Jharkhand: Muslim Cattle Transporter Lynched, Family Alleges He Was Targeted Because Of His Religion
New Age Islam News Bureau
10 January 2026
Family members alleged that the mob initially stopped the vehicle on the pretext of questioning. (Source: File Photo)
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· Jharkhand: Muslim cattle transporter lynched, family alleges he was targeted because of his religion
· Jihad Spokesperson: Zionist Enemy continues violating Gaza ceasefire, & mediators must restrain him
· Saudi Arabia expresses regret over damage to Qatar’s embassy building in Ukraine
· Leicestershire Reform councillor’s Muslim school comments branded ‘unacceptable’
· The Council on American‑Islamic Relations Demands Elon Musk Block Grok App from Creating Sexually Explicit Images of Women, Including Prominent Muslim Women
· At Lagos Conference in Nigeria, Islamic Scholars and Clerics Reject Terrorism, Banditry and Criminal Violence
· Selangor Islamic council in Malaysia warns Muslims against involvement in LGBT activities
· Bangladesh, US discuss elections, trade and Rohingya crisis in Washington meetings
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India
· Operation Sindoor exposed Pakistan’s failures, forced constitutional changes: CDS Chauhan
· Delhi tells off Zohran Mamdani over letter to jailed rights activist Umar Khalid
· 'Our Constitution allows it, Pakistan restricts it': Asaduddin Owaisi says India will one day have Hijab-clad PM; gets 'no chance' reply from Nitish Rane
· Amid tight security, 20 people offer Friday prayers at Turkman Gate mosque; number of arrests rises to 13
· Congress responsible for Umar Khalid, Shareel Imam's jail: Owaisi's big charge
· Noor Ahmad Noor arrives in Delhi to head Afghan Embassy amid India-Taliban engagement
· India’s first Muslim teacher remembered
· Medical college row: Mehbooba fears fate of Kashmiri students across India, questions CM Omar’s role
· Translated short fiction: The everyday struggles and hopes of disadvantaged Bengali Muslims
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Mideast
· Palestinians have right to live in peace in ‘own land’: pope
· Israelis carry out more than 20 raids in south Lebanon, Bekaa region
· Kurdistan Islamic Scholars Union condemns attacks in Aleppo
· Syrian army pushes into Aleppo district after Kurdish groups reject withdrawal
· How the Palestinian Circus sustains hope and resistance under Israeli occupation
· Jordan’s Safadi discusses Syria developments with Syrian foreign minister
· Lebanon signs gas exploration deal with French-Qatari-Italian consortium
· EU chief von der Leyen says Europe to do ‘everything it can’ to support Syria
· Palestinian VP meets diplomat expected to serve on Trump’s Gaza peace board
· Lebanon FM urges Iran to find ‘new approach’ on Hezbollah arms
· Tens of thousands of worshippers perform Friday prayers at al-Aqsa Mosque, its courtyards
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Arab World
· Saudi Defense Minister: Riyadh committed to a just solution for the South, says dissolution of STC is a courageous step
· Islamic military coalition receives international delegation
· Makkah Qur’an contest attracts many students
· RCU opens registration for hospitality training programs
· Festival of Cultures to feature more than 90 countries
· Over 4.8m captagon pills found hidden in Jeddah charcoal shipment
· NHC begins delivery of first 2,000 units at Al-Fursan development
· Saudi assistant interior minister dies
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Europe
· Trump says US needs to 'own' Greenland to prevent Russia and China from taking it
· Here’s who really weaponizes children in the Russia-Ukraine conflict
· Councillor criticised over Muslim prayers comments
· Birmingham mosque consulted on Maccabi Tel Aviv fan ban hosted preacher who said men could physically discipline their wives
· UK facing £28bn defence spending gap claims
· UK to spend $270 million on troops for ‘multinational force’ in Ukraine
· Time for EU to talk to Russia – Meloni
· Delusions of grandeur: France, Ukraine and the limits of EU power
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North America
· CAIR Condemns Israel’s Slaughter of 13, Including Child, in Gaza
· CAIR-MA Welcomes Sentencing of Man Who Threatened Anti-Genocide Protesters with an Axe, Advocated for ‘More Serious Punishment’
· CAIR-CA – Islamophobia Exposed: The Multimillion Dollar Industry Fueling Anti-Muslim Hate in the U.S.
· Trump says he would accept Nobel Peace Prize from Machado; Nobel Committee says it's not possible
· Winnipeg man charged after hate-related vandalism targets synagogue, mosque
· CAIR Md. Welcomes Howard County’s Recognition of January as Muslim American Heritage Month
· CAIR-NJ to Join Rally in Solidarity with Metuchen Resident Detained at Delaney Hall
· CAIR-Texas Applauds Harris County for Recognizing Muslim American Heritage Month
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Africa
· ‘I’m Not A Criminal, They Are In Your Offices And Corridors Of Power’ – Baba-Ahmed Recounts DSS Invitation
· Terrorists Fleeing US Strike In Sokoto Trooping To Benue – LGA Chairman
· Olagunju, Olayiwola lead Bodija Estates Muslim community executives
· Director Of Ibadullah Islamic Schools bags PhD from Al-Hikmah University
· 2027 Must Be A Proof That INEC Can Conduct Technologically-driven, And Transparent Elections – Amupitan
· It Is Not Merely Personal Forgiveness – Akpabio Explains Why He Withdrew Defamation Suit Against Natasha
· Sudan's al-Fashir survivors recount torture at hands of RSF fighters
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Southeast Asia
· JAKIM closely monitoring Glamping with Pride, vows action against programmes promoting deviant practices
· 600 Bandar Tun Razak students get RM150 school vouchers
· ABIM urges national guidelines for sensitive community events
· EC expects 65pc voter turnout for Kinabatangan and Lamag by‑elections
· BN’s Mohd Kurniawan Naim confident sincerity will win voters in Kinabatangan by-election
· Anwar backs MACC’s defence procurement probe, says corruption remains ‘systemic’
· King signs Anti‑Bullying Act 2026 into law, offering new protections for victims
· Anwar announces fresh RM5m allocation to upgrade Zoo Negara’s panda enclosure
· Singapore students create AI tools to solve real‑world problems at Codechella
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South Asia
· July Uprising being commercialised like Liberation War, says CGS president
· New Milak Border Route to Double Iran–Afghanistan Trade Volume
· Afghan, Qatari Officials Discuss Political Relations
· Air Corridors: The Future of Afghanistan–India Trade
· Administrative Commission Discusses Issues of Municipalities
· New Appointments Made in Government Posts
· 82,000 Work Permits Issued This Year, Ministry
· Several advisers had considered resignation amid abuse: Asif Nazrul
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
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Jharkhand: Muslim cattle transporter lynched, family alleges he was targeted because of his religion
Jan 10, 2026
Family members alleged that the mob initially stopped the vehicle on the pretext of questioning. (Source: File Photo)
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A 46-year-old Muslim cattle transporter from Jharkhand’s Godda district was lynched allegedly by a mob on Wednesday near the state’s border with Bihar, The Indian Express reported. His family alleged that he was targeted because of his faith.
The incident took place at night in the Sugabathan area of Godda when Pappu Ansari, a resident of Ranipur village, was returning home from the Shyam Bazaar cattle market in Bihar’s Banka.
A first information report filed on Thursday based on a complaint by his wife Ayesha Begum, alleged that unknown persons had stopped Pappu Ansari’s vehicle and asked him questions.
The complaint alleged that the mob asked him his name and then assaulted him using sharp weapons, including an axe, a farsa and arrows, The Indian Express reported. He died on the spot and his body was dumped in a field nearby.
Pappu Ansari’s family told the newspaper that he had been involved in legal transport of cattle.
His brother-in-law, Furqan Ansari, said that he owned a pickup vehicle and worked as a transporter, moving cattle from one market to another. He added that Pappu Ansari had been doing this work legally for several years and had the necessary documents for it.
The brother-in-law added that Pappu Ansari had gone to the evening cattle market on Wednesday and was returning at night when the mob stopped the vehicle at about 11 pm. “The driver [also with Pappu Ansari] said there were nearly 25 people,” The Indian Express quoted Furqan Ansari as saying.
The vehicle was initially stopped by the mob on the pretext of questioning those inside.
However, the mob soon turned violent and Pappu Ansari asked the driver and others inside to leave with the vehicle, Furqan Ansari added. While others escaped, Pappu Ansari was caught and beaten, Furqan Ansari added.
He claimed that Pappu Ansari was assaulted after the attackers asked him his name and realised that he was Muslim.
“This has nothing to do with cattle theft,” The Indian Express quoted him as saying. “It is about religion.”
Godda Superintendent of Police Mukesh Kumar said that a case had been filed and an investigation was underway.
Source: scroll.in
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Jihad Spokesperson: Zionist Enemy continues violating Gaza ceasefire, & mediators must restrain him
09 Jan 2026
The spokesperson for the Islamic Jihad Movement in Palestine, Mohammed Al-Haj Moussa, said on Friday that the movement is in continuous contact with mediators to inform them of the Israeli enemy's violations and non-compliance with the terms of the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip.
Al-Haj Moussa clarified in statements to Al Jazeera Mubasher that the resistance is responsive to all mediators' demands, calling on them to exert real pressure on the American administration to compel the enemy to comply with what was agreed upon.
He added that the resistance possesses leverage capable of pressuring the enemy, but it prefers to move forward with implementing the second phase of the ceasefire agreement instead of returning to escalation.
The Islamic Jihad spokesperson accused the Israeli side of not wanting to withdraw from the Gaza Strip, pointing out that it deliberately suspended the work of dozens of humanitarian institutions inside the Strip, which exacerbated the humanitarian situation.
He held the American administration responsible for the continuation of the enemy's violations, saying it fully aligns with its schemes, demanding it to respect its role as a guarantor for implementing the agreement.
Al-Haj Moussa affirmed the movement's rejection of any external guardianship over Gaza and its insistence on forming a Palestinian administration to manage the affairs of the Strip in the next phase.
Source: saba.ye
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https://www.saba.ye/en/news3624100.htm
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Saudi Arabia expresses regret over damage to Qatar’s embassy building in Ukraine
January 10, 2026
The damaged building of Qatar embassy after a Russian drone and missile strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine January 9, 2026. (Reuters)
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RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has expressed regret over damages sustained by the building of Qatar’s embassy in the Ukrainian capital during a Russian attack.
Qatar said that its embassy in the Ukrainian capital was damaged during Russian strikes the night before but that its staff were unharmed.
The Saudi foreign ministry said in a statement shared on X that the kingdom “expresses its profound regret over the damage sustained by the embassy building of the fraternal State of Qatar due to shelling in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv.”
Saudi Arabia also “renews its supporting position for diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the Russian-Ukrainian crisis by peaceful means,” it added.
The ministry also affirmed the need to provide protection for members of diplomatic missions, and their premises, in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2628838/saudi-arabia
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Leicestershire Reform councillor’s Muslim school comments branded ‘unacceptable’
9 Jan 2026
The meeting was held by Leicestershire County Council on January 5 and involved Leicestershire councillors and officers.
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A Reform councillor has been criticised for “unacceptable” comments made during a counter-terrorism training session.
The meeting was held by Leicestershire County Council on January 5 and involved Leicestershire councillors and officers.
During the meeting, Councillor Carl Abbott, Reform cabinet member for Adult Social Care, said he was “worried” about “seeing children in primary schools being taught to pray the Muslim way.”
In a recorded video seen by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS), he added: “When I went to school, we went into assembly, we sang hymns and were taught the Christian way.
“It bothers me if the government is allowing this to be taught in school; does it not start the radicalisation of these children? Will we see a further increase in crimes, etc, as these children grow up?”
During the meeting, he said he “personally did not agree with it” and that he was “expressing the concerns of his constituents”.
Charnwood Borough Council Labour leader, Jewel Miah, who was also at the meeting, issued a rebuttal saying that Cllr Abbott was “letting his prejudices show”.
He added: “I’m 51 years old and remember praying in high school, and here I am. A lot of my friends did as well. And I don’t think there’s anything that’s ever happened.
“I think yes, if people are going to go bad, they go bad, but you can’t tar a whole religion based on your prejudices.
Cllr Abbott hit back and said he was “not being prejudiced” or “tarring anyone” and was stating a concern “from his residents”.
The two councillors responded to each other before Cllr Miah branded the comments “shocking”.
Speaking to the LDRS, Cllr Miah said he believed that the comments made at the meeting were “unacceptable”.
He said: “What he is saying isn’t right and not the type of things we should be talking about. What we should be talking about is how we should be making the lives of our constituents better, not peddling comments made from higher up of the Reform party.
“I just don’t think it’s acceptable.
“Leicester and Leicestershire are a widely diverse community, and that isn’t an issue. These issues he talks about are simply not true. There is no evidence, and we should be talking about the biggest thing that affects them. That’s the cost of living and how we can improve that.
Conservative opposition leader Deborah Taylor said: “It is inappropriate to suggest that teaching children to pray in accordance with Muslim practice fosters extremism.
“Muslims are an integral and respected part of our communities. For a Leicestershire County Councillor – particularly the Cabinet Member for Adults and Communities – to assert that Muslim prayer is linked to extremism is divisive, deeply concerning, and entirely incompatible with the standards expected of public office.”
Naomi Bottomley, Green Party councillor, also told the LDRS: “Linking Muslim prayer or the teaching of Islam to crime or extremism is deeply Islamophobic and dangerous.
“It is frankly absurd to suggest that children learning about different religions is something to fear; education builds understanding, not extremism. Coming from a councillor responsible for adult social care, these remarks raise serious concerns about whether Muslim residents can expect fair and respectful treatment.
“There is no place in public life for rhetoric that stigmatises entire communities or treats diversity as a threat.”
A Reform UK spokesman defended Cllr Abbott’s comments and said: “Councillor Abbott is absolutely correct: Britain is and remains a Christian country.
“He speaks on behalf of millions who are rightly alarmed by the rapid, unchecked transformation of our culture and values driven by successive Tory and Labour governments’ obsessions with mass immigration.”
Cllr Abbott has been contacted by the LDRS for comment.
Source: harboroughmail.co.uk
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https://www.harboroughmail.co.uk/news/politics/council/leicestershire-reform-councillors-muslim-school-comments-branded-unacceptable-5469043
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The Council on American‑Islamic Relations Demands Elon Musk Block Grok App from Creating Sexually Explicit Images of Women, Including Prominent Muslim Women
January 9, 2026
The Council on American‑Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today demanded that Elon Musk block the Grok digital application from creating sexually explicit images of children and women, including prominent Muslim women.
[NOTE: Grok is a generative artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot developed by xAI.]
Since the controversy first arose, the Grok AI image generation on feature on X has reportedly been limited to only paying customers and now restricts customers from making sexualized deepfakes. However, the Grok standalone app and website can still reportedly be used to remove clothing from images of nonconsenting people.
In a statement, Washington, D.C., based CAIR said:
“We strongly condemn the ongoing use of the Grok app to allegedly harass, ‘unveil,’ and create sexually explicit images of women, including prominent Muslim women. Elon Musk and others responsible for Grok must end this disgusting and dangerous behavior immediately, even if that means temporarily suspending Grok’s ability to operate.
“Anti-Muslim extremists have embraced Grok because its creators clearly trained the AI model to base the content it produces on sources hostile toward Islam, Muslims and political causes widely supported by Muslims, such as Palestinian freedom.
“It is no surprise that these same anti-Muslim extremists have allegedly used the Grok to harass and endanger Muslim women. Artificial intelligence is a product of people, and people can and must be held accountable for its abuses.”
Source: cair.com
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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-demands-elon-musk-block-grok-app-from-creating-sexually-explicit-images-of-women-including-prominent-muslim-women/
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At Lagos Conference in Nigeria, Islamic Scholars and Clerics Reject Terrorism and Criminal Violence
January 10, 2026
Islamic scholars and clerics have declared that criminal violence, including banditry and terrorism, has no place in Islam.
They stated this at the recently concluded 17th Annual Islamic International Conference, organised Daaru Na’im Academy for Shariah Sciences, Nigeria, held in Lagos.
According to a release from the organisers, while speaking at the event, which brought together over 20,000 participants from Nigeria, the United States of America, Saudi Arabia, Africa, Asia, and Europe, the Deputy Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Mohammad Ali Wahiso, and representatives from Saudi Arabia emphasised that Islam was founded solely on the principles of peace, justice, and the sanctity of human life.
Additionally, the Director-General and Chief Imam of Daaru Na’im, Sheikh Abdul Mojeed Eleha, stated that the conference aimed to examine the importance of sound Islamic belief across African societies, considering evolving social practices and behaviours that contradict the principles of authentic Islamic creed.
“This challenge is further compounded by discourses hostile to the sound creed, propagated by groups that claim affiliation with Islam and the qiblah, yet remain far removed from the true methodology of Islam in belief and actions,” he mentioned.
According to the clergy, the bedrock and basis of Islam is the creed, which is the oneness of Allah, a principle which all subsequent teachings are built upon for spiritual development.
He also called upon scholars in Nigeria to unite upon the word of Allah, overcome fragmentation, and prioritise collective scholarly engagement over social media discord.
Addressing the crucial need for national cohesion and mutual respect among citizens, guest speakers urged Nigerians of all faiths to embrace religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence. They stressed that national unity is essential to effectively address the widespread insecurity facing the country.
Professor Abdul Mojeed Alaro of the Islamic Law Department, University of Ilorin, in his message on civic responsibility and tolerance, noted, “I’m calling on all Nigerians, irrespective of your faith, irrespective of your tribe. We don’t have any other country except this one, and we must preserve and protect it. We are brothers. We are citizens. We can sit on the round table and find solutions to our problem.”
He reminded participants that mutual respect was foundational, stating that solutions lie in tolerance and understanding, not external intervention.
“You don’t necessarily impose your faith on me, and I don’t have to impose my faith on you, and that is basically categorically stated in the glorious book of Islam. The verses of the Quran state clearly that there should be no compulsion in religion. We need to tolerate one another. We need to respect one another.”
The Grand Kadi of the Kwara State Sharia Court of Appeal, Justice Kamaldeen Abdulateef, highlighted the expected long-term impact on the youth, emphasising moral character and civic duty.
“I believe that our entire upcoming generation will learn from this international conference by emulating, as they say, our good practices in Islam. They will imitate many positive aspects demonstrated at this conference. It will help our future generations to foster strong relationships between Muslims and non-Muslims, as well as good relations between ourselves and the government. In particular, it will teach the incoming generation that we need to stay away from corruption and promote discipline within our society, especially concerning the environment.”
To ensure the sound creed reaches the next generation, the Deputy Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Mohammad Wahiso, emphasised the necessity of modern methodologies to counter misinterpretation.
“Therefore, it is important that we build the capacity of the Muslim scholars in addressing the needs of society in a contemporary way and especially using online and technological approaches to be able to reach the societies at large. Otherwise, the youth will always be dependent on the misinterpretations that are rendered through Google and others, which are not appropriate,” he added.
Source: punchng.com
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https://punchng.com/terrorism-banditry-have-no-place-in-islam-scholars/
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Selangor Islamic council in Malaysia warns Muslims against involvement in LGBT activities
10 Jan 2026
SHAH ALAM, Jan 10 — The Selangor Islamic Religious Council (MAIS) has reminded Muslims not to participate in, promote, support or be involved in any activities that may be associated with the normalisation of deviant lifestyles and the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.
Its chairman, Senator Datuk Salehuddin Saidin said such matters were not only contrary to Islamic teachings but also went against the law, Eastern cultural values and societal norms in Malaysia.
“MAIS views seriously media reports related to the organisation of programmes involving the LGBT community and efforts to promote lifestyles that are clearly contrary to Islamic teachings.
“As the body responsible for safeguarding the sanctity of Islam in the state of Selangor, MAIS strongly opposes any form of activities by any party aimed at promoting, supporting and normalising deviant lifestyles such as LGBT,” he said in a statement today.
Salehuddin also urged the Muslim community to always adhere firmly to Islamic teachings and not be easily influenced by the LGBT normalisation agenda, which could undermine the morals and character of the Muslim community.
At the same time, he advised those who have been involved in deviant lifestyles to return to their natural disposition by participating in rehabilitation programmes conducted by MAIS, other religious authorities or non-governmental organisations (NGOs) offering related rehabilitation services.
Salehuddin said MAIS was also committed to working closely with the authorities and government agencies to ensure that activities aimed at normalising and spreading the influence of deviant lifestyles and LGBT practices that damage society could be blocked and prevented.
“MAIS will also work together with the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) and other government agencies to strengthen moral education, the dissemination of Islamic teachings and values, as well as to enhance rehabilitation programmes for the Muslim community as an effort to ensure that this deviant culture is no longer practised in the state,” he said.
Yesterday, Selangor Youth, Sports and Entrepreneurship Committee chairman Mohd Najwan Halimi said the Selangor State Government had urged the authorities to conduct an investigation into the organisation of the ‘Glamping With Pride’ programme in Hulu Langat, which is scheduled to be held next week, and would not compromise with any attempt to spread and promote LGBT culture in the state.
Previously, the media reported that the group involved intended to proceed with the ‘Glamping With Pride’ programme next weekend despite objections from various parties. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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Bangladesh, US discuss elections, trade and Rohingya crisis in Washington meetings
January 10, 2026
National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman held meetings with senior US officials at the State Department in Washington DC today, focusing on Bangladesh’s upcoming elections, bilateral trade, the Rohingya crisis and regional issues.
Khalilur met Under-Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker and Assistant Secretary of State Paul Kapur separately.
During the meeting with Hooker, Khalilur briefed her on preparations for the upcoming general elections and expressed appreciation for US support to the interim government, including its assistance with the electoral process.
Hooker said the United States continues to strongly support Bangladesh’s democratic transition and looks forward to free and fair elections in February.
Amid ongoing efforts to stabilise Gaza following months of war and a fragile ceasefire process, the adviser also expressed Bangladesh’s interest, in principle, in joining a proposed international stabilisation force to be deployed in the territory, according to a statement from the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing.
In response, Hooker said the United States is willing to work together with Bangladesh on the matter.
In November last year, the UN Security Council adopted a US-sponsored resolution endorsing US President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan aimed at ending Israel’s war on Gaza.
One of the key clauses of the resolution supports the creation and deployment of an international stabilisation force (ISF) to provide security and oversee the implementation of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza.
Khalilur also highlighted prospects for increased bilateral trade following Bangladesh’s substantially higher imports of US agricultural products. He also requested easing travel for Bangladeshi businesspeople to the US in light of the recently imposed visa bond, and sought exemption of short-term B1 business visas from the requirement.
Hooker acknowledged the issue and said the US government would positively consider the step. She added that if tourist overstays decline significantly, Washington may review the bond requirement. She also expressed appreciation for Bangladesh’s cooperation in the return of undocumented Bangladeshi nationals.
The adviser thanked the US for its continued support for displaced Rohingyas sheltered in Bangladesh and requested sustained assistance, noting that Washington is the largest donor to the refugee response.
Hooker thanked Bangladesh for bearing a substantial burden by hosting Rohingya refugees and stressed the need for broader international burden-sharing and a durable solution to the crisis. She also urged Bangladesh to expand livelihood opportunities for Rohingyas during their stay.
Khalilur further requested US consideration of Development Finance Corporation (DFC) financing for Bangladesh’s private sector, including support for semiconductor development. Hooker assured consideration of the proposals.
In a separate meeting, Khalilur and Assistant Secretary Paul Kapur discussed the forthcoming election, bilateral relations, the Rohingya crisis, the US visa bond, trade, investment and regional issues.
As a special invitee, Khalilur attended the swearing-in ceremony of Brent Christensen as the new US ambassador to Bangladesh at the State Department.
The ceremony was attended by the Bangladesh ambassador to the US, senior State Department and military officials, former US ambassadors to Bangladesh and US business leaders. In his remarks, Rigas reiterated Washington’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s democratic transition.
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh-us-discuss-elections-trade-and-rohingya-crisis-washington-meetings-4077421
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India
Operation Sindoor exposed Pakistan’s failures, forced constitutional changes: CDS Chauhan
10.01.26
India’s Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan said that Operation Sindoor compelled Pakistan to rush through constitutional amendments, reflecting that the operation did not go well for the neighbouring country.
Speaking at the Pune Public Policy Festival, Chauhan said the developments amounted to an acknowledgement of serious shortcomings uncovered during the operation, which he described as “only on pause”.
“The changes which have been brought about in Pakistan, including the constitutional amendment done hurriedly, are actually an acknowledgement of the fact that everything didn’t go well for them in this operation,” he said.
Chauhan said the amendment to Article 243 of Pakistan’s Constitution had led to major changes in its higher defence organisation, including the abolition of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and the creation of a Chief of Defence Forces post.
On India’s own military reforms, Chauhan said the government has extended the deadline for establishing joint theatre commands to May 30, 2026, though the armed forces aim to complete the process earlier.
However, Pakistan has also stated that this post can be created only by the Chief of Army Staff, which goes against the basic principle of jointness, General Chauhan said.
"That is one major change. The second change is the creation of a National Strategy Command. On that front, things may work well from their perspective. Earlier, they had also created an Army Rocket Forces Command. From both conventional and strategic standpoints, this may strengthen their capabilities. What they have essentially done is concentrate power by creating these new structures," the CDS pointed out.
"Today, the Army Chief will be responsible for land operations, joint operations with the Navy and Air Force through the CDF, as well as strategic and nuclear matters. The creation of the Rocket Forces Command adds another important layer. This, in some ways, reflects a land-centric mindset," he said on the changes made by Pakistan.
These are the reasons why these changes were undertaken, and these are essentially the changes that have been implemented, he added.
"For those who may not regularly follow such developments, or may not fully understand what 'strategic forces' mean, it refers primarily to nuclear forces or nuclear weapons," the general pointed out.
He said several operational lessons, particularly relating to higher defence organisation, needed to be incorporated after Operation Sindoor.
Drawing on experiences from recent military engagements, including the Uri surgical strikes, the Doklam and Galwan standoffs, the Balakot air strike and Operation Sindoor, he said Indian armed forces have often operated through innovative, situation-specific command arrangements.
"What we are now working towards is evolving a standardised system that will be applicable across all contingencies," the Chief of Defence Staff said.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/operation-sindoor-exposed-pakistans-failures-forced-constitutional-changes-cds-chauhan/cid/2141977
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Delhi tells off Zohran Mamdani over letter to jailed rights activist Umar Khalid
Anita Joshua
10.01.26
The external affairs ministry on Friday frowned upon New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani’s letter of support to jailed rights activist Umar Khalid, stating that expressing personal prejudices does not behove someone holding an office.
Mamdani’s letter to Khalid was made public by the activist’s family on January 1, the day the 34-year-old son of Indian-origin filmmaker Mira Nair assumed office in the US.
It also coincided with reports of eight members of the US Congress demanding bail for Khalid after some of them met his parents during a visit to the US in December. According to Khalid’s family, Mamdani had suggested they reach out to US legislators.
At the weekly media conference, ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal was asked to specifically comment on Mamdani’s letter. “We expect public representatives to be respectful of the independence of the judiciary in other democracies. Expressing personal prejudices does not behove those in office. Instead of such comments, it would be better to focus on the responsibilities entrusted to them,” Jaiswal said in response.
In his handwritten letter on a ruled sheet of paper, Mamdani wrote: “Umar, I think of your words on bitterness often, and the importance of not letting it consume one’s self. It was a pleasure to meet your parents. We are all thinking of you.”
When the letter was made public, Khalid’s father S.Q.R. Ilyas said that he and his wife had met Mamdani on December 9 during a personal visit to the US. “He asked what he could do for Umar…. He suggested that we could meet US Congressmen to request them to write to the government of India. We met Representative James McGovern and a few others later in Washington DC. He also gave a letter for Umar.”
House of Representatives members McGovern, Jamie Raskin, Pramila Jayapal, Jan Schakowsky, Rashida Tlaib, and Lloyd Doggett, and senators Chris Van Hollen and Peter Welch wrote to the Indian ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, on December 30.
While several Indian politicians celebrated Mamdani’s spectacular win against President Donald Trump-backed Andrew Cuomo, the Narendra Modi government did not comment on his election despite his Indian connection.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/delhi-tells-off-zohran-mamdani-over-letter-to-jailed-rights-activist-umar-khalid-prnt/cid/2141915
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'Our Constitution allows it, Pakistan restricts it': Asaduddin Owaisi says India will one day have Hijab-clad PM; gets 'no chance' reply from Nitish Rane
Jan 10, 2026
NEW DELHI: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, speaking at an election meeting in Solapur, Maharashtra, on Friday said that while Pakistan’s Constitution restricts the posts of Prime Minister and President to followers of a particular religion, India’s Constitution allows any citizen to hold such positions.
Owaisi highlighted the inclusivity of India’s Constitution, framed by Babasaheb Ambedkar, saying it allows anyone to become Prime Minister, President, chief minister, or mayor.
He said, "His dream was that a day would come when a Hijab-clad woman would rise to become the Prime Minister of India. The day will come in future."
Responding to Owaisi’s remarks, Maharashtra minister Nitish Rane said, Asaduddin Owaisi does not dare to make such statements in our Hindu nation. This is our Hindu nation, where 90% of the population is Hindu. Women who wear hijab or burqa will not become the Prime Minister or the Mayor of Mumbai."
"Those who wish to hold such positions should go to their own Islamic countries, like Karachi. Here, they have no place. Women who wear hijab or burqa will not become Prime Minister or Mayor in Mumbai," he added further.
Source: indiatimes.com
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Amid tight security, 20 people offer Friday prayers at Turkman Gate mosque; number of arrests rises to 13
Pragynesh , Alok Singh
January 10, 2026
With the arrest of two more persons on Friday, Delhi Police has so far arrested 13 people in the stone-pelting incident that took place around Faiz-e-Elahi Mosque at Turkman Gate area early Wednesday. Security personnel deployed in the area, meanwhile, remained on high alert and only allowed around 20 people to enter the mosque to offer Friday prayers.
Police said Mohammad Imran (36) and Mohammad Ubaidullah (26) were arrested from their residences in Turkman Gate.
DCP (Central) Nidhin Valsan said 13 people have been arrested so far for allegedly throwing stones at police personnel, injuring at least five of them, while they were deployed in the area during a Delhi High Court-ordered anti-encroachment drive around the mosque.
Police, meanwhile, added Section 109 (attempt to murder) of BNS in the FIR registered in connection with the violence on Friday.
“We have set up a special team led by an assistant commissioner and an inspector to probe the case from two angles – to arrest the stone-pelters, and to scan social media platforms to determine who provoked the people to indulge in violence,” Valsan said.
Trouble had begun after social media posts claimed that the mosque was being demolished, prompting a mob of 150 to 200 people to gather and later pelt stones and bottles at police personnel and MCD workers.
The DCP said 10 social media accounts are under scrutiny and that police teams will approach the administrators one by one. “Two among them were not at home when our team visited on Friday,” he added.
Police, meanwhile, allowed “controlled” Friday prayers at the mosque, allowing 20-odd residents to enter the compound. Some people were redirected to the nearby Badi Masjid, said an officer, adding that most chose to offer prayers at either at home or nearby smaller compounds.
Earlier in the day, police had advised people to offer prayers at their homes, as Section 163 (restriction of gathering) of BNSS had been imposed in the area.
On Friday, over 1,000 security personnel were stationed around the Turkman Gate and the narrow lanes leading to the mosque. “Around five companies of CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) were deployed,” a CRPF personnel, who guarded the lane alongside Delite Cinema, said. Besides local police, the two companies of RAF (Rapid Action Force) were also deployed.
At the Kamla Market crossroad, riot control vehicles were on standby, even as police personnel verified the identities of all those going towards the mosque. About 600-700 m away, the lane alongside Delite Cinema – a route taken to reach the mosque – also had CRPF personnel patrolling the area.
Nadeem Qureshi (50), a local resident, who has been offering Friday prayers at the mosque for the last 20 years, said he offered prayers at a small mosque near his house.
“People are allowed to offer prayers inside the mosque, but not in a group… Police made sure that no crowd gathered in or around the mosque. The whole area has been barricaded… I think it’s for the best, no one wants a riot here,” he added.
Source: indianexpress.com
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Congress responsible for Umar Khalid, Shareel Imam's jail: Owaisi's big charge
Jan 10, 2026
A sharp political row over the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act has resurfaced after the Supreme Court denied bail to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam, with AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi accusing the Congress of having laid the legal groundwork that allows prolonged incarceration without trial.
Speaking at a public event, Owaisi said amendments brought to the UAPA during the UPA government, when P Chidambaram was Union home minister, had widened the definition of terrorism and created provisions that are now being used to keep undertrials behind bars for years.
“The Supreme Court did not grant bail to two undertrial accused, and the Supreme Court explained why it did not grant bail,” Owaisi said. “During the UPA government, the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act was amended, and it included a definition of what constitutes terrorism.”
‘SUBJECTIVE LAW, DANGEROUS CONSEQUENCES’
Owaisi recalled his earlier opposition to the amendments while speaking in Parliament more than a decade ago, calling parts of the law vague and open to misuse.
“I am referring to 2007 or 2008. I said in the Parliament: ‘Kindly see Section 15(a) of the principal Act that states by any other means of whatever nature to cause or likely to cause. This is a subjective thing, and tomorrow Arundhati Roy can be arrested for what she is writing. This is subjective, and who defines it?’” he said.
He argued that the very provision he had flagged then formed the basis for the denial of bail to Khalid and Imam. “Using this very basis of ‘by any other means’, which the Congress had legislated, and about which I had already said that it would be misused, today two young men, who are in jail for five and a half years, did not get bail,” Owaisi said.
ATTACK ON CONGRESS LEADERSHIP
Taking aim directly at the Congress, Owaisi questioned whether the party had ever borne the consequences of the laws it framed. “The people who made the law were from the Congress, and the home minister was Chidambaram. Has any leader of the Congress ever been in jail for one year, two years, or five and a half years since independence?” he asked.
He also pointed to Section 43D of the UAPA, which permits detention of up to 180 days without filing a chargesheet, alleging that the provision disproportionately affects minorities.
“This speech of mine is recorded in the Lok Sabha,” Owaisi said. “I had talked about 180 days of detention under clause 43D. I said: ‘I can say with full confidence that in 100 per cent of the cases where minorities are arrested, they will be in detention for 180 days without a chargesheet.’”
He added, “I said that the ground reality is that there is a huge difference between truth and hope. The man in uniform harbours a kind of hatred. I said this as a fact, as per Muslim aqliyaat.”
SUPREME COURT ORDER IN DELHI RIOTS CASE
Owaisi’s remarks came days after the Supreme Court, on Monday, refused bail to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in a case linked to an alleged larger conspiracy behind the February 2020 Delhi riots.
In the same order, the apex court granted bail to several other accused in the case, including Gulfisha Fatima, Meeran Haider, Shifa Ur Rehman, Mohd Saleem Khan and Shadab Ahmad.
The ruling has once again brought the spotlight on the UAPA and its stringent bail provisions, with Owaisi insisting that the law’s roots lie in decisions taken by the Congress-led government years ago and that its consequences are now playing out in courtrooms across the country.
Source: indiatoday.in
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Noor Ahmad Noor arrives in Delhi to head Afghan Embassy amid India-Taliban engagement
January 10, 2026
Senior Taliban member Mufti Noor Ahmad Noor has arrived in New Delhi to take over as Charge d’Affaires at Afghanistan’s Embassy, officials said on Saturday.
Noor Ahmad Noor has previously served as the Director General of the First Political Department at Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
India and Afghanistan have witnessed a steady rise in their bilateral relations in the past few months, especially after the seven-day visit of the Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in October last year.
During this visit, Muttaqi had firmly asserted control over the Embassy here in New Delhi, indicating the Islamic Emirate’s flag flying in front and behind him.
“This is our flag. We fought jihad under this. This is 100 per cent our embassy. All those who are working here… they are all with us,” Muttaqi said in response to a question by IANS, pointing to the Islamic Emirate’s flag fluttering behind his back and at the front of his table while the embassy officially still hoists the former flag, representing the former regime of Ashraf Ghani.
Notably, Mufti Noor was a part of the FM Muttaqi’s delegation to New Delhi.
Although India has not yet recognised the Taliban regime, it has been emerging as a key aid donor and continues to supply aid and medical supplies.
Similarly, Afghan consulates, both in Mumbai and Hyderabad, are being run by Taliban appointed diplomats.
Said Muhammad Ibrahim Khil, who was appointed by the government headed by former President Ashraf Ghani, was the CDA of the Afghan Embassy in New Delhi.
Meanwhile, there have been several high-ranking delegation visits from Afghanistan to India, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties, trade, energy development and activating and effectively utilising the capacities of the India-developed Chabahar Port in Iran and attracting more investments.
Source: thestatesman.com
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India’s first Muslim teacher remembered
Jan 10, 2026
Lucknow: The contributions of India's first Muslim teacher and social reformer, Fatima Sheikh, were commemorated on her 194th birth anniversary in Lucknow on Friday.
Mithai Lal Bharti, manager of Sant Shiromani Ravidas Temple Management Committee, said, "Fatima Sheikh worked closely with eminent social reformers Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule to promote education among women and marginalized communities."
"Fatima Sheikh was a dedicated teacher who taught in the earliest schools and went door to door motivating parents from the Muslim community and other deprived sections to send their daughters to school." said Abdul Naseer Nasir, chairman of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Trust.
The speakers said that both Fatima Sheikh and Savitribai Phule faced strong opposition for their reformist work at a time when educating women challenged deep rooted social norms.
Source: indiatimes.com
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Medical college row: Mehbooba fears fate of Kashmiri students across India, questions CM Omar’s role
Jan 10, 2026
SRINAGAR: Former J&K chief minister and PDP Mehbooba Mufti on Friday described the National Medical Commission’s order withdrawing permission to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence (SMVDIME) in Reasi to run an MBBS course as one with far-reaching consequences, warning that it could embolden “communal forces” across the country to exclude Kashmiri Muslim students from educational institutions.
Mehbooba also questioned the role of J&K’s elected govt, stating that just hours before the NMC announced its decision, CM Omar Abdullah had publicly said the medical college should be shut. “Was there some understanding or discussion going on that whatever he said happened? The chief minister should have stood up against the decision to close the college,” she said, addressing a presser at PDP headquarters.
She alleged that the decision was taken solely under pressure to remove Kashmiri Muslims from the medical institution. “The larger question is that Kashmiri Muslim students didn’t get space in their own state. If this is their fate in J&K, how will they be treated in other parts of the country?” she said.
The NMC on Tuesday withdrew its Letter of Permission to start the MBBS course at SMVDIME with 50 seats for the 2025-26 academic year, citing major deficiencies in faculty strength, clinical material and infrastructure. It said students admitted during counselling would be accommodated in other govt medical colleges.
Many political parties have questioned this, asking if the minimum standards were not met, how was the permission granted just four months ago, on Sept 8, 2025?
Omar had on Thursday reacted strongly, saying people across the country fought to get medical colleges while those in Jammu were celebrating the shutting down of one after protests on religious lines. He said Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, which was running SMVDIME, should be asked why the NMC withdrew permission. “Who is the chancellor of the university? You should ask him too,” he told reporters.
The chancellor of the university is LG Manoj Sinha.
The controversy erupted in Nov last year after 42 of the 50 seats went to Muslim students, mostly from Kashmir, while only seven Hindu students from Jammu made the list.
This led to protests by the Jammu-based Shri MataVaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti, an umbrella group of about 60 religious and civil society groups, which argued that an institution funded by Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board should give preference to Hindu students.
BJP later backed the agitation, with party leaders making representations to LG Sinha, who heads the shrine board. They sought a review of the admission policy, arguing that “faith” should be the admission criteria in a college run on the donation of Hindus.
Source: indiatimes.com
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Translated short fiction: The everyday struggles and hopes of disadvantaged Bengali Muslims
Lutfor Rahaman
Jan 10, 2026
The whining and groaning stopped by the evening.
They finally retired to the gloomy makeshift tents not far from the invasive floodwaters on a piece of ever-receding dry land.
The drenched night ominously loitered over the dry land on the southern side of Charmahatpur. The ever-growing darkness strangled the little light of the lantern or the clay lamp trickling out of the openings in tents made of tarpaulin and jute sacks.
Floodwater from the womb-deep fissure of the Dhanshali River gushed out like a stout viper, fuming and indignantly striking the land that remained dry. The river itself enthusiastically encouraged the floodwaters, “shabash! shabash!” There was a huge bamboo bush between the floodwaters and the villainous river. Now submerged under the bruising water, the bamboo bush quivereed in watery pain. Glowworms, like sparks of fire, fell down the bush and scattered across the extended body of the floodwater in the confused darkness of the night.
Sojne, Sajad Shekh’s daughter, came out of her family’s tent and went to the back. Somebody was silently waiting for her in the dark there. When Sojne arrived, the shadowy figure said in a trembling voice, “Did you fall asleep?”
“Yes. I waited a long time for you and then fell asleep. Tell me Malati, are you sure about all this? Do you realise that we are going to be ruined!” Sojne whispered.
Malati remained silent for a moment. She thought of something and then replied impatiently, “You want to survive, right? Then don’t think too much.”
Her empty stomach was recoiling. She had only eaten her share of a bowl of boiled wheat that morning. She’d emptied it in a minute and drunk water up to her neck to keep herself full. But she was starving now. The fleshy umbilicus was boiling in hunger and sapped on her abdomen. Sojne put her hand inside her frock and held her abdomen to calm it down, “Ma says that it is foroj to save one’s life. But my mother herself is groaning now and mumbles erratically, ‘Give me some rice. I am ready to die, but let me have a bowl of rice first!’”
“You expect food during this deluge! It will kill everybody. Do you understand! It will even kill me!” The thought of her own death distressed Sojne. She felt as if a huge and blunt boulder pressed down on her distressed heart. And the pressure of that deadly boulder moved from her abdomen towards her neck crushing her flesh and bones. She felt as if an enormous leech with an insatiable hunger had invaded her abdomen. It greedily sucked her lifeblood and desperately tried to reach her ribs. Sojne tried to collect herself and mumbled, “Don’t take exception to my decision Khuda. Do you even bother to take note of why the body sins!”
“Are you coming with me? I will proceed alone otherwise.” Malati’s desperation helped Sojne make up her mind. She held her abdomen, rubbed it softly and said, “Yes, I have to go. I will go. But let my father fall asleep first.”
Sojne entered their tent. The inside felt claustrophobic with the sultry smell of sporadic vomiting. The earthen lamp wobblingly emitted little light. A few people, in hardly any clothing, lay on the wet blanket in queues. They cried throughout the day, “Give some rice. I am starving! Give me something to eat.” Finally, they resigned themselves to sleep. Just beside them, Sajad Shekh lay unconscious having vomited a few minutes back. Sojne’s mother sat beside him wearing a veil, and poured water on Shekh’s head. He was burning with high fever.
Sojne passed the people sleeping on the wet blanket and came to the wooden box on the western side of the tent. There was medicine in a bell water-pot on the box. Sojne had taken it from the doctors who came for relief work during the day. Sojne gave the medicine to her mother saying, “Give this to father.”
“Oi, where did you get the medicine from, oi magi?”
“That’s none of your business. Why don’t you just give it to father?”
The noise bothered Sajad Shekh. He asked his wife to be silent. Sojne sat beside him. Shekh asked, “Soi, Kanu and others went to the town. Did they bring any rice or pulses?”
“No.”
“Why?”
“They said they will give rice and pulses in a few days.”
“When?”
“I already said, in a few days.”
“O Khuda! Where are you….! He will die like this!” Sojne’s mother lamented. Shekh vomited again. His whole body flinched. His intestine was about to come out of his nose and mouth. He vomited only black bile this time which looked like blood when a little light fell on it. Sojne’s mother started crying loudly on seeing this. Sojne gave the medicine to her mother and came out of the tent. There, the musty dark lay vanquished amid the shrubs and bushes, like a feeble, dying man. The strong wind blasted the wild palm trees, struck the ground and then went to the floodwaters to wash its body. But the usurious night was indifferently lost in its darkness.
Sojne sobbed as she walked.
She saw the loose tents barely managing to stay upright like houses made with playthings by children. Her father had vomited again in front of her. Only black bile that time. She could see that her father was slowly fading away. She wiped her tears with the back of her hand. She looked around to see the heavy and relentless dark night rolling over the dark water and the tents.
Malati’s tent was at a bit of a distance. Her mother was still crying as she stood outside the tent with a lantern in her hand. A few days back, Malati’s father Satinath Master had died under the wall that fell on him. Her mother still cries and blames her fate for that!
Source: scroll.in
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Mideast
Palestinians have right to live in peace in ‘own land’: pope
January 09, 2026
VATICAN CITY: Pope Leo XIV has lamented rising violence in the occupied West Bank and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, saying Palestinians had the right to live peacefully in their “own land.”
“Sadly, there has been an increase in violence in the West Bank against the Palestinian civilian population, which has the right to live in peace in its own land,” said the US pope, adding that civilians in Gaza also should be assured “a future of lasting peace and justice in their own land.”
During his annual meeting with diplomats accredited to the Vatican to exchange New Year greetings, the Pope said the “humanitarian suffering of civilians continues despite the ceasefire announced in October, adding to the hardships they have already endured.”
He added: The Holy See closely follows every diplomatic initiative aimed at ensuring a future of lasting peace and justice for Palestinians in Gaza, for all Palestinians, and for all Israelis.”
The two-state solution “remains the institutional framework that addresses the legitimate aspirations of both peoples. Instead, we unfortunately see escalating violence in the West Bank against Palestinian civilians, who have the right to live in peace on their land,” he said.
“War is back in vogue, and a zeal for war is spreading,” Pope Leo said, warning that the “weakness of multilateralism is a particular cause for concern.”
“A diplomacy that promotes dialogue and seeks consensus among all parties is being replaced by a diplomacy based on force, by either individuals or groups of allies,” the pope said.
Source: arabnews.com
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Israelis carry out more than 20 raids in south Lebanon, Bekaa region
NAJIA HOUSSARI
January 09, 2026
BEIRUT: Israeli warplanes on Friday carried out more than 20 raids across Lebanon, targeting sites in the south and Northern Bekaa.
Tel Aviv said the attacks were a response to an ongoing breach of the ceasefire agreement, and claimed “Hezbollah is rebuilding its military capabilities in violation of the agreements between Lebanon and Israel.”
The raids targeted the valleys between Houmin in Nabatieh and Deir Al-Zahrani north of the Litani River, in addition to Al-Aaishiyah, Al-Zagharin, Iklim Al-Tuffah, Kfarkila, Ain Qana, the Sajd Heights and Al-Rayhan. In addition, the Israeli army targeted the town of Al-Baissariyeh in Saida.
Repeated airstrikes shook the eastern mountain range without prior warnings, targeting the upper parts of the Brital highlands in the Baalbek district of Northern Bekaa, and the Al-Jbour area in Western Bekaa.
Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee accused Iran-backed Hezbollah of attempting to rebuild its military capabilities, claiming the Israeli army attacked the group’s “targets and raided a manufacturing site, weapon depots and missile-launching pads used by Hezbollah.”
In a post on social media, Adraee vowed that “the Israeli army will continue to work on removing any threat.”
As part of Israel’s campaign — albeit at a reduced pace — an Israeli force penetrated the border village of Yaroun and destroyed a building in the Al-Bayader neighborhood before withdrawing, according to a Lebanese military source.
An Israeli raid on Thursday targeted a car on the road between Zaita and Bnaafoul, resulting in one fatality.
The latest incidents came as the Lebanese Army Command announced on Thursday the completion of the first phase of a plan to restrict weapons to state hands south of the Litani River. A plan to restrict weapons north of the river is set to be prepared and submitted to the Cabinet next month, as the military moves to contain weapons and prevent their smuggling, transfer, or use.
Iranian foreign minister
Amid the Israeli strikes, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who is currently in Beirut, has held a series of meetings with Lebanese officials.
Araghchi affirmed that Iran “supports Lebanon’s independence, unity and sovereignty,” and added that “defending the country is the Lebanese government’s responsibility.”
He said: “Iran supports Hezbollah as a resistance group, but it does not interfere at all in its affairs, and any decision related to Lebanon is left to the party itself.”
He described his visit to Lebanon as part of “strengthening and developing relationships between both countries.”
Araghchi — who is visiting Beirut amid mass protests at home over government spending during a cost-of-living crisis — met Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji, who had declined to receive him on a previous visit.
He told him that “his country seeks to build a relationship with Lebanon based on amicability and mutual respect, within the framework of the two governments, with all their institutions and components.”
He said that “a joint confrontation of challenges and risks requires continued dialogue and consultation despite differences in approaches to certain files,” stressing that “the unity of Lebanon’s sects under the authority of the Lebanese government would protect Lebanon and achieve its stability.”
According to his media office, Rajji reaffirmed that “defending Lebanon is the (sole) responsibility of the Lebanese state.”
He added: “When the state possesses its strategic decision-making power, holds the decision of war and peace, and confines weapons to its own hands, it can then request assistance from countries, including Iran.”
Rajji also emphasized that “building a state capable of defending its land and its people cannot happen while there is an armed organization outside its authority.”
He addressed Araghchi by asking whether Tehran “would accept the presence of an illegal armed organization on its own territory.”
Rajji called on Iran to engage in talks with Lebanon to find “a new approach to the issue of Hezbollah’s weapons, drawing on Iran’s relationship with the party, so that these weapons do not become a pretext for weakening Lebanon.”
He pointed out that “the Shiite community is not being targeted, and the only sustainable guarantee for it, and for the other communities, is unity, and being under the authority of the state and the rule of law.”
He added: “Experience has shown that weapons have not been able to defend the Shiite community, or Lebanon and all its components.”
Rajji urged his Iranian counterpart to “put a stop to the statements and stances of some Iranian officials, which are considered a blatant interference in Lebanese affairs.”
The European Council
The Israeli actions coincided with the arrival in Beirut of a delegation from the European Council headed by its President Antonio Costa, along with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who was accompanied by an EU delegation.
In remarks made while meeting Lebanese officials, Costa welcomed “the Lebanese army’s announcement that it has completed the first phase of the plan to disarm Hezbollah south of the Litani River.”
During his meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Costa reaffirmed “the commitment to Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” stressing that “there is no room for armed militias that undermine stability.”
Source: arabnews.com
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Kurdistan Islamic Scholars Union condemns attacks in Aleppo
2026-01-09
The Kurdistan Islamic Scholars Union described the attacks carried out by Syrian army forces on Kurdish neighborhoods in the northern Syrian city of Aleppo as a grave injustice against the Kurdish population.
In a statement, the union said it strongly condemns the attacks, adding that what is taking place constitutes a “serious violation and a major injustice committed against the Kurdish component.” It called on all parties involved to work toward de-escalation and preventing further escalation.
The recent clashes between the Syrian government forces and SDF lasted for three days, resulting in more than 10 civilian deaths and 100 injuries, in addition to at least 20 casualties among fighters from both sides.
Following a ceasefire announced by Syria’s Defense Ministry, sources told Shafaq News that the Syrian government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces reached an agreement, under US mediation, to facilitate the withdrawal of Asayish fighters with their light weapons from Kurdish-majority neighborhoods in Aleppo to areas in northeastern Syria. However, the General Council of the Sheikh Maqsoud-Ashrafieh neighborhoods in Aleppo of northern Syria, said on Friday it would remain defending the area, warning that "ongoing attacks aim to forcibly displace residents and alter Aleppo’s demographic composition."
Source: shafaq.com
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Syrian army pushes into Aleppo district after Kurdish groups reject withdrawal
January 10, 2026
ALEPPO, Syria: The Syrian army said it would push into the last Kurdish-held district of Aleppo city on Friday after Kurdish groups there rejected a government demand for their fighters to withdraw under a ceasefire deal.
The violence in Aleppo has brought into focus one of the main faultlines in Syria as the country tries to rebuild after a devastating war, with Kurdish forces resisting efforts by President Ahmed Al-Sharaa’s Islamist-led government to bring their fighters under centralized authority.
At least nine civilians have been killed and more than 140,000 have fled their homes in Aleppo, where Kurdish forces are trying to cling on to several neighborhoods they have run since the early days of the war, which began in 2011.
ِA ceasefire was announced by the defense ministry overnight, demanding the withdrawal of Kurdish forces to the Kurdish-held northeast. That would effectively end Kurdish control over the pockets of Aleppo that Kurdish forces have held.
CEASEFIRE ‘FAILED,’ SECURITY OFFICIALS SAY
But in a statement, Kurdish councils that run Aleppo’s Sheikh Maksoud and Ashrafiyah districts said calls to leave were “a call to surrender” and that Kurdish forces would instead “defend their neighborhoods,” accusing government forces of intensive shelling.
Hours later, the Syrian army said that the deadline for Kurdish fighters to withdraw had expired, and that it would begin a military operation to clear the last Kurdish-held neighborhood of Sheikh Maksoud.
Two Syrian security officials told Reuters the ceasefire efforts had failed and that the army would seize the neighborhood by force.
The Syrian defense ministry had earlier carried out strikes on parts of Sheikh Maksoud that it said were being used by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to launch attacks on the “people of Aleppo.” It said on Friday that SDF strikes had killed three army soldiers.
Kurdish security forces in Aleppo said some of the strikes hit a hospital, calling it a war crime. The defense ministry disputed that, saying the structure was a large arms depot and that it had been destroyed in the resumption of strikes on Friday.
It posted an aerial video that it said showed the location after the strikes, and said secondary explosions were visible, proving it was a weapons cache.
Reuters could not immediately verify the claim.
The SDF is a powerful Kurdish-led security force that controls northeastern Syria. It says it withdrew its fighters from Aleppo last year, leaving Kurdish neighborhoods in the hands of the Kurdish Asayish police.
Under an agreement with Damascus last March the SDF was due to integrate with the defense ministry by the end of 2025, but there has been little progress.
FRANCE, US SEEK DE-ESCALATION
France’s foreign ministry said it was working with the United States to de-escalate.
A ministry statement said President Emmanuel Macron had urged Sharaa on Thursday “to exercise restraint and reiterated France’s commitment to a united Syria where all segments of Syrian society are represented and protected.”
A Western diplomat told Reuters that mediation efforts were focused on calming the situation and producing a deal that would see Kurdish forces leave Aleppo and provide security guarantees for Kurds who remained.
The diplomat said US envoy Tom Barrack was en route to Damascus. A spokesperson for Barrack declined to comment. Washington has been closely involved in efforts to promote integration between the SDF — which has long enjoyed US military support — and Damascus, with which the United States has developed close ties under President Donald Trump.
The ceasefire declared by the government overnight said Kurdish forces should withdraw by 9 a.m. (0600 GMT) on Friday, but no one withdrew overnight, Syrian security sources said.
Barrack had welcomed what he called a “temporary ceasefire” and said Washington was working intensively to extend it beyond the 9 a.m. deadline. “We are hopeful this weekend will bring a more enduring calm and deeper dialogue,” he wrote on X.
TURKISH WARNING
Turkiye views the SDF as a terrorist organization linked to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party and has warned of military action if it does not honor the integration agreement.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, speaking on Thursday, expressed hope that the situation in Aleppo would be normalized “through the withdrawal of SDF elements.”
Though Sharaa, a former Al-Qaeda commander who belongs to the Sunni Muslim majority, has repeatedly vowed to protect minorities, bouts of violence in which government-aligned fighters have killed hundreds of Alawites and Druze have spread alarm in minority communities over the last year.
The Kurdish councils in Aleppo said Damascus could not be trusted “with our security and our neighborhoods,” and that attacks on the areas aimed to bring about displacement.
Sharaa, in a phone call with Iraqi Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani on Friday, affirmed that the Kurds were “a fundamental part of the Syrian national fabric,” the Syrian presidency said.
Neither the government nor the Kurdish forces have announced a toll of casualties among their fighters from the recent clashes.
Source: arabnews.com
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How the Palestinian Circus sustains hope and resistance under Israeli occupation
Khaled Al Khawaldeh
January 09, 2026
DUBAI: On any given morning in the village of Birzeit, just 10 kilometers north of the West Bank city of Ramallah, the sound of juggling balls hitting the floor mixes with laughter, music, and the occasional gasp.
Inside a modest rehearsal space, young performers rehearse feats of balance and acrobatics at the Palestinian Circus, which has become a small outlet for resistance and joy among young people across the occupied West Bank.
However, the circus is under more pressure than ever. Mohamad Rabah, its executive director, told Arab News that Israeli raids had seen one of their colleagues detained and the troupe’s activities become more difficult to sustain.
“The military forces were in Birzeit one month ago. They were here in front of our building. But we are not a special case,” Rabah said.
“We are the same as any Palestinian suffering from this occupation, and we try to find ways to resist, to stay resilient and to find creative ways to work.”
Founded in 2006 in the aftermath of the Second Intifada, the Palestinian Circus was born from an urgency to reestablish hope and provide creative outlets for young Palestinians.
The circus offers children and young adults the chance to train in a range of arts and take part in professional productions around the world.
Given the physical demands and collective discipline required, Rabah says circus skills have become a language through which children and young people can express fear, anger, hope and resistance.
The group’s first production, launched amid intense Israeli restrictions, was bluntly political.
“The first show was called Circus Behind the Wall, and it was using circus disciplines to connect with acts like juggling over the wall,” Rabah said.
“The wall, built by Israel around major Palestinian cities, had cut families, friends and livelihoods apart. The circus answered symbolically.”
The show toured locally and internationally for several years. By 2008, those early performers had become teachers.
“The same young people who gained the skill at that time as circus performers started to teach other youth and kids,” Rabah said.
Since those early days, its programs have expanded into refugee camps in Hebron, Nablus, Jenin, Farah, Ramallah, and Jerusalem — areas where trauma was not abstract but a daily reality.
Nearly two decades later, the organization has grown into a prominent cultural institution. This year alone, Rabah said, the circus completed 90 performances — 55 in Palestine and 35 abroad.
It has appeared at festivals in France, Italy, Ireland and Belgium and even at the UK’s Glastonbury.
The occupied West Bank faces its gravest crisis in years, with escalating Israeli military raids, record settler attacks and accelerating displacement.
Raids in areas like Jenin and Nablus have killed hundreds and damaged vital infrastructure, while settler violence and demolitions have pushed many rural and herding communities off their land.
Settlement expansion continues, aimed at entrenching permanent control and foreclosing Palestinian statehood.
The Palestinian Authority is weakened by fiscal collapse, sanctions and loss of legitimacy, undermining services and governance, while humanitarian agencies warn of worsening protection risks and de facto forcible transfer.
Some Palestinian Circus productions confront politics head on, like “Sarah,” created in 2017, which tells the story of displacement. “It’s a performance … about the journey and the suffering of refugees,” Rabah said.
“We also have happy and uplifting performances … like Wonderland, which is like a children and family show inspired by the Alice in Wonderland theme.”
In a society saturated with loss, Rabah says joy itself becomes an act of resistance. However, performance is only one part of the work. The larger mission lies in training and psychosocial support.
“This year, we worked with 4,000 children, women and people with disabilities — 2,000 in Gaza and 2,000 in the West Bank and Jerusalem,” Rabah said.
“There are 16 disciplines in circus, so we use the term ‘circus for all,’ and with circus for all that’s inclusivity. Everyone can find their space under the circus.”
Unlike theater, Rabah says there are no singular stars in circus, which makes the whole endeavor a lesson in team building, with young people learning to rely on each other for balance during daring acrobatics.
That reliance has become more urgent as violence has escalated across the West Bank and Gaza. With mobility increasingly restricted, Rabah says freedom has been incrementally squeezed out of Palestinian life, especially for young people.
Relying on each other’s support is the only way to survive.
“From one city to another… it requires a lot of work to meet another young person,” Rabah said. “What the Israeli occupation is trying to do is to take from us every meaning of living.”
Still, the show goes on. This year, despite visa obstacles and excessive costs, the circus managed to send more than 40 children abroad for cultural exchanges — an achievement that Rabah admits came at a high price.
“This year alone, we spent more than half a million shekels ($157,350) … on flight tickets,” he said. “Looking at the demand, you wish to do more. It’s a drop in the ocean.”
In Gaza, the stakes are even higher. Rabah visited the enclave in 2022 to meet with circus artists, many of whom continued training amid the devastation wrought by the conflict that began in October 2023.
“They are inspiring,” he said. “They worked during the genocide with nothing, starving. Their schools were destroyed, but they continued to perform and to train. There are, I think, four to five artists who were lost, killed by the Israeli bombing.”
Rabah himself joined the organization in 2018, after the founding artists moved to Europe. He was not a performer but could see the social impact that the project could have. He said art was essential in a society where political participation is constrained.
“I didn’t have any circus background. My background is community and youth work and management,” he said.
“There are limited ways in which young people can express their voice … so art becomes not only a way of entertainment… it’s a way that you participate in the community.”
The circus does not impose any narrative, with most of the shows being produced by the performers themselves without a given script. “Most of our shows, the ideas come from the artists,” Rabah said. “They do it with their bodies and their circus tricks.”
As the organization approaches its 20th anniversary, it plans to expand with a mobile circus tent, bringing performances to the most isolated communities. This is something Rabah says will require further sponsorship, which he hopes will continue regardless of the political situation.
“Put yourself in the shoes of a 15-year-old Palestinian living in a refugee camp in Gaza … it’s a struggle for identity and existence,” he said.
“We need every bit of support to allow us to exist and keep existing with our identity and culture and every meaning of life.”
Source: arabnews.com
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Jordan’s Safadi discusses Syria developments with Syrian foreign minister
January 09, 2026
AMMAN: Jordan’s foreign minister Ayman Safadi spoke on the phone on Friday with Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs Asaad Al-Shaibani to discuss the latest developments in Syria.
Safadi reaffirmed Jordan’s support for the Syrian government’s efforts to preserve the country’s security, stability, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to ensure the safety of its people, the Jordan News Agency reported.
Both ministers stressed the importance of strengthening relations between the two countries and continuing joint efforts to expand cooperation in ways that serve the interests of Jordan and Syria and reflect the depth of their fraternal ties.
Source: arabnews.com
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Lebanon signs gas exploration deal with French-Qatari-Italian consortium
NAJIA HOUSSARI
January 09, 2026
BEIRUT: Lebanon on Friday signed a gas exploration deal for Block 8 with a consortium comprising France’s TotalEnergies, Qatar Energy and Italy’s Eni, in a ceremony held at the Prime Minister’s Office and attended by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam.
According to Gaby Daaboul, board member at the Lebanese Petroleum Administration, the agreement stipulates that the consortium will carry out a 3D seismic survey in Block 8, which spans 1,200 sq. km, in preparation for exploratory drilling based on analysis of the survey data.
In 2023, Lebanon marked the resumption of oil and gas exploration in its territorial waters, as a consortium that included Qatar Energy drilled an exploratory well in Block 9.
However, all activities were halted, ostensibly due to the lack of oil or gas. The companies’ cessation of operations coincided with the outbreak of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.
Earlier hopes were dashed when gas was not found in Block 4, leaving many Lebanese disappointed.
Lebanese Minister of Energy and Water Joe Saddi, who signed the agreement on behalf of the state, described the move as “a confirmation of the consortium’s commitment to continue exploration activities in Lebanon despite all challenges, and a reflection of continued confidence in the petroleum potential of Lebanese territorial waters.
“We look forward to the consortium coordinating and promptly implementing the 3D seismic survey campaign. This will enhance geological and technical understanding of Block 8 and allow for a more accurate assessment of the opportunities available,” the minister said.
He announced the preparation of a file for launching the fourth licensing round, aiming at attracting international companies to invest in open offshore blocks and boost exploration and production activity in Lebanon.
Asked whether there are guarantees that the consortium operating in Block 8 will provide Lebanon with an official technical report, Saddi explained that “for Block 9, an official report was submitted to the Ministry and the Petroleum Sector Administration.”
He noted that oil companies do not spend tens of millions of dollars without expecting results.
“No oil was found in the Block 9 drilling area, but a full report is available. This highlights the importance of the seismic survey in Block 8 to understand the block’s detailed geology, which will guide future exploration,” he said.
Saddi stressed that regional and domestic stability will be key to accelerating the exploration process.
The agreement was signed by Romain de La Martiniere, managing director of Total Lebanon, on behalf of Total Energies; Ali Abdulla Al-Mana, head of exploration at Qatar Energy; and Andrea Cozzi, managing director for Eni’s Lebanon division.
“Lebanon looks forward to continuing its exploration efforts by promoting non-obligatory blocks, with the aim of intensifying exploration activities and achieving a commercial discovery that will boost the national economy and support sustainable development,” Daaboul said.
Lebanon’s offshore oil and gas exploration centers on 10 blocks in its exclusive economic zone, with Blocks 4, 8, 9, and 10 most relevant near the maritime border with Israel.
A 2022 US-brokered maritime border agreement resolved a long dispute, granting Israel full control of the Karish field while assigning Qana Prospect (Block 9) to Lebanon. However, Israel is poised to receive royalties from any future production there.
Lebanon is racing against time to resume exploration after Total’s 2023 drilling in Block 4 yielded negative results, prompting the company to return the block to the Lebanese state. Meanwhile, Israel began commercial production in the area roughly four months later.
Although the company was expected to resume drilling in Block 4 from a different location, it chose to return the block to the Lebanese state, where it will later be included among the blocks offered for exploration.
In 2018, Lebanon signed its first exploration contracts with three companies — Total, Eni, and Russia’s Novatek — to search for oil and gas in two blocks within its territorial waters, Blocks 4 and 9. Of the 10 blocks Lebanon has designated for oil and gas exploration, three are located in its exclusive economic zone.
Lebanese citizens are pinning their hopes on the exploration, anticipating the discovery of oil wells to help revive the struggling economy.
Source: arabnews.com
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EU chief von der Leyen says Europe to do ‘everything it can’ to support Syria
January 09, 2026
DAMASCUS: European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said Europe would do everything possible to assist Syria’s recovery and reconstruction, after meeting President Ahmed Al-Sharaa on Friday in Damascus.
Von der Leyen, the highest-ranking EU official to visit since longtime ruler Bashar Assad was ousted in December 2024, is on a regional tour alongside Antonio Costa, who heads the European Council.
Their visit comes as days of deadly clashes between government forces and Kurdish fighters have rocked the north Syrian city of Aleppo.
“Europe will do everything it can to support Syria’s recovery and reconstruction,” von der Leyen said on X.
A Syrian presidency statement said the two sides discussed cooperation, including on reconstruction, as well as “humanitarian matters and the refugee issue in Europe.”
On Thursday, a joint EU-Jordan statement issued on the eve of the EU leaders’ arrival in Damascus said that “we will continue working together in support of a peaceful and inclusive Syrian-led and Syrian-owned transition.”
Syria is struggling to forge a new path after years of war sparked by a brutal crackdown on pro-democracy protests in 2011.
Sharaa, who is seeking to extend state authority across the whole country, has come under pressure to protect Syria’s many minority communities, including the Kurds.
Several EU officials have visited Syria since Assad’s ouster by Sharaa’s forces more than a year ago, and the EU has removed economic sanctions in place under Assad.
In March, the EU pledged nearly 2.5 billion euros in aid for Syria for 2025 and 2026.
Von der Leyen and Costa were also visiting Lebanon on Friday.
Source: arabnews.com
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Palestinian VP meets diplomat expected to serve on Trump’s Gaza peace board
January 09, 2026
RAMALLAH, Palestinian Territories: Palestinian vice president Hussein Al-Sheikh met on Friday with former UN Middle East envoy Nickolay Mladenov, who is expected to head the US-backed Board of Peace in Gaza.
The meeting in the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah comes a day after Mladenov held talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and met with President Isaac Herzog.
Bulgarian diplomat Mladenov served as the United Nations envoy for the Middle East peace process from early 2015 until the end of 2020.
Media reports say he is expected to serve as the representative on the ground in Gaza for the Board of Peace — a transitional body for the war-battered Palestinian territory which US President Donald Trump would theoretically chair.
In a statement on X, Sheikh said that during his meeting with Mladenov, “an in-depth discussion took place on all political and field developments in the Palestinian territories.”
He added there was “a focus on the situation in the Gaza Strip, means of transitioning to the second phase (of the ceasefire), mechanisms for implementing the US President Donald Trump’s plan, and UN Security Council Resolution 2803.”
That UN Security Council resolution endorsed the Trump plan in November.
Under Trump’s 20-point plan, Gaza will be governed by a temporary transitional technocratic, apolitical Palestinian committee, under the oversight and supervision of the Board of Peace.
Under the second stage of the fragile ceasefire that came into effect in October, Israel is supposed to gradually withdraw from its positions in Gaza, while Hamas is supposed to lay down its weapons.
An international stabilization force is also to be deployed.
But talks to bring about the second phase stalled after Israel accused Hamas of delaying the return of the last hostage in its custody.
Netanyahu met with Mladenov in Jerusalem on Thursday and “reiterated that Hamas must be disarmed and the Gaza Strip must be demilitarised,” the prime minister’s office said in a statement.
It said that Mladenov “is set to become the Director of the Gaza Strip Board of Peace.”
Herzog also met with Mladenov on Thursday, a spokesman from his office said, without providing details.
US media outlet Axios has reported that Trump is expected to announce the Board of Peace next week and that it would include around 15 world leaders.
“Among the countries expected to join the board are the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt and Turkiye,” Axios reported.
Some White House officials fear both Israel and Hamas are slow-walking the second stage of the ceasefire, with each side alleging frequent ceasefire violations.
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Lebanon FM urges Iran to find ‘new approach’ on Hezbollah arms
January 09, 2026
BEIRUT: Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Raggi on Friday urged his visiting Iranian counterpart to find a “new approach” to the thorny issue of disarming the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group.
Lebanon is under heavy US pressure to disarm Hezbollah, which was heavily weakened in more than a year of hostilities with Israel that largely ended with a November 2024 ceasefire, but Iran and the group have expressed opposition to the move.
Iran has long wielded substantial influence in Lebanon by funding and arming Hezbollah, but as the balance of power shifted since the recent conflict, officials have been more critical toward Tehran.
“The defense of Lebanon is the sole responsibility of the Lebanese state,” which must have a monopoly on weapons, Raggi told Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, a Lebanese foreign ministry statement said.
Raggi called on Iran to engage in talks with Lebanon to find “a new approach to the issue of Hezbollah’s weapons, drawing on Iran’s relationship with the party, so that these weapons do not become a pretext for weakening Lebanon.”
He asked Araghchi “whether Tehran would accept the presence of an illegal armed organization on its own territory.”
Last month, Raggi declined an invitation to visit Iran and proposed meeting in a neutral third country.
Lebanon’s army said Thursday that it had completed the first phase of disarming Hezbollah, doing so in the south Lebanon area near the border with Israel, which called the efforts “far from sufficient.”
Araghchi also met President Joseph Aoun on Friday and was set to hold talks with several other senior officials.
After arriving on Thursday, he visited the mausoleum of former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in a massive Israeli air strike on south Beirut in September 2024.
Last August, Lebanese leaders firmly rejected any efforts at foreign interference during a visit by Iran’s security chief Ali Larijani, with the prime minister saying Beirut would “tolerate neither tutelage nor diktat” after Tehran voiced opposition to plans to disarm Hezbollah.
Source: arabnews.com
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Tens of thousands of worshippers perform Friday prayers at al-Aqsa Mosque, its courtyards
09 Jan 2026
Tens of thousands of Palestinians performed Friday prayers at the blessed al-Aqsa Mosque and its courtyards, despite the strict restrictions imposed by the Israeli occupation authorities in occupied al-Quds.
Since the early morning hours, the occupation forces have imposed strict restrictions on worshippers' access to al-Aqsa Mosque through military checkpoints surrounding al-Quds.
The enemy forces also erected iron barriers around the Old City and the mosque's gates.
The occupation forces stopped dozens of young men, checked their IDs, and prevented a number of them from reaching the mosque in an attempt to limit the number of worshippers.
Calls continue in al-Quds for urgent action to defend al-Aqsa Mosque and Islamic holy sites, and to stop the daily attacks aimed at erasing the Arab and Islamic identity of the city.
Source: saba.ye
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Arab World
Saudi Defense Minister: Riyadh committed to a just solution for the South, says dissolution of STC is a courageous step
January 09, 2026
RIYADH: Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman, in his first comment following the announcement of the dissolution of the Southern Transitional Council (STC), stated that the move aligns with the public interest. He affirmed that “the southern issue now has a genuine path, sponsored by the Kingdom and supported by the international community through the Riyadh Conference, through which we aim to bring together our southern brothers to develop a comprehensive vision for just solutions that meet their will and aspirations.”
In a post on the platform X, the Defense Minister added, “The Kingdom will form a preparatory committee in consultation with southern figures to organize the conference, which will include participants from all southern governorates without exclusion or discrimination. The Kingdom will support the outcomes of the conference so they can be presented at the table of the comprehensive political solution dialogue in Yemen.”
He concluded by saying, “The decision taken by southern figures and leaders to dissolve the Transitional Council was a courageous one, driven by concern for the future of the southern cause and aimed at encouraging broader southern participation in the Riyadh Conference in service of their cause.”
Source: arabnews.com
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Islamic military coalition receives international delegation
January 09, 2026
RIYADH: The Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition received a delegation of participants from several countries taking part in the countering extremism course.
The course is currently being held in Riyadh at the Institute of Religious Affairs of the Saudi Armed Forces. The delegation was received by the Secretary-General of the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition Maj. Gen. Mohammed Al-Moghedi.
During the visit, the delegation was briefed on the coalition’s methodology of work, highlighting its ongoing efforts, strategic initiatives, and training programs across various fields of counterterrorism.
The delegation also toured the coalition’s headquarters, where it was briefed on its key publications, research, and studies, as well as the latest developments and updates on terrorist groups and incidents worldwide, and on monitoring and follow-up mechanisms.
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Makkah Qur’an contest attracts many students
January 09, 2026
MAKKAH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs has launched the preliminary rounds of the 27th King Salman Qur’an Competition in Makkah.
The contest, which attracted many students, is aimed at creating a positive and motivating environment for the participants.
The ministry wants to ensure a fair and competitive atmosphere, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.
The preliminary rounds are being held across the Kingdom under the ministry’s supervision, and in accordance with regulations and standards that ensure integrity and transparency.
The final rounds of the competition will take place in Riyadh from Feb. 12 to 17.
Source: arabnews.com
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RCU opens registration for hospitality training programs
January 09, 2026
RIYADH: The Royal Commission for AlUla has opened registration for training programs in January offered by its Elaa Academy.
Its programs aim to develop skills and refine competencies of Saudis working in the tourism, hospitality and events sectors, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The training programs, which begin on Jan. 18, include “Introduction to Facilities Management.” This course teaches essential hospitality skills including maintenance, health and safety, hygiene standards and asset management.
Another program, “Tourist Guidance and Cultural Interpretation,” focuses on teaching communication skills, group management and presentation techniques for historic and cultural information.
The “AlUla Content” program is also included, which provides a comprehensive look at the cultural, historic and natural heritage of the governorate, highlighting historic sites and narratives while building a basic knowledge of AlUla’s identity and cultural components.
The “Effective Planning in Event Management” program addresses logistics, stakeholder coordination and risk management to help ensure the success of events.
Elaa Academy is running the “Introduction to Hotel Management” program this month, which helps employees focus on key departments, operations, and service standards, enhancing a basic understanding of hospitality management.
The launch of these programs aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to empower national talent and enhance AlUla’s position as a leading global destination for tourism and culture.
The cost of the various courses ranges from SR250 ($66) to SR500, and they are being held at the AlUla Languages Institute.
Students will receive an accredited certificate from the RCU after completing any of the courses.
The RCU has invited all interested parties to register for the training opportunities through Elaa’s official website at https://elaa.rcu.gov.sa/elaaregistrati.
Source: arabnews.com
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Festival of Cultures to feature more than 90 countries
January 09, 2026
MADINAH: The Festival of Cultures and Peoples will run from Feb. 12 to 19 at the Islamic University of Madinah with broad participation representing more than 90 countries across the world’s continents.
The event is presented as a cultural and humanitarian showcase that reflects values of diversity and coexistence, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Friday.
The festival will offer more than 100 activities for all age groups. The programs include cultural and heritage performances, pavilions introducing world cultures, and more than 100 play areas for children, enriching the experience for visitors.
More than 30 restaurants will take part, serving international dishes that reflect the heritage of participating countries. The tasting experience highlights the richness and variety of global cuisines.
The festival builds on its success in previous years, the Saudi Press Agency reported. It is positioned as a global cultural platform that highlights shared values among peoples, strengthens civilizational communication, and reinforces the message of moderation and openness represented by the Kingdom.
Source: arabnews.com
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Over 4.8m captagon pills found hidden in Jeddah charcoal shipment
January 09, 2026
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority foiled an attempt to smuggle more than 4.8 million captagon pills through Jeddah’s port, hidden inside a shipment of charcoal.
The authority’s spokesperson Hamoud Al-Harbi said that a shipment arrived at the port, which, after being assessed by customs authorities, was found to contain a large amount of the illicit drug, hidden inside charcoal bags, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
After the pills were seized, the authority coordinated with the General Directorate of Narcotics Control to ensure that the intended recipients were arrested.
Al-Harbi added that ZATCA is working to tighten customs control on Saudi imports and exports and stands ready to combat smuggling.
He called on members of the public to contribute to the fight against smuggling.
ZATCA may be contacted for security reports by phone from inside the Kingdom at 1910, outside the Kingdom at +9661910, or by email at 1910@zatca.gov.sa.
The authority receives reports related to smuggling crimes and violations of the customs system in complete confidentiality and offers financial rewards to any reports that are accurate.
Captagon is an addictive, amphetamine-type stimulant that is mass-produced in illicit factories.
It is simple to produce compared to other narcotics, and drug smugglers have found a market for the substance in the Gulf states.
Syria under Bashar Assad was one of the largest producers of captagon in the region.
When his government was overthrown in December 2024, one of the first steps taken by the new President Ahmed Al-Sharaa was to crack down on the production of captagon in Syria.
Source: arabnews.com
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NHC begins delivery of first 2,000 units at Al-Fursan development
January 09, 2026
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s National Housing Company announced on Friday the first phase of delivery of more than 2,000 residential units at the Al-Fursan development northeast of Riyadh.
The new housing was completed ahead of schedule, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
There were 759 new housing units in the Nasaj Al-Fursan project, 827 in the Saraya Al-Fursan project and 625 in the Al-Athba project.
NHC said in a statement that the early delivery reflected its commitment to improving customer confidence.
The projects are ready to receive residents, NHC added, providing them with a modern lifestyle in a residential environment that includes a number of facilities and services.
Al-Fursan is one of the major urban developments implemented by NHC and is strategically located near the capital’s airport.
It is set to be one of Saudi Arabia’s largest mixed-use housing developments, spread over an area of more than 35 million sq. m.
Al-Fursan will eventually provide more than 69,000 housing units once complete, according to the SPA, housing a population of more than 250,000 residents.
The development is being built with sustainability in mind, and so far nearly 350,000 cubic meters of construction waste have been collected and recycled, supporting national goals to develop sustainable infrastructure, advance the circular economy and improve resource efficiency.
Once completed, it will include 13 shopping centers, 16 health centers, 59 educational facilities, 84 mosques, 4 government offices, 3 post offices, 7 security offices, 16 parks and 141 commercial facilities.
The communities will be linked by more than 69 km of footpaths and cycle paths, and more than 400,000 trees will be planted.
NHC said that it has a vision to develop integrated projects that improve quality of life in a sustainable environment.
It further aims to consolidate its position as the largest real-estate developer in the Middle East.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi assistant interior minister dies
January 09, 2026
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Assistant Minister of Interior for Operations Affairs Saeed bin Abdullah Al-Qahtani died on Friday, the ministry said in a post on X.
Al-Qahtani was a longstanding member of the Kingdom’s security forces, having served in the ministry for more than 60 years.
He played a key role in supporting major tactical exercises conducted with other Gulf Cooperation Council countries.
He also ensured the safety of Hajj pilgrims, chairing high-level meetings of security teams.
Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud paid tribute to Al-Qahtani in a post on X.
“He was an exemplar of lofty morals, sincerity and integrity in his service to his leadership and his country throughout the 60 years he spent in the Ministry of Interior,” the minister said.
Source: arabnews.com
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Europe
Trump says US needs to 'own' Greenland to prevent Russia and China from taking it
10 Jan 2026
Sarah Smith
President Donald Trump says the US needs to "own" Greenland to prevent Russia and China from doing so.
"Countries have to have ownership and you defend ownership, you don't defend leases. And we'll have to defend Greenland," Trump told reporters on Friday, in response to a question from the BBC.
We will do it "the easy way" or "the hard way", he added. The White House said recently the administration is considering buying the semi-autonomous territory of fellow Nato member Denmark, but it would not rule out the option of annexing it by force.
Denmark and Greenland say the territory is not for sale. Denmark has said military action would spell the end of the trans-Atlantic defence alliance.
In a joint statement on Friday night, Greenland's party leaders, including the opposition, reiterated their call for the "US's disregard for our country to end".
"We do not want to be Americans, we do not want to be Danes, we want to be Greenlanders," they said. "The future of Greenland must be decided by the Greenlandic people."
Despite being the most sparsely populated territory, Greenland's location between North America and the Arctic makes it well placed for early warning systems in the event of missile attacks, and for monitoring vessels in the region.
The US president has repeatedly said that Greenland is vital to US national security, claiming without evidence that it was "covered with Russian and Chinese ships all over the place".
The US already has more than 100 military personnel permanently stationed at its Pituffik base in Greenland's north-western tip - a facility that has been operated by the US since World War Two.
Under existing agreements with Denmark, the US has the power to bring as many troops as it wants to Greenland.
But speaking to reporters in Washington, Trump said a lease agreement was not good enough.
"Countries can't make nine-year deals or even 100-year deals," he said, adding that they had to have ownership.
"I love the people of China. I love the people of Russia," Trump said. "But I don't want them as a neighbour in Greenland, not going to happen."
"And by the way Nato's got to understand that," the US president added.
Denmark's Nato allies - major European countries as well as Canada - have rallied to its support this week with statements reaffirming that "only Denmark and Greenland can decide on matters concerning their relations".
Stressing they were as keen as the US on Arctic security, they have said this must be achieved by allies, including the US, "collectively".
They also called for "upholding the principles of the UN Charter, including sovereignty, territorial integrity and the inviolability of borders".
Concerns over the future of the territory resurfaced after Trump's use of military force against Venezuela on Saturday to seize its president, Nicolás Maduro.
Trump previously made an offer to buy the island in 2019, during his first presidential term, only to be told it was not for sale.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is to hold talks with Denmark next week.
In recent years, there has also been increased interest in Greenland's natural resources - including rare earth minerals, uranium and iron - which are becoming easier to access as its ice melts due to climate change. Scientists think it could also have significant oil and gas reserves.
Source: bbc.com
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Here’s who really weaponizes children in the Russia-Ukraine conflict
9 Jan, 2026
For the last three years, Ukraine and concerted legacy media campaigns have been screaming that Russia has abducted, or forcibly displaced, thousands of Ukrainian children – even up to 1.5 million!
The accusations resurged in December, with a UN General Assembly vote on a draft resolution on the return of Ukrainian children.
During the meeting, Ukraine’s Deputy Foreign Minister Mariana Betsa once again pushed claims that “at least 20,000 Ukrainian children have been deported to Russia,” in spite of the fact that months prior, during the June Istanbul talks, the Ukrainian side finally provided a list of the children it accuses Russia of abducting: 339 children, surprisingly far fewer than the number alleged for years.
The absence of over 19,500 on the list indeed leads to many questions, mainly: is Ukraine lying again? Recall that in 2022, the accusations by the (now former) Ukrainian ombudswoman, Lyudmila Denisova, about “sexual atrocities” allegedly committed by Russian soldiers, were revealed to be lies and propaganda. So much so that Denisova was sacked. But before her dismissal, legacy media and the UN all backed the lies.
Some recent accusations are that children were being sent to labor camps in Russia – “165 re-education camps where Ukrainian children are militarized and Russified” – or even of being sent to North Korea, as Katerina Rashevskaya of the Ukrainian Regional Center for Human Rights told the US Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs on December 3.
The footnotes of the claims made by Rashevskaya, instead of a source for the information, say “The Regional Human Rights Center can provide information upon request.” In other words, her sources are “trust me, bro.”
Regarding the North Korean camp in question, if two Russian teens were sent there, they’d potentially be made to enjoy water slides, basketball and volleyball courts, an arcade room, a rock climbing wall, art and performance halls, an archery range, a private beach, and hikes in the mountains.
Regarding the list of 339 children Ukraine says were abducted by Russia, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova remarked, “30 percent of the names on the list could not be verified, as most of those children were never in Russia, are now adults, or have already returned to their families. As for the Ukrainian children who are actually in our country, they are under state care in appropriate institutions. They are safe now; in many cases, their evacuation from combat zones saved their lives. Local children’s rights commissioners are now working to reunite them with their relatives.”
Just as legacy media has whitewashed the eight years of Ukraine’s war against Donbass civilians prior to Russia commencing its military operation in 2022, including the Ukrainian shelling which killed 250 children starting in 2014, media likewise ignore the children Russia says are missing.
During the talks in Istanbul, Zakharova noted, “the Russian side presented Ukraine with a list of 20 Russian children who are either currently in Ukraine or relocated from Ukraine to Western Europe, including to countries that endorsed this very statement. Now, the burden falls on these states to provide Russia with a substantive response regarding our 'list of 20.'”
Over 500 Ukrainian orphans abused in Türkiye
Recently, Donbass-based journalist Christelle Néant wrote about a report published on a pro-Ukrainian website which broke the story of 510 Ukrainian children who had been evacuated by a Ukrainian oligarch in 2022 from Dnepropetrovsk to Türkiye, where the benevolent foundation which brought them there allegedly allowed its staff to beat the children, sexually assault them, and deny them food if they refused to perform on camera to raise funds for their lodging. These are just some of the reported violations of the orphans’ rights.
The details of the report show that the children suffered physically and psychologically. Additionally, two underage teens were impregnated by staff at the hotel they stayed in, with educators allegedly aware of the interactions.
According to Néant, the orphanage director’s response to the fact of one of the teens in her care becoming pregnant was to blame the girl: “This young girl comes from an asocial family. Well, this way of life is already inscribed in every cell, in the blood of these children.”
“In almost 10 years of work in Donbass,” Néant wrote, “I have conducted or filmed many humanitarian missions to orphanages in the region. And never ever have I heard a director make such vile remarks about one of the children in her care. Even the most difficult and recalcitrant were cared for with pedagogy, love, and patience.”
Ukraine hunting down children
In April 2023, Christelle Néant and I interviewed Artyomovsk civilians who had recently been rescued by Russian soldiers. In addition to being deliberately shelled by Ukrainian forces who knew they were sheltering in the basement of a residential building, the civilians we spoke to told us about Ukrainian military police hunting for children.
The evacuees told us some of these police went by the name ‘White Angels’, and were taking childrenaway without their consent or that of their parents.
Around that time, more reports came out about these abductions or attempted abductions, including an 11-year-old girl who spoke of how White Angels, who introduced themselves as military police, came to the basement she was sheltering in with a photo of her, looking for her, and saying they needed to take her away, because “Russia killed her mother.” According to the girl, her mother was alive and with her.
Reports of these abductions also emerged in Avdeyevka, Kupyansk, Slavyansk, Chasov Yar and Konstantinovka, as well as in Ukrainsk and Zhelannoye.
Néant wrote of a July 2023 conference on Ukraine’s crimes against the Donbass children, in which Liliya and her daughter Kira from Schastye, in the Lugansk People’s Republic, spoke.
They gave evidence of how, “at the start of the special military operation (when Ukraine controlled Schastye), around ten children were taken from a school in Schastye to western Ukraine by the headmistress of the school, on orders from Kiev, without informing their parents.”
The children were even forbidden to call their parents, Néant wrote, “But Kira knew her mother’s telephone number by heart and managed to call her to let her know that they were in Lviv and then Khoust. Thanks to Liliya’s determination to find her daughter, we discovered how Kiev ‘exports’ the children it abducts.” Ukraine had forged a new “original” birth certificate for Kira. The girl said she and the other children were to be sent to Poland.
Former SBU officer Vasily Prozorov spoke at the same conference, where he explained, according to Néant, “that one of his investigations had revealed that some of the children abducted by Ukraine are sent to pedophile networks in Great Britain, via a whole network of Ukrainian and British officials or former officials who work together. On the British side, members of MI6 and the Foreign Office are involved.”
Prozorov, she wrote, spoke of “another of his investigations on organizations registered in EU countries involved in ‘exporting’ children from Ukraine under the pretext of providing them with shelter. These organizations take unaccompanied Ukrainian children out of Ukraine. What happens to them afterwards is unknown.”
Evacuees from Kherson reject ‘abduction’ claims
In November 2022, in the southern Russian seaside city Anapa, I met numerous people displaced from Kherson who were being lodged in hotels and apartments in the city.
The first site I visited was a few minutes by taxi outside of the city, one of many hotels along the coast. The hotel director showing me around said they don’t call them refugees, “we call them guests of the building,” and spoke affectionately of them, how grateful they were to be there, far from any shelling. Just under 500 refugees had been living there since October, she told me.
No guards monitored the entrance/exit; the refugees walked around tidy grounds. But in any case, I asked about their freedom of movement, or lack thereof.
“They move freely, of course. We don’t prohibit them from going out. Many aren’t here now because they’re in town, looking for jobs, getting documents. Children are at school.”
With my hired translator, I spoke with two Kherson women, a young mother and her own mother, to hear their stories.
“We were living with explosions at night, it was very scary, not only for myself, but for my children and for my grandchildren,” the older woman said. “When you go to bed, you don’t know if you will get out of bed in the morning. We were forced to leave.”
I asked who was shelling them. “Word of mouth transmits very clearly, and people around us spoke about it. We were bombed by the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Russian soldiers protected us.”
The younger woman said she used to speak with the Russian soldiers there. “They are friendly. We wanted to hug them, because we felt protected. They helped us, gave us humanitarian aid, brought it to the house.”
Some minutes’ taxi ride away, I visited an apartment complex that could have served tourists in summer. There, fifty buildings housed around 1,500 refugees who had also arrived in October, mostly from Kherson Region.
My translator and I walked around, passing playgrounds, a pharmacy, a library, a swimming pool, a gym, a small petting zoo with peacocks, and a kindergarten. Near a playground, I spoke with a mother sitting on a bench with two of her four children.
“In the early days, there was bombing. We spent two and a half weeks in the basement. It was unbearable, the children were very afraid.” One of her daughters became ill. “She had acute inflammation of the lower jaw, we think due to hypothermia. We took her to Simferopol and she had surgery.”
In Anapa, she said, her children hadfull medical examinations. “We were helped by the mayor of the city of Anapa. We are grateful for everything.”
I mentioned that according to Western media, she and her family were kidnapped by Russia. She replied that her husband’s parents had demanded to see the children, having been told that children were being separated from their parents in Russia.
“His mother called three days in a row, saying, ‘Where are the children?’ We answered, ‘They went to the cinema. They’re playing, etc.’ She said, ‘Show me the children, they say that they took your children from you.’”
Details matter
Whereas legacy media continue to push the “Evil Russia child kidnapper” narrative, there is ample evidence that Ukraine is guilty of doing precisely what it accuses Russia of. The is also a significant absence of evidence regarding the ‘20,000 kidnapped children’ claims still being pushed.
Will media investigate the reports of abuse of Ukrainian children in Türkiye? Surely not. It wouldn’t suit their scripted anti-Russia bias.
Source: rt.com
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Councillor criticised over Muslim prayers comments
10 Jan 2026
Chris Harper
A senior Reform UK councillor has been criticised for saying he was worried about "seeing children in primary schools being taught to pray the Muslim way".
Carl Abbott made the remarks during an internal Prevent counter-terrorism briefing held by Leicestershire County Council, attended by politicians and police, on Monday.
In a recording of the meeting, seen by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS), Abbott said he feared it could lead to the radicalisation of children.
Labour county councillor Jewel Miah, who was also in the briefing, said Abbott's remarks were prejudiced and has called for him to resign. The BBC has contacted Abbott for comment.
During the meeting, Abbott, the authority's cabinet member for adult social care, said he was "worried" about "seeing children in primary schools being taught to pray the Muslim way".
He added: "When I went to school, we went into assembly, we sang hymns and were taught the Christian way.
"It bothers me if the government is allowing this to be taught in school; does it not start the radicalisation of these children?
"Will we see a further increase in crimes, etc, as these children grow up?"
He said he "personally did not agree with it" and that he was "expressing the concerns of his constituents".
Miah said: "I'm 51 years old and remember praying in high school, and here I am.
"A lot of my friends did as well. And I don't think there's anything that's ever happened.
"I think yes, if people are going to go bad, they go bad, but you can't tar a whole religion based on your prejudices."
Abbott, who represents the Stoney Stanton and Croft division, said he was "not being prejudiced" or "tarring anyone" and was stating a concern "from his residents".
Miah, who is Muslim, told the BBC he believed Abbott should resign from his cabinet role.
"His position is untenable," he said.
"What he is saying isn't right and is not the type of thing we should be talking about.
"What we should be talking about is how we should be making the lives of our constituents better."
Miah added: "I just don't think it's acceptable.
"These issues he talks about are simply not true.
"There is no evidence, and we should be talking about the biggest thing that affects them. That's the cost of living and how we can improve that."
'Frankly absurd'
Conservative county council opposition leader Deborah Taylor said: "It is inappropriate to suggest that teaching children to pray in accordance with Muslim practice fosters extremism.
"Muslims are an integral and respected part of our communities.
"To assert that Muslim prayer is linked to extremism is divisive, deeply concerning, and entirely incompatible with the standards expected of public office.
"And we are hearing it from a very senior councillor now."
Naomi Bottomley, Green Party county councillor, told the BBC: "Linking Muslim prayer or the teaching of Islam to crime or extremism is deeply Islamophobic and dangerous.
"It is frankly absurd to suggest that children learning about different religions is something to fear.
"Education builds understanding, not extremism.
"Coming from a councillor responsible for adult social care, these remarks raise serious concerns about whether Muslim residents can expect fair and respectful treatment."
A Reform UK spokesperson told the BBC: "Councillor Abbott is absolutely correct. Britain is and remains a Christian country.
"He speaks on behalf of millions who are rightly alarmed by the rapid, unchecked transformation of our culture and values driven by successive Tory and Labour governments' obsessions with mass immigration."
A spokesperson for the council said the authority would not be commenting on the issue.
Source: bbc.com
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Birmingham mosque consulted on Maccabi Tel Aviv fan ban hosted preacher who said men could physically discipline their wives
9 January 2026
A Birmingham mosque that was consulted by police before Maccabi Tel Aviv football fans were banned from attending the club's match against Aston Villa has hosted a preacher who said men could physically discipline their wives.
During a sermon at Green Lane mosque a week before Christmas, preacher Aqeel Mahmood made misogynistic comments and said men can physically punish their wives as a 'last resort' if they disobey.
And prior to the Maccabi match in November, Green Lane hosted a second preacher who previously said husbands can hit their wives if they refuse to have sex with them.
The mosque was one of eight Muslim organisations who were spoken to by West Midlands Police before the decision was taken to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from the Europa League fixture.
Craig Guildford, who heads the West Midlands force, is now facing calls to resign from Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who has warned his position is 'untenable', and Jewish groups.
It follows the police chief being grilled by MPs over guidance given to the Safety Advisory Group for the city, which then banned Maccabi fans from attending citing concern from the police.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer heavily criticised the decision, as did politicians from multiple parties and members of the Jewish community.
But it emerged today that Green Lane mosque last month allowed Aqeel Mahmood to hold a sermon in which he argued men could physically discipline their wives as a 'last resort' if they were rebellious. West Midlands Police declined to comment.
Mahmood was giving a lecture about the rights and obligations of husbands and wives when he made the comments, and also said that men have 'a level of authority over the woman', the Times reports.
He allegedly said this punishment should not result in pain, injury or fear, before going on to claim it is 'common sense' that wives should not leave their children in the care of others to carry out errands such as shopping.
He is also said to have argued women should never leave the house without the permission of their husbands unless it is a life and death situation.
Mahmood added men should not cause 'harm' to their wives, 'whether it's physical or otherwise'.
The mosque told the Times that the comments had been taken 'out of context'.
It is not the first time that Green Lane mosque has come under fire for hosting controversial preachers.
In the first few months of 2025, it published videos on its YouTube site of sermons given by Mahamed AbdurRazaq.
The videos were shared months after AbdurRazaq was banned by another mosque in Birmingham over a sermon in 2024 in which he said men are 'allowed to hit' their wives if they refuse sex.
The mosque where he held the sermon, An-Noor Masjid, was reported to the Charity Commission by the National Secular Society (NSS) over concerns it effectively condoned marital rape, and he was later banned by leaders there.
Green Lane was also criticised in 2024 after imam Mustafa Abu Rayyan told a panel discussion at the mosque that women have an 'obligation' to have sex with their husbands.
He said a woman's 'number one' responsibility was to 'follow, obey and respect her husband' and that she not strive to become a 'career woman'.
The mosque was reported to the Charity Commission over the comments.
And in 2023 an investigation by the Mail on Sunday found that the Green Lane Mosque in Birmingham had imams giving sermons on how to stone a woman 'correctly' for adultery and delivering speeches that appear to incite murder of members of the LGBT+ community.
Despite the mosque's history of misogyny allegations, West Midlands Police still consulted with leaders their over the presence of Maccabi Tel Aviv fans in the city.
A spokesperson for Campaign Against Antisemitism told the Mail: 'The fact that West Midlands Police thought this was a reputable organisation to get an informed opinion from is just embarrassing.
'With these allegations of abhorrent comments made by its guest speakers, this mosque's track record should have had alarm bells ringing.
'West Midlands Police should have followed the intelligence without fear or favour. It clearly told them that the threat came not from Israeli or Jewish fans, but from thugs and Islamists in their local community who planned to attack them.
'This ban should never have been put in place and the attempts to justify it must seal the fate of the Chief Constable and other senior officers who have colluded in this shameful debacle. The Police and Crime Commissioner must start the process of restoring trust in West Midlands Police by sacking the Chief Constable without further delay.'
The force is under fire over doubts about the intelligence used to produce their guidance to the SAG, which is made up of representatives from the council, police and other authorities.
Documents show police were warned that locals in the majority Muslim community had planned to 'arm' themselves if Maccabi fans showed up.
Gathered intelligence also showed 'local hostility towards the visitors based on their nationality'.
Home Affairs Committee chair Dame Karen Bradley accused police chief Mr Guildford of 'scraping' to find a reason for the ban.
'It feels to us, from everything we've seen, that there was a need that you felt, that you had to justify banning these fans, and that scraping was done to find a reason,' she said.
Mr Guildford - who was at the committee for the second time - replied: 'I'm really sorry if it comes across in that way. That was absolutely not the case.
'The information, the intelligence that we received, that we documented, and we've shared absolutely all of that with HMICFRS (His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services) very, very recently was all gone through.'
He also denied claims that the ban was a result of 'political influence'.
West Midlands Police were previously forced to apologise after appearing to suggest British Jews backed the ban of Maccabi fans, who have previously been accused of violence.
Mike O'Hara, an Assistant Chief Constable at the West Midlands force, told the Home Affairs Select Committee (HASC) of MPs last month police had been told by members of the Jewish community they did not want Maccabi fans to attend the match.
WMP subsequently issued a statement of clarification which read: 'It was never the intention of the officer to imply that there were members of the Jewish community who had explicitly expressed support for the exclusion of Maccabi fans.'
Source: dailymail.co.uk
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UK facing £28bn defence spending gap claims
10 Jan 2026
Paul Seddon
The government is refusing to deny reports that plans to make Britain's armed forces "war ready" will require billions more than it has allocated so far.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) believes it will require an extra £28bn over the next four years to meet its forecast costs, according to The Times and The Sun.
The department's investment plan has been delayed, with Sir Keir Starmer reportedly ordering a rewrite of the proposals.
The plan was initially supposed to have been completed in autumn last year, but could now not emerge until the spring.
The document is due to set out how new equipment and defence infrastructure will be funded over the coming decade, following a wide-ranging review of Britain's capabilities published in June last year.
The review pledged billions in extra spending for extra ammunition, next-generation fast jets, drones, and new attack submarines, as ministers pledged to move the UK to "war-fighting readiness".
According to the reports, the projected £28bn shortfall was made by MoD officials in an internal assessment conducted last year.
Sir Richard Knighton, the chief of the defence staff, delivered the forecast to Sir Keir and Chancellor Rachel Reeves in the run-up to Christmas at a meeting in Downing Street, it is reported.
The prime minister's spokesman said he would not discuss "specific meetings," but acknowledged that the armed forces were facing additional demands, including a potential deployment to Ukraine to police any deal to end its war with Russia.
Asked several times if he could deny there was a £28bn spending gap, he said he could only reiterate the spending pledges already made by the government.
Spending warnings
The MoD's budget is due to rise by 3.6% in real terms by 2029, under departmental spending plans fixed last year.
The increase was weighted towards the long-term investment budget, which pays for new military kit, rather then the day-to-day budget that covers things like administration costs and salaries.
Labour has pledged to raise overall defence spending from 2.3% to 2.5% of national income by 2027, estimated to cost an extra £6bn a year.
It has then promised it will rise to 3.5% by 2035, in line with a pledge made by Nato countries at a summit last year.
This is not the first time that there have been warnings about the MoD's ability to fund its spending commitments.
The investment plan is meant to replace decade-long "equipment plans" released on a rolling yearly basis until 2022, when the department halted publication whilst it assessed the effect of "extraordinary inflation" on its plans.
An analysis published by the department in December 2023, under the previous government, found that the MoD's most recent equipment plan was forecast to exceed its budget by £16.9bn.
A report by MPs published the following year said the biggest cause of that shortfall came from spiralling costs from maintaining the UK's nuclear weapons system, alongside inflation.
The delay to the investment plan has also delayed the release of a separate document detailing yet to be specified "productivity savings" within the department worth £6bn between now and 2029.
An MoD spokesperson said it was working "flat out" to finish the investment plan, adding that Labour had inherited an "underfunded defence programme" from the previous government.
Source: bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c14rj11ez5mo
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UK to spend $270 million on troops for ‘multinational force’ in Ukraine
10 Jan, 2026
The UK will spend nearly $270 million on equipping troops it plans to deploy in Ukraine after a ceasefire is reached, British Defense Secretary John Healey announced during a trip to Kiev on Friday.
Russia has repeatedly said it would not allow Western soldiers to be stationed in Ukraine and has warned that it would treat foreign troops as legitimate targets.
Nevertheless, Healey said the funds would be invested in units intended to form part of a multinational force aimed at providing “long-term security guarantees” to Ukraine.
“We are surging investment into our preparations following the prime minister’s announcement this week, ensuring that Britain’s Armed Forces are ready to deploy and lead the Multinational Force Ukraine, because a secure Ukraine means a secure UK,” Healey said.
Ukrainian Defense Minister Denis Shmigal said after the meeting that the UK would begin producing 1,000 Octopus interceptor drones per month in February and deliver them to Ukraine.
Despite their continued support for military aid, some European countries, including Germany and Italy, have refused to commit to sending troops to the country.
NATO members Hungary and Slovakia have declined to send weapons to Kiev, urging the West to focus on diplomacy instead. The US, which has been attempting to mediate a truce between Russia and Ukraine, has also ruled out sending American soldiers to the country.
The Russian Foreign Ministry reiterated on Thursday that Moscow would treat “the stationing of military units, sites, depots and other Western infrastructure in Ukraine as a foreign intervention posing a direct threat to Russia’s security.”
Source: rt.com
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Time for EU to talk to Russia – Meloni
9 Jan, 2026
The time has come for the EU to engage in talks with Russia over the Ukraine conflict, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has said. It comes as US-led diplomatic efforts appear to be edging closer to a peace deal.
Speaking during a start-of-year press conference in Rome on Friday, Meloni said she agreed with French President Emmanuel Macron, who said in December that it would be “useful” to reengage in talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“I think Macron is right about this. I believe that the time has come for Europe to talk to Russia too,” she said. The prime minister argued that Europe’s role in negotiations has been limited by talking to only one side in the conflict.
To avoid making the “mistake” of reopening discussions “in a haphazard manner,” Meloni suggested appointing an EU special envoy for Ukraine. This appears to be the first time such an idea has been voiced in the EU.
The bloc remains internally divided over relations with Moscow, a split that has prevented a unified high-level approach. Some member states, such as the Baltic nations, have consistently opposed reengagement with Russia.
Sidelined from the negotiating table since last February, the EU has relied on sanctioning Russia while backing Ukraine diplomatically, militarily, and financially.
Washington, meanwhile, has engaged in direct negotiations with Moscow for nearly a year, with US President Donald Trump saying late last month that the peace talks were in the “final stages.”
Reports said on Thursday that Trump advisors Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff had presented Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev with the US peace plan, which Ukraine has largely agreed to. Moscow has not yet commented on the development.
Russian officials, including Putin, have repeatedly stated that Moscow would prefer to resolve the Ukraine conflict through diplomatic means but will have to continue using force if its key objectives cannot be achieved through talks alone.
Source: rt.com
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Delusions of grandeur: France, Ukraine and the limits of EU power
9 Jan, 2026
By Sergey Poletaev
The reason is unclear, but Ukraine’s supporters entered this week’s Paris meeting of the so-called coalition of the willing in a state of near-euphoria. Fresh from the spectacle in Venezuela, they convinced themselves that Donald Trump could be persuaded to do far more than merely endorse Western Europe’s line.
Some seriously expected American troops in Ukraine. Others went further: an ultimatum to Russian President Vladimir Putin to withdraw to the 1991 borders, perhaps even Tomahawk missiles for good measure.
In short, they were dreaming of victory. If that sounds exaggerated, one need only read the commentary circulating in Ukrainian opposition media (https://t.me/stranaua/221909). This is not fringe propaganda, but a once-reputable publication banned in Ukraine since 2021 named Strana. The mood was unmistakable: history was about to turn.
Reality, as usual, was less dramatic. The only concrete outcome of the Paris meeting was an empty, non-binding declaration. No new security guarantees. No American commitments. No change to the underlying logic of the conflict. Ukraine, once again, remains the “main deterrent” against Russia, and no one appears prepared to alter that arrangement.
There were also moments of unintentional comedy. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz reportedly said that his country would now assume responsibility for the security of the entire European continent.
One could hardly resist noting that Germany does indeed have experience in this field, though not necessarily of the reassuring kind.
Meanwhile, alarmist claims spreading through Russian and Western European Telegram channels about Macron and Starmer committing to military bases in Ukraine are simply false. No such commitments were made. The declaration spoke vaguely of “military hubs”, a term so elastic as to be meaningless. This idea has circulated for over a year without progressing beyond rhetoric, with or without American support.
The United States, for its part, maintained a telling silence. The only remark was attributed to Steve Witkoff, who attended the meeting, concerned about BlackRock’s role in Ukraine’s future prosperity. What’s more, he specifically focused on post-war reconstruction and budgetary discipline. In other words, business as usual.
As predicted, hopes of securing a binding agreement with Washington collapsed, along with the broader Euro-globalist strategy being pursued in tandem with Kiev.
Yesterday’s grand talk was merely a substitute for real leverage. As one observer noted dryly, after such a comfortable gathering, someone will eventually have to find the courage to call Moscow.
Whether Moscow would even answer is another question, but the response is easy to anticipate. Any Western military presence in Ukraine will be rejected outright. The message will likely come from the third echelon, Dmitry Peskov or Maria Zakharova, while Sergey Lavrov and Yury Ushakov reserve their words for Washington, and Putin speaks only to Trump.
The conclusion is straightforward. Western European attempts to “manifest” their desires have produced nothing but information noise. Washington sees this clearly and is not fooled. Trump’s approach to Europe can be summed up bluntly: extract money, sell weapons at inflated prices, avoid risk and perhaps take Greenland while you’re at it.
Source: rt.com
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North America
CAIR Condemns Israel’s Slaughter of 13, Including Child, in Gaza
January 9, 2026
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned Israeli occupation bombing of Gaza that killed 13 Palestinians, including a child.
CAIR also said the United States and Muslim nations in the Middle East should take action after these latest ceasefire violations and a report by the United Nations accusing Israel of decades of “severe racial discrimination and segregation” in the West Bank equivalent to “apartheid.”
Thirteen people, including at least one child, were killed following bombing attacks in northern Gaza and east of Gaza City, according to family members and Gazan authorities.
In the report, the UN said “systematic discrimination” against Palestinians across the occupied Palestinian territories had “drastically deteriorated” in recent years.
“Whether accessing water, school, rushing to hospital, visiting family or friends, or harvesting olives – every aspect of life for Palestinians in the West Bank is controlled and curtailed by Israel’s discriminatory laws, policies and practices,” said UN Rights Chief Volker Turk.
Several independent experts affiliated with the UN have described the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories as “apartheid” but this marks the first time a UN rights chief has applied the term.
Recently, the Israeli government approved the building of 3,401 new settler homes in an area known as E1, east of Jerusalem in the occupied West Bank.
In a statement, CAIR said:
“Time and again, the Israeli government proves that it is hell-bent on re-escalating its campaign of extermination against the Palestinian people. Israel’s continued slaughter of Palestinians, including children, proves that it has no intention of willingly stopping its genocide in Gaza or its apartheid in the West Bank.
“This latest UN report confirms that the occupation and systemic discrimination against Palestinians in the West Bank is nothing short of apartheid. The continued expansion of settlements is a blatant violation of international law.
“The United States and Muslim-majority nations in the region must act immediately to rein in the Israeli government and force them to stop violating the ceasefire with these acts of mass murder.”
Source: cair.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-condemns-israels-slaughter-of-13-including-child-in-gaza/
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CAIR-MA Welcomes Sentencing of Man Who Threatened Anti-Genocide Protesters with an Axe, Advocated for ‘More Serious Punishment’
January 9, 2026
The Massachusetts chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MA) welcomed the sentencing of Matthew Freeman, who was charged with civil rights and assault offenses after threatening pro-Palestinian demonstrators with an axe last August, while saying the civil rights organization advocated for a “more serious punishment.”
CAIR-MA represents the victim in the case, Fawaz Abusharkh, a well-known Palestinian Muslim activist.
[NOTE: Last year, CAIR released its 2025 Civil Rights Report, Unconstitutional Crackdowns, which revealed that Islamophobia remains at record-high levels nationwide. CAIR said viewpoint discrimination against those speaking out against genocide and apartheid was a key factor in many cases.]
A widely circulated video showed Freeman in Harvard Square, screaming slurs and obscenities from his car. He then opened his car door and threatened demonstrators with an axe. The car door struck Mr. Abusharkh, who was standing nearby.
Judge Hilary McCamic sentenced Freeman to one year of probation plus several conditions with which he must comply. They include a mental health evaluation, an order to participate in a class on Islam, and a prohibition on possessing firearms or other dangerous weapons.
CAIR-MA Legal Director Barbara J. Dougan said:
“Given the level of threatened violence, we advocated for the more serious punishment sought by the Middlesex District Attorney, a suspended sentence with the possibility of jail time. Nevertheless, we are pleased that this matter has been resolved. We thank the Middlesex DA’s office for recognizing that Freeman interfered with Mr. Abusharkh’s constitutional right to criticize a foreign government – a right that is increasingly under attack. Most of all, we thank Mr. Abusharkh for standing up to those who use the threat of violence to silence activists demanding an end to the genocide in Gaza.”
Fawaz Abusharkh was disappointed in the sentence but vowed to continue his activism:
“In my victim impact statement, I said I hoped that my right to justice wouldn’t be sacrificed just because Freeman needs help. I hoped for a sentence that included both. But it seems like he just got a slap on the wrist. Can you imagine if the roles were reversed? If I, a Palestinian Muslim, had threatened Freeman with an axe while screaming death threats? But I am the son of survivors of the 1948 Nakba and will continue to fight for Palestinian human rights. I have no other choice.”
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-ma-welcomes-sentencing-of-man-who-threatened-anti-genocide-protesters-with-an-axe-advocated-for-more-serious-punishment/
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Trump says he would accept Nobel Peace Prize from Machado; Nobel Committee says it's not possible
Jan 10, 2026
As President Donald Trump is looking forward to welcome Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado next week after dismissing her as a leader succeeding Nicolas Maduro, he said he would accept the Nobel Peace Prize from her -- as he learned that Machado wants to share the prize with him.
“I’ve stopped eight wars,” Trump said in an interview with Hannity. “I think it’s been a major embarrassment to Norway. Now, I don’t know what Norway has to do with it but that’s where the committee is located, a lot of Norwegian people.”
“When you put out eight wars, in theory you should get one for each war,” Trump said.
Not possible, practically
The Norwegian Nobel Institute said only the prize money can be shared with whoever the winner wants to but the Nobel Peace Prize cannot be transferred or shared with another person. "A Nobel Prize cannot be revoked nor transferred to others. Once the laureate or laureates are announced, the decision is final," said Erik Aasheim, a spokesperson for the Norwegian Nobel Institute, which serves as the secretariat for the Norwegian Nobel Committee. Aasheim added that while the prize itself is not transferable, laureates are free to dispose of the prize money as they see fit.
The statement came earlier when Machado expressed willingness to share the prize with Trump. She praised Trump for capturing Maduro and said she would give the Nobel Prize to Trump, as Trump gave a prize to the people of Venezuela by arresting Maduro.
When Machado was awarded with the Nobel Peace Prize, she dedicated it to Trump. But after the recent developments when Trump dismissed Machado as the next leader and said she did not have the support of the people, reports citing insiders claimed that Machado's 'sin' was that she took the Nobel Prize instead of turning it down. Had she turned it down, naming President Trump as better suited for the award, Machado would have been the presidnet of Venezuela today, they said.
Source: indiatimes.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us
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Winnipeg man charged after hate-related vandalism targets synagogue, mosque
January 9, 2026
Police in Winnipeg say they have arrested and charged a 34-year-old man in connection with a spree of hate-related vandalism targeting a synagogue, a mosque, and more than a dozen other locations.
The Winnipeg Police Service said at a news conference Friday that investigators determined the vandalism occurred in the early morning hours of Jan. 2, when a man spray-painted hate-related graffiti on residential properties, including garages, houses and vehicles in the Crescentwood area.
“Some of these locations were spray painted with red or white Swastikas, while others were tagged with messages or words that were not indicative of hate,” said Insp. Jennifer McKinnon with the Winnipeg Police Service major crimes unit. “Actions like this will be confronted and answered with justice,” McKinnon said.
In addition to the residential property damage, hate-related symbols were spray-painted on the Shaarey Zedek Synagogue, the Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq Community Centre and Masjid, and the entrance to Munson Park.
According to Congregation Shaarey Zedek, surveillance video captured an individual spray-painting swastikas at the entrance of its building early Friday morning.
“We call on all Winnipeggers to stand up against hate,” said Senior Rabbi Carnie Shalom Rose in a post by the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs last week. “What’s at stake is not just the safety of one community, but the future of our Canadian way of life.”
Images posted by the CIJA showed swastikas painted on four window panes and on a wall.
The CIJA said in its post that it was “deeply disturbed” by the incident at the synagogue, which has been in Winnipeg for nearly 140 years.
During Friday’s news conference, McKinnon said she wanted to acknowledge the pain and fear this incident has caused.
“When Swastikas were painted on the walls of a synagogue, a message of hate was sent to a faith community, to families, and to an entire city,” she said.
The investigation was led by the Major Crimes Division’s hate crimes section. Police say community members played a key role by promptly reporting the incidents and providing video surveillance footage, which helped investigators quickly identify a suspect.
Police arrested the man on Jan. 8.
He was charged with 14 counts of mischief under $5,000, obstructing in the enjoyment of property. He was released on an undertaking.
McKinnon said police are not ruling out further charges.
Police say they are still investigating vandalism at Habibiz Café, a Palestinian-owned Middle Eastern restaurant, where windows were smashed and a threatening message left behind. They say they do not believe the incidents are linked.
Source: globalnews.ca
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://globalnews.ca/news/11606625/winnipeg-man-charged-hate-synagogue-mosque/
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CAIR Md. Welcomes Howard County’s Recognition of January as Muslim American Heritage Month
January 9, 2026
The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), today welcomed an announcement by Howard County Executive Calvin Ball recognizing January as Muslim American Heritage Month in Howard County, honoring the long-standing contributions of Muslim Americans to the county’s civic, cultural, and economic life.
In a public message accompanying the proclamation, County Executive Ball highlighted the diverse cultures, traditions, and values Muslim Americans bring to the community, as well as their leadership in entrepreneurship, public service, education, the arts, and interfaith engagement.
CAIR welcomed the recognition as an important affirmation of inclusion and belonging.
“We commend County Executive Calvin Ball and Howard County for officially recognizing January as Muslim American Heritage Month,” said CAIR Maryland Advisory Board Member and Howard County Resident Damani Ingram. “This proclamation affirms what Muslim residents have long known and lived every day – that our communities are an integral part of Howard County’s fabric, contributing to its strength through service, leadership, and community engagement. At a time when Muslims continue to face Islamophobia and discrimination, this recognition sends a powerful message that our stories, faith, and contributions matter. We hope this recognition encourages continued dialogue, understanding, and meaningful inclusion across Maryland.”
CAIR noted that the designation reflects years of service, advocacy and community engagement by many local Muslim residents and faith leaders who consistently work to uplift their neighbors and strengthen the broader community.
The civil rights group encourages residents, schools, faith institutions, and local organizations to observe Muslim American Heritage Month by learning about Muslim American history and engaging in interfaith and civic activities that promote mutual respect and understanding.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
Source: cair.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-md-welcomes-howard-countys-recognition-of-january-as-muslim-american-heritage-month/
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CAIR-NJ to Join Rally in Solidarity with Metuchen Resident Detained at Delaney Hall
January 9, 2026
The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, issued a statement of solidarity with a community member currently detained at Delaney Hall, his family, and the organizers of a rally to highlight his story.
Community members, faith leaders, and local advocates will gather this Saturday in Metuchen in support of the family of Sener Kalkan, a Metuchen resident who has been detained at Delaney Hall since December 1st during a routine immigration check-in related to his asylum application.
Event Details:
Location: Address 270 Woodbridge Avenue Metuchen NJ (Social Hall to the right of the Cemetery)
Date: Saturday, January 10th, 2026
Time: 1 PM
Kalkan is a Turkish national and a member of the Muslim faith. He entered the United States in 2021 and has complied with all immigration requirements and check-ins, with no prior issues. His detention has deeply impacted his family and the broader community.
The event, hosted by the First Presbyterian Church of Metuchen, aims to raise awareness about conditions at Delaney Hall, share information on how the public can help, and stand in solidarity with Mr. Kalkan and his loved ones. Faith and community leaders will speak about the human impact of ICE’s detentions.
Speakers:
Congressman Frank Pallone
Metuchen Mayor Jonathan Busch
Pastor Fred Garry (First Presbyterian)
Jennifer Poandl & Family (spouse of Sener Kalkan)
Pax Christi Kathy O’Leary
ACLU-NJ – Ami Kachalia
Metuchen Interfaith Clergy Association
Imam Bilal Khan of Masjid Quba’a in Carteret, NJ
In a statement, CAIR-NJ Executive Director Selaedin Maksut said:
“At its core, this is about human dignity. No family should live in fear or uncertainty because of arbitrary detention practices that disregard due process and compassion. CAIR-NJ stands with the Kalkan family and all those calling for an immigration system rooted in justice, mercy, and basic human decency.”
“It is moving and powerful to see all those standing up for Mr. Kalkan and his family. God bless their efforts. We pray for his release and reunification with his loved ones.”
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
Source: cair.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-nj-to-join-rally-in-solidarity-with-metuchen-resident-detained-at-delaney-hall/
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CAIR-Texas Applauds Harris County for Recognizing Muslim American Heritage Month
January 9, 2026
The Texas chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Texas), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today applauded the Harris County Commissioners Court for passing a resolution on January 8th recognizing January as Muslim American Heritage Month.
CAIR-Texas thanks County Commissioner Leslie Briones and her staff for introducing this timely resolution. The resolution formally recognizes the longstanding presence, civic engagement, and cultural impact of Muslim Americans in the region, home to one of the largest Muslim communities in the nation, and across the country.
Sameeha Rizvi, Civic Engagement Organizer for CAIR-Texas, Austin Chapter, testified during public comment in support of the resolution, stating:
“This resolution is meaningful not only because it honors our history and contributions, but because it comes at a time when Muslim communities are facing profound harm. Over the past year, we have witnessed the ongoing genocide of Palestinians, alongside rising dehumanization and violence targeting Palestinians, Arabs, and Muslims here at home. In this climate, recognition matters. This resolution speaks the truth, countering the disturbing lies being spread about our communities, that we are part of this county, that we share far more in common than what divides us, and that our stories and contributions are woven into the fabric of Harris County.”
Imran Ghani, Director of Operations for CAIR-Texas, Houston Chapter, said:
“Houston is one of America’s true global cities, and Muslims are a part of this diversity as business owners, doctors, lawyers, engineers, and more. In a time when politicians at all levels of government are antagonizing the Muslim community, we applaud Harris County for bravely recognizing January as Muslim American Heritage Month. We will continue our advocacy until such resolutions reach the federal level, God willing.”
CAIR-Texas encourages county commissioners courts and city councils across Texas to adopt similar resolutions recognizing Muslim American Heritage Month and affirming the dignity, belonging, and contributions of Muslim communities statewide. Elected officials interested in pursuing such resolutions are encouraged to contact CAIR-Texas for recommended language and support.
Community members interested in advocating for Muslim American Heritage Month resolutions are encouraged to review CAIR and CAIR Action’s civic engagement toolkit.
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-texas-applauds-harris-county-for-recognizing-muslim-american-heritage-month/
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Africa
‘I’m Not A Criminal, They Are In Your Offices And Corridors Of Power’ – Baba-Ahmed Recounts DSS Invitation
January 10, 2026
The Labour Party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, has described his recent encounter with the operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) as mild Nollywood drama.
Naija News learnt that Baba-Ahmed’s invitation followed concerns about recent public remarks about the judiciary and presidency.
Baba-Ahmed had, during a television interview, blamed the judiciary and the military for allowing the swearing-in of President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
An insider in security operatives said, “He even went to the length of inciting the military, saying it was President Tinubu’s swearing-in that made it possible for them to look you in the face and call you ‘bloody fools.’
“His comments carry undertones capable of heightening national tension, particularly given the sensitivity of Nigeria’s current political climate. It has nothing to do with politics, but the corporate existence of our nation could be threatened if such rhetoric is allowed to fester.”
Recounting the encounter with the DSS, Baba-Ahmed, who also doubles as the founder and chancellor of Baze University, Abuja, in an interview with Punch, said he voluntarily honoured the agency’s request and was curious about its motive because he is not a criminal.
He also denied being invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), saying the anti-graft agency had no reason to summon him.
According to Baba-Ahmed, his encounter with DSS officers made him feel sorry about the state of leadership and governance in the country.
He said, “The EFCC did not invite me, and it is very unlikely they will anytime soon. However, there was a mild Nollywood drama between some gentlemen of the DSS and myself on November 28, 2025. It lasted just two hours and 15 minutes.
“To sum it all up, I walked into their national headquarters very curious, wondering: Why are you looking for me? I’m not a criminal. The criminals are in your offices and in your corridors of power.
“But anyway, here I am. Talk to me. What do you want? I came out feeling very sorry for the Federal Republic of Nigeria. If these are who you call our leaders, then I understand why the United States of America will have to come and attack terrorists on behalf of Nigerian forces. I feel sorry for us.
“But yes, a Nollywood drama played out. They pleaded with me that, please, you know, this government is very weak. And the way you’re punching, it can crash. Now listen, these are what we call paper tigers.”
Dismissing any sense of intimidation, the LP chieftain urged Nigerians not to succumb to fear, insisting that democratic accountability must not be silenced.
He added, “The wind is blowing and they’re scaring people. Do not be afraid. Trust in God and believe in yourselves. They will add up to nothing.”
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2026/01/10/im-not-a-criminal-they-are-in-your-offices-and-corridors-of-power-baba-ahmed-recounts-dss-invitation/
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Terrorists Fleeing US Strike In Sokoto Trooping To Benue – LGA Chairman
January 9, 2026
By Enioluwa Adeniyi
The Chairman of Agatu Local Government Council in Benue State, James Melvin Ejeh, on Friday raised concerns over the infiltration of fleeing terrorists from Sokoto State into his locality, following military airstrikes that targeted terror hideouts in the state.
According to Ejeh, the security situation in Agatu has rapidly deteriorated, with armed terrorists reportedly escaping from Sokoto State to seek refuge in surrounding regions. The terror groups have since launched violent attacks in Agatu, heightening fears and uncertainty among the local population.
In a statement released in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, Ejeh expressed his alarm over the increasing attacks, which he believes are linked to military airstrikes that targeted terrorist locations in Sokoto in December.
Ejeh said, “We firmly believe that the violent attacks in Agatu are a direct result of the military airstrikes in Sokoto. These armed elements, fleeing from neighbouring areas, have infiltrated our communities and unleashed unprecedented terror on innocent and defenceless residents.”
The violent attacks have led to the deaths of numerous residents, widespread injuries, reported cases of rape, and the destruction of homes and farmlands. Ejeh revealed that the attacks have forced hundreds of people to flee their homes, creating a massive humanitarian crisis.
“These attacks have resulted in the brutal killing of our people, widespread injuries, reported cases of rape, the destruction of homes and farmlands, and the displacement of hundreds of residents who are now living in fear and uncertainty,” he added.
As the violence escalates, Ejeh announced the immediate revocation of the 2017 agreement that granted herders access to Adepati Island for grazing purposes. He stated that the agreement, initially meant to foster peaceful coexistence, had instead led to negative consequences for the Agatu people.
He said, “In view of the persistent violations and escalating violence, I hereby announce the immediate revocation of the 2017 agreement that granted herdsmen access to Adepati Island for grazing. That agreement was done under the guise of promoting peaceful coexistence, but at the expense of the Agatu people.”
Ejeh made it clear that no armed herders would be allowed on Agatu land, stating that Agatu remains an agrarian society, and protecting farmlands is crucial for the community’s food security and economic well-being.
He stated, “Let it be clearly stated that no portion of the Agatu land belongs to herders under any guise. All armed herders are hereby ordered to vacate Agatu land with immediate effect.”
The chairman called on the Federal Government and relevant security agencies to deploy additional military and police forces in Agatu to stem the tide of attacks.
He emphasised that the current security arrangements were inadequate and needed to be strengthened to curb the escalating violence.
Ejeh commended Governor Hyacinth Alia for his commitment to restoring peace and security across the state. He also praised the efforts of the Commander and troops of Operation Whirl Stroke, as well as other security agencies, for their decisive actions to rid the council of criminality.
“Security agencies have already arrested some relevant suspects and are currently investigating them. No individual found aiding or abetting insecurity in Agatu will be shielded or granted undue leniency,” Ejeh assured.
The chairman concluded by reiterating that no herder would be welcomed back onto Agatu land without thorough consultations with the Agatu Traditional Council and other critical stakeholders. Any future engagement would only take place through lawful and official channels.
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2026/01/09/terrorists-fleeing-us-strike-in-sokoto-trooping-to-benue-lga-chairman/
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Olagunju, Olayiwola lead Bodija Estates Muslim community executives
Guardian Nigeria
10 January 2026
The Bodija Estates and Environs Muslim Community (BEEMC) has inaugurated a new Executive Council to steer its affairs for the next administrative year.
The inauguration, which took place during the 32nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the community held at the BEEMC Central Mosque, Housing Estate, Ibadan, Oyo State witnessed the attendance of all members.
Former Chairman of the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission, Aare Isiaka Abiola Olagunju (SAN), emerged as the new Chairman while an APC chieftain in Ibadan North, Alhaji Taofeek Olayiwola appointed as the Vice Chairman.
Other members of the executives include: Prof. K. K. Oloso, Chairman, Board of Religious Affairs; Mr. Aiki Afeez (Gen. Sec.); Alhaji Kolawole Abdulazeez (Asst Gen. Sec.); Alhaji Ajani Ahmad (Property Manager).
Others are :Alhaja Nurat Adekunle (Treasurer); Alhaja Aborode (Financial Secretary); Mr. Wahab Kamal Abiodun (Social Secretary); Mr. Akintunde Yusuf (Publicity Secretary); and Alhaja Balogun (Welfare Secretary).
Also appointed as Ex-Officio members are Alhaji M. A. Siyanbade, Alhaja B. A. K. Giwa, and Alhaja Fadhila Balogun.
Addressing the newly appointed officers, the Chairman of the (Shuura) electoral Committee, Alhaji Chief Gani Oladimeji explained that members of the Executive Council were carefully screened based on their professionalism, areas of operation, and capacity to deliver optimal performance in the interest of the Muslim community.
He further emphasised the need for the leadership to uphold the aims and objectives of the Bodija Estates and Environs Muslim Community, stressing that the association exists primarily to advance the cause of Islam and cater for the welfare of both male and female Muslims within the community and its environs.
In his acceptance speech on behalf of the new Executive Council, Aare Isiaka Abiola Olagunju, (SAN) expressed appreciation to the Shurah Committee for the transparent and credible process that led to the emergence of the new leadership.
He prayed for Allah’s guidance and support to enable the council to uphold the principles, aims, and objectives of the association.
The Bodija Estates and Environs Muslim Community (BEEMC) was formed in August 1992 with the mandate of promoting Islam as a religion and a complete way of life. Its objectives include promoting, preserving, and protecting the religious, moral, social, and spiritual advancement of Muslims, both male and female, within Bodija Estates, its environs, and beyond.
The association also seeks to encourage literacy and intellectual pursuits among the Muslim Ummah, particularly in the study of Islam; cooperate with other Muslim organisations for the advancement of Islam; conduct Islamic devotional services and educational activities; foster brotherhood, fellowship, and cooperation among Muslims; and engage in lawful activities that further its stated aims and objectives.
Over the years, BEEMC has remained faithful to its founding mandate, evolving into a central coordinating body for Muslim communities and the Ummah across Oyo State.
Source: guardian.ng
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/olagunju-olayiwola-lead-bodija-estates-muslim-community-executives/
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Director Of Ibadullah Islamic Schools bags PhD from Al-Hikmah University
Opeyemi Babalola
10 January 2026
Director, (Mudeer) of Ibadullah Islamic Schools, Sheikh Sulayman Yusuf Adewuyi, has bagged PhD in Arabic Grammar from Al-Hikmah University, Kwara State.
His dissertation is entitled: ‘The semantic Antithesis in the variations of Qur’anic recitations in Surah Al Imran : an applied Semantic Study’.
An elated Adewuyi, who is also a lecturer at the Department of Foreign Languages (Arabic Unit), Lagos State University of Education, reaffirmed the importance of rigorous scholarship as the foundation of true religious understanding. He said: “This true understanding of our faith, Islam, is the very foundation for building a just nation and fostering peaceful coexistence, a legacy we must faithfully transmit to our students and communities.”
He said that irrespective of the challenges facing the country, true commitment to knowledge remains the strongest weapon against ignorance, division and terror.
“The challenge and opportunity for every educated Nigerian, especially now, is to become a semanticist of our national life: to seek the common, divine meaning of peace, justice, the progress that binds all our readings together, and most especially the faiths that we share,” he said.
“I dedicate this achievement to every Nigerian student who believes that education and faith can coexist to build a more enlightened society.”
Source: guardian.ng
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/director-of-ibadullah-islamic-schools-bags-phd-from-al-hikmah-university/
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2027 Must Be A Proof That INEC Can Conduct Technologically-driven, And Transparent Elections – Amupitan
January 9, 2026
By Oladipo Abiola
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Prof. Joash Amupitan, has submitted that the expectations OF Nigerians from the commission are high and the electoral umpire must rise to the occasion.
The INEC Chairman, said the goal of the commission under is watch will be to conduct a credible, free and fair election in 2027.
He however stressed that before 2027, INEC must also use the opportunity provided by several critical polls, including the FCT Area Council Elections in February 2026 and the off-cycle governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states, to test the commission’s preparedness.
According to him, INEC must ensure the 2027 general elections become a reference point for a world-class, technologically-driven, and transparent election which is beyond reproach.
Naija News reports Amupitan made the declaration on Friday while delivering his opening address at the commission’s 2026 Induction and Strategic Retreat organised for its leadership and senior officials, and attended by Commissioners, Resident Electoral Commissioners, as well as administrative secretaries, directors and top management staff across the 36 states and Federal Capital Territory.
According to him, the 2027 election present a unique opportunity for INEC to rewrite the history of elections in Nigeria and set a new benchmark for election management in Africa.
Amupitan said, “The eyes of over 200 million Nigerians and indeed the entire continent are upon us.
“I charge you today to brace yourselves. The work ahead is demanding, the hours will be long, and the scrutiny will be intense.
“We have a golden opportunity to rewrite the history of elections in Nigeria. Our goal is clear: The 2027 General Election must be free and fair and be a watershed moment in Nigeria’s election history.
“But we must aim even higher. I want us to build an institution that is recognised globally.
“Let it be said that under our watch, INEC became the best Election Management Body in Africa —a beacon of integrity, a model of technological efficiency, and a fortress of democratic values.”
According to him, INEC must use the upcoming elections to prove it can conduct elections which are technologically-driven, transparent and beyond reproach.
He added: “It must be a continental standard, a proof-of-concept that demonstrates that INEC can indeed conduct a world-class, technologically-driven, and transparent election that is beyond reproach.
“Our mandate, which we should pursue rigorously, is built on five non-negotiable pillars.
“We are here to organise elections that are free from any form of interference; fair to all contestants and political parties; credible in the eyes of the global community; transparent in every process, from polling units to result collation; and inclusive of every Nigerian, regardless of physical ability or location.”
Amupitan added that INEC must be ready to play its role and ensure millions of young Nigerians, who are already tech-savvy and demand digital transparency are not disappointed in the electoral process.
“It is our duty to prove to these tech-savvy, and often skeptical, young voters that INEC can be trusted.
“By ensuring our systems are inclusive, and our technology is beyond reproach, we are not just conducting an election; we are securing the lifelong loyalty of Nigeria’s future to the ideals of the ballot.”
As a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Amupitan reassured that he was particularly committed to the Legal Framework of Elections.
“We will navigate the 2022 Electoral Act and subsequent amendments with surgical precision.
“Let it be known that under my leadership, the rule of law is not a suggestion; it is our operating system,” the INEC Chairman said.
While reaffirming his commitment to staff welfare, Amupitan said the retreat would deliberate on 17 thematic areas, including logistics, voter registration, election security, political party regulation and inter-agency collaboration, aimed at strengthening the commission’s operational capacity.
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2026/01/09/2027-must-be-a-proof-that-inec-can-conduct-technologically-driven-and-transparent-elections-amupitan/
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It Is Not Merely Personal Forgiveness – Akpabio Explains Why He Withdrew Defamation Suit Against Natasha
January 9, 2026
By Justina Otio
The Senate President Godswill Akpabio has opened up on the reason he decided to withdraw a defamation suit against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and other pending legal actions.
Speaking via a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, the senate President explained that his move was a deliberate choice.
According to him, he decided to set an example of restraint and credibility rather than engaging in constant legal battles that could distract from governance.
He said the withdrawal was rooted in moral authority, faith, and the demands of legislative leadership.
The statement partly read, “In a political culture where litigation has become an extension of reputation management, this was no minor gesture. Akpabio had been unapologetic about defending his name through the courts.
“The law, in his hands, had been both shield and sword. To voluntarily lay it down is to interrupt a habit of power. The question, therefore, is not whether Akpabio could afford to forgive. It is why he chose to do so.
“This is where forgiveness ceases to be sentimental and becomes political philosophy. The same drive for tangible outcomes has characterised, albeit differently, his tenure as Senate President.
“The Senate has been unusually productive and notably calm, more than ninety-six bills passed in two years, with over fifty-eight assented to by the President.
“In a chamber once notorious for theatrics, this stability is not accidental. It reflects a leadership style that values restraint over spectacle and consensus over conquest.
“This is why the withdrawal of lawsuits should be read not merely as personal forgiveness but as public modelling. Forgiveness, in this sense, becomes civic pedagogy,” he stated.
Source: naijanews.com
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Sudan's al-Fashir survivors recount torture at hands of RSF fighters
January 9, 2026
Mohamed was one of thousands who fled al-Fashir for the Tawila camp for displaced people in Sudan when the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) captured the city in late October.
Like many others, he didn’t make it.
Showing his scars Mohammed, who’s identity has been concealed for his safety, says he was tortured by the group for a month and forced to do hard labour.
Once they determined he was a civilian, he says they demanded a ransom for his release.
**“**On the second day, they said we’ll give you the phone to call your families. I tried to call my brother, but he didn’t pick up,” he says.
“The second day he picked up, and they demanded ransom from him. The wanted 11 million Sudanese pounds. They tried to negotiate, but in the end they paid it.”
That is nearly $3,500.
While his story can’t be independently verified, the United Nations reported massive violations of human rights during the RSF’s takeover of the city.
This includes widespread sexual violence against women and girls which has been documented by several organisations.
Aid agency Doctors Without Borders says it recorded over one thousand cases of sexual violence in Tawila last year alone.
Wissal Ismail is a protection officer with a local NGO, Hope Sudan, which is supporting survivors.
She says she’s heard stories of rape committed by both the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces. She also heard of widespread extortion:
In one incident, she says seven women and ten men at a school in the Qarni area had their hands behind their backs.
“They were beaten and tortured. They were asked to pay a large sum of money for ransom. All the women in the school were sexually assaulted by the security forces,” she says.
The small support centre her organisation runs offers counselling and a space for the women to gather and cook. She wishes she could provide them with more psychosocial and medical support.
Many women are too ashamed to report their abuse, but some like this young mother of two have spoken out anonymously.
She remembers how she and a group of women had left the house to buy food for their families. On their way back, they were confronted by the RSF and then beaten and raped.
“They forced us and threatened us with their weapons. They told us, if you don`t open your body to us, we will kill you. They did all of this against our will,” she says.
Eventually, they released her. When she had the chance, she fled the city with her children but had to leave her husband behind.
The RSF’s capture of al-Fashir involved some of the worst fighting of Sudan’s ongoing civil war.
The UN estimates that more than a hundred thousand people fled the city to places like Tawila.
As survivors struggle to rebuild their lives, Ismail says they desperately need support and she hopes the perpetrators will be brought to justice.
Source: africanews.com
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https://www.africanews.com/2026/01/09/sudans-al-fashir-survivors-recount-torture-at-hands-of-rsf-fighters/
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Southeast Asia
JAKIM closely monitoring Glamping with Pride, vows action against programmes promoting deviant practices
10 Jan 2026
PUTRAJAYA, Jan 10 — The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) said the authorities are closely monitoring the Glamping with Pride programme and will not compromise on any effort or approach to normalise unnatural sexual practices.
Its director-general Datuk Sirajuddin Suhaimee said such practices clearly contravene religious principles and teachings, and are also contrary to moral values, civilisation and the country’s legal framework.
He said such acts are offences under existing laws, including Section 25 of the Syariah Criminal Offences (Federal Territories) Act 1997, as well as Sections 377A, 377B, 377C and 377D of the Penal Code.
“This matter is under close monitoring by JAKIM together with the Selangor Islamic Religious Department and the Royal Malaysia Police.
“The authorities take this seriously and will not compromise on any organisation or implementation of programmes found to be contrary to Islamic teachings, legal provisions and public order, and firm action will be taken in accordance with the laws currently in force,” he said in a statement today.
Sirajuddin said JAKIM will continue its information, education and preventive initiatives aimed at the community, particularly Muslims, to prevent them from being influenced into accepting deviant practices as a lifestyle.
“All parties are advised to comply with the law and to refer any related issues to the Islamic religious authorities for further action,” he said. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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600 Bandar Tun Razak students get RM150 school vouchers
10 Jan 2026
600 students in Bandar Tun Razak receive RM150 school aid vouchers from MP Wan Azizah, easing parental financial burdens for the new school term.
KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 600 primary and secondary school students in the Bandar Tun Razak parliamentary constituency have received school vouchers worth RM150 each.
The assistance, with a total allocation of RM90,000, was presented by Member of Parliament Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail at a back-to-school aid event.
Dr Wan Azizah said the programme, implemented by Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM), helps ease the financial burden on parents.
“With the cash vouchers, parents are able to purchase items according to their children’s needs,” she said at the Desa Tasik Sports Complex.
She added the aid can reduce financial pressure during critical periods, especially for parents with multiple school-going children.
Dr Wan Azizah noted such targeted assistance is crucial amid the challenging cost of living in urban areas.
The vouchers can be used to purchase school supplies at Pasaraya Hari-Hari.
Recipients are students from six zones including Desa Tasik, Sungai Besi, and Bandar Sri Permaisuri.
One recipient, nine-year-old Nur Daniesya Aafiyah Wazir, said she was grateful for the assistance for clothing and stationery.
Another, 15-year-old Ziyan Hafiy Rizqi, said the aid helped ease her parents’ burden in providing school supplies.
Also present were the Prime Minister’s Political Secretary Datuk Azman Abidin and AIM managing director Datuk Mohamed Shamir Abdul Aziz.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/people-issues/600-students-get-rm150-school-vouchers/
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ABIM urges national guidelines for sensitive community events
9 Jan 2026
ABIM proposes an inter-ministerial committee to create national guidelines for community events on sensitive topics to prevent public confusion.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Islamic Youth Movement (ABIM) has proposed the government establish an inter-ministerial committee to draft national guidelines for community events involving sensitive issues.
ABIM president Ahmad Fahmi Mohd Samsudin said this move is crucial to strengthen governance and avoid public confusion following programmes that use sensitive approaches or branding.
The proposed guidelines would cover branding aspects, programme content, transparency of registered associations’ mandates, and compliance with public values.
It also includes clearer regulatory requirements for closed, overnight programmes and those themed around health or social issues with potential moral implications.
“This move is not aimed at restricting civic space or punishing any party, but rather as a preventive and prudent governance approach,” Ahmad Fahmi said in a statement.
He stated the aim is to ensure public health issues are not misused as a gateway to advocacy contradicting societal foundations and the Federal Constitution.
In Malaysia’s multicultural context, he said public health approaches must consider sociocultural realities, religious norms, and existing legal frameworks.
This ensures the delivered message remains focused on public well-being, according to Ahmad Fahmi.
The proposal follows media reports that the “Glamping With Pride” event organisers would proceed despite opposition.
That programme is described as a private, community-based retreat focused on wellbeing, peer support and health awareness.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/abim-urges-national-guidelines-for-sensitive-community-events/
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EC expects 65pc voter turnout for Kinabatangan and Lamag by‑elections
10 Jan 2026
KINABATANGAN, Jan 10 — The Election Commission (EC) anticipates a 65 per cent voter turnout for the Kinabatangan parliamentary and Lamag state by-elections on January 24.
EC chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun said the expected percentage aligns with last year’s Sabah state election target.
He assured that the vote-counting would proceed smoothly, following a controversy in the Lamag seat’s count during the last state election.
“We will address and rectify any shortcomings to improve the upcoming counting process,” he told reporters after today’s nomination proceedings at Dewan Sri Lamag.
Meanwhile, in a statement today, Ramlan said the EC had established four Election Campaign Enforcement Teams to monitor the candidates’ campaigning activities.
He also noted that 39 observers from nine organisations are participating in both the by-elections to ensure electoral transparency.
He said candidates who have paid their deposits are subject to local authority bylaws regarding the display and distribution of campaign materials, which must feature the candidate’s photo, party’s logo/symbol, and a photo of its represented leader.
“Permissible materials such as advertisements, leaflets, stickers and posters must contain the printer’s and publisher’s name and address, except for flags, party symbol posters and images of the party leader or candidate.
“Materials containing words that could incite ill-will, racial sentiment, religious sensitivities, or sedition likely to provoke hostility are strictly prohibited,” he said.
Ramlan expressed hope that all campaigning would be conducted harmoniously and in full compliance with the established laws and regulations.
The Kinabatangan and Lamag by-elections follow the death of the incumbent, Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, on December 5 last year. The EC has set polling day for both by-elections on January 24, with early voting on January 20. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/01/10/ec-expects-65pc-voter-turnout-for-kinabatangan-and-lamag-byelections/204916
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BN’s Mohd Kurniawan Naim confident sincerity will win voters in Kinabatangan by-election
10 Jan 2026
KINABATANGAN, Jan 10 — The Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate for Kinabatangan parliamentary seat Mohd Kurniawan Naim Moktar is optimistic that a strategic approach based on sincerity will be able to gain the support of voters in the constituency’s by-election.
Admitting that he has to shoulder a great responsibility, the Kinabatangan UMNO Youth chief said he is determined to ensure that the continuity of service in Kinabatangan can continue after the passing of his father Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin.
“Of course this responsibility is great. However, thanks to my experience in politics, God willing, I will provide my service more widely. His (Bung Moktar’s) spirit will always be with me,” he told reporters at Dewan Sri Lamag here today.
In the by-election which began today, Mohd Kurniawan Naim, 32, who is the youngest candidate, is up against two challengers, Datuk Saddi Abdul Rahman, 67, (Warisan) and Goldam Hamid, 40, (Independent).
Meanwhile, BN candidate for Lamag constituency, Mohd Ismail Ayob said he is not taking the challenges lightly and will do his best to achieve victory in the one-on-one contest against Warisan candidate Mazliwati Abdul Malek.
Mohd Ismail, 44, better known by his nickname ‘Miha’, said that although Mazliwati is a fellow practitioner in the political arena, he sees the clash as a healthy competition.
“In elections, there are no draws and there is only winning or losing. Therefore, it is necessary for us to fight as best we can.
“Alhamdulillah, the nomination process today went smoothly and there were no problems. “The hope is that young people like us will be given the opportunity to lead the Lamag and also the Kinabatangan constituencies,” he said.
Warisan candidate Saddi is determined to change the stigma of Kinabatangan as one of the poorest districts in Malaysia if given the mandate as an MP, while Mazliwati, 53, chose to contest at the state level because the area is smaller in scale to make it easier for her to focus on the needs of the local people.
For Independent candidate and lawyer Goldam, 40, the decision to offer himself to contest in the Kinabatangan by-election is to give voters a choice.
The by-election was held following the death of incumbent, Bung Moktar, 66, on Dec 5.
The Election Commission (EC) sets a 14-day campaign period starting today until 11.59 pm, Jan 23 and sets the polling day for both by-elections on Jan 24 while early voting is on Jan 20. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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Anwar backs MACC’s defence procurement probe, says corruption remains ‘systemic’
By R. Loheswar
10Jan 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 10 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today said the government would continue backing enforcement agencies in pursuing corruption cases, even when investigations involve senior figures or major institutions, amid an ongoing probe into alleged irregularities in military procurement tenders.
Anwar described corruption as a systemic problem, saying that while there had been improvements compared with previous years, the issue remained far from resolved.
“I’m not saying that I am fully satisfied. If you compare the situation with several years ago, there has been progress, but the need remains,” he said.
He stressed that corruption is not merely widespread but deeply entrenched, requiring sustained action and political will.
“Corruption is not only endemic, but systemic. It requires a lot of effort,” he said, adding that enforcement agencies must be allowed to carry out their duties without interference.
Anwar said investigations often draw criticism or pushback, particularly when they involved prominent individuals or large-scale operations, but maintained that the government’s position was clear.
“Every time we take action against a major leader or a big case, there will be voices questioning the decision, but the decision is clear — you must continue to pursue this,” he said.
His remarks come amid an ongoing Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) investigation into alleged corruption and cartel practices in army procurement tenders.
He was responding to reporters at Zoo Negara’s panda enclosure where both Chen Xing and Xiao Yue were finally on public display after months of quarantine.
He arrived with his grandchildren and some family members.
On December 23, MACC officers conducted a visit to the Defence Ministry as part of investigations focusing on projects carried out through open tender procurement methods.
MACC remanded 17 company directors suspected of being involved in a procurement tender cartel linked to army projects.
The anti-graft agency has also detained a former Malaysian Army chief, his two wives, and other individuals as part of the same probe into alleged corruption involving defence procurement tenders.
Anwar said enforcement agencies such as MACC, the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) and other regulatory bodies must continue monitoring and acting decisively, despite the sensitivity and scale of such investigations.
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/01/10/anwar-backs-maccs-defence-procurement-probe-says-corruption-remains-systemic/204909
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King signs Anti‑Bullying Act 2026 into law, offering new protections for victims
10 Jan 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 10 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, signed the Anti-Bullying Act 2026 at Istana Bukit Tunku here today.
This was stated in a post on the Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar Facebook page.
The Act, which passed by Parliament on December 3 last year, aims to establish a specific mechanism to address bullying cases involving all victims as defined and provided for under the Act.
Under this Act, the Minister of Education, Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA), the Minister of Defence, the Minister of Women, Family and Community Development, as well as the Minister of Home Affairs are empowered to manage and regulate bullying cases in educational institutions or other institutions under their respective responsibilities and jurisdictions.
The post also stated that an Anti-Bullying Tribunal will be established as a dedicated quasi-judicial body to receive, hear and determine bullying complaints lodged by victims.
The tribunal will also be empowered to award appropriate compensation or issue suitable orders for the purpose of protection and justice for victims of bullying. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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Anwar announces fresh RM5m allocation to upgrade Zoo Negara’s panda enclosure
By R. Loheswar
10 Jan 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 10 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today announced an additional RM5 million allocation for Zoo Negara’s panda enclosure, citing its strong performance as a major tourism draw and its role in promoting environmental sustainability.
Anwar said the funding, approved for this year, was meant to support maintenance works and enhance facilities at the zoo, following a similar RM5 million allocation announced last year.
“When I came previously, I announced RM5 million to improve facilities and add value to Zoo Negara because of its performance, its appeal to tourists, and its role in attracting schoolchildren,” he said.
“This year, I have approved another RM5 million for maintenance and upkeep,” he added, briefly joking about the currency before confirming the allocation was in ringgit.
The prime minister was speaking at Zoo Negara after viewing the panda enclosure, where giant pandas Chen Xing and Xiao Yue are now on public display.
He arrived with his grandchildren at about 11.30am and took a walk inside the enclosure for a closer look at the pandas.
Both pandas were seen lounging while eating, with one eventually falling asleep despite the presence of many visitors.
Chen Xing and Xiao Yue arrived in Malaysia on Nov 18 as part of the ongoing panda cooperation programme between Malaysia and China. Upon arrival, the five-year-old pandas underwent a mandatory one-month quarantine at Zoo Negara in line with standard operating procedures.
Yesterday, Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup announced the completion of the quarantine period and that the enclosure was open to the public.
Kurup and Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari also visited the panda enclosure.
Malaysia is one of 20 countries partnering China in giant panda conservation and research. Under an agreement with the China Wildlife Conservation Association, Malaysia will host a new pair of giant pandas for 10 years until 2035.
Anwar said the arrival of the two giant pandas from China was in line with the government’s Madani values, particularly environmental sustainability and harmony with nature.
He also thanked the Chinese government, President Xi Jinping and its leadership for the contribution, describing the pandas as a major tourism attraction for Malaysia.
Anwar praised Zoo Negara’s management and animal care team, highlighting their expertise in caring for the pandas, including managing their highly selective dietary needs.
“I was told earlier that the pandas are very particular — they don’t just eat any bamboo. They only accept bamboo from Rembau, after trying many types from different places,” he said.
Responding to questions on land sales and maintenance issues surrounding Zoo Negara, Anwar said discussions were ongoing with the Selangor government on how best to manage and preserve surrounding areas.
“For now, there is space allocated for maintenance. We are discussing with the state government whether certain facilities should be maintained or not,” he said.
He stressed that not all available land should be developed, underscoring the importance of preserving buffer and maintenance zones around the zoo, especially given nearby large-scale residential projects.
“The fact that we still have maintenance space is a good thing. We don’t need to use every piece of land. We must protect maintenance areas around this facility,” he said, adding that the federal government was firm on preventing inappropriate development within and around zoological zones.
Anwar also thanked the Selangor government for ensuring no improper development took place within protected maintenance areas, both inside the zoo grounds and surrounding zones.
While acknowledging improvements over the years, Anwar said maintenance and governance challenges remained and required continued monitoring and enforcement.
“I’m not saying I am fully satisfied. There has been progress compared to previous years, but the need remains,” he said, adding that systemic issues required sustained effort from enforcement agencies.
Source: malaymail.com
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Singapore students create AI tools to solve real‑world problems at Codechella
09 Jan 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 9 — Students in Singapore have demonstrated that artificial intelligence (AI) can be built by anyone, showing that with the right tools and community support, people can develop solutions that address real-world needs.
At the opening of the Codechella Singapore 2025 Grand Finale, ChatAndBuild Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Christel Buchanan said intelligence should be built by anyone, for everyone, and not confined to laboratories or large technology companies.
ChatAndBuild in a statement said over 200 students from 10 Singapore universities signed up for Codechella 2025 when registrations opened on Oct 6, including participants from medical, bioengineering, business, and digital media disciplines.
The participants were not limited to computer science backgrounds, underscoring that AI development is no longer exclusive to technical majors. Students built their projects virtually and shared prototypes across social media platforms such as X, Instagram, and TikTok.
Judges selected 10 finalists, who then took part in a week-long mentorship programme with industry leaders focused on pitching, product design, and go-to-market strategy.
The three winning teams developed solutions based on challenges they encounter in daily life. Hera, built by five medical students from the National University of Singapore (NUS), is an AI-driven postpartum companion created after witnessing how mothers’ mental health is often overlooked in clinical care.
Meanwhile, solo builder Sidharth Rajesh from Singapore Management University (SMU) developed an AI-powered grading assistant that automates repetitive tasks while maintaining personalised feedback, addressing the long hours educators spend grading.
Another winning solution, Migrant Mate from Nanyang Technological University (NTU), built a multilingual AI application designed to help Singapore’s more than 900,000 migrant workers navigate financial matters, understand their rights, and build community.
Grand Finale brought together judges from organisations, including Google Cloud, Design Strategy Consulting, WeWork and ChatAndBuild, with collaboration from Lorong AI, Singapore’s AI community hub, and partners, including Singapore Global Network.
Codechella Singapore forms part of a broader global initiative, spanning Codechella Kids, which introduces AI literacy to young creators, and Codechella Sessions, which are expanding internationally. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/singapore/2026/01/09/singapore-students-create-ai-tools-to-solve-realworld-problems-at-codechella/204837
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South Asia
July Uprising being commercialised like Liberation War, says CGS president
January 10, 2026
The narratives of the July uprising are now being "commodified" in the same manner the Liberation War was "traded on" for the last 15 years, Zillur Rahman, president of Centre for Governance Studies (CGS), said today.
"We tried to turn these (narratives) into a business. I would say this was commercial, just as business was done with the Liberation War for the last 15-16 years. But none of this lasts if it doesn't have a connection with the people," he said.
Zillur made these remarks while addressing a policy dialogue titled "Political Parties, Human Rights and Freedom of Expression," organised by CGS at the CIRDAP auditorium in Dhaka around 10:30am.
The CGS president said the Students Against Discrimination movement was founded on two core causes: a stand against discrimination and the demand for the government's fall.
"But the narratives we heard afterwards, on the basis of which reform commissions and consensus commissions were formed, were not part of the discussion then," he added.
Heavily criticising the country's political culture, Zillur said, "In Bangladesh, we see that whoever goes to Lanka becomes Ravana."
"Whether they are political leaders or members of civil society, their faces remain the same once they sit in the chair of power," he added.
Terming the arson attacks on the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star as the most shameful event in recent history, Zillur questioned the role of the state apparatus during the incidents.
"When the offices of these two papers burned, where was the government? Where were the law enforcement agencies?" he asked.
"Everyone became vocal after the incident; the chief adviser and advisers phoned editors to express regret. But what was to happen, had already happened."
Zillur expressed alarm over the validation of "mob culture" by state actors, citing a high-ranking government figure who had justified "pressure groups" as people exercising rights due to past oppression.
"We are seeing the consequences of the state ensuring this 'right'," he said, pointing to the demolition of the historic Dhanmondi 32 residence.
"Six months after the uprising, Dhanmondi 32, a significant historical structure, was demolished in front of everyone. No one stopped it," he said. "If this happened in July or August 2024, one might accept it as the act of angry people. But six months later, in a country claimed to be stable, how does this happen?"
Referencing Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus's earlier assurance to the Hindu community that establishing the rule of law would resolve their grievances, Zillur asked, "Where is the rule of law in the country today? What have they done in these 13-14 months?"
He highlighted the brutal killing of Dipu Chandra Das to underscore the severity of the situation. "We say there are no minorities here; everyone is equal. Yet, Dipu Chandra Das was beaten, hanged from a tree, and his body burned. Where was the state?"
"Today, there is no guarantee on the street that you will survive. Is there even any guarantee that you will be saved from humiliation?" he questioned.
Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman, human rights activist Sara Hossain, and various political leaders were also present at the dialogue.
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/july-uprising-being-commercialised-liberation-war-says-cgs-president-4077466
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New Milak Border Route to Double Iran–Afghanistan Trade Volume
January 10, 2026
KABUL: Iran’s Embassy in Kabul said in a statement the other day that the opening of a new route at the Milak border crossing will double the volume of trade between Iran and Afghanistan.
The embassy stated that the new route will significantly increase the movement of commercial cargo vehicles.
Meanwhile, officials from Afghanistan’s Ministry of Public Works recently met with Iran’s ambassador in Kabul to discuss accelerating the reconstruction of roads connected to the port.
The move comes as Afghanistan seeks secure and alternative trade routes following repeated closures of commercial crossings with Pakistan.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/new-milak-border-route-to-double-iran-afghanistan-trade-volume/
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Afghan, Qatari Officials Discuss Political Relations
January 10, 2026
DOHA: Mohammad Suhail Shaheen, the Ambassador of the Islamic Emirate to Qatar, met with Mohammad Al-Hammadi, Deputy Head of the International Organizations Department at Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to discuss bilateral political relations.
According to the statement, the two sides discussed the country’s current political situation, Afghanistan’s relations with the United Nations, and cooperation with other international organizations.
The meeting comes as the Afghan ambassador in Doha continues diplomatic engagements with representatives of various countries to rebuild Afghanistan’s relations with the international community.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/afghan-qatari-officials-discuss-political-relations/
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Air Corridors: The Future of Afghanistan–India Trade
January 10, 2026
The prospect of strengthening trade between Kabul and Delhi has gained renewed urgency in recent discussions among business leaders and economic experts. At the heart of these conversations lies a simple but powerful idea. Air corridors can serve as the backbone of a new era of bilateral commerce. By enabling the swift movement of goods, particularly Afghanistan’s agricultural products, air transport offers a practical solution to longstanding challenges in regional trade.
Afghanistan’s economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, with fruits, nuts, and other perishable goods forming a significant portion of its export potential. Yet, these products often struggle to reach international markets in time due to logistical bottlenecks and political uncertainties along land routes. Air corridors, especially those linking Kabul to Indian cities, present a transformative opportunity. They can ensure that Afghan produce arrives fresh, meeting the demands of Indian consumers while simultaneously boosting Afghanistan’s export revenues.
India, with its vast and diverse market, stands to benefit equally. Afghan goods can enrich Indian supply chains, while Indian products—ranging from manufactured goods to pharmaceuticals—can find a growing market in Afghanistan. This two-way exchange not only strengthens economic ties but also fosters mutual dependence, laying the groundwork for a more stable and cooperative regional relationship.
The strategic importance of air corridors extends beyond bilateral trade. By connecting Afghanistan to hubs such as Dubai and through ports in Iran and the United Arab Emirates, these routes can serve as gateways to wider regional and global markets. Such connectivity would allow Afghanistan to diversify its trading partners, reducing reliance on any single country and enhancing resilience against political or economic disruptions.
However, realizing this vision requires more than enthusiasm. Policy support is critical. Governments must prioritize the development of infrastructure at airports, streamline cargo handling facilities, and simplify business visa processes. These steps will not only encourage entrepreneurs but also attract investment in logistics, packaging, and cold storage—sectors essential for sustaining agricultural exports.
The timing of these initiatives is particularly significant. Trade with Pakistan, once a dominant route for Afghan exports, has faced persistent restrictions and uncertainties. This has compelled Afghan businesses to seek alternatives, with India emerging as a natural partner. The shift toward India is not merely a matter of convenience; it reflects a broader strategic realignment in Afghanistan’s trade policy, one that emphasizes diversification and long-term stability.
Afghanistan, the benefits of stronger trade with India go beyond economics. Enhanced connectivity can foster people-to-people ties, cultural exchange, and greater regional integration. For India, deeper engagement with Afghanistan strengthens its role as a stabilizing force in South Asia. Together, the two countries can set an example of how trade corridors can transcend borders and politics, focusing instead on shared prosperity.
Air corridors represent more than just a logistical solution; they embody a vision for regional cooperation and economic growth. By investing in this strategy, Afghanistan and India can unlock new opportunities, build sustainable partnerships, and chart a path toward a more interconnected future. The challenge now is to translate these discussions into concrete policies and investments that will turn aspiration into reality.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/air-corridors-the-future-of-afghanistan-india-trade/
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Administrative Commission Discusses Issues of Municipalities
January 10, 2026
KABUL: The meeting of the Administrative Commission was held under the chairmanship of Mawlawi Abdul Salam Hanafi, Deputy Prime Minister for Administrative Affairs of the Islamic Emirate, to discuss issues concerning municipalities, Arg said in a statement the other day.
The assigned committees presented reports on their activities and achievements, the statement said.
The meeting also held comprehensive discussions on issues concerning chambers of commerce and investment, leading to the adoption of necessary decisions, the statement added.
At the conclusion of the meeting, additional agenda items were referred to the relevant committees for further review and detailed assessment.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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New Appointments Made in Government Posts
January 10, 2026
KABUL: Based on a decree from the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), Shaikh Mullah Hebatullah Akhundzada, several appointments have been made in the government posts.
Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesman of the Islamic Emirate, said in a statement the other day that, based on the decree, Former Minister of Water and Energy, Mullah Abdul Latif Mansoor, has been appointed as Minister of Rural Rehabilitation and Development.
Former Minister of Rural Rehabilitation and Development, Mullah Mohammad Younis Akhundzada, has been assigned as Minister of Water and Energy, Mujahid said.
Meanwhile, former Financial and Administrative Deputy of the Ministry of Public Works, Mullah Abdul Haq Hamkar, has been appointed as Director General of Da Afghanistan Breshna Sherkat, he added.
Former Deputy Minister for Youth Affairs of the Ministry of Information and Culture, Qari Mohammad Younis Rashid, has been named Financial and Administrative Deputy of the Ministry of Public Works.
In addition, former Director General of Breshna Sherkat, Dr. Abdul Bari Omar, has been appointed as Chief of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/new-appointments-made-in-government-posts-2/
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82,000 Work Permits Issued This Year, Ministry
January 10, 2026
KABUL: The Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs said in a statement on Friday that 82,000 work permits have been issued over the past year to Afghan citizens and foreign nationals.
Ministry spokesman Samiullah Ebrahimi said that around 6,000 of the permit holders were foreign nationals.
He emphasized that all individuals working in government institutions or the private sector are legally required to obtain a work permit from the ministry.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/82000-work-permits-issued-this-year-ministry/
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Several advisers had considered resignation amid abuse: Asif Nazrul
January 10, 2026
Law Adviser Asif Nazrul said today that at least three to four advisers of the interim government had considered resigning at different times due to “unjust attacks” and “obscene abuse,” but remained in their posts to maintain government unity.
“Who would want to endure this indescribable life of constant abuse, obscene language and death threats?” Asif Nazrul asked.
He explained that they stayed on because Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus emphasised that they are a team.
“He told us that if one person resigns, it will demoralise the others and invite more demands, making it impossible to work. So we are just working through it,” he said while addressing a policy dialogue.
The dialogue titled "Political Parties, Human Rights and Freedom of Expression" was organised by the Centre for Governance Studies (CGS) at the CIRDAP auditorium in Dhaka.
Responding to criticisms regarding freedom of expression, the law adviser said the situation has reversed.
“Honestly, I feel that right now everyone in Bangladesh has freedom of speech, except those in the government,” he said. He added that criticism of the government often reaches a “heartless” level, pointing out that even if the government implements four out of ten initiatives successfully, critics act as though nothing has been done.
Defending the government’s record, Asif Nazrul highlighted several reforms.
He said that for the first time in 54 years, full financial and administrative control has been handed over to the High Court, fulfilling a long-standing demand for judicial independence. He also cited the establishment of the Disappearance Commission and the drafting of a new Human Rights Commission law, which he claimed is “better than any other in South Asia.”
“We have withdrawn over 20,000 harassing cases involving nearly 500,000 accused. The Legal Aid Directorate has been made ten times more effective. Are these not reforms?” he asked.
He further credited the government, under Yunus’s leadership, for freeing Bangladesh from “Indian dominance” and restoring order to the banking sector.
The adviser also claimed he has been the primary target of cyberbullying over the past 16 months.
“I challenge you—search globally. In the first four months alone, friends found 400 videos attacking me. I was called a Pakistani agent for 15 years, and overnight I became an Indian agent. They claim I have a house in America. I openly challenged everyone to find this house, but no one could,” he said.
He questioned why civil society has remained silent against those spreading these fabrications.
Addressing criticism over the granting of bail to Awami League leaders and individuals labelled as “terrorists,” Asif Nazrul called the blame "misplaced" and "politically motivated".
“If a judge grants bail, it is the judge’s fault. Judges are controlled by the chief justice and the Supreme Judicial Council. What can the law ministry do here? Can I remove a High Court judge?” he asked, adding that social media attacks are used to “monetise” criticism and weaken him for specific political purposes.
Asif Nazrul further addressed political parties, NGOs and media outlets, saying, “You get the government you deserve. Have you reformed yourselves? Have you reformed your institutions, your honesty and your thinking? You cannot fix a nation just by changing laws.”
“We need self-reflection.”
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/several-advisers-had-considered-resignation-amid-abuse-asif-nazrul-4077476
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/jharkhand-muslim-cattle-transporter-lynched--religious-targeting/d/138391