”

The Haryana State Commission for Women had accused him of “disparaging women officers in the Indian armed forces” and “promoting communal disharmony”.

Since his arrest, more than 1,100 people, including noted academics, historians, filmmakers, and rights activists, have signed a petition demanding the withdrawal of the summons and an apology from the commission.

Source: telegraphindia.com

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

https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/sc-stays-trial-in-the-case-filed-against-ashoka-university-professor-over-operation-sindoor-post/cid/2119640

-------

Despite Indus Waters Treaty freeze, India shares flood warning with Pakistan

25.08.25

India has alerted Pakistan about a potential flood in the Tawi River, a media report said on Monday, even as the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) remains in abeyance following the Pahalgam terror attack.

Citing official sources, The News reported that India has contacted Pakistan to share information about possible flooding.

There has been no official confirmation regarding the development by either India or Pakistan. Usually, such inputs are shared through the Indus Water Commissioner.

Citing sources, the paper claimed that India has alerted Pakistan about a possible major flood in the Tawi River in Jammu. The Indian High Commission in Islamabad conveyed the alert on Sunday, it added.

It is the first major contact of its kind since the Pakistan-India conflict in May, the paper said, citing sources.

Pakistani authorities have issued warnings based on the information provided by India, it added.

A day after the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, India took a series of punitive measures against Pakistan that included putting the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 in "abeyance".

The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank, has governed the distribution and use of the Indus River and its tributaries between India and Pakistan since 1960.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has warned of heavy rains across most parts of the Pakistan until August 30.

The NDMA warning comes as the country reels from earlier monsoon spells from June 26 to August 20, that claimed over 788 lives and 1,018 injuries as of Saturday.

Source: telegraphindia.com

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

https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/despite-indus-waters-treaty-freeze-india-shares-flood-warning-in-tawi-river-with-pakistan/cid/2119620

-------

Himanta accuses activist, Congress, foreign elements of bid to destabilise Assam

Aug 25, 2025

GUWAHATI: Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accused activist Harsh Mander, Congress, Jamaat-e-Islami-Hind, a senior advocate, and "people from Pakistan and Bangladesh" of attempting to destabilise the state."Some people have been visiting different parts of the state since Saturday to spread unrest. Their movements are under strict watch to ensure they do not succeed the way they did during NRC," he said Sunday in Margherita, where an eviction drive is planned amid reports of 10,000-12,000 unidentified settlers.

He alleged these groups aim to paint legal eviction drives as a "humanitarian crisis" and vowed, "No propaganda or pressure will stop us from protecting our land and culture. We must remain united to defeat this conspiracy."

BJP demanded the arrest of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind functionary Mahmood Madani, accusing him of "insulting" the Assamese community by allegedly comparing state-led eviction drives with the Israel-Palestine conflict in Gaza.

BJP state spokesperson Jayanta Kumar Goswami said Madani's remark was "an attack on the self-respect of the Assamese people" and claimed that Madani was viewing Assam's land issues solely "through the lens of the Muslim community". He urged state police to arrest Madani and ensure "appropriate punishment for his anti-Assam remarks".

Goswami also took a swipe at the opposition, saying if a future govt involving Congress, AIUDF, Raijor Dal and Asom Jatiya Parishad took office, Madani could emerge as a key advisor and "facilitate the dominance of infiltrators over indigenous Assamese Hindus, Muslims and Indian-origin citizens".

Chief minister Sarma called the eviction push essential for protecting Assamese identity and land rights of indigenous groups.

Assam has carried out a series of high-intensity land-clearing operations - framed by govt as an anti-encroachment campaign and by critics as mass displacement before assembly polls in 2026.

On Aug 17, 175 bighas of grazing land in Biswanath district were cleared, displacing more than 300 families. Violence flared on July 17 in Goalpara's Paikan reserve forest, where a 19-year-old youth was killed after more than 2,500 homes and eight mosques were razed.

Source: indiatimes.com

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

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/himanta-accuses-activist-congress-foreign-elements-of-bid-to-destabilise-assam/articleshow/123489924.cms

------

New book highlights Shabbir Ali’s political journey

Aug 25, 2025

Hyderabad: From setting up the country's first minority welfare department in 1993 to piloting the 4% Muslim reservation in Telangana, senior Congress leader Mohammed Ali Shabbir's political journey is the subject of a new book, ‘Loyalty & Legacy: 45 Years with Congress Party', released in Hyderabad on Saturday night.

The book, launched by chief minister A Revanth Reddy, narrates how Ali began his journey as a Youth Congress and NSUI activist, served as a minister twice under three chief ministers, and now acts as an advisor to the Telangana govt.

"Ali's second term as minister, from 2004 to 2009, proved to be one of the most productive phases in minority welfare," the book reads. "In just 58 days after returning to power in 2004, the Congress govt issued an order granting 5% reservation for Muslims, later readjusted to 4% after judicial scrutiny. This became a turning point in access to education and jobs for backward sections of the Muslim community."

It also talks about the Congress leader's journey in opposition, touting him as one of the most vocal critics of anti-people policies, regularly raising issues of minority welfare, farmers' distress, and governance failures.

Reddy lauded Ali as a pillar of the Congress in Telangana, and said his loyalty and service were exemplary.

Source: indiatimes.com

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

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/new-book-highlights-shabbir-alis-political-journey/articleshow/123488786.cms

--------

Mumbai court accepts police closure report in Islam Gymkhana molestation case

Aug 24, 2025

The Metropolitan Magistrate’s Court at Esplanade, Mumbai, this week accepted a B Summary report filed by the Marine Drive police, effectively closing the molestation and harassment case reported by a woman member of Islam Gymkhana in October 2022.

A B Summary is a closure report indicating that the police have found the complaint to be frivolous, false, or malicious, stating that no offense was committed by the accused or anyone else, thereby negating the merit of the case.

The Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate, K S Zanwar, had received the police report on May 6, 2023, and subsequently issued notices to the complainant to file any protest petition against the closure.

However, the court noted that despite repeated summons dated July 20 and August 8, the complainant neither appeared in court nor responded via video conferencing, nor did she file any protest petition. Accordingly, the court allowed the police closure report.

The complainant had alleged that on the evening of October 21, 2022, at around 7:40 pm, while she was changing in the spa’s changing room at Islam Gymkhana, one of the accused entered forcibly, pushed her, and verbally abused her and her father. She claimed that another accused also misbehaved and pushed her. An FIR was registered under sections related to outraging the modesty of a woman, criminal intimidation, and related offenses.

Sunil Pandey, advocate representing Islam Gymkhana, stated that the complaint was politically motivated, coinciding with the gymkhana elections. He added that a special committee headed by former Bombay High Court judge Justice Abhay Thipsay had conducted an inquiry, which supported the police’s findings.

Investigating Officer Ankita Mane’s B summary report highlighted serious contradictions in the complainant’s statements, discrepancies with CCTV footage, and the absence of corroborative witness testimonies. The report noted it would have been difficult for the accused to enter the locked changing room forcibly.

Statements were recorded from several gymkhana members and staff, including the general manager, coordinator, receptionist, and cleaning staff, all of whom denied witnessing any assault. Instead, they said the complainant and her father remained in the spa room for an extended period, insisting on using the jacuzzi, while other members repeatedly requested them to leave.

The CCTV footage provided by the gymkhana showed the complainant calmly sitting in the spa room and later exiting while conversing with others, including the accused, contradicting the allegations.

Source: indiatoday.in

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

https://www.indiatoday.in/india/law-news/story/mumbai-court-accepts-police-closure-report-in-islam-gymkhana-molestation-case-2776063-2025-08-24

-------

Mideast

Israel strikes on Yemeni capital Sanaa kill six, wound 86

August 24, 2025

SANAA/TEL AVIV: Israeli airstrikes hit Yemen’s capital on Sunday, days after the Houthi rebels fired a missile toward Israel that its military described as the first cluster bomb the rebels had launched at it since 2023.

The Iranian-backed Houthis said multiple areas across Sanaa were hit, while the Houthi-run health ministry said six people were killed and 86 others were wounded.

The rebels’ Al-Masirah satellite television reported a strike on an oil company, and video on social media showed a fireball erupting there.

The strikes are the latest in over a year of direct attacks and counterstrikes between Israel and Houthi militants in Yemen, part of a spillover from the war in Gaza.

Israel’s military said it struck the Asar and Hizaz power plants, calling them “a significant electricity supply facility for military activities,” along with a military site where the presidential palace is located.

Sanaa residents told The Associated Press they heard explosions close to a closed military academy and the presidential palace. They saw plumes of smoke near Sabeen Square, a central gathering place in the capital.

“The sounds of explosions were very strong,” said Hussein Mohamed, who lives close to the presidential palace.

Ahmed Al-Mekhlafy said he felt the sheer force of the strikes. “The house was rocked, and the windows were shattered,” he told the AP by phone.

“The strikes were conducted in response to repeated attacks by the Houthi terrorist regime against the State of Israel and its civilians, including the launching of surface-to-surface missiles and UAVs toward Israeli territory in recent days,” the Israeli military said in a statement.

On Friday, the Houthis said they had fired a ballistic missile toward Israel in their latest attack, which they said was in support of Palestinians in Gaza. An Israeli Air Force official said on Sunday the missile most likely carried several sub-munitions “intended to be detonated upon impact.”

“This is the first time that this kind of missile has been launched from Yemen,” the official said.

Since Israel’s war in Gaza against the Palestinian militant group Hamas began in October 2023, the Iran-aligned Houthis have attacked vessels in the Red Sea in what they describe as acts of solidarity with the Palestinians.

They have also frequently fired missiles toward Israel, most of which have been intercepted. Israel has responded with strikes on Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen, including the vital Hodeidah port.

Unfazed

Abdul Qader Al-Murtada, a senior Houthi official, said on Sunday the Houthis, who control much of Yemen’s population, would continue to act in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.

“(Israel) must know that we will not abandon our brothers in Gaza, whatever the sacrifices,” he said on X.

Nasruddin Amer, deputy head of the Houthi media office, also vowed that the militia will continue its attacks on Israel, writing on social media that “our military operations supporting Gaza won’t stop, God willing, unless the aggression is stopped, and the siege is lifted.”

The Israeli strikes were the first to hit Yemen since a week ago, when Israel said it targeted energy infrastructure it believed was used by the rebels.

The latest strikes follow the Houthis’ claim of launching a newly equipped missile toward Israel on Friday, targeting the country’s largest airport, Ben Gurion. There was no reported damage or injuries. Israel’s military said it fragmented mid-air after several interception attempts.

An Israeli Air Force official, speaking on condition of anonymity in line with military regulations, called Friday’s projectile a new threat — a cluster munition, meant to detonate into multiple explosives on impact.

The use of cluster bombs makes interception more difficult and represents additional technology provided to the Houthis by Iran, the official asserted.

The official also said over 10 Israeli fighter jets carried out Sunday’s strikes.

Defense Minister Israel Katz said in a statement that Israel continues to “impose an air and naval blockade,” without details. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in televised remarks that the rebel group is “paying a heavy price for its aggression.”

Houthi attacks over the past two years have upended shipping in the Red Sea, through which about $1 trillion of global goods passes each year. From November 2023 to December 2024, the Houthis targeted more than 100 commercial and naval ships with missiles and drones.

The rebels stopped the attacks during this year’s brief ceasefire in Gaza and later became the target of a weekslong airstrike campaign ordered by US President Donald Trump.

In May, the United States announced a deal with the Houthis to end the airstrikes in return for an end to attacks on shipping, although the rebels said the agreement did not include halting attacks on targets it believed were aligned with Israel.

Last month, the Houthis said they would target merchant ships belonging to any company that does business with Israeli ports, regardless of nationality, as part of what they called a new phase of operations against Israel.

In May, Israeli airstrikes hit the Sanaa airport in a rare daytime attack that destroyed the terminal and left craters in its runway. At least six passenger planes were hit, including three belonging to Yemenia Airways, according to airport authorities.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2612870/middle-east

--------
Frankly Speaking: How former Israeli PM Olmert views the war

August 24, 2025

RIYADH: Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has been outspoken in his criticism of Benjamin Netanyahu. While stopping short of accusing his successor of committing genocide, he has repeatedly said that what is happening in Gaza constitutes war crimes.

Speaking to Katie Jensen, host of the Arab News current affairs program “Frankly Speaking,” Olmert said that although Israel’s response was justified following the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack, the conflict had become untenable — and a “death trap for Israelis.”

“The whole war which started after the ... violation of the temporary ceasefire agreement in March of 2025 is an illegitimate war,” said Olmert, who served as prime minister from 2006 to 2009.

“And in the illegitimate war, which is opposed by the majority of the Israelis, over 70 percent, in which lots of Israeli soldiers will be killed, when there is a serious danger to the lives of the hostages, and there will be thousands of Palestinians killed for a war which has no objective, which can’t reach any goal, which will do nothing good for any party involved, such a war is a crime, and I’ve accused the Israeli government of doing it.”

He added that many Israelis now believe the war primarily serves Netanyahu’s personal interests rather than the families of the remaining hostages and the security of wider Israeli society.

“This is what everyone says in Israel now,” he said. “This is an unneeded and unnecessary war, that there is not any national interest of Israel which can be served by continuing the war. And therefore, the inevitable conclusion is that it serves the personal interests of the prime minister. This is something which has been said by everyone.

“Expanding the war now against Gaza, which is so densely populated with more than a million people and where Hamas is hiding inside the most densely populated areas with non-involved citizens, is a death trap for Israelis, for something which doesn’t serve any national interest is a crime, and you have to ask yourself: What does it serve? And therefore many people conclude that it serves a personal interest.”

When asked by Jensen whether he still believes Netanyahu belongs in The Hague to face war crimes charges, Olmert said he did not recall making such a statement. This is despite a widely shared clip from an interview with UK broadcaster Piers Morgan on June 2, in which Olmert was asked directly whether Netanyahu should face trial in The Hague.

“Look, there should be a voice. And if as a result of the fact that I was prime minister and I’m fairly well-known in the international community that people want to hear what I have to say, I have to say it. Yes,” Olmert told Morgan in the clip.

Although he now appears to have walked back those comments, Olmert did endorse describing Israel’s Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich as terrorists, calling them “messianic” and “extremists.”

Ben-Gvir has provoked outrage by leading Jewish prayers at Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque, violating long-standing agreements and drawing condemnation from Palestinian, Arab, and international leaders.

He has also advocated for Israeli sovereignty over Gaza, and promoting mass “voluntary” Palestinian emigration. Western governments have sanctioned him for incitement to violence and past criminal convictions for supporting terrorism and racism.

Smotrich, also sanctioned by Western states, has been criticized for inflammatory statements backing settlement expansion in the West Bank, incitement against Palestinians, and positions seen by EU partners and rights groups as undermining Palestinian rights and peace prospects.

Jensen teed up the issue with this question: “When we look at some of the comments from (Netanyahu’s) ministers, people like Smotrich, who said there is no such thing as Palestinian people — he stood under a map of ‘Greater Israel’ while saying that — he also said the Palestinian village of Huwara should be wiped out.

“Or comments from Ben-Gvir, who went on Israeli television and said his right to move freely in the West Bank is more important than Palestinians’ freedom of movement … If we consider these men’s words and actions, in your view, are these men terrorists?”

Olmert was unequivocal in his response.

“Look, this is an easy part of the question,” he said. “Yes, they are in a way in the sense that Ben-Gvir was convicted for taking part in what is considered to be terrorist actions in the past. But I think that this situation is more, somewhat more complex.

“Let’s face it. On one hand, there are these messianic groups, which are totally, totally unacceptable. For the majority of the Israelis, there’s no question about it. They are extreme, they are messianic.

“Yes, indeed, they want to expel all the Palestinians from the West Bank and annex the West Bank. And so they want to do it in Gaza. But I think that the majority of the Israelis are against it.”

Unlike Netanyahu, who has leaned into the rhetoric of his far-right ministers, Olmert said he would never have supported the notion of a “Greater Israel” — a political concept espoused by extremists that envisions expanding Israeli territory to include swathes of Palestine, Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, and even land between the Nile and the Euphrates.

Olmert warned that such rhetoric and policies were costing Israel friends and allies.

“There is a deep division between a major part of the public opinion, which is in favor of changing course, and a part which is now governed by the Netanyahus and the group of thugs which are known to be the cabinet ministers,” he said.

“Now, what they are doing, they are causing a very big damage to the reputation of the state of Israel, to the integrity of the state of Israel, and to the perception of what Israel stands for.

“And that causes a huge difficulty in the relations of Israel with the traditional friends of Israel, European countries, France, Germany, Great Britain, Canada, other countries. And it also creates difficulties that will become more and more difficult to deal with, with America.

“And unfortunately also it creates difficulties with our very important friends in Egypt and Jordan, and also in the Emirates. And it certainly prevents the possible movement towards a normalization process with Saudi Arabia.”

Netanyahu has faced corruption charges since 2019, including allegations of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. His trial, which began in 2020, has been repeatedly delayed on security grounds. He denies all charges.

There are also outstanding arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court against Netanyahu and his former defense minister, Yoav Gallant, relating to alleged war crimes in Gaza. Israel itself faces charges of genocide at the International Court of Justice.

Olmert himself resigned as prime minister in 2009 amid corruption allegations and was later convicted and imprisoned for bribery and breach of trust. Despite this, he insists his voice carries weight, arguing that most Israelis now oppose Netanyahu.

Indeed, mass demonstrations across Israel in recent weeks opposing an expansion of the war in Gaza highlight a dramatic shift in public attitudes toward the trajectory of the right-wing coalition government.

“Had I been prime minister, it would have been entirely different,” said Olmert. “I would have adopted what I represented at the time that I was prime minister, talking about the two-state solution, negotiating, (and) hopefully trying to force a Palestinian leadership to comply.”

Olmert said the failure of the Israeli-Palestinian peace process to date could not be blamed entirely on Israel. He recalled that during his tenure he had offered the Palestinians a state, but says they rejected the proposal.

“Let’s not forget that in 2008, 2009, when I was prime minister, I proposed to the president of the Palestinian Authority a comprehensive peace plan based on the (19)67 borders,” he said.

His plan included an Israeli withdrawal from much of the West Bank, land swaps for annexed settlements, a corridor linking Gaza and the West Bank, shared or international administration of Jerusalem’s holy sites, and the symbolic acceptance of a limited number of Palestinian refugees into Israel, with compensation and resettlement for the rest.

The Palestinians rejected the deal over concerns about the right of return, the rushed timetable for consideration, doubts over Olmert’s political survival, and dissatisfaction with the terms on Jerusalem and land allocation.

Regardless of fault, the repeated collapse of peace efforts in this period culminated in the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack and Israel’s ensuing war on Gaza, which has since killed at least 60,000 Palestinians and left the enclave devastated.

One of the war’s greatest scandals to date has been the creation of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation in early 2025. Critics have denounced the GHF for sidelining UN-led relief mechanisms in favor of a US- and Israeli-backed scheme that placed military personnel and private US contractors in charge of distributing aid in militarized zones.

Reports have documented hundreds of deaths and injuries among Palestinians seeking food at GHF aid sites. Groups including Medecins Sans Frontieres described the locations as scenes of “orchestrated killing” and demanded the program’s immediate suspension.

Olmert said he did not know whether Israelis had deliberately targeted civilians at GHF sites, but insisted it was Israel’s responsibility to feed Gazans.

“I think that there is a lot of fake information about precisely the circumstances regarding the humanitarian supplies and how Hamas is trying to provoke in order to reach out for food for their own needs, knowing that Hamas is not particularly careful about the lives of Palestinians and … how much is it a result of very unacceptable practices of Israeli soldiers. I don’t know,” he said.

“I say one thing and this is at the bottom line, which I think is what counts. Israel controls Gaza, we are in charge there. Therefore, it is incumbent upon Israel to provide the humanitarian needs in Gaza to everyone that needs it, effectively, comprehensively, and without the interference or the provocations of whoever wants to disturb it. This is our responsibility.”

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2612893/middle-east

-------

Israeli bulldozers uproot hundreds of trees in West Bank village

August 24, 2025

AL-MUGHAYYIR: Israeli bulldozers uprooted hundreds of trees in the West Bank village of Al-Mughayyir on Sunday in the presence of the Israeli military, according to journalists who witnessed the scene.

Most of the felled vegetation appeared to be olive trees, essential to the economy and culture of the West Bank, while olive groves have also long been a flashpoint for violent clashes between farmers and encroaching Israeli settlers.

Abdelatif Mohammed Abu Aliya, a local farmer from the village near Ramallah, said he lost olive trees that were over 70 years old on about one hectare of land.

“They completely uprooted and leveled them under false pretenses,” he said, explaining he and other residents had already begun replanting the pulled-up trees.

AFP photographers on the ground saw overturned soil, olive trees lying on the ground, and several bulldozers operating on the hills surrounding the village.

One bulldozer had an Israeli flag, and Israeli military vehicles were parked nearby.

“The goal is control and forcing people to leave. This is just the beginning — it will expand across the entire West Bank,” said Ghassan Abu Aliya, who leads a local agricultural association.

Residents said the bulldozing began on Thursday.

A Palestinian NGO reported 14 people had been arrested in the village over the past three days.

When asked about the incident, the Israeli army said they were looking into the matter.

In a statement, the army said it had arrested a man from Al-Mughayyir, accusing him of being “responsible for a terrorist attack” nearby.

On Aug. 16, the Palestinian Authority reported that an 18-year-old man had been shot and killed by the Israeli army in the same village.

The army said its forces responded to stones thrown by “terrorists” but did not directly link the incident to the young man’s death.

In a video widely circulated in Israeli media on Friday, a senior military commander refers to the attack in Al-Mughayyir and vows to make “every village and every enemy ... pay a heavy price” for attacks against Israelis.

Avi Bluth, the military’s top commander in the West Bank, says in the video that the villages of Palestinian attackers could face curfews, sieges, and terrain “shaping actions” with the aim of deterrence.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2612887/middle-east

--------
Jihad: Israeli aggression on Yemeni civilian sites backed by US

24 Aug 2025

The Islamic Jihad Movement in Palestine condemned the Israeli aggression on civilian facilities in Yemen on Sunday, describing it as a new war crime carried out with full US support.

In a statement, the movement praised the steadfastness of the Yemeni people and their armed forces. It stressed that Yemen’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people and efforts to end the blockade on Gaza make it a thorn in the side of Israeli ambitions in the region.

The movement expressed deep appreciation for the sacrifices of the Yemeni people and prayed for the swift recovery of the wounded.

It highlighted Yemen’s resilience and courage in confronting Israeli aggression, comparing it to its previous victories against American hostilities.

Source: saba.ye

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

https://www.saba.ye/en/news3540479.htm

-------
Jordan’s King Abdullah, foreign minister hold talks with US Congress delegation

August 24, 2025

AMMAN: Jordan’s King Abdullah II on Sunday received a US Congress delegation, which included Sen. Jeanne Shaheen and Rep. Joe Wilson, for talks on relations and regional developments, the Jordan News Agency reported.

The discussions focused on the strategic partnership between Jordan and the US, as well as joint efforts to achieve peace and stability in the Middle East, JNA added.

King Abdullah stressed to the delegation the urgent need to reach an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and ensure the flow of humanitarian aid by all possible means to all areas of the enclave.

He reiterated Jordan’s rejection of Israel’s plan to consolidate its occupation of Gaza, expand military control over it, and increase settlement activity in the West Bank.

The king also underlined the importance of supporting Palestinians in securing their just and legitimate rights, foremost the establishment of an independent state on the basis of the two-state solution.

He further reaffirmed Jordan’s support for Syria’s efforts to safeguard its security, stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

In a separate meeting, Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi held talks with Shaheen to also review regional developments.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2612886/middle-east

--------

President, cabinet members renew allegiance to Imam Khomeini

Aug 25, 2025

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and the members of the cabinet attended the mausoleum of the Founder of the Islamic Revolution in Iran, the late Imam Khomeini (RA), on Monday morning.

The Iranian president and ministers visited the Imam Khomeini mausoleum on the occasion of the beginning of the government week in Iran.

Source: mehrnews.com

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

https://en.mehrnews.com/news/235723/President-cabinet-members-renew-allegiance-to-Imam-Khomeini

--------

Ansar Allah Political Office Zionist Aggression Desperate Attempt to Deter Yemen from Continuing Support for Gaza

24 Aug 2025

The Political Office of Ansar Allah considered the Zionist aggression against the capital Sana'a a desperate attempt to deter the Yemeni people and their armed forces from continuing to support Gaza and the oppressed Palestinian people who are facing the largest genocide crime in the modern era.

The Political Office of Ansar Allah stated in a statement issued today that "the Zionist aggression which persists in committing war crimes while seeking propaganda merely confirms its utter intelligence failure and complete inability to deter and its temporary entity has received Yemeni strikes that surpassed air defense systems of all layers and capabilities".

It emphasized that the cowardly Zionist enemy raids on civilian facilities will not affect the cohesion of the internal front and cannot undermine the steadfast moral religious and principled position of the Yemeni people and their revolutionary and political leadership regarding the Palestinian cause and in facing comprehensive violation.

It noted that Yemen will not retreat or weaken in responding to aggression and defending Yemen's sovereignty and its people's capabilities regardless of challenges.

Ansar Allah Political Office reaffirmed that Yemen will not deviate from confronting the ZionistAmerican project and will escalate by all available means until the aggression is stopped and the siege on Gaza is lifted

Source: saba.ye

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

https://www.saba.ye/en/news3540587.htm

-------

FM meets representative of Islamic Relief Organization

24 Aug 2025

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Jamal Amer met on Sunday with Resident Representative of Islamic Relief Organization Siddiq Ahmed Khan.

In the meeting, Amer and Khan was devoted to assessing the progress made in implementing humanitarian projects for the current year 2025 and establishing a clear mechanism to accelerate the pace of work on the remaining projects, in addition to anticipating the outlines of the work plan for the coming year.

Minister Amer stressed that the time factor is a crucial element at this stage, emphasizing the need to intensify efforts and utilize the remaining time of the year to ensure the completion of all the organization's projects.

He highlighted the importance of transitioning from the response phase to strategic planning, calling for the immediate commencement of a well-thought-out preparation for the 2026 work plan, ensuring that there are no gaps in service provision and establishing the basis for more sustainable interventions.

For his part, Khan presented the projects implemented by the organization, affirming its commitment to harnessing all its capabilities and available resources to achieve the maximum possible impact.

Source: saba.ye

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

https://www.saba.ye/en/news3540494.htm

-------

Southeast Asia

‘Voice of the Malaysian people’: Anwar announces extra RM100m aid for Palestine at KL rally

By Syed Jaymal Zahiid

25 Aug 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 25 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced last night an additional RM100 million allocation for Palestine, on top of the RM100 million already approved by the government in 2023.

The announcement was made before a crowd of several thousand who gathered for the Sumud Nusantara rally at Dataran Merdeka here, a symbolic event held to send off a humanitarian aid flotilla to Gaza.

“This isn’t a partisan voice, nor a communal voice or a provincial voice. This is a collective voice. This is the voice of the Malaysian people,” Anwar said in a passionate speech.

“What else have we not done? We’ve sent volunteers. Clerics have helped. We treated those who we managed to fly in.

“Palestinian children who are left here, we give them education. Insufficient funds we give them all, so tonight I announce we will give RM100 million more,” he added.

The Sumud Nusantara aid flotilla is part of the Global Sumud Flotilla coalition and will carry crucial aid to Gaza, where more than half a million people are trapped in famine that the United Nations said is caused by an Israeli blockade.

The coalition’s organisers said they hope to break the Israeli navy barricade and create a humanitarian corridor to allow more vessels carrying aid to pass through.

The mission involves teams from eight countries and will be led by Malaysia, although the exact number of vessels sailing is not clear.

The convoy of aid vessels will sail to Gaza in two separate groups on different dates, with the first expected to depart on August 31 and the second on September 4.

The vessels from Southeast Asian countries will first head to Spain, a crucial stopover before continuing their challenging journey toward Gaza, carrying vital and much-needed supplies.

The second group will first head to Tunisia before joining the ships from Southeast Asia for the final leg of the journey to their destination in Gaza.

Anwar is among global Muslim leaders vocal about the Palestinian plight, often using international platforms to criticise the inaction of Western governments that he said enables Israel’s continued assault on Gaza.

The International Court of Justice concluded last year that there is plausibility Israel is committing genocide, although it stressed that the matter is still being investigated.

Anwar voiced his confidence that “justice will one day prevail as more governments in the world dare speak against the cruelty of the Israeli zionist regime”, citing countries like Brazil, Spain and South Africa as examples of nations that have taken a firm stand.

In an impassioned speech, the prime minister asserted that Malaysia would never abandon the Palestinians.

“We will always be with you,” Anwar said, reiterating a promise of solidarity that has long been a cornerstone of Malaysia’s foreign policy, to loud applause and chants of “long live Palestine” from the crowd.

Source: malaymail.com

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

https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/08/25/voice-of-the-malaysian-people-anwar-announces-extra-rm100m-aid-for-palestine-at-kl-rally/188790

-------

From cracked windows to health risks – East Java says no to loudspeaker chaos

25 Aug 2025

MALANG, Aug 25 — People in an Indonesian village watched as a tower of loudspeakers mounted on a truck rumbled through their usually serene home, blasting a thumping bass loud enough to crack windows.

Loudspeaker towers are commonplace on Indonesia’s main island of Java, blaring a repetitive mix of electronic tunes and traditional folk music at street parties, but they have drawn the ire of local authorities and calm-seeking neighbours.

The loudspeaker stacks have proven so disruptive that officials this month have restricted their use while religious bodies have declared excessive and damaging sound from them to be “haram”, or forbidden under Islamic law.

“The sound is booming from 1 pm to 3 am. They play loud music and drink alcohol,” Ahmad Suliyat, a resident of Ngantru village in East Java province, told AFP.

“It’s really disturbing.”

Indonesians in East Java have shared videos on social media of cracked walls, falling roof tiles and damaged stores caused by the noise impact known as “sound horeg”, which loosely means to move or vibrate in Javanese.

The online backlash forced authorities in East Java to issue an order this month limiting noise levels and specifying the times and locations loudspeakers can be used.

“It was made for health and security reasons. The noise level must be regulated so it will not disturb the public peace and order,” East Java governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa told AFP.

Hearing problems

Ear-splitting noise has been shown to have adverse health consequences, including a higher risk of heart conditions for those exposed.

And Indonesia’s loudspeaker towers, popular for little more than a decade in the world’s most populous Muslim nation, have had dire consequences for some who attend the deafening street gatherings.

A woman died this month after allegedly suffering cardiac arrest caused by loudspeaker towers at a carnival she attended, local media reported, while there has been an increase in hearing problems among those attending the events.

The East Java government has capped sound system levels at 120 decibels, while mobile units used in parades or protests are limited to 85 decibels.

Mobile units are also banned from being used near schools, hospitals, ambulances and places of worship that are in session.

In July, a local Islamic council issued a religious edict that said excessive sound at parties that is capable of causing damage is forbidden by religion.

“The use of a sound system excessively, especially during a wedding convoy, or any other events that cause noise, disturb road users, or make people neglect worshipping, is haram,” read the fatwa.

Locals typically rent the speaker towers for weddings, circumcisions and Independence Day events— all celebrations that can last until dawn.

Some like Daini, who goes by one name like many Indonesians, believe the loudspeakers are a local tradition that should be kept.

She glanced at her cracked window, held together by duct tape, as music blared from the truck in Ngantru.

“The glass cracked during a sound horeg event last year. But that’s OK, people here like loud events,” said the 61-year-old.

Lax enforcement

But loudspeakers have continued blasting above the new limits, due to lax enforcement by local authorities.

After the rules were issued, an AFP journalist heard loudspeaker towers blaring music at an East Javan event as authorities watched on.

The World Health Organisation says sound at 85 decibels and above can cause hearing damage over time, and anything above 120 decibels can cause immediate harm.

Some Indonesians posted screenshots online of apps registering loudspeaker sound levels as high as 130 decibels.

Operators of loudspeaker towers argue they are responding to demand that generates revenue for local businesses.

“I believe most people who dislike sound horeg are not from here,” David Stevan Laksamana, a 40-year-old loudspeaker rental owner in Malang, told AFP.

“In Malang alone, it employed tens of thousands of people. This business is helping the economy.”

Others who cannot stand the disruptive street parties fear reporting them, with some loudspeaker tower owners reportedly parking outside complainants’ houses to blare music for hours.

“I never complain to the village head,” said Ahmad.

“I just keep quiet. I’m afraid of intimidation if I say anything.” — AFP

Source: malaymail.com

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

https://www.malaymail.com/news/life/2025/08/25/from-cracked-windows-to-health-risks-east-java-says-no-to-loudspeaker-chaos/188764

-------

Dataran Merdeka turns into sea of teddy bears in show of solidarity with Palestine

25 Aug 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 25 — In a heartwarming display of solidarity at Dataran Merdeka, 8,000 teddy bears were arranged yesterday to form a map of Palestine, made possible through contributions from the public and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

Cinta Gaza Malaysia’s Malaysia Book of Records project director, Ikmal Islam, said the initiative had set a new milestone, setting a record for ‘Most Teddy Bears in a Map Formation’.

“Alhamdulillah, thank you. By 5.30 pm, we had managed to gather 8,000 teddy bears from the public and several NGOs.

“This time, we succeeded in setting a Malaysia Book of Records, and we will continue to strive for the next record,” he said when met at the Sumud Nusantara Carnival 2025.

Visitors to the carnival were thrilled to witness thousands of teddy bears of different types and colours arranged to form a Palestine map.

Through this symbolic gesture, the programme seeks to assemble 8,000 teddy bears to represent the more than 18,000 Palestinian children killed in Gaza by the Zionist regime’s atrocities.

Jointly organised by the Malaysian Consultative Council of Islamic Organisations and Cinta Gaza Malaysia, the Sumud Nusantara Carnival 2025 is held under the patronage of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The Prime Minister is scheduled to attend the “Malam Himpunan dan Selawat-Malaysiaku Bersama Gaza”, the highlight of the Sumud Nusantara Carnival 2025, at Dataran Merdeka tonight.

The carnival drew crowds to Dataran Merdeka from early morning, with a host of interesting programmes lined up for visitors. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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

https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/08/25/dataran-merdeka-turns-into-sea-of-teddy-bears-in-show-of-solidarity-with-palestine/188792

-------

Minister says Education Act update underway to strengthen school discipline in crackdown on bullying cases

25 Aug 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 25 — The Ministry of Education (MOE) is in the process of revising education regulations related to student discipline under the Education Act 1996 to strengthen existing enforcement.

Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the revision aims to provide clearer guidance to teachers in managing cases of student misconduct in schools.

She said MOE takes bullying seriously and has implemented various programmes and interventions to ensure the issue does not continue to spread.

“We want to emphasise how we view bullying as an issue that must be addressed more comprehensively and effectively.

“At the start of 2023, when the Madani Government took office, the first thing we did was ensure that the anti-bullying guidelines were fully implemented and enforced effectively,” she said during the question-and-answer session in the Dewan Negara today.

Fadhlina was responding to a question from Senator Musoddak Ahmad, who wanted to know the ministry’s efforts in addressing the increasingly worrying trend of bullying among school students.

She also said the ministry will take firm action against administrators, teachers, State Education Departments (JPN), or District Education Offices (PPD) found to be covering up bullying cases.

“We are implementing various intervention programmes, including the ‘Bangkit Bermaruah’ programme and other related initiatives, to strengthen the psychosocial well-being of students through collaboration with guidance and counselling teachers.

“MOE will not compromise with any form of bullying that occurs in educational institutions,” she said. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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

https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/08/25/minister-says-education-act-update-underway-to-strengthen-school-discipline-in-crackdown-on-bullying-cases/188845

------

Malaysia ramps up large-scale solar projects to hit 40pc renewable energy target

By Anis Zalani

25 Aug 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 25 — Malaysia is stepping up efforts to expand large-scale solar (LSS) projects as the government works towards its target of 40 per cent renewable energy (RE) in the national energy mix by 2040, said Deputy Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir today.

Akmal said the current grid capacity can still accommodate new RE sources, but long-term stability will require investments in battery energy storage systems (BESS) and other smart grid technologies.

“On the 40 per cent target set for 2040, that is why we have been rolling out, and with the necessary approvals deploying more LSS projects, which the existing grid can currently handle.

“However, to improve grid flexibility and manage the intermittent nature of solar power, which can only be generated during daylight hours, we have already begun or are in the process of deploying Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS),” he told Dewan Rakyat today.

Akmal was responding to a supplementary question by Simpang Renggam MP Datuk Seri Hasni Mohammad on the government's strategy to achieve Malaysia’s renewable energy targets.

He said the government is exploring new energy sources under the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) presented two years ago, with a clear commitment set out in the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13).

This includes assessing clean energy potential through pilot projects led by MyPower, which has been appointed as the National Energy Planning and Implementation Office (NEPIO).

Beyond domestic capacity, he said Malaysia is also pushing for greater regional integration under the Asean Power Grid initiative, which would enhance resilience and open up cross-border energy trade.

Taking Vietnam as an example, he said the country's strong wind energy potential, if connected through regional grid networks, would allow Malaysia to benefit from it.

Source: malaymail.com

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

https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/08/25/malaysia-ramps-up-large-scale-solar-projects-to-hit-40pc-renewable-energy-target/188826

------

Sultan of Brunei arrives in Malaysia for four-day state visit

theSun Local

2025-08-25

SUBANG: The Sultan of Brunei, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, has arrived in Malaysia for a four-day state visit at the invitation of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia.

His special aircraft carrying the Sultan and his delegation landed at the Royal Malaysian Air Force Air Base here at 3.03 pm today.

The delegation included Prince Abdul Mateen Bolkiah, cabinet ministers and senior government officials.

Tunku Temenggong Johor Tunku Idris Iskandar Sultan Ibrahim received the Sultan upon arrival.

Also present were Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah inspected a guard of honour mounted by 28 officers and personnel of the First Battalion Royal Ranger Regiment upon landing.

The guard of honour was led by Captain Muhammad Asyraf Zulkifli.

Tomorrow, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah will be accorded an official state welcome at Istana Negara.

This will be followed by an audience with the King and a state banquet hosted by Sultan Ibrahim.

The visit will be followed by the 26th Malaysia-Brunei Annual Leaders’ Consultation according to Wisma Putra.

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah is also scheduled to hold a meeting with the Prime Minister in conjunction with the 26th ALC on Wednesday.

The ALC is the highest bilateral mechanism between Malaysia and Brunei.

It serves as a platform for both leaders to review the progress of existing cooperation.

The consultation also allows discussion of emerging issues and exchange of views on regional and international matters of mutual interest.

The visit and annual consultation reflect the longstanding special ties between Malaysia and Brunei.

They reaffirm the shared commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation for the prosperity and well-being of both nations.

In 2024, Brunei was Malaysia’s sixth-largest trading partner within ASEAN.

Total trade between the two countries was valued at RM7.53 billion (USD1.77 billion) last year.

For the period January to June 2025, Malaysia-Brunei trade reached USD690 million (RM3.02 billion).

This comprised exports worth USD500 million (RM2.18 billion) and imports worth USD190 million (RM840 million). – Bernama

Source: thesun.my

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

https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/sultan-of-brunei-arrives-in-malaysia-for-four-day-state-visit-NH14758036

------

Malaysia hosts 18th Asean environment meeting in Langkawi this September

theSun Local

2025-08-25

LANGKAWI: The Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry will host the 18th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Environment at the Langkawi International Convention Centre from September 2 to 4.

This event under Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship 2025 will run alongside the 20th Meeting of the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution Conference of the Parties and its Committee.

The Ministry said that the event is expected to welcome more than 200 delegates from ASEAN Member States, Timor-Leste and dialogue partners including the European Union, China, South Korea, and Japan.

The meeting aims to coordinate collective ASEAN actions to strengthen regional policies and cooperation on environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, sustainable resource management and climate change resilience.

According to the statement, the anticipated outcomes include four main deliverables namely a Joint ASEAN Statement for the 30th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, progress on the establishment of the ASEAN Centre for Climate Change, and the adoption of the ASEAN Climate Change Strategic Action Plan.

It said the meeting will also review ASEAN’s participation in UNFCCC COP30 through the ASEAN Pavilion and consider a proposal to establish the Southeast Asia Alliance Group for global climate negotiations.

Sessions with dialogue partners, including the European Union, China, South Korea and Japan, will highlight cooperation on environmental and climate change initiatives, as well as the sharing of technology and best practices to promote sustainable development across the ASEAN region.

According to NRES, several side events are also planned, including the announcement of a prime EU-funded Initiative on Biodiversity and Climate Change in ASEAN, a UNICEF intervention session for the 2025 ASEAN Children and Youth Climate Summit, and a dialogue session between the UNFCCC COP30 President Andre Aranha Correa do Lago and ASEAN Environment Ministers.

In addition, the 6th ASEAN Environmentally Sustainable City Awards and the 5th Certificate of Recognition ceremony will be held during the AMME-18 Gala Dinner on Sept 3, in which the quadrennial event recognises exemplary sustainability practices across ASEAN member states.

“The hosting of AMME-18 will emphasise sustainability, guided by the NRES-issued Guidelines on the Implementation of Sustainable ASEAN Initiatives. Efforts will focus on reducing carbon footprints, promoting efficient resource use, and ensuring responsible waste management,” the statement read.

The ministry added that Malaysia hopes this initiative will advance a more sustainable and inclusive ASEAN by 2030, consistent with the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Blueprint 2025 and the ASEAN Environmental Framework.

As host, Malaysia will have the opportunity to showcase its environmental initiatives and achievements while strengthening environmental diplomacy with regional countries and solidifying its role as a proactive and strategic player in building a sustainable ASEAN community. – Bernama

Source: thesun.my

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

https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/malaysia-hosts-18th-asean-environment-meeting-in-langkawi-this-september-BH14757655

--------

Tabung Haji to carefully assess Saudi land purchase proposal

theSun Local

2025-08-25

KUALA LUMPUR: The proposal to purchase land in Saudi Arabia will be carefully reviewed by Tabung Haji considering market conditions, risks, and the institution’s financial capacity.

Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan emphasised that any decision made by Tabung Haji will take all relevant factors into account to ensure it benefits all depositors.

“It’s still too early to provide details, and there are no updates yet on amendments to property ownership laws,” he said during a Dewan Negara question-and-answer session.

Zulkifli was responding to Senator Hussin Ismail who asked if Tabung Haji planned to buy land near Masjid al-Haram to improve services for Malaysian Haj pilgrims.

He added that Tabung Haji has signed long-term agreements with various service providers in Saudi Arabia to maintain high-quality services while ensuring financial stability.

“Through these agreements, Tabung Haji has secured hotels within a one-kilometre radius of Masjid al-Haram, enough to accommodate all Malaysian muassasah pilgrims.”

Zulkifli stated that Tabung Haji is open to reviewing proposals that can help control costs while making improvements that benefit pilgrims within financial capabilities.

In reply to a supplementary question about buying shares in existing hotels, Zulkifli said this would need thorough study to ensure the best decision.

He confirmed that Malaysia has secured long-term contracts for seven buildings in Makkah and three in Madinah, all within a one-kilometre radius.

“Tabung Haji follows the best governance standards, with approval from the Ministry of Finance and full compliance with all required protocols.”

“Any claims that governance procedures haven’t been followed are false, and such misinformation needs to be corrected to fully support Tabung Haji,” he added. – Bernama

Source: thesun.my

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

https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/tabung-haji-to-carefully-assess-saudi-land-purchase-proposal-AH14757340

-----

Klook and Hong Kong Tourism Board Launch First Multi-Market Partnership to Enhance the Muslim Travel Experience

August 25, 2025

Partnership aims to strengthen Hong Kong's positioning

as a welcoming destination for Muslim travelers.

Singapore (ANTARA/PRNewswire)- Muslim leisure travelers have the same motivations as others: explore new cultures, discover local experiences, and create meaningful memories.

The key difference lies in their need to do so in line with faith-based needs, such as access to Muslim-friendly food, prayer facilities, and privacy considerations.

Jelajah Hong Kong, powered by Klook and Hong Kong Tourism Board.

"Travel planning to non-Muslim-majority destinations can be stressful when key information for our faith-based needs isn't readily available," says Fazal Bahardeen, CEO of CrescentRating and HalalTrip, global authorities in Muslim-friendly travel. "And navigating unfamiliar places among unfamiliar people can add to that anxiety."

"These gaps create feelings of discomfort or exclusion, undermining the very purpose of leisure travel, which is to enjoy new experiences with peace of mind," he adds.

This inspired "Jelajah Hong Kong", Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB)'s first-ever multi-market campaign to elevate Hong Kong as a Muslim-friendly destination.

Now enhanced with Klook.

As part of this partnership, Klook brings to life a one-stop shop of Muslim-friendly activities and accommodations, as well as prayer-friendly day trips to family attractions and cultural highlights.

To bring these experiences to life, Klook taps into its Kreator network in key markets of Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia to develop and share curated itineraries, offering firsthand recommendations that give Muslim travelers the comfort and confidence to explore Hong Kong freely.

Kenny Sham, General Manager for Hong Kong, Macau, and Thailand at Klook, says: "We are always thinking about how to create more inclusive travel experiences by leveraging our strengths in discovery, data-driven insights, and curated offerings. Working with HKTB, we are able to tighten the information gaps for Millennials and Gen Z Muslim travelers, thereby helping them to explore Hong Kong with confidence and comfort."

This initiative builds on recent progress.

For Klook, this campaign follows its partnership with CrescentRating and HalalTrip. Through which, Klook became the first global experiences platform to offer verified Muslim-friendly ratings, allowing users to easily identify activities and attractions that align with their faith-based needs.

As for Hong Kong, the city has been named the "Most Promising Muslim-friendly Destination of the Year" at the Halal in Travel Awards 2025. Hong Kong now ranks third among non-OIC (Non-Organization of Islamic Cooperation) destinations and second globally in the Muslim Women Friendly Travel Destination category in the 2025 Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI).

These accolades reflect growing recognition from the Muslim community for Hong Kong's commitment to delivering inclusive and culturally respectful experiences for Muslim travelers.

Liew Chian Jia, Regional Director, Southeast Asia of the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), says: "Since the launch of our Muslim-focused campaign, "Jelajah Hong Kong", we've observed a growing level of interest and inquiries from Muslim travelers across our key source markets. Through this campaign, Hong Kong Tourism Board is strategically highlighting the city's expanding range of Muslim-friendly offerings and experiences."

"This partnership with Klook marks a timely and meaningful collaboration that further positions Hong Kong as an inclusive and welcoming destination for Muslim travelers. It also underscores our ongoing commitment to diversifying Hong Kong's tourism appeal and meeting the evolving needs of global visitors," says Chian Jia.

GMTI reported that international Muslim arrivals reached 176 million in 2024 — up 25% from 2023 — and were projected to grow to 245 million by 2030. By then, total travel spending is expected to reach USD$230 billion, highlighting the growing influence and economic potential of this vibrant market.

And Klook's data backs this trend. Over the past 12 months, bookings to Hong Kong from the Muslim community have grown by 43.5%, with theme parks and attractions leading the way.

"We are delighted to see Hong Kong making significant strides towards becoming a more inclusive and welcoming destination for Muslim travelers. The partnership between Klook and HKTB is a good example of how collaborations can create meaningful, Muslim-friendly travel experiences to provide useful and relevant travel information for tourists," says Fazal.

The gateway to Muslim-friendly travel in Hong Kong starts here:

About Klook

Klook is a leading platform for experiences and travel services in Asia. We curate quality experiences ranging from attractions and tours to local transport and experiential stays, in approximately 3,400 destinations globally. Founded in 2014, we are here to inspire and enable more moments of joy for travelers anytime, anywhere.

About the Hong Kong Tourism Board

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is a government-subvented body tasked to market and promote Hong Kong as a travel destination worldwide and to enhance visitors' experience once they arrive.

Source: antaranews.com

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

https://en.antaranews.com/news/375361/klook-and-hong-kong-tourism-board-launch-first-multi-market-partnership-to-enhance-the-muslim-travel-experience

--------

South Asia

US Senator Urges Congress to Pass Bill Protecting Former Afghan Allies

By Fidel Rahmati

August 25, 2025

A US senator urged Congress to swiftly pass a bipartisan bill granting permanent residency to Afghan allies who worked alongside American forces.

U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar has urged Congress to swiftly pass bipartisan legislation granting permanent residency to thousands of Afghan nationals who worked alongside American forces during the war in Afghanistan.

The Democratic senator emphasized that many evacuees, including interpreters and local staff who risked their lives to assist U.S. troops, now face the threat of deportation. She stressed that America has a responsibility to honor its commitments to these individuals.

Klobuchar is among nine lawmakers from both parties backing the bill, known as the “Honor Our Afghan Allies Act.” Introduced in early August, the proposal followed reports of Afghan evacuees being detained by U.S. immigration authorities while their asylum cases remain unresolved.

A separate measure, the “Welcome Act,” was also introduced later in August by a bipartisan group of representatives. That legislation seeks to revive stalled relocation and resettlement programs to ensure Afghan partners receive long-term protection under U.S. law.

Lawmakers and advocacy groups continue to press Congress for action, warning that thousands of Afghans remain in legal uncertainty. Many face expiring work permits and limited access to basic services, despite their contributions to U.S. military operations.

For supporters of the bills, the issue is more than immigration. They frame it as a test of America’s credibility and its willingness to stand by those who risked their lives for U.S. missions abroad.

If approved, the legislation would provide stability for Afghan families who fled after the U.S. withdrawal in 2021, while also reaffirming Washington’s commitment to its allies in times of conflict.

Source: khaama.com

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

https://www.khaama.com/us-senator-urges-congress-to-pass-bill-protecting-former-afghan-allies/

--------

2nd Deputy Minister of National Defense Visits Helmand Border Posts

2025-08-25

HELMAND(BNA): Mullah Abdul Qayum Zakir, the Second Deputy Minister of National Defense, conducted a visit to the border posts in the Bahramcha district of Helmand province.

Accompanied by a high-ranking delegation, Mullah Zakir toured the border areas and assessed the extension of the imaginary line that delineates the region. During the visit, he met with local border mujahideen in the Rabat area, listening to their concerns and challenges.

The delegation expressed commitment to addressing the issues raised and assured the mujahideen that necessary measures would be implemented to provide support and resolve their needs.

Source: bakhtarnews.af

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

https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/2nd-deputy-minister-of-national-defense-visits-helmand-border-posts/

--------

Islamic Emirate Begins Pension Payments to Retired Employees

2025-08-24

KABUL (BNA): The Ministry of Finance under the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has begun issuing pension payments to retired civil servants.

Mohammad Rahmani, head of the ministry’s pensions directorate, said the process was launched on the order of the Amir al-Mu’minin. In the first phase, retirees from nine government institutions will receive their pensions within one month.

To streamline the process, special desks have been set up at the pension directorate, including one for a dedicated court, so that retirees no longer have to navigate multiple offices. According to Rahmani, each retiree must first apply to the special court, which will confirm the amount owed by the relevant agency. Once verified, the court authorizes the pension, and bank accounts are opened for beneficiaries to receive payments.

Rahmani said retirees have been divided into five categories, with verified pensioners placed in the first. The first phase covers former employees of the National Standards Authority, the National Disaster Management Authority, the Directorate of Physical Education and Sports, the Independent Administrative Reform and Civil Service Commission, the National Environmental Protection Agency, the Presidential Protection Service, the National Security Council, and the Ministry of Economy.

The pensions directorate will release the schedule for other institutions on Sept. 16, and retirees were urged not to appear at the directorate or court outside their designated dates.

Source: bakhtarnews.af

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

https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/islamic-emirate-begins-pension-payments-to-retired-employees/

-------

Islamic Emirate Approves Draft National Minerals Policy

2025-08-24

KABUL(BNA): The Economic Commission of the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs has approved the draft of Afghanistan’s National Minerals Policy.

According to a statement from the deputy prime minister’s office, the commission held its regular meeting under the chairmanship of Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund, deputy prime minister for economic affairs. At the meeting, the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum presented the draft policy for discussion.

Following a comprehensive review, the commission approved the draft. The policy’s objectives include standard exploration and development of mineral resources, attracting both domestic and foreign investment, introducing modern technology and equipment for extraction, ensuring environmental protection and the safety of mine workers, enabling mineral processing within Afghanistan, and training and developing specialized human resources for the mining sector.

The meeting also discussed amendments to the contract for the completion of the 500-kilovolt transmission line project from Sheberghan to Dasht-e-Alwan. After detailed deliberations, necessary adjustments were made to the contract.

In addition, relevant committees presented reports on preliminary feasibility studies for the second phase of the Kamal Khan Dam (also known as Qala-e-Afzal Dam) and on assessing needs at the country’s border ports.

The commission’s decisions will be forwarded to the Amir al-Mu’minin for final approval.

Source: bakhtarnews.af

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

https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/islamic-emirate-approves-draft-national-minerals-policy/

-------

Historic Mosque in Ghazni Reopens After Restoration

2025-08-24

GHAZNI (BNA): The country’s Ministry of Information and Culture has reopened what is believed to be the first mosque built by Muslims in Ghazni, following extensive restoration work.

The Babaji Mosque, located in the old city of Ghazni, was inaugurated on Sunday by Atiqullah Azizi, deputy minister for art and culture. Azizi said the mosque was originally constructed during the caliphate of Uthman ibn Affan, the third caliph of Islam, and was built as a two-story structure.

He noted that the building had faced the risk of collapse but was restored with the support of the Aga Khan Cultural Foundation, which preserved its historical and architectural features. The work, carried out over 14 months, cost $150,000, fully funded by the foundation.

Fazl Karim Ahmadi, an engineer with the Aga Khan Foundation, said the project focused on strengthening the structure and rebuilding the mosque.

Ghazni’s provincial director of information and culture, Hameedullah Nisar, thanked the foundation for its role and urged continued cooperation on the restoration of other historical monuments. He added that 32 heritage sites in the province had been poorly rebuilt under the former government in 2013, wasting public funds.

Source: bakhtarnews.af

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

https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/historic-mosque-in-ghazni-reopens-after-restoration/

-------

Religious Affairs Advisor Khalid says building mosque at Chandranath Hill is ‘out of question’

24 Aug 2025

Religious Affairs Advisor AFM Khalid Hossain has dismissed reports of any new mosque construction at Chandranath Hill in Chattogram, saying such an initiative is “out of question”.

He made the remarks during a Waqf-related meeting at the Chattogram Circuit House on Wednesday.

“No initiative has been taken to construct any mosque at Sitakunda’s Chandranath Hill, and the news being circulated in this regard is completely baseless. The Sitakunda administration has informed us that Chandranath Hill is a historic and religiously significant site for the country.”

“Preserving communal harmony is of utmost importance here. Therefore, constructing any new mosque on this hill is out of the question. I urge all concerned not to spread misleading information that creates confusion. The government is committed to upholding religious harmony and peace,” he said.

The statement followed a controversy sparked on Aug 15 when a businessman from Dhaka, MM Saiful Islam, visited Chandranath Hill and posted a photograph on Facebook with Hifazat-e Islam leader Harun Izhar, writing: “A mosque on top of Sitakunda Hill is 90 percent confirmed.”

The post led to discontent among members of the Hindu community.

In response, the Sitakunda Shrine Committee, which oversees the management of temples in the area, contacted the local administration.

On Aug 17, Harun clarified through his own Facebook post: “Some young religious scholars and entrepreneurs from Dhaka paid me a visit while I was about to leave for a trip. We spoke for only a few minutes. They never expressed any intention of building a mosque in the Chandranath Temple area.”

“They merely said a mosque for tourists would be useful in an appropriate location, and they were willing to fund it. I welcomed the idea, and I also believe that a prayer room may be established at the Eco Park portion, in consultation with the administration, for the benefit of Muslim tourists.”

“But a certain quarter is running propaganda contrary to reality to incite the Hindu community. I urge everyone not to spread misinformation that stirs religious tensions,” he said.

On Aug 17, Sitakunda Upazila administrator (UNO) Md Fakhrul Islam, along with local police officials and leaders of the Shrine Committee, visited Chandranath Hill.

Following the inspection, the UNO issued a press release saying: “Today (Aug 17), the administration inspected the Chandranath Temple area and found no evidence of any mosque construction.”

“The Hindu community is being assured that no permission has been granted by the administration to build a mosque in the temple area. Any attempt to spread rumours, propaganda, or misinformation on social media to disrupt communal harmony and the peaceful environment of Sitakunda will be dealt with according to law.”

Chandranath Hill, dotted with many ancient Hindu temples, is a major pilgrimage site. Believed to have origins between the sixth and eight centuries, the Chandranath Temple is particularly significant.

Source: bdnews24.com

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

https://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/17aaf99fcaa0

--------

Kamil (Masters) examination begins under Islamic Arabic University

24 Aug 2025

DHAKA, Aug 24, 2025 (BSS) - The one-year Kamil (Masters) -2023 examination under the Islamic Arabic University (IAU) began simultaneously across the country today.

IAU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Md Shamsul Alam visited the examination center of Quaderia Taiyabiya Kamil Madrasah in Mohammadpur in the capital.

The university's examination controller Mohammad Ali was present there, said a press release here.

During the visit, the Vice Chancellor said, “We are determined to complete the Kamil (Masters) examination in a fair and festive atmosphere. Examination centers across the country are being monitored to ensure a disciplined and cheating-free environment in all centers. We expect that madrasah students will evaluate themselves based on their own merit and ability without resorting to any irregularities in the examination.”

The examination will continue until September 14, 2025.

Source: bssnews.net

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

https://www.bssnews.net/news/304796

-------

Discussion on biotechnology pioneer Prof Ahmad Shamsul held at DU

24 Aug 2025

DHAKA, AUG 24, 2025 (BSS)- A discussion titled 'Contribution of Prof. Dr Ahmad Shamsul Islam in the Development of Biotechnology in Bangladesh' was held at the Dhaka University here today.

Organized by Bangladesh Association for Plant Tissue Culture and Biotechnology at the auditorium of University's Botany department, DU Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof. Mamun Ahmed attended the seminar as chief guest.

Botany department Prof. Rakhhari Sarkar presided over the function.

South-East University VC Dr. Yusuf Mahbub Islam, daughter of Dr. Ahmad Shamsul Islam also Biochemistry and Molecular Biology department's retired Prof. Zeba Islam Seraj and Botany Department Chairman Dr. Mihir Lal Saha spoke at the seminar, among others.

Mentionable, Prof. Dr. Ahmad Shamsul Islam is considered as the initiator of 'Plant Tissue Culture and Biotechnological Research in Bangladesh'.

Prof. Shamsul Islam is the recipient of five prestigious awards within the country: President's Gold Medal in Agriculture (1984), Ekushey Padak (Martyr's Day Medal) in Education (1986), Bangladesh Academy of Sciences Gold Medal in Biology (1987), Gold medal as Eminent Botanist by Bangladesh Association of Botany (1997) And Life Time Achievement Award by GNOBB in 2017.

He served as a Professor at the Botany Department of Dhaka University until his death.

He was born on August 6, 1924 and breathed his last April 14 this year.

Source: bssnews.net

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

https://www.bssnews.net/news/304787

------

North America

Trump threatens to deploy troops to Baltimore to 'clean up' crime

25 Aug, 2025

Ana Faguy

US President Donald Trump has threatened to deploy troops to Baltimore, escalating a clash with Maryland Governor Wes Moore after the Democrat invited him to join a "safety walk" in the city.

"If Wes Moore needs help, like Gavin Newscum did in L.A., I will send in the 'troops,' which is being done in nearby DC, and quickly clean up the Crime," Trump wrote on social media.

The comments mark the latest flashpoint in the president's efforts to deploy National Guard troops to Democratic-led cities as part of what he calls a crackdown on crime.

The use of military personnel for domestic law enforcement has drawn fierce backlash from Democrats. One governor described it as an "abuse of power".

Trump has already deployed around 2,000 troops to Washington DC, a Democratic stronghold.

On Sunday, the Guard started to carry weapons in Washington, the military said. Previously, their weapons were available if needed but kept in the armoury.

A statement from the Joint Task Force said they were only to be used as a last resort.

As many as 1,700 troops are expected to mobilise in 19 states in the coming weeks, US media report.

Governor Moore, a frequent critic of the president's strategy, said Trump's comments about fighting crime "come off as so, so tone deaf and so ignorant".

"It's because they have not walked our streets," Moore said. "They have not been in our communities, and they are more than happy to keep making these repeated tropes about us."

Trump's Sunday Truth Social comments appeared to be a direct response to Moore's invitation letter to Trump which the president described as "nasty" and "provocative".

"As President, I would much prefer that he clean up this Crime disaster before I go there for a 'walk,'" Trump wrote.

The White House says hundreds of arrests have been made since the operation began in Washington DC.

Speaking in the White House Oval Office on Friday, Trump said the mission had brought "total safety" to Washington.

"DC was a hellhole," he said. "But now it's safe."

According to crime figures published by Washington DC's Metropolitan Police (MPDC), violent offences fell after peaking in 2023 and in 2024 hit their lowest level in 30 years.

They are continuing to fall, according to preliminary data for 2025.

Violent crime overall is down 26% this year compared to the same point in 2024, and robbery is down 28%, according to the MPDC.

Trump has suggested he would deploy troops in New York and Chicago as well.

This escalation has led to condemnation from Democrats leaders of other states and cities including Illinois Governor JB Pritzker who said Trump's threats to deploy troops to Chicago is an abuse of power.

Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has also weighed in, asserting that Trump lacks the legal authority to dispatch troops to cities like Baltimore and Chicago.

He said the president was exploiting reduced crime levels - like Baltimore's "fewest homicides in over 50 years" - to manufacture a crisis.

A poll conducted by the Washington Post and Schar School released earlier this week found the deployment deeply unpopular among the city's residents, with almost 80% saying they were opposed to both the deployment of federal officers and the National Guard, as well as the takeover of the Metropolitan Police Department.

Source: bbc.com

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

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c78mymx7mpko

--------
National Guard in DC: Donald Trump’s crackdown escalates; troops begin carrying weapons

Aug 25, 2025

National Guard in DC: Donald Trump’s crackdown escalates; troops begin carrying weaponsNational Guard in DC: Donald Trump’s crackdown escalates; troops begin carrying weapons

National Guard units deployed in Washington, DC, under President Donald Trump’s anti-crime push have begun carrying firearms, marking a visible escalation in the military presence on the capital’s streets.

A spokesperson for the Joint Task Force confirmed on Sunday that service members had started carrying their sidearms, following a directive from defence secretary Pete Hegseth issued late last week.

According to the New York Times, Guard members from South Carolina were seen near Union Station with holstered handguns.

A CNN reporter separately observed troops with long guns patrolling The Wharf, a busy waterfront district.

Maj Michael A Maxwell of the National Guard task force said troops would use force “only as a last resort and solely in response to an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm”, as quoted by The New York Times. He stressed that all deployed members had been trained under strict rules of engagement.

As per news agency AP, a defence department official explained that only certain units on particular missions would be armed, some with rifles, others with handguns. Those assigned to administrative or transport duties would likely remain unarmed.

As per the New York Times, more than 2,200 Guard personnel are currently operating in Washington, with contributions from Louisiana, Mississippi, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, West Virginia and around 900 members from DC itself. Their tasks range from supporting local police at transit stops to participating in “community restoration” projects, Maxwell said.

The deployment, ordered by Trump two weeks ago, comes amid his wider federal crackdown on crime and homelessness. However, critics say the operation has so far been vague in purpose, with much of the effort directed at detaining undocumented immigrants rather than addressing violent crime.

Outside Union Station on Sunday, protesters confronted armed guards. One demonstrator waved a “Free DC” placard while another rang a cowbell. Abbey Schneider, a visitor who once lived in the city, was cited by the New York Times as saying, “I have a visceral reaction to it. I feel it is unnecessary and a little bit scary. It feels like an escalation.”

Trump has signalled that other Democratic-led cities may be next. He has publicly threatened to send troops to Chicago, New York and Baltimore, citing crime concerns. Responding to criticism from Maryland’s Democratic Governor Wes Moore, Trump posted on Truth Social that he would not hesitate to “send in the troops” if required, comparing the situation to his earlier deployment in Los Angeles.

Moore rejected the claims, saying violent crime in Baltimore has fallen sharply. “The president is spending all of his time talking about me,” he said on CBS’s Face the Nation. “I’m spending my time talking about the people I serve.”

Chicago’s Democratic Mayor Brandon Johnson vowed legal action if federal troops were sent, saying, “We’re not going to surrender our humanity to this tyrant.” Illinois Governor JB Pritzker also accused Trump of trying to “manufacture a crisis” for political gain.

Source: indiatimes.com

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

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/national-guard-in-dc-donald-trumps-crackdown-escalates-troops-begin-carrying-weapons/articleshow/123493266.cms

-------
Islamic schools prepared to start year in new Amherstburg building

Robert Lothian

August 24, 2025

A new home for Windsor’s Islamic schools is ready to open just in time for the new academic year.

Representatives for the An-Noor Private School and Windsor Islamic High School cut the ribbon Sunday at the former Western Secondary School in Amherstburg.

They were joined by members of the Windsor Islamic Association (WIA) and elected representatives from all levels of government.

“So, in the current facility we can accommodate about 600 students,” said Dr. Osman Tarabain, a member of the WIA’s board of directors.

As of Sunday, about 350 students are enrolled in the elementary school, and 80 students are starting the year at the high school.

Student population has outgrown the private school’s current site on Janette Avenue, which was bought in 2003.

Expanded capacity across the 95,000 square feet is expected to draw families from outside of Windsor-Essex.

“We have been approached by families from the Toronto area who are looking to relocate to this region, and the first thing they ask about are schools,” Tarabain said.

“Many have expressed interest in this particular school and wanted to know whether this was opening in September, so they can decide accordingly.”

Earlier this month, the WIA confirmed the acquisition of the property from the Greater Essex County District School Board.

After closing in June 2022, the property was listed for sale in the fall of 2024.

Since the purchase, about $300,000 has been spent on cleaning, painting, and renovations for classrooms and washrooms.

“There’ll be some renovations done in the back, and it’s not going to affect the function of the schools,” Tarabain said about the remaining work.

The two schools will consist of about 25 staff members to start the year.

As the population continues to grow, the WIA expects the property size will allow for an expansion to meet the demand.

Source: ctvnews.ca

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

https://www.ctvnews.ca/windsor/article/islamic-schools-prepared-to-start-year-in-new-amherstburg-building/

------

ABC and NBC should be taken off air – Trump

25 Aug, 2025

US President Donald Trump has said news channels ABC and NBC should have their broadcasting licenses revoked.

Trump has long accused major media outlets of spreading lies about him and working to undermine his presidency on behalf of the Democrats.

In a post on Truth Social on Sunday, Trump blasted ABC and NBC as “two of the absolute worst and most biased networks.”

“They should lose their Licenses for their unfair coverage of Republicans and/or Conservatives, but at a minimum, they should pay up BIG for having the privilege of using the most valuable airwaves anywhere at anytime!” he wrote. He has previously labeled both networks “political pawns” of the Democrats.

In June, ABC dismissed veteran correspondent Terry Moran after he referred to senior Trump aide Stephen Miller as a “world-class hater.” In 2024, the network agreed to pay $15 million to Trump’s presidential library to settle a defamation lawsuit over inaccurate comments about his sexual assault and defamation trial involving columnist E. Jean Carroll.

Last month, Paramount, the parent company of CBS News, agreed to pay $16 million as part of another settlement. Trump alleged the company deceptively edited a 2024 interview with then-Vice President Kamala Harris, who at the time was running against him in the presidential election.

In July, Trump filed a lawsuit against the Wall Street Journal’s parent company, Dow Jones, and its owner, Rupert Murdoch, over a report claiming he had sent a birthday letter to financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in the early 2000s.

Source: rt.com

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

https://www.rt.com/news/623486-trump-channels-licenses-revoked/

----

‘Do they teach history in Ohio?’: JD Vance mocked over 'wars end with negotiation’ remarks; netizens remind him WWII ended with unconditional surrender

Aug 25, 2025

US Vice President JD Vance has drawn widespread ridicule after suggesting that the Second World War ended through “negotiations,” while defending President Donald Trump’s push for a diplomatic settlement in Ukraine.

Speaking on NBC’s Meet the Press on Sunday, Vance told host Kristen Welker, “This is how wars ultimately get settled. If you go back to World War II, if you go back to World War I, if you go back to every major conflict in human history, they all end with some kind of negotiations.”

Critics were quick to call out his version of history. “Hitler killed himself and Germany surrendered. Japan got nuked. Do they teach history in Ohio?” one person wrote on X. Another added, “World War 2 ended with the exact opposite of a negotiation.” A third mocked: “Nothing like getting community noted.”

Others piled on, “He didn’t really spend time in history class, did he? Or maybe he was just asleep.” Another bluntly said, “Brother, what sort of revisionist history are you preaching? Hitler killed himself.”

Some also mocked the interview itself, with one comment reading: “The fact he has to explain this to her is embarrassing… a real journalist should know this.”

As per HuffPost, Vance’s example overlooked the fact that Germany’s defeat came after Adolf Hitler’s suicide and the unconditional surrender signed on 7 May 1945. Japan followed suit after the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, formally surrendering on 2 September 1945.

Even his First World War reference faltered. The Treaty of Versailles in 1919 was technically a negotiation, but by then, Germany had collapsed militarily and politically, with little bargaining power.

During the exchange, Welker raised concerns that Trump’s approach could mean forcing Ukraine to give up territory seized by Russia, a scenario President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has consistently rejected.

Vance sidestepped, saying, “The Ukrainians are going to ultimately make the determination about where you draw the territorial lines in their own country.”

According to Daily Beast, Vance added that America’s role was now to act as mediator rather than an “active party.” He argued, “If Ukrainians are willing to say something on territory that brings the conflict to a close, we’re not going to stop them. We’re also not going to force them, because it’s not our country.”

While many mocked his World War II comparison, some online users defended Vance by noting Japan was allowed to keep its emperor and that post-war Germany was divided through Allied negotiations. “There were negotiations, it was just very one-sided,” one supporter commented.

Still, most criticism focused on his shaky history. As one user summed it up: “Uhh… Hitler killed himself and we nuked Japan twice. That’s how WWII ended. Neither negotiated their way to an end. They were decimated with overwhelming military power.”

Source: indiatimes.com

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

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/do-they-teach-history-in-ohio-jd-vance-mocked-over-wars-end-with-negotiation-remarks-netizens-remind-him-wwii-ended-with-unconditional-surrender/articleshow/123494894.cms

------

Harvard making changes Trump officials want, even without a deal

Aug 25, 2025

Early in the spring, an aggressive and polarizing new presidential administration drafted a menu of demands, many of them very specific, designed to reshape the culture at Harvard, the nation's richest university.

With billions of dollars in research funds in jeopardy, the university's leaders are now negotiating with the White House. But an eventual deal may not fully capture the changes, small and large, already enacted at Harvard before any papers are signed.

The university has recoiled at some of the sweeping changes the Trump administration demanded. Harvard's president, Dr. Alan M. Garber, has singled out several as intrusive and unconstitutional, including demands that might influence whom the university hires and admits.

But it has also taken a host of steps that align with the White House's desires, checking off items on the administration's detailed menu, which have ranged from eliminating diversity offices to ousting program leaders.

President Donald Trump and his appointees have made their attack on Harvard a totem for the changes they want to see across America's elite universities, using the government's blunt power to force compliance in a manner never before seen.

The Trump administration's demands included eliminating diversity, equity and inclusion programs. In April, Harvard renamed its Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging, which is now called the Office for Community and Campus Life. More recently, Harvard also took down websites for its Foundation for Intercultural and Race Relations, as well as websites for companion offices for gay and female students, and said they were merging them into a new, single center.

The government has also sought leadership shake-ups in certain departments, including the Center for Middle Eastern Studies, after Jewish alumni and others accused the programs of sponsoring antisemitic programming. Harvard removed two of the center's leaders, including Cemal Kafadar, a leading Turkish scholar, in March.

And Trump officials asked for an end to Harvard's partnership with Birzeit University, a top Palestinian college in the West Bank. Harvard said it had suspended the relationship and had struck up new ones with institutions in Israel.

The university has announced some of the changes, arguing that they were needed to make the campus more welcoming and more open to different viewpoints. But Kirsten Weld, a Harvard history professor, says that while the university says it is independently adopting measures that mirror some of the White House demands, that's a slippery contention.

Source: indiatimes.com

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

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/harvard-making-changes-trump-officials-want-even-without-a-deal/articleshow/123492058.cms

-------

Zohran Mamdani's bench press episode turns awkward: Mayor Eric Adams takes a jab at the Men's day viral video - Watch

Aug 24, 2025,

Mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani’s attempt to flex his muscles at a Men’s Day event in Brooklyn ended in an online pile-on, after the 33-year-old Democratic Socialist politician failed to complete unassisted bench press rep.

At the annual open streets celebration on Saturday, Mamdani tried to hoist a 135-pound barbell in front of a cheering crowd. But videos doing rounds online showed his spotter never let go of the bar, guiding the weight through two assisted reps before the Democratic nominee stood up, thanked the helper and exited the bench.

The botched show of strength gained eyeballs on social media, giving his political opponents a chance to take on a mocking jab.

Mayor Eric Adams took to X to release his own older video from the same spot, effortlessly pressing the bar under the supervision of the same spotter.

“64 vs 33. A lifetime of hard work vs. a silver spoon. The results speak for themselves,” Adams wrote on X. In another jab, he added, “The weight of the job is too heavy for ‘Mamscrawny.’ The only thing he can lift is your taxes.”

Former governor Andrew Cuomo also took aim, posting: “It’s easy to talk, it’s hard to carry the burden.”

“This guy can’t bench his own body weight, let alone carry the weight of leading the most important city in the world,” Cuomo quipped.

While critics had a field day, Mamdani’s supporters called the episode as a distraction.

“Public service should be about policy and integrity, not proving strength in a gym setting,” one user wrote, urging voters to judge candidates by ideas, not biceps.

Source: indiatimes.com

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

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/zohran-mamdanis-bench-press-episode-turns-awkward-mayor-eric-adams-takes-a-jab-at-the-mens-day-viral-video-watch/articleshow/123481863.cms

------

Flightmare: Passenger’s device catches fire on American airlines flight; smoke fills cabin, plane diverted

Aug 25, 2025

An American Airlines flight from Philadelphia to Phoenix was forced to make an emergency landing on Saturday, after a passenger's electronic device caught fire mid-air, causing smoke inside the cabin.

Flight 357, carrying 160 passengers and six crew members, landed safely at Washington Dulles International Airport around 11:50 a.m., where it was met by emergency responders, according to the US federal aviation administration (FAA). The exact device that caused the fire has not been disclosed, reported ABC news.

American Airlines confirmed the incident in a statement: “The device was quickly contained by crew members prior to landing.”

Passenger Adriana Novello, 22, told the news portal that she woke up to a flight attendant rushing for the fire extinguisher. “Then I started smelling smoke, and a lot of people on the plane were coughing,” she said. “But I looked behind me, and what we could tell was that there was something on fire in the aisle.”

As smartphones and portable chargers have become more common, the number of in-flight fires caused by these devices has gone up sharply. In February, the FAA said such incidents have increased by 388% over the last 10 years.

Several similar incidents have occurred recently. Earlier this year, a power bank caught fire on a Batik Airlines flight from Malaysia to Bangkok, filling the cabin with smoke. A comparable event occurred during an AirAsia flight in Thailand last winter.

In light of these risks, the US transportation security administration (TSA) has recently updated its “don’t pack” list. Newly restricted items include gas-powered curling irons and flat irons, as well as gas refills, though corded versions remain allowed in luggage.

All passengers and crew on the American Airlines flight were safe, and the flight was rescheduled after the incident.

Source: indiatimes.com

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

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/flightmare-passengers-device-catches-fire-on-american-airlines-flight-smoke-fills-cabin-plane-diverted/articleshow/123488667.cms

------

Europe

'Once-in-a-lifetime chance': Gaza scholars await UK evacuation to pursue studies

August 25, 2025

Daniel Wittenberg

As students across the UK celebrated securing their university places, Mahmoud received the news he had been waiting for while trying to sleep in a shelter in central Gaza.

The 27-year-old doctor, who holds a prestigious scholarship to study for a masters in global health policy at the London School of Economics, had just finished a night shift treating trauma patients at a field hospital. Rather than awaiting exam results, he was anxious to learn whether he would be able to leave Gaza to begin his course.

"I was highly emotional and so happy to be awarded the scholarship," Mahmoud tells BBC News. "It gave me the energy to keep working. But most of the time, I avoided talking about it, because of the indefinite uncertainty."

Mahmoud is one of nine students in Gaza who received emails this week from the UK government informing them that it was working to facilitate their evacuation. If successful, they would be the first to leave the Strip for study in the UK since the war began.

The development followed months of campaigning by politicians, academics, and others on behalf of more than 80 Palestinian students who have offers from UK universities this year, including around 50 with fully funded scholarships.

Chevening scholars like Mahmoud – recipients of a highly competitive UK Foreign Office grant – have been asked to confirm whether they want to be evacuated and provide their approximate location in Gaza. Other students have so far not been contacted.

"It's a positive step. It has kept me hopeful and optimistic about being evacuated in the coming weeks. However, the message does not give any guarantees," says Mahmoud.

Originally from Beit Lahia in northern Gaza, Mahmoud says he has dreamt of studying in the UK from a young age.

When the war broke out, he volunteered in the plastic and reconstructive surgery unit at the al-Shifa hospital before working on temporary wards across Gaza. He hopes his degree will one day help rebuild the territory's fragile healthcare system.

'I felt hope again'

"Life has never been easy," he says. "Over the past two years I have seen suffering beyond imagination. I've stood beside families in their hardest moments, all while trying to keep hope alive for my own future."

Mahmoud, who lives with his wife, parents, and three sisters, does not know whether any of them will be able to join him if he is evacuated.

He says: "It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but it will be hard to leave my family behind to face constant displacement, famine, chaos, and insecurity."

For Mohammed, 25, another Chevening scholar, the day he received his offer to study for a masters at the University of Glasgow is carved in his memory.

A friend in the UK had passed on a message to his brother, who hurried to a tent where Mohammed was living and urged him to find a place with internet connection to check his emails.

"When I saw the word 'congratulations', I froze for a moment," he recalls. "I felt, just for a moment, that the noise of the bombs and the fear around me faded, and I felt hope again."

But like Mahmoud, he finds the prospect of evacuation heart-wrenching.

"It feels like life after so much darkness. A chance to finally move forward. But that joy is heavy with pain.

"My family is still here, alive, but living under constant danger and leaving them behind will be the most painful decision of my life," he told Radio 4's The World Tonight.

Mohammed, who is due to study epidemiology of infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance, says he feels an obligation to use his education to benefit those he would leave behind.

"This opportunity is not an escape. It is a responsibility to study, to learn and to return stronger for them," Mohammed says.

"What I learn in Glasgow will not stay in lecture halls. It will be carried back to serve people who need it."

Palestinians have largely been unable to leave Gaza without diplomatic assistance since October 2023, when Israel launched a military campaign after Hamas's attack on southern Israel, during which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 others were taken hostage, according to Israeli authorities.

More than 62,622 people have been killed in Gaza since then, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry.

Famine was confirmed in Gaza City and surrounding areas by a UN-backed food security body on Friday. The Israeli government has rejected the report.

The Foreign Office has not confirmed how many students will be supported or when evacuations will take place, leaving dozens of Gazan students with other scholarships in limbo.

'Bureaucratic block'

"It feels like a slow death inside," says Manar, 36, an English teacher from Rafah, who has been displaced 14 times during the war and now lives in a tent with her husband and three young daughters.

She has been awarded a Cara Fellowship – a scheme for academics at risk of imminent imprisonment, injury, or death – to study for a PhD in education at the University of Glasgow.

She submitted one of her grant applications from the roof of a damaged four-storey building, climbing up in order to find enough signal. When she reached the top, Manar says she saw gunfire directed at a neighbouring block, and shrapnel landing nearby.

"I haven't slept for days," she says. "Every day, I wonder which will come first - a message from the UK government, or a missile.

"I feel deeply disappointed by this process, as some scholarship holders seem to be prioritised over others, even though all of us deserve equal consideration."

Professor Alison Phipps, Manar's supervisor and the University of Glasgow's specialist on refugee integration through arts and education, says she was "over the moon" to hear Mohammed may be evacuated to study at the university, but believes other scholars like Manar should receive the same support to leave Gaza.

"It's been a long hard road for these nine students." she says. "I know they have put in the work, but I know that all the eligible students have put it in equally.

"There seems to be a kind of bureaucratic block, and it would just really help us if the government could identify what that is, so all the students who meet the thresholds can come out."

A UK government spokesperson said it was "working urgently" to support the "safe exit and onward travel to the UK" of the Chevening scholars.

The government is also understood to be considering appeals for support from other Gazan students with places at UK universities, though no decisions have been announced.

Preparing for another late night working in hospital, Mahmoud stresses that while uncertainty remains for him, it is far greater for those who have not yet been told whether they will be evacuated.

"If the UK government does not act now, it will lose not only us, but future applicants from Gaza and other regions facing similar challenges," he warns.

Source: bbc.com

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

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2x16y2ppro

------

Zelensky vows to continue fighting as Ukraine marks independence day

August 25, 2025

Jack Burgess

President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine would continue to fight for its freedom "while its calls for peace are not heard," in a defiant address to the nation on its independence day.

"We need a just peace, a peace where our future will be decided only by us," he said, adding that Ukraine was "not a victim, it is a fighter".

He continued: "Ukraine has not yet won, but it has certainly not lost."

Zelensky's remarks came after Moscow said Ukraine had attacked Russian power and energy facilities overnight, blaming drone attacks for a fire at a nuclear power plant in its western Kursk region.

The Ukraine government's Centre for Countering Disinformation said it had been reported that the shooting down of a drone allegedly caused the fire.

The centre blamed Russia for "spreading manipulations" and said Russia accusing Ukraine of "allegedly carrying out targeted strikes" on the power plant "are typical methods" of Russian propaganda.

There were no injuries and the fire was quickly extinguished, the plant's press service said on messaging app Telegram. It said the attack had damaged a transformer, but radiation levels were within the normal range.

The United Nations' International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said it was aware of reports regarding the fire, but could not independently confirm them. Its director general said "every nuclear facility must be protected at all times".

The IAEA has repeatedly called on both Russia and Ukraine to show maximum restraint around nuclear facilities in the war.

Also on Sunday, Russia and Ukraine both confirmed a prisoner swap had taken place, with 146 soldiers on each side being exchanged.

Russia's defence ministry also said eight people from Russia's Kursk region, which was partially occupied by Ukraine for several months, had been handed over and would return home.

Zelensky said those returned by Russia included soldiers, border guards and civilians, most of whom have been in captivity since 2022.

He also said journalist Dmytro Khilyuk, who was "kidnapped in the Kyiv region" at the start of the war, was coming home.

Independence Day celebrations were held in Kyiv, as the country marked its declaration of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.

Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney took part in the celebrations, and stood beside Zelensky at St Sophia's Cathedral as he addressed the crowd:

"I want to say something very simple and important: Canada will always stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine."

He said drones, ammunition and armoured vehicles, part of a $2bn Canadian dollars (£1bn) military package, would be delivered to Ukraine as early as September, Ukrainian media reported. The deliveries would make up more than half of a support package he announced in July.

Also present was US envoy Keith Kellogg - whom Ukrainian media reported was awarded the Order of Merit, first degree by Zelensky during the ceremony.

After Zelensky thanked him and US President Donald Trump for their support, Kellogg could be heard telling Zelensky: "We're going to make this work".

The Ukrainian president published a letter he received from Trump on X, which congratulated Ukraine on 34 years of independence and said "now is the moment to bring an end to the senseless killing".

Zelensky thanked the US for "standing shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine".

"We believe that by working together, we can put an end to this war and achieve real peace for Ukraine," he added.

Andriy Yermak, Zelensky's chief of staff, wrote on Telegram early on Sunday: "On this special day - Ukraine's Independence Day - it is especially important for us to feel the support of our friends. And Canada has always stood by us."

Meanwhile, Zelensky shared a letter from King Charles sending the people of Ukraine his "warmest and most sincere wishes".

"I keep feeling the greatest and deepest admiration for the unbreakable spirit of the Ukrainian people," the King writes. "I remain hopeful that our countries will be able to further work closely together to achieve a just and lasting peace."

Zelensky said the King's "kind words are a true inspiration for our people during the difficult time of war".

The UK government also said Ukrainian flags would appear above Downing Street in recognition of the anniversary.

The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that British military experts will continue to train Ukrainian soldiers until at least the end of 2026, with an extension to Operation Interflex - the codename given to the UK Armed Forces' training programme for Ukrainian recruits.

Norway announced on Sunday that it would contribute about 7 billion kroner (£514m; $693m) of air defence systems to Ukraine.

"Together with Germany, we are now ensuring that Ukraine receives powerful air defence systems," Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said in a statement.

The two nations are funding two Patriot systems, including missiles, with Norway also helping procure air defence radar.

Also on Sunday, Ukraine and Sweden announced they had agreed to joint defence production, with Sweden's defence minister saying it would "boost Swedish rearmament and meet the needs of Ukraine's armed forces".

Pål Jonson wrote on X: "Ukraine will share and provide technology for its factories in Sweden and defence materiel co-produced in Sweden will be exported to Ukraine."

On Saturday, Russia said its forces in eastern Ukraine had seized two villages in the Donetsk region.

Russian forces have been advancing very slowly, and at great cost, in eastern Ukraine and now control about 20% of Ukraine's territory.

A full-scale invasion of Ukraine was launched by Russia in February 2022.

There has been intense diplomacy over the war this month, with US President Donald Trump meeting his Russian counterpart President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on 15 August.

The summit was billed as a vital step towards peace in Ukraine. However, despite both leaders claiming the talks were a success, Trump has since shown growing frustration publicly over the lack of a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine.

The US president has said he is considering either hitting Russia with further economic sanctions or walking away from peace talks.

"I'm going to make a decision as to what we do and it's going to be, it's going to be a very important decision, and that's whether or not it's massive sanctions or massive tariffs or both, or we do nothing and say it's your fight," Trump said on Friday.

Zelensky has repeatedly called for an unconditional ceasefire and his European allies have also insisted on a halt in fighting.

He has accused Russia of "doing everything it can" to prevent a meeting with Putin to try to end the war.

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Putin was ready to meet Ukraine's leader "when the agenda is ready for a summit, and this agenda is not ready at all", accusing Zelensky of saying "no to everything".

Source: bbc.com

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

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czxy2v9dzgxo

------
Racist abuse arrest after flags painted on homes

David Freezer

August 25, 2025

Police have arrested a man on suspicion of using racist language and committing criminal damage after a video of St George's crosses being painted on homes was widely viewed on social media.

It shows two shirtless men painting red crosses on the white walls of flats above a row of shops in Basildon, Essex.

While a third person films their work and a young girl watches, racial slurs are heard being shouted as a woman wearing a head scarf walks past with a child.

Basildon Council's Labour leader Gavin Callaghan welcomed the patriotic spirit of those hanging England flags throughout the borough, but warned against criminal damage and said: "Racism has no place in Basildon."

The row of shops off Whitmore Way includes a convenience store, a pharmacy and food outlets including an Indian restaurant, a Chinese takeaway and a burger bar.

'Disgraceful'

Essex Police confirmed a 33-year-old man, from Basildon, was arrested on Saturday on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence and conspiracy to commit criminal damage.

That followed "multiple reports" from the public about the video.

He has been questioned and released on bail while investigations continue.

Ch Insp Paul Hogben said: "Regardless of anyone's thoughts or views, causing damage by applying paint to people's properties is clearly a criminal offence.

"Aside from that simple fact, some of the language directed towards a member of the public in this incident was disgraceful.

"I'm confident the vast majority of people in Essex share the view this language has no place in our county.

"We've received numerous reports in relation to this matter and it's only right that we acted upon them.

"We always work to ensure the safety and security of everyone in Essex."

Basildon is one of many places around the country to be covered by St George's flags in recent days, and the flag has also been a common sight at protests outside hotels being used to house asylum seekers.

The trend was acknowledged by council leader Callaghan in a statement, issued on Saturday afternoon.

"This week we've seen a large number of England and British flags put up across our borough," he said.

"I think it's fantastic to see our flag flying proudly. It shows the pride that so many people feel in our country and our community.

"I have been clear with officers at Basildon Council that we will not be taking down any flags.

"The majority have been fixed to streetlamps, which are Essex County Council's responsibility, and it will be for them to decide if they stay up or not. Personally, I hope they do.

"But I want to be clear as well: there is a big difference between flying a flag and vandalism. Painting on people's shops or council buildings isn't patriotism, it's criminal damage.

"That isn't the way to show love for your country. You're not honouring England by vandalising Basildon. You're not protecting your child's future by racially abusing a passer-by.

"Racism has no place in Basildon."

The statement also cited the video specifically.

Callaghan added: "The video circulating of men painting a St George's flag on the shops on Whitmore Way wasn't just about a flag, it was laced with vile racist abuse aimed at a mum and her young child.

"That is totally wrong and must be called out."

Source: bbc.com

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

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn43rxk0gdlo

-----
France summons US envoy over anti-Semitism claims

25 Aug, 2025

France has summoned the US ambassador over an open letter accusing French President Emmanuel Macron of failing to confront rising anti-Semitism.

Charles Kushner, whose son Jared is married to US President Donald Trump’s daughter Ivanka, wrote in the Wall Street Journal on Sunday that he was “deeply concerned over the dramatic rise of anti-Semitism in France and the lack of sufficient action by your government to confront it.”

Anti-Semitism in France had “exploded” since Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, Kushner argued, adding that Macron’s plan to formally recognize the State of Palestine would “embolden extremists, fuel violence, and endanger Jewish life in France.”

The French Foreign Ministry dismissed the allegations as “unacceptable,” insisting that authorities have been “fully mobilized” to counter the surge in anti-Semitic attacks.

Kushner’s remarks “fall short of the quality of the transatlantic partnership between France and the United States and of the trust that must prevail between allies,” the ministry said, according to AP.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also criticized France’s decision to recognize Palestine, while Macron described the criticism as “erroneous.” In July, he announced that Paris would formalize recognition at the UN General Assembly in September, calling it a “historic commitment to a just and lasting peace.”

Source: rt.com

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

https://www.rt.com/news/623487-france-summons-us-envoy-antisemitism/

------
Pub and travel bans proposed under sentencing rule changes

August 25, 2025

Alex Kleiderman

People convicted of crimes in England and Wales could find themselves barred from going to pubs and sport matches as part of changes to sentencing rules.

Courts imposing community sentences would have the power to hand out driving and travel bans under legislation expected to be introduced next month.

The sentencing bill is likely to also include plans to restrict the use of short prison sentences to ease overcrowding, as well as introduce a scheme to release some well-behaved inmates early.

This legislation will implement many of the recommendations made by former Conservative justice secretary David Gauke in his independent sentencing review published in May.

Courts are currently able to impose limited bans on people convicted of certain offences, for example someone found guilty of violence at football matches can be banned from stadiums.

But the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) wants judges and magistrates to be able to impose these punishments for a wider range of offences, meaning offenders could face additional penalties unrelated to their specific offence.

Offenders released from prison who are supervised by the Probation Service could also face similar restrictions as well as more mandatory drug testing, even if they do not have a history of substance misuse.

The government said in May that it also intended for some prisoners in England and Wales to be eligible for release after serving a third of their sentence, as it responded to the recommendations of the independent Gauke review.

But Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood said she had ruled out allowing the most serious offenders, including those jailed for terror offences, from being released early.

Gauke's early release recommendations were inspired by reforms to high-security, supermax prisons in the US state of Texas, where inmates can earn early release.

The model sees offenders progressing through three stages, with good behaviour rewarded with early release after completing a third of their sentence. But if this is not achieved, prisoners stay in jail.

On the plan for more restrictions on those facing non-custodial sentences, former Old Bailey Criminal Judge Wendy Joseph KC told the BBC there could be good results but only if it was properly funded and considered.

"The idea you can keep people out of pubs might be putting a lot of weight on people who run pubs," she said.

She added that "you've got to find a way of catching the people who breach the rules, and punish them".

Some in the hospitality sector voiced similar concerns about how to implement bans on going to pubs and gigs.

Michael Kill, head of the Night Time Industries Association, said ministers should work with the sector to ensure the scheme "does not unfairly burden venues that are already struggling to survive".

The MoJ said its sentencing reforms were aimed at deterring crime, making streets safer and ensuring prisons never ran out of places for dangerous offenders.

The government began releasing thousands of inmates early soon after coming to power in 2024, saying they had inherited a prison system from the previous Conservative government that was on the brink of running out of spaces.

The MoJ also plans to change probation conditions for offenders leaving prison, including restricting serious sexual and violent criminals to a specific area.

The government said limiting offenders to a geographical zone, policed by tougher monitoring and enhanced tagging, would give victims greater peace of mind.

But this - as well as the early releases - have faced criticism for placing further pressure on the probation service and police forces.

The MoJ said new technology will free up the administrative burden on probation officers to increase supervision of the most dangerous offenders.

It says at least 1,300 new trainee probation officers will be recruited into the service this year, and that the service will receive a £700m funding boost by 2028.

Source: bbc.com

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

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5ypej14j2xo

-----

Boy and man held over restaurant 'arson attack'

August 25, 2025

A teenage boy and a man have been arrested after a suspected arson attack at an east London restaurant left at least five people injured.

Three women and two men were taken to hospital when a blaze ripped through Indian Aroma on Woodford Avenue in Gants Hill, Ilford, on Friday evening.

The Met Police said a 15-year-old boy and a 54-year-old man had been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to danger life.

It added that two of the victims - a man and a woman - remained in a life-threatening condition in hospital.

Firefighters took 90 minutes to extinguish the fire after the flames took hold at about 21:00 BST.

Dina Michael, who witnessed the blaze, told BBC London: "I turned around and see some guy running like a fireball.

"He was fully on fire. One of my friends came with a water bucket and we were just trying to put the fire down."

He added that the man "had a Deliveroo bag on", while other people injured were customers at the restaurant.

Local resident Edward Thawe, 43, said he had seen one of the injured men whose "whole body was burnt".

Another local, who did not want to give his name, said he had witnessed three "severely burned" people being doused by emergency services and given oxygen.

In addition to the five people treated at the scene, the Met said it believed another two people had been injured but left before emergency services arrived.

It said efforts were being made to identify them.

Nine other people were able to get out of the building before the emergency services arrived.

Det Ch Insp Mark Rogers said: "While we have made two arrests, our investigation continues at pace so we can piece together what happened on Friday evening.

"I know the community are concerned and shocked by this incident. I would urge anyone with any information or concerns to come forward and speak to police."

The two people arrested remain in police custody.

Source: bbc.com

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

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1dxy4e9q49o

------

Do you really believe a Ukrainian on a yacht took out Nord Stream?

24 Aug, 2025

The Nord Stream bombing is back in the news after the recent arrest of a Ukrainian national, identified as Sergey Kuznetsov, at a resort in Italy. Kuznetsov is set to be extradited to Germany, where he will stand trial for blowing up the pipelines as the head of a six-man sabotage team.

It is the first arrest in a case which is widely viewed as the largest instance of industrial sabotage in Europe since World War II. Probes were launched by Denmark, Sweden and Germany, but the first two were ended with no suspects identified.

Russia, the majority owner of the pipeline, was not allowed to participate in any of the official probes and has consistently been denied access to the evidence.

It remains to be seen what emerges from the trial of Kuznetsov, but one thing seems clear: many questions remain about an event which still has major repercussions today. RT looks at why doubts persist nearly three years on.

What is the latest version being touted?

German prosecutors claim Kuznetsov led a six-person team on a yacht called the ‘Andromeda’, rented in the city of Rostock with forged papers. The group then allegedly managed to avoid detection in the heavily monitored Baltic Sea in order to plant the explosives at a depth of 70-80 meters.

This version of events bears a close resemblance to an account published nearly exactly a year ago in the Wall Street Journal. Mixing investigative journalism with cinematic flair, the WSJ wrote of a group of Ukrainians “buoyed by alcohol and patriotic fervor” who concocted a scheme to bring down the pipelines on a shoestring budget.

Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky supposedly initially approved the plan before changing his mind on advice from the CIA – but it was too late as the team had already gone incognito.

The WSJ report was, at the time, treated by many observers in the West as a definitive breakthrough in a case that had gone largely cold despite the efforts of investigators working on the official probes.

What has Russia said about the recent developments?

Russian officials have not publicly commented on the recent arrest of Kuznetsov, but Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov previously ridiculed the idea that such an act of sabotage could have been carried out by a small team lacking the extensive training and support that such a mission would require.

Commenting on the media reports about the Ukrainian group last September, Lavrov said: “Five people were sitting around drinking, having a laugh, and decided ‘Why don’t we blow up the Nord Stream pipelines?’ They had diving skills, allegedly hired a little boat, sailed to the place where the Nord Streams were passing, went down, planted explosives and detonated them.”

“If someone can actually believe this version, then it’s only people who are afraid of the truth and are trying to protect the criminal Kiev regime in any way possible,” Russia’s foreign minister suggested.

What happened to the state actor theory?

Initial reactions by Western officials and commentators almost universally pointed to the likelihood of a state actor – with Russia generally assumed to be behind the sabotage.

Just days after the attack, the editorial board of the Washington Post published an opinion piece warning the West to “prepare for more attacks” and explaining that this is the “kind of capability usually wielded by a state actor,” adding that “everyone suspects unofficially” that the perpetrator was Russia.

Yet, as the narrative shifted away from Russian culpability, the state actor theory began being downplayed in the Western media. Nevertheless, recent reports indicate that German prosecutors believe the operation required “military-level planning.”

Could such a small boat accommodate such powerful explosives?

A number of experts have expressed skepticism that a vessel the size of the ‘Andromeda’ (15 meters) could facilitate an operation involving such high-energy (RDX-HMX) explosives – four bombs weighing up to 27kg each. It's not just a question of weight, but one of bulk and safety.

The limited space and lack of a cargo hold on such a yacht would have made transporting highly potent explosives impractical. Such material typically requires reinforced containers, lifting gear, and complex detonation systems – which would push the limits of what a small vessel could reasonably handle.

Many observers question whether the extensive diving gear, mixed-gas systems, and detonation and transport equipment – plus the explosives themselves – could have been carried and deployed all while maintaining cover as a casual sailing trip.

How practical is a 70-80 meter dive to plant explosives?

The logistics of such a deep technical dive have also elicited skepticism. Recreational scuba diving typically doesn’t go deeper than 40 meters.

This operation, entailing explosives placed on two pipelines 4km apart, is believed to have required four dives, each of which would have necessitated the boat being in place for roughly three hours, according to experts. Furthermore, such extended dives would have likely required a decompression chamber for the divers, which would be almost impossible to fit on a vessel the size of the ‘Andromeda’.

How could the Ukrainian team have managed to avoid detection?

Another one of the puzzles lingering around the sabotage is how an operation almost certainly requiring several days could be carried out in one of the most surveilled maritime regions in the world. This is particularly the case given that NATO naval and aerial patrols were heightened due to the conflict in Ukraine.

Nevertheless, despite the fact that even fishing boats are often tracked in the Baltic, NATO somehow failed to pick up on any unusual activity.

If a six-person team on a small yacht really pulled this off undetected, it would imply a catastrophic failure of NATO surveillance – something many experts find hard to accept.

In June 2022, NATO conducted its BALTOPS exercises involving underwater operations near the site of the explosions. Pulitzer Prize-winning US investigative journalist Seymour Hersh has alleged that the exercise was used as a cover for planting remotely triggered explosives that were activated three months later.

Source: rt.com

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

https://www.rt.com/news/623482-nord-stream-sabotage-theories/

------

Territory is not what Russia is interested in – Lavrov

24 Aug, 2025

Russia has no interest in seizing Ukrainian land but wants to protect ethnic Russians and Russian-speaking people from persecution by Kiev, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said.

In an interview with NBC on Sunday, Lavrov was asked whether halting Moscow’s military offensive was the only concession it was prepared to make.

”We don’t have any interest in territories. We have the biggest territory on Earth,” Lavrov said. “What we are concerned about… is the people who live on those lands, whose ancestors lived there for centuries.”

Lavrov said Moscow’s goal is “to remove any security threats to Russia coming from Ukrainian territory” as well as “to protect the rights of the ethnic Russian and Russian-speaking people who believe they belong to Russian culture and Russian history.”

“The only way to protect them against this Nazi regime is to give them the right to express their will,” he stressed.

Lavrov went on to underscore that “Ukraine has the right to exist,” but it should be ready to “let people go.” He noted, however, that Ukrainian officials have consistently sought to dehumanize and portray as “terrorists” people in its five former regions that voted to join Russia in 2014 and 2022.

Since the Western-backed armed coup in Kiev in 2014, Ukraine has moved to sever centuries-long ties with Russia and introduced restrictions on the Russian language in the media. It has also sought to phase out Russian in schools, and impose broader curbs on its use in social life.

Kiev has also embarked on a campaign to eliminate cultural ties with Moscow, particularly through its controversial decommunization campaign, which involved renaming cities, streets, and landmarks that bore Soviet-era or Russian-linked names.

Source: rt.com

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

https://www.rt.com/russia/623470-territory-is-not-what-russia-wants/

------

Nearly 300 soldiers freed in latest Russia-Ukraine swap

24 Aug, 2025

Russia and Ukraine each exchanged 146 prisoners of war on Sunday, the Russian Defense Ministry has announced.

Moscow also received eight civilians who had been captured during the Ukrainian incursion into Russia’s Kursk Region last year.

The exchange took place at an undisclosed location. The Russian servicemen freed during the swap are currently receiving psychological and medical assistance in Belarus, the ministry said in its statement.

They will be transferred to Russia for treatment and rehabilitation shortly.

The eight civilians from Kursk Region were greeted in Belarus by Russian Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova. The civilians ended up in Ukrainian custody during the incursion launched by Kiev last August. Ukrainian forces were expelled from the area by the Russian military earlier this year.

“It is impossible to convey in words the emotions and experiences of the people who managed to return to their homeland. They all had to go through serious hardships and psychological pressure,” Moskalkova said in a statement.

Moscow’s chief negotiator, Vladimir Medinsky, who has led several rounds of direct talks with Kiev in Türkiye this year, said the Ukrainian servicemen had been picked from around 1,000 prisoners Ukraine had repeatedly refused to take back.

“Kiev has been ‘picking’ again, this time from among the 1,000 captured Ukrainian servicemen who appealed to [Vladimir] Zelensky [the full list was published by RT]. Apparently, there are very few of ours left there; the Ukrainian ‘exchange fund’ of Ukraine is approaching ‘zero.’ This is good. We still hold thousands of Ukrainian military personnel as prisoners,” Medinsky said in a Telegram post.

Earlier this month, RT launched a website listing nearly 1,000 servicemen who had been abandoned by Ukraine in Russian captivity. The POWs told RT that their names had repeatedly been removed from exchange lists, thus raising questions about whether they were really wanted in Ukraine despite the claims repeatedly made by Zelensky that he had been seeking an “all-for-all” prisoner swap.

Source: rt.com

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

https://www.rt.com/russia/623475-moscow-kiev-prisoner-swap/

------

Africa

JNI condemns Katsina mosque terror attack

25th August 2025

The Jama’atu Nasril Islam has condemned the recent terrorist attack on a mosque in Ungwan Mantau community, Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, which left several worshippers dead.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Kaduna, the Secretary-General of JNI, Prof. Khalid Aliyu, described the attack as “senseless and barbaric,” expressing shock that worshippers could be targeted during early morning prayers.

“The JNI under the leadership of Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto, is in utter disbelief that worshippers would be attacked in the early hours of Tuesday during the morning prayer in a mosque in Mantau community of Malumfashi LGA, Katsina State. The JNI condemns the attack in the strongest terms,” Aliyu said.

He called on the government to take decisive and proactive measures to tackle insecurity, noting that several appeals for an end to such violence had gone unheeded while attacks continued unabated.

Aliyu cited Quranic injunctions and constitutional provisions to stress the sanctity of human life and the duty of government to protect citizens.

He urged synergy among security agencies, religious bodies, and community leaders to find lasting solutions to the nation’s security challenges.

The JNI secretary-general also appealed to citizens to support security operatives with credible intelligence that could help prevent future attacks.

“JNI prays for the forgiveness of the victims and for their families to be consoled. We also pray for the authorities to be guided in their efforts to protect lives and property, and for the destruction of the enemies of the Nigerian state and the foiling of their evil plans,” the statement added.

Source: punchng.com

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

https://punchng.com/jni-condemns-katsina-mosque-terror-attack/

------
Nigeria says air force has rescued 76 kidnap victims in the north-west

August 25, 2025

Officials in Nigeria said on Saturday that the air force has rescued 76 kidnap victims, including women and children.

They said this follows a precision air strike on a bandit stronghold in Pauwa Hill in the north-west Katsina State.

The operation was part of a manhunt for a gang leader known as Babaro, who has been linked to last week’s attack on a mosque in the region.

At least one child died during the rescue operation but officials did not say if there were any other casualties among the kidnap victims or the gang members.

The air strike could mark a breakthrough in efforts to dismantle criminal networks in the north-west where armed gangs have terrorised rural communities for years.

Earlier this month, the air force said it had killed at least 35 Islamic fighters in the north-east near Cameroon.

This was part of an intensified campaign that has seen almost 600 armed militia members killed in the past 8 months.

Source: africanews.com

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

https://www.africanews.com/2025/08/24/nigeria-says-air-force-has-rescued-76-kidnap-victims-in-the-north-west/

-------
Tinubu will win 2027 election via Muslim-Muslim ticket – APC chieftain insists

By Chimezie Godfrey -

August 24, 2025

President Bola Tinubu-led All Progressives Congress (APC) will win the 2027 presidential elections if the President adopts Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate, an APC chieftain, Prof. Haruna Yerima has said.

By Aderogba George

Yerima, former House of Representatives member, said this while reacting to a statement credited to the Northern Ethnic Nationality Forum, in Abuja on Saturday.

The group urged President Tinubu to drop Sen. Shettima and avoid repeating the Muslim-Muslim ticket.

According to the group, Tinubu must pick a Christian from the Plateau, Benue, and Taraba states to allay the fears of Islamisation agenda by Tinubu’s presidency.

It added that retaining the Muslim-Muslim ticket would give the opposition a ready campaign

Yerima, however, said it was fallacy and unfounded to make such statement.

“The claim that the APC may lose the 2027 presidential elections if President Bola Tinubu adopts Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate is insane and unfounded,” he said.

According to him, insinuation that Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi’s ticket would defeat that of Tinubu/Shettima is a jaundiced and amateur political permutation without any empirical backing.

“We dismiss this statement by one Dominic Alancha of a faceless organisation, Northern Ethnic Nationality Forum, who urged President Tinubu to drop Sen. Shettima and avoid repeating the Muslim-Muslim ticket.”

The don said the group got “all its facts wrong because the issue of the Islamisation agenda has been disputed by the Tinubu’s presidency through its dynamic and policy of inclusion.”

“In the last two years of President Bola Tinubu’s presidency, all doubting Thomases that the APC administration is not tilted to any religious group. It is appalling why that faceless group is trying to reincarnate a forgotten issue.

“The claim that the opposition would dethrone President Tinubu if he adopts Senator Shettima in 2027 is another fallacy that is without any shred of truth or evidence.

“Vice President Kashim Shettima was chosen by President Bola Tinubu after thorough consideration of various factors. Any attempt to impose a running mate on President Tinubu would not only backfire but would be met by outright rejection by the president himself.

“President Tinubu is not a political neophyte that some dubious politicians would hide under a mushroom ethnic group to push for an unsaleable agenda.”

The former lawmaker cautioned against mixing religion with politics, explaining that “it is puzzling that some people are driving faith-based sentiments on issues that are strictly loyalty and competence-based.

“Sen. Shettima has been diligently fulfilling the roles assigned to him by his principal with all diligence, competence, and dedication.” (NAN)(

Source: newsdiaryonline.com

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

https://newsdiaryonline.com/tinubu-will-win-2027-election-via-muslim-muslim-ticket-apc-chieftain-insists/

------

Egyptian farmers behind world’s perfumes face climate fight alone

August 25, 2025

SHUBRA BALULA, Egypt: For years, Egyptian jasmine picker Wael Al-Sayed has collected blossoms by night in the Nile Delta, supplying top global perfume houses. But in recent summers, his basket has felt lighter and the once-rich fragrance is fading.

“It’s the heat,” said Sayed, 45, who has spent nearly a decade working the fields in Shubra Balula, a quiet village about 100 kilometers (60 miles) north of Cairo and a key hub for Egypt’s jasmine industry.

As temperatures rise, he said, the flowers bloom less and his daily harvest has dropped from six kilograms to just two or three in the past two years.

In this fertile pocket of the delta, jasmine has sustained thousands of families like Sayed’s for generations, but rising temperatures, prolonged dry spells and climate-driven pests are putting that legacy at risk.

From June to October, families, including children, traditionally head into the fields between midnight and dawn to hand-pick jasmine at peak fragrance.

With yields shrinking, some are leaving the trade entirely and those that have stayed now work longer hours.

More children are also being pulled in to help and often stay up all night to pick before going to school.

Child labor remains widespread in Egypt with 4.2 million children working in agriculture, industry and services, often in unsafe or exploitative conditions, according to a 2023 state study.

This year, Sayed has brought two of his children — just nine and 10 years old — to join him and his wife on their 350-square-meter (3,800-square-foot) plot.

“We have no other choice,” Sayed said.

According to the country’s largest processor, A Fakhry & Co, Egypt produces nearly half the world’s jasmine concrete, a waxy extract from the plant that provides a vital base for designer fragrances and is a multi-million dollar export.

In the 1970s, Egypt produced 11 tons of jasmine concrete annually, according to the International Federation of Essential Oils and Aroma Trades.

Now, A Fakhry & Co. says that’s down to 6.5 tons.

Ali Emara, 78, who has picked jasmine since the age of 12, said summers used to be hot, “but not like now.”

Mohamed Bassiouny, 56, and his four sons have seen their harvest halve from 15 to seven kilograms with pickers now taking over eight hours to fill a basket.

The region’s jasmine is highly sensitive to heat and humidity, said Karim Elgendy from Carboun Institute, a Dutch climate and energy think tank.

“Higher temperatures can disrupt flowering, weaken oil concentration and introduce stress that reduces yield,” Elgendy told AFP.

A 2023 report by the International Energy Agency found Egypt’s temperature rose 0.38C per decade (2000-2020), outpacing the global average.

The heat is affecting the strength of the jasmine’s scent, and with it the value of the oil extracted, said Badr Atef, manager of A Fakhry & Co.

Meanwhile, pests such as spider mites and leaf worms are thriving in the hotter, drier conditions and compounding the strain.

Alexandre Levet, CEO of the French Fragrance House in Grasse, France’s perfume capital, explained that the industry is facing the effects of climate change globally.

“We have dozens of natural ingredients that are already suffering from climate change,” he said, explaining that new origins for products have emerged as local climates shift.

With the Nile Delta also vulnerable to the rising Mediterranean water levels, which affect soil salinity, jasmine farmers are on the front line of a heating planet.

The laborers are left “at the mercy of this huge system entirely on their own,” said rural sociologist Saker El Nour, with “no stake” in the industry that depends on their labor.

Global brands charge up to $6,000 per kilogram of jasmine absolute, the pure aromatic oil derived from the concrete and used by perfumeries, but Egyptian pickers earn just 105 Egyptian pounds ($2) per kilogram.

A ton of flowers yields only 2-3 kilograms of concrete and less than half that in pure essential oil — enough for around 100 perfume bottles.

“What’s 100 pounds worth today? Nothing,” said Sayed.

Egypt’s currency has lost more than two-thirds of its value since 2022, causing inflation to skyrocket and leaving families like Sayed’s scraping by.

Last June, pickers staged a rare strike, demanding 150 pounds per kilogram. But with prices set by a handful of private processors and little government oversight, they only received an increase of 10 pounds.

Every year farmers earn less and less, while a heating planet threatens the community’s entire livelihood.

“Villages like this may lose their viability altogether,” Elgendy said.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2612908/middle-east

-------

Sudan’s RSF shells hospital, abducts 8 in El Fasher: rescuers

August 24, 2025

PORT SUDAN: Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces shelled a hospital in North Darfur’s besieged city of El-Fasher and abducted six women and two children from a displacement camp, rescuers and a medic said Sunday.

El-Fasher, under RSF siege for over a year, is the last major city in western Darfur still held by the army and a flashpoint in the war that erupted in April 2023 between army chief Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan and his former deputy and RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo.

The Emergency Response Room at the Abu Shouk camp near El-Fasher on Sunday said RSF fighters stormed the site, seizing eight unarmed civilians — six women, a 40-day-old baby and a three-year-old child — and taking them to an undisclosed location.

More than 20 camp residents were missing, the rescuers said, warning the actual number could be higher.

Abu Shouk, home to tens of thousands of displaced people, has been attacked twice this month. The first assault left dead more than 40 people, according to first responders.

On Saturday, RSF artillery hit the emergency and trauma unit of a hospital in El-Fasher, wounding seven people, including a staff member, a doctor told AFP.

The bombardment, which continued into Sunday morning, “caused damage to the emergency department, forcing us to suspend operations,” said the doctor, requesting anonymity for safety reasons.

The hospital is one of only three still functioning in the city.

Since losing Khartoum in March, the RSF has stepped up attacks on El-Fasher and surrounding camps in a bid to tighten its hold on western Sudan where it now controls most of the Darfur region.

Abu Shouk is among three camps outside El-Fasher where famine was declared late in 2024.

The United Nations has warned famine could spread to the city, though a lack of data has so far delayed a possible declaration.

The conflict, which has killed tens of thousands, has triggered what the UN calls the world’s biggest displacement and hunger crisis. Both sides face accusations of war crimes and using starvation as a weapon of war.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2612849/middle-east

-------

Eswatini government faces court challenge over US deportees

August 24, 2025

A group of human rights lawyers and NGOs are suing the Eswatini government for accepting five people deported by the United States.

They say the secret deal with US President Donald Trump’s administration’s to accept third-country deportees is unconstitutional.

In their legal challenge, they claim the government violated due process because it was not submitted to parliament for approval.

In addition, the jail where the men are being held is 190% over capacity and they say no-one has had access to the prisoners.

The deportees from Vietnam, Jamaica, Laos, Yemen, and Cuba, who Washington says are dangerous criminals, were flown into the country in July.

Eswatini says it is holding them in solitary confinement until they can be repatriated.

Their imprisonment at the maximum security Matsapha Correctional Centre, has caused outrage in Eswatini, an absolute monarchy ruled by King Mswati III.

The king previously said the deportees pose no threat and that the agreement was based purely on its good relations with Washington.

The case was due be heard at the country’s High Court on Friday, but was postponed until 25 September, reportedly because the government did not file response papers.

Eswatini’s attorney general told Reuters news agency that the case had no basis, adding that it was “a frivolous legal application”.

Trump aims to deport millions of immigrants who entered the US illegally and his administration has sought to increase removals to third countries.

Source: africanews.com

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

https://www.africanews.com/2025/08/24/eswatini-government-faces-court-challenge-over-us-deportees/

-------

Libya: Delayed municipal elections held in seven north-western municipalities

August 25, 2025

Libyans in seven municipalities in the country’s north-western region were finally given the opportunity to vote on Saturday.

They are Zawiya Markaz, Zawiya Wassat, Zawya Gharb, Zawya Chamal, Sabrata, Sormane, and Bir Ghnam.

Polls there were delayed for a week due to security concerns, following an attack on an electoral commission facility in one of the areas.

A first phase of voting was held for 58 municipalities last November, while the second session covered 26 municipal councils earlier this month.

Although not all municipalities were able to vote, the polls are seen as a crucial step in revitalising local governance.

Libya remains divided between two rival administrations.

One led by Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh in Tripoli controls the west of the country. The other government, based in Benghazi, is led by Osama Hammad and governs the east and much of the south.

Earlier this week, a senior United Nations, Hanna Serwaa Tetteh, figure praised Libyans for showing a remarkable determination to exercise their democratic right to vote.

But the Special Representative for Libya told the Security Council that the country remains mired in political deadlock, fragile security, economic hardship, and human rights concerns.

She called for the implementation of a politically viable electoral framework, unifying institutions and the government, and a dialogue that allows all Libyans to take part.

Source: africanews.com

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

https://www.africanews.com/2025/08/24/libya-delayed-municipal-elections-held-in-seven-north-western-municipalities/

------

6.5 Billion: EFCC, ICPC Probe Top Government Official

August 25, 2025

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has accused an aide to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State of syphoning state funds through proxies.

This is as reports emerged claiming that the Director General of Protocol, Government House Kano, Abdullahi Rogo, allegedly returned the sum of ?1,109,230,000 to the recovery account of the ICPC.

According to court documents, the anti-graft agency, EFCC traced ?6.5 billion paid for fictitious contracts that were neither awarded nor executed.

Rogo, was said to have offered confessional statement at the EFCC, but was later headed to the Kano State High Court, Bichi Division in a bid to prevent his further arrest and prosecution.

In their counter-affidavits deposited before the commissioner of oaths, both ICPC and EFCC said there was a strong evidence that the suspects committed the offence.

During the the court session, a litigation officer at the ICPC, David Nelson Efut, prayed the court to dismiss the fundamental rights suit filed by Mr Rogo, “That I also know as a matter of fact this action was brought mala fide with the aim of restraining the 1st Respondent by this Court from discharging its statutory mandates as captured under section 6(a) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000, and from uncovering the truth of the matter.

“That it is in the interest of justice that the instant application be dismissed for lacking in merit and same being frivolous, vexatious, speculative and an abuse of court process.”

However, Justice M.N. Yunusa of the Federal High Court, Kano, has ordered the permanent forfeiture of the ?142.2 million balance to the ICPC.

According to Arise TV, Rogo operates an account [0505572562] with Alternative Bank under the name AH Bello Business Solutions Limited, which recorded inflows of ?3.06 billion and outflows of ?2.59 billion between August 2024 and February 2025.

“it was discovered that Mr Rogo’s personal Zenith Bank account 1003666925 recorded ?2.28 billion inflows and ?2.26 billion outflows between January 2022 and January 2025, leaving a balance of ?39.3 million.” the sources confirmed.

Source: naijanews.com

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

https://www.naijanews.com/2025/08/25/%e2%82%a66-5-billion-efcc-icpc-probe-top-government-official/

------

NLC Warns RMAFC Over Plan To Increase Tinubu, Political Office Holders’ Salary

August 24, 2025

By Enioluwa Adeniyi

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has rejected the planned upward review of remuneration for political office holders by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, warning that the move could exacerbate inequality and trigger public outrage.

The warning comes weeks after RMAFC Chairman, Mohammed Shehu, lamented that President Bola Tinubu earns only ?1.5 million monthly, while ministers receive less than ?1 million, figures that have remained unchanged since 2008.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, NLC President, Joe Ajaero, described the proposed review as “insensitive, unjust, inequitable, and a direct threat to social stability.”

“We are outraged by the decision of RMAFC to embark on a comprehensive upward review of the remuneration packages of political office holders. This move is insensitive and will only succeed in widening the inequality between civil servants and political office holders,” Ajaero said.

The labour leader dismissed RMAFC’s justification as inadequate, arguing that public office should not be turned into a wealth-making venture.

He warned, “Such action will deepen poverty among Nigerians, most of whom have already been classified as multi-dimensionally poor. It will also heighten desperation for political positions with dangerous consequences for governance and stability.”

The NLC lamented that the review was being considered at a time when workers continue to grapple with stagnant wages and skyrocketing living costs.

It noted that the current ?70,000 minimum wage remains grossly inadequate, adding that the last wage adjustment for civil servants was less than 50 per cent. At the same time, political office holders reportedly enjoyed increments exceeding 800 per cent.

According to the union, civil servants’ pay has always been tied to resource availability, whereas politicians have consistently benefited from uniform pay structures nationwide, irrespective of states’ fiscal conditions.

The NLC demanded that the current earnings of all political office holders be made public, along with the criteria for any proposed review.

It also called on the RMAFC to suspend the exercise immediately, warning that proceeding with the review could lead to “a potential tsunami.”

Source: naijanews.com

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

https://www.naijanews.com/2025/08/24/labour-warns-rmafc-over-plan-to-increase-tinubu-political-office-holders-salary/

-------

‘I Didn’t Abuse Alaafin’ – Sunday Igboho Speaks After Visiting Ooni

August 24, 2025

By Enioluwa Adeniyi

Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has denied claims that he insulted the Alaafin of Oyo during his weekend visit to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.

Reacting to reports sparked by comments he made at the Ooni’s palace on Saturday, Igboho insisted that his words were misinterpreted, stressing that he regarded the Alaafin as a father figure and a foremost monarch in Yorubaland.

In a viral video on Saturday night, Igboho said, “My father, the Olugbon, called me and said the Alaafin felt I insulted him when I visited the Ooni. I want to make it clear that I never abused the Alaafin. I can’t and I won’t. The Alaafin is not a small monarch in Yorubaland. I am from Oyo, and the Alaafin is my father.”

Explaining the circumstances, Igboho stated that the confusion arose from traditional praise singing during his palace visit.

“When I visited the Ooni, the drummers and singers praised me with my family heritage. I only added to it. I said Ooni is a father of peace.

“I was surprised when he still welcomed me warmly, celebrated me and prayed for me despite all that had happened before. That was what I was emphasising. I didn’t insult the Alaafin,” he clarified.

The activist noted that the self-praise, or oríkì, was a long-standing cultural practice and not an act of disrespect.

“I can’t abuse Alaafin. I am his son. Even when I visited him, I greeted myself with the same oriki. That is how we do in our family compound.

“If my words were misunderstood, I ask for forgiveness. I never meant to insult the Alaafin,” Igboho added.

Reiterating his loyalty to Yoruba tradition, Igboho stressed that he would never speak ill of any monarch, noting that harmony among royal fathers was crucial for the unity of the Yoruba nation

Source: naijanews.com

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

https://www.naijanews.com/2025/08/24/i-didnt-abuse-alaafin-sunday-igboho-speaks-after-visiting-ooni/

-------

‘Christians Have Received Majority Of Donations, Visits From First Lady’ – Shehu

August 24, 2025

By Enioluwa Adeniyi

Human rights activist, Mahdi Shehu, has accused Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, of showing open bias in her charity initiatives under the Renewed Hope project.

Shehu, in a post on ?? on Sunday, alleged that the First Lady’s interventions appear to favour Christian communities over Muslims, warning that such actions could deepen national divisions.

He described Mrs. Tinubu as “a seemingly biased mother” whose approach to relief distribution undermines unity.

Shehu wrote, “Her body language, her numerous charitable spendings, and her visits to disaster locations all show that the Renewed Hope project is tilted too heavily towards her Christian community.

“These open biases do not raise hopes but rather dash hopes, create more divisions and hate which ultimately destroys unity, harmony and cohesion.”

The activist claimed that states such as Benue, Plateau, Bauchi and Kogi, where Christians form a majority, have enjoyed swift visits and donations worth billions of naira from the First Lady.

By contrast, he argued, Muslim-majority states like Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina and Niger have been either overlooked or given what he described as “peanuts in cash and drops of relief.”

“Disaster victims, mostly Muslims, are watching a mother visibly tilted towards her chosen and preferred children,” Shehu added.

Backing his criticism with biblical references from Psalms 25:8 and Isaiah 32:1-5, Shehu urged the First Lady to embrace fairness and justice in her interventions.

He concluded by advising Mrs. Tinubu to reflect deeply on her role, warning that open bias in national relief efforts could undermine peace and cohesion in the country.

Source: naijanews.com

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

https://www.naijanews.com/2025/08/24/christians-have-received-majority-of-donations-visits-from-first-lady-shehu/

-------

Arab World

Record sightings of seabirds, large marine animals on Saudi coasts

August 25, 2025

RIYADH: Wildlife researchers have reported record sightings of seabirds and large marine animals along the Kingdom’s coasts this year, according to a report of the National Center for Wildlife carried by the Saudi Press Agency.

The NWC report stated that researchers have documented 84,516 seabirds in total. There were 50,356 sighted along the eastern coast of the Arabian Gulf, and 34,160, representing 63 species, along the Red Sea’s western coast.

The NCW also identified 39 key sites for bird migration and breeding, five of which are officially recognized by BirdLife International as critical areas for biodiversity, the SPA reported on Sunday.

The center also recorded exceptional sightings of 1,219 large marine animals, 159 on the east coast and 1,060 on the west coast.

The findings are a part of the NCW’s field monitoring and exploration programs in the Kingdom’s marine and coastal environments.

“The results highlight Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to protecting biodiversity and preserving marine and coastal ecosystems, in line with Saudi Vision 2030 and its goals for sustainable development,” the NCW stated.

The NCW added that the findings reinforce the Kingdom’s biodiversity database. And strengthen efforts to ensure the sustainable management of environmental resources, support eco-tourism, and raise environmental awareness.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2612916/saudi-arabia

-------

National emblem exhibition opens at Al-Masmak Palace

NADA ALTURKI

August 24, 2025

RIYADH: “Two Swords and a Palm: The Saudi Emblem Archive” exhibition opened to the public on Saturday and runs until Nov. 21, providing a visual guide to the emblem of Saudi Arabia, archiving its historic significance and use over the years.

The exhibition was curated by Mohammed Alruways and Abdullah Kenani, a Saudi pair whose passion for heritage drove them to painstakingly build this archive.

“This whole project started four years ago,” Alruways told Arab News. “We started to become interested in the changes of the emblem and noticed that it doesn’t have a specific drawing. So, we started to investigate the changes throughout the years, since the unification of Saudi in the ’30s until now.”

Alruways and Kenani began the project together, collecting objects adorned with the emblem and digitizing them.

But their biggest challenge was not collecting pieces for the archive but tracing them back to specific dates and professionally digitizing and archiving them.

“We were learning as we go … Some of them (the objects) are from the ’40s and ’50s and ’60s, but it was hard to connect them to a specific date or era at that time. So that’s why we mainly focused on documents and books,” Alruways said.

The exhibition space is organized in three stages. The first room invites the viewer to look through the found objects; the second highlights the emblem in different sizes, including large paintings made for diplomats; and the third demonstrates the archival process, including video footage of the digitization procedure.

The interactive experience includes visual presentations and animated films, allowing visitors to explore the emblem’s development and its evolving aesthetics, reflecting its ability to adapt to social and cultural changes while maintaining its presence as an icon that represents the Kingdom’s values and unity.

Al-Masmak Palace holds symbolic importance due to its link to the 1902 recapture of Riyadh by King Abdulaziz, a pivotal moment in the Kingdom’s unification.

“I think it was the right place (for this exhibition) because it’s where Saudi unification started and also has links to the emblem,” Alruways said.

“When we decided to host the exhibition here in Al-Masmak, we noticed that one of the rooms featured the emblem in its original form, so we replicated that as an installation,” he added.

Nestled in the heart of the capital, Al-Masmak Palace bears witness to the early beginnings of the state, preserving features of that era within its walls.

Over recent decades, it has transformed into a national museum that welcomes visitors from within and outside the Kingdom, telling the story of the founding of modern Saudi Arabia through its halls and exhibits.

For this exhibition, Alruways and Kenani connected the emblems by the era of the kings that ruled Saudi Arabia ever since the unification by King Abdulaziz, finding that each era usually held a standard aesthetic.

“We noticed that post-2009, most of the emblems look similar and we realized that’s because of the internet, basically, so that’s where everybody starts copying each other,” Alruways said. “But pre-2009, it’s usually hand drawn. You notice there are some similarities, but usually whenever someone draws it by hand … they add their own touch. That was one of our early findings.”

Some of the rare finds include royal dining plates from the eras of King Abdulaziz and King Fahd, including a 1949 passport among the first to feature the emblem on its cover.

Saudi Arabia’s Museums Commission emphasized that the exhibition is part of its efforts to preserve cultural heritage and raise public awareness of the importance of national identity.

It noted that the national emblem, with its symbol of the two swords and the palm tree, is not merely a fixed visual form, but “a living record that reflects the state’s journey and aspirations across generations.”

The exhibition aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to highlight national heritage and enhance its role in the present and the future by transforming major historical sites like Al-Masmak Palace into vibrant cultural spaces that attract visitors and enrich their knowledge.

The program includes workshops and activities for all age groups, to connect generations with the history of their homeland and introduce them to the value and significance of the national emblem in Saudi Arabia’s collective memory.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2612881/saudi-arabia

------

King Salman receives letter from Egyptian president El-Sisi

August 24, 2025

RIYADH: King Salman on Sunday received a written message from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on relations and ways to strengthen cooperation between the two countries, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The message was delivered to Abdulrahman bin Ibrahim Al-Rassi, undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Multilateral International Affairs and the general supervisor of the ministry’s Agency for Public Diplomacy Affairs.

Al-Rassi received the letter during his meeting in Riyadh on Sunday with Egypt’s ambassador to the Kingdom, Ehab Abu Srei.

Talks during their meeting reviewed Saudi-Egyptian relations and ways of developing joint cooperation across various fields.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2612879/saudi-arabia

-------

Saudi minister receives Chinese ambassador

August 24, 2025

RIYADH: Prince Abdulaziz bin Mohammed bin Ayyaf, the acting vice minister of interior, received Ambassador of China to the Kingdom Chang Hua in Riyadh on Sunday.

During the meeting, they discussed bilateral relations and topics of mutual interest, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Meanwhile, Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al-Rabiah began an official visit to Kazakhstan on Sunday as part of the Kingdom’s efforts to strengthen cooperation and ease the arrival of worshippers to the two holy mosques.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2612889/saudi-arabia

------

Saudi project clears 828 explosive devices in Yemen

August 24, 2025

RIYADH: Members of Saudi Arabia’s Project Masam removed 828 explosive devices from various regions of Yemen last week.

The total included 783 unexploded ordnances, 42 anti-tank mines, two anti-personnel mines and one improvised explosive device, according to a recent report.

Ousama Al-Gosaibi, the initiative’s managing director, said that 511,355 mines have been cleared since the project began in 2018.

The explosives were planted indiscriminately and posed a threat to civilians, including children, women and the elderly.

The demining operations took place in Marib, Aden, Jouf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale and Saada.

The project trains local demining engineers and provides them with modern equipment. It also offers support to Yemenis injured by the devices.

Teams are tasked with clearing villages, roads and schools to facilitate the safe movement of civilians and delivery of humanitarian aid.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2612890/saudi-arabia

-------

Falcon sells for SR1.2m at Riyadh auction

HEBSHI ALSHAMMARI

August 24, 2025

RIYADH: A falcon was sold on Saturday for SR1.2 million ($320,000) at the International Falcon Breeders Auction in Malham, north of Riyadh.

The super white pure gyr farkh, from the US-based RX farm, was the most expensive bird sold at this year’s event, which ends on Monday.

Two shaheen gyr farkhs also sold on Saturday, one from the UK-based Border Falcons Farm for SR28,000 and the other from the Falcon Mews Farm in the UK for SR48,000.

Falcon owner Mohammed Al-Blaidan has purchased several birds from the auction in recent years and said that its organizers Saudi Falcons Club had played a pivotal role in bringing the breeders together under one roof.

He added: “Uniting efforts under the club’s umbrella has greatly facilitated logistical matters, and we are now dealing with a single, well-known entity which adds a sense of professionalism and organization to the entire sector.

“However, I believe that providing larger and more spacious areas for exhibitors would be an important step in developing these events and making them more attractive to participants and buyers from around the world.”

Al-Blaidan explained that the efforts of local companies served to enhance and preserve the Kingdom’s falconry heritage for future generations.

He noted that “falconry is an integral part of our identity, and supporting it means preserving a living heritage.”

He also spoke about how social media is popularizing falconry in the modern age, and added: “The role of social media platforms in developing this hobby and spreading it globally cannot be overlooked.

“They are an effective tool for communication, exchanging experiences, and showcasing products, and they have contributed to attracting a new section of young people to this authentic heritage.”

He expressed great optimism about a sport that can attract “amateurs, experts, and tourists from all over the world, which will in turn directly contribute to strengthening the national economy.”

Club spokesperson Walid Al-Tawil told Arab News that “the falconry sector is one of the sectors with high-market value, both locally and regionally.”

He added: “The auction contributes to raising this value by bringing together the most prominent producers in one place, enhancing competition and generating greater returns for breeders and investors.”

He said the auction opened doors to new projects, including the establishment of specialized farms, advanced falcon care and training services, along with eco-tourism programs linked to falconry activities, providing diverse investment opportunities.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2612873/saudi-arabia

-------

Expo 2025 Osaka spotlights Saudi handicrafts

August 24, 2025

RIYADH: The Cultural Development Fund hosted activities from Aug. 22–23 at the Kingdom’s pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, in Japan.

These included an investor-focused workshop on financing solutions, and an interactive handicrafts experience.

The events, which were attended by Ghazi Faisal Binzagr, the Saudi ambassador to Japan and commissioner general of the pavilion, highlighted the Kingdom’s Year of Handicrafts on the global stage, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The workshop, “Saudi Cultural Development Fund: Driving Innovative Business Solutions,” welcomed entrepreneurs and international investors and provided an overview of the fund’s role as the Kingdom’s key financial enabler for the cultural sector.

The session showcased Saudi Arabia’s thriving cultural landscape, inviting participants to explore the fund’s support offerings and join the Kingdom’s journey of cultural growth.

The handicrafts activity, “Saudi Handicraft: Palm Weaving,” demonstrated the Kingdom’s living heritage through a collaboration with Madrasat Addeera, which trains artisans in AlUla, and Turquoise Mountain, a global leader in preserving traditional arts.

Visitors learned about the artistry of palm-frond weaving: the crafting of unique pieces from Saudi palm leaves in an experience symbolizing cultural harmony.

The fund’s participation at Expo 2025 Osaka aims to spotlight the Kingdom’s cultural identity, showcase sector growth under Vision 2030, attract global investment, and encourage innovation and entrepreneurship in the creative industries.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2612872/saudi-arabia

-------

24 Arabic tales reach global readers

August 24, 2025

RIYADH: The King Abdulaziz Public Library has published 24 children’s stories translated from Arabic into English, French and Chinese.

The initiative was carried out in collaboration with Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University as part of a cultural translation project, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

According to the library, one of the stories translated into French is a tale centered on Saudi coffee titled “Hours Pour Le Café Saoudien.”

A large collection of children’s stories written by various authors specializing in children’s literature was also translated into Chinese.

The project aims to share cultural and human values rooted in Arabic literature with a global audience, the SPA reported.

It also seeks to elevate Saudi and Arabic literature on the international stage by providing engaging, age-appropriate content for children of all ages.

The translation of these stories is part of a broader effort to build bridges of communication between cultures and peoples, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030 to enrich global culture with Arabic intellectual and creative output.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2612884/saudi-arabia

-------

Millions of students across Saudi Arabia begin new school year

GHADI JOUDAH

August 24, 2025

RIYADH: Millions of Saudi students returned to classrooms across the Kingdom on Sunday as the 2025–2026 academic year began.

Schools opened after preparations to provide safe, stimulating environments that promote national values, discipline, and diligence, supporting Vision 2030’s goal of developing a competitive future generation.

The Ministry of Education carried out readiness measures, including 75 new construction projects worth SR920 million ($245 million) to expand infrastructure, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Preparations covered all 13 regions, with Riyadh hosting the largest group of 2.84 million students across 6,873 schools.

Maseera Ghaffar, an English teacher at the primary level at Al-Hamraa International Schools, told Arab News: “We welcome the new academic year with optimism and dedication. The team has prepared thoughtful lesson plans to make classes both interesting and meaningful.

“More than just teaching subjects, I want to encourage curiosity, build confidence, and support each child in discovering their strengths,” Ghaffar said.

She added: “For me, every new year is a chance to grow alongside my students and to guide them with care and commitment.”

Parents also reflected on the transition. Hams Jambi told Arab News: “Honestly, I was not very emotional about it,” explaining that her priority was re-establishing routines for her young daughter after the long break.

Jambi and her daughter prepared by organizing school supplies together, letting the child choose her own backpack and lunchbox, and adjusting sleep schedules earlier.

The outcome was positive, said Jambi, adding: “She was actually super excited to go back and see her friends, which made the whole transition really smooth for both of us.”

Maintenance teams serviced more than 15,000 school buildings and more than 884,000 air conditioning units at a cost exceeding SR2 billion, while restoration projects rehabilitated more than 1,400 educational buildings with SR782 million in investment.

The Eastern Province prepared for more than 700,000 students, while Asir readied 3,430 schools for 525,595 students, and Jazan’s 2,556 institutions welcomed around 351,535 students.

Qassim’s enrollment exceeded 320,000, with Tabuk preparing for 211,372 students and the Northern Borders region hosting over 100,500.

Hail accommodated more than 180,000 students across more than 1,300 schools, while Jouf’s 937 schools hosted 168,494 students.

Najran’s 980 schools prepared for 183,302 students, and Baha’s 760 institutions welcomed more than 80,000.

These preparations reflect the ministry’s commitment to a smooth and disciplined start to the school year, supporting learning outcomes and nurturing a generation that contributes to the Kingdom’s reform plan.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2612867/saudi-arabia

--------

Regional leaders take part in blood donation campaign

August 24, 2025

RIYADH: Regional leaders in Saudi Arabia participated on Sunday in a blood donation campaign launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Thursday.

Governor of Al-Jouf Prince Faisal bin Nawaf, who was among those to donate blood, said that the initiative is evidence of how Saudi Arabia’s leaders are promoting the value of giving, encouraging members of the public to donate blood and contribute to saving lives, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

He called on people across the region to take part in the campaign, which he said reflects the cohesion of Saudi society and the goals of Vision 2030.

Prince Saud bin Talal, governor of Al-Ahsa, also donated blood on Sunday in the presence of the CEO of Al-Ahsa Health Cluster, Dr. Khaled Al-Mulla, and a number of officials.

Najran’s governor, Prince Jalawi bin Abdulaziz, also took part in the initiative on Sunday, urging members of the public to donate.

Deputy governor of Qassim, Prince Fahd bin Saad, was quoted as saying that the Qassim region will contribute to supporting the objectives of the campaign through the participation of its government and private sectors.

After he gave blood, Prince Fahd praised the efforts of the health authorities that organized the campaign, which was launched in order to raise awareness of the importance of voluntary donations so that the Kingdom can become self-sufficient in supplies of blood and related products, thereby ensuring the availability of safe and sustainable stocks that meet the needs of the population.

More than 800,000 donors gave blood in 2024, officials said.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2612864/saudi-arabia

-------

URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/women-commando-counter-terror-operations/d/136591

New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Donate Now

Islamic World News ( 25 Aug 2025, NewAgeIslam.Com)

CISF To Raise First All-Women Commando Unit For Counter-Terror Operations

Loading..

Loading..