Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl Warns Govt Over ‘Move to Ban’ Seminaries
New Age Islam News Bureau
18
Apr 2014
JUI-F warns govt over ‘move to ban’ seminaries, File photo
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Pakistan
• Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl Warns Govt Over ‘Move To Ban’ Seminaries
• Lal Masjid names library after Osama bin Laden
• Extension of ceasefire dependent on addressing TTP concerns: Prof Ibrahim
• Criticism: K-P governor remarks on Taliban draw ire in Senate
• Militancy brings the curtain down on 13 Peshawar schools, PA told
• ‘Pakistan must break alleged links with Afghan insurgents’ says Opposition.
Mideast
• Erdogan's missed opportunity to mix Islam and democracy in Turkey
• Settlers torch mosque in northern Israel
• Turkish president rules out role swap with Erdogan
• 'No breakthrough' in Israeli-Palestinian peace talks
• Palestinian Authority Glorifies another Arch-Terrorist
• Turkish president to have final say for prosecution of intel chief
• Iranians carry 'death to Israel' signs as Rouhani tells crowd he supports dialogue
Europe
• Syria foreign fighters look to Western preachers: British-based research body
• Anti-Muslim suspicion in UK has a whiff of McCarthyism about it
• Amnesty Slams Bahrain Regime’s Intimidation against Cleric as Unacceptable
• Will Muslim students avoid paying interest on finance for higher education?
• U.N. documents show Assad using starvation policy
Southeast Asia
• Islamic followers will be divided if religion deviates, says Dr Mahathir
• Calls mount for coalition between Islamic parties
• Malaysian Muslims Protest outside US Embassy against Obama Visit
• PAS to discuss Muslims’ use of ‘RIP’
• Report: Thailand thwarts Hezbollah plot to attack Israeli tourists
North America
• Muslim Cleric ‘Was Committed to War’ Prosecutor Says in Terrorism Trial
• Qur'an school serves growing Muslim community in north metro
• Scenarios of possible Canadian involvement in Syria revealed
• Teen in 'Jihad Jane' case sentenced to five years in prison
• US doesn't believe missile supplies to Syrian rebels can change military situation - expert
• US releases $450 million of frozen Iranian funds, citing compliance to nuclear deal
• Kerry condemns call for Jews to register in Ukrainian city
• US Urges Myanmar to Protect Humanitarian Workers amid Buddhist-Muslim Clashes
Africa
• Gunmen kill 48 at South Sudan U.N. base
• South Sudan: Hundreds Feared Dead in Bentiu Massacres
• Kenya’s Wide Net against Terror Sweeps up Refugees
• Libyan kidnappers of Tunisian diplomat demand Islamists' release: Tunisia
• Abuja Explosion - Islamic Group Advises Nigerian Government on Security
Arab World
• Dubai International Peace Convention begins with call for harmony
• Car bomb outside mosque in Homs kills 10: TV
• Syria: Army Makes More Gains in Continued anti-Terrorism Operations
• Syria negotiator says Homs once again a "theatre of death"
• Saudi spy chief ousted under US pressure
• Why Saudis are working hard to improve Arabic Wiki content
• Ajnad Misr militant group releases its first video, claims responsibility for eight attacks
• Hezbollah planned to attack Israeli tourists: report
• Rival group accuses Al-Qaeda of betraying jihadist cause
India
• India to pay Russia for arms, ammo it sells to Afghanistan
• Modi Sent Emissaries to Create ‘Soft Corner’, Claims Hard-Line Hurriyat Chairman
• Khudai Khidmatgars cycle for change in Muzaffarnagar
South Asia
• Senior Taliban negotiator under ‘house arrest’ in UAE
• Taliban prisoners break out of jail in northern Afghanistan
• Jamaat-e-Islami leader s trial set to enter next phase
• Maldives Heritage department to hold coral mosque exhibition
• Owl is symbol of Maldivian solidarity against cruelty to animals
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/jamiat-ulema-i-islam-fazl/d/66620
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Pakistan
Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl Warns Govt Over ‘Move To Ban’ Seminaries
2014-04-18
KARACHI: Leaders of the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) on Thursday staged a rally to protest against what they called a move to ban Madrasas in Sindh and said they would establish seminaries at the Bilawal House and the Sindh chief minister’s home in Khairpur “if needed”.
A large number of people — most of them belonging to the seminaries of Karachi — gathered near the Gurumandir roundabout, walked for a few furlongs and staged a demonstration. The organisers alleged that the government did not allow them to march towards the Tibet Centre, where most political and religious parties often hold their rallies.
The speakers threatened the government of grave consequences in their speeches, prompting the participants in the rally to chant slogans. They claimed that the country was in the hands of “secular rulers who acted at the behest of their Jewish masters”.
Maulana Ata ur Rehman, a JUI-F leader and younger brother of the party’s chief, said the Sindh government’s plans would never materialise as such plans had been envisaged in the past as well and thwarted.
He asked the Sindh government to review its plans and claimed that what the government and its provincial assembly were doing was against Islam and the 1973 constitution.
“The government is saying it will ban the Madrasas which do not get registered. I declare here before the government implements its agenda, we’ll end the government’s own registration,” the leader warned.
He hinted at the street power of the hundreds of thousands of Madrasa students in Karachi and in the rest of Sindh and warned that they were capable of making “the world shrink for the rulers”.
“Don’t push us to the wall; otherwise you’ll be the final victims of the fallout,” he said. “Don’t underestimate us, we are a big force among the religious parties.”
Sindh JUI-F leader Khalid Mehmood Soomro said the world’s first Madrasa and mosque was built by the Prophet (PBUH) himself and that institutions were “meant to spread love and tranquillity and not the hatred as was being propagated”.
He said there had been bloody battles reported in schools and colleges but not a single such incident had been reported in a Madrasa.
He accused the US of dictating the government to ban Madrasas in Pakistan and added that no one since the British Raj had succeeded in their designs against seminaries.
http://www.dawn.com/news/1100560/jui-f-warns-govt-over-move-to-ban-seminaries
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Lal Masjid names library after Osama bin Laden
Apr 18, 2014
ISLAMABAD: Jamia Hafsa, a religious school for women in the Pakistani capital Islamabad connected to the notorious Lal Masjid has renamed its library in honour of slain al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden.
The seminary is run by controversial hardline cleric Maulana Abdul Aziz, the imam of the city's Lal Masjid (Red Mosque), once infamous as a hideout for hardliners with alleged militant links.
The mosque was the scene of a week-long military siege against radicals during former military ruler Gen (retd) Pervez Musharraf’s regime in 2007 which left more than 100 people dead and unleashed a wave of terrorist attacks across Pakistan.
Now the Jamia Hafsa seminary connected to it has named its small library, stocking Islamic texts, in honour of bin Laden, who masterminded the 9/11 attacks in the United States.
“It is true that we have named the library after Osama bin Laden,” a source told AFP Thursday, speaking on condition of anonymity.
“He might be a terrorist for others but we do not consider him as a terrorist. For us he was a hero of Islam.”
A small printed sign stuck over the library door gives bin Laden's name and refers to him as a “martyr.”
Bin Laden was killed in a US special forces raid in the Pakistani town of Abbottabad in 2011 and for some radicals in the country he is a heroic figure.
On the first anniversary of his death, hundreds of people took to the streets to pay tribute to him.
The Red Mosque raid was one of the triggers for the Pakistani Taliban's bloody insurgency, which has claimed more than 6,800 lives in the past seven years, according to an AFP tally.
http://www.dawn.com/news/1100526/lal-masjid-names-library-after-osama-bin-laden
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Extension of ceasefire dependent on addressing TTP concerns: Prof Ibrahim
April 18, 2014
PESHAWAR: Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) intermediary Prof Ibrahim said on Friday that the ceasefire could be extended if TTP’s concerns regarding the release of prisoners were addressed.
Speaking to Express News, Prof Ibrahim said that the government has been notified about their concerns, adding that Jamiat Ulema Islam (Sami group) chief Maulana Samiul Haq spoke to the government committee about this issue.
He said that TTP have made efforts to ensure that the ceasefire remained intact.
Prof Ibrahim further said that the TTP committee does not have any direct contact with the Taliban, adding that they found out about the TTP’s decision not to extend ceasefire through the media.
He also said that both committees are in touch and that they will meet in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata) once substantial steps are taken.
http://tribune.com.pk/story/697238/extension-of-ceasefire-dependent-on-addressing-ttp-concerns-prof-ibrahim/
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Criticism: K-P governor remarks on Taliban draw ire in Senate
April 18, 2014
ISLAMABAD: Remarks made by the newly appointed Governor of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) regarding a general amnesty to militants drew criticism from the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) in the upper house during the Senate session on Thursday.
Condemning the suggestion recently made by Sardar Mehtab Khan Abbasi, the PPP demanded that the government either disown the statement or clear its stance. It also asked that the house be briefed about the prisoners who have been released.
Senator Farhatullah Babar said that the maiden statement of the newly appointed K-P governor proposing to give general amnesty to militants would demoralise security forces and lend strength to the militants.
He said that Abbasi’s statement would have disastrous implications for the security of the country and the fight against militants.
“Has the new provincial governor been appointed to prepare grounds and implement this new policy towards militants?” he questioned.
Babar said that such a policy statement could not have been made by the governor in his personal capacity nor can he feign ignorance.
He said that being the highest representative of the federal government in the militancy-infested K-P region, the governor is also the agent of the president for the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata).
“It is inconceivable that such a statement could have been made without the knowledge and even direction of the federal government,” he said, demanding clarity on the matter.
Babar was backed by Senators Raza Rabbani and Rehman Malik.
Rabbani said the house needs to be given details of the identities and charges of the prisoners already released.
“Since we are told that these prisoners are insignificant, why would the TTP demand their release?” he said.
If the process of negotiations had met a dead end, the government should think about all other options, he added.
Rabbani asked the deputy chairman of the senate to ask the leader of the house, Raja Zafarul Haq, to call upon the interior minister to answer these questions.
Haq explained that the meeting of the federal cabinet is due today (Friday), however, he would make sure that the issues highlighted in the business advisory committee would be addressed accordingly.
http://tribune.com.pk/story/697172/criticism-k-p-governor-remarks-on-taliban-draw-ire-in-senate/
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Militancy brings the curtain down on 13 Peshawar schools, PA told
2014-04-18
PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government on Thursday admitted in the provincial assembly that 13 primary and middle schools for boys and girls had been shut down on the outskirts of Peshawar due to militancy.
In a written reply to a question submitted to the provincial assembly, the department of elementary and secondary education said 160 primary and middle schools had been closed down across the province due to lawlessness, natural disaster, unavailability of teachers and land disputes.
According to the reply, 28 schools have been closed down in Battagram, 14 in Charsadda, 24 in Kohistan, 15 in Hangu, 15 in Dera Ismail Khan, three in Swabi and two in Tank.
It said 39 schools had been shut down in Swat since 2010 when flash floods played havoc with the area, while two more schools had been abandoned due to militancy in the district.
Opposition MPA Mufti Syed Janan, who raised the question, said figures provided by the relevant department were incorrect.
Full report at:
http://www.dawn.com/news/1100721/militancy-brings-the-curtain-down-on-13-peshawar-schools-pa-told
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‘Pakistan must break alleged links with Afghan insurgents’ says Opposition.
2014-04-18
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan must break alleged links with any Afghan insurgents if it is to adhere to Article 40 of the Constitution, said an opposition lawmaker in the Senate on Friday.
Opposition lawmakers were expressing their views during a debate in the Senate on a motion on foreign policy moved by Senator Raza Rabbani of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP).
Opposition senators called for ending ‘duplicity’ in foreign policy formulation and stressed on the need to retrieve the ground lost by civilians to the security establishment over the past decades.
Senators called for a serious rethink of policy formulation in the light of realities emerging as a result of political transitions last year taking place in Pakistan’s neighbouring countries, including China and Iran, and now Afghanistan and India.
Senator Farhatullah Babar said that the basis of foreign policy formulation is laid out in Article 40 of the Constitution of Pakistan.
Full report at:
http://www.dawn.com/news/1100749/pakistan-must-break-alleged-links-with-afghan-insurgents
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Mideast
Erdogan's missed opportunity to mix Islam and democracy in Turkey
Apr 18, 2014
The pinnacle of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's prestige might be pinpointed to his visit to Cairo in September 2011.
Europe was mired in economic crisis and the Middle East was rocked by popular uprisings. But Turkey – wedged in between – was basking in a golden decade of growth and stability.
Mr. Erdogan's Justice and Development Party (AKP) had recently been reelected with a shade under 50 percent of the vote. That same year, Turkey's gross domestic product expanded 8.5 percent, a growth rate second only to China's. The following January, President Obama would say that Erdogan was one of the five world leaders he most trusted.
The Turkish leader was seen as having combined political Islam and democracy in a country with a complex ethnic, religious, and social mix – with stellar results. After receiving a rock star's welcome in Cairo – where the Muslim Brotherhood would soon embark on its own political venture – he used a television interview to promote the so-called Turkish Model.
"The Turkish state is in its core a state of freedoms and secularism.... Why should the Europeans and Americans be the only ones that live with dignity? Aren't Egyptians and Somalians also entitled to a life of dignity?"
Fast-forward 2-1/2 years, and the mood has changed radically. Social media platforms have been banned. New laws have eroded legal checks and balances, and antigovernment protests have been met with a harsh police crackdown.
Full report at:
http://news.yahoo.com/erdogans-missed-opportunity-mix-islam-democracy-turkey-131254448.html
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Settlers torch mosque in northern Israel
World Bulletin / News Desk
Apr 18, 2014
Jewish settlers torched a mosque in the Israeli-Arab town of Umm al-Fahm in northern Israel on Friday, eyewitnesses said.
According to the witnesses, settlers set the Abu Bakr al-Sediq mosque on fire and spray-painted anti-Arab graffiti on its walls.
No casualties were reported in the attack.
In a statement, Israeli police said vandals set fire to the entrance door of the mosque and spray-painted the words "Arabs out" on its walls.
Friday's attack is the latest in a string of vandalism incidents in Arab villages over the past several months.
Full report at:
http://www.worldbulletin.net/headlines/134087/settlers-torch-mosque-in-northern-israel
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Turkish president rules out role swap with Erdogan
World Bulletin/News Desk
Apr 18, 2014
Turkish President Abdullah Gul appeared to rule himself out as a potential future prime minister on Friday, saying a "Putin-Medvedev model" under which he might swap roles with Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan was not suitable for Turkey.
"I don't have any political plan for the future under today's conditions," Gul told reporters in the western province of Kutahya, when asked about a presidential election in August in which Erdogan is expected to stand.
Full report at:
http://www.worldbulletin.net/headlines/134103/turkish-president-rules-out-role-swap-with-erdogan-updated
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'No breakthrough' in Israeli-Palestinian peace talks
April 18, 2014
OCCUPIED JERUSALEM: Israeli and Palestinian negotiators meeting US envoy Martin Indyk to try to find a way to extend faltering peace talks have failed to reach agreement, a Palestinian source told AFP.
The meeting began in the late afternoon on Thursday in a Jerusalem hotel but ended after five hours of "very difficult discussions", the source said.
"The gap (between the parties) is still wide. There was no breakthrough," added the Palestinian source.
Indyk is now expected to meet negotiators again on Friday, but he will talk to the Israeli and Palestinian sides separately.
Israeli and Palestinian negotiators had met on their own on Sunday and held a three-way meeting with Indyk a week ago in last-ditch efforts to save the stagnant peace process launched by US Secretary of State John Kerry in July for a period of nine months.
Full report at:
http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Apr-18/253783-no-breakthrough-in-israeli-palestinian-peace-talks.ashx#ixzz2zCNssi83
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Palestinian Authority Glorifies Another Arch-Terrorist
Apr 18, 2014
The Palestinian Authority (PA) continues to incite hatred by glorifying terrorists as national heroes.Palestinian Media Watch (PMW) is reporting that the PA and Fatah dedicated a forest to arch-terrorist Abu Jihad, a Fatah founder and deputy to Yasser Arafat. Abu Jihad led the PLO’s military wing, planning ruthless attacks. The PA’s daily newspaper credited him with killing at least 125 Israelis.
Late last year, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas posthumously awarded Abu Jihad, with the “Star of Honor,” calling him “the model of a true fighter and devoted leader.”
Abu Jihad, whose real name was Khalil al-Wazir, was killed in Tunisia in 1988, planned the most lethal terrorist attack in Israeli history, the Coastal Road Massacre. Terrorists hijacked a bus and murdered 37 civilians, including 12 children. Several PA officials, including the Minister of Agriculture and several mayors from the Hebron district, attended the inauguration ceremony.
Full report at:
http://www.algemeiner.com/2014/04/17/palestinian-authority-glorifies-another-arch-terrorist/
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Turkish president to have final say for prosecution of intel chief
Apr 18, 2014
In investigations involving the chief of Turkey’s National Intelligence Agency (MİT), the president will have the final say over whether he or she will be tried, according to an amendment in a controversial new draft law.
The proposal for the amendment was introduced by ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) deputies during a General Assembly session on April 16, when the draft law expanding the MİT’s powers was being debated.
Accordingly, a number of provisions in the article regarding the trial procedure for military persons before the Supreme Council, which is part of the Law on the Establishment and Trial Procedures of Military Courts, will be applied in investigations involving the MİT undersecretary.
Full report at:
http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/turkish-president-to-have-final-say-for-prosecution-of-intel-chief.aspx?pageID=238&nID=65187&NewsCatID=338
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Iranians carry 'death to Israel' signs as Rouhani tells crowd he supports dialogue
By REUTERS
Apr 18, 2014
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said the Islamic Republic had the might to deter any attacks as its military displayed a range of drones and missiles at an annual parade in Tehran, state television reported on Friday.
Chanting "God is Greatest", troops paraded missiles carriers, some bearing banners saying "Death to America" and "Death to Israel", armored personnel carriers and unmanned surveillance aircraft as well as small submarines with men wearing aqua-lungs alongside.
Unlike hardline predecessor Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Rouhani did not use his speech to lash out at the United States and Israel, which Tehran refuses to recognize.
"We told the world during the (nuclear) talks and we repeat that we don't support any aggression ... We support dialogue," Rouhani said in the live broadcast.
Full report at:
http://www.jpost.com/Iranian-Threat/News/Iranians-carry-death-to-Israel-signs-as-Rouhani-tells-crowd-he-supports-dialogue-349859
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Europe
Syria foreign fighters look to Western preachers: British-based research body
Apr 18, 2014
Foreign fighters in Syria are looking to Western-based spiritual authorities acting as "cheerleaders" on social media, a British-based research body said.
A study of the social media activity of foreign jihadists showed many were following certain influential preachers -- one from the United States and another from Australia, said the International Centre for the Study of Radicalisation (ICSR) at King's College London university yesterday.
Their 36-page research paper entitled "Greenbirds: Measuring Importance and Influence in Syrian Foreign Fighter Networks" examines how foreign fighters in Syria receive information about the conflict and who inspires them.
Over the past 12 months, researchers studied the social media profiles of 190 Western fighters in Syria. More than two-thirds were affiliated with the jihadist Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group or the Al-Qaeda affiliate Al-Nusra Front.
Full report at:
http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/syria-foreign-fighters-look-to-western-preachers-study-114041701424_1.html
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Anti-Muslim suspicion in UK has a whiff of McCarthyism about it
April 18, 2014
Allegations that 25 schools in Birmingham are at risk of an "Islamic takeover plot" reached new levels of hysteria recently. An announcement was made that a counter-terrorism expert has been drafted in to conduct yet another investigation. The minister responsible, Michael Gove, has managed at a stroke to increase fear and suspicion between Muslim and non-Muslim in the city. The fact that the chief constable of West Midlands police, Chris Sims, has denounced the decision as "desperately unfortunate", itself an extraordinary move, gives an indication of the scale of the concern.
So what was the evidence that provoked such a serious intervention and the accompanying media frenzy? A four-page document in which "plotters" outlined their dastardly plans to oust a headteacher for not being "open to our suggestions of adhering to strict Muslim guidelines".
Full report at:
http://www.nation.com.pk/international/18-Apr-2014/anti-muslim-suspicion-in-uk-has-a-whiff-of-mccarthyism-about-it
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Amnesty Slams Bahrain Regime’s Intimidation against Cleric as Unacceptable
Apr 18, 2014
Amnesty International criticized the Bahraini regime for threatening a cleric who was stripped of his nationality in 2012 calling on Manama to “rescind” the decision.
On April 15, the Al Khalifa regime gave Ayatollah Sheikh Hussain al-Najati two days to leave his homeland and threatened to harm his family if he failed to do so.
“This campaign of threats, harassment and intimidation against Sheikh Hussain al-Najati is unacceptable and must stop immediately,” said AI Deputy Director of the Middle East and North Africa Program Said Boumedouha on Thursday.Ayatollah Sheikh Hussain al-Najati
Ayatollah Najati had been among the 31 opposition figures deprived of their Bahraini nationality by the country’s Interior Ministry in 2012.
Full report at:
http://www.almanar.com.lb/english/adetails.php?eid=146727&cid=23&fromval=1&frid=23&seccatid=27&s1=1
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Will Muslim students avoid paying interest on finance for higher education?
Apr 18, 2014
The Government is inviting responses to its consultation on whether or not to introduce a student loan that is compliant with sharia law, amid reports that the UK’s Muslim population is divided on the issue.
It comes after concerns were raised that the existing finance options on offer from the Student Loans Company were unsuitable for Muslims, with sharia law forbidding loans that involve the payment of interest.
Announcing the proposed new sharia-compliant scheme at the start of this month, the universities and science minister David Willetts said the loans would “ensure that anyone with the ability and desire can go to university”.
Full report at:
http://www.independent.co.uk/student/news/sharia-student-loans-will-muslim-students-avoid-paying-interest-on-finance-for-higher-education-9268079.html
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U.N. documents show Assad using starvation policy
18 April 2014
While the U.N. envoy to Syria warned that the central city of Homs has become a “theater of death and destruction,” U.N. documents obtained by Foreign Policy show that President Bashar al-Assad’s regime had engaged in a policy of cutting off food supplies to opposition-held areas to exert more pressure on Syrian rebels.
Cutting the food supplies has made Assad’s regime the “only reliable source of life-sustaining food,” Foreign Policy said in an article it published Friday.
Paradoxically, Assad’s policy has helped U.N. agencies to send more food to the needy Syrian population, especially as more people move from the targeted rebel-held areas to areas held by the Syrian government.
Full report at:
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2014/04/18/U-N-documents-show-Assad-using-starvation-policy-.html
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Southeast Asia
Islamic followers will be divided if religion deviates, says Dr Mahathir
Apr 18, 2014
If Islam becomes a forceful, cruel religion that prioritises sects over the Quran, the faithful will be divided, former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said today.
In his latest blog post, Dr Mahathir said there were many parties who were dissatisfied that Islam was a soft faith, considerate and just.
"These quarters want Islam to be forceful, cruel even," said Malaysia's longest serving prime minister.
"Those responsible for keeping the Islamic faith in Malaysia appear to want to raise the Prophet higher than the word of God in the Quran," he observed.
"Power corrupts easily, and unlimited power will influence a person's mind. Islam is a moderate religion which is considerate and just," he said.
He expressed sadness over the recent arrest of scholar Kassim Ahmad, who was picked up by religious enforcement officers and the police.
Full report at:
http://news.malaysia.msn.com/tmi/islamic-followers-will-be-divided-if-religion-deviates-says-dr-mahathir
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Calls mount for coalition between Islamic parties
April 18 2014
A coalition claiming to represent Islamic mass organizations has called on Islamic-based political parties to form an alliance and endorse their own candidate for the upcoming presidential election.
The request emerged at a closed-door a meeting between the coalition and leaders of Islamic-based political parties on Thursday evening in Cikini, Central Jakarta.
Muslim scholar Taufan Maulamin, one of the event organizers, said the coalition expected Islamic-based political parties to collectively endorse a presidential contender who was able to fully represent the interests of Muslims.
“It is hurtful to learn that Islam has been misunderstood as [a representation of] Arab [culture]. There’s clearly an Islamophobic element in our politics, which has prompted Muslims in the country to act, unite and endorse a coalition of Islamic parties [for the presidential election],” he told The Jakarta Post on the sidelines of the meeting.
Full report at:
http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2014/04/18/calls-mount-coalition-between-islamic-parties.html
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Malaysian Muslims Protest Outside US Embassy Against Obama Visit
Apr 18, 2014
Kuala Lumpur. About 100 Malaysian Muslim activists protested on Friday outside the US embassy against the coming visit by US President Barack Obama, denouncing him as an enemy of Islam.
The demonstration underscored the delicate nature of Obama’s trip to Muslim-majority Malaysia, which will make him the first siting US president to visit in nearly half a century, a period marked by mutual distrust.
The protesters marched to the embassy in Kuala Lumpur from a nearby mosque after Friday afternoon prayers, shouting “God is great” and “Obama is the enemy of the Prophet Muhammad.”
Full report at:
http://www.thejakartaglobe.com/international/malaysian-muslims-protest-outside-us-embassy-obama-visit/
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PAS to discuss Muslims’ use of ‘RIP’
Apr 18, 2014
PAS will discuss whether it is appropriate for Muslims to use the phrase “Rest in Peace” (RIP), following the National Fatwa Council's reminder yesterday to Muslims not to use the expression on non-Muslims because the term had Christian connotations.
PAS Research Centre director Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the party’s political bureau would discuss the matter on Monday and make its stand on the use of the phrase.
The council issued the statement following the death of Bukit Gelugor MP Karpal Singh yesterday morning in a car accident in Perak.
Many are using the phrase to express their condolences via social media.
Dzulkefly said the passing of a statesman like Karpal from whichever side of the political divide should be accorded salutation and recognition.
Full report at:
http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/pas-to-discuss-muslims-use-of-rip
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Report: Thailand thwarts Hezbollah plot to attack Israeli tourists
Apr 18, 2014
Thai authorities thwarted a plan by Hezbollah agents to attack Israeli tourists during this Passover season, a Thailand-based newspaper is reporting on Thursday.
According to the Bangkok Post, investigators in Thailand managed to extract a confession from one of two suspected terrorists held in custody for allegedly planning to strike at Israelis in the country.
Two of the men – Daoud Farhat, a French-Lebanese national, and Youssef Ayad, who is of Lebanese-Filipino extraction – were arrested for alleged ties to Hezbollah, the Bangkok Post reported.
Full report at:
http://www.jpost.com/Defense/Report-Thailand-thwarts-Hezbollah-plot-to-attack-Israeli-tourists-349841
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North America
Muslim Cleric ‘Was Committed to War’ Prosecutor Says in Terrorism Trial
Apr 18, 2014
Mostafa Kamel Mostafa, an Egyptian-born cleric who became prominent for his fiery sermons at a British mosque, was more than just a preacher, a federal prosecutor said on Thursday. “He was a trainer of terrorists, and he used the cover of religion so he could hide in plain sight in London.”
The prosecutor, Edward Y. Kim, made that assertion before a Federal District Court jury in Manhattan in the government’s opening statement in the trial of Mr. Mostafa, who was extradited from Britain in 2012 to face terrorism charges in New York. His is the second major terrorism trial in Manhattan in two months.
Mr. Mostafa, 56, faces charges of helping to orchestrate the 1998 hostage-taking of a group of tourists, including two Americans, in Yemen, including providing the kidnappers with a satellite phone and taking a call from one of the gunmen, who sought his direction. In a rescue operation by the Yemeni military, the kidnappers used the hostages as human shields and four of them died, prosecutors have said.
Full report at:
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/04/18/nyregion/muslim-cleric-was-committed-to-war-prosecutor-says-in-terrorism-trial.html?hpw&rref=nyregion
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Qur'an school serves growing Muslim community in north metro
Apr 18, 2014
The school, which met resistance last year, provides intensive instruction to help young Muslims grow morally and lay a foundation for future cultural leaders.
Thirteen-year-old Fadel Hasan has memorized the entire roster of his favorite football team, the Minnesota Vikings. He usually has an opinion about draft picks and trades that he doesn’t hesitate to share, his dad says.
Now, the youngster is using his memorization skills to learn and recite every word of the Qur’an, the Muslim holy book.
He is one of a dozen Muslim boys who have left conventional junior and senior high schools for a period of time to attend the intensive Qur’an school Darul Arqam Center For Excellence in Blaine.
Full report at:
http://www.startribune.com/local/north/255043491.html
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Scenarios of possible Canadian involvement in Syria revealed
Apr 18, 2014
Internal documents obtained by a Canadian newspaper show that Ottawa has drawn up at least five scenarios in which it could be involved in the three-year Syrian conflict, including the deployment of Canadian Forces.
The Ottawa Citizen paper said on Monday that while Canada’s federal government has no official plans so far for the country to be dragged in the conflict, the National Defense has developed five scenarios to address the problem of “rapidly deteriorating conditions in Syria, its impact on neighboring countries and … the importance of Middle East stability.”
Military intervention is included in one of the potential scenarios, per the existence of is “a legitimate armed opposition group has been recognized” by Canada.
The scenarios rest on the several assumptions, such as the Syrian government remains “defiant,” and include possible outcomes for each plan, including those “most likely” and the “worst case.”
Full report at:
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/world/2014/04/17/Canada-prepares-scenarios-of-possible-involvement-in-Syrian-conflict.html
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Teen in 'Jihad Jane' case sentenced to five years in prison
2014-04-18
PHILADELPHIA: A Pakistani immigrant who is the youngest person ever convicted of US terror charges was sentenced to five years in prison on Thursday after pleading guilty to taking part in a plan to kill a Swedish artist.
The immigrant, Mohammad Hassan Khalid, 20, who has been in custody three years for his role in the “Jihad Jane” conspiracy, will receive credit for that time and serve an additional two years in prison to finish his sentence, said the sentencing judge, Petrese Tucker, of US district court in Philadelphia.
Dressed in a baggy green prison jumpsuit, Khalid begged the judge for mercy and thanked his parents for their support during a court appearance.
Full report at:
http://www.dawn.com/news/1100709/teen-in-jihad-jane-case-sentenced-to-five-years-in-prison
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US doesn't believe missile supplies to Syrian rebels can change military situation - expert
Apr 18, 2014
Syrian rebels used US-made anti-tank missiles against government troops. Recently emerged videos and photos show that Syria's opposition fighters are armed with BGM-71 TOW anti-tank rockets. According to AFP citing the representative of the Syrian opposition movement Hazm, the rebels have already received at least 20 missiles of this type. The Voice of Russia spoke about this issue with Alastair Crooke, the founder and director of the Conflicts Forum, an organization that advocates for engagement between political Islam and the West. Mr. Crooke is also a former Adviser to Javier Solana and European mediator in the Middle East region.
How can you comment on the fact that Syria's opposition fighters are using the US-made arms? How could the rebels receive them?
Full report at:
http://voiceofrussia.com/2014_04_17/US-dont-believe-that-missile-supplies-to-Syrian-rebels-will-change-military-situation-expert-7316/
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US releases $450 million of frozen Iranian funds, citing compliance to nuclear deal
By MICHAEL WILNER, REUTERS
Apr 18, 2014
WASHINGTON – The United States has taken steps to release a $450 million installment of frozen Iranian funds following a report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) verifying that Iran is living up to its part of a landmark nuclear pact with world powers, the US State Department said on Thursday.
State Department spokeswoman Marie Harf said that "all sides have kept the commitments made" under the agreement. She said that "as Iran remains in line with its commitments," the United States, France, Germany, Britain, China, Russia and the European Union "will continue to uphold our commitments as well."
Full report at:
http://www.jpost.com/Middle-East/US-releases-450-million-of-frozen-Iranian-funds-citing-compliance-to-nuclear-deal-349830
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Kerry condemns call for Jews to register in Ukrainian city
By REUTERS, JTA
Apr 18, 2014
GENEVA - US Secretary of State John Kerry said on Thursday that Jews in a city in eastern Ukraine had been ordered to register with the authorities, calling the idea intolerable.
"Just in the last couple of days, notices were sent to Jews in one city indicating that they had to identify themselves as Jews ... or suffer the consequences,” Kerry told reporters. "This is not just intolerable, it's grotesque."
Pro-Russian separatists from Donetsk in eastern Ukraine denied any involvement in the circulation of flyers calling on Jews to register with separatists and pay special taxes.
The flyers were distributed earlier this week in the city, where pro-Russian separatists led by Denis Pushilin this month took over several government buildings and declared their secession from Ukraine as the Donetsk Republic amid a standoff with authorities.
Full report at:
http://www.jpost.com/Jewish-World/Jewish-News/Kerry-condemns-call-for-Jews-to-register-in-Ukrainian-city-349818
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US Urges Myanmar to Protect Humanitarian Workers Amid Buddhist-Muslim Clashes
Apr 18, 2014
United Nations. The US ambassador to the United Nations urged Myanmar on Thursday to intervene to stop communal violence there and protect humanitarian workers in the volatile western state of Rakhine.
Myanmar, formerly called Burma, has been shaken by religious unrest in recent years with at least 250 people killed in Buddhist-Muslim clashes since 2012.
Violence forced humanitarian workers to flee Rakhine earlier this month, leaving thousands facing looming food and water shortages.
“We continue to support Burma’s reforms, but are greatly concerned that without effective government intervention violence in Rakhine could worsen, lives will be lost, and the critically needed humanitarian presence will not be sustainable,” Samantha Power said.
Full report at:
http://www.thejakartaglobe.com/international/us-urges-myanmar-protect-humanitarian-workers-amid-buddhist-muslim-clashes/
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Africa
Gunmen kill 48 at South Sudan U.N. base
18 April 2014
A mob of armed civilians pretending to be peaceful protesters delivering a petition to the United Nations in South Sudan forced their way into a U.N. base sheltering some 5,000 civilians on Thursday and opened fire, Reuters reported the world body as saying.
A U.N. source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said at least 48 people had been killed and 60 wounded in the attack on the base in Bor in northern Jonglei state, where there are Indian and South Korean U.N. peacekeepers.
Initially, U.S. envoy to the U.N. Samantha Power, who strongly condemned the “brazen, inhuman attack on unarmed civilians,” said the gunmen killed at least 20 people and wounded 70 others when they stormed the U.N. base.
The United Nations had previously said dozens of civilians from a rival tribe had been wounded in the “unprovoked” attack before peacekeepers fought them off.
The Associated Press reported that an angry mob of South Sudanese youths attacked the U.N. base in order to harm members of an ethnic minority sheltering inside.
Full report at:
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/africa/2014/04/18/U-S-envoy-gunmen-kill-20-at-S-Sudan-U-N-base-.html
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South Sudan: Hundreds Feared Dead in Bentiu Massacres
Apr 18, 2014
Bentiu — Hundreds of people are unaccounted for and feared dead after rebel forces overran Bentiu town in Unity State of South Sudan, with multiple sources describing incidents of forced disappearances and mass killings of civilians.
Fighting between the South Sudanese army and the Sudan People's Liberation Army in Opposition broke out Monday near Bentiu. By Tuesday morning the rebel group captured the town, which is the capital of Unity State.
A trader from Darfur, Adam Al Nibeiga, said he lost four brothers and two other relatives in a massacre at a home in Bentiu on Tuesday.
In an interview with Radio Tamazuj today, he named his lost brothers as Ali Al Sadig Al Nibeiga, Issam Al Sadig Al Nibeiga, Al Saud Al Sadig Al Nibeiga and Abdullah Al Sadig Al Nibeiga, and the two relatives as Musa Abdullah Aslah and Abdullah Adam Saleh.
Full report at:
http://allafrica.com/stories/201404180328.html?viewall=1
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Kenya’s Wide Net Against Terror Sweeps Up Refugees
Apr 18, 2014
NAIROBI, Kenya — Fardos Osman sat on the concrete floor of a crammed room in a sprawling stadium next to scores of other women, many hiding their faces. She said she had been at the stadium for four days. Her refugee document had expired, she said, and she feared that she would be sent back to war-torn Somalia.
“I don’t want to go back,” said Ms. Osman, 28.
Thousands of undocumented refugees, immigrants and Kenyan citizens have been arrested throughout the country in recent weeks, a response to what the government says has been a recent escalation in terrorist activity in this east African nation.
Full report at:
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/04/18/world/africa/kenyas-answer-to-terrorism-sweeping-roundups-of-somalis.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss
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Libyan kidnappers of Tunisian diplomat demand Islamists' release: Tunisia
April 18, 2014
TUNIS: Militants who kidnapped a Tunisian diplomat in Tripoli on Thursday have demanded the release of Islamist militants detained in Tunisia, its foreign minister said.
Mongi Hamdi also said Tunisia was considering reducing its diplomatic mission in Libya, where kidnappings have become commonplace, with foreign officials often the targets.
The adviser at the Tunisian embassy was taken on Thursday, becoming the second Tunisian diplomat to be kidnapped in the Libyan capital within a month.
"We have been able to learn the identity of the kidnappers," Hamdi told reporters on Friday. "They belong to the family of a group of terrorists detained in Tunisia because of their involvement in attacks (three years ago) against security forces in (Tunisia's) Rouhia city."
Full report at:
http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Apr-18/253775-libyan-kidnappers-of-tunisian-diplomat-demand-islamists-release-tunisia.ashx#ixzz2zCO2uIxY
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Abuja Explosion - Islamic Group Advises Nigerian Government On Security
Apr 18, 2014
An Islamic group, Muslim Rights Concern, MURIC, on Thursday stated that Nigeria is under-policed and does not have enough security officials to curb the rising insurgency in the country.
The Director of MURIC, Ishaq Akintola, in a statement said that Nigerian government should abide by the UN recommendation of one police officer to 488 civilians.
"MURIC reminds the Federal Government that the United Nations recommends one policeman for 488 civilians. The Nigeria Police has about 310,177 officers and men while the State Security Services (SSS) has about 33,000 personnel," Mr. Akintola said.
"These figures reflect numerical deficiency because for Nigeria's population of about 167 million Nigeria needs at least 577,608 policemen. Our police-civilian population ratio today stands at 1:538."
Full report at:
http://allafrica.com/stories/201404180512.html
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Arab World
Dubai International Peace Convention begins with call for harmony
Apr 18, 2014
Dubai: Islam is a religion of tolerance that promotes moderation in the world, Muslim preachers said during the opening of the Dubai International Peace Convention (DIPC) on Thursday night.
The three-day event is being held under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
US speaker Yousuf Estes, a former Christian priest, said humanity is one and so is the message of all prophets, including those revered in Christianity — to worship one God.
DIPC lasts until Saturday at Dubai World Trade Centre.
Speaking earlier during the convention, Zimbabwean motivational preacher Mufti Esmail Menk drew attention to the verses of the Quran that call for harmony and condemn injustice against any religion or people.
Full report at:
http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/general/peace-convention-begins-with-call-for-harmony-1.1321013
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Car bomb outside mosque in Homs kills 10: TV
April 18, 2014
BEIRUT: A car bomb in the central city of Homs killed 10 people Friday, pro-regime Al-Mayadeen television reported.
The blast occurred in front of Bilal Al-Habshi in Akrama neighborhood after Friday prayers, the television said.
Meanwhile, the Syrian army advanced in the old quarter of the city called Old Homs, the media outlet said, seizing several buildings in Wadi Al-Sayeh, including St. George church.
Thursday, members of the U.N. Security Council expressed concern over the plight of civilians caught in the fighting in Old Homs, Joy Ogwu the council’s president said, urging “the immediate implementation” of a February resolution to improve humanitarian access in Syria.
http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Apr-18/253777-car-bomb-outside-mosque-in-homs-kills-dozens-al-mayadeen.ashx#ixzz2zCMV4Egw
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Syria: Army Makes More Gains in Continued anti-Terrorism Operations
Apr 18, 2014
The Syrian army units are pressing ahead with Syrian Armyoperations, advancing further in Homs and killed increasing numbers of terrorists, including several terrorist groups' leaders.
Army units in Deir Ezzor province targeted terrorist groups in the neighborhoods of al-Rushdiyeh, al-Jbeileh, al-Orfi and Nazlet al-Rdeisat in the city, leaving numbers of their members dead and wounded.
Terrorists of Arab nationalities were identified among the dead, including Haroun al-Shabari from Yemen and Milad al-Oweid from Palestine.
The killed terrorists also included Yasser Youssef al-Hammoud, Ahmad Saleh Shehada, Ayman al-Harbi, Ahmad Jawish and Ammar Shlash.
Full report at:
http://www.almanar.com.lb/english/adetails.php?eid=146672&cid=23&fromval=1&frid=23&seccatid=20&s1=1
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Syria negotiator says Homs once again a "theatre of death"
World Bulletin/News Desk
Apr 18, 2014
International mediator Lakhdar Brahimi said on Thursday that a deal between trapped fighters and civilians in Homs city and the Syrian authorities had broken down, as government forces appeared close to retaking the besieged opposition area.
Homs, a religiously-mixed city, was the scene of early protests against President Bashar al-Assad in 2011 and has become a symbol of the destructive nature of Syria's civil war, with many of its neighbourhoods levelled by army shells.
Hundreds of people remain trapped in the old part of the city, surrounded by government forces and pro-Assad militia. A deal agreed at peace talks in Geneva this year allowed some civilians to leave but further negotiations broke down following heavy fighting this week.
Full report at:
http://www.worldbulletin.net/headlines/134034/syria-negotiator-says-homs-once-again-a-theatre-of-death
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Saudi spy chief ousted under US pressure
2014-04-18
DUBAI: The exit of Saudi’s spy chief was the result of US pressure over his stance on Syria but does not signal a shift in Riyadh’s goal of toppling the Damascus regime, experts say.
Riyadh, as is usual, did not elaborate on its statement this week that Prince Bandar bin Sultan was being replaced, saying only that the veteran diplomat had asked to step down.
But a Saudi expert said that Washington — irritated for some time by Prince Bandar’s handling of the Syria dossier — had in December demanded his removal.
Prince Bandar was leading Saudi Arabia’s efforts to finance, arm and unify the Syrian rebellion, which after three years of fighting is still far from its goal of overthrowing the government of President Bashar al-Assad.
Full report at:
http://www.dawn.com/news/1100652/saudi-spy-chief-ousted-under-us-pressure
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Why Saudis are working hard to improve Arabic Wiki content
April 18, 2014
MAKKAH – A depletion of Arabic content on the Internet and specifically on Wikipedia has provided the motivation for a group of young Saudi men and women to turn this situation around.
Despite the raft of initiatives to support Arabic translation, this has not stopped the group Ithraa, loosely translated as “enriching translation”, from growing into a network whose number exceeds 200 young men and women.
Through a tight strategy, they were able to penetrate the online market and contribute to the revival and development of the information technology arena.
The number of subjects translated by the group has exceeded 50 in different fields.
Some pieces of content are on their way to being published while others are being checked.
The founder of the group, Maitham Al-Sultan, said the scarcity of information that has been translated to Arabic on Wikipedia has driven Ithraa’s work.
Full report at:
http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index.cfm?method=home.regcon&contentid=20140418202292
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Ajnad Misr militant group releases its first video, claims responsibility for eight attacks
Apr 18, 2014
A militant group has issued its first video allegedly claiming responsibility for eight attacks in the country, the latest of which was a series of bombings outside Cairo University earlier this month that killed a senior police officer and wounded five other policemen.
The 23-minute video was published on the Facebook page of a group calling itself Ajnad Misr, or Soldiers of Egypt, and was accompanied by the group's logo.
Ahram Online could not verify the authenticity of the posts.
The video included footage of Egyptian security forces assaulting protesters during demonstrations and inside police stations, with some of the footage dating back to 2010 during the rule of ousted autocrat Hosni Mubarak.
Full report at:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/99303/Egypt/Politics-/Ajnad-Misr-militant-group-releases-its-first-video.aspx
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Hezbollah planned to attack Israeli tourists: report
April 18, 2014
BEIRUT: One of the two suspected Hezbollah members held in Thailand confessed to planning an attack against Israeli tourists on April 13 during the Jewish festival of Passover, the Bangkok Post reported Friday.
French-Lebanese national Daoud Farhat and Lebanese-Filipino national Youssef Ayad were arrested earlier this week on suspicion of having links to Hezbollah.
The two arrived in Thailand several days before Passover which also coincided with the Thai festival of Songkran.
Although it was Farhat’s first trip to the country, Ayad had visited Thailand 17 times before, the paper said.
Full report at:
http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2014/Apr-18/253760-hezbollah-suspects-planned-attack-against-israelis-report.ashx#ixzz2zCNTctmj
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Rival group accuses Al-Qaeda of betraying jihadist cause
April 18, 2014
BAGHDAD: A powerful rival organization has accused Al-Qaeda leaders of betraying the jihadist cause, in the latest widening of divisions rooted in Syria's civil war.
" Al-Qaeda today is no longer a base of jihad (holy war)," Islamic State of Iraq and Greater Syria spokesman Abu Mohammed al-Adnani said in a statement posted on jihadist forums.
"Its leadership has become a hammer to break the project of the Islamic State," Adnani said, adding that "the leaders of Al-Qaeda have deviated from the correct path."
"They have divided the ranks of the mujahideen (holy warriors) in every place," he said.
Powerful rebel groups in Syria, including Al-Qaeda's designated affiliate Al-Nusra Front, have been locked in fierce fighting with ISIS since January that has killed thousands of fighters.
ISIS was initially welcomed by other rebels, who have been fighting to topple Syrian President Bashar al-Assad since 2011, but allegations of brutal abuses against civilians as well as rival opposition fighters sparked a backlash.
Full report at:
http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2014/Apr-18/253758-rival-group-accuses-al-qaeda-of-betraying-jihadist-cause.ashx#ixzz2zCNLSXA4
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India
India to pay Russia for arms, ammo it sells to Afghanistan
New Delhi | April 18, 2014
Ahead of NATO troops downsizing their presence in Afghanistan, India has firmed up a far-reaching deal with Russia to supply arms to the troubled country under which New Delhi will pay for the military equipment that will be sourced from Moscow.
The deal, which had been under intense negotiations for the past few months, was clinched after a high-level Indian team made a quiet trip to Moscow in February and stitched up the loose ends even as Russia was bracing for the challenge in Ukraine.
The first order under this deal, sources said, is already being executed.
India, through the strategic partnership with Afghanistan, is committed to provide arms and ammunition to strengthen the Afghan National Army. The arrangement with Moscow allows New Delhi to fulfill this commitment, an issue on which Kabul has been sending reminders including detailed lists of its requirements.
Full report at:
http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/india-to-pay-russia-for-arms-ammo-it-sells-to-afghanistan/
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Modi Sent Emissaries to Create ‘Soft Corner’, Claims Hard-Line Hurriyat Chairman
Press Trust of India | Srinagar | April 18, 2014
Hard-line Hurriyat Conference chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani on Friday claimed that BJP’s prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi had sent emissaries to him and separatist leadership in Jammu and Kashmir to create a “soft corner” for him by making a “commitment” to seek a solution to Kashmir issue.
However, he said he has no hopes on Modi developing a “soft” policy on Jammu and Kashmir and rejected their plea for talks with him.
“Modi has started a campaign and is approaching people here. They have contacted the resistance leadership including myself which is indicative that he is trying to create a soft corner for himself within the freedom camp,” he told reporters at his Hyderpora residence here.
Full report at:
http://indianexpress.com/article/india/politics/modi-sent-emissaries-to-create-soft-corner-claims-geelani/
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Khudai Khidmatgars cycle for change in Muzaffarnagar
Arunav Sinha,TNN | Apr 17, 2014
LUCKNOW: From playing a significant role in awakening the masses in the pre-independent especially in the Pashtun-dominated Northwest Frontier Province (now in Pakistan) to spread brotherhood, the Khudai Khidmatgars (Servants of God) have etched their names with golden letters in the annals of Indian history. Taking a step forward, the organization — founded by Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan also known as Frontier Gandhi — has embarked itself on a task to inculcate confidence among the young residents of relief camps, especially those appearing in the board examinations this year.
Speaking to TOI, Inamul Hasan, a resident of Chennai, who is pursuing his higher studies from Jamia Millia Islamia, said, "The first thing, which we realised after interacting with the youngsters residing in relief camps was low level of self-confidence and self-esteem. This was primarily because the students thought the distance between them, their schools and examination centres have widened. They were also perturbed by the fact that the gulf between them and the coaching class had also increased, which was gradually begin to cast a negative shadow on their mindset."
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Khudai-Khidmatgars-cycle-for-change-in-Muzaffarnagar/articleshow/33871803.cms
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South Asia
Senior Taliban negotiator under ‘house arrest’ in UAE
Apr 18, 2014
A leading Taliban peace negotiator has been placed under house arrest in the United Arab Emirates, officials said yesterday, dealing a blow to President Hamid Karzai’s efforts to jump-start a nascent Afghan peace process before leaving office.
Agha Jan Mutassim, a finance minister during Taliban rule from 1996 to 2001, has been missing for over a week, according to the Afghan government, disappearing after arranging a meeting in Dubai between Afghan and Taliban officials in February.
“Mutassim ... one of the key Taliban leaders and who supported Afghan peace initiative, was put under house arrest in the UAE where he lived,” the Afghan High Peace Council, a body formed by Karzai to engage in peace talks with the Taliban, said yesterday.
“The Afghan government has made requests to the UAE authorities to lift all the restrictions,” it said in a statement.
Full report at:
http://www.gulf-times.com/afghanistan/219/details/388763/senior-taliban-negotiator-under-%E2%80%98house-arrest%E2%80%99
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Taliban prisoners break out of jail in northern Afghanistan
Apr 18 2014
At least three Taliban militants escaped from a prison in northern Faryab province of Afghanistan on Thursday night after clashing with the jail guards.
According to local government officials, the Taliban prisoners used weapons smuggled into the detention facility to fight with the policemen.
Provincial governor spokesman, Ahmad Jawad Dedar said at least three policemen were killed along with a Taliban prisoner during the clashes.
Mr. Dedar further added the Taliban militants who escapred from the prison last night, are Full report at:
http://www.khaama.com/taliban-prisoners-break-out-of-jail-in-northern-afghanistan-6008
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Jamaat-e-Islami leader s trial set to enter next phase
Apr 18, 2014
The case against Jamaat-e-Islami leader Mir Quasem Ali is set to enter the next phase on Tuesday when International Crimes Tribunal-2 is due to start recording the testimonies of defence witnesses.
The court fixed the day after Quasem's counsel completed cross-examining Nurul Islam, the investigation officer and last prosecution witness in Quasem's case, yesterday.
Meanwhile, the three-member tribunal led by Justice Obaidul Hassan yesterday allowed three persons as defence witnesses to defend the Jamaat central executive council member.
Although the defence had submitted a list of 22 witnesses, the prosecution on April 1 filed a petition for curtailing the number.
Full report at:
http://www.thedailystar.net/city/quasems-trial-set-to-enter-next-phase-20513
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Maldives Heritage department to hold coral mosque exhibition
By Daniel Bosley | April 17th, 2014
The Department of Heritage has announced it will hold a special exhibition to raise public awareness of six coral stone mosques currently being considered for UNESCO world heritage site status.
“The purpose of hosting an exhibition for this theme is because recently 6 coral stone mosques of Maldives have been inscribed on the tentative list of world heritage sites and now we are trying to inscribe the mosques on the permanent list,” said the department’s Director Ali Waheed.
The exhibition for the mosques – two in Malé, and one in Ihavandhoo, Meedhoo, Isdhoo, and Fenfushi – will run between April 21 and April 30 at the National Museum.
“By arranging such an exhibition will give the opportunity to raise awareness among students and the public about this nomination,” said Waheed in a press release today.
Potential world heritage sites must be listed on the tentative list at least one year prior to their nomination for the full list.
Full report at:
http://minivannews.com/society/heritage-department-to-hold-coral-mosque-exhibition-82918
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Owl is symbol of Maldivian solidarity against cruelty to animals
By Mariyam Raina | April 17th, 2014
An alternative draft of this article was first published on the Oevaru blog. Republished with permission.
A life of a pet owl, which seems to cast a spell on you with its fathomless deep blue eyes, is to be spared according to a recent update on MDP Haruge, which may bring some joy to a nation torn over an inability to distinguish between ‘dangerous’ and ‘exotic’ animals.
Some reports suggest the owl has been spared while other pet owner mourn their lost friends. One harmless iguana’s eulogy was given by its owner, Miusam Mushthaag: “Miss u igu” simply said all.
Full report at:
http://minivannews.com/politics/comment-owl-becomes-symbol-of-maldivian-solidarity-against-cruelty-to-animals-82936
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/jamiat-ulema-i-islam-fazl/d/66620