Major Changes in NCERT Textbooks: Mughal-Delhi Sultanate Removed, Focus Shifts to Ancient Dynasties, Kumbh Mela, and Geography
New Age Islam News Bureau
28 April 2025
saffronization of education
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· Major Changes in NCERT Textbooks: Mughal-Delhi Sultanate Removed, Focus Shifts to Ancient Dynasties, Kumbh Mela, and Geography
· 20 Mosques, Madrasas Demolished To Remove Encroachments In UP
· Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami For Independent Muslim State in Myanmar’s Arakan
· Pakistan On Verge Of Split, Balochistan Will Be A New Nation: Goa CM
· Islamic Sect, Mahmuda: Nigeria Can’t Be A Junkyard Of Terrorist Groups
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India
· Jaipur Jama Masjid Trespass: Rajasthan BJP President Reprimands Balmukundacharya: Any Action Threatening Communal Harmony Will Not Be Tolerated
· Nine BJP Workers Booked For Abusing And Assaulting Muslim Hawkers In Mumbai’s Dadar
· UP Madrassa at Bahraich Asked To Teach Beyond Arabic, Persian As No Class 10 Student Can Write Name In English
· Mob violence erupts in Haryana’s Ambala, Muslim-owned shops vandalised and looted
· SC refuses to entertain fresh plea challenging Waqf (Amendment) Act
· 'You Are Not Just Half An Hour, But Half A Century Behind': Owaisi Mocks Pakistan
· Unknown Gunmen Kill PoK Militant’s Kin In Kashmir Amid Post-Pahalgam Attack Unrest
· Doubt If Terrorists Asked Victims Their Religion, Says Excise Minister Timmapur
· Two Arrested For Faking 'Love Jihad' Case In UP To Extort Money; Woman Still On The Run
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South Asia
· Ex-IGP Mamun, Maj Gen Ziaul Ahsan Taken To ICT
· Afghan Businessman to Invest $12 Million in Iron Mine Extraction in Panjshir Province
· Mawlavi Abdul Salam Hanafi Encourages Students at Dar-ul Uloom Seminary
· Reforms agreed through dialogue must be implemented by interim govt: Nur
· IEA saddened by deadly explosion in Iran’s Bandar Abbas
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Pakistan
· 54 Terrorists Killed As Infiltration Attempt Thwarted In KP: ISPR
· India behind attack on Pakistani High Commission in London: info minister
· Road To Mecca Project: Immigration Of Thousands Of Pilgrims To Be Done In Pakistan
· Two security men martyred in Pasni blast
· China Watching South Asia Situation Closely, FM Wang Tells Dar
· Violence ensues as police attempt to move protesters from roads in Karachi, Kandhkot
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Africa
· Edo imam indicts security agency of allegedly freeing arrested Boko Haram suspect
· Tinubu Is Driving Nigeria To One Party State – Sani
· NLC Cancels Central May Day Celebrations In Rivers, Edo, Gives Reasons
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Arab World
· Ancient Wells In Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders Showcase Early Human Ingenuity, Resilience
· Wrth strengthens Saudi-Chinese relations through traditional arts
· New Jersey governor promotes stronger relations with Saudi Arabia
· Saudi National Guard minister visits Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah
· Saudi crown prince issues directive naming Riyadh street after late minister
· A closer look at the Great Reef off Jeddah’s coast
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Southeast Asia
· M’sia-Maldives Reaffirm Commitment To Muslim Unity, Peaceful Resolution Of Global Conflicts
· Nga showcases mosque, student donations to counter 'anti-Malay' claims
· Malaysia ready to transform into AI-powered smart nation, says digital minister
· Tech and talent: Defence Ministry must invest in workforce to stay ahead, says minister
· Visit Malaysia 2026: Malaysia-Maldives to boost Muslim-friendly tourism cooperation
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North America
· CAIR Condemns Murder of French Muslim at Mosque, Calls on French Politicians to Stop Fanning Islamophobia
· CAIR Condemns Distribution of White Supremacist Propaganda in Maine
· Betar US: America's new face of Zionist terrorism and the darker rebirth of Kahanism
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Mideast
· Israel PM Calls Security Chief ‘Liar’, In Court Filing
· Death Toll From Iran Port Blast Hits 40 As Fire Blazes
· Jordanian government spokesperson says country remains firmly supportive of Palestine
· Top UN Court To Hold Hearings On Israeli Obligations To Ensure Humanitarian Aid To Palestinians
· Ayatollah Khamenei Orders Comprehensive Investigation into Bandar Abbas Port Explosion
· Islamic Jihad offers condolences to Iran following painful explosion
· Hezbollah sympathizes with Iran over tragic explosion
· ‘Hunger breaks everything’: desperate Gazans scramble for food
· Yemen’s Houthi militants allege US airstrike hit a prison holding African migrants
· Sultan of Oman, UK foreign secretary discuss Gaza, US-Iran negotiations
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Europe
· Watford Mayor 'Deeply Shocked' By Muslim Graves Desecration
· Suspect in fatal French mosque attack arrested in Italy
· School at Dublin Islamic Centre to reopen with heavy security on Monday
· France: Police step up manhunt after fatal mosque stabbing
· Plans for an ‘urgently needed’ Muslim community centre in Winnersh refused
· Images of Pope Francis's tomb released
· Eighty years on, survivors and families remember horrors of Bergen Belsen
· Greenland not a piece of property, says PM after Trump threats
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/major-changes-ncert-textbooks-mughal-delhi/d/135346
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Major Changes in NCERT Textbooks: Mughal-Delhi Sultanate Removed, Focus Shifts to Ancient Dynasties, Kumbh Mela, and Geography
April 28, 2025
saffronization of education
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The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has announced significant changes in its new set of textbooks, drawing both attention and controversy. Among the most notable revisions is the removal of content related to the Mughal-Delhi Sultanate. In its place, the new editions highlight ancient Indian dynasties, geographical concepts, the significance of the Kumbh Mela, and various government welfare schemes.
These revisions have been made under the framework of the New National Education Policy (NEP) and the newly formulated National Curriculum Framework (NCF). According to NCERT officials, the objective is to provide a “more indigenous and holistic” perspective on India’s history, culture, and development.
However, the move has sparked sharp criticism from opposition parties and educationists, who have accused the government of attempting to “saffronize” education by selectively editing historical narratives. Critics argue that the removal of major periods such as the Mughal and Delhi Sultanate eras presents an incomplete and biased portrayal of India’s diverse past.
Defending the changes, NCERT representatives said the new curriculum aims to balance historical knowledge with an increased focus on India’s ancient heritage and contemporary socio-economic initiatives. “We want students to develop a deeper understanding of India’s ancient traditions, cultural practices like the Kumbh Mela, and modern governance models,” an NCERT source said.
The updated textbooks are expected to be rolled out in schools across the country from the upcoming academic session. Education experts and stakeholders continue to debate whether these changes will foster a broader appreciation of India’s legacy or further polarize historical education.
Source: muslimmirror.com
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https://muslimmirror.com/major-changes-in-ncert-textbooks-mughal-delhi-sultanate-removed-focus-shifts-to-ancient-dynasties-kumbh-mela-and-geography/
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20 Mosques, Madrasas Demolished To Remove Encroachments In UP
April 28, 2025
In a press statement issued on Sunday, the state government said hundreds of encroachments were removed in the border areas
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At least 20 mosques and madrasas located within the 15-km radius of the India-Nepal border in Uttar Pradesh have been demolished as part of a campaign to remove encroachments from government land, officials said.
In a press statement issued on Sunday, the state government said hundreds of encroachments were removed in the border areas of Bahraich, Shravasti, Siddharthnagar, Maharajganj, Balrampur and Lakhimpur Kheri districts under Section 67 of the Revenue Code.
In Shravasti district, action was taken against 17 unrecognised madrasas — 10 in Bhinga tehsil and seven in Jamunha tehsil, the statement read.
In Naugarh tehsil of Siddharthnagar district, five structures, including a mosque and a madrasa, constructed on government land were removed. Illegal constructions were also identified at six locations in Shohratgarh tehsil of the district, it added.
In Palia tehsil of Lakhimpur Kheri district, a mosque being built illegally was demolished at Krishna Nagar Colony, it was claimed, adding that prayers were being offered at the site.
In Nanpara tehsil of Bahraich, 227 encroachments were identified near the India-Nepal border, the statement said. While 63 of the encroachments were removed earlier, 26 were cleared between April 25 and 27, taking the total to 89, it was claimed. But no religious or educational structures were found at any of these encroached sites, the officials said.
In Maharajganj district, encroachments were identified in Farenda, Nautanwa and Nichlaul tehsils. While one case remains pending in court, eviction and demolition proceedings are underway in the rest, the government said in its statement.
In Balrampur district, seven cases of encroachments on government land were reported — five in Balrampur tehsil and two in Tulsipur tehsil. While two encroachers vacated the land on their own, eviction proceedings were underway against the rest, the officials said.
Source: indianexpress.com
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https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/lucknow/20-mosques-madrasas-removed-from-govt-land-along-india-nepal-border-in-up-9969448/
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Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami For Independent Muslim State in Myanmar’s Arakan
Apr 28, 2025
Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has proposed the establishment of an independent Muslim state in the Rohingya-majority areas of Myanmar's Arakan state.
The proposal was made during a meeting with a visiting delegation of the Communist Party of China (CPC) at a hotel in Dhaka yesterday, according to a press release issued by Jamaat.
The release said a three-member CPC delegation, led by Peng Xiubin of the International Department's South and Southeast Asian Affairs Bureau of the party's Central Committee, attended the meeting.
Nayeb-e-Ameer Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher led the Jamaat delegation during the meeting. Assistant Secretaries General Maulana Rafiqul Islam Khan and Ehsanul Mahbub Zubair, Executive Committee Member and Publicity and Media Secretary Motiur Rahman Akanda, Executive Committee Member and Ameer of Dhaka South city Nurul Islam Bulbul, and Executive Committee Member and Ameer of Dhaka North city Selim Uddin were also present.
Briefing reporters after the meeting, Taher said, "There are 11 to 12 lakh Rohingyas in Bangladesh, living in inhumane conditions. Providing them with food and clothing is not a solution. A permanent solution lies in repatriating and rehabilitating them in their homeland. Therefore, we have proposed establishing an 'Independent Arakan State' in the Rohingya-majority area."
Explaining why the proposal was made to China, the Jamaat leader said China could play a significant role as it has strong relations with Myanmar. The CPC delegation assured that they would convey the proposal to their government.
During the meeting, Jamaat leaders also urged the Chinese side to invest in the Teesta Barrage project, a second Padma Bridge, and a deep-sea port, Taher said, adding that regional security issues were also discussed.
He further mentioned that the CPC delegation expressed their willingness to invite Jamaat to an international conference in China. Jamaat, on its part, will soon invite a CPC delegation to visit Bangladesh.
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/jamaat-independent-muslim-state-myanmars-arakan-3881981
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Pakistan On Verge Of Split, Balochistan Will Be A New Nation: Goa CM
Apr 28, 2025,
PANAJI: Pakistan is on the verge of splitting into two as Balochistan makes its final push towards independence, Goa CM Pramod Sawant predicted to a gathering of BJP workers on Sunday. He also reassured them that PM Narendra Modi would "100% take revenge on Pakistan" for the April 22 Pahalgam attack.
Sawant said that unlike Pakistan, where the population of Hindus had been declining, India's Muslim community was growing.
"Muslims stayed back in India after Partition and we have since seen their population increasing. We have no issues with them. We are a secular country. Hindus, Muslims and Christians maintain communal harmony and stay together peacefully in the country." He suggested Pakistan's forced insularity had since paved the way for another split. "Bharat was one country. After it was divided, India and Pakistan were formed. In 1971, Pakistan was divided into two countries, and a new country Bangladesh was born. Again, a new country called Balochistan is likely to be born."
Balochistan, the largest and among the more backward provinces of Pakistan, has been at war with Islamabad, with Balochs claiming their territory was forcibly annexed.
Referring to the attacks on Kashmiri pandits in the 1990s that led to their exodus from J&K, the CM said it was only possible because politicians of that era tolerated terrorism. He said Congress was in govt for almost 60 years but never took a stand against terrorists.
"Think why they (Congress) are in this situation - because they have never worked in the interest of the country but for themselves. This is the first time the people of India have realised it," he said.
"Modi is not like them... he won't tolerate," Sawant said. "Govt has already asked Pakistani nationals to leave the country and it will not allow them to enter India till Pakistan stops terrorism." He said three Pakistani nationals who had been living in Goa on short-term visas had since left the country.
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/pakistan-on-verge-of-split-balochistan-will-be-a-new-nation-goa-cm-pramod-sawant/articleshow/120679852.cms
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Islamic Sect, Mahmuda: Nigeria Can’t Be A Junkyard Of Terrorist Groups
By Daily Trust
28 Apr 2025
FILE PHOTO: Some weapons recovered by troops from the terrorists
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The emergence of an Islamic sect, Mahmuda, with a queer doctrine, linked to Boko Haram (Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad – JAS) in Mali and Niger Republic demonstrates that Nigeria has become a soft ground for terrorist groups who cannot survive under intense security in other African countries. In reality, the sect is not totally new in Nigeria; it operated in Niger State a few years ago. Its members were sent packing due to their suspicious doctrine. But the complacency among our security agencies has given them the space to explore other softer locations in Kwara State and the vast Kainji Lake National Park (KLNP). Today, Mahmuda is responsible for kidnapping, violence, and killings in parts of Niger and Kwara states.
Though the Niger State Police Command has said it was “Working in collaboration with the military to dislodge this group,” it is shameful that the authorities had failed to clear the National Park of bandits and kidnappers who occupied the national asset in the last five years since bandits and kidnappers migrated from the North East to parts of the North West and North Central. The series of clearance operations being carried out now within the National Park ought to have been carried out long before now to prevent mischief makers and criminals from becoming entrenched in the vast forest. The Kainji Lake National Park (KLNP) in Niger State covers an area of approximately 5,341 square kilometers (2,062 square miles). The KLNP is almost double the size of Lagos State, which has a total landmass of approximately 3,345 square kilometres (1,292 square miles). With the size of the park and the barriers created by forestry, it is clear that the terrorists would have enough hiding space to escape from the military operation being carried out.
Mahmuda crept into North Central in a fashion similar to Lakurawa in Sokoto and Kebbi states. Pretending to be a moderate sect that provided security for the people, it operated in the Gongono Forest of Tangaza Local Government Area in Sokoto State between 2016 and 2018. Lakurawa projected itself as a self-defence force to protect communities against bandit attacks and gained some local support due to the perceived absence of effective government security. However, the group revealed its true violent nature, as a radical Islamist ideology and aimed to establish their own strict interpretation of Sharia law in the territories they controlled. Like Boko Haram, the sect is an anti-Nigerian State, increasingly opposed to regular state agencies and were working to establish themselves as the primary authority in their areas of operation. They are believed to be affiliated with the Islamic State (IS).
In the last 15 years, the failure of our intelligence agencies and the lack of proactive steps by our military have rendered Nigeria vulnerable for invasion by violent sects. Apart from Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) emerged as a faction of Boko Haram in 2016, pledging allegiance to the Islamic State. The ISWAP has also carried out numerous violent attacks and is believed to control territories in the Lake Chad region. There was also the Ansaru (Jama’atu Ansaril Muslimina Fi Biladis Sudan), another breakaway faction from Boko Haram in 2012. Unlike Boko Haram, which has often engaged in indiscriminate attacks, Ansaru initially focused more on high-profile targets, including Westerners and Nigerian security forces. Ansaru had ties to Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and aimed to establish a Salafi-Islamist state. They have reportedly resurged in recent times, particularly in the North West and North Central. They are linked to banditry and kidnappings.
Nigeria has been dealing with terrorism in piecemeal; there does not seem to be a policy framework and knowledge-based strategies to get rid of these destructive sects that sneak into the Nigerian territory. There seems to be no genuine preventive measures against the emergence of similar groups. It is clear that these groups enter into Nigeria with the objective of propagating religious doctrines, but Nigerians are already aware that those preoccupied with doctrines that are anti-State, discriminatory, full of hatred, and segregation usually turn violent. Our security operatives must look out for such groups and halt their activities, whether they are foreign or indigenous. The groups have no space to operate in many West African countries, but tend to have a large space in Nigeria to carry out their violent ideologies. The police and military must rise to this challenge. They must resist interventions by politicians who prevent them from carrying out their duties. Nigeria cannot continue to create space for all sorts of dangerous ideological groups who destabilise and destroy lives and properties in our towns and rural areas. Not again!
Source: dailytrust.com
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India
Jaipur Jama Masjid Trespass: Rajasthan BJP President Reprimands Balmukundacharya: Any Action Threatening Communal Harmony Will Not Be Tolerated
Apr 27, 2025
Jaipur: Rajasthan BJP president Madan Rathore Sunday reprimanded Hawa Mahal MLA Balmukundacharya, making it clear that any action threatening communal harmony will not be tolerated within the party. Rathore's remarks follow Balmukundacharya's controversial act of sticking posters and raising slogans ahead of the Friday prayers inside the Jama Masjid premises on April 25, which sparked tensions inside the walled city area.
"Those who deliberately provoke unrest have no place in BJP. Such acts are a betrayal of our principles and will be dealt with strictly. I instructed all party leaders and workers to uphold communal harmony and strictly avoid any behaviour that could damage the BJP's commitment to unity and public trust," Rathore said.
Rathore added that he instructed Balmukundacharya to prioritise peace and public sentiment. "He apologised and clarified his position immediately," he said.
Asserting that BJP "respects all religions and their places of worship", Rathore advised against politicising the incident. "Good governance cannot thrive without unity. We reminded our representatives that promoting peace and harmony is their foremost duty," he said, advising local MLAs Rafeek Khan and Amin Kagzi, both from Congress, to not play up the incident but work for peace.
The controversy erupted on April 25 when Balmukundacharya, along with his supporters, raised slogans and stepped onto the first stair of Jaipur's Jama Masjid during the Friday prayers. The act, seen as an intrusion during a sensitive time when prayers were being offered, led to tension in the area. A large number of Muslims gathered following the incident, leading to an atmosphere of unease. An FIR was registered against Balmukundacharya at the Jaipur police station based on complaints of disrupting religious peace.
The situation further escalated Saturday when Jaipur Police resorted to cane charging a group of protestors who demanded the arrest of the BJP MLA. The heavy-handed police action drew sharp criticism from various quarters.
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/jama-masjid-trespass-rathore-reprimands-balmukundacharya/articleshow/120674293.cms
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Nine BJP workers booked for abusing and assaulting Muslim hawkers in Mumbai’s Dadar
April 28, 2025
Nine BJP workers, including Akshata Tendulkar, the Mahim Assembly president, were booked by Mumbai Police for allegedly abusing and assaulting Muslim hawkers in the Dadar market area.
The Shivaji Park police registered the case based on a complaint filed by hawker Saurabh Mishra, who claimed the incident occurred on Thursday evening.
According to the complaint, Tendulkar and eight associates visited the Dadar market near Rangoli Store and began questioning hawkers about their religion. Mishra alleged that the group asked one of his workers, Sofiyan Shahid Ali, his name to confirm his religion, then proceeded to abuse and assault him. When Ali tried to flee, the group reportedly chased and attacked him again.
Tendulkar, in her defense, stated in a media interview that their visit to the market was to raise concerns about illegal Bangladeshi nationals allegedly operating in the area using forged documents. She claimed that despite repeated complaints to the police, no action had been taken against these individuals.
She further added that local residents were frustrated and questioning the lack of response from authorities. Tendulkar said they had gone to inspect where such individuals were working and to explore possible solutions.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 5) Ganesh Gawde confirmed that a case has been registered under sections 189(2), 191(2), 115(2), 351(2), and 352 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, as well as section 37(1) and 135 of the Maharashtra Police Act at Shivaji Park police station.
The police have initiated a probe into the incident, and investigations are ongoing to determine the facts and identify any violations of law committed during the incident. — With Agencies Inputs
Source: muslimmirror.com
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https://muslimmirror.com/nine-bjp-workers-booked-for-abusing-and-assaulting-muslim-hawkers-in-mumbais-dadar/
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UP Madrassa at Bahraich Asked To Teach Beyond Arabic, Persian As No Class 10 Student Can Write Name In English
28.04.25
A surprise inspection at a madrassa in this district has unveiled the sorry state of education there, with officials saying that none of its class 10 students could write their names in English.
Alarmed, authorities issued a warning and a notice to the madrassa and asked the seminary to focus on other subjects besides Arabic and Persian.
District Minority Welfare Officer Sanjay Mishra told reporters on Monday that a surprise inspection was conducted on Sunday at Jamia Gaziya Sayyadul Uloom, a recognised madrassa in the Badi Takiya area.
One of the teachers was found absent though it was not recorded in the attendance register, Misra said and also noted that students' attendance in Munshi, Maulvi, and Alim classes was significantly lower compared to the registered number.
"During the inspection, class 10 students were asked to write their name and that of the madrassa in English. But none could do it," he claimed and pointed out that the seminary's focus was largely limited to Arabic and Persian studies with little attention to other subjects.
This has led to an "alarming" academic situation, the officer said, adding, "Neglecting the broader education of students is playing with their future." The authorities have warned the madrassa of strict action if immediate steps are not taken towards improving the quality of education. Notices have been sent to the madrassa management and the absent teacher.
Bahraich district has 301 recognised madrassas. Additionally, a recent survey has identified 495 unrecognised madrassas in the district, according to officials.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/up-madrassa-asked-to-teach-beyond-arabic-persian-as-no-class-10-student-can-write-name-in-english/cid/2096450
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Mob violence erupts in Haryana’s Ambala, Muslim-owned shops vandalised and looted
April 27, 2025
On Saturday, members of Hindutva outfits stormed and vandalised several Muslim-owned shops in Ambala, Haryana, physically assaulting shopkeepers and hurling communal slurs. The violence follows a terror attack in Pahalgam, South Kashmir, which has sparked a wave of anger and unrest in several cities across BJP-ruled states, including Haryana.
Eyewitnesses in Ambala reported that five to six Muslim-owned establishments were attacked, with mobs throwing merchandise onto the streets, damaging shop interiors, and beating individuals present at the scene. Videos circulating on social media show small police teams present during the attacks but taking no action to prevent the violence, raising concerns over law enforcement inaction.
Particularly affected areas included Nelson Road and Rai Market, where mobs forced two shops to shut down, intensifying communal tensions in the city. One of the most prominent incidents involved the vandalism of Shama Biryani Shop, where the signboard and interior were destroyed. Nearby, a juice cart and a flower vendor’s stall—both reportedly owned by Muslims—were overturned and looted.
Chanting incendiary slogans, the mobs demanded retaliation against Pakistan, using the Pahalgam attack as justification for targeting local Muslim communities. Hindu organisations have publicly demanded strict action, but their actions on the ground have largely gone unchecked.
Despite the availability of clear video evidence showing vandalism and violence, police have downplayed the events, calling them minor. However, local residents report growing fear and insecurity, particularly among the Muslim community.
Authorities claim the situation is now under control, with increased police monitoring in sensitive areas. Still, the lack of immediate action against perpetrators and the apparent tolerance of communal aggression have drawn criticism from human rights groups and political observers. — With Agencies Inputs
Source: muslimmirror.com
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https://muslimmirror.com/mob-violence-erupts-in-haryanas-ambala-muslim-owned-shops-vandalised-and-looted/
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SC refuses to entertain fresh plea challenging Waqf (Amendment) Act
28 Apr 2025
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday refused to entertain a fresh plea challenging constitutional validity of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, saying it cannot entertain "hundreds" of petitions on the issue.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar asked the counsel for petitioner Syed Alo Akbar to file an intervention application in pending five cases which will be taken up on May 5 for passing interim orders.
“You withdraw this. We passed an order on April 17 saying only five petitions will be taken up for hearing,” the CJI said, adding, “It will be open for the petitioner to file an application in the pending petitions if so advised.”
On April 17, the bench decided to hear only five of the total number of pleas before it and titled the case: "In Re: Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025".
About 72 petitions, including those by AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi, All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), Anwar Basha former chairman Karnataka State Board of AUQAF represented by advocate Tariq Ahmed, Congress MPs Imran Pratapgarhi and Mohammad Jawed, were filed against the law.
While appointing three lawyers as the nodal counsel, the bench asked the advocates to decide among themselves who was going to argue.
The petitioners were allowed to file their rejoinders to the Centre's reply within five days of the service of the government's response.
"We clarify that the next hearing (May 5) will be for the preliminary objections and for an interim order," the bench said.
The Centre, on April 17, assured the bench that it will neither denotify waqf properties, including "waqf by user", nor make any appointments to the central waqf council and boards till May 5.
The assurance of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta came when he informed the bench headed by the CJI that the waqf law was passed by Parliament with "due deliberations" and it should not be stayed without hearing the government.
Later, the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs filed a preliminary 1,332-page affidavit defending the amended Waqf Act and opposed any "blanket stay" by the court on a "law having presumption of constitutionality passed by Parliament".
The ministry urged the top court to dismiss the pleas challenging the validity of the law, pointing out a "mischievous false narrative" surrounding certain provisions.
The Centre recently notified the Act, which got the assent of President Droupadi Murmu on April 5 after its passage from Parliament following heated debates in both houses.
The bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha with 128 members voting in favour and 95 opposing it.
It was cleared by the Lok Sabha with 288 members supporting it and 232 against it.
Source: newindianexpress.com
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https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2025/Apr/28/sc-refuses-to-entertain-fresh-plea-challenging-waqf-amendment-act
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'You are not just half an hour, but half a century behind': Owaisi mocks Pakistan
Apr 28, 2025
NEW DELHI: AIMIM leader Asaduddin mocked Pakistan amid heightened tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad. Criticising Pakistan’s repeated ceasefire violations and its rhetoric following the Pahalgam terror attack, Owaisi said, "To those sitting in Pakistan and saying rubbish you are half hour behind India, but they are not just half an hour behind they are half a century behind. Your country's budget is not even equal to our military budget.”
He continued his sharp rebuke, pointing to Pakistan's frequent boasts about its nuclear capability.
"Pakistan always talks about being a nuclear power; they need to remember that if they enter a country and kill innocent people, that country will not sit quietly. No matter the government, by killing our people on our land, and targeting them based on religion, what 'deen' are you talking about?... You have acted like ISIS," he said while addressing a public meeting in Parbhani, Maharashtra.
Owaisi further claimed that Pakistan has for a long time been training terrorists against India and said "LeT (Lashkar-e-Taiba) is the illegitimate child of the Pakistan government."
Owaisi’s comments come as Pakistan continues its unprovoked ceasefire violations across the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. Army officials reported that Pakistani troops fired small arms into Kupwara and Poonch districts for the fourth consecutive night, as per PTI. A defence spokesperson confirmed that Indian troops responded "swiftly and effectively," and no casualties were reported.
The tensions follow a devastating terrorist attack on April 22 in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, where terrorists open fired on tourists near Baisaran Meadow, killing 26 people, including one Nepalese national. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the nation through his 'Mann Ki Baat' programme, condemned the attack, saying it had left every citizen heartbroken and seething with anger. He assured the families that those responsible would face the harshest action.
Security measures across India have been intensified, with marine patrols and vehicle checks increased at strategic locations such as Gujarat’s Porbandar port. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) also met, strongly condemning the attack. In response, India has decided to withdraw its Defence, Navy, and Air Advisors from the High Commission in Islamabad and cut staff strength significantly by May 1.
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/you-are-not-just-half-an-hour-but-half-a-century-behind-owaisi-mocks-pakistan/articleshow/120683820.cms
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Unknown gunmen kill PoK militant’s kin in Kashmir amid post-Pahalgam attack unrest
Muzaffar Raina
28.04.25
Unknown gunmen shot dead a PoK-based militant’s brother, who had no known links to militancy, at a time when the authorities have been accused of targeting the rebels’ family members by blasting their homes as reprisal for the Pahalgam massacre.
Hours after Saturday night’s shooting of Ghulam Mohammad Magrey at his home in Kupwara, chief minister Omar Abdullah said “misplaced actions that alienate people” should be avoided.
He appeared to be alluding to the serial explosions at the homes of militants’ families, which on Sunday prompted protests from several Kashmiri politicians although the forces have not owned responsibility for the blasts.
“After the Pahalgam terror attack, there must be a decisive fight against terrorism and its origin,” Omar said on X.
“People of Kashmir have come out openly against terrorism and the murder of innocent people, they did this freely & spontaneously. It’s time to build on this support and avoid any misplaced action that alienates people.”
He added: “Punish the guilty, show them no mercy but don’t let innocent people become collateral damage.”
Langate MLA Sheikh Khursheed, who was camping in Magrey’s village of Kandi Khas, said unknown gunmen had shot the 44-year-old, “the lone caregiver for his elderly and blind mother”.
Magrey was shot in the abdomen inside his ramshackle home. He died of his wounds a few hours later, past midnight.
Khursheed said nobody from the government had visited Magrey’s home after the shooting. Police have registered a case and begun investigations.
Officers said Magrey’s brother, Ghulam Mohideen Magrey, was now based in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, having crossed over from Jammu and Kashmir. He is believed to be a Lashkar-e-Toiba operative.
Magrey’s is the second murder of a brother of any militant since the Pahalgam attack on tourists. The brother of a jailed Lashkar militant was killed on Thursday in Bandipora, with local police alleging a fake encounter.
Khursheed termed Magrey’s murder a terrorist act similar to the Pahalgam killings and linked it to the post-Pahalgam developments — an allusion to the blasts destroying the homes of militants’ families. But he attributed it to “unknown gunmen”, refraining from directly blaming the forces.
“After what happened in Pahalgam, everybody has adopted silence. Why?” Khursheed asked.
“We condemn the Pahalgam killings. That was a terrorist act. I was the first to protest against those killings. But after that you can see what kind of situation is unfolding here. People are being killed.”
Hundreds have been detained in Kashmir following the Pahalgam attack that killed 25 tourists and a local ponywallah.
The police said two “hardcore” overground workers — Tahir Ahmad Kumar of Pakerpora and Shabir Ahmad Ganai of Karpora — had been detained under the Public Safety Act in Budgam district of central Kashmir. The PSA allows detention without charges or trial for up to two years.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/unknown-gunmen-kill-pok-militants-kin-in-kashmir-amid-post-pahalgam-attack-unrest-prnt/cid/2096375
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Doubt if terrorists asked victims their religion, says excise minister Timmapur
Apr 27, 2025
Bagalkot: Excise minister RB Timmapur said there is "no proper information" on whether terrorists singled out Hindus to kill them during the attack in Pahalgam. Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Timmapur said that even if terrorists did ask tourists their religion before shooting them dead, one should not try and make political profit from it.
"The whole nation is saddened by the attack caused after an intelligence failure by the BJP govt," he said. "The Kargil war and Pulwama attack were also results of such intelligence failures. But now it's claimed that terrorists checked the religion of their victims. If it is true, how could a Muslim person also die in the attack? It's just BJP's conspiracy of politicising deaths. If it continues, we don't know where we will end up."
When pointed out that Pallavi, wife of victim Manjunath Rao from Shivamogga, had said that her husband was asked his religion before he was shot dead, Timmapur said "she might not have been in the best frame of mind" when she said that.
"One should also note that many Muslims saved Hindus in the incident. Terrorists have no religion; they kill innocents, whether they are Muslims or Hindus," he said.
However, on Sunday, Timmapur appeared to peddle back on his remarks, saying in a statement: "This is not merely an act of terrorism but a heinous act targeting people based on their religion. Such religious profiling goes against our secular constitutional values. In this tragic time, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the martyrs. They are not alone—we all stand united with them."
He further said, "However, at this time we must also ask some critical questions. It is evident that intelligence information, which could have provided a warning of this attack, was missed. The decision to open Baisaran Valley to tourists without adequate security has given terrorists an opportunity. The Union govt must take full responsibility for this and conduct a thorough investigation. Nonetheless, now is not the time for politics; our fight against terrorism must be united. We fully support the Union govt in taking cautious, immediate, and effective actions against those responsible for this act. We need a powerful response, not just symbolism. Such cruel acts should not ignite divisions in our nation's diversity and unity. We must stand together as Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, and people of all religions to rid this country of violence and protect it with coexistence".
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/doubt-if-terrorists-asked-victims-their-religion-says-excise-minister-timmapur/articleshow/120672918.cms
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Two arrested for faking 'love jihad' case in UP to extort money; woman still on the run
27.04.25
Police have arrested two individuals here for allegedly falsely implicating a man in a 'love jihad' case and extorting over Rs 1 lakh from him, officials said.
The incident occurred in the Ladhowala locality under Kotwali police station, where a woman alleged that she was raped and forcibly converted to another religion by a man posing as Hindu, who also made a video on the pretense of marriage.
Circle Officer Raju Kumar told reporters that the investigation revealed that the 'love jihad' case was fabricated.
"Accused Shahnawaz, Sadakat, and the woman were found to be involved in a conspiracy to extort money, totaling over Rs 1 lakh, from accused Babar alias Sonu," said the CO.
Police are currently searching for the woman who filed the false FIR. A case was registered against Babar alias Sonu on April 21, based on the woman's complaint, alleging rape, religious conversion, and the making of a video under pretense of marriage.
"The investigation uncovered that the false case was lodged in collusion with Shahnawaz and Sadakat, resulting in the extraction of Rs 1,25,000 from Babar alias Sonu. Shahnawaz and Sadakat were arrested on Saturday, and Rs 25,000 has been recovered from them. The woman remains at large," said the CO.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/two-arrested-for-faking-love-jihad-case-in-up-to-extort-money-woman-still-on-the-run/cid/2096302
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South Asia
Ex-IGP Mamun, Maj Gen Ziaul Ahsan taken to ICT
Apr 28, 2025
Former inspector general of police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, Maj Gen (forced retired) Ziaul Ahsan, and 11 officers were brought to the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) today over allegations of crimes against humanity during the July mass uprising.
The accused, including Jubo League leader Rabiul Alam and 10 former police officials, were transported to the court from Kashimpur and Keraniganj central jails between 10:00am and 10:30am.
The investigation agency of ICT is scheduled to submit its probe report today in the cases.
All the accused have been taken into the tribunal's custody in handcuffs and wearing helmets.
The police officials include Abdullahel Kafi, a former additional superintendent of police; Mohammad Jasim Uddin Mollah, former deputy commissioner of Mirpur; Mohammad Shahidul Islam, former additional superintendent of police; Abul Hasan, former officer-in-charge (OC) of Jatrabari Police Station; Mohammad Mazharul Haque, former officer-in-charge of Gulshan Police Station; and Arafat Hossain, former detective branch (DB) inspector and others.
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/crime-justice/news/ex-igp-mamun-maj-gen-ziaul-ahsan-taken-ict-3882001
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Afghan Businessman to Invest $12 Million in Iron Mine Extraction in Panjshir Province
2025-04-27
PANJSHIR (BNA): An Afghan businessman is set to invest $12 million in the extraction of iron mines located in the Paryan district of Panjshir province.
Mawlavi Mohammad Qasim Amiri, the head of Mines and Petroleum in Panjshir, reported the investment to Bakhtar News Agency.
The contract for the project has received approval from the Deputy Prime Minister’s office for Economic Affairs. Amiri emphasized the positive impact this initiative will have on the local economy, stating that it will create approximately 500 employment opportunities for residents.
The investment marks a significant step towards the development of Afghanistan’s mining sector and aims to harness the country’s rich natural resources for economic growth.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/afghan-businessman-to-invest-12-million-in-iron-mine-extraction-in-panjshir-province/
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Mawlavi Abdul Salam Hanafi Encourages Students at Dar-ul Uloom Seminary
2025-04-27
JAWZJAN(BNA): In a meeting on Saturday, Mawlavi Abdul Salam Hanafi, Deputy Prime Minister for Administrative Affairs, visited the Dar-ul Uloom Seminary in Jawzjan province, where he addressed students about the importance of utilizing their time and opportunities effectively.
During his speech, Mawlavi Hanafi emphasized that students should prioritize their studies to prepare themselves for future service to society. He cautioned that neglecting their education today could lead to regrets tomorrow, urging them to make the most of their academic journey.
Mufti Abdul Hafiz Qureshi, head of the Dar-ul Uloom Seminary, warmly welcomed the Deputy Prime Minister and his delegation. He expressed gratitude for their visit, highlighting the significance of such interactions between honorable figures and the academic community as a continuation of the legacy of pious predecessors.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/mawlavi-abdul-salam-hanafi-encourages-students-at-dar-ul-uloom-seminary/
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Reforms agreed through dialogue must be implemented by interim govt: Nur
Apr 28, 2025
Gono Odhikar Parishad President Nurul Haque Nur today said the reform proposals finalised through dialogue, no matter what, must be implemented by the current interim government.
"At any cost, the reforms agreed upon through discussions must be implemented under this government," he said while delivering his opening speech during a dialogue with the National Consensus Commission at the LD Hall of the Jatiya Sangsad Complex.
A nine-member delegation of Gono Odhikar Parishad, led by Nur, joined the discussion that began at 10:15am with National Consensus Commission Vice Chairman Prof Ali Riaz in the chair.
Nur said all parties must remain committed and strongly pursue the implementation of effective reforms in the greater interest of the country and the people.
"In the case of reforms, national interest and the country should be given priority over personal benefits or the interests of any party or group. This is our appeal to the commission," he added.
He expressed the hope that the ongoing dialogue with the National Consensus Commission would mark an important chapter in Bangladesh's future progress.
Nur said the country's independence, sovereignty and democracy had been trampled over the past 16 years.
"To ensure that no future ruler can follow such a path and put the country at risk by oppressing citizens, we want to implement effective reforms through the National Consensus Commission," he said.
Consensus commission members Safar Raj Hossain, Justice Emdadul Haque, Dr Badiul Alam Majumdar and Dr Iftekharuzzaman were present at the discussion moderated by Chief Adviser's Special Assistant Monir Haider.
Gono Odhikar Parishad agreed with 127 of the 166 proposals made by the Commission, partially agreed with 23, and disagreed with 15.
On March 20 last, the consensus commission opened a series of talks with political parties to forge a national consensus on state reform initiatives.
The commission has already held discussions with 19 political parties, including BNP, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, and the National Citizen Party.
Formed on February 15, 2025, under the leadership of Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, the commission was tasked with shaping a unified national stance on critical reforms.
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/politics/news/reforms-agreed-through-dialogue-must-be-implemented-interim-govt-nur-3882096
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IEA saddened by deadly explosion in Iran’s Bandar Abbas
April 28, 2025
KABUL: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan expressed its deepest sorrow and solidarity over the devastating explosion in the city of Bandar Abbas of Iran, which resulted in hundreds of casualties, including martyrs and wounded.
The statement conveyed the deepest condolences and unwavering support of the Afghan government and nation to the people and government of Iran during this tragic incident, affirming Afghanistan’s complete sympathy, solidarity, and unity with Iran in the face of this sorrowful event.
The Islamic Emirate emphasized its shared grief with the Iranian nation and reiterated its stance of standing alongside the bereaved families and the Islamic Republic of Iran in this time of immense loss.
Reports from Iranian media indicated that 18 individuals lost their lives and over 700 sustained injuries in the explosion that occurred in Bandar Abbas on Saturday.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/iea-saddened-by-deadly-explosion-in-irans-bandar-abbas/
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Pakistan
54 terrorists killed as infiltration attempt thwarted in KP: ISPR
April 27, 2025
Security forces killed 54 terrorists attempting to infiltrate through the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s North Waziristan district, the military’s media wing said in a statement on Sunday.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), this is the highest-ever number of khwarij killed by security forces in a single engagement throughout the campaign against terrorism.
Pakistan has witnessed an uptick in terror activities over the past year, especially in KP and Balochistan, after the proscribed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022.
“On night 25/26 and 26/27 April 2025, [the] movement of a large group of khwarij, who were trying to infiltrate through Pakistan-Afghanistan border, was detected by the security forces in [the] general area [of] Hassan Khel, North Waziristan District.
“[Our] own troops effectively engaged and thwarted their attempt to infiltrate. As a result of precise and skilful engagement, all fifty-four khawarij have been sent to hell,” the statement added.
The ISPR added that a large cache of weapons, ammunition and explosives was also recovered from the slain khawarij, a term the state uses to refer to terrorists.
“Intelligence reports indicate that this group of khawarij was specifically infiltrating on [the] behest of their ‘foreign masters’ to undertake high-profile terrorist activities inside Pakistan”, the ISPR statement read.
Referring to India’s “baseless accusations against Pakistan”, it added that such actions by Fitna al Khwarij — a term the state uses to refer to the banned TTP — “clearly implies on whose cues FAK (Fitna al Khwarij) is operating”.
“Such actions amount to treason and betrayal against the state and its citizens,” said the press release.
Mentioning the National Security Council meeting that took place earlier this week to discuss a response to India downgrading diplomatic ties with Pakistan, including the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, the ISPR highlighted how “distracting Pakistan’s security forces from their focus on the war against terror seems to be the strategic intent of India to allow a breathing space to FAK which is reeling from the onslaught of our Armed Forces resolute offensive against them”.
The ISPR commended “the exceptional professionalism, vigilance, [and] preparedness” demonstrated by security forces in preventing a “potential catastrophe”.
It asserted that the security forces of Pakistan “remain resolute and unwavering in their commitment to defend the nation’s frontiers and to eradicate the menace of terrorism.”
“Such bold and decisive actions further strengthen our collective resolve and underscore that Pakistan is winning the war against terrorism while achieving significant successes against terrorists”, the press release said.
On Saturday, the ISPR said that two soldiers were martyred and 15 terrorists killed in three separate engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
A statement said the intelligence-based operations (IBO) were conducted on Friday and Saturday, and that eight terrorists were “sent to hell” after troops engaged them at their location during an IBO in Karak district.
Four more were killed by the security forces in another IBO in North Waziristan district, the military’s media wing stated. It added that troops “successfully neutralised” three more terrorists in another encounter in the South Waziristan district’s general area of Gomal Zam.
“However, during the intense fire exchange, two brave sons of soil, Lance Naik Usman Mohmand (age: 28 years, resident of Charsadda district) and Sepoy Imran Khan (age: 26 years, resident of Kurram district) having fought gallantly, paid the ultimate sacrifice and embraced martyrdom,” the ISPR said.
Militant violence and security operations intensified in March, with the number of militant attacks surpassing 100 for the first time since November 2014, according to a report by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies.
Pakistan ranked second in the Global Terrorism Index 2025, with the number of deaths in terrorist attacks rising by 45 per cent over the past year to 1,081.
Source: dawn.com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1906939/54-terrorists-killed-as-infiltration-attempt-thwarted-in-kp-ispr
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India behind attack on Pakistani High Commission in London: info minister
April 27, 2025
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on Sunday alleged that India was responsible for an attack on the Pakistan High Commission in London, amid raised tensions between both nuclear-armed nations.
According to The Express Tribune, the high commission was vandalised by a group of Indian protesters who threw saffron-coloured paint on the building’s exterior and smashed windows. It said that hundreds of Indian protesters were gathered outside the Pakistani mission, while two individuals were arrested for their alleged involvement in the attack.
Addressing a press briefing for international media outlets about the Pahalgam incident in Islamabad today, Tarar accused India of using its “extremist ideology” to encourage people to attack Pakistan’s foreign missions.
“A very unfortunate incident took place in London, our high commission was attacked twice, and stones were thrown,” Tarar said. “The people who are responsible are being sponsored by Indian agencies and the Indian state.”
The minister said that suspects had been arrested by London’s Metropolitan Police, but highlighted that the incident was a product of the “kind of mindset that the Indian state has”.
He did not specify how many people had been arrested or give any further details about the attack.
“If you can kill people internationally in Canada and the US, then nothing will stop you from attacking a few foreign missions,” he said, referring to transnational assassinations of Sikh leaders.
During the briefing, Tarar highlighted weaknesses in India’s account of the Pahalgam attack, adding that they “jumped to conclusions” about Pakistan’s involvement.
“This Pahalgam episode to me seems like a distraction,” Tarar said, adding that Pakistan was seeing success against terrorists. “Pahalgam is more than 150 kilometres away from the Line of Control.
“Do you have credible evidence? Do you have any argument that is substantiated by proof?” he asked. “Why is it that the first information report … was registered in the Pahalgam police station within 10 minutes of the incident?”
Tarar explained that for an FIR to be lodged, officials must visit the area, collect evidence, conduct a complete scan of the scene, carry out forensic analysis, and account for the usual time lag between the occurrence and the registration of the report.
“Why is it that right after 10 minutes an FIR is registered and the blame is put on Pakistan?” he asked. “The reason that we have called for an independent, impartial and transparent inquiry is because our hands are clean. I think our eastern neighbour was quick to jump to conclusions.”
The minister echoed allegations by other Pakistani leaders that India was funding terrorist activities within Pakistan.
“Why was there hesitation on the part of our eastern neighbour to issue a simple statement of condemnation condemning the episode?” he asked, speaking about the attack on the Jaffar Express last month.
“Why is it that whenever we face terrorism and we counter terrorists and blood is spilt … why is it that the eastern neighbour always celebrates?
“There is a reason behind that … India is involved in state-sponsored terrorism.
“Had we not apprehended Kulbushan Jadhav, had we not obtained incriminating and irrefutable evidence against him, I would not have been making this argument today,” he said, referring to the Indian spy caught in Pakistan in 2016.
The April 22 attack in Pahalgam killed 26 people, mostly tourists, and is one of the deadliest armed attacks in the disputed Himalayan region since the year 2000. Responsibility for the attack was allegedly claimed by the hitherto unknown The Resistance Front (TRF).
Following the attack, the nuclear-armed nations have unleashed a raft of measures against each other, with India unilaterally suspending the critical Indus Waters Treaty and Pakistan retaliating by threatening to put the Simla Agreement in abeyance and closing its airspace for Indian flights.
India has implied cross-border linkages of the attackers, while Pakistan strongly denied any involvement.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday said Pakistan was open to any “neutral and transparent” investigation into the Pahalgam attack, criticising India for continuing with a “pattern of exploitation, levelling baseless allegations and false accusations without credible investigation or verifiable evidence”.
“Our valiant armed forces remain fully capable and prepared to defend the country’s sovereignty and its territorial integrity against any misadventures, as clearly demonstrated by our measured yet resolute response to India’s reckless incursion in February 2019,” he added, referring to ‘Operation Swift Retort’.
Source: dawn.com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1906941/india-behind-attack-on-pakistani-high-commission-in-london-info-minister
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Road to Mecca Project: Immigration of thousands of pilgrims to be done in Pakistan
April 27, 2025
ISLAMABAD: Under the “Road to Mecca” project, the immigration process for 50,500 Pakistani Hajj pilgrims will be completed in Pakistan, sparing them the lengthy and tedious process in Saudi Arabia.
This initiative is expected to make the Hajj journey more convenient and hassle-free for Pakistani pilgrims.
A 45-member Saudi delegation has arrived in Pakistan to review the arrangements for this project. Officials of the Ministry of Religious Affairs gave a grand welcome to the delegation at the Islamabad International Airport.
Under the Road to Mecca project, 28,000 pilgrims will leave for Saudi Arabia from Islamabad International Airport and 21,000 from Karachi International Airport to perform Hajj.
According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, 100 special Hajj flights will be operated from Islamabad and 80 from Karachi. For this purpose, special counters are also being set up at the airports of both cities, where all the immigration procedures of the pilgrims will be completed.
According to a spokesperson for the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the “Road to Mecca” project will prove to be an extraordinary facility for Pakistani pilgrims. This initiative will provide pilgrims with the opportunity to perform their Hajj rituals immediately after arriving in Saudi Arabia without going through any immigration stage.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has said that all necessary steps have been completed to provide the best facilities to Pakistani pilgrims, and full preparations have been made to make the Hajj Operation 2025 a success.
Source: dailyausaf.com
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https://dailyausaf.com/en/pakistan/road-to-mecca-project-immigration-of-thousands-of-pilgrims-to-be-done-in-pakistan/
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Two security men martyred in Pasni blast
Saleem Shahid
April 28, 2025
QUETTA: Two security personnel were martyred and a civilian sustained injuries in a bomb attack on a car in the coastal town of Pasni, while Police Lines in Dhadar of Kachhi district and a livestock office in Sibi town came under grenade attacks on Sunday.
Officials said that an improvised explosive device was used to target a car at Muskan Chowk of Pishin town of Gwadar district late night, resulting in the killing two security personnel travelling in the car while another man was injured.
“The car was blown up and badly damaged in the powerful blast, causing panic among the people of Pasni town,” a senior police officer said, adding that soon after the blast the personnel of law enforcement agencies rushed to the site and shifted the bodies and injured to the district hospital.
The deceased were identified as Nawab Salman, a resident of Pasni, and Muhammad Nawaz, a resident of Khushab district of Punjab.
Also, some armed men hurled hand grenades at the Police Lines area of Dhahar in Kacchi district and at a livestock office in Sibi. However, no loss of life was reported in the grenade attacks.
Clash over land dispute
Meanwhile, three Bugti tribesmen were killed and two others injured in an armed clash in the Sui area of Dera Bugti over land dispute.
Levies officials said two groups of the Bugti tribe took arms against each other in the Jani Beeri area of Sui tehsil and an exchange of fire left three people dead and two others injured.
Source: dawn.com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1907073/two-security-men-martyred-in-pasni-blast
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China watching South Asia situation closely, FM Wang tells Dar
April 28, 2025
• Lammy urges de-escalation; PM thanks Pezeshkian for offer to intercede
• Kh Asif calls for int’l probe
• No official word on Nawaz-Shehbaz huddle
ISLAMABAD: The country’s political leadership continued to engage with foreign capitals over the weekend to highlight India’s attempts to cloak its provocative actions and false accusations in the wake of the Pahalgam attack.
In separate calls with leaders from China, UK and Iran, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy PM Ishaq Dar drew attention to the “baseless propaganda and unilateral measures” taken by New Delhi, including the decision to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, which is a clear violation of the country’s international obligations.
Mr Dar, who also hold the foreign affairs portfolio, spoke to his counterparts from the UK and China and stressed Islamabad’s unwavering resolve to defend its national interests, while continuing to promote peace and stability in the region.
According to the Xinhua news agency, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told Mr Dar that Beijing was paying close attention to the evolving situation between Pakistan and India.
He reaffirmed China’s consistent support for Pakistan’s firm counterterrorism efforts.
“As an ironclad friend and an all-weather strategic cooperative partner, China fully understands Pakistan’s legitimate security concerns and supports Pakistan in safeguarding its sovereignty and security interests,” Xinhua quoted Wang as saying.
“China advocates for a swift and fair investigation and believes that conflict does not serve the fundamental interests of either India or Pakistan, nor does it benefit regional peace and stability,” Wang noted.
The Chinese foreign minister, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China’s Central committee, hoped that both sides would remain restrained, move toward each other, and work together to de-escalate the situation.
In a separate call with the UK foreign secretary, Mr Dar briefed David Lammy on “India’s false accusations, baseless propaganda, and unilateral measures”, while reiterating Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to promote peace and stability in the region.
According to a Foreign Office readout of the call, the UK foreign secretary emphasised the importance of de-escalating the situation through dialogue and peaceful resolution of issues.
Appreciating these efforts, Mr Dar conveyed Pakistan’s readiness to participate in any independent and transparent investigation to ascertain the facts.
Both leaders agreed to maintain active contact regarding the evolving situation.
Call for int’l commission
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif called on India to stop levelling baseless allegations against Pakistan.
Speaking to the media in Sialkot, he said the UN Security Council and key regional powers should investigate the Pahalgam incident, warning that if two nuclear powers collided, world peace would also be destroyed.
Calling for the formation of an international commission to investigate the incident, he said that the UN should consider including China, Russia, Iran and Arab countries in the body. Who could better understand the issue than the UK, he said, referring to the region’s colonial past.
He accused Indian PM Narendra Modi of staging a political drama to save his skin, just as he had done after the Pulwama incident in 2019.
Call with Iranian president
Speaking to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday, the prime minister shared Pakistan’s position on India’s provocative actions, adding that Pakistan desired peace in the region and would welcome it if Iran also wanted to play a role in this regard.
During their call, the two leaders exchanged views on recent developments in the region, a PM Office statement said. Both also extended invitations to each other to visit their respective countries.
Referring to India’s unilateral decision on the Indus Water Treaty, PM Shehbaz said the use of water as a weapon was unacceptable and Pakistan would defend its right at all costs.
The PM said that Pakistan condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, reaffirming that the country had no linkage, either direct or indirect, with the Pahalgam attack, adding that Islamabad was ready for a neutral investigation into the incident.
PM Shehbaz also conveyed Pakistan’s condolences on the loss of precious lives in the tragic explosion at Bandar Abbas, which claimed dozens of the lives and left more than 500 people injured.
Pakistan stood with the brotherly people of Iran at this difficult hour and would extend all possible assistance, the PM said.
Separately, media reports suggested that PM Shehbaz Sharif had met his elder brother, PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif, at Jati Umrah on Sunday to brief him on the Pahalgam attack and its aftermath.
However, there was no official word from the PM Office or PML-N circles in this regard.
Source: dawn.com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1906958/china-watching-south-asia-situation-closely-fm-wang-tells-dar
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Violence ensues as police attempt to move protesters from roads in Karachi, Kandhkot
Waseem Shamsi | Imtiaz Ali
April 28, 2025
• Police van torched in Gulshan-i-Hadeed after law-enforcers dislodge protesters’ camp
• Attempts to clear road for Punjab-bound heavy vehicles near Kandhkot Bypass unsuccessful
• Home minister urges lawyers to remain peaceful
• Legal fraternity vows to continue sit-ins across province
KARACHI / SUKKUR: Over a dozen people received injuries when police attempted to dislodge camps set up by lawyers in protest against the canals project in Karachi and Kandhkot, on Sunday.
Lawyers are staging sit-ins at Babarloi in Khairpur and Gulshan-i-Hadeed in Karachi for the past several days against the plan to construct six canals on the Indus River.
The protests have caused many problems for road users and transporters as thousands of vehicles have been stuck for days in several areas of the province due to closure of roads.
While the protest camp set up in the metropolis was dismantled by police in the early hours, activists and lawyers managed to hold their ground later in the day.
The legal fraternity and the Save Indus River Movement strongly condemned the police action against the protesters and announced that the sit-ins over the controversial canals project will continue at all places including Babarloi, Khairpur.
Home Minister Zia Lanjar said that the Sindh government recognises the right to peaceful protest. He urged lawyers to remain peaceful and assured them that no action would be taken against those protesting peacefully.
Eight hurt in Karachi
In Karachi, eight people, including two policemen and a lawyer, were injured and a police vehicle was set on fire in Gulshan-i-Hadeed on Sunday after a police party clashed with members of the legal fraternity in order to end their five-day sit-in against the canals project, according to officials and witnesses.
A participant in the Karachi sit-in said that early in the morning, when only a few protesters had gathered on the road linking the National Highway with the Superhighway near Gulshan-i-Hadeed, the police took the action, resulting in injuries to one lawyer and detention of several protesters.
“The police removed the tents set up for the sit-in and cleared the road for vehicular traffic. However, lawyers and political workers mobilised their supporters through social media, urging them to join the protest,” he said.
“Over 200 protesters resumed the sit-in, blocking the link road again,” he added.
Sources said that some lawyers visited the Steel Town police station and met Malir SSP Kashif Abbasi, who informed them that the government had decided to open the highways and roads and remove the protesters.
DIG-East Usman Ghani told Dawn: “The police were removing tents blocking the main road in Gulshan-i-Hadeed for the past several days when they came under an attack by a lawyer, injuring a policeman.”
The police retaliated in which the attacker was injured.
The officer added that the police “dislodged the tents from the road and registered an FIR against the violent members of the crowd”.
He said that the police and Rangers were deployed at the site. However, later on the police also came under stone pelting and baton charge by a mob, the officer claimed. Responding to a question, DIG Ghani confirmed that six protesters had been detained, who were injured. “We sent them to hospital for treatment.”
He clarified that no one was in police custody, but an FIR was being registered against them.
Meanwhile, Steel Town SHO Allan Khan Abbasi told Dawn: “One policeman was injured in the morning while another was injured in the afternoon. “A police mobile was torched by the mob,” he claimed.
Rescue 1122 spokesperson Hassaan Khan told Dawn that when the riot police attempted to disperse the protesters, they set the police mobile alight.
“It was completely destroyed by the time firefighters reached the scene,” Hassan said. “The remains of the torched vehicle were also destroyed by the mob.”
Action in Kandhkot
Several protesters fainted when police fired shots and tear gas at protesters who had blocked the road at the Gola-Mor (turning) along Kandhkot Bypass on Sunday morning.
The police took the action to clear the road after long queues of Punjab-bound heavy vehicles were formed on the highway.
According to detail, the sit-in organised by the Lawyers’ Alliance and the All Parties Movement against the construction of the canals continued on the ninth day.
Late in the night, a police party fired shots and used tear gas to disperse the protesters.
Four protesters, including the district bar president and leader of the sit-in Abdul Ghani Bijarani fainted due to heavy tear-gas shelling. However, the police left the area when lawyers and nationalists’ parties workers did not clear the road and continued the sit-in.
When the news spread that the police were preparing to take another action against the protesters, a large number of nationalist parties’ workers and activists, carrying clubs and sticks, joined the protect sit-in.
Source: dawn.com
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Africa
Edo imam indicts security agency of allegedly freeing arrested Boko Haram suspect
April 27, 2025
By Enahoro Iyemefokhai
The Chief Imam of Benin, Sheikh Abdul-Fattah Enabulele, has indicted a security agency in the state for releasing a suspected Boko Haram member who was arrested on the premises of the Benin Central Mosque, located on Igun Street in the state capital, in the past.
DAILY POST reports that the Chief Imam made the accusation at a stakeholders’ forum in Benin City, Edo State, during the launch of the Nigeria Police Force School Protection Squad, SPS, at the weekend, presided over by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
Enabulele stated that, were it not for his strong mind and his firm belief in the protection of Allah, he might have fled or relocated from Benin City.
According to him: “A few years ago, I just wanted to give an example, we have an interactive session with a security agency, I would not want to mention the name here, they told us that we should also help them to police the environment in our own area.
“So, there was a day I was in the mosque with some of my Muslim brothers at the Benin Central Mosque at Igun street. We sat down discussing. As we were discussing, we saw a strange face and we invited him. We asked him who he was looking for and where he came from?
“After much questioning, we discovered that he was one of those that was driven out of Gwoza in Borno State. He ran away and relocated to Edo State, Benin City. So, we went with him and saw a Bagco bag he brought. We dragged the Bagco bag outside of the Mosque and we opened it, and we saw so many instruments, and dangerous weapons that they use in manufacturing bombs and others things.
“So, we were still discussing with him, when I put a phone call to one of the commanders of the security agency, (name withheld). We called him and he sent his boys to come and pick him. They picked him up but after about two weeks later or thereabouts we saw the same man again walking majestically around the mosque.
“I was surprised, and if not that I believed in the God I serve, I would have even relocated or ran away from Benin.
“The man was full of confidence and was speaking his language that said “I don come back.” You can imagine that, a man that was arrested with dangerous weapons and suddenly he was released.
“So, it is just the same scenario that is allegedly playing out every day and everywhere. That is why sometimes you see people taking laws into their hands by indulging in jungle justice. Though, I am not in support of it or pray for it.
“But in a situation where somebody is found to have committed a very grievous offence, and you informed the security agency to come and arrest him, and at the end of it all, the man is just left to go, there will be problems everywhere.”
The Chief Imam then appealed to the Inspector General of Police: “When you apprehend a criminal you don’t need to look at the tribe of the criminal, where he comes from, or the religion he belongs to. A criminal is a criminal and he should be treated as a criminal. When we do this, we build trust and we build confidence.”
Imam Enabulele further called upon politicians and traditional rulers to allow the police to carry out their duties without interference.
He noted that granting the police breathing space would enable them to perform their responsibilities more effectively and successfully combat crimes and criminality across the country.
The Muslim cleric also appealed to Nigerians, especially politicians and those in authority who constantly require the services of the police, to show appreciation to them, stressing that such gestures would boost their morale.
Source: dailypost.ng
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Tinubu Is Driving Nigeria To One Party State – Sani
April 28, 2025
By Udeze Ekene
Former Vice President Namadi Sambo’s former spokesman, Umar Sani, has alleged that President Bola Tinubu is perfecting state capture and driving Nigeria to a one-party state.
Naija News reports that Sani said the President’s policies from the day he was sworn in were aimed at impoverishing citizens without compassion.
In a statement on Sunday, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain condemned the removal of fuel subsidy, the floating of Nigeria, increase in electricity tariff and the classification of Nigerians into bands by the current government.
“On his very first day in office, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu exhibited a striking lack of compassion for Nigerian citizens. He publicly admitted that two pivotal elements absent from his original inauguration speech were spontaneously announced from the rostrum immediately after he was sworn in. He confessed that it took considerable courage to declare the removal of these critical economic pillars.
“The elimination of fuel subsidies and the adoption of multiple exchange rates leading to the floating of the naira proved not only catastrophic but profoundly injurious to the nation’s economy. These measures triggered the immediate and exponential rise in the cost of goods and services through a multiplier effect, resulting in hyperinflation. The negative impact on the populace was swift and severe.
“As if that were not enough, electricity tariffs were simultaneously restructured into Bands A, B, and C, with astronomical increases that further burdened citizens. Subsidies for agriculture, livestock, and credits were also removed. As Nigerians sank deeper into poverty, leading to widespread protests, another bombshell loomed: the vexatious tax reform bill.
“Resistance to the bill was not confined to ordinary citizens; it provoked the ire of state governors, traditional rulers, and some courageous legislators who, despite their patriotic stand, could mount only feeble opposition. Yet, true to form, President Tinubu remained unshaken, emphatically insisting he had no intention of withdrawing the bill,” he said.
The former spokesman of PDP’s 2019 presidential campaign council accused President Tinubu of capturing the judiciary, through appointments of loyalists to the highest positions in the third arm of government.
Sambo’s former spokesman added that the President was responsible for crises in opposition parties and coercing opposition politicians into joining the ruling party.
Sani, however, noted that Nigerians would resist the President’s plot to achieve state capture of the nation.
“In his quest for total control, President Tinubu stacked critical positions with loyalists, predominantly from a single ethnic group. Capturing the judiciary was made easier by the elevation of a Chief Justice he had previously appointed as Governor of Lagos State. Judicial officers were rewarded with outrageously increased salaries and lavish incentives, ostensibly for their loyalty during election petition adjudications.
“Perhaps most concerning is the erosion of democratic space: opposition voices have been silenced, internal conflicts fomented within opposition parties, and intimidation tactics employed to coerce defections. This orchestrated assault on political plurality signals an unmistakable attempt to entrench a one-party state.
“However, suppressing opposition is not a substitute for electoral conquest. History shows that when democratic channels are obstructed, the electorate often responds decisively, potentially seeking alternative, lesser-known opposition platforms to deliver a crushing blow to the ruling establishment. If current trends continue unchecked, the 2027 elections could witness a dramatic realignment of Nigeria’s political landscape,” he added.
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2025/04/28/tinubu-is-driving-nigeria-to-one-party-state-sani/
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NLC Cancels Central May Day Celebrations In Rivers, Edo, Gives Reasons
April 27, 2025
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced the cancellation of centralised May Day celebrations in both Rivers and Edo states, citing the imposition of emergency governance in Rivers and alleged political meddling in its Edo State chapter.
The national body of the NLC has instructed all its affiliated unions in Rivers to restrict their Workers’ Day activities to the NLC state secretariat.
Likewise, affiliates in Edo State have been directed to hold their commemorations independently within their union offices.
Naija News gathered that this directive was conveyed through separate letters dated April 22, 2025, addressed to the NLC chairmen in both states and signed by the NLC Deputy General Secretary, Ismail Bello.
The NLC expressed strong opposition to the emergency measures in Rivers State, which it said replaced an elected administration with a sole administrator, and called for a reinstatement of democratic governance.
In Edo, the Congress pointed to allegations of state interference and the deliberate creation of factions within the state labour council as reasons for decentralising the celebration.
Rivers State
In the correspondence to Rivers State NLC Chairman, Alex Agwanwor, the Congress stated: “In line with our tradition, Workers’ Day will be commemorated on May 1, 2025. This year, Congress has finalized arrangements to mark the day with the theme: ‘Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship,’ to be observed across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
“However, given the peculiar circumstances surrounding the subversion of democratic governance in Rivers State, the occasion calls not for fanfare, but for critical reflection on the need to restore democratic governance and prioritize the people in leadership.
“As a democratic organization, we must use this occasion to call for the restoration of democratic rule in Rivers State. Therefore, you are directed to organize a peaceful rally within the premises of the Rivers State Council of the NLC, involving all affiliate members.
“The rally should include messages advocating democratic governance, improved welfare for workers, and the people’s yearning for freedom and liberty.”
Sources within Rivers said labour leaders have embraced the directive enthusiastically. Vanguard also reported that the Rivers chapter of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) has indicated its willingness to join forces with the NLC for a joint event at the secretariat, aligning with the broader call for a return to democratic governance.
Edo State
A similar letter was dispatched to Edo State NLC Chairman, Olaye Odion. Part of the letter read: “In view of ongoing efforts to resolve the crisis within the NLC Edo State council and to bring about unity among affiliates, you are directed to inform all affiliates to make independent arrangements to commemorate the 2025 May Day at their respective union offices.
“We assure you that Congress will continue its efforts to resolve the crisis as soon as possible and urge all members to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free May Day celebration.”
Denial of ‘Acting Chairman’ Claims
Meanwhile, the NLC has dismissed as fake an unauthorized circular claiming to announce a centralized May Day event in Edo. The document, allegedly issued by someone posing as the “Acting State Secretary” of the Edo council, was described as fraudulent.
In a fresh release dated April 26 and signed by Deputy General Secretary Ismail Bello, the NLC clarified: “We categorically state as follows: Our earlier directive (Ref: 22nd April 2025) remains valid. Affiliates in Edo State are to commemorate the 2025 May Day independently in their respective union offices, in line with Congress’s efforts to resolve the ongoing crisis in the state council.
“The NLC has no official position known as ‘Acting State Secretary.’ The individual behind this circular is an impostor, and his motives are highly questionable. We urge workers and the public to disregard this fraudulent document. He clearly neither works for the NLC nor for the workers.
“We reiterate that Comrade Bernard Joman Egwakhide is not known in any of our statutes or records as the Chairman of NLC in Edo State. When there is a change in the components of NLC’s Edo State council leadership, members of the Public and our social partners would be informed accordingly.
“It should be noted that May Day is a workers’ celebration, not a government’s event. No worker is under any compulsion to attend any government-organized parade. Threats of sanctions for non-attendance are null, void, and a blatant unacceptable intimidation tactic. Trade unions are independent organizations that function in line with the dictates of their rules free from any external interference. We will take all measures to defend our independence and will stand firmly with workers of Edo State unconditionally.
“NLC reaffirms its commitment to resolving the Edo State Council crisis and ensuring a united, worker-centric celebration of May Day.”
Background to the Crisis
The strained relationship between the Edo State Government and the NLC stems from the government’s rejection of Odion’s leadership, following political remarks made in the buildup to the previous year’s gubernatorial election.
The government was accused of fueling factionalism within the Edo NLC and allegedly resisted mediation efforts from the national NLC leadership and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.
Despite repeated calls from the NLC urging non-interference and internal resolution of the issues, progress has been minimal.
Officials from the Ministry of Labour and Employment reportedly reminded the Edo State Government that the NLC remains a legally independent entity recognised globally and forms a core part of Nigeria’s tripartite labour administration structure. Nonetheless, these interventions have had limited impact.
An NLC official told Vanguard that the decision to cancel central celebrations in Edo was to avert clashes between the recognised NLC state council and the government-backed faction, citing incidents similar to those experienced two years ago in Imo State.
Source: naijanews.com
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Arab World
Ancient wells in Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders showcase early human ingenuity, resilience
April 27, 2025
RIYADH: Ancient hand-dug wells are prominent landmarks in the desert of Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders region, proof of early human ingenuity and resilience in harsh conditions, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Ancestors painstakingly dug these wells by hand to reach deep groundwater, reinforcing the walls with stones and using simple tools, such as buckets, to draw water, which was later transported in animal-carried “rawiya” containers.
Scattered across the region, the wells tell the story of human adaptation and the enduring bond with the land, documenting their ability to overcome natural challenges.
Researcher and historian Abdulrahman Al-Tuwaijri said the region has more than 2,000 ancient wells, dug thousands of years ago, evidence of successive civilizations and a long human presence in the desert.
He said that more than 300 wells in Linah village alone were vital for sustaining life, reflecting the region’s rich history and enduring human spirit.
While many well sites later evolved into modern villages, the ancient wells remain heritage landmarks and tourist attractions, raising cultural awareness and promoting tourism.
These wells, mirrors of local history, are a human legacy that must be preserved to inspire future generations to value their forefathers’ efforts in building life in the desert, the SPA reported.
Source: arabnews.com
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Wrth strengthens Saudi-Chinese relations through traditional arts
April 27, 2025
RIYADH: An event to promote cross-cultural exchange between Saudi Arabia and China in design and traditional arts was held in Riyadh this weekend.
In a collaboration with the Chinese Academy of Arts and Design at Tsinghua University, the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts, known as Wrth, hosted the event from Friday to Sunday, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The two-day event aimed to promote cultural exchange between the two countries and strengthen relations between China and Saudi Arabia.
The event aligns with the Ministry of Culture’s theme for 2025 as the “Year of Handicrafts,” emphasizing the importance of tradition in Saudi Arabia, delivering messages to future generations and telling stories through art.
Activities included conversations on traditional handicrafts and a presentation by Reema Al-Dossari, who is a lecturer at the College of Visual Arts, showing examples of Saudi arts on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Workshops also showed the art of Najdi decorations on wood, especially Najdi traditional designs on windows, in addition to other workshops displaying traditional Chinese metal crafting of hairpins.
Wrth was established as an initiative to improve the quality of life in Saudi Arabia, as part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 reform plan.
Source: arabnews.com
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New Jersey governor promotes stronger relations with Saudi Arabia
TAMARA ABOALSAUD
April 27, 2025
RIYADH: New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy has arrived in Saudi Arabia on the first stop of a three-country Gulf tour to strengthen economic ties and expand investment opportunities.
New Jersey, the most densely populated and diverse state in the US, is a leader in the “innovation economy,” according to the governor.
Technology and artificial intelligence, life sciences and pharmaceuticals, film and television, financial technology, and the green economy are top priorities for the delegation’s discussions in the Kingdom.
Murphy said: “We think that with Saudi Vision 2030 we match up very well. So, that is among the other reasons why we’re very excited to be here, to share best practices.”
Murphy’s trip, which is sponsored by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, comes two weeks before President Donald Trump’s official state visit to the Kingdom.
The governor said: “The Kingdom is one of the most important relationships the US has anywhere in the world.
“I know President Trump well enough to know that he would not be coming here unless he thought he could meaningfully build on what is already a good foundation.”
He noted the enormous opportunity to help advance Vision 2030, benefiting not only Saudi Arabia but also the rest of the world.
As part of his economic mission, Murphy aims to foster educational growth, witnessed by the signing of a letter of intent between King Saud University and Rutgers University to establish an academic collaboration in public policy research, facilitated by Choose New Jersey.
The letter outlines a collaborative framework between the two institutions in public policy, business administration, management, urban planning, city development, and other fields.
It prioritizes research that supports continued development within the state, attracts businesses, and boosts investment in urban areas.
The partnership aims to introduce students to new academic and cultural perspectives to foster innovative solutions for challenges in both regions, said Antonio Calcado, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Rutgers University.
“King Saud University strategically partners with institutions that share our commitment to innovative research in diverse industries on a global scale,” said Prof. Yazeed Al-Sheikh, vice president for graduate studies and scientific research at King Saud University.
The governor also highlighted a major investment opportunity in the Greater New York-New Jersey area to deploy capital, renewable energy, and alternative energy sources.
When asked how New Jersey and Saudi Arabia can benefit each other in areas of AI and digitalization, the governor recounted a delegation he and first lady Tammy Murphy led in northern California three years ago.
A group of the smartest and most influential leaders in AI gathered to exchange ideas, and from those discussions came the question of creating an AI hub in New Jersey.
Murphy said: “If you look three years ago, the overwhelming AI presence was in the greater San Francisco Bay Area … that’s now begun to shift a little bit.”
With the No. 1 public education system in the US, the highest concentration of scientists and engineers per square mile, and respected institutions of higher education such as Princeton University and Rutgers University, the governor wanted to shift the conversation.
He added: “The two words that drive us are talent and location.”
The NJEDA — whose CEO Tim Sullivan is also on this visit — along with Princeton University, Microsoft, and CoreWeave, a New Jersey company, have come together in a joint venture with the state of New Jersey to drive AI innovation forward.
Murphy said: “I know Saudi Arabia is as invested in generative AI as any country in the world … my guess is this could easily be a memorandum of understanding, maybe a cross-investment, maybe an investment into our fund, maybe something on our side into an investment here, talent exchange, let’s say all of that is on the table.”
As New Jersey now requires all state employees to train in generative AI to improve government efficiency, a lot can be learned from the Saudi approach, Murphy said.
Considering the current economic climate with Trump’s tariffs, which range from 10 percent to 40 percent based on country and industry (10 percent on Saudi Arabian imports), “there is too much volatility in the system right now,” the governor said.
“I am not a big tariff guy,” he said. “Unless they are deliberately punitive on somebody who’s a bad actor.”
He added: “OK, I get it. Let’s continue to pursue smart ways to manufacture more in the US. Let’s make our government as lean and efficient and as impactful as possible. I am good with both, but let’s do it in each case in a strategic way, in a smart way.
“I think it is headed that way. I pray that it gets there soon.”
The governor wants the volatility in the markets to decrease. The objectives are there, but the methods need to change. He believes that the Kingdom and the region as a whole will be strong allies in an increasingly challenging world.
He also mentioned a bill he is sponsoring, and hoping to get signed in the next month, that will put a significant manufacturing incentive in place to encourage the production of goods in New Jersey.
Murphy also hopes that global conflict and geopolitical tensions will be addressed in the same statesmanlike, tactical way, citing Trump’s brief talks with President Zelensky in Rome on Saturday.
The governor was scheduled to meet the US-Saudi Business Council on Sunday to introduce the delegation to several prominent private sector players, opening the door for further conversations.
Other areas of cooperation with potential for expansion are sports, film, and television.
New Jersey will host eight matches for the FIFA World Cup 2026, one of which will be the final. It is an experience it can use to advise Saudi Arabia ahead of its hosting of the competition in 2034.
Murphy said: “We have a very good relationship with FIFA, which has been important. But thanks to FIFA we’ve had a very good relationship with Qatar, and lessons learned from their World Cup that we can benefit from.
“And I am sure the same will be true as we learn to pass (information) on to the Saudi delegation.”
The state of New Jersey will also be hosting the first World Club Cup this summer, a tournament Saudi club Al-Hilal is expected to take part in.
Murphy added: “We are (also) making New Jersey a global player in film and television, and that means we are not just making content in New Jersey, but we are also building sound stages and campuses.”
Since the cinema ban was lifted in Saudi Arabia in 2018, the Kingdom has made significant strides in developing its film industry, with efforts such as the Red Sea Film Festival and the growth of local productions and stars, aiming to make it a $1 billion industry by 2030.
Following his visit to the Kingdom, Murphy is set to visit Bahrain and the UAE for similar talks on economic and cultural cooperation.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi National Guard minister visits Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah
April 27, 2025
JEDDAH: The Minister of the Saudi National Guard Prince Abdullah bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz has visited the second edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale, which is being held at the Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.
The minister was briefed on the key exhibits, which highlight the journey of Islamic arts through the ages.
He also explored a diverse collection of rare artworks and historic artifacts, alongside contemporary pieces by Saudi and international artists showcasing the richness of the Islamic civilization and presented in collaboration with major global museums and cultural institutions.
The exhibition runs until May 25.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi crown prince issues directive naming Riyadh street after late minister
April 27, 2025
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s crown prince has ruled that a street in the Hittin neighborhood, northern Riyadh, be named after Motleb bin Abdullah Al-Nafisah for devoting most of his life to the public service.
Al-Nafisah gave 60 years serving his religion, country, and Saudi kings, Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.
Al-Nafisa, who died on March 27, was a loyal statesman who served his country with dedication and sincerity, SPA added.
He held a number of positions since joining the civil service in 1962, the last of which was minister of state and member of the council of ministers, which he held until his death.
Source: arabnews.com
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A closer look at the Great Reef off Jeddah’s coast
April 27, 2025
RIYADH: The Great Reef, just 24 kilometers off Jeddah’s coastline, is a marine heritage site known for its stunning coral formations.
Covering almost six sq. km, the reef showcases the diversity of aquatic ecosystems in the heart of the Red Sea.
The reef is shaped not only by natural coral structures but also by cavities and openings formed by marine organisms and through weathering processes, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Despite pressure from sea currents, tides, and human activity, waters around the reef remain strikingly pure, providing an ideal environment for coral growth and marine life to flourish.
According to Saudi Geological Survey’s spokesperson Tariq Al-Khail, the Great Reef offers a key anchorage for small vessels, and is also a nesting and breeding site for numerous seabird species.
The reef has a growing reputation as a tourism destination, and has become increasingly popular for swimming, recreation, diving, and underwater exploration, he said.
Conservation efforts have focused on raising environmental awareness among visitors to preserve this natural landmark for future generations, Al-Khail added.
Source: arabnews.com
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Southeast Asia
M’sia-Maldives reaffirm commitment to Muslim unity, peaceful resolution of global conflicts
Bernama
28-04- 2025
PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu have reaffirmed their shared commitment to promoting the unity of the Ummah (Muslims) and upholding the core principles of Islam.
In a joint statement issued following their meeting here today, both leaders stressed that global issues, including the longstanding Palestinian conflict, should be resolved through peaceful means with full respect for international law and United Nations resolutions.
“Anwar and Muizzu also addressed critical international issues, particularly the ongoing conflicts affecting Muslims across the world and the dire humanitarian situation in Myanmar due to the devastating earthquake.
“Both leaders also highlighted the importance of a just and lasting solution to the challenges in bringing peace and stability in the region,” the statement said.
Muizzu, who arrived yesterday for a four-day official visit to Malaysia, was earlier accorded an official welcome at the Perdana Putra Complex here.Malaysian food recipes
This marks Muizzu’s maiden visit to Malaysia since assuming the presidency in November 2023, following an invitation from Anwar.
Anwar and Muizzu also expressed strong condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, reaffirming their commitment to reject terrorism and bring all perpetrators to justice.
“Both sides also agreed to continue sharing information and best practices to address the challenges posed by terrorism, and other traditional and non-traditional threats,” the statement added.
The leaders further discussed the importance of fostering people-to-people connections and mutual understanding, including enhancing cooperation between higher education institutions in Malaysia and the Maldives.
They reaffirmed their commitment to creating more opportunities and a supportive environment for students, particularly through the relaxation of visa regimes, to pursue higher education in each other’s country.
Both leaders also acknowledged the ongoing success of the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) in strengthening bilateral ties.Malaysian food recipes
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/m-sia-maldives-reaffirm-commitment-to-muslim-unity-peaceful-resolution-of-global-conflicts-CE14011131
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Nga showcases mosque, student donations to counter 'anti-Malay' claims
Apr 28, 2025
DAP deputy national chairperson Nga Kor Ming, frequently targeted by critics accusing his party of being anti-Malay and anti-Islam, has sought to counter these claims by highlighting his contributions to his constituents.
Notably, he pointed to significant donations to Malay students and a mosque in Teluk Intan, Perak.
"Every day, DAP is falsely accused of...
Source: malaysiakini.com
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https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/741639
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Malaysia ready to transform into AI-powered smart nation, says digital minister
By Opalyn Mok
28 Apr 2025
GEORGE TOWN, April 28 — Malaysia is ready to move towards becoming a smart nation, said Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo.
He said this starts with each state implementing their respective smart city initiative.
“We need to have strong and sufficient digital infrastructure to support the development of technology,” he said in a press conference after visiting the Penang Island City Council’s Intelligent Operations Center (IOC) today.
He said to become a smart nation, the country needs to move towards full digitalisation.
He said one of the most important pillars in building a smart nation is for each state to have its own smart city initiative, just like Penang.
“With advancing technology, we will see more sophisticated innovation moving forward,” he said.
He said the digital ministry will play its role in ensuring the digital infrastructure in the country is sufficient to meet the needs of a smart nation.
“Penang is making progress in becoming an AI City by embracing AI-powered technologies and applications,” he said.
He said the use of AI-powered technologies will help the city accelerate its infrastructure and services modernisation efforts.
He said it will increase productivity, and efficiency while enhancing the people’s quality of life.
“Penang’s progress towards becoming an AI-driven city is a testament to the government’s commitment to leveraging technology for the betterment of our citizens,” he said.
He said the Penang Island City Council has integrated AI into existing infrastructure including an advanced traffic management solution to optimise traffic flow and reduce congestion using AI-powered analytics.
“This smart city initiative in Penang started since 2019, or even earlier, in 2010, so it’s been rolled out for a long time and we can see how it’s progressing,” he said.
He said there are also other states implementing smart city initiatives such as Wilayah Persekutuan, Johor and Sarawak.
“The ministry will look at how we can assist in this process,” he said.
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/04/28/malaysia-ready-to-transform-into-ai-powered-smart-nation-says-digital-minister/174773
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Tech and talent: Defence Ministry must invest in workforce to stay ahead, says minister
28 Apr 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 — The Defence Ministry is urged to plan and invest appropriately to ensure that its workforce’s capabilities are in line with current technological advancements.
Its minister, Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, said advanced technology alone is insufficient without a skilled and dedicated workforce to support it.
He said that in an era rapidly advancing with disruptive technology, service efficiency heavily relies on the ability to utilise technology and efficient digital systems.
“Comprehensive modernisation of service systems is no longer an option but a pressing necessity for delivering faster, more sustainable and competitive services.
“Automation, artificial intelligence (AI), big data and system integration will help reduce manual task burdens and prevent resource wastage,” he said at the ministry’s Excellent Service Awards and Recognition Ceremony here today.
His speech text was read out by Defence Ministry secretary-general Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali.
Also present were Chief of Defence Force General Datuk Mohd Nizam Jaffar and Navy Chief Admiral Datuk Zulhelmy Ithnain.
Mohamed Khaled said through technology and digitalisation, his ministry not only enhances service efficiency but also better prepares to face the increasing demands and challenges of the evolving public service sector.
At the event, 304 civil servants from the ministry and 45 officers and personnel from the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) were honoured with the Excellent Service Award 2024.
Also recognised were 49 ministry staff who retired last year.
For the year 2024, a total of 877 civil servants from the ministry and 9,569 MAF officers and personnel from the three branches of service — the Malaysian Army, Royal Malaysian Navy and Royal Malaysian Air Force — including 153 retirees, were celebrated for their services. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/04/28/tech-and-talent-defence-ministry-must-invest-in-workforce-to-stay-ahead-says-minister/174763
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Visit Malaysia 2026: Malaysia-Maldives to boost Muslim-friendly tourism cooperation
Bernama
28-04- 2025
PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia and the Maldives have agreed to strengthen cooperation by taking advantage of the “Visit Malaysia 2026” campaign and explore the potential for increasing tourism flows between the two countries, including opportunities in Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Halal Tourism
The commitment was made during the four-day official visit starting Sunday of Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to Malaysia , at the invitation of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Recognising the potential of their respective economies, Anwar and Muizzu expressed confidence in the continued growth of trade, tourism, and investment activities. Muizzu has also invited Malaysian investors to actively explore the vast investment opportunities in the Maldives across multiple sectors.
Noting the global momentum for high-quality halal products and services, Anwar conveyed Malaysia’s readiness to share its experience and expertise in developing the halal industry.Malaysian food recipes
To expand cultural cooperation, the two leaders welcomed the enhancement of cultural exchanges through literature, performing arts, cultural training, education and other initiatives aimed at promoting greater public awareness of the cultures and histories of Malaysia and the Maldives.
Muizzu also expressed his appreciation for Malaysia’s positive environment of cooperation and friendship, which has benefited Maldivians travelling to Malaysia for tourism, education, and medical purposes.
Both leaders discussed ways to further enhance cooperation to support the welfare of their citizens.
This marks the president’s inaugural visit to Malaysia since assuming office on November 17, 2023, and underscored the two countries’ efforts to reinforce longstanding diplomatic relations established in 1968.
During a bilateral meeting held earlier today, the two leaders discussed Malaysia-Maldives ties and exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual concern.
Muizzu also extended an invitation to Anwar to undertake an official visit to the Maldives at a mutually convenient date, reaffirming his commitment to strengthening the close friendship between the two nations.Malaysian food recipes
In 2024, Malaysia’s total trade with the Maldives increased by 4.3 per cent to RM862.7 million (USD189 million) from RM827.3 million (USD180.9 million) in 2023, making the archipelagic state Malaysia’s sixth largest trading partner among South Asian countries.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/visit-malaysia-2026-malaysia-maldives-to-boost-muslim-friendly-tourism-cooperation-LE14011381
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North America
CAIR Condemns Murder of French Muslim at Mosque, Calls on French Politicians to Stop Fanning Islamophobia
April 27, 2025
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the stabbing death of a Muslim worshiper at a mosque in France by an attacker reportedly shouting Islamophobic slurs and called on French political leaders to stop fanning the flames of Islamophobia in the country.
The suspect is still on the run following the attack that French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou called “Islamophobic.”
In a statement, CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad said:
“We strongly condemn this vicious hate crime, which was an attack against not only a French Muslim worshiping in peace at his mosque but was also an attack on the broader French Muslim community. This heinous crime was also, sadly, predictable. The French government and French politicians aspiring to power have been fanning the flames of anti-Muslim bigotry and racism against French Muslims for years, even smearing and shutting down mosques and the nation’s most prominent anti-Islamophobia civil rights group.
“Arresting and prosecuting this killer is important. So is ending the state-sponsored anti-Muslim bigotry that can contribute to such hateful crimes.
On March 15 of this year, CAIR joined an international coalition of Muslim organizations and human rights civil society organizations in marking the UN’s 2025 International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
Yesterday, CAIR and its New York chapter (CAIR-NY) called on the New York Police Department (NYPD) to pursue hate crime charges against members of a pro-Israel mob seen in a video posted online chasing and attacking a woman they thought was an Arab-American while shouting slurs like “death to Arabs” and making threats of rape.
Earlier this year, CAIR released its 2025 Civil Rights Report “Unconstitutional Crackdowns,” which reveals that Islamophobia continues to be at an all-time high across the country. CAIR said viewpoint discrimination against those speaking out against genocide and apartheid was a key factor in many cases.
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.
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Source: cair.com
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CAIR Condemns Distribution of White Supremacist Propaganda in Maine
April 27, 2025
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the reported distribution of white supremacist propaganda in Maine.
Easter eggs containing flyers with White Supremacist propaganda were discovered at a park in Bangor, Maine, on Easter Sunday.
Last week, CAIR similarly condemned the distribution of white supremacist propaganda in Joplin, Missouri, and a reported demonstration by a white supremacist neo-Nazi group, Aryan Freedom Network, in Marion, Iowa.
“The majority of Americans who seek mutual respect and national unity must speak out every time white supremacists and other bigots seek to promote division and hatred,” said CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper. “Silence in the face of hate sends the false message to bigots that their hate-filled views are shared by others.”
He noted that CAIR has similarly condemned neo-Nazi and white supremacist activities nationwide.
Washington, D.C., based CAIR and the American Muslim community stand in solidarity with all those challenging antisemitism, systemic anti-Black racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia, white supremacy, and all other forms of bigotry.
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.
Do you like reading CAIR press releases and taking part in our action alerts? You can help contribute to CAIR’s work of defending civil rights and empowering American Muslims across the country by making a one-time contribution or becoming a monthly donor. Supporters like you make CAIR’s advocacy work possible and defeating Islamophobia an achievable goal. Click here to donate to CAIR.
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Source: cair.com
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Betar US: America's new face of Zionist terrorism and the darker rebirth of Kahanism
27 April 2025
By Ivan Kesic
Betar US, the American chapter of a global ultra-Zionist terrorist organization that virtually and physically harasses pro-Palestinian advocates across the United States, traces its roots to some of the most radical Zionist groups banned in the US for terrorism.
Over the past 18 months—since the launch of the genocidal war against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip—Betar US has come under increased media scrutiny for its aggressive tactics against pro-Palestinian protesters, both on the streets and across social media platforms.
Its recent activities—including hate speech, doxxing, bounties, and vigilante threats—have drawn condemnation from pro-Palestinian groups and even mainstream Jewish organizations, fueling calls for American authorities to ban the group.
Little has been written, however, about the past of Ronn Torossian, the current leader of Betar US, who reestablished the group as a reincarnation of the banned Kahanist movement and who maintains long-standing ties to Israel’s Likud party and the incumbent American president.
Zionist terrorist movement
Betar US is a branch of the Betar movement, a terrorist organization inspired by European fascism and based on the most radical and fascist ideas of Zionism.
It was founded in 1923 in Riga, Latvia, by Vladimir (Ze’ev) Jabotinsky, a key figure in Revisionist Zionism, who aimed to establish a so-called “Jewish state” on both banks of the Jordan River and promoted the ideas of militarism, immigration to the occupied Palestine, and maximal territorial expansion without any regard for indigenous Palestinians.
The movement was named after its inspirer, the early Zionist settler Brit Yosef Trumpeldor (Joseph Trumpeldor), who died in 1920 fighting local Arab resistance forces in northern Palestine.
Besides being an acronym for Trumpeldor, Betar is also the name of the last Jewish fortress that fell to the Romans during a revolt in the 2nd century.
Within ten years of its founding, Betar had 70,000 members, with 40,000 in Poland, where it was most successful due to Europe's largest Jewish population.
Its activities included military drilling and facilitating the illegal immigration of tens of thousands of European Jews to Palestine, defying British quotas.
In Palestine, Betar members joined the Irgun, a Zionist terrorist group, engaging in guerrilla tactics of sabotage and assassination against British forces and terrorist attacks on Arab civilians.
After the Nakba of 1948 and the realization of the Zionist plan, Betar's role gradually declined, and its membership decreased from a peak of 90,000 to less than 10,000 by the 1960s.
Betar, however, produced prominent Israeli right-wingers, including Prime Ministers Menachem Begin and Yitzhak Shamir, War Minister Moshe Arens, Minister Tzipi Livni, and current UN Ambassador Danny Danon.
Benzion Netanyahu, father of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, was Jabotinsky's aide. Betar's militaristic, right-wing ideology shaped the Israeli Likud party and other far-right movements in the Zionist entity, which helped in consolidating occupation and apartheid.
"The Betar movement, led by Vladimir Ze'ev Jabotinsky, changed Zionism and therefore changed the history of the Jewish people. We continue and I continue to put forth its basic principles and convictions," Netanyahu, who heads the Likud party, was once quoted as saying.
Betar members also included Meir Kahane, a notorious American-Israeli rabbi, founder of the terrorist group Jewish Defense League (JDL) and the Israeli political party Kach, convicted of multiple terrorist acts on the soil of the United States.
He is the ideologue of the eponymous Kahanism, a chauvinist movement that advocates the total segregation of Jews and non-Jews in occupied Palestine, with the latter's subordinate status offering the choice of slavery or deportation.
Modern Betar and its branches have embraced many of the ideas, methods, and slogans of Kahane, Kahanism, and the JDL, including "slavery or deportation" blackmail for pro-Palestinian American students.
Contemporary Betar US revival
Although originally founded in 1929, Betar US remained relatively inactive for several decades until June 2023, when it was rebooted by Ronn Torossian, an Israeli-American public relations executive and terror cheerleader.
Torossian had been a member of Betar US since his teenage years, served as its president during his student days, and after graduating, moved briefly to the occupied Palestinian territories, where he collaborated with Likud and neo-Zionist settler terrorist organizations.
He says that he was inspired by Ze'ev Jabotinsky's teachings, and in his youth, he was a staunch supporter of Meir Kahane, a connection he has unsuccessfully tried to conceal in recent years.
Torossian was identified in a 1994 video from a New York synagogue as the campus coordinator of Kahane Chai (Kach party), leading a memorial service for Rabbi Meir Kahane and calling him "the greatest Jewish leader ever."
At this gathering, support was also shouted for Ami Popper and Baruch Goldstein, Kahanist terrorists known for the mass murder of a total of 36 Palestinian civilians.
Upon returning to his native New York, Torossian worked for public relations companies and became notorious for his aggressive style, occasionally leading pro-Zionist protests.
He became close to Morton Klein, the long-time president of the Zionist Organization of America (ZOA), with whom he shares anti-Arab and anti-Islamic views, and he also collaborated with Pamela Geller in promoting Islamophobia in the US.
He is also proven to have long-standing personal, business, and political ties to US President Donald Trump, to whose presidential campaign he donated generously.
American-Israeli journalist Jeffrey Goldberg described Torossian's ideas as "Nazi," recalling that he once told him that he believed "a thousand Arabs should be killed for every Jew killed."
Reflecting on his PR work, journalist Hamilton Nolan critically described his personality as "loud, brash, more flash than substance, dirty, manipulative, amoral and, in the end, not particularly bright."
Rebranded Kahanism
Until the summer of 2023, Betar US had dedicated itself to Zionist agitation and inciting young American Jews to emigrate to the Zionist entity. Since the revival led by Torossian, it has become engaged in aggressive forms of harassment.
Torossian told the media that his group "stands for tough, strong, proud Zionism" and claimed to "combat anti-Semitism" because its members believe they live in "the days before a potential Holocaust."
Betar US claims to currently have thousands of members across more than 50 cities, motivated by pro-Palestinian protests against the Israeli genocidal war on Gaza ongoing since October 2023, which has killed nearly 52,000 Palestinians, mostly children and women.
Torossian also said that, unlike other Zionist organizations, they do not intend to engage in "writing statements or lawsuits" but in active struggle, echoing the views of Jabotinsky, who called for a militant approach in achieving his goals.
Over the last two years, Betar US has gathered a mob of pro-Israel terrorist agitators who respond to pro-Palestinian protesters with a mix of online trolling, counter-demonstrations, and direct physical threats.
For months, the group has claimed that it has been collecting data on pro-Palestinian students and protesters, intending to submit them to the Trump administration for deportation.
Intriguingly, in full compliance with this practice, Torossian's friend US President Donald Trump signed an executive order at the end of January to deport foreign-born protesters who are deemed to have supported "terrorist groups" or the Palestinian resistance movement.
This single-mindedness, according to legal experts, is a blatant violation of the First Amendment to the US Constitution and is undoubtedly inspired by Kahane's ideas about choosing between accepting Zionist supremacism or deportation.
Numerous other examples also prove that Betar US is actually a rebranded Kahanist movement, since the Kach party and its offshoot, the JDL, were previously banned as terrorist organizations in the United States.
These include open Jewish supremacism, notorious anti-Arab racism, anti-Muslim religious bigotry, waving JDL flags at rallies, and documented open expressions of support for Kahane by members of the group.
It uses the militarist Kahanist slogan, "For every Jew, a .22," invented by Kahane himself, meaning Jews should be armed with .22 rifles.
Betar US openly supports the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians from their homeland, as well as the monstrous child-killing practice of the Israeli army in Gaza.
After journalist Laila Al-Arian expressed horror at the number of Palestinian babies killed in Gaza, Betar US on the X platform responded with the words "not enough" and "we demand blood in Gaza."
The aforementioned Kahanist movements are banned as terrorist groups even in the Zionist entity due to the repeated massacres of civilians, mostly settlers from the United States.
While the Israeli regime unsuccessfully denies responsibility for these crimes, the Kahanists are known as the only Zionist group that openly advocates and glorifies such crimes.
At the 1994 commemoration hosted by Torossian, his colleagues openly glorified terrorist mass murderers Popper and Goldstein, declaring that they had "had the courage to do what everyone gathered wanted."
The once fringe group, banned as terrorists in the US and the Zionist entity, has entered the political mainstream thanks to Kahane's faithful follower, Itamar Ben-Gvir, as well as Torossian and his personal ties to Netanyahu and Trump.
Violation of US federal laws
In addition to representing the reincarnation of a banned terrorist organization, Betar US's activities, legal luminaries argue, potentially violate several American federal laws.
Their hate-driven and deeply controversial activities include doxxing pro-Palestinian students, offering bounties, making deportation threats against foreigners in the US, and engaging in confrontational and violent protests, all violate both American and international law.
Among the likely violated federal laws is the Interstate Communications Act (18 U.S.C. § 875), which criminalizes transmitting threats across state lines (including via the internet) to injure a person, with penalties of up to seven years in prison if intent to harm is proven.
Betar's X posts offering bounties—such as $1,800 to hand "beepers" to Palestinian-American activist Nerdeen Kiswani—referencing Israeli 2024 Lebanon terrorist attacks, and doxxing students like Columbia's Mahmoud Khalil with calls for ICE deportation, could be interpreted as threatening.
The "beeper" bounty, implying a terrorist act, and the public shaming of individuals as "terror supporters" are designed to intimidate and target pro-Palestinian students.
These actions violate § 875 since Betar US intends to cause physical harm or serious injury to the individuals it threatens, and any reasonable person would perceive the statements as threatening.
Another federal law violated is the Cyberstalking Statute (18 U.S.C. § 2261A), which can result in up to five years in prison for those found involved.
This law prohibits using electronic communications, such as social media, to harass, intimidate, or cause substantial emotional distress to a person, with the intent to place them in reasonable fear of death or serious injury, something Betar cyber terrorists have mastered.
Betar’s doxxing and posting of students' names, photos, and visa statuses online, as well as labeling them "terror supporters" for ICE action, also constitutes a pattern of harassment.
For example, their campaign against Mahmoud Khalil at Columbia involved compiling and sharing personal information to pressure immigration authorities to deport him.
If Betar's actions were intended to cause emotional distress or fear—such as fear of deportation or public shaming—they could violate § 2261A, especially if the conduct was repeated and targeted.
Human rights organizations cite Betar’s Islamophobic slurs and doxxing as intimidating, supporting this argument and strengthening the evidence for a lawsuit against the Zionist terror outfit.
The third certainly violated federal law is the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VI (42 USC § 2000d), which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in programs receiving federal funding, such as universities.
It applies to actions creating a hostile educational environment, and Betar's targeting of pro-Palestinian students, many of whom are Arab, Muslim, or of West Asian descent, at universities like the University of California (UCLA) and Columbia University could contribute to a hostile environment.
Their October 2024 threat to "organize groups of Jews" to remove a pro-Palestinian sukkah at UCLA and doxxing of students like Khalil may intimidate based on national origin or religion.
The US Department of Education's 2024 investigations into campus anti-religious bigotry suggest Betar's tactics could prompt scrutiny. If students face harassment due to their Palestinian advocacy, tied to national origin, Title VI claims could arise.
As a private group, Betar US is not directly bound by Title VI, but its actions could spur federal investigations and trigger university liability if they create a discriminatory environment and the institution fails to respond.
Violation of US state laws
Furthermore, Betar US has been found violating several state laws, such as the New York Cyberstalking and Harassment Laws (NY Penal Law § 240.30, § 120.45).
The state's aggravated harassment statute (§ 240.30) criminalizes communications intended to harass, annoy, or alarm based on race, religion, or national origin, with penalties up to one year in prison.
The stalking statute (§ 120.45) prohibits conduct causing reasonable fear or emotional distress, which prosecutors can prove fairly easily at trial.
Similarly, California Cyberstalking Law (Cal. Penal Code § 646.9) prohibits willful, malicious harassment via electronic means that causes a person to fear for their safety or suffer substantial emotional distress, with penalties up to one year in prison or longer if a restraining order is violated.
At UCLA in October 2024, Betar threatened to forcibly remove a pro-Palestinian sukkah and engaged in confrontational protests, which could intimidate students.
If they doxxed California-based students or posted threatening content online, it could meet California's stalking criteria, especially if victims report fear or distress.
States like New York and California also allow lawsuits for defamation that involve making false statements of fact that harm someone's reputation, with civil liability requiring negligence (private individuals) or actual malice (public figures).
Betar's X posts labeling students like Khalil as "terror supporters" could be defamatory if false and damaging to reputation (like affecting academic or job prospects).
Their lists accusing other students of supporting terrorism, without evidence, risk civil claims. Private individuals, like students, face a lower bar than public figures like Nerdeen Kiswani.
Both states also prohibit publicizing private, non-newsworthy information that causes offense to a reasonable person, absent a legitimate public interest.
Doxxing students' visa statuses, addresses, or other personal details (like Khalil's information shared on social media) could violate this tort if the information was not publicly available and its disclosure caused harm.
Source: presstv.ir
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Mideast
Israel PM calls security chief ‘liar’, in court filing
April 27, 2025
JERUSALEM: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in an affidavit before the Supreme Court on Sunday, described as a “liar” the country’s internal security chief, whom the government is trying to fire.
Netanyahu’s response came almost a week after Shin Bet head Ronen Bar himself made a sworn statement to the court. It accused the prime minister of demanding personal loyalty and ordering him to spy on anti-government protesters.
Bar’s dismissal, announced by the government last month but frozen by the country’s top court, triggered mass protests.
The unprecedented move to fire the head of the Shin Bet security agency has been contested by the attorney general and the opposition, which appealed Bar’s firing to the Supreme Court.
“The accusation according to which I allegedly demanded action against innocent civilians, or against a non-violent and legitimate protest during the protests of 2023, is an absolute lie,” Netanyahu said in his court statement.
In his own affidavit, Bar had said “it was clear” that in the event of a potential constitutional crisis, Netanyahu would expect Bar to obey the prime minister and not the courts.
Netanyahu countered: “There is no proof supporting these remarks.”
Bar had also denied accusations by Netanyahu and his associates that the Shin Bet had failed to warn in time about Hamas’s unprecedented October 7, 2023, attack on Israel that triggered the war in Gaza.
“Nothing was hidden” on that night from the security apparatus or the prime minister, Bar said.
Netanyahu countered before the court that Bar “did not accomplish his mission” that night.
“He did not wake up the prime minister. He did not wake up the minister of defense. He did not wake up the soldiers of the army,” or others before the attack, Netanyahu alleged.
The prime minister’s 23-page document said Bar “failed in his role as chief of Shin Bet and lost the confidence of the entire Israeli government as far as his ability to continue to manage the organization.”
Netanyahu’s office had already made similar public comments immediately after Bar filed his affidavit.
An April 8 Supreme Court hearing on the government’s plans to fire Bar ruled that he “will continue to perform his duties until a later decision.”
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2598656/middle-east
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Death toll from Iran port blast hits 40 as fire blazes
April 27, 2025
TEHRAN: Iran’s president visited the scene of a massive port blast that killed at least 40 people and injured more than 1,000, as a fire still blazed on Sunday more than 24 hours after the explosion.
The blast occurred on Saturday at Shahid Rajaee Port in southern Iran, near the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of world oil output passes.
With choking smoke and air pollution spreading throughout the area, all schools and offices in Bandar Abbas, the nearby capital of Hormozgan province, were ordered closed to allow authorities to focus on the emergency effort, state television said.
The health ministry urged residents to avoid going outside “until further notice” and to use protective masks.
Arriving in Bandar Abbas, President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed his appreciation to first responders, adding “we have come to see first-hand if there is anything or any issue that the government can follow up on.”
“We will try to take care of the families who lost their loved ones, and we will definitely take care of the dear people who got injured,” he said.
A photo released by Pezeshkian’s office later showed him at the bedside of a man hurt in the blast.
Pezeshkian earlier ordered an investigation into the cause of the explosion.
The Russian embassy said Moscow was sending multiple “aircraft carrying specialists” to help fight the blaze. According to Russia’s ministry of emergency situations, one of the aircraft is a dedicated firefighting plane.
The New York Times quoted a person with ties to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss security matters, as saying that what exploded was sodium perchlorate — a major ingredient in solid fuel for missiles.
Defense ministry spokesman Reza Talaei-Nik later told state TV that “there has been no imported or exported cargo for military fuel or military use in the area.”
The port’s customs office said in a statement carried by state television that the explosion probably resulted from a fire that broke out at the hazardous and chemical materials storage depot.
A regional emergency official said several containers had exploded.
“For the moment, 40 people have lost their lives as a result of injuries caused by the explosion,” Hormozgan provincial official Mohammad Ashouri told state television.
The ISNA news agency, citing the provincial judiciary, gave the number of injured as 1,242.
Red Crescent chief Pirhossein Koolivand said some of the injured were airlifted for treatment in the capital Tehran.
Aerial photos released by the Iranian presidency showed black smoke rising from the disaster zone on Sunday and drifting toward the sea.
“The fire is under control but still not out,” a state TV correspondent reported.
Also at the scene on Sunday, Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni said “the situation has stabilized in the main areas” of the facility, Iran’s largest commercial port, and workers had resumed loading containers and customs clearance.
Another official on site, Minister of Roads and Urban Development Farzaneh Sadegh, said only one zone of the port was impacted.
An image from Iran’s Tasnim news agency on Sunday showed a helicopter dropping water on the disaster zone.
Others showed firefighters working among toppled and blackened cargo containers, and carrying out the body of a victim.
The authorities have closed off roads leading to the site, and footage from the area has been limited to Iranian media outlets.
Beijing’s foreign ministry said in a statement to AFP on Sunday that three injured Chinese nationals were in a “stable” condition.
The United Arab Emirates expressed “solidarity with Iran” over the explosion and Saudi Arabia sent condolences, as did Pakistan, India, Turkiye and the United Nations as well as Russia.
The Tehran-backed Lebanese movement Hezbollah also offered condolences, saying Iran, with its “faith and solid will, can overcome this tragic accident.”
In the first reaction from a major European country, the German embassy in Tehran said on Instagram: “Bandar Abbas, we grieve with you.”
Authorities declared a day of national mourning on Monday, and three days of mourning in Hormozgan province from Sunday.
The blast occurred as Iranian and US delegations were meeting in Oman for high-level talks on Tehran’s nuclear program, with both sides reporting progress.
While Iranian authorities so far appear to be treating the blast as an accident, it also comes against the backdrop of years of shadow war with regional foe Israel.
According to the Washington Post, Israel launched a cyberattack targeting the Shahid Rajaee Port in 2020.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2598652/middle-east
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Jordanian government spokesperson says country remains firmly supportive of Palestine
April 27, 2025
LONDON: Minister of Communication Mohammad Momani has said that Jordan’s commitment to “defending” Palestinian rights in the West Bank, Jerusalem, and Gaza “remains firm.”
Momani, who is also the spokesperson for the Jordanian government, said that the country supported the right of Palestinians to self-determination, and the establishment of an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
His remarks were made on Saturday during a seminar commemorating the 105th anniversary of the martyrdom of Kaid Al-Mefleh Obeidat. He is remembered as a national hero after being the first Jordanian to lose his life in resisting Zionist groups during the British mandate in Palestine in 1920.
Momani said: “Supporting the Palestinian cause should not come at the expense of Jordan’s national stability but should be expressed through unity behind the Hashemite leadership, the Arab army, and the security agencies.”
He added that “Obeidat’s martyrdom … highlights Jordan’s long-standing sacrifices for Arab unity and freedom,” the Jordan News Agency reported.
Momani said that Jordan’s support resulted from its religious, moral, and humanitarian obligations and that a Palestinian state was vital to Jordan’s national interests, according to Petra.
He said that King Abdullah II and Crown Prince Hussein continued “to champion the Palestinian cause, maintaining Jordan as a bastion of steadfastness amid regional upheavals.”
Source: arabnews.com
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Top UN Court To Hold Hearings On Israeli Obligations To Ensure Humanitarian Aid To Palestinians
April 28, 2025
THE HAGUE: The United Nations’ highest court opens hearings Monday into Israel’s obligation to “ensure and facilitate” urgently needed humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians in the occupied territories, bringing the ongoing conflict in Gaza back into focus in The Hague.
A week of hearings has been scheduled in response to a request last year from the UN General Assembly, which asked the International Court of Justice to weigh in on Israel’s legal responsibilities after the country blocked the UN agency for Palestinian refugees from operating on its territory.
In a resolution sponsored by Norway, the General Assembly requested an advisory opinion, a non-binding but legally important decision from the court, on Israel’s obligations in the occupied territories to “ensure and facilitate the unhindered provision of urgently needed supplies essential to the survival of the Palestinian civilian population?”
Hearings open as the humanitarian aid system in Gaza is nearing collapse. Israel has blocked the entry of food, fuel, medicine and other humanitarian supplies since March 2. It renewed its bombardment on March 18, breaking a ceasefire, and seized large parts of the territory, saying it aims to push Hamas to release more hostages. Despite the stepped-up Israeli pressure, ceasefire efforts remain deadlocked.
The World Food Program said last week its food stocks in the Gaza Strip have run out under Israel’s nearly 8-week-old blockade, ending a main source of sustenance for hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in the territory. Many families are struggling to feed their children.
The United Nations will be the first to address the court on Monday, followed by Palestinian representatives. In total, 40 states and four international organizations are scheduled to participate. Israel is not scheduled to speak during the hearings, but could submit a written statement. Israel’s Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The United States, which voted against the UN resolution, is scheduled to speak on Wednesday.
The court will likely take months to rule. But experts say the decision, though not legally binding, could profoundly impact international jurisprudence, international aid to Israel and public opinion.
“Advisory opinions provide clarity,” Juliette McIntyre, an expert on international law at the University of South Australia, told The Associated Press. Governments rely on them in international negotiations and the outcome could be used to pressure Israel into easing restrictions on aid.
Whether any ruling will have an effect on Israel, however, is unclear. Israel has long accused the United Nations of being unfairly biased against it and has ignored a 2004 advisory ruling by the ICJ that found its West Bank separation barrier illegal.
On Tuesday, South Africa, a staunch critic of Israel, will present its arguments. In hearings last year in a separate case at the court, the country accused Israel of committing genocide against the Palestinians in Gaza — a charge Israel denies. Those proceedings are still underway.
Israel’s ban on the agency, known as UNRWA, came into effect in January. The organization has faced increased criticism from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his far-right allies, who claim the group is deeply infiltrated by Hamas. UNRWA rejects that claim.
Israel alleged that 19 out of UNRWA’s approximately 13,000 staff in Gaza took part in Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack in southern Israel. UNRWA said it fired nine staffers after an internal UN investigation concluded that they could have been involved, although the evidence was not authenticated and corroborated. Israel later alleged that about 100 other Palestinians in Gaza were Hamas members, but never provided any evidence to the United Nations. Israel has also accused Hamas of using UN facilities for cover, building tunnels near UN buildings and diverting aid deliveries for its own use.
The Israeli ban doesn’t apply directly to Gaza. But it controls all entry to the territory, and its ban on UNRWA from operating inside Israel greatly limits the agency’s ability to function. Israeli officials say they are looking for alternative ways to deliver aid to Gaza that would cut out the United Nations.
UNRWA was established by the UN General Assembly in 1949 to provide relief for Palestinians who fled or were expelled from their homes in what is now Israel during the war surrounding Israel’s creation the previous year until there is a political solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The agency has been providing aid and services — including health and education — to some 2.5 million Palestinians in Gaza, the occupied West Bank and east Jerusalem, as well as 3 million more in Syria, Jordan and Lebanon.
Israel’s air and ground war has killed over 51,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not say how many of the dead were civilians or combatants. Israel says it has killed around 20,000 militants, without providing evidence.
Source: arabnews.com
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Ayatollah Khamenei Orders Comprehensive Investigation into Bandar Abbas Port Explosion
April 27, 2025
Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, ordered a comprehensive investigation into Bandar Abbas port explosion on Sunday.
In a statement received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), Ayatollah Khamenei said, "The painful incident of Shahid Rajaee Port fire is a cause for grief and concern," directing "security and judicial officials to conduct a comprehensive investigation to uncover any negligence or deliberate intent, and follow up the matter in accordance with the law."
He added, "All officials must consider themselves responsible for preventing painful incidents that lead to massive losses."
Khamenei concluded by saying, "I ask God for mercy and forgiveness for the victims, patience and peace for their grieving families, and a speedy recovery for those injured in this painful incident." He thanked "the loyalists who rushed to donate blood to the injured at this critical moment."
Source: ina.iq
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Islamic Jihad offers condolences to Iran following painful explosion
27 Apr 2025
The Islamic Jihad Movement in Palestine on Sunday extended its most sincere feelings of solidarity and condolences to brothers in the Islamic Republic of Iran, its leadership and people, following the painful explosion that occurred yesterday, Saturday, at the Shahid Rajaee Port in Bandar Abbas.
The movement said in a press statement "We extend our sincere condolences to the leadership of the Iranian people and to the families of the martyrs, praying to Allah Almighty to bestow His mercy upon them and to grant the injured a speedy recovery."
The Islamic Jihad movement continued "We express our confidence that Iran, with its wise leadership and steadfast people, is capable of overcoming this ordeal, God willing."
Source: saba.ye
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https://www.saba.ye/en/news3471972.htm
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Hezbollah sympathizes with Iran over tragic explosion
Apr 27, 2025
Hezbollah, while declaring its deep solidarity with the resistant nation of Iran, emphasized that it stands by the Islamic Republic and the dear people of Iran.
Relying on its faith and firm determination, the Islamic Republic of Iran will overcome this calamity and will continue the path of progress, resistance, and defense of the ideals of the Islamic nation with strength.
The tragic explosion at Shahid Rajaee Port has so far resulted in the confirmed deaths of at least 18 people and injuries to over 800 others.
Rescue and recovery efforts are ongoing, as authorities continue to evaluate the situation and provide support to those affected.
Source: mehrnews.com
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https://en.mehrnews.com/news/231117/Hezbollah-sympathizes-with-Iran-over-tragic-explosion
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‘Hunger breaks everything’: desperate Gazans scramble for food
April 28, 2025
GAZA CITY: At the break of dawn, 10-year-old Youssef Al-Najjar races barefoot, clutching a battered pot, to a community kitchen in Gaza City, only to find hundreds of others already queueing.
“People push and shove out of fear of missing their turn. There are little children who fall,” said Youssef, his voice barely rising above a whisper.
Thousands of Gazans, including many children, rush to community kitchens every day in the hope of securing food for their families.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has worsened significantly since Israel blocked all aid from entering the territory on March 2, days before resuming its military campaign following the collapse of a ceasefire.
Supplies are dwindling and the UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) on Friday said it had sent out its “last remaining food stocks” to kitchens.
The weight of responsibility fell on Youssef’s shoulders after his father was killed in the war.
He dreams not of toys or games, but of something achingly simple: to sit at a table with his mother and sister, eating peacefully.
For that, each morning, he races to the community kitchen.
“Sometimes, in the chaos, my pot slips from my hands, and the food spills onto the ground,” he told AFP.
“I return home empty-handed... and that pain is worse than hunger.”
AFP footage from a community kitchen in Gaza City shows scores of boys and girls crowded outside the facility, pushing their pots and pans forward in a desperate attempt to secure whatever food they can.
One young man is even seen hitting a boy with a metal pot as he approaches a container of freshly-cooked rice.
“I have been waiting for over five hours to get a plate of rice for the children to eat,” said Mohammed Abu Sanad, a displaced Gazan, at another such facility.
“I have no income, and if we get food from the free kitchen, we eat. If not, we’ll die of hunger.”
The WFP, one of the main providers of food assistance in Gaza, said these kitchens were expected to run out of food “in the coming days.”
For Aida Abu Rayala, 42, the need was greater than ever.
“There is no flour, no bread, no way to feed my children. We stand for hours under the blazing sun and sometimes in the freezing cold,” said Rayala, from central Gaza’s Nuseirat area.
“Some days, after hours of waiting, the food runs out before my turn comes.”
Rayala’s home was destroyed in an air strike, and the family now lives in a tent of thin nylon sheets.
One day, she waited for three hours, her feet blistering from standing.
When she finally reached the counter, there was no food left.
“I went home with empty hands. My children cried... and in that moment, I wished I would die rather than see them hungry again.”
At the heart of Gaza’s food assistance is Faten Al-Madhoun, 52, a volunteer chef who runs a charity kitchen in Beit Lahia, northern Gaza.
She and her 13 volunteers cook by hand, over wood fires, without proper kitchens or modern equipment.
“Some days we prepare 500 meals, but more than 600 people show up,” Madhoun said.
“The need is enormous. And with every day that the borders stay closed, it only grows.”
With flour vanishing from the markets, bakeries shuttered, and even basic vegetables now luxuries, the community kitchens have become the only remaining source of food for tens of thousands.
Alaa Abu Amira shares a similar plight in the southern Khan Yunis area.
“If you arrive late, even by a few minutes, there’s no food,” said Abu Amira, 28, who used to live in the northern town of Beit Lahia.
“People crowd, they push, they fall. I saw a child get injured, and once, a little girl was burned when a pot of hot food spilled on her.”
When he manages to secure a meal, it is often cold, tasteless, repetitive — canned peas and beans, rice half-cooked on makeshift wood fires.
“Our stomachs can barely handle it anymore,” Abu Amira said, “but what choice do we have? Hunger breaks everything.”
Despite the daily ordeal, Rayala vowed to continue with her quest for food.
“Tomorrow, I will try to go earlier, hoping to get a plate of rice. We just want to live with dignity,” she said.
Source: arabnews.com
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Yemen’s Houthi militants allege US airstrike hit a prison holding African migrants
April 27, 2025
DUBAI: Yemen’s Houthi militants on Monday alleged a US airstrike hit a prison holding African migrants, killing and wounding some of the 100 inmates held there. The US military had no immediate comment.
The strike in Yemen’s Saada governorate, a stronghold for the Houthis, is the latest incident in the country’s decadelong war to kill African migrants from Ethiopia and other nations who risk crossing the nation for a chance to work in neighboring Saudi Arabia.
It also likely will renew questions from activists about the American campaign, known as “Operation Rough Rider,” which has been targeting the militants as the Trump administration negotiates with their main benefactor, Iran, over Tehran’s rapidly advancing nuclear program.
The US military’s Central Command in a statement early Monday before news of the alleged strike broke sought to defend its policy of offering no specific details of its extensive airstrike campaign.
“To preserve operational security, we have intentionally limited disclosing details of our ongoing or future operations,” Central Command said. “We are very deliberate in our operational approach, but will not reveal specifics about what we’ve done or what we will do.”
It did not immediately respond to questions from The Associated Press about the alleged strike in Saada.
Graphic footage shows aftermath of explosion
Graphic footage aired by the Houthis’ Al-Masirah satellite news channel showed what appeared to be dead bodies and others wounded at the site. An Al-Masirah correspondent said some 100 migrants had been detained at the site.
Casualty figures weren’t immediately clear. However, footage from the site analyzed by the AP suggested some kind of explosion took place there, with its cement walls seemingly peppered by debris fragments and the wounds suffered by those there.
African migrants caught in middle of Yemen’s war
Ethiopians and other African migrants for years have landed in Yemen, braving the war-torn nation to try and reach Saudi Arabia for work. The Houthi militants allegedly make tens of thousands of dollars a week smuggling migrants over the border.
Migrants from Ethiopia have found themselves detained, abused and even killed in Saudi Arabia and Yemen during the war. An Oct. 3, 2022, letter to the kingdom from the UN said its investigators “received concerning allegations of cross-border artillery shelling and small arms fire allegedly by Saudi security forces causing the deaths of up to 430 and injuring 650 migrants.”
Saudi Arabia has denied killing migrants.
The alleged strike Monday recalled a similar strike by a Saudi-led coalition battling the Houthis back in 2022, which saw at least 87 people killed and some 266 others wounded. It was one of the deadliest single attacks in the yearslong war between the coalition and the Houthi militants and came after the Houthis struck inside the UAE twice with missiles and drones, killing three in a strike near Abu Dhabi’s international airport.
US military says over 800 strikes conducted in campaign so far
Meanwhile, US airstrikes overnight targeting Yemen’s capital killed at least eight people, the Houthis said. The American military acknowledged carrying out over 800 individual strikes in their monthlong campaign.
The overnight statement from the US military’s Central Command also said its “Operation Roughrider” targeting the militants had “killed hundreds of Houthi fighters and numerous Houthi leaders,” including those associated with its missile and drone program. It did not identify any of those officials.
“Iran undoubtedly continues to provide support to the Houthis,” the statement said. “The Houthis can only continue to attack our forces with the backing of the Iranian regime.”
“We will continue to ratchet up the pressure until the objective is met, which remains the restoration of freedom of navigation and American deterrence in the region,” it added.
The US is targeting the Houthis because of the group’s attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, a crucial global trade route, and on Israel. The Houthis also are the last militant group in Iran’s self-described “Axis of Resistance” that is capable of regularly attacking Israel.
Source: arabnews.com
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Sultan of Oman, UK foreign secretary discuss Gaza, US-Iran negotiations
April 27, 2025
LONDON: Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tariq discussed regional and international issues with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy at Al-Barakah Palace in Muscat on Sunday.
The sultan praised cooperation between the two countries, and Lammy reaffirmed the British government’s commitment to strengthening cooperation, the Oman News Agency reported.
They discussed Gaza ceasefire efforts, and US-Iranian negotiations mediated by Oman to reach an agreement regarding Tehran’s nuclear program, ONA reported.
Also in attendance were Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Hamad Al-Busaidi; Sir Oliver Robbins, permanent undersecretary at the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office; and British Ambassador Liane Saunders.
Source: arabnews.com
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Europe
Watford mayor 'deeply shocked' by Muslim graves desecration
27TH APRIL
By Peter Taylor
I hope you had the chance to enjoy some quality time with friends, family, and loved ones over the Easter weekend.
It was sad to hear about the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. I know that his humility and leadership encouraged so many of us, of all faiths and none. So often he demonstrated his love for others, for example by washing the feet of young prisoners or embracing the sick. His compassion was an example to all of us.
Our town has a strong sense of community spirit, with people who look out for one another and support good causes. I recently attended the first ever Audentior Golf Cup, organised in support of the Watford Community Fund. This fund supports incredible work in our community. Last year the fund distributed over £50,000 to support local projects and organisations that are making a real difference in our community.
One of our brilliant local charities is Electric Umbrella. They do so much to create opportunities for everyone, regardless of ability, to share in the joy of music. In a few weeks’ time they will appear in the semi-finals of Britain’s Got Talent. I know our town will be tuning in with pride, eagerly watching the live broadcast and showing their support. Do make sure that you vote for them so that they can be one of the finalists!
As we celebrate these positive contributions, it’s equally important we remain united and stand against those who wish to divide our community. I was deeply shocked by the recent desecration of the Muslim graves at the Carpenders Park Lawn Cemetery. Hate, division and criminal acts such as this have no place in our town. I know that our whole town stands together in condemning such actions.
Source: watfordobserver.co.uk
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Suspect in fatal French mosque attack arrested in Italy
28 April 2025
The man suspected of killing a Muslim worshipper in a mosque in southern France on Friday has turned up in a police station in Italy, announced a French prosecutor on Monday.
The man suspected of stabbing a Muslim to death in a mosque in southern France on Friday has given himself up at a police station in Italy, a French prosecutor announced Monday.
This is very satisfying for me as a prosecutor. Faced with the effectiveness of the measures put in place, the suspect had no option but to hand himself in – and that is the best thing he could have done," said Abdelkrim Grini, the prosecutor of the southern city of Alès, who is in charge of the case.
Source: yahoo.com
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School at Dublin Islamic Centre to reopen with heavy security on Monday
Apr 27 2025
The Islamic Cultural Centre of Ireland (ICCI) in South Dublin, which was closed last week as part of a bitter internal dispute, is to reopen its national school and creche on Monday with heavy security.
However, the rest of the campus – including the mosque, which is the largest in Ireland – will remain closed. The centre’s management has said it will remain closed until a full security review takes place.
It has stated it fears there may be an attempt to forcibly take over the property.
The ICCI, in Clonskeagh, South Dublin, closed its doors last week following a physical confrontation at a meeting which had to be broken up by gardaí.
Gardaí maintained a presence outside the centre over the weekend while several dozen private security guards patrolled the interior.
The decision to close the centre was taken by the Al Maktoum Foundation, a United Arab Emirates (UAE) charity which owns the centre and provides about €2.5 million a year in funding.
It has raised concerns about alleged financial irregularities at the centre as well as alleged links between some members and extremist ideologies.
Zahid Jamil, a Dubai-based lawyer and a member of the foundation’s board, said on Sunday the national school and creche will reopen on Monday morning.
It is understood there will be a significant security presence at the gates and that only children and staff will be permitted to enter.
[ Dublin Islamic cultural centre temporarily closed after gardaí called to altercationOpens in new window ]
Mr Jamil said the foundation’s board has been working with the management of the school to ensure it can reopen. He said it has worked out arrangements for security and protection and is grateful to the Irish authorities for their assistance.
“The Muslim National School is exactly the kind of organisation that fosters integration and works against extremism,” he said.
The Al Maktoum Foundation has sent Mr Jamil and an auditor to Ireland to examine the centre’s finances.
Concerns have been raised about the management of charitable donations, including funds raised for Gaza and the use of cash payments.
The foundation has also raised concerns about alleged links between officials and the Muslim Brotherhood, an international Islamist organisation which the UAE claims is a terrorist organisation.
To date, no official complaint has been made to gardaí about these matters. Garda sources said its only involvement with the centre has been to ensure the safety of attendees and to prevent any public order breaches.
It has also received information relating to a petrol canister found on the grounds of the centre.
In a statement last week, the Irish Muslim Peace & Integration Council backed the board’s moves and said that for “too long” the mosque has been controlled by people “who fail to represent the diversity of Irish Muslims”.
It criticised individuals “who prioritised power over service, division over unity, and stagnation over progress, including elements with ties to the Muslim Brotherhood”.
Meanwhile, the administrators of a religious school which takes place on the grounds of the centre, and is separate from the national school, have denied any accusations of wrongdoing.
The Nurul Huda Quranic School said it has been subject to “allegations and false accusations”. It said it has never refused to hand over financial information but did decline to hand over personal information on parents and students due to data protection laws.
Payments to the school are properly accounted for and are audited yearly, it said. The school said a meeting will take place soon “to present the full facts and respond to any questions”.
Source: irishtimes.com
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France: Police step up manhunt after fatal mosque stabbing
27 April 2025
Police in southern France are continuing to search for a suspect in the fatal stabbing of a Muslim worshipper inside a mosque.
Authorities say they believe Friday's killing could have been an Islamophobic crime.
What do we know about the attack?
Authorities said a man in his 20s stabbed the worshipper dozens of times at the building in the village of La Grand-Combe, north of Montpellier.
Le Parisien newspaper cited an investigative source as saying the attacker then filmed the victim, who was in his early to mid-20s, with his mobile phone as he lay dying.
The video was sent to a friend who then posted it online before deleting it, according to French media reports.
Surveillance cameras at the mosque also captured the attack, which showed the attacker and victim alone in the Mosque.
The body was not found until mid-morning.
French media said the victim was a regular worshipper at the mosque. People told AFP news agency that he had arrived from Mali a few years ago and was "very well-known" and highly regarded in the village.
The killer had never been seen there before, investigators said.
Alleged perpetrator not caught yet
Regional prosecutor Abdelkrim Grini told AFP that the suspect was still at large as of Saturday.
Describing the killing as possible Islamophobic crime, Grini said the French anti-terror prosecutors' office was considering whether to take over the case.
Another source told AFP that the suspect has been identified as a French citizen of Bosnian origin who is not a Muslim.
During the attack, the man reportedly shouted insults against Allah.
France's religious freedom "inviolable," Macron says
French President Emmanuel Macron commented on the stabbing and said the country's religious freedom is "inviolable," adding that religion-based hatred "will never have a place in France."
Prime Minister François Bayrou condemned the stabbing, describing it in a post on X late Saturday as an "Islamophobic atrocity."
"We stand with the victim's loved ones and with the shocked believers," Bayrou wrote, emphasizing that authorities are doing everything in their power to apprehend the perpetrator and bring him to justice.
Source: yahoo.com
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https://uk.news.yahoo.com/france-police-step-manhunt-fatal-110900255.html
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Plans for an ‘urgently needed’ Muslim community centre in Winnersh refused
by Ruth Lucas
April 27, 2025
Plans for an ‘urgently needed’ Muslim place of worship and community centre have been refused over parking concerns.
Muslim Community Connect Wokingham wanted to convert Unit 4 of Winnersh Fields into a building for ‘Islamic education, worship and community’.
The building was previously used as an office and is close to other offices and retail spaces.
Plans submitted to Wokingham Borough Council argued that a place of worship for the Muslim community would contribute towards their social inclusion.
The existing 14 car parking spaces would be used by visitors, according to the plans.
Residents would be able to access the centre via public transport given the proximity to Winnersh Triangle station and nearby bus stops.
Plans had received dozens of letters of support from the Muslim community arguing it would add value to the area.
Jawad Chowdry wrote to the council: “The Muslim population in the borough has grown over the last few years and this space would provide a much needed place of worship and community space.
“There are many Muslim working professionals and business owners living in Wokingham and this facility would go a long way to support a thriving, diverse community.”
Sana Naseem said the centre was ‘urgently needed’ while Saad Iqbal said it would ‘enrich the entire Winnersh community’.
But others raised concerns about whether enough parking would be supplied for those visiting the centre, as well as the impact on surrounding roads.
Varuna Bhat said the area is ‘already busy’ and worried the additional car movement would ‘worsen the situation’.
Conservative Councillor Pauline Jorgensen said she was supportive of the centre but the plans had ‘inadequate’ parking provisions.
“The access road to the site is difficult to exit already as visbility of traffic coming from Wokingham is not good and often causes near misses,” Cllr Jorgensen wrote, “if this development is to go ahead improvements should be made to the junction”.
Deputy leader of the council Prue Bray said she ‘welcomed’ the plans as it is ‘extremely difficult’ for faith communities to find suitable locations for worship, including Christian denominations.
But Cllr Bray said parking conditions should be applied if given approval.
Wokingham Borough Council planning officers have now refused the plans.
In its decision notice, the council said the applicant had failed to demonstrate how the proposal would not have an adverse effect on highways and traffic.
While the applicant argued a wide range of public transport options, some would not be available during times of proposed use of the site.
Source: wokingham.today
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https://wokingham.today/plans-for-an-urgently-needed-muslim-community-centre-in-winnersh-refused/
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Images of Pope Francis's tomb released
April 28, 2025
Images of Pope Francis's tomb at the Santa Maria Maggiore church in Rome have been released.
A single white rose was pictured lying on the stone tomb that bears the name he was known by during his pontificate, below a crucifix illuminated by a single spotlight.
The late pope was laid to rest at the church - one of four major basilicas in the Italian capital, and one he would regularly visit during his time as cardinal and pontiff - in a private ceremony following his public funeral in the Vatican on Saturday.
Thousands of mourners have been filing past the tomb since the church opened to the public on Sunday morning to pay their respects to Pope Francis, who died aged 88 on Monday.
Among them was Rosario Correale, an Italian, who said it was "very emotional" seeing the tomb. "He really left a mark on us," he told the Associated Press.
Polish pilgrim Maria Brzezinska felt the resting place befit the man. "I feel like it's exactly in the way of the Pope. He was simple, and so is his place now," she told the news agency Reuters after visiting.
Francis was particularly devoted to the Virgin Mary, and Santa Maria Maggiore was the first church to be dedicated to her when it was built in the 4th Century.
The basilica sits near the Colosseum, a stone's throw from the city's endlessly bustling and chaotic central Termini station - well beyond the limits of the Vatican, where popes are traditionally entombed.
But it was one the South American pontiff had a long-held affinity for.
Its senior priest previously told an Italian newspaper that Pope Francis had said he wished to be laid to rest there in 2022, citing inspiration from the Virgin Mary.
"I thought it was amazing that he wanted to be buried here in this basilica," Amaya Morris, another pilgrim, told AP.
"Out of all of the [churches], he chose this one. So I thought that was really amazing. It's really humbling to be able to be here."
Francis's funeral was attended by heads of state, heads of government and monarchs from around the world - as well as hundreds of thousands of Catholics who lined the streets leading to the Vatican to pay their respects.
Hymns played out on giant speakers, occasionally drowned out by the sound of helicopters flying overhead, before 91-year-old Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re gave a homily on the pope's legacy.
The cardinal emphasised that Pope Francis had repeatedly urged the world to "build bridges, not walls".
The funeral was also the venue for a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky, which the latter said afterwards had the "potential to become historic".
Trump later questioned Russian President Vladimir Putin's willingness to end the now three-year war in Ukraine, a conflict which Pope Francis had regularly called for peace during his papacy.
Following the public funeral, Pope Francis's coffin was carried through Rome in a slow procession.
Authorities said 140,000 people had lined the streets, clapping and waving as the hearse - a repurposed white popemobile - crossed the Tiber river and drove past some of Rome's most recognisable sights: the Colosseum, the Forum and the Altare della Patria national monument on Piazza Venezia.
After a period of mourning, attention will soon turn to the selection of the next pope.
A date has not yet been set but it is thought it could start as early as 5 or 6 May, with 135 cardinals set to attend, making it the largest conclave in modern history.
Source: bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn91peprnl2o
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Eighty years on, survivors and families remember horrors of Bergen Belsen
April 28, 2025
There had been rumours. There had been aerial photographs. There had been the written testimony of a few escapees. But it took liberation for the revelation of the shocking reality of the Nazis' concentration camps.
Nowhere was this more true than when British and Canadian troops advanced on the camp at Bergen-Belsen, near Hanover, in April 1945.
A truce with local German commanders enabled them to enter without a fight. They were met with a stomach-churning vista of death, a torrid panorama of human suffering.
The troops calculated there were 13,000 unburied corpses. A further 60,000 emaciated, diseased, spectral-like survivors stood and lay amongst them.
To mark the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Belsen, more than a thousand survivors and families attended commemoration events at the camp on Sunday.
Row after row, they listened to people recount the horrors of the camp.
They included Mala Tribich from London, 14 then, 94 now. Belsen was, she says, "a place of skeletons, where the dead were piled up and the living shuffled around... There was death everywhere".
Mala said she saw guards pulling the corpses along on blankets or by their limbs.
Another survivor, Esther Alice, who was aged 11 at the time, recalled the "horrible" memory of her mother dying in her arms in hut 221.
The sun shone down on Sunday's spectacle, but Belsen still has the capacity to chill.
"To me, Belsen was the ultimate blasphemy," wrote one British soldier, Michael Bentine, who, after World War Two, went on to become a famous entertainer.
Other chroniclers, film-makers and diarists struggled to convey in words and pictures the scenes that made unwanted incursions into their minds.
The BBC's Richard Dimbleby was the first broadcaster to enter the camp shortly after liberation. In his landmark broadcast he included the words: "This day at Belsen was the most horrible of my life."
Belsen's notoriety soon stood out, not just because of the chillingly vivid accounts of journalists, soldiers and photographers, whose testimonies were sent around the world, but because it was found with all its grotesqueness intact.
Other camps further east, like the death camps of Treblinka, Sobibor and Auschwitz, had either been destroyed by the Germans to hide their crimes in the face of Soviet advances or emptied of their inmates.
At Belsen, the huts, the barracks, the evidence, remained.
At Belsen, there were witnesses, perpetrators, victims.
It was where many of those eastern concentration camp prisoners ended up. Overcrowding led to dysentery, malnutrition and typhus.
There were no gas chambers at Belsen. It was Nazi cruelty and incompetence that accounted for the 500 deaths a day that the camp endured.
And most of it came in the final weeks of the war, well into April 1945.
As the Third Reich collapsed and freedom came to those in other occupied territories, the dying continued at Belsen: between 50,000 and 70,000 people in total, more than 30,000 of those between January and April 1945.
Around 14,000 of the prisoners died after liberation, their digestive systems unable to cope with the highly calorific, rich sustenance offered by well-meaning cooks and medics.
The vast majority were Jews, with Soviet prisoners of war, Sinti and homosexuals among other groups to be engulfed by the horrors of the camp.
Sunday's anniversary was a commemoration to those who never left here, forever to be a part of a crime that continues to arc its way across history.
Among the survivors and relatives who attended the event were 180 British Jews. Their journey was organised by Ajex, the Jewish Military Association.
Wreaths were laid by Ajex veterans, as well as dignitaries, including Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner.
A psalm was read by UK Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis.
They did so amid the verdant surroundings of Lower Saxony, where the watch towers, fences and buildings have gone.
That's because, in the end, to contain disease, the British soldiers decided they had to burn the huts at Belsen.
And so, today, little remains. A visitor centre is a focal point, near to where a handful of memorial stones and crosses have been erected.
The inscription on one reads: Hier ruhen 5,000 toten - here rest 5,000 dead.
It is just one of the graves, one of the memories, that haunt the grassed landscape.
Source: bbc.com
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Greenland not a piece of property, says PM after Trump threats
April 28, 2025
Greenland's new prime minister has said the island is not a "piece of property that can be bought", in response to Donald Trump's repeated calls for the US to take control of the autonomous Danish territory.
On a visit to Copenhagen on Sunday, Jens-Frederik Nielsen said Greenland and Denmark must stand together in the face of "disrespectful" US rhetoric.
He was speaking alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in what has been viewed as another show of unity between the two leaders.
In a further symbolic gesture, Nielsen is due to return to Greenland on Monday with Denmark's King Frederik, who will begin his four-day royal visit to the island.
"We will never, ever be a piece of property that can be bought by anyone, and that's the message I think is most important to understand," said Nielsen, who became Greenland's prime minister this April.
He added that Greenland and Denmark needed to move closer together in light of the new foreign policy situation.
Trump has caused outrage in both Denmark and Greenland for repeatedly saying he wants to bring the Arctic island under US control.
During a speech to Congress in March, Trump said that control of Greenland was essential "for national security and international security".
He has floated the idea of buying the island and has previously refused to rule out using military force, though US Vice-President JD Vance said last month: "We do not think that military force is ever going to be necessary."
Despite their criticism of Trump's words, both Nielsen and Frederiksen on Sunday said they would be willing to meet the US president for talks.
Nielsen also reiterated that Greenland was prepared to deepen ties with the US, saying: "We are ready for a strong partnership and more development, but we want respect."
Nielsen's visit to Denmark follows Frederiksen's own trip to Greenland earlier this month.
"You can't annex other countries," was her message for the US president at the time.
It followed Vance's whirlwind visit to the territory, widely criticised in both Denmark and Greenland, in which he reiterated Trump's ambitions and claimed Copenhagen had "not done a good job" for Greenlanders.
Greenland, the world's largest island, has been controlled by Denmark for about 300 years. The island governs its own domestic affairs, but foreign and defence policy decisions are made in Copenhagen.
The US has long had a security interest in the island. It has had a military base there since World War Two, and Trump may also have an interest in the rare earth minerals that could be mined.
Polls show that the vast majority of Greenlanders want to become independent from Denmark but do not wish to become part of the US.
Formed in March, Greenland's new coalition government is led by Nielsen's centre-right Democrats party, which favours a gradual approach to independence.
Source: bbc.com
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